Search Results (271)

This work presents a high-fidelity simulation of the Peach Bottom turbine trip (PBTT) benchmark using the Virtual Environment for Reactor Applications (VERA), a multiphysics reactor modeling tool developed by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors energy innovation hub. The PBTT benchmark, based on a 1977 transient event at the end of cycle 2 in a General Electric Type-4 boiling water reactor (BWR), is a critical test case for validating core physics models with thermal feedback during rapid reactivity events. VERA was employed to perform end-to-end, pin-resolved simulations from conditions at the beginning of cycle 1 through the turbine-trip transient, incorporating detailed neutron transport, fuel depletion, and subchannel thermal hydraulics. The simulation reproduced key benchmark observables with high accuracy: the peak power excursion occurred at 0.75 s, matching the scram time and closely aligning with the benchmark average of 0.742 s; the simulated maximum power spike was approximately 7600 MW, which is within 3% of the benchmark average of 7400 MW; and void-collapse dynamics were consistent with benchmark expectations. Reactivity predictions during cycles 1 and 2 remained within 1500 pcm and 400 pcm of criticality, respectively. These results confirm VERA’s ability to model complex coupled neutronic and thermal hydraulic behavior in a BWR turbine-trip transient, which will support its use in future studies of modeling dryout, fuel performance, and uncertainty quantification for transients of this type. Full article

Cartilage degradation is a key feature of osteoarthritis (OA), a joint disease that significantly impacts the quality of life of the elderly population. While advanced age is recognized as one of the major risk factors for OA, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Research involving cartilage from aged animals has improved our understanding of the changes associated with aging. However, studies with aged animals can be time-consuming and costly. In this study, we investigate the use of human sera from older donors as a stressor to induce aging-like changes in cultured human chondrocytes. First, we assess the expression levels of markers related to chondrogenesis, hypertrophy, fibrosis, and inflammation in human chondrocytes treated with sera from younger or older human donors. Next, we evaluate the regenerative potential of these sera-treated chondrocytes by stimulating them with the anabolic factor transforming growth factor (TGF)-β3. The results show that treatment with sera from older donors induced an aging-like phenotype in chondrocytes and impaired their ability to generate new cartilage. These findings provide insight into the role of systemic factors (serum) in cartilage aging and offer a novel in vitro model for studying age-related changes in chondrocytes. Full article

Attentional biases seem to play an important role in anorexia nervosa (AN). The objective of this study was to measure visual attention patterns toward female bodies in adolescents and adults with and without AN in order to explore developmental and disease-specific aspects. Female adult and adolescent patients with AN (n = 38) and control participants (n = 39) viewed standardized photographic stimuli showing women’s bodies from five BMI categories. The fixation times on the bodies and specific body parts were analyzed. Differences between participants with and without AN did not emerge: All participants showed increased attention toward the body, while adolescents displayed shorter fixation times on specific areas of the body than adults. Increased visual attention toward areas indicative of weight (e.g., hips, thighs, abdomen, buttocks) and a shorter fixation time on unclothed body parts were observed in all participants. There is evidence for the developmental effect of differential viewing patterns when looking at women’s bodies. The attention behavior of patients with AN seems to be similar to that of the control groups, which is partly consistent with, and partly contradictory to, previous studies. Full article

The influence of social media personalities has grown significantly, especially among youth audiences who spend substantial time on platforms like TikTok. The emergence and popularity of different types of social media influencers accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic in many countries, including South Africa. In turn, this period also saw a surge in youth audiences following these influencers. This rapid growth of influencer followings among young people is largely driven by specific types of content that resonate with them, thus encouraging continued engagement. However, the benefits that these young followers gain from engaging with various influencers and the factors driving their preferences for specific influencers remain underexplored, particularly within the context of South African students within higher education. Therefore, this study explores the types of social media influencers most followed by university students at a South African University and investigates the key factors that drive their preferences. A structured online questionnaire was distributed, gathering both multiple-choice and open-ended responses from students. The data were analyzed using categorical frequency counts and thematic analysis. The data highlight how students actively turn to influencers as emotional anchors, role models, and sources of practical guidance. Their engagement reflects a deep need for connection, inspiration, and identity formation in a challenging academic and social environment. These patterns show that influencer content is not just entertainment but plays a critical developmental role. Understanding these motivations helps educators, policymakers, and brands to align better with youth values. The significance of these results lies in how influencer content is now coming in to fill the emotional, cultural, and educational gaps left by traditional systems among the young South African university students in this modern era. Full article

Understanding mineral–fluid interactions in shale under supercritical CO₂ (scCO₂) conditions is relevant for assessing long-term geochemical containment. This study characterizes mineralogical transformations and elemental redistribution in five Caney Shale samples serving as proxies for reservoir (R1, R2, R3) and caprock (D1, D2) facies, subjected to 30-day static exposure to pure scCO₂ at 60 °C and 17.23 MPa (2500 psi), with no brine or impurities introduced. SEM-EDS analyses were conducted before and after exposure, with mineral phases classified into silicates, carbonates, sulfides, and organic matter. Initial compositions were dominated by quartz (38–47 wt.%), illite (16–23 wt.%), carbonates (12–18 wt.%), and organic matter (8–11 wt.%). Post-exposure, carbonate loss ranged from 15 to 40% in reservoir samples and up to 20% in caprock samples. Illite and K-feldspar showed depletion of Fe²⁺, Mg²⁺, and K⁺ at grain edges and cleavages, while pyrite underwent oxidation with Fe redistribution. Organic matter exhibited scCO₂-induced surface alteration and apparent sorption effects, most pronounced in R2 and R3. Elemental mapping revealed Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe²⁺, and Si⁴⁺ mobilization near reactive interfaces, though no secondary mineral precipitates formed. Reservoir samples developed localized porosity, whereas caprock samples retained more structural clay integrity. The results advance understanding of mineral reactivity and elemental fluxes in shale-based CO₂ sequestration. Full article

Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) with (IIHWP) and without papilledema (IIHWOP) is characterized by increased cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure and no evident cause, mostly affecting obese women of childbearing age and possibly leading to vision loss. However, in neonates, infants, and toddlers, these conditions remain understudied entities. This review investigates clinical features, risk factors, treatments, and outcomes to inform their care. From 2278 publications found in PubMed, 2974 in Scopus, and 1684 in the Web of Science Core Collection, 104 relevant articles were analyzed. Among 300 cases, 48.3% were male and 26.0% female, with 43.0% meeting the modified Dandy criteria. Typical signs and symptoms, besides papilledema (23.0%) or its absence (49.0%), included bulging fontanelle (67.7%), irritability (34.3%), vomiting (33.0%), and fever (18.3%). The most triggering factors were medications (35.3%) and infections (15.0%). The mean CSF opening pressure was 35.1 cm H₂O, ranging from 9.5 to 77 cm H₂O. Main treatment options were lumbar punctures (72.7%), discontinuation of triggering medications (26.3%), acetazolamide (18.7%), and corticosteroids (7.7%); 3.0% required shunting. Unlike in adults, males were more commonly affected, and papilledema was less frequent. Most cases resolved with conservative treatment. A nosological distinction between IIHWP and IIHWOP seems unlikely. Considering our findings and age-specific CSF pressure limits, new diagnostic criteria are proposed. Full article

The ongoing efforts to convert High-Performance Research Reactors (HPRRs) using Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU) to Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) fuel require reliable thermal–hydraulic assessments of modified core designs. The involute-shaped fuel plates used in several major HPRRs present unique modeling challenges due to their compact core geometries and high heat flux conditions. This study evaluates the capability of three commercial CFD tools, STAR-CCM+, COMSOL, and ANSYS CFX, to predict cladding-to-coolant heat transfer using Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) methods within the thermal–hydraulic regimes of involute-shaped plate reactors. Broad sensitivity analysis was conducted across a range of reactor-relevant parameters using two turbulence models ($k-ϵ$ and $k-\omega$ SST) and different near-wall treatment strategies. The results were benchmarked against the Sieder–Tate correlation and experimental data from historic studies. The codes produced consistent results, showing good agreement with the empirical correlation of Sieder–Tate and the experimental measurements. The findings support the use of these commercial CFD codes as effective tools for assessing the thermal–hydraulic performance of involute-shaped plate HPRRs and guide future LEU core development. Full article

Since its introduction into the USA, the spotted lanternfly (SLF), Lycorma delicatula, (White) (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) has spread across the landscape relatively unchecked. With a wide host range, it is considered a serious pest of native forest species, as well as agricultural crops. Circle traps placed on Ailanthus altissima (Miller) Swingle (Sapindales: Simaroubaceae) are passive traps collecting SLF as they walk up and down the tree trunk. These traps are successful at detecting new populations of SLF, but this can be challenging to implement at a large scale due to costs and host availability. To improve and facilitate SLF trapping practices, we investigated three key trapping components: improved collection containers, placement on alternative hosts, and lure (methyl salicylate) impact. In initial trials comparing collection jars to removable plastic bags, the adult SLF catch was four times higher using the bag design. In a multi-state survey at varying population densities, the bag traps were comparable to the jar traps but were significantly more effective than BugBarrier^® tree bands, especially during the adult stage. Catch and detection in circle traps placed on alternative hosts, Acer spp. L. (Sapindales: Sapindalaceae) and Juglans nigra L. (Fagales: Juglandaceae), were comparable to those placed on the preferred host A. altissima, especially in the earlier life stages. Additionally, detection rates of methyl salicylate-baited traps on all three hosts were comparable to those on non-baited traps. These results suggest that circle traps fitted with bags provide higher trap catch and an improvement in sample quality. In addition, circle traps were equally effective when placed on maple and black walnut, while methyl salicylate lures do not enhance trap catch or detection. Full article

Survey and detection of the spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (White), rely either on traps that exploit the insect’s behavior as it navigates its environment, or on visual surveys of either its mobile life stages or egg masses. A recently described egg mass trap, coined the “lampshade” trap, can assist with early detection in newly infested areas, provide egg masses for researchers, and potentially facilitate spotted lanternfly population reduction by removal of egg masses from the environment. Here, we describe a modified lampshade trap, the sconce trap, that uses less material, can be pre-cut prior to deployment, and can be deployed by one person, representing potential cost, labor, and time savings. Both traps were comparable at detecting populations of spotted lanternflies, and while females deposited more eggs on the larger lampshade traps, they deposited more eggs on sconce traps as a function of trap area. Full article

Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are pathogens causing different illnesses, particularly in pediatric and immunocompromised patients in developed countries. The clinical spectrum of HAdV-infections ranges from mild to severe, and the clinical presentation varies widely. Certain HAdVs types, including types B3, E4, B7, B14, B21, G55, and B66, may be associated with lower respiratory tract infections and thus lead to higher hospitalization, increased morbidity, as well as lethality rates. The aim of this article is to synthesize and analyze the prevalence of specific HAdV types in pediatric patients worldwide. A systematic literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. In total, n = 1167 titles and abstracts were screened, and 105 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. Screening, data extraction, and appraisal were analyzed by reviewers, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines and JBI recommendations. We included studies reporting on currently circulating HAdV types (n = 16). Based on a systematic and narrative approach, relevant types of HAdV biology and infections in children are presented. In detail, HAdV-B3 and HAdV-B7 were commonly associated with severe respiratory tract infections, while HAdV-F40 and HAdV-F41 caused acute gastroenteritis. Moreover, detailed research revealed the critical role of HAdV-C2 and the necessity for particular attention to HAdVs in acute neurological infections. This comprehensive analysis highlights the significant global distribution and diverse clinical implications of different HAdV types in children, pointing out the need for continued surveillance to better understand HAdVs epidemiology and its implications for public health, and future preventive measures, in particular among vulnerable patients. Full article

Integrating large language models (LLMs) into higher education, particularly in programming education, reshapes how students interact with learning materials and develop coding skills. However, while the general utility of LLMs like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude has been acknowledged, a critical gap exists in understanding how specific prompting strategies influence student learning outcomes. This issue is significant in the context of programming education, where problem-solving, critical thinking, and conceptual understanding are essential yet complex cognitive skills. Although prior research has classified prompting behaviors, it has largely failed to assess their impact on actual learning. To address this gap, we explored how IT students employ various prompting strategies when engaging with LLMs during programming tasks. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, primarily qualitative and supported by basic quantitative analysis, to examine 842 prompts generated by 140 students across four core software development modules. The results revealed five dominant prompting strategies, which varied significantly in how they facilitated learning. Our findings suggest that prompting strategies significantly shape how students interact with LLMs and influence the depth of their learning. Full article

Decarbonizing industrial manufacturing is a significant challenge in the effort to limit the impacts of global climate change. Additive manufacturing (AM) is one pathway for reducing the impacts of manufacturing as it creates parts layer-by-layer rather than by removing (i.e., subtracting) material from solid stock as with conventional techniques. This reduces material inputs and generates less waste, which can substantially lower life cycle energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. However, AM adoption in the manufacturing sector has been slow, partly due to challenges in making a strong business case compared with more traditional and widely available techniques. This paper highlights the need for the development of simple screening analysis tools to speed the adoption of AM in the manufacturing sector by providing decision-makers easy access to important production life cycle emissions, and cost information. Details on the development of two Microsoft Excel software tools are provided: upgrades to an existing tool on the energy and carbon impacts of AM and a new tool for analyzing the major cost components of AM. A case study applies these two tools to the production of a lightweight aerospace bracket, showing how the tools can be used to estimate the environmental benefits and production costs of AM. Full article

Background: This study investigated syndesmotic stability after transection and the effects of stabilization using rigid and dynamic reconstruction techniques. Methods: Syndesmotic stability was analyzed using a six-degree-of-freedom robotic arm on 14 human specimens. Stability was analyzed in the neutral position and during dorsiflexion and plantar flexion using an external rotation stress test under an axial load of 200 Newtons. The examination was performed on intact and sequentially transected syndesmosis in the following order: (1) anterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (AITFL); (2) interosseous ligament (IOL); and (3) posterior inferior tibiofibular ligament (PITFL). Then, reconstruction was performed using different syndesmotic screw techniques or a dynamic Suture Button system (Arthrex TightRope; n = 7). Results: A syndesmotic transection mainly caused sagittal instability of the fibula. While both static and dynamic reconstruction provided stabilization, screw fixation, particularly with two screws and a plate, demonstrated superior control of the fibular movement, especially in the sagittal and transverse planes, compared to one Suture Button. Conclusions: The results suggest that syndesmotic stabilization with one Suture Button may be insufficient for cases involving three-ligamentous injuries, whereas two Suture Buttons may offer comparable biomechanical stability to syndesmotic screws. Additionally, the study suggests that lateral radiographs may provide additional clinical value in assessing syndesmotic stability. Full article

Background/Objectives: Advancements in neuronavigation and intraoperative imaging have made gross-total resection of deep-seated lesions more feasible. However, in eloquently located regions, brain shift can lead to unintentional damage of functionally critical tissue during the approach. This study analyzes the feasibility and outcomes of a stereotactically guided microsurgical approach supported by intraoperative CT (iCT) for such lesions. Methods: Patients with deep-seated, eloquently located lesions treated between 03/2017 and 04/2023 at the Department of Neurosurgery, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Munich, Germany, were included. Frame-based, image-guided stereotaxy was used for trajectory planning and catheter placement, verified by iCT. Microsurgical resection was conducted along the catheter trajectory using 2 mm conical blade retractors and continuous neurophysiological monitoring. Postoperative MRI assessed the extent of resection. Neurological outcomes were evaluated postoperatively, at 6 weeks, and at long-term follow-up in 12/2023. Results: A total of 12 patients were treated using the stereotactically guided microsurgical approach described in this study. In all cases, the implanted catheter precisely matched the preoperative trajectory, as confirmed by fused iCT data. Median durations were 23 min for stereotaxy and 3 h 7 min for microsurgery. Complete resection was achieved in all cases. One patient experienced transient hemiparesis and aphasia, both of which were fully resolved. All other patients showed neurological improvement or remained seizure-free at long-term follow-up. Conclusions: In selected cases, a stereotactically guided microsurgical approach with iCT enabled intraoperative localization of the target with high spatial accuracy and without immediate procedure-related complications in this limited cohort. Our findings support the feasibility of the technique; however, conclusions regarding clinical efficacy or broader applicability are limited by the small sample size and non-comparative study design. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to demonstrate the importance of ⁶⁸Gallium (⁶⁸Ga)–prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA)–positron emissions tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT)(PET/CT) in prostate cancer patients for therapy management with individual analyses regarding the Gleason score, prostate specific antigen (PSA) value, and the risk groups defined by D’Amico. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 562 ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11-PET/CT examinations performed from January 2015 to March 2023 at University Hospital Marburg. We assessed treatment changes post ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11-PET/CT and categorized the cases based on PSA values, Gleason scores, and D’Amico risk groups. Results: In 415/562 (73.8%) of ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-11-PET/CT examinations, a modification in the therapy concept was recorded. Patients categorized as high risk or patients with Gleason scores of 7 through 10 or with PSA levels above 0.5 ng/mL (particularly within the ranges of 1.01–2 ng/mL, 3.01–5 ng/mL, and values exceeding 10 ng/mL) demonstrated a statistically significant association with treatment change. While no evidence of the disease was found most frequently in 38% of cases in the “Therapy continued without explicit reference” group, in the group with the adapted therapy, there was a considerable higher proportion of local tumors (19.2%) compared to the other groups (4.4% and 1.4%). Conclusions: Our results show the high impact of ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA-PET/CT for patients with prostate cancer regarding therapy management planning, which is even more important for some patient groups. Full article