bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Fractional MacroEvolution Model: a simple quantitative scaling macroevolution model
Authors: Lovejoy Shaun , Spiridonov Andrej
Published: April 2024

Scaling fluctuation analyses of marine animal diversity and extinction and origination rates based on the Paleobiology Database occurrence data have opened new perspectives on macroevolution, supporting the hypothesis that the environment (climate proxies) and life (extinction and origination rates) are scaling over the “megaclimate” biogeological regime (from ≈1 Myr to at least 400 Myr). In the emerging picture, biodiversity is a scaling “crossover” phenomenon being dominated by the environment at short timescales and by life at long timescales with a crossover at ≈40 Myr. These findings provide the empirical basis for constructing the Fractional MacroEvolution Model (FMEM), a simple stochastic model combining destabilizing and stabilizing tendencies in macroevolutionary dynamics, driven by two scaling processes: temperature and turnover rates.

Macroevolution models are typically deterministic (albeit sometimes perturbed by random noises) and are based on integer-ordered differential equations. In contrast, the FMEM is stochastic and based on fractional-ordered equations. Stochastic models are natural for systems with large numbers of degrees of freedom, and fractional equations naturally give rise to scaling processes.

The basic FMEM drivers are fractional Brownian motions (temperature, T) and fractional Gaussian noises (turnover rates, E+) and the responses (solutions), are fractionally integrated fractional relaxation noises (diversity [D], extinction [E], origination [O], and E− = O − E). We discuss the impulse response (itself representing the model response to a bolide impact) and derive the model's full statistical properties. By numerically solving the model, we verified the mathematical analysis and compared both uniformly and irregularly sampled model outputs with paleobiology series.
“The human face of the UN plastics treaty”? The role of waste pickers in intergovernmental negotiations to end plastic pollution and ensure a just transition
Authors: O’Hare Patrick , Nøklebye Emmy
Published: April 2024

Waste pickers are recognised as a key stakeholder in the ongoing negotiations towards an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution. Up to 34 million waste pickers contribute to recovering close to 60% of recycled post-consumer plastic waste globally. The International Alliance of Waste Pickers (IAWP) has actively engaged in the negotiations to safeguard a just transition for these important but vulnerable and frequently overlooked workers. This article explores how the IAWP has gained prominence in the plastics treaty negotiations through three iterative processes. First, the reiterative naming of “waste pickers” has constituted a symbolic practice and discursive influence that heightened recognition of waste pickers’ role as knowledge and rights holders in a just transition to end plastic pollution. Second, the performative dimension of waste picker advocacy has influenced official and informal events. Third, by engaging in “scale work”, waste pickers have influenced and leveraged their alliances to work towards a just transition across national, regional and international levels. By examining the role and influence of waste pickers in the plastics treaty through the frames of naming, performance and scale, the article contributes to advance the scholarly literature on just transition and grassroots movements in global environmental governance (GEG).
Effects of multi-species synbiotic supplementation on circulating miR-27a, miR-33a levels and lipid parameters in adult men with dyslipidaemia; a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Salamat Shekoufeh , Jahan-Mihan Alireza , Tabandeh Mohammad Reza , Mansoori Anahita
Published: April 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as important regulators of lipid metabolism. Recent studies have suggested synbiotics may modulate miRNA expression and lipid metabolism. This study aimed to investigate the effects of synbiotic supplementation on circulating miR-27a, miR-33a and lipid parameters in patients with dyslipidaemia. Fifty-six eligible participants were randomly allocated to receive either synbiotic or placebo sachets twice a day for 12 weeks. Each synbiotic sachet contained 3 × 1010 colony forming unit six species of probiotic microorganisms and 5 g of inulin and fructooligosaccharide as prebiotics. Serum miR-27a and miR-33a expression levels, serum lipids and apolipoproteins, the fecal concentration of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes phyla were assessed before and after the study. Real-time PCR was used to determine the relative expression levels of miRNAs. The results showed synbiotic supplementation significantly downregulated the expression levels of miR-27a and miR-33a compared with the placebo group (P = 0·008 and P = 0·001, respectively). Furthermore, the intervention group exhibited significant improvements in serum HDL-cholesterol, small dense LDL (sdLDL-cholesterol), apoA-I and apoB-100 (P = 0·008, P = 0·006, P = 0·003, P = 0·001, respectively). The results showed a significant negative correlation between miR-33a expression levels with HDL-cholesterol, butyrate, propionate and a significant positive correlation with total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and sdLDL-cholesterol in the intervention group. Fecal bacteria and SCFA were significantly increased in the intervention group. This study provides evidence that synbiotic supplementation can modulate miR-27a and miR-33a expression and improve lipid metabolism in patients with dyslipidaemia.
Bound by Borders: Voter Mobilization Through Social Networks
Authors: Cox Gary W. , Fiva Jon H. , King Max-Emil M.
Published: April 2024

A vast and growing quantitative literature considers how social networks shape political mobilization but the degree to which turnout decisions are strategic remains ambiguous. Unlike previous studies, we establish personal links between voters and candidates and exploit discontinuous incentives to mobilize across district boundaries to estimate causal effects. Considering three types of networks – families, co-workers, and immigrant communities – we show that a group member's candidacy acts as a mobilizational impulse propagating through the group's network. In family networks, some of this impulse is non-strategic, surviving past district boundaries. However, the bulk of family mobilization is bound by the candidate's district boundary, as is the entirety of the mobilizational effects in the other networks.
THE DEATH AND PUBLIC REHABILITATION OF APOLLINARIS THE ELDER: INTERTEXTUALITY WITH LUCAN IN SIDONIUS APOLLINARIS, EPIST. 3.12
Authors: van Waarden Joop
Published: April 2024

Sidonius Apollinaris’ Epist. 3.12 tells how one day, while leaving Lyons, he caught a couple of gravediggers about to violate his grandfather Apollinaris’ grave, which had become unrecognizable over time. He instructs the addressee, his nephew Secundus, to restore the tomb mound and provide it with a stone for which he attaches the text. Whereas this letter is usually interpreted as a piece of self-promotion by the author for his filial piety and expert storytelling, this article suggests that there is a significant subtext to be found in Lucan's Pharsalia which makes the letter first and foremost a rehabilitation of Apollinaris while strongly suggesting that the latter was executed. There follow some rather more tentative thoughts trying to grasp the precise critical moment in time for this rehabilitation. It is argued that this could be Sidonius’ departure for Clermont, in 469/470 to take on the episcopate, after his term as City Prefect of Rome and a stay in Lyons with Bishop Patiens. The letter is aimed at bolstering family cohesion in the conflict of interests between Auvergne and Provence and at securing Sidonius’ position as incumbent bishop.
An Assessment of the Doctrine of Commorientes and Its Implications for the Devolution of Testate and Intestate Property in Ghana
Authors: Hammond Ama F , Batariwah Prosper
Published: April 2024

The Wills Act 1971 and the Intestate Succession Act 1985 embody commorientes rules that are inconsistent, unfair to one of the deceased persons and arguably undermine the expectations of Ghanaians. While the former presumes that a testator predeceases a beneficiary, the latter presumes that the older spouse died before the younger. Though these presumptions are essential for establishing entitlement to property, it would seem that they work to the advantage of one of the parties and to the detriment of the other. Accordingly, the commorientes rules must be modified to include presumptions that are equitable and consistent with the socio-cultural expectations of Ghanaians. This can be achieved by resorting primarily to expectations regarding succession at customary law.
Construction of Il/Legitimate Migrant Labor: Non-Nationals in Domestic Service and Gardening in Interwar Austria
Authors: Richter Jessica
Published: April 2024

Like other European countries, Austria introduced employment restrictions for foreigners after World War I. Access to the labor market was to be reserved primarily for Austrian citizens. These new regulations related exclusively to dependent employees and allowed exceptions in view of family reunification, among other things. They were based on official labor market categories and reflected widely accepted imaginations of gender-specific abilities and responsibilities. However, many foreigners earned their living in a household context and their activities hardly matched the official categories of work and family. Since decision-making on employment permits required unambiguous categorization, this situation posed a dilemma for the authorities in charge. Given the vast variety of work arrangements and relations, they struggled to clearly draw the line between “employed” and “not employed” workers. Using the example of domestic help and Bulgarian gardeners, this article investigates administrative authorities' attempts to make such distinctions and it examines migrants' efforts to occupy labor market niches. While migrants un/intentionally circumvented regulations and made their living in Austria, the ongoing disputes paradoxically contributed to an enforcement of restrictions. Administrative authorities gradually increased their endeavor to locate unauthorized foreign workers even within households and they sharpened the criteria for their categorization.
Modeling, simulations and experiments with generally routed cable-driven continuum robots and their application to three-fingered grippers
Authors: Mahapatra Soumya Kanti , Ghosal Ashitava
Published: April 2024

This paper deals with generally routed, pre-bent cable-driven continuum robots (CCR). A CCR consists of a flexible backbone to which multiple disks are attached. Cables are passed through holes in the disk, and when pulled, the flexible backbone and the CCR can attain different shapes based on their routing and backbone configuration. An optimization-based approach, using minimization of strain energy, is shown to give good results for the pose and motion of the CCR and to determine contact with external objects. The pose, motion, and the contact obtained from the model are shown to match very well with experimental results obtained from a 3D-printed CCR. An algorithm is proposed to generate the pre-bent backbone for a CCR which on actuation can attain the desired shape. Using the algorithm, three 3D-printed CCRs with pre-bent backbones are fabricated and these are used to demonstrate a compliant gripper that can grip a spherical object similar to that done by tentacles, and another three-fingered gripper with straight backbone CCRs is used to orient a square object gripped at the end.
A variationist study of /tʊt/ in Michif French
Authors: Bigot Davy , Papen Robert
Published: April 2024

This research focuses on the dissidence of Michif French, an endangered variety of Laurentian French spoken by a number of Métis in Western Canada. We examine the vernacular use of [tʊt] (tout/tous ‘all, every’) in a corpus of around 50 interviews collected in the Métis community of St. Laurent, Manitoba, in the 1980s. On the one hand, the internal analysis supports the hypothesis that it is related to the other varieties of Laurentian French. On the other hand, the external data reveal that [tʊt] is widely used, confirming the highly vernacular character of Michif French compared to the other varieties. Finally, the analysis of several interview extracts illustrates that the intensive use of vernacular variants acts as an identity marker, enabling speakers to lay claim not only to their culture, but also to a language they consider distinct from that of other French speakers.
Wir gehen gleich raus!
Authors: Maly-Motta Hanna , Fackler Sina , Grgic Mariana , Neuberger Franz
Published: April 2024

Zusammenfassung: Theoretischer Hintergrund: Die familiäre Wohnsituation, Spiel- und Bewegungsmöglichkeiten sowie tägliche Bewegung sind wichtig für die kindliche Entwicklung. Fragestellung: In welchem Zusammenhang standen diese Merkmale mit kindlichem überaktivem Verhalten und Schlafproblemen während der Pandemie? Methode: 5 567 Eltern mit Kindern ab zwei Jahren bis zum Schuleintritt wurden in einer deutschlandweiten online Befragung während der Coronapandemie unter anderem zu diesem Thema befragt. Ergebnisse: Das tatsächliche Bewegungsausmaß im Freien erwies sich als bedeutsamer Prädiktor für ein geringeres überaktives kindliches Verhalten, während die reine Verfügbarkeit von Bewegungsmöglichkeiten nur schwach mit dieser abhängigen Variable zusammenhing. Diskussion und Schlussfolgerung: Für das kindliche Wohlbefinden ist das tatsächliche Bewegungsausmaß ein wichtiger Prädiktor, die reine Verfügbarkeit von Bewegungsmöglichkeiten in der Umgebung war hingegen weniger wichtig.
Spatial Sensitivity of River Flooding to Changes in Climate and Land Cover Through Explainable AI
Authors: Slater Louise , Coxon Gemma , Brunner Manuela , McMillan Hilary , Yu Le , Zheng Yanchen , Khouakhi Abdou , Moulds Simon , Berghuijs Wouter
Published: April 2024

Explaining the spatially variable impacts of flood‐generating mechanisms is a longstanding challenge in hydrology, with increasing and decreasing temporal flood trends often found in close regional proximity. Here, we develop a machine learning‐informed approach to unravel the drivers of seasonal flood magnitude and explain the spatial variability of their effects in a temperate climate. We employ 11 observed meteorological and land cover (LC) time series variables alongside 8 static catchment attributes to model flood magnitude in 1,268 catchments across Great Britain over four decades. We then perform a sensitivity analysis to assess how a 10% increase in precipitation, a 1°C rise in air temperature, or a 10 percentage point increase in urban or forest LC may affect flood magnitude in catchments with varying characteristics. Our simulations show that increasing precipitation and urbanization both tend to amplify flood magnitude significantly more in catchments with high baseflow contribution and low runoff ratio, which tend to have lower values of specific discharge on average. In contrast, rising air temperature (in the absence of changing precipitation) decreases flood magnitudes, with the largest effects in dry catchments with low baseflow index. Afforestation also tends to decrease floods more in catchments with low groundwater contribution, and in dry catchments in the summer. Our approach may be used to further disentangle the joint effects of multiple flood drivers in individual catchments.
Influence of GIA Uncertainty on Climate Model Evaluation With GRACE/GRACE‐FO Satellite Gravimetry Data
Authors: Eicker Annette , Schawohl Lennart , Middendorf Klara , Bagge Meike , Jensen Laura , Dobslaw Henryk
Published: April 2024

Global coupled climate models are in continuous need for evaluation against independent observations to reveal systematic model deficits and uncertainties. Changes in terrestrial water storage (TWS) as measured by satellite gravimetry missions GRACE and GRACE‐FO provide valuable information on wetting and drying trends over the continents. Challenges arising from a comparison of observed and modelled water storage trends are related to gravity observations including non‐water related variations such as, for example, glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA). Therefore, correcting secular changes in the Earth's gravity field caused by ongoing GIA is important for the monitoring of long‐term changes in terrestrial water from GRACE in particular in former ice‐covered regions. By utilizing a new ensemble of 56 individual realizations of GIA signals based on perturbations of mantle viscosities and ice history, we find that many of those alternative GIA corrections change the direction of GRACE‐derived water storage trends, for example, from gaining mass into drying conditions, in particular in Eastern Canada. The change in the sign of the TWS trends subsequently impacts the conclusions drawn from using GRACE as observational basis for the evaluation of climate models as it influences the dis‐/agreement between observed and modelled wetting/drying trends. A modified GIA correction, a combined GRACE/GRACE‐FO data record extending over two decades, and a new generation of climate model experiments leads to substantially larger continental areas where wetting/drying trends currently observed by satellite missions coincide with long‐term predictions obtained from climate model experiments.
A Common Diffusional Mechanism for Creep and Grain Growth in Polymineralic Rocks: Application to Lower Mantle Viscosity Estimates
Authors: Okamoto A. , Hiraga T.
Published: April 2024

In a previous study (Okamoto & Hiraga, 2022, https://doi.org/10.1029/2022jb024638), we concluded that diffusion creep and grain growth in polymineralic rocks proceed by a common diffusional mechanism. Here, we built on that finding and estimated lower mantle grain size and viscosity during a single mantle convection cycle dominated by diffusion creep. We approximated the lower mantle as a two‐phase material consisting of bridgmanite + ferropericlase and post‐perovskite + ferropericlase, depending on depth. We used previously reported self‐diffusivities for bridgmanite and post‐perovskite. We predict a bridgmanite grain‐size of tens to hundreds of microns shortly after the phase transition at ∼660 km depth. This size remains relatively constant until the mantle material enters the post‐perovskite zone, which is marked by significant grain growth up to ∼9 mm just prior to upwelling. This size is sufficient to prevent further grain growth until the mantle material reaches the top of the lower mantle. These grain sizes combined with the diffusivities yield viscosities that vary laterally and with depth. At a lateral temperature difference of up to 800 K in the lower mantle, fine‐grained cold downwelling mantle is almost as viscous as, or more likely to be softer than coarse‐grained hot upwelling mantle. The lateral viscosity variations cannot be more than 2 orders of magnitude, and we estimated viscosities of 1018–1020 Pa · s in the upper lower mantle, 5 × 1020–5 × 1022 Pa · s in the lower bridgmanite zone, and 1017–1019 Pa · s in the post‐perovskite zone, which compare well with the values estimated in previous geophysical modeling studies.
Multimodal in-vehicle lighting system increases daytime light exposure and alertness in truck drivers under Arctic winter conditions
Authors: Popp Roland F. J. , Ottersbach Julia , Wetter Thomas C. , Schüler Sebastian , Rothe Siegfried , Betz Daniel , Staggl Siegmund , Canazei Markus
Published: April 2024

Drowsiness while driving negatively impacts road safety, especially in truck drivers. The present study investigated the feasibility and alerting effects of a daylight-supplementing in-truck lighting system (DS) providing short-wavelength enriched light before, during, and after driving. In a within-participants design, eight truck drivers drove a fully-loaded truck under wintry Scandinavian conditions (low daylight levels) with a DS or placebo system for five days. Subjective and objective measures of alertness were recorded several times daily, and evening melatonin levels were recorded three times per study condition. DS significantly increased daytime light exposure without causing negative side effects while driving. In addition, no negative carry-over effects were observed on evening melatonin and sleepiness levels or on nighttime sleep quality. Moreover, objective alertness (i.e., psychomotor vigilance) before and after driving was significantly improved by bright light exposure. This effect was accompanied by improved subjective alertness in the morning. This field study demonstrated that DS was able to increase daytime light exposure in low-daylight conditions and to improve alertness in truck drivers before and after driving (e.g., during driving rest periods). Further studies are warranted to investigate the effects of daylight-supplementing in-cabin lighting on driving performance and road safety measures.
Duet synchronization interventions affect social interactions
Authors: Bégel Valentin , Demos Alexander P. , Palmer Caroline
Published: April 2024

Humans’ complex behavior, such as speech, music, or dance, requires us to coordinate our actions with external sounds as well as with social partners. The presence of a partner can influence individuals’ synchronization, and, in turn, social connection with the partner may depend on the degree of synchronization. We manipulated the synchronization quality in intervention conditions to address the causal relationship between observed temporal synchrony and perceived social interaction. Pairs of musician and nonmusician participants first performed a turn-taking task consisting of alternating which partner tapped their melody in synchrony with a metronome (each tap generated the next tone in the melody). In two intervention conditions, participants attempted to synchronize their melodies simultaneously with their partner, either with normal auditory feedback (normal feedback) or randomly placed delayed feedback on 25% of melodic tones (delayed feedback). After each intervention, the turn-taking condition was repeated, and participants completed a questionnaire about connectedness, relationship, and feeling of synchronization with their partner. Results showed that partners’ mean asynchronies were more negative following the delayed feedback intervention. In addition, nonmusician partners’ tapping variability was larger following the delayed feedback intervention when they had the delayed feedback intervention first. Ratings of connectedness, relationship, and feeling of synchronization with their partner were reduced for all participants after the delayed feedback Intervention. We modeled participants’ synchronization performance in the post-intervention turn-taking conditions using delay-coupling oscillator models. Reductions in synchronization performance after delayed feedback intervention were reflected in reduced coupling strength. These findings suggest that turn-taking synchronization performance and social connectedness are altered following short interventions that disrupt synchronization with a partner.
Recent advances in organolead halide crystalline materials for photocatalytic H2 evolution and CO2 reduction applications
Authors: Song Xueling , Li Xiaoman , Song Yuxuan , Bi Jingyi , Wang Lei , Wang Jigao , Liu Junjie , Li Yanyan , Wang Hui
Published: April 2024

This Frontier presents a comprehensive overview of the moisture-sensitive mechanism of organolead halide perovskites and the enhancement strategies for their structural stability and photocatalytic performance.
Poly(l-glutamic acid) augments the transfection performance of lipophilic polycations by overcoming tradeoffs among cytotoxicity, pDNA delivery efficiency, and serum stability
Authors: Sekar Ram Prasad , Lawson Jessica L. , Wright Aryelle R. E. , McGrath Caleb , Schadeck Cesar , Kumar Praveen , Tay Jian Wei , Dragavon Joseph , Kumar Ramya
Published: April 2024

Polyplex surface modification with poly(l-glutamic acid) overcomes tradeoffs among pDNA delivery efficiency, toxicity, and serum stability.
Development of an 18F-labeled azobenzothiazole tracer for α-synuclein aggregates in the brain
Authors: Wu Jiajun , Mao Meiting , Yang Jie , Li Kexin , Deng Pengxin , Zhong Jing , Wu Xiaoai , Cheng Yan
Published: April 2024

Compact benzothiazole derivatives were developed as specific probes for aggregated α-synuclein protein. Among them, fluoropegylated azobenzothiazole [18F]NN-F exhibits efficient brain uptake and specific labeling of α-synuclein aggregates.
Metal- and photocatalyst-free approach to visible-light-induced acylation of quinoxalinones
Authors: Niwetmarin Worawat , Saesian Naiyana , Saruengkhanphasit Rungroj , Eurtivong Chatchakorn , Thasana Nopporn , Ruchirawat Somsak
Published: April 2024

A transition-metal- and photocatalyst-free photochemical acylation strategy driven by the photoexcitation of an electron donor–acceptor (EDA) complex has been developed.
Does Acinetobacter calcoaceticus glucose dehydrogenase produce self-damaging H2O2?
Authors: Lublin Victoria , Kauffmann Brice , Engilberge Sylvain , Durola Fabien , Gounel Sébastien , Bichon Sabrina , Jean Cloée , Mano Nicolas , Giraud Marie-France , Chavas Léonard Michel Gabriel Henri , Thureau Aurélien , Thompson Andrew , Stines-Chaumeil Claire
Published: April 2024

The soluble glucose dehydrogenase (sGDH) from Acinetobacter calcoaceticus has been widely studied and is used, in biosensors, to detect the presence of glucose, taking advantage of its high turnover and insensitivity to molecular oxygen. This approach, however, presents two drawbacks: the enzyme has broad substrate specificity (leading to imprecise blood glucose measurements) and shows instability over time (inferior to other oxidizing glucose enzymes). We report the characterization of two sGDH mutants: the single mutant Y343F and the double mutant D143E/Y343F. The mutants present enzyme selectivity and specificity of 1.2 (Y343F) and 5.7 (D143E/Y343F) times higher for glucose compared with that of the wild-type. Crystallographic experiments, designed to characterize these mutants, surprisingly revealed that the prosthetic group PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone), essential for the enzymatic activity, is in a cleaved form for both wild-type and mutant structures. We provide evidence suggesting that the sGDH produces H2O2, the level of production depending on the mutation. In addition, spectroscopic experiments allowed us to follow the self-degradation of the prosthetic group and the disappearance of sGDH's glucose oxidation activity. These studies suggest that the enzyme is sensitive to its self-production of H2O2. We show that the premature aging of sGDH can be slowed down by adding catalase to consume the H2O2 produced, allowing the design of a more stable biosensor over time. Our research opens questions about the mechanism of H2O2 production and the physiological role of this activity by sGDH.
Electrical impedance tomography image reconstruction for lung monitoring based on ensemble learning algorithms1
Authors: Al‐Bashir Areen K. , Al‐Bataiha Duha H. , Hafsa Mariem , Al‐Abed Mohammad A. , Kanoun Olfa
Published: April 2024

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) is a promising non‐invasive imaging technique that visualizes the electrical conductivity of an anatomic structure to form based on measured boundary voltages. However, the EIT inverse problem for the image reconstruction is nonlinear and highly ill‐posed. Therefore, in this work, a simulated dataset that mimics the human thorax was generated with boundary voltages based on given conductivity distributions. To overcome the challenges of image reconstruction, an ensemble learning method was proposed. The ensemble method combines several convolutional neural network models, which are the simple Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model, AlexNet, AlexNet with residual block, and the modified AlexNet model. The ensemble models’ weights selection was based on average technique giving the best coefficient of determination (R2 score). The reconstruction quality is quantitatively evaluated by calculating the root mean square error (RMSE), the coefficient of determination (R2 score), and the image correlation coefficient (ICC). The proposed method's best performance is an RMSE of 0.09404, an R2 score of 0.926186, and an ICC of 0.95783 using an ensemble model. The proposed method is promising as it can construct valuable images for clinical EIT applications and measurements compared to previous studies.
Hybrid electromagnetic Halbach array for wireless power transfer (WPT) system using variable and uniform pitch coils
Authors: Gogo Tamuno‐omie , Zhu Dibin
Published: April 2024

The electromagnetic Halbach array (EHA) for wireless power transfer (WPT), designed to improve the transferred power and power transfer distance, has been proven to be effective and can be applied in various consumer applications. This paper presents a hybrid form of the EHA, aimed at improving the quality of power generated and transmitted. The expression for the determination of the magnetic field of a variable pitch flat coil for wireless power transfer and other uses has been derived. The average magnetic field, magnetic flux, and power transfer efficiency are investigated. The power transfer efficiency and the average magnetic field generated by four different design considerations were compared. The hybrid electromagnetic Halbach array wireless power transfer system (HEHA‐WPTS) has also been studied and results are compared with the conventional arrangements. Simulations and experiments were carried out to verify the analytical results obtained. According to the results obtained, the HEHA‐WPTS, with a base coil with variable pitches and uniform side coils, produces a more uniform average magnetic field and a better average power transfer efficiency over a longer power transfer distance.
On performance evaluation of high‐power, high‐bandwidth current measurement technologies for SiC switching devices
Authors: Philipps Daniel A. , Peftitsis Dimosthenis
Published: April 2024

Silicon carbide (SiC) power metal‐oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistors (MOSFETs) switch at an unprecedented speed, even at high currents. For accurate dynamic characterization, current sensors must measure high currents at a high bandwidth. Moreover, at high switching speeds, parasitic impedances in the commutation loop become critical. To ensure high‐accuracy measurements, the current sensor insertion impedance must be minimal. Here, a two‐step current sensor evaluation method is proposed. This method serves the characterization and suitability assessment of high‐power, high‐bandwidth current sensors for fast‐switching applications using SiC power MOSFETs. Conducting a small‐ and a large‐signal transmission behaviour analysis separately results in holistic information about the current sensor behaviour in both time and frequency domain. The proposed method is validated using four commercially available current sensors that are widely used for SiC power MOSFET characterization. The work concludes transferring the knowledge derived in the conducted experiments to a practical, application‐oriented sensor selection guide.
A seven‐level switched‐capacitor based transformerless inverter with modified PWM strategy to enhance the performance of grid‐connected PV systems
Authors: Mondal Sudipto , Biswas Shuvra Prokash , Islam Md. Rabiul , Hosain Md. Kamal , Raad Raad
Published: April 2024

Among different types of transformerless photovoltaic inverters, multi‐level inverters based on switched‐capacitors (SC) are the burning topic of recent decades due to their potential advantages, such as, single source requirement, voltage boosting capability, and high power density. However, for a seven level output voltage, a conventional SC based inverter architecture uses more than two units of SC, a large amount of power switches, which then lead to capacitor voltage balancing problems. This paper presents a seven‐level switched‐capacitor transformerless inverter (SCTI), which is structured with only two SC units, ten power switches, and a single DC source. The proposed SCTI ensures voltage boosting capability, self‐voltage balancing, and low power semiconductor losses. Apart from these, a modified sinusoidal pulse width modulation (MSPWM) is also proposed in this work, which guarantees better thermal performance and low inverter output voltage THD for the proposed SCTI. The proposed SCTI along with the MSPWM is simulated in MATLAB/Simulink and PLECS computer simulation environments. A reduced scale laboratory prototype is also built and tested to ensure the feasibility of the proposed SCTI.
Modified triple pelvic osteotomy for residual acetabular dysplasia through double incisions: Technical note and review of short-term results
Authors: Aly Ahmad S. , Fayyad Tamer A. , El-beshry Shady S. , Elhusseiny Karim T. , El Ghazawy Ahmed K.
Published: April 2024

Purpose: To assess validity, safety, and efficacy of the modified triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) approach for correction of residual acetabular dysplasia. Methods: This is a retrospective case series conducted on 15 hips in 15 patients from 2019 to 2023 with residual acetabular dysplasia treated by modified TPO as described by Tonnis with two modifications. The first modification is using a single medial incision for pubic and ischial cuts (the Vladimirov modification). The second modification is having the ischial cut closer to the acetabulum (Li modification) allowing free movement of the acetabular fragment for better femoral head coverage. The mean age at the time of surgery was 11.85 years, (range 8–23). Cases presenting were 10 males (66.7%) and 5 females (33.3%). The mean follow-up period was 36.533 months (24–60 months). Results: Our study revealed significant clinical and radiological improvement. The CE angle improved from a mean value of 10° (range 2–17) pre-operatively to 32.785° (range 18°–40°) post-operatively. The AI improved from a mean value of 32° pre-operatively to a mean value of 13.89° post-operatively. HHS increased from a preoperative mean value of 74.80° to a post-operative mean value of 90.67°. Also, there was a significant improvement in ROM (abduction and internal rotation). LLD improved from a mean value of 2.60 cm preoperatively to a mean value of 0.37 cm postoperatively. Delayed union was found in 3 cases. No cases of osteonecrosis or neurovascular complication were encountered in our study. Conclusion: The modified TPO technique using dual incisions can be considered safe and effective, providing adequate coverage of the femoral head in acetabular dysplasia with less surgical time, satisfactory functional outcomes, and minimal complications.

Level of Evidence: IV
Molecular phylogeny reveals Cenonovaculina gen. nov. (Adapedonta: Pharidae), a new freshwater razor clam genus from Indochina
Authors: Jeratthitikul Ekgachai , Sutcharit Chirasak
Published: April 2024

The razor clam genus Novaculina is a secondary marine-derived freshwater taxa within the otherwise exclusively marine family Pharidae. Novaculina currently comprises four valid species that are distributed allopatrically across several drainages in Asia. We employed an integrated approach, combining morphology and molecular phylogenetic analyses to elucidate the taxonomic placement of members within this genus. The multi-locus phylogenetic trees based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), 16S rRNA and 28S rRNA gene sequences demonstrate that Novaculina is polyphyletic. Specimens identified as N. siamensis form a distinct clade that is not sister group to other currently recognised congeners. Furthermore, morphological examination reveals distinct characteristics in ‘N. siamensis’, namely a fused, fringed siphon, in contrast to the separated, smooth siphons observed in other species. Based on these findings, we propose the establishment of a new genus, Cenonovaculina gen. nov., to accommodate ‘N. siamensis’. The new genus is distinguished from other genera in having a short shell, deep pallial sinus, elongate, oval to bean-shaped anterior adductor scar and long fused siphons surrounded by conical tentacles. ZooBank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:6E16FC43-5BBA-4791-A805-1C84859877A3
Numerical characterization of capacitively coupled plasma driven by tailored frequency modulated radio frequency source
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhou Youyou , Chen Jian , Cao Yong , Wang Zhijiang , Huang Xiaojiang , Zhang Ya
Published: April 2024

Capacitively coupled plasma (CCP) is widely used in plasma etching and deposition processes because of its low cost, simple structure, and easy generation of a uniform plasma in large areas. Conventional CCPs are operated under a fixed frequency power source; however, CCPs driven by a variable frequency power source are poorly understood. In this paper, numerical simulations of CCPs driven by frequency modulated (FM) radio frequency (RF) sources within the frequency range of 2 MHz–18 MHz are carried out with a particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo collision model. Our research indicates that the CCP driven by an FM RF source can maintain a stable glow discharge and form a time-dependent plasma. Plasma density, electron and ion current, energy and heating rate, ion flux, and energy on the electrodes fluctuate consistently with the FM period. The electron and ion energy distribution function can also be modulated by the frequency variation of the FM source. A multi-peak structure that varies and shifts with frequency variation is observed in the ion energy distribution function. In addition, by fixing the chirp period while varying the start or end frequency of the chirp signal (start frequency from 0.4 to 6 MHz, or end frequency from 18 to 48 MHz), effective modulations can be produced on the electron density, electron energy, and the shape of the EEPF and IEDF.
The effectiveness of exoplanets and Brown Dwarfs as sub-GeV Dark Matter detectors
Authors: Ilie C. , Levy C. , Diks J.
Published: April 2024

In this work we demonstrate that Dark Matter (DM) evaporation severely hinders the effectiveness of exoplanets and Brown Dwarfs as sub-GeV DM probes. Moreover, we find useful analytic closed form approximations for DM capture rates for arbitrary astrophysical objects, valid in four distinct regions in theσ-mXparameter space. As expected, in one of those regions the Dark Matter capture saturates to its geometric limit, i.e. the entire flux crossing an object. As a consequence of this region, which for many objects falls within the parameter space not excluded by direct detection experiments, we point out the existence of a DM parameter dependent critical temperature (Tcrit), above which astrophysical objects lose any sensitivity as Dark Matter probes. For instance, Jupiters at the Galactic Center have aTcritranging from 700 K (for a 3MJJupiter) to 950 K (for 14MJ). This limitation is rarely (if ever) considered in the previous literature of indirect Dark Matter detection based on observable signatures of captured Dark Matter inside celestial bodies.
COMPASS Upgrade: a high-field tokamak for ITER- and DEMO-relevant research
Authors: Komm M. , Jaulmes F. , Grover O. , Peterka M. , Seidl J. , Imrisek M. , Saarelma S. , Snyder P. , Sos M. , Caloud J. , Borodkina I. , Shyshkin O. , Cecrdle J. , Farnik M. , Gerardin J. , Kripner L. , Dejarnac R. , Horacek J. , Lukes S. , Havlicek J. , Tskhakaya D. , Hron M. , Panek R. , Vondracek P. , Weinzettl V. ,   the COMPASS Upgrade Team
Published: April 2024

To achieve their goals, future thermonuclear reactors such as ITER and DEMO are expected to operate plasmas with a high magnetic field, triangularity and confinement. To address the corresponding challenges, the concept of the high-field (

B

T

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5 T), high-current (

I

P

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2 MA) COMPASS Upgrade tokamak was established, and the device is currently being constructed in Prague, Czech Republic. This contribution provides an overview of the priority physics topics for the future physics programme of COMPASS Upgrade, namely: (i) characterisation of alternative confinement modes, (ii) a power exhaust including liquid metals, (iii) operation with a hot first wall and (iv) the influence of plasma shape on pedestal stability and confinement. The main scenarios are presented, as predicted by METIS and FIESTA codes. Pedestal pressure and density are estimated using EPED, multi-machine semi-empirical scaling and a neutral penetration model. Access to detachment is estimated using a detachment qualifier.
Correction coil and magnet feeder lessons learned
Authors: Lu Kun , Liu Chen , Wei Jing , Song Yuntao , Zhang Qingquan , Huang Xiongyi , Wang Lin , Dong Xiaoyu , Wen Xinjie , Wang Chenyu , Niu Erwu , Dong Lin , Fang Tongzhen , Liu Sheng , Gung Chenyu , Bauer Pierre , Libeyre Paul , Simon Fabrice
Published: April 2024

China has contributed to the manufacturing of the Error Field Correction Coils (CC) and the Magnet Feeders for ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor). The manufacturing projects have been carried by ASIPP (Institute of Plasma Physics Chinese Academy of Sciences). In this paper, the lessons learned from these two manufacturing projects will be described with special focus on some key manufacturing processes. These experiences gained from the work carried so far in CC and magnet feeder manufacturing and testing are very valuable not only for the remaining manufacturing tasks of these two projects, but also for similar systems of other Tokamak fusion device.
Introduction
Authors: Fraser Chris
Published: April 2024

Chapter 1, the Introduction, introduces the Zhuangist conception of dào (the way) as an aimless, unbounded, and shifting path and identifies issues that arise from this conception. These include the nature and content of dào, the constraints and evaluative criteria that apply to its practice, and the implications for the individual good life and for our relations with others. The chapter also examines the historical and philological background of the Zhuāngzǐ, arguing that the text is an anthology of writings by many hands, with a significant time depth, and the prevailing view of privileging the ‘inner chapters’ as the works of a historical Zhuang Zhou lacks any cogent justification.
Leaf litter from Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight leads to root rot outbreaks by Fusarium solani, hindering continuous cropping
Authors: Shen Min , Wu Limeng , Zhang Yanzhou , You Ruiqiang , Xiao Jiaxin , Kang Yijun
Published: April 2024

Cynanchum auriculatum Royle ex Wight (CA) is experiencing challenges with continuous cropping obstacle (CCO) due to soil-borne fungal pathogens. The leaf litter from CA is regularly incorporated into the soil after root harvesting, but the impact of this practice on pathogen outbreaks remains uncertain. In this study, a fungal strain D1, identified as Fusarium solani, was isolated and confirmed as a potential factor in CCO. Both leave extract (LE) and root extract (RE) were found to inhibit seed germination and the activities of plant defense-related enzymes. The combinations of extracts and D1 exacerbated these negative effects. Beyond promoting the proliferation of D1 in soil, the extracts also enhanced the hypha weight, spore number, and spore germination rate of D1. Compared to RE, LE exhibited a greater degree of promotion in the activities of pathogenesis-related enzymes in D1. Additionally, caffeic acid and ferulic acid were identified as potential active compounds. LE, particularly in combination with D1, induced a shift in the composition of fungal communities rather than bacterial communities. These findings indicate that the water extract of leaf litter stimulated the growth and proliferation of fungal strain D1, thereby augmenting its pathogenicity toward CA and ultimately contributing to the CCO process.
The business case for quality: estimating lives saved and harms avoided in a value-based purchasing model
Authors: Amico Peter , Drye Elizabeth E , Lee Peter , Lantigua Carolee , Safran Dana Gelb
Published: April 2024

Ever-increasing concern about the cost and burden of quality measurement and reporting raises the question: How much do patients benefit from provider arrangements that incentivize performance improvements? We used national performance data to estimate the benefits in terms of lives saved and harms avoided if US health plans improved performance on 2 widely used quality measures: blood pressure control and colorectal cancer screening. We modeled potential results both in California Marketplace plans, where a value-based purchasing initiative incentivizes improvement, and for the US population across 4 market segments (Medicare, Medicaid, Marketplace, commercial). The results indicate that if the lower-performing health plans improve to 66th percentile benchmark scores, it would decrease annual hypertension and colorectal cancer deaths by approximately 7% and 2%, respectively. These analyses highlight the value of assessing performance accountability initiatives for their potential lives saved and harms avoided, as well as their costs and efforts.
Broadband backscattering by Atlantic herring (Clupea harengus L.) differs when measured from a research vessel vs. a silent uncrewed surface vehicle
Authors: Pedersen Geir , Johnsen Espen , Khodabandeloo Babak , Handegard Nils Olav
Published: April 2024

Broadband frequency-modulated signals are believed to improve acoustic spectral-based target classification. Efficient use of uncrewed surface vehicles (USV) for fisheries science applications, with no possibility for biological sampling, is believed to be facilitated by use of broadband signals with methods for target classification. If the broadband frequency response used to train automated target classifiers are obtained from conventional research vessels (RVs), due to potential vessel avoidance, the swimming angle distribution may be different than for USVs. This may have consequences for target classification if the model is trained with RV data. The aim of this study was to assess whether the frequency response differs between platforms due to avoidance. Broadband acoustic data were collected with a conventional RV and a small USV. The broadband frequency response of Norwegian spring spawning herring obtained with the USV and RV was found to be significantly different for shallow herring layers in the 200 kHz band. This indicates that broadband frequency response has potential as a tool for real-time monitoring of behaviour reactions to vessels and to provide insight into fish behaviour in general. When using broadband frequency response for target classification, the potential platform-dependent broadband frequency response should be considered.