bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accurate Strain Field Measurement During Strip Rolling by Exploiting Recurring Material Motion with Time-Integrated Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Hoefnagels J. P. M. , van Dam K. , Vonk N. , Jacobs L.
Published: December 2021

Background

95% Of all metals and alloys are processed using strip rolling, explaining the great number of existing strip rolling optimization models. Yet, an accuratein-situfull-field experimental measurement method of the deformation, velocity and strain fields of the strip in the deformation zone is lacking.

Objective

Here, a novel time-Integrated Digital Image Correlation (t-IDIC) framework is proposed and validated that fully exploits the notion of continuous, recurring material motion during strip rolling.

Methods

High strain accuracy and robustness against unavoidable light reflections and missing speckles is achieved by simultaneously correlating many (e.g. 200) image pairs in a single optimization step, i.e. each image pair is correlated with the same average global displacement field but is multiplied by a unique velocity corrector to account for differences in material velocity between image pairs.

Results

Demonstration on two different strip rolling experiments revealed previously inaccessible subtle changes in the deformation and strain fields due to minor variations in pre-deformation, elastic recovery, and geometrical irregularities. The influence of the work roll force and entry/exit strip tension has been investigated for strip rolling with an industrial pilot mill, which revealed unexpected non-horizontal material feed. This asymmetry was reduced by increasing the entry strip tension and rolling force, resulting in a more symmetric strain distribution, while increased distance between the neutral and entry point was found for a larger rolling force.

Conclusions

The proposed t-IDIC method allows for robust and accurate characterization of the strip’s full-field behavior of the deformation zone during rolling, revealing novel insights in the material behavior.
Temporarily Abled: How Exoskeleton Experience Reinvents Bodies in Spinal Cord Injury and Cerebrovascular Accidents
Authors: Butnaru Denisa
Published: December 2021

Recent achievements in rehabilitative robotics modify essential parameters of the human body, such as motility. Exoskeletons used for persons with neurological impairments like spinal cord injury and stroke enter this category by rehabilitating and assisting damaged motor patterns, achievements thought impossible until not long ago. Unlike other examples leading to similar dysfunctions, such as diseases or tumors, the experience of an accident causing a spinal cord injury or the occurrence of a cerebrovascular accident is sudden and perceived as a radical event. This often leads to deep consequences for one’s own body capacities. Exoskeletons attempt to alter this condition, contributing to forge a temporary abled body, although this currently happens in the restricted space of a clinic or a lab and under very controlled conditions for the predominance of users. Using qualitative empirical material from an ongoing study in sociology, including expert and narrative interviews as well as ethnographic visits in labs and centers that design and test exoskeletons, this article addresses the challenges and gains that people with stroke and spinal cord injury experience during their training with exoskeletons. The discussed cases contribute to reassess categories from the phenomenological paradigm, disability studies, and the role medical technologies play in contemporary body worlds.
Designing business model taxonomies – synthesis and guidance from information systems research
Authors: Möller Frederik , Stachon Maleen , Azkan Can , Schoormann Thorsten , Otto Boris
Published: December 2021

Classification is an essential approach in business model research. Empirical classifications, termed taxonomies, are widespread in and beyond Information Systems (IS) and enjoy high popularity as both stand-alone artifacts and the foundation for further application. In this article, we focus on the study of empirical business model taxonomies for two reasons. Firstly, as these taxonomies serve as a tool to store empirical data about business models, we investigate their coverage of different industries and technologies. Secondly, as they are emerging artifacts in IS research, we aim to strengthen rigor in their design by illustrating essential design dimensions and characteristics. In doing this, we contribute to research and practice by synthesizing the diffusion of business model taxonomies that helps to draw on the available body of empirical knowledge and providing artifact-specific guidance for building taxonomies in the context of business models.
Investigation of the gas losses in transmission networks
Authors: Stoica Doru Bogdan , Eparu Cristian Nicolae , Neacsa Adrian , Prundurel Alina Petronela , Simescu Bogdan Nicolae
Published: December 2021

As air pollution has become a major issue in nowadays world, reducing methane emissions from the natural gas transmission systems is an issue that definitely has to be addressed. In order to do that, there are a few solutions available, such as the replacement of steel pipes with high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes. The main causes of these leaks are the corrosion defects and third-party interventions. The paper presents a new methodology for technological gas loss calculation from the natural gas transmission system. In order to obtain the most accurate calculation formulas, the flow coefficients for different cases were determined by experimental measurements. The paper presents the details regarding the construction and equipment of the experimental stand, as well as a new method for calculating the volumes of gas lost due to defects of this type. Thus, the aerial and buried defects were studied and the results obtained on statistical data were verified. Using the results of the study, the average emission of CH4 per year in Romania was calculated, and it was proven to be about 30% bigger than the European average. The findings of this study can help for a better understanding of the level of the losses and the effect on the final costs for the population, as well as the negative impact on the environment, in case the transporter does not take any measures.
Collapse of quasi-two-dimensional symmetrized Dresselhaus spin-orbit coupled Bose–Einstein condensate
Authors: Mardonov Sh. N.
Published: December 2021

Here, we study the collapse process of quasi-two-dimensional Bose–Einstein condensate with symmetrized Dresselhaus spin–orbit coupling. We show that at a sufficiently strong spin–orbit coupling the arising spin-dependent velocity compensates the attraction between particles and can prevent the collapse of the condensate. As a result, spin–orbit coupling can lead to a stable condensate rather than the collapse process.
Almost everywhere convergence and divergence of Cesàro means with varying parameters of Walsh–Fourier series
Authors: Gát György , Goginava Ushangi
Published: December 2021

In the present paper, we prove the almost everywhere convergence and divergence of subsequences of Cesàro means with zero tending parameters of Walsh–Fourier series.
Developmental Assets in South African Adolescents Exposed to Violence: a Qualitative Study on Resilience
Authors: Sui Xincheng , Massar Karlijn , Reddy Priscilla S. , Ruiter Robert A. C.
Published: December 2021

Violence exposure is associated with psychological and behavioural maladjustment in adolescents. Yet, not all adolescents exposed to violence experience negative symptoms. Resilience is an outcome that is in part determined by multiple protective factors, or developmental assets, that protect adolescents from the negative influence of encountered stressors and allow them to attain positive developmental outcomes. A qualitative study was conducted to acquire an in-depth understanding of the developmental assets across different layers in the ecological system that promote positive psychological and behavioural functioning in South African adolescents exposed to violence. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with a multi-ethnic group (black, white, and people of mixed heritage) of South African adolescents (boy:n = 17; girl:n = 13; age: 14–19 years) from seven schools in Cape Town. Adolescents reported both internal and external assets that helped them adaptively cope with violence exposure. The internal assets entailed individual characteristics and skills, including commitment to learning, positive values, positive identity, social competencies, and emotional insight. The external assets were boundaries and expectations, social support from adolescents’ peers, family, school, and community, and adolescents’ constructive use of time. The findings of the study may inform strengths-based interventions to enhance emotional and behavioural skills in adolescents at risk for violence exposure. Moreover, involving key stakeholders in the interventions from major developmental domains can be particularly helpful to optimise the social support that are needed for adolescents to be resilient.
Impact of injection rate ramp-up on nucleation and arrest of dynamic fault slip
Authors: Ciardo F. , Rinaldi A. P.
Published: December 2021

Fluid injection into underground formations reactivates preexisting geological discontinuities such as faults or fractures. In this work, we investigate the impact of injection rate ramp-up present in many standard injection protocols on the nucleation and potential arrest of dynamic slip along a planar pressurized fault. We assume a linear increasing function of injection rate with time, up to a given time $$t_c$$

t
c

after which a maximum value $$Q_m$$

Q
m

is achieved. Under the assumption of negligible shear-induced dilatancy and impermeable host medium, we solve numerically the coupled hydro-mechanical model and explore the different slip regimes identified via scaling analysis. We show that in the limit when fluid diffusion time scale $$t_w$$

t
w

is much larger than the ramp-up time scale $$t_c$$

t
c

, slip on an ultimately stable fault is essentially driven by pressurization at constant rate. Vice versa, in the limit when $$t_c/t_w \gg 1$$

t
c

/

t
w

≫
1

, the pressurization rate, quantified by the dimensionless ratio $$\dfrac{Q_m t_w}{t_c Q^*}$$

Q
m

t
w

t
c

Q
∗

with $$Q^*$$

Q
∗

being a characteristic injection rate scale, does impact both nucleation time and arrest distance of dynamic slip. Indeed, for a given initial fault loading condition and frictional weakening property, lower pressurization rates delay the nucleation of a finite-sized dynamic event and increase the corresponding run-out distance approximately proportional to $$\propto \left( \dfrac{Q_m t_w}{t_c Q^*}\right) ^{-0.472}$$

∝

Q
m

t
w

t
c

Q
∗

-
0.472

. On critically stressed faults, instead, the ramp-up of injection rate activates quasi-static slip which quickly turn into a run-away dynamic rupture. Its nucleation time decreases non-linearly with increasing value of $$\dfrac{Q_m t_w}{t_c Q^*}$$

Q
m

t
w

t
c

Q
∗

and it may precede (or not) the one associated with fault pressurization at constant rate only.
A secreted catalase contributes to Puccinia striiformis resistance to host-derived oxidative stress
Authors: Yuan Pu , Qian Wenhao , Jiang Lihua , Jia Conghui , Ma Xiaoxuan , Kang Zhensheng , Liu Jie
Published: December 2021

Plants can produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) to counteract pathogen invasion, and pathogens have also evolved corresponding ROS scavenging strategies to promote infection and pathogenicity. Catalases (CATs) have been found to play pivotal roles in detoxifying H2O2 formed by superoxide anion catalyzed by superoxide dismutases (SODs). However, few studies have addressed H2O2 removing during rust fungi infection of wheat. In this study, we cloned a CAT gene PsCAT1 from Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), which encodes a monofunctional heme-containing catalase. PsCAT1 exhibited a high degree of tolerance to pH and temperature, and forms high homopolymers.

Heterologous complementation assays in Saccharomyces cerevisiae reveal that the signal peptide of PsCAT1 is functional. Overexpression of PsCAT1 enhanced S. cerevisiae resistance to H2O2. Transient expression of PsCAT1 in Nicotiana benthamiana suppressed Bax-induced cell death. Knockdown of PsCAT1 using a host-induced gene silencing (HIGS) system led to the reduced virulence of Pst, which was correlated to H2O2 accumulation in HIGS plants. These results indicate that PsCAT1 acts as an important pathogenicity factor that facilitates Pst infection by scavenging host-derived H2O2.
Steady Rayleigh–Bénard convection between no-slip boundaries
Authors: Wen Baole , Goluskin David , Doering Charles R.
Published: December 2021

The central open question about Rayleigh–Bénard convection – buoyancy-driven flow in a fluid layer heated from below and cooled from above – is how vertical heat flux depends on the imposed temperature gradient in the strongly nonlinear regime where the flows are typically turbulent. The quantitative challenge is to determine how the Nusselt number

$Nu$

depends on the Rayleigh number

$Ra$

in the

$Ra\to \infty$

limit for fluids of fixed finite Prandtl number

$Pr$

in fixed spatial domains. Laboratory experiments, numerical simulations and analysis of Rayleigh's mathematical model have yet to rule out either of the proposed ‘classical’

$Nu \sim Ra^{1/3}$

or ‘ultimate’

$Nu \sim Ra^{1/2}$

asymptotic scaling theories. Among the many solutions of the equations of motion at high

$Ra$

are steady convection rolls that are dynamically unstable but share features of the turbulent attractor. We have computed these steady solutions for

$Ra$

up to

$10^{14}$

with

$Pr=1$

and various horizontal periods. By choosing the horizontal period of these rolls at each

$Ra$

to maximize

$Nu$

, we find that steady convection rolls achieve classical asymptotic scaling. Moreover, they transport more heat than turbulent convection in experiments or simulations at comparable parameters. If heat transport in turbulent convection continues to be dominated by heat transport in steady rolls as

$Ra\to \infty$

, it cannot achieve the ultimate scaling.
Topological description of near-wall flows around a surface-mounted square cylinder at high Reynolds numbers
Authors: Cao Yong , Tamura Tetsuro , Zhou Dai , Bao Yan , Han Zhaolong
Published: December 2021

This study topologically describes near-wall flows around a surface-mounted cylinder at a high Reynolds number (

$Re$

) of

$5\times 10^4$

and in a very thick boundary layer, which were partially measured or technically approximated from the literature. For complete and rational flow construction, we use high-resolution simulations and critical-point theory. The large-scale near-wake vortex is composed of two connected segments rolled up from the sides of the cylinder and from the free end. Another large-scale side vortex clearly roots on two notable foci on the lower side wall. In the junction region, the side vortex moves upwards with a curved trajectory, which induces the formation of nodes on the ground surface. In the free-end region, the side vortex is compressed, which results in a smaller trailing-edge vortex and its downstream movement. Only tip vortices are observed in the far wake. The origin of the tip vortices and their distinction from the near-wake vortex are discussed. Further analyses suggest that

$Re$

independence should be treated with high caution when

$Re$

increases from 500 to

${O}(10^4)$

. The occurrence of upwash flow behind the cylinder strongly depends on the increase in

$Re$

, the mechanism of which is also provided. The separation–reattachment process in the junction region and the trailing-edge vortices are discovered only at a high

$Re$

. The former should significantly affect the strength of the side vortex in the junction region and the latter should cause a sharp drop in pressure near the trailing edge.
Hydrodynamic couplings of colloidal ellipsoids diffusing in channels
Authors: Zheng Zhongyu , Xu Xinliang , Wang Yuren , Han Yilong
Published: December 2021

The hydrodynamic interactions (HIs) of two colloidal spheres characterized by the translation–translation (T–T) couplings have been studied under various confinements, but little is known regarding the HIs of anisotropic particles and rotational motions, which are common in nature and industry. Here, we study the T–T, rotation–rotation (R–R) and translation–rotation (T–R) hydrodynamic couplings of two colloidal ellipsoids sediment on the bottoms of channels in experiment, theory and simulation. We find that the degree of confinement and the particle shape anisotropy are critical tuning factors resulting in anomalous hydrodynamic and diffusive behaviours. The negative R–R coupling reflects the tendency of opposite rotations of two neighbouring ellipsoids. The positive T–R coupling reflects that an ellipsoid rotates away from the channel axis as another ellipsoid approaches. As the channel width increases, the positive T–T coupling changes to an abnormal negative coupling, indicating that the single-file diffusion can exist even in wide channels. By contrast, only positive T–T couplings were observed for spheres in channels. The T–T coupling increases with the aspect ratiop. The R–R coupling is the maximum at a moderatep ~ 2.8. The T–R coupling is the maximum at a moderate degree of confinement. The spatial range of HIs is longer than that of spheres and increases withp. We propose a simple model which reproduces some coupling phenomena between two ellipsoids, and it is further confirmed by low-Reynolds-number hydrodynamic simulation. These findings shed new light on anisotropic particle diffusion in porous media, transport through membranes, microfluidics and microrheology.
Phase-reduction analysis of periodic thermoacoustic oscillations in a Rijke tube
Authors: Skene Calum S. , Taira Kunihiko
Published: December 2021

Phase-reduction analysis captures the linear phase dynamics with respect to a limit cycle subjected to weak external forcing. We apply this technique to study the phase dynamics of the self-sustained oscillations produced by a Rijke tube undergoing thermoacoustic instability. Through the phase-reduction formulation, we are able to reduce these dynamics to a scalar equation for the phase, which allows us to efficiently determine the synchronisation properties of the system. For the thermoacoustic system, we find the conditions for which

$m:n$

frequency locking occurs, which sheds light on the mechanisms behind asynchronous and synchronous quenching. We also reveal the optimal placement of pressure actuators that provide the most efficient route to synchronisation.
Identification of the Oligocene to early Miocene loricariid catfish †Taubateia paraiba as a member of the Rhinelepinae
Authors: Armbruster Jonathan W. , Lujan Nathan K.
Published: December 2021

Correct identification of fossil taxa is immensely important for dating molecular phylogenies and understanding when and how quickly modern biodiversity evolved. Fossils that are available for a clade of interest and can be directly incorporated in the phylogenetic analysis are considered primary sources of time calibration, whereas calibrations inferred from other studies are secondary (Arroyave et al., 2013). Studies of taxonomic groups that lack fossils must either expand their analyses to include fossilized outgroup lineages, use secondary calibrations, or use more problematic primary calibrations, e.g., vicariant geologic events. The use of vicariant geologic events to calibrate phylogenies poses the risk of circular reasoning, because the goal of many such studies is to determine how geologic events have affected diversification. Near et al. (2012) argued that fossil calibrations external to clades of interest, but still within the broader Actinopterygian (ray-finned fishes) tree, could be used as means of calibrating a generalized molecular clock, but internal calibrations are still valuable for refining such inferences (Arroyave et al., 2013).
Relationship between blood pressure and BMI in young adult population: a national-level assessment in Bangladesh
Authors: Khan Jahidur Rahman , Biswas Raaj Kishore , Islam Md. Mazharul
Published: December 2021

Young adulthood is a crucial period for major physiological transitions. Environmental changes associated with these transitions can influence health behaviour and health (e.g. poor diet, high body weight and elevated blood pressure (EBP)). Excess body weight can lead to EBP; however, little is known about this relationship among young adults in developing countries. Focusing on Bangladesh, this study assessed the association between BMI and blood pressure (BP) metrics (systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP) and BP class (optimal, normal/high normal and elevated)). Sex-specific analyses of these relationships were performed to assess any difference across sexes. Furthermore, associations of overweight/obesity with BP metrics were investigated. Young adults aged 18–24 years (n 2181) were included from nationally representative cross-sectional Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey 2017–2018. Multivariable linear and multinomial logistic regression models examined the relationships between BMI, overweight/obesity and BP metrics. Findings reveal that higher BMI was associated with higher SBP (0·83; 95 % CI 0·67, 0·99), DBP (0·66; 95 % CI 0·54, 0·74) and higher odds of having EBP (adjusted OR 1·24; 95 % CI 1·17, 1·31). These relationships were stronger among males than females. Moreover, overweight/obese individuals had higher SBP, DBP and higher odds of having EBP than individuals with normal BMI. Strategies to reduce body weight and to improve healthy lifestyle, and awareness and monitoring of BP may help to address these serious health problems, particularly at an early age.
Effect of supplementation with select human milk oligosaccharides on artificially reared newborn rats
Authors: Wang Weilan , Mu Chunlong , Cho Nicole A. , Noye Tuplin Erin W. , Lowry Dana E. , Chleilat Faye , Sales Kate M. , Sampsell Kara , Shearer Jane , Reimer Raylene A.
Published: December 2021

Early life nutrition fundamentally influences neonatal development and health. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) are key components of breast milk but not standard infant formula that support the establishment of the newborn gut microbiota. Using an artificial rearing system, our objective was to test the effect of two HMO on the whole body and organ growth, adiposity, glucose tolerance and faecal microbiota in young rat pups. From postnatal days 4 to 21, Sprague–Dawley rats were randomised to receive one of: (1) CTR (rat milk substitute); (2) 2′FL (CTR + 1·2 g/l 2′-fucosyllactose); (3) 3′SL (CTR + 1·2 g/l 3′-sialyllactose) and (4) 2′FL + 3′SL (CTR + 0·6 g/l 2′-FL + 0·6 g/l 3′-SL). Body weight (BW), bowel movements and food intake were monitored daily, faecal samples collected each week and oral glucose tolerance, body composition and organ weight measured at weaning. No significant differences were observed between groups in growth performance, body composition, organ weight and abundance of dominant faecal microbes. A decreased relative abundance of genusProteusin week 1 faecal samples andTerrisporobacterin week 3 faecal samples (P< 0·05) was suggestive of a potential pathogen inhibitory effect of 3′SL. Longitudinal changes in the faecal microbiota of artificially reared suckling rats were primarily governed by age (P= 0·001) and not affected by the presence of 2′-FL and/or 3′-SL in rat milk substitutes (P= 0·479). Considering the known protective effects of HMO, further investigation of supplementation with these and other HMO in models of premature birth, extremely low BW or malnutrition may show more pronounced outcomes.
Wet etching in β-Ga2O3 bulk single crystals
Authors: Jin Zhu , Liu Yingying , Xia Ning , Guo Xiangwei , Hong Zijian , Zhang Hui , Yang Deren
Published: December 2021

Wet etching is a simple and effective method to identify defects, fabricate patterns, and polish wafers of semiconductors. We highlight recent progress in wet etching of β-Ga2O3 substrates with an aim to comprehensively understand the etching behavior and mechanism.
Circularly polarized light-induced potentials and the demise of excited states
Authors: Carrasco Sebastián , Rogan José , Valdivia Juan Alejandro , Chang Bo Y. , Malinovsky Vladimir S. , Sola Ignacio R.
Published: December 2021

The alignment perpendicular to the field of the molecular axis in dissociative excited states of single electron molecules, prevents quantum control by bond hardening. However, using circularly polarized fields, one can circumvent this problem.
Towards the design of contrast-enhanced agents: systematic Ga3+ doping on magnetite nanoparticles
Authors: Galarreta-Rodriguez Itziar , Marcano Lourdes , Castellanos-Rubio Idoia , Gil de Muro Izaskun , García Isabel , Olivi Luca , Fernández-Gubieda M. L. , Castellanos-Rubio Ainara , Lezama Luis , de Larramendi Idoia Ruiz , Insausti Maite
Published: December 2021

The main objective of the preparation of the Fe3−xGaxO4 (0.14 ≤ x ≤ 1.35) system was to further the knowledge of the magnetic response of Ga3+-doped magnetite for application as MRI contrast agents.
Synthesis of a phosphomolybdic acid/nanocrystalline titanium silicalite-1 catalyst in the presence of hydrogen peroxide for effective adsorption-oxidative desulfurization
Authors: Wang Siyue , Tong Huan , Li Haonan , Shi Xin , Liu Di , Li Jinhong , Guo Kaixuan , Zhao Liu , Song Shengjie , Chen Lidong , Cheng Weiguo , Wang Xiangsheng
Published: December 2021

The ODS efficiency is in the order thiophene > dibenzothiophene > benzothiophene and may be attributed to the combined effect of HPMo and shape selectivity over Nano-TS-1.
Bi-doped graphitic carbon nitride nanotubes boost the photocatalytic degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Gao Qingqing , Lei Qian , Miao Ruoyan , Gao Manyi , Liu Hu , Yang Qin , Liu Yequn , Song Fang , Yu Yongsheng , Yang Weiwei
Published: December 2021

Polymeric carbon nitride (PCN) is an emerging metal-free photocatalyst with high stability but is plagued by low photocatalytic efficiency due to the rapid charge carrier recombination behavior.
Antimicrobial carbon-dot–stabilized silver nanoparticles
Authors: Ma Jinliang , Li Kexin , Gu Shaobin , Wu Ying , Zhang Jing , Wu Jiafa , Zhao Lina , Li Xuan
Published: December 2021

Carbon-dot–stabilized silver nanoparticles (CD–AgNPs) with high stability and low toxicity exhibit good antibacterial activity and broad-spectrum performance.
Interlayer electron flow and field shielding in twisted trilayer graphene quantum dots
Authors: Wang Xian , Cui Yingqi , Zhang Li , Yang Mingli
Published: December 2021

Interlayer electron flow and field shielding in twisted trilayer graphene are measured with inter- and intra-layer polarizability.
Synthesis and anti-tumor activity evaluation of salinomycin C20-O-alkyl/benzyl oxime derivatives
Authors: Li Bo , Wu Jun , Tang Lei , Lian Xu , Li Zhongwen , Duan Wenfang , Qin Tong , Zhao Xintong , Hu Yuhua , Zhang Chi , Li Tianlei , Hao Jie , Zhang Wenxuan , Zhang Jihong , Wu Song
Published: December 2021

Seventeen C20-O-alkyl/benzyl oxime derivatives were synthesized by a concise and effective method, which showed 15~240 folds better antiproliferative activity, more potent ion binding and transport ability and better selectivity indexes (SI) than salinomycin.
Spin-crossover Fe(ii) complexes on a surface: a mixture of low-spin and high-spin molecules at low temperature from quantum-chemistry calculations
Authors: Sánchez-de-Armas Rocío , Calzado Carmen J.
Published: December 2021

The deposition of a 2D monolayer of an Fe(ii) SCO complex on Au(111) is studied by quantum chemistry calculations. The results indicate that there exists thermodynamic and kinetic factors favoring the presence of the mixed HS/LS state at low temperature.
In situ formation of MnO@N-doped carbon for asymmetric supercapacitor with enhanced cycling performance
Authors: Zhu Maiyong , Tu Chengyu , Li Xuan , Luo Qiao , Li Songjun
Published: December 2021

MnO anchored on N-doped carbon was synthesized and demonstrated to be effective electrode for supercapacitor.
Towards 4th industrial revolution efficient and sustainable continuous flow manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients
Authors: Sagandira Cloudius R. , Nqeketo Sinazo , Mhlana Kanyisile , Sonti Thembela , Gaqa Sibongiseni , Watts Paul
Published: December 2021

The convergence of end-to-end continuous flow synthesis with downstream processing, process analytical technology (PAT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and automation in ensuring improved accessibility of quality medicines on demand.
Approximation of the invariant distribution for a class of ergodic SPDEs using an explicit tamed exponential Euler scheme
Authors: Bréhier Charles-Edouard
Published: December 2021

We consider the long-time behavior of an explicit tamed exponential Euler scheme applied to a class of parabolic semilinear stochastic partial differential equations driven by additive noise, under a one-sided Lipschitz continuity condition. The setting encompasses nonlinearities with polynomial growth. First, we prove that moment bounds for the numerical scheme hold, with at most polynomial dependence with respect to the time horizon. Second, we apply this result to obtain error estimates, in the weak sense, in terms of the time-step size and of the time horizon, to quantify the error to approximate averages with respect to the invariant distribution of the continuous-time process. We justify the efficiency of using the explicit tamed exponential Euler scheme to approximate the invariant distribution, since the computational cost does not suffer from the at most polynomial growth of the moment bounds. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first result in the literature concerning the approximation of the invariant distribution for SPDEs with non-globally Lipschitz coefficients using an explicit tamed scheme.
A Simple Approach for Minimally Invasive Combined Aortic and Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Alkady Hesham , Abouramadan Sobhy
Published: December 2021

Background There is now extension of minimally invasive techniques to involve concomitantly aortic and mitral valves through a single small incision. We share our experience in such surgeries through upper partial sternotomy with approaching the mitral valve through the dome of the left atrium.

Methods Two matched groups of cases receiving concomitant aortic and mitral valve surgeries are compared regarding the surgical outcomes: the minimally invasive group (group A) including 72 patients and the conventional group (group B) including 78 patients.

Results The mean age was 52 ± 8 years in group A and 53 ± 7 years in group B. Males represented (42%) in group A and (49%) in group B. The mean mechanical ventilation time was significantly shorter in group A (4.3 ± 1.2 hours) than in group B (6.1 ± 0.8 hours) with a p-value of 0.001. In addition, the amount of chest tube drainage and the need for blood transfusion units were significantly less in group A (250 ± 160 cm3 and 1.3 ± 0.8 units, respectively) when compared with group B (320 ± 180 cm3 and 1.8 ± 0.9 units, respectively) with p-values of 0.013 and 0.005, respectively. Over a follow-up period of 3.2 ± 1.1 years, one mortality occurred in each group with no significant difference (p-value = 0.512).

Conclusion Combined aortic and mitral valve surgery through upper partial sternotomy with approaching the mitral valve through the dome of the left atrium is safe and effective with the advantages of less postoperative blood loss, need for blood transfusion, and mechanical ventilation time compared with conventional aortic and mitral valve surgery.
Positionspapier der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Thorax-, Herz- und Gefäßchirurgie zum Einsatz von Physician Assistants in der Herzchirurgie
Authors: Starck Christoph , Beckmann Andreas , Böning Andreas , Gummert Jan , Lehmann Sven , Hoffmann Marcus , Hüttl Peter , Markewitz Andreas , Borger Michael , Falk Volkmar
Published: December 2021

Eine qualitativ hochwertige medizinische Behandlung von herzchirurgischen Patienten erfordert den Einsatz und die Rekrutierung von qualifiziertem Personal mit besonderem Blick auf die Fluktuation. Dieser Aspekt gestaltet sich unter den aktuellen Gegebenheiten des Fachkräftemangels wie auch den Rahmenbedingungen im deutschen Gesundheitswesen zunehmend schwieriger. Durch die Einbindung von Physician Assistants (PA) in herzchirurgischen Fachabteilungen kann das bestehende Personalkonzept innovativ, bedarfsgerecht und insbesondere nachhaltig ergänzt werden. Die jahrzehntelange Erfahrung aus anglo-amerikanischen Ländern belegt, dass mit einem PA-System eine hochwertige medizinische Behandlungsqualität nicht nur stabilisiert, sondern potenziell sogar verbessert werden kann. Gleichzeitig können Ärzte in der herzchirurgischen Facharzt-Weiterbildung von alltäglich anfallenden Tätigkeiten ohne ärztlichen Vorbehalt entlastet werden und somit freiwerdende Ressourcen für eine fundierte und vielfältige Facharztweiterbildung nutzen. Auch positive Effekte auf ökonomische Faktoren der Institution sind denkbar. Die erforderliche Delegation von ärztlichen Tätigkeiten auf nicht-ärztliche Mitarbeiter ist in Deutschland bereits jetzt gesetzlich verankert, ohne dass es spezifische, auf den Physician Assistant ausgerichtete rechtliche Rahmenbedingungen gibt. Die verbindliche Festlegung der Tätigkeiten für einen PA durch medizinische Fachgesellschaften sind in diesem Zusammenhang eine wichtige Aufgabe. In diesem Positionspapier werden unter Erörterung der medizinischen, rechtlichen und ökonomischen Aspekte Tätigkeiten für Physician Assistants in der Herzchirurgie strukturiert dargelegt.
The case for private administration of deposit guarantee schemes
Authors: Meyerhof Salama Bruno , Braga Vicente P.
Published: December 2021

We make the case that the responsibility for appointing board members in Deposit Guarantee Schemes (DGS) for commercial banks should be entrusted to the industry. In doing so, we challenge the position adopted by the International Monetary Fund, which has proposed public DGSs as the best practice. We lay out the comparative advantages of private over public DGS administration, and contend that the role of the government should in principle be limited to regulating DGSs specifically and financial markets in general. We conclude that the current worldwide trend towards greater involvement of government in financial regulation should not be extended to the administration of DGSs.
Machine learning framework for quantum sampling of highly constrained, continuous optimization problems
Authors: Wilson Blake A. , Kudyshev Zhaxylyk A. , Kildishev Alexander V. , Kais Sabre , Shalaev Vladimir M. , Boltasseva Alexandra
Published: December 2021

In recent years, there is growing interest in using quantum computers for solving combinatorial optimization problems. In this work, we developed a generic, machine learning-based framework for mapping continuous-space inverse design problems into surrogate quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) problems by employing a binary variational autoencoder and a factorization machine. The factorization machine is trained as a low-dimensional, binary surrogate model for the continuous design space and sampled using various QUBO samplers. Using the D-Wave Advantage hybrid sampler and simulated annealing, we demonstrate that by repeated resampling and retraining of the factorization machine, our framework finds designs that exhibit figures of merit exceeding those of its training set. We showcase the framework's performance on two inverse design problems by optimizing (i) thermal emitter topologies for thermophotovoltaic applications and (ii) diffractive meta-gratings for highly efficient beam steering. This technique can be further scaled to leverage future developments in quantum optimization to solve advanced inverse design problems for science and engineering applications.
Double-resonant-tunneling-diode patch-antenna oscillators
Authors: Ourednik P. , Hackl T. , Spudat C. , Tuan Nguyen D. , Feiginov M.
Published: December 2021

The concept of on-chip double-resonant-tunneling-diode (RTD) patch-antenna oscillator has the virtues of compactness, simplicity, high isolation from the external circuitry, and increased output power. Relying on this concept, we demonstrate an order of magnitude increase in the output power compared to previous reports on patch-antenna RTD oscillators: 10 μW at the fundamental frequency of 525 GHz and 70 μW at 330 GHz. Estimates show that significantly higher frequencies and powers are achievable with this type of oscillator. Only optical lithography has been used in the fabrication process of the oscillators.
A theoretical analysis of coherent cross-peaks in polarization selective 2DIR for detection of cross-α fibrils
Authors: Edun Dean N. , Cracchiolo Olivia M. , Serrano Arnaldo L.
Published: December 2021

The coupled amide-I vibrational modes in peptide systems such as fibrillar aggregates can often provide a wealth of structural information, although the associated spectra can be difficult to interpret. Using exciton scattering calculations, we characterized the polarization selective 2DIR peak patterns for cross-α peptide fibrils, a challenging system given the similarity between the monomeric and fibrillar structures, and interpret the results in light of recently collected 2D data on the cross-α peptide phenol soluble modulin α3. We find that stacking of α-helices into fibrils couples the bright modes across helical subunits, generating three new Bloch-like extended excitonic states that we designate A⊥, E∥, and E⊥. Coherent superpositions of these states in broadband 2DIR simulations lead to characteristic signals that are sensitive to fibril length and match the experimental 2DIR spectra.
Anti-polar state in BiFeO3/NdFeO3 superlattices
Authors: Khaled M. A. , Arnold D. C. , Dkhil B. , Jouiad M. , Hoummada K. , El Marssi M. , Bouyanfif H.
Published: December 2021

Antiferroelectrics are promising materials for high energy density capacitors, and the search for environmentally friendly and efficient systems is actively pursued. An elegant strategy to create and design new (anti)ferroic system relies on the use of nanoscale superlattices. We report here the use of such a strategy and the fabrication of nanoscale BiFeO3/NdFeO3 superlattices and in depth characterization using high-resolution x-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The structural analysis at the atomic scale demonstrates that such superlattices host anti-polar ordering most likely described by an antiferroelectric-like Pbnm symmetry. Temperature dependence of the anti-polar state and structural transition further hint that the stability of the anti-polar state is controlled by the BiFeO3 layer thickness within the stacking and, in a more moderate way, by interlayer strain. Discovery of such a polar arrangement in superlattices and the possible generalization to the whole rare-earth family pave the way to new platforms for energy storage applications as well as nano-electronic devices.
Radiative dynamics and delayed emission in pure and doped InP/ZnSe/ZnS quantum dots
Authors: Cavanaugh Paul , Sun Haochen , Jen-La Plante Ilan , Bautista Maria J. , Ippen Christian , Ma Ruiqing , Kelley Anne Myers , Kelley David F.
Published: December 2021

We have used time-correlated single photon counting to elucidate the radiative dynamics of InP/ZnSe/ZnS core/shell/shell quantum dots (QDs) that differ in the amount and distribution of excess indium. Stoichiometric QDs having an In:P atom ratio very near unity exhibit simple luminescence kinetics. The photoluminescence (PL) rises with the 40 ps instrument response function and exhibits a decay that is close to a single exponential with a time constant that decreases from 32 to 28 ns with increasing shell thickness. QDs having excess indium (In:P ratio of 1.15–1.63) show a significant component of a slower rise time assigned to transient population of indium-based hole traps in the ZnSe shell. They also have a slower PL decay, attributed to an equilibrium between these traps, which are optically dark, and the emissive valence-band state. This results in a radiative lifetime that increases from 32 to 48 ns with increasing shell thickness. Different treatments of the InP cores prior to shell deposition result in different core/shell interfaces as indicated by resonance Raman spectroscopy, as well as differences in the amplitude and timescale of the slow PL rise and the PL decay time. These are interpreted in terms of different radial distributions of the indium-based hole traps, which can be related to differences in the interfacial lattice strain.
Compression Optical Coherence Elastography
Authors: Li Jiayue , Foo Ken Y. , Hepburn Matt S. , Mowla Alireza , Chin Lixin , Kennedy Brendan F.
Published: December 2021

Compression optical coherence elastography (OCE) is a variant of OCE that maps mechanical parameters, or properties of a sample by measuring the deformation in response to quasi-static compressive loading. Relative to other OCE techniques, to date, compression OCE has provided higher acquisition speed, and the capability to scan over wider fields of view. In early compression OCE studies, it was not possible to estimate quantitative mechanical properties, such as elasticity, instead these early studies calculated qualitative mechanical parameters, typically strain. More recently, quantitative compression OCE has been developed to enable the estimation of elasticity, extending its use to broader applications. However, physical contact between the sample, and loading mechanism is typically required, which is a drawback in applications involving delicate tissues, such as ophthalmology. This chapter focuses on the technical development of compression OCE, beginning with the mechanical model used to determine elasticity. An overview of methods for estimating mechanical parameters, and properties; in particular, strain, stress, and elasticity, is provided. In addition, image quality metrics defined to characterize the imaging performance, such as spatial resolution, and sensitivity, are described.
Transient Optical Coherence Elastography
Authors: Zvietcovich Fernando , Singh Manmohan , Larin Kirill V.
Published: December 2021

Transient optical coherence elastography (OCE) has undergone rapid development over the past couple of decades with introductions of new techniques for inducing motion in tissues, developments of robust signal processing algorithms, and demonstrations of transient OCE methods in humans in vivo. Transient OCE is widely used due to its simplicity, adoption of established techniques from other fields, and ability to quantify tissue biomechanical properties with no knowledge of the excitation force. The past few years have seen a transition from rapid development and demonstrations of novel techniques to rigorous studies analyzing the technical capabilities and limitations of transient OCE methods and live human studies. In this chapter, we describe how to link OCE-measured motion to tissue biomechanical properties, discuss practical system design aspects, and showcase recent applications of transient OCE, focused on wave-based OCE. Finally, we consider the prospects of transient OCE and the next steps that are required to fully establish transient OCE as a viable clinical imaging modality.
Outlook
Authors: Kennedy Brendan F.
Published: December 2021

In this chapter, we provide perspectives on the current stage of, and likely future directions for, optical coherence elastography (OCE) development using the framework introduced in Chap. 10. We describe corresponding developments in ultrasound elastography and optical coherence tomography (OCT), and use these precedents as indicators for what may be required for successful translation of OCE to routine use in intended operational environments. We suggest areas for future technical refinement, describe feasibility studies performed so far, and provide perspectives on the clinical validation and commercialization of OCE.
Inorganic dielectric materials for energy storage applications: a review
Authors: Anju Balaraman Anina , Dutta Soma
Published: December 2021

The intricacies in identifying the appropriate material system for energy storage applications have been the biggest struggle of the scientific community. Countless contributions by researchers worldwide have now helped us identify the possible snags and limitations associated with each material/method. This review intends to briefly discuss state of the art in energy storage applications of dielectric materials such as linear dielectrics, ferroelectrics, anti-ferroelectrics, and relaxor ferroelectrics. Based on the recent studies, we find that the eco-friendly lead-free dielectrics, which have been marked as inadequate to compete with lead-based systems, are excellent for energy applications. Moreover, some promising strategies to improve the functional properties of dielectric materials are discussed.
Stereo visual-inertial odometry using structural lines for localizing indoor wheeled robots
Authors: Tang Yanfeng , Wei Chenchen , Cheng Shoulong , Huang Zhi
Published: December 2021

This paper proposes optimization-based stereo visual-inertial odometry (VIO) to locate indoor wheeled robots. The multiple Manhattan worlds (MWs) assumption is adopted to model the interior environment. Instead of treating these worlds as isolated ones, we fuse the latest MW with the previous ones if they are in the same direction, reducing the calculated errors on the orientation of the latest MW. Then, the structural lines that encode the orientation information of these worlds are taken as additional landmarks to improve the positioning accuracy and reduce the accumulated drift of the system, especially when the system is in a challenging environment (i.e. scenes with continuous turning and low textures). In addition, the structural lines are parameterized by only two variables, which improves the computational efficiency and simplifies the initialization of lines. Experiments on public benchmark datasets and in real-world environments demonstrate that the proposed VIO system can accurately position the wheeled robot in a complex indoor environment.
Solidification and grain formation in alloys: a 2D application of the grand-potential-based phase-field approach
Authors: Biswas Sudipta , Liu Dehao , Aagesen Larry K , Jiang Wen
Published: December 2021

Solidification is a significant step in the forming of crystalline structures during various manufacturing and material processing techniques. Solidification characteristics and the microstructures formed during the process dictate the properties and performance of the materials. Hence, understanding how the process conditions relate to various microstructure formations is paramount. In this work, a grand-potential-based multi-phase, multi-component, multi-order-parameter phase-field model is used to demonstrate the solidification of alloys in 2D. This model has several key advantages over other multi-phase models such as it decouples the bulk energy from the interfacial energy, removes the constraints for the phase concentration variable, and prevents spurious third-phase formation at the two phase interfaces. Here, the model is implemented in a finite-element-based phase-field modeling code. The role of various modeling parameters in governing the solidification rate and the shape of the solidified structure is evaluated. It is demonstrated that the process conditions such as temperature gradient, thermal diffusion, cooling rate, etc, influence the solidification characteristics by altering the level of undercooling. Furthermore, the capability of the model to capture directional solidification and polycrystalline structure formation exhibiting various grain shapes is illustrated. In both these cases, the process conditions have been related to the growth rate and associated shape of the dendritic structure. This work serves as a stepping stone towards resolving the larger problem of understanding the process–structure–property–performance correlation in solidified materials.