bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ablative and mechanical properties of C/C‐SiC‐ZrC composites modified with PyC/SiC and PyC/BN interface layers
Authors: Zhang Xiaxiang , Yi Jinren , Yang Xin , Weng Yuanqi , Fang Cunqian , Huang Qizhong
Published: November 2023

Two kinds of novel modified C/C‐SiC‐ZrC composites were prepared via precursor infiltration and pyrolysis, as pyrocarbon (PyC)/silicon carbide (SiC) and PyC/boron nitride (BN) dual‐layer interphases were separately structured on the fibers by means of chemical vapor infiltration. Data analysis and conclusions are served for investigating the effects of these two interface layers on mechanical and anti‐ablative properties. On the mechanical property hand, both PyC/BN and PyC/SiC interphase layers play positive roles, resting with the reduction of fiber damage during the fabrication process. Compared with BN, SiC shows better enhancement as the flexural strength of PyC/BN and PyC/SiC interphase‐modified composites are 214.9 and 229.2 MPa, respectively. On the ablative property hand, after oxyacetylene flame ablation for 60 s, the mass and linear ablation rates of the composites modified by PyC/SiC interface were 2.2 mg/s and 9.7 μm/s, which is much lower than that modified by PyC/BN. The inferior ablation properties of PyC/BN‐CSZ were attributed to the vaporization of the B2O3 gas that destroys the integrity of the oxide film and oxygen erosion on the substrate through the damaged BN interface.
Skin manifestations in children with MIS‐C and COVID‐19: a narrative review
Authors: Sati Heba , Alzraikat Noor , Milan Milanie , Saliba Marita , Fawaz Ala'a , Boueri Myriam , Semaan Samar , Chedid Marie‐Line , Yakdan Salim
Published: November 2023

This review aims to highlight the diverse skin manifestations in children and adolescents with COVID induced multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C). The symptoms of COVID‐19 can vary greatly in severity between different age groups. Although most children infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 experience either no symptoms or only mild symptoms, some reported cases of severely affected children with a clinical presentation similar to incomplete Kawasaki disease have led to the definition of a new condition called MIS‐C. MIS‐C can involve multiple organs, including the skin, and may pose a life‐threatening risk to affected children. Such cases highlight the need for continuous research into the possible skin manifestations associated with COVID‐19 in pediatric populations to aid in early diagnosis and prompt treatment. We conducted a search of PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases for studies published up until October 1, 2022. Three reviewers independently examined each study, and a fourth reviewer resolved any disagreements. A narrative review of all relevant papers was conducted. We present an overview of the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of the various skin manifestations in children and adolescents with COVID‐19 or MIS‐C. The skin manifestations of COVID‐19 and MIS‐C can be diverse and are frequently overlooked. It is important to conduct further research to better understand the impact of this disease on children to provide appropriate care for these at‐risk populations.
‘Social compliance decoupling cascades’ in global supply chains: A review of the implementation of labour codes
Authors: Cao Yinyin , Jayasinghe Mevan
Published: November 2023

Across global supply chains, buyers enforce labour codes as a primary mechanism for ensuring suppliers’ social compliance with international labour standards and rights for workers in supplier facilities. Yet researchers have long documented empirical evidence of the inconsistent, weak implementation of labour codes. Therefore, the effective use of this social compliance mechanism requires examining what causes supply chain actors to exhibit failures in substantively implementing labour codes, or ‘social compliance decoupling’. We conducted the first systematic review of all available empirical evidence, both qualitative and quantitative, on the implementation of labour codes by actors at different stages of the supply chain, to identify and catalogue the root causes of social compliance decoupling. By integrating our findings, we propose a conceptual framework on ‘social compliance decoupling cascades’ that illustrates the causes of social compliance decoupling by supply chain actors at different stages and explains three pathways through which decoupling by an actor translates into decoupling by one or more adjacent actors (‘rewards–rights trade‐off’, ‘compliance capital scarcity’ and ‘code acontextuality’). We recommend opportunities for research and best practice around the recoupling of social compliance through multi‐stakeholder collaboration, mutual investment, relational sourcing and expansion of the scope of global supply chain social responsibility to drive effective labour code implementation.
The Kingdom of God and the Transformation of the World
Authors: Pillay Jerry
Published: November 2023

The article explores how pivotal the kingdom of God has been and still is to the identity of the ecumenical movement. The discussion of the biblical vision of the kingdom, which is coming and yet is also present, offers a motif which not only forms the life of the church and gives it hope but also forms the life of the oikoumene, giving hope to all of life. The ensuing discussion shows how, historically, the ecumenical movement has practised its calling of unity and mission as one which offers salvation to all life and to all aspects of life and goes on to outline how the kingdom continues to inspire ecumenical engagement today. Fundamental to this is the realization that the kingdom lays claim not on the church but on the whole world. This turns the ecumenical movement away from self‐service so that the life of the world is shifted, challenged, and transformed through the work and witness of the ecumenical movement. This is especially and urgently needed where the powers, systems, and structures of our world cause injustice, inequity, and catastrophe. In this mission ecumenism reaches its fullest unity, in which all are saved.
A new hybrid method for quick and accurate calculation of forest transportation distances
Authors: Rönnqvist Mikael , Flisberg Patrik , Frisk Mikael , Bredström David , Paradis Jean‐Baptiste
Published: November 2023

Transportation is a key forest logistics component and is a large proportion of the overall cost. Often, the transportation cost is determined by contractual agreements and based on the loaded distance from a supply to a demand point. Many alternative routes provide different distances (e.g., shortest route, fastest route, minimum fuel consumption), but these distances are approximate in the contractual agreement; hence, there is a mismatch between approximated costs and actual pay. It is necessary to match supply with demand when planning to use optimization models, as these models must cover many supply and demand points. From this point, many distances need to be established. These can be generated dynamically before optimization or generated a priori as static distance tables. The former can take a long time, whereas the latter needs to use aggregated zones that remain static over time because supply points, such as harvest areas, change continually. To enable fast optimization, distances between zones and demand points can be precomputed; however, they represent only estimated distances between the actual supply point and the demand points. We propose a hybrid method to improve quality and estimate accurate distances in a quick process, using a large case study from a company in Sweden with a standardized system that directly uses computed reference distances as contractually agreed. Results show that many distance estimation approaches give poor cost estimates (1–20%) and increase transportation costs (0.2–0.6%).
Intercultural competence development through a tele‐collaborative project supported by speech‐enabled corrective feedback technology
Authors: Shadiev Rustam , Feng Yingying , Zhussupova Roza , Huang Yueh‐Min
Published: November 2023

Background

Tele‐collaborative projects serve as invaluable platforms for students from diverse countries to engage in cross‐cultural communication and exchange cultural knowledge. These projects offer immense benefits in terms of fostering intercultural competence among participants. However, one challenge arises when participants engage in spoken communication rather than written. Those who may not share a common first language often rely on a lingua franca such as English for intercultural communication. In such spoken exchanges, varying levels of language proficiency can lead to communication errors that hinder the intercultural learning process and impede the development of intercultural competence in their fellow participants.

Objectives

In the present trial study, our primary objective was to tackle the language‐related challenge associated with spoken communication head‐on. Our focus centred on addressing the discrepancies arising in spoken communication, and we aimed to mitigate these discrepancies by utilizing speech‐enabled corrective feedback technology.

Methods

In a tele‐collaborative project involving 28 graduate students from the People's Republic of China and Republic of Kazakhstan, the participants engaged in spoken communication and cultural exchange in English via the internet. Given the emphasis on spoken communication and the recognition that English was not their first language, we implemented a speech‐enabled corrective feedback (SECF) technology to ensure effective communication in terms of pronunciation, grammar, and word choice. The SECF technology detected and provided instant feedback on any speech mistakes, enabling participants to make corrections accordingly. The main aim of our study was to explore the potential benefits of integrating SECF technology into a tele‐collaborative project for the development of participants' intercultural competence. Additionally, we sought to gather insights into the students' perceptions of the SECF support.

Results and Conclusions

The results of our study revealed significant improvements in the participants' intercultural competence across dimensions such as knowledge, skills, attitude, and awareness. Furthermore, the participants expressed positive perceptions of the SECF technology. Drawing from our findings, we offer valuable implications and recommendations for educators and researchers in the field, enhancing their understanding of the role of SECF technology in supporting intercultural competence development in tele‐collaborative settings.
Influence of colour background on anti‐viral activity against viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus in zebrafish regulated by circadian rhythm signalling pathway
Authors: Cho Se‐Hyun , Cho Se‐Young , Vaidya Bipin , Kwon Joseph , Kim Duwoon
Published: November 2023

The influence of colour background on the regulation of behavioural and physiological responses in zebrafish is widely recognized. However, its specific effect on virus infection in zebrafish remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the susceptibility of zebrafish to viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV) infection in relation to background colour, investigate the underlying mechanisms, and elucidate the involvement of key molecules, using proteomic and gene expression analyses. The results revealed that zebrafish housed in a blue tank exhibited higher survival rates and considerably reduced VHSV replication compared to those housed in a yellow tank. Further, up‐regulation of apolipoprotein 1 (APOA1) was identified as a crucial shared mechanism associated with survival in zebrafish exposed to VHSV infection and reared in a blue background. The mRNA expression level of bmal1a, a core gene involved in the circadian rhythm, was consistently downregulated in fish from the blue tank compared to fish from the yellow tank, regardless of infection status. Subsequently, zebrafish in the blue tank were exposed to daylight conditions to stimulate per2 and pgc1a expression, aiming to investigate their potential impact on VHSV infection. The validity of these interconnected events, triggered by background colour, involving APOA1 up‐regulation, circadian rhythm modulation, and antiviral responses, was confirmed by treatments with hesperetin and cyclosporine A, an activator and inhibitor of apoa1 respectively. Our findings revealed the influence of background colour on the apoa1 expression level, thus establishing the involvement of a novel network through circadian rhythm signalling.
Multicenter evaluation of a topical antioxidant serum
Authors: Moradi Amir , Shafiq Faiza , Robison Tiffany , Colvan Lora , Poehler Jeannette , Widgerow Alan D.
Published: November 2023

Background

A new antioxidant serum has been formulated with sodium ascorbate, a sodium salt of Vit C, which aims to address facial photodamage while maintaining a low irritation profile and preserving elastin. Detailed background science has been submitted in a previous publication. This open‐label study was conducted to validate the science by demonstrating product efficacy and tolerability in patients with moderate to severe facial photodamage.

Methods

A multicenter, open‐label clinical study was undertaken over 5 months from March 2023 to July 2023. Thirty six eligible participants (35 female, 1 male), aged 38–69 years, and Fitzpatrick skin types II–V were enrolled into and completed the study following 12 weeks of the topical antioxidant serum use twice daily, along with the following supporting products (gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen for as needed use). Follow‐up visits were conducted in Weeks 2, 4, 8, and 12. At every visit, participants were evaluated for facial photodamage severity and test product tolerability. Additionally, study participants underwent subject assessments and satisfaction questionnaires, investigator assessments, biopsy collection, and photography.

Results

Significant improvements in all evaluated facial photodamage parameters were observed at 12 weeks together with excellent tolerability and subject satisfaction persisting to Week 12 at study completion. Histology most notably revealed increased elastin fibers in 5 out of 5 post 12‐week treatment biopsies on Movat staining, while Herovici stains revealed stimulation of collagen and early formation of new fibers.

Conclusion

A novel antioxidant serum has demonstrated to be safe and effective for addressing facial photodamage, while stimulating the production of both elastin and collagen in the extracellular matrix (ECM).
Australian dental practitioners experience of burnout
Authors: Hopcraft M. S. , McGrath R. , Stormon N. , Tavella G. , Parker G.
Published: November 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with burnout in Australian dental practitioners.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of 1483 Australian dental practitioners was conducted from Oct to Dec 2021. Participants reported burnout using the Sydney Burnout Measure, and aspects of mental health including psychological distress, depression, and anxiety disorders. Predictors of burnout were explored using a generalized linear model with a stepped approach including demographic, health and risk factor variables.

Results

One in four participants were classified as likely to be experiencing burnout. Burnout was associated with working in a regional/rural location (β = 2.82, p < 0.001), an academic/non‐clinical role (β = 5.01, p = 0.037), more years of experience as a dental practitioner (β = 0.08, p = 0.022), a current diagnosis of depression (β = 2.38, p = 0.049), moderate/severe psychological distress (β = 7.16, p < 0.001), poor self‐rated physical health (β = 5.84, p < 0.001) and increasing alcohol consumption (β = 0.17, p = 0.020). Participants who scored high on resilience (β = −0.23, p = 0.002) or perfectionism (β = −0.24, p < 0.001) had lower burnout scores.

Conclusion

Australian dental practitioners appear to be at high risk of burnout which may impact on their health and wellbeing and ability to deliver patient care. There is a need for support services to manage burnout and education to address workplace and environmental factors that may contribute to burnout.
Comparative analysis of behavioural repertoires for Mahogany glider and Brushtail possum using accelerometer loggers and machine learning algorithms
Authors: Annett J. R. , Gaschk J. L. , Clemente C. J.
Published: November 2023

Gliding has evolved independently as an isolated adaptive event within many vertebrate taxa. Yet, the underlying selection forces that led to these innovative adaptations remain ambiguous, especially in species that preclude direct observation. Our study utilized accelerometry and machine learning algorithms to compare the behavioural repertoires of two sympatric species, the Mahogany glider (Petaurus gracilis) and brushtail possum (Trichosaurus vulpecula), as to explore previously proposed selection pressures such as energy expenditure (VeBA), canopy use and ground avoidance measured by activity budgets. We found that mahogany gliders on average expend more activity‐related energy than brushtail possums but at different stages throughout the day. Canopy use was observed to be greater amongst mahogany gliders than brushtail possums, and we observed frequent ground use in brushtail possums yet none in mahogany gliders. The study found strong evidence to support ground avoidance as a potential driver for gliding evolution. The implications of these findings are important when considering the lack of knowledge surrounding evolved gliding behaviours in marsupials. Furthermore, the use of accelerometers and machine learning algorithms in behavioural studies has proven to be a robust and informative method and should be incorporated into future studies to understand the evolution of gliding behaviour.
Using shared experiences to recruit committed human intelligence sources: Exploring the shared attention mechanism and the role of social connection
Authors: Neequaye David A. , Granhag Pär Anders
Published: November 2023

Objectives

We examined the possibility of using shared experiences to recruit human intelligence (HUMINT) sources. The research was based on two hypotheses. (a) Shared experiences amplify interpersonal affiliation, which increases the extent to which sources will commit to an intelligence arrangement. (b) The social connection opportunity shared experiences afford is what increases such commitment.

Methods

Participants assumed the role of a source meeting a potential handler, a police officer, to discuss an arrangement whereby they might supply intelligence. We manipulated shared experience via the meeting's setting. Half of the participants underwent a shared experience to facilitate interpersonal affiliation with the handler, and the other half did not undergo such an experience. The handler used one of two approaches to propose the arrangement. One approach afforded a social connection opportunity, and the other constrained the possibility of a social connection in the arrangement.

Results

The findings indicated that shared experiences can have interpersonal influence. The shared experience operationalization positively influenced felt closeness and social connection affordance. However, there was little indication that handlers could capitalize on shared experience to bolster commitment.
Shocked quartz in sandstone from the buried Ilkurlka impact structure, Officer Basin, Western Australia
Authors: Quintero Raiza R. , Cavosie Aaron J. , Alwmark Sanna , Haines Peter W. , Danišík Martin , Timms Nicholas E. , Lim David
Published: November 2023

The Ilkurlka structure is an ~12 km diameter buried circular aeromagnetic anomaly within the Officer Basin in Western Australia. Prior studies postulated a range of origins, including meteorite impact. We report the presence of pervasive deformation in the first drill cores from the structure. Brecciated sandstone and siltstone contain arrays of quartz grains with concussion fractures and rare shocked quartz grains with planar deformation features (PDF). Universal stage measurements of two quartz grains reveal one grain with PDF parallel to (0001) orientation and three PDF sets parallel to . A second grain contains three PDF sets parallel to and one set parallel to . The shocked grains are interpreted to have formed in situ, rather than representing transported detrital shocked grains. These results suggest local shock compression of at least 10 GPa; however, preservation of primary porosity and overall paucity of shocked grains may indicate lower mean shock pressures. (U‐Th)/He dating of 58 apatite grains from four samples across both cores shows a dominant age population at ~265 Ma and a minor age population at ~135 Ma. These dates overlap with regional events and thus do not provide an unambiguous impact age. An upper Carboniferous to lower Permian maximum impact age is provisionally proposed based on inferred missing target rock stratigraphy.
Habitat specialization predicts demographic response and vulnerability of floodplain birds in Amazonia
Authors: Schultz Eduardo D. , Thom Gregory , Zuquim Gabriela , Hickerson Michael J. , Tuomisto Hanna , Ribas Camila C.
Published: November 2023

The annual flooding cycle of Amazonian rivers sustains the largest floodplains on Earth, which harbour a unique bird community. Recent studies suggest that habitat specialization drove different patterns of population structure and gene flow in floodplain birds. However, the lack of a direct estimate of habitat affinity prevents a proper test of its effects on population histories. In this work, we used occurrence data, satellite images and genomic data (ultra‐conserved elements) from 24 bird species specialized on a variety of seasonally flooded environments to classify habitat affinities and test its influence on evolutionary histories of Amazonian floodplain birds. We demonstrate that birds with higher specialization in river islands and dynamic environments have gone through more recent demographic expansion and currently have less genetic diversity than floodplain generalist birds. Our results indicate that there is an intrinsic relationship between habitat affinity and environmental dynamics, influencing patterns of population structure, demographic history and genetic diversity. Within the floodplains, historical landscape changes have had more severe impacts on island specialists, making them more vulnerable to current and future anthropogenic changes, as those imposed by hydroelectric dams in the Amazon Basin.
Comparison of voltage maps using OCTARAY catheter and PENTARAY catheter
Authors: Masuda Masaharu , Matsuda Yasuhiro , Uematsu Hiroyuki , Asai Mitsutoshi , Okamoto Shin , Ishihara Takayuki , Nanto Kiyonori , Tsujimura Takuya , Hata Yosuke , Higashino Naoko , Nakao Sho , Mano Toshiaki
Published: November 2023

Background

Recently, a new OCTARAY® mapping catheter was commercially launched. The catheter is designed to enable high‐density mapping and precise signal recording via 48 small electrodes arranged on eight radiating splines. The purpose of this study was to compare bipolar voltage and low‐voltage‐area size, and mapping efficacy between the OCTARAY catheter and the PENTARAY® catheter

Methods

Twelve consecutive patients who underwent initial and second ablations for persistent atrial fibrillation within 2 years were considered for enrollment. Voltage mapping was performed twice, first during the initial ablation using the PENTARY catheter and second during the second ablation using the OCTARAY Long 3‐3‐3‐3‐3 (L3) catheter.

Results

Mean voltage with the OCTARAY‐L3 catheter (1.64 ± 0.57 mV) was 32.3% greater than that with the PENTARAY catheter (1.24 ± 0.46 mV, p < .0001) in total left atrium. Low‐voltage‐area (<0.50 mV) size with the OCTARAY‐L3 catheter was smaller than that with the PENTARAY catheter (6.9 ± 9.7 vs. 11.4 ± 13.0 cm2, p < .0001). The OCTARAY‐L3 catheter demonstrated greater efficacy than the PENTARAY catheter in terms of shorter mapping time (606 ± 99 vs. 782 ± 211 s, p = .008) and more mapping points (3,026 ± 838 vs. 781 ± 342 points, p < .0001).

Conclusion

The OCTARAY catheter demonstrated higher voltage recordings, narrower low‐voltage areas, and a more efficacious mapping procedure than the PENTARAY catheter.
Deep learning‐based regional ECG diagnosis platform
Authors: Li Fang , Wang Ping , Wang Li Xiao
Published: November 2023

Objective

To enable the intelligent diagnosis of a variety of common Electrocardiogram (ECG), we investigate the deep learning‐based ECG diagnosis system.

Methods

From January 2015 to December 2019, four consecutive years of 100,120 conventional 12‐lead ECG data were collected in our hospital. Utilizing this dataset, we constructed a deep learning model designed to intelligently diagnose prevalent ECG anomalies by employing a multi‐task learning framework. The system performance was evaluated using various metrics, including sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value, positive predictive value, and so forth. Additionally, we employed an ECG intelligent diagnostic platform for clinical application to undertake real‐time online analysis of 2500 conventional 12‐lead ECG samples in June 2020, aiming to validate our model. At this stage, we compared the performance of our model against the traditional manual identification method.

Results

The efficacy of the ECG intelligent diagnostic model was notably high for common and straightforward ECG patterns, such as sinus rhythm (F1 = 98.01%), sinus tachycardia (F1 = 96.26%), sinus bradycardia (F1 = 94.88%), and a normal electrocardiogram (F1 = 91.71%), as well as for Premature Ventricular Contractions (F1 = 91.62%). Nevertheless, when diagnosing rarer and more intricate ECG anomalies, the system requires an increased number of samples to refine the deep learning models. During the validation stage, our model exhibited better efficiency in terms of accuracy, labor time and labor cost when compared to the manual identification approach.

Conclusions

Our deep learning‐driven intelligent ECG diagnostic model clearly demonstrates significant clinical utility. The integrated artificial intelligence diagnosis system not only has the potential to augment physicians in their diagnostic processes but also offers a viable avenue to reduce associated labor costs.
Congenital syphilis presenting with granulomatous scalp nodules
Authors: Vuong Carrie , Lie Erina , Ellington Natalie , Moodley Amaran , Hinds Brian , Barrio Victoria R.
Published: November 2023

We describe a case of congenital syphilis in an adopted infant with a unique dermatologic presentation of scalp granulomas, along with lymphadenopathy, anemia, and elevated liver transaminases. To our knowledge, this cutaneous morphology has not been previously reported in the literature. This case highlights the varied clinical presentation of congenital syphilis and the diagnostic challenge it poses for clinicians, especially in the context of unknown prenatal history/unknown risk factors, or if syphilis is acquired during pregnancy after routine screening is performed. As the incidence of congenital syphilis has more than tripled in recent years, this diagnosis should be considered when a neonate or infant presents with unexplained skin nodules.
CaSnRK2.4‐mediated phosphorylation of CaNAC035 regulates abscisic acid synthesis in pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) responding to cold stress
Authors: Zhang Huafeng , Pei Yingping , Zhu Feilong , He Qiang , Zhou Yunyun , Ma Bohui , Chen Xiaoqing , Guo Jiangbai , Khan Abid , Jahangir Maira , Ou Lijun , Chen Rugang
Published: November 2023

Plant NAC transcription factors play a crucial role in enhancing cold stress tolerance, yet the precise molecular mechanisms underlying cold stress remain elusive. In this study, we identified and characterized CaNAC035, an NAC transcription factor isolated from pepper (Capsicum annuum) leaves. We observed that the expression of the CaNAC035 gene is induced by both cold and abscisic acid (ABA) treatments, and we elucidated its positive regulatory role in cold stress tolerance. Overexpression of CaNAC035 resulted in enhanced cold stress tolerance, while knockdown of CaNAC035 significantly reduced resistance to cold stress. Additionally, we discovered that CaSnRK2.4, a SnRK2 protein, plays an essential role in cold tolerance. In this study, we demonstrated that CaSnRK2.4 physically interacts with and phosphorylates CaNAC035 both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, the expression of two ABA biosynthesis‐related genes, CaAAO3 and CaNCED3, was significantly upregulated in the CaNAC035‐overexpressing transgenic pepper lines. Yeast one‐hybrid, Dual Luciferase, and electrophoretic mobility shift assays provided evidence that CaNAC035 binds to the promoter regions of both CaAAO3 and CaNCED3 in vivo and in vitro. Notably, treatment of transgenic pepper with 50 μm Fluridone (Flu) enhanced cold tolerance, while the exogenous application of ABA at a concentration of 10 μm noticeably reduced cold tolerance in the virus‐induced gene silencing line. Overall, our findings highlight the involvement of CaNAC035 in the cold response of pepper and provide valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cold tolerance. These results offer promising prospects for molecular breeding strategies aimed at improving cold tolerance in pepper and other crops.
Detection of zoonotic enteropathogens in captive large felids in Italy
Authors: Rampacci Elisa , Diaferia Manuela , Lucentini Livia , Brustenga Leonardo , Capasso Michele , Girardi Stefano , Gizzi Ilaria , Primavilla Sara , Veronesi Fabrizia , Passamonti Fabrizio
Published: November 2023

Aims

Within the One Health paradigm, infectious disease surveillance have been developed for domestic and wild animals, leaving the role of captive non‐domestic populations, especially felids in zoos and circuses, less explored. This study addresses the proximity of these captive animals to urban areas, necessitating focused monitoring for potential zoonotic enteropathogens. The present work aimed to investigate the presence of such zoonotic enteropathogens in faecal samples from captive large felid populations.

Methods and Results

A total of 108 faecal samples were collected in three circuses, five zoos and one rescue centre across Italy. Salmonella spp. isolation, serotyping and antimicrobial susceptibility testing were conducted on all samples. Additionally, 60 samples were also examined for gastrointestinal parasites using standard coprological techniques. Giardia spp. detection employed direct immunofluorescent staining and specific PCR, while Toxoplasma gondii was detected using PCR targeting B1 gene. A total of 51 Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica were isolated, with predominant serovariants including Infantis (43.1%), Coeln (11.8%) and Newport (11.8%). The captive felids likely act as asymptomatic carriers of foodborne Salmonella, with notable resistance ampicillin and trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole, no resistance to enrofloxacin was noted. Microscopic analysis revealed Toxascaris leonina eggs in 11 faecal samples (18.3%) and Giardia duodenalis cysts in one animal (1.7%).

Conclusions

Captive animals in public settings may act as sources of Salmonella infection and enteroparasitosis for both occupational and general exposure. The study emphasizes the role of captive animals in antimicrobial resistance dynamics, highlighting the need for routine pathogen screening in the management practices of zoological structures.
Development of WES 2820 Fitness-for-Service Assessment Procedure – Metal Loss Assessment
Authors: Takahashi Junya , Yamaguchi Atsushi
Published: November 2023

To promote the application of Fitness-For-Service (FFS) in Japanese industry, the Japan Welding Engineering Society (JWES) published WES 2820:2015 as an FFS assessment procedure specifically applicable to metal loss. In this study, the outline and concepts of WES 2820 are described. The metal loss assessment presented in WES 2820 adopts the technical bases of Part 4 (general metal loss assessment) and 5 (local metal loss assessment) of the API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 standard, which have gained worldwide acceptance. In WES 2820, the two different methods for general and local metal loss assessment are implemented as a single assessment procedure. The assessment procedure is simplified and focuses on its ease-ofuse in on-site applications. Moreover, WES 2820 has a high affinity with the WES 7700 series of welding repair codes, also published by the JWES. Therefore, the necessity for welding repair based on the WES 7700 procedure can be confirmed by the application of WES 2820. In addition, WES 2820 provides example problems for confirming a user’s understanding and improving convenient application. Revisions to the WES 2820 consider the latest techniques and present additional examples to further improve rational assessment and convenience for the user. Additionally, this study introduces an actual case study of the application of WES 2820.
Insulation Materials Used in Tanks for the Storage of Cryogenic Fluids in Fire Scenarios
Authors: Eberwein Robert , Hajhariri Aliasghar , Camplese Davide , Emrys Scarponi Giordano , Cozzani Valerio , Otremba Frank
Published: November 2023

Cryogenic gases such as Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) or Liquefied Hydrogen (LH2) establish themselves as important energy carriers in the transport sector. Its storage requires tanks with Thermal Super Insulations (TSI) to keep the transported fluid cold. TSI has already proven itself in various applications over a long time, but not in the land transport sector, where accidents involving collisions, fires, and their combination are to be expected. The focus of this study was to investigate the behavior of a TSI exposed to a heat source that represents a fire. For this purpose, a High-Temperature Thermal Vacuum Chamber (HTTVC) has been developed that allows the thermal loading of a TSI and simultaneous measurement of heat flow through this TSI. The HTTVC was applied to investigate TSI based on Multilayer Insulations (MLI) and vacuum. The thermal exposure caused permanent damage to the sample. In practice, this can lead to a rapid release of flammable gas as well as a Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion (BLEVE). The results are relevant for the evaluation of accident scenarios, the improvement of TSI, and the development of emergency measures.
Development of Prediction Tool for Flow-Accelerated Corrosion: (2) Evaluation of Geometry Factor for Various Pipe Components
Authors: Yuasa Tomohisa , Watanabe Shun , Yoneda Kimitoshi , Morita Ryo
Published: November 2023

Pipe wall thinning is an important issue in the maintenance of power plants. In particular, flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC) in carbon steel pipelines requires continuous monitoring because of its potential to cause catastrophic pipe rupture. In Japan, management rules for pipe wall thinning in power plants were established after the Mihama accident in 2004 based on pipe wall thickness measurements. However, this monitoring may lead to a large number of measurements for each outage in the power plants. In addition, because this approach assumes constant operating condition, some issues may occur when the plant operating conditions change and a decrease or increase in the FAC rate is expected. For the future improvement of pipe wall thinning management in Japanese power plants, the introduction of prediction methods or prediction codes for thinning rate and residual lifetime evaluation is expected, as already introduced in many other countries. Therefore, the authors conducted research to develop prediction methods for pipe wall thinning management for use in domestic power plants.

In this study, to easily apply the FAC prediction model under single-phase water conditions to the actual piping system of nuclear power plants in Japan, we evaluated the geometry effect and the piping layout effect for the various piping components based on CFD parameter analysis. From the CFD results, the influence of the mass transfer coefficient on the parameters of the piping components such as the beta ratio of the orifice was evaluated. An original correlation was developed to enable prediction for the piping system of the actual plants, which consists of the various piping components.
Multi-Axial Stress Creep Consumption Part II; Consideration on Creep Criteria Temperature for FFS
Authors: Ishizaki Yoichi , Suzuki Teppei
Published: November 2023

A cracking damage was found in 347SS flange neck operated at about 520 deg.C after long term operation. In previous report presented in PVP2019-9304, it was well explained by creep damage from FEM analysis using isochronous curve based on API 579/ASME FFS-1 MPC Omega method. Following our previous paper, specimens were obtained from the replaced flange operated for 4 years. Using those specimens, destructive testing and remaining life assessment were performed to validate the analysis.

As a result, specimens from the flange neck showed relatively short rupture life, compared to those from other locations. MPC Omega method along with adjustment factors derived from testing resulted in remaining life of 3.1 to 6.8 × 105 hrs. at average operating condition. In consideration with temperature variation during operation, remaining life is estimated to be 2.6 × 10-5 hrs., indicating 10 % life consumption at the time of taking sample. Life consumption estimated by FEM analysis is rather conservative but is comparable within factor of 2 when average strength is applied for the evaluation.

Since the estimated stress conditions and test conditions are close to 0.2% proof stress of the material at this temperature range, significant primary creep strain was observed in the tests, that can cause some conservativeness in remaining life by the FEM analysis.

While above, Larson Miller Parameter method also adjusted with rupture test data agrees with MPC Omega method on the assumption of uniaxial tension. However, it gives less-conservative life under the multiaxial stress conditions. Effect of multiaxial stress on creep life is more significantly observed in MPC Omega method, especially when stress ratio is higher.

In part I of two papers, the detail of creep test was presented and discussed. In this part II, current creep temperature limit shown in API579-1/ASME FFS-1 Part 4 Table 4.1 will be discussed and suggest an upgrade of creep temperature criteria for metal loss FFS based on the multi-axial creep model we learned through studies.
Estimation of Load Bearing Capacity in 3D Printed PLA Notched Plates Using the Theory of Critical Distances
Authors: Cicero Sergio , Arrieta Sergio , Sánchez Marcos
Published: November 2023

This paper provides a simple safe approach to obtain estimations of the load-bearing capacity of 3D printed PLA (polylactic acid) plates containing U-notches. The plates are subjected to pure tensile loading and combine different types of notch lengths. The estimations are obtained defining the stress field ahead of the notch tip by the Creager-Paris stress distribution, and establishing the fracture criterion through the Theory of Critical Distances (TCD). This theory requires an additional material parameter, the critical distance (L), to determine failure conditions. Particularly, in fracture evaluations, the TCD provides several failure criteria, among which the Point Method (PM) is particularly simple and has been validated in a number of more conventional materials, such as structural steels, aluminum alloys, different types of polymers and composites. The PM states that fracture occurs when the stress level reaches the inherent strength (σ0) at a distance from the notch tip equal to L/2. L and σ0 are related to each other through the material fracture toughness (Kc), so σ0 is not an additional (second) parameter required for the assessments. In any case, the results obtained in the present work demonstrate the capacity of the proposed methodology for estimating the load-bearing capacity in this specific 3D printed material and for the component geometry and loading conditions analyzed here, which implies low constraint conditions, providing safe reasonably conservative predictions.
Fatigue and Fracture Behavior of Vintage Pipelines in Gaseous Hydrogen Environment
Authors: Agnani Milan , Ronevich Joseph A. , Parker Jonathan , Gagliano Michael , Potts Steve , San Marchi Christopher
Published: November 2023

There is a global interest in decarbonizing the existing natural gas infrastructure by blending the natural gas with hydrogen. However, hydrogen is known to embrittle pipeline and pressure vessel steels used in gas transportation and storage applications. Thus, assessing the structural integrity of vintage pipeline (pre-1970s) in the presence of gaseous hydrogen is a critical step towards successful implementation of hydrogen blending into existing infrastructure. To this end, fatigue crack growth (FCG) behavior and fracture resistance of several vintage X52 pipeline steels were evaluated in high purity gaseous hydrogen environments at pressure of 210 bar (3,000 psi) and 34 bar (500 psi). The base metal and seam weld microstructures were characterized using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Vickers hardness mapping. The base metals consisted of ferrite-pearlite banded microstructures, whereas the weld regions contained ferrite and martensite. In one case, a hook-like crack was observed in an electric resistance (seam) weld; whereas hard spots were observed near the bond line of a double-submerged arc (seam) weld. For a given hydrogen gas pressure, comparable FCG rates were observed for the different base metal and weld microstructures. Generally, the higher strength microstructures had lower fracture resistance in hydrogen. In particular, lower fracture resistance was measured when local hard spots were observed in the approximate region of the crack plane of the weld. Samples tested in lower H2 pressure (34 bar) exhibited lower FCG rates (in the lower ΔK regime) and greater fracture resistance when compared to the respective high-pressure (210 bar) hydrogen tests. The hydrogen-assisted fatigue and fracture surfaces were qualitatively characterized using SEM to rationalize the influence of microstructure on the dominant fracture mechanisms in gaseous hydrogen environment.
Development of Prediction Tool for Flow-Accelerated Corrosion (1) Evaluation of Pipeline Layout Effect Considering Various Pipe Component Combinations
Authors: Yoneda Kimitoshi , Yuasa Tomohisa , Uchiyama Yuta , Morita Ryo
Published: November 2023

The pipeline layout effect on flow-accelerated corrosion (FAC), so-called “declining effect”, is evaluated considering various combinations of pipe components. Series of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are conducted to calculate the maximum mass transfer coefficient, the major hydraulic factor of FAC, in the downstream component affected by the flow turbulence due to upstream component by varying the distance between the components as the main parameter. Combinations of elbows, tees, and reducers are chosen for the evaluation according to the statistic counts of components in actual plant pipelines. As proposed in previous study, the declining effect is arranged in exponential declining curve in terms of the distance between components, qualitatively. However, it is found that the declining effect may differ depending on the pipe component combinations. Correlation equations for the declining curve are presented for the combinations of elbow-elbow, elbow-tee, tee-elbow and elbow-reducer, which showed evident declining behavior. It is also found that even when the distance is very short, the remaining portion of the upstream effect on the downstream component would be much less than 100 % and may improve the overprediction in proximate condition which was pointed out to be an issue in previous study.
Advancing the State-of-the-Art for Fretting Wear Testing
Authors: El Bouzidi Salim , Guerout Fabrice , Feenstra Paul , McLellan Anne , St. Pierre Brendan
Published: November 2023

High-temperature fretting wear tests have been conducted at CNL’s Chalk River Laboratories since the 1970s to study the wear characteristics of nuclear power plant components. The initial testing approach relied on an unbalanced motor excitation system, along with pre- and post-test characterization of the work rate. The approach was developed over subsequent decades to enable work rate monitoring during test runtime, through the incorporation of high-temperature dynamic force and displacement sensors into the harsh test environments (up to 12 MPa, 320°C). The approach has been used to predict the life of CANDU and light water reactor components subjected to in-service vibrations, for example in the case of fuel fretting and steam generator tube/support fretting.

In 2019, an effort was initiated to update the existing fretting wear testing capabilities to leverage advancements in data acquisition hardware, computational technology, and vibration instrumentation, to meet the evolving needs of the nuclear industry. This effort saw an overhaul of the test control and monitoring approach, enabling the excitation of the test specimens to be generated based on empirical excitation force spectra, as well as real-time monitoring and tallying of contact events throughout tests of extended duration (typically 500 hours). Alongside retrofitting the existing facilities, new capabilities are also being developed to enable fretting wear testing in advanced reactor conditions, such as testing in 700°C helium representative of high-temperature gas reactors, and testing in refreshed autoclave environments to enable more stringent chemistry control. An overview of the recently-upgraded fretting wear testing capabilities and those under development is provided.
Reheat Cracking in Welds of 1¼Cr-½Mo Steel Pressure Vessel During Fabrication
Authors: Suda Kazuki , Sakata Mikihiro , Miyashita Shigekazu , Takauchi Hideaki
Published: November 2023

1¼Cr–½Mo steel has been widely used in fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) reactors, continuous catalyst regeneration (CCR) reactors and desulfurization reactors, as these reactors operate at approximately 500 °C (932 °F). The first part of this paper presents a case history of reheat cracking in the weld metal of an FCC reactor made of 1¼Cr–½Mo steel during fabrication. The indication of cracking was first found in the weld metal by MT after postweld heat treatment at 691 °C (1,275 °F). Both flux cored arc welding (FCAW) and submerged arc welding (SAW) processes were employed to fabricate the reactor. However, the cracking was only found in the FCAW welds. Metallurgical investigation revealed that the cracking was intergranular, and chemical composition analysis showed that the cracked weld metal contained a high amount of boron. To evaluate the effect of boron on reheat cracking, a reheat cracking test using a C-ring type specimen was conducted. The test results showed that boron increased the susceptibility to reheat cracking of the weld metal. The last half of this paper is a review of the literature which focuses on the effects of boron on reheat cracking in 1¼Cr–½Mo steels. It was found that even 5–10 ppm of boron may significantly increase susceptibility to reheat cracking. The mechanism of how boron induces intergranular cracking was also discussed. Finally, this paper presents recommendations to reduce the risk of reheat cracking in 1¼Cr–½Mo steel weld metal.