bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infiltration Characteristics of Unsaturated Residual Soils of Various Weathering Grades
Authors: K. Huat Bujang B , Hj.Ali Faisal , Huat Low Tian , Mariappan Saravanan
Published: March 2024

Kertas kerja ini memperihalkan kajian yang telah dibuat di lapangan mengenai ciriâ€“ciri penyerapan air ke dalam tanah baki pelbagai gred yang tak tepu. Dua tapak ujian dikaji, iaitu tapak A dan tapak B. Tapakâ€“tapak ini mewakili tanah baki daripada batuan yang lazimnya terdapat di Malaysia, iaitu tanah baki granit dan tanah baki sedimen (batu kapur). Kadar penyerapan air didapati bergantung kepada darjah luluhawa tanah. Untuk tanah baki granit, tanah bergred IV didapati mempunyai kadar penyerapan air yang tertinggi. Kadar penyerapan ini didapati bertambah daripada tanah bergred VI ke gred IV, yang kemudianya menurun daripada gred IV ke gred III. Kadar penyerapan air juga didapati bertambah dengan bertambahnya keliangan dan nisbah lompang tanah, dan menurun dengan meningkatnya ketumpatan tanah. Bagi tanah sedimen (batu kapur) pula, tanah bergred III didapati mempunyai kadar penyerapan yang tertinggi. Kadar penyerapan air di dapati meningkat daripada tanah bergred V ke gred III.

This paper presents the results of a field study on the infiltration characteristics of unsaturated residual soils of various weathering grades. Two field sites were studied, namely site A and site B. These sites respectively represent two of the most commonly occurring residual soils or rocks in Malaysia, that is the granitic residual soil and sedimentary (sandstone) residual soil. The water infiltration rate is found to vary depending on the soil weathering grades. For the case of granitic residual soils, soil of weathering grade IV was found to have the highest infiltration rate. Water infiltration is found to increase from grade VI to grade IV, and decrease from grade IV to grade III. Water infiltration is also found to increase with the increase in the soil porosity and void ratio, and decrease with the increase in the soil density. While for case of sedimentary (sandstone) residual soil, the soil of weathering grade III was found to have the highest infiltration rate. Water infiltration is found to increase from grade V to grade III.
Nonlinearity Tests for Bilinear Time Series Data
Authors: Mohamed Ibrahim , Zaharim Azami , Yahya Mohd.Sahar
Published: March 2024

Kertas kerja ini membincangkan dua ujian tak linear bagi data siri masa iaitu Ujian Keenan dan Ujianâ€“F. Ujianâ€“ujian ini adalah berdasarkan pendekatan domain masa dan menggunakan pengiraan yang tidak kompleks jika dibandingkan dengan pendekatan domain frekuensi. Keduaâ€“dua ujian sangat sesuai digunakan ke atas data bilinear disebabkan keduanya boleh diungkapkan ke bentuk kembangan Volterra. Di dalam kajian ini, kami membangunkan program khas untuk ujianâ€“ujian di dalam pakej Sâ€“Plus 2000. Kami akan menunjukkan melalui kajian simulasi bahawa ujianâ€“ujian tersebut berfungsi dengan baik untuk membezakan data linear dan data tak linear daripada model siri masa bilinear. Ujianâ€“ujian tak linear tersebut telah digunakan ke atas empat set data yang mengandungi ciriâ€“ciri tak linear dan keputusan yang dihasilkan adalah baik.

Kata kunci: Ujian Keenan, Ujian-F, ujian tak linear, bilinear

This paper discusses two nonlinearity tests in time series analysis, which are the Keenanâ€™s test and Fâ€“test. The tests are based on time domain approach and are computationally less complex than the frequency domain approach. Both tests are especially suitable for data generated from bilinear model as both can be expressed in Volterra expansion form. In this study, programs for both tests are developed in Sâ€“Plus 2000 package. Through simulation studies, it will be shown that the tests work well to distinguish linear from nonlinear data set generated from bilinear model. The nonbilinearity tests were applied on four real data sets which have nonlinear characteristics and the results obtained are desirable.

Key words: Keenanâ€™s test, F-test, nonlinearity test, bilinea
Modelling of PT326 Hot Air Blower Trainer Kit Using PRBS Signal and Crossâ€“Correlation Technique
Authors: Rahmat Mohd. Fuaâ€™ad , Yeoh Keat Hoe , Usman Sahnius , Abdul Wahab Adem
Published: March 2024

Pengenalpastian sistem merupakan suatu ujikaji untuk menentukan rangkap pindah atau matematik model bagi sesuatu sistem dengan menggunakan isyarat masukan yang sesuai. Dalam kertas kerja penyelidikan ini, pseudorandom binary sequence (PRBS) bagi 5 jujukan maksimum yang berlainan iaitu 15, 31, 63, 127, dan 255 digunakan sebagai isyarat masukan untuk menentukan rangkap pindah sistem bagi keadaan gelung buka dan gelung tutup. Fungsi sekaitan auto bagi isyarat masukan dan sekaitan silang bagi isyarat masukan dan keluaran dilaksanakan dengan menggunakan Dynamic Signal Analyzer (DSA) dan perisian MATLAB. Rangkap pindah kemudiannya ditentukan dari graf sekaitan silang melawan masa lengah dan graf sekaitan auto melawan masa lengah.

Kata kunci: Pengenalpastian sistem, pseudorandom binary sequence, sekaitan auto, sekaitan silang, pengesahan model

System identification is an experimental approach to determine the transfer function or equivalent mathematical description for the dynamic of system component by using a suitable input signal. A pseudorandom binary sequence (PRBS) signal of 5 different maximum lengths sequence of 15, 31, 63, 127, and 255 has been used as an input signal to determine the openâ€“loop and closedâ€“loop model of a hot air blower system. The autocorrelation of the input signal and cross-correlation between the input and output signal is performed using the Dynamic Signal Analyzer (DSA) and MATLAB software. From the correlograms of cross-correlation and autocorrelation, the transfer function model can be determined.

Key words: System identification, pseudorandom binary sequence, autocorrelation
Preface
Authors: Secretariat MySEC2014
Published: March 2024

This special issue introduces recent works related to software engineering practices. To be specific, this special issue elaborates on the current knowledge relevant to a various areas and research related to software engineering technology and the applications. The issue carries sixteen extended versions the papers presented during the Eighth Malaysian Software Engineering Conference (MySEC 2014) held in Langkawi on the 23-24 September 2014. MySEC 2014 is the premier regional conference on Software Engineering in the South East Asia with the aim to gather researchers and practitioners from academia, industry, and government in order to critically discuss and expose the current state-of-the-arts related to software engineering research and practices.
LOCALIZED MICROMECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF FINE-PITCH SAC305 DOPED CARBON NANOTUBE SOLDER JOINTS
Authors: Ismail Norliza , Zulkifl Muhammad Nubli , Atiqah A.
Published: March 2024

The addition of carbon nanotube (CNT) to the solder alloy has gained the attention due to its beneficially improve the mechanical properties of the solder alloy. Because of the miniaturization progress of electronic component, micromechanical properties of solder joint need to be focused instead of conventional mechanical properties. In this study, micromechanical properties, and deformation behaviour of SAC305 solder joints with the different CNT doping (weight percentage of 0.01, 0.02, 0.03 and 0.04) were investigated. Localized micromechanical properties included hardness, reduced modulus and stress exponent were determined via nanoindentation approach. Microstructural analysis was performed via optical microscope and field emission scanning microscope (FESEM). Doping of CNT in the SAC305 solder matrix changed the microstructure phase distribution. It was found that, doping of CNT, increase the near eutectic phase and decrease the primary b-Sn phase area. Furthermore, hardness values of SAC305 solder joint increased with increasing of CNT doping weight percentage. Hardness values of SAC305 solder joint increase about ~7 - 40% with the doping of CNT from 0.01 wt. % to 0.04 wt. %. However, localized reduced modulus and stress exponent show random values and no correlated trend with CNT doping were observed. Random values trend of stress exponent revealed that, SAC305 solder joint with the CNT doped involved the combination of deformation mechanism. This is due to the response of phase and CNT in the solder matrix to the localized indentation. In conclusion, a localized approach to hardness properties influenced by the CNT doping weight percentage.
IONIC CONDUCTIVITY OF POLYVINYL ALCOHOL-BASED GEL ELECTROLYTE CONTAINING DIETHYL CARBONATE PLASTICIZER FOR SUPERCAPACITOR APPLICATION
Authors: Azam Mohd Asyadi , Jun Yu Tan , Adaham T. A. T. , Aziz M. F. , Takasaki Akito
Published: March 2024

In this study, diethyl carbonate (DEC) as a plasticizer have been added to the gel electrolytes (GEs) system to influence the conductivity and storage performance of supercapacitor. The GE was prepared through a stirring method consisting of ethylene carbonate (EC), propylene carbonate (PC), potassium iodide (KI), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Consecutively, 5 wt. % DEC as a plasticizer was added for all samples. The GE preparation started with stirring all materials and heated until a homogenous gel was formed. The prepared GEs have been characterized with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), which utilized to study the ionic conductivity of them. Sample with 15 wt. % of DEC in GE has the ionic conductivity of ~6 x 10-3 Scm-1. This study shows that by adding DEC will cause the ionic conductivity improved which is suggested that this DEC enhanced the ion’s mobility in the GEs’ structures. In cyclic voltammetry, the gel electrolyte with 15 wt.% DEC attain the highest specific capacitance of 55.56 Fg-1 (scan rate of 10 mV s-1). The charge-discharge curve of gel electrolyte acquires a shark fin-like shape which is alike with an ideal supercapacitor symmetric triangle shape. To summarize, the development of high conductivity GE may provide the path for high-performance supercapacitor.
THE OPTIMIZATION OF PASSIVE MICROMIXERS WITH THREE-SPLIT RHOMBIC SUB-CHANNELS FOR CHEMICAL ANALYSIS APPLICATION
Authors: Pawinanto Roer Eka , Nuraini Erni , Mulyanti Budi , Aminudin Ahmad , Nurvadila Devi Fitria , Wulandari Chandra , Yunas Jumril , Hasanah Lilik
Published: March 2024

A rhombic with unbalanced three-split in a passive micromixer is studied. This work aims to optimize micromixers' three-split rhombic design for chemical analysis through mixing index and pressure drop analysis. The optimization was obtained by varying the angle of the rhombic and the ratio of the sub-channel widths, including angles of 30°, 45°, 60°, 90° and widths of 150:100 μm, 200:100 μm, 250:100 μm, and 300:100 μm. The COMSOL Multiphysics was used to simulate the performance based on a three-dimensional Navier-Stokes equation with the working fluid model in the form of water in the advection-diffusion model. A parametric study was carried out to evaluate the effect of the geometric micromixer variable on the mixing performance for the Reynolds range of 10-120. The results show that a micromixer with an unbalanced triangular rhombic the structure with an angle of 30° and width of 200:100 μm on Re 120 achieve mixing efficiency at 0.91 with pressure drop 1700 Pa.
THE PROPERTIES OF SONICATED IMMERSION GROWN HEMATITE FILMS AT VARIOUS ANNEALING TEMPERATURES
Authors: Wan Ahmad Wan Rosmaria , Mamat Mohamad Hafiz , Zoolfakar Ahmad Sabirin , Khusaimi Zuraida , Khirul Ashar Nur Izzah , Parimon N. , Vasimalai N. , Banu I. B. Shameem , Mahmood Mohamad Rusop
Published: March 2024

In this research, hematite (α-Fe2O3) film was synthesised to study the effect of annealing temperature on its crystallinity, optical and electrical properties. Through a sonicated solution immersion technique, hematite films were deposited on a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass substrate. In the synthesis process, 0.2 M ferric chloride (FeCl3·6H2O) was used as a precursor, 0.2 M urea (NH2CONH2) as the stabilizer, and de-ionized (DI) water as a solvent to produce 200 ml of aqueous solution. During the annealing treatment, we varied the temperatures at 350 ºC, 450 ºC and 500 ºC. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern revealed the presence of peaks of 2θ angles between 20° to 90°, corresponding to (104), (110), (214), (125) and (128) planes, which exhibited crystalline structures of rhombohedral with diffraction peaks of hematite phase (α-Fe2O3). Optical characterisations showed that the transmittances of all samples were close to 100% in the high wavelength level of the visible light region, which is close to the infrared spectrum. Absorption of hematite samples was found to be more than 0.6 a.u. in the low wavelength level of the visible light region close to the ultraviolet spectrum and close to 0 in the high wavelength level of the visible light region close to the infrared spectrum. A sample with an annealing temperature of 500 °C has the lowest transmission and the highest absorbance in the visible region due to dim pigments in the hematite film.
INFLUENCE OF GAMMA RADIATION ON EUTECTIC PHASE AREA AND HARDNESS PROPERTIES OF SAC305 SOLDER
Authors: Mohmad Lehan Nur Farisa Nadia , Wan Yusoff Wan Yusmawati , Ku Ahmad Ku Zarina , Ismail Norliza , Amat Azuraida , Abdul Manaf Nor Azlian , Abdullah Mohamad Faizal , Jalar Azman , Abdul Rahman Irman , Salleh Emee Marina
Published: March 2024

Gamma radiation plays an important role in changing the properties and behavior of the materials. In this present work, the correlation between the intermetallic compound (IMC), eutectic phase area and hardness of the lead-free solder radiated with low dose gamma radiation were investigated. Using a technique known as stencil printing, the solder paste was manually applied to the printed circuit board (PCB). Subsequently, the solder PCB was reflow soldered at 260 ˚C and allowed to expose to a variation of low dose gamma radiation (5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 Gy). Prior to the indentation test, the samples were subjected to a metallographic process to examine the cross-section of the interface between the solder and the substrate. The microstructure, intermetallic compound (IMC) and hardness properties were captured and measured via optical microscope and nanoindentation test equipment respectively. The IMC thickness of the solders increased with increasing radiation exposure, suggesting that gamma radiation influenced the morphologies of the SAC305 solder, leading to a change in IMC thickness. The effect of the exposure of various doses of gamma on the phase distribution of the eutectic in the SAC305 solder was also investigated. The eutectic phase area showed a comparable trend in the value of hardness obtained. The eutectic area increased up to 29.65 % after being radiated by 15 Gy of gamma, then decreased to 17.66 % when exposed to 25 Gy. From the nanoindentation test, the load-displacement curves extracted the value of hardness of the SAC305 solder.
NUMERICAL STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT VISCOMETER TEST ON STENCIL PRINTING PROCESS
Authors: Ishak M. H. H. , Rusdi M. S. , Abdullah M. Z. , Abdul Aziz M. S. , Abdullah M. K. , Rethinasamy P. , G. Santhanasamy Damian
Published: March 2024

Using CFD simulation, this study analyses the applicability of several spindle types for assessing lead-free solder paste. The purpose of this investigation is to determine how much solder paste applied on the solder pad. Five separate studies were conducted on parallel-plate (PP) and cone-plate (CP) spindles. The simulation was performed by using the Volume of Fluid (VOF) approach, and the Cross model represented solder paste viscosity. Since it is popularly used in modern industry, lead-free solder paste SAC305 type 3 was chosen for this study. Regardless of squeegee speed or aperture size, solder paste always filled the volume. The PP with 0.5 mm gap exhibits the smallest average disparity between simulation and experiment for all squeegee speeds tested. For 1⁰ CP, all experiments show similar trend line with average disparity except for 0.5 mm PP. All tests with very small aperture volumes produced comparable filled volume values, except for 0.5 mm PP test, which showed the smallest percentage change when the experimental data is compared at higher aperture volumes. This method can be used by other simulation researchers to get solder paste’s viscosity data for their solder paste simulation.
TEMPERATURE PROFILE MEASUREMENT USING MODIFIED COOLED STAINLESS TUBE TECHNIQUE IN A SINGLE SCREW EXTRUDER COUPLED WITH A MODIFIED THERMOCOUPLE MESH – EFFECT OF SCREW SPEED
Authors: Rasid Rozaidi , Michelle Melissa , Atiqah A.
Published: March 2024

The knowledge of the development of temperature profiles in polymer processing machinery is very useful to give a clear picture of the interrelationship between the temperature, rheological characteristics, and the behaviour of the polymer. Using the modified cooled stainless tube (CST) technique together with a modified thermocouple mesh, the temperature profiles of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in the extruder outlet using an open channel adapter with various screw speeds were investigated. The thermocouple mesh, which was considered easy to build was shown to have outstanding performance in terms of accuracy when obtaining readings for the experiment. From the study, the results indicated that the screw speed and temperature fluctuations are directly proportional.
Blended Learning to Enhance Writing Skills of Young ESL Learners
Authors: Kaur Manmit , C  Sandaran Shanti
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the impact of Blended Learning on sentence writing skills among young ESL learners in the classroom. Bridging a gap in existing literature, the research enlisted thirty primary school students and adopted a mixed-method research design. For data collection, a quasi-experimental research design featuring a one-group pre-test and post-test, a questionnaire survey, and a focus group interview was implemented. Paired sample T-test analyzed the pre-test and post-test data, while frequency and percentage were employed for questionnaire data, both accompanied by descriptive statistical analysis. Thematic analysis was used to analysis the interview data. The outcomes revealed a significant enhancement in young learners' writing skills post the BL Approach implementation, signifying its effectiveness. The study also shed light on BL's role in augmenting writing motivation among young learners by transforming their negative perceptions about writing. The findings provide valuable insights into the benefits of using Blended Learning (BL) for teaching sentence writing in elementary school students. Policymakers and educators can gain a deeper understanding of teachers' perspectives on imparting writing skills to young learners, allowing language students to concentrate on building strong sentence-writing capabilities through BL.
Social Media Marketing at Islamic Higher Education: Reactions, Posts, and Brand Post Contents
Authors: Utami Nadia Wasta , Fahmi Rizqi Anfanni , Prastya Narayana Mahendra
Published: March 2024

Social media have used by Higher Education Institution (HEI) for marketing communication and promotion purpose. Thus, some studies show that social media as a marketing tool in universities has not been widely practiced in predominantly Muslim countries. This paper aims to show Islamic universities in Muslim countries in various regions use social media as marketing tools, with focus on platforms utilization, engagement with users, and content analysis based on brand post categories. The data collected from the number of social media followers, reactions, and posts from top 12 Islamic universities in Muslim countries based on rank released by UniRank in 2021 and analyse with the software FanpageKarma. The time frame (2021) was chosen because the pandemic Covid-19 at that time has risen the social media usage by users. This papers also offers information about content analysis for social media posts on Instagram and Facebook, and describe it based on the experience brand posts, brand community, and brand resonance.
Modular curves and Néron models of generalized Jacobians
Authors: Jordan Bruce W. , Ribet Kenneth A. , Scholl Anthony J.
Published: March 2024

Let $X$ be a smooth geometrically connected projective curve over the field of fractions of a discrete valuation ring $R$, and $\mathfrak {m}$ a modulus on $X$, given by a closed subscheme of $X$ which is geometrically reduced. The generalized Jacobian $J_\mathfrak {m}$ of $X$ with respect to $\mathfrak {m}$ is then an extension of the Jacobian of $X$ by a torus. We describe its Néron model, together with the character and component groups of the special fibre, in terms of a regular model of $X$ over $R$. This generalizes Raynaud's well-known description for the usual Jacobian. We also give some computations for generalized Jacobians of modular curves $X_0(N)$ with moduli supported on the cusps.
Validation Assessment of Turbulent Reacting Flow Model Using the Area-Validation Metric on Medium-Scale Methanol Pool Fire Results
Authors: Kirsch Jared , Fathi Nima
Published: March 2024

Accident analysis and ensuring power plant safety are pivotal in the nuclear energy sector. Significant strides have been achieved over the past few decades regarding fire protection and safety, primarily centered on design and regulatory compliance. Yet, after the Fukushima accident a decade ago, the imperative to enhance measures against fire, internal flooding, and power loss has intensified. Hence, a comprehensive, multilayered protection strategy against severe accidents is needed. Consequently, gaining a deeper insight into pool fires and their behavior through extensive validated data can greatly aid in improving these measures using advanced validation techniques. A model validation study was performed at Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) in which a 30-cm diameter methanol pool fire was modeled using the SIERRA/Fuego turbulent reacting flow code. This validation study used a standard validation experiment to compare model results against, and conclusions have been published. The fire was modeled with a large eddy simulation (LES) turbulence model with subgrid turbulent kinetic energy closure. Combustion was modeled using a strained laminar flamelet library approach. Radiative heat transfer was accounted for with a model utilizing the gray-gas approximation. In this study, additional validation analysis is performed using the area validation metric (AVM). These activities are done on multiple datasets involving different variables and temporal/spatial ranges and intervals. The results provide insight into the use of the area validation metric on such temporally varying datasets and the importance of physics-aware use of the metric for proper analysis.
Experimental and Numerical Study on the Protection Efficiency of a Diamond-Shaped Thermal Jacket for Gun Barrels
Authors: Sun Quanzhao , Zhang Jie , Xie Run , Yang Guolai
Published: March 2024

Experimental and numerical investigations on the protection efficiency of a diamond-shaped thermal jacket made of the certain braided composites with anisotropic material properties for gun barrels were carried out to gain an insight into its thermal–structural behavior and performance. The experiments for the gun barrels with and without the thermal jacket subjected to unilateral thermal radiation were conducted on a thermal jacket protection efficiency experimental system. Three-dimensional finite element models were established to perform the thermal–structural analysis and approximate the temperature distribution and thermal deformation of the shrouded gun barrel and bare gun tube. The experimental results validated the numerical models for the study of solar radiation on the thermal–structural characteristics of the gun barrels with and without the thermal jacket. The temperature changes together with their gradients, and the thermal deformation of the gun tube shrouded with the thermal jacket were notably less than that of the bare gun tube. The nonuniform temperature distribution caused by unilateral radiation can be substantially ameliorated by the thermal jacket. The developed diamond-shaped thermal jacket owned satisfactory protection effectiveness. In addition, moderately increasing the thermal jacket's thickness or the air gap between the thermal jacket and gun tube can decrease the muzzle deflection of the shrouded gun barrels. The work is promising in providing both theoretical and practical contributions in design of shrouded tank gun barrels aiming at achieving high first shot accuracy.
Study on Dynamic Post-Buckling Stability of Thin-Walled Cylinders Subjected to Horizontal Vibration
Authors: Ye Yiji , Hasegawa Sho , Ichimiya Masakazu , Kasahara Naoto
Published: March 2024

As a lesson learned from the Fukushima nuclear accident, the importance of accident mitigation for beyond design basis events (BDBEs) is recognized. Excessive earthquake is a typical BDBE. During such events, the fast reactor main vessel (FRMV) is vulnerable to buckling because of its thin-walled cylindrical structure. Buckling deformation without causing immediate collapse should not be considered as a limit state in BDBEs. Instead, the objective is to achieve a stable post-buckling state. In the present study, dynamic post-buckling behavior of thin-walled cylinders under intense horizontal vibration is experimentally studied, which simulates loop-type FRMV design. Finite element method (FEM) simulation is also conducted and validated by experimental data. Based on results analysis, a global response stability after buckling is confirmed. The buckled model shows resilience to withstand catastrophic collapse even when intense excitation continues to apply. Using equivalent linear response method, dynamic mechanisms behind the stability are revealed. Due to substantial degradation of structural stiffness, the post-buckling response shifts into the out-of-phase domain such that response divergence is prevented. Meanwhile, the response is notably delayed from the input, which impedes the conversion of input energy into kinetic energy, reducing the inertial impact to the structure. These mechanisms are found to be independent of input waveforms and can be applied to a general seismic scenario. Moreover, the limit for global response stability after buckling and the effect of input frequency on the post-buckling behavior are clarified.
Numerical Investigation of the Effect of Trailing Edge Thickness of Simulated Ceramic Matrix Composite Blades on Loss Profiles
Authors: Miki Kenji , Ameri Ali
Published: March 2024

Ceramic matrix composite (CMC) is an enabling material allowing higher turbine inlet temperatures and possibly resulting in better thermal efficiency of gas turbine engines. This is because CMC layers with environmental barrier coating have significantly higher thermal limits (∼1755 K) compared with the more conventional alloyed metallic blades. CMCs possess a complex fabrication process resulting in different geometrical characteristics than metallic blades (e.g., larger trailing edge thickness, large leading-edge curvature, etc.). It is therefore desirable to assess the aerodynamic performance of the CMC blades using experimental and numerical simulations. To investigate, three different CMC blades with varying trailing edge thicknesses were numerically simulated. Both large-eddy simulation with the dynamic subgrid closure as well a recently implemented Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes coupled with an intermittency function-based transition model were utilized. Two sets of experimental test points with different Reynolds numbers at a given high-freestream turbulence range (Tu = ∼10–13%) were considered. The predicted pressure loading profiles, total loss distributions, and integrated loss of the three different CMC blades were computed and comparisons against the experimental data are presented herein. It was found that the mixing loss forms a larger proportion of the overall loss as the trailing edge thickness increases.
Artificial Intelligence-Based Thermal Imaging for Breast Tumor Location and Size Estimation Using Thermal Impedance
Authors: Nascimento Jefferson G. , Menegaz Gabriela L. , Guimaraes Gilmar
Published: March 2024

Tumors can be detected from a temperature gradient due to high vascularization and increased metabolic activity of cancer cells. Thermal infrared images have been recognized as potential alternatives to detect these tumors. However, even the use of artificial intelligence directly on these images has failed to accurately locate and detect the tumor size due to the low sensitivity of temperatures and position within the breast. Thus, we aimed to develop techniques based on applying the thermal impedance method and artificial intelligence to determine the origin of the heat source (abnormal cancer metabolism) and its size. The low sensitivity to tiny and deep tumors is circumvented by utilizing the concept of thermal impedance and artificial intelligence techniques such as deep learning. We describe the development of a thermal model and the creation of a database based on its solution. We also outline the choice of detectable parameters in the thermal image, the use of deep learning libraries, and network training using convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Lastly, we present tumor location and size estimates based on thermographic images obtained from simulated thermal models of a breast, using Cartesian geometry and a scanned geometric shape of an anatomical phantom model.
Anterior–Posterior Center of Pressure Is Associated With Knee Extensor Moment During Landing After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Chijimatsu Masato , Henmi Rui , Yokoyama Hiroko , Kimura Yuka , Ishibashi Yasuyuki , Tsuda Eiichi
Published: March 2024

Context: A reduced knee extensor moment (KEM) in the involved limb and asymmetry in the KEM during landing tasks are observed after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). There is limited information about the association of kinetic and kinematic parameters with the KEM during landing after ACLR. This study investigated the association of the anterior–posterior center of pressure (AP-COP) position, vertical ground reaction force (VGRF), and lower limb joint angles with the KEM during landing in female athletes following ACLR. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Twenty-two female athletes who underwent ACLR performed a drop vertical jump at 7.9 (1.7) months after surgery. We evaluated the KEM, AP-COP position, VGRF, and sagittal plane hip, knee, and ankle angles using a 3-dimensional motion analysis system with force plates. Results: The peak KEM in the involved limb was significantly smaller than that in the uninvolved limb during landing (1.43 [0.33] N·m/kg/m vs 1.84 [0.41] Nm/kg/m, P = .001). The VGRF in the involved limb was significantly smaller than that in the uninvolved limb (11.9 [2.3] N/kg vs 14.6 [3.5] N/kg, P = .005). The limb symmetry index of the KEM was predicted by that of the VGRF (P < .001, R2 = .621, β = 0.800). The KEM was predicted by the AP-COP position in the involved limb (P = .015, R2 = .227, β = 0.513) and by the VGRF in the uninvolved limb (P = .018, R2 = .213, β = 0.500). No significant correlation was noted between the KEM and the lower limb joint angles. Conclusions: The AP-COP position and VGRF were associated with the KEM during landing. Evaluating the VGRF and AP-COP position, not the lower limb joint angles, may contribute to understanding the KEM during double-leg landing after ACLR in the clinical setting.
DnaK duplication and specialization in bacteria correlates with increased proteome complexity
Authors: Pan Zhuo , Zhuo Li , Wan Tian-yu , Chen Rui-yun , Li Yue-zhong
Published: March 2024

The chaperone 70 kDa heat shock protein (Hsp70) is important for cells from bacteria to humans to maintain proteostasis, and all eukaryotes and several prokaryotes encode Hsp70 paralogs. Although the mechanisms of Hsp70 function have been clearly illuminated, the function and evolution of Hsp70 paralogs is not well studied. DnaK is a highly conserved bacterial Hsp70 family. Here, we show that
dnaK
is present in 98.9% of bacterial genomes, and 6.4% of them possess two or more DnaK paralogs. We found that the duplication of
dnaK
is positively correlated with an increase in proteomic complexity (proteome size, number of domains). We identified the interactomes of the two DnaK paralogs of
Myxococcus xanthus
DK1622 (MxDnaKs), which revealed that they are mostly nonoverlapping, although both prefer α and β domain proteins. Consistent with the entire
M. xanthus
proteome, MxDnaK substrates have both significantly more multi-domain proteins and a higher isoelectric point than that of
Escherichia coli
, which encodes a single DnaK homolog. MxDnaK1 is transcriptionally upregulated in response to heat shock and prefers to bind cytosolic proteins, while MxDnaK2 is downregulated by heat shock and is more associated with membrane proteins. Using domain swapping, we show that the nucleotide-binding domain and the substrate-binding β domain are responsible for the significant differences in DnaK interactomes, and the nucleotide binding domain also determines the dimerization of MxDnaK2, but not MxDnaK1. Our work suggests that bacterial DnaK has been duplicated in order to deal with a more complex proteome, and that this allows evolution of distinct domains to deal with different subsets of target proteins.

IMPORTANCE

All eukaryotic and ~40% of prokaryotic species encode multiple 70 kDa heat shock protein (Hsp70) homologs with similar but diversified functions. Here, we show that duplication of canonical Hsp70 (DnaK in prokaryotes) correlates with increasing proteomic complexity and evolution of particular regions of the protein. Using the
Myxococcus xanthus
DnaK duplicates as a case, we found that their substrate spectrums are mostly nonoverlapping, and are both consistent to that of
Escherichia coli
DnaK in structural and molecular characteristics, but show differential enrichment of membrane proteins. Domain/region swapping demonstrated that the nucleotide-binding domain and the β substrate-binding domain (SBDβ), but not the SBDα or disordered C-terminal tail region, are responsible for this functional divergence. This work provides the first direct evidence for regional evolution of DnaK paralogs.
Infectious purpura fulminans associated with pneumococcal septicaemia in a patient with unacknowledged functional asplenia
Authors: Duus Savannah , Jespersen Sanne , Wejse Christian
Published: March 2024

Purpura fulminans (PF) is a life-threatening complication of septic shock that can occur due to disseminated infections withStreptococcus pneumoniae. The spleen is an important organ in the immunisation process against encapsulated bacteria. Patients with asplenia, either functional or anatomical, are therefore at increased risk of developing serious infections and complications, such as PF, if infected with such bacteria.

This case report presents a woman in her late 40s with unacknowledged functional asplenia who was admitted to the hospital with signs of an acute disseminated infection causing septic shock, signs of disseminated intravascular coagulation and infectious PF. A few days after admission, the blood cultures showed growth ofS. pneumoniae. With early sepsis treatment, the patient survived although with some complications. Clinical presentation, investigations, differential diagnosis, treatment and outcome are presented. Treatment and early recognition of PF are presented and discussed. Relevant recognition and preventative treatment strategies for patients with asplenia are also reviewed and discussed.

This case demonstrates the importance of early recognition and treatment of PF in septic patients and the importance of preventive treatment strategies for patients with asplenia to avoid serious infections and complications.
Treating anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion-driven metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with alectinib through pregnancy
Authors: Wu Florence , Rittberg Rebekah , Lim Kenneth , Ho Cheryl
Published: March 2024

Management of cancer during pregnancy requires careful consideration of risks and benefits from maternal and fetal perspectives. For advanced lung adenocarcinomas, with no targetable driver mutations, there is evidence-based guidance on the use of carboplatin–paclitaxel chemotherapy after first trimester. In contrast, for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated or anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-rearranged metastatic lung adenocarcinomas, there is a paucity of clinical data on the safety of EGFR and ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors to mother and fetus for official guidelines to recommend the use of these otherwise-first-line therapies in pregnancy. Considering this knowledge gap, we present a case of a young gravida 1 para 0 (G1P0) woman who continued alectinib 300 mg oral two times per day for ALK-rearranged metastatic lung adenocarcinoma throughout all 36 weeks of her pregnancy and delivered a healthy baby at term via caesarean section (C-section).
Tuberculous pyomyositis presenting as septic arthritis and multiple site pyomyositis
Authors: Somaraj Meghna , Crasta Geofia Shaina , Bhat Rama
Published: March 2024

Primary tropical pyomyositis, commonly caused byStaphylococcus aureus, is characterised by suppuration in skeletal muscles, which manifests as single or multiple abscesses. Another rare causative organism isMycobacterium tuberculosisin endemic areas. Here, we report a case of primary tuberculous pyomyositis presenting as septic arthritis of the right knee and multiple site pyomyositis of the right thigh and chest wall. A tuberculous aetiology was overlooked at first, which resulted in a diagnostic delay. The patient was initially diagnosed, using ultrasonography, MRI and an absence of systemic symptoms of tuberculosis, with bacterial pyomyositis and treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics. However, further investigations performed on knee joint aspirate yielded negative cultures and a positive cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test, which, along with a non-resolution of his symptoms, suggested a primary tuberculous pyomyositis. He was successfully managed with incision and drainage of the lesions and completion of anti-tubercular therapy.
Spontaneous eruptive disseminated lobular capillary haemangioma
Authors: Ramachandraiah Varshini Neelathalli , Narasimhan Murali , Venugopal Rashmi Rithusha , Vakati Venugopal
Published: March 2024

Lobular capillary haemangioma (LCH), previously known as pyogenic granuloma, is a benign vascular tumour of the skin or mucosa. We report a patient with spontaneous eruption of LCH, a rare occurrence, which resolved probably due to reverse koebnerisation.
Behavioural mental health interventions delivered in the emergency department for suicide, overdose and psychosis: a scoping review
Authors: Nugent Shannon M , Anderson Johanna , Young Sarah K
Published: March 2024

Objective

To identify and describe evidence on brief emergency department (ED)-delivered behavioural and care process interventions among patients presenting with suicide attempt or acute ideation, substance overdose or psychosis.

Design

We employed a scoping review design and searched multiple data sources, clinical trial registries and references lists through March 2023. We included English-language trials and rigorously designed observational studies. In alignment with scoping review guidelines, we did not assess the quality of included studies or rate the strength of evidence of intervention effectiveness.

Population

Our population of interest was adults presenting to the ED with suicidality (eg, attempt or acute ideation), any substance overdose or acute psychosis from a primary mental health condition.

Intervention

We included studies of brief behavioural or care process interventions delivered in the ED.

Outcome measures

Health outcomes (eg, symptom reduction), healthcare utilisation and harms.

Results

Our search identified 2034 potentially relevant articles. We included 40 studies: 3 systematic reviews and 39 primary studies. Most studies (n=34) examined ED interventions in patients with suicide attempt or suicidal ideation, while eight studies examined interventions in patients with opioid overdose. No studies examined ED interventions in patients with acute psychosis. Most suicide prevention studies reported that brief psychological, psychosocial or screening and triage interventions reduce suicide and suicide attempt following an ED visit. Most clinical trial interventions were multicomponent and included at least one follow-up. All substance overdose studies focused on opioids. These studies often contained medication and referral or consultation components. Multiple studies reported increases in substance use disorder treatment utilisation; evidence on repeat overdose events was limited.

Conclusions

A wide range of multicomponent ED-delivered behavioural health interventions for suicidality and opioid use disorder show short-term improvement on primary outcomes such as suicide reattempt. Few studies on non-opioid substances and psychosis are available.
Survival and neurological function in patients treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and therapeutic hypothermia: a protocol for updating a systematic review
Authors: Cheng Pengfei , Wang Haizhen , Guo Luyao , Wang Meiling , Xu He , Gu Peipei , Wu Jinjing , Yang Minfei
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The widespread application of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has enhanced clinical outcomes for patients experiencing cardiac arrest. However, its effectiveness is still limited and falls short of the desired level. Therapeutic hypothermia, which maintains body temperatures between 32°C and 36°C in cardiac arrest patients treated with ECMO, has been proposed as a potential means of neuroprotection and increased survival rates. Nevertheless, it remains controversial, and its impact on patient complications has yet to be fully understood. Thus, this paper aims to update the protocol for a systematic review of patients treated with ECMO and therapeutic hypothermia, in order to explore its effects on survival and neurological function.

Method and analysis

This protocol has been developed in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols 2015. The following databases will be systematically searched: PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Embase, Ovid, CNKI, Wanfang and China Biology Medicine Disc. The database search strategy will use a combination of subject terms and free-text keywords. The search will encompass articles from the inception of each database up to 15 June 2023. Inclusion criteria encompass randomised controlled trials, cohort studies, case–control studies and quasi-experimental studies. Two researchers will independently review articles and extract relevant data based on these criteria. Any disagreements will be resolved through discussion. Data analysis will be performed using Review Manager software.

Ethics and dissemination

Since no patient data were collected in this study, ethical approval was not required. Research findings will be released in a peer-reviewed journal.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023435353.
Effects of cannabidiol on psychosocial stress, situational anxiety and nausea in a virtual reality environment: a protocol for a single-centre randomised clinical trial
Authors: Bawa Zeeta , McCartney Danielle , Bedoya-Pérez Miguel , Lau Namson S , Fox Richard , MacDougall Hamish , McGregor Iain S
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The non-intoxicating plant-derived cannabinoid, cannabidiol (CBD), has demonstrated therapeutic potential in a number of clinical conditions. Most successful clinical trials have used relatively high (≥300 mg) oral doses of CBD. Relatively few studies have investigated the efficacy of lower (<300 mg) oral doses, typical of those available in over-the-counter CBD products.

Methods

We present a protocol for a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial investigating the effects of a low oral dose (150 mg) of CBD on acute psychosocial stress, situational anxiety, motion sickness and cybersickness in healthy individuals. Participants (n=74) will receive 150 mg of CBD or a matched placebo 90 min before completing three virtual reality (VR) challenges (tasks) designed to induce transient stress and motion sickness: (a) a 15 min ‘Public Speaking’ task; (b) a 5 min ‘Walk the Plank’ task (above a sheer drop); and (c) a 5 min ‘Rollercoaster Ride’ task. The primary outcomes will be self-reported stress and nausea measured on 100 mm Visual Analogue Scales. Secondary outcomes will include salivary cortisol concentrations, skin conductance, heart rate and vomiting episodes (if any). Statistical analyses will test the hypothesis that CBD reduces nausea and attenuates subjective, endocrine and physiological responses to stress compared with placebo. This study will indicate whether low-dose oral CBD has positive effects in reducing acute psychosocial stress, situational anxiety, motion sickness and cybersickness.

Ethics and dissemination

The University of Sydney Human Research Ethics Committee has granted approval (2023/307, version 1.6, 16 February 2024). Study findings will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and at academic conferences.

Trial registration number

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12623000872639).
Cataract surgery and environmental sustainability: a comparative analysis of single-use versus reusable cassettes in phacoemulsification
Authors: Kallay Oscar , Sadad Rayane , Zafzafi Ahmed , Motulsky Elie
Published: March 2024

Objective

To compare sustainability, financial implications and surgical efficiency of two phacoemulsification cassette systems for cataract surgery: a machine with single-use cassettes and another with daily, reusable ones.

Methods

Observational study involving retrospective cataract surgery data collection at the Centre Médical de l’Alliance, Braine-l’Alleud, Belgium, a tertiary eye care centre. Information on cassette weight, quantities and transport volume was obtained from routine procedures and purchasing records. The costs for each machine were calculated by reviewing the invoices received from the accounting department.

Results

We found significant differences across comparisons. The reusable cassette machine, when compared with the single-use machine, used 306.7 kg less plastic (75.3% reduction), required 2494 m3less storage per 1000 surgeries (67.7% decrease) and cost €54.16 less per 10 procedures (16.9% reduction). The machine with daily reusable cassettes also exhibited a 7-minute priming time advantage for 10 procedures, reducing downtime between cases.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the benefits of adopting reusable cassette systems: reduced plastic consumption, storage volume and priming time, as well as enhanced efficiency and cost-savings. Healthcare professionals and institutions are encouraged to embrace environmentally conscious initiatives. The use of reusable cassette systems for cataract surgeries offers a pathway to sustainable practices.