bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Cahn–Hilliard model of coherent lamellar microstructure: application to alkali feldspar
Authors: Furukawa Tan , Tsujimori Tatsuki
Published: September 2024

The temporal evolution of coherent lamellar microstructures is significantly influenced by their elastic properties, particularly when the exsolved phases are coherent. This research utilizes the Cahn–Hilliard model to examine the morphological and energetic evolution of binary alkali feldspar, integrating anisotropic elastic energy into the Gibbs energy equation. The Cahn–Hilliard model successfully simulated the orientation of lamellae observed in natural samples and the elastic strain was consistent with previous research. We also computed the coherent solvus from the annealing simulation of various precursor compositions and temperatures. The temperature difference ($$\Delta T$$

Δ
T

) between the strain-free solvus and the coherent solvus was $$\Delta T = 85\,{}^\circ \text {C}$$

Δ
T
=
85

∘

C

, which is slightly lower than previously reported values obtained from similar parameters. This discrepancy is likely due to the presence of non-planar lamellae at the onset of phase separation, which are more stable than planar ones. We also simulated the binodal curves of the coherent solvi for different precursor phase compositions. The computed solvi were not unique but varied depending on the precursor composition. Our model is flexible because it does not assume any specific shapes for the lamellar interfaces and is applicable to various coherent binary systems.
Functional and subjective outcomes after surgical management of complex elbow dislocations: a retrospective study
Authors: Giai Via Riccardo , Faccenda Carlotta , Artiaco Stefano , Dutto Elisa , Lavia Alessandro Dario , Massè Alessandro , Battiston Bruno
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Dislocations of the elbow are the second most frequent upper-body injury after shoulder dislocations, comprising 11–28% of all elbow injuries. Complex elbow dislocations pose challenging management due to the involvement of critical stabilizing structures. This study aimed to investigate functional and subjective outcomes (MEPS, DASH, Oxford score) in 44 patients with complex elbow dislocations who underwent surgery between 2018 and 2020, with subgroup analysis focusing on gender and age differences.

Material and methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients treated at C.T.O. Hospital, Turin, for complex elbow dislocations between January 2018 and December 2020. Surgical approaches included radial head synthesis, coronoid fixation, ligamentous repair, and ulnar nerve management. Postoperatively, patients followed a standardized or individualized program. Data analysis involved t-tests to assess score differences between subgroups.

Results

Among the 44 analyzed patients, the mean age was 48 years, and the mean follow-up time was 29 months. Various types of complex dislocations were identified, with radial head and coronoid fractures classified accordingly. Surgical approaches included multiple methods of reduction and synthesis. While most patients adhered to postoperative programs, subsequent reoperations were conducted in 11% of cases. Scores did not significantly differ between genders, although a trend toward better DASH scores in males was observed. Younger patients showed better, though not statistically significant, outcomes in mobility and functional measures.

Conclusion

This study underscores the importance of pre-operative assessment for positive surgical outcomes in complex elbow dislocations. Additionally, findings suggest that younger age may correlate with slightly better functional outcomes. Despite limitations such as retrospective design and sample size, the study enhances our understanding of complex dislocation outcomes and provides valuable insights for future interventions.
Overview of research on additive manufacturing of hydrogel-assisted lab-on-chip platforms for cell engineering applications in photodynamic therapy research
Authors: Cieślak Adrianna , Krakos Agnieszka , Kulbacka Julita , Detyna Jerzy
Published: September 2024

Lab-on-chips supported by hydrogel matrices are excellent solutions for cell culture; thus, this literature review presents examples of scientific research in this area. Several works are presenting the properties of biocompatible hydrogels that mimic the cellular environment published recently. Hydrogels can also be treated as cell transporters or as a structural component of microfluidic devices. The rapidly growing scientific sector of hydrogel additive manufacturing is also described herein, with attention paid to the appropriate mechanical and biological properties of the inks used to extrude the material, specifically for biomedical purposes. The paper focuses on protocols employed for additive manufacturing, e.g., 3D printing parameters, calibration, ink preparation, crosslinking processes, etc. The authors also mention potential problems concerning manufacturing processes and offer example solutions. As the novel trend for hydrogels enriched with several biocompatible additives has recently risen, the article presents examples of the use of high-quality carbon nanotubes in hydrogel research enhancing biocompatibility, mechanical stability, and cell viability. Moving forward, the article points out the high applicability of the hydrogel-assisted microfluidic platforms used for cancer research, especially for photodynamic therapy (PDT). This innovative treatment strategy can be investigated directly on the chip, which was first proposed by Jędrych E. et al. in 2011. Summarizing, this literature review highlights recent developments in the additive manufacturing of microfluidic devices supported by hydrogels, toward reliable cell culture experiments with a view to PDT research. This paper gathers the current knowledge in these intriguing and fast-growing research paths.

Graphical abstract
Comparative landscape genomics reveals species-specific spatial patterns and suggests human-aided dispersal in a global hotspot for biological invasions
Authors: Mothes Caitlin C. , Searcy Christopher A.
Published: September 2024

Biological invasions are a growing threat to native ecosystems, and genomic studies have become an increasingly useful tool for invasive species management by providing the ability to identify spatial population structure in the invaded range. In this study, we compared the spatial genetic structure of two ecologically distinct non-native lizard species both established and widespread throughout South Florida, a global hotspot for reptile invasions. We used an individual-based sampling approach to collect genetic samples of Agama picticauda, a rock specialist native to West Africa, and Basiliscus vittatus, a riparian specialist from Central and South America. We collected specimens across Miami-Dade County (the original site of introduction) and then genotyped ~ 4000 single nucleotide polymorphisms for each species. Both species exhibited fine-scale population structure at distances < 5 km for A. picticauda and < 10 km for B. vitattus, but at the county scale B. vittatus showed much stronger spatial structure compared to A. picticauda. Landscape genomic analysis revealed no significant landscape influence on A. picticauda genetic differentiation, while for B. vittatus low canopy cover was the best predictor of genetic connectivity. The genetic structure of both species may suggest human-aided dispersal is driving long distance movements, and A. picticauda appear more susceptible to these events likely due to their affinity for highly urbanized areas. By identifying variable dispersal patterns among two ecologically distinct species, we hope that this study will help combat the spread of these or similar species as they continue to arrive at urban centers across the globe.
Developing and testing syllabification systems for South African Sesotho
Authors: Sibeko Johannes , van Zaanen Menno
Published: September 2024

In this article, we describe the development of two syllabification systems for South African Sesotho. First, we implemented a rule-based syllabification system based on the syllabification rules proposed by Guma (An outline structure of Southern Sotho, 2nd edn, Shooter and Shuter Publishers, Pietermaritzburg, 1982). The rules describe the location of syllable boundaries based on the location of vowels, consonants, simple and complex nasal consonants, and the lateral l. Second, we used TeX’s pattern-based hyphenation system as a syllabification system. This pattern-based system was trained on syllabified words from a dictionary as identified in Chitja (Phatlamantsoe ya Sesotho ya Machaba, Mazenod Publishers, Lesotho, 2010). The syllable boundaries in the words from the dictionary were manually checked and, where needed, adjusted to maintain a consistent orthography. Both systems were evaluated on 13,551 tokens using ten-fold cross-validation (as the pattern-based system requires training data). The rule-based system shows a 99.69% word level accuracy, which indicates that Sesotho syllabification is highly regular. The pattern-based system leads to 78.97% accuracy. This lower score is likely related to the limitations in the placement of boundaries in the TeX system. A qualitative analysis of the results shows some (unresolved) inconsistencies in the dictionary entries, in particular related to the conversion of the Lesotho Sesotho orthography to the South African Sesotho orthography and the handling of loan words.
Large and very large scale motions in open-channel flows over rough bed in the presence and absence of a mixing layer
Authors: Cerino Bastien , Zampiron Andrea , Proust Sébastien , Berni Céline , Nikora Vladimir
Published: September 2024

This study examines shallow uniform flow and spanwise-sheared flow behind a vertical splitter plate over a uniformly rough bed. The primary objective is to assess the presence of Large Scale Motions (LSMs) and Very Large Scale Motions (VLSMs) in these flow types, as well as the potential effects of horizontal Kelvin–Helmholtz Coherent Structures (KHCS) on LSMs and VLSMs. The presence of LSMs and VLSMs is investigated using pre-multiplied velocity spectra derived from long-term Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter measurements. A comparative analysis revealed that strong KHCSs inhibit the emergence of VLSMs. Although LSMs do appear in spanwise-sheared flow, they are less discernible in the pre-multiplied spectra. As the strength of KHCSs diminishes downstream, VLSMs begin to emerge. Established LSMs and VLSMs exhibit longitudinal wavelengths of $$\lambda _x \sim$$

λ
x

∼

3–4h and $$\lambda _x \sim$$

λ
x

∼

25h respectively, for both flow types (h is water depth), closely matching those reported for uniform open-channel flows. VLSMs contribute approximately 40% to the streamwise velocity variance and about 30% to the vertical Reynolds shear stress. For both flow types, the spectral correlation coefficient between longitudinal and vertical velocity fluctuations indicates a higher correlation at the VLSMs scale than at the LSMs scale, suggesting a greater organization of VLSMs. Our results also suggest that the VLSMs wavelength may be independent of the friction Reynolds number. Supplementing our measurements with published data, we suggest that VLSMs longitudinal wavelength is likely dependent on the relative submergence and/or flow aspect ratio.
Spelling abilities of Dutch children with developmental language disorder on words differing in complexity
Authors: Bliekendaal Wendy , van den Boer Madelon , Hakvoort Britt , de Bree Elise H.
Published: September 2024

Children with developmental language disorder (DLD) often have spelling difficulties. Previous research has established that children with DLD, especially those with additional reading problems, perform below typically developing (TD) children on spelling, but it is unknown if they struggle with certain types of words. We compared the spelling dictation outcomes of 152 Dutch children with DLD attending special education in Grades 5/6, to that of 129 TD children in Grades 4/5, and 108 TD children in Grades 2/3. The dictation task included transparent words (spaarpot ‘piggy bank’), analogy-based words (maaien ‘to mow’), rule-based words (takken ‘branches’), and visual imprint words (cactus ‘cactus’). Within the group of children with DLD, we compared the performance of children with average-to-good reading abilities (n = 62) to that of children with poor reading abilities (n = 82). Children with DLD spelled significantly fewer words correctly than TD children in Grades 4/5, but performed similarly on mean spelling correct to TD children in Grades 2/3. When comparing word categories within groups, all three groups of children performed best on analogy-based words. A difference in spelling patterns on the complex word categories emerged between the groups: Children with DLD in Grades 5/6 and TD children in Grades 4/5 performed similarly on rule-based and visual imprint words, whereas TD children in Grades 2/3 performed better on rule-based than on visual imprint words. Finally, average-to-good readers with DLD outperformed poor readers with DLD on spelling. Children with DLD are delayed in their spelling development. Their spelling pattern on complex word categories is comparable to that of TD children slightly younger than them. A more substantial delay emerges for children with DLD with word reading difficulties compared to children with DLD-only, though their spelling patterns are similar. The results suggest that children with DLD still require continued intensive spelling instruction for all word categories at the end of elementary school.
Genomic diversity of major tree species in the Eurasian relict forests of northern Iran
Authors: Vatanparast Mohammad , Madsen Palle , Sagheb-Talebi Khosro , Larsen Jørgen Bo , Ayan Sezgin , Hansen Ole K.
Published: September 2024

We investigated population genetics of the native tree species Acer velutinum Boiss., Fagus orientalis Lipsky, and Quercus castaneifolia C.A. Mey. in the Hyrcanian forests of northern Iran and also F. orientalis populations in the Euro-Siberian and Colchic subregions of northern Türkiye. We used the double-digest RADseq method and genotyped 90 populations and 1,589 individuals across the distribution range of the species. Genome-wide SNPs from 28 populations of A. velutinum, 32 populations of F. orientalis, and 30 Q. castaneifolia revealed higher genetic differentiation among A. velutinum populations than among F. orientalis and Q. castaneifolia. The global FST value was lowest for F. orientalis populations and highest for A. velutinum populations, while the global FIS value was negative for A. velutinum. Demographic history analysis revealed a bottleneck during the last glacial period (11,500—115,000 Kya) for the A. velutinum populations with reduced effective population size (Ne). All three species show multiple bottlenecks and reduced Ne during the Quaternary. Pronounced genetic divergence among A. velutinum populations in the Hyrcanian forests compared to the other two species suggests cryptic speciation. Conversely, F. orientalis and Q. castaneifolia populations showed low levels of genetic structure, suggesting that species-specific factors, such as pollen production and pollination efficiency, may have influenced the genetic patterns within these species in similar environments. The nucleotide diversity of F. orientalis populations in Iran is negatively correlated with altitude (p = 0.046). In contrast, A. velutinum populations show a significant correlation between nucleotide diversity and longitude (p = 0.008). Furthermore, the F. orientalis populations from Türkiye showed a distinct west–east genetic structure and were highly diverged from the Iranian F. orientalis populations.
Comprehensive study on mechanical and ignition properties of newly synthesized lanthanide complexes for flame retardant paint additives
Authors: Elsenety Mohamed M. , Elgammal Walid E. , Abdou Moaz M. , Fayad Mahmoud M. , El-Wahab Hamada Abd
Published: September 2024

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of novel lanthanide complexes, specifically La (III) and Gd (III), designed as flame-retardant additives for paint formulations. The complexes were synthesized and thoroughly characterized using different spectroscopic techniques, complemented by density functional theory computational calculation insights. The resulting La (III) and Gd (III) complexes were then incorporated into paint formulations, and the physical properties of the modified coatings were systematically evaluated. Ignitability and the minimum oxygen percentage required for sustained combustion were quantified according to standardized procedures. The modified coatings demonstrated enhanced mechanical and ignition properties in comparison to blank samples. The limiting oxygen index (LOI) values were notably higher, underscoring the efficacy of the lanthanide complexes as flame retardant additives. La complex led to an ignition time of 850 s and an LOI of 40, while Gd complex resulted in the same ignition time of 850 s and LOI of 50 compared to the uncoated sample of 550 s and an LOI of 16. The mechanical properties of the painted samples, engineered with the inclusion of these prepared metal complexes, exhibited a significant improvement. This comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the potential application of lanthanide complexes as effective flame-retardant additives in coatings, offering a promising avenue for enhancing the safety and performance of various materials.
Benthic Processes are an Important Indicator of Eutrophication in Intermittently Open and Closed Lakes and Lagoons
Authors: Ferguson Angus , Filippini Giulia , Potts Jaimie , Bugnot Ana B. , Johnston Emma L. , Rao Shivanesh , Ruszczyk Jason , Dafforn Katherine A.
Published: September 2024

Intermittently open and closed lakes and lagoons (ICOLLs) are globally important estuarine systems that are separated from the ocean by a sand beach barrier or berm. The barrier may open or close naturally because of sand and sediment movement or be manually opened by estuarine managers in times of flooding. As intermittently closed systems, it is important to understand the potential for eutrophication and what are the best indicators. This study investigated water quality, sediment quality and benthic processes in four shallow ICOLLs in Sydney, Australia, that experience a range of nutrient loadings. Manly and Curl Curl Lagoons experience higher turbidity and concentrations of pelagic Chl-a compared to Dee Why and Narrabeen Lagoons. They also differ with respect to general morphology with Manly and Narrabeen deeper and more linear while Curl Curl and Dee Why are shallower and more circular. Relationships between nutrient loading and traditional water quality indicators of eutrophication such as chlorophyll-a, turbidity and dissolved oxygen appeared to be moderated by lagoon morphology and hydrology, which control the ratio of pelagic to benthic production and net accumulation of sediment organic matter. We found that all the lagoons investigated were net heterotrophic, with Narrabeen and Manly the least and the most heterotrophic respectively. Ratios of total organic carbon (TOC):benthic community respiration (CR) varied among lagoons and were likely related to the dominance of refractory organic matter in Narrabeen (~ 99%), and more labile organic matter in Manly and Curl Curl Lagoons (~ 90%). Benthic community respiration increased with nutrient loading rates across the lagoons, suggesting that benthic processes are a critical indicator of eutrophication in these shallow systems. In contrast to the generalised conceptual model of eutrophication in coastal systems whereby nutrient pollution causes a reduction in benthic primary productivity at the expense of increased pelagic primary productivity, our results suggest that benthic microalgal productivity in shallow ICOLLs plays an important role in buffering against eutrophication of the water column but may also contribute to organic enrichment of sediments.
Waste From Alwar Quartzite (A Global Heritage Stone From Rajasthan - India) As Secondary Raw Materials for Cementitious Tile Adhesives
Authors: Graziano Sossio Fabio , Marone Paolo , Trinchillo Antonio , Di Benedetto Claudia , Montesano Giovanna , Rispoli Concetta , Cappelletti Piergiulio
Published: September 2024

Waste deriving from quarrying operations of natural stone material retains almost all the mineralogical and compositional characteristics of the original material, for such reason this research aimed to test prototypes cementitious tile adhesives made up recycling the Alwar Quartzite waste, used as fine and ultra-fine aggregate. Particle size distribution analysis, along with X-ray diffractometry, X-ray fluorescence and Scanning Electron Microscopy were carried out to characterize the waste. Experimental research involved the mix-designing of three dough formulations (a regular one [N], a latex added [L] and a fast-setting [R]) tested by using different types of tiles: (i) polished metal plates, (ii) ceramic tiles and (iii) rough natural stone slabs. Fresh prepared doughs were firstly tested for thixotropy achieving high values (ranging 82–93%) and cured for normative requested time after being stuck on a concrete support as reported in European UNI standard regulations. After respective curing time, adhesives technical performances were evaluated by the Pull-Off test obtaining results for Class 1 (N and R) and Class 2 (L) adhesives with high initial tensile adhesive strength. Experimental results carried out in this research proved the possibility to use huge amounts of waste coming from Indian stone industry in cementitious tile adhesives sector without compromising technical performances, proposing itself as an alternative method to landfill disposal for this waste.
Variational Autoencoders and Generative Adversarial Networks for Multivariate Scenario Generation
Authors: Carbonera Michele , Ciavotta Michele , Messina Enza
Published: September 2024

When making decisions with lasting implications over a medium to long timeframe, it is essential to consider not only the most probable scenario, possibly obtained through a forecasting model, but also a range of potential outcomes. This approach allows for effective risk mitigation across a spectrum of scenarios, including less probable ones, and enhances the resilience of planning strategies. In this paper, we demonstrate the development of a generative model capable of learning the multivariate joint probability distribution of link speeds on a road network, using real sensor data. To further enhance the performance of our Generative Adversarial Network model, we employed a Variational AutoEncoder for pre-training the generator network. Experimental results, conducted on three distinct benchmark datasets, highlight the potential of the proposed model in generating new scenario samples of multivariate variables. The Wasserstein distance between the generated distribution and the real data, confirms the good performance of our model compared to state-of-the-art models, based on copulae. The proposed model has shown its ability to generate scenarios that preserve correlations among variables, while producing samples that faithfully represent the empirical marginal distributions.
Responses of soil microbial metabolism, function and soil quality to long-term addition of organic materials with different carbon sources
Authors: Dong Minghao , Zhou Hanjun , Wang Jing , Yang Jiahao , Lai Jiazheng , Chen Yulu , Sun Feng , Ye Xiefeng , Wu Yunjie
Published: September 2024

Biochar and green manure have been widely applied in agricultural production and are important means to achieve sustainable agriculture. However, there is limited research systematically and comprehensively exploring the response of soil microbiota and the changes in soil metabolomics after the addition of two different carbon source amendments to the soil, and the differential mechanisms of soil metabolomics between them remain unclear. In this study, a long-term field experiment (initiated in 2019) was conducted to investigate the effects of biochar and green manure application on soil nutrients and soil functions driven by soil microbes. Compared to the pure fertilizer treatment, biochar increased soil total carbon by 14.54% to 27.04% and soil available potassium by 4.67% to 27.46%. Ryegrass significantly increased soil available phosphorus and organic matter. Under different fertilization regimes, the ecological niches of soil microbes changed significantly. Network analysis revealed that long-term ryegrass returning reduced the complexity of soil microbial networks. Ryegrass and biochar increased dispersal limitation in fungal assemblages (reaching 93.33% and 86.67%, respectively), with biochar particularly enhancing variable selection in bacterial assemblages (accounting for 53.33%). Variation partitioning analysis based on redundancy analysis indicated that humic substances had the highest explanatory power for microbial community variation, with humic substances explaining 38.49% of bacteria and 52.19% of fungi variation. The ryegrass treatment mainly changed the abundance of carbohydrates (CH), amines (AM), c (AH), and lipids (LP), while the BC treatment mainly altered the abundance of organic acids (AC), amines (AM), and carbohydrates (CH). Meanwhile, both treatments significantly reduced the bisphenol A, one of the soil pollutants. Ryegrass incorporation significantly increased the abundance of genes related to soil C, N, P, and S cycling, especially genes involved in carbon decomposition, while biochar significantly enhanced the abundance of nitrogen fixation genes nifH and Hao in soil. Random forest model results indicated that carbohydrates, alcohols, aromatics (AR), and ester (ES) were the main categories of metabolites in soil influenced by differential microbes, and Finegoldia served as a common important metabolic driving species. In summary, this study reveals the processes of soil function, microbial community succession, and metabolism driven by ryegrass and biochar, providing important insights for optimizing soil management and improving soil quality.

Graphical Abstract
Perspektiven von Jugendlichen aus sozioökonomisch marginalisierten Lebenslagen auf Sportvereine: Erkenntnisse aus einer Interviewstudie
Authors: Bartsch Fabienne , Rulofs Bettina
Published: September 2024

Sportvereine sind nicht für alle jungen Menschen gleichermaßen offen. Insbesondere Jugendliche aus sozioökonomisch marginalisierten Familien sind dort seltener vertreten. Obwohl dieser Befund seit geraumer Zeit bekannt ist, bestehen immer noch erhebliche Wissenslücken in Bezug auf die Thematik. Es fehlen empirische Studien, die von sozialer Ungleichheit und Armut betroffene Jugendliche selbst einbeziehen und ihnen Raum geben, ihre eigenen Erfahrungen und Sichtweisen in Bezug auf Sportvereine zu schildern. An dieser Forschungslücke setzt der vorliegende Beitrag an, der Jugendliche aus sozioökonomisch weniger privilegierten Verhältnissen fokussiert und versucht, ihre Perspektive auf den Vereinssport auf Basis ungleichheitssoziologischer und klassismuskritischer Theoriebezüge zu ergründen. Die Grundlage der Analyse bilden zehn Gruppeninterviews mit Jugendlichen aus sozioökonomisch marginalisierten Verhältnissen, die noch nie Mitglied in einem Sportverein waren oder diesen verlassen haben. Insgesamt umfasst die Stichprobe 38 Jugendliche im Alter von 14 bis 19 Jahren. Die Datenanalyse orientiert sich am Verfahren des thematischen Kodierens, wobei zusätzlich Elemente der dokumentarischen Methode eingebracht werden, um die kollektiven Orientierungen der Jugendlichen herauszuarbeiten. Dabei zeigt sich, dass die befragten Jugendlichen die Strukturen und Logiken des Vereinssports als eher einschüchternd, fremd und nicht zu „ihrer Welt“ gehörend wahrnehmen. Besonders für Jugendliche ohne familiäre Bezüge zum Vereinssport scheint die Hürde, einem Sportverein beizutreten, hoch zu sein. Diejenigen, die sich aus einem Sportverein zurückgezogen haben, taten dies u. a. aufgrund von Diskriminierungen, die von Trainer*innen oder gleichaltrigen Teamkolleg*innen ausgingen. Insgesamt lässt sich schlussfolgern, dass Sportvereine von sozioökonomisch marginalisierten Jugendlichen eher als Institution privilegierter Personengruppen wahrgenommen werden. Wenn Sportvereine junge Menschen aus sozioökonomisch marginalisierten Schichten erreichen möchten, müssen sie sich aktiv um die Entwicklung einer einladenden, inklusiven und diskriminierungsfreien Kultur bemühen.
MICP treated sand: insights into the impact of particle size on mechanical parameters and pore network after biocementation
Authors: Erdmann N. , Schaefer S. , Simon T. , Becker A. , Bröckel U. , Strieth D.
Published: September 2024

Microbiologically Induced Calcium Carbonate Precipitation (MICP) is a technology for improving soil characteristics, especially strength, that has been gaining increasing interest in literature during the last few years. Although a lot of influencing factors on the result of MICP are known, particle size and shape of the particles remain poorly understood. While destructive measuring of compressive strength or calcium carbonate content are important for the characterization of samples these methods give no insight into the internal structures and pore networks of the samples. X-ray microcomputed tomography (micro-CT) is a technique that is used to characterize the internals of rocks and to a certain degree MICP-treated soils. However, the impact of filtering and image processing of micro-CT Data depending on the type of MICP sample is poorly described in the literature. In this study, single fractions of local quarry were treated with MICP through the ureolytic microorganism Sporosarcina pasteurii to investigate the influence of particle size distribution on calcium carbonate content, unconfined compressive strength and the reduction of water permeability. Additionally, micro-CT was conducted to obtain insights into the resulting pore system. The impact of the Gauss filter und Non-local means filter on the resulting images and data on the pore network are discussed. The results show that particle size has a significant impact on the result of all tested parameters of biosandstone with lower particle size leading to higher strength and generally higher calcium carbonate content. Micro-CT data showed that the technology is feasible to gain valuable insights into the internal structures of biosandstone but the resolution and signal-to-noise ratio remain challenging, especially for samples with particle sizes smaller than 125 µm.
Once Upon a Time, “About 1.170 Results”: Exploring the Narrative Power of Search Engines
Authors: Korenhof Paulan
Published: September 2024

Search engines play a pivotal role in online ecology and can have a significant impact on people, especially in the case of a name search. The pros and cons of removing search results have been at the heart of an ongoing debate revolving around “the right ro be forgotten” (art. 17 of the General Data Protection Regulation). This article proposes to contribute the discussion by philosophically reflecting on the transformative power of search engines in relation to original content. It shows that the implications of search engines run deeper than the mere display of faulty or outdated content. In order to reveal and conceptualise the impact that search engines have on the information they present, this article operationalises Ricoeur’s notion of ‘semantic autonomy’ in a digital context. This offers a framework that is used to analyse the transformative power of search engines across several dimensions: the relation to authors, audiences, the message and the semantic value of content. The article concludes that search engines have a transformative power that may bypass human intentions on multiple levels and, to a certain degree, allows them to ‘tell a story’ on their own.
Single-atom materials boosting wearable orthogonal uric acid detection
Authors: Ding Shichao , Li Sitao , Lyu Zhaoyuan , Zhou Jiachi , Tang Selene , Fang Lingzhe , Zang Wenjie , Zhang Pengtao , Kim Sunjae , Li Tao , Pan Xiaoqing , Du Dan , Lin Yuehe , Wang Joseph
Published: September 2024

Uric acid (UA) is a vital biomarker for the diagnosis and management of various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, gout, kidney disorders, metabolic syndrome, and wound healing. Despite significant advances in wearable sensor technology, challenges persist in developing wearable sensors that are capable of maintaining high sensitivity, selectivity, and stability. In this study, we present an epidermal sensing platform enhanced with single-atom materials (SAMs) designed for flexible and orthogonal electrochemical detection of UA. We designed and synthesized an SAM with Fe-N5 active sites to boost the electrochemical sensing signals, integrating it with laser-engraved graphene (LEG) to fabricate a wearable SAM-based UA patch sensor. This design provides superior UA detection performance compared to sensors based on conventional nanomaterials. In addition, we enhanced the detection accuracy and range by using an orthogonal approach that combines direct oxidation through differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) along with parallel biocatalytic amperometric detection. The resulting SAM-based UA orthogonal sensor patch demonstrated exceptional performance in wearable applications through tests measuring sweat UA levels in subjects before and after consuming a purine-rich diet.

Graphical Abstract
The Missing Politics in Environmental Education, Revisited
Authors: Orr David W.
Published: September 2024

Politics in environmental education is conspicuous by its absence. This article is a plea to make politics–the study of who gets what, when, and how–central to our field and the keystone of a better way forward.
The stadial model of alignment formation (SMAF): Conceptualising strategic alignments between states
Authors: Korolev Alexander
Published: September 2024

Despite being ubiquitously used, the concept of alignment remains inchoate. Existing literature offers more than 30 interpretations of the term and very few attempts to develop an objective indicators-based metric of alignment. This state of the field makes assessments of the degree to which states are aligned problematic. This article systematises the theoretical knowledge about alliances, alignments, strategic partnerships, and other forms of cooperation and draws on some empirical observations to develop a ‘stadial model of alignment formation’ (SMAF). The model conceptualises, operationalises, measures, and explains interstate alignment with greater precision and consistency. It also includes the explanatory factors in the form of the three balances – the balance of power, the balance of threat, and the balance of interest – and connections between them located along the stages of alignment formation. As such, the SMAF framework gauges the relative scale and depth of strategic alignments and can facilitate comparative analysis.
Particle chirality does not matter in the large-scale features of strong turbulence
Authors: Piumini G. , Assen M.P.A. , Lohse D. , Verzicco R.
Published: September 2024

We use three-dimensional direct numerical simulations of homogeneous isotropic turbulence in a cubic domain to investigate the dynamics of heavy, chiral, finite-size inertial particles and their effects on the flow. Using an immersed-boundary method and a complex collision model, four-way coupled simulations have been performed, and the effects of particle-to-fluid density ratio, turbulence strength and particle volume fraction have been analysed. We find that freely falling particles on the one hand add energy to the turbulent flow but, on the other hand, they also enhance the flow dissipation: depending on the combination of flow parameters, the former or the latter mechanism prevails, thus yielding enhanced or weakened turbulence. Furthermore, particle chirality entails a preferential angular velocity which induces a net vorticity in the fluid phase. As turbulence strengthens, the energy introduced by the falling particles becomes less relevant and stronger velocity fluctuations alter the solid phase dynamics, making the effect of chirality irrelevant for the large-scale features of the flow. Moreover, comparing the time history of collision events for chiral particles and spheres (at the same volume fraction) suggests that the former tend to entangle, in contrast to the latter which rebound impulsively.
Triglobal resolvent-analysis-based control of separated flows around low-aspect-ratio wings
Authors: Ribeiro Jean Hélder Marques , Taira Kunihiko
Published: September 2024

We perform direct numerical simulations of actively controlled laminar separated wakes around low-aspect-ratio wings with two primary goals: (i) reducing the size of the separation bubble and (ii) attenuating the wing tip vortex. Instead of preventing separation, we modify the three-dimensional (3-D) dynamics to exploit wake vortices for aerodynamic enhancements. A direct wake modification is considered using optimal harmonic forcing modes from triglobal resolvent analysis. For this study, we consider wings at angles of attack of

$14^\circ$

and

$22^\circ$

, taper ratios

$0.27$

and

$1$

, and leading edge sweep angles of

$0^\circ$

and

$30^\circ$

, at a mean-chord-based Reynolds number of

$600$

. The wakes behind these wings exhibit 3-D reversed-flow bubble and large-scale vortical structures. For tapered swept wings, the diversity of wake vortices increases substantially, posing a challenge for flow control. To achieve the first control objective for an untapered unswept wing, root-based actuation at the shedding frequency is introduced to reduce the reversed-flow bubble size by taking advantage of the wake vortices to significantly enhance the aerodynamic performance of the wing. For both untapered and tapered swept wings, root-based actuation modifies the stalled flow, reduces the reversed-flow region and enhances aerodynamic performance by increasing the root contribution to lift. For the goal of controlling the tip vortex, we demonstrate the effectiveness of actuation with high-frequency perturbations near the tip. This study shows how insights from resolvent analysis for unsteady actuation can enable global modification of 3-D separated wakes and achieve improved aerodynamics of wings.
Revisiting Brenner's method for Stokes resistance of a deformed sphere
Authors: Nabil Mohammad , Nourhani Amir
Published: September 2024

We revisit Brenner's seminal work on the Stokes resistance of a slightly deformed sphere (Chem. Engng Sci., vol. 19, 1964, p. 519), evaluate its range of validity and extend its applicability to higher deformations for axisymmetric particles, using hydrodynamic radius as the measure of Stokes resistance. Brenner's method solves the flow around a slightly deformed sphere through two mapping steps: the first mapping translates the surface velocity on the deformed sphere to that over a reference sphere of arbitrary radius using an asymptotic expansion of the flow field in terms of deformation amplitude and a Taylor expansion of the velocity field around the surface of the reference sphere. Subsequently, the second mapping extrapolates the velocity field from the surface of the reference sphere to any point in the fluid using Lamb's general solution for Stokes flow. While the original work addresses slightly deformed spheres to a linear order in deformation amplitude, we demonstrate that the first mapping, in combination with axisymmetric spectral modes (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 936, 2022, R1), can accommodate significant deformations to arbitrary orders of perturbation, and thus is not limited to slightly deformed spheres. Also, while first-order analysis is suitable for nearly spherical particles, second-order terms can provide a reasonable range for significantly higher deformations.
Linear stability analysis of generalized Couette–Poiseuille flow: the neutral surface and critical properties
Authors: Cheng W. , Ma H. , Pullin D.I. , Luo X.
Published: September 2024

We discuss the modal, linear stability analysis of generalized Couette–Poiseuille (GCP) flow between two parallel plates moving with relative speed in the presence of an applied pressure gradient vector inclined at an angle

$0\leqslant \phi \leqslant 90^\circ$

to the plate relative velocity vector. All possible GCP flows can be described by a global Reynolds number

$Re$

,

$\phi$

and an angle

$0\leqslant \theta \leqslant 90^\circ$

, where

$\cos \theta$

is a measure of the relative weighting of Couette flow to the composite GCP flow. This provides a novel and uncommon group of generally three-dimensional base velocity fields with wall-normal twist, for which Squire's theorem does not generally apply, requiring study of oblique perturbations with wavenumbers

$(\alpha,\beta )$

. With

$(\theta,\phi )$

fixed, the neutral surface

$f(\theta,\phi ;Re,\alpha,\beta )=0$

in

$(Re, \alpha,\beta )$

space is discussed. A mapping from GCP to plane Couette–Poiseuille flow stability is found that suggests a scaling relation

$Re^*\alpha /k = H(\theta ^*)$

that collapses all critical parameters, where

${Re}^*= Re\,({\alpha _1}/{\alpha })\,({\sin \theta }/{\sin {\theta }^*})$

and

$\tan \theta ^*=({\alpha _{1}}/\alpha )\tan \theta$

, with

$\alpha _1=\alpha \cos \phi +\beta \sin \phi$

. This analysis does not, however, directly reveal global critical properties for GCP flow. The global

$Re_{cr}(\theta,\phi )$

shows continuous variation, while

$\alpha _{cr}(\theta,\phi )$

and

$\beta _{cr}(\theta,\phi )$

show complex behaviour, including discontinuities owing to jumping of critical states across neighbouring local valleys (in

$Re$

) or lobes of the neutral surface. The discontinuity behaviour exists for all low

$\phi$

. For

$\phi \gtrsim 21^\circ$

, variations of

$\alpha _{cr}(\theta )$

and

$\beta _{cr}(\theta )$

are generally smooth and monotonic.
Instability dynamics of viscous fingering interaction on dual displacement fronts
Authors: Patmonoaji Anindityo , Nagatsu Yuichiro , Mishra Manoranjan
Published: September 2024

We explored the instability dynamics of the viscous fingering interaction in dual displacement fronts by varying the viscosity configuration. Four regimes of rear-dominated fingering, front-dominated fingering, dual fingering and stable were identified. By using the breakthrough time, which refers to the breakup of the dual displacement fronts, the instability dynamics were modelled, and a regime map was developed. These serve as a tool for effectively harnessing the dual displacement fronts for various applications, such as hydrogeology, petroleum, chemical processes and microfluidics.
Entrainment in variable-density jets
Authors: Salizzoni P. , Vaux S. , Creyssels M. , Craske J. , van Reeuwijk M.
Published: September 2024

The entrainment of ambient fluid into a variable-density jet is typically quantified using an entrainment coefficient

$\alpha$

. Here, we investigate the dependence of

$\alpha$

on the ratio of the jet's density

$\rho _m$

and that of the ambient fluid

$\rho _0$

. Current parametrisations of

$\alpha$

rely on a scaling inferred from early laboratory experiments (Ricou & Spalding, J. Fluid Mech., vol. 11, 1961, pp. 21–32). We demonstrate analytically that the experiments preclude definitive conclusions regarding the dependence of

$\alpha$

on

$\rho _m / \rho _0$

and that the underlying physical processes therefore warrant closer attention. To investigate the physics behind the dependence of entrainment on the density ratio we use a Favre-averaged entrainment decomposition. The decomposition is applied to data from large-eddy simulations of jets characterised by density ratios

$\rho _m / \rho _0$

spanning over two orders of magnitude that have been verified against experimental data. Changes in the shape of the velocity profile are a significant contributor to entrainment in the near field due to the breakdown of the potential core, and persist over larger streamwise distances in heavy releases than in light releases. Therefore, to focus exclusively on the effects of density ratio, we study the region where the shape changes have become small but the density ratio is still significant. We show that the dimensionless turbulent kinetic energy production and mean kinetic energy flux depend strongly on the density ratio, both for our large-eddy simulation data and for recent experiments. Despite this, the entrainment coefficient is practically constant in this region and has value

$\alpha \approx 0.07$

for all simulations.
Association between protein intake, diet quality, and obesity in Australian adults: a comparison of measurement units
Authors: Arini Hesti Retno Budi , Leech Rebecca M. , Tan Sze-Yen , McNaughton Sarah A.
Published: September 2024

Previous investigations on protein associations with diet quality and obesity still have inconclusive findings, possibly due to how protein intake was expressed. This study aimed to compare how different ways of expressing total protein intake may influence its relationships with diet quality and obesity. Usual protein intake was estimated from the 2011–12 Australian National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (n = 7637 adults, ≥19 years), expressed in grams (g/d), percent energy (%EI), and grams per actual kilogram body weight (g/kgBW/d). Diet quality was assessed using the 2013 Dietary Guidelines Index, and obesity measures included Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC). Sex-stratified multiple linear and logistic regressions were performed and adjusted for potential confounders. Total protein (g/d) was directly associated with diet quality (males, β = 0.15 (95% CI 0.12, 0.19); females, β = 0.25 (0.22, 0.29)), and this association was consistent across units. Protein intake (g/d) was directly associated with BMI (males, β = 0.07% (0.04%, 0.11%); females, β = 0.09% (0.04%, 0.15%)), and WC (males, β = 0.04 (0.01, 0.06); females, β = 0.05 (0.00, 0.09)). While in males, protein as %EI was associated with higher WC, no association was found in females. Adults with higher protein intake (g/d) had higher odds of overweight/obesity (males, OR = 1.01 (1.00, 1.01); females, OR = 1.01 (1.00, 1.01)), and central overweight/obesity (females, OR = 1.01 (1.00, 1.01)), but no significant association with females odds of overweight/obesity when protein was expressed in %EI. In conclusion, protein intake was positively associated with diet quality and obesity, yet these associations were stronger for women. The effect sizes also varied by measurement unit due to the different scales of those units.
Do counts of radiocarbon-dated archaeological sites reflect human population density? A preliminary empirical validation examining spatial variation across late Holocene California
Authors: Codding Brian F , Meyer Jack , Brewer Simon C , Kelly Robert L , Jones Terry L
Published: September 2024

Researchers increasingly rely on aggregations of radiocarbon dates from archaeological sites as proxies for past human populations. This approach has been critiqued on several grounds, including the assumptions that material is deposited, preserved, and sampled in proportion to past population size. However, various attempts to quantitatively assess the approach suggest there may be some validity in assuming date counts reflect relative population size. To add to this conversation, here we conduct a preliminary analysis coupling estimates of ethnographic population density with late Holocene radiocarbon dates across all counties in California. Results show that counts of late Holocene radiocarbon-dated archaeological sites increase significantly as a function of ethnographic population density. This trend is robust across varying sampling windows over the last 5000 BP. Though the majority of variation in dated-site counts remains unexplained by population density. Outliers reveal how departures from the central trend may be influenced by regional differences in research traditions, development-driven contract work, organic preservation, and landscape taphonomy. Overall, this exercise provides some support for the “dates-as-data” approach and offers insights into the conditions where the underlying assumptions may or may not hold.