bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The MAMCABM framework for the evaluation of mobility decision‐making problems: theory and practice
Authors: Huang He , Sun Shiqi , Mommens Koen , Macharis Cathy
Published: September 2024

In the constantly evolving transportation and mobility industry, objective and reliable decision‐support systems (DSS) are crucial for addressing complex issues such as transit planning, mode selection, and policy formulation. This paper presents multiactor multicriteria analysis plus agent‐based modeling (MAMCABM), a novel framework that combines multiactor multicriteria analysis (MAMCA) and agent‐based modeling (ABM) to provide a comprehensive DSS. MAMCA excels in facilitating stakeholder‐centric evaluations, while ABM, enhanced by data analytics, adeptly models intricate, interactive systems. The combination of MAMCA and ABM enhances adaptability and precision in decision making. This integration utilizes data analytics and optimization algorithms to provide solutions that consider multifaceted criteria and diverse stakeholder perspectives in dynamic and uncertain contexts. The study outlines the mathematical underpinnings of MAMCABM and offers a practical guide for its implementation. The framework's efficacy is demonstrated through an empirical investigation that addresses mobility challenges in the Brussels Capital Region of Belgium. Compared to the previous study, this approach leverages simulated quantitative data alongside qualitative judgments from stakeholders. The integration of a consensus‐reaching algorithm further enhances the robustness of outcomes and effectively addresses uncertainties.
A Predictive Model of Pressure Injury in Children Undergoing Living Donor Liver Transplantation Based on Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Chen Xiaomei , Tang Shi , Qin Yanwen , Zhou Sui , Zhang Lina , Huang Yile , Chen Zheying
Published: September 2024

Aims

The aim of our study was to formulate and validate a prediction model using machine learning algorithms to forecast the risk of pressure injuries (PIs) in children undergoing living donor liver transplantation (LDLT).

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The research was carried out at China's largest paediatric liver transplantation centre. A total of 438 children who underwent LDLT between June 2021 and December 2022 constituted the study cohort. The dataset was partitioned randomly into 70% for training datasets (306 cases) and 30% for testing datasets (132 cases). Utilising four machine learning algorithms—Decision Tree, Random Forest, Gradient Boosting Decision Tree and eXtreme Gradient Boosting—we identified risk factors and constructed predictive models.

Results

Out of 438 children, 42 developed PIs, yielding an incidence rate of 9.6%. Notably, 94% of these cases were categorised as Stage 1, and 54% were localised on the occiput. Upon evaluating the four prediction models, the Decision Tree model emerged as the most effective. The primary contributors to pressure injury in the Decision Tree model were identified as operation time, intraoperative corticosteroid administration, preoperative skin protection measures and preoperative skin conditions. A visualisation elucidating the logical inference process for the 10 variables within the Decision Tree model was presented. Ultimately, based on the Decision Tree model, a predictive system was developed.

Conclusion

Machine learning algorithms facilitate the identification of crucial factors, enabling the creation of an effective Decision Tree model to forecast pressure injury development in children undergoing LDLT.

Impact

With this predictive model at their disposal, nurses can assess the pressure injury risk level in children more intuitively. Subsequently, they can implement tailored preventive strategies to mitigate the occurrence of PIs.

Patient or Public Contribution

Paediatric patients contributed electronic health records datasets.
A hypothesis on treatment strategy of severe multicentric Castleman disease with continuous renal replacement therapy
Authors: Constantinescu Cătălin , Kegyes David , Tigu Bogdan , Moisoiu Vlad , Grăjdieru Olga , Szekely Andrea , Terpos Evangelos , Tomuleasa Ciprian
Published: September 2024

Castleman disease (CD) is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder, with non‐specific clinical manifestations, often delayed diagnosis and treatment, which pose a significant challenge in the present times. Patients diagnosed with this disease have poor prognosis due to the limited treatment options. Multicentric CD occurs at multiple lymph node stations and is associated with a proinflammatory response that leads to the development of the so‐called ‘B symptoms’. IL‐6 seems to be a key cytokine involved in various manifestations such as lymphadenopathies, hepatosplenomegaly, and polyclonal hypergammaglobulinemia. Its levels correlate with the activity of the disease. Other consequences of MCD include increased fibrinogen levels leading to deep vein thrombosis and thromboembolic disorders, high hepcidin levels causing anaemia, elevated VEGF levels promoting angiogenesis and vascular permeability, which, along with hypoalbuminemia, induce oedema, ascites, pleural and pericardial effusions, and in severe cases, generalized anasarca. In extreme cases multiple organ failure can occur, often resulting in death. We propose the use of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in managing severe multicentric CD. Our arguments are based on the principles that CRRT is able to remove IL‐6 from circulation thus attenuating the cytokine storm, can influence hepcidin levels, and reduction in oedema, and is often used in multiple organ failure to regain homeostasis control. Therefore, it could be used as a therapy or bridge therapy in severe cases. To sustain our hypothesis with evidence, we have gathered several studies from the literature confirming the successful removal of cytokines, especially IL‐6 from circulation, which can be used as a starting point.
Evaluation of the Let's Focus! (Posem el Focus) Socioeducational Intervention: Promoting Healthy and Equitable Relationships in High Schools
Authors: Forcadell‐Díez Lluís , Pérez‐Martínez Vanesa , Guitart Elisabeth , Sanz‐Barbero Belén , Vives‐Cases Carmen , López María José , Juárez Olga , Pérez Glòria
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

Gender‐based violence is a worldwide problem. School‐based socio‐educational interventions could be effective in preventing gender‐based violence. We assessed the effectiveness of the Let's focus! program, aimed at health and equitable interpersonal relationships among high school students.

METHODS

We conducted a quasi‐experimental study in an intervention group (IG, n = 560) and a comparison group (CG, n = 366) of secondary school students in Terrassa, Spain between 2019 and 2021. Specifically, we performed an online questionnaire on sexism, acceptance of violence and machismo at baseline and after the intervention. We calculated multivariate linear regression models including satisfaction with the intervention, to evaluate the change in the variables' mean between CG and IG.

RESULTS

In comparison to the CG, in the IG hostile and benevolent sexism, and acceptance of violence decreased from baseline to after‐intervention, in the group of participants highly satisfied with the intervention (42.4%); machismo did not vary. The multivariate regression analyses showed that the intervention was effective in reducing hostile sexism (β = −6.40; CI95% (−11.92; −0.88)), benevolent sexism (β = −5.57; CI95% (−10.52;−0.61)), and acceptance of violence (β = −4.79; CI95% (−9.50; −0.09)) in highly satisfied students from the IG, in comparison to the ones from the CG, regardless of their age or gender.

DISCUSSION

Let's Focus! was effective in reducing sexism and decreasing acceptance of violence among students that were highly satisfied with the intervention.
Accommodation, translanguaging, and (in)discreteness in the repertoire: A scalar‐chronotopic approach
Authors: Al‐Alawi Wafa
Published: September 2024

A shift from understanding languages as discrete towards understanding them as undifferentiated features in the repertoire has caused disagreements over the reality of linguistic boundaries. In this paper, I show how a middle‐ground approach is achievable by applying the complex workings of a scalar‐chronotopic lens to the discourse of bilingual/multidialectal Bahrainis. I argue that both perspectives on (in)discreteness become relevant in accounting for bi/multilingual subjectivities: at times, Arabic is idealized as a large‐scale code against English, whereas at other times, the intrusiveness of English is backgrounded to show affiliation for one Arabic variety over another. I show accommodation in communication as a spatiotemporally layered process, where the internalized contextual factors within the repertoire may overlap with or take precedence over the immediate context. As such, this paper adds to the question of linguistic discreteness, with implications for our understanding of the repertoire and its utility in bi/multilingual practices and accommodation theory.
The risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes and its impact on clinical effect in IgA nephropathy: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Zhang Fengxia , Xie Zhiyong , Peng Siqi , Jiang Nan , Li Bohou , Chen Boxi , Deng Shuting , Yuan Ye , Wu Qiong , Wen Sichun , Tao Yiming , Ma Jianchao , Li Sijia , Lin Ting , Wen Feng , Li Zhuo , Huang Renwei , Feng Zhonglin , He Chaosheng , Wang Wenjian , Liang Xinling , Xu Lixia , Shen Yue , Hong Niechao , Xu Ruiquan , Liu Shuangxin
Published: September 2024

Aim

IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is the most common primary glomerular disease worldwide. Pregnant IgAN patients are more susceptible to adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO). However, the risk factor for APO and its effects on the long‐term renal outcome of pregnant IgAN patients remained unclear.

Methods

We performed a retrospective observational study covering 2003–2019 that included 44 female IgAN patients with pregnancy history to investigate the risk factor for APO and its impact on clinical outcome in IgAN. Renal function outcome and proteinuria remission were evaluated in pregnant IgAN women with and without APO.

Results

In this retrospective and observational study, we found that patients with APO exhibited higher levels of serum creatinine and IgM, and lower haemoglobin levels while other clinical characteristics, pathological characteristics and therapy protocol had no significant difference. We found that anaemia and a higher level of serum IgM were independent risk factors for APO. IgAN pregnant women without APO experienced a higher proportion of proteinuria remission than those with APO, but there is no difference in the renal function outcome.

Conclusion

Pregnant IgAN patients with higher risks, including lower haemoglobin levels and higher IgM levels deserve intensive monitoring, and aggressive therapy to reduce proteinuria should be carried out in pregnant IgAN patients with APO.

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Broadening the horizon of Indian mycobiota: two new species and one new generic record in Boletoid mushrooms (Boletaceae)
Authors: Datta Sudeshna , Chakraborty Dyutiparna , Bose Arunima , Ghosh Aniket , Das Kanad
Published: September 2024

A combination of morphological studies and multigene molecular phylogenetic analyses unveiled two significant novel species of boletes namely Anthracoporus indohimalayanus sp. nov. and Boletus dhakuricus sp. nov. from the states of Sikkim and Uttarakhand, respectively. The first novel species, i.e. A. indohimalayanus is also a new generic record of the genus Anthracoporus from India, whereas the second novel species i.e. B. dhakuricus is a member of wild edible porcini mushroom. Both the taxa are described with their morphological details and molecular phylogenetic inferences.
A Bamboo HD‐Zip Transcription Factor PeHDZ72 Conferred Drought Tolerance by Promoting Sugar and Water Transport
Authors: Zhu Chenglei , Lin Zeming , Liu Yan , Li Hui , Di Xiaolin , Li Tiankuo , Wang Jiangfei , Gao Zhimin
Published: September 2024

Drought drastically affects plant growth, development and productivity. Plants respond to drought stress by enhancing sugar accumulation and water transport. Homeodomain‐leucine zipper (HD‐Zip) transcription factors (TFs) participate in various aspects of plant growth and stress response. However, the internal regulatory mechanism of HD‐Zips in moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) remains largely unknown. In this study, we identified an HD‐Zip member, PeHDZ72, which was highly expressed in bamboo shoots and roots and was induced by drought. Furthermore, PeSTP_46019, PeSWEET_23178 and PeTIP4‐3 were identified as downstream genes of PeHDZ72 in moso bamboo by DAP‐seq. The expressions of these three genes were all induced by drought stress. Y1H, DLR and GUS activity assays demonstrated that PeHDZ72 could bind to three types of HD‐motifs in the promoters of these three genes. Overexpression of PeHDZ72 led to a remarkable enhancement in drought tolerance in transgenic rice, with significantly improved soluble sugar and sucrose contents. Meanwhile, the expressions of OsSTPs, OsSWEETs and OsTIP were all upregulated in transgenic rice under drought stress. Overall, our results indicate that drought stress might induce the expression of PeHDZ72, which in turn activated downstream genes PeSTP_46019, PeSWEET_23178 and PeTIP4‐3, contributing to the improvement of cellular osmotic potential in moso bamboo in response to drought stress.
Photoexcited Cryptochrome 1 Interacts With SPCHLESS to Regulate Stomatal Development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Li , Cao Xiaoli , Li Yupeng , Liu Minqing , Liu Yao , Guan Yan , Ruan Jiaqi , Mao Zhilei , Wang Wenxiu , Yang Hong‐Quan , Guo Tongtong
Published: September 2024

Stomata are epidermal openings that facilitate plant−atmosphere gas and water exchange during photosynthesis, respiration and water evaporation. SPEECHLESS (SPCH) is a master basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) transcription factor that determines the initiation of stomatal development. It is known that blue light promotes stomatal development through the blue light photoreceptor cryptochromes (CRYs, CRY1 and CRY2). Whether CRYs regulate stomatal development through directly modulating SPCH is unknown. Here, we demonstrate by biochemical studies that CRY1 physically interacts with SPCH in a blue light‐dependent manner. Genetic studies show that SPCH acts downstream of CRY1 to promote stomatal development in blue light. Furthermore, we show that CRY1 enhances the DNA‐binding activity of SPCH and promotes the expression of its target genes in blue light. These results suggest that the mechanism by which CRY1 promotes stomatal development involves positive regulation of the DNA‐binding activity of SPCH, which is likely mediated by blue light‐induced CRY1−SPCH interaction. The precise regulation of SPCH DNA‐binding activity by CRY1 may allow plants to optimize stomatal density and pattern according to ambient light conditions.
Molecular Regulation of Shoot Architecture in Soybean
Authors: Hou Zhihong , Huang Huan , Wang Yanan , Chen Liyu , Yue Lin , Liu Baohui , Kong Fanjiang , Yang Hui
Published: September 2024

Soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) serves as a major source of protein and oil for humans and animals. Shoot architecture, the spatial arrangement of a plant's above‐ground organs, strongly affects crop yield and is therefore a critical agronomic trait. Unlike wheat and rice crops that have greatly benefitted from the Green Revolution, soybean yield has not changed significantly in the past six decades owing to its unique shoot architecture. Soybean is a pod‐bearing crop with pods adhered to the nodes, and variation in shoot architecture traits, such as plant height, node number, branch number and number of seeds per pod, directly affects the number of pods and seeds per plant, thereby determining yield. In this review, we summarize the relationship between soybean yield and these major components of shoot architecture. We also describe the latest advances in identifying the genes and molecular mechanisms underlying soybean shoot architecture and discuss possible directions and approaches for breeding new soybean varieties with ideal shoot architecture and improved yield.
Tree Longevity: Multifaceted Genetic Strategies and Beyond
Authors: Liu Sian , Xu Huimin , Wang Guibin , Jin Biao , Cao Fuliang , Wang Li
Published: September 2024

Old trees are remarkable for their ability to endure for centuries or even millennia, acting as recordkeepers of historical climate and custodians of genetic diversity. The secret to their longevity has long been a subject of fascination. Despite the challenges associated with studying old trees, such as massive size, slow growth rate, long lifespan and often remote habitat, accumulating studies have investigated the mechanisms underlying tree aging and longevity over the past decade. The recent publication of high‐quality genomes of long‐lived tree species, coupled with research on stem cell function and secondary metabolites in longevity, has brought us closer to unlocking the secrets of arboreal longevity. This review provides an overview of the global distribution of old trees and examines the environmental and anthropogenic factors that shape their presence. We summarize the contributions of physiological characteristics, stem cell activity, and immune system responses to their extraordinary longevity. We also explore the genetic and epigenetic ‘longevity code’, which consists of resistance and defense genes, DNA repair genes and patterns of DNA methylation modification. Further, we highlight key areas for future research that could enhance our understanding of the mechanisms underlying tree longevity.
A severe case of reactive infectious mucocutaneous eruption associated with two possible triggers: Coronavirus and group A streptococcus
Authors: Rodriguez Ivan , Kwong Andrew T. , Luu Minnelly , Worswick Scott D.
Published: September 2024

Reactive infectious mucocutaneous eruption (RIME) is a newly defined condition characterized by mucocutaneous blistering secondary to upper respiratory infections and encompasses Mycoplasma pneumoniae‐induced rash and mucositis, broadening the disease spectrum to include various infectious etiologies. We present a severe RIME case involving a 5‐year‐old female with concurrent coronavirus NL63 and group A streptococcus infections. Diagnosis complexity stemmed from overlapping clinical features with other severe mucocutaneous eruptions such as Stevens‐Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis/drug‐induced necrolysis. This case underscores the need for comprehensive infectious workup and emphasizes the clinical diagnostic spectrum of drug‐induced and infection‐induced desquamative skin and mucosal disease.
Comparing Cadence vs. Machine Learning Based Physical Activity Intensity Classifications: Variations in the Associations of Physical Activity With Mortality
Authors: Wei Le , Ahmadi Matthew N. , Biswas Raaj Kishore , Trost Stewart G. , Stamatakis Emmanuel
Published: September 2024

Step cadence‐based and machine‐learning (ML) methods have been used to classify physical activity (PA) intensity in health‐related research. This study examined the association of intensity‐specific PA duration with all‐cause (ACM) and CVD mortality using the cadence‐based and ML methods in 68 561 UK Biobank participants wearing wrist‐worn accelerometers. The two‐stage‐ML method categorized activity type and then intensity. The one‐level‐cadence‐method (1LC) derived intensity‐specific duration using all detected steps (including standing utilitarian steps) and cadence thresholds of ≥100 steps/min (moderate intensity) and ≥130 steps/min (vigorous intensity). The two‐level‐cadence‐method (2LC) detected ambulatory steps (i.e., walking and running) and then applied the same cadence thresholds. The 2LC exhibited the most pronounced association at the lower end of duration spectrum. For example, the 2LC showed the smallest minimum moderate‐to‐vigorous‐PA (MVPA) duration (amount associated with 50% of optimal risk reduction) with similar corresponding ACM hazard ratio (HR) to other methods (2LC: 2.8 min/day [95% CI: 2.6, 2.8], HR: 0.83 [95% CI: 0.78, 0.88]; 1LC, 11.1[10.8, 11.4], 0.80 [0.76, 0.85]; ML, 14.9 [14.6, 15.2], 0.82 [0.76, 0.87]). The ML elicited the greatest mortality risk reduction. For example, the medians and corresponding HR in VPA‐ACM association: 2LC, 2.0 min/day [95% CI: 2.0, 2.0], HR, 0.69 [95% CI: 0.61, 0.79]; 1LC, 6.9 [6.9, 7.0], 0.68 [0.60, 0.77]; ML, 3.2 [3.2, 3.2], 0.53 [0.44, 0.64]. After standardizing durations, the ML exhibited the most pronounced associations. For example, the standardized minimum durations in MPA‐CVD mortality association were: 2LC, −0.77; 1LC, −0.85; ML, −0.94; with corresponding HR of 0.82 [0.72, 0.92], 0.79 [0.69, 0.90], and 0.77 [0.69, 0.85], respectively. The 2LC exhibited the most pronounced association with all‐cause and CVD mortality at the lower end of the duration spectrum. The ML method provided the most pronounced association with all‐cause and CVD mortality, thus might be appropriate for estimating health benefits of moderate and vigorous intensity PA in observational studies.
Implementation challenges of electronic blood transfusion safety systems: Lessons from an international, multi‐site comparative case study
Authors: Horck Stijn , Fahy Nick , Greenhalgh Trisha
Published: September 2024

Background

Severe transfusion reactions resulting from errors in matching the correct blood with the correct patient are considered never events. Despite the relative technical simplicity of barcode scanning for patient‐blood bag matching, the adoption and universal application of this safety measure are by no means universal. This study highlights the logistical and institutional challenges associated with spreading, scaling up, and sustaining such IT‐supported safety measures in healthcare.

Study Design and Methods

We report findings from a 5‐year, prospective, multi‐site case study conducted across one hospital in England and three hospitals in the Netherlands. Ethnographic methods, including interviews and observations, were used at each site to investigate the implementation of barcode scanning‐supported safety pathways for blood transfusions.

Results

Significant variation was observed across the sites in the adoption and implementation of barcode scanning‐supported safety pathways. Despite the potential for reducing transfusion errors, the introduction of this innovation was met with varying levels of success in different settings.

Discussion

This study highlights the critical role of inter‐hospital learning and flexible system design in successfully implementing barcode scanning‐supported safety pathways for blood transfusions. A more structured, national‐level network for knowledge sharing could enhance the spread and sustainability of such innovations across healthcare settings.
On finite generation in magnitude (co)homology and its torsion
Authors: Caputi Luigi , Collari Carlo
Published: September 2024

The aim of this paper is to apply the framework developed by Sam and Snowden to study structural properties of graph homologies, in the spirit of Ramos, Miyata and Proudfoot. Our main results concern the magnitude homology of graphs introduced by Hepworth and Willerton, and we prove that it is a finitely generated functor (on graphs of bounded genus). More precisely, for graphs of bounded genus, we prove that magnitude cohomology, in each homological degree, has rank which grows at most polynomially in the number of vertices, and that its torsion is bounded. As a consequence, we obtain analogous results for path homology of (undirected) graphs.
Strategies to increase accessibility for students with disabilities in health professional programs: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Dhillon Shaminder , Roque Michelle Ira , Brooks Dina , Wojkowski Sarah
Published: September 2024

Objective:

The objective of this scoping review will be to identify strategies in the literature that may increase the accessibility of health professional programs for students with disabilities.

Introduction:

The number of students with disabilities in health professional programs is increasing. However, since students with disabilities experience barriers to education, their retention rates are potentially lower, and their attrition rates are potentially higher compared with their non-disabled peers.

Inclusion criteria:

Academic and gray literature that identifies strategies intended to increase accessibility to health professional programs for students with disabilities will be included. Only articles published from 2000 onward will be considered for inclusion.

Methods:

This review will follow the JBI methodology for scoping reviews. Databases to be searched will include Embase (Ovid), MEDLINE (Ovid), PsycINFO (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), ERIC (ProQuest), and Web of Science. Gray literature will be searched for using Google. Websites of known disability organizations will also be searched. There will be no language limitations. Paired reviewers will independently screen titles and abstracts, and then full-text articles. Data will be extracted using a tool developed by the reviewers. The extracted data will be synthesized and reported in tabular format, accompanied by a narrative summary connecting the results to the objective of the review.

This scoping review protocol was registered in Open Science Framework:

https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/BSYRT
Care partner engagement in patient safety at the direct care level in hospital: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Perfetto Kayley , Pozzobon Laura , Sears Kim , O'Hara Jane , Ross-White Amanda , Duhn Lenora
Published: September 2024

Objective:

The objective of this systematic review is to understand the experiences of care partner engagement in patient safety at the direct care level from the perspective of care partners, patients, and health care professionals.

Introduction:

Care partner engagement is a strategy for promoting patient safety in hospitals at the direct care level (ie, at the point where patient care is delivered). When present, care partners can increase safety by watching, listening, and taking action to protect admitted patients. To improve care partner presence policies and safety engagement strategies within hospitals, a comprehensive understanding of the current qualitative evidence about the breadth of experiences of care partner engagement in patient safety is required.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include qualitative studies that consider the experiences of care partners, adult patients, and health care professionals. The engagement of care partners in patient safety within pediatric hospital settings will not be considered.

Methods:

This review will follow the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of qualitative evidence. A preliminary literature search was conducted in MEDLINE and a full search strategy was developed for MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and PsycINFO (all via Ovid), as well as the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and JBI Evidence Synthesis. The JBI approach to study selection, critical appraisal, data extraction, data synthesis, and assessment of confidence will be followed. Two reviewers will test the screening criteria and data extraction protocol.

Review registration:

PROSPERO CRD42023476286
An Experimental Study on the Effects of Nonuniform Vane Spacing on Forced Response Reduction in a Mistuned Rotor Blisk in a Multistage Axial Compressor
Authors: Leng Yujun , Dodda Jhansi R. , Key Nicole L.
Published: September 2024

Stators with nonuniform vane spacing (NUVS) are known to effectively reduce the forced response of adjacent rotors by spreading the primary engine order (EO) excitation at a certain speed to a series of weaker excitations at nearby EOs over a wider speed range. To be used in a real gas turbine engine, it is essential to know the forced response vibratory reduction that can be achieved for a specific NUVS configuration at different operating conditions. The classical estimation method to predict the blade response reduction is to quantify the reduction of the forcing function at a potential resonance crossing by conducting a circumferential Fourier analysis of the asymmetric flow field. However, besides excitation reduction, the blade forced response also depends on other factors, such as damping and blade-to-blade interactions due to mistuning. To study the blade forced response reduction in a realistic environment, a comprehensive experimental study was conducted in the Purdue three-stage axial research compressor at three different loading conditions. The vibratory response of the first torsion (1 T) mode forced response of rotor 2 was measured by strain gages (SGs) for two different upstream stator 1 configurations: the symmetric 38-vaned stator 1 configuration and the NUVS stator 1 configuration with 18–20 vane halves. As expected, the strong 38EO-1T response from the symmetric stator reduced to a series of weaker responses from 35EO to 41EO in the NUVS configuration. The overlap of adjacent EO responses caused considerable beating phenomena in the blade SG time–history data. There was substantial blade-to-blade variation in blade response for both symmetric and asymmetric stator 1 configurations due to the inherent nonintentional mistuning in the rotor 2 blisk. This, in turn, causes a large blade-to-blade variation in the reduction factors. While higher responding blades tend to have larger reduction factors, some blades show almost no forced response reduction when switching to the NUVS stator. In addition, the reduction factors for each blade and the maximum reduction factor for the whole blisk also change significantly with loading conditions. The measured reduction factors and the peak response EO are not well predicted by the classical estimation method. This indicates that both damping and mistuning effects need to be considered in the NUVS reduction factor prediction.
Signal-Processing Method to Synthesize Eddy Current Sensors
Authors: Lepage Benoit
Published: September 2024

This article focuses on the development of a novel method for synthesizing an eddy current sensor using signal-processing techniques based on the linear superposition of multiple parallel acquisition signals. The proposed method will be demonstrated in the context of a cross-wound sensor (CWS) made of a flexible printed circuit board (PCB). Traditionally, the configuration and detection orientation of an eddy current sensor are determined during the fabrication process, which limits the flexibility and versatility of the sensor. However, the method developed in this research enables the fabrication of the sensor through signal processing, increasing the customization potential and adaptability. Furthermore, the proposed method also enables the production of a suitable lift-off sensor (LOS) for dynamic lift-off compensation (DLOC). DLOC is a crucial aspect of eddy current sensing as it helps to account for the distance between the sensor and the target surface, which can affect measurement accuracy. The ability to configure the CWS detection orientation with DLOC capabilities through signal processing offers significant advantages in terms of sensor performance and versatility. Experimental results will be presented that demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in enabling an eddy current sensor featuring configurable detection orientation and DLOC capabilities.
Wear of Wave Energy Converters Mooring Lines Belts
Authors: Abdellatef Mohammed , Clark Josiah , Kojimoto Nigel , Gunawan Budi
Published: September 2024

Using a belt as a replacement for a rope on a rotary power take-offs (PTOs) system has become more common for wave energy converters, improving cyclic bend over sheave performance with a smaller bending thickness for belts. However, the service life predictions of PTOs are a major concern in design, because belt performance under harsh underwater environments is largely less studied. In this work, the effect of fleet and twist angles on wear life is being investigated both experimentally and numerically. Two three-dimensional equivalent static finite element models are constructed to evaluate the complex stress state of polyurethane-steel belts around steel drums. The first is to capture the response of the experimental investigation performed on the wear life, and the second to predict the wear life of an existing functional PTO. The results show a significant effect for fleet and twist angles on stress concentrations and estimated service life.
Rectangular Bismuth Oxychloride With High Mid-Wave Infrared Reflectance to Strengthen Radiative Cooling Performance
Authors: Sun Junyu , Wang Jing , An Yizhuo , Ji Cheng , Bai Shuxin
Published: September 2024

Radiative cooling materials (RCMs) based on polymers, which reflect solar irradiance (0.24–2.5 μm) strongly and emit radiation within atmospheric window (8–13 μm) intensively, have yielded obvious cooling performance. However, RCMs reported failed to realize high mid-wave infrared (2.5–8 μm) reflectance (i.e., spectral selectivity), which play an important role in rejecting the radiation from the ambient, especially in high relative humidity. Thus, enhancing the reflectance of RCMs in mid-wave infrared can further strengthen the cooling effect in an environment of high relative humidity. The additive of fillers with high reflectance in mid-wave infrared is effective, low cost, and convenient to modify the cooling performance of polymeric RCMs. In this article, micron rectangular bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) powders were proposed and synthesized using the hydrothermal method. Rectangular BiOCl boasts excellent mid-wave infrared reflective capacity (85%). Then, rectangular BiOCl was added into the top layer of flexible hierarchically porous complex membrane and improved the reflectance of porous membrane within 2.5–8 μm from 48.3% to 58.1%. However, the emittance of the obtained bilayer membrane within the atmospheric window was hardly affected. The membrane with BiOCl exhibited better cooling performance in humid ambient (70%), demonstrating the importance of spectral selectivity experimentally. This work proposed an effective strategy to modify the spectral selectivity of RCMs, and it could expand the application of radiative cooling materials in hot and humid areas.
A Solar Air Receiver With Porous Ceramic Structures for Process Heat at Above 1000 °C—Heat Transfer Analysis
Authors: Patil Vikas R. , Steinfeld Aldo
Published: September 2024

Concentrated solar energy can be used as the source of heat at above 1000 °C for driving key energy-intensive industrial processes, such as cement manufacturing and metallurgical extraction, contributing to their decarbonization. The cornerstone technology is the solar receiver mounted on top of the solar tower, which absorbs the incident high-flux radiation and heats a heat transfer fluid. The proposed high-temperature solar receiver concept consists of a cavity containing a reticulated porous ceramic (RPC) structure for volumetric absorption of concentrated solar radiation entering through an open (windowless) aperture, which also serves for the access of ambient air used as the heat transfer fluid flowing across the RPC structure. A heat transfer analysis of the solar receiver is performed by means of two coupled models: a Monte Carlo (MC) ray-tracing model to solve the 3D radiative exchange and a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model to solve the 2D convective and conductive heat transfer. Temperature distributions computed by the iteratively coupled models were compared with experimental data obtained by testing a lab-scale 5 kW receiver prototype with a silicon carbide RPC structure exposed to 3230 suns flux irradiation. The receiver model is applied to optimize its dimensions for maximum efficiency and to scale-up for a 5 MW solar tower.
Finite Element Simulations and Statistical Analysis for the Tribological Design of Mutually Textured Surfaces and Related Experimental Validation
Authors: Berardo Alice , Borasso Massimiliano , Gallus Enrico , Pugno Nicola M.
Published: September 2024

In the last few decades, micro-texturing has become a widely studied technique to modify the frictional behavior between surfaces in both dry and lubricated regimes. Among all the available techniques, the laser surface texturing appears to be fast, clean, and flexible, and thus a good candidate in realizing surface micro-patterns, also for the improvement of the tribological performance of automotive components when subjected to dry friction. For this reason, in the present work, the tribological response of four different patterns of micro-holes on two contrasting materials, specifically silicon carbide and carbon black have been investigated with a coupled experimental–numerical approach. The static and the dynamic friction coefficients have been extracted from the 25 different combinations of these surface textures including the flat counterparts. Then, the influence of the holes diameter, their density, and the material has been studied thanks to a multivariate linear regression. Specifically, it emerged that, in a dry regime, the most emerging parameter is the micro-holes diameter, for both static and dynamic frictions. Moreover, for both static and dynamic frictions, the material which more influences the effects of patterns to the overall frictional behavior is here the stiffest one. These insights for the design of micro-patterned surfaces with controlled frictional properties could be useful for those applications in which a dry friction regime is present.
An Investigation Into the Impact of Simplified Lung Airway Models on Respirable Dust Particle Deposition Using CFD and Wind Tunnel Testing
Authors: Aboelezz Ahmed , Hassanalian Mostafa , Roghanchi Pedram
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of simplified lung airway models on the deposition of dust particles. It uses Computational Fluid Dynamics and wind tunnel testing to assess the accuracy and reliability of these models in predicting dust behavior in the respiratory system, particularly in coal mining. Through CFD simulations, we analyzed it in a simplified lung model. These results were compared with those from more complex models. The simulations focused on key factors influencing particle deposition. Wind tunnel experiments were conducted to validate the simulation results and observe dust behavior. These experiments provided insights into the limitations of simplified lung models in capturing the deposition of fine dust particles.

The study found significant differences in air velocities between simplified and complex lung models, leading to potential underestimation or overestimation of dust deposition. This research enhances understanding of dust particle deposition in the lungs, contributing to respiratory health and safety. It highlights the need for more sophisticated modeling techniques in occupational health studies and improves safety standards in industries with dust exposure.
Effect of Ribs in the Radial Suction Casing of Multistage Pump
Authors: Kim Joshua Joohyen , Son Jinho , Kim Jongbum , Boehle Martin
Published: September 2024

This study examines the influence of ribs installed in the radial suction casing used for a barrel-type multistage pump. Four different suction casings were investigated — with no rib, 2 straight ribs, 8 straight ribs and 8 curved ribs. CFD studies were carried out to compare performances of these geometries, and then a 4-stage pump, equipped with the suction casing with 8 curved ribs, was manufactured and tested. Fluid entering the pump moves through a radial inlet nozzle into a circular chamber. There it flows in circumferential direction and turns radially towards the impeller at the same time. The casings with no rib or two straight ribs show the typical pre- and counter-rotating flow-pattern at the impeller inlet. However, eight straight or curved ribs effectively reduce the circumferential velocity component of fluid, resulting in a lower cavitation-inception (NPSHi). A greater number of ribs generates slightly higher casing loss due to increased friction, but its influence on the overall efficiency of the multistage pump is negligible. The numerically predicted NPSHi and NPSH3% were compared to the test results of the 4-stage pump, and a decent agreement was observed. The suction casing with eight curved ribs and an optimized impeller with suction-side profiled leading edge gave a low NPSHi (σi = 0.4) at shockless flow.
Microfluidic Bi-Axial Cell Stretching Platform for Intestinal Epithelial Cell Modeling
Authors: Gong Liyuan , Rivera Kevin , Chaudhary Birendra , Matsuo Takeshi , Farah Mitchell , Hartman Robert , Greene Samuel , Lin Yang
Published: September 2024

Intestinal epithelial cells encounter intricate mechanical and physiological stimuli within the intestinal microenvironment. Establishing a precise and dynamic in vitro model is essential to exert control over cellular behaviors. As microfluidic devices offer unparalleled versatility and precision for replicating physiological conditions, this tool has attracted increasing attention in broad applications. This study presents a novel microfluidic bi-axial 9-well cell stretching system designed for cells using two common intestinal epithelial cell lines (Caco2 and HT29) as the models. The system employs a mechanical linkage system capable of simultaneously stretching cells in nine wells, applying a 10% strain driven by a linear actuator. Realtime strain data is collected on the shaft to validate displacement and detect system motion disturbances. The material characterization of 15:1 polydimethylsiloxane was done utilizing a tensile testing system, and the experimental validation was achieved through digital image correlation. Cellular morphology and viability were assessed under different cell culture conditions for 5 days. The results indicate that cells cultured in stretching and static conditions exhibited higher viability compared to those solely cultured under flow conditions. Interestingly, both cell lines demonstrated faster differentiation under flowing and stretching conditions, displaying an enlarged cellular membrane. HT29 cells also exhibited higher viability than Caco2 cells under cell stretching. Furthermore, flow shear stress reduced the viability of both cell lines emphasizing the need for further comprehensive studies to conduct a parametric analysis of flow shear stress and strain rate to optimize dynamic cell culturing conditions to obtain desired cellular properties.
Detachment of Triboelectrically Charged Bumpy Particles in Turbulent Flows
Authors: Khanmohammadi Abbas , Ahmadi Goodarz
Published: September 2024

This study analytically evaluated the removal of charged irregularly shaped particles from rough surfaces in turbulent airflows. Spherical particles with several bumps (protrusions) were used as models for the compact, irregularly shaped particles. It was assumed that the substrate and particle bumps have fine surface roughness. The cases where the particles were charged by the triboelectric mechanism in the presence of an electric field were considered. In this case, the charges were assumed to reside on the particle bumps due to the collisions with dissimilar surfaces. For particles with fixed charges per unit mass, various electrostatic forces, including Coulomb, image, dielectrophoretic, and polarization forces, were considered. The adhesion of bumps was modeled using the improved Johnson-Kendall-Roberts (JKR) adhesion theory, with each bump having fine roughness in contact with rough substrates. The shear velocity required to remove the charged irregularly shaped particles in turbulent flows was evaluated using the theoretical interactions between adhesion, electrostatic, and hydrodynamic forces. The effects of particle size, charge, irregularity, and surface roughness on their detachment were investigated.
Numerical Simulations on the Turbulent Boundary Layer of Droplet Laden Flow Over a Flat-Plate
Authors: Tang Pengbo , Li Jingyin , Li Kunhang , Lv Qian
Published: September 2024

The droplet-laden flows in fluid machinery often result in an evident deterioration in aerodynamic performance, but less attention has been paid on the underlying mechanism till now. In the present study, we investigated the dispersion and deposition of droplet particles in a spatially developing turbulent boundary layer over a flat plat. A three-dimensional simulation was performed on the turbulent droplet-laden flow in a boundary layer of a flat plate placed in a wind tunnel. Large eddy simulation (LES) coupled with discrete phase model (DPM) was employed for carrier gas and laden droplet particles respectively, to investigate the turbulent gas-droplets behaviors in plate boundary layer. Results showed that the evolutions of vortex structure including the large-scale coherent structures, were augmented with an increased initial gas velocity. Moreover, it was found that the droplet particles are more likely to congregate in the low-velocity strip region, the congregation is affected by St number. With a decreased Stokes number, the droplet particles are prone to gathering in the upstream of the vortex surface. On the contrary, the particles tend to enter the vortex structure when the Stokes number is increased. In addition, the droplet particle tends to deposit in the low-velocity strip region, and form concentration peaks at the front of the plate. The positions of the peaks move downstream with particle sizes, and the change gas incoming velocities has a slight influence on the position of the deposition peak.
Numerical Simulation of Clay Slurries With High Yield Stresses in Centrifugal Pumps
Authors: Garman Mohamed , Visintainer Robert
Published: September 2024

Centrifugal slurry pumps are widely used for hydraulic transportation of solids in the mining and dredging industries. The performance of these pumps degrades when handling a slurry flow. The level of complexity increases for a pump handling non-Newtonian (non-settling) slurries, especially when these slurries exhibit a high yield stress. The viscous effect is the primary source of performance loss in non-Newtonian slurries, and this loss is more pronounced in efficiency than in head. In sets of experiments conducted at GIW Industries, Inc. [1], the measured pump performance and pipeline friction loss were captured while testing a phosphate clay slurry at different solids concentrations. This slurry was tested at a range of yield stresses from 100–600 Pa, established by varying the solids concentration. The tested pump was a GIW-LCC-M 80-300 type, featuring a three-vane, closed-shroud impeller with a 0.3-m diameter. A high-fidelity CFD simulation was developed and simulated, with the measured rheology used as an input to the CFD simulations. The simulation results showed a good agreement with the tested performance. The outcome of these simulations could be used as a resource for predicting the pump derate within the testing range, as the results could help in selecting the pump size and determining the power requirement.