bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase at the Li Metal–Ionic Liquid Interface
Authors: Yang Moon Young , Zybin Sergey V. , Das Tridip , Merinov Boris V. , Goddard William A. , Mok Eun Kyung , Hah Hoe Jin , Han Hyea Eun , Choi Young Cheol , Kim Seung Ha
Published: December 2022

The solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) forms on electrode surfaces from decomposition of the electrolyte. However, there is almost no atomistic detail of SEI formation on Li metal anode, a major obstacle in understanding the highly complex battery electrochemistry sufficiently to design high performance batteries. Herein, a realistic atomistic model (39 000 atoms) for the SEI formation at the interface between the Li metal anode and ionic liquid electrolyte using reactive molecular dynamics simulations is provided. A ≈10 nm thick SEI composed of a dense ordered inorganic layer near the Li‐metal anode and a porous organic layer near the electrolyte is found. These results provide new insights into a deeper understanding of the complex SEI that should be useful in developing a new generation of highly efficient batteries.
High‐Index Zinc Facet Exposure Induced by Preferentially Orientated Substrate for Dendrite‐Free Zinc Anode
Authors: Xie Chunlin , Ji Huimin , Zhang Qi , Yang Zefang , Hu Chao , Ji Xiaobo , Tang Yougen , Wang Haiyan
Published: December 2022

The most commonly used zinc foil anode for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries suffers from poor cycle stability and low zinc utilization. Zinc‐plated anodes on the host materials with high zincophilicity and stability are receiving increasing attention to alleviate these above issues. Here, the high zinc deposition activity of Cu (2 2 0) is confirmed through experimental observations and theoretical calculations and then Cu (2 2 0) substrates are prepared with the highly preferred orientation through an industrial electrolysis strategy. The prepared Cu (2 2 0) substrate can consistently modulate dense zinc growth by inducing the Zn (0 0 1) growth with the lowest surface energy and exposing high‐index zinc facets due to its exceptional grain size, high deposition activity, and homogeneous crystal orientation, which result in the high zinc plating/stripping reversibility of this Cu (2 2 0) substrate. When assembled into the Zn//MnO2 battery, the zinc‐plated Cu (2 2 0) can deliver capacity retention of 93.9% after 640 cycles at high zinc utilization (≈20%). This scalable orientation design strategy provides a new perspective for realizing dendrite‐free metal deposition with special textures.
Quantification of heat losses and gains of 5th generation district heating and cooling networks compared to conventional heating networks
Authors: Schmitt Selina , Zeh Robin , Stockinger Volker
Published: December 2022

The fourth and fifth generation of district heating (GDH) networks are among the key elements for the energy optimization of districts. Low heat losses in the distribution lines as well as bidirectional heat flow and the use of low‐temperature waste heat can lead to new business models for energy suppliers. Despite the continuous development of heat networks, significant heat losses still occur in conventional networks, despite well insulated pipelines, with fluid temperatures at 60 °C to 100 °C. Therefore, a study was conducted to investigate heat losses and gains in hot water heating (3GDH), low temperature heating (4GDH) and district heating and cooling networks (5GDHC) based on numerous simulations. The main purpose of the investigations is to deter‐mine the main factors influencing the heat transfer characteristics of underground heat networks. The derived results serve as a basis for the development of future planning tools to determine the heat losses and gains of local heating networks quickly and cost‐efficiently.
Cellulose nanofiber and halloysite nanotubes embedded polyvinyl alcohol membranes for pervaporation dehydration of epichlorohydrin–isopropanol–water ternary feed mixture
Authors: Chaudhari Shivshanakar , Yeo SangJun , Shin HyeonTae , Kim UiSeo , Jo Sewook , Cho Kie Yong , Shon MinYoung , Nam SeungEun , Park YouIn
Published: December 2022

The dehydration of epichlorohydrin (ECH)–isopropanol (IPA)–water mixtures was conducted by using pervaporation separation process. Two types of crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) membranes, PVA‐Glu and PVA‐TEOS, were prepared using glutaraldehyde (Glu) and tetraethyl ortho silicate (TEOS), then mixed with cellulose nanofiber (CNF) and halloysite nanotube (HNT) fillers, respectively. They characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy to observe surface morphology, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy to study the filler–polymer interactions and chemistries of membranes, and X‐ray diffraction experiment for the analysis of membrane crystallinity. Finally, a pervaporation test was carried out to dehydrate the ECH–IPA–water feed solution at the azeotropic feed composition. From the result, the membrane of PVA‐Glu, including 4% w/w CNF filler, showed a flux of 0.17 kg (m2h)−1 and a separation factor of 456. However, the membrane of PVA‐TEOS with 5% w/w HNTs filler indicated a flux of 0.15 kg (m2h)−1 and a separation factor of 4158. The higher pervaporation performance of the HNTs‐added PVA‐TEOS membrane is attributed to the smaller size and more porous nature of HNTs than CNFs.
Diphenyl Ether Derivatives as Novel GPR120 Agonists for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wang Xuekun , Wei Shiting , Wang Min , Xu Yao , Hu Weidi , Niu Mingyue , Wang Shiben , Lei Kang , Ji Lusha , Liu Renmin , Ji Guoxia
Published: December 2022

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a serious disease affecting human health. Numerous attempts have been made to develop safe and effective new antidiabetic drugs. Recently, a series of G protein‐coupled receptors for free fatty acids (FFAs) have been described and characterized, and small molecule agonists and antagonists of these receptors show considerable promise for managing diabetes and related complications. FFA‐activated GPR120 could stimulate the release of glucagon‐like peptide‐1(GLP‐1), which can enhance the glucose‐dependent secretion of insulin from pancreatic β cells. GPR120 is a promising target for treating type 2 DM (T2DM). Herein we designed and synthesized a series of novel GPR120 agonists based on the structure of TUG‐891, which was the first potent and selective GPR120 agonist. Among the designed compounds, 18 f showed excellent GPR120 activation activity and high selectivity for GPR40 in vitro. Compound 18 f dose‐dependently improved glucose tolerance in normal mice, and no hypoglycemic side effects were observed at high dose. In addition, compound 18 f increased insulin release and displayed good antidiabetic effect in diet‐induced obese mice. Molecular simulations illustrated that compound 18 f could enter the active site of GPR120 and interact with Arg99. Based on these observations, compound 18 f may be a promising lead compound for the design of novel GPR120 agonists to treat T2DM.
Rapidly progressive pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular failure in a heart and kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Deicke Matthew , Alhuneafat Laith , Obaid Omar , Adeniyi Aderonke , Raina Amresh , Kassis‐George Hayah
Published: December 2022

A 54‐year‐old man status post heart and kidney transplant presented with dyspnea. Imaging was consistent with lymphangitic carcinomatosis (LC), in the setting of biopsy proven adenocarcinoma. He developed pulmonary hypertension (PH) and died of right ventricular failure (RVF) 3 weeks later. Acute PH with radiographic features of LC in a high‐risk patient warrants expedited malignancy investigation.
A case of angle‐closure glaucoma caused by spontaneous lens dislocation
Authors: Kondo Keisuke , Isono Hiroki
Published: December 2022

Abstarct

Spontaneous lens dislocation without genetic factors is rare. In this case, spontaneous lens dislocation occurred without an apparent trigger and resulted in secondary angle‐closure glaucoma. A head computed tomography (CT) scan showed lens dislocation. It is critical to assess for lens dislocation during head CT scan for a sudden headache.
Renal infarction in a patient with thyrotoxicosis‐induced atrial fibrillation treated successfully with dabigatran, a case report and literature review
Authors: Al‐sadi Anas , Abdulgayoom Mohammed , Alamin Mohammed , Kolleri Jouhar , Jawarneh Israa , Almaharmeh Qusai
Published: December 2022

Renal infarction is an underdiagnosed condition with multiple possible causes, including atrial fibrillation. The treatment approach includes percutaneous endovascular therapy (PET) to restore blood flow, antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulation, or combination therapy, depending on the patient's status and available modalities. Warfarin is the standard anticoagulation therapy, although direct oral anticoagulation (DOAC) therapy is getting more popular. Here, we present a 60‐year‐old male patient with hyperthyroidism complicated by acute renal infarction, which was successfully treated with dabigatran, evident by non‐recurrence and restoration of blood flow in a follow‐up CT angiogram. This case report may open the door for the use of DOAC in acute renal infarction though more studies are needed to prove the efficacy.
Stereoselective Synthesis of γ‐(Acyloxy)carboxylic Acids and γ‐Lactones Featuring the Switch of Stereopreference of Candida antarctica Lipase B in Sodium γ‐Hydroxycarboxylate Homologues
Authors: Parve Jaan , Kudryashova Marina , Shalima Tatsiana , Villo Ly , Ferschel Moonika , Niidu Allan , Liblikas Ilme , Reile Indrek , Aav Riina , Gathergood Nicholas , Vares Lauri , Pehk Tõnis , Parve Omar
Published: December 2022

Scalable protocols of straightforward synthesis of enantiomeric γ‐(acyloxy)carboxylic acids and γ‐lactones are presented. The key step is lipase‐catalyzed stereoselective acylation of γ‐hydroxycarboxylic acid sodium salt in organic solvent followed by acidification of the product, extraction and acidic relactonization of the unreacted enantiomer. The mixture of γ‐(acyloxy)carboxylic acid and γ‐lactone is separated either by extraction with solution of sodium bicarbonate or by distillation. A switch of enantioinduction of Candida antarctica lipase B along homologous nucleophiles from R configuration of γ‐hydroxyhexanoic acid salt to S configuration of the C7 and longer‐chain homologues has been disclosed. Both enantiomers of γ‐(acyloxy)pentanoic acids; γ‐(acetyloxy)octanoic and ‐nonanoic acids with S configuration; [(1S,5R)‐5‐(chloroacetyloxy)cyclopent‐2‐en‐1‐yl]acetic acid and enantiomeric γ‐lactones derived from them were prepared with e. r. >98.5/1.5. The rates of acylation of C5 to C9 homologous salts differ by three orders of magnitude but remain applicable for preparative synthesis by variation of the enzyme loading and reaction time.
Holocene wet shifts in NW European bogs: evidence for the roles of external forcing and internal feedback from a high‐resolution study of peat properties, plant macrofossils and testate amoebae
Authors: RUNDGREN MATS , KOKFELT ULLA , SCHONING KRISTIAN , WASTEGÅRD STEFAN
Published: December 2022

Two conspicuous wet shifts in the peat stratigraphy of Store Mosse in southern Sweden, associated with bog‐wide changes in vegetation and degree of peat decomposition, were analysed at high resolution. The bog‐surface wetness (BSW) proxy data (organic matter bulk density, C/N ratio, plant macrofossils and testate amoebae) highlight the importance of interactions between vegetation composition, microtopography and degree of peat decomposition, and show that the bog system operated consistently during the two wet shifts (dated to c. 2700 and 1000 cal a
bp) despite different internal and external conditions. A sensitive bog‐system state, associated with a degraded microtopography and well‐decomposed surface peat with low hydrological conductivity developed during sustained dry conditions, probably contributed to the large BSW amplitudes registered. Comparable bog systems are expected to operate in the same way, and regionally high sensitivity that developed in response to atmospheric circulation changes may partly explain synchronous registration of wet shifts. The wet shifts in Store Mosse were attributed to solar and volcanic forcing, respectively, and wet shifts of similar magnitude registered in other NW European bogs are likely to also have been externally forced.
Enhancing the cooling properties of low‐density polyethylene films by combining near‐infrared reflective additives
Authors: Monaci Sharon , Pucci Andrea , Picchioni Francesco , Versteeg Frederique A. , Ruggeri Giacomo
Published: December 2022

In the last years, the rising temperature caused by global warming brought the research to find new efficient solutions to lower the temperature of buildings and reduce the consumption of electrical energy for air conditioning. In this work, we propose the combined use of organic and inorganic near‐infrared (NIR) reflective additives in low‐density polyethylene (PE) films as an accessible plastic coating with enhanced cooling features. Two ‘cool’ pigments, the inorganic Sicopal® Black (Si Black) and the organic Paliogen® Black (Pa Black), were investigated for black‐tinted coatings, while TiO2 (TI) and glass bubbles (GB) were tested for opaque white coatings. The additive's size and concentration influence the composite processing, and their ultimate optical properties were determined in terms of total solar reflectance (TSR) and cooling effect under solar radiation. TI and GB dispersed in PE showed the highest TSR, whereas the organic Pa Black confirmed its superior reflective features with respect to the traditional carbon black (CB). Moreover, a significant increase in the TSR occurred when TI or GB was added to the black pigments (12.7% and 13.6%, respectively). TSR increasing led to a cooler black‐tinted PE film under solar irradiation. When using reflective pigments, a cooling effect of about 10°C was measured with respect to the traditional CB.
Solid‐State Nanopore Array: Manufacturing and Applications
Authors: Liu Hongshuai , Zhou Qin , Wang Wei , Fang Fengzhou , Zhang Jufan
Published: December 2022

Nanopore brings extraordinary properties for a variety of potential applications in various industrial sectors. Since manufacturing of solid‐state nanopore is first reported in 2001, solid‐state nanopore has become a hot topic in the recent years. An increasing number of manufacturing methods have been reported, with continuously decreased sizes from hundreds of nanometers at the beginning to ≈1 nm until recently. To enable more robust, sensitive, and reliable devices required by the industry, researchers have started to explore the possible methods to manufacture nanopore array which presents unprecedented challenges on the fabrication efficiency, accuracy and repeatability, applicable materials, and cost. As a result, the exploration of fabrication of nanopore array is still in the fledging period with various bottlenecks. In this article, a wide range of methods of manufacturing nanopores are summarized along with their achievable morphologies, sizes, inner structures for characterizing the main features, based on which the manufacturing of nanopore array is further addressed. To give a more specific idea on the potential applications of nanopore array, some representative practices are introduced such as DNA/RNA sequencing, energy conversion and storage, water desalination, nanosensors, nanoreactors, and dialysis.
From Empathy to Shame: The Use of Virtual Reality by Humanitarian Organisations
Authors: Gorin Valérie
Published: December 2022

Since the UNHCR’s movie Clouds over Sidra, filmed in 2015 in the Zaatari refugee camp, the use of Virtual Reality (VR) has increased among humanitarian organisations for raising funds or awareness. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), among others, have relied on 3D and 360-degree images to enhance emotional resonance among audiences, including diplomats, military groups or decision-makers. Marketed as the ‘ultimate empathy machine’, VR operates through immersive reality. Yet the necessity to see and feel reality ‘as it is’ is not unprecedented in the visual history of humanitarianism. Therefore, this chapter first critically examines the immersive experience of humanitarian VR movies and their performative and affective potential. Indeed, VR claims to erase the distance and to elicit empathetic connections do not prevent this innovative technology from adopting a voyeuristic or aesthetic gaze, long associated in humanitarian imagery with self-centeredness rather than other centeredness. Then, building on recent VR movies who draw on outrage and indignation, such as The Right Choice (ICRC, 2018) or Not A Target (MSF Switzerland, 2016), this chapter opens new lines of inquiry in the capacity of immersive technologies to mobilise shame rather than empathy.
The effect of increasing rarefaction on the formation of Edney shock interaction patterns: type-I to type-VI
Authors: Agir M. B. , White C. , Kontis K.
Published: December 2022

A shock–shock interaction problem can arise in high-speed vehicles where an oblique shock from one part of the body impinges on a bow shock from a different part of the body. The nature of the interaction can change as the vehicle increases in altitude to a more rarefied environment. In this work, the outcomes of a numerical study investigating the formation of Edney shock patterns from type-I to type-VI as a result of shock–shock interactions at different rarefaction levels are presented. The computations are conducted with a direct simulation Monte Carlo solver for a free-stream flow at a Mach number of 10. In shock–shock interaction problems, both geometrical and rarefaction parameters determine what type of Edney pattern is formed. The region on the shock impinged surface that experiences enhanced thermo-mechanical loads increases when the free-stream flow becomes more rarefied, but the peak values decrease. It is known that these shock interactions can have unsteady behavior in the continuum regime; the current work shows that although increasing rarefaction tends to move the flow toward steady behavior, under some conditions the flow remains unsteady.

Graphical abstract
Background enhancement in contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM): are there qualitative and quantitative differences between imaging systems?
Authors: Wessling Daniel , Männlin Simon , Schwarz Ricarda , Hagen Florian , Brendlin Andreas , Olthof Susann-Cathrin , Hattermann Valerie , Gassenmaier Sebastian , Herrmann Judith , Preibsch Heike
Published: December 2022

Objective

To evaluate the impact of the digital mammography imaging system on overall background enhancement on recombined contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) images, the overall background enhancement of two different mammography systems was compared.

Methods

In a retrospective single-center study, CESM images of n = 129 female patients who underwent CESM between 2016 and 2019 were analyzed independently by two radiologists. Two mammography machines of different manufacturers were compared qualitatively using a Likert-scale from 1 (minimal) to 4 (marked overall background enhancement) and quantitatively by placing a region of interest and measuring the intensity enhancement. Lesion conspicuity was analyzed using a Likert-scale from 1 (lesion not reliably distinguishable) to 5 (excellent lesion conspicuity). A multivariate regression was performed to test for potential biases on the quantitative results.

Results

Significant differences in qualitative background enhancement measurements between machines A and B were observed for both readers (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001). The quantitative evaluation showed significant differences in background enhancement with an average difference of 75.69 (99%-CI [74.37, 77.02]; p < 0.001). Lesion conspicuity was better for machine A for the first and second reader respectively (p = 0.009 and p < 0.001). The factor machine was the only influencing factor (p < 0.001). The factors contrast agent, breast density, age, and menstrual cycle could be excluded as potential biases.

Conclusion

Mammography machines seem to significantly influence overall background enhancement qualitatively and quantitatively; thus, an impact on diagnostic accuracy appears possible.

Key Points

• Overall background enhancement on CESM differs between different vendors qualitatively and quantitatively.

• Our retrospective single-center study showed consistent results of the qualitative and quantitative data analysis of overall background enhancement.

• Lesion conspicuity is higher in cases of lower background enhancement on CESM.
Patient-controlled sublingual sufentanil tablet system versus intravenous opioid analgesia for postoperative pain management after lumbar spinal fusion surgery
Authors: Lindemann Chris , Strube Patrick , Fisahn Christian , Sgroi Mirco , Dornacher Daniel , Zippelius Timo
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This retrospective cohort study investigated the efficacy of a sublingual sufentanil tablet system (SSTS) in comparison to intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) with piritramide for the management of postoperative pain following lumbar spinal fusion surgery.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of patients undergoing single- or two-level lumbar spinal fusion surgery and receiving the SSTS or IV-PCA for postoperative pain relief as part of multimodal pain management that included IV paracetamol and oral metamizole. The following variables were collected: postoperative pain intensity and frequency scores using the numerical rating scale (NRS), hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADS), occurrence of nausea, postoperative mobilization, and patient satisfaction (MacNab criteria).

Results

Sixty-four patients were included. Those receiving the SSTS (n = 30) had significantly lower pain intensities on the operative day (NRS: 4.0, CI: 3.6–4.3 vs. 4.5, CI: 4.2–4.9; p < 0.05) and one day postoperatively (NRS: 3.4, CI: 3.1–3.8 vs. 3.9 CI: 3.6–4.3; p < 0.05) compared to patients receiving IV-PCA (n = 34). No differences were observed on postoperative days 2 to 5. SSTS patients experienced more nausea than IV-PCA patients (p = 0.027). Moreover, SSTS patients had a higher percentage of early mobilization following surgery than IV-PCA patients (p = 0.040). Regarding patient satisfaction, no significant differences were seen between the groups.

Conclusion

The SSTS is a potentially advantageous alternative to opioid IV-PCA for use within a multimodal approach to managing postoperative pain after lumbar fusion surgery. Furthermore, the potentially higher emetic effect of SSTS should be considered, and the patient should be able to perform the application.
SealFSv2: combining storage-based and ratcheting for tamper-evident logging
Authors: Guardiola-Múzquiz Gorka , Soriano-Salvador Enrique
Published: December 2022

Tamper-evident logging is paramount for forensic audits and accountability subsystems. It is based on a forward integrity model: upon intrusion, the attacker is not able to counterfeit the logging data generated before controlling the system. There are local and distributed solutions to this problem. Distributed solutions are suitable for common scenarios, albeit not appropriate for autonomous and loosely connected systems. Moreover, they can be complex and introduce new security issues. Traditional local tamper-evident logging systems use cryptographic ratchets. In previous works, we presented SealFS (from now on, SealFSv1), a system that follows a radically different approach for local tamper-evident logging based on keystream storage. In this paper, we present a new version, SealFSv2, which combines ratcheting and storage-based log anti-tamper protection. This new approach is flexible and enables the user to decide between complete theoretical security (like in SealFSv1) and partial linear degradation (like in a classical ratchet scheme), exchanging storage for computation with user-defined parameters to balance security and resource usage. We also describe an implementation of this scheme. This implementation, which showcases our approach, is an optimized evolution of the original Linux kernel module. It implements a stackable file system that enables transparent tamper-evident logging to all user space applications and provides instant deployability. Last, we present a complete performance evaluation of our current implementation and a fair performance comparison of the two opposite approaches for local tamper-evident logging (i.e., storage-based vs. ratcheting). This comparison suggests that, on current systems and general-purpose hardware, the storage-based approach and hybrid schemes perform better than the traditional ratchet approach.
Orthostatic blood pressure adaptations, aortic stiffness, and central hemodynamics in the general population: insights from the Malmö Offspring Study (MOS)
Authors: Johansson Madeleine , Fedorowski Artur , Jordan Jens , Engström Gunnar , Nilsson Peter M. , Hamrefors Viktor
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Arterial stiffness is independently associated with orthostatic hypotension in older individuals. The relationship between orthostatic blood pressure adaptation and aortic stiffness has not been thoroughly examined in a younger population. We investigated the relationship between orthostatic blood pressure adaptations, central aortic hemodynamics, and aortic stiffness in a cohort of predominantly younger and middle-aged adults.

Methods

We analyzed an observational, population-based study of 5259 individuals living in Malmö, Sweden. We related aortic stiffness and central hemodynamics assessed by carotid–femoral pulse wave velocity and pulse wave analysis at the arteria radialis using Sphygmocor to orthostatic blood pressure adaptation after 3 min standing.

Results

The mean age of the population was 41.9 ± 14.5 years, and 52.1% were women. We observed the highest aortic stiffness and central aortic blood pressure measurements in the lowest and highest quartiles of orthostatic systolic blood pressure differences (p < 0.001). Aortic stiffness and central aortic blood pressure gradually decreased across increasing quartiles of orthostatic diastolic blood pressure difference (p < 0.001). After full adjustment, orthostatic diastolic blood pressure remained significantly associated with aortic stiffness (p = 0.001) and central aortic blood pressure (p < 0.001), whereas orthostatic systolic blood pressure was significantly associated only with central aortic systolic blood pressure (p = 0.009). No significant associations were found between subclinical orthostatic hypotension, aortic stiffness, and central hemodynamics.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that altered blood pressure responses to orthostatic challenges, both blood pressure reductions and blood pressure increases, are independently and inversely associated with markers of aortic stiffness (vascular aging) in a predominantly young to middle-aged population.
Green algae monitoring via ground-based GNSS-R observations
Authors: Ban Wei , Zheng Nanshan , Zhang Kefei , Yu Kegen , Chen Shuo , Lu Qi
Published: December 2022

Outbreaks of harmful algal blooms (HABs) exhibit high frequency, large range and damage aggravation characteristics, but existing monitoring methods, such as artificial and optical near-infrared remote sensing, cannot accommodate these characteristics. We propose a new method for monitoring green algae using Global Navigation Satellite System Reflectometry (GNSS-R) observations. The basic principle states that changes in the seawater dielectric constant and sea surface roughness due to the emergence of green algae lead to an increase in brightness temperature, which can be inverted based on the reflection time delay waveform. Shipboard reflection waveform data collected during an Enteromorpha prolifera outbreak in the Qingdao sea area were used for model development and validation of the detection and estimation performance. The results indicated that the root mean square error of GNSS-R-based inversion of the green algae density was 6.74%, indicating the potential of GNSS-R technology for rapid preliminary monitoring of green algae. Moreover, the advantages of a low cost, short return time and no climatic limitations support GNSS-R technology as a new and efficient means of green algae monitoring.
Iterative solution methods for 3D controlled-source electromagnetic forward modelling of geophysical exploration scenarios
Authors: Weiss Michael , Neytcheva Maya , Kalscheuer Thomas
Published: December 2022

We develop an efficient and robust iterative framework suitable for solving the linear system of equations resulting from the spectral element discretisation of the curl-curl equation of the total electric field encountered in geophysical controlled-source electromagnetic applications. We use the real-valued equivalent form of the original complex-valued system and solve this arising real-valued two-by-two block system (outer system) using the generalised conjugate residual method preconditioned with a highly efficient block-based PREconditioner for Square Blocks (PRESB). Applying this preconditioner equates to solving two smaller inner symmetric systems which are either solved using a direct solver or iterative methods, namely the generalised conjugate residual or the flexible generalised minimal residual methods preconditioned with the multigrid-based auxiliary-space preconditioner AMS. Our numerical experiments demonstrate the robustness of the outer solver with respect to spatially variable material parameters, for a wide frequency range of five orders of magnitude (0.1-10’000 Hz), with respect to the number of degrees of freedom, and for stretched structured and unstructured as well as locally refined meshes. For all the models considered, the outer solver reaches convergence in a small (typically < 20) number of iterations. Further, our numerical tests clearly show that solving the two inner systems iteratively using the indicated preconditioned iterative methods is computationally beneficial in terms of memory requirement and time spent as compared to a direct solver. On top of that, our iterative framework works for large-scale problems where direct solvers applied to the original complex-valued systems succumb due to their excessive memory consumption, thus making the iterative framework better suited for large-scale 3D problems. Comparison to a similar iterative framework based on a block-diagonal and the auxiliary-space preconditioners reveals that the PRESB preconditioner requires slightly fewer iterations to converge yielding a certain gain in time spent to obtain the solution of the two-by-two block system.
Atomic number and isotopy before nuclear structure: multiple standards and evolving collaboration of chemistry and physics
Authors: Cat Jordi , Best Nicholas W.
Published: December 2022

We provide a detailed history of the concepts of atomic number and isotopy before the discovery of protons and neutrons that draws attention to the role of evolving interplays of multiple aims and criteria in chemical and physical research. Focusing on research by Frederick Soddy and Ernest Rutherford, we show that, in the context of differentiating disciplinary projects, the adoption of a complex and shifting concept of elemental identity and the ordering role of the periodic table led to a relatively coherent notion of atomic number. Subsequent attention to valency, still neglected in the secondary literature, and to nuclear charge led to a decoupling of the concepts of elemental identity and weight and allowed for a coherent concept of isotopy. This concept received motivation from empirical investigations on the decomposition series of radioelements and their unstable chemical identity. A new model of chemical order was the result of an ongoing collaboration between chemical and physical research projects with evolving aims and standards. After key concepts were considered resolved and their territories were clarified, chemistry and physics resumed autonomous projects, yet remained bound by newly accepted explanatory relations. It is an episode of scientific collaboration and partial integration without simple, wholesale gestalt switches or chemical revolutions.
Gradient damage model for ductile fracture introducing degradation of damage hardening modulus: implementation and experimental investigations
Authors: Han Jike , Matsubara Seishiro , Nishi Shinnosuke , Takada Kenji , Muramatsu Mayu , Omiya Masaki , Ogawa Kensuke , Oide Kai , Kobayashi Takaya , Murata Masanobu , Moriguchi Shuji , Terada Kenjiro
Published: December 2022

This study presents a gradient damage model for ductile fracture, in which the damage hardening modulus is degraded by the accumulation of plastic deformation and the volume expansion caused by negative hydrostatic pressure. The proposed model fulfills the thermodynamic requirements, and the governing equations are derived from energy minimization principles. Two parameter studies are carried out to confirm the basic performance of the proposed model, in which some typical ductile fracture responses are demonstrated by changing parameters for degrading the damage hardening modulus. Also, a series of numerical experiments are presented to reveal the ability of the proposed model to successfully simulate the fracture tests of advanced high strength steel sheets with different tensile strengths. It is indeed confirmed by the close agreement with experimental results that the proposed model is capable of realizing the breaking elongation, the transitional behavior from unstable to stable crack propagations, and the corresponding load–displacement curves. Also, the model successfully reproduces and predicts the crack initiation positions in notched specimens with different notch radii.
Surface tension of liquid Ti, V and their binary alloys measured by electromagnetic levitation
Authors: Reiplinger B. , Plevachuk Y. , Brillo J.
Published: December 2022

The surface tension of the liquid Ti-V system is systematically measured using the oscillating drop technique during electromagnetic levitation. Temperature- and compositional dependence are both investigated. The entire compositional range is covered. A linear decrease with increasing temperature is found for the pure elements as well as for all investigated alloys. The surface tension generally increases with increasing V-content. The obtained data are in good agreement with the Butler model for the ideal solution. Additionally, the Butler model for the regular solution was evaluated in the context of the obtained surface tension data. In contrast to many other Ti-based alloys, the Butler model for the regular solution yields no additional benefit for Ti-V, since there is only a neglectable small deviation between the calculations for the ideal and regular solution. Segregation effects are modeled using the Butler equation for an ideal solution. The findings are discussed considering already existing trends for the mixing behavior of liquid Ti-alloys. The results strongly suggest, that the Ti-V system obeys in general the ideal solution law.
Indirect interactions between climate and cropland distribution shape fire size in West African grasslands
Authors: Schulte to Bühne Henrike , Tobias Joseph A. , Durant Sarah M. , Pettorelli Nathalie
Published: December 2022

Context

Climate and land use changes often interact, yet our ability to predict their combined effects on biodiversity is currently limited. In particular, the combined effects of climate and land use on key ecosystem dynamics, such as disturbance regimes, that shape biodiversity across large spatial scales, are poorly understood.

Objectives

We assess how indirect climate–land use interactions influence disturbance regimes by examining the mechanistic pathways by which climate and proximity to cropland interact to shape fire size in a West African grassland ecosystem, the W-Arly-Pendjari transboundary protected area complex.

Methods

We use remotely sensed indicators of burned area, rainfall, cropland distribution, and vegetation dynamics to test two spatially explicit hypotheses about the interaction between climate and land use effects on fire dynamics.

Results

We demonstrate that in areas where wet season grass production (which is driven by rainfall) is higher, fires are larger, but that this relationship depends on the distance to cropland. Close to cropland, environmental drivers of fire size (wet season grass production, and progressive loss of fire fuel during the fire season) have little effect on fire size, as fuel breaks induced by cropland limit fire size.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the extent to which climate factors control fire dynamics in this African grassland depends on the spatial distribution of land use. More broadly, considering the relative spatial distributions of interacting stressors may be key to improving predictions of their combined impacts on ecosystem functioning.
Microbiota and environmental health monitoring of mouse colonies by metagenomic shotgun sequencing
Authors: Lupini Laura , Bassi Cristian , Guerriero Paola , Raspa Marcello , Scavizzi Ferdinando , Sabbioni Silvia
Published: December 2022

Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) allows the monitoring of microbiota composition of murine colonies employed for scientific purposes in a single test by assessing the composition of gut microbiome and the detection of pathogens from fecal pellets. In this study, we tested the potential use of mNGS for monitoring both microbiota composition and the presence of pathogens through Environmental Health Monitoring, by using exhaust dust collection filters derived from individually ventilated cages (IVC) systems.

mNGS analysis was performed on nucleic acids isolated from filters collecting air from the exhaust of: (1) cages with mice housed in a non-pathogen free facility; (2) animal-free cages with clean chow and bedding from the same facility; (3) cages housing mice from a specific-pathogen free (SPF) facility. mNGS results revealed correspondence between microbiome composition from fecal pellets and filter, including pathogenic bacteria (Helicobacter hepaticus, Helicobacter typhlonius, Chlamydia muridarum, Rodentibacter pneumotropicus, Citrobacter rodentium), intestinal protozoa (Tritrichomonas muris, Spironucleus muris) nematoda (Aspiculuris tetraptera) and eukaryotic parasites (Myocoptes musculinus), present in the colony. Entamoeba muris and Syphacia obvelata were detected in fecal pellets but not in filter. The animal free exhaust dust filter, exposed to clean cages (no mice) placed in the IVC after removal of all mice, exhibited the presence of the same pathogens due to contaminated connecting pipes, confirming the sensitivity of the approach. Conversely, the filter from SPF colony revealed the absence of pathogens.

The current use of exhaust dust collection filters in health surveillance requires multiple molecular tests to identify specific pathogens and does not provide information on the colony microbiome. This work provides the proof-of-principle that assaying exhaust dust collection filters by mNGS for microbiota monitoring of laboratory mice is feasible. In its daily application, results suggest the usefulness of the test in SPF facilities, where pathogenic micro-organisms are expected to be absent. mNGS analysis of exhaust dust collection filters allows the analysis of multiple cages, reducing the number of tests required for pathogen detection and corresponding costs, and avoiding the use of sentinel mice.
Identität, Populismus und direkte Demokratie. Zum Einfluss der nationalen Identität auf das Verhältnis von rechtspopulistischen Einstellungen und der Präferenz für direktdemokratische Entscheidungsverfahren
Authors: Reinhardt Peter
Published: December 2022

Unter dem Eindruck steigender Unzufriedenheit mit dem politischen System und Misstrauen in gewählte RepräsentantInnen steht die Forderung nach direktdemokratischen Beteiligungsformen gegenwärtig besonders in Verbindung mit dem Rechtspopulismus. Doch bleiben die genaue Beziehung zwischen Populismus und Verfahrenspräferenzen auf individueller Ebene und die Frage, wie genau populistische Einstellungen mit Verfahrenspräferenzen zusammenhängen, weiter offen. Dieser Aufsatz schlägt eine sozialpsychologische Erklärung über Identitätsverlust und -bildung als Ergänzung der Debatte zu Verfahrenspräferenzen vor und liefert ein theoretisches Argument über die Rolle der nationalen Identität, um das Verhältnis zwischen Rechtspopulismus und Verfahrenspräferenzen zu erfassen. Daran anschließend wird empirisch der Frage nachgegangen, inwieweit sich durch populistische Einstellungen und die nationale Identifikation Präferenzen für direktdemokratische Entscheidungsverfahren erklären lassen können. Die Analysen zeigen eine Assoziation von einerseits populistischen Einstellungen und andererseits nationaler Identifikation mit Präferenzen für direktdemokratische Verfahren. Der vermutete moderierende Effekt der nationalen Identifikation auf den Zusammenhang zwischen Populismus und Verfahrenspräferenz bestätigt sich nicht. Der Artikel diskutiert vor dem Hintergrund der Ergebnisse die Bedeutung sozialpsychologischer Ansätze für politikwissenschaftliche Auseinandersetzung mit Verfahrenspräferenzen.
Function-oriented defect assessment in hybrid sheet molding compound tensile specimen using surrogate models
Authors: Bretz Lucas , Koch Dominik , Debowski Krzysztof , Höger Katja , Lanza Gisela
Published: December 2022

Glass fiber (GF) Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) composites are popular lightweight materials due to their good processability. Hybrid SMCs expand the field of operation, combining the high stiffness of unidirectional carbon fibers (CF) with the economic efficiency of GF. Combinations of manufacturing deviations (delamination, varying GF content, CF misorientation) occur during the production of hybrid SMCs and impede the mechanical performance of the part. A function-oriented quality assurance instead of strict tolerances is proposed. Finite element (FE) simulations are computationally too expensive for an assessment within the cycle time. Hence, surrogate models are trained on multiple parameterized FE simulations. The surrogate models shall allow for an individual functional assessment in real-time based on integrated measurement inputs. This work focuses on the generation of parametrized FE simulations for measurement inputs and surrogate modeling. Simulations and surrogate models show acceptable deviations from tensile tests for multiple combinations of manufacturing deviations. The measurement uncertainty of the stiffness prediction is assessed for both the FE simulation and the surrogate models in accordance with the Guide to the Expression of Uncertainty in Measurement (GUM).
Mental imagery of nature induces positive psychological effects
Authors: Koivisto Mika , Grassini Simone
Published: December 2022

Exposure to natural environments promotes positive psychological effects. Experimental studies on this issue typically have not been able to distinguish the contributions of top-down processes from stimulus-driven bottom-up processing. We tested in an online study whether mental imagery (top-down processing) of restorative natural environments would produce positive psychological effects, as compared with restorative built and non-restorative urban environments. The participants (n = 70) from two countries (Finland and Norway) imagined being present in different environments for 30 s, after which they rated their subjective experiences relating to vividness of imagery, relaxation, emotional arousal, valence (positivity vs. negativity) of emotions, and mental effort. In addition, a psychometric scale measuring vividness of imagination, a scale measuring nature connectedness, and a questionnaire measuring preference of the imagined environments were filled-in. Imagery of natural environments elicited stronger positive emotional valence and more relaxation than imagery of built and urban environments. Nature connectedness and preference moderated these effects, but they did not fully explain the affective benefits of nature. Scores in a psychometric imagery scale were associated in consistent way to the subjective ratings in the imagery task, suggesting that the participants performed attentively and honestly in reporting their subjective experiences. We conclude that top-down factors play a key role in the psychological effects of nature. A practical implication of the findings is that inclusion of natural elements in imagery-based interventions may help to increasing positive affective states.
Bionic Stepping Motors Driven by Piezoelectric Materials
Authors: Wang Shupeng , Zhou Shihui , Zhang Xiaolong , Xu Pengyun , Zhang Zhihui , Ren Luquan
Published: December 2022

By imitating the behavioral characteristics of some typical animals, researchers develop bionic stepping motors to extend the working range of piezoelectric materials and utilize their high accuracy advantage as well. A comprehensive review of the bionic stepping motors driven by piezoelectric materials is presented in this work. The main parts of stepping piezoelectric motors, including the feeding module, clamping module, and other critical components, are introduced elaborately. We classify the bionic stepping piezoelectric motors into inchworm motors, seal motors, and inertia motors depending on their main structure modules, and present the mutual transformation relationships among the three types. In terms of the relative position relationships among the main structure modules, each of the inchworm motors, seal motors, and inertia motors can further be divided into walker type, pusher type, and hybrid type. The configurations and working principles of all bionic stepping piezoelectric motors are reported, followed by a discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of the performance for each type. This work provides theoretical support and thoughtful insights for the understanding, analysis, design, and application of the bionic stepping piezoelectric motors.
The University of Groningen in the World
Authors: van Berkel Klaas , Termeer Guus
Published: December 2022

The University of Groningen has been an international university since its foundation in 1614. The first professors formed a rich international community, and many students came from outside the Netherlands, especially from areas now belonging to Germany. Internationalization, a popular slogan nowadays, is therefore nothing new, but its meaning has changed over time. How did the University of Groningen grow from a provincial institution established for religious reasons into a top-100 university with 36,000 students, of whom 25% come from abroad and almost half of the academic staff is of foreign descent? What is the identity of this four-century-old university that is still strongly anchored in the northern part of the Netherlands but that also has a mind that is open to the world? The history of the university, as told by Klaas van Berkel and Guus Termeer, ends with a short paragraph on the impact of the corona crisis.