bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the Influence of Tubercles on the Operating and Cavitation Behavior of an Axial Pump
Authors: Rinnert Tobias , Beck David , Thamsen Paul Uwe
Published: September 2024

Previous investigations have already shown the delay of flow separation at critical angles of attack as an effect of tubercles on the flow around airfoils both, numerically and experimentally. However, concerning axial pump impellers, the knowledge about the influence of tubercle modification along the leading edge is not yet sufficient. Therefore, the aim of this investigation is to understand the influence of a sinusoidal tubercle leading edge geometry on the operating behavior as well as the cavitation behavior of an axial pump using numerical and experimental methods. For this purpose, an unmodified reference impeller with a Gö11K profile is designed, which serves as the basis for the impeller modified with tubercles. Using a steady-state simulation, the characteristics of each impeller are investigated. The operating behavior of both impellers is then investigated on a test rig according to EN ISO 9906. The experimental investigations lead to the finding that the presented tubercle modification causes a reduction of the head at part load and an increase at overload. Furthermore, the experiments show that the tubercle modification increases maximum efficiency. The experimental investigation of the cavitation behavior of both impellers shows that the introduced tubercle modification generally leads to the onset of cavitation-induced head drop at significantly lower NPSH values, thus improving the cavitation behavior.
Numerical Investigation of the Performance Curve Instability of a Centrifugal Pump With Vaned Diffusers
Authors: Baum Andreas , Böhle Martin
Published: September 2024

Centrifugal pumps equipped with vaned diffusers of specific speed nq ≥ 30 ([min−1, m3 s−1, m]) are prone to performance curve instability at part-load. The present paper deals with the numerical comparison between a middle stage of a multi stage centrifugal pump equiped with a vaned diffuser (nq ≈ 35 ([min−1, m3 s−1, m]) and a vaneless diffuser respectively. For the simulations the SAS-SST turbulence model has been used. While in the vaneless case a distinct head drop does not exist, a local dent appears for the vaned diffuser at approximately 60% of the design flow rate. With the onset of the instability, pressure generation shows extensive fluctuations between different revolutions. Besides classic performance evaluation, static pressure generation is analysed at the diffuser to characterize responsible sections for the head drop. Furthermore, the progression of the axial force shows distinct differences among both configurations. The results show, that highly transient flow detachment and vortex structures in the inlet triangle section at the diffuser vane suction side and the hub occur. These vortex structures lead to increased losses in the inlet trianglular section and induce recirculation zones at the impeller outlet. Thus, inferences can be drawn between pattern switching phenomenon and axial force of the pump.
Experimental Investigation of Electrically Actuated Control Valves for GLCC© Operation
Authors: Awofuwa Daniel O. , Mohan Ram S. , Shoham Ovadia , Kolla Srinivas Swaroop , Lobo Mark
Published: September 2024

The Gas-Liquid Cylindrical Cyclone (GLCC©) is an outstanding compact separator known for its efficient separation of gas-liquid mixtures and compact design. To ensure high separation efficiency, it is important to mitigate one of two unwanted phenomena known as Gas-Carry-Under (GCU) at the outlet of the GLCC which in part is achieved by implementing adequate control configurations downstream of the GLCC. These control configurations regulate the liquid level ensuring efficient separation in the GLCC and have been deployed in the industry for different field applications. In this project, the active control configuration is applied to explore the limits of the electrically actuated Atlas Severe Service control valves installed in the gas and liquid legs of the GLCC at various flow conditions, aimed to improve the GLCC separation efficiency.

The main objective of this study was to acquire data on two-phase (namely air-mineral oil, air-water) and three-phase flow (air-mineral-oil-water) exploring the effects of control valve response time and fluid composition on GCU. Furthermore, the acquired data were compared with similar empirical data from pneumatically actuated control valves in conjunction with the GLCC. All this was accomplished by modifying the existing GLCC test section of the 4-phase TUSTP experimental flow loop at the University of Tulsa equipped with a state-of-the-art data acquisition system.

Analysis of the experimental data shows that the GCU is greater for air-mineral oil flow conditions as compared with air-water. In addition, the data shows that GCU decreases with an increase in the superficial liquid velocity for both two-phase and three-phase flow conditions. The data acquired using the Atlas Severe Service control valves showed higher GCU for both two and three-phase flow across various flow conditions when compared with similar data for the existing pneumatically actuated control valves. This in part is owing to the lag time in response between the Atlas Severe Service valve synchronous motor actuator and the Helical bevel gear-drive control valves. The implementation of a fast-acting servomotor actuator to the Atlas Severe Service control valve configuration could mitigate GCU and improve the overall separation efficiency of the GLCC.
A Comprehensive Study for Defining the Uncertainty of Erosion Simulations
Authors: Fallah Shojaie Elham , Hasan Mubashir , Darihaki Farzin , Karimi Soroor , Shirazi Siamack A.
Published: September 2024

Uncertainties are part of any scientific measurements and calculations. As a complex phenomenon, erosion is affected by many independent parameters and consequently the uncertainties of these parameters contribute to uncertainties in erosion measurements or simulations/predictions. Erosion experiments are costly and time consuming, hence other means must be used to obtain erosion values. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) codes are excellent tools in simulating flow and are used for solid particle erosion calculations for industrial applications for which measured data are unavailable. One of the most utilized frameworks for uncertainty estimation of simulations is ASME standard of Validation and Verification (ASME V&V). According to this standard, there are three main elements of uncertainties in any simulation; input, numerical, and modeling. The modeling element is heavily influenced by the results of measurements, i.e. the measured data and the corresponding uncertainties. In this research, ASME’s guideline is utilized for estimating erosion uncertainty for cases with and without data available. Two alternatives are introduced to be used as replacements for cases where data is not available. These alternatives are machine learning predictions and erosion correlations both developed based on significant number of experiments. The database used in this study includes experimental data with air-sand flows in 3 and 4-inch elbows conducted with 75, 150, and 300-μm sand particles. Finally, the estimated bounds of uncertainties are compared with those obtained by measurements. These comparisons show good agreement between the estimated and measured bounds of uncertainties.
Dynamics of Bubble Growth and Collapse Under Pressure Perturbation
Authors: Isazadeh Amin , Bhaduri Sreetam , Ziviani Davide , Claridge David E.
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the dynamic response of deformable particles to pressure perturbations, utilizing analytical and numerical analyses. Numerical simulations using Fluent software explore the impact of internal pressure deviations, step changes, and oscillations in ambient pressure across a wide size range. The study uncovers systematic and damped oscillatory responses to pressure deviations, highlighting the significance of liquid viscosity and surface tension in determining equilibrium states. Particle size emerges as a key factor, influencing equilibrium pressures, dynamic responses, and power spectral characteristics. Findings include smaller particles exhibiting higher equilibrium pressures and longer stabilization times. Power Spectral Density (PSD) analysis reveals a consistent dominant frequency, with smaller particles displaying higher peak frequencies. Analytical exploration emphasizes the roles of surface tension, viscosity, temperature, and mean ambient pressure in shaping peak frequency and deformation magnitude. The analysis shows smaller particle size have larger peak frequency, but smaller deformation. Moreover, raising surface tension leads to a wider range of particle sizes whose peak frequencies are not zero.
Determination of the Equivalent Rotordynamic Coefficients and Leakage of a T-Type Labyrinth Seal
Authors: Ashraf Muhammad Mubashar , Untaroiu Alexandrina
Published: September 2024

Rotating machinery requires adequate sealing to reducing the secondary leakage between high-pressure and low-pressure regions and in turn improve efficiency. Different types of annular gas seals are used for multiple turbomachinery applications. This includes finger, leaf, brush (for more specialized applications), hole and honeycomb patterned seals. In comparison to other configurations, labyrinth seals are most commonly used due to their high robustness and low manufacturing costs in rotating machinery applications. The recently introduced T-type labyrinth seal has the potential to reduce the fluid-induced excitations in the aero-engines in comparison to conventional ones. Seal clearance from the rotor surface plays an important role in the performance and efficiency of the seal in terms of rotor dynamics and leakage rate. Therefore, a parametric analysis is required to determine the optimal clearance which not only reduces the leakage but also minimizes the overall contribution to the vibration of the system. It is known that the T-type seals have T shape teeth which provide a greater increase in the inward radial aerodynamic force. This inward force is due to the enhanced Lomakin effect of the seal flow field. The earlier research has shown that the leakage of T-type labyrinth seal is approximately 23.6% to 25.3% less than the straight through (i.e., conventional) labyrinth seals by keeping the same tip clearance and axial length for the seal. This paper focuses on the sensitivity analysis using the design of experiments (DOE) along with the steady-state computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to determine the optimum tip clearance for the reduced leakage rate of a T-type labyrinth seal. Since the fluid-induced excitations play a significant role in the rotordynamic system, equivalent rotordynamic coefficients are extracted using steady-state CFD simulation based on the circular whirl orbit and perturbation analysis, where the small perturbation is applied to the rotor, which is generally 10% of the seal clearance. In this study, conventional labyrinth seal is numerically modelled, and then verified through test results existing in the literature. In addition, the numerical results are compared with existing simulation results in literature. The effective damping of conventional and T-type labyrinth seals is also calculated using the equivalent rotordynamic coefficients. The previous research on the T-type seals is used for benchmarking and validation of the analysis.
Exploring Capillary Flow in Paper-Based Microfluidics: Unraveling Mechanics and Applications
Authors: Moreno Esperanza , Kumar Piyush , Adansi Richard O. , Rodriguez Arturo , Kumar Vinod
Published: September 2024

The present paper is a comprehensive exploration of the intricate mechanics and applications of capillary-driven flow, specifically delving into the wicking phenomenon within the realm of paper-based microfluidics. The study employs extensive numerical simulations to unravel the dynamics of liquid wicking within a paper strip, with a keen focus on key parameters such as porosity, permeability, capillary radius, surface tension, and viscosity. The accuracy of the simulation model is rigorously validated against the Lucas-Washburn equation, thereby establishing a robust foundation for insights crucial to the optimization of microfluidic devices. The research emphasizes the paramount importance of parameter control in achieving specific capillary rise behaviors. Significant observations include the augmentation of capillary rise with higher surface tension, evident in the pronounced meniscus, and the facilitating role of larger, well-connected pores and higher porosity in promoting increased capillary rise. Furthermore, the study explores the interplay between viscosity and cohesive forces, revealing that higher viscosity strengthens cohesive forces while diminishing surface tension, thus influencing capillary rise. These findings collectively advance the understanding of paper-based microfluidics, offering a robust foundation for practical applications in diverse domains. From healthcare diagnostics to environmental monitoring and quality assessment in the food industry, the research contributes valuable knowledge to the evolving field of microfluidic technology.
A Machine-Learned Actuator Line Model for Hydrokinetic Turbines
Authors: Bowman Joshua , Bhushan Shanti , Burgreen Greg , Dettwiller Ian
Published: September 2024

This study introduces a machine-learned actuator Line model (ML-ALM) for hydrokinetic turbines to enhance computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of turbine wakes and performance. By integrating machine learning with the actuator line model (ALM), the ML-ALM seeks to accurately replicate the complex wake interactions and turbine performances observed in high-fidelity blade-resolved models while maintaining computational efficiency. Utilizing OpenFOAM simulations and data from blade-resolved models, the ML-ALM is trained to predict the forces exerted by the turbine blades under various flow conditions. This novel approach is validated against experimental data and traditional CFD models, demonstrating its potential to improve energy extraction efficiency and optimize turbine array configurations. The ML-ALM represents a significant advancement in hydrokinetic turbine modeling, balancing high-fidelity models’ accuracy and lower-fidelity models’ efficiency. This study not only contributes to the field of renewable energy by enhancing turbine simulation techniques but also showcases the applicability of machine learning in complex engineering systems.
Upwind Collocation Meshless Method for the Discrete Lattice Boltzmann Equation in Fluid Simulations
Authors: Maidenberg Amandine , Divo Eduardo , Chen Leitao
Published: September 2024

Discrete Boltzmann Equation (DBE) has gained attention in recent years for its ability to efficiently simulate flows that require details at both the micro and macro scales. Often in Computational Fluid Dynamics there is a tradeoff between computational expense and computational accuracy, and so a method that can simulate multiscale fluid flows accurately while also being efficient, has much to offer. Traditionally, the DBE had been limited by grided domain modeling, however emerging meshless methods are being used to address more complex geometries. In this paper, the stability of the DBE solved by the Locally Collocated Radial Basis Function Meshless Method (LCMM) is considered in the simulation of Taylor Green Vortex (TGV) flow. An alternative upwinding scheme in LCMM is proposed and demonstrated to have improved stability, without loss of accuracy.
Fundamental Study of Development of Flow Visualization System Using Ultrasonic Velocity Profiler and Augmented Reality
Authors: Namiki Yutaka , Shoji Naruki , Kikura Hiroshige
Published: September 2024

In Japan, where the energy supply structure is fragile, maintaining the safety of nuclear power plants is a top priority. In plants, flow in the piping causes defects and wall thinning. For that reason, nondestructive inspection and early detection of abnormalities in piping in power plants are required to ensure safety. Therefore, the objective of this study is to develop a flow visualization system to improve safety in plants. As a piping inspection method, we focused on UVP (Ultrasonic Velocity Profiler) due to its non-invasiveness, high measurement accuracy, and measurement applicability. The UVP device is characterized by its portability, which makes it highly compatible with Augmented Reality (AR) technology. The developed system visualizes the flow field by superimposing an image of the flow field created based on data obtained by the UVP method and an image of the measurement position taken by a camera. This system was used to visualize and measure the flow in a circular tube and the Kalman vortex flow. As a result, the accuracy of the image projection position and the reproducibility of the flow field were confirmed, demonstrating the effectiveness of this system.
Simulation of Forced and Mixed Convection Heat Transfer in Vertical Pipes
Authors: Dzodzo Milorad B.
Published: September 2024

Forced and mixed convection-generated velocity and temperature fields in vertical pipes containing liquid metals and water were numerically predicted with a computational fluid dynamics model based on a finite volume method. The constant heat flux is imposed as a boundary condition at walls. The developed model considers the variable properties of liquid metals. The range of considered Reynolds and modified Grashof numbers is 10,000 < Re < 50,000 and 108 < Gr* < 4 * 108. The ascending and descending flows with moderate and high buoyancy were considered. Various sensitivity studies such as mesh sizes, and meshing approaches, considered computational domains, various initial, inlet, and outlet conditions, and effects of axial conduction in walls were performed. The meshing approach was based on hexahedral cells and local mesh refinement near the walls. To evaluate various modeling approaches the similarities and differences between predictions and available experimental results were presented and discussed based on the comparisons of the velocity and temperature profiles and Nusselt number.
mSphere of Influence: When a sequencer is more than a sequencer
Authors: Billmyre R. Blake
Published: September 2024

Blake Billmyre uses functional genomics to help understand the biology of fungal pathogens, with an emphasis on evolution of virulence relevant traits and drug resistance. In this mSphere of Influence article, he reflects on how two papers (Liachko et al., “High-resolution mapping, characterization, and optimization of autonomously replicating sequences in yeast,” Genome Research, 2013, and Guo et al., “Integration profiling of gene function with dense maps of transposon integration,” Genetics, 2013) impacted his research trajectory and goals. These articles show the power of creative use of sequencing as a tool to drive understanding of fundamental biology.
An exploratory investigation of heart rate and heart rate variability responses to daylong heat exposure in young and older adults
Authors: Carrillo Andres E. , Meade Robert D. , Herry Christophe L. , Seely Andrew J.E. , Kenny Glen P.
Published: September 2024

Heart rate variability (HRV) has shown potential as a tool for monitoring thermal strain, but there is limited data to support its efficacy in older adults during prolonged heat exposures. We compared HRV between young (19–31 years, n = 20) and older (61–78 years, n = 39) adults during 9 h of heat exposure (40 °C, 9% RH). We also explored whether heart rate (HR) and/or HRV could be used to distinguish older adults who achieved elevated thermal strain, defined as either (1) an increase in core temperature >1.0 °C (occurring in 39%, 15/39) or (2) a reduction in systolic blood pressure >10 mm Hg (occurring in 67%, 26/39). Percentage of age-predicted maximal HR and percentage of heart rate reserve (HRR) were higher, whereas standard deviation of normal RR intervals, the square root of the mean of squared differences between successive RR intervals (RMSSD), high frequency power (HF), and cardiac vagal index (CVI) were lower in older compared to young adults during heat exposure ( P ≤ 0.004). In older adults, increases in core temperature were correlated with percentage of age-predicted maximal HR, percentage of HRR, RMSSD, and CVI ( P ≤ 0.031), whereas changes in systolic blood pressure were not significantly associated with HR or HRV indices ( P ≥ 0.327). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated that HR and HRV indices had generally poor ability to identify older adults with elevated thermal strain (area under the curve ≤0.65). Age-related differences in HRV, consistent with vagal withdrawal among older adults, remained during daylong heat exposure, but marked heterogeneity of response likely contributed to HRV providing limited discriminatory value in identifying changes in core temperature or blood pressure in older adults.
Poor mental health negatively impacts farmers personally, interpersonally, cognitively, and professionally
Authors: Jones Andria Q. , Sawatzky Alexandra , Thompson Rochelle , Hagen Briana N.M.
Published: September 2024

Farmers globally face significant occupational stressors and are reported to experience high levels of depression, anxiety, burnout, suicide ideation, and suicide. While the impacts of high stress and poor mental health have been well-studied in the general population, and to some extent, in specific occupations, the impacts on farmers are understudied. The objective here was to explore the lived experience of high stress and (or) poor mental health in Canadian farmers, including the perceived impacts. Using a phenomenological approach within a constructivist paradigm, we conducted 75 one-on-one research interviews with farmers and people who work closely with farmers, in Ontario, Canada, between July 2017 and May 2018. We analysed the data via thematic analyses and identified four major themes. Participants described myriad negative impacts of farmers’ high stress and (or) poor mental health: (1) personally, (2) interpersonally, and (3) cognitively, which ultimately negatively impacted them (4) professionally, including consequences for productivity, animals, and farm success. The data described far-reaching, interconnected impacts of high stress and poor mental health on participants, the people and animals in their lives, and most aspects of their farming operations, financial viability, and success. Farmer stress, mental health, and well-being are important considerations in promoting sustainable, successful agriculture.
New mechanism for fermion localization in the presence of anti-curvature tensor
Authors: Moreira A. R. P. , Dong Shi-Hai , Ahmed F.
Published: September 2024

This study aims into brane-world scenarios within the framework of f(R, A) gravity called Ricci-inverse modified theory, exploring the dynamics of spin-1/2 fermions coupled non-minimally to background scalar field functions. Through theoretical analysis and numerical techniques, we investigate the localization of both massless and massive fermionic modes on the brane. Our findings shows intricate phenomena, including unexpected configurations of the effective potentials and the identification of resonance modes in massive fermionic spectra. These insights shed light on the interplay between modified gravity and matter in extra-dimensional models, offering promising avenues for experimental validation and furthering our understanding of fundamental physics.
A study on existence of wormhole in Lemaitre–Tolman–Bondi model
Authors: Chakraborty Subenoy , Chakraborty Madhukrishna
Published: September 2024

An investigation has been done for possible existence of evolving wormhole (WH) solution in the background of inhomogeneous Lemaitre–Tolman–Bondi (LTB) space-time geometry. Using separable product form of the geometric (or area) radius, the shape function can be evaluated in terms of the functional part of the radial coordinate in the area radius. The conditions for a viable WH configuration have been examined.
NeuralCODE: Neural Compartmental Ordinary Differential Equations Model with AutoML for Interpretable Epidemic Forecasting
Authors: Huang Yuxi , Wang Huandong , Liu Guanghua , Li Yong , Jiang Tao
Published: September 2024

In order to prevent the re-emergence of an epidemic, predicting its trend while gaining insight into the intrinsic factors affecting it is a key issue in urban governance. Traditional SIR-like compartment models provide insight into the explanatory parameters of an outbreak, and the vast majority of existing deep learning models can predict the course of an outbreak well, but neither performs well in the other’s domain. Simultaneously, studying the commonalities and diversities in the causes of outbreaks among different countrywide regions is also a way to interrupt outbreaks. To address the issues of outbreak intrinsic relationships and prediction, we propose the Neural Compartmental Ordinary Differential Equations (NeuralCODE) model to study the relationship between population movements and outbreak development in different regions. Furthermore, to incorporate the commonalities and diversities in causes among different regions into the prediction and intrinsic inquiry problem, we propose an AutoML framework. Our results found that simply using the NeuralCODE algorithm could obtain better prediction and insight capabilities within different regions. With the introduction of AutoML, it became possible to explore the factors inherent in the epidemic’s development across regions and further improve the original algorithm’s predictive performance.
Open Problems Column
Authors: Gasarch William
Published: September 2024

This issue's Open Problems column we revisit three prior columns for which progress was made on the open problems posed.
Reproducibility and Repeatability of US Shear-Wave and Transient Elastography in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Pierce Theodore T. , Ozturk Arinc , Sherlock Sarah P. , Moura Cunha Guilherme , Wang Xiaohong , Li Qian , Hunt David , Middleton Michael S. , Martin Marian , Corey Kathleen E. , Edenbaum Hannah , Shankar Sudha S. , Heymann Helen , Kamphaus Tania N. , Calle Roberto A. , Covarrubias Yesenia , Loomba Rohit , Obuchowski Nancy A. , Sanyal Arun J. , Sirlin Claude B. , Fowler Kathryn J. , Samir Anthony E.
Published: September 2024

This prospective study defines expected US elastography measurement variability to guide clinical interpretation, enable diagnostic enrichment in clinical trials, and support U.S. Food and Drug Administration biomarker validation for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Structural Characteristics and Dielectric Properties of Deposited Silver Nanoparticles with Polypyrrole on PET Films for Dielectric Devices
Authors: Atta A. , Al-Harbi Nuha , Abdeltwab E. , Altuijri Reem , Abdelhamied M. M. , Uosif M. A. M.
Published: September 2024

Herein, (PPy-Ag)/PET composites, consisting of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and polypyrrole (PPy) coated on PET, were fabricated by the polymerization process and then the films were characterized by SEM and XRD techniques. The addition of PPy-Ag on the dielectric properties of PET were determined. The XRD proved the successful synthesis of the (PPy-Ag)/PET samples. The SEM results demonstrate the effect of Ag modified the characteristics of the composite, which confirmed the interaction of (PPy-Ag)/PET. The dielectric properties of the films in frequency of 50 Hz to 5.6 MHz were measured. The density energy was enhanced from 9.1 × 10−5 for PET to 5480 × 10−5 J m−3 for (PPy-Ag)/PET. Moreover, the relaxation time

τ

r

decreased from 1.7 × 10−5 for PET to 2.8 × 109 sec for (PPy-Ag)/PET. The obtained data confirm the incorporation of PPy-Ag by PET. This research has led to the development of novel physico-chemical properties in flexible polymeric nanocomposite films, which could be used in high-performance energy storage devices.
Au-free V/Al/Pt Contacts on n-Al0.85Ga0.15N:Si Surfaces of Far-UVC LEDs
Authors: Cho Hyun Kyong , Ostermay Ina , Kolbe Tim , Rass Jens , Einfeldt Sven
Published: September 2024

The feasibility of replacing the V/Al/Ni/Au contact on n-Al0.85Ga0.15N:Si commonly used in far-UVC LEDs with a Au-free V/Al/Pt contact has been investigated. It is shown that the V and Pt layer thicknesses play an important role for achieving a low contact resistivity and a smooth contact surface at a low annealing temperature. The specific contact resistivity of V(10 nm)/Al(120 nm)/Pt(40 nm) annealed at 700 °C for 5 min is comparable with that of V(15 nm)/Al(120 nm)/Ni(20 nm)/Au(30 nm) annealed at 850 °C for 30 s. Furthermore, the root mean square roughness of the optimized V/Al/Pt contacts was 8.3 nm as compared to 30 nm for V/Al/Ni/Au.
Effects of Diethoxymethylsilane/Helium Flow Rate Ratio on Low-k Films Deposited by Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Seo Chanyong , Baek Namwuk , Park Yoonsoo , Lim Hyuna , Lee Sungwoo , Yang Jeayoung , Jang Seonhee , Jung Donggeun
Published: September 2024

As the semiconductor industry has continuously reduced the integrated circuit (IC) chip size, a resistance-capacitance (RC) delay emerged, causing deterioration of the chip performance. To reduce the RC delay, low dielectric constant (low-k) films with suitable mechanical strengths have been adopted as intermetal dielectrics (IMDs). In this study, low-k plasma-polymerized diethoxymethylsilane (ppDEMS) films were fabricated by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition of the DEMS precursor with a flow rate ratio of the DEMS precursor to helium (He) carrier gas (DEMS/He FRR) as a key parameter. As the DEMS/He FRR increased, the refractive index was reduced from 1.401 to 1.386, and the k value decreased from 2.77 to 2.10. From high-resolution scans of C1s, O1s, and Si2p peaks of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, the carbon contents increased, and the oxygen contents decreased, along with a decrease in the film density. With the increased DEMS/He FRR, hardness decreased from 2.5 to 1.8 GPa, and elastic modulus decreased from 17.08 to 11.50 GPa. Leakage current densities for all the ppDEMS films were less than 10−7 A cm−2 at 1 MV cm−1. The ppDEMS films could be suggested as the IMDs according to their electrical and mechanical performance.
Low Contact Resistance via Quantum Well Structure in Amorphous InMoO Thin Film Transistors
Authors: Luo Jie , Yan Gangping , Song Zhiyu , Yang Yanyu , Bao Yunjiao , Yang Shangbo , Niu Chuqiao , Tian Guoliang , Han Baodong , Sun Hongbo , Wang Guilei , Xu Gaobo , Yin Huaxiang , Zhao Chao , Luo Jun
Published: September 2024

The amorphous oxide semiconductor (AOS) thin film transistor (TFT) shows promise for use in advanced integrated circuits, such as 2T0C dynamic random-access memory, due to its excellent electronic performance and ability to be fabricated at low temperatures. Nevertheless, the high contact resistance between the metal and AOS restricts the applicability of AOS-TFT. This study demonstrates the achievement of a reduced contact resistance in InMoO (IMO) transistors by using a MoOx interlayer during fabrication. Increasing the oxygen concentration alters the band structure of MoOx and creates a graded Mo-MoOx-IMO structure with a pronounced quantum well at the interlayer between the metal and channel. Consequently, the quantum well’s ability to attract electrons and shape the band edge suppresses the Fermi-level pinning effect, ultimately leading to the establishment of an ohmic contact. The optimized MoOx interlayer showed a significant improvement in contact resistance (∼400%) through the adjustment of oxygen content during annealing procedures. This finding suggests that it is an attractive approach to provide excellent source/drain contacts in future ultra-scaled amorphous oxide semiconductor thin-films.
Modification of Structural, Optical, and Electrical Properties of PVA/PVP Blend Filled by Nanostructured Titanium Dioxide for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Alkabsh Asma
Published: September 2024

The PVA/PVP/TiO2 films were prepared using different TiO2 concentrations by solvent casting technique. An analysis was conducted to investigate the influence of TiO2 on the characteristics of PVA/PVP blends. The FTIR, UV/visible spectroscopy, and electrical bridge circuits were used to characterize the prepared nanocomposite films. The structural changes of the nanocomposite relative to pure PVA/PVP are indicated by FTIR spectra. The optical studies demonstrate that by increasing the TiO2 concentration inside PVA/PVP blends, the band gaps reduce from 5.40 eV for PVA/PVP to 4.20 eV for PVA/PVP/TiO2 (10 wt%), also the refractive indices the nanocomposites increase from 1.2020 for PVA/PVP blend into 2.5380 for PVA/PVP/TiO2 (10 wt%). Also, the transmittance decreased from 97.6% for PVA/PVP blend to approximately 55.4% at the largest concentration of TiO2. Additionally, studies were conducted on the parameters, as well, ac conductivity (σ
ac). The outcomes of dielectric parameters of the prepared films are enhanced by the doping of TiO2 with different concentrations and dielectric relaxation is observed. The hopping mechanism of PVA/PVP/TiO2 films is supported by the ac conductivity. It is found that adding 10 wt% TiO2 inside PVA/PVP matrix at 5 MHz increases the conductivity of the pure PVA/PVP blend by 4.46 times.
Cambio Climático y Cortes de Suministro Eléctrico
Authors: Rodríguez Grossi Jorge , Saavedra Eduardo
Published: September 2024

Este artículo analiza los prolongados cortes de suministro eléctrico ocurridos en Chile en agosto de 2024 a raíz de un ciclón extratropical. Examina cómo el cambio climático puede estar influyendo en la frecuencia de estos eventos extremos y discute las falencias institucionales y regulatorias en el sector eléctrico chileno. El estudio argumenta que es necesario mejorar la coordinación institucional para la gestión del arbolado urbano y la infraestructura eléctrica. Además, critica el actual sistema de regulación tarifaria por empresa modelo, sugiriendo que no proporciona incentivos suficientes para que las distribuidoras inviertan en la calidad y confiabilidad del servicio. Propone revisar las compensaciones y multas por fallas en el suministro, mejorar la regulación tarifaria e introducir competencia en el segmento de comercialización eléctrica.
Supplementary Figure S3 from Netrin-1 and UNC5B Cooperate with Integrins to Mediate YAP-Driven Cytostasis
Authors: Pearson Joel D. , Huang Katherine , Dela Pena Louis G. , Ducarouge Benjamin , Mehlen Patrick , Bremner Rod
Published: September 2024

Supplementary Figure S3: Regulation of UNC5 family and NTN1 mRNA by YAP in YAP-off vs YAP-on cancers
Figure 4 from Netrin-1 and UNC5B Cooperate with Integrins to Mediate YAP-Driven Cytostasis
Authors: Pearson Joel D. , Huang Katherine , Dela Pena Louis G. , Ducarouge Benjamin , Mehlen Patrick , Bremner Rod
Published: September 2024

A Netrin-UNC5-ITGAV/B5 pathway mediates YAP-induced cytostasis. A–D, A netrin blocking antibody (α-NTN) or trapping reagent (UNC5-Fc) alleviates YAP-induced cytostasis in YAPoff cell lines. Cell lines and tumor types are indicated in each. Y79 cells expressed wild type YAP, whereas WERI-RB1, NCI-H209 and NCI-H2171 expressed YAP5SA. *, P < 0.05; **, P < 0.01; ***, P < 0.001 compared with untreated (untr) cells; n = 3–5 (A and B) or 3 (C and D). E, Rescue of YAP-induced cytostasis in control or UNC5B knockout Y79 cells treated with an Integrin-αV/β5 blocking antibody. *, P < 0.05 compared with untreated sgControl cells; n = 3. F, Summary of the mechanism of YAP-induced cytostasis in YAPoff cancers.
Figure 3 from Netrin-1 and UNC5B Cooperate with Integrins to Mediate YAP-Driven Cytostasis
Authors: Pearson Joel D. , Huang Katherine , Dela Pena Louis G. , Ducarouge Benjamin , Mehlen Patrick , Bremner Rod
Published: September 2024

YAP induces Netrin and UNC5 family members in YAPoff cancers. A–F, UNC5B Western blots from YAPoff cells ectopically expressing YAP or YAP mutants (A, C, E, F) or a TEAD4 DNA-binding-domain (DBD)-VP64 fusion protein or controls (B, D). Cell lines and tumor types are indicated in each. n = 3. G, UNC5B Western blot from YAPoff and YAPon cell lines. n = 2. H, Heatmap showing the effect of ectopic YAP on the expression of UNC5A-D or Netrins (NTN1, 2 and 4) in YAPoff cells. * FDR < 0.05; N = not detected. RNA expression levels mined from RNA-Seq data in (1).
Figure 2 from Netrin-1 and UNC5B Cooperate with Integrins to Mediate YAP-Driven Cytostasis
Authors: Pearson Joel D. , Huang Katherine , Dela Pena Louis G. , Ducarouge Benjamin , Mehlen Patrick , Bremner Rod
Published: September 2024

A CRISPR screen identifies UNC5B as a YAP effector. A,Z-scores comparing YAP-expressing (day 25) to Empty (day 25) cells for each sgRNA in the CRISPR screen. Select genes are indicated. n = 4. B, TEAD1 knockout rescues YAP-induced cytostasis in Y79 cells (left). Western blot showing TEAD1 knockout efficiency and expression of ectopic YAP (right). *, P < 0.05 compared with sgControl cells, n = 3. C, UNC5B knockout rescues YAP-induced cytostasis in Y79 cells (left). Western blot showing UNC5B knockout efficiency and expression of ectopic YAP (right). ***, P < 0.001 compared with sgControl cells, n = 4. D, RT-qPCR for YAP target genes (AJUBA, AMOTL2, CYR61 and AHNAK) or a control gene (RER1) in control or UNC5B knockout Y79 cells ± ectopic YAP expression. n = 3.
Figure 1 from Netrin-1 and UNC5B Cooperate with Integrins to Mediate YAP-Driven Cytostasis
Authors: Pearson Joel D. , Huang Katherine , Dela Pena Louis G. , Ducarouge Benjamin , Mehlen Patrick , Bremner Rod
Published: September 2024

Outline of CRISPR screen to identify YAP effectors. A, Schematic of the CRISPR screen highlighting timepoints for viral transduction and sample collection. B, Western blot (left) showing expression of ectopic YAP in Y79 cells from three replicates of the CRISPR screen. YAP expression is quantified relative to YAPon NCI-H661 cells. Flow cytometry plot (right) for GFP demonstrating that ∼99% of cells are transduced with the Empty or YAP expression vector. n = 4. C, Criteria used to define hits from the CRISPR screen as (i) having no effect on YAP activity; (ii) being a possible YAP effector; (iii) being a possible YAP inhibitor. YAP-expressing cells (at day 25) were compared with either Input (day 10) or Empty (day 25) cells. sgRNAs that were enriched in YAP-expressing compared with Empty or Input samples represent possible YAP effectors, whereas sgRNAs depleted in YAP-expressing cells represented possible YAP inhibitors.
Episiotomia: a caracterização do estado de anomia dos direitos sexuais e humanos no momento do parto
Authors: Alves Cândice Lisbôa , Dias Érica Chamorro Ramos
Published: September 2024

The objective of this article was to analyze the routine episiotomy as a form of institutional and sexual obstetric violence based on existing normative dispositions and the sexual culture of the society in order to ascertain a context of anomie and the tortuous character of the procedure. The method of inductive approach in the configuration of the episiotomy as an inhuman and degrading treatment was used, equating it to torture. The procedure method is the monographic one with the use of bibliographical and legislative research. As results, it was verified that the episiotomy is located in a context of anomia, since there are normative instruments that discourage its practice because it is a lesion in the perineum that violates sexual and human rights, and its unrestricted realization constitutes a violation of the Code of Medical Ethics. It is also contemplated that the episiotomy is a kind of torture, because it is subsumed in a context of mistreatment, offense to the corporal integrity, violation of the free disposition of the body, of the right to the information for the making of autonomous and informed decisions and to consent without coercion, in addition to sexual and human rights, ending discriminatory, demeaning and disrespectful treatment of women's sexual and human rights.
Two Innovations in the Barlaam Romance Research
Authors: Khintibidze Elguja
Published: September 2024

The Greek manuscripts of Barlaam romance, pointing out in the Lemma that the story was brought to the Holy City by the honorable man, monk Ioann of the monastery of Saint Sabas, supported establishing the name of Saint John Damascene as the author of the romance. According to this research, the bearer of this story was Iovanne- Tornike, a monk of Athos and a former Byzantine general. The monk Ioann mentioned in the Lemma was not a monk of the Laura of the Holy Sabba the Sanctified, but of the Georgian monastery of Oshki, where Saint Father Sabba was the abbot. Theological texts were copied there under Iovanne-Tornike’s guidance finding their way to Athos through his efforts. Two redactions of the Barlaam are preserved in Georgian manuscripts: The Wisdom of Balahvar and The Life of the Blessed Iodasaph. The first one is the short and original redaction. It preserves the earlier Christian reworking of this Eastern story, making it significant in studying the Arabic editions of the Balavhar and Būḏāsf.
Anchoring voices: The news anchor’s voice in China from television to AI
Authors: Levy-Landesberg Hadar , Cao Xuenan
Published: September 2024

This paper takes the recent introduction of AI-powered television news anchors in China as an invitation to explore the technologies and techniques that have long been used in the anchor’s voice production. Analyzing Chinese Broadcasting Science, the first pedagogical standards for broadcasters across mainland China, published in 1993, this paper demonstrates how the perception of the anchor’s voice as something that can be measured, manipulated, and programmed has predated the AI industry. We examine guidelines, diagrams, and figures used to instruct news anchor wannabes on training their physiological voicing “engine,” tracing the continuities between this model of television anchoring and AI-generated news anchors. We propose technovocality as a conceptual framework for considering the various social, political, and ethical questions arising from the intersections between voices and media, past and present and Western and non-Western cultural contexts.
Association of Biomarkers with the Severity of Depression
Authors: Agnihotri Shruti , Daripelly Suresh , Cherla Shirley Keerthana , Jopaka Ajay Kumar , Molanguri Umashankar
Published: September 2024

Background:

The pathogenesis of depression remains elusive and uncertain. The literature suggests that low-grade systemic inflammation might contribute to the etiology of depression. Other markers that are studied are serum magnesium and serum cortisol. The association between these factors might help understand the etiology.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study conducted on a sample of 40 participants. Socio-demographic data was noted, and the Hamilton depression rating scale was applied to rate the severity of depression. Blood samples were drawn at 8 a.m. to record a complete blood picture (to derive the neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR)), C-reactive protein, serum magnesium, and serum cortisol.

Results:

In this study, conducted on a sample size of 40, inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP: mg/dl) and NLR were significantly increased to 15.52 ± 13.10 and 6.46 ± 2.92, respectively, showing an underlying inflammatory pathology. Serum cortisol (µg/dl) was also raised to 22.30 ± 5.46, and there was a fall in serum magnesium. Also, it is noteworthy that all these markers were significantly associated with the severity of depression, as the Pearson correlation between the Hamilton depression rating scale-21 item (HAM-D-21) score and CRP, NLR, and serum cortisol was positive and statistically significant ( r = 0.55, p < .01; r = 0.51, p = .01; r = 0.46, p = .002). The Pearson correlation between the HAM-D score and serum magnesium was negative and statistically significant ( r = -0.82, p < .01)

Conclusion:

There is a state of systemic inflammation, hypercortisolemia, and hypomagnesemia in depressive disorders.
Self-help digital mental health intervention in improving burnout and mental health outcomes among healthcare workers: A narrative review
Authors: Aye Lwin M. , Tan Min M. , Schaefer Alexandre , Thurairajasingam Sivakumar , Geldsetzer Pascal , Soon Lay K. , Reininghaus Ulrich , Bärnighausen Till , Su Tin T.
Published: September 2024

Background

Healthcare workers face burnout from high job demands and prolonged working conditions. While mental health services are available, barriers to access persist. Evidence suggests digital platforms can enhance accessibility. However, there is a lack of systematic reviews on the effectiveness of digital mental health interventions (DMHIs) for healthcare professionals. This review aims to synthesize evidence on DMHIs’ effectiveness in reducing burnout, their acceptability by users, and implementation lessons learned.

Method

This Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA)-guided review included 12 RCTs on DMHIs for healthcare professionals, published before 31 May 2024. The primary focus was on burnout, with secondary outcomes related to mental health and occupation. Quality appraisal used Cochrane risk of bias tools. A narrative synthesis explored DMHIs’ effectiveness, acceptability, utilization, and implementation lessons.

Results

Significant improvements in mental health outcomes were observed in 10 out of 16 RCTs. Burnout and its constructs showed significant improvement in five RCTs. Studies that measured the acceptability of the interventions reported good acceptability. Factors such as attrition, intervention design and duration, cultural sensitivities, flexibility and ease of use, and support availability were identified as key implementation considerations.

Conclusions

Web-based DMHIs positively impact burnout, mental health, and occupational outcomes among healthcare professionals, as shown in most RCTs. Future research should enhance DMHIs’ effectiveness and acceptability by addressing identified factors. Increasing awareness of DMHIs’ benefits will foster acceptance and positive attitudes. Lessons indicate that improving user engagement and effectiveness requires a multifaceted approach.