bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation on spontaneous recombination mechanisms in GaN based laser diodes under low injection current
Authors: Chen Zhenyu , Liang Feng , Wang Xiaowei , Yang Jing , Zhao Degang
Published: May 2024

This study works on the spontaneous recombination mechanisms of GaN-based laser diodes (LDs) under low injection current by examining their power–current (P–I) curves and electroluminescence spectra. Our investigation focuses on the behavior of differential efficiency in LDs under low injection current, revealing that a competition between impurity-related yellow emissions and band-edge blue emissions leads to a change in total luminescence efficiency. Using both experimental and simulating methods, the yellow emission peak is primarily attributed to carrier recombination in deep-level defects located on the LD's p-side. A detailed explanation to the differential efficiency changing mechanism is beneficial to improve the GaN-based LD performance in future fabrication.
A scientometrics analysis and visualization of the ecological impact of photovoltaic projects
Authors: Shi Jiawei , Yu Jiayue , Guan Jinjin
Published: May 2024

The topic of global climate change has heated up in recent years, and other environmental and energy-related challenges have been continuously gaining attention. At the same time, the concept of sustainable development and carbon-neutral strategies have emerged. Photovoltaic electricity is strongly promoted by pertinent policies as a high-quality substitute for conventional energy sources. Meanwhile, the potential ecological impacts of photovoltaic (PV) projects should also be noted. Currently, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the ecological impact of photovoltaic projects. It is of great necessity to summarize the research status and future trends of this topic from the perspective of a literature review. Therefore, a scientometrics analysis and visualization of the ecological impact of photovoltaic projects was conducted in this study, using CiteSpace as the visualization tool. Web of Science and Scopus were selected as the databases, and the retrieved articles were analyzed using co-occurrence and cluster analysis to discover hot research subjects and evolving trends, as well as to examine institutional, national, and author collaborations. The results help in the present study field of the ecological effect of photovoltaic projects in identifying and understanding trends and patterns. This study offers theoretical support for PV site selection and ecological protection nearby. It can also motivate academics, politicians, institutions, and governments to formulate ecologically friendly roadmaps and regimes in balancing PV development and ecological protection.
A multiscale study of the influence of aggregate type on adhesion at the asphalt–aggregate interface
Authors: Su Anshuai , Yin Hua , Bao Sunbule , Zhao Jianguo , Li Jiawei , Li Shiquan
Published: May 2024

In order to examine the influence of aggregate type on the asphalt–aggregate interface, the adhesion performance between asphalt and aggregate was investigated at three scales. The pull-out test was conducted on asphalt and three kinds of aggregates at the macroscale to directly estimate the adhesion performance between them. At the microscale, the surface energies between asphalt and limestone, basalt, and andesite were examined through a surface energy experiment, and then the adhesion and debonding work were assessed. At the nanoscale, the interfacial behavior between six mineral compositions (SiO2, CaO, MgO, Al2O3, Fe2O3, and Na2O) of these aggregates and asphalt was determined using molecular dynamics simulation. The correlation of adhesion work at the microscale and nanoscale was further explored to unveil the bonding mechanisms between asphalt and aggregate. The macroscale results indicate that the adhesion force of andesite is slightly greater than that of limestone, probably because andesite has a greater surface roughness than limestone. The microscale results show the best adhesion and water stability between asphalt and limestone. The finding further explains that alkaline aggregates exhibit superior interfacial adhesion to asphalt. The nanoscale results show that the adhesion work of alkaline oxides with asphalt is more significant than that of acidic oxides with asphalt. Limestone and basalt have better adhesion to asphalt due to higher alkaline oxide content, while andesite has poorer adhesion to asphalt due to lower alkaline oxide and higher SiO2 content. The interfacial adhesion work increases from the microscale to the nanoscale by a factor of 2.91–4.75.
Study on fracture toughness of quasicrystalline phase in Mg-42Zn-7Y alloy based on indentation technique
Authors: Wang Yingnan , Liu Jiawei , Meng Xiaokai , Guo Junhong
Published: May 2024

The Mg-42Zn-7Y alloy, which contains an icosahedral quasicrystalline phase, was prepared using a conventional solidification process. The fracture toughness of this quasicrystalline phase in the Mg-42Zn-7Y alloy was nondestructively detected using in situ tensile and indentation techniques. The alloy exhibited a tensile strength of 99.17 MPa and an elongation of 3.9%. Microscopic observation and energy spectrum analysis confirmed the high-contrast lamellar structure as the quasicrystalline phase. Ultimately, under cyclic loading during indentation, the fracture toughness of the quasicrystalline phase was determined to be 35.08 MPa m0.5. The findings of the present study provided an effective basis for the determination of the fracture toughness of the quasicrystalline phase.
Distant bipartite entanglement generation in a hybrid opto-magnomechanical system
Authors: Tadesse Mulugeta , Tesfahannes Tesfay Gebremariam , Darge Tewodros Yirgashewa , Wodado Muhdin Abdo , Mekonnen Habtamu Dagnaw
Published: May 2024

In this work, we present a hybrid cavity opto-magnomechanical system to generate distant bipartite entanglement between different quantum carriers. Accordingly, the system consists of two cavity photons, a phonon of yttrium iron garnet (YIG), a magnon, and a phonon of membrane. Specifically, the two cavities are coupled through an optical fiber, and one of the optical cavities consists of a membrane coupled with the cavity photon through radiation pressure force. While the other cavity contains a YIG, the magnon mode connects to the cavity photon via magnetic dipole interaction and, simultaneously, couples to the mechanical resonator of the YIG through magnetostrictive interaction. We show that entanglement generation can be realized under indirectly coupled bipartitions for parameters and detunings within appropriate regimes. Furthermore, for various bipartitions, we also obtain appropriate cavity and magnon detuning values for a considerable remote entanglement. Moreover, the generation of distant bipartite entanglements and entanglement transfer between subsystems is predominantly influenced by the coupling strength. Remarkably, the distant bipartite entanglement is strongly contrary to the environmental temperature. Thus, optimizing the system’s parameters allows for the maximum possible entanglement between various quantum carriers. We believe our results could provide more stable bipartite entanglements and serve as a potential quantum interface to realize particularly long-range entanglement transfers.
Struggling to afford medicines: a qualitative exploration of the experiences of participants in the FreeMeds study
Authors: Isno Leinasei , Norris Pauline , Churchward Marianna
Published: May 2024

Introduction Existing research has established that some people struggle with prescription charges. This paper reports on the experiences of a sub-sample of people who participated in the FreeMeds study (a randomised controlled trial of prescription charges) about their problems paying for medicines. Aim The aim of this study was to explore participants’ previous experiences with paying for medicines, and the impact of receiving free medicines through the Free Meds study. Method Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 23 people (21 were available for analysis), purposefully selected from the 1061 participants in the FreeMeds trial. Trial participants had to live in an area of high socio-economic deprivation (NZDep 7–10), either take medicines for diabetes and/or take anti-psychotics and/or have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Transcripts were analysed thematically. Results Prior to being enrolled in the study, prescription charges were an important issue for many of the participants, who faced multiple health challenges. Some reported having to go without medicines until they could afford them, and many reported having to make hard choices, such as choosing which of their medicines to pick up, or choosing between medicines and other expenses like food. Echoing the quantitative results from the trial, some participants reported previous hospitalisations because of their inability to pay for and hence take, their medicines. Few participants had discussed the affordability of medicines with their doctor. Participants reported that being exempted (through the FreeMeds trial) had reduced their stress and allowed them to afford medicines they would normally have gone without. Discussion The study supports the government’s decision to eliminate prescription charges, to remove one barrier to health and wellbeing for people facing significant disadvantages.
Medicines use and polypharmacy in retirement village residents in Aotearoa New Zealand: a point prevalence observational study
Authors: Hikaka Joanna , Wu Zhenqiang , Boyd Michal , Connolly Martin J. , Broad Joanna B. , Calvert Cheryl , Tatton Annie , Peri Kathy , Bloomfield Katherine
Published: May 2024

Introduction Polypharmacy increases the risk of medicines-related harm, including falls, in older adults. Falls have a significant impact on quality of life and health system resources. Little is known about medicine use in retirement village (RV) residents in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ). Aim Our study aimed to describe medicine use and the point prevalence of polypharmacy among a cohort of RV residents in Auckland, NZ. Methods Data collection occurred from July 2016 to June 2018. Eligible participants (those residing permanently in a RV) were recruited from RVs in Auckland, New Zealand. Medicines use data were collected using an interRAI assessment tool. Descriptive statistics, t-tests and Chi-squared tests were used for analysis. Results A total of 578 residents were recruited from 33 RVs and the median age was 81.6 years. Participants took a mean of 4.8 regular medicines (standard deviation = 2.9) and 0.7 ‘as required’ medicines. Anti-hypertensives (68.5%), lipid-lowering medicines (45.2%), antacids (39.4%) and antiplatelet agents (37.9%) were the most prescribed medicine classes. Polypharmacy (five-plus medicines; 51.8%) was common and hyperpolypharmacy (10-plus medicines; 5.7%) occurred infrequently. Discussion This study provides insight into medicines use by RV residents in Auckland, NZ. Medicines used for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease were used most commonly and polypharmacy was common. Active review of RV residents’ medicines is warranted, based on these findings and increasing evidence regarding the use of medicines, including those for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. Trial registration Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: CTRN12616000685415. Registered 25.5.2016. Universal Trial Number (UTN): U111–1173-6083.
Rhizobial genetic and genomic resources for sustainable agriculture
Authors: Kohlmeier MacLean G. , O’Hara Graham W. , Ramsay Joshua P. , Terpolilli Jason J.
Published: May 2024

Rhizobia are a diverse group of α- and β-proteobacteria that boost soil fertility by forming a nitrogen-fixing symbiosis with legumes, which is why legumes are grown in rotation with cereals in agriculture. Rhizobia that naturally populate Australian soils are largely incompatible with exotic agricultural legumes, therefore, compatible strains have been imported from all over the world for use as inoculants. An amalgamated collection of these strains, called the International Legume Inoculant Genebank (ILIG), has been established at Murdoch University, to provide a centralised strain storage facility and support rhizobial research and inoculant development (see http://ilig.murdoch.edu.au). The ILIG contains 11,558 strains representing 96 bacterial species from 778 legume species collected from >1200 locations across 100 countries. New and sometimes inefficient rhizobia evolve in the field following legume inoculation, through horizontal symbiosis gene transfer from inoculants to soil bacteria. To provide a benchmark to monitor and assess the impact of this evolution, all commercial Australian inoculant strains were genome sequenced and these data made available (PRJNA783123, see https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/PRJNA783123/). These data, and the further sequencing of the >11,000 historical strains in the ILIG, will increase our understanding of rhizobial evolution and diversity and provide the backbone for efforts to safeguard Australia’s legume inoculation program.
Understanding the effects of egg loss from fisher handling to improve conservation of a threatened freshwater crayfish (Euastacus armatus)
Authors: Raymond S. M. C. , Todd C. R. , Ryall J.
Published: May 2024

Context Handling of wild animals can have adverse effects on individuals that scale up to affect populations and ultimately species. Limited mobility and high harvest pressure expose the threatened Australian freshwater crayfish (Euastacus armatus) to multiple handling events by fishers that cause egg loss. Aim Our aim was to assess the effects from harvest pressure on the reproductive output of an E. armatus population. Methods A stochastic model based on empirical data and estimated harvest pressures was used to predict the effect of repetitive handling of individuals on a population of E. armatus subject to harvest and consequent egg loss. Key results Egg loss resulted in substantial predicted population-level declines, most pronounced in populations subject to high and extreme harvest pressures. Conclusions We advocate educating fishers to visually determine the reproductive condition of female crayfish by inspecting gonopore setation, eliminating the need for unfurling the tail. Implications Maximising species reproductive output through limiting handling loss supports the management and conservation of E. armatus populations.
Reflexivity patterns in West-Slavic languages
Authors: Ivanová Martina
Published: May 2024

The aim of this paper is to analyse differences in reflexive coding in Slovak, Czech and Polish and to evaluate
the factors responsible for using phonologically more or less complex reflexive markers. To address this issue, we looked at
preferred reflexive coding strategies in Slovak, Czech, and Polish, relying on data extracted from InterCorp multilingual corpus.
The results are then verified by data from monolingual corpora of investigated languages for one semantic group of verbs labelled
as ‘Prevarication’ in FrameNet. The results show that semantic frame underlying the meaning of lexical items cannot be the only
possible explanation for distribution of reflexive markers but there are also other semantic, syntactic and pragmatic factors
playing a pivotal role in reflexive coding strategies, often unique for a given language.
Abundant soliton solutions on fractional Kraenkel Manna Merle model (FKMM) via new extended of generalized exponential rational function approach (GERFA)
Authors: Ouahid Loubna
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we use the generalized exponential rational function approach (GERFA) for constructing new solitary wave solutions for the fractional Kraenkel Manna Merle (FKMM) model, which is saturated ferromagnetic materials (MF) with a field outside that has very little conductivity, reflects the nonlinear of an ultrashort pulse. The proportional behavior of the suggested model is examined using the beta-derivative (BD). Through the use of this computational method, multiple types of solitons, such as kink, dark, anti-kink, periodic, bright, kink dark, kink bright, anti-kink dark, and anti-kink bright solitons, were obtained for (FKMM). Some of the revealed solutions’ 3D graphs are also employed in the numerical simulations. This investigation demonstrates the efficacy and simplicity of the offered strategy and the simple way to create many new solutions for different kinds of nonlinear partial differential equations, which have significant applications in the engineering and applied sciences. The findings show that the model theoretically has extraordinarily rich soliton structures.
Second order frequency selective surface design multi-functional at two bands
Authors: Shah Gulab , Cao Qunsheng , Hassan Tayyab , Khan Asaf
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes an active frequency selective surface which furnishes three bands of higher order filtering characteristics. It controls multi-functional features, at two bands (centered at 2 GHz and 4 GHz), namely electromagnetic response and polarization of plane wave. Nine discrete filtering outputs are independently controlled through switching in bias supply to four PIN diodes embedded in two layers of AFSS unit cell. Two multifunctional bands hold stability upto 45° angles under all polarizations of wave. Passive band at around 5.9 GHz contributed by all the independent binary combinations exhibits stability upto 45° angles of TE wave only. The equivalent circuit method is used to explain and verify the designed structure. Finally, the AFSS structure is fabricated and reliability of the simulation results is verified through experiments.
Determining the Drucker-Prager Cap model constants using experimental, numerical and optimization for compacted Mg powders at different strain rates
Authors: Rahmani K , Bakhtiari H , Malekmohammadi H , Sadooghi A , Khakbaz F
Published: May 2024

This article investigates an inverse approach to determine the coefficients of the Drucker-Prager model for magnesium powder. The approach involves conducting finite element simulations of the powder compression process within LS-DYNA software, employing the Drucker-Prager material model. The goal is to minimize the disparity between force-displacement outcomes derived from simulations and experimental data using a surrogate optimization method. Experimental data were obtained through a uniaxial compression test and served as a basis for adjusting the Cap model coefficients. A random selection of coefficients was made using the Latin cube method and simulations were performed based on the initial coefficients. The optimization was then performed using the particle swarm algorithm over 20 iterations. The optimized coefficients were validated against experimental data, demonstrating close agreement. By utilizing the extracted coefficients, the relative density of the samples was calculated at three different compaction speeds, i.e., 15.5 m s−1 (using a Hopkinson bar), 8 m s−1 (using a drop weight), and 1 mm min−1 (using an Instron machine). The analysis revealed the highest relative density and stress in the densified sample via the Hopkinson bar method, reaching 99.83% and 1.1 GPa, respectively.
The Influence of Different Solar System Planetary Ephemerides on Pulsar Timing
Authors: Dai Jian-Peng , Han Wei , Wang Na
Published: May 2024

Pulsar timing offers a comprehensive avenue for exploring diverse topics in physics and astrophysics. High-precision solar system planetary ephemeris is crucial for pulsar timing as it provides the positions and velocities of solar system planets including the Earth. However, it is inevitable that inherent inconsistencies exist in these ephemerides. Differences between various ephemerides can significantly impact pulsar timing and parameter estimations. Currently, pulsar timing highly depends on the JPL DE ephemeris, for instance, the Pulsar Timing Array data analysis predominantly utilizes DE436. In this study, we examine inconsistencies across various ephemeris series, including JPL DE, EPM, and INPOP. Notably, discrepancies emerge particularly between the current ephemeris DE436 and the earliest released ephemeris DE200, as well as the most recent ephemerides, e.g., DE440, INPOP21A, and EPM2021. Further detailed analysis of the effects of ephemeris on geometric correction procedures for the conversion of measured topocentric times of arrival is presented in this study. Our researches reveal that variations in the Roemer delays across different ephemerides lead to distinct differences. The timing residuals and the fact that these discrepancies can be readily incorporated into the subsequent pulsar parameters, leading to inconsistent fitting estimates, suggest that the influence of errors in the ephemeris on the timing process might currently be underappreciated.
Investigating antitumor therapeutic efficacy using magnetic hyperthermia of Fe3O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Narayanaswamy Venkatesha , Jagal Jayalakshmi , Al-Omari Imaddin A. , Khurshid Hafsa , Haider Mohamed , Obaidat Ihab M. , Issa Bashar
Published: May 2024

Four sets of Fe3O4 nanoparticles were synthesized using a one-pot hydrothermal method using ethylene glycol (EG) and water reaction mixture. The EG coated Fe3O4 nanoparticles were characterized using XRD (X-ray diffraction) and DLS (dynamic light scattering). The nanoparticles hydrodynamic sizes are in the range 60-100 nm and showed good dispersibility in water and cellular medium without any aggregation. The specific absorption rate (SAR) under an alternating magnetic field (AMF) was measured to evaluate the magneto hyperthermic effect of the nanoparticles under field amplitudes of 51.85, 43.87, 35.89, and 27.92 kA/m and field frequencies in the range 384.5-167.30 kHz. The nanoparticles synthesized using 30% EG showed the highest SAR value of 372.95 W/g, whereas the particles synthesized using 70% EG showed a SAR value of 217.12 W/g. SAR values show a linear dependency on the AC frequency whereas the field amplitude displayed a nonlinear effect on the SAR. Breast cancer cells (MDA) treated with the nanoparticles for 30 minutes under an AMF of frequency of 384.5 kHz and strength of 24.67 kA/m showed a 50% decrease in cell viability. The cellular viability further decreased to 25% after 24 h treatment under the AMF which is remarkable for the therapeutic application of the nanoparticles. The apoptotic cell death showed a dependency on the AMF frequency and strength combinations.
The Scalability of Third Generation Photovoltaics: Deposition Techniques and Modularity
Authors: Ayoub Mohamad , Alashkar Adnan , Mdallal Ayman , Ibrahim Taleb , Khamis Mustafa , Alami Abdul Hai
Published: May 2024

The development of third-generation photovoltaic (TGPV) technologies promises to address some of the limitations of conventional silicon-based solar cells. However, the scalability of these technologies is a critical factor in their practical application. TGPV include Perovskite Solar Cells (PSC), Organic Solar Cells (OSC), and Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (DSSC). This paper reviews and summarizes the recent trends and research on the deposition techniques and modularity of TGPV. Various deposition techniques such as slot-die coating, thermal evaporation, and spray pyrolysis are discussed, along with their advantages and limitations. Modularity, which allows for the integration of TGPV cells into different structures, is also examined as a critical factor in scalability. The paper concludes that the scalability of TGPV technologies depends on the development of efficient and cost-effective deposition techniques and modularity, which will facilitate the integration of the TGPV cells into various structures and enable the widespread use of these promising technologies.
Fabrication of Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy based sensor using Ag NPs on copper tape flexible substrate
Authors: Mohamed Shameer P , Anand K. Vijai , Columbus Soumya , Alawadhi Hussain , Gaidi Mounir
Published: May 2024

In this work, the authors have investigated the properties of thermally evaporated silver nanoarrays on copper tape (Ag/Cu) as flexible and reusable sensors for organic contaminants. Uniformly deposited silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) with well-controlled sizes have formed by thermal evaporation. The deposition time is varied to obtain different morphology of the Ag nanoparticles. The Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) efficiency has been optimized using Rhodamine 6G (R6G) as a test molecule. Morphological studies have also been carried out using scanning electron and atomic force microscopes. The Ag NPs on the copper tape-based sensor show a substantial enhancement in the order of 8.3x107 in the SERS signal for a deposition time of 10 s. Furthermore, we observe that as-prepared Ag/Cu tape can detect micro-molar alizarine red S (ARS), which exhibited excellent reproducibility as well. Hence, the flexible copper substrate proves to be a promising material for detecting environmental hazards at a meager cost.
Prospective of biochar material production and process optimization using co-pyrolysis approach-A mini-review
Authors: Dafalla Mohamed , Inayat Abrar , Jamil Farrukh , Ghenai Chaouki
Published: May 2024

This mini-review explores the perspective of biochar material production using the co-pyrolysis approach, which involves the thermal decomposition of biomass and other carbonaceous materials in the absence of oxygen at low temperatures (300-500°C). The study investigates the co-pyrolysis of biomass with different materials such as plastics, tires, municipal solid waste, and other organic waste to produce a high biochar yield. The review focuses on the benefits of co-pyrolysis, including higher yield and better quality of biochar, as well as reduced environmental impact by using different waste materials as feedstock. The review also highlights co-pyrolysis challenges, such as process optimization, feedstock preparation, and product characterization. The study concludes that co-pyrolysis of biomass with different materials can be a promising approach for producing high-quality biochar with multiple applications. However, more research is needed to optimize the co-pyrolysis process and evaluate the economic feasibility of biochar production using a computation approach.
Characterization of a CZT-based spectrometer for underwater operation via simulations and experiments
Authors: Siltzovalis G. , Lagaki V. , Madesis I. , Mertzimekis T.J.
Published: May 2024

The harsh environmental conditions in the marine environment pose various
constraints on developing efficient instruments to carry out long-term, in situ
radioactivity measurements. In addition, the strong attenuation of γ-rays
in the water medium, makes remote sensing of such radiation a challenging task.
In the present work, we report on the efforts to find the optimal characteristics
and deployment scenarios of a new prototype γ-ray instrument based on a
small-size CZT crystal enclosed in seal-tight housing to be deployed for operation
in large depths. Lab experiments and detailed Monte Carlo simulations were combined
to validate the actual crystal dimensions, determine its efficiency and energy
resolution, as well as establish the minimum detectable activity values of the
instrument in different configurations and scenarios.
Measurements of momentum halo due to the reduced RFQ voltage during the LIPAc beam commissioning
Authors: Hirosawa K. , Bellan L. , Benedetti F. , Carin Y. , Comunian M. , De Franco A. , Dzitko H. , Gex D. , Hasegawa K. , Kondo K. , Kwon S. , Masuda K. , Mizuno A. , Morales Vega J.C. , Moya I. , Podadera I. , Scantamburlo F. , Sugimoto M. ,   and the IFMIF/EVEDA Integrated Project Team
Published: May 2024

The Linear IFMIF Prototype Accelerator, LIPAc, is being
commissioned aiming at validating the RFQ up to 5 MeV
beam acceleration. Eventually, the nominal beam of
5 MeV–125 mA in 1 ms length and
1 Hz rate pulsed mode was achieved in 2019. The beam
operation has been resumed since July 2023 after a long maintenance
including recovery from unexpected problems in the RFQ-RF
system. This new phase aims at the commissioning of the full
configuration except SRF LINAC, which is replaced by a temporary
beam transport line. Focusing on the RFQ behavior, it will be
interesting to operate it at higher duty, especially for longer
pulses. Furthermore, a beam simulation study suggested that the beam
extracted from the RFQ includes considerable momentum halo when the
vane voltage reduces by more than 5 %, with a slight decrease of
the mean energy. It can be a potential source of a quench like the
mismatched beam in the cryomodule. This could be studied by
measuring the energy from the Time-of-Flight among multiple BPMs
while monitoring beam loss around the dipole, where momentum halo
should be lost. During the beam commissioning phase, we studied them
by scanning the RFQ voltage.
PocketWATCH: design and operation of a multi-use test bed for water Cherenkov detector components in pure and gadolinium loaded water
Authors: Thiesse M. , Wilson S.T. , Fannon J. , Malek M. , McElwee J. , Scarff A. , Thompson L.F.
Published: May 2024

The PocketWATCH facility is a unique multi-purpose test bed
designed to replicate the conditions of large water Cherenkov
detectors. Housed at the University of Sheffield, the facility
consists of a light-tight 2000 L ultrapure water tank with
purification and temperature control systems. Water temperature,
resistivity, and UV attenuation in the tank are monitored and shown
to be stable over time. The system is also shown to be compatible
with a solution of 0.2% gadolinium sulfate, allowing further
utility in testing equipment bound for the next generation neutrino
and nucleon decay water Cherenkov particle detectors. The relevant
water quality parameters are shown to be stable whilst running in
Gd-mode, thereby providing a suitable test bed for hardware
development in a realistic, ex situ environment.
Spatial Distribution and the Sustainability of Student Mobility of Top Universities in Bandung, Indonesia
Authors: Rahayu Lisna , Marlyn Kipuw Desiree
Published: May 2024

As leading higher education institutions, top universities generate significant daily traffic. In addition, its high education quality often attracts youth to migrate and live closer to the university complex. The development of novel policies that support sustainable transport mode usage will become a role model and provide public benefits to the environment. Yet, there is little knowledge and limited research on university student mobility. This study aims to identify the significance of the daily trip distribution generated by top university students and identify the sustainability of its transportation modes by taking Bandung, Indonesia, as a case study. Responses from 383 students at 4 top universities were collected and then analysed using comparative analysis. The analysis reveals that 66,48 % of the students live in an area less than a 5 Km radius, yet, still depend on non-sustainable transport modes. This finding carries important policy implications to encourage more sustainable transport mode usage within this 5 Km area.
Towards Ecovillage Through Rural Waste Management Institution in Cinanjung, Sumedang Regency, West Java
Authors: Fatimah S , Deliana Y , Rasmikayati E , Trimo L , Hapsari H
Published: May 2024

This article aims to examine the possibility of forming an institutional system for waste management so that the village remains a comfortable area to live in. This research uses a descriptive qualitative approach based on case study in a rural setting of West Java, Indonesia. Data and information were obtained primarily from primary data, added by document reviews, articles and other secondary sources. The analysis carried out includes current waste production and handling, existing institutional systems to facilitate communication and coordination in handling waste, and prospects for institutional development to support waste handling in order to encourage the implementation of a green economy in Cinanjung Village. The results of the study show that there is still a gap between production and the ability to handle existing waste. Existing institutions have started to move at the district level but still need an effective strategy at the village level. Through the 3R concept and circular economy based on green development in the framework of ecovillage, it shows that some waste has the potential to be developed into commercial benefits, such as fertilizer and compost, handicraft products, and compacted waste. Support and assistance from the government is needed for the procurement of equipment as well as training. Assistance from third parties such as universities can accelerate the process of empowering solid waste institutions in such rural areas.
Large-scale land development of landed housing and apartment based on developers networking in Jabodetabek
Authors: Muhtadin R , Winarso H
Published: May 2024

The immense development of residential land in Jabodetabek and unreasonable property prices indicate an uncompetitive housing market. It argues that the phenomenon of oligopolistic market condition, either in the property or land market, is bridled by a minority of developers. It is reinforced by the emergence of a network formed among the development firms. In order to deliberate developer’s network, we incorporated institutional land development study approach, market structure and business competition theory. Subsequently, social networks analysis among large-scale housing developers will be explained. This study revealed out that the development of residential land was found to lead into a more competitive climate with monopolistic competitive market type. Four investigations: multiple positions; stock ownership; consortium; and kinship, were selected to divulge a large-scale housing developer network that are formed either directly or indirectly. The network created a semi-oligopolistic type of land domination. A few well-known developers became the dominant actors through landed housing and apartment developers network. The emergence of this network phenomenon is indicated by poor regulations and its institutions. Moreover, policies regarding spatial planning and business competition have not been integrated yet.
Analysis of hot spots and trends in rolling bearing fault diagnosis research based on scientific knowledge mapping
Authors: Chen Bin , Zhao Yang , Zhang Yuteng , Jiang Yuyan , Zhang Hongliang , Pan Haiyang
Published: May 2024

As a key component of mechanical equipment, real-time monitoring and diagnosis of rolling bearings play a critical role in ensuring the stable operation of equipment and the safety of operators. In order to present the current status and trends of fault diagnosis research on rolling bearings more intuitively, the scientific knowledge mapping was used to visualize and analyze the relevant literature in the article. The results show that the number of publications in this area of research has grown significantly in recent years, with China, India, the United States, and England having contributed significantly. The journals such as MECHANICAL SYSTEMS AND SIGNAL PROCESSING, MEASUREMENT, and JOURNAL OF SOUND AND VIBRATION have played an important role in disseminating cutting-edge technologies in this field. In addition, the exploration of modern methods based on data-driven and artificial intelligence, as well as their application to real-world problems, are gradually becoming the focus of research. Through summarising and analysing, the application of modern data processing techniques, the development of more efficient and practical intelligent fault diagnosis techniques, and the close integration of laboratory research and practical applications will become future research trends.
Enhancing microstructure and mechanical properties of dissimilar TIG welded duplex 2205 and Ni-based inconel 718 superalloy through post weld heat treatment
Authors: Fande Ashish , Kalbande Vijay , Kavishwar Samrat , Tandon Vipin , Dhunde Ashish
Published: May 2024

In demanding applications, maintaining structural integrity in dissimilar welded joints like those between duplex stainless steel and Ni-based superalloys requires achieving the best possible mechanical properties. This work examines the impact of post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) on the mechanical characteristics of joints made via double-sided tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding. The dissimilar welded joint was investigated by exposing it to the PWHT for 12 h at 650 °C. Reducing the negative impact of heat generated by welding on the mechanical characteristics and microstructure of the fusion zone was the main goal. To study for changes in the microstructure before and after PWHT, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy methods were used for microstructural analysis. To determine the effect of PWHT on the welded joints, mechanical properties such as tensile strength, toughness, and ductility were also assessed. The mechanical properties showed significantly enhanced characteristics and refined grain structures in the fusion zone.
Understanding desiccation tolerance and sex-specific responses in Bryum argenteum: insights from phenological phases and physiological analyses
Authors: dos Santos Wagner Luiz , Medina-Ramos Andrea , Greenwood Joshua , Pôrto Kátia Cavalcanti , Pinheiro Fábio , Stark Lloyd R
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

Desiccation tolerance (DT) is crucial for survival in arid environments, where organisms develop strategies in reproduction, maintenance and defence to cope with water scarcity. Therefore, investigating the relationship between reproduction and DT is essential to understand the ecology and adaptive strategies of species. This study explores the connection between the development of male and female gametangia in the moss Bryum argenteum and the decrease in DT during the progression of phenological phases in gametangia and protonema.

Methods

Samples collected from a dry tropical forest in Brazil were cultivated, cloned and subjected to desiccation. Subsequently, the physiological parameters of shoots and protonemata were analysed. Shoot and protonema regeneration were monitored for 28 d after the physiological analyses. Both phases were subjected to control and desiccation treatments.

Key Results

Significant effects of desiccation and sex on the physiological parameters and regeneration capacity of shoots and protonemata were found. Male shoots generally exhibited lower values of Fv/Fm (quantum efficiency of photosystem II) and ϕPSII (effective quantum yield of photosystem II), while females demonstrated higher values and better recovery after desiccation. Protonemata also showed variation in Fv/Fm over time and with sex, with no significant differences in ϕPSII between them. Desiccated male shoots had higher mortality rates and produced fewer new shoots. For females, the regeneration patterns varied between the desiccation-exposed groups and the control, with decreased shoot production, and some protonemata growing into filaments without forming shoots.

Conclusion

These findings improve our understanding of the ecological responses of bryophytes to desiccation stress and provide insights into their adaptive strategies in challenging environments, such as the possible rarity of males in dioicous moss populations.
Towards multi-omics synthetic data integration
Authors: Selvarajoo Kumar , Maurer-Stroh Sebastian
Published: May 2024

Across many scientific disciplines, the development of computational models and algorithms for generating artificial or synthetic data is gaining momentum. In biology, there is a great opportunity to explore this further as more and more big data at multi-omics level are generated recently. In this opinion, we discuss the latest trends in biological applications based on process-driven and data-driven aspects. Moving ahead, we believe these methodologies can help shape novel multi-omics-scale cellular inferences.
A highly sensitive stem-loop RT-qPCR method to study siRNA intracellular pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
Authors: Chen Lin , Bosmajian Caroline , Woo Sukyung
Published: May 2024

Small interfering RNA (siRNA) is a powerful tool for sequence-specific silencing of disease-related genes. In this study, we established and validated a stem-loop reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) method applicable for both chemically unmodified and modified siRNA, aiming to elucidate mechanistic intracellular pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) properties of siRNA. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of factors affecting intracellular siRNA quantification. Our study revealed that immobilization-based siRNA extraction introduced high variation, making it unsuitable for absolute quantification. Conversely, direct cell lysis followed by stem-loop RT-qPCR demonstrated excellent reproducibility, with a quantification range from 0.0002 to 20 femtomole (fmole) for unmodified siRNA and 0.02 to 20 fmole for modified siRNA. The design of a 6-bp overlapping RT primer facilitated the distinction of full-length antisense from its 3′-metabolites, and pre-annealing of antisense to RT primer enhanced sensitivity and reproducibility. Differences in siRNA loss during storage and sample processing were noted among microcentrifuge tubes from various manufacturers. Endogenous miR-16 served as a reference for normalizing cytoplasmic siRNA, while protein concentration post-immunoprecipitation lysis was used to normalize RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC)-loaded siRNA levels. This method successfully enabled a detailed characterization of the time profiles of cytoplasmic and RISC-loaded siRNA, advancing the in vitro–in vivo translation of siRNA therapeutics.
Plastome analysis elucidates the phylogenetic placement of the mycoheterotrophic genus Yoania (Orchidaceae) and its plastomic degeneration during the evolution of mycoheterotrophy
Authors: Liu Zhongcheng , Lee Shiou Yih , Yeh Ching-Long , Averyanov Leonid V , Liao Wenbo , Suetsugu Kenji
Published: May 2024

Subtribe Calypsoinae (Epidendroideae, Orchidaceae) comprises several fully mycoheterotrophic species. Phylogenetic analysis indicates that full mycoheterotrophy has evolved independently at least four times within this group, including the Yoania clade. The taxonomic classification of Yoania species has been challenging. Therefore, to understand the plastomic degeneration during the evolution of mycoheterotrophy and to uncover the phylogenetic relationship within Yoania, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis using eight specimens representing all six recognized Yoania taxa from the complete plastome and partial ribosomal DNA (rDNA) operon sequence (ETS–18S–ITS1–5.8S–ITS2–26S). Among the Calypsoinae taxa examined, Yoania possessed the shortest plastome, ranging from 43 998 to 44 940 bp. Comparative analysis of the plastomes revealed a relatively conserved gene structure, content, and order, with species-level sequence variation (in the form of indels) primarily observed in the intergenic spacer regions. Plastomic gene-block inversions were observed between Yoania and Danxiaorchis singchiana, but not between Yoania and other related genera. Phylogenetic analyses based on the plastome and rDNA data strongly supported the monophyletic placement of Yoania within Calypsoinae, and indicated substantial molecular divergence between Yoania and other Calypsoinae taxa. Yoania can thus be considered genetically isolated from the other Calypsoinae taxa.
Tracts in the limbic system show microstructural alterations post COVID-19 recovery
Authors: Mishra Sapna S , Pedersini Caterina A , Misra Rohit , Gandhi Tapan K , Rokers Bas , Biswal Bharat B
Published: May 2024

Delirium, memory loss, attention deficit and fatigue are frequently reported by COVID survivors, yet the neurological pathways underlying these symptoms are not well understood. To study the possible mechanisms for these long-term sequelae after COVID-19 recovery, we investigated the microstructural properties of white matter in Indian cohorts of COVID-recovered patients and healthy controls. For the cross-sectional study presented here, we recruited 44 COVID-recovered patients and 29 healthy controls in New Delhi, India. Using deterministic whole-brain tractography on the acquired diffusion MRI scans, we traced 20 white matter tracts and compared fractional anisotropy, axial, mean and radial diffusivity between the cohorts. Our results revealed statistically significant differences (PFWE < 0.01) in the uncinate fasciculus, cingulum cingulate, cingulum hippocampus and arcuate fasciculus in COVID survivors, suggesting the presence of microstructural abnormalities. Additionally, in a subsequent subgroup analysis based on infection severity (healthy control, non-hospitalized patients and hospitalized patients), we observed a correlation between tract diffusion measures and COVID-19 infection severity. Although there were significant differences between healthy controls and infected groups, we found no significant differences between hospitalized and non-hospitalized COVID patients. Notably, the identified tracts are part of the limbic system and orbitofrontal cortex, indicating microstructural differences in neural circuits associated with memory and emotion. The observed white matter alterations in the limbic system resonate strongly with the functional deficits reported in Long COVID. Overall, our study provides additional evidence that damage to the limbic system could be a neuroimaging signature of Long COVID. The findings identify targets for follow-up studies investigating the long-term physiological and psychological impact of COVID-19.