bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deep Autoencoder Framework Applied to the Generation of Realistic Guided Wave Signals in Structural Health Monitoring Under Varying Environmental and Operational Conditions
Authors: Miorelli Roberto , Nerlikar Vivek , Recoquillay Arnaud , D’Almeida Oscar 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In structural health monitoring, ultrasonic guided waves (GWs) have great potentials for embedded continuous assessment of the integrity of civil and industrial infrastructures, as well as in the transport sector, throughout the lifetime of the structure (continuous monitoring).
One of the most challenging issues in analyzing and exploiting GW signals in realistic scenarios is the impact of environmental and operational conditions (EOCs). Over the last decade, signal processing techniques have been designed to overcome the effect of some parameters, mainly focusing on the temperature. However, depending on the application, such methods may have a limited application range. More recently, machine learning (ML) methods have shown promising results when applied to ultrasonic GW signals to enhance the analysis capabilities of established techniques.
In this context, this paper proposes a ML framework relying on the use of a tailored autoencoder architecture enabling the fast generation of ultrasonic GW signals close to experimental ones. The core idea is based on the joint learning of a structured latent space from experimental and numerical data. The addition of EOC parameters, such as temperature, in the model enables to take them into account in the resulting data even if the initial simulation was not. This data generation can then be used for statistical studies or to train new inversion models (e.g., classification, localization, sizing of defects) in a very efficient manner.
Volumetric Full-Matrix Ultrasonic Imaging of Anisotropic CFRP Laminates with Adaptive Total Focusing Method
Authors: Yu Zhenyang , Chen Jian 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The anisotropy of Carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) arising from the laminated structure presents a formidable challenge in ultrasonic imaging of internal defects. The adaptive total focusing method (TFM) based on anisotropic correction has shown its capability on the improvement of imaging resolution contrast for CFRP laminates. However, the previous studies were mainly demonstrated for two-dimensional (2D) ultrasonic imaging using a linear phased array, which greatly hamper the efficiency and information content for non-destructive evaluation of CFRPs, particularly for the components large in size. In this work, a volumetric TFM imaging method is proposed for anisotropic CFRP laminates using a 2D phased array. Based on the acquired full-matrix data, four elastic constants can be derived, through which the formula of group velocity of quasi-pressure (QP) wave is used to obtain the profiles in arbitrary planes. Thereafter, the time delays between the transmitter and receiver pairs for TFM can be corrected in three dimensions for volumetric imaging. For proof-of-concept demonstration, a [-45/0/45/90]10s CFRP specimen with a round delamination defect is inspected and the volumetric results show better image improved image quality than paintbrush method’s results. This research may provide a three-dimensional (3D) quantitative approach for CFRP laminates.
Amplifying Nonlinear Ultrasonic Signatures for Fatigue Damage Detection Via a Graded Elastic Meta-Enhancer
Authors: Tian Yiran , Fu Haoyu , Shen Yanfeng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Fatigue cracks pose a significant threat to engineering structures owing to their inconspicuous nature and difficulty in detection. However, for the nascent stage of fatigue crack growth, the nonlinear attributes are faint and challenging to discern and characterize, thereby compromising the practical effectiveness of the detection methodology. Consequently, the amplification of these subtle nonlinear features becomes imperative to improve the detection efficiency. In recent developments, elastic metamaterials, comprising artificially engineered structures, have demonstrated considerable potential in controlling wave modes and frequencies. Leveraging the metamaterial concept, this paper proposes an elastic meta-enhancer (ME), featuring special wave dispersion properties to facilitate effective wave collection for second higher harmonic through a graded array of resonators attached to an elastic plate, showcasing the improvement of sensitivity in detecting cracks. The amalgamation of resonance and spatial grading within surface arrays of structures enable meta-units to demonstrate broadband wave trapping, resulting in substantial amplification of out-of-plane displacement within the host plate medium at resonator positions, where the second higher harmonic component accumulates. Harnessing the interplay of these effects—deceleration in the resonators and amplification in the host beam—the numerical findings demonstrate that, given a sufficiently prolonged excitation time, the elastic ME can amplify the faint magnitude of the second higher harmonic produced by fatigue cracks within the host plate structure. The paper concludes with a summary, concluding remarks, and recommendations for future research directions.
A Multi-Scale Minimum Time-To-Failure Reliability Model for Estimating Reliability Lower Bound of a Structural Health Monitored Cracked 316L(N) Stainless Steel Component in Creep at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Fong Jeffrey T. 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC) Committee has recently developed a new Section XI (Nuclear Components Inspection) Division 2 Code named "Reliability and Integrity Management (RIM)." RIM incorporates a new concept known as "System-Based Code (SBC)" originally due to Asada and his colleagues (2001-2004), where an integrated approach from design to service inspection is introduced using three new types of statistical quantities: (1) "system reliability index," or "system reliability target" for any system consisting of structures and components, (2) "structural reliability," for any structure, and (3) "component reliability" for any component. In a recent paper published in the International Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping (Vol. 173 (2019), pp. 79-93), Fong, Heckert, Filliben, and Freiman developed a new theory of fatigue and creep rupture life modeling for metal alloys and brittle materials at room and elevated temperatures such that the reliability lower bound of a smooth component can be estimated from fatigue and creep rupture test data with simple loading histories. In this paper, we extend the theory to include a methodology to estimate the failure probability upper bound (or, reliability lower bound) of a structural health monitored cracked 316L(N) stainless steel component undergoing a loading history of creep, creep crack initiation, and creep crack growth at elevated temperatures such as 650 °C. To illustrate an application of this new modeling approach, we present a numerical example using (a) the experimental test data of of 316L(N) stainless steel in creep at 650 °C as published by Kilian Wasmer in his Ph.D. thesis (Imperial College London, 2003), and (b) the experimental test data of 316L(N) stainless steel in creep crack initiation and growth at 650 °C also by Wasmer (Ph.D. thesis, 2003). The significance and limitations of this new damage-state-based approach to modeling creep crack growth and estimating the component reliability lower bound are discussed.
Determination of Strut Quality Factors in Additively Manufactured Lattices Using in-Situ Compression Testing μ-Ct
Authors: DiNova Vincent , Flynn H.B. , Korinko Paul , Immel David 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In response to the need for an automated, commercial method to qualify additively manufactured (AM) lattice components, an experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of defective lattice struts on the structural compression strength. Lattice samples with known defective or missing struts were compressed using a Deben CT5000RT and imaged using x-ray μ-CT. The compressive force and x-ray computed tomography results were compared to defect free standards to evaluate the impact of each defect type on the overall structure’s compressive strength. This analysis will allow for simplifications to Finite Element Analysis (FEA) on AM parts without sacrificing model fidelity. Understanding the contribution of each defect type and severity will also better inform non-destructive evaluation (NDE) personnel of the inspection parameters necessary to detect the smallest feature of importance.
Flexible Array ECT Probe with Equilateral Triangle Arranged Coils and Differential Setting
Authors: Zhang Chenzhi , Chen Huan , Ye Chaofeng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
It is still a problem to be studied to inspect defects on curved surfaces with small dimensions. This paper presents an array eddy current testing (ECT) probe with equilateral triangle arranged coils, where the coils operate in a differential model to null the background signal and reduce the noise resulting in a high sensitivity to small defects. Furthermore, as each two adjacent couple of differential coils are 120° apart in space, the probe is sensitive to defects with different orientations. The probe is flexible and can be bent according to the curved surface. The feasibility of the probe is validated experimentally. Images were generated by using the probe to scan samples with machined defects. It seems that the defects can be observed from the processed images. The experimental results reveal that the probe can detect small defects with dimensions 1 mm*0.1 mm*0.3 mm and oriented in different directions on a 304 stainless steel sample.
Testing of Permanently Installed Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Guided Wave Transducers for Structural Health Monitoring
Authors: Loveday Philip W. , Fromme Paul 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Guided wave ultrasound can propagate large distances and enables the use of permanently installed piezoelectric transducers in structural health monitoring systems. The transducers can be exposed to harsh operating and environmental conditions, and it is advantageous to have a method for checking the operation of transducers during installation and later system maintenance. In monitoring applications, measurements may be compared with previously captured measurements and changes in the signals are used to detect defects. This process is limited by environmental changes and changes in the performance of the transducers. Measurements that can be performed in the field to check the performance of installed transducers are considered. These measurements include electrical impedance measurements and the transmitting response of the transducers. The initial development of a portable and low-cost instrument for performing these measurements on piezoelectric transducers for rail track monitoring is described. This instrument allows a transducer to be tested before and after installation and at later dates. If measurements of installed transducers are performed regularly, it will be possible to determine limits for acceptable performance and possibly to monitor degradation of transducer performance over time.
Additive Printed Structures for Optical Fiber Sensing in Concrete
Authors: Aubert Nicolas , Degaugue Sebastien , Pouya Julie , Khadour Aghiad 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Distributed Fiber Optic Sensing (DFOS) is a potent technique for measuring internal strain distribution in civil engineering structures. This method relies on measuring the axial strain of an optical fiber, which is protected by a sensing cable providing mechanical support and coupling to the surrounding material. However, due to the fiber’s sensitivity solely to axial strain, installing the cable along complex paths is often necessary to capture desired data accurately. Precise cable placement is critical for accurate data analysis, as locating the sensing cable within deep concrete or soil layers is challenging. This study introduces a novel approach employing 3D-printed polymer support structures to facilitate the installation of sensing cables along intricate paths. In addition, a novel crack detection method based on computing strain rates is proposed. This innovative technique shows promise for advancing crack monitoring in civil engineering structures, offering enhanced accuracy and efficiency in identifying structural vulnerabilities.
Identifying the amino acid domains of ORF59 responsible for interactions with ORF57 and PAN RNA during KSHV lytic replication
Authors: Payen Shannon Harger , Gutierrez Isaura Vanessa , Andrada Kayla , Verma Subhash C. , Rossetto Cyprian C. 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) DNA polymerase processivity factor, ORF59, is a lytic protein essential for viral DNA synthesis as part of the core replication complex. The multifunctional nature of ORF59 has prompted the investigation into its various functional domains. Prior studies of ORF59 have identified dimerization, DNA interaction, and polymerase interaction domains. The regions of ORF59 responsible for the interaction with the viral mRNA transport accumulation protein (MTA/ORF57) and the viral long non-coding polyadenylated nuclear (PAN) RNA have not been explored. Using a series of previously characterized ORF59 deletion KSHV BACmid mutants, we identified the domains of ORF59 that interact with ORF57 and PAN RNA. Interestingly, amino acids 51–100 were essential for interacting with both ORF57 and PAN RNA. Using this information, we generated a plasmid that expresses a DsRed-tagged polypeptide spanning amino acids 30–100 of ORF59. When the 30–100 aa DsRed-tagged polypeptide expression plasmid was transfected into KSHV wild-type iSLK cells prior to lytic reactivation, a dominant-negative inhibition of virus replication was observed, resulting in a decrease of infectious virus production. Our data suggest that interactions between ORF59 with ORF57 and PAN RNA are important to successful lytic replication.

IMPORTANCE
To better understand the Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) DNA polymerase processivity factor ORF59, we investigated the interaction of ORF59 with ORF57 and polyadenylated nuclear (PAN) RNA. We used a previously characterized KSHV BACmid containing internal deletions of ORF59 to identify the domains of ORF59 that interact with ORF57 and PAN RNA. Our study revealed multiple domains of ORF59 that are essential for its association with PAN RNA. These domains span amino acids 51–100, 251–300, and 351–396. Additional experiments confirmed amino acids 51–100 are critical for the interaction between ORF59 and ORF57. Using this information, we generated an expression plasmid encompassing the ORF57 and PAN RNA interaction domains of ORF59. The ORF59 polypeptide expression plasmid of amino acids 30–100 functioned as a dominant negative inhibitor during viral reactivation and caused a decrease in virus production. These findings provide valuable insights into the key domains of ORF59, essential for its functionality, and ultimately the production of infectious viruses.
Administration of
Lactobacillus plantarum
GUANKE alleviates SARS-CoV-2-induced pneumonia in mice
Authors: Huang He , Dong Xiaojing , Du Zuoyuan , Guo Li , Chen Lan , Wang Xinming , Lu Simin , Yue Kun , Ren Zhihong , Wang Jianwei , Ren Lili , Xu Jianguo 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) targets epithelial cells in the respiratory tract, triggering an acute proinflammatory response and chronic lung inflammation. Probiotic supplementation has shown promise in reducing the nasopharyngeal SARS-CoV-2 viral load, diminishing symptom frequency and duration, and mitigating inflammation; thus, it is a potential strategy for treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which is caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this study, we evaluated the effects of the oral administration of the
Lactobacillus plantarum
GUANKE strain, a gram-positive bacterium originally isolated from a healthy individual, on SARS-CoV-2 infection in a human ACE2 transgenic mouse model. We found that GUANKE significantly reduced inflammatory cell infiltration and pulmonary interstitial exudation in mice. The transcription of
CCL2
,
TNFA
,
IL1B
,
IL6,
and
IL17C
in the lungs was reduced. The protein levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17 in the lungs were significantly lower in GUANKE-treated mice than in control mice. The viral load in GUANKE-treated mice was lower than that in saline-treated mice, although this difference did not reach statistical significance.
L. plantarum
GUANKE can decrease SARS-CoV-2-induced lung inflammation in mice, suggesting its potential for use as an agent for treating SARS-CoV-2 infection.

IMPORTANCE

Most otherwise healthy individuals develop only mild or moderate symptoms of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by current strains of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and virus replication is mainly confined to the upper respiratory tract; however, the virus can infect the lower respiratory tract and promote inflammation. Probiotic supplementation has been shown to reduce nasopharyngeal SARS-CoV-2 viral load, reduce the overall number and duration of symptoms, and attenuate inflammation in clinical trials. We showed that a novel
L. plantarum
GUANKE strain alleviated SARS-CoV-2-induced pneumonia in mice. The transcription and production of inflammatory cytokines were suppressed, and GUANKE moderately reduced the viral load.
L. plantarum
GUANKE has the potential to become a candidate drug for the treatment of COVID-19 or other viral respiratory infections.
Global prevalence of
Mycobacterium massiliense
strains with recombinant
rpoB
genes (Rec-Mas) horizontally transferred from
Mycobacterium abscessus
: two major types, dominant circulating clone 7 and MLST ST46 sequence type
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Seo Hyejun , Jung Sangkwon , Kim Bum-Joon 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Mycobacterium abscessus
is a group of emerging antimicrobial-resistant nontuberculous mycobacteria that causes severe lung disease in infected patients globally. Recently, molecular epidemiology studies have indicated that horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events in the
rpoB
gene are prevalent between
M. abscessus
subspecies. To determine the global prevalence of
M. abscessus
strains subjected to
rpoB
HGT, we performed phylogenetic inference using a 711-bp
rpoB
sequence extracted from 1,786
M
.
abscessus
isolates for which the whole-genome sequence was publicly available. Our data showed that a total of 74 isolates (4.1%) from 1,786 strains are subject to
rpoB
HGT, which is more prevalent than strains with
hsp65
HGT (19 isolates from 1,786, 1.1%). Most of these (69 isolates) belong to two major groups of
Mycobacterium massiliense
, of which the
rpoB
gene is horizontally transferred from
M. abscessus
(Rec-mas), dominant circulating clone 7 (DCC7) (44 isolates) and ST46 type by multilocus sequence typing (25 isolates). The Rec-mas strains of the two groups have distinct geographical patient distributions, of which the former is mainly distributed in the United States, while the latter is prevalent in Asia. Our further genome-based analysis indicated that the ST46 type is a novel DCC candidate of
M. massiliense
that is responsible for dissemination between noncystic fibrosis patients in Asia. In conclusion, our global phylogenetic analysis revealed two major Rec-mas clones with distinct geographical distributions, namely, DCC7 and ST46. This study provides insights into the genetic clustering and person-to-person transmission of globally dominant and area-specific strains harboring the HGT
rpoB
gene.

IMPORTANCE

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events play a pivotal role in the evolution of
Mycobacterium abscessus
into dominant circulating clones (DCCs), which is capable of causing patient-to-patient transmission. In particular, HGT of the rpoB gene between strains of different subspecies of
M. abscessus
could also compromise differentiation between strains of
M. abscessus
. Here, for the first time, using 1,786
M. abscessus
genome sequences, we evaluated the global prevalence of
M. abscessus
strains subjected to
rpoB
HGT. We found a greater prevalence of
M. abscessus
subjected to
rpoB
HGT than to those subjected to
hsp65
HGT, which is mainly due to two Rec-mas clones, dominant circulating clone 7 and ST46, which are responsible for dissemination between non-CF patients in Asia. Our data highlight the importance of
rpoB
HGT in the evolution of
M. abscessus
, particularly
Mycobacterium massiliense
, into virulent DCC clones.
Perioperative chemoimmunotherapy induces strong immune responses and long-term survival in patients with HLA class I-deficient non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Molina-Alejandre Marta , Perea Francisco , Calvo Virginia , Martinez-Toledo Cristina , Nadal Ernest , Sierra-Rodero Belén , Casarrubios Marta , Casal-Rubio Joaquín , Martinez-Martí Alex , Insa Amelia , Massuti Bartomeu , Viteri Santiago , Barneto Aranda Isidoro , Rodriguez-Abreu Delvys , de Castro Javier , Martínez Joaquín Mosquera , Cobo Manuel , Wistuba Ignacio I , Parra Edwin R , Martín-López Javier , Megías Diego , Muñoz-Viana Rafael , Garrido Federico , Aptsiauri Natalia , Ruiz-Cabello Francisco , Provencio Mariano , Cruz-Bermúdez Alberto 
Published: October 2024

BackgroundLoss of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I expression and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) are common events implicated in the primary resistance of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to immunotherapy. However, there is no data on perioperative chemoimmunotherapy (ChIO) efficacy or response mechanisms in the context of HLA class I defects.MethodsBaseline HLA class I tumor status (HLA-deficient (HLA-DEF) or HLA-proficient (HLA-PRO)) was determined by DNA LOH combined with immunohistochemistry for protein levels in tissue of 24 patients with NSCLC treated with perioperative nivolumab plus chemotherapy from NADIM trial (NCT03081689). We integrated HLA tumor status with molecular data (programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), TMB, TCR repertoire, TILs populations, bulk RNA-seq, and spatial transcriptomics (ST)) and clinical outcomes (pathological response and survival data) to study the activity of perioperative ChIO considering HLA class I defects.ResultsHLA-DEF tumors comprised 41.7% of analyzed tumors and showed a desert-like microenvironment at baseline, with lower PD-L1 levels and reduced immune infiltrate. However, perioperative ChIO induced similar complete pathological response (CPR) rates in both HLA-DEF and PRO tumors (50% and 60% respectively, p=0.670), as well as 3-year survival rates: Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of 70% (95% CI 32.9% to 89.2%) for HLA-DEF, and PFS 71.4% (95% CI 40.6% to 88.2%) and OS 92.9% (95% CI 59.1% to 99.0%) for HLA-PRO (log-rank PFS p=0.909, OS p=0.137). Proof-of-concept ST analysis of a CPR HLA-DEF tumor after ChIO showed a strong immune response with tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS), CD4+T cells with HLA class II colocalization, and activated CD8+T cells.ConclusionsOur findings highlight the activity of perioperative ChIO, and the potential role of TLS and T-cell immune response, in NSCLC HLA-DEF tumors.
Extended thermodynamics and critical behavior of generalized dilatonic Lifshitz black holes
Authors: Romero-Figueroa Carlos E. , Quevedo Hernando 
Published: October 2024

AbstractWe study a particular Einstein–Maxwell–Dilaton black hole configuration with cosmological constant, expressed in terms of the curvature radius, from the point of view of quasi-homogeneous thermodynamics. In particular, we show that the curvature radius and the coupling constant of the matter fields can be treated as thermodynamic variables in the framework of extended thermodynamics, leading in both cases to a van der Waals-like behavior. We also investigate in detail the stability and critical properties of the black holes and obtain results, which are compatible with the mean field approach.