bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factor analysis and GA-BP-ANN prediction of nitrogen diffusion behavior in underground laboratory under ventilation conditions
Authors: Li Baochun , Chi Minghua , Gao Minglun , Wang Licong , Xu Jinlong , Zeng Xiangguo
Published: June 2024

Nitrogen is widely used in various laboratories as a suppressive gas and a protective gas. Once nitrogen leaks and accumulates in a such confined space, it will bring serious threats to the experimental staff. Especially in underground tunnels or underground laboratories where there is no natural wind, the threat is more intense. In this work, the ventilation design factors and potential leakage factors are identified by taking the leakage and diffusion of a large liquid nitrogen tank in China Jinping Underground Laboratory (CJPL) as an example. Based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) research, the effects of fresh air inlet position, fresh air velocity, exhaust outlet position, leakage hole position, leakage hole size, and leaked nitrogen mass flow rate on nitrogen diffusion behavior in specific environments are discussed in detail from the perspectives of nitrogen concentration field and nitrogen diffusion characteristics. The influencing factors are parameterized, and the Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) is used to uniformly sample within the specified range of each factor to obtain samples that can represent the whole sample space. The nitrogen concentration is measured by numerical value, and the nitrogen diffusion characteristics are measured by category. The GA-BP-ANN numerical regression and classification regression models for nitrogen concentration prediction and nitrogen diffusion characteristics prediction are established. By using various rating indicators to evaluate the performance of the trained model, it is found that models have high accuracy and recognition rate, indicating that it is effective in predicting and determining the concentration value and diffusion characteristics of nitrogen according to ventilation factors and potential leakage factors. The research results can provide a theoretical reference for the parametric design of the ventilation system.
Assessing the perioperative gain of weight (Δweight) as a determinant of morbidity after kidney transplantation: a retrospective exploratory study
Authors: Carbonell Beatriz Barberá , Zingg Tobias , Matter Maurice , Joliat Gaëtan-Romain , Martin David , Pascual Manuel , Demartines Nicolas , Golshayan Dela , Cano Luis , Labgaa Ismail
Published: June 2024

Kidney transplantation (KT) is associated with a substantial risk of postoperative complications (POC) for which performant predictors are lacking. Data showed that a perioperative gain of weight (ΔWeight) was associated with higher risk of POC, but it remains unexplored in KT. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the association between ΔWeight and POC after KT. ΔWeight was calculated on postoperative day (POD) 2. POC were graded according to the Dindo-Clavien classification. Primary endpoint was overall POC. A total of 242 patients were included and 174 (71.9%) complications were reported. Patients showed a rapid gain of weight after KT. Mean ΔWeight was 7.83 kg (± 3.20) compared to 5.3 kg (± 3.56) in patients with and without complication, respectively (p = 0.0005). ΔWeight showed an accuracy of 0.74 for overall POC. A cut-off of 8.5 kg was determined. ΔWeight ≥ 8.5 kg was identified as an independent predictor of overall POC on multivariable analysis (OR 2.04; 95% CI 1.08–3.84; p = 0.025). ΔWeight ≥ 8.5 kg appeared as an independent predictor of POC after KT. These results stress the need to monitor weight in KT and to further investigate this surrogate with future studies assessing its clinical relevance.
Predictors of work inability after acute myocardial infarction in Switzerland
Authors: Barresi Fabio , Foster-Witassek Fabienne , Rickli Hans , Pedrazzini Giovanni , Roffi Marco , Puhan Milo , Dressel Holger , Radovanovic Dragana
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to examine whether acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients in Switzerland return to work and identify factors associated therewith. Data of 4315 working-age AMI patients enrolled in the Swiss AMIS Plus registry between 01/2006 and 09/2021 with 1-year follow-up and self-reported work status were analyzed. Patient characteristics were compared between those who did not reduce their work hours, those who reduced, and those who were no longer working 1 year after AMI. Multinomial logistic regression was used to analyze independent predictors of working ability. Of the patients, 3204 (74.3%) did not reduce their work hours, 592 (13.7%) reduced and 519 (12.0%) were no longer working 1 year after AMI. Women were more likely to reduce or stop working. Patients who did not reduce were more frequently young and male. Multinomial logistic regression showed that work reduction was associated with female sex and a Killip class > 2 at admission whereas stopping work was associated with female sex and comorbidities. A high rate of AMI patients in Switzerland (88%) return to work 1 year after AMI. Approximately 1 in 8 did not return to work and approximately 1 in 7 reduced their work hours. Important factors associated with reducing or no longer working after AMI were female sex, older age and a higher proportion of comorbidities.
Reduced olfactory bulb volume accompanies olfactory dysfunction after mild SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Petersen Marvin , Becker Benjamin , Schell Maximilian , Mayer Carola , Naegele Felix L. , Petersen Elina , Twerenbold Raphael , Thomalla Götz , Cheng Bastian , Betz Christian , Hoffmann Anna S.
Published: June 2024

Despite its high prevalence, the determinants of smelling impairment in COVID-19 remain not fully understood. In this work, we aimed to examine the association between olfactory bulb volume and the clinical trajectory of COVID-19-related smelling impairment in a large-scale magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) analysis. Data of non-vaccinated COVID-19 convalescents recruited within the framework of the prospective Hamburg City Health Study COVID Program between March and December 2020 were analyzed. At baseline, 233 participants underwent MRI and neuropsychological testing as well as a structured questionnaire for olfactory function. Between March and April 2022, olfactory function was assessed at follow-up including quantitative olfactometric testing with Sniffin’ Sticks. This study included 233 individuals recovered from mainly mild to moderate SARS-CoV-2 infections. Longitudinal assessment demonstrated a declining prevalence of self-reported olfactory dysfunction from 67.1% at acute infection, 21.0% at baseline examination and 17.5% at follow-up. Participants with post-acute self-reported olfactory dysfunction had a significantly lower olfactory bulb volume at baseline than normally smelling individuals. Olfactory bulb volume at baseline predicted olfactometric scores at follow-up. Performance in neuropsychological testing was not significantly associated with the olfactory bulb volume. Our work demonstrates an association of long-term self-reported smelling dysfunction and olfactory bulb integrity in a sample of individuals recovered from mainly mild to moderate COVID-19. Collectively, our results highlight olfactory bulb volume as a surrogate marker that may inform diagnosis and guide rehabilitation strategies in COVID-19.
Cortical-striatal brain network distinguishes deepfake from real speaker identity
Authors: Roswandowitz Claudia , Kathiresan Thayabaran , Pellegrino Elisa , Dellwo Volker , Frühholz Sascha
Published: June 2024

Deepfakes are viral ingredients of digital environments, and they can trick human cognition into misperceiving the fake as real. Here, we test the neurocognitive sensitivity of 25 participants to accept or reject person identities as recreated in audio deepfakes. We generate high-quality voice identity clones from natural speakers by using advanced deepfake technologies. During an identity matching task, participants show intermediate performance with deepfake voices, indicating levels of deception and resistance to deepfake identity spoofing. On the brain level, univariate and multivariate analyses consistently reveal a central cortico-striatal network that decoded the vocal acoustic pattern and deepfake-level (auditory cortex), as well as natural speaker identities (nucleus accumbens), which are valued for their social relevance. This network is embedded in a broader neural identity and object recognition network. Humans can thus be partly tricked by deepfakes, but the neurocognitive mechanisms identified during deepfake processing open windows for strengthening human resilience to fake information.
Selective hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural over bidentate phosphine protected Pdn nanoclusters
Authors: Tang Jie , Liu Chao , Liu Xiaorui , Han Yaning , Ge Tingting , Yu Cuiping , Liang Daxin , Xu Jing , Huang Jiahui
Published: June 2024

The conversion of 5-HMF to 2,5-DMF over bidentate phosphine protected Pdn nanoclusters.
Preparation of an aqueous zinc ion rGH/V2O5 photorechargeable supercapacitor
Authors: Wu Lan-xiang , Li Jia-ke , Jiang He-dong , Liu Xin , Guo Ping-chun , Zhu Hua , Wang Yan-xiang
Published: June 2024

A photorechargeable supercapacitor was constructed using vanadium pentoxide (V2O5), reduced graphene oxide hydrogel (rGH), and zinc trifluoromethanesulfonate (Zn(CF3SO3)2) as the photoanode, cathode, and electrolyte, respectively.
From lab to field: Prussian blue frameworks as sustainable cathode materials
Authors: Anil Kumar Yedluri , Sana Siva Sankar , Ramachandran Tholkappiyan , Assiri Mohammed A. , Srinivasa Rao Sunkara , Kim Seong Cheol
Published: June 2024

Prussian blue and Prussian blue analogues have attracted increasing attention as versatile framework materials with a wide range of applications in catalysis, energy conversion and storage, and biomedical and environmental fields.
Enhancing oxygen reduction activity of dinuclear copper complexes loaded on an N-doped carbon support via a low-temperature pyrolysis strategy
Authors: Chi Hua-Min , Yang Kun-Zu , Guo Peng-Peng , Xu Ying , Xu Chao , Su Yong-Zhi , Liu Xin , Liu Jin-Gang
Published: June 2024

Low-temperature pyrolysis of a dinuclear copper complex loaded on a N-doped carbon support produced an atomically dispersed catalyst with dense active sites that exhibited remarkably enhanced performance for oxygen reduction reaction.
The combined use of B vitamins and probiotics promotes B vitamin absorption and increases Akkermansia abundance
Authors: Sang Lan , Yang Shuyu , Zhu Ying , Zhu Zhigang , Yang Binrui , Li Ziguang , Mao Xin , Chen Siling , Li Chengsi , Du Jun , Zheng Xiao , He Hua , Zheng Jianheng , Huang Yin
Published: June 2024

The network interlinks probiotics, gut microbiota, and B vitamins.
Nanomaterials as a Service (NaaS) concept: on-demand protocols for volume synthesis of nanomaterials
Authors: Kioumourtzoglou Stylianos , Hof Sebastian , Kalk Cécile , Toth Viktor , Görlin Mikaela , Nováková Jaroslava , Sá Jacinto
Published: June 2024

Automated microfluid reactor with machine learning capabilities for discovery, optimization and standardization of translational and scalable nanomaterial synthesis.
Assembly of anionic silver nanoclusters with controlled packing structures through site-specific ionic bridges
Authors: Ishii Wataru , Tanaka Rika , Nakashima Takuya
Published: June 2024

Site-specific linkage of tri-anionic silver nanoclusters with tetrahedrally arranged bridging sites by alkali metal counter cations leads to various network structures.
Electron repulsion tuned electronic structure of TiO2 by fluorination for efficient and selective photocatalytic ammonia generation
Authors: Zhu Huiling , Xu Xiangran , Wang Yongchao , Ding Jian , Yu Xinru , Liu Xiaoyi , Zeng Zhaowu , Wang Huan , Li Zhen , Wang Yang
Published: June 2024

Through the regulation of electronic structure and optimization of hydrophobicity, two types of fluorine modification (fluorine doping and surface fluorination) have respectively enhanced nitrogen activation and selectivity during nitrogen fixation.
Update on thiopyran-fused heterocycle synthesis (2013–2024)
Authors: Deepthi Ani , Leena Sruthi Sudheendran , Krishnan Devika
Published: June 2024

The major synthetic routes for thiopyran-fused heterocycles published in the period 2013–2024 have been reviewed.
Enantioselective synthesis of unsymmetrical α,α-diarylacetates via organocatalyzed formal C–H insertion reactions of sulfoxonium ylides with indoles and pyrroles
Authors: Yue Xin , Li Shi-Jia , Ou Tianyuan , Xiong Zhenying , Jiang Feng , Zhou Ying , Song Lijuan , Zhao Yupei , Guo Wengang
Published: June 2024

A chiral phosphoric acid-catalyzed highly enantioselective formal C–H insertion reaction of N–H free indole and pyrrole with sulfoxonium ylides has been developed (up to 95% yield and 97% ee).
Pathway-dependent supramolecular polymerization by planarity breaking
Authors: Veedu Rasitha Manha , Fernández Zulema , Bäumer Nils , Albers Antonia , Fernández Gustavo
Published: June 2024

We introduce planarity breaking as a new design strategy for controlled supramolecular polymerization.
Correction: Deciphering the chemical bonding of the trivalent oxygen atom in oxygen doped graphene
Authors: Ugartemendia Andoni , Casademont-Reig Irene , Zhao Lili , Zhang Zuxian , Frenking Gernot , Ugalde Jesus M. , Garcia-Lekue Aran , Jimenez-Izal Elisa
Published: June 2024

Correction for ‘Deciphering the chemical bonding of the trivalent oxygen atom in oxygen doped graphene’ by Andoni Ugartemendia et al., Chem. Sci., 2024, 15, 6151–6159, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4SC00142G.
Diet Outcomes in Patients With COVID-19 Who Were Intubated and Proned
Authors: Napoli Maureen F. , Scibilia Stephanie J. , Naunheim Matthew , Goldsmith Tessa
Published: June 2024

Objective:

During the first wave of the COVID-19 (SARS CoV-2) pandemic, patients being treated for acute respiratory distress syndrome were proned while intubated with mechanical ventilation. In this study, we aimed to compare the diet outcomes at the time of acute hospital discharge of patients with COVID-19 who were proned while endotracheally intubated (ETT-proned) with those who were intubated with but not proned (ETT-supine).

Design:

The design used is a single-center, retrospective, descriptive study.

Results:

Between March 1, 2020, and August 2020, 193 critically ill adult patients with severe COVID-19 requiring endotracheal intubation with mechanical ventilation were referred for a swallowing evaluation at our acute care tertiary hospital; 114 of these patients were ETT-proned. At the time of discharge from the hospital, there was no significant difference in diet level between ETT-proned and ETT-supine patients. Significant factors associated with restricted diet at discharge included older age (
p
< .001) and non–English-speaking status (
p
= .05).

Conclusions:

In this study, diet levels at the time of discharge did not differ significantly between the patient groups by time of discharge. These results should be interpreted with caution in relation to the clinical swallow evaluation, which was curtailed by practice restrictions imposed by pandemic protocols. Future research should objectively assess swallow function in patients who were proned during intubation with mechanical ventilation, utilizing evidence-based swallow screening protocols, standardized assessment of physiology via imaging (videofluoroscopic swallow studies or flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing), and long-term follow-up to directly and objectively determine the impact proning has on swallow physiology.
Local gravitational instability of two-component thick discs in three dimensions
Authors: Nipoti Carlo , Caprioglio Cristina , Bacchini Cecilia
Published: June 2024

Aims. The local gravitational instability of rotating discs is believed to be an important mechanism in different astrophysical processes, including the formation of gas and stellar clumps in galaxies. We aim to study the local gravitational instability of two-component thick discs in three dimensions.

Methods. We use as a starting point a recently proposed analytic three-dimensional (3D) instability criterion for discs with non-negligible thickness that takes the form Q3D < 1, where Q3D is a 3D version of the classical 2D Toomre Q parameter for razor-thin discs. Here, we extend the 3D stability analysis to two-component discs, considering first the influence on Q3D of a second unresponsive component, and then the case in which both components are responsive. We present the application to two-component discs with isothermal vertical distributions, which can represent, for instance, galactic discs with both stellar and gaseous components. Finally, we relax the assumption of vertical isothermal distribution, by studying one-component self-gravitating discs with polytropic vertical distributions for a range of values of the polytropic index corresponding to convectively stable configurations.

Results. We find that Q3D < 1, where Q3D can be computed from observationally inferred quantities, is a robust indicator of local gravitational instability, depending only weakly on the presence of a second component and on the vertical gradient of temperature or velocity dispersion. We derive a sufficient condition for local gravitational instability in the midplane of two-component discs, which can be employed when both components have Q3D > 1.
Delta function of the Fourier transform
Authors: Parfentyev Nikolay , Maignan Schubert , Tkachenko Irina
Published: June 2024

In the analysis of the double window Fourier transform, it is found that both components of the direct transformation contain an equal amount of information sufficient to restore the original time signal. A double conversion diagram has been constructed. For any initial signal, there is a conjugate signal having the same frequency spectrum. Analysis of the harmonic signal transformation showed that at an arbitrary phase of the harmonic, the frequency representation contains two functions: conditionally unipolar with a maximum at the initial frequency and bipolar with a zero value at the specified frequency. For classical Fourier transformations with an infinite limit of integration, these functions turn into two delta functions with the same properties. The practical application of the found patterns is currently limited by the lack of an algorithm that allows the use of data from only one component.
Investigation of objects of forensic construction and technical expertise using drones
Authors: Butyrin Andrei Yur’evich , Stativa Ekaterina Borisovna
Published: June 2024

The article deals with the problems of using special methods of forensic construction-technical expertise. The classification of methods and means on various grounds, in particular, on the nature of the impact on objects and on the principle of operation is proposed, the specifics of their use in full-scale and laboratory studies are analysed. Special attention is paid to the use of unmanned aerial vehicles for inspection of construction objects and land plots functionally related to them. In some cases, objects may be difficult to access or dangerous for the expert. Thanks to drones, experts can quickly get an overview of the condition of the site and then examine the areas of interest in more detail. In addition, the use of quadrocopters contributes to the safety of conducting investigations. In general, the use of quadrocopters in forensic construction and technical expertise is a promising and useful tool. It is shown that timely replenishment of the construction expert's instrumental arsenal with modern techniques and methods of research based on the latest achievements of science and technology is the key to sustainable development of forensic construction and technical expertise as one of the most demanded by Russian legal proceedings areas of expert activity.
Methods of BAT application for restoration of contaminated lands during the integrated development of non-residential areas
Authors: Spitsov Dmitry , Yazhlev Igor
Published: June 2024

The article analyzes the content of existing normative and methodological documents, the practice of their application in projects of integrated development of territories (IDT) of non-residential buildings and reorganization of industrial territories in order to create tools for the guaranteed elimination of accumulated environmental damage in urban and industrial territories, the use of the best available technologies (BAT) in conducting research, evaluating sites of territories of integrated development, development of plans for restoration of contaminated lands and reclamation works.
Sustainable housing construction and population growth in the EAEU: A comparative approach
Authors: Assylbayev Aidar , Derbisheva Elmira , Niiazalieva Kunduzkul , Suranaev Turatbek , Husainova Elvira
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a comparative study that investigates the relationship between housing construction rates and demographic development in the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU). The study aims to explore the housing issue as a significant factor influencing demographic processes within the context of the disparate economic development among EAEU member countries. Employing econometric analysis, the study demonstrates a strong correlation between the commissioning of housing facilities and the population dynamics from 2005 to 2022. The findings highlight the interdependence between demographic growth and housing volume, suggesting the potential for developing a unified strategy for demographic and housing policies across EAEU countries and the international association as a whole. It is argued that improving housing conditions can foster demographic development by mitigating housing risks. Conversely, inadequate housing provision negatively impacts population reproduction dynamics. In conclusion, the paper offers recommendations for formulating a unified strategy in housing and demographic policies within the EAEU, based on the principles of housing demography.
Information modeling technologies as a growth factor of investment activity in construction
Authors: Zaitseva L.I. , Prigozhev D.I.
Published: June 2024

The transition to a new model of economic growth of a country with a sovereign economy requires a significant increase in investment activity not only in the housing sector, road transport infrastructure, but also in the industrial sector of the national economy. The main burden on the creation of industrial enterprises of new industries in the field of high technology lies on the state budget. Meanwhile, a number of projects for the construction of new industrial enterprises, reconstruction and overhaul of existing ones are initiated by the business environment. The active development of industrial mortgages, which started in 2022, opens up new opportunities for activating the sphere of industrial construction. Obviously, the volumes, terms and objects of lending are currently burdened with a number of requirements and restrictions. The analysis carried out by the authors showed that the use of information modeling technologies, big data and artificial intelligence are able, providing transparency of investment and construction processes, to level the risks of their lending. Moreover, bearing in mind the long duration of construction, the authors suggest using smart contracts that allow making operational adjustments to the course of construction.
Introduction of e-commerce elements in the management of modern universities
Authors: Wei Sun , Polyakova Elena Yu. , Lizhu Zhang , Wenbin Zhang , Lihan Gu
Published: June 2024

The use of e-commerce tools enables universities to make the educational process more accessible and convenient, as well as enhance their efficiency and competitiveness. The main tools include a website, online courses, various types of video content, cloud services for collaborative work among university staff, CRM resources, ERP resources, and mobile platforms.
Network programming - theory and application to manager building projects
Authors: Burkova Irina , Titarenko Boris , Zheglova Yulia
Published: June 2024

The paper deals with network programming method and its application for solving multi-extreme and discrete optimization problems in Project Management. The purpose of the paper is to develop a new approach to solving optimization problems, called the network programming method and to solve a number of optimization problems of project management based on this method. This method is used to solve the problem of building a business-supporting project portfolio. The life cycle of a building project can be represented as a great number of interrelated and interacting actions leading to the achievement of the set goals in the presence of existing constraints (resources, time, cost, quality, reliability, safety, etc.). Such a representation is called a network representation. On the basis of the network programming method and its special case - the dichotomous programming method, new algorithms for solving a number of optimization problems in project management are proposed. The proposed method makes it possible to use it in solving the problems of managing the life cycle of a construction object. It can be used not only throughout the entire life cycle, but also independently during the planning, implementation and completion phases of project management.
Challenges and advantages of cut solar cells for shingling and half-cell modules
Authors: Huyeng Jonas D. , Lohmüller Elmar , Shabanzadeh Behnaz , Reichel Christian , Rößler Torsten , Weber Julian , Hofmann Marc , von Kutzleben Daniel , Abdel Latif Najwa , Kraft Achim , Neuhaus Holger , Clement Florian , Preu Ralf
Published: June 2024

Cutting silicon solar cells from their host wafer into smaller cells reduces the output current per cut cell and therefore allows for reduced ohmic losses in series interconnection at module level. This comes with a trade-off of unpassivated cutting edges, which result in power losses. This performance drop can be seen in fill factor FF and open-circuit voltage VOC losses on cut cell level. Based on experimental realization of different solar cell layouts on the same industrial blue wafers (solar cell precursors), a combined simulation method to predict the performance on module level is demonstrated. This method uses Gridmaster+ for cell simulation and SmartCalc. Module for module simulation. The accuracy of the simulations is demonstrated by comparing with experimental results both from host and cut cell level. In addition, significant influence of the current–voltage (I–V) measurement configuration is demonstrated, mainly affecting FF. Using flexible methods like GridTOUCH® for I–V testing gives fast results but can also lead to overestimation of the host cell performance, resulting in overestimated cell-to-module losses or unreasonable comparisons between hosts and cut cells. It is also demonstrated that application of the passivated edge technology (PET) yields I–V characteristics close to those of cells with ideal edges, i.e., without edge recombination. The implications on the module efficiency are also compared between modules built using cells with and without edge passivation, giving the highest efficiency for a shingled module with PET.
Unloading properties based elastoplastic continuous contact force model: Restitution and stiffness characterization
Authors: Alluhydan Khalid
Published: June 2024

A nonlinear contact force model is developed for spherical elastoplastic impacts. The nonlinear contact force model is constructed based on an existing piecewise model and the other based on the force–displacement diagram. The energetic impact law of the coefficient of restitution is used to solve for the unloading restitution stiffness. An integration of the dynamic equation of motion and proper use of initial conditions is performed to solve for the maximum deformation. Furthermore, the contact force law from the force–displacement diagram is used at maximum deformation to obtain a physical expression of the final indentation in terms of the maximum deformation and compression and restitution stiffness. In addition, the principle of the unloading linear stiffness is used and two equivalent closed form solutions are derived for the unloading linear stiffness. Moreover, a closed form solution of the maximum force is derived based on the unloading stiffness closed form solutions. The final and unloading indentation properties of the new model are investigated by performing numerical simulations for all coefficient of restitution values ranging from elastic to plastic impacts.
Comparative study of water exchange capacity evaluation methods for semi-enclosed water based on the outfitting zone of immersed tube tunnels
Authors: Wang Jian , Dong Zhichao , Yang Runlai , Hou Jinfang , Kuang Cuiping
Published: June 2024

The strength of water exchange capacity serves as a proxy for the self-purification capacity of water bodies, thereby playing a pivotal role in enhancing the overall water environment. This study focuses on the secondary outfitting area of the immersed tube tunnel within the Shenzhen–Zhongshan Link, utilizing either the substances transport model or the particle tracking model. This framework is designed to delve into the similarities, differences, and appropriateness of the Eulerian and Lagrangian methods in appraising the water exchange capacity of semi-closed water areas. The following key insights have been derived: (1) The spatial distribution patterns of water exchange capacity computed using both methods align, indicating a congruency in their fundamental principles. However, in our case study, the average water transit time determined by the Lagrangian method is 1.6 times higher than the average water residence time calculated by the Eulerian method, suggesting a more conservative approach by the Lagrangian method. (2) The results obtained from varying particle release times or initial concentration release times within a tidal cycle in the case exhibit notable disparities, highlighting the sensitivity of the system to these factors. (3) The Lagrangian method exhibits a significant 12% difference in average water transit time, compared to the mere 0.9% difference observed in the average water residence time calculated by the Eulerian method. This underscores the Lagrangian method’s heightened sensitivity to the timing of particle release. Conversely, the Eulerian method offers more stable simulation outcomes in assessing the water exchange capacity of semi-closed water bodies, making it a preferred choice for such studies. However, if a comprehensive understanding of water exchange capacity, material transport trajectories, and final destinations is sought, the Lagrangian method would be the more appropriate approach. The research outcomes presented in this paper can serve as a valuable reference for selecting appropriate evaluation techniques for water exchange capacity in semi-closed water areas, encompassing not just immersed tube outfitting zones but also lagoons and harbor basins.
Two-dimensional sound pressure distribution: Visualization and calibration-free quantification via optical wave microphone CT scanning
Authors: Nu San Than Nu , Myat Aung Myint , Han Si Thu , Mitsugi Fumiaki
Published: June 2024

In recent years, the optical wave microphone has emerged as an innovative technique, employing Fraunhofer diffraction of a laser beam, and shows promising applications in various acoustic domains where high electric and/or magnetic fields preclude the use of traditional microphones. This study utilized an optical wave microphone computed tomography (CT) scan and calibration-free quantification to ascertain sound pressure levels at multiple distances from the ultrasonic oscillator. The cornerstone of this study, which is different from the author’s previous studies, is the quantification of sound pressure distribution via a theoretical model that encompasses all physical parameters pertinent to the optical wave microphone’s experimental arrangement. This method has proven effective in visualizing and quantifying the two-dimensional sound pressure distribution emitted by an ultrasonic oscillator (40 kHz) without the necessity for calibration. The results demonstrate that the sound pressure distribution determined using the calibration-free optical wave microphone CT scan is in good agreement with the measurements obtained through a condenser microphone.
Effect of surface roughness on corrosion behavior of AISI 4340 high-strength steel in sodium chloride solutions
Authors: Sherif El-Sayed M. , Alnaser Ibrahim A. , Abbas Adel Taha
Published: June 2024

In this work, an AISI 4340 high-strength steel alloy was surface machined to have four different grades of roughness (Ra). The impact of changing Ra on the corrosion of the steel alloy in 3.5% NaCl solutions after 40 min and 24 h was performed using various electrochemical techniques. The cyclic polarization experiments showed that an increase in Ra increases the steel corrosion via enhancing the corrosion current of the alloy. The electrochemical impedance plots also indicated that an increase in Ra reduces the corrosion resistance of the alloy by decreasing the diameter of the semicircle obtained by the Nyquist spectra. The change in potentiostatic current vs time measurements, which were obtained at −350 mV (Ag/AgCl), confirmed that pitting attack occurs and its intensity further increases with increasing Ra for all steel samples. An increase in immersion time also reduces the resistance to corrosion due to the iron dissolution from the surface of the steel alloy. After corrosion, the surface was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectroscopy investigations.
Research on the causes analysis and control methods of line defects in the head of hundred-meter rails
Authors: Jia Hongbin , Liao Deyong , Wang Dong , Jin Jiyong
Published: June 2024

In response to the rail head line defect in the production process of hundred-meter rails, through inspection and analysis of rail tracks with line defects, theoretical calculations of rolling deformation, and on-site industrial trials, it is clarified that the rail head line defect is caused by defects such as cracks in the ingot corners, slab furnace marks, and scratches during rolling. Correspondingly, effective measures to reduce the occurrence of rail head line defects are proposed for each of the three defect causes.
Dual-phase superconductivity in high-pressure high-temperature synthesized TaNbZrHfTi
Authors: Sereika Raimundas , Iwan Seth , Baker Paul A. , Bi Wenli , Vohra Yogesh K.
Published: June 2024

We report on a novel TaNbZrHfTi-based high entropy alloy (HEA) which demonstrates distinctive dual-phase superconductivity. The HEA was synthesized under high pressures and high temperatures starting from a ball milled mixture of elemental metals in a large-volume Paris–Edinburgh cell with P ≈ 6 GPa and T = 2300 K. The synthesized HEA is a phase mixture of BCC (NbTa)0.45(ZrHfTi)0.55 with Tc1 = 6 K and FCC (NbTa)0.04(ZrHfTi)0.96 with Tc2 = 3.75 K. The measured magnetic field parameters for the HEA are lower critical field, Hc1(0) = 31 mT, and a relatively high upper critical field, Hc2(0) = 4.92 T. This dual-phase system is further characterized by the presence of a second magnetization peak, or the fishtail effect, observed in the virgin magnetization curves. This phenomenon, which does not distort the field-dependent magnetization hysteresis loops, suggests intricate pinning mechanisms that could be potentially tuned for optimized performance. The manifestation of these unique features in HEA superconductivity reinforces phase-dependent superconductivity and opens new avenues in the exploration of novel superconducting materials.
Culturally-informed for designing motorcycle fire rescue: Empirical study in developing country
Authors: Ghazali Ihwan , Tanjung Tia , Semiun Nasri
Published: June 2024

Fire must be responded to quickly and effectively. Difficulties in reaching the fire location may arise due to high traffic. Motorcycle fire rescue can be an alternative to first aid in challenging areas. However, these areas, characterized by diverse cultural backgrounds, require careful consideration. Culture significantly impacts how such rescue systems are perceived, accepted, and utilized. This study delves into the efficiency and implementation of motorcycle fire rescue systems across different contexts, focusing on their alignment with regional cultural norms. Objectives include assessing operational challenges, identifying cultural implications, proposing culturally sensitive design recommendations, evaluating acceptance and effectiveness, and suggesting strategies and policy enhancements to strengthen emergency response capabilities. A preliminary trial was conducted to validate the survey instrument, followed by statistical analysis such as structural equation modeling, confirmatory factor analysis, and satisfaction level assessments. Findings highlight how cultural attitudes shape design preferences, the need for adaptable approaches to overcome operational hurdles, and the importance of adhering to culturally relevant design principles for system efficacy. Field tests also suggest potential improvements in emergency response effectiveness. Recognizing cultural considerations is essential in designing motorcycle fire rescue systems to enhance emergency response in developing nations. Furthermore, aligned with sustainable urban development goals, this research provides policymakers with valuable insights and practical approaches for engaging stakeholders. Equipping designers with information to address motorcycle fire incidents using environmentally friendly solutions underscores the importance of crafting emergency response plans sensitive to cultural differences across diverse landscapes.
Act1 drives chemoresistance via regulation of antioxidant RNA metabolism and redox homeostasis
Authors: Hong Lingzi , Herjan Tomasz , Chen Xing , Zagore Leah L. , Bulek Katarzyna , Wang Han , Yang Chi-Fu Jeffrey , Licatalosi Donny D. , Li Xiaoxia , Li Xiao
Published: June 2024

The IL-17 receptor adaptor molecule Act1, an RNA-binding protein, plays a critical role in IL-17–mediated cancer progression. Here, we report a novel mechanism of how IL-17/Act1 induces chemoresistance by modulating redox homeostasis through epitranscriptomic regulation of antioxidant RNA metabolism. Transcriptome-wide mapping of direct Act1–RNA interactions revealed that Act1 binds to the 5′UTR of antioxidant mRNAs and Wilms’ tumor 1–associating protein (WTAP), a key regulator in m6A methyltransferase complex. Strikingly, Act1’s binding sites are located in proximity to m6A modification sites, which allows Act1 to promote the recruitment of elF3G for cap-independent translation. Loss of Act1’s RNA binding activity or Wtap knockdown abolished IL-17–induced m6A modification and translation of Wtap and antioxidant mRNAs, indicating a feedforward mechanism of the Act1–WTAP loop. We then developed antisense oligonucleotides (Wtap ASO) that specifically disrupt Act1’s binding to Wtap mRNA, abolishing IL-17/Act1-WTAP-mediated antioxidant protein production during chemotherapy. Wtap ASO substantially increased the antitumor efficacy of cisplatin, demonstrating a potential therapeutic strategy for chemoresistance.
A human STAT3 gain-of-function variant drives local Th17 dysregulation and skin inflammation in mice
Authors: Toth Kelsey A. , Schmitt Erica G. , Kolicheski Ana , Greenberg Zev J. , Levendosky Elizabeth , Saucier Nermina , Trammel Kelsey , Oikonomou Vasileios , Lionakis Michail S. , Klechevsky Eynav , Kim Brian S. , Schuettpelz Laura G. , Saligrama Naresha , Cooper Megan A.
Published: June 2024

Germline gain-of-function (GOF) variants in STAT3 cause an inborn error of immunity associated with early-onset poly-autoimmunity and immune dysregulation. To study tissue-specific immune dysregulation, we used a mouse model carrying a missense variant (p.G421R) that causes human disease. We observed spontaneous and imiquimod (IMQ)-induced skin inflammation associated with cell-intrinsic local Th17 responses in STAT3 GOF mice. CD4+ T cells were sufficient to drive skin inflammation and showed increased Il22 expression in expanded clones. Certain aspects of disease, including increased epidermal thickness, also required the presence of STAT3 GOF in epithelial cells. Treatment with a JAK inhibitor improved skin disease without affecting local Th17 recruitment and cytokine production. These findings collectively support the involvement of Th17 responses in the development of organ-specific immune dysregulation in STAT3 GOF and suggest that the presence of STAT3 GOF in tissues is important for disease and can be targeted with JAK inhibition.
Fusion pore flux controls the rise-times of quantal synaptic responses
Authors: Jackson Meyer B. , Chiang Chung-Wei , Cheng Jinbo
Published: June 2024

The release of neurotransmitter from a single synaptic vesicle generates a quantal response, which at excitatory synapses in voltage-clamped neurons is referred to as a miniature excitatory postsynaptic current (mEPSC). We analyzed mEPSCs in cultured mouse hippocampal neurons and in HEK cells expressing postsynaptic proteins enabling them to receive synaptic inputs from cocultured neurons. mEPSC amplitudes and rise-times varied widely within and between cells. In neurons, mEPSCs with larger amplitudes had longer rise-times, and this correlation was stronger in neurons with longer mean rise-times. In HEK cells, this correlation was weak and unclear. Standard mechanisms thought to govern mEPSCs cannot account for these results. We therefore developed models to simulate mEPSCs and assess their dependence on different factors. Modeling indicated that longer diffusion times for transmitters released by larger vesicles to reach more distal receptors cannot account for the correlation between rise-time and amplitude. By contrast, incorporating the vesicle size dependence of fusion pore expulsion time recapitulated experimental results well. Larger vesicles produce mEPSCs with larger amplitudes and also take more time to lose their content. Thus, fusion pore flux directly contributes to mEPSC rise-time. Variations in fusion pores account for differences among neurons, between neurons and HEK cells, and the correlation between rise-time and the slope of rise-time versus amplitude plots. Plots of mEPSC amplitude versus rise-time are sensitive to otherwise inaccessible properties of a synapse and offer investigators a means of assessing the role of fusion pores in synaptic release.
The S1 helix is a VIP in VSP
Authors: Short Ben
Published: June 2024

JGP study (Rayaprolu et al. https://doi.org/10.1085/jgp.202313467) shows that hydrophobic residues in the S1 transmembrane domain modulate the voltage sensor movements and enzymatic activity of voltage-sensing phosphatase.
Dielectric performance improvement of polypropylene film by hierarchical structure design for metallized film capacitors
Authors: Xiao Meng , Zhang Zhiyuan , Du Boxue
Published: June 2024

In this paper, hierarchical structure design method is proposed for improving the dielectric performance of polypropylene (PP) for metallized film capacitors. The results show that the composite film with 0.02 wt% terephthalaldehyde doping and functional layer thickness occupying 25% shows the best dielectric properties. The leakage conductivity declines by 89.0%–94.3%, the DC breakdown strength grows by 15.6%–19.7% and the discharged energy density improves by 50.6%–53.4%. Terephthalaldehyde doping introduces sites that could capture free holes, thereby blocking the carrier migration path. The hierarchical structure design results in the holes accumulating in the functional layer and the reverse electric field formed suppresses the charge injection from the anode. Furthermore, the probability of intrinsic charge excitation due to the band gap width reduction is greatly reduced. The method provides a reference for improving the dielectric performance of PP films from the perspective of regulating the charge transmission behavior.
Electronic, magnetic and structural properties of CoFeVAl and CoFeV0.5Mn0.5Al
Authors: Kharel Parashu , Baker Gavin , Wieberdink Matthew , Diallo Salimatou , Anas Mohd , Shand Paul M , Lukashev Pavel V
Published: June 2024

In this study, we present results of a comprehensive computational and experimental study of CoFeVAl and CoFeV0.5Mn0.5Al Heusler alloys. It is shown that while CoFeVAl exhibits a fairly large degree of spin polarization, this material is not half-metallic due to the presence of the vanadium spin-down states at the Fermi level. However, replacing 50% of vanadium with manganese results in a nearly half-metallic transition, largely due to the shift of the Fermi level towards occupied states. Moreover, the half-metallicity of CoFeV0.5Mn0.5Al is rather robust in a wide range of considered mechanical strain and under experimentally observed B2-type atomic disorder, thus making this alloy potentially suitable for practical spintronic applications. Both considered alloys exhibit ferromagnetic alignment at larger lattice constants, aside from a relatively small magnetic moment of vanadium which is anti-aligned with the magnetic moments of Co, Fe and Mn. We have synthesized both CoFeVAl and CoFeV0.5Mn0.5Al alloys in cubic structure with some structural disorder using arc melting and annealing. The structural and magnetic properties of the synthesized CoFeV0.5Mn0.5Al alloy are in good agreement with the theoretical calculations but vary slightly from the parent compound.
DC assisted electric field on the improvement of the nonlinear electrical conductivity of SiC/LDPE field grading composites
Authors: Han Yongsen , Chen Jie , Yin Hang , Wang Xinyu , Zheng Huan , Sun Yunlong , Li Zhonghua
Published: June 2024

Nonlinear resistive field grading material presents nonlinear electrical conductivity, and self-homogenizes the electric field distribution. The nonlinear conductivity is closely associated to the filler distribution, which can be modulated by the electric field assist during the material preparation. In this paper, the effects of the direct current (DC) electric field assist on the filler distribution and nonlinear conductivity of the nonlinear resistive field grading materials were studied for the first time. The silicon carbide (SiC)/low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites were prepared under different DC assisted electric field. The composites’ microstructure, dielectric spectra and DC conductivity were characterized, respectively. Results illustrate that the DC electric field assist leads to the gradient distribution of SiC filler in the matrix, and also contributes to the SiC particles’ chains. Compared with the untreated SiC/LDPE composite, the electric-field assisted composites show more distinct nonlinear conductivity characteristics when the DC assisted electric field exceeds 0.3 kV mm−1, which is attributed to the percolation phenomenon of SiC particles. This work is helpful to design the dielectric functionally graded materials, and to self-homogenize the electric field distribution in power apparatus and electronic devices.
Full-colour-sorting metalens based on guided mode resonance
Authors: Cheng Kaixiang , Huang Xinya , Zhu Qianyu , Wang Xiaosai , Liu Yi , Han Yanhua , Li Yan
Published: June 2024

Full-colour-sorting metalens using few nanostructured layers have recently generated considerable interest as high-sensitivity colour image sensors because of their reliability and high resolution. Based on the guided mode resonance principle and propagation phase modulation, a full-colour-sorting metalens is designed, which can theoretically obtain any wavelength of light from the incident white light and realize arbitrary wavelength focusing with the same focal length in the visible range. Without the loss of generality, we propose a prototype of such metalens used for sorting blue, green and red light from the visible spectrum commonly used in practical applications. The maximum focussing efficiency is over 50% with a relatively high numerical aperture of 0.7. The proposed full-colour-sorting metalens can be used in many applications, such as colour mixing, colour holography, colour filtering, wavelength division multiplexing and so on.