bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing the pricing of credit risk mitigation warrants in corporate bond financing
Authors: Yu Qianlong , Zhang Xu , Bai Xiaohan
Published: July 2024

In 2022, various Chinese regulatory authorities, including the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) and the State‐owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC), jointly issued documents and convened seminars at the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges to highlight the importance of credit protection tools, particularly credit risk mitigation warrants (CRMWs), to bolster corporate bond market financing. However, empirical research on the factors influencing CRMW prices in the Chinese market remains scarce. This study examines the factors affecting CRMW creation prices using a sample of CRMWs issued between 2018 and 2023 and analyzes the macroeconomic factors, characteristics of the underlying issuers, and related financial instruments. This study employs Shapley decomposition to evaluate the contribution of each variable. The findings reveal that, on the macroeconomic front, the year‐on‐year GDP growth rate from the previous quarter and the loan balance of financial institutions significantly and negatively impact CRMW prices. Regarding the underlying issuers, the issuer's credit rating and return on net assets significantly negatively affect CRMW prices, whereas the asset–liability ratio and issuer age have a significant positive impact. Additionally, related financial instruments such as bond interest rates and the risk mitigation certificate term positively contribute to the coverage of the underlying bond term and have a significant positive impact on CRMW prices.
Perinatal risk factors and neurocognitive outcomes in children and adolescents with sickle cell disease
Authors: Longoria Jennifer N. , Dandar Christina M. , Semko Joshua H. , Liyanage Janaka S. S. , Kang Guolian , McCracken Halle T. , MacArthur Erin , Hoyt Catherine R. , Hankins Jane S. , Takemoto Clifford M. , Heitzer Andrew M.
Published: July 2024

Background

The literature on cognitive and academic outcomes for children with sickle cell disease (SCD) who experience perinatal risk factors is limited. We aimed to evaluate if low birthweight (LBW), gestational age, and history of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission were associated with neurocognitive functioning, grade retention, or receipt of early intervention or formal educational support in children with SCD.

Procedures

This prospective birth cohort study included 336 participants, ages 8–18, with SCD, who received cognitive testing as part of standard of care and whose caregivers completed behavioral rating scales. Multivariable generalized linear regression models were used to examine associations between perinatal risks and outcome variables, after adjusting for demographic and medical covariates.

Results

The prevalence of NICU admission and LBW were 12.03% and 13.50%, respectively. Lower birthweight, earlier gestational age, and NICU admission were associated with worse working memory performance and receipt of early intervention services. Lower birthweight and NICU admission were also associated with slower processing speed. History of NICU admission was associated with caregiver ratings of hyperactivity and emotional dysregulation. The effects of perinatal risk factors on neurocognitive, academic, or educational outcomes were not dependent on SCD genotype.

Conclusions

History of LBW or NICU admission was associated with worse cognitive outcomes and increased use of early intervention services among children with SCD. Early identification of perinatal risk factors will help identify children who will benefit from formal developmental or neuropsychological evaluations to manage the comorbidity of SCD and perinatal risks and facilitate increased intervention.
Synthesis and properties of new polyimide foams from foaming compositions with flexible segments of aliphatic diamine
Authors: Svetlichnyi Valentin , Polotnyanshchikov Konstantin , Vaganov Gleb , Kamalov Almaz , Ivan'kova Elena , Sukhanova Tatiana , Ivanov Aleksey , Popova Elena , Myagkova Ludmila , Yudin Vladimir
Published: July 2024

New foaming prepolymer compositions based on 4,4′‐oxydiphthalic anhydride, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl ether, 1,6‐hexamethylenediamine (HMDA), and a surfactant were synthesized. Polyimide (PI) foams containing from 0 to 40 mol% HMDA were prepared. The possibility of controlling the pore sizes in a foam material by selecting different fractions (250–400 μm) of particles of the powdered foam composition for heat treatment was shown. Scanning electron microscopy studies of morphology of the synthesized PI foams (PIFs) showed that all foams exhibited open cellular structures with pore diameters ranging from 50 to 500 μm. The influence of the components of the foaming composition (surfactant and aliphatic diamine) on the structure, thermal, and mechanical properties of the resulting PIFs was traced. The samples of PIFs containing 20% and 30% HMDA were elastic (the corresponding stress–strain curves were almost linear up to the 30% deformation) and able to restore their shape after removing the load. The resulting foams exhibited high thermal stability (the onset of weight loss was observed in the 470–500°C range). It was revealed that the synthesized PIF compositions were incombustible in an open flame. Due to their high heat resistance and nonflammability, the obtained PIFs can be used for thermal insulation applications in the aerospace, transport, construction, and microelectronics industries.

Highlights

New, lightweight, flexible, and nonflammable PIFs have been synthesized.

The HMDA additive imparts elasticity to PIFs.

The introduction of a surfactant (KT‐6) makes the PIF homogeneous.
Genome‐wide DNA methylation profile and its function in regulating Vip3Aa tolerance in fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda)
Authors: Zou Luming , Liu Zhenxing , Jin Minghui , Wang Peng , Shan Yinxue , Xiao Yutao
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Vegetative insecticidal proteins (Vips) are widely used in pest management, but Vip tolerance poses a significant threat. DNA methylation plays important roles in regulating the response of biological organisms to environmental stress, and it may also regulate fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda) Vip3Aa tolerance.

RESULTS

In this study, a DNA methylation map was developed for FAW, and its function in regulating FAW Vip3Aa tolerance was explored. The FAW genome‐wide DNA methylation map showed that exons were preferred regions for DNA methylation and housekeeping genes were highly methylated. FAW was screened using Vip3Aa for ten generations, and bioassays indicated that Vip3Aa tolerance increased trans‐generationally. A comparison of DNA methylation maps between Vip3Aa‐tolerant and ‐susceptible strains showed that gene body methylation was positively correlated with gene expression level. FAW exhibits significant variation in DNA methylation among individuals, and Vip3Aa screening induces epigenetic variation based on DNA methylation. Moreover, the study demonstrated that a reduction in methylation density within the gene body of a 3′5′‐cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase gene resulted in decreased expression and increased tolerance of FAW to Vip3Aa, which was validated through RNA interference experiments.

CONCLUSION

The DNA methylation map and mechanism of Vip3Aa tolerance improve our understanding of DNA methylation and its function in Lepidoptera and provide a new perspective for developing pest management strategies. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative Analysis of Symmetrical/Asymmetrical Vertical Electrolyte‐Insulated Semiconductor Tunnel FET for pH Sensor Application
Authors: Pundir Aditya Kumar Singh , Wadhwa Girish , Kaur Pawandeep , Mani Prashant , Bhandari Sheetal
Published: July 2024

This study investigates symmetrical/asymmetrical vertical electrolyte‐insulated semiconductor Tunnel field effect transistors (TFETs) (SV‐EIS‐TFET/ASV‐EIS‐TFET) for their application as pH biosensors. On the basis of device‐level simulations, the underlying physics of all architectures is explored and the comparative biosensing abilities of pH biosensors are evaluated. A vertical electrolyte Bio‐TFET with overlapping electrodes is presented in this study. The pH response is measured by observing the change in drain current and potential when the pH of the injected solution transitions from a lower to a higher level. As an intrinsic semiconductor material, electrons and holes in the electrolyte represent mobile ions in the solution. The region of the electrolyte has an electron affinity of 1.32 eV, a bandgap of 1.12 eV, and a dielectric constant of 78. Double gate structures raise concerns about correctly aligning the right and left gates because of their sensitivity impact. An analysis of the effect of gate misalignment on biosensor surface potentials, drain currents, and transconductance is presented. Furthermore, pH value ranges of 1–14 are considered for various sensitivity parameters. Simulations are performed using Silvaco TCAD for the SV‐EIS‐TFET and ASV‐EIS‐TFET biosensors.
Concentrations Influence of Complexing Agents on the Physicochemical Properties of Chemical Bath Deposited n‐Type FeSxOy for Homostructure Solar Cell
Authors: Ariff Adrian Afzal , Supee Aizuddin , Ichimura Masaya , Mohd Yusop Mohd Zamri , Abdul Jalil Aishah
Published: July 2024

A chemical bath deposition (CBD) is applied to deposit n‐type iron sulfide (FeSxOy) film on fluorine (F)‐doped tin oxide (SnO2)–FTO substrate. The duration, temperature, and magnetic stirrer's speed in CBD are 3 h, 75 °C, and 100 revolutions per minute. The influence of complexing agents’ concentration (≤200 mm)–acid (tartaric and lactic) on the physicochemical properties of film is studied. All films are n‐type semiconductors with large bandgap (2.95–3.58 eV) and contain high oxygen (≈56–83%). Scanning electron microscopy image shows the 50 mm tartaric acid film has a uniform and denser surface morphology. FeSxOy film with tartaric acid has lesser goethite and hematite peaks in X‐ray diffraction than lactic acid. The FeSxOy film with 100 mm lactic acid exhibits a slightly higher transmittance at ≈350–450 nm. The FeSxOy homostructure reveals average open‐circuit voltage (Voc) = 0.45 V, short‐circuit current (Jsc) = 0.0003 mA cm−2, fill factor =38%, and efficiency (η) = 0.57%.
Carbon Micro/Nano Machining toward Miniaturized Device: Structural Engineering, Large‐Scale Fabrication, and Performance Optimization
Authors: Ma Zeyu , Wang Wenwu , Xiong Yibo , Long Yihao , Shao Qi , Wu Leixin , Wang Jiangwang , Tian Peng , Khan Arif Ullah , Yang Wenhao , Dong Yixiao , Yin Hongbo , Tang Hui , Dai Jun , Tahir Muhammad , Liu Xiaoyu , He Liang
Published: July 2024

With the rapid development of micro/nano machining, there is an elevated demand for high‐performance microdevices with high reliability and low cost. Due to their outstanding electrochemical, optical, electrical, and mechanical performance, carbon materials are extensively utilized in constructing microdevices for energy storage, sensing, and optoelectronics. Carbon micro/nano machining is fundamental in carbon‐based intelligent microelectronics, multifunctional integrated microsystems, high‐reliability portable/wearable consumer electronics, and portable medical diagnostic systems. Despite numerous reviews on carbon materials, a comprehensive overview is lacking that systematically encapsulates the development of high‐performance microdevices based on carbon micro/nano structures, from structural design to manufacturing strategies and specific applications. This review focuses on the latest progress in carbon micro/nano machining toward miniaturized device, including structural engineering, large‐scale fabrication, and performance optimization. Especially, the review targets an in‐depth evaluation of carbon‐based micro energy storage devices, microsensors, microactuators, miniaturized photoresponsive and electromagnetic interference shielding devices. Moreover, it highlights the challenges and opportunities in the large‐scale manufacturing of carbon‐based microdevices, aiming to spark further exciting research directions and application prospectives.
Directed Self‐Assembly of Polystyrene‐Block‐Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane Monolayer by Nano‐Trench for Nanopatterning
Authors: Tung Cheng‐Hsun , Ye Feng , Li Wei‐Yi , Nguyen The Anh , Lee Ming‐Chang , Wen Tao , Guo Zi‐Hao , Cheng Stephen Z. D. , Ho Rong‐Ming
Published: July 2024

This work pioneers to combine fast self‐assembly of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxanes (POSS) nanocage‐based giant surfactants with high etching contrast and directed self‐assembly for reliable long‐range lateral order to create well‐aligned sub‐10 nm line nanopatterns via reactive ion etching (RIE). Polystyrene‐block‐oligo(dimethylsiloxane) substituted POSS (PS‐b‐oDMS7POSS) with seven oligo(dimethylsiloxane) at the corners of the POSS nanocage and one polystyrene (PS) tail is designed and synthesized as a giant surfactant with self‐assembly behaviors like block copolymer (BCP). In contrast to BCP, oDMS7POSS gives a volume‐persistent “nanoatom” particle with higher mobility for fast self‐assembly and higher segregation strength with PS for smaller feature size. By taking advantage of directed self‐assembly using nano‐trench fabricated by electron beam lithography, well‐ordered nanostructured monolayer with well‐aligned parallel oDMS7POSS cylinders can be formed by confined self‐assembly within the nano‐trench. With the optimization of the RIE treatment using O2 as an etchant, the high etching contrast from the oDMS7POSS and PS gives the formation of well‐defined line nanopatterns with sub‐10 nm critical dimension that can serve as a mask for pattern transfer in lithography. These results demonstrate a cost‐effective approach for nanopatterning by utilizing a creatively designed giant surfactant with sub‐10 nm feature size and excellent etching contrast for modern lithographic applications.
Pancreatic cancer screening is effective in individuals at risk with predisposing germline gene variants, but not in gene variant‐negative familial pancreatic cancer families
Authors: Maurer Elisabeth , Lehman Bettina , Matthäi Elvira , Denzer Ulrike , Figiel Jens , Jesinghaus Moritz , Slater Emily P. , Stefenelli Ulrich , Gress Thomas M. , Bartsch Detlef K.
Published: July 2024

Objective

To evaluate the diagnostic yield of pancreatic cancer screening in individuals at risk (IAR) from familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) families with respect to the presence or absence of pathogenic germline variants predisposing to pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC).

Design

In a 20 years period, IAR from FPC families were enrolled in a prospective screening program of the national case collection for FPC of Germany, including magnet resonance imaging (MRI) and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). The diagnostic yield was analyzed regarding significant pancreatic lesions such as PDAC, high‐grade pancreatic‐intraepithelial‐neoplasia (PanIN3) and intraductal‐papillary‐mucinous‐neoplasia (IPMN) with high‐grade dysplasia. Screening results were compared between carriers of pathogenic variants and variant‐negative IAR.

Results

337 IAR, including 74 (22%) variant‐carriers and 263 IAR of variant‐negative FPC families (mean age 49; standard deviation [SD] + 8.9) were followed 64 (SD + 55) months. IAR underwent 5.1 (SD + 3.9) screening visits with 1733 MRI (5.1,SD + 3.9 per IAR) and 728 EUS (2.2,SD + 1.7 per IAR). In 12 (4%) cases, significant pancreatic lesions were detected, including 4 PDAC, 3 PanIN3 and 5 high‐grade IPMN. Three of 4 IAR with PDAC died after a mean of 27 months postoperatively, and one IAR is alive without evidence of disease after 31 months. The diagnostic yield for significant lesions was 13.5% (10/74) for variant carriers compared to 0.8% (2/263) for IAR of variant‐negative FPC families (p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that a negative variant status was almost always accompanied by the absence of a significant lesion over time with a negative predictive value of 99.2% (95% CI 97.3%–99.9%).

Conclusion

The diagnostic yield seems to justify PDAC screening in IAR of FPC‐families with pathogenic germline variants in PDAC predisposing genes, not in IAR of variant‐negative families.
Diversified characteristic of carbon nanotube nanoparticles on the entropy minimization for the flow of hybrid nanofluid through a convectively heated surface
Authors: Baithalu Rupa , Agbaje Titilayo M. , Mishra Satya Ranjan , Panda Subhajit
Published: July 2024

An analysis of entropy is essential to determine the heat transfer efficiency characteristics of nanofluids in different applications. Implementation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) that is the combined effect of “single‐wall carbon nanotube” (SWCNT) and “multi‐wall carbon nanotube” (MWCNT) in water shows their effective properties in enhancing the heat transport phenomena. In general, these are useful in different industrial processes for the better shape of the product proposed as a coolant, cancer therapy, solar radiation, etc. Based on special characteristics, the current investigation analyses the flow properties of water‐based CNT cross‐hybrid nanofluid past a convectively heated surface. The heat transport characteristic enriches by the insertion of dissipative heat, thermal radiation, and external heat source/sink. The appropriate choice of similarity rules is useful in transforming the governing designed problem in non‐dimensional form and further, a “spectral quasi‐linearization method (SQLM)” is imposed to solve the set of equations. After getting the result, the process of irreversibility due to various factors is obtained, that is, the analysis of entropy is presented briefly. The physical significance of designed factors is deployed graphically and described in the discussion section. However, the validation with the earlier result is projected to show a good correlation.
Ruins
Authors: Höglund Johan
Published: July 2024

This chapter discusses the depiction of thoroughly eroded, post-apocalyptic worlds where capitalism, the commodity frontiers that have always fed capital, and the economic conditions that make standing armies possible, have disappeared. Much of the fiction considered in this chapter describes a Hobbesian world devoid of the material comforts, securities and privileges previously enjoyed by (white/middle-class) communities. Even so, the heroes of these texts do their best to honour the violent social contract established by extractive and militarized capitalism.
Introduction
Authors: Chanda Chiseni Michael
Published: July 2024

After independence, there was growing optimism that Sub-Saharan Africa would break free from the shackles of economic stagnation and underdevelopment that had characterized the region for many years. However, the challenges of economic underdevelopment persist, and there are numerous factors that have been invoked to explain Africa’s lagging development. Christian missionaries, as colonial actors, have often been overlooked in attempts to comprehend their influence on the development of post-colonial Africa. These missionaries played a crucial role in introducing and providing Western-style education and healthcare in numerous African countries, which are essential components for both human and economic progress. Among these countries, Zambia stood out as one of the most extensively evangelized by Christian missionaries during the twentieth century. Surprisingly, there has been a lack of comprehensive research that explores the impact of Christian missionaries’ on Zambia’s economic and human development up until now. This chapter serves as an introduction to the key themes addressed in the book.
Context
Authors: Chanda Chiseni Michael
Published: July 2024

In the twentieth century, Africa became one of the most missionized regions. However, the experiences of the missionaries when settling in Africa varied based on the geographical, cultural, political, and economic context of the various regions. Consequently, studying long-term missionary influence is contingent on understanding the local conditions in which they settled. In this study, I emphasize that case studies provide a better understanding of the context; therefore, this chapter provides a clearer view of Zambia by introducing the geographical, pre-colonial, and colonial context.
Results and Discussion
Authors: Chanda Chiseni Michael
Published: July 2024

This chapter unveils the primary outcomes. The study reveals that economic, geographical, and agricultural elements played pivotal roles in shaping the pace of missionary expansion in Zambia. While the progression of missionary education was gradual and unequal between genders during the colonial era. Moreover, medical missionaries notably addressed the healthcare needs of the African populace, leveraging local auxiliaries. Additionally, the evidence underscores that historical exposure to missionaries continues to exert a substantial influence on education and health outcomes in Zambia.
Concluding Remarks
Authors: Chanda Chiseni Michael
Published: July 2024

This chapter provides a concise overview of the primary findings presented in the book, which are derived from a comprehensive analysis encompassing four key aspects. These include the factors influencing the selection of missionary locations, the contributions of missionaries in establishing educational institutions and the subsequent long-term effects, the collaborative efforts of both missionaries and Africans in pioneering the colonial healthcare system, and lastly, the influence of Christian missionaries on HIV and associated sexual behaviors in Zambia. Additionally, the chapter highlights potential avenues for further investigation in this field.
Prediction of Construction Water Inflow of Karst Water-Rich Tunnel Without Drainage Tunnel
Authors: Li Wei , Hao Shiquan , Wang Ju , Zou Junpeng
Published: July 2024

The construction of infrastructure in China faces substantial challenges due to the complex geological conditions and groundwater in karst areas, particularly in tunnel construction. The construction of the Maoping Port railway tunnel in the Three Gorges Hub area has been accompanied by the emergence of caves and faults. The excavation process for the tunnel has been found to expose caves and cavities, leading to sudden surges of water and mud, which can pose a risk. Hence, there is a pressing need to precisely forecast the water inflow in the karst region of Yangmuling Tunnel, in order to furnish guidance for the tunnel’s drainage and to avert surging water disasters in the absence of a relief hole. This study focuses on the water-rich karst issue in Yangmuling Tunnel. The research employed on-site hydraulic pressure monitoring and finite element numerical simulation to investigate the seepage and water influx properties of the tunnel without water relief hole. The outcomes of the study reveal that a low water pressure zone forms near the tunnel after excavation, and water pressure gradually increases outward. When the tunnel reaches the karst pipe, there is a sharp increase in water influx. Simultaneously, the low water pressure zone in the karst area sharply expands, resulting in an irregular shape. Excavation of the tunnel exposed the karst pipe, causing a rise in flow velocity in the karst zone towards the front of the tunnel face, but it subsequently declined rapidly. The alteration in flow velocity within the rock section surrounding the tunnel face was comparatively uniform.
Numerical Analysis of High-Performance Reinforced Concrete Columns Under Eccentric Loading
Authors: Peng Yuxuan , Sun Dezhang , Dai Junwu
Published: July 2024

The article is based on the eccentric compression test of HRB650E reinforced high-strength concrete columns. ABAQUS finite element software is used to conduct finite element analysis on HRB650E reinforced high-strength concrete column specimens. Comparing the simulation results with the experimental results, it can be found that the two fit well. By observing the patterns of experimental and simulation results, it can be concluded that the bearing capacity of HRB650E grade reinforced high-strength concrete columns is good, and improving the concrete strength can enhance the bearing capacity of the specimens.
Conflict Between Fracture Toughness and Tensile Strength in Determining Fracture Strength of Rock Samples with a Circular Hole
Authors: Lakirouhani Ali , Jolfaei Somaie
Published: July 2024

In this article, using a two-dimensional numerical model based on the finite element method, the fracture pressure of rock samples with a circular hole in the center is obtained. In this model, a mixed criterion is used to determine the fracture pressure, which is a combination of the tensile strength criterion and the fracture toughness criterion. The superiority of this model over the tensile strength criterion or the fracture toughness criterion is that it shows well the effect of the size of the hole in the middle of the sample on the fracture stress. The main and innovative finding of this article is that if the radius of the hole in the center of the sample is more than 70 mm, the fracture strength of the sample is dependent on the tensile strength of the rock material, and if the radius of the hole is less than 70 mm, the fracture strength is dependent on the fracture toughness. According to other results, the fracture strength decreases with the increase of the radius of the hole in the center of the sample, the decrease rate is high at first and then decreases with the increase of the radius of the hole.
Analysis the Causes of the Slip Embankment Protecting the Slope of Lien Chieu Aviation Petroleum Depot
Authors: Nguyen Hong Nam
Published: July 2024

The slope protection embankment of Lien Chieu aviation petroleum depot was built in 2001. The embankment is responsible for ensuring safety for the oil tank area and dispensing area, with the capacity of dispensing 13,800 m3 of fuel serving airports in the central region, from Hue to Binh Dinh provinces. In 2008, due to the occurrence of floods, a landslide has destroyed the entire 59.7 m middle segment of longitudinal embankment, leaving the foundation inert. The rest of the embankment body in the North was cracked on the entire surface; the embankment body fell inward; the weight relief plate was cut entirely from the embankment body and collapsed downwards. The collapse of the slope embankment led to the destruction of the oil tanks, causing the operation to stop. It was urgent at that time to investigate the causes of the slope failure and suggest the safe remedial design for the structure. The site investigation and numerical analyses show that the reasons for the failure could be due to the insufficiency of drainage holes to drain groundwater during the flood season characterized by heavy rain, which made the lateral pressure acting on the wall increase significantly, possibly causing the wall structure to be damaged. The proposed design which consists of a low retaining wall and upper slope embankment, both reinforced by geotextiles, could be stable according to numerical modelling with many loading cases. Attention must be paid to the stability of the excavation slope during construction and the difficulties of narrow space for the excavation.
Redesign of a Non-electrified Urban Railway Line with Hydrogen-Fuelled Trains
Authors: Fabri Giuseppe , Ometto Antonio , Li Haitao , D’Ovidio Gino
Published: July 2024

The passenger rail transportation system is of strategic importance to the decarbonization of the transportation sector. The use of green hydrogen is an environmentally sustainable option where highly polluting diesel trains currently operate on non-electrified rail lines. This paper proposes a novel adaptive power flow management strategy for urban railway trains powered by a hydrogen fuel cell stack and electrochemical batteries. The fuel cell stack is not dynamically controlled as usual, but it operates in on-off conditions to improve its overall efficiency. It always operates at the maximum efficiency operating point when it provides electrical power (on state) without following the load power variations. Furthermore, the state of the fuel cell stack depends on the state of charge of the electrochemical batteries which is the controlled quantity. As a case study, it is proposed a simulation of a suitably redesigned hydrogen-fuelled railway train operating, over an existing non-electrified line, for the L’Aquila (Italy) urban transportation service. The main components of the railway line and vehicle powertrain are designed, and the hydrogen consumption for railway operation is estimated.
Applications of Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method (OHAM) to Tenth Order Boundary Value Problem
Authors: Shah Qayyum
Published: July 2024

The aim of this paper is to apply the Optimal Homotopy Asymptotic Method (OHAM), a semi-numerical and semi-analytic technique for solving linear and nonlinear Tenth order boundary value problems. The approximate solution of the problem is calculated in terms of a rapidly convergent series. Two bench mark examples have been considered to illustrate the efficiency and implementation of the method and the results are compared with the Variational Iteration Method (VIM). An interesting result of the analysis is that, the OHAM solution is more accurate than the VIM. Moreover, OHAM provides us with a convenient way to control the convergence of approximate solutions. The obtained solutions have shown that OHAM is effective, simpler, easier and explicit.
Inspection of Old Brick-Concrete Structure Buildings for Remodeling: A Case Study on an Office Building in Yunnan
Authors: Pan Shaohong , Zhao Yanfeng
Published: July 2024

Aiming at the problems of old brick-concrete structure houses built for a long time, the safety cannot meet the requirements of normal use, and the overall seismic performance of the house is poor, we use the comparison of the testing and appraisal data before and after the reinforcement and transformation, to analyze the feasibility and reasonableness of the reinforcement design scheme. Taking an office building as an example, the theoretical and empirical results show that: by choosing the appropriate ‘method, it can effectively improve the comprehensive seismic capacity and use function of the house and guarantee the normal and safe use of the house.
Study on Axial Compressive Performance of Prefabricated FRP-Steel-Concrete Composite Column
Authors: Hou Dong-Xu , Liu Xiao , Wang Liu-Jie , Wang Bing , Wang Zi-Jian , Wang Qing-Hai , Lv Liang-Xiao
Published: July 2024

This paper adopts the method by combining the experimental research and theoretical analysis to study the axial compressive performance of prefabricated composite columns. The research is mainly focus on two type of composite column, called ISFTC and IFSTC, composed by FRP, steel tube and concrete. Finite element analysis was carried out to study the influence of inner and outer tubular diameter on the constraining effect. Based on the unified strength theory of double shear and experimental data collected from former literature, the bearing capacity of composite column and the sectional optimization design method was proposed.
Effect of Cyclic Loading on Mechanical Properties of Lap Joints of Prefabricated Steel Fiber Pavement Slabs
Authors: Wang Zijian , Rong Baosheng , Zhang Xin , Fan Hanxiu , Wu Liming
Published: July 2024

In This paper establishes a finite element model of an assembled steel fiber reinforced concrete pavement slab with lap joints under cyclic loading to analyze the mechanical performance of the slab after 200 and 500 cycles of a vehicle speed of 50 km/h and an axle load of 200 kN. Through finite element software analysis, the curve of the deflection value of the fabricated steel fiber reinforced concrete pavement slab over time is obtained, and a comparative analysis is conducted on the deflection value of the pavement slab under different cycle numbers. The study found that the bending deflection curve of the plate neutralized joints after 200 and 500 vehicle load cycles showed similar patterns, with a maximum deflection value of approximately 0.35 mm; The variation in the plate and joint areas becomes more and more obvious with the increase in the number of cycles, indicating that vibration has an impact on the pavement plate. These conclusions have certain reference value for the design and maintenance of road pavement panels.
Research on the Promotion of Characteristic Prefabricated Buildings Under the Background of Rural Revitalization
Authors: Dong Yuan , Zhang Yunlai
Published: July 2024

New rural construction is a key part of the rural revitalization strategy. Prefabricated buildings can greatly improve the living quality of buildings and meet the needs of production, life and environmental protection. This paper puts forward the dilemma of traditional architecture and current prefabricated buildings in rural development, puts forward how to promote and develop prefabricated buildings in rural areas with a problem-oriented approach, and puts forward suggestions in terms of economy, technology, policy and publicity guidance. In order to promote the development of characteristic prefabricated farm house building to provide beneficial ideas.
Conformally related vacuum gravitational waves and their symmetries
Authors: Zhao Q. L. , Zhang P. M. , Horváthy P. A.
Published: July 2024

Abstract

A special conformal transformation which carries a vacuum gravitational wave into another vacuum one is built by using Möbius-redefined time. It can either transform a globally defined vacuum wave into a vacuum sandwich wave, or carry the gravitational wave into itself. The first type, illustrated by linearly and circularly polarised vacuum plane gravitational waves, permutes the symmetries and the geodesics. Our second type is a pp wave with conformal O(1, 2) symmetry. An example inspired by molecular physics which seems to have escaped attention so far is an anisotropic generalisation of the familiar inverse-square profile and is reminiscent of Aichelburg-Sexl ultraboosts. The particle can escape, or perform circular periodic motion, or fall into the singularity.
Holography for Sp(2Nc) gauge dynamics: from composite Higgs to technicolour
Authors: Erdmenger Johanna , Evans Nick , Liu Yang , Porod Werner
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study Sp(2Nc) gauge dynamics with two Dirac fermion flavours in the fundamental representation. These strongly coupled systems underlie some composite Higgs models with a global symmetry breaking pattern SU(4)→Sp(4), leading to a light quartet of pseudo-Goldstone bosons that can play the role of the Higgs. Including four-fermion interactions can rotate the vacuum to a technicolour breaking pattern. Using gauge/gravity duality, we study the underlying gauge dynamics. Our model incorporates the Nc-specific running of the fermion anomalous dimension and can thus distinguish between specific gauge groups. We determine the bound-state spectrum of the UV SU(4)→Sp(4) symmetry breaking model, also including fermion masses and mass splitting, and display the Nc dependence. The inclusion of a four-fermion interaction shows the emergence of three Goldstone bosons on the path to technicolour dynamics.
Production of electroweak gauge bosons at forward rapidities in the color-dipole S-matrix framework
Authors: Bandeira Yan B. , Gonçalves Victor P. , Schäfer Wolfgang
Published: July 2024

Abstract

The cross-section for the production of an electroweak gauge boson (G = W±, Z0, γ) at forward rapidities in pp collisions is derived within the color-dipole S-matrix framework. We present the full expressions for the differential cross-section of the qp → GX process in the impact parameter and transverse momentum spaces, considering the longitudinal and transverse polarizations of the gauge boson. The particular cases associated with the Drell-Yan process and real photon production are discussed. We demonstrate that the final formulae are expressed in terms of the dipole-proton cross-section or the unintegrated gluon distribution, and can be used to estimate the impact of the saturation effects in the gauge boson production at the LHC and future colliders.
Solar neutrinos and leptonic spin forces
Authors: Ansarifard Saeed , Gonzalez-Garcia M. C. , Maltoni Michele , Pinheiro João Paulo
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We quantify the effects of light spin-zero particles with pseudoscalar couplings to leptons and scalar couplings to nucleons on the evolution of solar neutrinos. In this scenario the matter potential sourced by the nucleons in the Sun’s matter gives rise to spin precession of the relativistic neutrino ensemble. As such the effects in the solar observables are different if neutrinos are Dirac or Majorana particles. For Dirac neutrinos the spin-flavour precession results into left-handed neutrino to right-handed neutrino (i.e., active-sterile) oscillations, while for Majorana neutrinos it results into left-handed neutrino to right-handed antineutrino (i.e., active-active) oscillations. In both cases this leads to distortions in the solar neutrino spectrum which we use to derive constraints on the allowed values of the mediator mass and couplings via a global analysis of the solar neutrino data. In addition for Majorana neutrinos spin-flavour precession results into a potentially observable flux of solar electron antineutrinos at the Earth which we quantify and constrain with the existing bounds from Borexino and KamLAND.
Beyond Crop-Raiding: Unravelling the Broader Impacts of Human-Wildlife Conflict on Rural Communities
Authors: Galley Wisdom , Anthony Brandon P.
Published: July 2024

This paper examines the impacts of human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in the Kakum Conservation Area (KCA), Ghana. The primary focus is on crop-raiding by elephants. Using ethnographic methodologies, the findings shed light on the broader impacts of HWC in rural communities. These include food insecurity characterized by a notable decline in the quality and quantity of food accessible to individuals and families affected by crop-raiding. The study also underscores the negative impacts on mental and physical wellbeing as residents contend with stress, anxiety and fear due to crop-raiding and encounters with elephants. Furthermore, this research uncovers how coping mechanisms employed by locals in response to these challenges may result in problem drinking. Also, efforts taken to mitigate crop-raiding unintentionally result in health consequences for farmers who face risks of contracting diseases such as malaria and suffer from sleep deprivation due to guarding their fields at night. More importantly, this study provides an in-depth examination of the broader vulnerabilities caused by HWC which are often ignored and underscores the importance of looking beyond the direct impacts in HWC hotspots like KCA.
Deep learning-based 3D quantitative total tumor burden predicts early recurrence of BCLC A and B HCC after resection
Authors: Wei Hong , Zheng Tianying , Zhang Xiaolan , Zheng Chao , Jiang Difei , Wu Yuanan , Lee Jeong Min , Bashir Mustafa R. , Lerner Emily , Liu Rongbo , Wu Botong , Guo Hua , Chen Yidi , Yang Ting , Gong Xiaoling , Jiang Hanyu , Song Bin
Published: July 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of deep learning (DL)-assisted automated three-dimensional quantitative tumor burden at MRI to predict postoperative early recurrence (ER) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Materials and methods

This was a single-center retrospective study enrolling patients who underwent resection for BCLC A and B HCC and preoperative contrast-enhanced MRI. Quantitative total tumor volume (cm3) and total tumor burden (TTB, %) were obtained using a DL automated segmentation tool. Radiologists’ visual assessment was used to ensure the quality control of automated segmentation. The prognostic value of clinicopathological variables and tumor burden-related parameters for ER was determined by Cox regression analyses.

Results

A total of 592 patients were included, with 525 and 67 patients assigned to BCLC A and B, respectively (2-year ER rate: 30.0% vs. 45.3%; hazard ratio (HR) = 1.8; p = 0.007). TTB was the most important predictor of ER (HR = 2.2; p < 0.001). Using 6.84% as the threshold of TTB, two ER risk strata were obtained in overall (p < 0.001), BCLC A (p < 0.001), and BCLC B (p = 0.027) patients, respectively. The BCLC B low-TTB patients had a similar risk for ER to BCLC A patients and thus were reassigned to a BCLC An stage; whilst the BCLC B high-TTB patients remained in a BCLC Bn stage. The 2-year ER rate was 30.5% for BCLC An patients vs. 58.1% for BCLC Bn patients (HR = 2.8; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

TTB determined by DL-based automated segmentation at MRI was a predictive biomarker for postoperative ER and facilitated refined subcategorization of patients within BCLC stages A and B.

Clinical relevance statement

Total tumor burden derived by deep learning-based automated segmentation at MRI may serve as an imaging biomarker for predicting early recurrence, thereby improving subclassification of Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer A and B hepatocellular carcinoma patients after hepatectomy.

Key Points

Total tumor burden (TTB) is important for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging, but is heterogenous.

TTB derived by deep learning-based automated segmentation was predictive of postoperative early recurrence.

Incorporating TTB into the BCLC algorithm resulted in successful subcategorization of BCLC A and B patients.
Low-cord orchidectomy for testicular cancer: what would be different?
Authors: Sarıkaya Ege A. , Şen Volkan , Yörükoğlu Kutsal , Bozkurt Ozan
Published: July 2024

Introduction

High cord radical orchidectomy (HRCO) is accepted as the standard surgical approach in testicular cancer, however low cord orchidectomy (LCRO) can reduce the morbidity of operation without worsening the oncological outcomes.

Methods

We retrospectively re-examined the specimens of men to determine the level of spermatic cord invasion (SCI). Men who had proximal SCI with negative surgical margins after HRCO were assumed to have de-novo residual tumour if LCRO was performed. Others were assumed as oncologically similar. We examined the relation between pre-operative variables and SCI and proximal SCI to determine whether prediction of proximal SCI is possible.

Results

196 patients were included. 22 (11%) had SCI and ten (5%) had proximal SCI. Four patients with proximal SCI had positive surgical margins even after HRCO and didn’t require additional local treatment. Six patients were assumed to have de-novo residual tumour if LCRO was performed. All six patients were metastatic and had systemic chemotherapy. High platelet count, tumour size, N stage, S stage and M stage were all significantly related with both SCI and proximal SCI (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Due to low probability of SCI, we think LCRO can safely be performed to reduce morbidity in Stage 1 patients. Although there is a risk for residual tumour in Stage 2–3 patients, currently there is no data that residual tumour would impair the success of systemic chemotherapy. Therefore we can not assume that these patients would be negatively affected. Pre-operative data can be useful to predict the presence of proximal SCI and select appropriate patients for LCRO.
Minimally invasive left colectomy with total intracorporeal anastomosis versus extracorporeal anastomosis. A single center cohort study. Stage 2b IDEAL framework for evaluating surgical innovation
Authors: Serra-Aracil Xavier , Gómez-Torres Irene , Torrecilla-Portoles Andrea , Serracant-Barrera Anna , García-Nalda Albert , Pallisera-Lloveras Anna
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Performing intracorporeal anastomoses in minimally invasive colon surgery appears to provide better short-term outcomes for patients with colon cancer. The aim of the study is to compare surgical aspects and short-term outcomes between intracorporeal and extracorporeal techniques in left colectomies with both laparoscopic and robotic approaches and evaluate advantages and disadvantages of intracorporeal anastomosis according to IDEAL framework (Exploration, stage 2b).

Methods

This is a single center, ambispective cohort study comparing total intracorporeal anastomosis (TIA) and standard surgery with extracorporeal anastomosis (EA). Patients with colon cancer treated by left colectomy, sigmoidectomy and high anterior resection by total intracorporeal anastomosis between May 2020 and January 2023 without exclusion criteria were prospectively included in a standardized database. Short-term outcomes in the group undergoing TIA were compared with a historical EA cohort. The main assessment outcomes were intraoperative complications, postoperative morbidity according to the Clavien-Dindo scale and the comparison of pathological. We conducted a preliminary comparative study within the TIA group between approaches, a primary analysis between the two anastomotic techniques, and a propensity score matched analysis including only the laparoscopic approach, between both anastomotic techniques.

Results

Two hundred and forty-six patients were included: 103 who underwent TIA, 35 of them with laparoscopic approach and 68 with robotic approach, and a comparison group comprising another 103 eligible consecutive patients who underwent laparoscopic EA. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of demographic variables. No statistically significant differences were observed in anastomotic dehiscence. Intraoperative complications are fewer in the TIA group, with a higher C-Reactive Protein levels. Relevant anastomotic bleeding and the number of retrieved lymph nodes were higher in EA group. Nevertheless, no differences were observed in terms of overall morbidity.

Conclusion

Minimally invasive left colectomy with intracorporeal resection and anastomosis is technically feasible and safe suing either a laparoscopic or a robotic approach. Clinical data from this cohort demonstrate outcomes comparable to those achieved through the conventional EA procedure in relation to postoperative morbidity and oncological efficacy, with indications suggesting that the utilization of robotic-assisted techniques may play a contributing role in enhancing overall treatment outcomes.
Elementary Fractal Geometry. 3. Complex Pisot Factors Imply Finite Type
Authors: Bandt Christoph
Published: July 2024

Self-similar sets require a separation condition to admit a nice mathematical structure. The classical open set condition (OSC) is difficult to verify. Zerner proved that there is a positive and finite Hausdorff measure for a weaker separation property which is always fulfilled for crystallographic data. Ngai and Wang gave more specific results for a finite type property (FT), and for algebraic data with a real Pisot expansion factor. We show how the algorithmic FT concept of Bandt and Mesing relates to the property of Ngai and Wang. Merits and limitations of the FT algorithm are discussed. Our main result says that FT is always true in the complex plane if the similarity mappings are given by a complex Pisot expansion factor $$\lambda $$
λ
and algebraic integers in the number field generated by $$\lambda .$$

λ
.

This extends the previous results and opens the door to huge classes of separated self-similar sets, with large complexity and an appearance of natural textures. Numerous examples are provided.