bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specific heat capacity of chromium aluminum based nitride and oxynitride hard coatings
Authors: Bobzin K. , Kalscheuer C. , Carlet M. , Janowitz J.
Published: February 2024

In simulation for machining processes, temperature dependent properties and their exact specification are important for application oriented results. For calculation of coated tools and components, interest in thermophysical properties of hard coatings is increasing. A methodical approach is used to measure the specific heat capacity of nitride and oxynitride hard coatings deposited by physical vapor deposition. The coating is converted into powdery state and measured by differential scanning calorimetry. Heat capacities for Cr44Al5N51 and two oxynitride Cr40Al5O18N37 and Cr44Al8O28N21 coatings were measured from T=200 °C to T=900 °C, technically relevant in tribological applications and manufacturing technology. The measured heat capacities showed reproducible results between cp ≈0.38 J/gK and cp ≈0.78 J/gK and dependency on the chemical composition of the coatings. The coating with highest non‐metal to metal ratio exhibited the highest heat capacity. The coating with highest oxygen content and lowest non‐metal to metal ratio showed the lowest heat capacity. Hard coatings and their thermophysical properties can affect heat transfer in industrial processes. Knowledge of these properties is necessary for process control by temperature sensor coatings or temperature dependent simulations. With measured values of heat capacities of physically vapor deposited hard coatings separated from the substrate, coatings can be adapted for use in application.
Optimization of process variables and characterization of mechanically agitated ceramic‐microsphere reinforced aluminium composite
Authors: Anand A. , Tiwari S. K. , Prakash V. , Gautam S. K. , Srivastava A. K.
Published: February 2024

This study aims to investigate the effect of stir‐casting process parameters, including stirring speed, stirring time, and weight % of the ceramic microsphere, on the fabrication of an aluminium 6061‐ceramic microsphere composite. Experiments are conducted using a full‐factorial design approach to determine the effect of variables on mechanical properties. A field effect scanning electron microscope is used to analyze the fracture surfaces of the test specimen. Further, the results are subjected to the Anderson‐darling normality test to validate the accuracy of the model, and finally, an analysis of variance is performed to identify the most significant parameters that affect the mechanical properties. The results confirm the validity of the designed experimental model for enhancing the mechanical properties of the aluminium 6061‐ceramic microsphere composite. The optimum mechanical properties are attained for a stirring speed of 600 min−1, stirring time of 15 min, and 5 weight % of reinforcement. Furthermore, the weight percentage of the ceramic microsphere increase, the ductility of the composite decreases while its strength and hardness increase. Finally, the analysis of variance shows that all parameters significantly impact the mechanical properties of the designed composite.
Deposition and characterization of high velocity oxy‐fuel sprayed nickel chrome boron silicium based coatings on stainless steel substrates
Authors: Pandey N. , Nayak S. K. , Satapathy A. , Mantry S. , Sahoo S.
Published: February 2024

After plasma spraying, high‐velocity‐oxy‐fuel (HVOF) spraying is fast emerging as the most versatile deposition technique for thermal sprayed protective coatings. In this context, the present work aims at the deposition of a class of inter‐metallic/cermet coatings of nickel chrome boron silicium (NiCrBSi) and nickel chrome boron silicium+titanium diboride (TiB2) on 304 stainless steel substrates using high‐velocity oxy‐fuel spraying route. The cermet powder is prepared as the feedstock by mechanical mixing of the powders prior to spraying. Different coating samples are obtained by varying the flame‐to‐substrate spray distance (40 mm, 80 mm, 120 mm, 160 mm and 200 mm). These coatings are characterized in terms of their adhesion strength, deposition efficiency, thickness, and micro‐hardness by conducting tests as per the ASTM standards. The surface and interface morphologies of the deposited coatings are studied using scanning electron microscopy. The possible phases present in the coatings, and the transformation of phases during deposition have been explored by x‐ray diffraction analysis. It is found that the coatings exhibit fairly good interfacial adhesion, micro‐hardness, and thickness values that varied significantly with the spray‐distance. Further, the premixing of titanium diboride in nickel chrome boron silicium improved the mechanical and microstructural/compositional properties of the coatings.
Brand strategies: Enhancing manufacturers' bargaining power in grocery retail through cross‐category complementarities
Authors: Heimeshoff Ulrich , Klein Gordon J.
Published: February 2024

The article emphasizes the role of brand strategies, as placement in regional niche strategies for manufacturers, to impact retailer–manufacturer relations in the grocery retail sector. Due to joint purchases of initially unrelated products within a shopping cart, transaction cost‐induced complementarities between those products arise. Given unique retailer data, we infer complementarities arising from a specific product to a shopping cart of products. Using a Nash‐in‐Nash framework, we are able to show that the impact on the bargaining position for the manufacturer vis‐à‐vis a retailer is substantial and helps to increase the potential of gaining a larger slice of the profit pie.
Literature survey of subseasonal‐to‐seasonal predictions in the southern hemisphere
Authors: Phakula Steven , Landman Willem A. , Engelbrecht Christien J.
Published: February 2024

Subseasonal‐to‐seasonal (S2S) prediction has gained momentum in the recent past as a need for predictions between the weather forecasting timescale and seasonal timescale exists. The availability of S2S databases makes prediction and predictability studies possible over all the regions of the globe. Most S2S studies are, however, relevant to the northern hemisphere. In this review, the S2S literature relevant to the southern hemisphere (SH) are presented. Predictive skill, sources of predictability, and the application of S2S predictions are discussed. Indications from the subseasonal predictability studies for the SH regions suggest that predictive skill is limited to 2 weeks in general, particularly for temperature and rainfall, which are the variables most frequently investigated. However, temperature has enhanced skill compared to rainfall. More S2S prediction studies that include the quantification of the sources of predictability and the identification of windows of opportunity need to be conducted for the SH, particularly for the southern African region. The African continent is vulnerable to weather‐ and climate‐related disasters, and S2S forecasts can assist in alleviating the risk of such disasters.
LD‐Net: A novel one‐stage knowledge distillation algorithm for lightning detection network
Authors: Fu Junjie , Li Yingxiang , Liu Jiawei , Ji Yulin , Zhong Jiandan
Published: February 2024

Lightning often causes death, injury, and damage to various facilities and equipment. Accurately detecting the spatial location of lightning occurrence by predicting thunderstorms and lightning is of great significance. Traditional lightning detection systems detect lightning by measuring the sound, light, and electromagnetic field information radiated by lightning. These methods typically have two problems. First, the detection process of lightning signals is susceptible to electromagnetic interference. Second, the equipment cost is high and is not friendly to some lightning detection tasks only targeted at specific scenarios. In order to detect lightning more conveniently, we propose a lightning detection model based on deep learning networks. With the increase in the use of cameras in modern society, designing lightning object detection networks based on deep learning is possible. However, two problems have been found in existing practice: (1) When strong lightning meteorological phenomena occur, the lightning features in the image are covered by bright electric lights, and convolutional neural networks cannot distinguish between strong lightning scenes and strong ultraviolet scenes. (2) The performance of convolutional neural networks is often related to the model's size. The larger the model, the stronger the performance of the network. However, in practical application scenarios, computing resources are insufficient to use sufficiently large networks. In this paper, we propose a simple and effective lightning object detection network (LD‐Net) and use a foreground‐background segmentation algorithm to locate frames containing lightning in the video. After using the knowledge distillation‐based model compression method, the mAP of the lightning object detection network with a backbone net of resnet with 18‐layer (LD‐Net‐18) can reach 82.4%. We hope that the proposed LD‐Net can serve as a simple and powerful alternative to traditional lightning detection methods, enhancing efficiency in lightning detection tasks.
Some California mental health groups remain fearful over state ballot measure
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: February 2024

With California voters just over a week away from deciding on a ballot measure that would represent a major transformation of the state's mental health service delivery system, a striking number of mental health advocates remain either lukewarm about the proposal or bitterly opposed.
Mental health awareness initiative to support Black males
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2024

Creating new, psychologically safe opportunities for Black men and boys to normalize seeking out mental health care when they need it is the objective behind a new initiative announced Feb. 15 that supports their mental health — at a time when suicide rates for Black males aged 10 to 19 have risen faster than any other racial group in the past two decades, according to the American Psychiatric Association Foundation (APAF).
Effect of Aerobic Exercise and Time‐Restricted Feeding on Metabolic Markers and Circadian Rhythm in Mice Fed with the High‐Fat Diet
Authors: Raza Ghulam Shere , Kaya Yağmur , Stenbäck Ville , Sharma Ravikant , Sodum Nalini , Mutt Shivaprakash Jagalur , Gagnon Dominique D. , Tulppo Mikko , Järvelin Marjo‐Riitta , Herzig Karl‐Heinz , Mäkelä Kari A.
Published: February 2024

Scope

Diet and exercise are significant players in obesity and metabolic diseases. Time‐restricted feeding (tRF) has been shown to improve metabolic responses by regulating circadian clocks but whether it acts synergically with exercise remains unknown. It is hypothesized that forced exercise alone or combined with tRF alleviates obesity and its metabolic complications.

Methods and results

Male C57bl6 mice are fed with high‐fat or a control diet for 12 weeks either ad libitum or tRF for 10 h during their active period. High‐fat diet (HFD)‐fed mice are divided into exercise (treadmill for 1 h at 12 m min−1 alternate days for 9 weeks and 16 m min−1 daily for the following 3 weeks) and non‐exercise groups. tRF and tRF‐Ex significantly decreased body weight, food intake, and plasma lipids, and improved glucose tolerance. However, exercise reduced only body weight and plasma lipids. tRF and tRF‐Ex significantly downregulated Fasn, Hmgcr, and Srebp1c, while exercise only Hmgcr. HFD feeding disrupted clock genes, but exercise, tRF, and tRF‐Ex coordinated the circadian clock genes Bmal1, Per2, and Rev‐Erbα in the liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscles.

Conclusion

HFD feeding disrupted clock genes in the peripheral organs while exercise, tRF, and their combination restored clock genes and improved metabolic consequences induced by high‐fat diet feeding.
Molecular structure regulation of functional polylactic acid based on chain expansion reaction and its improved hydrolysis resistance
Authors: Wang Haiyan , Zeng Guangsheng , Li Ling , Xia Guiying , Hu Can
Published: February 2024

In this work, the functional polylactic acid (PLA) was synthesized using epoxy chain extender (ADR) as a chain extender agent through melt blending method. The effects of ADR content on the molecular structure, thermal properties, and tensile properties of the functional PLA were investigated. Meanwhile, the hydrolytic behavior of the PLA/ADR materials at different hydrolysis temperatures was explored. It was found that ADR effectively regulated the molecular structure of PLA in the molten state and significantly increased the relative molecular weight, storage modulus, and complex viscosity of PLA. In addition, the Cole‐Cole diagram results suggested the branched structure of PLA chain expansion systems. Based on mechanical property tests, it was noted that the addition of ADR made the molecular chain form a micro‐crosslinked structure. Additionally, the mass loss rate of PLA/1.6ADR (the dosage of ADR was 1.6 wt%) was 14.75% after 14 weeks of hydrolysis under hydrolysis conditions at 58°C, while that of pure PLA was 25.89%. Moreover, the functional PLA/ADR materials exhibited significantly slower decrease rates in molecular weight, melting temperature, and tensile strength, and still maintained intact morphology after 14 weeks of hydrolysis compared to pure PLA. Therefore, the molecular structure of PLA is effectively regulated by ADR, which greatly enhances the hydrolysis resistance and further promotes the range of application of PLA.
The pulmonary rehabilitation effect on long covid‐19 syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Martínez‐Pozas Oliver , Meléndez‐Oliva Erika , Rolando Lidia Martínez , Rico José Antonio Quesada , Corbellini Camilo , Sánchez Romero Eleuterio A.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) in improving dyspnea, fatigue, physical activity, quality of life, anxiety and depression in patients with Long COVID‐19 (LC). The impact of PR on LC and a comparison of face‐to‐face and telerehabilitation approaches was explored.

Methods

This systematic review and meta‐analysis followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered in PROSPERO. A literature search included PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library until January 2023. No language filters were applied. Randomized controlled trials, non‐randomized controlled trials, and observational studies were included. The risk of bias was assessed using appropriate tools. Descriptive analysis and meta‐analysis were performed. Forest plots presented results. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Metafor Package in R v.3.4.2.

Results/Findings

This systematic review and meta‐analysis included 16 studies on PR in LC patients. A total of 1027 adults were included. The studies varied in design, with seven observational studies, three quasi‐experimental studies, and six randomized controlled trials. Dyspnea, physical function, quality of life, psychological state, and fatigue were assessed as outcomes. The review found that pulmonary rehabilitation had a significant positive effect on dyspnea, physical function, quality of life (both global and physical domain), anxiety, and depression. However, the effect on fatigue was not significant. Heterogeneity was observed in some analyses, and publication bias was found in certain outcomes. Age and study design were identified as potential moderators. Both face‐to‐face and telerehabilitation interventions improved the studied outcomes, with only differences in the physical domain of quality of life favoring the face‐to‐face group.

Implications on Physiotherapy Practice

PR improved dyspnea, physical function, quality of life, and psychological state in LC patients, but not fatigue. Face‐to‐face and telerehabilitation have similar effects, except for physical quality of life.
Establishment and evaluation of targeted molecular screening model for the ryanodine receptor or sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase
Authors: Lu Xiaopeng , Jiang Linlin , Chen Li , Ding Wenwei , Wu Hua , Ma Zhiqing
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUD

Endoplasmic reticulum/sarcoplasmic reticulum (ER/SR) is crucial for maintaining intracellular calcium homeostasis due to the calcium‐signaling‐related proteins on its membrane. While ryanodine receptors (RyR) on insect ER/SR membranes are well‐known as targets for diamide insecticides, little is known about other calcium channels. Given the resistance of diamide insecticides, the establishment of molecular screening models targeting RyR or sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA) is conducive to the discovery of new insecticidal molecules.

RESULTS

The morphological features of Mythimna separata SR have closed vesicles with integrity and high density. The 282 proteins in the SR component contained RyR and SERCA. A measurement model for the release and uptake of calcium was successfully established by detecting calcium ions outside the SR membrane using a fluorescence spectrophotometer. In vitro testing systems using SR vesicles found that diamide insecticides could activate dose‐dependently RyR, with EC50 values of 0.14 μM (Chlorantraniliprole), 0.21 μM (Flubendiamide), and 0.57 μM (Cyantraniliprole), respectively. However, dantrolene inhibited RyR‐mediated calcium release with an IC50 value of 353.9 μM, suggesting that dantrolene can weakly antagonize RyR. Moreover, cyclopiazonic acid significantly reduced the enzyme activity and calcium uptake capacity of SERCA. On the contrary, CDN1163 markedly activated the enzyme activity and improved the calcium transport capacity of SERCA.

CONCLUSIONS

SR vesicles can be used to study the function of unknown proteins on the SR membranes, as well as for high‐throughput screening of highly active compounds targeting RyR or SERCA. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Exogenous ABA promotes resistance to Sitobion avenae (Fabricius) in rice seedlings
Authors: Liang Xinyan , Liao Guangrong , Li Jitong , Fan Wenyang , Liu Yang , Wang Shuang , Chen Lin , Wang Yiping , Liu Jinglan
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Over the course of evolution, plants have developed various sophisticated defense mechanisms to resist pests and diseases. The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) has an important role in the growth and development of plants and confers tolerance to selected abiotic stressors, such as drought. Previous studies have shown that ABA promotes the deposit of callose in response to piercing/sucking insect pests. The English grain aphid, Sitobion avenae Fabricius, causes huge losses in rice and is especially harmful to rice seedlings.

RESULTS

Exogenous ABA promoted growth and reduced the feeding behavior of S. avenae nymphs in rice. Our results suggested that enhanced trichome density and increased expression of related genes may be associated with rice resistance to aphids. An analysis of volatiles revealed the production of seven compounds associated with pest resistance.

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that ABA reduces aphid feeding in rice. Our findings provide a basis for understanding ABA‐mediated defense responses in rice and provide insights on more environmentally‐friendly approaches to control. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparing impacts of corn residue removal and amelioration practices on soil properties after 3, 6, and 10 years
Authors: Klopp Hans W. , Blanco‐Canqui Humberto , Sindelar Michael , Jin Virginia L. , Schmer Marty R.
Published: February 2024

Information on corn (Zea mays L.) residue removal and organic amendment additions to ameliorate removal effects on soil properties is limited. Thus, we compared impacts of corn residue removal at 59% and organic amendments (winter rye [Secale cereale L.]) cover crop and manure every other year at 24 Mg ha−1 on soil organic carbon (SOC) and physical properties after 10 years under irrigated no‐till continuous corn on a silt loam in the western US Corn Belt. We collected soil property data after 10 years and then compared it with earlier results from this experiment (3 and 6 years). Cover crop and manure amendments maintained SOC concentration, but no amelioration practice reduced SOC concentration (−15%) from 3 to 10 years when residues were annually removed in 0‐ to 5‐cm depth. Under residue retention, SOC concentration increased with time with largest increase (+41%) occurring under manure amelioration practice in the 0‐ to 5‐cm depth. Residue removal reduced soil wet aggregate stability by 34%, soil dry aggregate stability by 73%, bulk density by 6%, water content at −33 kPa matric potential by 14%, and plant available water by 17% after 10 years in the 0‐ to 5‐cm soil depth but did not affect infiltration rate. Cover crops increased wet aggregate stability (32%), but manure and cover crops had limited effects on other soil properties. Residue removal increased the susceptibility of the soil to erosion and reduced water retention and SOC after 3 years, but such effects were not fully offset by amendments.
Truly, madly, deeply: Strategic entrepreneuring and the aesthetic practices of craft entrepreneurs
Authors: Elias Sara R. S. T. A. , Peticca‐Harris Amanda , deGama Nadia
Published: February 2024

Research Summary

Strategic entrepreneurship research has long focused on high growth and wealth maximization in the creation of primarily economic value. As such, it has largely overlooked craft entrepreneurs, who prioritize skill, materiality, and immersive action in creating broader forms of value. Deep engagement with materials, alongside daily aesthetic (sensory, tacit, embodied) practices are key to how craft entrepreneurs create unique value and strengthen competitive distinction. Drawing on ethnographic data from two craft‐based settings, we abductively generated three dimensions and associated tensions by which craft entrepreneurs leverage aesthetics for strategic entrepreneuring: materializing, enchanting, empathizing. Our key contribution is to unpack the embodied—and very human—processes by which craft entrepreneurs imagine and give life to unique offerings while creating distinctive value for both themselves and their stakeholders.

Managerial Summary

The focus of strategic entrepreneurship research is often on economic value creation, along with high growth and wealth maximization. By exploring the everyday practices of craft entrepreneurs, we unpack how creating broader forms of value (e.g., symbolic, artistic, social, cultural) through immersive and embodied actions contributes to stylistic and competitive distinction. For the craft entrepreneurs in our study, remaining competitive is about engaging in sensuous practices that result in meaningful and authentic offerings, for both themselves and their stakeholders. By capturing and exploring these daily practices, along with the tensions that undergird real‐time exchanges with stakeholders, we provide fresh insights into how craft entrepreneurs create unique value while delicately balancing tradition with innovation to strengthen competitive distinction.
Reusable Cu‐Poly(4‐vinylpyridine‐co‐ethylbenzene) Complex as Catalyst for Chan‐Lam C−N Cross Coupling
Authors: Talukdar Hrishikesh , Phukan Prodeep
Published: February 2024

A novel heterogeneous polymer supported catalyst Cu‐PVPEVB has been developed by complexation of CuI in the matrix of the polymer poly(4‐vinylpyridine‐co‐ethylvinylbenzene). Characterization of the catalyst using different spectroscopic techniques revealed that the copper metal is bound through the pyridine substructure of the polymer. The versatility of the catalyst was established by utilizing it for Chan‐Lam coupling reactions in an eco‐friendly solvent methanol. High yields of C−N cross coupled products are obtained within a short time in presence of K2CO3 and 10 weight % of the catalyst having 13.6 weight % of copper. The catalyst could be recovered after carrying out the reaction by simple filtration and reused. Additionally, among a variety of N‐functionalized products synthesized during this study, an N‐phenyl isatin derivative was found to be promising candidate as a fluorescent probe for detection of the Hg2+ ion in aqueous acetonitrile solution.
Fabrication of Soft‐Hard Heterostructure Porous Carbon with Enhanced Performance for High Mass‐Loading Aqueous Supercapacitors
Authors: Lv Ting , Yang Xiaomin , Zhang Ying , Wang Xiaofeng , Qiu Jieshan
Published: February 2024

With the increasing attention to energy and environmental issues, the high value‐added utilization of biomass and pitch to functional carbon materials has become an important topic in science and technology. In this work, the soft‐hard heterostructure porous carbon (NRP‐HPC) is prepared by bio‐template method, in which biomass and pitch are used as hard carbon and soft carbon precursors, respectively. The prepared NRP‐HPC‐4 shows high specific surface area (2293 m2 g−1), suitable pore size distribution, good conductivity (0.25 Ω cm−1), and strong wettability. The synergistic effect of soft carbon and hard carbon ensures the composite material exhibiting excellent electrochemical performance for high mass loading (12.0 mg cm−2) aqueous supercapacitor, i.e., high specific capacitance (304.69 F g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), high area capacitance (3.67 F cm−2 at 0.1 A g−1), high volumetric specific capacitance (202.74 F cm−3 at 0.1 A g−1), low open‐circuit voltage attenuation rate (21.04 mV h−1), good voltage retention (79.12%), and excellent cyclic stability (92.04% capacitance retention and 100% coulombic efficiency after 20 000 cycles). The composite technology of soft carbon and hard carbon not only ensures the prepared porous carbon electrode materials with enhanced electrochemical performance, but also realizes the high value‐added coupling utilization of biomass and pitch.
Photothermal‐enhanced in situ supramolecular hydrogel promotes bacteria‐infected wound healing in diabetes
Authors: Zheng Chen , Wu Xuan , Liu Ming , Lan Yulong , Liu Qian , Cai Erya , Liao Zhiyong , Shen Jianliang
Published: February 2024

Bacterial infection can impede the healing of chronic wounds, particularly diabetic wounds. The high‐sugar environment of diabetic wounds creates a favorable condition for bacterial growth, posing a challenge to wound healing. In clinical treatment, the irregular shape of the wound and the poor mechanical properties of traditional gel adjuvants make them susceptible to mechanical shear and compression, leading to morphological changes and fractures, and difficult to adapt to irregular wounds. Traditional gel adjuvants are prepared in advance, while in situ gel is formed at the site of administration after drug delivery in a liquid state, which can better fit the shape of the wound. Therefore, this study developed an in situ HA/GCA/Fe2+‐GOx gel using a photothermal‐enhanced Fenton reaction to promote the generation of hydroxyl radicals (·OH). The generation of ·OH has an antibacterial effect while promoting the formation of the gel, achieving a dual effect. The addition of double‐bonded adamantane (Ada) interacts with the host‐guest effect of graphene oxide and the double‐bond polymerization of HAMA gel, making the entire gel system more complete. At the same time, the storage modulus (G′) of the gel increased from 130 to 330 Pa, enhancing the mechanical properties of the gel. This enables the gel to have better injectability and self‐healing effects. The addition of GOx can consume glucose at the wound site, providing a good microenvironment for the repair of diabetic wounds. The gel has good biocompatibility and in a diabetic rat wound model infected with S. aureus, it can effectively kill bacteria at the wound site and promote wound repair. Meanwhile, the inflammation of wounds treated with HA/GCA/Fe2+‐GOx + NIR was lighter compared to untreated wounds. Therefore, this study provides a promising strategy for treating bacterial‐infected diabetic wounds.
Robust Preparation of Sub‐20‐nm‐Thin Lamellae for Aberration‐Corrected Electron Microscopy
Authors: Tsurusawa Hideyo , Uzuhashi Jun , Kozuka Yusuke , Kimoto Koji , Ohkubo Tadakatsu
Published: February 2024

Aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) has been advancing resolution, sensitivity, and microanalysis due to the intense demands of atomic‐level microstructural investigations. Recent STEM technologies require preparing a thin lamella whose thickness is ideally below 20 nm. Although focused‐ion‐beam/scanning‐electron‐microscopy (FIB/SEM) is an established method to prepare a high‐quality lamella, nanometer‐level controllability of lamella thickness remains a fundamental problem. Here, the robust preparation of a sub‐20‐nm‐thin lamella is demonstrated by FIB/SEM with real‐time feedback from thickness quantification. The lamella thickness is quantified by back‐scattered‐electron SEM imaging in a thickness range between 0 and 100 nm without any reference to numerical simulation. Using real‐time feedback from the thickness quantification, the FIB/SEM terminates thinning a lamella at a targeted thickness. The real‐time feedback system eventually provides 1‐nm‐level controllability of the lamella thickness. As a proof‐of‐concept, a near‐10‐nm‐thin lamella is prepared from a SrTiO3 crystal by our methodology. Moreover, the lamella thickness is controllable at a target heterointerface. Thus, a sub‐20‐nm‐thin lamella is prepared from a LaAlO3/SrTiO3 heterointerface. The methodology offers a robust and operator‐independent platform to prepare a sub‐20‐nm‐thin lamella from various materials. This platform will broadly impact aberration‐corrected STEM studies in materials science and the semiconductor industry.
Kinetics of microbial cell growth, utilization of organic substrates and methane production in upflow anaerobic filters in two and three separated stages treating sanitary landfill leachates
Authors: Maldonado‐Maldonado Julio , Márquez‐Romance Adriana , Guevara‐Pérez Edilberto , Pérez‐Pacheco Sergio
Published: February 2024

This paper deals with the kinetics of microbial cell growth, utilization of organic substrates and methane production in upflow anaerobic filters in two and three separated stages (UAF‐2SS and UAF‐3SS) treating sanitary landfill leachates, under three temperatures (20, 27, and 34°C), fed with volumetric organic loads (VOLs) for UAF‐2SS (1.8, 2.25, 2.76, 3.45, 3.71, 4.64 kgCOD (chemical oxygen demand)/m3/d) and UAF‐3SS (1.7, 2.25, 2.44, 2.6, 3.15, 3.45, 3.5, 4.57, 4.64, 6.31, 11.61, 14.18, 17.48 kgCOD/m3/d). Kinetic parameters were obtained at temperature (20–34°C), pH (8.8–9.1), each one of three stages within the UAF‐2SS and UAF‐3SS reactors containing methanogenic bacteria (Methanococcus sp., and Methanobacterium sp.) and Clostridium sp.: Maximum substrate utilization rate (rm,s) resulted in 102 mg COD/L/h, maximum microbial cell growth rate (μm) varied 102–103 CFU (colony forming units)/mL/h, methane (CH4) production rate (rm,CH4) tended to vary 100–101 mg CH4/d and the maximum production coefficient (Y) varied 0–102 CFU/mL/h/mgCOD/L/h.
LEAP-ASIA-2019 Centrifuge Test at Kyoto University
Authors: Vargas Ruben R. , Ueda Kyohei , Tobita Tetsuo
Published: February 2024

The Liquefaction Experiments and Analysis Projects (LEAP) is an international collaborative project that aims to verify, validate, and quantify the uncertainty of numerical liquefaction models. “LEAP-ASIA-2019” is one of the LEAP’s exercises, whose main objectives are to validate the “generalized scaling law” for lateral spreading and to fill the gaps of experiments to complete the dataset obtained as part of the “LEAP-UCD-2017.” Within this project, a total of five models were developed at the geotechnical centrifuge of Kyoto University to simulate the dynamic behavior of a submerged, uniform-density, 20-m-long, 4-m-deep, and 5° sloping deposit of Ottawa F-65 sand. This paper presents the key features of the model preparation and testing process while also examining the applicability of the “generalized scaling law” for centrifuge modeling.
LEAP-ASIA-2019 Centrifuge Tests at University of Cambridge
Authors: Madabhushi Gopal S. P. , Haigh Stuart K. , Boksmati Jad I. , Garcia-Torres Samy , Fusco Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Two dynamic centrifuge tests were conducted on a 5° liquefiable slope with a slope depth of 4 m at the centre line, as part of LEAP-ASIA-2019 at the Schofield Centre, University of Cambridge. The main purpose of these tests was to investigate the suitability of the generalised scaling laws proposed by Iai et al. (Geotechnique, 55(5):355–362, 2005). The two tests were carried out at two drastically different g levels, CU Model B at 80 g and CU Model B1 at 1 g, with corresponding virtual scaling factors of 0.5 and 40, respectively. Following the principles of generalised scaling, results from both tests should be representative of the same slope profile with a slope depth of 4 m previously tested as part of LEAP-UCD-2017. CU Model B exhibited typical liquefaction behaviour with substantial reduction in acceleration transmission along the depth of the slope coupled with considerable excess pore pressure build-up during shaking. For a similar input motion, the slope in CU Model B1 at 1 g showed little deformations. Intensity of the input motion had to be increased by nearly twofolds to trigger slope movements that can be measured by PIV.
LEAP-ASIA-2019 Centrifuge Test at Ehime University
Authors: Okamura Mitsu , Sjafruddin Asri Nurani
Published: February 2024

Three centrifuge tests were conducted at Ehime University for the LEAP-ASIA-2019 exercise. The experiment consisted of a submerged clean sand, with a target relative density of 65%, with a 5-degree slope in a rigid container. Models were prepared along with the specifications, and each model was subjected to a ramped sine wave base motion. Models were designed so that they simulated the same prototype at different scaling factors to verify the validity of the generalized scaling law. This paper provides an overview of the models and some details of the effects of the scaling factor on the pore pressure responses and deformation of the models.
LEAP-ASIA-2019 Centrifuge Tests at University Gustave Eiffel
Authors: Escoffier Sandra , Li Zheng , Audrain Philippe
Published: February 2024

In the framework of the LEAP-ASIA-2019 exercise, two dynamic centrifuge tests on a gentle slope of saturated Ottawa F-65 sand have been performed at the centrifuge of University Gustave Eiffel. These tests were conducted in parallel with other tests performed in nine other centrifuge centers. In addition to the objectives of the LEAP-UCD-2017 (comparison of the experimental results, e.g., effect of the experimental procedure or of test parameters on the results, and providing of a database for numerical modeling), the new objective was to evaluate, through the tested configuration, the generalized scaling approach described by Iai et al. (Géotechnique 55(5):355–362, 2005). In this framework, all the centrifuge teams have performed two types of tests. Considering the same prototype geometry, the first test was performed following the classical approach used in centrifuge modeling, and the second test was performed considering the generalized scaling law (GSL). Following the test matrix and test specifications of LEAP-ASIA-2019, University Gustave Eiffel has performed two model tests (test A2 renamed UGE-1/50-62 and test A3 renamed UGE-2/25-62). The two tests have been performed on a slope sand with the same relative density (62%) considering a target motion PGAeff = 0.3 g (1 Hz ramped sine at the prototype scale).

In this paper, the test setup and the deviations from the specifications such as the experimental setup improvement that have followed the LEAP-UCD-2017 tests are presented in detail. The results obtained from the two tests are then provided at the prototype scale for comparison. The obtained input base motions are first presented followed by the characterization of the soil through CPT profiles. The responses of the saturated sand slopes for both tests are then detailed through the analysis of the pore pressure buildup, the accelerations in the soil, and the displacements measured through surface markers and embedded sensors. Some preliminary results of the global scaling approach are then discussed.
Diffractive single hadron production in a saturation framework at the NLO
Authors: Fucilla Michael , Grabovsky Andrey , Li Emilie , Szymanowski Lech , Wallon Samuel
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We calculate the cross-sections of diffractive single hadron photo- or electroproduction with large pT, on a nucleon or a nucleus in the shockwave formalism. We use the hybrid formalism mixing collinear factorization with high energy small-x factorization with the impact factors computed at next-to-leading order accuracy. We prove the cancellation of divergence and we determine the finite parts of the differential cross-sections. We work in general kinematics such that both photoproduction and leptoproduction are considered. The results can be used to detect saturation effects, at both the future EIC or already at LHC, using Ultra-Peripheral Collisions.
Entanglement and confinement in lattice gauge theory tensor networks
Authors: Knaute Johannes , Feuerstein Matan , Zohar Erez
Published: February 2024

Abstract

We develop a transfer operator approach for the calculation of Rényi entanglement entropies in arbitrary (i.e. Abelian and non-Abelian) pure lattice gauge theory projected entangled pair states in 2+1 dimensions. It is explicitly shown how the long-range behavior of these quantities gives rise to an entanglement area law in both the thermodynamic limit and in the continuum. We numerically demonstrate the applicability of our method to the ℤ2 lattice gauge theory and relate some entanglement properties to the confinement-deconfinement transition therein. We provide evidence that Rényi entanglement entropies in certain cases do not provide a complete probe of (de)confinement properties compared to Wilson loop expectation values as other genuine (nonlocal) observables.
Radiotherapy statements of the 18th St. Gallen International Breast Cancer Consensus Conference—a German expert perspective
Authors: Krug David , Banys-Paluchowski Maggie , Brucker Sara Y. , Denkert Carsten , Ditsch Nina , Fasching Peter A. , Haidinger Renate , Harbeck Nadia , Heil Jörg , Huober Jens , Jackisch Christian , Janni Wolfgang , Kolberg Hans-Christian , Loibl Sibylle , Lüftner Diana , van Mackelenbergh Marion , Radosa Julia C. , Reimer Toralf , Welslau Manfred , Würstlein Rachel , Untch Michael , Budach Wilfried
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To summarize the radiotherapy-relevant statements of the 18th St. Gallen Breast Cancer Consensus Conference and interpret the findings in light of German guideline recommendations.

Methods

Statements and voting results from the 18th St. Gallen International Breast Cancer Consensus Conference were collected and analyzed according to their relevance for the radiation oncology community. The voting results were discussed in two hybrid meetings among the authors of this manuscript on March 18 and 19, 2023, in light of the German S3 guideline and the 2023 version of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft Gynäkologische Onkologie (AGO) guidelines.

Results and conclusion

There was a high level of agreement between the radiotherapy-related statements of the 18th St. Gallen International Breast Cancer Consensus Conference and the German S3 and AGO guidelines. Discrepancies include the impact of number of lymph node metastases for the indication for postmastectomy radiotherapy.
The Ground State Energy of a Two-Dimensional Bose Gas
Authors: Fournais Søren , Girardot Theotime , Junge Lukas , Morin Leo , Olivieri Marco
Published: February 2024

We prove the following formula for the ground state energy density of a dilute Bose gas with density $$\rho $$
ρ
in 2 dimensions in the thermodynamic limit $$\begin{aligned} e^{\text {2D}}(\rho ) = 4\pi \rho ^2 Y\Big (1 - Y \vert \log Y \vert + \Big ( 2\Gamma + \frac{1}{2} + \log (\pi ) \Big ) Y \Big ) + o(\rho ^2 Y^{2}), \end{aligned}$$

e
2D

(
ρ
)

=
4
π

ρ
2

Y

(

1
-
Y

|
log
Y
|

+

(

2
Γ
+

1
2

+
log

(
π
)

)

Y

)

+
o

(

ρ
2

Y
2

)

,

as $$\rho a^2 \rightarrow 0$$

ρ

a
2

→
0

. Here $$Y= |\log (\rho a^2)|^{-1}$$

Y
=
|
log

(
ρ

a
2

)

|

-
1

and a is the scattering length of the two-body potential. This result in 2 dimensions corresponds to the famous Lee–Huang–Yang formula in 3 dimensions. The proof is valid for essentially all positive potentials with finite scattering length, in particular, it covers the crucial case of the hard core potential.
Stokes Waves at the Critical Depth are Modulationally Unstable
Authors: Berti Massimiliano , Maspero Alberto , Ventura Paolo
Published: February 2024

The paper fully answers a long standing open question concerning the stability/instability of pure gravity periodic traveling water waves—called Stokes waves—at the critical Whitham–Benjamin depth $$ \texttt{h}_{\scriptscriptstyle {\textsc {WB}}}= 1.363... $$

h

WB

=
1.363
.
.
.

and nearby values. We prove that Stokes waves of small amplitude $$ \mathcal {O}( \epsilon ) $$

O
(
ϵ
)

are, at the critical depth $$ \texttt{h}_{\scriptscriptstyle {\textsc {WB}}}$$

h

WB

, linearly unstable under long wave perturbations. The same holds true for slightly smaller values of the depth $$ \texttt{h}> \texttt{h}_{\scriptscriptstyle {\textsc {WB}}}- c \epsilon ^2 $$

h
>

h

WB

-
c

ϵ
2

, $$ c > 0 $$

c
>
0

, depending on the amplitude of the wave. This problem was not rigorously solved in previous literature because the expansions degenerate at the critical depth. To solve this degenerate case, and describe in a mathematically exhaustive way how the eigenvalues change their stable-to-unstable nature along this shallow-to-deep water transient, we Taylor-expand the computations of Berti et al. (Arch Ration Mech Anal 247:91, 2023) at a higher degree of accuracy, starting from the fourth order expansion of the Stokes waves. We prove that also in this transient regime a pair of unstable eigenvalues depict a closed figure “8”, of smaller size than for $$ \texttt{h}> \texttt{h}_{\scriptscriptstyle {\textsc {WB}}}$$

h
>

h

WB

, as the Floquet exponent varies.
Zellkulturbasierte Influenzaimpfstoffe: eine effektive Impfstoffoption für unter 60-Jährige
Authors: Gärtner Barbara C. , Beier Dietmar , Gosch Gunther , Wahle Klaus , Wendt Luise , Förster Laura-Christin , Schmidt Kim J. , Schwarz Tino F.
Published: February 2024

Auch die Bevölkerung < 60 Jahre ist von einer signifikanten Krankheitslast durch die saisonale Influenza betroffen, einhergehend mit einer hohen wirtschaftlichen Belastung, insbesondere bedingt durch Influenza-assoziierte Produktivitätsverluste der arbeitenden Gesellschaft. Konventionelle eibasierte Influenzaimpfstoffe können aufgrund von Eiadaptation eine beeinträchtigte Impfeffektivität aufweisen. Zellkulturbasierte Influenzaimpfstoffe weisen seltener Antigenanpassungen an das Wirtssystem auf und zeigten über mehrere Saisons eine bessere Effektivität bei 4‑ bis 64-Jährigen gegenüber konventionellen eibasierten Influenzaimpfstoffen unter realen Bedingungen. Der präferenzielle Einsatz von zellkulturbasierten vs. konventionelle Influenzaimpfstoffe könnte zu einer Verringerung der Influenza-bedingten Krankheitslast und wirtschaftlichen Belastung in der deutschen Bevölkerung < 60 Jahre führen.
Types of teacher-AI collaboration in K-12 classroom instruction: Chinese teachers’ perspective
Authors: Kim Jinhee
Published: February 2024

The advancing power and capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) have expanded the roles of AI in education and have created the possibility for teachers to collaborate with AI in classroom instruction. However, the potential types of teacher-AI collaboration (TAC) in classroom instruction and the benefits and challenges of implementing TAC are still elusive. This study, therefore, aimed to explore different types of TAC and the potential benefits and obstacles of TAC through Focus Group Interviews with 30 Chinese teachers. The study found that teachers anticipated six types of TAC, which are thematized as One Teach, One Observe; One Teach, One Assist; Co-teaching in Stations; Parallel Teaching in Online and Offline Classes; Differentiated Teaching; and Team Teaching. While teachers highlighted that TAC could support them in instructional design, teaching delivery, teacher professional development, and lowering grading load, they perceived a lack of explicit and consistent curriculum guidance, the dominance of commercial AI in schools, the absence of clear ethical guidelines, and teachers' negative attitude toward AI as obstacles to TAC. These findings enhance our understanding of how TAC could be structured at school levels and direct the implications for future development and practice to support TAC.
A Randomized Study to Determine the Effect of a Culturally Focused Video Intervention on Improving HPV Vaccine Intentions in a Christian Population in the United States
Authors: Redd David S. , Altman Jessica D. , Jensen Jamie L. , Sloan-Aagard Chantel D. , Crook Triston B. , Asay Aaron E. , Nielson Bryce U. , Larson Ruth J. , Miner Dashiell S. , Poole Brian D.
Published: February 2024

Safe and effective vaccines have been developed that protect against high-risk strains of HPV, but uptake is relatively low. We previously identified factors such as sexual attitudes and HPV knowledge that impact the intent of Christian parents to vaccinate their children against HPV. We hypothesized that culturally specific interventions in the form of short videos would be effective at improving HPV vaccine intentions and attitudes. We made three short educational videos, one with a Christian focus, one informational about HPV, and one control. Videos were distributed electronically with accompanying surveys, and responses were measured before and after watching a randomly selected video. The religious-focused and educational interventions significantly (p < 0.0001, p = 0.0015) improved intentions towards HPV vaccination. The religiously-focused video also significantly diminished the belief that the HPV vaccine is unnecessary because of a family’s values (p = 0.014). Parents significantly credited both interventions with improving their intent to vaccinate their children against HPV (p < 0.001 for both). These results suggest that culturally focused educational interventions are effective at influencing vaccine intentions and attitudes, even when those are based on religious or cultural feelings. Highly specific interventions are likely to be necessary for optimal improvement in vaccine hesitancy.