bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional numerical simulation of two-phase flow in a proton exchange membrane electrolysis cell and study of the effect of flow channel depth
Authors: He Rongwang , Li Peng , Chen Deng , Deng Zhi , Wang Biao , Yu Yuanpeng
Published: August 2024

The flow channel play a critical role in water-gas transfer within an electrolysis cell, directly impacting its mass and heat transfer capacity. While most studies concentrate on the overall shape and structure of the flow channel, limited attention has been given to its dimensions. This paper investigates the influence of various operational conditions and changes in flow channel depth on the electrolytic cell using a three-dimensional numerical model of PEMEC. Results indicate that higher temperatures enhance electrolysis cell performance, whereas the impact of water inlet velocity on the polarization curve is insignificant. Under constant inlet velocity, increasing the depth of the flow channel improves mass and heat transfer as well as electrolysis performance, whereas, under constant water flow rate, changes in inlet velocity have a greater effect than alterations in flow channel depth.
SOC and SOH state estimation of lithium battery based on ffrls and kalman filter
Authors: Xiao Wu , Hong Qingxin , Cui Bowen , Zheng Yunhong , Li Ying
Published: August 2024

In the energy storage System, the Battery Management System (BMS) is responsible for the charge and discharge control and energy balance control of the lithium battery, and the accuracy of lithium battery state estimation is directly affected by the control effect of BMS. In order to ensure the normal operation of lithium batteries, this paper selects the State of Charge (SOC) and State of Health (SOH) of lithium batteries as the research object and accurately estimates the SOC and SOH of lithium batteries as the research goal. The equivalent circuit model based on lithium battery is established, and the identification model parameters are based on the recursive least squares method with forgetting factor. Based on the Thevenin equivalent circuit model, the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) and Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) are used to estimate the SOC of the battery, respectively. FFRLS and Double Extended Kalman Filter (DEKF) are used to estimate the ohm internal resistance in the equivalent model based on lithium battery, and then the SOH is estimated.
Effect of ball milling conditions on the microstructure for alumina-based ceramic with nano-silica additives
Authors: Zhao Liping , Xu Jinyun , Zhang Yu , Zhang Ziqi , Li Ming , Peng Zhe , Zheng Chunming , Sun Xiaohong
Published: August 2024

Alumina-based ceramics, known for their excellent high-temperature stability and tensile strength, are utilized across various sectors like metallurgy, aerospace, and chemicals as thermal insulators and reinforcements. The mechanochemical method, which involves mechanical actions like stirring and grinding to induce chemical reactions without solvents, offers a green, time-efficient approach with minimal pollution. This technique is pivotal for nanomaterials preparation. This study successfully crafts nano-silica-enhanced alumina-based ceramics via mechanochemical methods. The impact of mechanochemical processes on ceramic properties is assessed through particle size, N2 adsorption, and various microscopic analyses.
Experimental research on turning nickel-based superalloy GH4169 under cryogenic cooling mixed lubrication jets
Authors: Che Chang , Wang Yongqing , Liu Haibo , Cheng Yishun , Li Jianming , Han Lingsheng
Published: August 2024

GH4169 nickel-based superalloy is the material of choice in industries such as aerospace due to its exceptionally high strength, corrosion resistance, and stability under high temperatures. However, GH4169 has relatively poor thermal conductivity, limiting the effective heat dissipation during the cutting process. This causes elevated temperature in the machining area, adversely affecting both the quality of machining and the life of cutting tools, and there are no mature processing techniques currently available to address these challenges. This paper explores a machining method with cryogenic cooling mixed lubrication for turning on GH4169, compared to traditional cutting fluids and only liquid nitrogen cooling. The results show that compared to conventional emulsion machining, techniques using liquid nitrogen cooling and a combination of liquid nitrogen and emulsion significantly reduce tool wear rates and temperature, and improve surface quality, thereby enhancing machining efficiency. These findings offer a new perspective and solution for the machining processes of GH4169 nickel-based alloy.
Influence of post-deformation annealing conditions on microstructures and mechanical properties of hypereutectoid steel wires during cold drawing
Authors: Ni Zifei , Zhao Junyi , Huang He , Zhu Chenlu , Ke Zengguang
Published: August 2024

This investigation delves into the complex influences of annealing conditions post-deformation, such as duration and heat levels, upon the microstructure, as well as the mechanical properties of hypereutectoid steel wires subjected to cold drawing. XRD and VSM analyses confirmed that higher annealing temperatures precipitated a notable increase in cementite volume, concurrently inducing the spheroidization of cementite lamellae. This transformation was evidenced by the expansion of cementite volume and the transition of cementite layers into a spherical morphology as the annealing temperature increased. The evolution of tensile strength in response to varying annealing temperatures and time revealed two distinct patterns. Initially, at lower annealing temperatures ranging between 200°C and 300°C, tensile strength exhibited an upward trajectory with increasing annealing time. This phenomenon can be attributed to age-hardening mechanisms, notably associated with solution hardening. As annealing time increases, the decomposition of cementite releases additional carbon atoms into the ferrite matrix. These carbon atoms act as effective barriers, hindering dislocation movement within the structure and consequently contributing to increased tensile strength. However, this increase in carbon content within the ferrite matrix also elevated the susceptibility to delamination phenomena. Conversely, at higher annealing temperatures of 400°C and 500°C, a contrasting trend was observed, characterized by a consistent decline in tensile strength post-annealing. This decline could be attributed to the phenomenon of aging softening, wherein the process of spheroidization and re-precipitation of cementite resulted in a reduction of dissolved carbon atoms within the ferrite matrix. Consequently, this led to a decline in tensile strength as well as a reduced incidence of delamination. In summary, the study explored how different annealing conditions affect the structure as well as the strength of hypereutectoid steel wires, revealing detailed mechanisms behind these changes.
Damage of special bolt structures based on multi-scale method evaluate research
Authors: Huang Hailong , Chen Feiyu , Cao Wei
Published: August 2024

During the service life of underwater bolt structures, the occurrence of fracture failures is influenced by environmental factors such as corrosion and external pressure. This study aims to evaluate the behavior of bolt structures underwater and establish reliable methods for damage assessment, which is crucial for ensuring the safe operation of underwater equipment. This article introduces the concept of multi-scale analysis, considering the influence of initial defects in materials on the structure’s performance. It explores the micro-macro crack evolution mechanism and employs surface-level methods. By utilizing the GTN-based multi-parameter damage constitutive model, the study investigates the extended behavior and stress range under various load states. The findings provide theoretical support for accurately assessing structural safety.
Design of plastering device of plastering machine
Authors: Yu Junhua , Zhang Ying , Tian Feng , Yan Qing , Chen Ze , Wang Wenzheng
Published: August 2024

The plastering machine can effectively improve the plastering efficiency, and the plastering process mainly includes filling the mortar, plastering, floating mortar, and compacting mortar. All of these function is completed by a plastering device. The diversity and complexity of the device increase the production cost and the weight of the whole machine. In order to guarantee the plastering quality and optimize the institution, this thesis designs a plastering device that integrates mortar supply, plastering, surface flattening, and compacting functions. The working process of the plastering mechanism includes upward plastering and downward flattening, mainly achieved by the rotation motion of the hopper. The contour shape of the hopper was designed using the principle of cam mechanism, and the upward plastering and self-locking of the hopper after reaching the top were designed using the principle of connecting rod mechanism. The hopper is supported by two pneumatic springs. The flipping force of the pneumatic springs during the upward plastering and downward plastering processes was analyzed and calculated, which provides the basis for choosing the power of the driving motor.
Research on stiffness matching of support structure of high-precision equipment on satellite
Authors: Xue Bijie , Xu Hongyan , Hu Guojie
Published: August 2024

This paper takes the support structure of high-precision equipment on satellites as the research object, and combining it with the characteristics of an actual satellite platform, analyses the stiffness matching between the platform and the load mounting point represented by the axial connecting relay. On this basis, the support structure of two different types of installation points is quantitatively evaluated, the optimal configuration is selected through the analysis result, and the design improvement measures are proposed. It provides a new design idea for the support structure of the same type of high-precision equipment on satellite.
Design optimization of two-dimensional wireless passive force sensor based on finite element analysis
Authors: Zhu Jianhua
Published: August 2024

A two-dimensional wireless and passive sensor based on finite element analysis (FEA) is designed, analyzed, optimized, and tested. The sensor is using the inverse magnetostrictive effect. The sensor included three pieces of sensitive elements that stick to the sensitive area of the elastomer. The FEA mothed is used to assist the design, analysis, and optimization process. The strain-sensitive area of the tension and torque are located in different areas, according to the finite element analysis. When the sensor was fabricated, the sensor’s output performance was tested. The experiment results show that the effective range of tension is 40 N, and the effective range of torque is 4 N·m. The optimized smart structure has a good decoupling effect, which can reduce coupling between dimensions. Finally, the two-dimensional force information can be detected passively and wirelessly.
Numerical investigation of flow around the injector of a Pelton turbine due to eroded needle
Authors: Bhattarai B S , Khatiwada A , Vaidhya N , Satyal S , Chitrakar S
Published: August 2024

Injectors of Pelton turbines are prone to both sediment erosion and cavitation. This causes degradation of the surface morphology, which aggravates the quality of the jet, lowering the turbine’s performance. The study focuses on CFD analysis of a groove-shaped erosion pattern on the needle and analyses its influence on the quality of the jet at the three stages of erosion. The numerical model comprises of a nozzle with a cylindrical passage for modelling the jet. The research used the SST turbulence model and boundary conditions defined according to the turbine’s data, from which the model was obtained. This study explores the impact of silt erosion on pressure signals around the injector of a Pelton turbine. Needle pressure distribution curves were plotted at various erosion levels and openings, revealing that pressure deviation increases with increase in erosion. The effect turns out to be minimal during high opening levels but becomes substantial as opening levels decrease. Operating in part load conditions leads to a significant pressure drop due to the reduction in flow rate. The pressure distribution tends to become more uniform at full load, achieving optimal flow rates. However, a noticeable pressure drop is observed in the eroded region, reaching a minimum at the deepest eroded area. The pressure drop is further amplified with an increase in the level of erosion, indicating erosion’s disruptive impact on fluid flow. The findings highlight the complex interplay between erosion, needle pressure distribution, and jet diffusion.
Vibrational Analysis on Cooling Fan with Induced Mechanical Faults
Authors: Paudel S , Niroula S , Bhattarai S , Sapkota P , Chitrakar S
Published: August 2024

This paper reports the investigation of different mechanical faults such as unbalanced loading, broken blades, and deformed blades induced in a fan using vibration analysis. The fan used in this study was a CPU cooling fan as a representation of a basic fan system giving an idea of vibration signatures when it is subjected to faults conditions. This study assists in developing the techniques of condition monitoring for the diagnosis of failures and faults in fan systems while logging the operating status and trend in performance. The investigation is carried out in the turbine testing lab using a Tri-axial accelerometer and a commercial Intel® CPU cooling fan consisting of 7 blades. The fan was run at different RPMs with normal and fault conditions like unbalanced loading conditions induced by adding mass of different weights, breakage of blades, deformation of blades, and holes in the blades. These faults are induced to simulate various mechanical faults that frequently occur in fan-based systems. The vibration data obtained from the accelerometer are filtered and the time series of acceleration values are plotted using MATLAB. For further analysis of data, the Fast Fourier Transform is done to evaluate the peaks of vibration signals in normal and fault conditions. Vibrational amplitude in fault conditions like Hole-2 has 4.5 times higher amplitude than normal and Cut-2 has 31.5 times higher amplitude.
Simulations of design and high load operation of a model Francis turbine using bridged approach to turbulence modelling
Authors: Sahu Pallav , Masoodi Faiz Azhar , Subbarao P.M.V. , Goyal Rahul
Published: August 2024

Off-design operation of hydraulic turbines is contemporarily frequented for balance of variable energy intermittence in the electric grid. Being operationally highly flexible, these turbines allow a quick transition to off-design operation from the design point. However, such operational flexibility, and therefore the grid balancing capability is impeded by generation of flow instabilities like vortex breakdown during off-design operation. Vortex breakdown causes losses in efficiency and pressure recovery, pressure fluctuations and possibly mechanical vibrations in event of resonance between system natural and flow field fluctuation frequencies. While substantial experimental and numerical effort has already been made to study draft tube vortex breakdown, an accurate numerical flow characterization of the phenomenon is still a challenge. To this end, operation of a high head model Francis turbine under design and high load regimes using a bridged turbulence modelling approach is simulated. The approach allows a seamless transition between direct numerical simulation and Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes equations. The highest attainable accuracy is limited by the mesh size. As such a satisfactory compromise between desired accuracy and invested computational effort is attained. The flow in the draft tube is free of anomalies under design specified operation. However, at high load an axial flow stagnation occurs centrally, and the flow is separated about the stagnated zone. The core of the vortex is enlarged with flow recirculation within it. Shear layers between the central stagnant zone and surrounding outflow kink and roll up transforming it into a spiral structure. In this work, a basic yet accurate numerical flow characterization of the aforementioned flow situations is achieved.
Erosion Induced Flow Changes in Pelton Bucket: A Numerical Approach
Authors: Pandey Arun , Shrestha Sajan , Abregu Jim , Nascimben Francesco , Chitrakar Sailesh , Neopane Hari Prasad , Dahlhaug Ole Gunnar
Published: August 2024

The hydro-turbines working in sediment-laden conditions often experience some material loss from their surface, which modifies the surface design. This material loss alters the mechanical strength of the turbine component as well as the corresponding flow phenomenon. These changes in the flow pattern can lead to efficiency losses, but they can also be exploited to determine the actual condition of the component in real time. In fact, if detected, they can be useful for developing maintenance strategies to predict the turbine conditions in real time. To compare the flow parameters, a numerical simulation has been performed for a 2D stationary Pelton bucket under both eroded and uneroded scenarios considering clean water as the working fluid. The 2D middle section of a reference Pelton bucket has been considered in two configurations: the uneroded bucket case and eroded, whose uneven surface patterns were created taking inspiration from real erosion patterns inside Pelton buckets observed in sediment-laden power plants. The CFD simulations have been carried out using OpenFOAM multiphase solver interFoam. The two cases were then compared based on several flow parameters such as water film thickness, velocity, and exit flow angle. The result analysis confirmed flow disturbances due to erosion causes the decrement in the overall flow velocity and the increment in water film thickness. The velocity reduction effect, as well as the water film thickness increment effect, strengthens approaching the outlet of the bucket. The results also showed a significant alteration of exit flow angle due to erosion. Specifically, for the erosion pattern considered in this study, the exit flow angle was observed to be larger compared to the uneroded bucket case.
Determination of the effects of size parameters and lean angle on Bovet-based Francis turbine runner performance
Authors: Adhikari Neeraj , Gurung Kishor , Bajracharya Tri Ratna , Makhashya Ujwal
Published: August 2024

In global hydropower generation, the Francis turbine is widely used because of its ability to work efficiently in a wide range of conditions like varying head and flow rates. Turbine’s meridional profile can be developed using traditional design approaches, like the Bovet method which uses empirical relations based on hydrological factors, that can be refined through optimization. Runner performance evaluation considers factors such as efficiency, erosion resistance, resistance to cavitation, and many more. Adjusting design parameters can enhance a turbine’s performance at a particular site. In this paper, a Bovet-based Francis runner design was obtained for Damile Micro Hydro located at Pharping, Nepal and the effect of variation of size parameters and lean angle on the runner performance was investigated. Initially, In-house MATLAB codes were used to design 99 meridional profile of different sizes by changing the size parameters as indicated by Bovet method and numerical simulation was performed to select the best meridional profile based on efficiency. After obtaining best meridional profile, the effect of lean angle was studied by varying it from -10° to 10°. Among the 99 designs based on different sizes, the simulation results indicate that the maximum efficiency was found to be 92.3% whereas the minimum efficiency was found to be 87.84%. The corrected lean angle of -5° showed the maximum efficiency and better pressure distribution along the blade.
Seismic Assessment of an Old Historical Unreinforced Masonry Power House Building
Authors: Bashyal Jhabindra , Acharya Sabin , Sundar Khadka Shyam
Published: August 2024

Design of unreinforced masonry buildings is a major concern in seismically active zones in Nepal. The ChandraJyoti Jalvidhyut Power House, a historical landmark in Nepal, represents the nation’s pioneering effort in hydropower generation and signifies its rich cultural heritage. This study comprehensively assesses the structural assessment and seismic performance deficiencies of the ChandraJyoti Jalvidhyut Power House. Material tests on bricks with the individual properties and behaviour of construction materials were done. Utilizing a finite element model in DIANA software V 10.5, the structure’s response under pushover loading conditions is simulated, providing insights into its structural behaviour. Additionally, fragility curves are developed to correlate earthquake intensity with the probability of damage, offering essential information for preservation strategies and seismic risk mitigation. The compressive strength test of bricks, with a value of 9.6 MPa, falls short of the 10 MPa minimum requirement specified by NBC 203:2015, indicating insufficient load-bearing capacity. The building’s pushover analysis shows that the longitudinal direction experiences higher lateral forces (base shear of 945.87 kN) and greater drift ratios exceeding 0.4%, which increases the likelihood of cracks compared to the transverse direction (base shear of 826.77 kN). The analysis also highlights significant nonlinear behavior in both directions, with maximum roof displacements of 35.18 mm (transverse) and 34.4 mm (longitudinal), reflecting the impact of structural irregularities.
Review of Hydrogen-Related Accidents: Root Causes, Mitigation Strategies, and Recommendations for secure utilization.
Authors: Khanal A , Chaudhary N , Pandey B , Thapa B S
Published: August 2024

Hydrogen, acknowledged as a versatile and sustainable energy carrier, is gaining significant attention across industries, becoming a focal point in the pursuit of cleaner energy solutions. However, Ensuring the safe utilization of hydrogen presents inherent challenges, giving rise to a spectrum of related accidents. This study delves into the intricate landscape of hydrogen utilization, acknowledging both its significance and inherent challenges associated with its safety. This comprehensive review examines hydrogen-related accidents from the Hydrogen Incident and Accident Database (HIAD) within a defined timeframe, analyzing causes and evaluating the effectiveness of current mitigation strategies through categorization and assessment of the root causes of hydrogen-related incidents, this review aspired to provide an in-depth understanding of safety issues and also reviewed the effectiveness of current mitigating strategies, employing risk assessment models. A thorough analysis of these incidents uncovered crucial insights, The findings of the review paper illustrate that human factor and management factors were possibly greater causes of hydrogen accidents than other factors, and management factors to be more hazardous than other factors. Through comprehensive literature review, the study aims to offer practical recommendations for refining safety protocols in hydrogen utilization like the implementation of Human Error Assessment and Reduction Technique (HEART) and Human Factor Analysis and Classification System (HFACS) for human factor induced incidents and process safety management (PSM) program for management factor induced incidents. Additionally, specific recommendation for reoccurring incidents based on severity are made to enhance safety protocols, thereby fostering its secure application across diverse industries.
Integrated analysis of on-road energy consumption and range optimization in the conversion of an IC engine vehicle to a battery-electric vehicle: a comprehensive research study
Authors: Kharel B , Mishra N , Baral B
Published: August 2024

A major goal of this research project was to analyze how energy consumption and range of electric vehicles are affected by a variety of factors. The study includes an analysis of data based on factors such as state of charge, wheel traction power, power due to drag and aerodynamics, potential and kinetic energy changes, elevation, current, voltage, speed, and total loss due to traffic, and their effect on the consumption of energy and range of the electric vehicles. The data was analyzed using statistical methods such as MATLAB, Excel, and Python to find correlations between the various factors mentioned above. This research paper thoroughly explores the intricate relationships governing consumption of energy and range of the electric vehicles. Notably, this paper discovered connections between altitude and state of charge, current and state of charge, and even speed and voltage drop, highlighting the interplay of these elements. This paper also explored how factors like vehicle speed, slope, current, wheel traction power, and power due to gravity collectively shape EV propulsion dynamics. In simpler terms, this paper quantified energy losses due to traffic and emphasized how efficient motors and regenerative systems can significantly reduce these losses. Notably, regenerative efficiency stands out, cutting total energy losses by nearly half compared to scenarios where it is not used. These findings contribute to academic discussions and offer practical insights that undergraduate students can grasp, informing future EV designs and operations and promoting an energy-conscious transportation landscape.
Ultra Physical
Authors: Ungemah Joe
Published: August 2024

This chapter explores the metamorphosis of ultramarathon running from the fringes into an acknowledged sport. For those participating in it, their passion is rooted in the physical domain as evidenced by transformations in the gray matter of a runner’s brain, the strengthening of their neural networks, and the rush of pain-reducing endorphins and mind-altering endocannabinoids. These fanatics take pleasure from pushing their bodies to the breaking point and feel a great sense of accomplishment when overcoming near unsurmantle physical feats. They are largely driven by the intense focus and routine required for extreme running, but also take pleasure in the natural environment where their runs take place. There to witness their achievements is a strong community of fellow runners, close friends, and family that complement the inwardly focused athlete. When taken too far, a runner’s preferred form of recreation becomes addiction, where the benefits of exercise are overpowered by an insatiable need to run.
Introduction
Authors: Taylor Hillary
Published: August 2024

In conjunction with an analysis of relevant archival findings, the Introduction offers an overview of recent work on both the politics of language and social relations in early modern England. It examines the nature of the available historical sources; the difficulties involved in accessing and reconstructing quotidian aspects of social relations, especially with reference to the experiences and sentiments of the labouring population; and the ways that historians have addressed these issues. It suggests that—for various reasons—recent scholarship has been inclined to approach social relations in particular ways and considers the implications that this might have for understanding the structures and experiences of authority and subordination in the period. The final section outlines the book’s arguments and suggests the benefits of an approach that combines historical analysis with insights from other disciplines, such as sociolinguistics.
The Ideal Subordinate–Superior Interaction
Authors: Taylor Hillary
Published: August 2024

Contemporaries recognized that interactions between subordinates and superiors were moments in which structures of authority were not only reflected and reproduced but also liable to disruption and contestation. This chapter uses conduct books and other sources to reconstruct a general theory of how such interactions were meant to proceed and the respective scripts that superiors and subordinates were meant to follow. While this model was resistant to change over time, some contemporaries used it to respond to significant sociocultural changes—notably those involved in the expansion of the gentry. Rather than framing conduct books and similar sources as expressions of normative prescriptions, this chapter adopts a different approach. It considers the assumptions and anxieties that animated authorities, including their concerns about the dangers of ‘familiarity’ and the ambiguous meanings of subordinates’ silence. It also examines the range of potentially contradictory demands that could be involved in ‘successful’ displays of deference.
Dielectric materials
Authors: Solymar Laszlo , Walsh Donald , Syms Richard
Published: August 2024

Describes the mechanisms that give rise to electric field-driven effects in insulating materials, including electronic, molecular and orientational polarization. Discusses the frequency dependence of the complex dielectric constant, the refractive index (which determines optical effects), and the dispersion of electromagnetic waves in each case, and introduces the possibility of anomalous dispersion. Compares polar and non-polar materials, and introduces the Debye equation, the effective field in a dielectric, and the propagation of acoustic waves in monoatomic and diatomic materials. Considers other important effects in dielectrics, including different mechanisms for dielectric breakdown, and the useful phenomena of piezoelectricity, pyroelectricity and ferroelectricity in crystalline dielectrics. Describes key applications of dielectrics, including optical fibres, the Xerox process, liquid crystal displays and the motion of polarizable particles in nonuniform electric fields known as dielectrophoresis.
Optoelectronics
Authors: Solymar Laszlo , Walsh Donald , Syms Richard
Published: August 2024

Reviews the materials and components that are complementary to lasers in optoelectronic systems, starting with the photodiodes needed for light detection and the light emitting diodes used for broadband emission (and especially for energy-efficient lighting). Continues to non-linear optical materials and their applications in volume holography and optical phase conjugation, and the related phenomenon of acousto-optic diffraction. Explains the operation of integrated optic components such as waveguides, modulators and switches used in optical fibre telecommunications, and bulk optical components such as spatial light modulators, non-linear Fabry-Perot cavities, MEMS-based optical scross-connect switches and electro-absorption modulators used in free-space optical systems.
The Impact of Royal Policy on the Nobility Patronage, Appeasement, and Privatization
Authors: Coss Peter
Published: August 2024

This chapter deals with the impact of Henry III’s policies upon the landowners, especially the higher nobility. It begins with the issue of patronage, of which favoured foreigners were for the most part the chief beneficiaries. Especially prominent were the royal relatives: the Savoyards and the Lusignans. Patronage also benefitted a variety of royal servants, both lay and clerical. Among the benefits conferred, in addition to grants of land, were money fees, wardships and marriages, and a variety of royal licenses. Patronage caused tensions and resentments, and became especially problematic as resources dwindled. A system of preference exacerbated matters. The chapter moves on to consider the king’s policy of leniency, or appeasement, towards the aristocracy, which involved unfair advantage and denial of justice. Finally, the chapter looks at the privatization of franchises and the withdrawal of suit from local, public courts, a strong feature of the reign.
Power and Profit in the Provinces
Authors: Coss Peter
Published: August 2024

This chapter deals with magnate power in the provinces in terms of their economic and material resources, their social pre-eminence, and the institutional framework of their control. It looks at demesne agriculture and the administrative system supporting it and at fiscal feudalism. The presentation to churches (advowson) is also highlighted. Turning to manpower issues, the chapter puts affinities under the spotlight and examines the continuing viability of honours and honour courts. The issue of reward for officials is discussed, leading into the links between central and provincial power. The interests of great lords and their men as they appear in the Petition of the Barons are examined, and the chapter ends by introducing the contrast between the seizure of the government and the reform of law and administration as distinct processes.
Faction, Party, and Affinity
Authors: Coss Peter
Published: August 2024

This chapter begins with the meaning of faction and then deals with its various manifestations in mid-thirteenth-century England. It examines the Lusignan and Savoyard factions (or the king’s men and the queen’s men), the ‘marchers’, the split between conservative and radical reformers, and between the royalists and the Montfortians. It then moves to the issue of party and its meaning in the context of the time, looking at the Montfortian affinity and the ‘friendship group’ of the earl of Gloucester. It ends with some comparisons with the affinities of later medieval England in an attempt to get closer to the reality of thirteenth-century aristocratic relations.
Civil War
Authors: Coss Peter
Published: August 2024

This begins with the genesis of the civil war. Although it moves on to consider aristocratic martial values, it concentrates on the struggle on the ground, engaging with a broad cross-section of the population. This reveals a desperate struggle for control and highlights pragmatism and opportunities for advancement rather than the exercise of principle and the prevalence of idealism. The Monfortians are revealed as short of money and manpower. Close attention is given to the special eyre of 1267–72 in the counties of Berkshire and Buckinghamshire. It reveals the scale of spoliation, much of which was targeted, and the role played by sub-retinues, agents or procurers, and castle garrisons. It reveals appropriation and intimidation on some scale. The chapter then turns to the Montfortian regime and the loss of its hold on the country. Finally, it deals with the ‘territorial revolution’ and the war of the ‘Disinherited’.
Resolution and Equilibrium, 1267–90
Authors: Coss Peter
Published: August 2024

This chapter concerns the aftermath of the crisis and the first two decades of the reign of Edward I. The aim is to examine the nature of the polity that ensued. Initially it follows the traditional line in examining these years in terms of resolution, of which the three traditional dimensions are reconciliation, restoration of harmony, and reform. The first of these deals with the ‘Disinherited’ and their redemption, leading to the social reabsorption of the Montfortians. The second deals with Edward I’s crusade, the Welsh wars, and Edwardian patronage, while the third emphasizes the restoration of royal rights while looking also at impartial justice, plaints, and petitions. The chapter moves on, however, to suggest another approach: the creation of a new equilibrium. It looks at political bargaining, involving legislation, as well as examining aspects of noble power. Finally, the chapter examines the Edwardian polity in 1290, concentrating on royal finances, parliamentary theatre, the expulsion of the Jews, the trial of justices, and the accessibility of the new king.
A simple bootstrap for Chatterjee’s rank correlation
Authors: Dette H , Kroll M
Published: August 2024

We prove that an m-out-of-n bootstrap procedure for Chatterjee’s rank correlation is consistent whenever asymptotic normality of Chatterjee’s rank correlation can be established. In particular, we prove that m-out-of-n bootstrap works for continuous as well as discrete data with independent coordinates; furthermore, simulations indicate that it also performs well for discrete data with dependent coordinates, and that it outperforms alternative estimation methods. Consistency of the bootstrap is proved in the Kolmogorov distance as well as in the Wasserstein distance.
Dynamic balance and gait impairments in Parkinson’s disease: novel cholinergic patterns
Authors: Bohnen Nicolaas I , Marusic Uros , Roytman Stiven , Paalanen Rebecca , Michalakis Fotini , Brown Taylor , Scott Peter J H , Carli Giulia , Albin Roger L , Kanel Prabesh
Published: August 2024

The cholinergic system has been implicated in postural deficits, in particular falls, in Parkinson’s disease (PD). Falls and freezing of gait typically occur during dynamic and challenging balance and gait conditions, such as when initiating gait, experiencing postural perturbations, or making turns. However, the precise cholinergic neural substrate underlying dynamic postural and gait changes remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate whether brain vesicular acetylcholine transporter binding, as measured with [18F]-fluoroethoxybenzovesamicol binding PET, correlates with dynamic gait and balance impairments in 125 patients with PD (mean age 66.89 ± 7.71 years) using the abbreviated balance evaluation systems test total and its four functional domain sub-scores (anticipatory postural control, reactive postural control, dynamic gait, and sensory integration). Whole brain false discovery-corrected (P < 0.05) correlations for total abbreviated balance evaluation systems test scores included the following bilateral or asymmetric hemispheric regions: gyrus rectus, orbitofrontal cortex, anterior part of the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, cingulum, frontotemporal opercula, insula, fimbria, right temporal pole, mesiotemporal, parietal and visual cortices, caudate nucleus, lateral and medial geniculate bodies, thalamus, lingual gyrus, cerebellar hemisphere lobule VI, left cerebellar crus I, superior cerebellar peduncles, flocculus, and nodulus. No significant correlations were found for the putamen or anteroventral putamen. The four domain-specific sub-scores demonstrated overlapping cholinergic topography in the metathalamus, fimbria, thalamus proper, and prefrontal cortices but also showed distinct topographic variations. For example, reactive postural control functions involved the right flocculus but not the upper brainstem regions. The anterior cingulum associated with reactive postural control whereas the posterior cingulum correlated with anticipatory control. The spatial extent of associated cholinergic system changes were least for dynamic gait and sensory orientation functional domains compared to the anticipatory and reactive postural control functions. We conclude that specific aspects of dynamic balance and gait deficits in PD associate with overlapping but also distinct patterns of cerebral cholinergic system changes in numerous brain regions. Our study also presents novel evidence of cholinergic topography involved in dynamic balance and gait in PD that have not been typically associated with mobility disturbances, such as the right anterior temporal pole, right anterior part of the dorsomedial prefrontal cortex, gyrus rectus, fimbria, lingual gyrus, flocculus, nodulus, and right cerebellar hemisphere lobules VI and left crus I.
Design of ionic liquids as a desiccant for the liquid desiccant type air conditioning system
Authors: Itoh Toshiyuki , Kim Hyung J
Published: August 2024

Recently, liquid desiccant air conditioners (LDACs) have gained rapidly growing interest as an important candidate for an energy-efficient air conditioner. By enabling moisture absorption from the air, ionic liquids (ILs) can serve as a novel desiccant source for LDACs. For insights into the design and optimization of ILs to this end, we herein present a survey of studies on dehumidification and other relevant properties of ILs and offer some molecular perspective on their feasibility as a desiccant.
Reference Intervals Revisited: A Novel Model for Population-Based Reference Intervals, Using a Small Sample Size and Biological Variation Data
Authors: Coşkun Abdurrahman , Sandberg Sverre , Unsal Ibrahim , Topcu Deniz I , Aarsand Aasne K
Published: August 2024

Background

Conventional population-based reference intervals (popRIs) are established on the ranking of single measurement results from at least 120 reference individuals. In this study, we aimed to explore a new model for popRIs, utilizing biological variation (BV) data to define the reference interval (RI) limits and compared BV-based popRI from different sample sizes with previously published conventional popRIs from the same population.

Methods

The model is based on defining the population set point (PSP) from single-measurement results of a group of reference individuals and using the total variation around the PSP, derived from the combination of BV and analytical variation, to define the RI limits. Using data from 143 reference individuals for 48 clinical chemistry and hematology measurands, BV-based popRIs were calculated for different sample sizes (n = 16, n = 30, and n = 120) and considered acceptable if they covered 90% of the population. In addition, simulation studies were performed to estimate the minimum number of required reference individuals.

Results

The median ratio of the BV-based to conventional RI ranges was 0.98. The BV-based popRIs calculated from the different samples were similar, and most met the coverage criterion. For 25 measurands ≤16 reference individuals and for 23 measurands >16 reference individuals were required to estimate the PSP.

Conclusions

The BV-based popRI model delivered robust RIs for most of the included measurands. This new model requires a smaller group of reference individuals than the conventional popRI model and can be implemented if reliable BV data are available.
Evaluation and follow-up of patients diagnosed with hypophysitis: a cohort study
Authors: Hacioglu Aysa , Karaca Zuleyha , Uysal Serhat , Ozkaya Hande Mefkure , Kadioglu Pınar , Selcukbiricik Ozlem Soyluk , Gul Nurdan , Yarman Sema , Koksalan Damla , Selek Alev , Canturk Zeynep , Cetinarslan Berrin , Corapcioglu Demet , Sahin Mustafa , Sah Unal Fatma Tugce , Babayeva Afruz , Akturk Mujde , Ciftci Sema , Piskinpasa Hamide , Dokmetas Hatice Sebile , Dokmetas Meric , Sahin Onur , Eraydın Ayten , Fenkci Semin , Ozturk Sadettin , Akarsu Ersin , Omma Tulay , Erkan Buruc , Burhan Sebnem , Pehlivan Koroglu Esma , Saygili Fusun , Kilic Kan Elif , Atmaca Aysegul , Elbuken Gulsah , Alphan Uc Ziynet , Gorar Suheyla , Hekimsoy Zeliha , Pekkolay Zafer , Bostan Hayri , Bayram Fahri , Yorulmaz Goknur , Sener Selcuk Yusuf , Turan Kubra , Celik Ozlem , Dogruel Hakan , Ertorer Eda , Turhan Iyidir Ozlem , Topaloglu Omercan , Cansu Guven Baris , Unluhizarci Kursad , Kelestimur Fahrettin
Published: August 2024

Objective

Primary hypophysitis might be challenging to diagnose, and there is a lack of evidence regarding optimal treatment strategies due to rarity of the disease. We aim to investigate the clinical features and compare the outcomes of different management strategies of primary hypophysitis in a large group of patients recruited on a nationwide basis.

Design

A retrospective observational study.

Methods

The demographic, clinical, and radiologic features and follow-up data were collected in study protocol templates and analyzed.

Results

One hundred and thirteen patients (78.8% female, median age: 36 years) were included. Lymphocytic (46.7%) and granulomatous hypophysitis (35.6%) were the prevailing subtypes out of 45 patients diagnosed after pathologic investigations. Headache (75.8%) was the most common symptom, and central hypogonadism (49.5%) was the most common hormone insufficiency. Of the patients, 52.2% were clinically observed without interventions, 18.6% were started on glucocorticoid therapy, and 29.2% underwent surgery at presentation. Headache, suprasellar extension, and chiasmal compression were more common among glucocorticoid-treated patients than who were observed. Cox regression analysis revealed higher hormonal and radiologic improvement rates in the glucocorticoid-treated group than observation group (hazard ratio, 4.60; 95% CI, 1.62-12.84 and HR, 3.1; 95% CI, 1.40-6.68, respectively). The main indication for surgery was the inability to exclude a pituitary adenoma in the presence of compression symptoms, with a recurrence rate of 9%.

Conclusion

The rate of spontaneous improvement might justify observation in mild cases. Glucocorticoids proved superior to observation in terms of hormonal and radiologic improvements. Surgery may not be curative and might be considered in indeterminate, treatment-resistant, or severe cases.
The Elephant and the Spandrel
Authors: Compton Zachary T , Ågren J Arvid , Marusyk Andriy , Nedelcu Aurora M
Published: August 2024

Comparative oncology has made great strides in identifying patterns of cancer prevalence and risk across the tree of life. Such studies have often centered on elucidating the evolution of cancer suppression mechanisms, especially in large and/or long-lived animals such as elephants, in which cancer risk is assumed to exert a strong selective pressure. There is a worry, however, that we are overinterpreting these conclusions, as the deep evolutionary origins of these mechanisms and their involvement in cancer-unrelated functions suggest that the preeminent functions of the identified mechanisms may be unrelated to cancer. Instead, cancer suppression may be an evolutionary byproduct, or “spandrel”, of selection acting on development and somatic maintenance. Here, we highlight the importance of development and somatic maintenance as the underlying axis of natural selection. We argue that by shifting the focus of study from cancer suppression to development and somatic maintenance as the ultimate cause, we can gain a deeper understanding of the evolutionary pressures that shaped the mechanisms responsible for the observed variation in cancer prevalence across species.
Theoretical morphospace analysis of neuropteran wings reveals little evidence of optimization for flight performance
Authors: Liu Yuming , Deakin William J , Rayfield Emily J , Donoghue Philip C J
Published: August 2024

The wing is the key evolutionary innovation of pterygote insects and wing morphology is commonly envisaged as finely attuned to functional performance. Here, we use a theoretical morphospace approach to analyse the evolution of disparity and functional optimality in neuropteran wings, thus, investigating how wings are adapted for flight and how varied factors constrain wing shape. Analysing 738 neuropteran wings from the Permian to the present, we construct a theoretical morphospace with 1092 hypothetical shapes. These theoretical wings were subjected to functional analysis, creating performance landscapes for aerodynamic traits. We used a Pareto ranking scheme to create an optimality landscape for the trade-off between functional traits, which identifies wings with a convex leading edge as optimal. After projecting neuropteran wings onto this optimal landscape, we find that neuropterans do not occupy this optimal region. Aerodynamic constraint is evident solely in increasing aspect ratio, increasing the lift-to-drag ratio and therefore flight efficiency. Phylomorphospaces reveal a large overlap between different neuropteran clades, reflecting convergence on these same functionally sub-optimal wing shapes. Forewings and hindwings are subject to different evolutionary constraints with forewings more aerodynamically related and hindwings more phylogenetically related. The theoretical morphology approach facilitates morphological analyses without prior assumptions of adaptive optimality.