bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and functional characterisation of a stable, broad-specificity multimeric sialidase from the oral pathogen Tannerella forsythia
Authors: Satur Marianne J. , Urbanowicz Paulina A. , Spencer Daniel I. R. , Rafferty John , Stafford Graham P.
Published: August 2022

Sialidases are glycosyl hydrolase enzymes targeting the glycosidic bond between terminal sialic acids and underlying sugars. The NanH sialidase of Tannerella forsythia, one of the bacteria associated with severe periodontal disease plays a role in virulence. Here, we show that this broad-specificity enzyme (but higher affinity for α2,3 over α2,6 linked sialic acids) digests complex glycans but not those containing Neu5,9Ac. Furthermore, we show it to be a highly stable dimeric enzyme and present a thorough structural analysis of the native enzyme in its apo-form and in complex with a sialic acid analogue/ inhibitor (Oseltamivir). We also use non-catalytic (D237A) variant to characterise molecular interactions while in complex with the natural substrates 3- and 6-siallylactose. This dataset also reveals the NanH carbohydrate-binding module (CBM, CAZy CBM 93) has a novel fold made of antiparallel beta-strands. The catalytic domain structure contains novel features that include a non-prolyl cis-peptide and an uncommon arginine sidechain rotamer (R306) proximal to the active site. Via a mutagenesis programme, we identified key active site residues (D237, R212 and Y518) and probed the effects of mutation of residues in proximity to the glycosidic linkage within 2,3 and 2,6-linked substrates. These data revealed that mutagenesis of R306 and residues S235 and V236 adjacent to the acid–base catalyst D237 influence the linkage specificity preference of this bacterial sialidase, opening up possibilities for enzyme engineering for glycotechology applications and providing key structural information that for in silico design of specific inhibitors of this enzyme for the treatment of periodontitis.
Anthropometric fluctuating asymmetries in living humans through the eyes of an anthropologist
Authors: Özener Barış
Published: August 2022

There are many environmental and genetic factors that disrupt the stable structure of development in organisms. Although the strength of these vary, they leave certain signs in the body structure. Fluctuating asymmetry is a widely used population-level index of developmental instability, developmental noise, and robustness. Many bilateral traits are used in fluctuating asymmetry studies in humans. These traits include dermatoglyphics, limb lengths and widths, bilateral facial characters, and teeth. In this review, I evaluate the measurement methods of many bilateral anthropometric characters, taken from the bodies of living individuals with classical digital calipers.
Masked-Speech Recognition for Linguistically Diverse Populations: A Focused Review and Suggestions for the Future
Authors: Cowan Tiana , Paroby Caroline , Leibold Lori J. , Buss Emily , Rodriguez Barbara , Calandruccio Lauren
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

Twenty years ago, von Hapsburg and Peña (2002) wrote a tutorial that reviewed the literature on speech audiometry and bilingualism and outlined valuable recommendations to increase the rigor of the evidence base. This review article returns to that seminal tutorial to reflect on how that advice was applied over the last 20 years and to provide updated recommendations for future inquiry.

Method:

We conducted a focused review of the literature on masked-speech recognition for bilingual children and adults. First, we evaluated how studies published since 2002 described bilingual participants. Second, we reviewed the literature on native language masked-speech recognition. Third, we discussed theoretically motivated experimental work. Fourth, we outlined how recent research in bilingual speech recognition can be used to improve clinical practice.

Results:

Research conducted since 2002 commonly describes bilingual samples in terms of their language status, competency, and history. Bilingualism was not consistently associated with poor masked-speech recognition. For example, bilinguals who were exposed to English prior to age 7 years and who were dominant in English performed comparably to monolinguals for masked-sentence recognition tasks. To the best of our knowledge, there are no data to document the masked-speech recognition ability of these bilinguals in their other language compared to a second monolingual group, which is an important next step. Nonetheless, individual factors that commonly vary within bilingual populations were associated with masked-speech recognition and included language dominance, competency, and age of acquisition. We identified methodological issues in sampling strategies that could, in part, be responsible for inconsistent findings between studies. For instance, disparities in socioeconomic status (SES) between recruited bilingual and monolingual groups could cause confounding bias within the research design.

Conclusions:

Dimensions of the bilingual linguistic profile should be considered in clinical practice to inform counseling and (re)habilitation strategies since susceptibility to masking is elevated in at least one language for most bilinguals. Future research should continue to report language status, competency, and history but should also report language stability and demand for use data. In addition, potential confounds (e.g., SES, educational attainment) when making group comparisons between monolinguals and bilinguals must be considered.
Impact of Clinical Education of Student Clinicians on Speech-Language Pathologists' Productivity in Medical Settings
Authors: St. Clair Jennifer , Mainess Karen J. , Shaughnessy Paige , Becerra Benjamin
Published: August 2022

Purpose:

The shortage of speech-language pathologists in the workforce in the United States has prompted investigation into possible causes and solutions, one of which is investigation of the productivity impact of the one-to-one student-to-instructor ratio in clinical education in medical settings. This study compared productivity percentages before and during the student placement to determine the impact of clinical education on productivity.

Method:

This study used a descriptive retrospective cohort within-subjects design, comparing the mean productivity of 95 clinical educators before and during a student rotation.

Results:

The results indicated that the mean productivity of the speech-language pathology clinical educator was significantly negatively impacted during the student rotation, and this negative impact lasted through Week 7 of the rotation. Discussion addressed possible reasons for this reduction in productivity.

Conclusions:

This information supports the long-held belief within the field that 1:1 clinical education of a student clinician negatively impacts the clinical educators' productivity. Additional research is needed to further explore (a) the impact of clinical education on productivity in medical settings and (b) modifications to graduate clinician training preparation for medical settings to reduce this productivity impact.
Three‐vector model predictive power control for three‐level T‐type rectifier based on dead‐beat control
Authors: Duan Xinwei , Kang Longyun , Zhou Hailan , Zhao Ming
Published: August 2022

This paper presents a three‐vector model predictive power control with neutral‐point voltage balance (TVMPPC‐NPVB) and a dead‐beat control for three‐phase three‐level T‐type rectifier. Three vectors are adopted to reduce the current ripple, balance the neutral‐point voltage and achieve unity power factor on the AC side simultaneously, while the conventional model predictive power control suffers from large current ripple, difficulty in designing the weighting factor and computational burden. In the proposed strategy, two cost functions are derived to select the optimal space vector sequence and reduce the computational burden. The action time of each vector is introduced in detail. The traditional PWM rectifier utilizes PI controller to regulate the output voltage. But PI controller tends to have a long transition time and big variation on output voltage when the load changes suddenly. The proposed dead‐beat control is capable of solving these problems caused by conventional PI controller. Both simulation and experimental results are shown to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Non‐singular terminal sliding mode control strategy for DC/DC Boost converter system using a finite‐time convergent observer
Authors: Zheng Shicheng , Qi Mengmeng , Shu Ying , Wang Yu , Lang Jiahong
Published: August 2022

Aiming at such problems as poor dynamic and steady‐state performance, and non‐ideal anti‐interference performance when the traditional sliding mode control is applied in Boost converter, a non‐singular terminal sliding mode control (NTSMC) strategy based on finite time convergence is presented in this paper. Taking the inductor's current and output voltage as the state variables of the system, the average state model of Boost converter under continuous conduction mode (CCM) is established, and the differential equations of the inductor's current and output voltage are obtained. According to the above differential equation, a finite‐time convergent observer (FCO) is designed to estimate the load resistance and input voltage. By combining these estimated values with the NTSMC method, a novel non‐singular terminal sliding surface function and controller are designed, which improves the dynamic, steady‐state performance and anti‐interference performance of the system. The stability of the system is analyzed according to the Lyapunov stability theory. The simulation and experimental results show that, compared with the traditional sliding mode control, the control algorithm proposed in this paper has stronger anti‐interference ability.
Real‐time implementation and evaluation of gorilla troops optimization‐based control strategy for autonomous microgrids
Authors: Maged Nourhan A. , Hasanien Hany M. , Ebrahim Essamudin A. , Tostado‐Véliz Marcos , Jurado Francisco
Published: August 2022

The present work develops a novel gorilla troops optimization algorithm (GTO) for optimal control of an autonomous microgrid. The proposed proportional‐integral controller parameters are properly designed by the GTO algorithm. It is based on the integral squared error to minimize the system objective function. The suggested islanded microgrid system operates with several decentralized, electronically interfaced energy resources and their local loads. The new optimal controller is applied to regulate its voltage at the different points of common coupling and its frequency despite the load variation. The performance of the new proposal is compared with the PI controller that was designed by a particle swarm optimization algorithm. It is observed that the microgrid functioning operation is improved even more by applying a GTO‐based than the other. The control strategy is thoroughly tested using a Matlab/Simulink simpower‐system environment under various microgrid operating situations. It is also implemented with OPAL 4510 real‐time hardware in the loop and a rapid control prototyping module. The different benchmark experiments serve to show the superiority of the new optimizer.
Versatile static synchronous machine and its reference machine following control strategy
Authors: Zhang Zheren , Xue Yicheng , Xu Zheng
Published: August 2022

In the construction of the new‐type power system, inverters with the synchronous machine characteristics are required. Here, the versatile static synchronous machine (VSSM) and its reference machine following control strategy are proposed. By integrating the battery energy storage system (BESS) into the modular multilevel converter (MMC), the VSSM has more operational flexibility than a conventional synchronous generator. Then, the basic theory of the reference synchronous machine is discussed, indicating that the VSSM can acquire the synchronous machine characteristics by following the operation of the reference synchronous machine. Based on the above principle, the implementation of the reference machine following control strategy is presented, including the synchronous machine mode and the current limiting mode. The case studies are performed on a 2‐area test system and a modified IEEE 39‐bus test system by time‐domain simulation in PSCAD/EMTDC. The simulation results verify the synchronous machine characteristics in the proposed VSSM with the machine following control, and sheds some light on the potential of the VSSM in the new‐type power system.
DoG-HiT: A novel VLBI multiscale imaging approach
Authors: Müller H. , Lobanov A. P.
Published: August 2022

Context. Reconstructing images from very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) data with a sparse sampling of the Fourier domain (uv-coverage) constitutes an ill-posed deconvolution problem. It requires application of robust algorithms, maximizing the information extraction from all of the sampled spatial scales, and minimizing the influence of the unsampled scales on image quality.

Aims. We develop a new multiscale wavelet deconvolution algorithm, DoG-HiT, for imaging sparsely sampled interferometric data, which combines the difference of Gaussian (DoG) wavelets and hard image thresholding (HiT). Based on DoG-HiT, we propose a multistep imaging pipeline for analysis of interferometric data.

Methods. DoG-HiT applies the compressed sensing approach to imaging by employing a flexible DoG wavelet dictionary, which is designed to adapt smoothly to the uv-coverage. It uses closure properties as data fidelity terms only, initially, and performs nonconvex, nonsmooth optimization by an amplitude-conserving and total-flux-conserving, hard thresholding splitting. DoG-HiT calculates a multiresolution support as a side product. The final reconstruction is refined through self-calibration loops and imaging with amplitude and phase information applied for the multiresolution support only.

Results. We demonstrate the stability of DoG-HiT, and benchmark its performance against image reconstructions made with the CLEAN and regularized maximum-likelihood (RML) methods using synthetic data. The comparison shows that DoG-HiT matches the super-resolution achieved by the RML reconstructions and surpasses the sensitivity to extended emission reached by CLEAN.

Conclusions. The application of regularized maximum likelihood methods, outfitted with flexible multiscale wavelet dictionaries, to imaging of interferometric data, matches the performance of state-of-the art convex optimization imaging algorithms and requires fewer prior and user-defined constraints.
Abell 1033: Radio halo and gently reenergized tail at 54 MHz
Authors: Edler H. W. , de Gasperin F. , Brunetti G. , Botteon A. , Cuciti V. , van Weeren R. J. , Cassano R. , Shimwell T. W. , Brüggen M. , Drabent A.
Published: August 2022

Context. Abell 1033 is a merging galaxy cluster of moderate mass (M500 = 3.24 × 1014 M⊙). It hosts a broad variety of diffuse radio sources that are linked to different astrophysical phenomena. The most peculiar phenomenon is an elongated feature with an ultra-steep spectrum that is the prototype of the category of gently reenergized tails (GReET). Furthermore, the cluster hosts sources that were previously classified as a radio phoenix and a radio halo.

Aims. We aim to improve the understanding of the cosmic-ray acceleration mechanisms in galaxy clusters in a frequency and mass range that has been poorly explored so far.

Methods. To investigate the ultra-steep synchrotron emission in the cluster, we performed a full direction-dependent calibration of a LOFAR observation centered at 54 MHz. We analyzed this observation together with recalibrated data of the LOFAR Two-meter Sky Survey at 144 MHz and an archival GMRT observation at 323 MHz. We performed a spectral study of the radio galaxy tail that is connected to the GReET to test whether the current interpretation of the source agrees with observational evidence below 100 MHz. Additionally, we employed a Markov chain Monte Carlo code to fit the halo surface brightness profile at different frequencies.

Results. We report an extreme spectral curvature for the GReET. The spectral index flattens from
α144 MHz323 MHz ≈ -4 to α144 MHz54 MHz ≈ -2
. This indicates the presence of a cutoff in the electron energy spectrum. At the cluster center, we detect the radio halo at 54, 144, and at lower significance at 323 MHz. We categorize it as an ultra-steep spectrum radio halo with a low-frequency spectral index α = −1.65 ± 0.17. Additionally, with a radio power of P150 MHz = 1.22 ± 0.13 × 1025 W Hz−1, it is found to be significantly above the correlations of radio power to cluster mass reported in the literature. Furthermore, the synchrotron spectrum of the halo is found to further steepen between 144 and 323 MHz, in agreement with the presence of a break in the electron spectrum, which is a prediction of homogeneous reacceleration models.
Influence of grain growth on CO2 ice spectroscopic profiles
Authors: Dartois E. , Noble J. A. , Ysard N. , Demyk K. , Chabot M.
Published: August 2022

Context. Interstellar dust grain growth in dense clouds and protoplanetary disks, even when moderate, affects the observed interstellar ice profiles as soon as a significant fraction of dust grains are in the size range close to the wave vector at the considered wavelength. The continuum baseline correction made prior to analysing ice profiles influences the subsequent analysis and hence the estimated ice composition, which are typically obtained by band fitting using thin film ice mixture spectra.

Aims. We explore the effect of grain growth on the spectroscopic profiles of ice mantle constituents, focusing particularly on carbon dioxide, with the aim of understanding how it can affect interstellar ice mantle spectral analysis and interpretation.

Methods. Using the discrete dipole approximation for scattering and absorption of light, the mass absorption coefficients of several distributions of grains – composed of ellipsoidal silicate cores with water and carbon dioxide ice mantles – are calculated. A few models also include amorphous carbon in the core and pure carbon monoxide in the ice mantle. We explore the evolution of the size distribution starting in the dense core phase in order to simulate the first steps of grain growth up to three microns in size. The resulting mass absorption coefficients are injected into RADMC-3D radiative transfer models of spherical dense core and protoplanetary disk templates to retrieve the observable spectral energy distributions. Calculations are performed using the full scattering capabilities of the radiative transfer code. We then focus on the particularly relevant calculated profile of the carbon dioxide ice band at 4.27 µm.

Results. The carbon dioxide anti-symmetric stretching mode profile is a meaningful indicator of grain growth. The observed profiles towards dense cores obtained with the Infrared Space Observatory and Akari satellites already show profiles possibly indicative of moderate grain growth.

Conclusions. The observation of true protoplanetary disks at high inclination with the James Webb Space Telescope should present distorted profiles that will allow constraints to be placed on the extent of dust growth. The more evolved the dust size distribution, the more the extraction of the ice mantle composition will require both understanding and taking grain growth into account.
Evolution of massive stars with new hydrodynamic wind models
Authors: Gormaz-Matamala A. C. , Curé M. , Meynet G. , Cuadra J. , Groh J. H. , Murphy L. J.
Published: August 2022

Context. Mass loss through radiatively line-driven winds is central to our understanding of the evolution of massive stars in both single and multiple systems. This mass loss plays a key role in modulating massive star evolution at different metallicities, especially in the case of very massive stars (M* ≥ 25 M⊙).

Aims. Here we present evolutionary models for a set of massive stars, introducing a new prescription for the mass-loss rate obtained from hydrodynamical calculations in which the wind velocity profile, v(r), and the line-acceleration, gline, are obtained in a self-consistent way. These new prescriptions cover most of the main sequence phase of O-type stars.

Methods. We made a grid of self-consistent mass-loss rates Ṁsc for a set of standard evolutionary tracks (i.e. using the old prescription for mass-loss rate) with different values for initial mass and metallicity. Based on this grid, we elaborate a statistical analysis to create a new simple formula for predicting the values of Ṁsc from the stellar parameters alone, without assuming any extra condition for the wind description. Therefore, replacing the mass-loss rates at the main sequence stage provided by the standard Vink’s formula with our new recipe, we generate a new set of evolutionary tracks for MZAMS  =  25, 40, 70, and 120 M⊙ and metallicities Z  =  0.014 (Galactic), Z  =  0.006 (LMC), and Z  =  0.002 (SMC).

Results. Our new derived formula for mass-loss rate predicts a dependence Ṁ ∝ Za, where a is no longer constant but dependent on the stellar mass: ranging from a ∼ 0.53 when M* ∼ 120 M⊙, to a ∼ 1.02 when M* ∼ 25 M⊙. We find important differences between the standard tracks and our new self-consistent tracks. Models adopting the new recipe for Ṁ (which starts off at around three times weaker than the mass-loss rate from the old formulation) retain more mass during their evolution, which is expressed as larger radii and consequently more luminous tracks over the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram. These differences are more prominent for the cases of MZAMS  =  70 and 120 M⊙ at solar metallicity, where we find self-consistent tracks are ∼0.1 dex brighter and retain up to 20 M⊙ more than with the classical models using the previous formulation for mass-loss rate. Later increments in the mass-loss rate for tracks when self-consistency is no longer used, attributed to the LBV stage, produce different final stellar radii and masses before the end of the H-burning stage, which are analysed case by case. Moreover, we observe remarkable differences in the evolution of the radionuclide isotope 26Al in the core and on the surface of the star. As Ṁsc is weaker than the commonly adopted values for evolutionary tracks, self-consistent tracks predict a later modification in the abundance of 26Al in the stellar winds. This new behaviour could provide useful information about the real contribution of this isotope from massive stars to the Galactic interstellar medium.
PARSEC V2.0: Stellar tracks and isochrones of low- and intermediate-mass stars with rotation
Authors: Nguyen C. T. , Costa G. , Girardi L. , Volpato G. , Bressan A. , Chen Y. , Marigo P. , Fu X. , Goudfrooij P.
Published: August 2022

We present a new comprehensive collection of stellar evolutionary tracks and isochrones for rotating low- and intermediate-mass stars assembled with the updated version of PARSEC V2.0. This version includes our recent calibration of the extra mixing from overshooting and rotation, as well as several improvements regarding the nuclear reaction network, treatment of convective zones, mass loss, and other physical input parameters. The initial mass of the stellar models covers the range 0.09 M⊙ to 14 M⊙ for six sets of initial metallicity, from Z = 0.004 to Z = 0.017. Rotation is considered for stars above ∼1 M⊙ with a smooth transition between non-rotating and extremely fast-rotating models, based on the initial mass. For stars more massive than ∼1.3 M⊙, the full rotation range, from low to critical, is considered. We adopt the solar-scaled chemical mixtures with Z⊙ = 0.01524. All the evolutionary phases from the pre-main-sequence to the first few thermal pulses on the asymptotic giant branch or central C exhaustion are considered. The corresponding theoretical isochrones are further derived with TRILEGAL code and are converted into several photometric systems, taking different inclination angles into account. Besides magnitudes, they also offer many other stellar observables in line with the data being provided by current large surveys. The new collection is fully integrated in a user-friendly web-interface for the benefit of easily performing stellar population studies.
Numerical study of the effect of the corrugated baffle on the acoustic characteristics of the combustion chamber
Authors: Salarvand Hamid , Shateri Ali Reza , Nadooshan Afshin Ahmadi , Karimipour Iman
Published: August 2022

Combustion instability caused by the amplification of sound waves is called acoustic or high-frequency instability, which can cause severe damage to the system. Adding baffles is one of the methods of passive instability control. Depending on the geometry of the chamber and the type of application, different baffles are used. In this research, the effect of the longitudinal corrugated baffle on the acoustic characteristics of the combustion chamber is investigated numerically. The quality of each baffle configuration is determined by examining their influence on the essential parameters such as natural frequency shift and damping factor. Modal and harmonic analyses for the acoustic field are conducted to investigate the effect of baffles installed in the combustion chamber. According to the obtained results, the addition of baffle shifts resonant frequencies. In other words, a combustor with baffles is more effective in controlling the instabilities than that without baffles. In addition, it increases the damping factor in the first–second circumferential (tangential) modes, making the system more stable. Also, a quantitative assessment of the acoustics by adding baffles shows that combustion chamber finds a better condition from stability point of view, and the bandwidth increase affects the combustion stability.
Genetic resistance of cultivated oat and the influence of the mineral nutrition level on stem lodging in Western Siberia
Authors: Lyubimova A.V. , Moiseeva M.N. , Eremin D.I.
Published: August 2022

The genetic resistance to stem lodging of cultivated oat of the Western Siberian selection with different levels of mineral nutrition in the conditions of the Northern Trans-Urals has been studied. The experimental scheme provided for three new varieties of intensive oat: Talisman, Otrada, Foma. Various levels of the agricultural background were created by applying mineral fertilizers that ensure the planned yield of 3.0, 4.0, 5.0 and 6.0 t/ha of grain. In the course of research, it was found that the Talisman variety has a tendency to lodging at the genetic level. The Otrada variety is able to withstand a yield of up to 5.0 t/ha of grain, Foma – at least 6.0 t/ha. It was revealed that the resistance to lodging has a negative correlation with the length of the upper internode (r=-0.7) and panicles (r=-0.8), as well as a positive correlation with the plant height (r= 0.8). Resistance to stem lodging by 34.3% depends on the level of mineral nutrition, 11.5% - on the genetics of the variety and 6.1% - on the growing season’s weather conditions.
The role of bacterial fertilizers in the formation of legume crops
Authors: Eliseeva Ludmila , Eliseev Ivan , Dimitriev Vladislav , Lozhkin Alexander , Mikhailova Nadezhda
Published: August 2022

The article presents the results of studies of the effect of bacterial fertilizers on the yield formation of grain legumes (soybean and lentil). The effect of root fertilization with Azotovite and Phosphatovite, fertilizers containing live cells and bacterial spores, on the structure of yield and yield capacity of legumes, the quality indicators of soybean and lentil grains were studied. The results obtained indicate that fertilizing with bacterial fertilizer Phosphatovite accelerates the maturation of legumes and increases the safety of plants for harvesting. Fertilizing plants with Azotovite and Phosphatovite contributed to an increase in soil microbiological activity. Bacterial fertilizers make it possible to obtain more seeds from soybean and lentil plants, while the content of crude protein, fat, and nitrogen in the grain increases. On average, over the years of research, fertilizing with bacterial fertilizers significantly increases the yield of legumes. It is noted that the efficiency of Azotovite is lower in conditions of insufficient precipitation during its use. In the conditions of the Chuvash Republic in legumes, fertilizing with Phosphatovite increases the productivity of plants.
Determining the covariance matrix for a nonlinear implicit multivariate measurement equation uncertainty analysis
Authors: Ramnath Vishal
Published: August 2022

The application of the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM) for multivariate measurand equations requires an expected vector value and a corresponding covariance matrix in order to accurately calculate measurement uncertainties for models that involve correlation effects. Typically in scientific metrology applications the covariance matrix is estimated from Monte Carlo numerical simulations with the assumption of a Gaussian joint probability density function, however this procedure is often times considered too complex or cumbersome for many practicing metrologists in industrial metrology calibration laboratories, and as a result a problem which occurs is that correlation effects are frequently omitted so that uncertainties are approximated through a simple root-sum-square of uncertainties which leads to inaccuracies of measurement uncertainties. In this paper, a general purpose deterministic approach is developed using a computer algebra system (CAS) approach that avoids the need for Monte Carlo simulations in order to analytically construct the covariance matrix for arbitrary nonlinear implicit multivariate measurement models. An illustrative example for a multivariate Sakuma-Hattori pyrometer equation with the proposed method is demonstrated with explanations of underlying Python code.
Multi-objective optimization of a small scale SCO2 turbine rotor system with a shaft cooler
Authors: Li Jun , Gurgenci Hal , Guan Zhiqiang , Li Jishun , Li Lun , Xue Yujun
Published: August 2022

The SCO2 turbine machines exchange energy through supercritical carbon dioxide. Their impeller has the features of high-temperature and −speed to enhance energy conversion efficiency, but the rotor needs to be cooled to be compatible with bearings and seals. The paper introduces a pivotal parameter optimization of a concentrating solar SCO2 turbine rotor and seeks to control the harmonic response amplitude while preserving the distance between the critical speed and the working speed. The optimization considers several parameters including bearing span, stiffness, effective mass and damping of the bearing hub, and gas film stiffness coefficients of the cooler. The optimization is accomplished using a multi-objective and −scale quantum harmonic oscillator algorithm (mMQHOA) that couples an information interaction algorithm and transfer matrix model. The application of information interaction accelerates the convergence speed of the objective functions. The verification results from the three-dimensional finite element (3D-FE) indicate that the non-dominant design reduces resonance amplitude of the disc by approximately 71.91%, while the critical frequency increases by about 34.33% in the direction away from the operating frequency, and imply a trade-off relationship between harmonic response amplitude and critical speed. It is further reveal that the increased gas film stiffness of cooler in the primary level interval (<1E6 N/m) has no significant effect on the harmonic response of the system. The optimization is based not only on the analysis of design parameters, but also focuses on the sensitivity of objective functions that can significantly affect dynamic performance. The models with a single variable of bearing span and film stiffness are investigated respectively, and then the sensitivity of the system response is analyzed. In addition, three different objective functions are proposed, with the purpose of constructing a universally applicable model that can be further used to optimize the analogous bearing rotor system.
A new method with ultrasonic mechanism for efficient depowdering of parts produced by electron beam melting
Authors: Doutre Pierre-Thomas , Grandvallet Christelle , Museau Matthieu
Published: August 2022

Among metallic additive manufacturing technologies, electron beam melting (EBM) requires a specific operation called depowdering once a part is built. With the help of a powder recovery system (PRS), this process consists in blowing titanium powder onto a “cake” of a manufactured part in order to separate sintered but not melted powder from the part itself. However, the depowdering of some geometries can in fact become difficult, even impossible, due to the part shape. This article aims at proposing an ultrasonic depowdering mechanism that allows to improve and to quantify the depowdering capabilities of the PRS system currently used. Experimentations are led onto geometries that include canals. A “depowderable depth”/diameter criterion is then applied for comparing the depowdering capacity of the proposed system with the traditional one. First results show that the quantity of powder removed onto samples is highly enhanced with an ultrasonic process. This outcome creates opportunities since additional tests could be implemented onto more complex shapes such as, for instance, parts with internal complex shapes.
Carbon-emission and waste reduction of a manufacturing-remanufacturing system using green technology and autonomated inspection
Authors: Dey Bikash Koli , Park Jeryang , Seok Hyesung
Published: August 2022

Environmental-friendly technology helps to reduce waste and carbon emissions of an imperfect production system. In general, the defective products generated during the “out-of-control” state are treated as waste. The single-stage manufacturing-remanufacturing system effectively depletes such defective spare parts within the same cycle but causes a tremendous amount of carbon. In such a circumstance, green technology to reduce carbon emissions is highly recommended. Also, the autonomated inspection makes defective detection more reliable and is ultimately helpful for waste reduction. Hence, in this study, we optimize the production plan along with the investments for applying green technology and autonomated inspection in an assembled product manufacturing-remanufacturing system. The numerical result shows that the appropriate green technology decreases carbon emissions up to 2.81% and autonomated inspection reduces the waste up to 2.37%, along with a reduction of entire production cycle cost up to 18.26%. In addition, the setup cost reduction is considered due to the characteristics of assembled product production.
Increasing the waste heat absorption performance in the refrigeration system using electromagnetic effect
Authors: Jadhav Sahadev Murlidhar , Mahalingam Arulprakasajothi , Ugle Vikas Vasantrao , Kamaraj Logesh
Published: August 2022

This paper enables a simulation model for analyzing and predicting magnetic field patterns and their magnetic flux density on the pipe. Different types of arrangements of magnets like series, parallel, and Halbach arrays are utilized and their magnetic flux density and magnetic field intensity are compared on the respective pipes. Electromagnetic field simulation software calculates different magnetic fields and circuit parameters. Using this software, accurate results can be obtained such as the perfect arrangement of magnets and so on. For this experimentation, Neodymium-35 type magnets are used which have appropriate and stable magnetic strength as compared to other magnets. Diffusion absorption refrigeration systems can also be used alternatively in domestic refrigeration, thus replacing conventional vapor compression refrigeration systems. Thus, results obtained by using different magnetic arrangements will be highly beneficial to choose the proper magnetic arrangement in diffusion absorption refrigeration system for various cooling applications.
The Global Threat of Non-Communicable Diseases – Cost and
Drivers for Diabetes Type 2 in Germany
Authors: Scherdjow Anna , Kiefer Sophie , Lüske Jonas , Althaus Annina Eva
Published: August 2022

Background Since the last decade, non-communicable diseases, most commonly
diabetes mellitus (DM2) have become the main threat to global health. Based on a
prevalence of 9 million diabetic patients per year, DM2 constitutes a
considerable medical and economic burden in Germany. The healthcare spending and
its cost drivers are not yet sufficiently known.

Aims of the study The primary objective of this study was to describe the
resource use in health care and the cost of DM2 treatment in Germany, focusing
on the most significant cost drivers and opportunities for cost-savings. The
secondary objective was to analyse the impact of technical progress on diabetes
care.

Methods A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Embase.
Following the PRISMA guidance, the review identified the study design,
epidemiological approach, analytical perspective, and data collection approach
in each of the included studies.

Results From 1.965 records, the final sample included 41 articles. The
annual diabetes-specific direct costs of DM2 ranged from 542 € to 6.323
€ per patient. The most used method was the incremental or excess cost
approach (1.8-fold higher costs compared to individuals without DM2). Intangible
costs – such as psychological well-being - were randomly considered in
the existing cost-of-illness studies.

Confirmed risk factors included physical inactivity, obesity, genetic
predispositions, and tobacco use.

The major cost drivers are demographic change with aging, increasing obesity, the
availability of medications and therapies and the increased use of medical
services by patients.

Conclusion DM2, based on the results of this study, constitutes a
considerable medical and economic burden in Germany and has a serious impact on
the government health expenditures.
Polycaprolacton/Polylactid-Membran kann Laminektomie-induziertes Wachstum von CGRP- und SP-immunpositiven Nervenfasern in der Dura mater lumbalis von Ratten nicht
verhindern
Authors: Gipperich Tobias , Hanesch Ulrike , Guido Saxler , Schulze Bövingloh Albert
Published: August 2022

Hintergrund Mechanismen und Prävention des Failed-Back-Surgery-Syndroms sind im klinischen Kontext kaum bekannt. Tierexperimentell konnte gezeigt werden, dass Laminektomien das
Wachstum von mutmaßlich nozizeptiven peptidergen Afferenzen in der Dura mater lumbalis von Ratten induziert.

Ziel Evaluierung, ob die postoperative Anwendung einer Polycaprolacton-Polylactid-Membran (Mesofol) die sensorische Hyperinnervation hemmt.

Material/Methoden Erwachsene Lewis-Ratten wurden in 3 Gruppen unterteilt: Kontrolle (keine Manipulation), Laminektomie und Laminektomie + Mesofol. Sechs Wochen postoperativ wurden
die Durae entfernt, CGRP- und SP-haltige Afferenzen immunhistochemisch markiert und deren Innervierungsdichte bestimmt.

Ergebnisse In den Kontrollen wurden die CGRP- und SP-positiven Neurone überwiegend in den ventralen, jedoch nur spärlich in den dorsalen Abschnitten der jeweiligen Dura gefunden.
Nach Laminektomie nahm ventral die Anzahl der immunpositiven Afferenzen signifikant zu, was in einem dichten Netzwerk von Nervenfasern resultierte. In den dorsalen Regionen wurde ebenfalls
eine Zunahme immunpositiver Nervenfasern sowie neuronales Aussprossen und Wachstum beobachtet. Das Bedecken der Durae mit Mesofol nach Laminektomie hatte keinen signifikanten Einfluss auf
das Nervenfaserwachstum.

Schlussfolgerung Die Verwendung von Mesofol konnte den Laminektomie-induzierten Dichteanstieg der peptidergen Afferenzen weder verhindern noch signifikant herabsetzen.
Design and Rationale of the HANSE Study: A Holistic German Lung Cancer Screening Trial Using Low-Dose Computed Tomography
Authors: Vogel-Claussen Jens , Lasch Florian , Bollmann Benjamin-Alexander , May Katharina , Kuhlmann Alexander , Schmid-Bindert Gerald , Kaaks Rudolf , Barkhausen Jörg , Bohnet Sabine , Reck Martin
Published: August 2022

Despite the high prevalence and mortality of lung cancer and proven effectiveness of low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) to reduce mortality, Germany still lacks a national screening program. The German Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) and the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) both published positive scientific evaluations recommending a quality-controlled national screening program. IQWiG underlined the importance of a clear risk definition, integrated smoking cessation programs, and quality assurance, highlighting the necessity of procedural optimization.

In the HANSE study, former and current smokers aged 55–79 years are assessed for their lung cancer risk by the NELSON and PLCOM2012 risk scores. 5000 high-risk participants, defined as PLCOM2012 6-year risk ≥ 1.58 % or fulfilling NELSON risk inclusion criteria, will be screened by LDCT at baseline and after 12 months. Lung nodules are analyzed by a modified Lung-RADS 1.1 score of the HANSE study, and values of emphysema and coronary calcium are determined and randomly reported to the participants. 7100 low-risk participants serve as a control. All patients are followed-up for up to 10 years. The sensitivity and specificity of the two risk assessments and LDCT screening, effects of the randomized LDCT reporting, efficiency of lung nodule management, and several other factors are assessed to analyze the success and quality of the holistic screening program.

The HANSE study is designed as a holistic lung cancer screening study in northern Germany to answer pressing questions for a successful implementation of an effective German lung cancer screening program.

Citation Format
Yoga als Add-on Therapie zu Dialektisch Behavioraler Therapie Sucht – Effekte auf die innere Anspannung von Patient:innen mit Substanzgebrauchsstörung und komorbider Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung
Authors: Bumb J. Malte , Wisch Christian , Riegler Alisa , Schuster Rilana , Reinhard Iris , Frischknecht Ulrich , Kiefer Falk , Koopmann Anne
Published: August 2022

Ziel der Studie Patient:innen mit komorbid auftretenden Substanzgebrauchsstörungen (SUD) und Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung (BPD) sind in ihrer Lebensqualität stark beeinträchtigt. Zusätzlich entstehen durch diese Komorbidität hohe direkte und indirekte Gesundheitskosten. Bisher sind die Behandlungsergebnisse bei dieser Komorbidität unbefriedigend und wirksame Add-on Strategien zu den etablierten Therapiekonzepten fehlen. Das Ziel dieser Studie war es, zu untersuchen, inwiefern Trauma Informed Hatha Yoga als ergänzendes Therapieelement zu einer stationären Dialektisch Behavioralen Therapie Sucht (DBT-S) die Veränderung der inneren Anspannung bei Patient:innen mit einer SUD und einer BPD modifizieren kann.

Methodik In diese quasi experimentelle Studie konnten 39 Patient:innen, die an einer SUD und einer BPD leiden, eingeschlossen werden. Alle Patient:innen nahmen zum Studienzeitpunkt an einer zwölfwöchigen stationären psychotherapeutischen Behandlung im Rahmen der Dialektisch Behavioralen Therapie Sucht (DBT-S) teil. Die Teilnehmenden der Interventionsgruppe absolvierten begleitend hierzu für acht Wochen wöchentliche Trauma Informed Hatha Yoga Übungseinheiten. Die Veränderungen der inneren Anspannung der Patient:innen durch die Trauma Informed Hatha Yoga-Übungseinheiten wurden mithilfe einer visuellen Analogskala gemessen (VAS; 0–100).

Ergebnisse Bei der Durchführung der Varianzanalyse mit Messwiederholungen bezüglich der Veränderungen der inneren Anspannung (Δ VAS) als abhängige Variable fanden wir einen signifikanten Interaktionseffekt Zeit x Gruppe, also einen unterschiedlichen zeitlichen Verlauf der Veränderungen der inneren Anspannung (Δ VAS) in den beiden Studiengruppen. Die Teilnehmenden der Kontrollgruppe zeigten hierbei im zeitlichen Verlauf signifikant unterschiedliche Veränderungen der inneren Anspannung (Anstiege und Abstiege), wohingegen sich in der Interventionsgruppe die innere Anspannung durch Yoga gleichmäßig reduzierte, Anspannungsspitzen also signifikant besser geglättet werden konnten.

Schlussfolgerung Trauma Informed Hatha Yoga in Kombination mit der Teilnahme an einem stationären DBT-S Programm scheint basierend auf unseren Ergebnissen die Variabilität von innerer Anspannung bei Patient:innen mit SUD und BPD effektiver modifizieren zu können als eine alleinige stationäre DBT-S Therapie. Es erscheint daher sinnvoll, Trauma Informed Hatha Therapieeinheiten als ergänzende Elemente in DBT-S Therapiekonzepte zu integrieren.
Synthesis of 3-Aryl- and 3-Alkynylbenzofurans in the Presence of a Supported Palladium Catalyst
Authors: Skoda-Földes Rita , Nagy Enikő , Nagymihály Zoltán , Kollár László , Fonyó Máté
Published: August 2022

Suzuki and Sonogashira coupling reactions of 3-iodo-2-phenylbenzofuran, leading to the corresponding 3-aryl- and 3-alkynyl derivatives, respectively, were carried out using a silica supported pyridinium ionic liquid-based heterogeneous catalyst. Under optimized reaction conditions, arylboronic acids with either electron-withdrawing or -donating substituents as well as terminal alkynes with aromatic or aliphatic groups could be coupled to the benzofuran skeleton efficiently. The application of this catalyst made it possible to carry out the reaction under phosphine-free and, in the case of the Sonogashira coupling, under copper-free conditions. The catalyst retained its activity in at least 7 subsequent runs in both types of reactions. Palladium leaching of less than 1% of the original amount used in the catalytic reaction was observed under optimized conditions in most cases. The methodology was applied successfully to the synthesis of nine different 3-aryl- and ten different 3-alkynylbenzofuran derivatives in moderate to high yields.
Beta-Secretase-1 Antisense RNA Is Associated with Vascular Ageing and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Bampatsias Dimitrios , Mavroeidis Ioannis , Tual-Chalot Simon , Vlachogiannis Nikolaos I. , Bonini Francesca , Sachse Marco , Mavraganis Georgios , Mareti Alexia , Kritsioti Chrysoula , Laina Ageliki , Delialis Dimitrios , Ciliberti Giorgia , Sopova Kateryna , Gatsiou Aikaterini , Martelli Fabio , Georgiopoulos Georgios , Stellos Konstantinos , Stamatelopoulos Kimon
Published: August 2022

Background The noncoding antisense transcript for β-secretase-1 (BACE1-AS) is a long noncoding RNA with a pivotal role in the regulation of amyloid-β (Aβ). We aimed to explore the clinical value of BACE1-AS expression in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

Methods Expression of BACE1-AS and its target, β-secretase 1 (BACE1) mRNA, was measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells derived from 434 individuals (259 without established ASCVD [non-CVD], 90 with stable coronary artery disease [CAD], and 85 with acute coronary syndrome). Intima-media thickness and atheromatous plaques evaluated by ultrasonography, as well as arterial wave reflections and pulse wave velocity, were measured as markers of subclinical ASCVD. Patients were followed for a median of 52 months for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE).

Results In the cross-sectional arm, BACE1-AS expression correlated with BACE1 expression (r = 0.396, p < 0.001) and marginally with Aβ1–40 levels in plasma (r = 0.141, p = 0.008). Higher BACE1-AS was associated with higher estimated CVD risk assessed by HeartScore for non-CVD subjects and by European Society of Cardiology clinical criteria for the total population (p < 0.05 for both). BACE1-AS was associated with higher prevalence of CAD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.37–2.5), multivessel CAD (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.06–1.75), and with higher number of diseased vascular beds (OR = 1.31, 95% CI: 1.07–1.61, for multiple diseased vascular beds) after multivariable adjustment for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. In the prospective arm, BACE1-AS was an independent predictor of MACE in high cardiovascular risk patients (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.86 per ascending tertile, 95% CI: 1.011–3.43, p = 0.046).

Conclusion BACE1-AS is associated with the incidence and severity of ASCVD.