bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical modelling on geotechnical features of soil mixture using recycled tire crumb to strengthen the seismic isolation in building
Authors: Raj J. Cici Jennifer , Kumar M. Vinod , Kırgız Mehmet Serkan , Nagaprasad N. , Ramaswamy Krishnaraj
Published: January 2024

In this research, the performance pertaining to tire crumb obtained from scrap tire processing plants is discussed. These tire crumbs are blended with soil at a 30% ratio. When subjected to seismic load, the performance of the 30% tire crumb combination is superior to the 0% tire crumb combination. The investigation is classified into two phases. Phase 1 of the study involves conducting an experimental investigation by applying cyclic loads to a model footing that was resting on the soil with and without tire crumbs. This study reveals that a 30% tire crumb combination achieves optimum energy absorption and minimal footing stiffness, which is a crucial component needed for base isolation. Additionally, using the PLAXIS 2D software package, finite element analysis was carried out during the second phase of the study. For this study, a three-story residential building close to the border between India and Nepal is used. Three different disastrous seismic excitations are applied to the building. From this analytical analysis, it is reported that a 60–70% reduction in acceleration is attained for 30% tire crumb combination with soil. Therefore, from the two phases, it is evaluated that the inclusion of tire crumbs with soil is an excellent seismic base isolation material.
A bench study on the prevention of lung-to-lung aspiration with double-lumen endobronchial tubes and bronchial blockers
Authors: Kim Hyerim , Seol Taikyung , Han Sung-Hee , Kim Honghyeon , Hwang Jin-Young
Published: January 2024

Effective lung isolation prevents lung-to-lung aspiration during thoracotomy for the management of hemoptysis. Double-lumen endobronchial tubes (DLT) and bronchial blockers are commonly used for lung separation during thoracic surgery. In this study, the fluid-sealing characteristics of the endobronchial cuffs of three different commercially available DLTs (Broncho-Cath with a polyvinylchloride cuff, Broncho-Cath with a polyurethane cuff, and Human Broncho with a silicone cuff) and two different bronchial blockers (Arndt and Coopdech bronchial blockers) were evaluated using a benchtop model. The lateral decubitus position for the surgical management of bleeding from the right lung was simulated. The artificial tracheobronchial tree was placed horizontally, with the left bronchus in the dependent position and the right bronchus in the non-dependent position. In the DLT experiments, the tracheobronchial tree was intubated with left-sided DLTs, and the endobronchial cuff was inflated to maintain the intracuff pressure at 25 cmH2O. In the experiments with bronchial blockers, each bronchial blocker was inserted into the right bronchus, and the endobronchial cuff was inflated to seal the main bronchus. A fluid leakage test around the endobronchial cuff was performed using three different types of DLT (size 35, 37, and 41 Fr, each) and two different types of bronchial blockers (9 Fr). The 5 mL of colored water was poured into the right bronchus to simulate the blood flow from the operative side, and the times to the first and 100% leakage around the endobronchial cuff were recorded. Each bronchial blocker showed significantly less leakage over time than the other DLTs (P < 0.05). Fluid was not fully leaked around the cuffs for 24 h with either bronchial blocker. The times to first and 100% leakage were not significantly different among different types of DLTs. The times to first and 100% leakage did not also differ among the three different sizes of each type DLT. There was no significant difference in the time to first leakage around the endobronchial cuffs between Arndt and Coopdech bronchial blockers. Bronchial blockers provided a more effective seal against lung-to-lung aspiration than DLTs in the lateral decubitus position for thoracotomy in the benchtop model.
Persistent median artery and communicating branch related to the superficial palmar arch
Authors: Simić Marko , Bumbaširević Marko , Jović Darko , Bogosavljević Nikola , Vujačić Marko , Erić Dražan , Boljanović Jelena , Milisavljević Milan , Dožić Aleksandra , Ćetković Mila
Published: January 2024

Microvascular surgery, plastic and reconstructive hand surgery, and coronary artery bypass surgery call for a microanatomical study of the branching pattern of the superficial palmar arch (SPA). For the anatomical analysis, we used a group of 20 dissected human hands injected with 4% formaldehyde solution and a 10% mixture of melted gelatin and India ink. The morphometric study was performed on 40 human hands of adult persons injected with methyl-methacrylate fluid into the ulnar and radial arteries simultaneously and afterwards corroded in 40% KOH solution for the preparation of corrosion cast specimens. The mean diameter of the SPA, between the second and third common palmar digital arteries, was 1.86 ± 0.08 mm. We identified the persistent median artery (PMA) in 5% of hands. We distinguished the three main groups of the SPAs according to variations in morphology and branching of the arch: Type 1, the long SPA; Type 2, the middle length SPA; and Type 3, the short SPA found in 27.5% of specimens. The communicating branch (CB), a vessel interconnecting the SPA to the closest branch of the radial artery, is classified into two different morphological groups. The third type of incomplete short arterial arch is the most important of the three groups of SPAs. That short SPA is potentially inadequate for restoring circulation after occlusion or radial artery harvesting for coronary artery bypass.
Multiplexed electrical detection of whole viruses from plasma in a microfluidic platform
Authors: Jankelow Aaron , Chen Chih-Lin , Cowell Thomas W. , Espinosa de los Monteros Javier , Bian Zheng , Kindratenko Victoria , Koprowski Katherine , Darsi Sriya , Han Hee-Sun , Valera Enrique , Bashir Rashid
Published: January 2024

Electrical counting platform for multiplexed capture of whole viruses in plasma samples, using electrically distinguishable hydrogel beads.
Characterizing fibril morphological changes by spirooxindoles for neurodegenerative disease application
Authors: Dahdah Anthony , de Silva Nilamuni H. , Maniam Subashani , Blanch Ewan W.
Published: January 2024

Fibrillation of proteins and polypeptides, which leads to the deposition of plaques in cells and tissues has been widely associated with many neuropathological diseases.
A human serum albumin-binding-based fluorescent probe for monitoring hydrogen sulfide and bioimaging
Authors: Guo Meng-Ya , Liu Xiao-Jing , Li Yun-Zhang , Wang Bao-Zhong , Yang Yu-Shun , Zhu Hai-Liang
Published: January 2024

TPABF-HS, accompanied by an HSA-binding-based approach for amplifying the fluorescence signal, has achieved a wide linear range of 0–1000 μM.
An electrochemical biosensor for T4 polynucleotide kinase activity assay based on host–guest recognition between phosphate pillar[5]arene@MWCNTs and thionine
Authors: Su Aiwen , Luo Dan , Li Shixuan , Zhang Yanli , Wang Hongbin , Yang Lijuan , Yang Wenrong , Pang Pengfei
Published: January 2024

T4 NPK activity assay based on the host–guest recognition between PP5@MWCNTs and thionine.
Constructing a solid-state supramolecular polymer based on host–guest recognition between perethylated pillar[5]arene and tetrathiafulvalene
Authors: Zhao Xueru , Hua Bin , Shao Li
Published: January 2024

Herein we present a novel linear supramolecular polymeric structure formed in both the solution and solid state, utilizing the host–guest recognition motif between perethylated pillar[5]arene and tetrathiafulvalene.
Recent advances in the selective semi-hydrogenation of alkyne to (E)-olefins
Authors: Sk Motahar , Haldar Shuvojit , Bera Sourajit , Banerjee Debasis
Published: January 2024

This article highlights the recent advances on newer technologies and important methodologies directed to (E)-olefins from alkynes.
Electrochemical decarboxylative alkylation of β-ketoacids with phenol derivatives
Authors: Wang Shan , Wu Zhaotian , Li Junqiang , Zhu Yujun , Zheng Shaojun , Jiang Chunhui , Lu Hongfei
Published: January 2024

An electrochemical method for the decarboxylative alkylation of β-ketoacids with phenol derivatives has been developed.
Bidentate selenium-based chalcogen bond catalyzed cationic polymerization of p-methoxystyrene
Authors: Cao Luya , Chen Hao , Fu Hongjun , Xian Ji , Cao Hongzhang , Pan Xiaobo , Wu Jincai
Published: January 2024

Controllable cationic polymerization of p-methoxystyrene catalyzed by a chalcogen bond catalyst of a bis-selenonium salt.
Divergent access to polycyclic spiro- and fused-N,O-ketals through Bi(OTf)3-catalyzed [4+2]-annulation of cyclic N-sulfonyl ketimines and alkynols
Authors: Nakate Ashwini K. , Kataria Priyanka , Sambherao Pooja I. , Krishna Gamidi Rama , Kontham Ravindar
Published: January 2024

Bismuth(iii) triflate-catalyzed [4+2]-annulation of cyclic N-sulfonyl ketimines (derived from saccharin) and alkynyl alcohols (4-pentyn-1-ols and 5-hexyn-1-ols) has been reported.
Photoinduced fluorescence modulation through controllable intramolecular [2+2] photocycloaddition in single molecules and molecular aggregates
Authors: Wu Yuzhen , Ping Xinni , Yao Chuangye , Wu Penglei , Han Zhengdong , Peng Xin , Zhan Jiale , Feng Hui , Qian Zhaosheng
Published: January 2024

Distinct photoinduced fluorescence modulation in diverse states have been achieved based on a controllable and highly efficient intramolecular [2+2] photocycloaddition reaction in single molecules and molecular aggregates.
Electronic structure modulation of Mo sites in anion and cation co-doped MoO2 nanospheres for electrocatalytic water oxidation
Authors: Zhang Chunyan , Wang Ling , Cao Zhuwei , Li Rui , Ye Sheng
Published: January 2024

The electronic structure of Mo sites is modulated through a Ni/N co-doping strategy to promote electrocatalytic water oxidation.
Recent progress in SERS monitoring of photocatalytic reactions
Authors: Zheng Xinlu , Ye Ziwei , Akmal Zeeshan , He Chun , Zhang Jinlong , Wang Lingzhi
Published: January 2024

This review summarizes monitoring photocatalytic processes via SERS, focusing on carrier extraction by surrounding media, charge transfer direction, molecule activation pathway, and identifying photothermal and photoelectronic effects.
Sustainable photocatalytic synthesis of hydrogen peroxide from catechol-formaldehyde resin microspheres modulated by nitrogen-doped carbon dots
Authors: Xiang Yuexin , Xia Zhinan , Hu Wanchao , Tong Cuiyan , Lü Changli
Published: January 2024

Nitrogen-doped carbon dots (NCDs-220) modified catechol-formaldehyde resin (CFR) microspheres are prepared for the photochemical catalysis of H2O2 production with long-term cycle stability, high SCC efficiency, and H2O2 selectivity.
Innovative electrode and chip designs for transendothelial electrical resistance measurements in organs-on-chips
Authors: Holzreuter Muriel A. , Segerink Loes I.
Published: January 2024

This review summarizes innovative chip and electrode designs that use transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements to assess biological barrier properties (figure created with Adobe Firefly).
The pearl jubilee of microcin J25: thirty years of research on an exceptional lasso peptide
Authors: Baquero Fernando , Beis Konstantinos , Craik David J. , Li Yanyan , Link A. James , Rebuffat Sylvie , Salomón Raúl , Severinov Konstantin , Zirah Séverine , Hegemann Julian D.
Published: January 2024

A lasso peptide takes the spotlight. This review summarizes 30 years of research on microcin J25 and covers everything from its discovery in 1992, through the study of its antimicrobial activity, to its most recent application in bioengineering.
Mussel-inspired adhesive and anti-swelling hydrogels for underwater strain sensing
Authors: Ji Zhengxiao , Gong Dianjinfeng , Zhu Mengni , Yang Jiaqi , Bao Yueyue , Wang Zihui , Xu Min
Published: January 2024

A novel hydrogel with mussel-inspired underwater adhesion and anti-swelling properties was applied for underwater wireless motion sensing.
High step‐up direct ac‐ac boost converter with optimal component counts based on SEPIC
Authors: Lahooti Eshkevari Alireza , Abdoli Iman , Karimi Hajiabadi Mostafa , Mosallanejad Ali
Published: January 2024

This paper introduces a new direct step‐up ac‐ac converter designed based on the SEPIC. It provides a higher step‐up conversion ratio than other counterparts with valuable features like high efficiency, reasonable input and output total harmonic distortions (THD), continuous input current waveform, common ground, few components, and single‐stage conversion without snubber and LC filters. Unlike most counterparts, the duty cycle can be varied between zero and one in boost operation and is not limited to any value below one. The voltage stress on one switch is reduced by increasing the winding coefficient of the utilized coupled inductor, and current stress on another is independent of this coefficient. It reduces the switches' losses and improves the converter efficiency. Thanks to the above attributes, the proposed converter is suitable for inductive power transfer from low‐voltage ac sources, operating as an ac voltage regulator for sensitive ac loads, and any applications that require a boost converter with few components. This article shows the converter's operation principle and evaluates its performance through experiments on a 225 W prototype. Accordingly, the maximum obtained efficiency is 95.4%. The input and output current THDs for the nominal inductive load equal 4.5 and 2.8%, respectively. Results confirm the claims.
Optimal operation of electric–freshwater energy system considering load regulation strategy of individual hydrogen electrolyzer
Authors: Wang He , Zhou Bowen , Li Fabin , Ma Xingming , Gao Yujie , Yang Hao
Published: January 2024

In view of the existing literature, only the optimization operation of hydrogen energy–wind/light new energy is considered, and the research problems such as comprehensive utilization of water resources and load control strategies are ignored. Based on the analysis of load characteristics of offshore wind power, this paper has established an optimal operation model of power‐fresh water energy system based on “wind‐hydrogen‐water‐electricity” interaction. Meanwhile, an electrolytic hydrogen individual load control strategy is proposed to match wind power fluctuations from the perspective of internal load regulation of electrolytic hydrogen system. From the economic characteristics, operation characteristics, accommodation situation and other simulation analysis, it can reduce the total operating cost by about 3.1%, improve the utilization rate of electrolytic cell capacity, and meet the water demand of coastal users. It shows that the individual control strategy and optimal operation model have advantages, which is of great significance for realizing low‐carbon, safe, and economical operation of power grid in the future.
The N-Methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor Antagonist Dextromethorphan
Improves Glucose Homeostasis and Preserves Pancreatic Islets in NOD
Mice
Authors: Wörmeyer Laura , Nortmann Oliver , Hamacher Anna , Uhlemeyer Celina , Belgardt Bengt , Eberhard Daniel , Mayatepek Ertan , Meissner Thomas , Lammert Eckhard , Welters Alena
Published: January 2024

For treatment of type 1 diabetes mellitus, a combination of immune-based
interventions and medication to promote beta-cell survival and proliferation has
been proposed. Dextromethorphan (DXM) is an N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor
antagonist with a good safety profile, and to date, preclinical and clinical
evidence for blood glucose-lowering and islet-cell-protective effects of DXM
have only been provided for animals and individuals with type 2 diabetes
mellitus. Here, we assessed the potential anti-diabetic effects of DXM in the
non-obese diabetic mouse model of type 1 diabetes. More specifically, we showed
that DXM treatment led to five-fold higher numbers of pancreatic islets and more
than two-fold larger alpha- and beta-cell areas compared to untreated mice.
Further, DXM treatment improved glucose homeostasis and reduced diabetes
incidence by 50%. Our data highlight DXM as a novel candidate for
adjunct treatment of preclinical or recent-onset type 1 diabetes.
Psychological traits and public attitudes towards abortion: the role of empathy, locus of control, and need for cognition
Authors: Cheng Jiuqing , Xu Ping , Thostenson Chloe
Published: January 2024

In the summer of 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the historic Roe v. Wade ruling, prompting various states to put forth ballot measures regarding state-level abortion rights. While earlier studies have established associations between demographics, such as religious beliefs and political ideologies, and attitudes toward abortion, the current research delves into the role of psychological traits such as empathy, locus of control, and need for cognition. A sample of 294 U.S. adults was obtained via Amazon Mechanical Turk, and participants were asked to provide their attitudes on seven abortion scenarios. They also responded to scales measuring empathy toward the pregnant woman and the unborn, locus of control, and need for cognition. Principal Component Analysis divided abortion attitudes into two categories: traumatic abortions (e.g., pregnancies due to rape) and elective abortions (e.g., the woman does not want the child anymore). After controlling for religious belief and political ideology, the study found psychological factors accounted for substantial variation in abortion attitudes. Notably, empathy toward the pregnant woman correlated positively with abortion support across both categories, while empathy toward the unborn revealed an inverse relationship. An internal locus of control was positively linked to support for both types of abortions. Conversely, external locus of control and need for cognition only positively correlated with attitudes toward elective abortion, showing no association with traumatic abortion attitudes. Collectively, these findings underscore the significant and unique role psychological factors play in shaping public attitudes toward abortion. Implications for research and practice were discussed.
On the transport of tracer particles in two-dimensional plasma edge turbulence
Authors: Gheorghiu T. , Militello F. , Rasmussen J. Juul
Published: January 2024

Shear flows in turbulent fluids have been known to act as transport barriers for some time. An example of a shear flow generating mechanism is the E×B shear in plasma, which has a substantial impact on the dynamics of magnetic confinement fusion devices. The influence of this may be seen in the scrape-off layer where blobs or filaments may be sheared and velocity impacted, and in the edge and core of the plasma, where the formation of transport barriers and suppression of turbulence is strongly associated with such shearing effects. A dynamical picture of transport through these effects has been elusive—the development of a reduced model would be beneficial. We consider the application of an “observational” random walk to such transport, in order to determine whether it is a suitable approach upon which to base the development of reduced models. The observational random walk is modification of the random walk approach, introducing an intrinsic time separating observations, which reproduces the basic results of previous random walk models given a Gaussian jump function, assuming spatially homogenous jump function. We demonstrate that the jump function can be inferred from the statistics of passive particles propagated by E×B drift on a synthetic turbulence field and that the transport equation found from the jump function matches the expected diffusive transport very well. We, then, consider passive particles on simulations of the classic and modified Hasagawa–Wakatani equations in a statistical steady state for a variety of adiabaticity values and find normal transport in the near-hydrodynamic limit. When zonal flows appear, we find jump functions with non-Gaussian features, which result in transport equations with fractional differential terms in addition to, or in place of, diffusion terms. We surmise that the non-local fractional terms are related to the zonal flows acting as transport barriers. Overall, we find that the approach developed is a suitable starting point for the development of reduced models.
Time-resolved ARPES with probe energy of 6.0/7.2 eV and switchable resolution configuration
Authors: Pan Mojun , Liu Junde , Chen Famin , Wang Ji , Yun Chenxia , Qian Tian
Published: January 2024

We present a detailed exposition of the design for time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy using a UV probe laser source that combines the nonlinear effects of β-BaB2O4 and KBe2BO3F2 optical crystals. The photon energy of the probe laser can be switched between 6.0 and 7.2 eV, with the flexibility to operate each photon energy setting under two distinct resolution configurations. Under the fully optimized energy resolution configuration, we achieve an energy resolution of 8.5 meV at 6.0 eV and 10 meV at 7.2 eV. Alternatively, switching to the other configuration enhances the temporal resolution, yielding a temporal resolution of 72 fs for 6.0 eV and 185 fs for 7.2 eV. We validated the performance and reliability of our system by applying it to measuring two typical materials: the topological insulator MnBi2Te4 and the excitonic insulator candidate Ta2NiSe5.
Floquet-based analysis on three-dimensional non-axisymmetric instabilities in oscillatory-driven Taylor–Couette flows and their low-frequency asymptotic behavior using Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin method
Authors: Choujaa Mohamed Hayani , Riahi Mehdi , Aniss Said
Published: January 2024

This paper revisits the linear stability analysis of oscillatory-driven flows between two oscillating cylinders against non-axisymmetric disturbances. This study is motivated by the lack of a sufficiently reliable theoretical analysis giving insight into the experimentally observed spiral-like non-axisymmetric patterns when the cylinders are counter-oscillating. A new generalized time-dependent algebraic eigenvalue problem is constructed from the linearized set of the three-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations around the purely azimuthal basic state. Numerical evaluation of the critical eigenvalues combining both Floquet theory and spectral method reveals the existence of frequency ranges where this basic state becomes unstable against three-dimensional non-axisymmetric disturbances before it does so for two-dimensional axisymmetric ones. Indeed, as the oscillation frequency of the cylinders increases, the azimuthal wave number of the critical eigensolution is found to change from 0 to 2 to 1 and then back to 0. The primary bifurcation exchange between two instability modes with different azimuthal wave numbers occurs via different types of codimension-2 bifurcation points giving rise to discontinuities in the critical axial wave number where reversing and non-reversing non-axisymmetric Taylor vortex flows are identified. In addition, by extending our numerical calculations to the co-oscillating case, we show that the axisymmetric disturbances are the most unstable confirming thus existing experimental findings. Furthermore, a Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) analysis is performed to shed light on the asymptotic behavior of these time-dependent flows in the low-frequency limit when the cylinders are slowly oscillating.
Numerical investigation of detonation initiation in a modeled rotating detonation engine
Authors: Han Chao , Bian Jing , Shi Baolu , Tian Cheng , Zhao Majie
Published: January 2024

In experimental studies, single-wave mode and two counter-rotating wave mode are often observed in rotating detonation combustors. To investigate the mechanism behind different propagation modes, high-resolution numerical simulations of two-dimensional detonation in hydrogen/air mixtures are conducted by solving the reactive Navier–Stokes equations with a detailed chemical mechanism. The numerical results show that the occurrence of the dual-wave detonation propagation mode is positively influenced by an increase in both the channel width and the initial pressure. The dual-wave modes are observed when increasing the channel width, and it is found that the dual-wave modes are caused by increasing the residual premixed gas height near the inner wall. When increasing the initial pressure, the initial peak detonation heat release increases, which leads to the increase in the hot spot intensity formed, and it is found that the dual-wave modes are mainly caused by the interactions between the initial detonation wave and the inner wall. However, the initial equivalent ratio appears to have a relatively minor impact on the detonation propagation mode due to a relatively narrow range variation of physical properties. The peak heat release rate exerts a greater influence on the change of the propagation mode than the induction time does through a wider range test on rotating detonation engines' working condition. Moreover, the velocities and the cell sizes of detonation waves propagating in different directions with different channel widths are also analyzed, revealing that the characteristics of the detonation waves propagating in different directions are nearly the same.
Tracking plume-regolith interactions in near-vacuum conditions
Authors: Subramanian S. , Wilson A. , White C. , Kontis K. , Evans D. , Van den Eynde J.
Published: January 2024

An experiment to track and measure the transient phenomenon of plume-liberated regolith in near-vacuum conditions was performed in a dedicated plume-regolith facility housed at the University of Glasgow. This facility with a total volume of around 82 m3 can simulate a soft or hard landing event on “extraterrestrial” sub-atmospheric pressures. Particle image velocimetry method was used to estimate the ejection velocity and ejected angle of regolith particles, and its limitations are discussed. Glass microspheres that are matched with the size of the Lunar and Martian moon “Phobos” surface regoliths are used as simulants. With an exit Mach number of 6.6, a heated convergent–divergent nozzle represents the lander nozzle. Preliminary results capture ejecta development up to 30 ms from plume impingement. Flow visualization reveals the initial moments of plume boundary growth and regolith ejection. The vector images indicate a triangular-shaped sheet of particles sweeping from the regolith bed at a positive inclination with a local maximum velocity close to 100 m/s. The low-density “Phobos” simulant advances at a higher speed, reaches higher elevations, and covers a larger spatial area compared to a higher-density “Lunar” simulant. Observation of the crater formation reveals the difference in cohesive forces between the selected simulants. A higher inclination of particle ejection of more than 50° adjacent to the jet indicates particle entrainment originating from the interior of the crater. Stream traces reveal the deflection of ejected particles upon impingement on the lander surface at close proximity.
Numerical analysis of seepage law for radial fluid flow in a single fracture: Comparison between smooth and rough fractures
Authors: Shi Lei , Guan Guojie , Zhang Jianwei , Zhang Bin , Song Danqing
Published: January 2024

This paper investigated the differences for the hydraulic characteristics in a single fracture between using the Navier–Stokes (N–S) equation and Darcy's law, which would be benefit to understand the seepage mechanism in the fracture. A numerical model of the radial flow was established considering the aperture size and water injection flow rate. Some conclusion could be given. First, the Darcy's law only described the seepage characteristics when the flow rate was small when the flow rate and pressure response have a linear relationship. While the N–S equation could describe the linear and nonlinear seepage characteristics, resulting in a better model of the actual fracture seepage flow. Second, the aperture size had a limited influence on the water pressure and seepage velocity inside the fracture when the flow rate was small. It began to have a significant impact influence on the seepage characteristics inside the fracture with the aperture increased. Third, the flow–pressure response conformed to the Forchheimer equation in the fracture. The critical Reynold number would decrease from 1.2 to 0.0116 when fracture aperture decreased from 3 to 0.5 mm using the N–S equation. The degree of nonlinearity of the fluid flow increases with fracture roughness increasing. This work gave a guidance to the difference in the two seepage theories and correction for the result by Darcy law, which was widely used in the engineering calculation.
Effects of fibre sources on physiological properties and reproductive performance in gestating and lactating sows
Authors: Ferreira Leonardo Francisco Rocha , Araújo Itallo Conrado Sousa de , Brustolini Ana Paula Liboreiro , Lopes Idael Matheus Goes , Saliba Eloisa de Oliveira Simões , Ferreira Walter Motta , Ferreira Soraia Viana , Silva Francisco Carlos de Oliveira , Fontes Dalton de Oliveira
Published: January 2024

Context Few experiments have demonstrated how alternative fibre sources such as micronised citrus pulp in the diet of sows during pregnancy and lactation can influence the productive and biochemical parameters of the sows. Aims The aim of the study was to compare different fibre sources fed to sows during gestation for effects on serum biochemical and reproductive parameters, and to determine how these effects may relate to sow and piglet performances. Methods In total, 220 sows of average initial liveweight 240.72 ± 29.42 kg were allotted to a completely randomised design with four treatments and 55 sows per treatment. The treatments comprised different fibre sources (micronised citrus pulp, soybean hulls and coffee husks) included in the feed, with a maize–soybean-meal-based diet as the control. Productive and biochemical parameters were assessed. Key results Productive and reproductive performance during gestation and lactation, and litter birth weight, were not influenced (P > 0.05) by treatment. Placental efficiency (g fetus produced/g placenta) was lower (P < 0.05) in sows receiving soybean hulls than coffee husks (4.9 vs 5.4). Control sows presented lower (P < 0.05) stillborn rate than those supplemented with soybean hulls (1.08% vs 2.72%). Blood glucose, creatinine, lactate, triglycerides, total protein, cholesterol and urea were not influenced (P > 0.05) by treatment. Postprandial blood glucose and triglycerides levels were higher (P < 0.05) than preprandial levels, whereas preprandial cholesterol was higher (P < 0.05) than postprandial (67.74 vs 62.51 mg/dL). Conclusion Diverse fibre sources minimally impacted sow performance; coffee husks emerged as a potentially advantageous choice. Implications Nutritional strategies to enhance reproductive and productive performance can be developed by incorporating coffee husks, micronised citrus pulp or soybean hulls in sows’ feed. Use of these fibre sources did not alter reproductive and productive parameters or blood metabolites of the sows.
Stories about symmetry
Authors: Waldecker Rebecca A.H.
Published: January 2024

In this note I would like to shine a light on topics where symmetry plays a role. Together we will explore how symmetry can be captured mathematically and how concepts involving symmetry help to understand viruses and self-organising materials, how they can be used to design better algorithms and how the classification of elementary symmetries leads to an exciting story about an unprecedented communal effort to prove a big mathematical theorem. I will give examples of open questions that still wait to be answered.
Sustainable chemical synthesis: making molecules using visible-light irradiation
Authors: Priebbenow Daniel L.
Published: January 2024

The discovery of new strategies to increase the sustainability of chemical manufacturing is of critical importance to many sectors. To this end, photochemistry offers significant potential, as the irradiation of molecules and catalysts with visible light (considered a safe and renewable chemical reagent) can provide access to known molecules in a more sustainable fashion or novel molecular scaffolds that cannot be accessed via traditional means. Acyl silanes are a fascinating functional group which, upon irradiation with blue light, undergo rearrangement to generate reactive intermediates. Recent studies into the reactivity of acyl silanes within our research group has led to the discovery of a series of new photochemical methods to access unique molecular scaffolds using only visible-light irradiation, circumventing the use of precious metal catalysts and additives.
The role of nuclear power in a sustainable future
Authors: Thomas Anthony W.
Published: January 2024

In an era where global warming is a major threat, nuclear power offers an alternative to fossil fuels that has a number of advantages. In this paper, the advantages and challenges associated with this source of energy are reviewed.
Targeting the proteases of arboviruses with cyclic and bicyclic peptides
Authors: Nitsche Christoph
Published: January 2024

Arthropod-borne (arbo) viruses infect hundreds of millions of people annually. Many arboviruses and their mosquito vectors circulate in Australia and neighbouring regions. Recent years have shown that explosive outbreaks accompanied by life-threating symptoms such as encephalitis are unpredictable and increasingly common, particularly due to the effects of climate change. Two major genera of pathogenic viruses are flaviviruses and alphaviruses. Both require their own viral proteases to replicate and infect new cells. Viral proteases can be considered the Achilles heel of replication and are already long-established drug targets in the fight against chronic viral infectious diseases, for example, HIV/AIDS. We developed a large variety of high-affinity and proteolytically stable peptide inhibitors of flaviviral proteases using innovative chemical approaches. Our chemical strategies proceed under biocompatible conditions, enabling in situ access to constrained peptide ligands in presence of proteases and other drug targets. While cyclic and bicyclic peptides offer many advantages over small molecules used in conventional drug discovery, their limited bioavailability is a major challenge that still needs to be overcome.
A tiny fraction of all species forms most of nature: Rarity as a sticky state
Authors: van Nes Egbert H. , Pujoni Diego G. F. , Shetty Sudarshan A. , Straatsma Gerben , de Vos Willem M. , Scheffer Marten
Published: January 2024

Using data from a wide range of natural communities including the human microbiome, plants, fish, mushrooms, rodents, beetles, and trees, we show that universally just a few percent of the species account for most of the biomass. This is in line with the classical observation that the vast bulk of biodiversity is very rare. Attempts to find traits allowing the tiny fraction of abundant species to escape rarity have remained unsuccessful. Here, we argue that this might be explained by the fact that hyper-dominance can emerge through stochastic processes. We demonstrate that in neutrally competing groups of species, rarity tends to become a trap if environmental fluctuations result in gains and losses proportional to abundances. This counter-intuitive phenomenon arises because absolute change tends to zero for very small abundances, causing rarity to become a “sticky state”, a pseudoattractor that can be revealed numerically in classical ball-in-cup landscapes. As a result, the vast majority of species spend most of their time in rarity leaving space for just a few others to dominate the neutral community. However, fates remain stochastic. Provided that there is some response diversity, roles occasionally shift as stochastic events or natural enemies bring an abundant species down allowing a rare species to rise to dominance. Microbial time series spanning thousands of generations support this prediction. Our results suggest that near-neutrality within niches may allow numerous rare species to persist in the wings of the dominant ones. Stand-ins may serve as insurance when former key species collapse.
Concurrent warming and browning eliminate cold-water fish habitat in many temperate lakes
Authors: Jane Stephen F. , Detmer Thomas M. , Larrick Siena L. , Rose Kevin C. , Randall Eileen A. , Jirka Kurt J. , McIntyre Peter B.
Published: January 2024

Cold-water species in temperate lakes face two simultaneous climate-driven ecosystem changes: warming and browning of their waters. Browning refers to reduced transparency arising from increased dissolved organic carbon (DOC), which absorbs solar energy near the surface. It is unclear whether the net effect is mitigation or amplification of climate warming impacts on suitable oxythermal habitat (<20 °C, >5 mgO/L) for cold-loving species because browning expands the vertical distribution of both cool water and oxygen depletion. We analyzed long-term trends and high-frequency sensor data from browning lakes in New York’s Adirondack region to assess the contemporary status of summertime habitat for lacustrine brook trout. Across two decades, surface temperatures increased twice as fast and bottom dissolved oxygen declined >180% faster than average trends for temperate lakes. We identify four lake categories based on oxythermal habitat metrics: constrained, squeezed, overheated, and buffered. In most of our study lakes, trout face either seasonal loss (7 of 15) or dramatic restriction (12 to 21% of the water column; 5 of 15) of suitable habitat. These sobering statistics reflect rapid upward expansion of oxygen depletion in lakes with moderate or high DOC relative to compression of heat penetration. Only in very clear lakes has browning potentially mitigated climate warming. Applying our findings to extensive survey data suggests that decades of browning have reduced oxythermal refugia in most Adirondack lakes. We conclude that joint warming and browning may preclude self-sustaining cold-water fisheries in many temperate lakes; hence, oxythermal categorization is essential to guide triage strategies and management interventions.
A general approach for inferring the ancestry of recent ancestors of an admixed individual
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Zhang Haotian , Wu Yufeng
Published: January 2024

The genome of an individual from an admixed population consists of segments originated from different ancestral populations. Most existing ancestry inference approaches focus on calling these segments for the extant individual. In this paper, we present a general ancestry inference approach for inferring recent ancestors from an extant genome. Given the genome of an individual from a recently admixed population, our method can estimate the proportions of the genomes of the recent ancestors of this individual that originated from some ancestral populations. The key step of our method is the inference of ancestors (called founders) right after the formation of an admixed population. The inferred founders can then be used to infer the ancestry of recent ancestors of an extant individual. Our method is implemented in a computer program called PedMix2. To the best of our knowledge, there is no existing method that can practically infer ancestors beyond grandparents from an extant individual’s genome. Results on both simulated and real data show that PedMix2 performs well in ancestry inference.
Topic drop and pro drop
Authors: Huang C. -T. James , Yang Barry C. -Y.
Published: January 2024

One major difference between Chinese-type and German-type languages is that the former allows extensive types of argument drop, while the latter is quite limited beyond the existence of a null topic. This study argues (a) that it is necessary to distinguish among phenomena that have sometimes been referred to with the undifferentiating term “radical pro drop”; (b) that the null topic is restricted to root clauses (CP edge) based on its locality properties; (c) that the Chinese-type null topic requires licensing at the CP edge by Internal Merge; and (d) that the CP edge requirement may be lifted only under conditions of last resort. Evidence comes from our new observation of locality effects showing a contrast between overt and null topics. Specifically, while the pro option is available with an overt topic, null topics must be brought to the CP edge via Internal Merge.
An efficient semi-analytical techniques for the fractional-order system of Drinfeld-Sokolov-Wilson equation
Authors: Hamid Ganie Abdul , Yasmin Humaira , Alderremy A A , Shah Rasool , Aly Shaban
Published: January 2024

This study delves into the exploration and analysis of the fractional order Drinfeld-Sokolov-Wilson (FDSW) system within the framework of the Caputo operator. To address this complex system, two innovative methods, namely the Aboodh transform iteration method (ATIM) and the Aboodh residual power series method (ARPSM), are introduced and applied. These methods offer efficient computational tools to investigate the FDSW system, particularly in the fractional order context utilizing the Caputo operator. The ATIM and ARPSM are employed to solve and analyze the FDSW system, allowing for the derivation of solutions and insights into the system’s behavior and dynamics. The utilization of these novel methods showcases their efficacy in handling the intricate characteristics of the FDSW system under fractional differentiation, offering a deeper understanding of its mathematical properties and behaviors.
Parameter estimation with reluctant quantum walks: a maximum likelihood approach
Authors: Ellinas Demosthenes , Jarvis Peter D , Pearce Matthew
Published: January 2024

The parametric maximum likelihood estimation problem is addressed in the context of quantum walk theory for quantum walks on the lattice of integers. A coin action is presented, with the real parameter θ to be estimated identified with the angular argument of an orthogonal reshuffling matrix. We provide analytic results for the probability distribution for a quantum walker to be displaced by d units from its initial position after k steps. For k large, we show that the likelihood is sharply peaked at a displacement determined by the ratio d/k which is correlated with the reshuffling parameter θ. We suggest that this ‘reluctant walker’ behaviour provides the framework for maximum likelihood estimation analysis, allowing for robust parameter estimation of θ via return probabilities of closed evolution loops and quantum measurements of the position of quantum walker with ‘reluctance index’ r = d/k.
Design and development of a cryogenic J-T valve for a 2 K cryostat with a single cryocooler
Authors: Wang Liguo , Xu Dong , Jia Peng , Huang Rongjin , Zhao Wanyin , Huang Chuanjun , Li Laifeng
Published: January 2024

A cryogenic Joule-Thomson (J-T) valve for a 2 K cryostat
cooled with a G-M cryocooler has been developed to continuously
supply superfluid helium. Saturated liquid helium flowing through
the valve transitions to superfluid helium below 2 K because of the
J-T effect. The heat leak, sealing performance and the J-T effect of
the valve were tested experimentally and analyzed. To reduce heat
leak in the 2 K range, two thermal anchors were installed in the
first and second cooling stages, respectively, resulting in 89.93%
reduction of useful work loss. A unique sealing structure was
developed for the J-T valve and was tested at both room temperature
and liquid nitrogen temperature, yielding leak rates of
3 × 10-9 Pa· m3/s and
3 × 10-4 Pa· m3/s, respectively. The
corresponding valve needle and seat structure were designed based on
the flow resistance equation. The J-T effect of the valve in 2 K
cryostat was tested at various valve openings. The cryostat can
operate at 1.64 K with no load and provide 0.143 W cooling power
at 2 K.
Light-front puzzles
Authors: Polyzou W N
Published: January 2024

Light-front formulations of quantum field theories have many advantages for computing electroweak matrix elements of strongly interacting systems and other quantities that are used to study hadronic structure. The theory can be formulated in Hamiltonian form so non-perturbative calculations of the strongly interacting initial and final states are in principle reduced to linear algebra. These states are needed for calculating parton distribution functions and other types of distribution amplitudes that are used to understand the structure of hadrons. Light-front boosts are kinematic transformations so the strongly interacting states can be computed in any frame. This is useful for computing current matrix elements involving electroweak probes where the initial and final hadronic states are in different frames related by the momentum transferred by the probe. Finally in many calculations the vacuum is trivial so the calculations can be formulated in Fock space. The advantages of light front-field theory would not be interesting if the light-front formulation was not equivalent to the covariant or canonical formulations of quantum field theory. Many of the distinguishing properties of light-front quantum field theory are difficult to reconcile with canonical or covariant formulations of quantum field theory. This paper discusses the resolution of some of the apparent inconsistencies in canonical, covariant and light-front formulations of quantum field theory. The puzzles that will be discussed are (1) the problem of inequivalent representations (2) the problem of the trivial vacuum (3) the problem of ill-posed initial value problems (4) the problem of rotational covariance (5) the problem of zero modes and (6) the problem of spontaneously broken symmetries.
Intrinsic and extrinsic factors modulating vigilance and foraging in two gregarious foragers
Authors: Monti Flavio , Ferretti Francesco , Fattorini Niccolò
Published: January 2024

A continuous balance between costs and benefits dictates individual vigilance and foraging dynamics. In group-living animals, understanding the resulting trade-off is often complicated by multiple confounding effects. Vigilance and foraging levels may be the result of intrinsic (e.g., body size, trophic ecology, migratory phenology) and extrinsic (e.g., flock size, edge effect, group dynamism) factors, potentially differing between species, individuals, and contexts. We explored this idea by investigating intrinsic and extrinsic factors influencing vigilance and foraging behavior of two sympatric gregarious bird species that differ markedly in body size and foraging strategies (Greylag Goose Anser anser and Common Crane Grus grus), during their non-breeding period. Interspecific differences were detected in activity allocation and in response to group-related variables. For both species, time spent in vigilance decreased with increasing flock size and with increasing distance from the edge of the group. While cranes allocated the resulting time to foraging, the same did not occur in geese. Changes in individual position in the group (i.e., peripheral vs. central or vice versa) elicited a prompt behavioral change (i.e., vigilance vs. foraging or other activity). Temporal changes in activity budgets were reported for geese but not for cranes, with a decrease of vigilance and an increase of foraging as winter progressed. Results allowed to disentangle the role of multifactorial determinants of vigilance and foraging, in turn increasing our understanding of underlying forces driving the evolution of behavioral traits and of group-living.