bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
QoS prediction of cloud services by selective ensemble learning on prefilling‐based matrix factorizations
Authors: Mao Chengying , Chen Jifu , Towey Dave , Zhao Zhuang , Wen Linlin
Published: September 2024

When selecting services from a cloud center to build applications, the quality of service (QoS) is an important nonfunctional attribute to be considered. However, in actual application scenarios, the QoS details for many services may not be available. This has led to a situation where prediction of the missing QoS records for services has become a key problem for service selection. This article presents a selective ensemble learning (SEL) framework for prefilling‐based matrix factorization (PFMF) predictors. In each PFMF predictor, the improved collaborative filtering is defined by examining the stability of the QoS records when measuring the similarity of users (or services), and then used to prefill empty records in the initial QoS matrix. To ensure the diversity of the basic PFMF predictors, various prefilled QoS matrices are constructed for the matrix factorization. In this process, different reference weights are assigned to the original and the prefilled QoS records. Finally, particle swarm optimization is used to set the ensemble weights for the basic PFMF predictors. The proposed SEL on PFMF (SEL‐PFMF) algorithm is validated on a public dataset, where its prediction performance outperforms the state‐of‐the‐art algorithms, and also shows good stability.
Epigenetic age acceleration and cognitive performance over time in older adults
Authors: Phyo Aung Zaw Zaw , Wu Zimu , Espinoza Sara E. , Murray Anne M. , Fransquet Peter D. , Wrigglesworth Jo , Woods Robyn L. , Ryan Joanne
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

This study investigated whether epigenetic age acceleration (AA) is associated with the change in cognitive function and the risk of incident dementia over 9 years, separately in males and females.

METHODS

Six epigenetic AA measures, including GrimAge, were estimated in baseline blood samples from 560 Australians aged ≥70 years (50.7% female). Cognitive assessments included global function, episodic memory, executive function, and psychomotor speed. Composite cognitive scores were also generated. Dementia (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders – IV [DSM‐IV] criteria) was adjudicated by international experts.

RESULTS

Associations between epigenetic AA and cognitive performance over‐time varied by sex. In females only, GrimAA/Grim2AA was associated with worse delayed recall, composite cognition, and composite memory (adjusted‐beta ranged from –0.1372 to –0.2034). In males only, GrimAA/Grim2AA was associated with slower processing speed (adjusted‐beta, –0.3049) and increased dementia risk (adjusted hazard ratios [HRs], 1.78 and 2.00, respectively).

DISCUSSION

Epigenetic AA is associated with cognitive deterioration in later life but with evidence of sex‐specific associations.

Highlights

Epigenetic age acceleration was associated with cognitive deterioration over time.

However, these associations differed by sex.

In females, accelerated GrimAge appeared to be a better marker of decline in memory.

In males, accelerated GrimAge was associated with slower processing speed over time.

Association between accelerated GrimAge and dementia risk was found only in males.
Latitudinal gradients and sex differences in morphology of the Black Oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani)
Authors: Roodenrijs Hannah , Ware Lena , Rankin Cole , Maftei Mark , Hipfner J. Mark , Robinson Brian H. , Esler Daniel , Coletti Heather , Green David J.
Published: September 2024

Environment and behavior are widely understood to affect bird morphology, which can lead to differences among subspecies or populations within a wide‐ranging species. Several patterns of latitudinal gradients in morphology have been described, though Allen's and Bergmann's rules are the most well‐known and have been tested and confirmed across a diversity of taxa and species. These state that individuals at higher latitudes will have larger bodies (Bergmann's Rule) but smaller extremities (Allen's Rule) to conserve heat in colder climates. Migratory behavior also can influence avian morphology, particularly wing shape, where migratory birds tend to have longer, more pointed wings than residents. The Black Oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani) is a large, partially migratory shorebird species restricted to intertidal habitats and distributed from Alaska to Baja California, spanning about 35° of latitude. A large proportion of Black Oystercatchers that breed in Alaska are migratory, where nearly all individuals breeding in British Columbia through the southern end of their range remain resident through the annual cycle. Their broad latitudinal range and diversity in migratory behavior may drive geographic variation in morphology. Here we evaluate three explanations for geographic variation in morphology of the Black Oystercatcher using data from seven sites across two regions: Alaska and British Columbia. We found evidence consistent with Allen's but not Bergmann's rule; birds in Alaska have shorter bills than those in British Columbia, and these findings held when controlling for body size using wing length. Despite regional differences in migratory behavior, we detected no difference in the wing shape of birds in Alaska and British Columbia. Differences between sexes and among sites suggest that multiple factors drive patterns of morphological variation in the Black Oystercatcher.
Analysis of Research Hot Spots in Chinese and International English Ecohydrological Literature
Authors: Li Mingyang , Zhang Xiaodan , Li Fulin , Huang Jiwen , Li Zhanhua , Shi Yuzhi , Wang Sinan
Published: September 2024

To enhance comprehension of current research progress in the field of ecohydrology and to provide valuable references for future related research, policy formulation and international collaboration, this article relies on ecohydrology‐related literature and citation records in four databases: China Knowledge Network (CNKI), Wanfang Database, Web of Science (WOS) and Elsevier, up until the end of 2022. We use publication and citation trends analysis along with keyword hotspot analysis using VOS viewer to investigate publication and citation trends in Chinese and English literature. The study systematically analyse the process of keyword changes and research hotspots in Chinese and international English literature, providing a detailed explanation of the differences in research hotspots and the reasons for their formation. The research indicates that since the inception of the term ‘ecohydrology’, relevant literature has displayed sluggish growth alongside rapid development. Additionally, alterations in primary keywords have differed between Chinese and English literature over time. However, ‘groundwater’ has consistently retained a significant amount of attention within Chinese literature. Groundwater has been extensively studied in Chinese literature, with a particular focus on eco‐hydrological processes, their effects, modelling and techniques. Similarly, English language literature is abundant with keywords denoting pivotal concepts like the environment, hydrology, fauna and rivers. These areas have been the focal points of research for international scholars. Regional characteristics, ecological conditions, economic development level and scientific research priorities, among other factors, are all significant contributors to the development of the field of ecohydrology. Differences in research hotspots can also be attributed to geographical characteristics, ecological environment conditions and scientific research priorities. Over the past decade, there has been a gradual convergence in research between Chinese and English literature. The current hotspots of research in ecohydrology include basic research, theoretical applications and adaptive wide‐area mechanistic research. In the future, the discipline of ecohydrology is likely to face numerous challenges and opportunities related to climate change, resource management, and societal needs. Interdisciplinary collaboration, technological innovation and global cooperation will continue to drive breakthroughs in ecohydrology research.
Transcriptomic Analysis of the Effects of Changes in Temperature and Flow Velocity on Reproductive Ability of Coreius guichenoti
Authors: Lin Yuqing , Li Ting , Chen Qiuwen , Qiao Ruxia , He Shufeng , Feng Tao , Wang Jun
Published: September 2024

The establishment of reservoirs, which alter water temperature and flow dynamics, significantly affects the indigenous fish population, yet the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. To investigate effects of the changing water temperature and flow rate on fish ovaries, we subjected female Coreius guichenoti to the combination of different water temperatures (17°C, 20°C and 23°C denoted as L, N and H, respectively) and flow velocities (0 and 0.5 m/s denoted as S and V, respectively). After 30‐day experiment period, we identified 393, 545, 300 and 657 differentially expressed transcripts in HV versus NV, LV versus NV, HS versus NV and LS versus NV, respectively. The transcriptome results showed that both environmental factors could significantly influence oogenesis, with water temperature exerting a more pronounced effect than flow velocity. In particular, the higher temperature (HV and HS) led to a tendency towards masculinization and even infertility in females, which were consistent with the histopathology results. By contrast, the lower temperature (LV and LS) promoted the progression of desirable female attributes, where static water conditions (LS) had a greater effect compared with flowing water (LV). These findings were of great significance for the adaptive operation of reservoirs to create reasonable and precise ecological flows for managing fish reproduction.
Clinical application and immune infiltration landscape of stemness‐related genes in heart failure
Authors: Yan Wenting , Li Yanling , Wang Gang , Huang Yuan , Xie Ping
Published: September 2024

Background

Heart failure (HF) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Stemness refers to the self‐renewal and differentiation ability of cells. However, little is known about the heart's stemness properties. Thus, the current study aims to identify putative stemness‐related biomarkers to construct a viable prediction model of HF and characterize the immune infiltration features of HF.

Methods

HF datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were adopted as the training and validation cohorts while stemness‐related genes were obtained from GeneCards and previously published papers. Feature selection was performed using two machine learning algorithms. Nomogram models were then constructed to predict HF risk based on the selected key genes. Moreover, the biological functions of the key genes were evaluated using Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses, and gene set variation analysis (GSVA) and enrichment analysis (GSEA) were performed between the high‐ and low‐risk groups. The immune infiltration landscape in HF was investigated, and the interaction network of key genes was analysed to predict potential targets and molecular mechanisms.

Results

Seven key genes, namely SMOC2, LUM, FNDC1, SCUBE2, CD163, BLM and S1PR3, were included in the proposed nomogram. This nomogram showed good predictive performance for HF diagnosis in the training and validation sets. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that the key genes were primarily associated with ageing, inflammatory processes and DNA oxidation. GSEA and GSVA identified various inflammatory and immune signalling pathways that were enriched between the high‐ and low‐risk groups. The infiltration of 15 immune cell subsets suggests that adaptive immunity has an important role in HF.

Conclusions

Our study identified a clinically significant stemness‐related signature for predicting HF risk, with the potential to improve early disease diagnosis, optimize risk stratification and provide new strategies for treating patients with HF.
A Novel Perceptual Constrained cycleGAN With Attention Mechanisms for Unsupervised MR‐to‐CT Synthesis
Authors: Zhu Ruiming , Liu Xinliang , Li Mingrui , Qian Wei , Teng Yueyang
Published: September 2024

Radiotherapy treatment planning (RTP) requires both magnetic resonance (MR) and computed tomography (CT) modalities. However, conducting separate MR and CT scans for patients leads to misalignment, increased radiation exposure, and higher costs. To address these challenges and mitigate the limitations of supervised synthesis methods, we propose a novel unsupervised perceptual attention image synthesis model based on cycleGAN (PA‐cycleGAN). The innovation of PA‐cycleGAN lies in its model structure, which incorporates dynamic feature encoding and deep feature extraction to improve the understanding of image structure and contextual information. To ensure the visual authenticity of the synthetic images, we design a hybrid loss function that incorporates perceptual constraints using high‐level features extracted by deep neural networks. Our PA‐cycleGAN achieves notable results, with an average peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR) of 28.06, structural similarity (SSIM) of 0.95, and mean absolute error (MAE) of 46.90 on a pelvic dataset. Additionally, we validate the generalization of our method by conducting experiments on an additional head dataset. These experiments demonstrate that PA‐cycleGAN consistently outperforms other state‐of‐the‐art methods in both quantitative metrics and image synthesis quality.
Pyrimidine–triazole‐tethered tert‐butyl‐piperazine‐carboxylate suppresses breast cancer by targeting estrogen receptor signaling and β‐catenin activation
Authors: Yuan Jie , Yang Li , Li Zhi , Zhang Hua , Wang Qun , Wang Bei , Chinnathambi Arunachalam , Govindasamy Chandramohan , Basappa Shreeja , Nagaraja Omantheswara , Madegowda Mahendra , Beeraka Narasimha M. , Nikolenko Vladimir N. , Wang Minghua , Wang Geng , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S. , Basappa Basappa
Published: September 2024

Several chemotherapeutics against breast cancer are constrained by their adverse effects and chemoresistance. The development of novel chemotherapeutics to target metastatic breast cancer can bring effective clinical outcomes. Many breast cancer patients present with tumors that are positive for estrogen receptors (ERs), highlighting the importance of targeting the ER pathway in this particular subtype. Although selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) are commonly used, their side effects and resistance issues necessitate the development of new ER‐targeting agents. In this study, we report that a newly synthesized compound, TTP‐5, a hybrid of pyrimidine, triazole, and tert‐butyl‐piperazine‐carboxylate, effectively binds to estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) and suppresses breast cancer cell growth. We assessed the impact of TTP‐5 on cell proliferation using MTT and colony formation assays and evaluated its effect on cell motility through wound healing and invasion assays. We further explored the mechanism of action of this novel compound by detecting protein expression changes using Western blotting. Molecular docking was used to confirm the interaction of TTP‐5 with ERα. The results indicated that TTP‐5 significantly reduced the proliferation of MCF‐7 cells by blocking the ERα signaling pathway. Conversely, although it did not influence the growth of MDA‐MB‐231 cells, TTP‐5 hindered their motility by modulating the expression of proteins associated with epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), possibly via the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.
The ameliorative potential of metformin against aluminum‐induced neurotoxicity: Insights from in vitro studies
Authors: Sanajou Sonia , Yirün Anil , Demirel Göksun , Erkekoğlu Pinar , Şahin Gönül , Baydar Terken
Published: September 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasingly recognized as a metabolic disorder, often referred to as type 3 diabetes, due to its strong association with insulin resistance. Chronic exposure to aluminum, a known neurotoxin, has been identified as a significant risk factor in the development and progression of AD. This study explores the potential of metformin, a common anti‐diabetic drug, to mitigate aluminum‐induced neurotoxicity in an in vitro model of AD. Our findings reveal that metformin significantly reduces oxidative stress markers such as malonaldehyde, carbonyl groups, and reactive oxygen species while enhancing antioxidant defenses. Metformin modulates critical signaling pathways, including glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3‐β)/RAC‐alpha serine/threonine protein kinase (RAC‐alpha serine/threonine protein kinase (Akt1)/protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and Wnt/β‐catenin, decreasing Tau protein levels and promoting neurogenesis. These results suggest that metformin may offer a novel therapeutic approach for AD, particularly in cases where aluminum exposure is a contributing factor.
Data sharing policies across health research globally: Cross‐sectional meta‐research study
Authors: Tan Aidan C. , Webster Angela C. , Libesman Sol , Yang Zijing , Chand Rani R. , Liu Weber , Palacios Talia , Hunter Kylie E. , Seidler Anna Lene
Published: September 2024

Background

Data sharing improves the value, synthesis, and integrity of research, but rates are low. Data sharing might be improved if data sharing policies were prominent and actionable at every stage of research. We aimed to systematically describe the epidemiology of data sharing policies across the health research lifecycle.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional analysis of the data sharing policies of the largest health research funders, all national ethics committees, all clinical trial registries, the highest‐impact medical journals, and all medical research data repositories. Stakeholders' official websites, online reports, and other records were reviewed up to May 2022. The strength and characteristics of their data sharing policies were assessed, including their policies on data sharing intention statements (a.k.a. data accessibility statements) and on data sharing specifically for coronavirus disease studies. Data were manually extracted in duplicate, and policies were descriptively analysed by their stakeholder and characteristics.

Results

Nine hundred and thirty‐five eligible stakeholders were identified: 110 funders, 124 ethics committees, 18 trial registries, 273 journals, and 410 data repositories. Data sharing was required by 41% (45/110) of funders, no ethics committees or trial registries, 19% (52/273) of journals and 6% (24/410) of data repositories. Among funder types, a higher proportion of private (63%, 35/55) and philanthropic (67%, 4/6) funders required data sharing than public funders (12%, 6/49).

Conclusion

Data sharing requirements, and even recommendations, were insufficient across health research. Where data sharing was required or recommended, there was limited guidance on implementation. We describe multiple pathways to improve the implementation of data sharing. Public funders and ethics committees are two stakeholders with particularly important untapped opportunities.
Acute Effects of Steroids on Vocal Fold Epithelium Post‐injury in a Preclinical Model
Authors: Gartling Gary , Sayce Lea , Zimmerman Zachary , Slater Alysha , Hary Lizzie , Yang Wenqing , Santacatterina Michele , Rousseau Bernard , Branski Ryan C.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly prescribed for laryngeal indications due to their potent anti‐inflammatory properties. However, GCs effect on vocal fold (VF) epithelial morphology and barrier function following injury is overlooked and may be key to efficacy. In this study, the effects of GCs on epithelial morphology and barrier function were quantified in injured VFs. We seek to increase our understanding of biochemical processes underlying GC mechanisms to refine therapeutic strategies.

Methods

Microflap injury was induced in 65 rabbits. Seven days after injury, animals received bilateral 20 μL intracordal injections of saline, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, or triamcinolone (n = 15 per condition). Five rabbits in each condition were euthanized 1, 7, or 60 days following treatment. An additional five animals served as non‐injured/untreated controls. To quantify transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), 1 mm epithelial biopsies were placed in an Ussing chamber. The contralateral VF was processed for transmission electron microscopy and epithelial depth analysis.

Results

At 60 days, GC treatment maintained TEER levels similar to non‐injured/untreated controls. However, triamcinolone reduced TEER compared with saline‐treated conditions. Acutely, epithelial hyperplasia typically persisted in all injured VFs. At 60 days, only dexamethasone and triamcinolone increased epithelial depth in injured VFs; all GCs increased epithelial depth compared with non‐injured/untreated controls.

Conclusion

Acutely, GCs did not alter TEER. Additionally, GCs did not alter epithelial depth compared with saline treatment, indicating alignment with natural healing responses. At 60 days, GCs exhibited varying degrees of TEER restoration and epithelial hyperplasia, possibly due to distinct pharmacodynamic profiles.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2024
Endoscopic Mucosal Rotational Flap for Posterior Glottic Insufficiency: A Case Report
Authors: Pagel Jessica M.L. , Jonas Rachel H. , Daniero James J. , McGarey Patrick O.
Published: September 2024

The report describes the novel use of an endoscopic CO2 LASER assisted posterior glottic rotation flap in a professional voice user with non‐intubation related posterior glottic insufficiency. The 78‐year‐old patient presented with progressive dysphonia and dyspnea with speaking with stroboscopy findings of posterior glottic insufficiency.After several empiric voice treatments without improvement, the described surgery was performed to correct posterior glottic insufficiency. After surgery, VHI‐10 improved from 25 to 9, overall CAPE‐V from 69 to 6.5. The patient resumed public speaking and lecturing with maintained improvement in vocal quality and function at last follow‐up six months postoperatively. Laryngoscope, 2024
Factors associated with adherence to swallowing therapy among patients diagnosed with oropharyngeal dysphagia
Authors: Ezeh Uche C. , Balou Matina , Crosby Tyler , Kwak Paul E. , Amin Milan R.
Published: September 2024

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess disparities in adherence to swallowing therapy for clinically diagnosed oropharyngeal dysphagia (OD) patients.

Methods

Analysis was conducted on data from 600 patients with OD and confirmed impairments in swallowing safety and/or efficiency on a videofluoroscopic swallow study. Patients were classified based on their adherence to treatment sessions, defined as the number of swallow treatment sessions attended. The outcome of treatment adherence was categorized into two groups: those who attended fewer than 50% of the prescribed treatment sessions and those who attended 50% or more of the sessions. Continuous variables were presented as mean ± standard deviation or median ± interquartile range. Categorical variables were compared using Pearson chi‐square tests and Fisher's exact test when appropriate. Univariable and multivariable binary logistic regression models were employed to identify factors associated with successful adherence.

Results

Approximately 79% adhered to swallowing treatment. We found no significant relationship between adherence and age, sex, race, ethnicity, primary language, marital status, insurance status, occupation, median income, distance, education, OD severity, and diagnosis year (p > 0.05). We found no covariables to be significant predictors to swallowing treatment nonadherence in both univariable and multivariable binary regression models (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

The variables analyzed in this study were not significantly associated with nonadherence to swallow therapy. Nevertheless, our study still addressed an important knowledge gap and future studies would benefit from exploring other relevant socioeconomic and disease‐related factors.

Level of evidence

Level 4.
Primary site surgical resection in cM1 oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Patel Aman M. , Haleem Afash , Revercomb Lucy , Brant Jason A. , Rajasekaran Karthik , Sun Lova L. , Brody Robert M. , Carey Ryan M.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To investigate primary site surgical resection and overall survival (OS) in clinically distantly metastatic (cM1) oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC).

Methods

The 2006–2018 National Cancer Database was queried for patients presenting with cM1 OCSCC who underwent chemotherapy. Binary logistic, Kaplan–Meier, and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were implemented.

Results

Of 278 patients satisfying inclusion criteria, 139 (50.0%) underwent chemotherapy alone, 80 (28.8%) underwent chemoradiotherapy, 25 (9.0%) underwent surgical resection + adjuvant chemotherapy, and 34 (12.2%) underwent surgical resection + adjuvant chemoradiotherapy; 5‐year OS was 9.4%, 15.2%, 8.3%, and 23.8%, respectively (p < .001). Compared with those not undergoing surgical resection, patients undergoing surgical resection underwent radiotherapy more frequently (57.6% vs. 36.5%) but multiple‐agent chemotherapy less frequently (40.7% vs. 74.4%) (p < .005). Twenty‐one (36.2%) patients undergoing surgical resection had positive surgical margins. Academic facility (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.19, 95% CI 1.54–6.62) and Charlson‐Deyo comorbidity score ≥1 (aOR 2.82, 95% CI 1.25–6.32, p < .025) were associated with increased odds of undergoing surgical resection. Compared with chemotherapy alone, chemoradiotherapy (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.56, 95% CI 0.38–0.83) and surgical resection + adjuvant chemoradiotherapy (aHR 0.37, 95% CI 0.21–0.66) were associated with higher OS (p < .005). Immunotherapy (aHR 0.48, 95% CI 0.28–0.81, p = .006) was also independently associated with higher OS.

Conclusion

A minority of patients with cM1 OCSCC underwent primary site surgical resection. Despite the high rate of positive surgical margins, surgical resection + adjuvant chemoradiotherapy was associated with higher OS than chemotherapy alone, chemoradiotherapy, or surgical resection + adjuvant chemotherapy. Definitive local therapy may benefit select patients with cM1 OCSCC.

Level of evidence: 4.
Early‐career research honoree probes links to youth suicide risk
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: September 2024

One of this year's honorees in an annual awards program for early‐career scientists will apply her research grant toward identifying more accurate predictors of youth suicide risk. Breakthroughs in this important area could lead to targeted preventive interventions for at‐risk adolescents and effective treatments for those in more advanced stages of crisis.
Annual study finds college students' mental health improving
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2024

College students from more than 200 universities across the country are reporting decreases in symptoms of anxiety, depression and thoughts of suicide, and increases in receiving mental health care and support, according to the latest annual Healthy Minds Study, which provides a detailed picture of mental health and related issues in college student populations.
Health literacy and diabetes information preferences among Chinese immigrants: An Australian cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lin Shanshan , Muscat Danielle , Ayre Julie
Published: September 2024

Aim

Explore Australian‐Chinese immigrants' health literacy and preferences and engagement with translated diabetes self‐management patient education materials.

Design

The cross‐sectional survey was conducted with Australian‐Chinese immigrants at risk or with type 2 diabetes recruited via health services, and diabetes and community organisations.

Methods

The survey had three parts: (1) diabetes screening; (2) sociodemographic information, clinical characteristics and preferences for translated materials; and (3) Functional, Communicative and Critical Health Literacy (FCCHL) Scale.

Results

Of 381 participants, 54.3% reported diabetes (n = 207), the remainder pre‐diabetes or at risk (45.7%, n = 174); 34.1% male; mean age 64.1 years. Average total health literacy (FCCHL) scores were 35.3/56 (SD = 8.7). Participants with greater English proficiency reported higher health literacy (p < 0.001). This pattern also existed for functional (p < 0.001), communicative (p = 0.007) and critical (p = 0.041) health literacy subdomains. Health literacy scores did not differ significantly based on years of residence in Australia (all p > 0.05). Although the majority of participants (75.6%, N = 288) were willing to receive translated diabetes information, only a small proportion (19.7%, N = 75) reporting receiving such materials.

Conclusion

There is a clear need for co‐designed diabetes patient education materials that meet the needs and adequately reach Australian‐Chinese immigrants. In particular, these materials must support people with limited English‐language proficiency.

Implications for Nursing Practice

This study highlights important considerations for nurses seeking to improve diabetes care for Chinese immigrants when incorporating patient education materials as part of their nursing education.
Compactness results for a Dirichlet energy of nonlocal gradient with applications
Authors: Han Zhaolong , Mengesha Tadele , Tian Xiaochuan
Published: September 2024

We prove two compactness results for function spaces with finite Dirichlet energy of half‐space nonlocal gradients. In each of these results, we provide sufficient conditions on a sequence of kernel functions that guarantee the asymptotic compact embedding of the associated nonlocal function spaces into the class of square‐integrable functions. Moreover, we will demonstrate that the sequence of nonlocal function spaces converges in an appropriate sense to a limiting function space. As an application, we prove uniform Poincaré‐type inequalities for sequence of half‐space gradient operators. We also apply the compactness result to demonstrate the convergence of appropriately parameterized nonlocal heterogeneous anisotropic diffusion problems. We will construct asymptotically compatible schemes for these type of problems. Another application concerns the convergence and robust discretization of a nonlocal optimal control problem.
SBFEM with perturbation method for solving the Reynolds equation
Authors: Pfeil Simon , Song Chongmin , Woschke Elmar
Published: September 2024

Rotordynamic simulations with nonlinear hydrodynamic bearing forces require a solution of the Reynolds equation at every time step. As a computationally efficient alternative to the standard numerical methods, a semi‐analytical solution based on the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) was developed recently. Through a discretization of the hydrodynamic pressure (dependent variable) along the circumferential but not the axial coordinate, the partial differential equation is transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations. This system of differential equations is referred to as SBFEM equation and can be solved exactly if the influence of shaft tilting is neglected. In common numerical models, this influence can be taken into account without difficulties, but as far as this semi‐analytical approach is concerned, shaft tilting complicates the equations substantially. Therefore, previous studies on the SBFEM solution of the Reynolds equation were conducted without consideration of this effect. The formulation presented in the work at hand no longer requires this simplification. The terms representing the influence of shaft tilting in the SBFEM equation are handled by the perturbation method. The pressure field is expressed by a series expansion, where the solution of order  correlates to the power of a perturbation parameter chosen proportional to the tilting angle. The differential equation governing the solution contains lower‐order solutions on its right‐hand side, implying a recursive computation of the series from lowest to highest order. A universal expression for the general solution is formulated, where only the coefficients and the maximum power of the axial coordinate differ for every . This allows the implementation of a general algorithm with no inherent limitation regarding the maximum order of perturbation. For verification, the pressure fields computed by the proposed method are compared to a numerical reference solution, showing that the series converges to the correct result for the investigated set of parameters.
Comparing frequentist and Bayesian uncertainty quantification in two‐step constitutive model calibration
Authors: Tröger Jendrik‐Alexander , Römer Ulrich , Hartmann Stefan
Published: September 2024

The calibration of constitutive models using experimental observations is a well‐established task in computational solid mechanics. Especially for complex constitutive models, multistep calibrations are regularly applied. While this approach is advantageous for reducing the complexity of the calibration problem, the quantification of parameter uncertainties becomes more challenging. In this study, we perform two‐step statistical parameter inference for an elasto‐plastic constitutive model utilizing a frequentist approach and Bayesian inference. The uncertainties are quantified by different methods, in particular, we compare an asymptotic normality analysis and Gaussian error propagation in the frequentist setting with sampling‐based Bayesian inference. Although frequentist and Bayesian parameter inference differ significantly in the way parameters are calibrated, both methods yield similar estimates. Additionally, the uncertainties quantified by asymptotic normality considerations and Gaussian error propagation are quite similar. However, the uncertainties of the elasticity parameters in the frequentist approach are found to be significantly smaller compared to Bayesian inference, due to the underlying approximations in the frequentist setting. Thus, uncertainties can be estimated in both settings, but it is crucial to be aware of the inherent assumptions and simplifications when interpreting the results.
Locally different models in a checkerboard pattern with mesh adaptation and error control for multiple quantities of interest
Authors: Endtmayer Bernhard
Published: September 2024

In this work, we apply multi‐goal oriented error estimation to the finite element method. In particular, we use the dual weighted residual method and apply it to a model problem. This model problem consist of locally different coercive partial differential equations in a checkerboard pattern, where the solution is continuous across the interface. In addition to the error estimation, the error can be localized using a partition of unity technique. The resulting adaptive algorithm is substantiated with a numerical example.
Implementation of a finite element framework coupling chemo‐mechanics and the Gurson‐Tvergaard‐Needleman model
Authors: Patil Siddhi Avinash , Prüger Stefan , Roth Stephan , Seupel Andreas , Kiefer Bjoern
Published: September 2024

Hydrogen embrittlement in ductile metals, such as steel, is a significant concern, for instance, in the safety assessment of existing pipeline infrastructure intended for hydrogen transport. The ductile damage mechanism in steels is characterized by the nucleation, growth, and coalescence of microvoids, which is further enhanced by the presence of hydrogen. This leads to material damage and premature failure in components. Mechanisms contributing to hydrogen‐induced reduction of strength in steels include hydrogen‐enhanced decohesion (HEDE), hydrogen‐enhanced local plasticity (HELP), and hydrogen‐enhanced strain‐induced vacancies (HESIV). The HEDE mechanism leads to a principal stress‐controlled brittle failure mode. Conversely, the HELP and the HESIV mechanisms, which are dominated by plastic deformation, alter the ductile damage behavior as they lead to accelerated void growth and coalescence. Furthermore, interstitial diffusion of hydrogen leading to lattice expansion, commonly referred to as swelling, also contributes to hydrogen‐induced embrittlement. Hydrogen embrittlement is therefore a stress‐diffusion process that involves chemo‐mechanical coupling, where hydrogen atoms primarily diffuse toward areas with high hydrostatic stress. In this regard, we propose a framework using the finite element method and combining coupled chemo‐mechanics and the well‐known Gurson‐Tvergaard‐Needleman (GTN) damage model. The framework is motivated by mixed rate‐type potentials, that account for the influence of hydrogen concentration on the damage behavior. An additional dependence of the fracture strain and evolution of the void volume fraction on hydrogen is included. A comparison of the fully‐coupled model to simplified versions is conducted to individually assess the role of hydrogen concentration on damage evolution and the stress state on diffusion.
Inductive mode selective damping of structural vibrations
Authors: Rosenboom Mitja , Hetzler Hartmut
Published: September 2024

Structural vibrations pose significant challenges in various engineering applications and require effective damping strategies to improve the overall performance and longevity of systems. While some oscillations can significantly reduce the longevity of systems, others might contribute positively to the overall system performance. Thus, this contribution presents a novel method of an inductive damping concept, that targets only specific vibrational modes based on their mode shapes. By analyzing the used inductive damping element in the context of a single degree of freedom oscillator, it is shown, that it functions as an ideal viscous damper only if the dynamics of the electric part of the system are neglected. The concept of mode selective damping is presented, using two of these damping elements in an oscillator chain with three masses. By altering the wiring configurations connecting the two damping elements in the electrical domain, the damping behavior can be manipulated to selectively damp only specific modes according to their mode shapes.
Sound absorption properties and mechanism of multi‐layer micro‐perforated nanofiber membrane
Authors: Shao Xiaofei , Yan Xiong
Published: September 2024

Aiming at achieving low‐frequency and broadband sound absorption under the premise of light and thin layers, in this paper, polyvinyl butyral (PVB) nanofiber membranes were micro‐perforated and then combined sequentially to prepare multi‐layer micro‐perforated nanofiber membrane (MPNM) for acoustic noise reduction. It was demonstrated that the multi‐layer MPNM exhibited a high absorption (constantly over 50%) in the frequency of 480–2500 Hz. In addition, the established theoretical model of the sound absorbing coefficient can accurately predict the sound absorption performance of the structure with different layers, which can provide a theoretical foundation for the design of the structure of the nanofibrous membrane acoustic absorber. Based on the proposed acoustic model, the relationships between the absorption properties and the parameters were investigated, and it was found that the effective acoustic absorption frequency range and acoustic absorption coefficient curve of the multi‐layer MPNM were closely related to the size and arrangement of hole diameter, perforation rate, fiber membrane thickness, and cavity depth. Optimization of the structural parameters utilizing algorithms can achieve superior sound absorption performance, with an average absorption coefficient of 0.81 in the frequency of 100–2500 Hz. This study provides a theoretical and experimental basis for the development of low‐frequency sound‐absorbing materials and is of great significance for optimizing the acoustic performance of nanofiber membranes and expanding their applications in various acoustic engineering applications.
Understanding the compaction behavior of uncured thermoset prepreg: Experimental investigation and theoretical analyses
Authors: Yan Lei , Gong Bowen , Wang Shuyi , Cheng Baofa , Sun Cheng , Ouyang Wenting , Wang Huan , Peng Hua‐Xin
Published: September 2024

The deformation behavior of uncured thermoset prepreg during hot compaction process was investigated by dividing the whole compaction process into an initial compression stage and the subsequent creep stage. At the compression stage, there existed a strain‐softening phenomenon in the temperature range of 50–90°C, indicating different deformation behavior that is mainly determined by the viscosity of prepreg. Following an appraisal of advantages and limitations of existing compaction models, a combination model consisted of a modified power‐law model including the influence of temperature and the generalized Kelvin‐Voigt model was proposed to describe the deformation behavior of prepreg during compression and creep stage, respectively. Finally, a discussion on the compaction mechanism was conducted to offer some insights into the deformation process.

Highlights

Strain‐softening phenomenon occurred during the compaction of uncured prepreg.

Proposed combination model captures the deformation of uncured prepreg well.

The percolation mechanism dominates prepreg deformation during compaction.

The squeeze flow mechanism causes limited thickness reduction of prepreg.
Progressive damage and stiffness degradation assessments of double‐lap CFRP/Ti interference fit bolted joints under quasi‐static tensile load
Authors: Zuo Yangjie , Wang Zhiguo , Jiao Yunlei , Pei Xin
Published: September 2024

Matrix crack propagation and stiffness degradation behaviors of the carbon fiber reinforced polymer/titanium alloy (CFRP/Ti) bolted joint were characterized by a synergistic damage mechanics approach. The parametric study including pre‐tightening torques and interference fit sizes was conducted. The results showed that the joint stiffness degradation exhibited characteristics of local stiffness degradation due to local stress concentration. Stiffness degradation in different plies was caused by matrix crack damage occurring in different directions. The pre‐tightening torque significantly increased the joint stiffness and restrain matrix crack progression, effectively inhibiting the stiffness degradation of the joint. Moreover, the low interference fit level delayed the crack initiation in −45° ply and 45° ply and the crack propagation of the laminate, while promoted the crack initiation in 90° ply. The stiffness degradation of the laminate could be significantly reduced by interference fit.

Highlights

Matrix crack propagation and stiffness degradation behaviors of the CFRP laminate were characterized by a synergistic damage mechanics method.

A FE model of the CFRP/Ti double‐lap interference fit bolted joint was established.

Influences of pre‐tightening torques on both matrix crack initiation and propagation were investigated.

The optimum interference fit size of the matrix damage strengthening was 0.20%–0.60%.
Direct printing of carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic plastic on metal sheets via fused deposition modeling assisted by laser texturing
Authors: Wang Shijia , Liu Yifan , Qin Chunlin , Su Jianhui , Deng Yunhua , Song Wei , Chen Bo , Song Xiaoguo , Tan Caiwang
Published: September 2024

Printing polymers on metal surfaces using fused deposition modeling could enhance the versatility of hybrid structures. However, the differences between metals and plastics prevented the effective spreading of molten plastic on metal surfaces, challenging reliable plastic printing on metal substrates. This study employed a nanosecond laser to fabricate laser‐textured grids of varying widths (0.2–0.5 mm) on a 6061 aluminum alloy (6061Al) surface. Carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic plastic (CFRTP) was printed on 6061Al surface in different printing directions (0°, 45°, and 90°). The influence of laser texturing and printing direction on joint performance was evaluated. The findings indicated the laser‐texturing increased 6061Al surface roughness, enhancing wettability of CFRTP on 6061Al surface. The 45° printing direction provided the best wetting, resulting in a tensile‐shear force of 1631.7 N, 218% higher than at 90°. Optimal performance was achieved with a 0.5‐mm texture width, increasing tensile‐shear force by 180% compared to 0.2 mm and 67% compared to 0.6 mm. Interfacial stress concentration decreased and then increased with the increase of laser‐textured width and the 45° printing direction provided the longest print path and best resin spreading. This research presented a novel approach to metal‐polymer joining, with significant implications for advanced lightweight hybrid structures.

Highlights

Printing carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic plastic (CFRTP) on 6061 aluminum alloy (6061Al) surface was achieved by fused deposition modeling via laser texturing.

The print direction affected the wetting and spreading space of the molten resin.

Pinning effect of printed CFRTP/6061Al by laser texturing was studied.

The spreading and wetting of resin determined the mechanical properties.
Molecular dynamics simulations of the micro mechanism of functionalized SiO2 nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes modified epoxy resin adhesives
Authors: Li You , Li Hongyi , Song Chengjun , Zhu Ziming , Ma Xiaowan
Published: September 2024

The bonding interface of carbon‐fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP)‐reinforced steel structure is a weak part, and nanomaterial‐modified adhesives are expected to improve its comprehensive performance. This paper investigates the micro‐modification mechanisms of nanomaterials on epoxy resin adhesives using molecular dynamics simulation method. It explores how the functionalized nano SiO2 and carbon nanotubes affects the thermal and mechanical properties of the epoxy resin adhesive. The models established using Materials Studio software include the pure epoxy resin adhesive model (EP) with varying degrees of crosslinking, the functionalized nano‐SiO2‐modified epoxy resin adhesive model (EP + SiO2/OH), the single‐walled carbon nanotube‐modified epoxy resin adhesive model (EP + SWNT), and the synergistic enhancements model of the epoxy resin adhesive with nano‐SiO2 and carbon nanotubes (EP + SWNT + SiO2/OH). Based on the aforementioned models, the Forcite module is used to calculate the free volume, glass transition temperature and mechanical properties of the adhesive. The results show that the degree of crosslinking effects significantly the mechanical performance of epoxy resin adhesive. A high degree of crosslinking restricts the movement of the molecular chain, enhancing the strength of the epoxy resin adhesive. Furthermore, the trend of the mechanical and thermal properties of the four models remains constant with the rise of temperature, and the properties decrease most significantly in the range of the glass transition temperature. Moreover, the epoxy resin adhesive doped with nanomaterials exhibits varying degrees of enhancement in mechanical and thermal properties. The epoxy resin adhesive reinforced with functionalized nano‐SiO2 and carbon nanotubes exhibits better properties compared to those with a single nanomaterial.

Highlights

The micro‐modification mechanism is revealed for nanomaterial modified epoxy resin adhesive.

The degree of crosslinking effects significantly the mechanical performance of epoxy resin adhesive.

The epoxy resin adhesive doped with nanomaterials exhibits varying degrees of enhancement in mechanical and thermal properties.