bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of a Food‐Safe Colorimetric Indicator Based on Black Rice Anthocyanin/PET Films for Visual Analysis of Fish Spoilage
Authors: Ameri Maryam , Ajji Abdellah , Kessler Samuel
Published: May 2024

The safety of food products is of prime importance for consumers and manufacturers. Many means can be used to validate a food product's safety before it is consumed. This study is about the preparation, characterization and evaluation of a generally recognized as safe (GRAS) sensitive colorimetric sensor that detects volatile gases (TVB‐N) resulting from fish spoilage, thus indicating the pH variation of packaged fish products. This is performed by coating a thin layer of ink sensors on the surface of the supporting matrix (corona‐treated PET). Various visual pH indicators were prepared based on black rice anthocyanin as an FDA‐approved dye. Black rice, which contains more than 80% cyanidin‐3‐glucoside, is the most prevalent anthocyanin component. Because of its low toxicity and high concentration, it can be utilized as a natural food colourant. pH indicators based on black rice can show distinct colours in various pH: from red (low pH) to violet (4–6) and deep purple/blue (6–7), blue (7–9) to yellowish/light brown (9–13) throughout the acid–base reaction by the analyte. The ink formulation was prepared by incorporating a binder system (PVOH‐PEG) for higher surface wettability, a crosslinking agent (citric acid) for higher adhesion, an antifoaming agent (natural vanillin) and acetic acid as a pH fixing agent. Corona treatments affected substrate surface chemistry in this study. The samples with thermal treatment passed the ASTM D3330 tape test, the 8000 passages for dry sponge and the 25 passages for wet sponge through the abrasion method. Anthocyanin concentration in formulated ink based on calculation by UV–vis spectra is 0.240 mg/100 g. Sensitivity tests towards TVB‐N gases were carried out at a temperature of 4°C to evaluate the performance of colorimetric films with formulated ink along with thermal treatment (temperature: 165°C, time: 5 min) using the volatile gases emitted by the fish sample inside the package.
Expansion in supercritical random subgraphs of expanders and its consequences
Authors: Diskin Sahar , Krivelevich Michael
Published: May 2024

In 2004, Frieze, Krivelevich and Martin established the emergence of a giant component in random subgraphs of pseudo‐random graphs. We study several typical properties of the giant component, most notably its expansion characteristics. We establish an asymptotic vertex expansion of connected sets in the giant by a factor of . From these expansion properties, we derive that the diameter of the giant is whp
, and that the mixing time of a lazy random walk on the giant is asymptotically . We also show similar asymptotic expansion properties of (not necessarily connected) linear‐sized subsets in the giant, and the typical existence of a large expander as a subgraph.
Standardization and other approaches to meta‐analyze differences in means
Authors: Hopkins Will G. , Rowlands David S.
Published: May 2024

Meta‐analysts often use standardized mean differences (SMD) to combine mean effects from studies in which the dependent variable has been measured with different instruments or scales. In this tutorial we show how the SMD is properly calculated as the difference in means divided by a between‐subject reference‐group, control‐group, or pooled pre‐intervention SD, usually free of measurement error. When combining mean effects from controlled trials and crossovers, most meta‐analysts have divided by either the pooled SD of change scores, the pooled SD of post‐intervention scores, or the pooled SD of pre‐ and post‐intervention scores, resulting in SMDs that are biased and difficult to interpret. The frequent use of such inappropriate standardizing SDs by meta‐analysts in three medical journals we surveyed is due to misleading advice in peer‐reviewed publications and meta‐analysis packages. Even with an appropriate standardizing SD, meta‐analysis of SMDs increases heterogeneity artifactually via differences in the standardizing SD between settings. Furthermore, the usual magnitude thresholds for standardized mean effects are not thresholds for clinically important differences. We therefore explain how to use other approaches to combining mean effects of disparate measures: log transformation of factor effects (response ratios) and of percent effects converted to factors; rescaling of psychometrics to percent of maximum range; and rescaling with minimum clinically important differences. In the absence of clinically important differences, we explain how standardization after meta‐analysis with appropriately transformed or rescaled pre‐intervention SDs can be used to assess magnitudes of a meta‐analyzed mean effect in different settings.
Generative Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education
Authors: Romero Margarida , Reyes Jonathan , Kostakos Panos
Published: May 2024

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI) has become popular recently with the advances in text and image generation tools (e.g., ChatGPT) that are easy to use for the general public. The emergence of GAI has sparked a surge in academic studies within higher education (HE) but also raised concerns about the changes related to policy making. This chapter analyses the impact of GAI on HE, addressing its uses in language learning, chatbot applications, and responsible AI implementation. Evaluating both its benefits and limitations, this chapter navigates through diverse studies, presenting insights into GAI's potential in education, while emphasising the need for responsible deployment and ethical considerations.
Manifesto in Defence of Human-Centred Education in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Romero Margarida , Frosig Thomas , Taylor-Beswick Amanda M. L. , Laru Jari , Bernasco Bastienne , Urmeneta Alex , Strutynska Oksana , Girard Marc-André
Published: May 2024

This manifesto advocates for the thoughtful integration of AI in education, emphasising a human-centred approach amid the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI). The chapter explores the transformative potential of large language models (LLM) and generative AI (GenAI) in education, addressing both opportunities and concerns. While AI accelerates change in education, adapting to students’ diverse learning needs, it also poses challenges to traditional assessment paradigms. The manifesto stresses the importance of empowering teachers and students as decision-makers, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to AI integration. It emphasises human-centricity in AI use, promoting ethical considerations, responsible practices, and regulations. The right to choose and co-create is underscored, giving autonomy to educators and learners in selecting technologies aligned with their philosophies. Additionally, the manifesto introduces the concept of hybrid intelligence (HI), advocating collaboration between human and machine intelligence to enhance educational experiences. The manifesto encourages creative uses of AI in education, envisioning a harmonious partnership where AI and humans co-create transformative knowledge.
Preserving Teacher and Student Agency: Insights from a Literature Review
Authors: Lepage Alexandre , Collin Simon
Published: May 2024

This chapter is a comprehensive literature review that explores the influence of artificial intelligence (AI) on education and its implications for human agency. It begins by highlighting the potential advantages of incorporating AI in education, such as intelligent tutoring, learning assessment, and dropout prevention. The chapter then raises important questions regarding the roles of teachers and students in an AI-driven education system, contemplating whether AI can replace or enhance the capabilities of human educators. These inquiries initiate a discussion on the ethical considerations surrounding the deployment of AI in education.

To provide necessary context, the chapter offers definitions of AI in education and introduces two theoretical frameworks: the technician system theory and the concept of agency. The technician system theory suggests that as AI systems become more sophisticated, there is a risk of neglecting the complexity of teaching techniques and the expertise of human educators. The concept of agency is then presented as a means to comprehend and position human activity in relation to AI systems. The chapter explores agency from both the computer science and social science perspectives, emphasising the autonomy and decision-making abilities of both AI systems and individuals. With the focus on identifying AI applications that may limit teacher and student agency, the findings reveal that the integration of AI systems in education can lead to power imbalances and reduce the decision-making authority of teachers, shifting expertise to programmers and system designers. Likewise, student agency can be compromised by AI systems, particularly in task assignment and gamification.

Ultimately, this chapter underscores the significance of preserving human agency in the context of AI in education. It advocates for the design and implementation of AI-based tools that enhance agency rather than restrict it. The findings of the literature review shed light on the ethical implications and challenges associated with maintaining agency in the era of AI in education.
Learning Artificial Intelligence Through Open Educational Resources
Authors: Alexandre Frédéric , Comte Marie-Helene , Lagarrigue Aurélie , Viéville Thierry
Published: May 2024

This chapter discusses the creation and impact of a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) titled ‘Artificial Intelligence with Intelligence (IAI)’ aimed at fostering a culture of AI understanding and participation in ethical debates. The chapter first addresses the rationale behind developing the MOOC and the importance of citizen training in AI, particularly concerning ethical considerations surrounding algorithmic decision-making. This chapter also emphasises the need to reevaluate human intelligence in the broader context of AI advancements and probes the transformative nature of AI across various domains of life. Three perspectives are considered concerning the integration of AI in education: adapting the learning experience, using AI as a scientific tool for studying human learning, and critically examining its problems. Citizen education is crucial to understanding the scientific and technical elements of AI, especially in the context of algorithmic decision-making ethics. The chapter's focus on AI and citizen education is key. It emphasises the need for critical thinking to understand how AI technologies affect daily life. The chapter advocates AI training to help people understand how AI works and generate informed opinions about its potential and limitations.
International Initiatives and Regional Ecosystems for Supporting Artificial Intelligence Acculturation
Authors: Romero Margarida , Galy Isabelle , Camponovo Jérémy , Tressols Florence , Urmeneta Alex
Published: May 2024

National and international initiatives to support AI education are discussed in this chapter. Following an examination of the various initiatives undertaken in OECD countries, the chapter highlights the House of Artificial Intelligence (MIA) activities supporting AI acculturation to the regional educational and industrial ecosystem in the French Rivera. The chapter delves into these achievements, detailing partnerships, educational outreach, entrepreneurship initiatives, and the nuanced approach to addressing gender biases in AI education. Through the different workshops, students are empowered to actively contribute to AI's evolution, transforming from consumers to creators. Gender perspectives are explored, tackling stereotypes and biases. The chapter concludes with a spotlight on the Smart Hive project, an interdisciplinary initiative fostering sustainable development through AI, exemplifying the MIA's role in creating a regional ecosystem for AI acculturation.
Cubic and higher-order supergravity couplings for AdS vacua using Exceptional Field Theory
Authors: Duboeuf Bastien , Malek Emanuel , Samtleben Henning
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We show how to use Exceptional Field Theory to efficiently compute n-point couplings of all Kaluza-Klein modes for vacua that can be uplifted from maximal gauged supergravities to 10/11 dimensions via a consistent truncation. Via the AdS/CFT correspondence, these couplings encode the n-point functions of holographic conformal fields theories. Our methods show that these n-point couplings are controlled by the n-point invariant of scalar harmonics of the maximally symmetric point of the truncation, allowing us to show that infinitely-many n-point couplings vanish for any vacua of the truncation, even though they may be allowed by the remnant symmetry group of the vacua. This gives new results even for the maximally supersymmetric AdS5 × S5, AdS4 × S7 and AdS7 × S4 vacua of string and M-theory, where we prove old conjectures about the vanishing of n-point extremal and near-extremal couplings.

Focusing in particular on cubic couplings for vacua of 5-dimensional gauged supergravity, we derive explicit universal formulae encoding these couplings for any vacuum within a consistent truncation. We use this to compute known and new couplings involving spin-0, spin-1, spin-2 for the AdS5 × S5 vacuum of IIB string theory.
Collider signatures of near-continuum dark matter
Authors: Ferrante Steven , Lee Seung J. , Perelstein Maxim
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In this paper we study a near-continuum dark matter model, in which dark sector consists of a tower of closely spaced states with weak-scale masses. We construct a five-dimensional model which naturally realizes this spectrum. The dark matter is described by a bulk field, which interacts with the brane-localized Standard Model sector via a Z portal. We then study collider signatures of this model. Near-continuum dark matter states produced in a collider undergo cascade decays, resulting in events with high multiplicity of jets and leptons, large missing energy, and displaced vertices. A custom-built Monte Carlo tool described in this paper allows for detailed simulation of the signal events. We present results of such simulations for the case of electron-positron collisions.
Supersymmetric AdS solitons and the interconnection of different vacua of $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 Super Yang-Mills
Authors: Anabalón Andrés , Nastase Horatiu , Oyarzo Marcelo
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We find AdS soliton solutions in 5-dimensional gauged supergravity, obtained from the S5 compactification of type IIB, with a dilaton saturating the Breitenlohner-Freedman bound. The solutions depend on the value of the periodicity of an S1 cycle and the boundary values for two U(1) gauge fields, and give a scalar VEV in the dual field theory. At certain values of the gauge sources we have supersymmetric solutions, corresponding to supersymmetric flows, which are a deformation of the Coulomb Branch flow in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM. The solutions parameterize quantum phase transitions between a discrete spectrum phase, a continuous above a mass gap phase, and a continuous without a mass gap phase, in 2+1 dimensions. We analyze the phase diagram in terms of the QFT sources and we find that for every value for them, there are always two branches of supergravity solutions. We find that these two branches of solitons correspond to two possible vacua existing in the dual QFT when fermions are anti-periodic on an S1. We describe the interconnection of these states in the QFT at strong ’t Hooft coupling in the large N limit. In 10 dimensions, our solutions are related to deformations of D3-brane distributions.
Closed FRW holography: a time-dependent ER=EPR realization
Authors: Franken Victor , Partouche Hervé , Rondeau François , Toumbas Nicolaos
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We extend a recent de Sitter holographic proposal and entanglement entropy prescription to generic closed FRW cosmologies in arbitrary dimensions, and propose that for large classes of bouncing and Big Bang/Big Crunch cosmologies, the full spacetime can be encoded holographically on two holographic screens, associated to two antipodal observers. In the expanding phase, the two screens lie at the apparent horizons. In the contracting phase, there is an infinite number of possible trajectories of the holographic screens, which can be grouped in equivalence classes. In each class the effective holographic theory can be derived from a pair of “parent” screens on the apparent horizons. A number of cases including moduli dominated cosmologies escape our discussion, and it is expected that two antipodal observers and their associated screens do not suffice to reconstruct these cosmologies. The leading contributions to the entanglement entropy between the screens arise from a minimal extremal trapped or anti-trapped surface lying in the region between them. This picture entails a time-dependent realization of the ER=EPR conjecture, where an effective geometrical bridge connecting the screens via the minimal extremal surface emerges from entanglement. For the Big Crunch contracting cases, the screens disentangle and the geometrical bridge closes off when the minimal extremal trapped sphere hits the Big Crunch singularity at a finite time before the collapse of the Universe. Semiclassical, thermal corrections are incorporated in the cases of radiation dominated cosmologies.
Di-electron production at the LHC: unravelling virtual-photon and heavy-flavour contributions
Authors: Andronic Anton , Ježo Tomáš , Klasen Michael , Klein-Bösing Christian , Neuwirth Alexander Puck
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The production of virtual photons is a very sensitive probe of the properties of the quark-gluon plasma. As they are experimentally detected by lepton pairs, they suffer from a large background arising from hadron decays. Light-flavour hadrons dominate at low invariant masses below mee ~ 0.5 GeV and heavy flavours above. These contributions must therefore also be taken into account in experimental analyses at the LHC. In this paper, we calculate the direct contribution from virtual photons produced in the Drell-Yan process with an additional jet in POWHEG and find that it is significant at low invariant masses. We also simulate the background contributions from $$ c\overline{c} $$
c

c
¯

and $$ b\overline{b} $$
b

b
¯

production with POWHEG and quantify the theoretical uncertainties due to variations of the perturbative scales and parton distribution functions. We find larger relative and absolute uncertainties for the lighter c quarks than for heavier b quarks.
νe → νe scattering with massive Dirac or Majorana neutrinos and general interactions
Authors: Márquez Juan Manuel , Roig Pablo , Salinas Mónica
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We calculate the neutrino-electron elastic scattering cross section, extending the results previously obtained in ref. [1], in the presence of generic new interactions that take into account all the effects caused by finite neutrino masses. We address the potential significance of a heavy neutrino sector during precision measurements, particularly for tau neutrinos scattering with masses in the MeV range, for which the existing upper bounds on |Uτ4|2 would result in conceivably measurable contributions. Finally, we comment on the possibility to distinguish between Dirac and Majorana neutrinos, including the analysis of the new emerging parameters and its application to illustrative model-dependent scenarios.
Variations of the Mutual Curvature of Two Orthogonal Non-complementary Distributions
Authors: Rovenski Vladimir , Zawadzki Tomasz
Published: May 2024

On a smooth manifold with distributions $$\mathcal {D}_1$$

D
1

and $$\mathcal {D}_2$$

D
2

having trivial intersection, we consider the integral of their mutual curvature, as a functional of Riemannian metrics that make the distributions orthogonal. The mutual curvature is defined as the sum of sectional curvatures of planes spanned by all pairs of vectors from an orthonormal basis, such that one vector of the pair belongs to $$\mathcal {D}_1$$

D
1

and the second vector belongs to $$\mathcal {D}_2$$

D
2

. As such, it interpolates between the sectional curvature of a plane field (if both distributions are one-dimensional), and the mixed scalar curvature of a Riemannian almost product structure (if both distributions together span the tangent bundle). We derive Euler–Lagrange equations for the functional, formulated in terms of extrinsic geometry of distributions, i.e., their second fundamental forms and integrability tensors. We give examples of critical metrics for distributions defined on domains of Riemannian submersions, twisted products and f–K-contact manifolds.
Borsik’s Properties of Topological Spaces and Their Applications
Authors: Natkaniec Tomasz
Published: May 2024

Let X be an uncountable Polish space. L̆ubica Holá showed recently that there are $$2^{\mathfrak {c}}$$

2
c

quasi-continuous real valued functions defined on the uncountable Polish space X that are not Borel measurable. Inspired by Holá’s result, we are extending it in two directions. First, we prove that if X is an uncountable Polish space and Y is any Hausdorff space with $$|Y|\ge 2$$

|
Y
|
≥
2

then the family of all non-Borel measurable quasi-continuous functions has cardinality $$\ge 2^{{\mathfrak {c}}}$$

≥

2
c

. Secondly, we show that the family of quasi-continuous non Borel functions from X to Y may contain big algebraic structures.
The emergence of sulfo-click amidation in kinetic target-guided synthesis
Authors: Parvatkar Prakash T. , Manetsch Roman
Published: May 2024

Sulfo-click is a chemoselective and biocompatible reaction between thioacids and sulfonyl azides that forms highly versatile N-acylsulfonamides, interesting bioisosteres of carboxylic acids. This reaction is useful for chemists and biologists and has many applications in medicinal chemistry, drug discovery, bioconjugation chemistry, and chemical biology. Sulfo-click amidations have been extensively used in kinetic target-guided synthesis (KTGS) to identify modulators of protein-protein interactions (PPIs). Different variants of KTGS screening, such as binary and multi-fragments, as well as one-pot deprotection/amidation strategies, have been successfully performed using sulfo-click chemistry. In this mini-review, we discuss the recent developments of sulfo-click amidation in KTGS and provide directions for future research.
Chronische Rhinosinusitis mit nasalen Polypen – Verlängerung der Dupilumab-Therapieintervalle
Authors: Appel H. M. , Lochbaum R. , Hoffmann T. K. , Hahn J.
Published: May 2024

Hintergrund

Eine schwere, nicht kontrollierte chronische Rhinosinusitis mit nasalen Polypen (CRSwNP) kann sich unter Dupilumab 300 mg 2‑wöchentlich komplett zurückbilden. Spätestens dann folgt die Frage der Patienten nach einer möglichen Therapiedeeskalation. Eine Beendigung der Antikörpertherapie nach 24 Wochen führte zum Rezidiv, hingegen blieb unter reduzierter Dupilumab-Dosis durch Streckung des Intervalls auf 4 Wochen die Kontrolle erhalten. Eine vom Zulassungstext abweichende Verlängerung der Therapieintervalle wird jedoch aktuell nicht empfohlen.

Methoden

Es erfolgte eine retrospektive Untersuchung des Verlaufs von 29 Patienten mit schwerer CRSwNP, mit Typ-2-Inflammation assoziierten Komorbiditäten und bestehender Indikation zur Biologikatherapie. Nach Rückbildung der CRSwNP und der Beschwerden unter Dupilumab 300 mg 2‑wöchentlich war das Applikationsintervall individuell zunächst auf 4 Wochen, danach ggf. auf 6 Wochen verlängert worden. Erfasst wurden u. a. die Lebensqualität (Sinonasal Outcome Test, SNOT-22), der nasale Polypenscore (NPS) und das Riechvermögen (Sniffinʼ Sticks, Fa. Burghart Messtechnik, Holm, Deutschland).

Ergebnisse

Alle Patienten zeigten innerhalb der ersten 3 Monate ein sehr gutes Therapieansprechen. Eine Verlängerung des Dupilumab-Intervalls auf 4 Wochen erfolgte nach 7–31 Monaten (median 13 Monate), auf 6 Wochen (n = 9) nach 17–35 Monaten (median 23 Monate). Im Verlauf traten bei keinem Patienten ein Rezidiv, eine Verschlechterung der Lebensqualität oder des Riechens auf.

Schlussfolgerung

Eine Verlängerung der Dupilumab-Injektionsintervalle auf 4 evtl. auch 6 Wochen ist individuell nach weitestgehender Rückbildung der Polypen und Beschwerden ohne klinische Verschlechterung möglich. Weitere Studien zur Deeskalation bzw. Beendigung der Biologikatherapie bei erzielter CRSwNP-Kontrolle sind unabdingbar.
Low frequency of the wild-type freezing-tolerance LsCBF7 allele among lettuce population suggests a negative selection during domestication and breeding
Authors: Park Sunchung , Shi Ainong , Mou Beiquan
Published: May 2024

Key message

Sustainable winter production in lettuce requires freezing tolerant varieties. This study identified a wild-type allele of LsCBF7 that could contribute to freezing tolerance improvement in lettuce.

Lettuce is one of the most consumed vegetables globally. While ideally grown in 13–21 °C, its cultivation extends into winter in milder climates. However, occasional freezing temperatures can significantly reduce yields. Therefore, the development of freezing-tolerant lettuce varieties has become a long-term goal of lettuce breeding programs. Despite its significance, our understanding of freezing tolerance in lettuce remains limited. Plants have evolved a coping mechanism against freezing, known as cold acclimation, whereby they can increase freezing tolerance when pre-exposed to low nonfreezing temperatures. The CBF pathway is well-known for its central role in cold acclimation. Previously, we identified 14 CBF genes in lettuce and discovered that one of them, LsCBF7, had a loss-of-function mutation. In this study, we uncovered that accessions from colder regions carried the wild-type allele of LsCBF7 and this allele likely contributed to increased freezing tolerance, with 14% of the lettuce population carrying this allele. Interestingly, in wild lettuce (L. serriola) that is considered a progenitor of cultivated lettuce, this wild-type allele was much more common, with a frequency of 90%. This finding suggests that this wild-type allele may have undergone negative selection during the domestication or breeding of lettuce. Our data strongly indicate that this allele could be linked to early bolting, an undesirable trait in lettuce, which may have driven the negative selection. While this wild-type allele shows promise for improving freezing tolerance in lettuce, it is crucial to decouple it from the early bolting trait to fully harness its potential in lettuce breeding.
Bone metabolism in diabetes: a clinician’s guide to understanding the bone–glucose interplay
Authors: Sheu Angela , White Christopher P. , Center Jacqueline R.
Published: May 2024

Skeletal fragility is an increasingly recognised, but poorly understood, complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Fracture risk varies according to skeletal site and diabetes-related characteristics. Post-fracture outcomes, including mortality risk, are worse in those with diabetes, placing these people at significant risk. Each fracture therefore represents a sentinel event that warrants targeted management. However, diabetes is a very heterogeneous condition with complex interactions between multiple co-existing, and highly correlated, factors that preclude a clear assessment of the independent clinical markers and pathophysiological drivers for diabetic osteopathy. Additionally, fracture risk calculators and routinely used clinical bone measurements generally underestimate fracture risk in people with diabetes. In the absence of dedicated prospective studies including detailed bone and metabolic characteristics, optimal management centres around selecting treatments that minimise skeletal and metabolic harm. This review summarises the clinical landscape of diabetic osteopathy and outlines the interplay between metabolic and skeletal health. The underlying pathophysiology of skeletal fragility in diabetes and a rationale for considering a diabetes-based paradigm in assessing and managing diabetic bone disease will be discussed.

Graphical Abstract
Role of buttering layer composition on microstructural heterogeneity and mechanical properties of Alloy 617 and P92 steel dissimilar welded joints for future Indian AUSC program
Authors: Rathore Saurabh , Kumar Amit , Sirohi Sachin , Singh Vivek , Gupta Ankur , Fydrych Dariusz , Pandey Chandan
Published: May 2024

Restrictive operating conditions (even exceeding 700 °C) of materials in advanced ultra super critical (AUSC) power plants and the need to minimize manufacturing and maintenance costs require the production of dissimilar metal welded joints (DMW). Significant differences in the physical and chemical properties of welded materials lead to phenomena that reduce the weldability of the metals used and force the search for solutions that limit unfavorable phenomena, e.g., the use of buttering layers. The study presents a comparison of two types of joints with Alloy 617 (UNS N06617) and ferritic P92 (UNS K92460) steel made using Inconel 82 (ENiCrFe-3) and Inconel 617 (ERNiCrCoMo-1) alloys buttering layer and the corresponding chemical composition of filler metals. All areas of the joints made with the gas tungsten arc welding process were subjected to structural investigations (optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and mechanical tests (microhardness, room and high temperature tensile, and toughness testing). Despite the more complicated welding procedure, sound welded joints were obtained with favorable properties resulting, inter alia, from the reduced thickness of the martensite layer in HAZ of P92 steel and the limited diffusion of alloy components compared to welded joints without the buttering layer. This also resulted in a reduction of the maximum hardness (especially in the case of Inconel 82 buttering—by 15–30 HV0.5 in comparison with Inconel 617 buttering) and an increase in strength while limiting the decrease in plasticity (even 663 MPa tensile strength and 21% of elongation for Inconel 617 buttered joint). Moreover, improved high-temperature performance (approximately 70–100 MPa) of the welded joint following the application of the buttering layer was confirmed. The presented results allow for drawing general conclusions that both proposed welding procedures can be recommended for use in the working conditions occurring at AUSC.
Design, motion-planning, and manufacturing of custom-shaped tools for five-axis super abrasive machining of a turbomachinery blade type component
Authors: Martinez-Aguirre Maialen , Gómez Gaizka , Bo Pengbo , Barton Michael , González-Barrio Haizea , Calleja-Ochoa Amaia , de Lacalle Luis Norberto López
Published: May 2024

Free-form surfaces generated by non-uniform rational B-splines (NURBS) are evolving to face turbomachinery component requirements, such as turbine blades to enhanced efficiency. Super abrasive machining (SAM) is presented as a potential process for high-added value components using custom-shaped tools to be adapted to any surface. The adaptability and flexibility of these tool concepts are specifically designed to fit these complex surfaces. This paper presents an innovative manufacturing approach for blade type components using a custom-shaped tool designed through an optimization process that simultaneously optimizes both the shape of the tool and its motion. The proposed method with SAM finishing using a custom-shaped tool is compared against a standard tool and traditional machining process. The result obtained on the blade test case shows that the custom-shaped tools need fewer paths, yet produce more accurate surface finish.
Novel Uses of the SwiftNinja Steerable Microcatheter for Pediatric Cardiovascular Interventions
Authors: Herron Christopher , Shahanavaz Shabana
Published: May 2024

In the present era, the intricacy of procedures undertaken by a pediatric interventional cardiologist has increased, primarily attributed to dealing with smaller, younger patients with more complex anatomies. To adapt to these smaller and more complex patients, we must adapt our interventions and our equipment to perform these procedures. This article outlines various innovative applications of the SwiftNinja steerable microcatheter within the pediatric cardiac catheterization laboratory.
Coaggregated E. faecalis with F. nucleatum regulated environmental stress responses and inflammatory effects
Authors: Zhou Jiani , Yuan Zijian , Yang Ruiqi , Liu Tingjun , Lu Xianjun , Huang Wenling , Guo Lihong
Published: May 2024

To investigate the cell-cell interactions of intergeneric bacterial species, the study detected the survival of Enterococcus faecalis (Ef) under monospecies or coaggregation state with Fusobacterium nucleatum subsp. polymorphum (Fnp) in environmental stress. Ef and Fnp infected the human macrophages with different forms (Ef and Fnp monospecies, Ef-Fnp coaggregates, Ef + Fnp cocultures) for exploring the immunoregulatory effects and the relevant molecular mechanisms. Meanwhile, the transcriptomic profiles of coaggregated Ef and Fnp were analyzed. Ef was shown to coaggregate with Fnp strongly in CAB within 90 min by forming multiplexes clumps. Coaggregation with Fnp reinforced Ef resistance against unfavorable conditions including alkaline, hypertonic, nutrient-starvation, and antibiotic challenges. Compared with monospecies and coculture species, the coaggregation of Ef and Fnp significantly facilitates both species to invade dTHP-1 cells and aid Ef to survive within the cells. Compared with coculture species, dual-species interaction of Ef and Fnp significantly decreased the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, and chemokines MCP-1 secreted by dTHP-1 cells and lessened the phosphorylation of p38, JNK, and p65 signaling pathways. The transcriptome sequencing results showed that 111 genes were differentially expressed or Ef-Fnp coaggregated species compared to Ef monospecies; 651 genes were differentially expressed for Fnp when coaggregation with Ef. The analysis of KEGG pathway showed that Ef differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in quorum sensing and arginine biosynthesis pathway; Fnp DEGs were differentially concentrated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS) biosynthesis, biofilm formation, and lysine degradation pathway compared to monospecies.

Key points

• Coaggregated with Fnp aids Ef’s survival in environmental stress, especially in root canals after endodontic treatment.

• The coaggregation of Ef and Fnp may weaken the pro-inflammatory response and facilitate Ef to evade killed by macrophages.

• The coaggregation between Ef and Fnp altered interspecies transcriptional profiles.
TP-PROFILE: Monitoring the Thermodynamic Structure of the Troposphere over the Third Pole
Authors: Chen Xuelong , Liu Yajing , Ma Yaoming , Ma Weiqiang , Xu Xiangde , Cheng Xinghong , Li Luhan , Xu Xin , Wang Binbin
Published: May 2024

Ground-based microwave radiometers (MWRs) operating in the K- and V-bands (20–60 GHz) can help us obtain temperature and humidity profiles in the troposphere. Aside from some soundings from local meteorological observatories, the tropospheric atmosphere over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) has never been continuously observed. As part of the Chinese Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research Program (STEP), the Tibetan Plateau Atmospheric Profile (TP-PROFILE) project aims to construct a comprehensive MWR troposphere observation network to study the synoptic processes and environmental changes on the TP. This initiative has collected three years of data from the MWR network. This paper introduces the data information, the data quality, and data downloading. Some applications of the data obtained from these MWRs were also demonstrated. Our comparisons of MWR against the nearest radiosonde observation demonstrate that the TP-PROFILE MWR system is adequate for monitoring the thermal and moisture variability of the troposphere over the TP. The continuous temperature and moisture profiles derived from the MWR data provide a unique perspective on the evolution of the thermodynamic structure associated with the heating of the TP. The TP-PROFILE project reveals that the low-temporal resolution instruments are prone to large uncertainties in their vapor estimation in the mountain valleys on the TP.
The effect of a collar on primary stability of standard and undersized cementless hip stems: a biomechanical study
Authors: Kistler Manuel , Steinbrück Arnd , Schmidutz Florian , Paulus Alexander C. , Holzapfel Boris Michael , Woiczinski Matthias
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Aseptic loosening and periprosthetic fractures are main reasons for revision after THA. Quite different from most other stem systems, Corail cementless hip stems show better survival rates than their cemented counterpart, which can possibly be explained by the use of a collar. The study aimed to investigate primary stability with standard and undersized hip stems both collared and collarless.

Materials and methods

Primary stability of cementless, collared and collarless, femoral stems was measured in artificial bones using both undersized and standard size. After preconditioning, 3D micromotion was measured under cyclic loading at the bone-implant interface.

Results

The use of a collar resulted in higher micromotion within the same stem size but showed no statistically significant difference for both standard and undersized hip stems. The collared and collarless undersized stems showed no significant differences in 3D micromotion at the upper measuring positions compared to the standard stem size. Micromotion was significantly higher in the distal measuring positions, with and without collar, for the undersized stems (vs. standard collarless stem size).

Conclusion

The key finding is that the collarless and collared Corail hip stems, within one stem size, showed no significant differences in primary stability. Undersized stems showed significantly higher micromotion in the distal area both with and without collar.
Sinonasal mucosal melanoma in The Netherlands between 2001 and 2021: a clinical and epidemiological overview of 320 cases
Authors: Scheurleer W. F. Julius , van de Velde Lise J. , Devriese Lot A. , de Ridder Mischa , Louwman Marieke W. J. , Breimer Gerben E. , de Bree Remco , van Dijk Boukje A. C. , Rijken Johannes A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is a rare malignancy, characterised by high (local) recurrence rates and poor survival. Comprehensive understanding of tumour etiology is currently lacking, which complicates adequate tumour treatment. Besides examining trends in incidence, this study aims to assess the association between clinical characteristics, treatment practices and patient outcomes, with the objective of establishing a baseline from which SNMM management can be enhanced.

Methods

All newly diagnosed SNMM cases in The Netherlands between 2001 and 2021 were included using data from The Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR).

Results

A total of 320 patients were included. The annual incidence rate for the overall population was stable over the inclusion period with an annual percentage change (APC) of only − 0.01%. The 5-year overall survival (OS) and relative survival (RS) were 24.5 and 32.4%, respectively. Relative survival did not increase over time. The addition of adjuvant radiotherapy to surgery was not associated with a higher OS and RS compared to surgery alone.

Conclusion

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma is a rare disease with stable incidence rates in the Netherlands between 2001 and 2021. There has been no improvement in survival over the course of the inclusion period. The study reaffirms that adjuvant radiotherapy does not seem to improve patient outcomes. Given the generally poor outcomes for SNMM patients, novel therapeutic options ought to be considered in order to improve care.
Overcoming traps and pitfalls leading to misinterpretation of normal EEG variants and variation of the background activity
Authors: Gélisse Philippe , Benbadis Selim R. , Crespel Arielle , Tatum William O.
Published: May 2024

Normal EEG variants, especially the epileptiform variants, can be challenging to interpret because they often have sharp contours and may be confused with “epileptic” interictal activities. However, they can be recognized by the fact that “most spikes or sharp wave discharges of clinical import are followed by a slow wave or a series of slow deflections” (Maulsby, 1971). If there is no wave after the spike, electroencephalographers should be suspicious of artifacts and normal EEG variants. Most normal EEG variants display a single rhythm with the same frequency within the pattern and the morphology remains stable throughout the entire EEG recording with repetition of the same pattern. In case of doubt or difficulties with a standard EEG, it is recommended to undergo an EEG that includes sleep stages with or without sleep deprivation. Finally, epileptiform is an ambiguous term corresponding to an electroencephalographic trait. Epileptiform does not imply a pathological condition, including epilepsy. The clinical context remains the most paramount in the diagnosis of epilepsy. In this article, we propose a set of rules and guidelines to identify normal EEG variants in EEG tracings and normal variation of the background activity. It is not easy to accurately assign a specific/precise name to all EEG activity, but with an orderly approach to EEG that involves using a set of criteria, nonepileptic activity can be identified.
Adaptive impact analysis in flexible multibody systems based on hierarchically refined IGA models
Authors: Rückwald Tobias , Held Alexander , Seifried Robert
Published: May 2024

Usually, detailed impact simulation models within flexible multibody systems have to be set up manually rather than being generated automatically. This is because the process requires prior knowledge of the time and location of the impact, as well as the element resolution within the contact area. If the penalty method is used to determine the occurring contact forces, the corresponding penalty factor also needs to be determined manually. This work, however, presents an adaptive algorithm to simulate impacts within flexible multibody systems fully automatically using reduced isogeometric analysis models, the floating frame of reference formulation, and quasistatic contact models for an efficient but still accurate simulation. The adaptive algorithm detects impacts in the system, determines the contact locations on the bodies, refines the contact area, and determines the penalty factor, and therefore automatically simulates impacts. The work shows how to automatically simulate impacts in flexible multibody systems without user action or prior knowledge of impact location and size. The first application example simulates significant elastodynamic effects within a long flexible rod. The goal is to validate the algorithm by preserving the wave propagation and energy of the system. The second application example simulates the impacts of two flexible double pendulums. This setup is a suitable benchmark for the complete adaptive impact analysis procedure as the flexible double pendulums undergo large rigid body motions.
Identifying physiological determinants of 800 m running performance using post-exercise blood lactate kinetics
Authors: Watanabe Takuya , Inaba Takeru , van Rassel Cody R. , MacInnis Martin J. , Kakinoki Katsuyuki , Hatta Hideo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aims of the present study were to investigate blood lactate kinetics following high intensity exercise and identify the physiological determinants of 800 m running performance.

Methods

Fourteen competitive 800 m runners performed two running tests. First, participants performed a multistage graded exercise test to determine physiological indicators related to endurance performance. Second, participants performed four to six 30-s high intensity running bouts to determine post-exercise blood lactate kinetics. Using a biexponential time function, lactate exchange ability (γ1), lactate removal ability (γ2), and the quantity of lactate accumulated (QLaA) were calculated from individual blood lactate recovery data.

Results

800 m running performance was significantly correlated with peak oxygen consumption (r = −0.794), γ1 and γ2 at 800 m race pace (r = −0.604 and −0.845, respectively), and QLaA at maximal running speed (r = −0.657). $${\dot{\text{V}}}$$

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O2peak and γ2 at 800 m race pace explained 83% of the variance in 800 m running performance.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that (1) a high capacity to exchange and remove lactate, (2) a high capacity for short-term lactate accumulation and, (3) peak oxygen consumption, are critical elements of 800 m running performance. Accordingly, while lactate has primarily been utilized as a performance indicator for long-distance running, post-exercise lactate kinetics may also prove valuable as a performance determinant in middle-distance running.
Genome-wide investigation of lncRNAs revealed their tight association with gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Tong , Ma Yuedong , Han Shuo , Sun Pengda
Published: May 2024

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is a significant health issue globally, ranking as the fifth most common cancer with over 10,000 new cases reported annually. Long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) has emerged as a critical player in cellular functions, influencing GC's development, growth, metastasis, and prognosis. However, our understanding of lncRNA's role in the pathogenesis of GC remains limited. Therefore, it is particularly important to explore the relationship between lncRNA and gastric cancer.

Methods

we conducted a comprehensive analysis of RNA sequencing data from the GEO database and stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) data from the TCGA database to identify lncRNAs that exhibit altered expression levels in GC and the mechanisms underlying lncRNA-mediated transcription and post-transcriptional regulation were explored.

Results

This study uncovered 94 lncRNAs with differential expression and, through co-expression analysis, linked these to 1508 differentially expressed genes (DEGs). GO functional enrichment analysis highlighted that these DEGs are involved in critical pathways, such as cell adhesion and the positive regulation of cell migration. By establishing a lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network, we found that the ceRNA mechanism, particularly involving RP11-357H14.17 and CTD-2377D24.4, could play a role in GC progression. Experimental validation of selected differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs (including RP11-357H14.17-CLDN1, BBOX1, TRPM2-AS, CLDN1, PLAU, HOXB7) confirmed the RNA-seq results.

Conclusions

Overall, our findings highlight the critical role of the lncRNA-mRNA regulatory network in the development and progression of GC, offering potential biomarkers for diagnosis and targets for innovative treatment strategies.