bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Multi-Layer Parallelogram Flexure Architecture for Higher Out-of-Plane Load Bearing Stiffness
Authors: Radgolchin Moeen , Rath Siddharth , Awtar Shorya 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Parallelogram flexure mechanism (PFM) is a common flexure module that is widely used as a building block in the design and manufacturing of flexure-based XY motion stages that provide in-plane degrees-of-freedom (DoFs). In such motion stages, low in-plane stiffness along the DoF helps increase the DoF range of motion and reduce the actuation effort. At the same time, high out-of-plane stiffness is paramount to suppress out-of-plane parasitic motions, support heavy payloads, and mitigate the negative impacts of out-of-plane resonant modes. Achieving both of these design objectives simultaneously is extremely challenging in PFMs and flexure mechanisms comprising PFMs due to the inherent tradeoff between the in-plane and out-of-plane stiffnesses. This paper resolves this tradeoff by proposing a novel multi-layer PFM architecture, referred to as the sandwich PFM, that achieves significant improvements in the out-of-plane translational and rotational stiffnesses compared to conventional single-layer PFMs without impacting the in-plane DoF stiffness. Analytical models will be derived for the in-plane and out-of-plane stiffnesses of the sandwich PFM, which closely match the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) results. Several design insights into the performance of the sandwich PFM are discussed using the analytical stiffness models, and a general procedure is proposed to design a sandwich PFM.
Design and Evaluation of Three-Phalange Underactuated Adaptive LSDH Finger
Authors: Ren Mengfei , Chen Jinbao , Wang Chen 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The design of the terminal operation tool of the in-orbit service of the space station faces the difficult problem of complicated operation in a small space. Anthropomorphic hand tools operation has long been a controversial topic, partly because of dexterity and adaptive capabilities. Here, we propose a novel underactuated hand named linkage spline dexterous hand (LSDH). The underactuated LSDH finger can adapt to irregular objects without requiring complicated parallel linkages. Furthermore, the grasping process of the finger is composed of two sequential steps: initial parallel pinching and indirect adaptive grasping. To delve into the intricacies of the grasping mechanism exhibited by the finger, kinematics, force analysis, and performance evaluation are performed. The contact force between the object and the middle phalange can reach 20 N, marking an advancement compared to the recent literature. To evaluate the performance of the LSDH finger, the dexterity and the workspace of the LSDH finger are analyzed. It only requires one motor to drive the movement of three phalanges to adapt to different shapes and different sizes (diameter 30 mm–60 mm). When the length of the proximal phalange and the proximal shaft rotation angle get the max value, the dexterity can reach the best effect. The dexterity of the finger is up to 0.9 after various size optimizations under the size limitation.
Studies on Thermal Separation and the Effects of Geometrical and Operating Parameters on the Performance of Pressure Wave Refrigerators
Authors: Zafar S. , Nandi T. K. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Thermal separation in a pressure wave refrigerator (PWR) occurs primarily through the propagation of shock waves and reverse-moving rarefied waves produced by injecting a high-pressure gas into a low-pressure residual gas in a receiving tube or channel. The major advantages of PWRs are simple design, low cost, high reliability, low rotational speed, and efficiency comparable to the conventional turbo-expanders. The objectives of this work are to understand the thermal separation in PWRs and to study the effects of various geometrical and operating parameters on the performance of PWRs. Two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation using a finite volume method is adopted for this study. The results indicate that the temperature and pressure profiles of the fluid inside the receiving tube just before the discharge, in the region about half the tube length from the inlet nozzle, strongly govern the performance of a PWR. The operating frequency at which the isentropic efficiency attains the first peak value is determined in a generalized way. Within the chosen geometrical and operating parameters, the optimized tube length, operating frequency, and pressure ratio are 2 m, 50 Hz, and 2.5, respectively. The findings in this article will be useful in designing and operating PWRs optimally.
Dirt Ingestion Impacts on Cooling Within a Double-Walled Combustor Liner
Authors: McFerran Kyle C. , Thole Karen A. , Lynch Stephen P. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Double-walled liners consisting of impingement and effusion cooling are commonly used to cool gas turbine combustor chambers. Engine ingestion of particulates such as dirt, sand, or ash leads to particulate deposition and blockage of cooling holes in these liners. Prior work on double-walled liners has shown that deposition leads to flow blockage; however, no experimental work has studied the reductions in cooling that result from the deposition. The goal of the present work was to quantify this reduction in cooling by evaluating the heat transfer coefficient on the cold side of an effusion plate with and without dirt buildup. Heat transfer coefficients were quantified over a range of Reynolds numbers, pressure ratios, plate-to-plate spacings, and dirt injection amounts. The injection of dirt onto the cold-side effusion plate surface resulted in flow blockages and cooling reductions as high as 55%, with these effects differing for pressure ratio and plate-to-plate spacing. Scan data of the dirty effusion plate were used to characterize the deposition thicknesses for the different parameters tested. Overall, the heat transfer when having deposition on the effusion plate affected the cooling much beyond the insulation effect of the dirt layer. These results suggest that the effects of particulate buildup on the cooling flow field are an important driver in double-wall combustor liners.
From structure prediction to function: defining the domain on the African swine fever virus CD2v protein required for binding to erythrocytes
Authors: Reis Ana Luisa , Rathakrishnan Anusyah , Petrovan Vlad , Islam Muneeb , Goatley Lynnette , Moffat Katy , Vuong Mai Tuyet , Lui Yuan , Davis Simon J. , Ikemizu Shinji , Dixon Linda K. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a high-consequence pathogen posing a substantial threat to global food security. This large DNA virus encodes more than 150 open reading frames, many of which are uncharacterized. The
EP402R
gene encodes CD2v, a glycoprotein expressed on the surface of infected cells and the only viral protein known to be present in the virus external envelope. This protein mediates binding of erythrocytes to both cells and virions. This interaction is known to prolong virus persistence in blood thus facilitating viral transmission. The sequence of the extracellular domain of CD2v shows similarity with that of mammalian CD2 proteins and is therefore likely to feature two immunoglobulin (Ig)-like domains. A combination of protein structure modeling and extensive mutagenesis was used to identify residues mediating binding of transiently expressed CD2v to erythrocytes. The N-terminal Ig-like domain AGFCC′C″ β sheet was identified as the putative CD2v erythrocyte-binding area. This region differed from the putative CD58 ligand binding site of host CD2, suggesting that CD2v may bind to a ligand(s) other than CD58. An attenuated genotype I ASFV was constructed by replacing the wild-type
EP402R
gene for a mutant form expressing CD2v bearing a single amino acid substitution, which abrogated the binding to erythrocytes. Pigs immunized with the recombinant virus developed early antibody and cellular responses, low levels of viremia, mild clinical signs post-immunization, and high levels of protection against challenge. These findings improve our understanding of virus–host interactions and provide a promising approach to modified live vaccine development.

IMPORTANCE
A better understanding of the interactions between viruses and their hosts is a crucial step in the development of strategies for controlling viral diseases, such as vaccines and antivirals. African swine fever, a pig disease with fatality rates approaching 100%, causes very substantial economic losses in affected countries, and new control measures are clearly needed. In this study, we characterized the interaction between the ASFV CD2v protein and host erythrocytes. The interaction plays a key role in viral persistence in blood since it can allow the virus to “hide” from the host immune system. We identified the amino acids in the viral protein that mediate the interaction with erythrocytes and used this information to construct a mutant virus that is no longer able to bind these cells. This virus induces strong immune responses that provide high levels of protection against infection with the deadly parental virus.
Protein
S
-palmitoylation regulates the virulence of plant pathogenic fungi
Authors: Guo Mengmeng , Tariq Leeza , Song Fengming 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Protein
S
-palmitoylation, a universal posttranslational modification catalyzed by a specific group of palmitoyltransferases, plays crucial roles in diverse biological processes across organisms by modulating protein functions. However, its roles in the virulence of plant pathogenic fungi remain underexplored. In a recent study, Y. Duan, P. Li, D. Zhang, L. Wang, et al. (mBio 15:e02704-24, 2024,
https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.02704-24
) reported that the palmitoyltransferases UvPfa3 and UvPfa4 regulate the virulence of the rice false smut pathogen
Ustilaginoidea virens
. Through comprehensive characterization of
S
-palmitoylation sites, they revealed that
S
-palmitoylated proteins in
U. virens
are enriched in mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase and autophagy pathways, with MAP kinase UvSlt2 being a key target of UvPfa4-mediated
S
-palmitoylation. Further investigation demonstrated that
S
-palmitoylation of UvSlt2 is critical for its kinase activity, substrate interaction ability, and virulence function in
U. virens
. These findings reveal UvPfa4-mediated
S
-palmitoylation as a vital regulatory mechanism in
U. virens
virulence, highlighting the importance of protein
S
-palmitoylation in the pathogenicity of plant pathogenic fungi.
Coinfection of avian hepatitis E virus and different serotypes of fowl adenovirus in chicken flocks in Shaanxi, China
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Xu Huanyu , Tian Yinuo , Tang Jirong , Lin Huanqing , Sun Yani , Zhao Qin , Zhou En-Min , Chen Yiyang , Liu Baoyuan 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

In poultry, fowl adenovirus (FAdV) and co-infected viruses (such as avian hepatitis E virus, aHEV) are likely to cause decreased egg production, inclusion body hepatitis, and pericardial effusion syndrome. From July to September 2023, eight poultry farms of commercial broilers and commercial layers suffered from increased mortality, decreased egg production, and the presence of hydropericardium-hepatitis syndrome-like gross lesions in Shaanxi province, China. To determine the source of the infection, the viruses of aHEV, FAdV, avian leukosis virus (ALV), Marek’s disease virus (MDV), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), and H9N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) were detected. A total of 240 liver samples were collected from eight farms and detected by molecular etiology methods. The samples were tested positive for FAdV and aHEV and negative for NDV, MDV, ALV, and H9N2 AIV. Phylogenetic analysis based on the hexon loop-1 gene showed that these isolates were clustered into three distinct serotypes: FAdV serotype 4 (FAdV-4), FAdV-8a, and FAdV-8b. The partial ORF2 gene sequences obtained in this study shared the highest identity (76%–97%) with corresponding sequences of other known avian HEV isolates and belonged to gene type 3 avian HEV. Meanwhile, the isolated FAdV in this study could multiply in leghorn male hepatoma (LMH) cells. Overall, the disease may be mainly caused by FAdV and aHEV coinfection on these farms, and this is the first study to discover FAdV-4/8a/8b and avian HEV coinfection in a farm in China.

IMPORTANCE
Last year, eight poultry farms of commercial broilers and commercial layers suffered a serious disease in Shaanxi province, China. After molecular etiological investigation, the disease may be mainly caused by fowl adenovirus (FAdV) (FAdV-4, FAdV-8a, and FAdV-8b) and avian hepatitis E virus (aHEV) (genotype 3 avian HEV) coinfection on these flocks, and this is the first study to find FAdV-4/8a/8b and avian HEV coinfection in a farm. It provides a valuable foundation for the prevention and control of FAdV and avian HEV coinfection in chicken farms.
Complex network analysis of transmission networks preparing for the energy transition: application to the current French power grid
Authors: Emery Emile , Bercegol Hervé , Jonqueres Nicolas , Aumaître Sébastien 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The worldwide process of replacing fossil fuels with low-carbon energy sources is underway. Existing energy networks are expected to be deeply modified in nature and structure during this transition. This work uses graph-theoretical statistical physics tools to analyze topology and structural changes of power grids, with the French grid as a case study. We discuss the small-world model to define an optimality criterion, the construction of a graph model for the French high-voltage transmission grid, and the development of a growth model to study the dynamics of such networks. The main result of our project suggests that the high efficiency level in the current French network is due to a high-voltage mesh interconnecting thermal power plants. Since implementing low-power-density renewable energy sources would imply non-trivial adjustments to maintain features, such as efficiency and robustness, these considerations must be added to economic and energetic assessments of transition scenarios.

Graphic Abstract
ANALYSIS OF LINEAR AND NONLINEAR RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN SURFACE-ELECTROMYOGRAM SIGNAL AND FINGER KINEMATICS
Authors: KATARIYA RASHMI MANOJ , SHARMA RISHI RAJ , KUMAR MOHIT 
Published: December 2024

Muscle activation analysis is prominent for finger kinematics analysis which opens the scope in various domains including prosthetic palm. In this paper, a synergetic analysis of muscle activation is done with finger kinematics. The surface electromyogram signals are recorded from extrinsic muscles of the hand with various types of finger flexion–extension. The linear regression (LR) and random forest-based nonlinear regression analysis are performed for model development and comparative evaluation. The LR model is used to capture the linear relationship between surfaces electromyography (sEMG) signals and finger kinematics. However, random forest regressor (RFR) is employed to model the nonlinear relationship between sEMG signals and finger kinematics. Subject-specific and type-of-finger flexion action-specific analysis claimed that the RFR model achieved root mean square error of 0.487 which shows that the average deviation between predicted and actual values is very less. The [Formula: see text] score 0.99 is observed using RFR indicating that the model can successfully explain 99% of the variance of the data. Finally, the average testing time of 0.0274 ms is observed for the RFR model. The superiority of the developed model is justified in comparison with the other developed models. The findings of this study not only present a viable approach for accurate and intuitive myoelectric control, which uses muscle-generated electrical signals for prosthetic device operation but also provides a new perspective on muscle synergies.
Working in Europe with a Single Permit: a Golden Ticket or Pie in the Sky?
Authors: Weatherburn Amy 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The single permit regime is hailed as a key feature of the European Union (EU) legal migration package as its main purpose is to expedite access to the EU labour market for third-country workers with the skills and professional experience to address labour market needs. Following the adoption of the recast Single Permit Directive in May 2024, this article uses empirical findings drawn from the lived experiences of single permit holders in Belgium, Czechia and Spain to evaluate whether the legislative reform goes far enough to improve the administrative and procedural deficiencies which have emerged since the inception of the single permit regime in 2011 and can exacerbate the risk of exploitation. Such an examination is particularly timely, as the new European rules give Member States the opportunity to re-design their national mechanisms with a view to frontloading procedural and administrative guarantees that are cognisant of the lived experiences of single permit holders and grounded in a rights-based approach.
Stretchable thermoplastic polyurethane/single-walled carbon nanotube masterbatch nanocomposites with enhanced electrical conductivity and thermal properties
Authors: Zhu Ping , Chow Wen Shyang , Rusli Arjulizan 
Published: December 2024

A thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)/single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) nanocomposite was developed using a twin-screw extrusion process followed by injection molding. This study aimed to enhance the properties of TPU by incorporating a SWCNT masterbatch, with a polyol ester serving as the carrier resin. The electrical conductivity, rheological behavior, mechanical performance, and thermal properties of the TPU/SWCNT nanocomposites were systematically evaluated. The incorporation of the SWCNT masterbatch significantly improved the electrical conductivity of the TPU nanocomposites. With SWCNT loading levels below 0.6 wt%, the viscosity and processability of the nanocomposites were maintained. However, a noticeable decrease in viscosity was observed when the SWCNT content exceeded 0.6 wt%. The tensile and storage modulus of the nanocomposites increased, attributed to the stiffness and reinforcing effects of SWCNTs. Despite a slight reduction in tensile strength and elongation at break upon SWCNT addition, the tensile properties of the TPU/SWCNT nanocomposites at a loading of 0.4 wt% remained well-suited for strain sensor applications. The polyol ester in the SWCNT masterbatch facilitated the uniform dispersion of carbon nanotubes within the TPU matrix and enhanced the nucleation ability of SWCNTs, contributing to improved performance characteristics.
Exploring Nurses’ Personal and Professional Values and Care Quality: A Convergent Mixed-Methods Analysis
Authors: Hlebichuk Jeanne , Lancaster Rachelle , Tuzik Micek Wendy , Perusich Susan , Fick Kerry , Perumalswamy Kanagavalli 
Published: December 2024

Background: Professional standards and the Codes of Ethics from the International Council of Nurses and American Nurses Association are frameworks driving professional practice and are linked to positive patient and nursing outcomes. Objective: To describe qualitative themes extracted from narrative responses on how nurses’ personal values influence nursing care and converge with quantitative results assessing personal values, professional values, and the practice environment, a key component of nurse satisfaction and subsequent care quality. Methods: A convenience sample of nurses across 19 sites within a large nonprofit healthcare system was surveyed. Quantitative measures included the Short Schwartz’s Value Survey for personal values, the Nurses Professional Values Scale-3 for professional values, and the Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index, assessing practice settings. Concurrently, nurses were asked, “How do your values influence the care you provide?” Responses were examined using a descriptive qualitative method for thematic analysis. Results: The sample included qualitative (n = 408) and quantitative (n = 671) responses. Six qualitative themes emerged: patient-centered care, professionalism/integrity of practice, advocacy, dissonance, golden rule/ethics of reciprocity (religiosity), and perseverance. Themes converged with the mean personal values of achievement, self-direction, universalism, benevolence, tradition, and conformity, and diverged with hedonism, security, and stimulation. All professional values factor means and work environment subscale means converged. Conclusions: Findings highlight convergence and divergence between qualitative and quantitative responses from nurses, offering new insights into the themes of dissonance, perseverance, and religiosity. The findings present valuable opportunities to enhance recruitment and retention strategies.
Recovery model for minimally invasive central cannulation, cardiopulmonary bypass, and cardioplegic arrest in quadrupeds
Authors: Johnson Matthew D. , Tchouta Lise , Spencer Brianna L. , Langley Mark W. , Urrea Kristopher A. , Toomasian John M. , Niman Joseph B. , Bartlett Robert H. , Rojas-Peña Alvaro , Drake Daniel H. 
Published: December 2024

Objectives: Sternotomy is rarely performed for veterinary therapeutic or recovery models in quadrupeds because of difficulties with breathing, ambulation, and pain control. Central cannulation for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is infrequent and typically performed through full thoracotomies. Experienced clinical surgeons and perfusionists should provide guidance for new therapeutic interventions and translational research. We sought to develop, validate, and detail a contemporary model for minimally-invasive central cannulation, CPB, and cardioplegic arrest. Methods: After induction of anesthesia and sterile preparation, a right second-interspace parasternal mini-thoracotomy was performed, the ascending aorta was cannulated using Seldinger technique, and a cardioplegia needle was placed. A dual-stage cannula was introduced through the right atrial appendage and CPB commenced. The aorta was clamped and Buckberg 4:1 induction cardioplegia was administered. Arrest was maintained for 30 minutes. CPB was discontinued after 2 hours and the great vessels were decannulated. Hemostasis was achieved and the wound was closed. Initial recovery was accomplished in intensive care with subsequent transfer to the vivarium. Results: Ten consecutive Yorkshire swine (45 ± 5 kg) were minimally invasively placed on CPB including cardioplegic arrest using central cannulation through a right parasternal mini-thoracotomy. There was no operative or late mortality. Morbidity appeared minimal. Planned euthanasia and scheduled necropsy were performed to exclude clinically-occult major complications. None were identified. Following initial supervision, veterinary and resident surgeons completed the procedures autonomously with excellent results. Conclusion: The described protocols should facilitate safe veterinary cardiac surgical care and humane translational research.