bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching Optimization of Thermal and Fluid Machinery in the Post-Pandemic Era
Authors: Vouros Stavros , Diamantidou Dimitra-Eirini , Kyprianidis Konstantinos
Published: September 2023

Higher education has been crucially impacted by the pandemic during the past years. Despite the associated challenges, a wide portfolio of digital literacies has been developed for the delegates. This work evaluates the introduction of digital tools into in-person education. The “Process Optimization” course at Mälardalen University (MDU) is reformed to operate in a digitally enhanced classroom mode. The course covers a variety of optimization methods applied on thermal and fluid machinery such as systems of compressors, pumps and heat exchangers, heat and power plants, aircraft trajectories, and propulsion systems. The constructive alignment is presented to illustrate links between learning objectives, learning activities, and assessment tasks. A series of digital tools is introduced to elevate learning experience prior, during, and after class time. Those comprise digital quizzes, a video channel, polls, a digital whiteboard, and a digital forum. The course is systematically instrumented, yielding a vast set of statistics for evaluating the effectiveness of digital tools as well as engagement levels for learners. The contribution of digitalization into standardizing the formative and summative assessment is discussed. It is observed that digital tools complement the participation into pre- and postclassroom activities. An interactive and digitalized course evaluation activity is also designed. This allowed learners and educators to productively exchange feedback in an inclusive manner. The accrued data provide insight into the impact of digitalization on the delivery of an applied engineering course. Lessons learnt comprise quantitative and qualitative outcomes arising from the perspectives of both learners and teachers. Guidelines and recommended practices are provided for the penetration of digital tools into synchronous and asynchronous learning activities. This paper identifies opportunities as well as space for improvement arising from the penetration of digital tools into the new era for education.
Radiant Thermal Test System for Turbine Blades Using a Novel Pattern Search Algorithm
Authors: Jiang Haonan , Jin Xiaochao , Liu Linchuan , Ji Xinkuo , Fan Xueling
Published: September 2023

We established and validated a radiant thermal test system using a miniaturized quartz lamp heating device designed with a novel search algorithm to meet aero-engine blade heating requirements. The device can perform rapid, high-temperature gradient tests on new-material aero-engine blades, which cannot be achieved through electromagnetic induction. The algorithm, derived from the Monte Carlo method (MCM) and pattern search, can solve the problems of the classical iterative search algorithm by searching lamp parameters and reducing the algorithm's time complexity. These searched power parameters enable the system's closed-loop control to achieve temperature gradients easily. The corresponding heating process was also simulated using commercial numerical analysis software, serving as a numerical validation for the algorithm-based system. The device could meet the thermal fatigue test requirements for the blade at six different temperature control points, including a maximum temperature exceeding 1150 K, a maximum temperature difference exceeding 160 K within 20 mm, and a heating rate exceeding 30 K/s. Thus, the device provides a promising technique for rapid, high-temperature heat treatment of complex small components, and the algorithm makes designing miniaturized quartz lamp heating devices more accessible and versatile for small components.
An Algorithm for Starved Lubricated Journal Bearings With Optionally Locked Lube Oil Feed Grooves
Authors: Hagemann Thomas , Vetter Daniel , Schwarze Hubert
Published: September 2023

Starved lubrication occurs intentionally or unconsciously in many journal bearing applications. However, the determination of its concrete distribution in a journal bearing is rather complex as the different lube oil feed grooves interact with each other due to their connection by the lubricant flow along the pad surfaces and the periodic geometric property of the entire bearing. A robust numerical procedure to determine the lube oil distribution between the different feed grooves in a starved lubricated fixed-pad journal bearing is presented as an extension to Elrod's cavitation algorithm. The enhanced algorithm partly integrates flow rate boundary conditions into the linear system of equations for the solution of Reynolds equation and the transport equation. A strategy to couple these flow rate boundary conditions with the iterative procedure to determine the binary cavitation index is proposed. In particular, the algorithm enables an appropriate modeling of lube oil grooves with locked oil supply including the consideration of groove-specific dissipation or design features like bleed notches. The novel algorithm is implemented as a submodule of a thermo-elasto-hydrodynamic bearing code and validated with test data for a high-speed two-lobe bearing with embedded arc. Furthermore, a comprehensive parametric study provides an insight on the robustness of the implemented numeric procedure. Results, current limitations, and possible extensions to the algorithm are discussed.
Machine Learning-Based Optimizer for Tilting Pad Journal Bearing Inlet Flowrate
Authors: Gheller Edoardo , Chatterton Steven , Panara Daniele , Turini Gabriele , Pennacchi Paolo
Published: September 2023

In view of the green economy and energy transition, the reduction of the environmental impact of the power generation sector plays a key role. Fluid film bearings are the most common bearing for industrial turbomachinery and new design requirements have a direct impact on bearings operation. In fact, to achieve higher levels of efficiency, bearings must support higher specific loads and higher peripheral speeds. Furthermore, there is great interest in reducing the oil flowrate required for the bearing operation as much as possible. In this work, an optimization strategy for reducing the flowrate fed to tilting pad journal bearings (TPJBs) is proposed. An artificial neural network (ANN) is trained to estimate the static and dynamic performance of the bearings. The training dataset is built with a Reynolds-based thermo-hydrodynamic model. The trained ANN is then used in a constrained optimization that has the goal of minimizing the oil flowrate while ensuring safe bearing operation. Predictions are compared with experimental data from compressor mechanical running tests. The proposed model is an effective tool that can help industry achieve the goals required by the energy transition and can help in the development of optimized fluid film bearings.
Modified Atangana–Baleanu Caputo Operator for Time-Fractional Kuramoto–Sivashinsky Equation Via Quintic B-Splines
Authors: Deswal Komal , Choudhary Renu , Kumar Devendra
Published: September 2023

A novel numerical scheme for the time-fractional Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation is presented in this article. A modification of the Atangana–Baleanu Caputo derivative known as the modified Atangana–Baleanu Caputo operator is introduced for the time-fractional derivative. A Taylor series-based formula is used to derive a second-order accurate approximation to the modified Atangana–Baleanu Caputo derivative. A linear combination of the quintic B-spline basis functions is used to approximate the functions in a spatial direction. Moreover, through rigorous analysis, it has been proved that the present scheme is unconditionally stable and convergent. Finally, two test problems are solved numerically to demonstrate the proposed method's superconvergence and accuracy.
Shape Memory Alloy Based Soft Gripper
Authors: Baek Hangyeol , Khan Abdul Manan , Bijalwan Vishwanath , Kim Youngshik
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the design and implementation of a novel soft gripper using Arc-shaped Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuators. The manipulator is designed to have compliance, making it suitable for grasping various objects including irregularly shaped or soft objects. The SMAs are activated by heating, causing them to contract and generate force. By controlling the heating of the SMAs, the manipulator can be controlled to move and grasp or hold objects. The design of the manipulator is described, including the selection of SMAs and the control scheme used to activate them. The performance of the manipulator is evaluated through experiments, which demonstrate its ability to perform various manipulation tasks. The results show that the use of SMAs allows for compliant and flexible manipulation can be achieved.
Predicting Luminance Decay of a Micro-LED Display via Machine Learning on Temperature Distribution and LED Degradation With Implementation by FPGA
Authors: Lin Chi-En , Chen Hao-Ren , Chao Paul C.-P.
Published: September 2023

A new method for predicting the luminance decay of Micro Light Emitting Diode (Micro-LED) displays by machine learning models is proposed herein with experiments of temperature distribution and degradation established. Although Micro-LEDs can be used as a direct light source for large outdoor advertising billboards, harsh outdoor conditions may lead to the degradation of Micro-LED displays. As a result, a temperature model is first built to predict the temperature distribution for the surface of a Micro-LED display based on illuminated patterns and the temperature sensors installed on the back of the display, followed by the establishment of degradation model for predicting luminance decay of the display based on Micro-LED enclosure temperature, input current, and illumination time. In addition to the establishment of those models, the implementation integrating two models in hardware is done with Verilog and verified by Xilinx Artix-7. The temperature model owns a prediction error of less than 1.1°C in various tests, while the degradation model has an average error of 1.05% (roughly 9 nits) for green light. The operating frequency for implementation can reach 76.92 MHz.
Variables Associated With Knee Valgus in Male Professional Soccer Players During a Single-Leg Vertical Landing Task
Authors: Vianna Matheus , Metsavaht Leonardo , Guadagnin Eliane , Franciozi Carlos Eduardo , Luzo Marcus , Tannure Marcio , Leporace Gustavo
Published: September 2023

Prior studies have explored the relationship between knee valgus and musculoskeletal variables to formulate injury prevention programs, primarily for females. Nonetheless, there is insufficient evidence pertaining to professional male soccer players. Here, the aim was to test the correlation of lateral trunk inclination, hip adduction, hip internal rotation, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, and hip isometric strength with knee valgus during the single-leg vertical jump test. Twenty-four professional male soccer players performed a single-leg vertical hop test, hip strength assessments, and an ankle dorsiflexion range of motion test. A motion analysis system was employed for kinematic analysis. Maximal isometric hip strength and ankle dorsiflexion range of motion were tested using a handheld dynamometer and a digital inclinometer, respectively. The correlation of peak knee valgus with peak lateral trunk inclination was .43 during the landing phase (P = .04) and with peak hip internal rotation was −.68 (P < .001). For knee valgus angular displacement, only peak lateral trunk inclination presented a moderate positive correlation (r = .40, P = .05). This study showed that trunk and hip kinematics are associated with knee valgus, which could consequently lead to increased knee overload in male professional soccer players following a unilateral vertical landing test.
Experimental signatures of the transition from acoustic plasmon to electronic sound in graphene
Authors: Barcons Ruiz David , Hesp Niels C.H. , Herzig Sheinfux Hanan , Ramos Marimón Carlos , Maissen Curdin Martin , Principi Alessandro , Asgari Reza , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Polini Marco , Hillenbrand Rainer , Torre Iacopo , Koppens Frank H.L.
Published: September 2023

Fermi liquids respond differently to perturbations depending on whether their frequency is higher (collisionless regime) or lower (hydrodynamic regime) than the interparticle collision rate. This results in a different phase velocity between the collisionless zero sound and the hydrodynamic first sound. We performed terahertz photocurrent nanoscopy measurements on graphene devices, with a metallic gate close to the graphene layer, to probe the dispersion of propagating acoustic plasmons, the counterpart of sound modes in electronic Fermi liquids. We report the observation of a change in the plasmon phase velocity when the excitation frequency approaches the electron-electron collision rate that is compatible with the transition between the zero and the first sound mode.
Revealing the impact of temperature in battery electrolytes via wavelength-resolved neutron imaging
Authors: Carreon Ruiz Eric Ricardo , Lee Jongmin , Strobl Markus , Stalder Natalie , Burca Genoveva , Gubler Lorenz , Boillat Pierre
Published: September 2023

Understanding the limitations of electrolyte mixtures under extreme conditions is key to ensure reliable and safe battery performance. Among advanced characterization methods, time-of-flight neutron imaging (ToF-NI) is unique for its capability to map physicochemical changes of H-containing materials inside metallic casings and battery packs. The technique, however, requires long exposures in pulsed sources, which limits its applicability, particularly for analysis at low temperatures. To overcome these limitations, we use high–duty cycle ToF-NI at a continuous source, demonstrating its capability to expose physical and chemical changes of electrolytes due to variations in the overall molecular diffusion. The strategy described in this work reduces the exposure required and provides the baseline to study the thermal stability of electrolyte mixtures, from the proofing of state-of-the-art electrolyte mixtures up to their performance in batteries. This analysis and methodology apply to hydrogenous materials well beyond electrolytes for a wide range of applications.
Cla4 phosphorylates histone methyltransferase Set1 to prevent its degradation by the APC/C
Cdh1
complex
Authors: Gong Xuanyunjing , Wang Shanshan , Yu Qi , Wang Min , Ge Feng , Li Shanshan , Yu Xilan
Published: September 2023

H3K4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) is a conserved histone modification catalyzed by histone methyltransferase Set1, and its dysregulation is associated with pathologies. Here, we show that Set1 is intrinsically unstable and elucidate how its protein levels are controlled within cell cycle and during gene transcription. Specifically, Set1 contains a destruction box (D-box) that is recognized by E3 ligase APC/C
Cdh1
and degraded by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Cla4 phosphorylates serine 228 (S228) within Set1 D-box, which inhibits APC/C
Cdh1
-mediated Set1 proteolysis. During gene transcription, PAF complex facilitates Cla4 to phosphorylate Set1-S228 and protect chromatin-bound Set1 from degradation. By modulating Set1 stability and its binding to chromatin, Cla4 and APC/C
Cdh1
control H3K4me3 levels, which then regulate gene transcription, cell cycle progression, and chronological aging. In addition, there are 141 proteins containing the D-box that can be potentially phosphorylated by Cla4 to prevent their degradation by APC/C
Cdh1
. We addressed the long-standing question about how Set1 stability is controlled and uncovered a new mechanism to regulate protein stability.
Rapid and automated screening of carbapenemase- and ESBL-producing Gram-negative bacteria from rectal swabs using chromogenic agar media and the ScanStation device
Authors: Peyroux Julien , Almahmoudh Iyad , Prebe-Coquerel Emelise , Girard Thomas , Maurin Max , Caspar Yvan
Published: September 2023

The ScanSation 100 device (Interscience, France) is an incubator allowing real-time detection of bacterial colony growth by frequently imaging agar plates over time, counting CFU, and detecting colony color. This study evaluated its performance for the early detection of carbapenemase-producing bacteria (CPB) and extended-spectrum β-Lactamase-producing bacteria (ESBL-PB) from rectal swabs inoculated on CHROMagar mSuperCARBA and ESBL media, respectively. Rectal screening ESwabs collected from patients admitted to Grenoble University Hospital between January and June 2021 were analyzed. After inoculation, chromogenic media were incubated for 24 h in the automaton, with image acquisition every 30 min. ScanStation results were compared to visual observations of the plates after 24 h of incubation. In total, 501 rectal swabs were tested. ScanStation showed 100% positive percent agreement (PPA) for the detection of CPB and ESBL-PB, whereas the PPA of color categorization ranged between 45% and 100%. Negative percent agreement (NPA) ranged between 70% and 98%. Negative predictive values (NPVs) were 100% for both bacterial groups, whereas positive predictive values (PPVs) were 70.3% for CPB and 81.0% for ESBL-PB. Importantly, real-time screening allowed detection of the first suspected colony within 10–14 h of growth, on average, whereas visual observation is usually only performed once a day after 18–24 h of incubation. Our study demonstrates the potential use of early images to accelerate the detection of CPB and ESBL-PB and implement effective and timely infection control measures.

IMPORTANCE

The ScanStation 100 device is an incubator able to follow the real-time growth of bacterial colonies on agar plates through digital imaging, allowing users to sort plates according to the presence or absence of colonies, and to distinguish their color using four numeric color filters. Real-time screening shows that first colony detection is possible much earlier (after 10–14 h of growth, on average), whereas visual observation is usually performed only once a day after 18–24 h of incubation. The ScanStation device, combined with chromogenic agar media, is an efficient automated screening method to accelerate the detection of Gram-negative multidrug-resistant bacteria in laboratories that do not have access to larger laboratory automation systems. Our study shows that setting the image acquisition to one or two early images may allow for the detection of positive samples that were inoculated in the morning, by the end of the working day.
Supplemental Material: Seafloor spreading and the delivery of sulfur and metals to Earth’s oceans
Authors: Syverson Drew , al. et
Published: September 2023

Description of the methods for estimating reaction zone pressure, temperature, and geochemical conditions. The scripts (GWB and Python) employed for the calculation of reaction zone temperature-pressure conditions and speciation can be accessed at https://bitbucket.org/Tutolo-RTG/script-for-seafloor-spreading/src/master/.  
Volume-targeted mask ventilation during simulated neonatal resuscitation
Authors: Law Brenda Hiu Yan , Schmölzer Georg M
Published: September 2023

Objective

Mask positive pressure ventilation (PPV) in the delivery room is routinely delivered with set peak inflation pressures. To aid mask PPV, stand-alone respiratory function monitors (RFMs) have been used in the delivery room, while ventilator-based, volume-targeted ventilation (VTV) is routinely used in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Design

This is a prospective, randomised, crossover simulation study. Participants were briefly trained to use a neonatal ventilator for volume-targeted mask ventilation (VTV-PPV), then performed mask ventilation on a manikin in a randomised order using VTV-PPV, T-piece PPV or T-piece PPV with RFM visible.

Setting

In situ in a neonatal resuscitation room within a level 3 NICU.

Participants

Healthcare professionals (HCPs) trained in neonatal resuscitation with experience as team leaders.

Interventions

Semiautomated, ventilator-based VTV-PPV using two-hand hold versus manual PPV via a T-piece device (T-piece, RFM masked) versus manual PPV with RFM visible using one-hand hold.

Main outcome measures

Respiratory characteristics including % mask leak, tidal volume (VT) and peak inflation pressure (PIP).

Results

Thirty-two HCPs (23 (72%) female and 9 (28%) male) participated. The median mask leak was significantly lower with ‘VTV-PPV’ (11%, IQR 0%–14%) compared with both ‘T-piece, RFM visible’ (82%, IQR 30%–91%) and ‘T-piece, RFM masked’ (81%, IQR 47%–91%) (p<0.0001). The median delivered VTwas 4.1 mL/kg (IQR 3.9–4.4) with VTV-PPV compared with 2.1 mL/kg (IQR 1.2–9) with T-piece, RFM visible and 1.8 mL/kg (IQR 1.1–5.8) with T-piece, RFM masked (p=0.0496). PIP was also significantly lower with VTV-PPV.

Conclusion

During neonatal simulation, VTV-PPV reduced mask leak and allowed for consistent VTdelivery compared with T-piece with and without RFM guidance.
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone with recurrent giant cabergoline-resistant prolactinoma
Authors: Kanzaki Akinori , Kadoya Manabu , Katayama Satoru , Koyama Hidenori
Published: September 2023

A macro pituitary tumour or giant pituitary tumour is regarded as a rare causal factor in syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) cases. Previous reports have presented findings showing that blood flow insufficiency related to stress caused by an obstructive mass may lead to inappropriate secretion of arginine vasopressin. On the other hand, prolactin is known to influence water metabolism, and several cases of a macroprolactinoma or giant prolactinoma (PRLoma) in patients with SIADH have been reported. Nevertheless, few studies have examined such a relationship with SIADH and discussion of pathophysiological factors has been limited. The present report provides details of an elderly patient with SIADH in a chronic giant PRLoma. Of note, exacerbation of prolactin level accompanied the occurrence of SIADH. Findings obtained in this case suggest the possibility of development of SIADH in PRLoma cases due to more than only the effect of the mass.
Congenital colonic stenosis: an unusual cause of colonic obstruction masquerading as Hirschsprung’s disease in infancy
Authors: Naik Prathibha , Mandelia Ankur , Agarwal Nishant , Sen Sarma Moinak
Published: September 2023

Congenital colonic stenosis (CCS) is an extremely rare cause of large bowel obstruction in early infancy. Only 35 cases of CCS have been reported in literature to date. CCS often causes a diagnostic quandary as it is difficult to distinguish it clinically from Hirschsprung’s disease. We report a case of an infant with CCS who was managed with resection of the diseased colonic segment with critical stenosis at two sites and colo-colonic anastomosis. In our report, we discuss the challenges faced in the diagnosis and surgical management of this unusual case.
Giant rectal vascular malformation: a rare differential diagnosis in rectal bleeding
Authors: Schabl Lukas , Connelly Tara , Steele Scott , Kessler Hermann
Published: September 2023

Investigations in a woman with prolonged symptoms of laxative-resistant constipation and recurrent rectal bleeding revealed a giant rectal vascular malformation. Colonoscopy and MRI were performed to rule out malignancy and determine differential diagnoses. Repeated tests were necessary due to inconclusive results. After a definite diagnosis, image-guided, transcutaneously administered sclerotherapy was used. The intervention and postoperative course were uneventful. A minimally invasive procedure relieved symptoms and improved quality of life.
Approved AI-based fluid monitoring to identify morphological and functional treatment outcomes in neovascular age-related macular degeneration in real-world routine
Authors: Mares Virginia , Schmidt-Erfurth Ursula Margarethe , Leingang Oliver , Fuchs Philipp , Nehemy Marcio B , Bogunovic Hrvoje , Barthelmes Daniel , Reiter Gregor S
Published: September 2023

Aim

To predict antivascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) treatment requirements, visual acuity and morphological outcomes in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) using fluid quantification by artificial intelligence (AI) in a real-world cohort.

Methods

Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography data of 158 treatment-naïve patients with nAMD from the Fight Retinal Blindness! registry in Zurich were processed at baseline, and after initial treatment using intravitreal anti-VEGF to predict subsequent 1-year and 4-year outcomes. Intraretinal and subretinal fluid and pigment epithelial detachment volumes were segmented using a deep learning algorithm (Vienna Fluid Monitor, RetInSight, Vienna, Austria). A predictive machine learning model for future treatment requirements and morphological outcomes was built using the computed set of quantitative features.

Results

Two hundred and two eyes from 158 patients were evaluated. 107 eyes had a lower median (≤7) and 95 eyes had an upper median (≥8) number of injections in the first year, with a mean accuracy of prediction of 0.77 (95% CI 0.71 to 0.83) area under the curve (AUC). Best-corrected visual acuity at baseline was the most relevant predictive factor determining final visual outcomes after 1 year. Over 4 years, half of the eyes had progressed to macular atrophy (MA) with the model being able to distinguish MA from non-MA eyes with a mean AUC of 0.70 (95% CI 0.61 to 0.79). Prediction for subretinal fibrosis reached an AUC of 0.74 (95% CI 0.63 to 0.81).

Conclusions

The regulatory approved AI-based fluid monitoring allows clinicians to use automated algorithms in prospectively guided patient treatment in AMD. Furthermore, retinal fluid localisation and quantification can predict long-term morphological outcomes.
Molecular subtypes, predictive markers and prognosis in small-cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Yanli , Li Sheng , Wang Haiyue , Ren Wenhao , Chi Kaiwen , Wu Jianghua , Mao Luning , Huang Xiaozheng , Zhuo Minglei , Lin Dongmei
Published: September 2023

Aims

A new molecular subtype classification was proposed for small-cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). We aimed to further validate the classification in various SCLC patient samples using immunohistochemistry (IHC) to highlight its clinical significance.

Methods

We analysed the protein expression of four subtype (achaete-scute family BHLH transcription factor 1 (ASCL1), neuronal differentiation 1 (NEUROD1), POU class 2 homeobox 3 (POU2F3) and Yes1-associated transcriptional regulator (YAP1)) and two predictive markers (delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3) and MYC) using IHC in 216 specimens from 195 SCLC patients, including 21 pairs of resected biopsy tumours. Associations among molecular subtypes, clinicopathological features and prognostic implications were also explored.

Results

The ASCL1, NEUROD1, POU2F3, YAP1, DLL3 and MYC-positive expression rates were 70.3%, 56.9%, 14.9%, 19.0%, 75.4% and 22.6%, respectively. DLL3 expression had positive and negative associations with that of ASCL1 and POU2F3/YAP1, respectively, whereas MYC had the opposite effect. Strong associations of ASCL1 (Ρ=0.8603, p<0.0001), NEUROD1 (Ρ=0.8326, p<0.0001), POU2F3 (Ρ=0.6950, p<0.0001) and YAP1 (Ρ=0.7466, p<0.0001) expressions were detected between paired resected biopsy tumours. In addition to SCLC-A (ASCL1-dominant), SCLC-N (NEUROD1-dominant) and SCLC-P (POU2F3-dominant), unsupervised hierarchical cluster analyses identified a fourth, quadruple-negative SCLC subtype (SCLC-QN) characterised by the low expression of all four subtype-specific proteins, and 55.4% (n=108), 27.2% (n=53), 11.8% (n=23) and 5.6% (n=11) were categorised as SCLC-A, SCLC-N, SCLC-P and SCLC-QN, respectively. Significant enrichment of SCLC-P in the combined SCLC cohort was observed, and adenocarcinoma was more prevalent in SCLC-A, while large-cell neuroendocrine carcinoma was more commonly seen in SCLC-P. No survival difference was found among molecular subtypes.

Conclusions

Our results provide clinical insights into the diagnostic, prognostic and predictive significance of SCLC molecular subtype classifications.
Neurofibromatosis type 1 mosaicism in patients with constitutional mismatch repair deficiency
Authors: Guerrini-Rousseau Léa , Pasmant Eric , Muleris Martine , Abbou Samuel , Adam-De-Beaumais Tiphaine , Brugieres Laurence , Cabaret Odile , Colas Chrystelle , Cotteret Sophie , Decq Philippe , Dufour Christelle , Guillerm Erell , Rouleau Etienne , Varlet Pascale , Zili Saïma , Vidaud Dominique , Grill Jacques
Published: September 2023

Differential diagnosis betweenconstitutional mismatch repair deficiency (CMMRD)andneurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is crucial as treatment and surveillance differ. We report the case of a girl with a clinical diagnosis of sporadic NF1 who developed a glioblastoma. Immunohistochemistry for MMR proteins identified PMS2 loss in tumour and normal cells and WES showed the tumour had an ultra-hypermutated phenotype, supporting the diagnosis of CMMRD. Germline analyses identified two variants (one pathogenic variant and one classified as variant(s) of unknown significance) in thePMS2gene and subsequent functional assays on blood lymphocytes confirmed the diagnosis of CMMRD. The large plexiform neurofibroma of the thigh and the freckling were however more compatible with NF1. Indeed, aNF1PV (variant allele frequencies of 20%, 3% and 9% and in blood, skin and saliva samples, respectively) was identified confirming a mosaicism for NF1. Retrospective analysis of a French cohort identified NF1 mosaicism in blood DNA in 2 out of 22 patients with CMMRD, underlining the existence of early postzygotic PV ofNF1gene in patients with CMMRD whose tumours have been frequently reported to exhibit somaticNF1mutations. It highlights the potential role of this pathway in the pathogenesis of CMMRD-associated gliomas and argues in favour of testing MEK inhibitors in this context.
Carriers of autosomal recessive conditions: are they really ‘unaffected?’
Authors: Hames Amber , Khan Sophia , Gilliland Clara , Goldman Lucy , Lo Hillary WH , Magda Kevin , Keathley Justine
Published: September 2023

Mendel’s Law of Dominance suggests that recessive disease expression requires the inheritance of two mutated alleles as the dominant, wildtype allele suppresses disease presentation leading to the expression of physiological normal phenotypes. However, there is existing evidence that challenges this school of thought. Here, we summarise existing literature evaluating metabolic and health impacts among carriers of autosomal recessive conditions, focusing on phenylketonuria (PKU), classical homocystinuria, galactosemia and Usher syndrome as examples. Our findings suggest that carriers, often described as ‘unaffected’, may actually display attenuated symptoms for the recessive disease they are carrying. For instance, PKU is an inborn error of metabolism characterised by the build-up of plasma phenylalanine attributed to the deficiency of the phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) enzyme. While less severe, PKU carriers also exhibit this impaired enzymatic activity, leading to elevated plasma phenylalanine levels, especially after phenylalanine consumption. Related to these metabolic alterations in the PAH pathway, there is early evidence to suggest that PKU carriers may have compromised cognitive and mental health outcomes. Overall, research on the health and metabolic impacts of PKU carriers is sparse, with most studies conducted several decades ago. However, early evidence suggests that intermediate phenotypes among carriers of autosomal recessive conditions are plausible. The illustrated possible intermediate phenotypes observed among carriers necessitates future research to determine possible clinical implications among this population.
Engineering Reliability-Based Condition Assessment for Stay Cables Using Non-Destructive Interferometric Radar
Authors: Chen Shilun , Chen Da , Sannasiraj Rishwanth Darun Annamalaisamy , Zhang Lihai
Published: September 2023

Structural health monitoring (SHM) of cable-stayed bridges requires periodic assessment for the deteriorating stay cables to ensure a long-term service life of the bridge. However, conducting the non-destructive SHM for operating cable-stayed bridges and analyzing the safety statuses of all the working cables are still challenging, due to the lack of in situ cable data for previously constructed bridges. This study developed an innovative framework of health condition assessment for stay cables based on cable vibration frequencies from an interferometric radar (IBIS-FS) using engineering reliability analysis (ERA). Taking a cable-stayed bridge in Victoria, Australia as a target structure for the case study, it shows that the presented framework can remotely monitor the accurate real-time load bearing conditions of stay cables by calculating tension forces, and effectively assess their health conditions. The results show that the natural frequency (up to the fifth mode) of a healthy cable remains constant under different external loadings but varies for damaged cables. The measured reliability index of all the stay cables is higher than the safety threshold factor at ultimate limit states, while one carries tension force higher than the maximum design load (lower than the minimum breaking load) and other three cables need to be monitored regularly due to their low reliability indices. This is attributed to an integrated effect of applied tension force, cable diameters, and minimum breaking loads.
A Pre-Trained Deep Learning Model for Fast Online Prediction of Structural Seismic Responses
Authors: Tang Wei-Jian , Wang Dong-Sheng , Huang Hai-Bin , Dai Jian-Cheng , Shi Fan
Published: September 2023

Deep learning techniques have gradually attracted considerable research interest in numerous application scenarios because of their capacity to simplify and accelerate calculations. Several researchers have adopted deep learning models, primarily end-to-end long short-term memory networks, to predict structural seismic responses in a data-driven manner and have achieved remarkable improvements. However, further research is required to reduce the training cost and complexity while maintaining the prediction accuracy of end-to-end models. In this study, a pre-training strategy was developed to meet these requirements. In brief, a generic base model was pre-trained by embedding the knowledge of calculating the response of single-degree-of-freedom systems, which was used as the basis for building tailored top models for the online prediction of seismic responses of different structures. This strategy modularized and simplified deep-learning-based seismic response prediction for training while maintaining the advantages of the end-to-end method. Proposed method was verified by using both simulation and actual datasets. The results demonstrated that a significantly lower training cost and complexity were required to achieve a prediction accuracy similar to that of the classic end-to-end method. Specifically, there was a reduction in FLOPs ranging from 20% to 80%, and a decrease in training time ranging from 44% to 82%. Moreover, the performance of deep learning with limited actual data was discussed.
Vibration Investigation of Circular Graphene Sheet with Geometrical Defect Considering Two-Phase Local/Nonlocal Theory Exposed to the Magnetic Field
Authors: Ayoubi Pejman , Ahmadi Habib
Published: September 2023

In this work, the mixed local/nonlocal elasticity theory is developed for the investigation of the vibration of a circular graphene sheet with a structural defect located in a magnetic field. When graphene is placed in a magnetic field, the Lorentz force is applied to it, which is calculated using Maxwell’s equations. The insufficiency of Eringen’s nonlocal theory (ENT) caused some authors to employ the two-phase theory (TPT) to study nanostructures. Geometric imperfections can happen in the manufacturing process of graphene sheets. Lots of these imperfections can be modeled as a hole. So, in this work, an imperfection is considered as the centric hole. Governing equations, in Newtonian formulation, are extracted in the integrodifferential form. The boundary conditions are selected as clamped at inner and outer edges. To discretize the equation of motion we employ Galerkin’s approach. The solution is validated using a comparison study between the presented results and those that exist in the literature, and the accuracy of the suggested approach is verified. The effectiveness of the mixture parameter, magnetic field, radius of imperfection, and nonlocal parameter is examined on the natural frequency. The results exhibit that an increase in the mixture parameter and magnetic field increases the natural frequency of the graphene sheet.
Rooted Divergence-Preserving Branching Bisimilarity is a Congruence for Guarded CCS
Authors: Sun Quan , Jansen David N. , Liu Xinxin , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2023

Branching bisimilarity is a well-known equivalence relation for labelled transition systems. Based on this equivalence relation, with an additional simple rootedness condition, a congruence relation for calculus of communication system (CCS) processes can be obtained. However, neither branching bisimilarity nor the corresponding congruence relation preserves divergence, and it is still a question whether, based on a divergence-preserving variant of branching bisimilarity, a divergence-preserving congruence relation for CCS processes can be obtained by introducing the same simple rootedness condition. In this article, we present a partial solution by showing that rooted divergence-preserving branching bisimilarity is preserved under the usual CCS operators, including prefixing, summation, parallel composition, relabelling, restriction, and (weakly) guarded recursion.
New Insight into the Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Reaction: Radical Reactions Govern the Whole Process
Authors: Sun Youyi
Published: September 2023

In present paper, we wish to suggest a new reaction mechanism for the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2). This mechanism can provide a reasonable interpretation to the formation of widely range of products on copper (Cu) catalyst.
Heat Transfer Enhancement of Energy Pile with Nanofluids as Heat Carrier
Authors: Wang Ruizhi , Yin Ya , Li Qingwen , Hai Xiao , Deng Naifu , Huang Chao
Published: September 2023

As one of the core components of the transport medium in the energy pile system, the circulating working fluid is crucial for the enhancement of its heat transfer efficiency. In this study, based on the heat transfer enhancement theory of nanofluids, deionized water was used as the base solution to prepare the corresponding 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 vol% nanofluids by introducing nanoparticles SiO2, Al2O3, CuO, and Cu. The laws of thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity with the volume fraction of different nanofluids are studied by the comparison. The results of thermal conductivity research illustrate that the specific heat capacity of nanofluids decreases linearly with the increase of the volume concentration of nanoparticles, but the thermal conductivity increases linearly. The fluid with the highest thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity is Cu–water nanofluids. In addition, it is proposed to directly apply all kinds of nanofluids with 1 vol% as circulating fluid to self-made miniature model box of energy pile to simulate the working conditions in summer. The influence laws of the nanofluids on the flow rate and heat transfer efficiency in the energy pile were calculated through the temperature difference between the inlet and outlet of the heat exchange tube. The results reveal that the nanofluids used in the experiment exert a optimization influence on the heat transfer of energy pile but the mass flow rate of the nanofluids during the circulation is decreased compared with that of the deionized water circulation liquid. Among them, the temperature difference between inlet and outlet of Cu–water nanofluid is the largest, which has the best effect on improving the heat transfer efficiency of the energy pile but its mass flow loss is also the largest. The research results can provide a reliable reference for the improvement of heat transfer efficiency of energy pile engineering in the future.
Response of Black Nightshade to Different Cropping Systems and the Effect on Physiological Parameters and Mineral Composition
Authors: Managa Gudani Millicent , Nemadodzi Lufuno Ethel
Published: September 2023

In southern African countries, production of indigenous leafy vegetables is commonly practiced at home garden and/or commercial level due to their significant contribution toward eradication of hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition. Black nightshade (Solanum nigrum L.) is among African leafy vegetable (ALV) highly recognised for its pharmacological and nutritive benefits. Several research have shown that ALVs can be cultivated in the open field or greenhouses, however, little information is available on the changes of the agronomical parameters and mineral composition. The aim of the study was to compare the physiological parameters and mineral composition of nightshade grown in the open field vs. greenhouse cropping systems. The results of the study revealed high-leaf area and relative chlorophyll content in the open field conditions while plant height and the number of leaves were reportedly higher under the greenhouse system. Minerals elements such as magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, zinc, and aluminium were significantly higher in the open field cropping system, while greenhouse cultivation recorded higher sulphur and boron. Notably, no significant amount was observed in calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium between open field and greenhouse system. Furthermore, a significant amount of total nitrogen was reported in the open field, however, no significant difference was observed in moisture and ash content for both cropping systems. In conclusion, black nightshade cultivated in open field provided higher leaf chlorophyll, leaf area, and trace elements compared to greenhouse cultivation while macro minerals concentration had no significant difference in both cropping systems.
Determination of Tenacissoside G, Tenacissoside H, and Tenacissoside I in Rat Plasma by UPLC-MS/MS and Their Pharmacokinetics
Authors: Chen Fan , Ma Yizhe , Cui Ying , Wang Wanhang , Mei Chenchen , Nie Jingjing , Wen Congcong , Shen Xiuwei , Zhou Xuzhao
Published: September 2023

An ultra-performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method was developed for the determination of tenacissoside G, tenacissoside H, and tenacissoside I in rat plasma. The rat plasma was treated with liquid-liquid extraction using ethyl acetate. The determination was performed on the UPLC HSS T3 column (50 mm × 2.1 mm, 1.8 μm) with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile-water (containing 0.1% formic acid) and gradient elution at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. Electrospray (ESI) positive ion mode detection and multireaction monitoring (MRM) quantitative analysis were performed. A total of 36 rats were given tenacissoside G, tenacissoside H, and tenacissoside I, respectively, orally (5 mg/kg) and intravenously (1 mg/kg), with 6 rats in each group, to evaluate the pharmacokinetic difference of tenacissoside G, tenacissoside H, and tenacissoside I in rats. The calibration curves showed good linearity in the range of 5–2000 ng/mL, where r was greater than 0.99. The results of precision, accuracy, recovery, matrix effect, and stability met the requirements of biological sample detection methods. The established UPLC-MS/MS method was successfully applied to pharmacokinetic studies of tenacissoside G, tenacissoside H, and tenacissoside I, and the bioavailability was 22.9%, 89.8%, and 9.4%, respectively.
Toward a Spatial Understanding of Openness: Richard Sennett’s “Five Open Forms” and/in Music
Authors: Packham Jonathan
Published: September 2023

This article offers a new strategy for cognizing musical indeterminacy based on Richard Sennett’s “five open forms for the city,” an intrinsically spatial way of thinking about what is “open” and how it is open. Sennett’s five forms (“synchronicity,” “punctuatedness,” “porosity,” “incompleteness,” and “multiplicity”) are explored individually as they impact our understanding of openness and/in music, illuminated by examples from contemporary experimental music.
Three new species of Afropselaphus Jeannel, 1950 (Staphylinidae: Pselaphinae) from Greece and a redescription of Pselaphogenius treskanus (Karaman, 1940)
Authors: DAVRANOGLOU LEONIDAS-ROMANOS , BAŇAŘ PETR , KAKIOPOULOS GEORGE , BALÁZS ATTILA , AVTZIS DIMITRIOS N. , HLAVÁČ PETER
Published: September 2023

Three new species of the genus Afropselaphus Jeannel, 1950, Afropselaphus taygetensis sp. n., Afropselaphus tymficus sp. n. and Afropselaphus euboicus sp. n. are described and illustrated. Pselaphogenius treskanus (Karaman, 1940) is redescribed and new data of its distribution are provided.
A new species of Neorhinotora Lopes, 1934 (Diptera: Heleomyzidae) and new records of the genus from Northeastern Brazil
Authors: REIS GENIANA ALVES , TÔRRES ALICE , ALE-ROCHA ROSALY , OLIVEIRA FRANCISCO LIMEIRA-DE-
Published: September 2023

The Neotropical genus Neorhinotora Lopes is currently represented by five species: N. amapaensis Guimarães & Papavero, N. aristalis (Fischer), N. diversa (Giglio-Tos), N. elsalvadorensis Menezes, Calhau & Ale-Rocha, and N. mutica (Schiner). A new species is described and illustrated: Neorhinotora fapema, sp. nov. from Maranhão, Brazil, bringing the number of valid species to six. A revised key is provided for species identification.
Wettening of the Southern Hemisphere Land Monsoon during 1901–2014
Authors: Cao Jian , Lian Xuanqiang , Cao Min , Wang Bin , Wang Hao , Zhu Xiaowei , Zhao Haikun
Published: September 2023

The causes of historical changes in the Southern Hemisphere (SH) monsoon are less understood than the Northern Hemisphere (NH) counterpart. Unlike the decline in the NH monsoon during 1901–2014, we found that the SH land monsoon precipitation significantly increased during 1901–2014 in observation, reanalysis, and most historical simulations from phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6). The observed increase in SH land monsoon precipitation is dominated by the Australian and South American monsoons. Moisture budget analysis suggests that half of the wettening is attributable to the strengthening of monsoon circulation, and only one-fifth is caused by atmospheric moistening. The SH monsoon circulation change is mainly affected by the sea surface temperature (SST) gradient between the Indo-Pacific and the eastern Pacific. It enhances the tropical zonal circulation that redistributes the moisture from tropical oceans to land monsoon regions by strengthening the lower-tropospheric convergence and convection. The CMIP6 models, which successfully reproduced the SST contrast between the Indo-Pacific and eastern Pacific, simulate the wettening of the SH monsoon during the historical period; otherwise, the SH monsoon is weakened. In a meridional sense, reanalysis and CMIP6 simulations both demonstrated that the strengthening of SH monsoon convection plays a vital role in the long-term change of zonal mean Hadley circulation, albeit the monsoon band only accounts for 1/3 of the global longitudinal area. Results from this study are useful for constraining the future projection of SH monsoon and understanding the long-term change of Hadley circulation.