bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome Characteristics of Vardy, a Cluster DJ Actinobacteriophage Isolated on Gordonia rubripertincta in Western North Carolina
Authors: Henson Montana , Fratarcangeli Matteo , Park Serim , Minot Ashley , Gainey Maria D.
Published: October 2022

Phage Vardy is a lytic siphovirus isolated from creek soil in Cullowhee, NC, using
Gordonia rubripertincta
NRRL B-16540. Vardy’s 60,144-bp genome contains 90 predicted genes and five copies of a 50-bp motif that may regulate gene expression. Based on gene content similarity, Vardy is assigned to cluster DJ.
Geological architecture and history of the Antigua volcano and carbonate platform: Was there an Oligo−Miocene lull in Lesser Antilles arc magmatism?
Authors: Montheil Leny , Philippon Mélody , Cornée Jean-Jacques , BouDagher-Fadel Marcelle , van Hinsbergen Douwe J.J. , Camps Pierre , Maffione Marco , Audemard Franck , Brons Brechtje , Van der Looij Koen J.R. , Münch Philippe
Published: October 2022

Since the acceptance of plate tectonics, the presence of calc-alkaline magmatic rocks has been recognized as evidence of subduction. But under specific geodynamic circumstances, subduction may occur without generating magmas. Here, we investigate the Cenozoic northern Lesser Antilles arc where, from sparsely exposed magmatic records, Eocene−Oligocene and Pliocene magmatic flare-ups and a Miocene lull were postulated. Nevertheless, most of the arc is submarine, so it is challenging to discern lulls and flare-ups from sampling bias. We review the magmatic evidence exposed onshore in the Lesser Antilles and investigate in detail the island of Antigua, which exposes an Eocene to Miocene volcanic sequence and platform carbonate series that coincide with the postulated lull. By combining lithostratigraphic analysis, structural mapping, 40Ar/39Ar geochronology, and biostratigraphy, we refine the magmatic history of the island and date the arrest of extensive arc magmatism at 35 Ma, with minor activity until 27 Ma. No magmatic products are interleaved with the platform sequence until the latest Oligocene, which confirms a lull in northern Lesser Antilles arc magmatism that may have lasted ca. 20 Ma. Flare-up of magmatic activity contributed to crustal thickening and land emersion, whereas magmatic lulls and related thermal cooling induced subsidence/submersion. Thus, we propose that the paleo-(bio)-geographical evolution of the eastern Caribbean region has been partly controlled by magmatic activity.

Fault kinematic analysis, along with anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility, suggest that, at the island scale, magmatic arrest is not associated with a change in stress field during the Oligocene. We speculate that slab flattening triggered by progressive curvature played a role in the temporal shutdown of the northern Lesser Antilles arc.
Anatomical challenge: a rare coexistence of caecal cancer and isolated duodenal malrotation
Authors: Sekioka Akinori , Tsuboi Kunihiko , Shono Yoko , Adachi Yukito
Published: October 2022

Intestinal malrotation is a congenital anomaly, treated mostly during childhood. A small number of cases are incidentally found in adulthood, during operation for other abdominal diseases, such as colon cancer.

Here, we present a case of caecal cancer with isolated duodenal malrotation, a subtype of intestinal malrotation, discovered incidentally during the operation for the cancer. Although the anatomical abnormality made the operation more complicated, laparoscopic resection was safely performed with oncologically adequate lymphadenectomy, owing to intraoperative confirmation of anatomy and careful dissection.
Learning curves and association of pathologist’s performance with the diagnostic accuracy of linear endobronchial ultrasound transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA): a cohort study in a tertiary care reference centre
Authors: Flandes Javier , Giraldo-Cadavid Luis Fernando , Perez-Warnisher Maria Teresa , Gimenez Andres , Fernandez-Navamuel Iker , Alfayate Javier , Naya Alba , Carballosa Pilar , Cabezas Elena , Alvarez Susana , Uribe-Hernandez Ana Maria , Seijo Luis
Published: October 2022

Objectives

We aimed to assess the learning curves and the influence of the pathologist’s performance on the endobronchial ultrasound transbronchial needle aspiration’s (EBUS-TBNA’s) diagnostic accuracy in a real-world study.

Design/setting

Cohort study conducted in a tertiary care university hospital (single centre) with patients referred for EBUS-TBNA.

Participants/intervention

We initially evaluated 376 patients (673 lymph nodes), 368 (660 lymph nodes) of whom were recruited. The inclusion criterion was EBUS-TBNA indicated for the study of mediastinal or hilar lesions. The exclusion criteria were the absence of mediastinal and hilar lesions during EBUS confirmed by a normal mediastinum and hilum on chest CT (except in cases of mediastinal staging of cancer) and lost to follow-up.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Diagnostic accuracy and related outcomes.

Methods

We included patients from a prospectively constructed database. We performed a logistic regression multivariate analysis to adjust for potential confounders of the association between pathologist performance and EBUS-TBNA accuracy. The Cumulative Summation (CUSUM) analysis was used to assess pathologists’ performance and learning curves.

Results

Most indications for EBUS were suspicion of malignancy, including intrathoracic tumours (68.3%), extrathoracic tumours (9.8%) and cancer staging (7.0%). The patients’ mean age was 63.7 years, and 71.5% were male. Overall EBUS-TBNA accuracy was 80.8%. In the multivariate logistic regression model, the factors independently associated with EBUS-TBNA accuracy included certain pathologists (ORs ranging from 0.16 to 0.41; p<0.017), a lymph node short-axis diameter <1 cm (OR: 0.36; 95% CI 0.21 to 0.62; p<0.001), and the aetiology of lymph node enlargement (ORs ranging from 7 to 37; p<0.001). CUSUM analysis revealed four different learning curve patterns, ranging from almost immediate learning to a prolonged learning phase, as well as a pattern consistent with performance attrition.

Conclusions

Pathologists’ proficiency conditioned EBUS-TBNA accuracy. This human factor is a potential source of error independent of factors conditioning tissue sample adequacy.
The Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) applied to primary data: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Alshibani Abdullah , Warner Bronwen , Owen Rhiannon K , Mukherjee Abir , Gilbert Thomas , Conroy Simon
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Frailty is characterised by vulnerability to adverse health outcomes and increases with age. Many frailty risk scores have been developed. One important example is the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) which has the potential to be widely used and automatically calculated which will provide accurate assessment of frailty in a time/cost-effective manner. This systematic review, therefore, seeks to describe the HFRS use since its publication in 2018.

Methods and analysis

The proposed systematic review will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We will include published original peer-reviewed articles, preprints, conference proceedings and letters to the editor reporting primary data where there is an English language abstract available from 1 January 2018 to 30 June 2022. Databases to be searched are MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science. Additional studies from, for example, the reference of the included studies will be identified and assessed for potential inclusion. Two independent reviewers will perform and assess the following: (1) eligibility of the included studies, (2) critical appraisal using the Cochrane Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions tool, and (3) data extraction using a predefined form. Disagreements will be resolved through discussions or by involvement of a third reviewer. It may be possible to undertake a meta-analysis if there are sufficient studies reporting effect measures in homogenous populations and/or settings. Effect sizes will be calculated using meta-analysis methods and expressed as risk ratios or ORs with 95% CIs.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required for this systematic review as it will use secondary data only. The results of the systematic review will be submitted for publication in recognised peer-reviewed journals related to frailty and geriatric care and will be widely disseminated through conferences, congresses, seminars, symposia and scientific meetings.
Protocol for a multicentre prospective observational study of families with full-term infants on postnatal wards and in the community to capture feeding practices across the first year of life: the Mother Infant Lactation Questionnaire (MILQ) study
Authors: Gould Jacqueline F , Yelland Lisa N , Gibson Robert A , McPhee Andrew J , Varghese Jojy , Grivell Rosalie , Makrides Maria
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Breastmilk is considered the gold standard for infant nutrition. Breast feeding is recommended as the sole source of nutrition between birth until around 6 months of age and should be continued beyond this age as complementary foods are introduced. While breast feeding initiation is generally high in developed countries, continuation of breast feeding appears to drop rapidly. This is a prospective observational study of life that aims to characterise a current picture of infant feeding practices across the first year, and motivations for feeding practices, and to identify barriers and enablers for breast feeding.

Methods and analysis

Caregivers with newborn singleton infants of normal birth weight are approached on the postnatal units of three hospitals in South Australia, or through targeted online advertising campaigns promoting the study. Caregivers are asked to complete surveys when their infant reaches 3, 5 and 7 weeks’, and at 3, 4, 5, 6, 9 and 12 months of age. Initially, baseline characteristics, intentions and preferences for infant milk feeds, as well as reasons for preferences are captured. Latter surveys query how infants are being fed, difficulties or barriers to breast feeding, as well as any enablers (if breast feeding). Once infants reach 5 months of age, surveys capture complementary feeding. A large opportunistic sample from the Adelaide community with a minimum of 1000 mother–infant pairs will be enrolled. The data will be analysed descriptively and using regression models.

Ethics and dissemination

Women’s and Children’s Health Network Human Research Ethics Committee reviewed and approved the study (approval no HREC/19/WCHN/140, approval date: 22 November 2019). Study results will be disseminated through academic meetings, peer-reviewed journals, in-services for postnatal healthcare services, results letters for participants and social media.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12620000529943.
Cohort profile: the South African National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) National HIV Cohort
Authors: MacLeod William B , Bor Jacob , Candy Sue , Maskew Mhairi , Fox Matthew P , Bulekova Katia , Brennan Alana T , Potter James , Nattey Cornelius , Onoya Dorina , Mlisana Koleka , Stevens Wendy , Carmona Sergio
Published: October 2022

Purpose

South Africa’s National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) National HIV Cohort was established in 2015 to facilitate monitoring, evaluation and research on South Africa’s National HIV Treatment Programme. In South Africa, 84.8% of people living with HIV know their HIV status; 70.7% who know their status are on ART; and 87.4% on ART are virologically suppressed.

Participants

The NHLS National HIV Cohort includes the laboratory data of nearly all patients receiving HIV care in the public sector since April 2004. Patients are included in the cohort if they have received a CD4 count or HIV RNA viral load (VL) test. Using an anonymised unique patient identifier that we have developed and validated to linked test results, we observe patients prospectively through their laboratory results as they receive HIV care and treatment. Patients in HIV care are seen for laboratory monitoring every 6–12 months. Data collected include age, sex, facility location and test results for CD4 counts, VLs and laboratory tests used to screen for potential treatment complications.

Findings to date

From April 2004 to April 2018, 63 million CD4 count and VL tests were conducted at 5483 facilities. 12.6 million unique patients had at least one CD4 count or VL, indicating they had accessed HIV care, and 7.1 million patients had a VL test indicating they had started antiretroviral therapy. The creation of NHLS National HIV Cohort has enabled longitudinal research on all lab-monitored patients in South Africa’s national HIV programme, including analyses of (1) patient health at presentation; (2) care outcomes such as ‘CD4 recovery’, ‘retention in care’ and ‘viral resuppression’; (3) patterns of transfer and re-entry into care; (4) facility-level variation in care outcomes; and (5) impacts of policies and guideline changes.

Future plans

Continuous updating of the cohort, integration with available clinical data, and expansion to include tuberculosis and other lab-monitored comorbidities.
Direct puncture of the superior ophthalmic vein for carotid cavernous fistulas: a 21-year experience
Authors: Catapano Joshua S , Srinivasan Visish M , De La Peña Nicole M , Singh Rohin , Cole Tyler S , Wilkinson D Andrew , Baranoski Jacob F , Rutledge Caleb , Pacult Mark A , Winkler Ethan A , Jadhav Ashutosh P , Ducruet Andrew F , Albuquerque Felipe C
Published: October 2022

Background

Direct puncture of the superior ophthalmic vein (SOV) is an alternative approach to traversing the inferior petrosal sinus for embolization of carotid cavernous fistulas (CCFs).

Objective

To analyze direct SOV puncture for the treatment of CCFs and review the literature.

Methods

All patients at a single center, treated for a CCF with direct SOV cannulation between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2020, were retrospectively analyzed. An additional review of the literature for all case series for direct puncture of the SOV for treatment of CCF was performed.

Results

During the 21-year study period, direct cannulation of the SOV for treatment of a CCF was attempted for 19 patients, with the procedure aborted for one patient because of an inability to navigate the wire into the distal aspect of the cavernous sinus. In 18 patients with direct SOV CCF treatment, 1 experienced a minor complication with an asymptomatic postoperative hemorrhage. Angiographic cure and improvement of symptoms were achieved in 17 patients with a mean (SD) follow-up of 6 (5.2) months. In the review of the literature, an additional 45 patients were reported to have direct cannulation of the SOV for CCF treatment, with angiographic cure in 43 (96%) and decreased objective visual acuity in 1 (2%).

Conclusion

Direct SOV cannulation to treat CCFs is safe and effective. Although it is typically used after other endovascular approaches have failed, SOV access for CCF treatment may be warranted as a first-line treatment for select patients.
Artificial intelligence-enabled phenotyping of patients with severe aortic stenosis: on the recovery of extra-aortic valve cardiac damage after transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Lachmann Mark , Rippen Elena , Schuster Tibor , Xhepa Erion , von Scheidt Moritz , Trenkwalder Teresa , Pellegrini Costanza , Rheude Tobias , Hesse Amelie , Stundl Anja , Harmsen Gerhard , Yuasa Shinsuke , Schunkert Heribert , Kastrati Adnan , Laugwitz Karl-Ludwig , Joner Michael , Kupatt Christian
Published: October 2022

Objective

A novel artificial intelligence-based phenotyping approach to stratify patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) prior to transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been proposed, based on echocardiographic and haemodynamic data. This study aimed to analyse the recovery of extra-aortic valve cardiac damage in accordance with this novel stratification system following TAVR.

Methods

The proposed phenotyping approach was previously established employing data from 366 patients with severe AS from a bicentric registry. For this consecutive study, echocardiographic follow-up data, obtained on day 147±75.1 after TAVR, were available from 247 patients (67.5%).

Results

Correction of severe AS by TAVR significantly reduced the proportion of patients suffering from concurrent severe mitral regurgitation (from 9.29% to 3.64%, p value: 0.0015). Moreover, pulmonary artery pressures were ameliorated (estimated systolic pulmonary artery pressure: from 47.2±15.8 to 43.3±15.1 mm Hg, p value: 0.0079). However, right heart dysfunction as well as the proportion of patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation remained unchanged. Clusters with persistent right heart dysfunction ultimately displayed 2-year survival rates of 69.2% (95% CI 56.6% to 84.7%) and 74.6% (95% CI 65.9% to 84.4%), which were significantly lower compared with clusters with little or no persistent cardiopulmonary impairment (88.3% (95% CI 83.3% to 93.5%) and 85.5% (95% CI 77.1% to 94.8%)).

Conclusions

This phenotyping approach preprocedurally identifies patients with severe AS, who will not recover from extra-aortic valve cardiac damage following TAVR and whose survival is therefore significantly reduced. Importantly, not the degree of pulmonary hypertension at initial presentation, but the irreversibility of right heart dysfunction determines prognosis.
Landscape influence on permafrost ground ice geochemistry in a polar desert environment, Resolute Bay, Nunavut
Authors: Paquette Michel , Lafrenière Melissa J. , Lamoureux Scott F.
Published: October 2022

Arctic permafrost is degrading and is thus releasing nutrients, solutes, sediment and water into soils and freshwater ecosystems. The impacts of this degradation depends on the geochemical characteristics and in large part on the spatial distribution of ground ice and solutes, which is not well-known in the High Arctic polar desert ecosystems. This research links ground ice and solute concentrations, to establish a framework for identifying locations vulnerable to permafrost degradation. It builds on landscape classifications and cryostratigraphic interpretations of permafrost history. Well-vegetated wetland sites with syngenetic permafrost aggradation show a different geochemical signature from polar desert and epigenetic sites. In wetlands, where ground ice contents were high (<97% volume), total dissolved solute concentrations were relatively low (mean 283.0 ± 327.8 ppm), reflecting a carbonate terrestrial/freshwater setting. In drier sites with epigenetic origin, such as polar deserts, ice contents are low (<47% volume), solute concentrations were high (mean 3248.5 ± 1907.0 ppm, max 12055 ppm) and dominated by Na+ and Cl− ions, reflecting a post-glacial marine inundation during permafrost formation. Dissolved organic carbon and total dissolved nitrogen concentrations usually increased at the top of permafrost and could not be as clearly associated with permafrost history. The research shows that the geochemistry of polar desert permafrost is highly dependent on permafrost history, and it can be estimated using hydrogeomorphological terrain classifications. The lower ice content of polar desert sites indicates that these areas are more vulnerable to thaw relative to the ice-rich wetland sites, and the elevated solute concentrations indicate that these areas could mobilise substantial solutes to downstream environments, should they become hydrologically connected with future warming.
Fractal properties of particle paths due to generalised uncertainty relations
Authors: Lake Matthew J.
Published: October 2022

We determine the Hausdorff dimension of a particle path,$$D_\textrm{H}$$DH, in the recently proposed ‘smeared space’ model of quantum geometry. The model introduces additional degrees of freedom to describe the quantum state of the background and gives rise to both the generalised uncertainty principle (GUP) and extended uncertainty principle (EUP) without introducing modified commutation relations. We compare our results to previous studies of the Hausdorff dimension in GUP models based on modified commutators and show that the minimum length enters the relevant formulae in a different way. We then determine the Hausdorff dimension of the particle path in smeared momentum space,$${\tilde{D}}_\textrm{H}$$D~H, and show that the minimum momentum is dual to the minimum length. For sufficiently coarse grained paths,$$D_\textrm{H} = {\tilde{D}}_\textrm{H} = 2$$DH=D~H=2, as in canonical quantum mechanics. However, as the resolutions approach the minimum scales, the dimensions of the paths in each representation differ, in contrast to their counterparts in the canonical theory. The GUP-induced corrections increase$$D_\textrm{H}$$DHwhereas the EUP-induced corrections decrease$${\tilde{D}}_\textrm{H}$$D~H, relative to their canonical values, and the extremal case corresponds to$$D_\textrm{H} = 3$$DH=3,$${\tilde{D}}_\textrm{H} = 1$$D~H=1. These results show that the GUP and the EUP affect the fractal properties of the particle path in fundamentally different, yet complimentary, ways.
On the definition of the deuterium-tritium ion beam parameters for the SORGENTINA-RF fusion neutron source
Authors: Fonnesu Nicola , Scaglione Salvatore , Spassovsky Ivan Panov , Pietropaolo Antonino , Zito Pietro ,   The SRF Collaboration, Agostini Pietro , Angiolini Massimo , Alberghi Ciro , Candido Luigi , Capogni Marco , Capone Mauro , Cataldo Sebastiano , Contessa Gian Marco , D’Annibale Francesco , D’Arienzo Marco , Dotto Alessio Del , Diamanti Dario , Dongiovanni Danilo , Farini Mirko , Ferrari Paolo , Fiore Angela , Flammini Davide , Frisoni Manuela , Gadani Gianni , Gentili Angelo , Grasso Giacomo , Guardati Manuela , Guidoni David , Lamberti Marco , Lepore Luigi , Mancini Andrea , Mariani Andrea , Marinari Ranieri , Marzo Giuseppe A. , Mastroianni Bruno , Moro Fabio , Orefice Agostina , Orsetti Valerio , Pinna Tonio , Rizzo Antonietta , Rydzy Alexander , Salvi Stefano , Santoli Demis , Santucci Alessia , Saraceno Luca , Sartorio Camillo , Sermenghi Valerio , Serra Emanuele , Simonetti Andrea , Terranova Nicholas , Tosti Silvano , Ubaldini Alberto , Utili Marco , Voukelatou Konstantina , Zola Danilo , Zummo Giuseppe
Published: October 2022

The SORGENTINA-RF project aims to develop a 14 MeV fusion neutron source to produce medical radioisotopes with special focus on $$^{99}$$

99

Mo. The facility is based on a positive ion source with an acceleration stage to produce a deuterium (D$$^{+})$$

+

)

and tritium (T$$^{+})$$

+

)

ion beam that, impacting on a titanium-coated rotating target, allows fusion reactions to take place. Maximizing the neutron production rate is one of the main issues to be addressed in the project and the optimization of some key parameters of the ion beam is of paramount importance in this regard. In this study, a methodology is discussed to reach a definition of the beam characteristics for an effective and sustainable operation of the plant. The most convenient layout that has been found out is based on a single ion source fed by a deuterium and tritium gas mixture. Eventually, a series of considerations about the operation of the ion source and fuel cycle have been drawn.
Process design for the manufacturing of soft X-ray gratings in single-crystal diamond by high-energy heavy-ion irradiation
Authors: García G. , Martin M. , Ynsa M. D. , Torres-Costa V. , Crespillo M. L. , Tardío M. , Olivares J. , Bosia F. , Peña-Rodríguez O. , Nicolas J. , Tallarida M.
Published: October 2022

This paper describes in detail a novel manufacturing process for optical gratings suitable for use in the UV and soft X-ray regimes in a single-crystal diamond substrate based on highly focused swift heavy-ion irradiation. This type of grating is extensively used in light source facilities such as synchrotrons or free electron lasers, with ever-increasing demands in terms of thermal loads, depending on beamline operational parameters and architecture. The process proposed in this paper may be a future alternative to current manufacturing techniques, providing the advantage of being applicable to single-crystal diamond substrates, with their unique properties in terms of heat conductivity and radiation hardness. The paper summarizes the physical principle used for the grating patterns produced by swift heavy-ion irradiation and provides full details for the manufacturing process for a specific grating configuration, inspired in one of the beamlines at the ALBA synchrotron light source, while stressing the most challenging points for a potential implementation. Preliminary proof-of-concept experimental results are presented, showing the practical implementation of the methodology proposed herein.
Optimizing the Online Learners’ Verbal Intention Classification Efficiency Based on the Multi-Head Attention Mechanism Algorithm
Authors: Zheng Yangfeng , Shao Zheng , Gao Zhanghao , Deng Mingming , Zhai Xuesong
Published: October 2022

To analyse speech intention based on discussion texts in online collaborative discussions, automatic classification of discussion texts is conducted to assist teachers improve their abilities to diagnose and analyse the discussion process. The current study proposes a deep learning network model that incorporates multi-head attention mechanism with bidirectional long short-term memory (MA-BiLSTM). The proposed algorithm acquires contextual semantic connections from a global perspective and the role of key feature words within sentences from a local perspective to further strengthen the semantic features of the texts. The proposed model was employed to classify 12,000 interactive texts generated during online collaborative discussion activities. Results show that MA-BiLSTM achieved an overall classification accuracy of 83.25%, which is at least 2.83% higher than those of other baseline models. However, the classification of consultative and administrative interactive texts is minimally effective. MA-BiLSTM achieved better than the existing classification methods for interactive text classification.
Combined effect of thermophoresis and Brownian motion on MHD mixed convective flow over an inclined stretching surface with radiation and chemical reaction
Authors: Sharma B. K. , Khanduri Umesh , Mishra Nidhish K. , Mekheimer Kh. S.
Published: October 2022

A study has been carried for an incompressible electrically conducting, viscous fluid past a continuously stretching surface in the presence of thermal radiation, viscous dissipation and first-order chemical reaction with thermophoresis and Brownian motion. An inclined uniform magnetic field is applied to the fluid flow region. The governing coupled partial differential equations (PDEs) that describe the model are transformed into a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by applying similarity analysis. The resultant nonlinear coupled ODEs are computed numerically in MATLAB software using the boundary value problem solver (BVP4C). The effects of various physical parameters have been examined graphically on velocity, concentration and temperature distribution. The comparison has been made from the previously published work, and there is a good agreement with that. These results can be helpful in geothermal engineering, energy conversation and disposal of nuclear waste material. Moreover, this combined effect can also help biologists to study biological macromolecules such as genomic-length DNA and HIV in the microchannel.
Diffusion phenomenon for natural convection flow of classical Hartmann problem due to a cylindrical tube by generalized Fourier’s theories: A Fractional analysis
Authors: Ali Qasim , Al-Khaled Kamel , Khan M. Ijaz , Khan Sami Ullah , Raza Ali , Oreijah Mowffaq , Guedri Kamel
Published: October 2022

The classical Hartmann flow problem is still interesting and novel due to its applications in MHD generators, plasma physics, power systems, etc. Owing to such importance in mind, this investigation explores the natural convection flow of viscous fluid following the Hartmann flow phenomenon due to a cylindrical tube. The heat transfer characteristics with diffusion phenomenon have been taken into consideration. The classical problem is further extended by countering the magnetic force impact. The fractional framework based on the Atangana–Baleanu (AB) and Caputo–Fabrizio (CF) is performed. The closed-form solutions are attained with Laplace as well as finite Hankel transforms. Further, the obtained results are stated as a combination of G-functions of Lorenzo and Hartley. The particular cases for the obtained simulations have been performed. The role of flow parameters governing the flow is graphically attributed.
Physical treatment of paraffin in existence of nanoparticles using computational simulation
Authors: Ayed Hamdi , Hussin Amira M.
Published: October 2022

Development of numerical code for evaluating the solidification of water has been scrutinized in this work. The container has two circular and sinusoidal cold walls at bottom and top surfaces. Galerkin-based code has been employed to model this phenomenon. To elevate the conductivity of phase change material (PCM), alumina particles with nanosized were utilized with incorporating different shapes. The conductivity of nanoencapsulated phase change material (NEPCM) is a function of concentration and shapes of nanoparticles. The freezing process is mainly dominated by conduction and selecting curved shaped and adding nanoparticles can affect this mechanism. Verification test reveals the good accommodation and applying adaptive grids leads to higher accuracy. As shape coefficient increases, the period of process declines around 10.65% owing to stronger conduction. Also, mixing water with alumina nanopowders with blade shape causes decrement in needed time around 32.51%. Besides, outputs reveal that utilizing blade shape of powders has more effect on required time than that of cylindrical shape.
Buoyancy-driven mixed convection flow of FENE-P fluids over a flat plate
Authors: Singla Tanvi , Kumar B. , Sharma Sapna
Published: October 2022

The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the buoyancy mixed convection flow of non-Newtonian fluid over a flat plate. The addition of a small amount of polymers into a Newtonian solvent raises the viscosity and generates elastic properties in the resulting solution. To study the behavior of these viscoelastic fluids, finite extensible nonlinear elastic constitutive equations along with Peterlin’s closure (FENE-P model) are used. Along with mass, momentum and energy equations, viscoelastic constitutive equations are also used to examine the rheology of the resulting polymer solution. Similarity transformations are introduced to convert the governing equations into nondimensional forms. The nondimensional equations are solved using the fourth-order boundary value solver in MATLAB. The distribution of the velocity and temperature fields is displayed graphically under the impact of various involved parameters like Eckert number (Ec), Richardson number (Ri), Prandtl number (Pr). The addition of polymers increases the friction among the different fluid layers, leading to viscous dissipation in the fluid. The presented model’s validation is done with the Newtonian fluid to verify the results. The Nusselt number is also computed and analyzed to study the heat transfer rate. The effects of viscoelastic parameters like Weissenberg number (W[Formula: see text]), polymer viscosity ratio ([Formula: see text]) and polymer extensibility parameter ([Formula: see text]) on heat transfer rate are also shown graphically. Buoyancy parameter (Richardson number, [Formula: see text]) represents the dominance of natural convection relative to that of forced convection. The temperature of the resulting fluid falls with the increase in the value of Ri. The Nusselt number tends to decrease with increasing Richardson number when viscous dissipation effects are active.
The complement problem for linklessly embeddable graphs
Authors: Odeneal Ryan , Naimi Ramin , Pavelescu Andrei , Pavelescu Elena
Published: October 2022

We find all maximal linklessly embeddable graphs of order up to 11, and verify that for every graph [Formula: see text] of order 11 either [Formula: see text] or its complement [Formula: see text] is intrinsically linked. We give an example of a graph [Formula: see text] of order 11 such that both [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are [Formula: see text]-minor free. We provide minimal order examples of maximal linklessly embeddable graphs that are not triangular or not three-connected. We prove a Nordhaus–Gaddum-type conjecture on the Colin de Verdière invariant for graphs on at most 11 vertices. We give a description of the programs used in the search.
The cosmic web crystal: Ising model for large-scale structures
Authors: Giani Leonardo , Davis Tamara Maree
Published: October 2022

If Dark Matter halos possess the gravitational equivalent of an intrinsic magnetic spin, a formal analogy exists between the low redshift behavior of the Cosmic Web in a flat FLRW background and a crystal of spins submerged in a thermal reservoir with temperature [Formula: see text]. We argue that, within the use of the Bianchi type IX geometry to describe the gravitational collapse of matter inhomogeneities, the spins are nothing but the heritage of its underlying SU(2) symmetry. Therefore, just like electrons in quantum mechanics, these structures may have spin independently from their orbital angular momentum. We explore the phenomenological implications on cosmological scales of a possible late-time phase transition of the Cosmic Web towards (the gravitational equivalent of) a ferromagnetic state, described qualitatively using the Ising model in the mean field approximation.
Integrated Methodology of Soft Computing for Process Modeling and Optimization of Duplex Turn Cutting of Titanium Alloy
Authors: Yadav Ravindra Nath
Published: October 2022

Duplex turning (DT) is a novel concept of metal cutting where two tools are employed to cut the objects in lieu of single tool. It shows many benefits over conventional turning in terms of superior dynamic balancing, lower cutting forces and tool wears, better surface finish, reduction in vibration with additional support for workpiece. It is a complex method and the resulting experimental analysis becomes difficult and expensive. In such conditions, modeling techniques show their potential for parametric study, prediction of data for optimization and selection of optimal condition. Generally, soft computing-based Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is applied for modeling and prediction for complicated processes while Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA-II) shows their potential for optimization of complex problems over Genetic Algorithm. Therefore, ANN and NSGA-II techniques are employed for modeling and optimization of DT process to minimize the surface roughness and cutting forces (primary and secondary). Finally, results reflect that ANN efficiently predicts the responses at different input combinations within training data set with absolute percentage errors as 2.55% for roughness, while 3.05% and 3.14% for cutting forces (primary and secondary), respectively. In the same way, optimized results also found within the range of acceptability with percentage errors as 2.57% for roughness, while 3.25% and 3.15% for primary and secondary forces, respectively.
Deformation Mechanism Studies by Varying Height to Diameter Ratio of Al–Mg and Al–Mg–C Metal Matrix Composites
Authors: Sharma Shubham , Singh Neera , Kumar Devendra , Gupta Sumit , Chaudhary Vijay , Gupta Niraj , Gupta Pallav
Published: October 2022

This paper reports deformation mechanism studies by varying height-to-diameter ratio of aluminum (Al), aluminum–magnesium (Al–Mg) and aluminum–magnesium–carbon (Al–Mg–C) metal matrix composites prepared using stir casting technique. Specimen were machined to the required sizes, having different [Formula: see text] ratios (i.e. [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]). Mechanical properties such as hardness and deformation of the undeformed and deformed specimens were examined. Deformation test was performed under a load of 14 tonnes at different interfacial frictional conditions, i.e. dry, solid lubrication and liquid lubrication. The study revealed significant improvement in densification and hardness behavior in the composites as compared to its base metals and alloys.
Optical-electrical properties and global reactivity analysis of aluminum phthalocyanine chloride
Authors: Benhaliliba M. , Ahmed A. Ben , Ayeshamariam A.
Published: October 2022

Global reactivity descriptors, Milliken’s charge distribution and molecular electrostatic potential based on Density Functional Theory (DFT), are used to understand the relationship between structure, stability and global chemical reactivity. In addition, these descriptors are used in the development of quantitative structure-activity and structure-property relationships. The study also shows the intense effect of the chlorine atom in the charge distribution. X-ray pattern reveals the crystalline structure along the (242) orientation of Aluminum Chloride phthalocyanine (AlCl-Pc) organic thin layer. Absorbance of such layer exhibits a high value within UV range and two consecutive peaks within visible range, spin coating is used to make an organic diode based on the AlCl-Pc cluster and the diode high rectifying facility is discovered. The height barrier is constant and saturation current is greatly reliant on light, the ideality factor of such a diode increases to 6.9 which confirms the non-ideality of such device.
A portable illumination device for photodynamic therapy of the oral cavity
Authors: Xiong Jiyuan , Wang Xu , Hu Xiaoming , Han Ying , Li Qin
Published: October 2022

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a minimally invasive method for treating oral leukoplakia. In this paper, we propose a portable PDT device consisting of a flexible circuit board with a liquid flow cooling module on the back. The light source size was 17[Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]mm, and the irradiation area of the light source was up to 100[Formula: see text]mm2. The irradiance range of this device was from 10[Formula: see text]mW/cm2 to 100[Formula: see text]mW/cm2. Simulation and experimental results showed that the irradiance coefficient variation for a treatment area of 81[Formula: see text]mm2 was less than 7%. At an irradiance of 100[Formula: see text]mW/cm2, a device surface temperature of lower than 42∘C can be achieved to satisfy the safety requirements under the conditions that the temperature of cooling liquid is 10∘C and the liquid flow speed is above 12[Formula: see text]mL/min.
Toward a Competence Model for Graphical Modeling
Authors: Soyka Chantal , Schaper Niclas , Bender Elena , Striewe Michael , Ullrich Meike
Published: October 2022

Modeling is an integral part of many computing-related disciplines and thus also represents a curricular core component in computing education in tertiary education. Competence models in which modeling is integrated at least to some extent already exist in some of these disciplines. However, for the core component of graphical modeling, a competence model that illuminates the relevant competences in detail is still lacking. Therefore, we develop a competence model for graphical modeling with the aim to make teaching and especially assessments in the field more competence-oriented. This article reports on the first two studies conducted to develop and validate the competence model for graphical modeling. In the first study, the structure of the competence model was developed based on theories and approaches of educational science. Competences relevant for graphical modeling were deductively derived from literature and existing university course descriptions using techniques of qualitative content analysis. The result of the first study is a preliminary competence model. In the second study, the preliminary competence model was reviewed by means of an expert rating in the modeling community. The competence model was revised and refined based on these findings and subsequent expert discussions. The main result of the investigation represents the competence model for graphical modeling, which includes a total of 74 competence facets at different cognitive process levels in the five content areas of “model understanding and interpreting,” “model building and modifying,” “values, attitudes, and beliefs,” “metacognitive knowledge and skills,” and “social-communicative skills.”
A Review of Generalizability and Transportability
Authors: Degtiar Irina , Rose Sherri
Published: October 2022

When assessing causal effects, determining the target population to which the results are intended to generalize is a critical decision. Randomized and observational studies each have strengths and limitations for estimating causal effects in a target population. Estimates from randomized data may have internal validity but are often not representative of the target population. Observational data may better reflect the target population, and hence be more likely to have external validity, but are subject to potential bias due to unmeasured confounding. While much of the causal inference literature has focused on addressing internal validity bias, both internal and external validity are necessary for unbiased estimates in a target population. This article presents a framework for addressing external validity bias, including a synthesis of approaches for generalizability and transportability, and the assumptions they require, as well as tests for the heterogeneity of treatment effects and differences between study and target populations.
Production of Iron Alloy by Direct Electrolytic Reduction Using Suspension Electrolysis in an Alkaline Electrolyte
Authors: Tokushige Manabu , Kongstein Ole Edvard , Haarberg Geir Martin
Published: October 2022

Iron alloys were produced by suspension electrolysis in a 50 wt% NaOH–H2O electrolyte at 383 K, and Fe–Cr and Fe–Ni alloys were obtained using a suspension of Fe2O3+Cr2O3 and Fe2O3+Ni(OH)2 particles, respectively. Highly ordered columnar deposits comprising cubic Fe–Cr particles with approximately 5-micrometer-long sides were obtained on a disk cathode with a current efficiency higher than 90% at 100–300 mA･cm−2. In contrast, disordered columnar deposits of Fe–Ni particles with diameters of approximately 1.0 μm were obtained on a disk cathode with a current efficiency of approximately 50% at 200 mA･cm−2. The proposed method affords iron alloys with compositions in the stainless-steel region that depend on the electrolysis conditions, namely, the current density and Fe2O3/Cr2O3 or Fe2O3/Ni(OH)2 content ratio.
Effects of Sputtering Pressure on Electrochromic Properties of NiO films Prepared by DC Magnetron Sputtering
Authors: Li Haonan , Li Yuechan , Li Xiuxiu , Xie An , Sun Dongya , Wang Yi
Published: October 2022

In this paper, nickel oxide films were deposited on ITO-coated glass substrates by DC magnetron sputtering at different pressures(1.2 Pa ∼ 3.0 Pa). The effects of sputtering pressure on microstructure and electrochromic properties of nickel oxide films were investigated. The film thickness was measured by a surface profilometer. The crystal structure and surface morphology of the films were observed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The electrochromic properties of the films were studied by combining UV-visible spectrophotometer with electrochemical workstation. The results showed that the nickel oxide film obtained the best surface morphology (uniform grain size and the fewer surface cracks) and outstanding electrochromic performances, including large transmittance modulation (ΔT = 57.19%), high coloration efficiency (CE = 33.59 cm2·C−1) and fast switching speed (tc = 4.63 s, tb = 4.87 s) at a wavelength of 550 nm when the sputtering pressure was 2.4 Pa. And after 500 electrochemical cycles, the transmittance modulation could continue to increase to 61.49% and the coloration efficiency can still be maintained at about 28.21 cm2·C−1, which showed excellent cycling durability.
Electrodeposition of Pd Intermetallics using Hg-In by the Electrochemical Liquid-Liquid-Solid Method
Authors: Wu Henry , Maldonado Stephen
Published: October 2022

Electrodeposition of Pd from alkaline baths containing Pd(CN)2 and KCN with liquid metal electrodes has been performed. Data are presented that Pd dissolved into and reacted with the liquid metal electrodes via an electrochemical liquid-liquid-solid (ec-LLS) process. HgPd crystals were obtained with liquid Hg electrodes. On solid In electrodes, In7Pd3 was exclusively formed. In contrast, InPd was the primary product with Hg1-xInx alloy electrodes. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and electron backscattering diffraction show that the materials were not a pure phase, as minor components of HgPd and In7Pd3 were observed for various liquid Hg-In compositions. A mechanism is proposed where the InPd intermetallic forms through an intermediate phase of HgPd by the substitution of In atoms for the Hg sites of the unit cell. This study thus motivates further exploration of Hg1-xInx as a versatile medium for intermetallic synthesis by ec-LLS.
The impact of targeted ablation of one row of outer hair cells and Deiters’ cells on cochlear amplification
Authors: Xia Anping , Udagawa Tomokatsu , Quiñones Patricia M. , Atkinson Patrick J. , Applegate Brian E. , Cheng Alan G. , Oghalai John S.
Published: October 2022

Normal cochlear physiology involves force production from three rows of outer hair cells to amplify and tune the traveling wave. Here, we used a genetic approach to target and ablate the third row of outer hair cells in the mouse cochlea and found it reduced cochlear amplification by 79%. This means that the loss of even a relatively small number of OHCs, when evenly distributed, causes a substantial reduction in cochlear amplification.
Biological Significance of the Coupling Delay in Synchronized Oscillations
Authors: Kageyama Ryoichiro , Isomura Akihiro , Shimojo Hiromi
Published: October 2022

The significance of the coupling delay, which is the time required for interactions between coupled oscillators, in various oscillatory dynamics has been investigated mathematically for more than three decades, but its biological significance has been revealed only recently. In the segmentation clock, which regulates the periodic formation of somites in embryos, Hes7 expression oscillates synchronously between neighboring presomitic mesoderm (PSM) cells, and this synchronized oscillation is controlled by Notch signaling-mediated coupling between PSM cells. Recent studies have shown that inappropriate coupling delays dampen and desynchronize Hes7 oscillations, as simulated mathematically, leading to the severe fusion of somites and somite-derived tissues such as the vertebrae and ribs. These results indicate the biological significance of the coupling delay in synchronized Hes7 oscillations in the segmentation clock. The recent development of an in vitro PSM-like system will facilitate the detailed analysis of the coupling delay in synchronized oscillations.