bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct gastric phenotype in patients with pathogenic variants in SMAD4: A nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: Jelsig Anne Marie , Qvist Niels , Bertelsen Birgitte , Christensen Lise-Lotte , Grossjohan Hanne , Lautrup Charlotte Kvist , Sunde Lone , Tørring Pernille Mathiesen , Ljungman Ken , Christensen Louise Torp , Karstensen John Gásdal
Published: September 2022

Background and study aims In most patients with juvenile polyposis Syndrome, it is possible to detect a pathogenic germline variant in SMAD4 or BMPR1A. It is well known that patients with a pathogenic variant in SMAD4 have a higher risk of gastric polyposis and gastric cancer compared to BMPR1A carriers, but the natural history of gastric involvement is poorly described. We aimed to systematically review endoscopic and histopathological gastric findings in Danish patients with pathogenic variants in SMAD4.

Patients and methods This was a retrospective, cross-sectional study including endoscopic and histological gastric findings in all known Danish patients with pathogenic variants in SMAD4. The patients were identified by data from various registries as well as from clinical genetic departments and laboratories.

Results We identified 41 patients (2–72 years) with a pathogenic SMAD4 variant. In 31 patients, we were able to retrieve information on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Eighty-seven percent had at least one gastric abnormality including erythema (72 %) and edema (72 %). Half of the patients also had vulnerability of the mucosa and 68 % had gastric polyposis. An increasing frequency of abnormalities were observed with increasing age. Gastric cancer was diagnosed in 5 % of the cases and 22 % had a gastrectomy mainly because of massive polyposis.

Conclusions This study showed that most patients with pathogenic SMAD4 variants have a distinct phenotype of the gastric mucosa, and with an increasing severity in the elderly patients. These findings provide new insights into the natural history of gastric manifestations in patients with pathogenic SMAD4 variants.
Evidence-Based Treatment of Severe Psoriasis by Individualised Homoeopathy: Case Reports
Authors: Gupta Sapna , Nair Ashwini , Rana Manoj Kumar
Published: September 2022

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease with manifestations in skin, nails and joints. The disease usually runs a long course of remission and relapses, and is usually worse in winters. Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score above 15 is considered to be an independent criterion for classifying a case as severe psoriasis. The conventional systemic therapy controls the symptoms but is costly and has known adverse effects. Individualised homoeopathic treatment has a potential role in providing safe and cost-effective treatment in psoriasis. In this article, three cases of severe psoriasis vulgaris treated with Homoeopathy at Bakson Homoeopathic Medical College and hospital are presented. Two cases were under treatment for a period of 20 months and one case received treatment for 24 months. Significant reduction (60–100%) in PASI score was observed with individualised homoeopathic treatment.
The exact exchange–correlation potential in time-dependent density functional theory: Choreographing electrons with steps and peaks
Authors: Dar Davood , Lacombe Lionel , Maitra Neepa T.
Published: September 2022

The time-dependent exchange–correlation potential has the unusual task of directing fictitious non-interacting electrons to move with exactly the same probability density as true interacting electrons. This has intriguing implications for its structure, especially in the non-perturbative regime, leading to step and peak features that cannot be captured by bootstrapping any ground-state functional approximation. We review what has been learned about these features in the exact exchange–correlation potential of time-dependent density functional theory in the past decade or so and implications for the performance of simulations when electrons are driven far from any ground state.
Analysis of the influence of electromagnetic interference of transmission lines on the data quality and positioning accuracy of Beidou deformation monitoring
Authors: Mao Xiaopo , Feng Zhiqiang , Deng Xiaoguo , Yu Zhijun , He Dongsheng
Published: September 2022

In this paper, aiming at the application of geological disaster monitoring of transmission lines, by analyzing the data quality and positioning accuracy of Beidou original observation data, the influence of the electromagnetic environment of transmission lines on Beidou satellite monitoring data is obtained. According to the Beidou monitoring data of 500 kV transmission line for 23 days, the analysis results show that: in the case of strong electromagnetic interference/no electromagnetic interference, the difference of data integrity is less than 1%, the difference of multipath effect is less than 0.1 m, the difference of signal-to-noise ratio is less than 0.3 dB Hz, and the difference of cycle hop ratio is less than 150. The relative difference in positioning accuracy is less than 5%. In general, the electromagnetic environment of transmission lines has no significant impact on the data quality and positioning accuracy of Beidou deformation monitoring.
A novel L-band metamaterial slow wave structure with low space charge effect and high field uniformity
Authors: Ling Junpu , Pi Mingyao , He Yufang , He Juntao , Wang Lei
Published: September 2022

A novel L-band metamaterial slow wave structure with a weak space charge effect and high field uniformity is proposed. The slow wave structure is composed of two identical all-metal resonant elements. In order to weaken the space charge effect, a long drift tube is adopted as a metal joint, connecting the front periodic unit with the rear one. Moreover, the novel metamaterial structure exhibits higher field uniformity by rotating one of the resonant elements 45° relative to the other. Electromagnetic calculation indicates that the average fluctuation in the electric field dropped from 3% to 0.5%. Based on the novel metamaterial slow wave structure, an L-band Cerenkov oscillator model is built, and a preliminary particle-in-cell simulation is carried out. Under the condition of an acceleration voltage of 500 kV, beam current of 8 kA, and magnetic field of 1 T, a 1.64 GW average output microwave power at 1.30 GHz is obtained. The corresponding conversion efficiency is 41%. The simulation results prove the advantages of the metamaterial Cerenkov oscillator, such as low magnetic field, low impedance, miniaturization, and high conversion efficiency.
Pressure fluctuation characteristics of a pump turbine in a draft tube: New insight into water column separation
Authors: He Xianghui , Zhao Zhigao , Hu Jinhong , Yang Jiandong , Yang Jiebin , Peng Tao
Published: September 2022

The pumped-storage hydropower station is the most reliable, economic, long-term, large capacity, and mature energy storage technology in the power system, and it is an important component of renewable energy. Cavitation and water column separation of a pumped storage unit are important and widely researched factors in the safe and stable operation of a unit. This study focused on the evolution of water column separation of a pump turbine and its relationship with the pressure distribution of the cross section of a draft tube as well as the pressure pulsation characteristics of different measuring points in the cross section of the draft tube. A pumped storage experimental platform that can realize water column separation is established, and experiments with different opening angles are carried out. The results show that there are three factors that impact water column separation and cavitation: gas nucleus, vaporization pressure, and duration of vaporization pressure. Water column separation is the development and continuation of cavitation. The difference between the center pressure of the vortex rope and the wall pressure is large, reaching 2.23 m at a large opening. The pressure fluctuation amplitude of the wall measuring point is greater than that of the other measuring points in the same cross section, but the frequency characteristics are the same. In the transition process, the pressure pulsation amplitude of the liquid column bridging is the largest, and the largest pressure pulsation amplitude can reach 4.18 m at a small opening.
Stepping into NSF
Authors: Middleton Christine
Published: September 2022

Researchers working as temporary employees at the funding agency bring their technical expertise and take away a deep understanding of NSF’s inner workings.
Coffee plantations can strongly sequester soil organic carbon at high altitudes in Brazil
Authors: França Emmeline M. , Silva Carlos A. , Zinn Yuri L.
Published: September 2022

Context Soil organic carbon (SOC) affects all soil-based environmental services, and can be readily depleted upon cultivation. SOC concentrations are often higher in mountains than in lowlands due to lower temperatures slowing microbial activity and organic decomposition. However, the effects of altitudinal differences on SOC changes upon cultivation are mostly unknown. Aims We posed the question: when cultivated, are high-SOC mountain soils more likely to be depleted or are more stable under lower temperatures? Methods We assessed SOC concentrations and stocks (to a 40 cm depth) under comparable native forest and coffee (Coffea arabica L.) stands, both at two different altitudes (940 and 1260 m a.s.l.) along a mountain range in Brazil. The two soils were Inceptisols with similar 11° slope, and under native forests showed strong acidity, low fertility and cation exchange capacity. Key results Mean SOC concentrations under forests were relatively high, varying between 4.3% (0–5 cm depth) and 1.05% (20–40 cm depth) and were not significantly affected by altitude. The effects of cultivation varied with altitude: at 940 m, SOC concentrations decreased under coffee at the 0–5 cm depth, but increased below 10 cm depth at 1260 m, when compared to the native forest control. Conclusions SOC stocks under native forest and coffee stands were similar at 940 m, but the SOC stock under coffee stands at 1260 m increased by ca. 30 Mg ha−1. Implications These results are a promising indication that well-managed coffee stands can preserve or sequester SOC in higher altitudes, thus suggesting tropical mountain range soils are not highly susceptible to SOC losses upon conversion to perennial crops.
Automatic analysis of caregiver input and child production
Authors: Shin Gyu-Ho
Published: September 2022

The present study explores the applicability of Natural Language Processing (NLP) techniques to investigate child
corpora in Korean. We employ caregiver input and child production data in the CHILDES database, currently the largest and
open-access Korean child corpus data, and apply NLP techniques to the data in two ways: automatic Part-of-Speech tagging by
adapting a machine learning algorithm, and (semi-)automatic extraction of constructional patterns expressing a transitive event
(active transitive and suffixal passive). As the first empirical report on NLP-assisted analysis of Korean child corpora, this
study is expected to reveal its advantages and drawbacks, thereby opening the window to furthering corpus-mediated research on
child language development in Korean. Implications of this study’s findings will also contribute to research practice regarding
developmental studies on Korean through child corpora, ensuring the reproducibility of procedures and results, which is often
lacking in previous corpus-based research on child language development in Korean.
Food waste and associated carbon footprint: evidence from Chinese universities
Authors: Qian Long , Rao Qingling , Liu Hongbo , McCarthy Breda , Liu Li Xian , Wang Lingen
Published: September 2022

In recent years, there has been widespread concern regarding the carbon footprint (CF) of food waste due to the key impact of CF on climate change, particularly as China’s food waste is rising with its economic development. China has the largest scale of higher education in the world, and the amount of food waste in university canteens is considerable and cannot be ignored. This study attempts to assess the carbon footprint (CF) of food waste at Chinese universities for the first time based on a national survey. It is estimated that 1.55 million tons of food were wasted in Chinese university canteens in 2018, based on 9,192 samples covering 29 provinces in China. The associated CF was 2.51 Mt CO2eq. The top two food categories contributing to the total CF were meat and grains, accounting for 46.28% and 36.52%, respectively. Furthermore, the location of the university was significantly associated with the CF of plate waste. It also indicated that household income, meal satisfaction, sex, education, meal days, and food-saving campaigns were important factors influencing the CF of food waste. This study highlights areas that can help reduce the environmental impact of plate waste. It also provides targeted measures to reduce the associated CF of food waste in Chinese universities.
Discreet fermenters: Community organising, professional ethos, and ‘grassroots lobbying’ in Chicago
Authors: Petitjean Clément
Published: September 2022

Community organising in the United States is often hailed for its ability to enhance the public visibility and political influence of marginalised social actors. This article contends that discreet. Drawing from ethnographic fieldwork conducted in Chicago, the article demonstrates that discretion is a core element in community organisers’ professional ethos of stepping back behind the volunteer, often low-income community spokespersons that they select, train and advise. The article then shows how organisers’ professionally-powered fermentation work unfolds through state-level grassroots lobbying, in a complex dialectic between discretion and visibility, between accommodating with the rules of the game and subverting them.
Weyl double copy and massless free-fields in curved spacetimes
Authors: Han Shanzhong
Published: September 2022

In spinor formalism, since any massless free-field spinor with spin higher than 1/2 can be constructed with spin-1/2 spinors (Dirac–Weyl (DW) spinors) and scalars, we introduce a map between Weyl fields and DW fields. We determine the corresponding DW spinors in a given empty spacetime. Regarding them as basic units, other higher spin massless free-field spinors are then identified. Along this way, we find some hidden fundamental features related to these fields. In particular, for non-twisting vacuum Petrov type N solutions, we show that all higher spin massless free-field spinors can be constructed with one type of DW spinor and the zeroth copy. Furthermore, we systematically rebuild the Weyl double copy for non-twisting vacuum type N and vacuum type D solutions. Moreover, we show that the zeroth copy not only connects the gravity fields with a single copy but also connects the degenerate Maxwell fields with the DW fields in the curved spacetime, both for type N and type D cases. Besides, we extend the study to non-twisting vacuum type III solutions. We find a particular DW scalar independent of the proposed map and whose square is proportional to the Weyl scalar. A degenerate Maxwell field and an auxiliary scalar field are then identified. Both of them play similar roles as the Weyl double copy. The result further inspires us that there is a deep connection between gravity theory and gauge theory.
Experimental investigation of an atmospheric pressure plasma jet as an ion source for on-site mass-spectrometry analysis of nonvolatile solid samples: the integration effect of thermal desorption and ionization
Authors: Liu Kun , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhou Xiongfeng , Huo Xinming , Wang Xiaohao , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken)
Published: September 2022

This work reported an air atmospheric pressure plasma jet served as an ion source for nonvolatile solid analysis, which allows a unique capability to achieve thermal desorption and ionization simultaneously without complex devices, inert gas, or solvents. Owing to precise amount of heat generated by plasma jet, nonvolatile analytes were thermally released from solid surfaces without the assistance of secondary desorption equipment. According to the mass spectra and Fourier transform infrared spectrum, [M + H]+ and [M + NO3]− ions were the major analyte ions in the positive-ion and negative-ion modes, respectively. The applied voltages, discharge currents, and gas temperatures of plasma jet were measured, and found to be positively correlated with the mass spectra signal intensity of the samples, while the added resistances and gas flow rate were negatively correlated with the signal intensity. The influence mechanisms of analytes natures coupling physical parameters of plasma jet on detection performance were revealed. The prospect of quantitative testing was confirmed by the linear relationship between the peak intensity and sample mass.
Mechanism for the induction and enhancement of inclusions on crack source and simulation analysis for hot tearing tendency of aluminum alloy
Authors: You Kai , Rao Lei , Wen Jiaying , Dong Yunpeng
Published: September 2022

Inclusions are typical discontinuous defects, those defects significantly reduce the local mechanical properties of castings during solidification, and play a strong role in inducing and enhancing hot tearing in alloys. Based on the coupling characterization of micro solidification morphology and macro inclusions, this paper proposed a construction method of heterogeneous model containing multi-scale information, and carried out dynamic analysis on the evolution process of stress field at the end of solidification, so as to investigate the influence mechanism of inclusions on the initiation and propagation of hot tearing. The results showed that inclusions and their local content significantly changed the stress field at the end of solidification, which easily resulted in local stress concentration and induced crack source in defects area. During the crack propagation, nearby inclusions greatly reduced the propagation resistance and promoted the formation of hot tearing, which had significant impact on the propagation path of hot tearing. Introducing inclusions defect into stress analysis and comprehensively considering the induction and enhancement of inclusions on hot tearing can better improves the prediction accuracy of hot tearing, which has engineering guiding significance for casting process optimization and product quality control.
Polymer nanocarriers for targeted local delivery of agents in treating brain tumors
Authors: Josowitz Alexander D , Bindra Ranjit S , Saltzman W Mark
Published: September 2022

Glioblastoma (GBM), the deadliest brain cancer, presents a multitude of challenges to the development of new therapies. The standard of care has only changed marginally in the past 17 years, and few new chemotherapies have emerged to supplant or effectively combine with temozolomide. Concurrently, new technologies and techniques are being investigated to overcome the pharmacokinetic challenges associated with brain delivery, such as the blood brain barrier (BBB), tissue penetration, diffusion, and clearance in order to allow for potent agents to successful engage in tumor killing. Alternative delivery modalities such as focused ultrasound and convection enhanced delivery allow for the local disruption of the BBB, and the latter in particular has shown promise in achieving broad distribution of agents in the brain. Furthermore, the development of polymeric nanocarriers to encapsulate a variety of cargo, including small molecules, proteins, and nucleic acids, have allowed for formulations that protect and control the release of said cargo to extend its half-life. The combination of local delivery and nanocarriers presents an exciting opportunity to address the limitations of current chemotherapies for GBM toward the goal of improving safety and efficacy of treatment. However, much work remains to establish standard criteria for selection and implementation of these modalities before they can be widely implemented in the clinic. Ultimately, engineering principles and nanotechnology have opened the door to a new wave of research that may soon advance the stagnant state of GBM treatment development.
A comparative study of the performance of methods for f-wave extraction
Authors: Mihandoost Sara , Sörnmo Leif , Doyen Matthieu , Oster Julien
Published: September 2022

Objective. This study proposes a novel technique for atrial fibrillatory waves (f-waves) extraction and investigates the performance of the proposed method comparing with different f-wave extraction methods. Approach. We propose a novel technique combining a periodic component analysis (PiCA) and echo state network (ESN) for f-waves extraction, denoted PiCA-ESN. PiCA-ESN benefits from the advantages of using both source separation and nonlinear adaptive filtering. PiCA-ESN is evaluated by comparing with other state-of-the-art approaches, which include template subtraction technique based on principal component analysis, spatiotemporal cancellation, nonlinear adaptive filtering using an echo state neural network, and a source separation technique based on PiCA. Quality assessment is performed on a recently published reference database including a large number of simulated ECG signals in atrial fibrillation (AF). The performance of the f-wave extraction methods is evaluated in terms of signal quality metrics (SNR, ΔSNR) and robustness of f-wave features. Main results. The proposed method offers the best signal quality performance, with a ΔSNR of approximately 22 dB across all 8 sets of the reference database, as well as the most robust extraction of f-wave features, with 75% of all estimates of dominant atrial frequency well below 1 Hz.
Carotid Doppler ultrasound for non-invasive haemodynamic monitoring: a narrative review
Authors: Suriani Irene , van Houte Joris , de Boer Esmée C , van Knippenberg Luuk , Manzari Sabina , Mischi Massimo , Bouwman R Arthur
Published: September 2022

Objective. Accurate haemodynamic monitoring is the cornerstone in the management of critically ill patients. It guides the optimization of tissue and organ perfusion in order to prevent multiple organ failure. In the past decades, carotid Doppler ultrasound (CDU) has been explored as a non-invasive alternative for long-established invasive haemodynamic monitoring techniques. Considering the large heterogeneity in reported studies, we conducted a review of the literature to clarify the current status of CDU as a haemodynamic monitoring tool. Approach. In this article, firstly an overview is given of the equipment and workflow required to perform a CDU exam in clinical practice, the limitations and technical challenges potentially faced by the CDU sonographer, and the cerebrovascular mechanisms that may influence CDU measurement outcomes. The following chapter describes alternative techniques for non-invasive haemodynamic monitoring, detailing advantages and limitations compared to CDU. Next, a comprehensive review of the literature regarding the use of CDU for haemodynamic monitoring is presented. Furthermore, feasibility aspects, training requirements and technical developments of CDU are addressed. Main results. Based on the outcomes of these studies, we assess the applicability of CDU-derived parameters within three clinical domains (cardiac output, volume status, and fluid responsiveness), and amongst different patient groups. Finally, recommendations are provided to improve the quality and standardization of future research and clinical practice in this field. Significance. Although CDU is not yet interchangeable with invasive ‘gold standard’ cardiac output monitoring, the present work shows that certain CDU-derived parameters prove promising in the context of functional haemodynamic monitoring.
A bi-stable soft robotic bendable module driven by silicone dielectric elastomer actuators: design, characterization, and parameter study
Authors: Baltes Matthias , Kunze Julian , Prechtl Johannes , Seelecke Stefan , Rizzello Gianluca
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we present a novel concept for a planar soft robotic module actuated by smart artificial muscles. The structure consists of a flexible backbone capable of continuously bending along a plane, and having a rigid plate connected to its top. The actuation is provided by an antagonist-agonist pair of artificial muscle fibers, consisting of silicone-based rolled dielectric elastomer actuator (RDEA) membranes connected to the rigid top plate. When actuated via high voltage, the RDEAs expand and, in turn, cause the structure to bend along a desired direction. The novel prototype concept is described in detail first, and systematic parameter studies are conducted afterwards by means of a physics-based model. Then, an experimental prototype is manufactured and tested, with the aim of validating the dependency of the bending angle performance on the system design parameters. We demonstrate that the bending angle is strongly affected by the choice of the flexible beam geometry, as well as the RDEAs mounting points. It is found that, for some combinations of parameters, the buckling instability of the beam can be suitably triggered by the RDEAs, resulting in large bending angles up to 25°. This feature also allows to keep the robot deformed without supplying any electric power. In contrast, parameters corresponding to mono-stable configurations result in a maximum bending angle of 11° only.
Loading capacity, rotation loss and torsional oscillation research on an Evershed-type hybrid superconducting bearing used for micro-thrust measurements
Authors: Liu Z X , Yang W J , Zhao P , Deng F W , Yan J Z , Ren J X , Tang H B
Published: September 2022

Characterized by their very low rotational drag, applications of high-temperature superconductor (HTS) bearings have been expanded in some high-precision instruments. We have developed a sensitive magnetic suspension stand based on an Evershed-type hybrid HTS bearing to measure μN-level thrust. The hybrid HTS bearing uses the strong attractive force of a permanent magnet (PM)-biased bearing to support the main load in the bearing, while instability in the PM-biased bearing is compensated by the magnetic stability from a HTS bearing. Compared with a single PM/HTS bearing, the hybrid HTS bearing is intended not only to support larger loads but also to suppress rotation loss and levitation drift. Loading capacity, loss and damping torque were explored for different design parameters such as bearing gaps L
1, L
2 and the field cooling height (FCH) of bulk HTSs. Spin-down testing suggested that the loss of a hybrid HTS bearing can be reduced by increasing the HTS bearing gap L
2 or reducing the FCH. The hybrid HTS bearing showed a typical oscillation behavior at extreme low frequencies, and torsional pendulum testing suggested that the spring constant k of the hybrid HTS bearing can be as low as 36.39 μN m deg–1. A micro-thrust stand based on the hybrid HTS bearing was established to test an electrospray thruster in a vacuum chamber, and the measurement result of 26.61 μN shows the ability of the micro-thrust stand to achieve μN level testing.
Sugarcane waste based synthesized graphene like nanocarbon (GNC) for shock absorption application
Authors: Gawade Rohini P , Dahotre Sangeeta G , Chinke Shamal L
Published: September 2022

We report on the synthesis, characterization, and shock absorption characteristics of Graphene like Nano Carbon (GNC) prepared by the combustion of biomass (sugarcane waste) using the Rapid Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition (RT-CVD) technique. Post synthesis, the samples were purified by subjecting them to intercalation and annealing. The synthesised GNCs were then characterised by Raman, Infrared, and UV spectroscopy, together with microscopy. In analysis, the GNCs were observed to be rectangular in shape, thick, having sharp edges and corners, and having an area ∼50–200 μm2 with wrinkles on it. TEM images showed that GNCs exhibit smooth wrinkle contours with bits of dark showing conjugated graphene layers stacked together having multiple defects and dislocations. In Raman spectroscopy, D peak is observed at ∼1335 cm−1 and G peak is observed at ∼1591 cm−1 indicating GNC consists of sp2 and sp3 hybridised complex phases. The Crystalline Length (La), Disordered Length (LD) and Defect Density (nD) have been estimated to be 21.26 nm, 9.60 nm and 1.084 × 10−12/cm2 respectively. FTIR spectra revealed that C-C is present at ∼1420 cm−1 and C-O-C is present at 900 cm−1. In Uv measurements, no typical absorption peak was observed due to the micrometre size of GNC. The shock absorption properties of GNCs were investigated by subjecting them to pressure (~1.5 GPa) using a Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB). The obtained mechanical parameters revealed that GNCs absorbed ∼65% of incident energy and ∼15% transmitted, demonstrating their utility in the development of armour, shock and blast mitigating blocks, defense, and space applications.
Stochastic gravitational waves from long cosmic strings
Authors: Camargo Neves da Cunha Disrael , Ringeval Christophe , Bouchet François R.
Published: September 2022

We compute the expected strain power spectrum and energy
density parameter of the stochastic gravitational wave background (SGWB) created by a network of long cosmic strings evolving during
the whole cosmic history. As opposed to other studies, the
contribution of cosmic string loops is discarded and our result
provides a robust lower bound of the expected signal that is
applicable to most string models. Our approach uses Nambu-Goto
numerical simulations, running during the radiation, transition and
matter eras, in which we compute the two-point unequal-time
anisotropic stress correlators. These ones act as source terms in
the linearised equations of motion for the tensor modes, that we
solve using an exact Green's function integrator. Today, we find
that the rescaled strain power spectrum (k/ℋ0)2𝒫
h
peaks
on Hubble scales and exhibits, at large wavenumbers, high frequency
oscillations around a plateau of amplitude 100 (GU)2. Most of the
high frequency power is generated by the long strings present in the
matter era, the radiation era contribution being smaller.
Exploiting a future galactic supernova to probe neutrino magnetic moments
Authors: Jana Sudip , Porto-Silva Yago P. , Sen Manibrata
Published: September 2022

A core-collapse supernova (SN) offers an excellent astrophysical laboratory to test non-zero neutrino magnetic moments. In particular, the neutronization burst phase, which lasts for a few tens of milliseconds post-bounce, is dominated by electron neutrinos and can offer exceptional discovery potential for transition magnetic moments. We simulate the neutrino spectra from the burst phase in forthcoming neutrino experiments like the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE), and the Hyper-Kamiokande (HK), by taking into account spin-flavour conversions of supernova neutrinos caused by interactions with ambient magnetic fields. We find that the sensitivities to neutrino transition magnetic moments which can be explored by these experiments for a galactic SN are an order to several orders of magnitude better than the current terrestrial and astrophysical limits. Additionally, we also discuss how this realization might provide light on three important neutrino properties: (a) the Dirac/Majorana nature, (b) the neutrino mass ordering, and (c) the neutrino mass-generation mechanism.
CMB constraints on monodromy inflation at strong coupling
Authors: Copeland Edmund J. , Cunillera Francesc , Moss Adam , Padilla Antonio
Published: September 2022

We carry out a thorough numerical examination of field theory monodromy inflation at
strong coupling. We perform an MCMC analysis using a Gaussian likelihood, fitting multiparameter
models using CMB constraints on the spectral index and the tensor to scalar ratio. We show that
models with uniquely positive Wilson coefficients are ruled out. If there are coefficients that
can take on both signs, there can be a cancellation of terms that flattens the potentials and
allows one to satisfy current data, and forecasts with strong constraints on the tensor to scalar
ratio. Models of field theory monodromy are naturally enhanced to include a mechanism for
canceling off radiative corrections to vacuum energy, via vacuum energy sequestering (VES).
Although they include a much larger parameter space, we find that a similar numerical examination
yields no significant change in the Bayesian evidence for VES enhanced models, with naturalness
considerations making them more attractive from a theoretical perspective.
Multimodal collaborative brain-computer interfaces aid human-machine team decision-making in a pandemic scenario
Authors: Valeriani Davide , O’Flynn Lena C , Worthley Alexis , Sichani Azadeh Hamzehei , Simonyan Kristina
Published: September 2022

Objective. Critical decisions are made by effective teams that are characterized by individuals who trust each other and know how to best integrate their opinions. Here, we introduce a multimodal brain-computer interface (BCI) to help collaborative teams of humans and an artificial agent achieve more accurate decisions in assessing danger zones during a pandemic scenario. Approach. Using high-resolution simultaneous electroencephalography/functional MRI (EEG/fMRI), we first disentangled the neural markers of decision-making confidence and trust and then employed machine-learning to decode these neural signatures for BCI-augmented team decision-making. We assessed the benefits of BCI on the team’s decision-making process compared to the performance of teams of different sizes using the standard majority or weighing individual decisions. Main results. We showed that BCI-assisted teams are significantly more accurate in their decisions than traditional teams, as the BCI is capable of capturing distinct neural correlates of confidence on a trial-by-trial basis. Accuracy and subjective confidence in the context of collaborative BCI engaged parallel, spatially distributed, and temporally distinct neural circuits, with the former being focused on incorporating perceptual information processing and the latter involving action planning and executive operations during decision making. Among these, the superior parietal lobule emerged as a pivotal region that flexibly modulated its activity and engaged premotor, prefrontal, visual, and subcortical areas for shared spatial-temporal control of confidence and trust during decision-making. Significance. Multimodal, collaborative BCIs that assist human-artificial agent teams may be utilized in critical settings for augmented and optimized decision-making strategies.
Properties of cement mortars containing recycled concrete aggregate and waste mineral fibers
Authors: Khongova I , Chromkova I , Prachar V
Published: September 2022

The aim of this research is the maximum use of waste as a substitute for primary sources in cement mortars. In the experimental work, recycled concrete and waste mineral fibers were used to substitute the filler. Effects of different aggregate replacement ratios (5, 15, and 25%) on the resulting mortar properties were investigated. The application of waste materials resulted in a decrease in compressive and tensile strengths; on the contrary, a very favorable effect was recorded when monitoring the thermal insulation properties and frost resistance. The results of experimental work have shown that the waste materials used can be a full-fledged alternative to natural aggregates.
The effect of granite filler on the rheological properties of fresh mixture of cement composites
Authors: Musil L , Chylik R , Vodicka J
Published: September 2022

This paper describes the use of granite filler produced during cutting, grinding and polishing of decorative stone. It mainly focuses on the consistency and workability of the fresh mixture in case of the cement substitution by granite filler. The comparative tests are carried out according to European standards dealing with fresh mortars and fresh concrete. The substitution of cement by granite filler is in multiples of 5% and 10% of the cement weight respectively. All results are also compared with a reference sample without granite filler. The results of flow table confirmed that workability and consistency decreased as the amount of granite filler increased. Altough this phenomena was also confirmed by spread flow test, specimens with 5 and 10% cement substitution had a better rheological properties. This phenomena was probably caused by improve of grain size curve of fresh mortar.
Photocatalytic removal of an azo dye from solutions using ZnO and modified ZnO: Benzoic acid azo dye as a model
Authors: Al-Gubury Hazim Y , Alrazzak Nour Abd , Saad Suad T , Haider Sara
Published: September 2022

The effects of azo dyes, a severe water pollution source, on the ecosystem and public health have been widely studied, and more studies were made to remove these dyes from water using chemical, biological, electrochemical and physicochemical methods. This study relies on the photocatalytic degradation process as a clean method to clean water from azo dyes. The 4-((2-methyl-1-hydroxy naphthalene-1-yl) diazenyl) benzoic acid azo dye was used as a model dye in this study and prepared from a coupling reaction of p-aminobenzoic acid with 2-methylnaphthol. The photocatalytic degradation of this dye has been carried out using ZnO and modified ZnO. The dye removal was tested at various weights of ZnO and modified ZnO, different concentrations of the dye under constant light irradiation by using a 250 watts UV lamp. The results showed the dye removal by the modified (ZnO) was 92.4%, which is higher than the removal efficiency by the unmodified ZnO (87.51%). In conclusion, the results of this study showed that modified ZnO removes a high percentage of the dyes; therefore, it is recommended to use it to remove other common pollutants in the Iraqi rivers, such as phosphate and turbidity.
Theoretical study on dye-sensitized solar cells using graphene quantum dot and curcumin, pahthalocyanine dyes
Authors: Abed Hussein Hakim , Al-Aaraji Noor Al-Huda , Salman Jasmin M. , Abduljalil Hayder M. , Al-Seady Mohammed A.
Published: September 2022

In the present study, the nanostructures from curcumin dye, Phthalocyanine (Pc) dye and graphene quantum dot GQD (C30H14), as well as, the nanocomposites which include (GQD/ curcumin, 2GQD/ curcumin, GQD/ Pc and 2GQD/ Pc) are considered to investigate the performances in solar sensation. The geometrical optimization and optical properties of the studied structures are done using the density functional theory DFT and time dependent TDDFT method with B3LYP/6-31G level. Examining the evaluated structures as a sensitizer of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) by taking the TiO2 electrode and I-/I-3 electrolyte, it was found that the HOMO and LUMO energy levels, charge spatial separations, energy gap, and light harvesting efficiency for GQD/ Pc nanocomposite satisfied the requirements as a sensitizer. Therefore, it is concluded that the GQD/ Pc nanocomposite indicates an equilibrium among the multiple essential factors and it is predicted that it can be preferred as a promising sensitizer in the DSSCs compared with others structures.
Adopting electrocoagulation technology for removing arsenic from contaminated water
Authors: Abdulredha Muhammad , Ismael Hussein Idrees , Khalaf Zahraa D. , Abood Emad Salaam
Published: September 2022

The increasing demand for drinkable water has speeded the expansion of groundwater use. Unfortunately, many geogenic contaminants like arsenic significantly decrease the quality of groundwater. Arsenic in water has harmed at least 0.3 billion people globally. Researchers used various types of treatment technologies to treat arsenic from synthetic wastewater, such as reverse osmoses, adsorption, and electrocoagulation. The electrocoagulation technique has gained popularity due to its increased removal efficiency compared to traditional treatments, low cost, and low sludge generation. This research aims to analyse arsenic treatment and examine the effect of technique variables on the removal performance to determine the best process variables for water purification. The outcome highlighted that arsenic removal improved with higher current densities needing less operating time. As a result, the removal effectiveness of arsenic from water using the electrocoagulation approach went from 88% to 96% in an alkaline environment, which is preferable. The best working settings for arsenic removal include a current density of 6 mA/m2 and a treating time of 30 minutes to reach 81% arsenic removal effectiveness. The best pH level for treating arsenic-contaminated water has been identified as 9.
Effect of temperature, strain rate and chromium content on the flow behavior of high-manganese steels
Authors: Xia Lei , Yan Ling , Zhang Hongmei , Li Yan , Jiang Zhengyi , Li Guanglong
Published: September 2022

Compression tests and metallographic observation were conducted to investigate the effect of temperature (400 °C–1100 °C), strain rate (0.001–10 s−1) and chromium content (0.21–5.44 wt.%) on the flow behavior of high manganese steels for cryogenic application. The results showed that the flow stress reduced with increased temperature and decreased strain rate. The effect of chromium content on the flow stress of steels was not linear. The lowest flow stress was got when the content of chromium was 1.53 wt.%. The influence of strain rate and temperature was obvious while that of chromium content was minor. The maximum flow stress decreased 538 MPa-571 MPa when the temperature rised from 400 °C to 1100 °C at the strain rate 10 s−1. It ascended 146 MPa-149 MPa when the strain rate increased from 0.001 s−1 to 10 s−1 at 400 °C. However, the effect of chromium content on the maximum flow stress of steels did not exceed 50 MPa at tested temperatures and strain rates. Dynamic recrystallization (DRX) was observed for all tested steels at 1100 °C. Higher temperatures and lower strain rates seemed to promote DRX. The true strain required for DRX was the largest when the chromium content in steels was 1.53 wt.%. It delayed the occurrence of DRX.
Lattice dynamics, elastic, magnetic, thermodynamic and thermoelectric properties of the two-dimensional semiconductors MPSe3 (M = Cd, Fe and NI): a first-principles study
Authors: Musari A A , Kratzer Peter
Published: September 2022

Adopting Density Functional Theory (DFT) with Hubbard U correction implemented in Quantum Espresso, we have performed a comprehensive first-principles study of MPSe3 (M = Cd. Fe and Ni) monolayers. The computed electronic properties revealed the semi-conductive nature of the monolayers with small indirect bandgaps. A free-standing single layer of MPSe3 can be exfoliated from the parent compound by virtue of its structural stability and high in-plane stiffness. Hence, the elastic and dynamical properties were computed to establish the mechanical and dynamical stability. The results showed that CdPSe3 and NiPSe3 are stable in the trigonal structure while a single negative frequency observed in the phonon dispersion of FePSe3 indicates the possibility to relax to another, less symmetric structure. In addition, these 2D systems showed relatively good response when subjected to strain hence, they can be said to be mechanically stable. The thermodynamic properties, such as internal energies, vibrational free energies, entropies and constant-volume heat capacities have been computed within the harmonic approximations using the phonon density of states. The computed thermoelectric properties show that CdPSe3 and FePSe3 have the peak figure of merit at low temperature of 50 K. This work predicts a thermoelectric performance with an electronic figure of merit of 0.28 for p-doped CdPSe3. Moreover, the DFT+U method predicts an electronic figure of merit of 0.39 and 0.2 for p-doped FePSe3 and NiPSe3, respectively.
Comparative property analysis of fused filament fabrication PLA using fresh and recycled feedstocks
Authors: Dash Aparna , Kabra Shruti , Misra Sidhant , G Hrishikeshan , Singh Raghvendra Pratap , Patterson Albert E , Chadha Utkarsh , Rajan A John , Hirpha Bulcha Bekele
Published: September 2022

Manufacturing industries generate much waste, which can be converted into raw materials for other allied industries. Thermoplastic wastes can be recycled in many cases. Recently these recycled plastics have been used to manufacture the input filament necessary for material extrusion additive manufacturing (MEAM). Polylactic acid (PLA) is one of the most common and potentially useful engineering plastics that can be additively manufactured, but the effect of recycling on the effective properties is still not well known. In this study, the mechanical properties of MEAM-processed PLA were compared for virgin and recycled feedstock. The collected data were analyzed using a full-factorial design of experiments method, providing insight into the effects of layer thickness and infill density on the performance of the material before and after recycling. The results showed a notable degradation in properties after recycling, but this effect was moderated by modifying the studied parameters. This work and its conclusions will serve as a screening study to guide future efforts in this area and promote the wider use of recycled materials in additive manufacturing.
Stretchable printed circuit board integrated with Ag-nanowire-based electrodes and organic transistors toward imperceptible electrophysiological sensing
Authors: Kawabata Rei , Araki Teppei , Akiyama Mihoko , Uemura Takafumi , Wu Tianxu , Koga Hirotaka , Okabe Yusuke , Noda Yuki , Tsuruta Shuichi , Izumi Shintaro , Nogi Masaya , Suganuma Katsuaki , Sekitani Tsuyoshi
Published: September 2022

Wearable devices with excellent mechanical stretchability, comparable to that of human skin, are highly desirable for preventing discomfort and dermatitis. Composite material systems that use metal particles and elastomers are promising for realizing intrinsic stretchable electrodes with high conductivity and enhancing mechanical flexibility of wearable devices. However, it is challenging to achieve stable device performance under mechanical deformation using stretchable electrodes. In this study, stretchable electrodes with enhanced conductivity and stretchability are developed and integrated with organic transistors to fabricate a stretchable printed circuit board (PCB) that acts as a voltage amplifier under large strains. The stretchable electrodes are composed of silver microparticles, a small quantity of silver nanowires (AgNWs), and an elastomer matrix, which demonstrated a conductivity of 8.5 × 103 S cm−1 at a curing temperature of 100 °C. The observed conductivity was 3.6 times higher than that of electrodes without AgNWs. Owing to the addition of AgNWs, the durability strain in cyclic stretching increased from 10% to 75%; the increment can be attributed to the suppression of microcrack propagation. Moreover, the proposed stretchable PCB was applied to fabricate a voltage amplifier, which enabled stable amplification by 14 times under 0% and 75% strain owing to a mechanical rigid-soft patterning designed into the substrate according to the rigidness of the mounted components. The stabilization technologies in the proposed stretchable PCB can contribute to the development of wearable devices for long-term usage to assist the early detection of diseases.