bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning and experimental validation of novel biomarkers for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and cancers
Authors: Dai Hualei , Liu Ying , Zhu Meng , Tao Siming , Hu Chengcheng , Luo Peng , Jiang Aimin , Zhang Guimin
Published: August 2024

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a hereditary cardiac disorder marked by anomalous thickening of the myocardium, representing a significant contributor to mortality. While the involvement of immune inflammation in the development of cardiac ailments is well‐documented, its specific impact on HCM pathogenesis remains uncertain. Five distinct machine learning algorithms, namely LASSO, SVM, RF, Boruta and XGBoost, were utilized to discover new biomarkers associated with HCM. A unique nomogram was developed using two newly identified biomarkers and subsequently validated. Furthermore, samples of HCM and normal heart tissues were gathered from our institution to confirm the variance in expression levels and prognostic significance of GATM and MGST1. Five novel biomarkers (DARS2, GATM, MGST1, SDSL and ARG2) associated with HCM were identified. Subsequent validation revealed that GATM and MGST1 exhibited significant diagnostic utility for HCM in both the training and test cohorts, with all AUC values exceeding 0.8. Furthermore, a novel risk assessment model for HCM patients based on the expression levels of GATM and MGST1 demonstrated favourable performance in both the training (AUC = 0.88) and test cohorts (AUC = 0.9). Furthermore, our study revealed that GATM and MGST1 exhibited elevated expression levels in HCM tissues, demonstrating strong discriminatory ability between HCM and normal cardiac tissues (AUC of GATM = 0.79; MGST1 = 0.86). Our findings suggest that two specific cell types, monocytes and multipotent progenitors (MPP), may play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of HCM. Notably, GATM and MGST1 were found to be highly expressed in various tumours and showed significant prognostic implications. Functionally, GATM and MGST1 are likely involved in xenobiotic metabolism and epithelial mesenchymal transition in a wide range of cancer types. GATM and MGST1 have been identified as novel biomarkers implicated in the progression of both HCM and cancer. Additionally, monocytes and MPP may also play a role in facilitating the progression of HCM.
Unraveling the role of oligodendrocytes and myelin in pain
Authors: Kim Woojin , Angulo María Cecilia
Published: August 2024

Oligodendrocytes, the myelin‐producing cells in the central nervous system (CNS), are crucial for rapid action potential conduction and neuronal communication. While extensively studied for their roles in neuronal support and axonal insulation, their involvement in pain modulation is an emerging research area. This review explores the interplay between oligodendrocytes, myelination, and pain, focusing on neuropathic pain following peripheral nerve injury, spinal cord injury (SCI), chemotherapy, and HIV infection. Studies indicate that a decrease in oligodendrocytes and increased cytokine production by oligodendroglia in response to injury can induce or exacerbate pain. An increase in endogenous oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) may be a compensatory response to repair damaged oligodendrocytes. Exogenous OPC transplantation shows promise in alleviating SCI‐induced neuropathic pain and enhancing remyelination. Additionally, oligodendrocyte apoptosis in brain regions such as the medial prefrontal cortex is linked to opioid‐induced hyperalgesia, highlighting their role in central pain mechanisms. Chemotherapeutic agents disrupt oligodendrocyte differentiation, leading to persistent pain, while HIV‐associated neuropathy involves up‐regulation of oligodendrocyte lineage cell markers. These findings underscore the multifaceted roles of oligodendrocytes in pain pathways, suggesting that targeting myelination processes could offer new therapeutic strategies for chronic pain management. Further research should elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms to develop effective pain treatments.

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Teledentistry utilization by oral health professionals and policy considerations: A mixed methods case study
Authors: Schroeder Kelly , Santoro Morgan , Tranby Eric P. , Heaton Lisa , Ludwig Sharity , Martin Paige , Raskin Sarah E.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To examine variations in the delivery of teledentistry after the COVID‐19 pandemic and to explore oral health professionals' utilization of various teledentistry modes of delivery.

Methods

In this mixed methods case study, we collected teledentistry claims data from patient electronic health records (n = 78,756) encompassing various types of teledentistry utilization in clinical settings and through community outreach from a Dental Support Organization (DSO) in Oregon from January 2021 to November 2022. We analyzed the patient demographic and claims data using descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses to identify patterns of teledentistry service delivery. Qualitatively, we conducted virtual interviews (n = 13) through Microsoft Teams with oral health professionals about their experiences with teledentistry utilization. We used inductive and deductive coding to code individual transcripts and identify common themes among provider experiences.

Results

Out of the 78,756 electronic health record claims for teledentistry, 75.7% used synchronous audio, 13.4% used synchronous video, and 10.9% used asynchronous teledentistry methods. We observed a 8.6% increase in synchronous audio teledentistry utilization at the end of the study period, compared with a 4.2% increase in synchronous video and a 4.4% decrease in asynchronous teledentistry. Oral health professionals interviewed reported choosing the type of teledentistry delivery based on patient and provider access to the virtual teledentistry platform.

Conclusion

Oral health professionals' knowledge of and experiences with teledentistry need to be considered when developing policy and best practices for the use of teledentistry for patient care.
Young bilingual students' use of metacognitive strategies to overcome comprehension difficulties when reading in the foreign language
Authors: Leonet Oihana , Arocena Elizabet , Saragueta Eider
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the use of metacognitive strategies by young emergent multilingual students in a translanguaging pedagogy scenario. From a multilingual perspective, we understand metacognition as a broader concept that refers to the learning or thinking processes that encapsulate metalinguistic and crosslinguistic awareness. We focus on the performance phase of the reading process where students deploy strategies and monitor the progress and quality of the activity. The participants were 48 bilingual fifth graders in a multilingual school in the Basque Autonomous Community in the north of Spain; 39.5% of the students had Basque as their first language, while 60.5% had Spanish, similar to the sociolinguistic context of the school, and all were learning English as a foreign language. Data for this study were collected in the English class while the students were set in pairs to complete a reading comprehension task. Their performance was audio‐recorded, and language‐related episodes were analysed to explore the strategic behaviour of the students. This analysis identified episodes where students talked about either their language production or language use. The findings show that although pedagogical translanguaging focuses mainly on raising crosslinguistic awareness, it can also develop a broader metalinguistic awareness and facilitate metacognitive reflection. The study highlights the link between enhancing metalinguistic awareness and the development of multilingual students' metacognitive knowledge for effective self‐regulated strategic behaviour when reading in a foreign language.
Information and entropy in the labor market: Frictional and involuntary unemployment and the neutrality of money
Authors: Scharfenaker Ellis , Foley Duncan K.
Published: August 2024

We re‐examine the concept of involuntary and frictional unemployment and the neutrality of money in a statistical equilibrium model of the labor market in which boundedly rational workers' and employers' interactions have a non‐zero impact on wages. From this perspective both the degree of involuntary unemployment and the neutrality of money depend on the adjustment of both expectations of the average level of wages and prices and the further adjustment of anticipations of the scale of fluctuations in prices and wage offers. Shocks to the economy can produce new long‐run equilibrium levels of unemployment and short‐run increases in involuntary unemployment arising from unevenness in the adjustment of expectations.
Insights into a functional synthetic plant genome
Authors: Du Fei , Dai Junbiao , Jiao Yuling
Published: August 2024

Synthetic genomics involves the design, assembly, and transfer of artificially synthesized DNA fragments into target hosts to replace the native genome and construct viable forms of life. With advances in DNA synthesis and assembly techniques, the application of synthetic genomics in viruses, bacteria, and yeast has improved our knowledge of genome organization and function. Multicellular eukaryotic organisms are characterized by larger genomes, more complex epigenetic regulation, and widespread transposable elements, making genome synthesis challenging. Recently, the first synthetic multicellular eukaryotic organism was generated in the model plant Physcomitrium patens with a partially synthetic chromosome arm. Here, we introduce the design and assembly principles of moss genome synthesis. We also discuss the remaining technical barriers in the application of synthetic genomics in seed plants.
Decision‐making regarding subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator as primary prevention in patients with low ejection fraction
Authors: Ngan Ho‐Ting , Li Ka‐Ying , Wong Shing‐Lung , Tse Hung‐Fat
Published: August 2024

Background

Conventional transvenous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (TV‐ICD) is the standard device used for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Nonetheless its use is associated with lead‐related complications including infection and malfunction. A subcutaneous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (S‐ICD) offers an alternative option without the need for a transvenous lead but has limitations. The decision to implant a TV‐ICD or S‐ICD in patients with impaired LVEF for primary prevention of SCD is controversial. Several randomised controlled trials and large observational studies have confirmed similar safety and efficacy of S‐ICDs and TV‐ICDs in such population.

Methods

A literature review was conducted to compare the outcomes of subcutaneous (S‐ICD) versus transvenous (TV‐ICD) implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators. Databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, and Cochrane were searched for relevant peer‐reviewed articles. Studies were selected based on relevance and quality. Key outcomes like complication rates, efficacy, and patient survival were summarized in a comparative table.

Results

Different factors that influence the choice between an TV‐ICD and S‐ICD for primary prevention of SCD in patients with LVEF are highlighted to guide selection of the appropriate device in different patient populations. Moreover, future perspective on the combination of SICD with leadless pacemaker, and the latest development of the extravascular implantable cardioverter defibrillator are also discussed.

Conclusions

S‐ICD offers a safe and efficacious option to primary prevention in reduced ejection fraction. Future development including incorporation of leadless pacemaker will add to the arsenal of choice to protect patients from sudden cardiac death.
Unique root hydraulic and mechanical properties support the resilience of grapevines adapted to the Atacama Desert
Authors: Barrientos‐Sanhueza Cesar , Zurita‐Silva Andrés , Knipfer Thorsten , McElrone Andrew J. , Cuneo Italo F.
Published: August 2024

Cortical lacunae caused by drought, especially observed in hybrids originating from Vitis rupestris, disrupt the connection between roots and soil. Yet, the physiological processes behind lacuna formation during drought and its consistency across Vitis species remain unclear. Here, we used a root pressure probe to investigate fine root hydraulic and mechanical properties, in the arid‐adapted R‐65 and drought‐susceptible 101‐14Mgt cultivars. We then performed P–V curves, root sap osmolality, and electrolyte leakage (EL) and used fluorescent light microscopy techniques. Only 101‐14Mgt showed lacunae formation during drought due to its stiffer cortical tissue, unlike R‐65. Lacunae resulted in a notable decline in root hydraulic conductivity during severe drought, with increased EL and root sap osmolality, indicating potential cellular damage. R‐65 displayed different and xerophyte‐like characteristics featuring a higher turgor loss point and decreased root capacitance, essential for maintaining root structural integrity in arid conditions. Our findings highlight lacuna formation is impacted by root tissue elasticity possibly linked to specific Vitis species favoring deeper rooting. In arid‐adapted grapevines, hydraulic regulators such as reduced turgor loss point, and root capacitance could contribute to enhanced drought tolerance.
The status of MRI databases across the world focused on psychiatric and neurological disorders
Authors: Tanaka Saori C. , Kasai Kiyoto , Okamoto Yasumasa , Koike Shinsuke , Hayashi Takuya , Yamashita Ayumu , Yamashita Okito , Johnstone Tom , Pestilli Franco , Doya Kenji , Okada Go , Shinzato Hotaka , Itai Eri , Takahara Yuji , Takamiya Akihiro , Nakamura Motoaki , Itahashi Takashi , Aoki Ryuta , Koizumi Yukiaki , Shimizu Masaaki , Miyata Jun , Son Shuraku , Aki Morio , Okada Naohiro , Morita Susumu , Sawamoto Nobukatsu , Abe Mitsunari , Oi Yuki , Sajima Kazuaki , Kamagata Koji , Hirose Masakazu , Aoshima Yohei , Hamatani Sayo , Nohara Nobuhiro , Funaba Misako , Noda Tomomi , Inoue Kana , Hirano Jinichi , Mimura Masaru , Takahashi Hidehiko , Hattori Nobutaka , Sekiguchi Atsushi , Kawato Mitsuo , Hanakawa Takashi
Published: August 2024

Neuroimaging databases for neuro‐psychiatric disorders enable researchers to implement data‐driven research approaches by providing access to rich data that can be used to study disease, build and validate machine learning models, and even redefine disease spectra. The importance of sharing large, multi‐center, multi‐disorder databases has gradually been recognized in order to truly translate brain imaging knowledge into real‐world clinical practice. Here, we review MRI databases that share data globally to serve multiple psychiatric or neurological disorders. We found 42 datasets consisting of 23,293 samples from patients with psychiatry and neurological disorders and healthy controls; 1245 samples from mood disorders (major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder), 2015 samples from developmental disorders (autism spectrum disorder, attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder), 675 samples from schizophrenia, 1194 samples from Parkinson's disease, 5865 samples from dementia (including Alzheimer's disease), We recognize that large, multi‐center databases should include governance processes that allow data to be shared across national boundaries. Addressing technical and regulatory issues of existing databases can lead to better design and implementation and improve data access for the research community. The current trend toward the development of shareable MRI databases will contribute to a better understanding of the pathophysiology, diagnosis and assessment, and development of early interventions for neuropsychiatric disorders.
Epidemiology of pediatric inflammatory bowel disease categorized by age subgroups in Korea
Authors: Kim Yeong Eun , Kim Seo‐Hee , Kim Seong Pyo , Park Yujin , Kim Su Hwan , Lee Sung Hee , Choi Ho Jung , Jeong In Sook , Oh Seak Hee , Yoon Hyung‐Jin , Kim Kyung Mo
Published: August 2024

Background

Pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (PIBD) affects different age groups and its incidence is increasing worldwide. However, there is a lack of research focusing on age subgroups in Asian countries. In this nationwide population‐based study, we investigated the epidemiology of PIBD among different age subgroups in Korea.

Methods

We analyzed Korean health administration data from 2005 to 2016. Data were divided by age at diagnosis as follows: group 1, 0–1 years; group 2, 2–5 years; group 3, 6–9 years; group 4, 10–16 years. We analyzed the overall incidence, temporal changes, and regional differences by age subgroups, using Poisson regression analysis.

Results

From 2005 to 2016, 2734 inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) cases were diagnosed among patients under 17 years of age. In the overall population, the incidence rate of PIBD over the entire study period was 2.248/105 person‐years (PY), significantly increasing from 1.173/105 PY in 2005–2007 to 3.267/105 PY in 2014–2016. The incidence rates in groups 1 and 2 remained unchanged, whereas those of groups 3 and 4 increased significantly. The same trend was observed when analyzed separately for Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). The incidence rates of CD in groups 3 and 4 showed differences between metropolitan and non‐metropolitan areas, whereas those in groups 1 and 2, and UC of all age subgroups showed no difference.

Conclusions

The temporal trend and regional differences of PIBD differed among age subgroups, suggesting that genetic and environmental factors have varying impacts on IBD development across different subgroups.
Transcriptional signatures of cortical structural changes in chronic insomnia disorder
Authors: Yu Liyong , Hu Daijie , Luo Yucai , Lin Wenting , Xu Hao , Xiao Xiangwen , Xia Zihao , Dou Zeyang , Zhao Guangli , Yang Lu , Peng Dezhong , Zhang Qi , Yu Siyi
Published: August 2024

Chronic insomnia disorder (CID) is a multidimensional disease that may influence various levels of brain organization, spanning the macroscopic structural connectome to microscopic gene expression. However, the connection between genomic variations and morphological alterations in CID remains unclear. Here, we investigated brain structural changes in CID patients at the whole‐brain level and whether these link to transcriptional characteristics. Brain structural data from 104 CID patients and 102 matched healthy controls (HC) were acquired to examine cortical structural alterations using morphometric similarity (MS) analysis. Partial least squares (PLS) regression and transcriptome data from the Allen Human Brain Atlas were used to extract genomes related to MS changes. Gene‐category enrichment analysis (GCEA) was used to identify potential molecular mechanisms behind the observed structural changes. We found that CID patients exhibited MS reductions in the parietal and limbic regions, along with enhancements in the temporal and frontal regions compared to HCs (pFDR < .05). Subsequently, PLS and GCEA revealed that these MS alterations were spatially correlated with a set of genes, especially those significantly correlated with excitatory and inhibitory neurons and chronic neuroinflammation. This neuroimaging‐transcriptomic study bridges the gap between cortical structural changes and the molecular mechanisms in CID patients, providing novel insight into the pathophysiology of insomnia and targeted treatments.
Are restoration plans missing the target? Land tenure and cyclone risks reshuffles priorities for mangrove restoration
Authors: Piccolo Renee L. , Buelow Christina , Bell‐James Justine , Saunders Megan I. , Brown Christopher J.
Published: August 2024

Coastal wetlands, vital for fisheries habitats, have suffered extensive losses. Ecosystem restoration offers opportunities to improve fish catch and restore the valuable services these ecosystems provide. Successful restoration is dependent on choosing a site where restoration is feasible, which encompasses biophysical, social, governance, logistical, and resource factors. However, factors that influence feasibility such as land tenure (governance feasibility) and future climate risks (biophysical feasibility) are often overlooked in quantitative analyses of site selection. We ask how spatial priorities for restoration change when considering how feasibility is affected by land tenure, cyclone risk, and both factors together. Specifically, we analyzed a case‐study of mangrove restoration to improve fish catch in Queensland, where there is interest in restoring coastal habitats to support fish habitats. We found that the rank order of planning units by restoration feasibility was highly influenced by both land tenure and cyclones, with cyclones changing ranks with clustered regions along the coastline and land tenure variably changing ranks throughout. In planning units where fisheries benefit is expected to be high, but cyclone risk substantially reduces restoration feasibility, practitioners could consider strategically planting mangroves near established mangrove forest and selecting resilient species for restoration. Formalizing regulations for incentives to private land holders and amending legislation for easier permitting are additional suggestions for addressing land tenure challenges. Our study emphasizes the importance of systematic approaches to considering feasibility in spatial planning for restoration to minimize the risk of failure.
Radiological abnormalities of the cervicothoracic vertebrae in Warmblood horses with primary neck‐related clinical signs versus controls
Authors: Dyson Sue , Quiney Laura , Phillips Kathryn , Zheng Shichen , Aleman Monica
Published: August 2024

Radiological observations at the cervicothoracic junction in horses with or without related clinical signs have not been comprehensively described. The aim was to evaluate the seventh cervical (C7) to second thoracic (T2) vertebrae in horses with neck‐related clinical signs (neck pain and/or stiffness, neck‐related forelimb lameness, or general proprioceptive [spinal] ataxia) and control horses. This prospective analytical cross‐sectional study included 127 control horses and 96 cases, examined using standardized clinical and radiological protocols. Univariable logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to identify factors associated with radiological abnormalities. Severe modeling of the articular processes at C7–T1 was more likely in cases compared with controls, OR, 4.25; CI, 1.04–17.36; P = .04. Cases were more likely to have spondylolisthesis at C7–T1 than controls, OR, 3.61; CI, 1.75–7.44; P < .001. There was a lack of uniformity of disc space width at C6–C7, despite normal alignment of the vertebrae, in five (5.2%) cases and no control horses. Discospondylosis was seen in 9 (9.4%) horses at C7–T1 and 10 of 64 (15.6%) at T1–T2. The sagittal ratio for T1 was smaller for horses with neck‐related forelimb lameness (P < .0002), neck pain/ stiffness (P = .04), or neurological cases (P < .001) than controls. The prevalence of radiological abnormalities at C7–T1 and T1–T2 highlights the importance of careful evaluation of the cervicothoracic junction in horses with neck‐related signs.
The effects of alfaxalone on cardiac and pulmonary vascular size in cats evaluated by thoracic radiography and echocardiography
Authors: Schettler Michael , Holland Merrilee , Hofmeister Erik , Winter Randolph
Published: August 2024

Alfaxalone is a neuroactive steroid that modulates the GABAA receptor, which has shown recent widespread use as a sedative and anesthetic agent in cats, especially in patients being screened for cardiovascular disease. This prospective, partially blinded, randomized experimental study aimed to determine if sedation with alfaxalone would alter the appearance of the cardiac silhouette or pulmonary vasculature on thoracic radiographs or echocardiographic indices of cardiac or pulmonary vascular size. Eleven apparently healthy adult cats were recruited from a research colony. Four‐view thoracic radiographs and an echocardiogram were performed at baseline and following a 5 mg/kg intramuscular dose of alfaxalone. Vertebral heart score (VHS) and cranial and caudal lobar pulmonary vascular measurements were obtained at both time points by two independent blinded observers, and these were analyzed using two‐way ANOVA. The nonblinded echocardiographer obtained echocardiographic measurements at both time points, which were analyzed using a paired t‐test or Wilcoxon signed rank test. No significant differences were identified in VHS measurements or echocardiographic parameters between baseline and sedated cats. In healthy cats, alfaxalone does not appear to significantly affect the cardiovascular structures evaluated via thoracic radiography or echocardiography.
Clinical presentation and magnetic resonance imaging findings of a spinal cord ganglioglioma in a 7.5‐year‐old, male, neutered German shepherd dog
Authors: Swan Emily K. , Brooksby Richard T. , Jones Robert , Horkayne‐Szakaly Iren , Koehler Jey , LaDouceur Elise E. B.
Published: August 2024

A dog presented with a 1‐month history of left‐sided hemiparesis. MRI showed a focal, 4‐cm‐long, symmetrical, ovoid, poorly demarcated intramedullary expansion at C6–C7 that was T2‐weighted hyperintense, T1‐weighted isointense, and noncontrast enhancing. After clinical progression and euthanasia, pathology revealed a neoplasm composed of astrocytes and dysmorphic neurons, consistent with a ganglioglioma. The diagnosis was confirmed with immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy, which demonstrated electron‐dense granules in the perikaryon. Gangliogliomas are rare, benign neoplasms that may present as intramedullary spinal cord neoplasia. This is the first report on the clinical presentation, imaging, and pathology of a canine spinal ganglioglioma.
Unveiling the Transmission Potential of Opisthorchis viverrini and Intestinal Helminths Along the Thailand‐Laos Border in Thailand
Authors: Thitapakorn Veerachai , Phanaksri Teva , Yusuk Siraphatsorn , Pholhelm Montinee , Pitaksakulrat Opal , Kulsantiwong Jutharat , Sathavornmanee Thanakrit , Kunjantarachot Anthicha , Rojthongpond Thittinan , Chitkoolsamphan Yanwadee , Prasopdee Sattrachai
Published: August 2024

Aims

In pursuit of enhancing prevention efforts for the notably high endemic Opisthorchis viverrini infection in lower Mekong sub‐region countries, particularly Thailand and Laos, this cross‐sectional study investigated the transmission potential of O. viverrini and other intestinal helminths along the Thailand‐Laos border in seven Thai villages.

Methods and Results

Human and pet faecal samples, Bithynia snails and cyprinid fish were analysed for helminth infections. Additionally, a questionnaire survey assessed relevant risk factors among the human population. Two groups of helminth infections were detected in humans: foodborne infections (FBIs) including O. viverrini, minute intestinal flukes (MIFs), and Taenia spp., and soil‐transmitted infections (STIs) including hookworm and Strongyloides stercoralis, with prevalence rates of 7.4%, 0.5%, 2.5%, 0.5%, 2.5% and 3%, respectively. Smoking was identified as a risk factor for O. viverrini infection [adjusted odds ratios (ORa) = 3.12, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.33–7.30, p = 0.009] and FBIs (ORa = 2.47, 95% CI: 1.14–5.33, p = 0.022), while male was a risk factor for FBIs (ORa = 2.62, 95% CI: 1.16–5.94, p = 0.021). In dogs, hookworm, Toxocara spp., Spirometra mansoni, Trichuris vulpis and Hymenolepis diminuta were identified with prevalence rates of 35.6%, 8.1%, 8.1%, 1.2% and 1.2%, respectively. In cats, hookworm, Toxocara spp., S. mansoni, Strongyloides spp., Platynosomum fastosum, MIFs and H. diminuta were identified with prevalence rates of 50%, 17.9%, 10.7%, 7.1%, 3.6%, 3.6% and 3.6%, respectively. Bithynia snails showed 2% virgulate and 0.7% unknown cercariae infections, while among 19 cyprinid fish species, only unknown metacercariae were found.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the necessity of an integrated approach following the One Health concept to effectively combat these parasitic diseases while addressing human, animal and environmental health.
Alpha band oscillations in common synaptic input are explanatory of the complexity of isometric knee extensor muscle torque signals
Authors: Fennell Christopher R. J. , Mauger Alexis R. , Hopker James G.
Published: August 2024

We investigated whether the strength of oscillations in common synaptic input was explanatory of knee extensor (KE) torque signal complexity during fresh and fatigued submaximal isometric contractions, in adults aged from 18 to 90 years. The discharge times of motor units were derived from the vastus lateralis muscle of 60 participants using high‐density surface EMG, during 20 s isometric KE contractions at 20% of maximal voluntary contraction, performed before and after a fatiguing repeated isometric KE contraction protocol at 60% of maximal voluntary contraction. Within‐muscle coherence Z‐scores were estimated using frequency‐domain coherence analysis, and muscle torque complexity was assessed using multiscale entropy analysis and detrended fluctuation analysis. Alpha band (5–15 Hz) coherence was found to predict 23.1% and 31.4% of the variance in the complexity index under 28‐scales (CI‐28) and detrended fluctuation analysis α complexity metrics, respectively, during the fresh contractions. Delta, alpha and low beta band coherence were significantly increased due to fatigue. Fatigue‐related changes in alpha coherence were significantly predictive of the fatigue‐related changes in CI‐28 and detrended fluctuation analysis α. The fatigue‐related increase in sample entropy from scales 11 to 28 of the multiscale entropy analysis curves was significantly predicted by the increase in the alpha band coherence. Age was not a contributory factor to the fatigue‐related changes in within‐muscle coherence and torque signal complexity. These findings indicate that the strength of alpha band oscillations in common synaptic input can explain, in part, isometric KE torque signal complexity and the fatigue‐related changes in torque signal complexity.
Enhancing the Experimental Performance of Axially Rotating Wickless Heat Pipe Using Annular- and Longitudinally Finned Condensers
Authors: Yassin M. A. , Abd El-Hameed H. M. , Shedid M. H. , Abou-Ziyan H.
Published: August 2024

This paper investigates the impact of longitudinal- and annular-finned condensers on the steady-state thermal performance of a horizontally rotating wickless heat pipe. The parameters investigated include two fin types (longitudinal and annular) for different numbers of longitudinal (6, 12, and 18) and annular fins (15, 30, and 45) at a constant rotating speed of 1500 rpm and heat fluxes from 2090 to 16,700 W/m2. A heat pipe was designed, constructed, and commissioned with seven condenser sections. The heat pipe is charged with water as a working fluid, filling 35% of the internal pipe volume. The results indicated that fins significantly enhance the performance of the rotating heat pipe. The longitudinally finned condenser with 18 fins achieved the highest performance among the condenser configurations. Specifically, at a heat flux of 2090 W/m2, the temperature difference between the condenser and evaporator decreased by 71.2% compared to the plain condenser. Additionally, the effective thermal conductivity of the heat pipe exhibits a remarkable enhancement of 3.47 times over the plain heat pipe at the same heat flux. This enhancement highlights a substantial effect of the longitudinally finned condenser on the axially rotating heat pipe performance.
Performance Analysis and Optimization of Supercritical CO2 Recompression Brayton Cycle Coupled With Organic Flash Cycle With a Two-Phase Expander
Authors: Yu Tingfang , Zhang Genli , Zhou Jiapeng , Tang Yicun
Published: August 2024

In this work, a combined supercritical CO2 recompression Brayton cycle (SCRBC)/organic flash cycle with a two-phase expander (OFCT) system is proposed to improve the thermal efficiency of the SCRBC, which utilizes a two-phase expander to replace the high-pressure throttling valve of a basic organic flash cycle (OFC). In addition, the OFCT is coupled at the waste heat end of the SCRBC as the bottom cycle for the use of waste heat at low temperatures. A comprehensive comparison is carried out for different organic working fluids, including the R123, R245fa, R142B, R236ea, and R600, regarding the thermal performance, environmental effect, and safety levels. Furthermore, influences of various factors on the thermal performance of the combined SCRBC/OFCT cycle are also examined, including the top cycle pressure ratio, top cycle turbine inlet temperature, mass flowrate ratio, evaporation temperature, and the condenser's pinch point temperature difference. A multi-objective optimization approach is employed on the combined SCRBC/OFCT system, which considers both the thermal efficiency and the specific investment cost as the objective function, and the optimization procedure is implemented through the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) algorithm. The Pareto solution set and the compromise solution are finally obtained. The results indicate that the optimized combined SCRBC/OFCT system can improve the thermal efficiency by 11.75% and 9.70% when compared with the SCRBC and SCRBC/OFC, respectively.
State of Health Estimation for Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on Multi-Scale Frequency Feature and Time-Domain Feature Fusion Method
Authors: Zhao Yunji , Liu Yuchen
Published: August 2024

Accurately estimating the state of health (SOH) of lithium-ion batteries is important for improving battery safety performance. The single time-domain feature extraction is hard to efficiently extract discriminative features from strongly nonlinear coupled data, leading to difficulties in accurately estimating the battery SOH. To this end, this paper proposes a multi-scale frequency domain feature and time-domain feature fusion method for SOH estimation of lithium-ion batteries based on the transformer model. First, the voltage, current, temperature, and time information of the battery are extracted as time-domain features; second, the battery signal is processed by a multi-scale filter bank based on Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCCs) to obtain the multi-scale frequency-domain features; then, a parallel focusing network (PFN) is designed to fuze the time-domain features with the frequency-domain features, which yields low-coupling complementary discriminative features; finally, constructing the SOH estimation mechanism based on the transformer deep network model. The algorithm is validated by NASA and Oxford datasets, and the mean absolute error (MAE) and root-mean-square error (RMSE) are as low as 0.06% and 0.23%, respectively.
Optimization of Injection-Production Relationship of Offshore Unconsolidated Sandstone Reservoirs Based on Inter-Well Connectivity
Authors: Zhang Xinlong , Du Fengshuang , Zhao Hui , Ge Lizhen , Deng Jingfu
Published: August 2024

The dynamic heterogeneity of the water drive sandstone reservoir in high water cut stage is strong, which leads to the differential enrichment and distribution of the remaining oil. The adjustment of the injection-production relationship can effectively guide the work of stabilizing oil and controlling water. Based on the principle of inter-well connectivity, this paper comprehensively considers the geological characteristics and development dynamics, and constructs the multi-layer reservoir joint well network inter-well connectivity model. By integrating the automatic history matching and the real-time injection-production optimization algorithms, the accurate inversion of connectivity parameters and real-time optimization prediction of production dynamics are realized. An actual field application showed that using this method led to an annual increase in oil production by 16,000 cubic meters and a reduction in water cut by 0.87%, which significantly enhanced oil recovery and improved water control. This method can be applied to guide the adjustment of the planar injection-production structure in similar reservoirs.
Theoretical and Experimental Study of Heat Transfer in a Two-Channel Flat Plate Solar Air Collector
Authors: Álvarez Benjamin , Arce Jesús , Chávez Yvonne , Lira Leonel
Published: August 2024

In this article, a theoretical–experimental study was conducted on a two-channel solar air collector (SAC-2C). For the experimental study, a prototype of the SAC-2C was designed, built, and instrumented with dimensions of 1.860 m in length, 0.605 m in width, and featuring two air channels of 5.5 mm and 5 mm thick each, respectively. The collector operates via forced convection and was positioned at an inclination angle of 18.88 deg at the Tecnológico Nacional de México CENIDET campus (TecNM/CENIDET) located in Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico. For the theoretical analysis, the method of global energy balances in two dimensions (2D) and under transient conditions was applied. Temperature differences of up to 3.0∘C are observed with respect to mathematical models that do not consider heat conduction terms in solid elements. These differences are accentuated in the glass cover. Furthermore, altitude’s impact on air density calculations could influence theoretical temperature profiles up to 3.0∘C. The theoretical results of the numerical model were validated with the information obtained from the experimental tests, which showed good similarity. It was observed that the elements of SAC-2C are sensitive to sudden changes in meteorological conditions. The system’s response time is not only associated with the characteristics of the materials but also with the thermal bridges between the absorber plate and the casing. The calculation of the appropriate heat transfer coefficients allowed the evaluation of energy gains or losses in the SAC-2C collector.
A Novel Method for Bearing Fault Diagnosis Based on Novel Feature Sets With Machine Learning Technique
Authors: Mali Asmita R. , Shinde P. V. , Patil Amit Prakash , Salunkhe Vishal G. , Desavale R. G. , Jadhav Prashant S.
Published: August 2024

Bearings often experience small and medium raceway damage due to operating and loading conditions, which induces abnormal dynamic behavior. The rotor-bearing system is tested at various conditions, and the influence of each fault has been presented in this study. The fundamental bearing characteristics frequencies and statistical features withdrawn from a vibration response are utilized for fault identification using a machine learning algorithm. Extreme learning machine (ELM) and the supervised machine learning method K-nearest neighbor (KNN) network were utilized to classify vibration data collected experimentally under various operating conditions. Bearing characteristics frequencies and statistical features are applied to both proposed approaches and compared regarding their prediction quality. The result shows that the ELM has better performance over the KNN in precision of fault recognition up to 99% and thus feels promising for condition monitoring of industrial rotating machines. This work provides valuable insights for operation, maintenance, and early fault warning related to bearings.
Quenching Vibration on a Symmetric Laminated Composite Plate Excited by Multiple Harmonics Using Inerter-Based Dynamic Vibration Absorbers
Authors: Yu Jiang , Cha Philip D. , Chen Jiawang , Yu Zhefeng , Zhou Xiang
Published: August 2024

In this article, a simple and efficient method is developed to quench the steady-state vibration of a symmetric laminated composite rectangular plate subjected to multiple harmonics with distinct excitation frequencies. The introduction of the inerter into the traditional dynamic vibration absorber enlarges the solution space for both the feasible attachment locations and the absorber parameters. For a given set of attachment locations, when the traditional vibration absorbers yield physically unrealizable absorber parameters, i.e., negative absorber parameters, an inerter-based vibration absorber can be used such that the absorber parameters become strictly positive. Using the assumed modes method, the governing equations of the laminated composite plate carrying the inerter-based dynamic vibration absorbers are first formulated. A set of constraint equations is established by enforcing nodes at user-specified locations on the plate. Harmonic excitations consisting of a single or multiple distinct excitations are considered. In addition, two attachment scenarios are analyzed: when the attachment and node locations coincide, and when they are distinct. Numerical experiments show that the absorbers’ parameters can be readily determined for both cases, and the proposed method can effectively enforce the desired node locations when the plate is subjected to either a single or multiple harmonic excitations.
Positioning Accuracy in a Concurrent Robot-CNC Hybrid Manufacturing System
Authors: Goodwin Jesse , Kelly Kathryn , Foley Melissa , Saldana Christopher , Kurfess Thomas , Saleeby Kyle
Published: August 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) has gained notoriety for offering advantages over traditional manufacturing methods, such as increased design complexity and flexibility. However, it has not found widespread use beyond rapid prototyping. One hindrance to the acceptance of AM processes in industry is the time and cost of fabrication per component. While metal AM by itself can be inexpensive, extra manufacturing steps in the form of subtractive manufacturing (SM) may need to be performed to reach final part tolerances, leading to hybrid additive-subtractive manufacturing (HASM) of a part, which increases time and cost. A potential area to reduce cost is through increasing the efficiency of the HASM process by conducting additive and subtractive manufacturing simultaneously. Usually, HASM is performed in a process where AM is completed in one machine or cell and transferred to another machine or cell for SM in a sequential assembly line process. This efficiency decreases part cost, but high aspect ratio parts or parts with internal geometry that require interleaved additive deposition and machining cannot be produced. One unexplored solution to simultaneous HASM that allows for interleaved operations is to operate the deposition head and machining spindle concurrently within the same machine envelope, known as concurrent HASM (CHASM). In this type of process, both AM and SM occur simultaneously on a batch of small parts or a single large part, maintaining a high efficiency without sacrificing the full range of complex geometries that AM allows for. A potential approach to the single-machine method could be to combine a robot and mill within the same envelope. A challenge to this approach, however, is control of both systems. Most machine controllers have limited external communication or, if a robot has been integrated, only offer movement of either the robot or mill at any given time. As a result, systems must pause either the AM or SM process to switch between them rather than working simultaneously. The present work investigates the positional accuracy of such a CHASM system comprised of a robotic arm and a 3-axis mill. Open-loop tests with limited communication between machines are performed on the system to verify positional error during concurrent robot-mill movements. Under certain conditions, it is demonstrated that position error can stay within 2 mm for the duration of a single layer; however, these tests show that, generally, the open-loop positioning performance of the system is inadequate for CHASM without part-specific hand-tuning of parameters. Based on these results, a set of requirements for successful robot-CNC CHASM is proposed for future integrations.
Investigating Nozzle Design for Cutting Fluid Supply During Inconel 718 Turning With CBN-Tools
Authors: Liu Hui , Kelliger Tobias , Meurer Markus , Bergs Thomas
Published: August 2024

The machining of difficult-to-cut materials, such as nickel-based alloys and high-alloy steels, is usually assisted by cutting fluid. In addition to the commonly used flood cooling, high-pressure cutting fluid supply offers great potential for further increasing tool life and process reliability. Although the positive effect of high-pressure cooling has been confirmed in a large number of studies, the relevant cutting fluid setting parameters such as nozzle cross-section area and supply pressure, and their influence on the process results have so far been insufficiently investigated. Against this background, a prototype tool holder was designed and additively manufactured in this work. The tool holder allows to vary the nozzle cross-section area without changing the cooling channels and the inclination of the nozzles. Experimental results revealed the optimal cross-section area of the rake face nozzle for the investigated process. It was also shown that although flank face cooling is necessary for the turning process, improper setting of the flank face nozzles can lead to a reduction in tool life.
Inspection on the Scratch Performance of a PVD-Coated Cemented Carbide Previously Micromachined by a Nanosecond Laser
Authors: Fang Shiqi , Salan Nuria , Guo Yuebin , Colominas Carles , Llanes Luis
Published: August 2024

Recently, nanosecond laser has been increasingly applied to process functional surfaces of cemented carbides in the tool industry, that have high finishing requirements for geometric precision. Coating is a common surface treatment for cemented carbides to improve their mechanical and thermal properties. In this work, micro-scratch tests were conducted on a PVD-coated cemented carbide grade, which was previously processed by a nanosecond laser. Scratch performance was evaluated and compared to the non-laser processed one in terms of their acoustic emission, penetration, and friction. Scratch tracks were inspected using SEM. The first results demonstrate that laser processing was beneficial to the scratch performance of the coated cemented carbide grade as less penetration and surface damage were induced.