bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cost-effective and modular CO2 capture to support decarbonisation for oil and gas, industrial and hard-to-abate sectors
Authors: Pandit Jai Kant , Chan Kwong Soon
Published: May 2024

Reducing emissions from the industrial and fossil fuel-based power sectors is crucial to achieving net zero emissions. These sectors contribute to ~60% of global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. However, there are several challenges that current CO2 capture technology faces. The use of coal in steel and cement industries produces flue gases with high CO2 content but also with nitrogen and sulfur oxides (NOx and SOx) as impurities. These impurities cause faster degradation of amine-based solvents in the current CO2 capture system. Additionally, capturing CO2 from flue gases from the hard-to-abate sector, such as steel plants, is complex as it is not easy to capture CO2 from multiple sources and different CO2 concentration flue gas streams. For cement and other kiln processes, limited availability of water/steam can add to the difficulty and cost of CO2 capture. CO2CRC’s HyCaps process, an efficient and compact hybrid of solvent absorption and membrane technology, overcomes some of these challenges. It takes advantage of the capture efficiency of the solvent system, controlled flow regime and high surface-to-volume ratio of membrane technology. The mode of interaction between gas and liquid in HyCaps limits solvent exposure to NOx and SOx, reducing solvent degradation. In HyCaps, as solvent is regenerated at a lower temperature, low-quality, low-cost waste heat can be effectively utilised to reduce operational expenditure. Successful trials at three different industrial setups and preliminary techno-economic analysis from test trial data show the HyCaps process has the potential to offer very competitive capture solutions for various industrial settings.
Shipwreck and Sherbrook supersequence regional gross depositional environments, offshore Otway Basin
Authors: Abbott Steve , Cubitt Chris , Bernardel George , Nicholson Chris , Nguyen Duy
Published: May 2024

The Shipwreck and Sherbrook supersequences together constitute the upper Cretaceous succession in the Otway Basin that was deposited during an extensional basin phase. In the Shipwreck Trough, where the upper Cretaceous succession is well explored, gas fields are hosted by the Shipwreck Supersequence (SS). Elsewhere, the upper Cretaceous interval is lightly explored, and the deep-water area is considered an exploration frontier. We present regional gross depositional environment (RGDE) maps for the LC1.1 and LC1.2 sequences of the Shipwreck SS, and the LC2 Sherbrook SS. Fluvial Plain, Coastal-Delta Plain and Shelf RGDEs were interpreted from wireline logs, cores, and seismic facies. The Fluvial Plain and Coastal-Delta Plain RGDEs are mostly restricted to the inboard platform areas and the inner Morum Sub-basin. The mud-prone Shelf RGDE is widespread across the deep-water Morum and Nelson depocentres. The extent of the Fluvial and Coastal-Delta Plain belts progressively increases up-section, imparting a regressive aspect to the succession, and delineating a large fluvial-deltaic complex in the north-west of the basin. Thick seal development across the greater Shipwreck Trough, potentially mature source rocks in the deep-water basin, and thick reservoir development in the hanging wall of growth faults in the inner Morum Sub-basin are insights derived from this study, and will inform area selection for detailed gross depositional environment mapping, formulation of new hydrocarbon and carbon dioxide storage plays, and inputs for petroleum systems modelling.
Toward less carbon-intensive, faster gas-to-market offshore development schemes a case study of using discovered resources in the Bedout Sub-basin
Authors: Wu Hongfeng , Molyneux Stephen , Chu Qi , Jian Fengxu , Mather Julian
Published: May 2024

The Dorado and Pavo fields in the Bedout Sub-basin of the Roebuck Basin, offshore Western Australia, boast a combined 2C contingent resource of 210 MMbbls of liquid hydrocarbons and 750 bcf of gas. Their discovery represents a significant development opportunity for the Australian offshore, especially given the considerable un-risked Prospective Resources in the basin. However, Dorado faces challenges due to its high volatile oil/high condensate gas ratio gas (wet gas) accumulation and its reservoir pressure exceeding 5500 psia, necessitating a miscible gas injection strategy to maximise liquid recovery. This approach involves energy-intensive gas processing and high-pressure reinjection, leading to substantial greenhouse gas emissions. The CO2 intensity directly from Dorado compressors is estimated at 30–39 kg/bbl – on a project-level nearly double the average unit emissions of many producers. This paper explores alternative development schemes using public domain information and petroleum engineering principles to mitigate technical risks, reduce CO2 emissions, and possibly improve the economics and development timeline of the Dorado and Pavo fields. For Dorado, a simpler scheme focussing on oil production and gas delivery for domestic or liquefied natural gas (LNG) use could significantly reduce emissions. Meanwhile, Pavo might see development via a standalone FPSO, emphasising reservoir energy management through water flooding and produced water disposal, typical of conventional black oil field development. These alternatives aim for a less carbon intensive and economically viable development pathway, setting a precedent for future exploration and development in the basin.
Building a carbon storage portfolio for the Barrow and Dampier sub-basins – a national resource
Authors: Barlass David , Ferguson Kiran , Leon Leo , Seymour Nigel , Phythian Paul , Vonk Adam , Gunning Merrie-Ellen
Published: May 2024

The Australian government has recently legislated a 43% emissions reduction target for 2030 to drive net zero ambitions for 2050. The government plans for carbon capture and storage (CCS) to play a significant role in achieving this through greenhouse gas storage licence rounds. Rapid screening of Australia’s carbon storage opportunities is necessary to position future acreage release and ultimately identify and mature carbon storage sites. An industry collaboration between Geoscience Australia and SLB has conducted a basin-scale carbon storage assessment project for the Barrow and Dampier sub-basins. The project has built and modernised a subsurface database fit for CCS screening. The dataset was used as the foundation to create a carbon storage opportunity portfolio and storage resource assessment for the area. The project has three major streams: (1) CCS-focussed reprocessing, depth imaging and merging of 29 legacy seismic surveys covering 26,150 km2 – focussed on detailed image resolution for containment analysis. (2) A basin-wide audit of 1620 wells and databasing of available log data, 129 wells were carried through for petrophysical and rock physics analysis relevant to CCS. (3) A portfolio of carbon storage opportunities and associated capacity assessment for the Barrow–Dampier including saline aquifers and depleted fields ranked on storage capacity, reservoir and seal properties and integrity. The results of this study will be released via the National Offshore Petroleum Information Management System as a public resource to expedite CCS implementation for the region.
2023 Exploration and appraisal year in review
Authors: Craig Adam
Published: May 2024

Petroleum exploration expenditure in 2023 increased modestly over that of 2022, but remains well below expenditure highs of a decade ago which were dominated by offshore activity. Exploration is dominant in onshore state jurisdictions and has been since 2019, and will continue to be with no Federal offshore petroleum exploration acreage release rounds or exploration permit awards in 2023. Despite the modest increase in exploration expenditure there were 38 exploration wells drilled in 2023, an increase from the 26 wells drilled in 2022. Three of these 2023 wells were located offshore, targeting prospective resources in the vicinity of liquefied natural gas (LNG) project upstream gas fields. Thirty-four conventional onshore exploration wells were drilled in 2023 compared to 18 in 2022, a significant increase. The Cooper–Eromanga Basin was the focus of onshore exploration drilling with 21 exploration wells, compared to 13 in 2022, which yielded six discoveries. The onshore Northern Perth Basin continues to be an exploration hot spot with five wells drilled in 2023, compared to four in 2022. The Permian Kingia Sandstone exploration play continues to deliver exploration success, with discoveries at North Erregulla Deep-1, Trigg Northwest-1, South Erregulla-3 and Tarantula Deep-1. Five exploration permits were awarded in onshore Western Australia and two in Queensland. These permits were awarded with modest exploration work programs. The interest in carbon capture and storage projects and assessment acreage continues with a Federal offshore greenhouse gas (GHG) release round in 2023 and 26 onshore state jurisdiction GHG assessment permits awarded or nominated preferred tender status.
Activity-driven chromatin organization during interphase: Compaction, segregation, and entanglement suppression
Authors: Chan Brian , Rubinstein Michael
Published: May 2024

In mammalian cells, the cohesin protein complex is believed to translocate along chromatin during interphase to form dynamic loops through a process called active loop extrusion. Chromosome conformation capture and imaging experiments have suggested that chromatin adopts a compact structure with limited interpenetration between chromosomes and between chromosomal sections. We developed a theory demonstrating that active loop extrusion causes the apparent fractal dimension of chromatin to cross-over between two and four at contour lengths on the order of 30 kilo-base pairs. The anomalously high fractal dimension

D
=
4

is due to the inability of extruded loops to fully relax during active extrusion. Compaction on longer contour length scales extends within topologically associated domains (TADs), facilitating gene regulation by distal elements. Extrusion-induced compaction segregates TADs such that overlaps between TADs are reduced to less than 35% and increases the entanglement strand of chromatin by up to a factor of 50 to several Mega-base pairs. Furthermore, active loop extrusion couples cohesin motion to chromatin conformations formed by previously extruding cohesins and causes the mean square displacement of chromatin loci during lag times (

Δ
t

) longer than tens of minutes to be proportional to

Δ

t

1
/
3

. We validate our results with hybrid molecular dynamics—Monte Carlo simulations and show that our theory is consistent with experimental data. This work provides a theoretical basis for the compact organization of interphase chromatin, explaining the physical reason for TAD segregation and suppression of chromatin entanglements which contribute to efficient gene regulation.
Strategies for improving the superconductivity of hydrides under high pressure
Authors: Liu Pengye , Wang Chang , Zhang Daoyuan , Wang Xiang , Duan Defang , Liu Zhao , Cui Tian
Published: May 2024

The successful prediction and confirmation of unprecedentedly high-temperature superconductivity in compressed hydrogen-rich hydrides signify a remarkable advancement in the continuous quest for attaining room-temperature superconductivity. The recent studies have established a broad scope for developing binary and ternary hydrides and illustrated correlation between specific hydrogen motifs and high-T
cs under high pressures. The analysis of the microscopic mechanism of superconductivity in hydrides suggests that the high electronic density of states at the Fermi level (EF), the large phonon energy scale of the vibration modes and the resulting enhanced electron-phonon coupling are crucial contributors towards the high-T
c phonon-mediated superconductors. The aim of our efforts is to tackle forthcoming challenges associated with elevating the T
c and reducing the stabilization pressures of hydrogen-based superconductors, and offer insights for the future discoveries of room-temperature superconductors. Our present Review offers an overview and analysis of the latest advancements in predicting and experimentally synthesizing various crystal structures, while also exploring strategies to enhance the superconductivity and reducing their stabilization pressures of hydrogen-rich hydrides.
Tensor low-rank and sparse decomposition and its application in bearing fault information separation
Authors: Ou Shudong , Zhao Ming , Li Baotong , Zhang Yue , Li Sen , Wu Hao
Published: May 2024

Properly separating fault information from noisy measured signals is crucial for effective bearing health sensing. However, conventional fault information separation methods face challenges such as predefined model parameters and poor noise robustness. Additionally, with the advent of Industry Big Data, multichannel monitoring signals present significant challenges for traditional single decomposition approaches. To address these challenges and fully extract potential fault information, this paper introduces a tensor low-rank and sparse decomposition (tensor LRSD) approach for multichannel signal processing. Inspired by matrix LRSD, we construct a tensor LRSD model that adaptively decomposes the signal into a tensor sparse term containing fault information and a low-rank term representing the intrinsic signal pattern. To further enhance the decomposition performance, a maximum correlation-based selection strategy is designed. This strategy evaluates the correlation between each tensor slice and selects appropriate tensor sparse terms for fault information extraction. Simulation analysis and two experimental studies involving typical bearing failures are implemented to verify the capability and superiority of the presented tensor LRSD approach. The consequences demonstrate that the presented method outperforms conventional techniques, showcasing its capability to effectively separate fault information from noisy signals.
A novel semi-supervised learning rolling bearing fault diagnosis method based on SNNGAN
Authors: Qiu Zhi , Fan Shanfei , Liang Haibo , Li Quanchang , Lv Shan
Published: May 2024

In practical industrial environments, rotating machinery typically operates under normal conditions. As a result, the signals collected are primarily normal signals. This imbalance in the sample data diminishes the effectiveness of fault diagnosis. To address this issue, this paper produces a novel semi-supervised fault diagnosis approach based on a Siamese neural network combined with a generative adversarial network (SNNGAN) to enhance classification accuracy. Firstly, vibration signals collected are subjected to continuous wavelet transformation to obtain time–frequency representations, which are utilized for pre-training convolutional encoders in the generator and discriminator. Subsequently, a cosine similarity algorithm is employed to ensure the quality of generated samples. For generated data, set a similarity threshold. Those surpassing the threshold are assigned their corresponding labels and added to the original sample set. Otherwise, those falling below the threshold are transformed back into vibration vectors through an inverse transform and then serve as input to create new samples. Finally, fault diagnosis experiments are conducted on the newly balanced data set. In four imbalanced data experiments, the results demonstrate that SNNGAN outperforms other methods in average accuracy, G-mean, and F1 score, with average accuracy values of 0.919, 0.948, 0.927, and 0.953 for the respective datasets. Therefore, SNNGAN exhibits outstanding fault diagnosis performance under conditions of data imbalance.
A deep learning-based algorithm for intelligent prediction of adverse geologic bodies in tunnels
Authors: Mei Hua , Wang Qiyun , Yu Lei , Zeng Qiang
Published: May 2024

Aiming at the issues of high subjectivity and low efficiency in the image analysis methods for overcast prediction of tunnel adverse geological bodies, a deep learning-based intelligent prediction algorithm, namely YOLOv8 enhanced by Sim-EFFcinetNet and interlaced sparse self-attention (ISSA) (YOLO-SEI), is proposed in this paper. Firstly, Sim-EfficientNet with good feature extraction performance and efficiency is proposed as the backbone of YOLOv8 by fusing the SimAM attention and the EfficientNet-v2 network, which improves the model’s extraction capability for radar wave features of adverse geologic bodies. Then, a feature fusion module enhanced by ISSA is designed to effectively make up for the deficiency of convolutional neural network that is difficult to fully extract the global information of radar images. The experimental results show that the mAP and F1 of YOLO-SEI are 84.87% and 82.28%, respectively, which are higher than other commonly used deep learning models. In addition, YOLO-SEI has smaller storage space (41MB) and faster image processing speed (41.24 f s−1), which is suitable for the rapid measurement and prediction of adverse geologic bodies in tunnel excavation construction.
Validation of the thermo-chemical approach to modelling of CO2 conversion in sub-atmospheric pressure microwave gas discharges
Authors: Kotov Vladislav , Kiefer Christian , Hecimovic Ante
Published: May 2024

The CO

2

→

CO +

1
2

O2 conversion experiment [D’Isa et al 2020 Plasma Sources Sci. Technol.
29 105009] has been compared with thermo-chemical calculations. The experiment is a 2.45 GHz plasma torch with a straight channel in the effluent. The 1.5D model of the CO2/CO/O2/O/C mixture without turbulent transport has been applied with plasma acting only as a prescribed heat source. The parameter range covered is the specific energy input (SEI) 0.3–5 eV/molecule at pressure p = 0.9 bar, and SEI = 0.6–2 eV/molecule at p = 0.5, 0.2 bar. The calculated conversion χ is always close to the experimental values. At the same time, the calculated temperatures T deviate significantly from the experiment, especially for p = 0.2 bar. The calculated T were also found to be sensitive with respect to the uncertain model parameters, but χ is not sensitive. The net conversion in the model is driven to a large extent by the radial diffusion of CO and O from the hot core towards the wall and steep radial temperature gradients. The main factor that reduces the energy efficiency is the re-oxidation of CO at the edge of the hot plasma region and downstream. The 1.5D approximation applied has the principle limitation that the impact of a realistic bulk flow field on the chemical process cannot be studied. Hence, the results must be considered preliminary and have to be confirmed with a more elaborate and accurate model of the vortex-stabilized flow inside the reactor.
Detuning piezoelectric receivers by resistive load adjustment for electrodynamic wireless power transfer
Authors: Morel Adrien , Dosol Michael-Anas
Published: May 2024

This article investigates electrical detuning techniques for low-frequency electrodynamic wireless power transfer (EWPT) systems. This study focuses on protecting the receiver from potential damage when quick increases in magnetic fields occur due to transmitter–receiver distance variation or in-rush transmitter coil currents. In the case of such event, to avoid damaging the mechanical receiver, the solution investigated in this article is to adjust the electrical load connected to the receiver. This adjustment enables precise tuning and detuning of the receiver’s resonant frequency and damping characteristics, thereby allowing to reduce its mechanical displacement amplitude and protecting it from damage. Based on well-known models of EWPT systems, we develop an analysis of two key operational modes of the proposed tuning/detuning approach: maximum transmitted power (MTP) mode, where the receiver circuitry’s input impedance is optimized for peak power transfer, and minimum displacement (MD) mode, which involves electrically detuning the receiver’s resonant frequency to limit its mechanical displacement. We establish transition conditions between MD and MTP modes based on the receiver voltage amplitude, enabling automated monitoring and adjustment of the receiver’s detuning. Experimental validation has been conducted with an EWPT experimental setup and a custom piezoelectric receiver. The results, in good agreement with the proposed analytical model predictions, confirm the effectiveness of the proposed detuning algorithm, which successfully reduces the receiver displacement by 60% in response to sudden magnetic field increases.
Superconducting electronic device response linearity calculation method using discrete fourier analysis
Authors: Kolotinskiy Nikolay V , Kornev Victor K
Published: May 2024

A highly effective method of the device linearity calculation on the stage of the device development is worked out and reported. The method allows expressing the linearity in terms of the achievable spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) of the created devices, in particular superconductive electronic devices, and therefore can be easy correlated with the obtained experimental data. The algorithm scheme and the method accuracy are considered and discussed in detail.
Structural, optoelectronic, and magnetic behaviors of Li2BeTM (TM = V, Cr, Mn, Fe) Se4 compounds using DFT investigations
Authors: Karim H , Labrim H , Lakhal M , Hartiti B , Lfakir A
Published: May 2024

In this work, we present computational investigations of the electronic, the optical and the magnetic properties of the Li2BeTMSe4(TM = V, Cr, Mn, Fe) compounds using the first-principle calculations based on the density functional theory. In this respect, we employ the generalized gradient approximation corrected by the Tran-Balaha modified Becke-Johnson exchange potential to obtain more accurate results. Among these outcomes, we first study the electronic properties such as the band energy dispersion and the state densities. Regarding this, the Li2BeTMSe4 quaternary family is found to have an indirect band gap of 1.910 eV, 1.905 eV, 2.223 eV and 1.278 eV for TM = V, Cr, Mn, and Fe, respectively. Further, an examination of the optical properties reveals that the computed optical absorption spectra cover a broad energy range in the visible and the ultraviolet spectrums. Motivated by spintronic applications, we additionally determine the total and the local magnetic moments. Then, we compute the associated Curie temperatures via a linear relation with the total magnetic moments. Among others, the Li2BeTMSe4(TM = V, Cr, Mn, Fe) materials involve acceptable temperatures showing potential applications for high temperature nano-devices activities. Comparing the obtained findings with the available ones, the acquired results indicate that the Li2BeTMSe4(TM = V, Cr, Mn, Fe) materials exhibit a wide range of applications in solar cells, optoelectronics, and other fields.
Evaluation of natural radioactivity and radiological hazards in water sample of Tounsa Sharif, South Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Ishaq Sajid , Nasir Tabassum , Ali Nawab , Baloch Musa Kaleem , Khan Ehsan Ullah , Ali Malik Meher , Sherazi M Rafeel Hassan , Ahmad Farzana , Muhammad Jamil , Usmani M Yasir
Published: May 2024

Radioactive material, especially Uranium, is very dangerous for human beings, creatures, and plants. It has been documented that the groundwater of the Dera Ghazi Khan Division in Punjab is contaminated with 238U. In this communication, the groundwater of the Tehsil Taunsa located at Indus River has been investigated. 144 samples of drinking water were collected from 48 villages/towns located in the area of about 500 km2 of the city. The samples were collected in the month of June, August and November, to concentrate on the temperature impact over the Uranium concentration. All samples were analyzed for 238U concentration using a fluorometric technique. The fluorometric technique was applied after pre-treatment of the sample. The analysis of the result revealed that groundwater obtained from this region contains a high value of 238U contents. Among the 48 trials, 26 samples were found below the permissible limit, while the remaining samples contained 238U contents above the permissible level. The sample collected from areas like, Qarim Wala, Jhoke Jamki, Basti peer, Tibi Qaisrani, Pehar Adda & Malana contained even up to the alarming level (30 μg l−1 to 54 μg l−1). In addition, it was observed that the sampling period had a significant effect on the contents, which were most prominent in June. This area being almost annually flooded by water from Rodh Kohi, who originated from Koh-e-Suleiman, may lead to such a high concentration of 238U. The additional reason could be the topographical and geological structure of the earth from which the samples were collected.
Researches on the continuous-wave infrared laser-assisted-load icebreaking
Authors: Huo Haodong , Ding Ye , Wang Shupeng , Feng Chenming , Liu Hao , Yang Lijun
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a novel continuous-wave infrared laser-assisted load icebreaking method for large-sized ice blocks is put forward, which employs a laser multipoint irradiation approach. By strategically changing the mode of deployment points, interlocking cracks and melt holes are generated within the ice. This process effectively weakens the strength of ice, thus decreasing the difficulty of icebreaking. Based on the interaction mechanism between laser and ice, a mathematical model describing the evolution of the local temperature and stress of ice during continuous-wave infrared laser irradiation is established. The effects of deployment mode, laser irradiation time and laser power on the temperature and stress fields are analyzed based on numerical simulation. The impact of laser multipoint irradiation on the superposition of the stress between adjacent deployment points is revealed. On this basis, the experiments of continuous-wave infrared laser-assisted static-load icebreaking and impact-load icebreaking are carried out with natural freshwater ice as the research object. The influences of deployment mode, laser irradiation time and laser power on the external force required for subsequent icebreaking and the final icebreaking effect are analyzed. The characteristics of continuous-wave infrared laser-assisted static-load and impact-load icebreaking are comprehensively compared. Ultimately, the conclusion that impact load is more suitable for laser-assisted load icebreaking is drawn. The outcomes of this study potentially provide a new perspective on the breaking of large-sized ice blocks in an efficient way.
MINDS: The JWST MIRI Mid-INfrared Disk Survey
Authors: Henning Thomas , Kamp Inga , Samland Matthias , Arabhavi Aditya M. , Kanwar Jayatee , van Dishoeck Ewine F. , Güdel Manuel , Lagage Pierre-Olivier , Waelkens Christoffel , Abergel Alain , Absil Olivier , Barrado David , Boccaletti Anthony , Bouwman Jeroen , Caratti o Garatti Alessio , Geers Vincent , Glauser Adrian M. , Lahuis Fred , Mueller Michael , Nehmé Cyrine , Olofsson Göran , Pantin Eric , Ray Tom P. , Scheithauer Silvia , Vandenbussche Bart , Waters L. B. F. M. , Wright Gillian , Argyriou Ioannis , Christiaens Valentin , Franceschi Riccardo , Gasman Danny , Grant Sierra L. , Guadarrama Rodrigo , Jang Hyerin , Morales-Calderón Maria , Pawellek Nicole , Perotti Giulia , Rodgers-Lee Donna , Schreiber Jürgen , Schwarz Kamber , Tabone Benoît , Temmink Milou , Vlasblom Marissa , Colina Luis , Greve Thomas R. , Östlin Göran
Published: May 2024

The study of protoplanetary disks has become increasingly important with the Kepler satellite finding that exoplanets are ubiquitous around stars in our galaxy and the discovery of enormous diversity in planetary system architectures and planet properties. High-resolution near-IR and ALMA images show strong evidence for ongoing planet formation in young disks. The JWST MIRI mid-INfrared Disk Survey (MINDS) aims to (1) investigate the chemical inventory in the terrestrial planet-forming zone across stellar spectral type, (2) follow the gas evolution into the disk dispersal stage, and (3) study the structure of protoplanetary and debris disks in the thermal mid-IR. The MINDS survey will thus build a bridge between the chemical inventory of disks and the properties of exoplanets. The survey comprises 52 targets (Herbig Ae stars, T Tauri stars, very low-mass stars and young debris disks). We primarily obtain MIRI/MRS spectra with high signal-to-noise ratio (∼100–500) covering the complete wavelength range from 4.9 to 27.9 μm. For a handful of selected targets we also obtain NIRSpec IFU high resolution spectroscopy (2.87–5.27 μm). We will search for signposts of planet formation in thermal emission of micron-sized dust—information complementary to near-IR scattered light emission from small dust grains and emission from large dust in the submillimeter wavelength domain. We will also study the spatial structure of disks in three key systems that have shown signposts for planet formation, TW Hya and HD 169142 using the MIRI coronagraph at 15.5 μm and 10.65 μm respectively and PDS 70 using NIRCam imaging in the 1.87 μm narrow and the 4.8 μm medium band filter. We provide here an overview of the MINDS survey and showcase the power of the new JWST mid-IR molecular spectroscopy with the TW Hya disk spectrum where we report the detection of the molecular ion

CH

3

+

and the robust confirmation of HCO+ earlier detected with Spitzer.
A regular MOG black hole’s impact on shadows and gravitational weak lensing in the presence of a quintessence field
Authors: Al-Badawi Ahmad , Shaymatov Sanjar , Alloqulov Mirzabek , Wang Anzhong
Published: May 2024

We investigate the impact of the modified gravity (MOG) field and the quintessence scalar field on horizon evolution, black hole (BH) shadow and the weak gravitational lensing around a static spherically symmetric BH. We first begin to write the BH metric associated with the MOG parameter and quintessence scalar field. We then determine the BH shadow and obtain numerical solutions for the photon sphere and shadow radius. We show that the MOG (α) and the quintessence (c) parameters have a significant impact on the BH shadow and photon sphere. Based on the analysis, we further show that the combined effects of the MOG parameter and quintessence field can increase the values of BH shadow and photon sphere radii. We also obtain constraints on the BH parameters by applying the observational data of Sgr A⋆ and M87⋆. Finally, we consider the weak deflection angle of BH within the context of the Gauss–Bonnet theorem (GBT) and show that the combined effects of the MOG and quintessence parameters do make the value of the deflection angle increase, and find this remarkable property is in good agreement with the physical meaning of both parameters that can maintain the strong gravitational field in the surrounding environment of a BH.
Transport Barriers in magnetized plasmas- general theory with dynamical constraints
Authors: Kotschenreuther M. , Liu X. , Mahajan S.M. , Hatch D.R. , Merlo G.
Published: May 2024

A fundamental dynamical constraint—that fluctuation induced charge-weighted particle flux must vanish- can prevent instabilities from accessing the free energy in the strong gradients characteristic of Transport Barriers (TBs). Density gradients, when large enough, lead to a violation of the constraint and hence preclude unstable modes and turbulent transport. This mechanism, then, broadens the class of configurations (in magnetized plasmas) where these high confinement states can be formed and sustained. The need for velocity shear, the conventional agent for TB formation, is obviated. The most important ramifications of the constraint is to permit a charting out of the domains conducive to TB formation and hence to optimally confined fusion worthy states; the detailed investigation is conducted through new analytic methods and extensive gyrokinetic simulations.
Wall heating by subcritical energetic electrons generated by the runaway electron avalanche source
*
Authors: Beidler M.T. , del-Castillo-Negrete D. , Shiraki D. , Baylor L.R. , Hollmann E.M. , Lasnier C.J.
Published: May 2024

Subcritical energetic electrons (SEEs) produced by the runaway electron (RE) avalanche source at energies below the runaway threshold are found to be the primary contributor to surface heating of plasma-facing components (PFCs) during final loss events. This finding is supported by theoretical analysis, computational modeling with the Kinetic Orbit Runaway electrons Code (KORC), and qualitative agreement with DIII-D experimental observations. The avalanche source generates significantly more secondary electrons below the runaway threshold, which thermalize rapidly when well-confined. However, during a final loss event, the RE beam impacts the first wall, and SEEs are deconfined before they can thermalize. Additionally, because the energy deposition length decreases faster than energy, the deposited energy density, and thus the maximum PFC surface temperature change, is larger for SEEs than REs. KORC simulations employ an analytic first wall to model particle deconfinement onto a non-axisymmetric wall composed of individual tiles. PFC surface heating is calculated using a 1D model extended to include an energy-dependent deposition length scale. Simulations of DIII-D qualitatively agree with infrared (IR) imaging only when SEEs from the avalanche source are included. These results demonstrate that SEEs are the dominant contributor to PFC surface heating and indicate that the avalanche source plays a critical role in the PFC damage caused during final loss events. The prominence of SEEs also has important implications for interpreting IR imaging, one of the primary diagnostics for RE-wall interaction diagnosis, despite REs dominating the energy and current density. This result improves predictions of wall damage due to post-disruption REs to estimate material lifetime and design RE mitigation systems for ITER and future reactors.
A Review on Stabilizing Clayey Soil Using Waste Materials
Authors: Senagah Amenjor , Singh Preetpal
Published: May 2024

Infrastructural development on unstable clayey soil has resulted to the damage of buildings and roads, the loss of lives, and financial instability in many projects including both vertical and horizontal structures due to the incapability of clayey soil to withstand certain magnitude of loadings. Furthermore, the deposit of materials that are left-over in open areas has also become an environmental challenge for residents in many communities. This review elaborates on the effect of waste materials—SDA (sawdust ash), FA (fly ash), and RHA (rice hush ash)—on the shearing strength of clayey soil as agents for stabilization. The study covers significant books on stabilizing clayey soil with additives as well as high indexed research articles that were published from 1998 to 2023. The findings show that, mixing the ash of sawdust with natural clay soil at the peak values of four (4) percent to seven point five (7.5) percent carries up the UCS (Unconfined Compressive Strength), the MDD (Maximum Dry Density), the CBR (California Bearing Ratio), and lowers the soil’s swelling, Optimum Water Content or OMC and Liquid Limit (LL). Similarly, the mixture of FA and clay soil at the optimum values ranging from 9 to 25%, raises the clayey soil’s UCS, MDD, and CBR while lowering its swelling potential, OMC, and LL. Additionally, the UCS, MDD and CBR increases, and the swelling, OMC, and LL reduce at the optimum value of added rice hush ash ranging from 10 to 20%. Thus, it is established that the addition of sawdust, fly, and rice hush can enhance clayey soil’s engineering properties.
Design and analysis of bituminous construction mixes for flexible pavement by adding industrial waste
Authors: Mittal P , Singh T , Kaur G , Mittal P
Published: May 2024

The study focused on utilizing industrial waste, which consists of various materials rendered unusable during manufacturing processes, for designing a bituminous mix for flexible pavement. The researchers collected the waste material and prepared a mixed composition of industrial waste. They evaluated the properties and quality of the mixed composition when combined with bitumen. Marshall mix samples were created using different bitumen contents and the mixed waste composition, with only 5% utilization of crumb rubber (CR) in the experimental work. The study found that the most optimal results were achieved with the addition of 3% low-density polyethylene (LDPE), 4% waste engine oil (WEO), and 5% CR with a bitumen content of 4.5%. The analysis revealed a maximum stability value of 727.5 kg and a flow value of 16.15. However, it was concluded that increasing the limit of LDPE, WEO, or CR could lead to brittleness and significant deformation in the mix.
Investigating geotechnical properties of silty clay stabilized using wheat straw ash and lime.
Authors: Nabi Mohasin , Malik Er. Mohd. Irshad
Published: May 2024

The change of soil conditions by either physical or chemical methods to improve the soil’s capability for engineering is known as soil stabilization. The primary goals of soil stabilization are to strengthen the soil’s carrying capacity, its resistance to degradation, and its ability to absorb water. Any building project’s durability is dependent on the stability of the base soils. For this reason, soil stabilization processes must be used to ensure the soil’s strength so that it is capable of supporting the load of the superstructure, particularly within the case of soil that is highly active. It also saves an important amount of time as well as funds when compared to the method of removing and replacing the unstable soil. The subject matter addresses the full inspection of how wheat straw ash and lime can be used to enhance soil qualities and stabilize it.
Study on interaction of Viscoelastic and Mechano-sorptive creep and effect of Fibre Reinforcement on creep of Timber beams
Authors: Jojo Joan Mary , Giri Gouri S , Nagarajan Praveen
Published: May 2024

Timber is a sustainable material widely used in structural elements. Its viscoelastic nature, in which the stress-strain relation varies with time, poses significant challenge to the durability of timber structures. Creep of timber under constant loading depends on various factors like stress level, moisture content, load-to-grain angle, temperature, relative humidity etc. Among these, relative humidity and moisture content in timber are the most crucial. Drastically varying moisture content causes mechano-sorptive creep. However, the interaction and contribution of various factors causing creep is still a matter of research. Various codes provide generalized creep coefficient for long term deflection and load reduction factors. A detailed rheological model was proposed by Toratti which addresses mechano-sorptive creep explicitly, incorporating both recoverable and irrecoverable part in creep. This paper aims to review the study on interaction between viscoelastic creep and Mechano-sorptive creep in various environmental conditions. Effect of reinforcing timber beams, on the long term deflection due to creep is also made a subject of study to identify a possible solution to the accelerated deflection by Mechano-sorptive creep, which will be unavoidable in tropical areas with extreme climactic changes. A comparative study between the various standard codes with Indian Standard Codes for timber with respect to creep, is also made, to identify the gaps in IS codes.
A statistical Review on the Usage of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement waste as a recyclable material
Authors: Nasir Humaib , Kaur Mandeep , Faheem Sheikh
Published: May 2024

Construction is a part of human evolution, in ancient times people used wood and stone as construction materials as they were obtained naturally. As time passed, we learned about new methods and materials of construction. We started using concrete, steel, and asphalt as construction materials but these materials were costly and also had ill effects on the environment. In modern times construction techniques should be eco-friendly and economical as well. So, recycling construction and demolition waste is an option to deal with these problems. Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is a type of construction and demolition waste, which can be recycled after proper treatment. Reclaimed asphalt pavement materials are obtained from the milling of road pavement during reconstruction or maintenance work. These materials are mainly coarse aggregates and asphalt binders. The use of Reclaimed asphalt pavement with virgin crushed aggregates is widely accepted practice in several construction applications as it reduces the cost of construction, transportation, and handling. Properties of reclaimed asphalt pavement wastes are expected to be in an acceptable range with the conventional material but can be used as a partial or whole replacement for conventional materials. Reclaimed asphalt pavement also reduces the consumption or violation of natural resources. One of the primary advantages of using RAP is cost savings. Incorporating RAP into asphalt mixtures can significantly reduce material and disposal costs since it eliminates the need to extract and transport new aggregates. Additionally, RAP can reduce the demand for virgin asphalt binder In this review, a study was done on the usage of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement as a recyclable construction material, and its physical and chemical characteristics are compared to conclude and provide its statistical review so that it can be used for sustainable construction works.
Enhancing surface morphology, mechanical, and wettability properties of PVA/chitosan/HAp nanofiber scaffold through dielectric barrier discharge plasma treatment
Authors: Hartatiek  , Yudyanto  , Wuriantika M I , Amalia S
Published: May 2024

Dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma treatment has been widely used for surface functionalization, allowing for precise modification of surface chemistry and morphology. This study investigates the efficacy of DBD plasma treatment in enhancing the surface morphology and wettability of electrospun nanofiber scaffolds composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), chitosan, and hydroxyapatite (HAp), with potential applications in bone tissue engineering. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed significant alterations in surface morphology after treatment, including a reduction in average fiber diameter and the presence of uneven, damaged, and even broken fibers. Interestingly, the ultimate strength of the nanofibers increased from 1.13 ± 0.05 MPa to 6.99 ± 0.07 MPa despite the decrease in diameter. Contact angle measurements confirmed a remarkable improvement in wettability, with the contact angle decreasing from 39.46° to 7.45° following increasing treatment time. This enhanced wettability suggests improved cell adhesion, potentially leading to more effective bone tissue regeneration.
Increased incidence of co-trimoxazole-induced rash in patients on systemic corticosteroid treatment for toxicity associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors
Authors: Yiu Daniel , Aguilar-Duran Silvia , Edwards Charlotte , Chauhan Dharmisha , Furness Andrew , Turajlic Samra , Larkin James , Fearfield Louise , Heelan Kara
Published: May 2024

Our cross-sectional study demonstrates that there is a high rate of co-trimoxazole-induced drug rash in patients treated for immune-related adverse events, with those developing rash appearing to have a reduced survival.
Advantages of the 3- vs. the 2-Dimensional Laparoscopic Technology in Bariatric Surgery
Authors: de Vico C , Burgard M , Egger B , Pugin F
Published: May 2024

Background

Bariatric surgery procedures as the laparoscopic Roux-en-Y-Gastric Bypass (RYGB) are highly standardized procedures. The difficulty in two-dimensional (2D) laparoscopic surgery is the loss of the depth perception which complicates surgical techniques as suturing and knotting. The development of three-dimensional (3D) laparoscopy has been shown to reduce operative times and surgeons’ performances errors.

Aims

To compare operative times, post-operative complications and the lengths of hospital stay of patients having undergone laparoscopic RYGB before and after the introduction of the 3D-technology.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study including patients having undergone RYGB (without cholecystectomy) at our institution by the same surgical team before and after the introduction of the 3D-laparoscopic technology (Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany). The primary outcome was the operative time, the secondary outcomes the post-operative complications and lengths of hospital stay.

Results

100 consecutive patients, operated on 2019-2021 were included; 50 were operated utilizing the 2D- and 50 the 3D laparoscopic technology. There were no statistically significant differences in age, gender, body mass index or comorbidities, however, patients in the 3D-group had significantly more previous interventions. Operative time and hospital length of stay were significantly reduced in the 3D-group (83 (± 20.8) vs. 91 (± 13.5) minutes; p < 0.05 and 2.1 (± 0.4) vs. 2.7 (± 1.1) nights; p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences found between groups concerning post-operative complications and re-interventions.

Conclusion

3D technology may help reducing the operative time and length of hospital stay in laparoscopic RYGB surgery with similar post-operative complications. We cannot completely exclude reduced operative times by the still growing experience of the surgical team.
Selective Inhibition of Hepatocyte Claudin-3 Ameliorates Fibrotic and Cholestatic Liver Damage by Enhancing Bicarbonate Secretion and Bile Dynamics.
Authors: Baier F , Baier F , Stroka D , Melin N , Yarahmadov T , Sánchez-Taltavull D , Moghadamrad S , Murugan S , Keogh A , Odermatt A , Gómez Castellá C , Feraille E , Sassi A , Deutsch U , Engelhardt B , Furuse M , Candinas D
Published: May 2024

Background

Cholestatic-fibrotic liver diseases have a high unmet medical need. Tight junctions, which maintain the blood-biliary-barrier in the liver, have important biological functions that impact cholestatic diseases. A main component of the hepatic tight junction is claudin-3.

Aims

In this study, we explored the function of claudin-3 and demonstrate its potential as a new drug target in cholestatic-fibrotic liver diseases.

Methods

Adult C57BL/6 N background Cldn3+/+ or Cldn3-/- mice were subjected to extra- and intrahepatic cholestasis via surgical ligation of the common bile duct (BDL) or chemically, by gavage or feeding alpha-naphthyl isothiocyanate (ANIT). Hepatic necrosis and serum liver injury markers were determined. Bile flow and bicarbonate levels were quantified. Bile acid levels were measured by LC-MS/MS in serum and liver tissue. Claudin-3 was knocked down using liver specific claudin-3 GalNAc-siRNAs.

Results

Claudin-3 is expressed in normal- and cholestatic liver tissues. Cldn3-/- mice have a higher bile-flow rate, more bicarbonate secretion, and the bile is less concentrated with bile acids and bilirubin. Following bile duct ligation or ANIT, Cldn3-/- mice showed macroscopically less signs of bile acid retention and a different bile color. Hepatic bile acid levels were significantly lower in normal- or cholestasis challenged Cldn3-/- mice. Following BDL, ANIT gavage- or ANIT feeding, liver injury in was remarkably ameliorated in Cldn3-/- mice. Liver specific knockdown of claudin-3 using GalNAc-siRNAs ameliorated cholestasis at a lower success rate compared to the complete knockout.

Conclusion

Knockout or GalNAc-siRNA mediated inhibition of claudin-3 protected the liver from injury in models of extra- or intrahepatic cholestasis. Further pre-clinical and clinical studies need to be conducted to show whether claudin-3 inhibition is an efficient and safe therapeutic approach for the treatment of cholestatic liver diseases. As next step towards translation of our results, we are currently screening and optimizing human GalNAc conjugated claudin-3 inhibitors.