bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing a framework for actuators for adaptive structures
Authors: Bosch Matthias J. , Nitzlader Markus , Bachmann Matthias , Binz Hansgeorg , Blandini Lucio , Kreimeyer Matthias
Published: May 2024

Adaptive structures have the potential to play a significant role in saving resources in the construction industry in the future. For realisation, this requires actuators that meet the requirements of different buildings with their specific load-bearing structures. In the past, the actuators were mainly developed particularly for one exemplary load-bearing structure. This paper analyses the primary classifications for buildings, followed by challenges of adaptive structures, before outlining the draft of a framework for actuators for adaptive structures to speed up and simplify development.
Data- and simulation-based material behaviour prediction
Authors: Dybov Anton , Fresemann Carina , Stark Rainer
Published: May 2024

In research environments and laboratories e.g. for material sciences the in- and output of simulation data is manually managed. Therefore, physical experiments as well as simulations might be carried out several times, learnings are not systematically gathered, and experiments do not systematically build on learnings from data. This paper proposes to engage an ontology in conjunction with a simulation to use data from already carried out experiments and on that basis predict material behaviour under certain condition and plan further physical experiments.
From tears to tiers – architectural principles for federated PLM landscapes
Authors: Herzog Erik , Tingström Johan , Axehill Johanna Wallén , Nordling Larsson Åsa , Jouannet Christopher
Published: May 2024

PLM systems are key enabling systems in the development of today's products. Introduction of a new PLM capability is an expensive and risky undertaking. Many implementation projects end in tears in the sense that they are frequently late or even cancelled. In this paper, a federated PLM architecture pattern – Genesis – is introduced and evaluated against prevalent PLM approaches. From an architecture perspective, Genesis with its two distinct integration tiers decrease the number of integration points and thus cost and complexity.
New methodology for the characterization of 3D model reconstructions to meet conditions of input data and requirements of downstream application
Authors: Joost Robert , Mönchinger Stephan , Lindow Kai
Published: May 2024

In the field of 3D model reconstruction, manifold methods have been developed that derive CAD models from 3D scan data. Opposed to classical CAD modelling, where surface and solid modelling exist, a further diversification of modelling techniques is observed, caused by different methods to build up the geometry. This research introduces a new classification, the so-called Level of Complexities. It can be applied to the complete Reverse Engineering process chain and lays the foundation for further research on how to match requirements arising from all process steps and downstream applications.
A comparative study of VR CAD modelling tools for design
Authors: Kukreja Aman , Cox Christopher Michael Jason , Gopsill James , Snider Chris
Published: May 2024

With recent advancements in Virtual reality (VR), 3D design in VR has gained significant interest from both academia and industries. However, the development of these VR CAD tools is either skewed towards the creative industry or simply mimicking conventional CAD. This paper presents three different tools, analyzes them, and compares their capabilities over various performance parameters. The paper finally suggests where these tools can be used in the design process and some critical pathways for developing VR-based CAD modeling software for practical use in the engineering design industry.
Are generative design tools creative? A characterisation of tools throughout the design process
Authors: Peckham Owen Rahmat , Hicks Ben , Goudswaard Mark
Published: May 2024

Generative design is now a core capability of today's CAD systems enabling broader exploration of the design space. This paper presents a desktop review of 15 tools with the aim of characterising where the tools are used in the design process and to what extent they can be considered creative.The results showed that, despite their increasing capabilities, GD tools are unable to exhibit all phases of creativity and cannot be applied in all stages of the design process. This highlights the criticality of the human in design providing opportunities for GD to augment designer creativity.
An approach for reverse engineering and redesign of additive manufactured spare parts
Authors: Rešetar Marija , Valjak Filip , Grabar Branilović Marina , Šercer Mario , Bojčetić Nenad
Published: May 2024

The spare parts play a vital role in sustaining the operation and longevity of products and systems, but their unavailability can lead to prolonged downtime or expensive replacements. The integration of 3D scanning and Additive Manufacturing (AM) presents a promising path for spare part production. However, to utilise the full potential of AM, sometimes, redesign of the original part is needed. This paper investigates and proposes a new approach that integrates reverse engineering and redesign of an original part based on functional analysis to support the manufacturing of AM spare parts.
A novel heuristic approach to detect induced forming defects using point cloud scans
Authors: Saeed Muhammad Shahrukh , Faisal Sheharyar , Eisenbart Boris , Kreimeyer Matthias , Nadeem Eiman , Khan Muhammad Hamas , Arshad Muhammad Zeeshan , Radjef Racim , Wagner Markus
Published: May 2024

The research paper delves into the importance of point cloud data obtained from 3D scanning technology ensuring quality control in industrial settings. It presents a new heuristic approach that utilizes the wavelet algorithm and other techniques to detect and characterize induced forming defects accurately. The proposed approach offers more flexibility, ease of use, and better results based on descriptive and prescriptive analyses from DRM. The results demonstrate that the wavelet algorithm was successful in identifying and characterizing forming defects in point cloud data.
Management of rule-based product-portfolios with high variance: a systematic literature review
Authors: Schmidt Thorsten , Mantwill Frank
Published: May 2024

This paper conducts a systematic literature review about the management of rule-based product-portfolios with high variance. This type of portfolio is particularly distinctive in the chosen use case of the German automotive industry since it satisfies the requirements of mass customization and modularization. However, the research field of variant- and complexity management is manifold and multidimensional. This paper systematically searches the databases Scopus and Web of Science using the PRISMA method and briefly summarizes the main contributions and comparing them by elaborated topics.
Enhancing design automation for components of electric machines: a systematic approach
Authors: Umland Niklas , Wiberg Anton , Winkler Kora , Jung Jakob , Inkermann David
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a systematic approach to multidisciplinary design automation in electric motor engineering, focusing on component design. Existing work in this field is often limited to a single level and lacks portability and reusability. The approach aims to enable simultaneous component and system design, with comprehensive models capturing specifications and architecture. Feasibility is demonstrated through the automated design of additive manufactured hairpin windings.
Perception-centric design considerations for low-cost haptic emulation in prototypes
Authors: Wharton Mike Miroslav , Cox Christopher Michael Jason , Gopsill James , Kukreja Aman , Snider Chris
Published: May 2024

User-testing is crucial in modern product design. The perception-centric design philosophy aims to cut costs and improve responses to low-cost prototypes by including aspects like thermal properties, texture, weight, sound, and haptic feedback. This paper introduces a set of considerations for integrating low-cost vibrotactile haptics into prototypes. Derived using an action-based research process, it addresses product characterisation, actuation, control, and integration. Multi-sensory prototypes in early-stage design could be vital for the sustainable prototyping of the future.
6 degree of freedom positional object tracking for physical prototype digitisation
Authors: Wyrley-Birch Michael , Kukreja Aman , Gopsill James , Cox Christopher Michael Jason , Snider Chris
Published: May 2024

Underpinning much work on the use of Virtual Reality technologies in design prototyping, is the need to reliably track the 3D position of a physical object in real space, then allowing synchronisation with a digital counterpart. With many tracking methods requiring changes to object geometry, this work develops and benchmarks four minimally invasiveness 6 DoF tracking approaches, before discussing their use in a prototyping context. Results show that using AI and point cloud methods, accuracies of 20mm at 20Hz are achievable on low-end hardware with no alterations to the prototype needed.
Creativity of products as meant by ordinary people: to what extent do novelty and usefulness matter?
Authors: Berni Aurora , Borgianni Yuri , Basso Demis
Published: May 2024

In the design literature, creativity of products is recognized as a combination of novelty and usefulness. However, this mainly applies to the engineering field and within a community of experts. This study investigates how ordinary people understand creativity embodied in products. In an experiment with 70+ participants, 8 products and 5 metrics were dealt with. Novelty resulted as the main predictor of creativity. Usefulness turned to play a minor effect on perceived creativity. It emerged that usefulness has to make ordinary people like a specific product in order to link it to creativity.
The use of occurrences of ideas for constructing and characterizing the design space
Authors: Casakin Hernan , Sopher Hadas , Gero John S. , Anidjar Or Haim
Published: May 2024

This study explores the construction, characterization, and measurement of the design space using a novel approach that centres on First Occurrences (FOs) and Re-Occurrences (ROs) as metrics. Expert architects' cognitive behaviours during the design process were investigated empirically to gain insights into design space evolution. Findings reveal a consistent generation and revisiting of ideas, signifying an ongoing development of the design space. Future research should incorporate diverse methodologies and broader participant sample for a more comprehensive understanding.
Investigating differences in brain activity between physical and digital prototyping in open and constrained design tasks
Authors: Dybvik Henrikke , McClenaghan Adam , Bond Mariya Stefanova Stoyanova , Svergja Asbjørn , Shealy Tripp , Snider Chris , Aalto Pasi , Steinert Martin , Goudswaard Mark
Published: May 2024

This article presents an fNIRS experiment investigating cognitive differences between physical and digital prototyping methods in designers (N=25) engaged in open and constrained design tasks. Initial results suggest that physical prototyping yields increased hemodynamic response (i.e., brain activity) compared to digital design, and that constrained design yields increased hemodynamic response compared to open design, in the prefrontal cortex. Further work will seek to triangulate results by investigating potential correlations to design processes and design outputs.
Expanding Freedom: A Response
Authors: Mangharam Mukti Lakhi
Published: May 2024

This is a response to the engagement of scholars with my argument in my book, Freedom Inc.: Gendered Capitalism in New Indian Literature and Culture. I expand on my argument about the way that the novel form can nuance Orientalist or Eurocentric assumptions about freedom, the links between neoliberalism and Hindu Nationalism, whether a theory of freedom that takes into account the constraining contexts through which agency is produced can ever include rebellion, and the contradictory discourses and contested subjectivities through which agency is constituted.
What are the immediate standards needs for quantum technology?
Authors: Devaney John
Published: May 2024

Quantum technologies exploit uniquely quantum behaviour of light and matter to achieve functionalities and performance in applications such as computing, navigation, communications, sensing and imaging that are not achievable by conventional, classical means. These “second-generation” technologies are under rapid development and commercialisation, with an accompanying need for assurance by test and characterisation.
A SERVILE RIDDLE FROM POMPEII? (CIL 4.1877)
Authors: Elder Olivia
Published: May 2024

This article reconsiders a graffitied riddle from Pompeii (CIL 4.1877). It argues that slavery is one possible dimension of the puzzle, and that acknowledging the existence of slavery in this text testifies to the potential of Pompeian graffiti as a source for overlooked social histories.
Rating the aesthetic results after auricular reconstructive surgery for congenital aural atresia with microtia
Authors: Schläpfer Njima , Papp Livia , Lehnick Dirk , Harder Meike , Simmen Daniel , Linder Thomas
Published: May 2024

Objective

This retrospective study aimed to establish a robust rating system for assessing post-operative outcomes in congenital aural atresia patients undergoing auricular reconstruction. The newly introduced EAR scale, a weighted grading system, not only considers anatomical landmarks but also factors such as ear alignment. In addition, the outer-ear cartilage scale and the visual analogue scale (VAS) were introduced. These scales were compared among themselves and against two established scales.

Methods

Nine raters assessed 17 eligible patients who underwent auricular reconstruction between 2001 and 2020.

Results

The study compared inter-rater agreement among scales, with the EAR scale proving the most reliable (Krippendorff's alpha coefficient, α = 0.45), outperforming existing measures. The outer-ear cartilage scale and the VAS exhibited lower inter-rater agreement, indicating inferiority in assessing aesthetic outcomes.

Conclusion

The EAR scale emerged as an effective tool for evaluating post-operative outcomes in congenital aural atresia auricular reconstruction.
Stress in French loanwords in British and American English
Authors: Dabouis Quentin , Fournier Pierre
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a dictionary-based study of French loanwords in contemporary English in order to investigate the location of primary stress in these loanwords. Four factors are found to be significant predictors of the position of primary stress: endings, word complexity, the segmental structure of the final syllable, and syllable count. Moreover, this study confirms previous observations on the tendency for American English to have more final stress in French loanwords than British English. Finally, the implications of our findings are discussed in light of a model that assumes that English phonology consists of distinct interacting subsystems.
Towards ion stopping power experiments with the laser-driven LIGHT beamline
Authors: Nazary H. , Metternich M. , Schumacher D. , Neufeld F. , Grimm S.J. , Brabetz C. , Kroll F. , Brack F.-E. , Blažević A. , Schramm U. , Bagnoud V. , Roth M.
Published: May 2024

The main emphasis of the Laser Ion Generation, Handling and Transport (LIGHT) beamline at GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH are phase-space manipulations of laser-generated ion beams. In recent years, the LIGHT collaboration has successfully generated and focused intense proton bunches with an energy of 8 MeV and a temporal duration shorter than 1 ns (FWHM). An interesting area of application that exploits the short ion bunch properties of LIGHT is the study of ion-stopping power in plasmas, a key process in inertial confinement fusion for understanding energy deposition in dense plasmas. The most challenging regime is found when the projectile velocity closely approaches the thermal plasma electron velocity (

$v_{i}\approx v_{e,\text {th}}$

), for which existing theories show high discrepancies. Since conclusive experimental data are scarce in this regime, we plan to conduct experiments on laser-generated plasma probed with ions generated with LIGHT at a higher temporal resolution than previously achievable. The high temporal resolution is important because the parameters of laser-generated plasmas are changing on the nanosecond time scale. To meet this goal, our recent studies have dealt with ions of lower kinetic energies. In 2021, laser accelerated carbon ions were transported with two solenoids and focused temporally with LIGHT's radio frequency cavity. A bunch length of 1.2 ns (FWHM) at an energy of 0.6 MeV u

$^{-1}$

was achieved. In 2022, protons with an energy of 0.6 MeV were transported and temporally compressed to a bunch length of 0.8 ns. The proton beam was used to measure the energy loss in a cold foil. Both the ion and proton beams will also be employed for energy loss measurements in a plasma target.
Managing malnutrition and multimorbidity in primary care: dietary approaches to reduce treatment burden
Authors: Stratton Rebecca J.
Published: May 2024

There are many health and nutrition implications of suffering from multimorbidity, which is a huge challenge facing health and social services. This review focuses on malnutrition, one of the nutritional consequences of multimorbidity. Malnutrition can result from the impact of chronic conditions and their management (polypharmacy) on appetite and nutritional intake, leading to an inability to meet nutritional requirements from food. Malnutrition (undernutrition) is prevalent in primary care and costly, the main cause being disease, accentuated by multiple morbidities. Most of the costs arise from the deleterious effects of malnutrition on individual’s function, clinical outcome and recovery leading to a substantially greater burden on treatment and health care resources, costing at least £19·6 billion in England. Routine identification of malnutrition with screening should be part of the management of multimorbidity together with practical, effective ways of treating malnutrition that overcome anorexia where relevant. Nutritional interventions that improve nutritional intake have been shown to significantly reduce mortality in individuals with multimorbidities. In addition to food-based interventions, a more ‘medicalised’ dietary approach using liquid oral nutritional supplements (ONS) can be effective. ONS typically have little impact on appetite, effectively improve energy, protein and micronutrient intakes and may significantly improve functional measures. Reduced treatment burden can result from effective nutritional intervention with improved clinical outcomes (fewer infections, wounds), reducing health care use and costs. With the right investment in nutrition and dietetic resources, appropriate nutritional management plans can be put in place to optimally support the multimorbid patient benefitting the individual and the wider society.
Farm animal exposure setting impacts hemolytic uremic syndrome risk among Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli cases: Minnesota, 2010–2019
Authors: Vachon Madhura S. , Rounds Joshua , Smith Kirk , Medus Carlota , Hedberg Craig W. , Klumb Carrie , Tarr Gillian A. M.
Published: May 2024

Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) transmission occurs in ruminant contact settings and can lead to post-diarrheal hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). We investigated whether exposure setting (ruminant exposure from living or working on a farm, visiting a farm or animal contact venue, or both) influenced HUS development among individuals with laboratory-confirmed STEC infections using Minnesota surveillance data from 2010 to 2019. Logistic regression was performed to determine whether exposure setting was associated with HUS independent of age, gender, stx2 gene detection, and county ruminants per capita. Among confirmed STEC cases, ruminant exposure only from living or working on a farm was not significantly associated with HUS compared to cases without any ruminant exposure (OR: 1.25; 95% CI: 0.51, 3.04). However, ruminant exposure only from visiting a farm or public animal contact venue was associated with HUS (OR: 2.53; 95% CI: 1.50, 4.24). Exposure from both settings was also associated with HUS (OR: 3.71; 95% CI: 1.39, 9.90). Exposure to ruminants when visiting farms or animal contact venues is an important predictor of HUS, even among people who live or work on farms with ruminants. All people, regardless of routine ruminant exposure, should take care in settings with ruminants to avoid infection with STEC.
Impacts of Vertical Convective Mixing Schemes and Freshwater Forcing on the 2016–2017 Maud Rise Polynya Openings in a Regional Ocean Simulation
Authors: Gülk Birte , Roquet Fabien , Naveira Garabato Alberto C. , Bourdallé‐Badie Romain , Madec Gurvan , Giordani Hervé
Published: May 2024

The correct representation of the Maud Rise open‐ocean polynya in the Weddell Sea remains a challenge for ocean models. Here we reproduce the most recent polynya openings in 2016–2017 using a regional configuration, and assess their dependencies on vertical convective mixing schemes and freshwater forcing, both separately and in combination. We test three vertical convective mixing schemes: the enhanced vertical diffusion (EVD), the Eddy‐Diffusivity Mass‐Flux (EDMF) parameterization, and a modified version of EDMF accounting for thermobaric effects. Using simulations for the period 2007–2017, we find that the modified EDMF reproduces the observed climatological evolution of the mixed layer depth better than the original EDMF and the EVD, but a polynya fails to open due to excessive freshwater forcing. We thus use the modified EDMF to perform sensitivity experiments with reduced precipitation during 2012–2017. The imposed freshwater forcing strongly affects the number of years with polynyas. The simulation with the best representation of the 2016–2017 polynyas is analyzed to evaluate the triggering mechanisms. The 2016 polynya was induced by the action of thermobaric instabilities on a weak ambient stratification. This opening preconditioned the water column for 2017, which produced a stronger polynya. By examining the impacts of the different convective mixing schemes, we show that the modified EDMF generates more realistic patterns of deep convection. Our results highlight the importance of surface freshwater forcing and thermobaricity in governing deep convection around Maud Rise, and the need to represent thermobaric instabilities to realistically model Maud Rise polynyas.
ERIC recommendations for TP53 mutation analysis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia—2024 update
Authors: Malcikova Jitka , Pavlova Sarka , Baliakas Panagiotis , Chatzikonstantinou Thomas , Tausch Eugen , Catherwood Mark , Rossi Davide , Soussi Thierry , Tichy Boris , Kater Arnon P. , Niemann Carsten U. , Davi Frederic , Gaidano Gianluca , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Rosenquist Richard , Stamatopoulos Kostas , Ghia Paolo , Pospisilova Sarka
Published: May 2024

In chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), analysis of TP53 aberrations (deletion and/or mutation) is a crucial part of treatment decision-making algorithms. Technological and treatment advances have resulted in the need for an update of the last recommendations for TP53 analysis in CLL, published by ERIC, the European Research Initiative on CLL, in 2018. Based on the current knowledge of the relevance of low-burden TP53-mutated clones, a specific variant allele frequency (VAF) cut-off for reporting TP53 mutations is no longer recommended, but instead, the need for thorough method validation by the reporting laboratory is emphasized. The result of TP53 analyses should always be interpreted within the context of available laboratory and clinical information, treatment indication, and therapeutic options. Methodological aspects of introducing next-generation sequencing (NGS) in routine practice are discussed with a focus on reliable detection of low-burden clones. Furthermore, potential interpretation challenges are presented, and a simplified algorithm for the classification of TP53 variants in CLL is provided, representing a consensus based on previously published guidelines. Finally, the reporting requirements are highlighted, including a template for clinical reports of TP53 aberrations. These recommendations are intended to assist diagnosticians in the correct assessment of TP53 mutation status, but also physicians in the appropriate understanding of the lab reports, thus decreasing the risk of misinterpretation and incorrect management of patients in routine practice whilst also leading to improved stratification of patients with CLL in clinical trials.
Role of T cells in liver metastasis
Authors: Wu Kejia , Zhang Guozhu , Shen Changbing , Zhu Li , Yu Chongyuan , Sartorius Kurt , Ding Wei , Jiang Yong , Lu Yunjie
Published: May 2024

The liver is a major metastatic site (organ) for gastrointestinal cancers (such as colorectal, gastric, and pancreatic cancers) as well as non-gastrointestinal cancers (such as lung, breast, and melanoma cancers). Due to the innate anatomical position of the liver, the apoptosis of T cells in the liver, the unique metabolic regulation of hepatocytes and other potential mechanisms, the liver tends to form an immunosuppressive microenvironment and subsequently form a pre-metastatic niche (PMN), which can promote metastasis and colonization by various tumor cells(TCs). As a result, the critical role of immunoresponse in liver based metastasis has become increasingly appreciated. T cells, a centrally important member of adaptive immune response, play a significant role in liver based metastases and clarifying the different roles of the various T cells subsets is important to guide future clinical treatment. In this review, we first introduce the predisposing factors and related mechanisms of liver metastasis (LM) before introducing the PMN and its transition to LM. Finally, we detail the role of different subsets of T cells in LM and advances in the management of LM in order to identify potential therapeutic targets for patients with LM.
Squeezed light from an oscillator measured at the rate of oscillation
Authors: Bærentsen Christian , Fedorov Sergey A. , Østfeldt Christoffer , Balabas Mikhail V. , Zeuthen Emil , Polzik Eugene S.
Published: May 2024

Sufficiently fast continuous measurements of the position of an oscillator approach measurements projective on position eigenstates. We evidence the transition into the projective regime for a spin oscillator within an ensemble of 2 × 1010 room-temperature atoms by observing correlations between the quadratures of the meter light field. These correlations squeeze the fluctuations of one light quadrature below the vacuum level. When the measurement is slower than the oscillation, we generate $$11.{5}_{-1.5}^{+2.5}\,{{{{{{{\rm{dB}}}}}}}}$$
11
.

5

−
1.5

+
2.5

dB
and detect $$8.{5}_{-0.1}^{+0.1}\,{{{{{{{\rm{dB}}}}}}}}$$
8
.

5

−
0.1

+
0.1

dB
of squeezing in a tunable band that is a fraction of the resonance frequency. When the measurement is as fast as the oscillation, we detect 4.7 dB of squeezing that spans more than one decade of frequencies below the resonance. Our results demonstrate a new regime of continuous quantum measurements on material oscillators, and set a new benchmark for the performance of a linear quantum sensor.
Whole genome and transcriptome integrated analyses guide clinical care of pediatric poor prognosis cancers
Authors: Deyell Rebecca J. , Shen Yaoqing , Titmuss Emma , Dixon Katherine , Williamson Laura M. , Pleasance Erin , Nelson Jessica M. T. , Abbasi Sanna , Krzywinski Martin , Armstrong Linlea , Bonakdar Melika , Ch’ng Carolyn , Chuah Eric , Dunham Chris , Fok Alexandra , Jones Martin , Lee Anna F. , Ma Yussanne , Moore Richard A. , Mungall Andrew J. , Mungall Karen L. , Rogers Paul C. , Schrader Kasmintan A. , Virani Alice , Wee Kathleen , Young Sean S. , Zhao Yongjun , Jones Steven J. M. , Laskin Janessa , Marra Marco A. , Rassekh Shahrad R.
Published: May 2024

The role for routine whole genome and transcriptome analysis (WGTA) for poor prognosis pediatric cancers remains undetermined. Here, we characterize somatic mutations, structural rearrangements, copy number variants, gene expression, immuno-profiles and germline cancer predisposition variants in children and adolescents with relapsed, refractory or poor prognosis malignancies who underwent somatic WGTA and matched germline sequencing. Seventy-nine participants with a median age at enrollment of 8.8 y (range 6 months to 21.2 y) are included. Germline pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants are identified in 12% of participants, of which 60% were not known prior. Therapeutically actionable variants are identified by targeted gene report and whole genome in 32% and 62% of participants, respectively, and increase to 96% after integrating transcriptome analyses. Thirty-two molecularly informed therapies are pursued in 28 participants with 54% achieving a clinical benefit rate; objective response or stable disease ≥6 months. Integrated WGTA identifies therapeutically actionable variants in almost all tumors and are directly translatable to clinical care of children with poor prognosis cancers.
Structure, mechanism, and evolution of the last step in vitamin C biosynthesis
Authors: Boverio Alessandro , Jamil Neelam , Mannucci Barbara , Mascotti Maria Laura , Fraaije Marco W. , Mattevi Andrea
Published: May 2024

Photosynthetic organisms, fungi, and animals comprise distinct pathways for vitamin C biosynthesis. Besides this diversity, the final biosynthetic step consistently involves an oxidation reaction carried out by the aldonolactone oxidoreductases. Here, we study the origin and evolution of the diversified activities and substrate preferences featured by these flavoenzymes using molecular phylogeny, kinetics, mutagenesis, and crystallographic experiments. We find clear evidence that they share a common ancestor. A flavin-interacting amino acid modulates the reactivity with the electron acceptors, including oxygen, and determines whether an enzyme functions as an oxidase or a dehydrogenase. We show that a few side chains in the catalytic cavity impart the reaction stereoselectivity. Ancestral sequence reconstruction outlines how these critical positions were affixed to specific amino acids along the evolution of the major eukaryotic clades. During Eukarya evolution, the aldonolactone oxidoreductases adapted to the varying metabolic demands while retaining their overarching vitamin C-generating function.
Carbon pricing and system reliability impacts on pathways to universal electricity access in Africa
Authors: Beath Hamish , Mittal Shivika , Few Sheridan , Winchester Benedict , Sandwell Philip , Markides Christos N. , Nelson Jenny , Gambhir Ajay
Published: May 2024

Off-grid photovoltaic systems have been proposed as a panacea for economies with poor electricity access, offering a lower-cost “leapfrog” over grid infrastructure used in higher-income economies. Previous research examining pathways to electricity access may understate the role of off-grid photovoltaics as it has not considered reliability and carbon pricing impacts. We perform high-resolution geospatial analysis on universal household electricity access in Sub-Saharan Africa that includes these aspects via least-cost pathways at different electricity demand levels. Under our “Tier 3" demand reference scenario, 24% of our study’s 470 million people obtaining electricity access by 2030 do so via off-grid photovoltaics. Including a unit cost for unmet demand of 0.50 US dollars ($)/kWh, to penalise poor system reliability increases this share to 41%. Applying a carbon price (around $80/tonne CO2-eq) increases it to 38%. Our results indicate considerable diversity in the level of policy intervention needed between countries and suggest several regions where lower levels of policy intervention may be effective.
Benchmarking of methods for DNA methylome deconvolution
Authors: De Ridder Kobe , Che Huiwen , Leroy Kaat , Thienpont Bernard
Published: May 2024

Defining the number and abundance of different cell types in tissues is important for understanding disease mechanisms as well as for diagnostic and prognostic purposes. Typically, this is achieved by immunohistological analyses, cell sorting, or single-cell RNA-sequencing. Alternatively, cell-specific DNA methylome information can be leveraged to deconvolve cell fractions from a bulk DNA mixture. However, comprehensive benchmarking of deconvolution methods and modalities was not yet performed. Here we evaluate 16 deconvolution algorithms, developed either specifically for DNA methylome data or more generically. We assess the performance of these algorithms, and the effect of normalization methods, while modeling variables that impact deconvolution performance, including cell abundance, cell type similarity, reference panel size, method for methylome profiling (array or sequencing), and technical variation. We observe differences in algorithm performance depending on each these variables, emphasizing the need for tailoring deconvolution analyses. The complexity of the reference, marker selection method, number of marker loci and, for sequencing-based assays, sequencing depth have a marked influence on performance. By developing handles to select the optimal analysis configuration, we provide a valuable source of information for studies aiming to deconvolve array- or sequencing-based methylation data.
Dual-phase nano-glass-hydrides overcome the strength-ductility trade-off and magnetocaloric bottlenecks of rare earth based amorphous alloys
Authors: Shao Liliang , Luo Qiang , Zhang Mingjie , Xue Lin , Cui Jingxian , Yang Qianzi , Ke Haibo , Zhang Yao , Shen Baolong , Wang Weihua
Published: May 2024

Metal-hydrogen systems have attracted intense interest for diverse energy-related applications. However, metals usually reduce their ductility after hydrogenation. Here, we show that hydrogen can take the form of nano-sized ordered hydrides (NOH) homogeneously dispersed in a stable glassy shell, leading to remarkable enhancement in both strength and ductility. The yield strength is enhanced by 44% and the plastic strain is substantially improved from almost zero to over 70%, which is attributed to the created NOH and their interplay with the glassy shell. Moreover, the hydride-glass composite GdCoAlH possesses a giant magnetic entropy change (−ΔSM) of 18.7 J kg−1K−1 under a field change of 5 T, which is 105.5% larger than the hydrogen-free sample and is the largest value among amorphous alloys and related composites. The prominent ΔSM-ductility combination overcomes the bottlenecks of amorphous alloys as magnetic refrigerants. These results provide a promising strategy for property breakthrough of structural-functional alloys.
Sustainable thermal regulation improves stability and efficiency in all-perovskite tandem solar cells
Authors: Tan Shuchen , Li Chongwen , Peng Cheng , Yan Wenjian , Bu Hongkai , Jiang Haokun , Yue Fang , Zhang Linbao , Gao Hongtao , Zhou Zhongmin
Published: May 2024

Mixed Sn-Pb perovskites have emerged as promising photovoltaic materials for both single- and multi-junction solar cells. However, achieving their scale-up and practical application requires further enhancement in stability. We identify that their poor thermal conductivity results in insufficient thermal transfer, leading to heat accumulation within the absorber layer that accelerates thermal degradation. A thermal regulation strategy by incorporating carboranes into perovskites is developed; these are electron-delocalized carbon-boron molecules known for their efficient heat transfer capability. We specifically select ortho-carborane due to its low thermal hysteresis. We observe its existence through the perovskite layer showing a decreasing trend from the buried interface to the top surface, effectively transferring heat and lowering the surface temperature by around 5 °C under illumination. o-CB also facilitates hole extraction at the perovskite/PEDOT:PSS interface and reduces charge recombination. These enable mixed Sn-Pb cells to exhibit improved thermal stability, retaining 80% of their initial efficiencies after aging at 85 °C for 1080 hours. When integrated into monolithic all-perovskite tandems, we achieve efficiencies of over 27%. A tandem cell maintains 87% of its initial PCE after 704 h of continuous operation under illumination.
On the potential of vehicle-to-grid and second-life batteries to provide energy and material security
Authors: Aguilar Lopez Fernando , Lauinger Dirk , Vuille François , Müller Daniel B.
Published: May 2024

The global energy transition relies increasingly on lithium-ion batteries for electric transportation and renewable energy integration. Given the highly concentrated supply chain of battery materials, importing regions have a strategic imperative to reduce their reliance on battery material imports through, e.g., battery recycling or reuse. We investigate the potential of vehicle-to-grid and second-life batteries to reduce resource use by displacing new stationary batteries dedicated to grid storage. Based on dynamic material flow analysis, we show that equipping around 50% of electric vehicles with vehicle-to-grid or reusing 40% of electric vehicle batteries for second life each have the potential to fully cover the European Union’s need for stationary storage by 2040. This could reduce total primary material demand from 2020–2050 by up to 7.5% and 1.5%, respectively, which could ease geopolitical risks and increase the European Union’s energy and material security. Any surplus capacity could be used as a strategic reserve to increase resilience in the face of emergencies such as blackouts or adverse geo-political events.
CEBPA restricts alveolar type 2 cell plasticity during development and injury-repair
Authors: Hassan Dalia , Chen Jichao
Published: May 2024

Cell plasticity theoretically extends to all possible cell types, but naturally decreases as cells differentiate, whereas injury-repair re-engages the developmental plasticity. Here we show that the lung alveolar type 2 (AT2)-specific transcription factor (TF), CEBPA, restricts AT2 cell plasticity in the mouse lung. AT2 cells undergo transcriptional and epigenetic maturation postnatally. Without CEBPA, both neonatal and mature AT2 cells reduce the AT2 program, but only the former reactivate the SOX9 progenitor program. Sendai virus infection bestows mature AT2 cells with neonatal plasticity whereCebpamutant, but not wild type, AT2 cells express SOX9, as well as more readily proliferate and form KRT8/CLDN4+ transitional cells. CEBPA promotes the AT2 program by recruiting the lung lineage TF NKX2-1. The temporal change in CEBPA-dependent plasticity reflects AT2 cell developmental history. The ontogeny of AT2 cell plasticity and its transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms have implications in lung regeneration and cancer.
A baseline structure inventory with critical attribution for the US and its territories
Authors: Yang Hsiuhan Lexie , Laverdiere Melanie , Hauser Taylor , Swan Benjamin , Schmidt Erik , Moehl Jessica , Reith Andrew , Adams Daniel , Morris Bennett , McKee Jacob , Whitehead Matthew , Tuttle Mark
Published: May 2024

Leveraging high performance computing, remote sensing, geographic data science, machine learning, and computer vision, Oak Ridge National Laboratory has partnered with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to build a baseline structure inventory covering the US and its territories to support disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. The dataset contains more than 125 million structures with critical attribution, and is ready to be used by federal agencies, local government and first responders to accelerate on-the-ground response to disasters, further identify vulnerable areas, and develop strategies to enhance the resilience of critical structures and communities. Data can be freely and openly accessed through Figshare data repository, ESRI’s Living Atlas or FEMA’s Geodata platform.
Cloud micro- and macrophysical properties from ground-based remote sensing during the MOSAiC drift experiment
Authors: Griesche Hannes J. , Seifert Patric , Engelmann Ronny , Radenz Martin , Hofer Julian , Althausen Dietrich , Walbröl Andreas , Barrientos-Velasco Carola , Baars Holger , Dahlke Sandro , Tukiainen Simo , Macke Andreas
Published: May 2024

In the framework of the Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate Polarstern expedition, the Leibniz Institute for Tropospheric Research, Leipzig, Germany, operated the shipborne OCEANET-Atmosphere facility for cloud and aerosol observations throughout the whole year. OCEANET-Atmosphere comprises, amongst others, a multiwavelength Raman lidar, a microwave radiometer, and an optical disdrometer. A cloud radar was operated aboard Polarstern by the US Atmospheric Radiation Measurement program. These measurements were processed by applying the so-called Cloudnet methodology to derive cloud properties. To gain a comprehensive view of the clouds, lidar and cloud radar capabilities for low- and high-altitude observations were combined. Cloudnet offers a variety of products with a spatiotemporal resolution of 30 s and 30 m, such as the target classification, and liquid and ice microphysical properties. Additionally, a lidar-based low-level stratus retrieval was applied for cloud detection below the lowest range gate of the cloud radar. Based on the presented dataset, e.g., studies on cloud formation processes and their radiative impact, and model evaluation studies can be conducted.
Evaluation of precipitated CaCO3 produced from locally available limestone as a reinforcement filler for PVC pipe
Authors: Jembere Addis Lemessa , Genet Melkamu Birlie , Sintayehu Bantelay
Published: May 2024

The current experimental work aimed at developing PCC through two major process steps: dissolution and precipitation, using raw materials domestically available as SL, which are intensively used in construction inputs. The pH level was the decisive parameter used to determine the time required to complete the dissolution and carbonation processes during precipitation. The optimal pH levels were found to be 13 for dissolution and 7.1 for precipitation, respectively. The produced PCC was characterized based on chemical analysis, crystallinity, and morphology, showing an increment of CaCO3 content exceeding 99%, sharper crystal peaks, and predominantly calcite PCC. The compatibility of the PCC was assessed by incorporating 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of PCC with commercial filler, followed by selected mechanical tests, such as stress at yield, density, and elongation at break. The results indicated that mixing ratios of 25%, 50%, and 75% of PCC with the commercial filler met the standards, with stress at a yield above 45 MPa and density within the range of 1.35 to 1.46 g/cm3. However, complete substitution slightly lowered these properties. Nevertheless, the elongation at break was acceptable at all treatment levels.
System-level analysis of genes mutated in muscular dystrophies reveals a functional pattern associated with muscle weakness distribution
Authors: Ozisik Ozan , Gorokhova Svetlana , Cerino Mathieu , Bartoli Marc , Baudot Anaïs
Published: May 2024

Muscular dystrophies (MDs) are inherited genetic diseases causing weakness and degeneration of muscles. The distribution of muscle weakness differs between MDs, involving distal muscles or proximal muscles. While the mutations in most of the MD-associated genes lead to either distal or proximal onset, there are also genes whose mutations can cause both types of onsets. We hypothesized that the genes associated with different MD onsets code proteins with distinct cellular functions. To investigate this, we collected the MD-associated genes and assigned them to three onset groups: genes mutated only in distal onset dystrophies, genes mutated only in proximal onset dystrophies, and genes mutated in both types of onsets. We then systematically evaluated the cellular functions of these gene sets with computational strategies based on functional enrichment analysis and biological network analysis. Our analyses demonstrate that genes mutated in either distal or proximal onset MDs code proteins linked with two distinct sets of cellular processes. Interestingly, these two sets of cellular processes are relevant for the genes that are associated with both onsets. Moreover, the genes associated with both onsets display high centrality and connectivity in the network of muscular dystrophy genes. Our findings support the hypothesis that the proteins associated with distal or proximal onsets have distinct functional characteristics, whereas the proteins associated with both onsets are multifunctional.
Effect of emergent vegetation on riverbank erosion with sediment mining
Authors: Arora Sukhjeet , Kumar Bimlesh
Published: May 2024

The present work investigates the combined effects of the upstream sediment mining pit and vegetation on the riverbank using emergent rigid vegetation beyond the toe on the flow structure and morphological changes due to fluvial erosion. A steep gradient of streamwise velocity and other turbulence parameters such as Reynolds shear stress (RSS), transverse RSS, and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) at the interface of the vegetated and unvegetated part of the test segment was observed. The cross-sectional analysis showed that vegetation increased the velocity of the unvegetated main channel, and the sandpit increased even the near-bed velocity with a similar trend in its longitudinal variation at the center line of the main channel. The abrupt variation in RSS and transverse RSS at the location of the berm induces instability and erodes the berm present at the toe of the riverbank. The combination of the vegetation and sandpit led to increased TKE of the flow at the near-bed and berm locations. The morphological analysis showed complete riverbank erosion in both cases of the unvegetated riverbank, i.e., without or with an upstream pit. The installed stems of rigid vegetation on the riverbank helped decrease the fluvial erosion of the riverbank, and its profile observed minimal changes over the length of the test segment. However, the main channel erosion was amplified due to the vegetation (in no-pit case) at the beginning of the test segment, which eroded the bed of the main channel by about 67% of the bed thickness. Also, in the vegetated riverbank cases, the upstream pit caused an increase in erosion by 7.66% at the center of the main channel. The study helps establish the hypothesis of negating the effects of sediment mining on bank erosion by using the rigid vegetation on the riverbank beyond its toe location, which performed well by maintaining the riverbank profile.