bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the dual effect of obstacles in preventing silo clogging in 2D
Authors: Gella Diego , Yanagisawa Daichi , Caitano Rodrigo , Ferreyra María Victoria , Zuriguel Iker
Published: January 2022

Placing an obstacle in front of a bottleneck has been proposed as a sound alternative to improve the flow of discrete materials in a wide variety of scenarios. Nevertheless, the physical reasons behind this behavior are not fully understood and the suitability of this practice has been recently challenged for pedestrian evacuations. In this work, we experimentally demonstrate that for the case of inert grains discharging from a silo, an obstacle above the exit leads to a reduction of clog formation via two different mechanisms: i) an alteration of the kinematic properties in the outlet proximities that prevents the stabilization of arches; and ii) an introduction of a clear anisotropy in the contact fabric tensor that becomes relevant when working at a quasi-static regime. Then, both mechanisms are encompassed using a single formulation that could be inspiring for other, more complex, systems.
Stratospheric Final Warmings fall into two categories with different evolution over the course of the year
Authors: Hauchecorne Alain , Claud Chantal , Keckhut Philippe , Mariaccia Alexis
Published: January 2022

In early spring the stratospheric zonal circulation reverses from westerly to easterly. The transition, called Stratospheric Final Warming (SFW), may be smooth and late, mainly controlled by the solar radiative heating of the polar region, or early and abrupt with rapid increase of polar temperature and deceleration of the zonal wind, forced by the planetary wave activity. Here we present a study, based on 71 years meteorological reanalysis data. Two composites of radiative and dynamical SFWs have been built. There is a very significant difference in the evolution during the year of polar temperature and 60°N zonal wind between the two composites. The state of the polar vortex on given month is anticorrelated with its state 2 to 3 months earlier. Early winter is anticorrelated with mid-winter and mid-winter with late winter/early spring. The summer stratosphere keeps a memory of its state in April–May after the SFW until late June.
An explosive component in a December 2020 Milan earthquake suggests outgassing of deeply recycled carbon
Authors: Malusà Marco Giovanni , Brandmayr Enrico , Panza Giuliano Francesco , Romanelli Fabio , Ferrando Simona , Frezzotti Maria Luce
Published: January 2022

Carbon dragged at sub-arc depths and sequestered in the asthenospheric upper mantle during cold subduction is potentially released after millions of years during the breakup of continental plates. However, it is unclear whether these deep-carbon reservoirs can be locally remobilized on shorter-term timescales. Here we reveal the fate of carbon released during cold subduction by analyzing an anomalously deep earthquake in December 2020 in the lithospheric mantle beneath Milan (Italy), above a deep-carbon reservoir previously imaged in the mantle wedge by geophysical methods. We show that the earthquake source moment tensor includes a major explosive component that we ascribe to carbon-rich melt/fluid migration along upper-mantle shear zones and rapid release of about 17,000 tons of carbon dioxide when ascending melts exit the carbonate stability field. Our results underline the importance of carbon-rich melts at active continental margins for emission budgets and suggest their potential episodic contributions to atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Tissue engineered vascular grafts transform into autologous neovessels capable of native function and growth
Authors: Blum Kevin M. , Zbinden Jacob C. , Ramachandra Abhay B. , Lindsey Stephanie E. , Szafron Jason M. , Reinhardt James W. , Heitkemper Megan , Best Cameron A. , Mirhaidari Gabriel J. M. , Chang Yu-Chun , Ulziibayar Anudari , Kelly John , Shah Kejal V. , Drews Joseph D. , Zakko Jason , Miyamoto Shinka , Matsuzaki Yuichi , Iwaki Ryuma , Ahmad Hira , Daulton Robbie , Musgrave Drew , Wiet Matthew G. , Heuer Eric , Lawson Emily , Schwarz Erica , McDermott Michael R. , Krishnamurthy Rajesh , Krishnamurthy Ramkumar , Hor Kan , Armstrong Aimee K. , Boe Brian A. , Berman Darren P. , Trask Aaron J. , Humphrey Jay D. , Marsden Alison L. , Shinoka Toshiharu , Breuer Christopher K.
Published: January 2022

Background

Tissue-engineered vascular grafts (TEVGs) have the potential to advance the surgical management of infants and children requiring congenital heart surgery by creating functional vascular conduits with growth capacity.

Methods

Herein, we used an integrative computational-experimental approach to elucidate the natural history of neovessel formation in a large animal preclinical model; combining an in vitro accelerated degradation study with mechanical testing, large animal implantation studies with in vivo imaging and histology, and data-informed computational growth and remodeling models.

Results

Our findings demonstrate that the structural integrity of the polymeric scaffold is lost over the first 26 weeks in vivo, while polymeric fragments persist for up to 52 weeks. Our models predict that early neotissue accumulation is driven primarily by inflammatory processes in response to the implanted polymeric scaffold, but that turnover becomes progressively mechano-mediated as the scaffold degrades. Using a lamb model, we confirm that early neotissue formation results primarily from the foreign body reaction induced by the scaffold, resulting in an early period of dynamic remodeling characterized by transient TEVG narrowing. As the scaffold degrades, mechano-mediated neotissue remodeling becomes dominant around 26 weeks. After the scaffold degrades completely, the resulting neovessel undergoes growth and remodeling that mimicks native vessel behavior, including biological growth capacity, further supported by fluid–structure interaction simulations providing detailed hemodynamic and wall stress information.

Conclusions

These findings provide insights into TEVG remodeling, and have important implications for clinical use and future development of TEVGs for children with congenital heart disease.
Mn4+ non-equivalent doped fluoride phosphors with a short fluorescence decay time for backlighting
Authors: Li Jie , Yang Xinyi , Li Tong , Ye Yanqing , Zhou Yayun , Wang Qin , Zhou Qiang , Wang Zhengliang
Published: January 2022

A red-emitting phosphor Rb2NaInF6:Mn4+ obtained by the non-equivalent doping of Mn4+ exhibits intense narrow-band emission with a short decay time and good colour stability for backlighting.
A comprehensive investigation on the chemical diversity and efficacy of different parts of Ligusticum chuanxiong
Authors: Yan Hongling , Zhou Yinlin , Tang Fei , Wang Chengjiu , Wu Jing , Hu Changjiang , Xie Xiaofang , Peng Cheng , Tan Yuzhu
Published: January 2022

Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (CX) is a medicinal and edible plant with a wide range of constituents of biological interest.
Two-dimensional InSb/GaAs- and InSb/InP-based tandem photovoltaic device with matched bandgap
Authors: Xie Meiqiu , Liu Xuhai , Li Yang , Li Xing'ao
Published: January 2022

Two-dimensional InSb/GaAs and InSb/InP-based tandem PVs were designed with high solar-to-electric efficiency up to nearly 30.0%. The influencing factors for efficiency and the physical mechanism in the tandem configurations are also analyzed.
Strong violet emission from ultra-stable strontium-doped CsPbCl3 superlattices
Authors: Ji Yongqiang , Wang Minqiang , Yang Zhi , Wang Hao , Padhiar Muhammad Amin , Qiu Hengwei , Dang Jialin , Miao Yinru , Zhou Yun , Bhatti Arshad Saleem
Published: January 2022

We develop a general strategy for the synthesis of strong violet-emitting CsSr0.1Pb0.9Cl3 perovskite supercrystals (PSCs). These CsSr0.1Pb0.9Cl3 PSCs were found to not only possess improved PLQYs but also exhibit high stability against UV light and water.
Binary pentagonal auxetic materials for photocatalysis and energy storage with outstanding performances
Authors: Cheng Zishuang , Zhang Xiaoming , Zhang Hui , Liu Heyan , Yu Xiao , Dai Xuefang , Liu Guodong , Chen Guifeng
Published: January 2022

Two-dimensional binary pentagonal auxetic materials with excellent promise in photocatalysis and energy storage.
A thiadiazolopyridine-functionalized Zr(iv)-based metal–organic framework for enhanced photocatalytic synthesis of tetrahydroquinolines under visible light
Authors: Li Changyun , Zhang He , Wang Xuefei , Li Qiu-Yan , Zhao Xinsheng , Wang Xiao-Jun
Published: January 2022

A photoactive thiadiazolopyridine moiety functionalized UiO-68 isoreticular MOF exhibited an enhanced photocatalytic activity for the synthesis of tetrahydroquinolines between N,N-dimethylanilines and maleimides under visible light.
Pd-catalysed C–H functionalisation of free carboxylic acids
Authors: Dutta Suparna , Bhattacharya Trisha , Geffers Finn J. , Bürger Marcel , Maiti Debabrata , Werz Daniel B.
Published: January 2022

Pd-catalysed C–H functionalisation of free carboxylic acids has drawn significant attention over the last few years due to the predominance of carboxylic acid moieties in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Controlling the optical and catalytic properties of artificial metalloenzyme photocatalysts using chemogenetic engineering
Authors: Zubi Yasmine S. , Liu Bingqing , Gu Yifan , Sahoo Dipankar , Lewis Jared C.
Published: January 2022

Artificial metalloenzyme visible light photocatalysts possess enhanced optical properties and are competent towards single electron and energy transfer organic transformations.
Synchronized oscillations in swarms of nematode Turbatrix aceti
Authors: Peshkov Anton , McGaffigan Sonia , Quillen Alice C.
Published: January 2022

We report a novel collective motion state in dense suspensions of the nematode Turbatrix Aceti. Under the right shape of a droplet of the dense solution, the nematodes will swarm at the border and synchronize their beating to produce a moving wave.
Untangling the mechanics of entanglements in slide-ring gels towards both super-deformability and toughness
Authors: Xing Ziyu , Shu Dong-Wei , Lu Haibao , Fu Yong-Qing
Published: January 2022

Schematic illustrations of the entanglements between molecular chains and cross-linked rings.
An unprecedented polyoxometalate-encapsulated organo–metallophosphate framework as a highly efficient cocatalyst for CO2 photoreduction
Authors: Du Ze-Yu , Xue Ying-Nan , Liu Xiao-Mei , Li Ning-Fang , Wang Ji-Lei , Mei Hua , Xu Yan
Published: January 2022

Both compounds have host organo–metallophosphate (OMPO) frameworks, whereas the Keggin-type POM as a guest encapsulated in this size-matched framework. More interestingly, compound 2 displays outstanding performance in CO2 photoreduction.
Optimal machine-driven acquisition of future cosmological data
Authors: Kostić Andrija , Jasche Jens , Ramanah Doogesh Kodi , Lavaux Guilhem
Published: January 2022

We present a set of maps classifying regions of the sky according to their information gain potential as quantified by Fisher information. These maps can guide the optimal retrieval of relevant physical information with targeted cosmological searches. Specifically, we calculated the response of observed cosmic structures to perturbative changes in the cosmological model and we charted their respective contributions to Fisher information. Our physical forward-modeling machinery transcends the limitations of contemporary analyses based on statistical summaries to yield detailed characterizations of individual 3D structures. We demonstrate this advantage using galaxy counts data and we showcase the potential of our approach by studying the information gain of the Coma cluster. We find that regions in the vicinity of the filaments and cluster core, where mass accretion ensues from gravitational infall, are the most informative with regard to our physical model of structure formation in the Universe. Hence, collecting data in those regions would be most optimal for testing our model predictions. The results presented in this work are the first of their kind to elucidate the inhomogeneous distribution of cosmological information in the Universe. This study paves a new way forward for the performance of efficient targeted searches for the fundamental physics of the Universe, where search strategies are progressively refined with new cosmological data sets within an active learning framework.
Experimental validation of a dynamic modelling of a Reversible Solid Oxide Cells (rSOCs)
Authors: Bolognese Michele , Testi Matteo , De Bortoli Lorenzo , Bartali Ruben , Crema Luigi
Published: January 2022

The integration of Hydrogen technologies in different end-uses such as transport, electric microgrids, residential and industrial applications, will increase exponentially soon. Hydrogen as energy carrier allows more favourable energy conversion than other conventional systems and is crucial in worldwide decarbonize end uses. The production of green hydrogen, using RES, is a key area for the evolution of this technology. In this context, SWITCH is a Horizon 2020 European Project that aims to design, build and test an in-situ fully integrated and continuous multisource hydrogen production system, based on solid oxide cell technology. Reversible Solid Oxide Cell (rSOCs) technologies allow to convert renewable energy as hydrogen in the power-to-gas application (P2G) and in reversible mode is able to produce electricity from hydrogen stored, power-to-power application (P2P). rSOCs are really interesting to stabilize the random nature of RES because a combined electrolysis and fuel cell system should be able to switch between the two modes as quickly as possible in order to optimize the integration and the use of RES. However, rSOCs need a complex BoP from the thermal point of view, able to guarantee high efficiency even at partial load mode as well as easy start-up and shutdown procedures. In this work, a Stack Box Module dynamic model was developed in Modelica environment as a dynamic tool for the definition and optimization of BoP requirements. Stack model was validated in SOFC (Solid Oxide Fuel Cell) and SOE (Solid Oxide Electrolyser). The results of the simulation provide verification of the technical/thermodynamic behaviour and flexibility of a stack box of 70 cells. Dynamic modelling allows to evaluate the effect of the reagent inlet temperatures on the operation and hydrogen production/consumption in terms of yield as well as the transients between the different operative modes. Model has been validated by experimental measurements performed in the laboratory. In particular, the kinetics of the reactions governing steam methane reforming (SMR) was considered from data found in the literature, while the ASR (Area Specific Resistance) value was calibrated according to experimental data. The results of the dynamic model show as model can be a useful design and optimization tool for the SOCs technology.
Thermochemical cycle based on solid intermediates for hydrogen storage and on-demand production
Authors: Tizzoni Anna Chiara , Mansi Emiliana , Sau Salvatore , Spadoni Annarita , Corsaro Natale , Lanchi Michela , Giorgi Gianremo , Turchetti Luca , Delise Tiziano
Published: January 2022

Thermochemical water splitting processes based on Sulfur-Iodine cycle can be conveniently improved using solid intermediates, in order to increase the global yield and avoid the use of concentrated acid at high temperatures. In this context, an innovative process has been conceived, where a metal oxide, namely NiO, is reduced into oxygen and the correspondent metal, which can be suitably stored and reacted with steam into hydrogen when and where necessary. Data previously obtained and published, together with the integration of experimental results have been used to evaluate the technical feasibility and the heat duties of each step of the proposed cycle. The starting point was a Nickel compounds based process already extensively characterized, which has been modified using low toxic Iron (III) species as intermediates for oxygen formation. Based on the theoretical and experimental analysis carried out, the resulting cycle thermal efficiency is quite promising, about 19%, also taking into account the hydrogen generation step.
Degradation of Ni-YSZ and Ni-GDC fuel cells after 1000 h operation: Analysis of different overpotential contributions according to electrochemical and microstructural characterization
Authors: Padinjarethil Aiswarya Krishnakumar , Bianchi Fiammetta Rita , Bosio Barbara , Hagen Anke
Published: January 2022

Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technologies are emerging as potential power generation units with limited environmental impacts. However, the main challenges towards large scale commercial applications are high costs and low lifetime compared to currently used technologies. The present study aims at understanding degradation mechanisms in SOFCs through both experimental and modelling approaches. For this purpose, two state of the art fuel cell configurations based on Ni cermet fuel electrode (either YSZ-Yttrium Stabilised Zirconia or GDC-Gadolinium Doped Ceria), YSZ electrolyte and LSCF (Lanthanum Strontium Cobalt Ferrite oxide) air electrode were chosen. The cells were tested for 1000 hours with H2 rich mixture as fuel feed and air as oxidant. Cells were characterised at several H2/H2O ratios and temperatures with air or oxygen fed to the air electrode using different techniques. These allowed the identification of kinetic parameters to be implemented in an in-house 2D Fortran based model. The model was able to successfully simulate global cell behaviour as a function of local features, and it was validated with experimental I-V curves recorded prior and post durability operation. Moreover, post-mortem microstructure characterisation was also performed to fine-tune the model towards a more accurate prediction of the degradation influence on cell performance.
Impedance-based Solid Oxide Fuel Cell testing as scalable and reliable Quality Control tool for cell and batch manufacturing: first findings
Authors: Pumiglia Davide , Massimiliano Della Pietra , Monforti Ferrario Andrea , McPhail Stephen , Pylypko Sergii
Published: January 2022

Testing is a necessary step in the manufacturing process of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC) to assess the performance of the produced cells before on-field deployment. In this work, the implementation of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) and subsequent data elaboration via Equivalent Circuit Modelling (ECM) is evaluated as a viable experimental framework for characterization and Quality Control (QC) of cells or cell batches, complemented to standard polarization-based methods. By performing a statistical analysis of the ECM parameters (representative of each physico-chemical process) the cell and batch operational parameters can be determined and compared. The validity of the proposed methodology is assessed using a wide experimental dataset of a significant number of SOFC samples (20 cells from 3 batches – two of which identical and the third with an intentional modification in the manufacturing process in order to validate the proposed methodology) tested in identical conditions. Results show that the impedance-based method provide detailed information in terms of impedance breakdown (anode gas diffusion process resulting the main criticality), as well as confirming the preliminary results obtained from the polarization approach (Batch#2 showing the lowest total performance and highest uniformity). Highly reproducible intra-batch distributions of the ECM parameters encourage the applicability of such methodology for QC purposes, even with few data collected only in Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) conditions. A relevant deviation of charge transfer and diffusion resistances in Batch#3 respect to other batches is observed (not visible from the polarization curves), which is reconducted to the modified anode functional layer, opening potential applications of the proposed methodology to assess the impact of targeted modifications of manufacturing methods on specific cell electrochemical performances.
An algorithm for comparative analysis of power and storage systems for maritime applications
Authors: Rivarolo Massimo , Iester Federico , Massardo Aristide F.
Published: January 2022

This paper presents an innovative algorithm to compare traditional and innovative energy systems onboard for maritime applications. The solutions are compared adopting a multi-criteria method, considering four parameters (weight, volume, cost, emissions) and their relevance according to the kind of ship and navigation route. The algorithm, which includes a large and updated database of market solutions, leads to the implementation of HELM (Helper for Energy Layouts in Maritime applications) tool. HELM was conceived to support the design of maritime systems: it chooses the best technology comparing traditional marine diesel engines, propulsion systems with alternative fuels (methanol, ammonia, LNG) and innovative low-emission technologies (fuel cell and batteries). Two case studies are investigated: (i) a small passenger ship for short routes (ii) and a large size ro-ro cargo ship. For case (i), fuel cells represent a competitive solution, in particular considering navigation in emission control areas. For case study (ii) Internal Combustion Engines shows are the best solution. The evaluation of alternative fuels is performed, considering a sensitivity analysis on emissions’ importance: methanol, LNG, and ammonia are promising solutions. For case (i), the installation of electrical batteries is also evaluated to analyse potential advantages to reduce the amount of H2 stored onboard.
Pilot autonomous hybrid hydrogen refueling station utilizing a metal hydride compressor covering local transportation needs
Authors: Chalkiadakis Nikolaos , Stubos Athanasios , Zoulias Emmanuel I. , Stamatakis Emmanuel
Published: January 2022

The need for decreasing carbon emissions in the transportation sector in order to meet the targets of the European Union by 2030, inevitably leads to the large scale adoption of cleaner alternatives. Hydrogen fueled vehicles could possibly provide one such alternative, if we could assume that the necessary infrastructure would be widely available throughout Europe. Already, the European Union has committed to the construction of a significant number of Hydrogen Refueling Stations (HRS) by year 2025 and in view of that, there is a need of developing suitable configurations for the production, compression, storage and dispensing of green hydrogen to hydrogen fueled vehicles. This work presents an autonomous hybrid system which produces green hydrogen by PV- powered water electrolysis (PEM), which is subsequently compressed by a novel metal hydride hydrogen compressor to pressures up to 200 bar. This pilot HRS will meet the daily demand of 2 scooters and a golf cart which have been transformed, in order for their electric motor to be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell instead of a battery. An important element of the work which is presented, revolves around the integration of the metal hydride compressor with the rest of the system, and how this integration won’t hinder its functionality. The complete system design and layout is presented, while the results from the system operation could give a good idea regarding the optimal system sizing for similar large scale applications.
Digital Twin of Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicle: a detailed modelling approach of the hydrogen powertrain and the auxiliary systems
Authors: Bartolucci Lorenzo , Cennamo Edoardo , Cordiner Stefano , Mulone Vincenzo , Pasqualini Ferdinando , Aimo Boot Marco
Published: January 2022

The transport sector is today a major source of pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions. Fuel Cell Hybrid Electric Vehicles are a solution to reduce its environmental impact, thanks to the zero pollutant tailpipe emissions and longer driving ranges if compared with full electric vehicles. A Digital Twin of a FCHEV is developed in this study, through the assessment of models of mechanical and thermal systems within the vehicle. The Simulink/Simscape model here presented is able to support both the design choices and the test of control strategies. The results obtained allow characterizing the impact of the auxiliary systems on the driving range, whose relative value ranges from 28% to 40% of the overall energy demand depending on the ambient temperature, and the range is between 430 km and 356 km respectively for mild and cold temperature.
Assessing the effect of the electrode orientation on the performance of soil microbial fuel cells
Authors: Dziegielowski Jakub , Bregu Gresa , Hulse Luke , Di Lorenzo Mirella
Published: January 2022

Soil microbial fuel cells (SMFCs) are a sub-class of the microbial fuel cells family, in which the soil acts as the electrolyte, and as the source of microorganisms and organic fuel. Given the great simplicity of the system design, SMFCs show a promising avenue for energy generation in remote areas. In this study, we investigate the influence that geometrical factors, such as the electrode orientation, have on the electrochemical performance of SMFCs. Two types of electrode orientations: horizontal and vertical, were tested. Additionally, the influence of anode and cathode immersion in soil was explored too. Our results demonstrate that vertical positioning of the cathode in soil is not a viable option. The increase in cathodic immersion leads to a more rapid performance decay, attributed to more anaerobic conditions along soil’s depth. The increase in anode immersion has a positive effect on the evolution of the negative electrode potential. However, with the increase in electrode spacing, the performance drops due to a greater internal resistance.
Performance of Reduced Titanium Oxide and Boron Doped Diamond as anodes in hyperthermophilic bioelectrochemical systems
Authors: Malavola Laura , Franz Silvia , Bestetti Massimiliano , Esercizio Nunzia , D’Ippolito Giuliana , Cristiani Pierangela
Published: January 2022

This work investigates Reduced Titanium Oxide (RTO) in comparison with Carbon Cloth (CC) and commercial Boron Doped Diamond (BDD) as anodes in hyperthermophilic bioelectrochemical systems operating at 80°C by Thermotoga neapolitana. Two samples of RTO were synthesized by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) of titanium plates and subsequent electrochemical reduction. Electrochemical performance of CC, BDD, and RTO are tested by performing cyclic voltammetry in the anodic region (0-1V, 50 mV/s), in abiotic and biotic conditions. The surface of colonized materials is observed by SEM microscopy. Results show that bacteria fast settle on all tested material, significantly affecting their electrochemical conductivity. The integration of voltammetric cycles reveals that biofilm generates capacitive effects on the anodic surfaces, particularly evident in RTO, less in CC and absent in BDD. Charge densities provided by capacitive response of RTO and CC are of the order of 5.58 and 0.77 mC/cm2, respectively.
Performance assessment of stacked air-cathode microbial fuel cells under series and parallel electrical connections
Authors: Di Micco Simona , De Falco Pasquale , Minutillo Mariagiovanna , Bracale Antonio , Caramia Pierluigi , Gifuni Angelo , Grassini Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are playing an important role in the context of sustainable energy development. They represent a sustainable approach to harvest electricity from biodegradable materials. However, harvesting energy from MFCs represents a critical issue because of the low output voltage and power produced. Realizing stacked configurations may involve an increase in MFCs performances in terms of output voltage, current and electric power.

In this paper, two stacked configurations under different electrical connection modes have been designed, developed, modeled and tested. The stacked MFCs consist of 4 reactors (28 mL x4) that are connected in series, and parallel-series modes. Three different tests have been carried out, which involves: 1) performing the polarization and power curves by applying decreasing resistances; 2) assessment of the electric behavior of each reactor over time at a fixed resistance, 3) performing the polarization and power curves by applying increasing resistances. Moreover, a numerical model for predicting the transient behavior of the electrical quantities for one reactor, has been developed and validated by using the experimental data. As expected, the results highlighted that the parallel-series configuration assures the highest volumetric power density compared to the series configuration, reaching the maximum value of 1248.5 mW/m3 (139.8 µW) at 0.291 mA. Eventually, by comparing the numerical and the experimental data, it has been demonstrated that the developed model is able to predict the reactor’s electrical trend with a good accuracy.
The Pretreatment Controlling Nutritional Status Score in Ovarian Cancer: Influence on Prognosis, Surgical Outcome, and Postoperative Complication Rate
Authors: Bekos Christine , Grimm Christoph , Gensthaler Lisa , Bartl Thomas , Reinthaller Alexander , Schwameis Richard , Polterauer Stephan
Published: January 2022

Introduction The Controlling Nutritional (CONUT) Status score is an established predictor of impaired prognosis in patients with solid tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of the CONUT score for overall survival and perioperative complication rates in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer.

Patients In this retrospective study we assessed the data of 337 consecutive patients with ovarian cancer. The CONUT score was associated with surgical outcome, postoperative complications and clinicopathological parameters. We used univariate log-rank test and multivariable Cox regression models to evaluate the association between pretreatment CONUT scores and survival.

Results A low CONUT score (0 – 2) was associated with an early FIGO stage (p = 0.004), complete tumor resection (p < 0.001), less neoadjuvant chemotherapy (p = 0.017) and other histologies than serous cystadenocarcinoma (p = 0.006). Postoperative complications were observed in 51.4% and 60.5% of patients with a CONUT score of 0 – 2 and a score > 2, respectively (p = 0.161). A shorter overall survival was observed in patients with a CONUT score > 2 compared to patients with a low CONUT score, with 5-year overall survival rates of 31.5% and 58.7%, respectively (p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, both advanced age (p < 0.001) and FIGO stage (p < 0.001), residual disease (p < 0.001) and a high CONUT score (p = 0.048) were independently associated with unfavorable overall survival.

Conclusion Pretreatment CONUT score is an independent prognostic marker for overall survival and associated with successful surgery. Patients with a high CONUT score might benefit from pretreatment nutritional intervention.
Hydrated Nucleus Pulposus Extrusion in Dogs: Thoracolumbar Compared to Cervical Cases
Authors: Kristiansen K. V. , Schmökel H. , Vermeire S.
Published: January 2022

Objective The aim of this study was to review and describe cases of thoracolumbar (TL) hydrated nucleus pulposus extrusion (HNPE) diagnosed with magnetic resonance imaging and surgery, and compare them to cases of cervical (C) HNPE.

Study Design Retrospective, single-center study.

Results Thirty-six dogs met the inclusion criteria. Fifteen cases were C and 21 TL. Thirteen dogs were chondrodystrophic breeds, mean body weight was 13 kg, median age was 7.5 years, and 30/36 were male. Fewer dogs were chondrodystrophic in the C group compared with the TL group (p = 0.022). More than 90% had an acute onset, and strong activity was more often reported in the TL group. TL HNPE was more often painful, and extruded disc material more often lateralized (p = 0.017). Median Modified Frankel Score at presentation was 3 and 72.2% were non-ambulatory. More TL HNPE (11/21) were treated surgically compared with C HNPE (4/15). Treatment choice was correlated with spinal cord compression (p = 0.0075). Median Modified Frankel Score improved during hospitalization (p = 0.002) and there was no difference in outcome between C and TL HNPE or conservative and surgical treatment. Mean follow-up time was 33 days. All patients were ambulatory at follow-up.

Conclusion This study suggests that the HNPE is not limited to the C vertebral column of dogs and can occur in the TL vertebral column as well. Dogs with TL HNPE show spinal hyperesthesia more often and extruded nucleus material is more often lateralized. Outcome is similar to what has previously been described for C HNPE.
Garré's Sclerosing Osteomyelitis with Perimandibular Soft Tissue Inflammation and Fistula
Authors: Shanmuga Jayanthan S. , Ganesh Rajagopal
Published: January 2022

Garré's sclerosing osteomyelitis is a form of chronic osteomyelitis that commonly affects children and young adults. Here, we report one such case of Garré's sclerosing osteomyelitis in a 20-year-old female who presented with facial asymmetry and inability to open mouth. On clinical examination, it was bony hard swelling with trismus. History of infected second molar tooth extraction was present. Computed tomography scan showed thickening and sclerosis of the ramus and condylar process of mandible, on right side, with proliferative periostitis. Magnetic resonance imaging showed soft tissue edema and inflammation, in the form of enlargement of right masseter and pterygoid muscles with intramuscular fluid collection. On the basis of history, clinical signs, and imaging features, diagnosis of Garré's osteomyelitis with fascial space infection was made. To our knowledge, very few cases of Garré's osteomyelitis present with superimposed fascial space infection, as it is otherwise a nonsuppurative condition. Fistula formation is a very rare incidence as it is seen in our case.
Getting Vaccinated Helps: Prospective Study Reveals Lower CT Severity Scores amongst COVID Vaccine Recipients
Authors: Joshi Priscilla C. , Jahanvi Vandana , Mahajan Mangal S. , Patil Nivedita C. Ghule , Moradiya Priyankkumar G. , Pawar Shivani N.
Published: January 2022

Context Computerized tomography (CT) is an invaluable imaging investigation for evaluating COVID-19 disease. CT detects early changes of COVID-19 pneumonia and predicts the disease prognosis based on a semiquantitative 25-point CT severity score (CT-SS). India launched its vaccination drive in January 2021 with two different vaccines being approved by the government. These vaccines are believed to prevent the disease itself, in majority of the cases and at least decrease disease severity, in the rest.

Aim This study aims to evaluate the CT-SS in vaccinated and non-vaccinated subjects who have been diagnosed with COVID-pneumonia or are COVID suspects.

Subjects and Methods A total of 3,235 patients with typical COVID-19 related imaging findings on HRCT thorax were included in the study. These subjects were divided into three age categories, 18–44, 45–59 and ≥60 years. The CT severity scores were allotted by experienced radiologists. Medians of the scores in different age groups were compared amongst vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals using the Kruskal–Wallis H test. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. All results were shown with 95% confidence interval.

Results The difference in the medians amongst the vaccinated and non-vaccinated groups was significant, p-values being < 0.001 in all age categories.

Conclusion The mean CT-SS was less in vaccinated subjects and the difference in median CT-SS amongst vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals was statistically significant, thus sending an important message that it is mandatory for the population at large to get vaccinated to reduce infection rate/disease severity.
Roughness effects on flow losses of a high-lift low-pressure turbine cascade
Authors: Zeng Xian , Luo Jiaqi , Cui Jiahuan
Published: January 2022

Laminar separation induced flow transition has been regarded as one main source of flow losses of low-pressure turbines (LPTs). The realistic roughness favors the reduction of flow losses as the separation bubble reduces and even disappears. In this paper, a detailed grid-independent study is first presented to verify and validate the numerical solutions by solving Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes and shear stress transport γ-Reθ̃ transition model equations for a typical high-lift LPT. The roughness elements with different heights (Ra) are uniformly imposed on the whole suction side. The effects of Ra on the flow separation and transition and, thus, flow losses are studied. The results demonstrate that there is one critical Ra value, below which the flow losses decrease, while above which the flow losses increase as Ra increases. The roughness allocations by imposing roughness elements on different blade portions of the suction side are also studied. The sensitivities of flow loss reduction to roughness allocation are evaluated and illustrated. Moreover, the effects of Reynolds numbers (Re) are investigated. As Re decreases, the critical Ra value increases and a more roughened blade is favorable for flow loss reduction. This study paves the way for finding a practicable flow control method reducing the flow losses by optimally allocating roughness on the blade of high-lift LPTs.
Enhancement of laminar mixing by an anchor impeller with rotationally reciprocating motion
Authors: Komoda Yoshiyuki , Date Tomoya
Published: January 2022

Rotationally reciprocating mixing, in which a plate impeller slowly rotates back and forth for only half a rotation, shows excellent fluid mixing performance at Re > 40. On the other hand, since vertical flow disappears at Re < 10, two-dimensional fluid mixing proceeds in the horizontal cross section of a cylindrical vessel, producing segmented mixing regions with a pair of central poor mixing zones. In this study, we investigated the usefulness of an anchor-type impeller in the expectation of enhancing two-dimensional fluid mixing under a laminar regime by utilizing the fluid flow through the central clearances. First, we examined the effect of the clearance size on the spreading behavior of tracer particles by numerical simulation. Time series of Poincaré sections are used to classify the tracer particles depending on their spreading behavior, which is then quantified by newly defined mixing ability. It is then elucidated that even a narrow central clearance could avoid the segmentation of the mixing region, while a vast central clearance produces additional isolated mixing regions in the clearance due to stable vortex flows. The tracer particles could uniformly spread in the entire circular cross section by increasing the impeller width and adjusting the flow rate in the central and wall clearances without segmentation. Furthermore, the experimental observation of streaklines could also demonstrate that the uniformity of the fluid mixing performance is improved considerably.
Effect of the transmission line on the ion temperature measured by the retarding field analyzer
Authors: Xu Kangzhong , Liu Hai , Xu Yuhong , Chen Zhipeng , Cheng Jun , Liu Haifeng , Wang Xianqu , Huang Jie , Zhang Xin , Tang Changjian , Shao Junren ,   J-TEXT Team
Published: January 2022

Due to the presence of capacitance in the transmission line, the current collected by the retarding field analyzer (RFA) becomes asymmetrical (i.e., hysteresis) during voltage scanning, and it further affects the measurement of the ion temperature (Ti). In this article, we first analyze the hysteresis of the RFA’s I–V characteristics measured in the edge plasma of the J-TEXT tokamak, and we found that the ion temperature fitted from the falling side of the collector current is about 14% higher than that fitted from the rising side. An analytic model is built and verified by experimental results. Based on the model, the influence of the capacitance of transmission lines and the frequency of the scanning voltage on the hysteresis is investigated. It is found that the hysteresis becomes more remarkable with increasing capacitance or scanning frequency. Besides, the impact of the capacitance and the scanning frequency on the Ti measurement is also studied, which indicates that Ti is overestimated due to the hysteresis. The temperature error is linearly dependent on the capacitance and the scanning frequency. Furthermore, the analytical results are expected to be used in the prediction of scanning frequency for RFA applications.
Optimization scheme for piezoelectric energy harvesting in line-defect for 2D starlike hole-type phononic crystals considering waveguides
Authors: Yang Xian’e , Zhong Jiahui , Xiang Jiawei
Published: January 2022

Enhancement of elastic wave energy harvesting by utilizing a phononic crystal (PnC) is a hot topic in electroelastic systems. Piezoelectric energy harvesting (PEH) is implemented herein due to attaching a piezoelectric transducer (PZT) disk on a 2D starlike hole-type PnC with a line-defect. Waveguide and energy localization will lead to the amplification of harvestable mechanical energy using the opened complete bandgaps of the PnC. For a given line-defect PnC structure, two geometric parameters (diameter and thickness of the PZT disk) of the PEH device are found to be key factors to influence the energy harvesting performance. Therefore, the finite element method is used to obtain the optimal diameter and thickness of the PZT disk through the design of numerical experiments. Using the two optimal geometric parameters, the electric power amplification ratio of the present PEH device will be 26.7 times over that of the PEH device using a thin plate with the same outer dimensions.
Energy capture and carbon assimilation.
Authors: DeJong T. M.
Published: January 2022

This chapter focuses on energy capture and carbon assimilation of fruit trees. It discusses the factors affecting photosynthesis and respiration, including temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, nutrient supply, water availability, oxygen, and carbohydrates.
Understanding the root sink.
Authors: DeJong T. M.
Published: January 2022

Root development and growth is similar to shoot growth in that extension growth is initiated by an apical meristem and girth growth of mature roots is carried out by the vascular cambium. However, the initiation of lateral roots is entirely different than the initiation of lateral leaves or shoot meristems. This chapter deals with understanding the root sink in fruit trees by studying root growth, including the initiation of lateral roots, root classification according to size and function, factors affecting their growth, and rootstocks.
Integration of tree source and sink activities.
Authors: DeJong T. M.
Published: January 2022

Tree crop modeling could be instrumental in facilitating integration of numerous aspects of the development, growth and physiology of fruit tree crops and provide a valuable tool for testing concepts for understanding how fruit trees work, if it could be achieved. This chapter presents a synopsis of how modeling of fruit trees was approached. It focuses on the development of a mechanistic, compartmental model of mature peach tree carbon partitioning over a growing season. The model was termed a compartmental model because carbohydrates were only distributed to the collective compartments of fruits, leaves, stems and large branches, and the trunk according to their relative demand functions as the season progressed. Roots were only given carbohydrates when the demands of all of the other organs were fulfilled. This model demonstrated that carbohydrate partitioning in trees could be modeled without deterministic, empirically derived, partitioning coefficients and was useful for indicating periods of the growing season when calculated photosynthetic assimilation was not adequate to supply calculated carbohydrate demands of growing organs. The development of the described model is so complex that the modeling work will never be fully completed. However, to demonstrate the utility of this modeling approach, it was decided to develop an L-Almond model using the same approach.
Axion-like particle oscillations
Authors: Chadha-Day Francesca
Published: January 2022

String theory compactifications may generate many light
axion-like particles (ALPs) with weak couplings to
electromagnetism. In general, a large number of ALPs may exist, with
a linear combination having a potentially observable coupling to
electromagnetism. The basis in which only one ALP couples to
electromagnetism is in general misaligned with the mass basis. This
leads to mixing between the `electromagnetic' ALP and a number of
`hidden' ALPs that do not interact directly with the photon. The
process is analagous to neutrino oscillations. I will discuss the
phenomenological consequences of this mixing for astrophysical ALP
signals, in particular showing that it may significantly reduce the
predicted signal in experiments such as the CERN Axion Solar
Telescope.
Achievement of 0.005% combined transfer uncertainties in the NIST detector calibration facility
Authors: Houston J M , Zarobila C J , Yoon H W
Published: January 2022

Improvements in a lamp-monochromator-based facility at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), the Visible near-infrared Spectral Comparator Facility (VisSCF) which is used to calibrate optical detectors for spectral radiant power responsivity from 300 nm to 1100 nm, are described. These changes include extending the VisSCF operational range down to 300 nm from 350 nm, thereby fully covering the ultraviolet-A (UVA) spectral region and partially covering the UVB range. These improvements have lowered the magnitudes of most of the components in the uncertainty budget and have led to combined 0.005% transfer (k = 1) uncertainties in the spectral power responsivity calibrations over most of the spectral range. Redevelopment of the uncertainty budget results in total expanded uncertainties of spectral responsivities of less than 0.1% (k = 2) over the spectral range from 380 nm to 980 nm, with the greatest uncertainty term coming from the calibrations of the transfer standards.
EEG characteristic investigation of the sixth-finger motor imagery and optimal channel selection for classification
Authors: Liu Yuan , Wang Zhuang , Huang Shuaifei , Wang Wenjie , Ming Dong
Published: January 2022

Objective. Supernumerary robotic limbs are body augmentation robotic devices by adding extra limbs or fingers to the human body different from the traditional wearable robotic devices such as prosthesis and exoskeleton. We proposed a novel motor imagery (MI)-based brain–computer interface (BCI) paradigm based on the sixth-finger which imagines controlling the extra finger movements. The goal of this work is to investigate the electromyographic (EEG) characteristics and the application potential of MI-based BCI systems based on the new imagination paradigm (the sixth finger MI). Approach. Fourteen subjects participated in the experiment involving the sixth finger MI tasks and rest state. Event-related spectral perturbation was adopted to analyze EEG spatial features and key-channel time-frequency features. Common spatial patterns were used for feature extraction and classification was implemented by support vector machine. A genetic algorithm (GA) was used to select combinations of EEG channels that maximized classification accuracy and verified EEG patterns based on the sixth finger MI. And we conducted a longitudinal 4 weeks EEG control experiment based on the new paradigm. Main results. Event-related desynchronization (ERD) was found in the supplementary motor area and primary motor area with a faint contralateral dominance. Unlike traditional MI based on the human hand, ERD was also found in frontal lobe. GA results showed that the distribution of the optimal eight-channel is similar to EEG topographical distributions, nearing parietal and frontal lobe. And the classification accuracy based on the optimal eight-channel (the highest accuracy of 80% and mean accuracy of 70%) was significantly better than that based on the random eight-channel (p< 0.01). Significance. This work provided a new paradigm for MI-based MI system and verified its feasibility, widened the control bandwidth of the BCI system.