bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatments affecting splenic function as a risk factor for valvular heart disease in Childhood Cancer Survivors: A DCCSS‐LATER study
Authors: Houtman Bente M. , Walraven Iris , Kapusta Livia , Teske Arco J. , van Dulmen‐den Broeder Eline , Tissing Wim J. E. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink Marry M. , Versluys A. B. Birgitta , Bresters Dorine , van der Heiden‐van der Loo Margriet , Ronckers Cécile , Kok Wouter E. M. , van der Pal Helena J. H. , Pluijm Saskia M. F. , Janssens Geert O. , Blijlevens Nicole M. A. , Kremer Leontien C. M. , Loonen Jacqueline J. , Feijen E. A. M. Lieke
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Splenectomy might be a risk factor for valvular heart disease (VHD) in adult Hodgkin lymphoma survivors. As this risk is still unclear for childhood cancer survivors (CCS), the aim of this study is to evaluate the association between treatments affecting splenic function (splenectomy and radiotherapy involving the spleen) and VHD in CCS.

Methods

CCS were enrolled from the DCCSS‐LATER cohort, consisting of 6,165 five‐year CCS diagnosed between 1963 and 2002. Symptomatic VHD, defined as symptoms combined with a diagnostic test indicating VHD, was assessed from questionnaires and validated using medical records. Differences in the cumulative incidence of VHD between CCS who received treatments affecting splenic function and CCS who did not were assessed using the Gray test. Risk factors were analyzed in a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The study population consisted of 5,286 CCS, with a median follow‐up of 22 years (5‐50 years), of whom 59 (1.1%) had a splenectomy and 489 (9.2%) radiotherapy involving the spleen. VHD was present in 21 CCS (0.4%). The cumulative incidence of VHD at the age of 40 years was significantly higher in CCS who received treatments affecting splenic function (2.7%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.4%‐4.9%) compared with CCS without (0.4%, 95% CI 0.1%‐0.7%) (Gray's test, p = 0.003). Splenectomy was significantly associated with VHD in a multivariable analysis (hazard ratio 8.6, 95% CI 3.1‐24.1).

Conclusions and implications

Splenectomy was associated with VHD. Future research is needed to determine if CCS who had a splenectomy as part of cancer treatment might benefit from screening for VHD.
Fluorosilane modification on BaTiO3 particles: A facile method to fabricate PVDF dielectric composites with desirable mechanical properties
Authors: Shi Yuqi , Tang Junhang , Chen Qiuyue , Chen Xin , Mao Zepeng
Published: August 2024

Dielectric capacitors have attracted much attention due to their excellent power density and long service life. Its development trend is mainly towards miniaturization, lightweight, and integration. In this work, barium titanate (BaTiO3, BT) particles were modified by four different coupling agents and then were introduced in polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) matrix to prepare PVDF/BT dielectric composites. Thermodynamic, dielectric, mechanical, and rheological properties were researched. After the combination of the surface‐modified BT and PVDF, the dielectric constant ( ≈ 33) of the composites increased by 4–5 times compared to PVDF ( = 7.8), and the dielectric loss also was obviously reduced. One remarkable thing was that modification of 1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane (F8261) could improve the mechanical properties of composites significantly, especially in toughness. For example, the impact strength of PVDF/F8261‐BT (12.8 kJ/m2) was 103.1% higher than that of PVDF/KH550‐BT (6.3 kJ/m2), and even 13.3% higher than that of PVDF (11.3 kJ/m2). This simple preparation method is a good grafting tactic and has a positive effect on the dielectric properties and toughness of the composites.

Highlights

A method for enhancing the dielectric and mechanical properties of composites.

Comparing the effects of four coupling agents on the properties of composites.

F8261 can significantly improve the impact toughness of PVDF/BT.

PVDF/F8261‐BT with 30 vol% filler has a dielectric constant of 34.5 at 102 Hz.
Study on short fiber reinforcement mechanism for mechanical performance improvement of 3D‐printed short‐continuous carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic composites
Authors: Wang Gongshuo , Wang Fuji , Wang Hongquan , Fu Rao , Zhou Jianming
Published: August 2024

3D printing of continuous carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (C‐CFRTP) composites is a promising fabricating process to achieve complex lightweight structures within a short time; nevertheless, low mechanical performance between printed layers is always a limitation. Adding short carbon fibers during C‐CFRTP fabrication could achieve short‐continuous carbon fiber reinforced thermoplastic (S/C‐CFRTP) composites with enhanced mechanical properties. However, the underlying reinforcement mechanism is not well understood, which hinders the optimization of 3D printing process for S/C‐CFRTP. This paper investigates reinforcing behavior of short carbon fibers and impregnation behavior of the matrix (short carbon fiber reinforced PA6) under various 3D printing conditions. The results indicate that promoting both reinforcing and impregnation behaviors during S/C‐CFRTP 3D printing can improve mechanical performance. As short carbon fiber content increases, the mechanical performance initially experiences enhancement caused by the reinforcing behavior of short fibers, followed by a decline attributed to the insufficient impregnation of the molten matrix. Higher nozzle temperatures facilitate the impregnation behavior of the molten matrix, resulting in superior mechanical performance. Moreover, by leveraging the reinforcement mechanism, the optimal parameter combination is proposed to improve tensile, flexural, and interlaminar shear strengths of the 3D‐printed S/C‐CFRTP to approximately 368.27, 319.80, and 20.09 MPa, respectively.

Highlights

Reinforcement mechanism is revealed by reinforcing and impregnation behaviors.

Short carbon fiber content affects both reinforcing and impregnation behaviors.

Beyond 15 wt%, short carbon fiber content shows adverse effects on performance.

High nozzle temperature promotes impregnation behavior to improve performance.

Optimal parameters raise 19.8% tensile, 39.9% flexural and 161.2% shear strength.
Research progress on the tribological properties of epoxy‐based solid‐lubricating composites
Authors: Song Luyang , Jiang Tao , Yu Hua , Zhou Yayu , Cao Xinna , Wang Peng , Zhang Bibo , Yu Zhuoli , Pan Kunming , Wei Shizhong
Published: August 2024

To modify the tribological properties of epoxy (EP), additive phases, such as inorganic/organic lubricating fillers, are often introduced to form EP‐based solid‐lubricating composites, which are extensively utilized in industrial sectors like aerospace, automotive, and electronics. The composite methods can be divided into single‐phase composite and multiphase composite. Single‐phase fillers can improve the tribological properties of the composite while the content and distribution of the fillers should be precise controlled. Multiphase fillers offer significant advantages in enhancing the comprehensive properties of EP, making them more suitable for practical harsh environments. This review investigates the progress in research on the tribological properties of EP‐based solid‐lubricating composites and provides an outlook on the future development of lubricating fillers.

Highlights

In this paper, the commonly used lubricating fillers in EP‐based solid‐lubricating composites and their composite methods, including inorganic and organic fillers, were reviewed.

The various EP‐based solid‐lubricating composites, and their lubrication or wear mechanisms were introduced in detail, and the future development directions of the composites were prospected.
Consideration of fuel and oxidizer combinations for mass and volume limited hybrid rocket motors
Authors: Presman Michael , Gany Alon
Published: August 2024

This research considers different storable oxidizer and fuel combinations for hybrid propulsion, looking for the most adequate candidates for mass and volume limited systems. High specific impulse Isp is the main indication for minimum mass, whereas high density specific impulse ρIsp is a good measure for smaller volume. Other aspects such as safety, handling, toxicity, burn rate, hypergolicity, and the oxidizer to fuel O/F ratio, may affect the final choice of propellant ingredient combination. For mass‐limited systems hydrogen peroxide H2O2 or nitrogen tetroxide N2O4 (the latter is toxic and hard to handle) oxidizers give the best results with most solid fuels (mainly hydroxyl‐terminated polybutadiene HTPB). For volume‐limited systems the same combinations may apply; however, in that case polyester fuel may be an adequate choice as well because of its high density. Nitrous oxide N2O is the most inadequate oxidizer for volume‐limited systems, yielding ρIsp lower by about 40 % compared to other oxidizers. Reducing the structure and insulation mass may result from decreasing the high‐pressure, high‐temperature section (the combustion chamber) and can be achieved from high O/F combinations employing N2O or H2O2 oxidizers. N2O gives relatively safe system, H2O2 enables hypergolic combinations, HNO3 is good for long‐term storage, whereas paraffin wax and expandable graphite additive yield high fuel regression rate and thrust. Overall, H2O2 oxidizer seems optimal for many operational aspects, but it should be chemically stabilized to minimize decomposition.
A comprehensive guide for secondary structure and tertiary structure determination in peptides and proteins by circular dichroism spectrometer
Authors: Kuril Akhilesh Kumar , Vashi Ankur , Subbappa Praveen Kumar
Published: August 2024

Secondary structure refers to highly regular local sub‐structures formed by the polypeptide backbone through hydrogen bonding. The two main types of secondary structures are α‐helices and β‐strands (which can form β‐sheets). The development of a robust circular dichroism (CD) method for structural analysis of biomolecules requires careful consideration of several key factors. Solvent selection plays a crucial role in maintaining the native or desired conformation of the sample while ensuring transparency in the relevant wavelength regions. Aqueous buffers are often preferred for studying proteins in their native state. Optimizing the sample concentration and path length is essential to achieve an optimal absorbance range and maximize the signal‐to‐noise ratio. Typical concentrations for far‐UV CD measurements range from 0.1 to 1 mg/ml, with shorter path lengths (1 mm) allowing for higher concentrations and longer path lengths (5 mm) suitable for dilute solutions. Instrumental parameters, such as scanning speed, accumulations, and nitrogen flow rate, significantly impact the quality and reliability of the acquired CD spectra. Data processing is a critical step in obtaining accurate and interpretable CD spectra. Baseline correction, smoothing, and conversion to mean residue ellipticity are essential for reliable secondary structure analysis.
Major and Trace Element Composition Differences Revealed in Porcine Intestine by Dynamic Analysis and MeV Ion Microscopy
Authors: Whitlow Harry J. , Nagy Gyula , Kuznetsov Andrej , Frost Robert J.W. , Azarov Alexander , Smith Karen M. , Amphalop Sumittra , Insuan Wimonrut , Wichianchot Sakulchit , Ren Min‐Quin , Osipowicz Thomas , Ryan Chris G. , Sudprasert Wanwisa , Villinger Francois
Published: August 2024

Physiologically relevant concentrations in biological tissue, in the in vivo, state are of the order of μmol L−1 and mmol L−1. Up to the present, mapping the major elements in the matrix and its thickness has been neglected, despite their importance for quantification of lesser and trace element concentrations. Ryan and Jamieson's dynamic analysis, statistical spectral decomposition approach, is developed to quantitatively measure ex vivo tissue sections cut using a cryomicrotome. This mitigates the problem that physical analysis methods require a vacuum environment. This approach is used to quantitatively image the major matrix elements H, C, N, and O as well as trace maps of Ca, Fe, and Zn in a tissue section of porcine intestine. This sample is selected as it exhibits a complex morphology with multiple tissue compartments (such as muscle and mucosa, as well as void areas from blood vessels, lymph ducts, sinuses crypts, and villi. In the results, it is demonstrated that different tissue types can have a different matrix composition and thickness. Using this information, quantitative maps and elemental molarities for the lesser and trace elements Ca, Fe, and Zn are obtained.
Iterative‐learning‐based actuator/sensor fault estimation for a class of repetitive nonlinear systems with time‐delay
Authors: Du Kenan , Feng Li , Chai Yi , Deng Meng
Published: August 2024

To meet the demand for estimating actuator and sensor faults simultaneously in a class of repetitive nonlinear time‐delay systems, this paper proposes a novel fault estimation strategy based on an iterative learning scheme. Firstly, an iterative‐learning‐based fault estimation law is designed to estimate actuator faults while system is free of sensor failures. Both the fixed initial shift and random one are taken into consideration. Secondly, a novel sensor fault observer is proposed based on an augmented state variable which consists of original system state and sensor fault signal; output compensation strategy is also provided to ensure the iterative‐learning‐based actuator fault estimation method is effective considering the existence of sensor failures. In addition, theorems based on ‐norm and linear matrix inequality are provided to determine values or ranges of gain matrices and parameters in proposed sensor fault observer and iterative‐learning‐based actuator fault estimation law. Finally, two simulation examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed methods.
Data‐driven prescribed performance platooning sliding mode control under DoS attacks
Authors: Zhang Peng , Che Wei‐Wei
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a prescribed performance model‐free adaptive platooning sliding mode control (PP‐MFAP‐SMC) problem for the nonlinear vehicular platooning systems (VPSs) under denial‐of‐service (DoS) attacks is studied. Firstly, the partial form dynamic linearization (PFDL) technique is employed to convert the nonlinear VPSs into an equivalent linear data model, in which the nonlinear features of the VPSs are compressed into an unknown time‐varying pseudo gradient (PG) vector. Then, an observer is devised to acquire the estimation value of the unknown time‐varying PG vector. To lower the complication of the design, the constrained tracking error is converted into the unconstrained one. Based on which, the sliding mode control (SMC) strategy is proposed to enhance the robustness of the VPSs. Further, a PP‐MFAP‐SMC algorithm with an attack compensation mechanism is developed to ensure that the vehicular tracking errors of the position and velocity can converge to the predefined regions, respectively. Eventually, the effectiveness of the developed algorithm is demonstrated by an actual VPS with the comparisons.
Deeper dive into interoperability and its implications for LunaNet communications and navigation services
Authors: Schier James , Roura Coralí , Paulsen Phillip E. , Vaden Karl , Rock Jennifer , Sheehe Charles J. , Peura Angela , Seibert Marc , Weir Erica Lieb
Published: August 2024

The Artemis program being developed by the United States' (US) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is advancing capabilities to return humans to the Moon and establish an initial base camp and associated infrastructure with extensive contributions from international and commercial partners. In planning for cislunar exploration and science missions, space agencies are collaborating to enable communications, networking, and Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems—called LunaNet—to exchange information and provide services to cislunar spacecraft and space systems, thus helping each other to achieve their shared goals. To achieve commonality and lower cost for mutual benefit, the strategy of interoperability is being adopted to help fit all the pieces together and function smoothly. Facilitating interoperability should benefit lunar missions by providing the ability to operate in a collaborative environment similar to the terrestrial Internet. Interoperability allows them to share information, navigate safely despite increasing radio frequency congestion, and follow common processes and procedures for effective joint operations. Unlike prior government‐dominated efforts, this ecosystem is expected to include and benefit for‐profit (commercial) businesses, non‐profit organizations, and academic institutions as active stakeholders. Ultimately, the goal is to enable a cislunar ecosystem of service providers and users to contribute to and/or utilize infrastructure and capabilities to achieve mission objectives that span the full range of human endeavors while supporting a variety of business models. This approach enables a Systems of Systems (SoS), such as a Network of Networks, to be sustainable in the context of the LunaNet ecosystem as systems evolve over time in technologies, standards, components, and user applications. This paper reports on the results of an effort to help frame the development of the international LunaNet architecture by providing a canonical definition of interoperability broad enough to meet these needs, examining architectural and operational implications of the definition, and exploring interoperability strategies and tactics to deploy and evolve the services proposed for cislunar exploration and science missions.
Purpose in life among haemodialysis caregivers: Links with adaptive coping, caregiver burden, and psychological distress
Authors: Sousa Helena , Ribeiro Oscar , Figueiredo Daniela
Published: August 2024

Research has evidenced that purpose in life helps to minimise the strains of providing informal care to a significant other, but little is known about whether this psychological resource influences the paths from stressors to the health outcomes of family caregiving and through which mechanisms it can exert this protective effect. This study aimed to explore the moderating role of purpose in life on the (mediated through adaptive coping) relationship between caregiver burden and psychological distress in haemodialysis caregivers. A cross‐sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of family caregivers (n = 173; M = 55.9, SD = 15.6 years old) of adults undergoing haemodialysis. A moderated‐mediation model was computed to explore the interaction effects of purpose in life on the path between burden and distress, having adaptive coping behaviours as parallel mediators. Results showed that purpose in life had a buffering effect on the mediated (through acceptance coping) relationship between burden and distress (index of partial moderated‐mediation: bsimple = −0.029, 95% bootstrap confidence interval (CI) [‐0.070, −0.002]), and that this conditional effect was lowest at high levels of the moderator (at +1SD: bsimple = 0.038, SE = 0.026, 95% bootstrap CI [0.001, 0.098]). Use of emotional support (F(1,159) = 4.395, p = 0.038) and positive reframing (F(1,159) = 5.648, p = 0.019) also mediated this path. This study expands knowledge about the modifiable internal resources through which purpose in life can help promote psychosocial adjustment to the haemodialysis caregiving process. Mental health promotion initiatives aimed at this population need to consider combining different intervention approaches to foster purpose in life and train adaptive (and flexible) coping skills.
Recent Progress in the Applications of MXene‐Based Materials in Multivalent Ion Batteries
Authors: Fu Wangqin , Aizudin Marliyana , Lee Pooi See , Ang Edison Huixiang
Published: August 2024

Multivalent‐ion batteries have garnered significant attention as promising alternatives to traditional lithium‐ion batteries due to their higher charge density and potential for sustainable energy storage solutions. Nevertheless, the slow diffusion of multivalent ions is the primary issue with electrode materials for multivalent‐ion batteries. In this review, the suitability of MXene‐based materials for multivalent‐ion batteries applications is explored, focusing onions such as magnesium (Mg2+), aluminum (Al3+), zinc (Zn2+), and beyond. The unique structure of MXene offers large interlayer spacing and abundant surface functional groups that facilitates efficient ion intercalation and diffusion, making it an excellent candidate for multivalent‐ion batteries electrodes with excellent specific capacity and power density. The latest advancements in MXene synthesis and engineering techniques to enhance its electrochemical performance have been summarized and discussed. With the versatility of MXenes and their ability to harness diverse multivalent ions, this review underscores the promising future of MXene‐based materials in revolutionizing the landscape of multivalent‐ion batteries.
Vertical Conductive Metal–Organic Framework Single‐Crystalline Nanowire Arrays for Efficient Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Dong Junjie , Chi Kai , Zhao Yan , Liu Yunqi
Published: August 2024

The construction of crystalline metal–organic frameworks with regular architectures supportive of enhanced mass transport and bubble diffusion is imperative for electrocatalytic applications; however, this poses a formidable challenge. Here, a method is presented that confines the growth of nano‐architectures to the liquid‐liquid interface. Using this method, vertically oriented single crystalline nanowire arrays of an Ag‐benzenehexathiol (BHT) conductive metal‐organic framework (MOF) are fabricated via an “in‐plane self‐limiting and out‐of‐plane epitaxial growth” mechanism. This material has excellent electrocatalytic features, including highly exposed active sites, intrinsically high electrical conductivity, and superhydrophilic and superaerophobic properties. Leveraging these advantages, the carefully designed material demonstrates superior electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity, resulting in a low Tafel slope of 66 mV dec−1 and a low overpotential of 275 mV at a high current density of 1 A cm−2. Finite element analysis (FEA) and in situ microscopic verification indicates that the nanowire array structure significantly enhances the electrolyte transport kinetics and promotes the rapid release of gas bubbles. The findings highlight the potential of using MOF‐based ordered nanoarray structures for advanced electrocatalytic applications.
Interfacial Engineering for Controlled Crystal Mosaicity in Single‐Crystalline Perovskite Films
Authors: Park Su Min , Park Sang Wook , Jin Haedam , Baek Dohun , Cha Jeongbeom , Chae Weon‐Sik , Lee Tae Kyung , Kim Min
Published: August 2024

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskites have attracted significant attention for optoelectronic applications due to their efficient photoconversion properties. However, grain boundaries and irregular crystal orientations in polycrystalline films remain issues. This study presents a method for producing crystalline‐orientation‐controlled perovskite single‐crystal films using retarded solvent evaporation. It is shown that single‐crystal films, grown via inverse temperature crystallization within a confined space, exhibit enhanced optoelectronic property. Using interfacial polymer layer, this method produces high‐quality perovskite single‐crystalline films with varying crystal orientations. Density functional theory calculations confirm favorable adsorption energies for (110) surfaces with methylammonium iodide and PbI2 terminations on poly(3‐hexylthiophene), and stronger adsorption for (224) surfaces with I and methylammonium terminations on polystyrene, influenced by repulsive forces between the thiophene group and the perovskite surface. The correlation between charge transport characteristics and perovskite single‐crystalline properties highlights potential advancements in perovskite optoelectronics, improving device performance and reliability.
microRNA‐125b‐5p alleviated CCI‐induced neuropathic pain and modulated neuroinflammation via targeting SOX11
Authors: Wang Liping , Wang Bei , Geng Xia , Guo Xiaona , Wang Tingting , Xu Jingjing , Jiang Linkai , Zhen Haining
Published: August 2024

Background

Increasing evidence demonstrated the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the onset and development of neuropathic pain (NP). Exploring the molecular mechanism underlying NP and identifying key molecules could provide potential targets for the therapy of NP. The function and mechanism of miR‐125b‐5p in regulating NP have been studied, aiming to find a potential therapeutic target for NP.

Methods

NP rat models were established by the chronic constriction injury (CCI) method. The paw withdrawal threshold and paw withdrawal latency were assessed to evaluate the establishment and recovery of rats. Highly aggressive proliferating immortalized (HAPI) micoglia cell, a rat microglia cell line, was treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The M1/M2 polarization and inflammation were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and western blotting.

Results

Decreasing miR‐125b‐5p and increasing SOX11 were observed in CCI rats and LPS‐induced HAPI cells. Overexpressing miR‐125b‐5p alleviated mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia and suppressed inflammation in CCI rats. LPS induced M1 polarization and inflammation of HAPI cells, which was attenuated by miR‐125b‐5p overexpression. miR‐125‐5p negatively regulated the expression of SOX11 in CCI rats and LPS‐induced HAPI cells. Overexpressing SOX11 reversed the protective effects of miR‐125b‐5p on mechanical pain in CCI rats and the polarization and inflammation in HAPI cells, which was considered the mechanism underlying miR‐125b‐5p.

Conclusion

miR‐125b‐5p showed a protective effect on NP by regulating inflammation and polarization of microglia via negatively modulating SOX11.
Water Contaminant Detection and Water Purification of Household Drinking Water Using a New Stacking Ensemble Model
Authors: Rajesh Yernagula , Dwarampudi Manasa , Pratap Y.
Published: August 2024

Contaminated drinking water sources pose a significant health risk worldwide. Monitoring programs for drinking water quality aims to ensure safe water supply by informing management practices. Improved online monitoring of water systems is necessary as current lab‐based methods are slow and do not offer real‐time public health protection. Rapid detection and response to potential contamination events are crucial to mitigate health risks. Mark of‐purpose water treatment strategies offer a reasonable method for upgrading drinking water quality at the family level and forestalling waterborne illnesses. This study focuses on collecting household drinking water and utilizing various sensors to measure parameters such as pH, turbidity, water level, temperature, and humidity. A consistent water quality noticing system using the stacking outfit model, which solidifies Bayesian association and decision tree techniques, is proposed in this article. Bayesian network analyzes the input data attained from sensors collecting real‐time data and concludes whether the data represents the contamination event. DTs are utilized to demonstrate the connections between multivariate water boundaries utilized in the review. Afterward, a multiobjective, such as a biobjective optimization model and a nondominated genetic algorithm (NGA) are used in this work of optimization to minimize the volume of contaminated water. After the pollution in the water is identified, water decontamination processes are done given point of purpose medicines like ceramic channels and solar water disinfection (SODIS). The method outlined is executed through Python software. The findings indicate that the estimated values for PH, temperature, and turbidity are 7.3, 31.8, and 0.77, respectively. However, the proposed method is compared with the existing C‐NSGA‐II, while compared to this method, the proposed system produces improved cost functions. Consequently, suitable water treatment and supply should be considered to reduce the effects on people's health as well as to improve living conditions, respectively.
Bayesian Optimisation of a Two‐Turbine Configuration Around a 2D Hill Using Large Eddy Simulations
Authors: Jané‐Ippel Christian , Bempedelis Nikos , Palacios Rafael , Laizet Sylvain
Published: August 2024

When planning a new wind farm, optimising the turbine layout to maximise power output is crucial. Traditional approaches based on analytical wake models often fail in complex terrain. In such areas, wake‐to‐wake interactions and terrain‐induced effects need to be taken into account via high‐fidelity optimisation. Building on our prior research on how best to maximise offshore wind farm power production by both micro‐siting (layout optimisation) and wake steering (yaw angle optimisation), this study focuses on the optimisation of two onshore wind turbines located around a 2D hill. The proposed approach is based on high‐fidelity simulations (LES) to account for the complexity of the flow and on Bayesian optimisation (BO) to systematically and efficiently find the optimal configuration for the two turbines given a set of parameters. The LES are performed with the high‐order finite‐difference wind farm simulator WInc3D, which has been modified for this study to deal with complex terrains and turbines with yaw and tilt. Following the validation of the immersed boundary method (IBM) and wall modelling used to model the complex terrain and of a modified actuator disc model (ADM) to account for tilted turbines, two BO campaigns are presented in this study, with different sets of parameters to optimise. The main flow features and some statistics for each optimum case are discussed using the flow fields with and without the optimised configuration of the upstream turbine to analyse its impact on the downstream turbine and on the overall power of the system. For the first optimisation, the design variables include the wind turbines' streamwise locations and their hub heights (4 parameters). This optimisation study benefits from an elevated upstream turbine hub, leading to a significant power increase in the downstream turbine, thanks to an acceleration of the flow in front of the hill. For the second optimisation, the design space is modified based on the data from the first optimisation, by replacing the turbine's hub height with the possibility of changing the tilt angle of the upstream turbine (4 parameters). It is found that considerable power gains can be obtained while maintaining a modest upstream turbine hub height, by introducing a positive tilt angle in the upstream turbine. Overall, it is found that by setting up the turbines in ways that exploit the speed‐up of the flow around the hill, both optimised layouts achieve considerable enhancements in power density over a reference configuration.
Evaluating the spatiotemporal variation of Ba River water quality in the agricultural and urban watershed in the highland of Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Anh , Nguyen Thi Nhan , Dao Van Tri , Schmalz Britta , Tran Le Luu
Published: August 2024

The Ba River in Vietnam has been facing pollution due to waste generation from agricultural and urban areas. This study focuses on evaluating the spatiotemporal variations in river water quality based on physicochemical characteristics and pesticide parameters for different seasons in 2022–2023. The results indicate that the concentrations of most parameters in the rainy season were higher than those in the early‐dry and dry seasons due to the non‐point sources in agricultural areas. Notably, the analysis of pesticide residue in both the rainy and dry seasons revealed low levels of chlorpyrifos (ethyl), and deltamethrin was detected in the only rainy season. The results from the hierarchical cluster analysis and water quality index show that the water quality at Ben Mong, An Khe, and Ba River Bridges was classified as moderately to highly polluted. These areas should focus on regular water quality monitoring and appropriate pollution source management.

Practitioner Points

Agriculture activities strongly affected the water quality of the Highland Ba River of Vietnam.

Chlorpyrifos and deltamethrin pesticides (0.0074–0.0218 μg/L) were detected in Ba River.

Non‐point pollution sources significantly influenced water quality in the Ba River.

Variations in river water quality mainly depend on seasons and locations.

Water quality index values in rainy seasons (26–88) are lower than that in dry season (37–92).
From routine to rescue: Thyroidectomy for life‐threatening thyrotoxicosis
Authors: Song Zhixing , Akhund Ramsha , Wu Christopher , Wang Rongzhi , Lindeman Brenessa , Fazendin Jessica , Gillis Andrea , Chen Herbert
Published: August 2024

Background

Thyroidectomies are routinely same‐day elective procedures. The aim of this study was to investigate outcomes in patients who underwent uncommon urgent thyroidectomy.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients diagnosed with thyrotoxicosis at a quaternary medical center between 2011 and 2023. Included patients were admitted nonelectively with thyroidectomies performed during same hospital stay. Patient demographics, comorbidities, hospital course, and operative outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Thirty patients met the inclusion criteria. The majority were female (60%) and Black (60%) with a mean age of 41 ± 14 years. At admission, 76.6% had undetectable thyrotropin levels (<0.01 µU/mL) and 26.7% were diagnosed with thyroid storm. Common presenting comorbidities included atrial fibrillation (53.3%), heart failure (40%), and liver failure (16.7%). Graves' disease was diagnosed in 83.3% of patients, while 13.3% had amiodarone‐induced thyrotoxicosis. Median hospital stay before surgery was 8 days (interquartile range: 4–16). Indications for surgery were adverse medication events (30%), inadequate therapeutic effect by medication (30%), and worsening heart failure (26.7%). Postoperatively, 6.7% required reoperation for neck hematoma, 13.3% experienced temporary hypoparathyroidism, and 6.7% had hoarseness. Following surgery, 50% of patients with atrial fibrillation experienced resolution and 50% with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction showed ultrasonic improvement. Within 30 days, 20% visited the emergency department, none due to thyroidectomy complications, and 13.3% were readmitted for comorbidities. One patient (3.3%) died from liver failure.

Conclusions

Patients who require an urgent thyroidectomy often have life‐threatening comorbidities particularly cardiac disease. Performing thyroidectomy in these patients can potentially create clinical homeostasis for further management of their comorbidities.
Introductions: University-Community Links & Core Commitments for Transformative Education
Authors: Elaine Marjorie , Welsh Mahmood Mara
Published: August 2024

This chapter provides context and history for the University-Community Links (UC Links) network as an introduction to the edited volume. We describe the core components of the UC Links model of university-community partnership and core commitments shared across programs, as well as their variability. We provide an orientation to the theme of “transformation” that links the different sections of the volume, organized as transformative histories, transforming pedagogies, transforming learning and lives, transforming learning ecologies, and transforming futures. We also share insight into the collaborative writing process editors and authors engaged in to develop this collective work, and discuss stylistic and editorial choices.
Educación Inclusiva en Uruguay: Creando Narrativas Colaborativas con Niños Migrantes Durante la Pandemia
Authors: Da Silva Mónica
Published: August 2024

Este capítulo describe una colaboración entre investigadoras, estudiantes de grado de la Universidad de la República y docentes de una escuela pública en Montevideo, Uruguay, que trabajaron en forma conjunta en el retorno a la presencialidad escolar con una serie de niños participantes de comunidades minoritarias cercanas. Ambientado durante la pandemia de COVID-19 en una escuela que trabaja con un alto porcentaje de niños inmigrantes en Montevideo, este capítulo detalla el desarrollo de un aula multigrado intergeneracional e intercultural que supuso una oportunidad para la reflexión crítica y el crecimiento de todos los participantes (profesores, investigadores, estudiantes universitarios y niños). El programa se basa en modelos como La Clase Mágica y la Quinta Dimensión (descritos en este libro) y promueve el desarrollo de la imaginación de los niños, integrando procesos narrativos, creativos, colaborativos y el uso de diferentes artefactos tecnológicos en contextos comunitarios y escolares. En este capítulo reflexionamos sobre la experiencia del trabajo en pandemia y mostramos cómo el sistema de actividades que construimos ofreció una oportunidad de reflexión crítica y crecimiento para todas las personas que lo integran. Asímismo, se busca generar procesos de inclusión educativa, entendida como la garantía de acceso, permanencia de calidad, pertenencia y participación plena de niños y niñas, independientemente de sus características personales, étnico-raciales, sociales, económicas y culturales a través del diseño e implementación de una propuesta colaborativa y narrativa.
Putting Culture, Language, and Power in the Middle: Dual-Language Participatory Arts for Building Community and Making Change
Authors: López Leslie
Published: August 2024

Corre la Voz (CLV) is a teaching/learning program in Santa Cruz, California, revolving around an after-school workshop in multi-modal, dual-language arts where undergraduate and middle-grade student cohorts work with faculty to build transformative learning communities. The program’s partnership (UC Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz City Schools, Senderos) aims to improve immigrant Latinx community members opportunities to thrive and pursue their full potential, both on and off campus; and CLV aims to develop replicable pedagogies that educational activists can use when working with any communities or groups who find themselves displaced or in adverse circumstances. Using embodied-interactive means (drama, interview, play, discussion) and multi-modal text (photovoice, filmmaking, digital design), CLV’s projects create deliberate spaces where activity-based language arts work “puts culture and language in the middle,” as resources for community power and change-making. This chapter highlights participatory CLV activity designs in the after-school workshop. Each of the techniques discussed in this chapter works to shift cultural power in two ways: (1) they create spaces and build community by articulating collective values and Funds of Knowledge; and (2) they offer relevant literacy tools, norms, and processes for creating collective projects and solving problems so participants can change the stories they are in.
An event generator for Lepton-Hadron deep inelastic scattering at NLO+PS with POWHEG including mass effects
Authors: Buonocore Luca , Limatola Giovanni , Nason Paolo , Tramontano Francesco
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We present a generator for lepton nucleon collisions in the DIS regime, focusing in particular on processes with a massive lepton and/or a massive quark in the final state. We have built a full code matching NLO QCD corrections to parton shower Monte Carlo programs in the POWHEG-BOX framework. Our code can be used to compute NLO+PS accurate fully differential predictions for neutral current and charged current processes, including processes with an incoming tau neutrino, and/or including charm quarks in the final state. We also made comparisons with available data and predictions for the new neutrino experiments at CERN.
n-point functions in conformal quantum mechanics: a momentum space odyssey
Authors: K.S. Dhruva , Mazumdar Deep , Yadav Shivang
Published: August 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we study the implications of conformal invariance in momentum space for correlation functions in quantum mechanics. We find that three point functions of arbitrary operators can be written in terms of the 2F1 hypergeometric function. We then show that generic four-point functions can be expressed in terms of Appell’s generalized hypergeometric function F2 with one undetermined parameter that plays the role of the conformal cross ratio in momentum space. We also construct momentum space conformal partial waves, which we compare with the Appell F2 representation. We test our expressions against free theory and DFF model correlators, finding an exact agreement. We then analyze five, six, and all higher point functions. We find, quite remarkably, that n-point functions can be expressed in terms of the Lauricella generalized hypergeometric function, EA, with n − 3 undetermined parameters, which is in one-to-one correspondence with the number of conformal cross ratios. This analysis provides the first instance of a closed form for generic momentum space conformal correlators in contrast to the situation in higher dimensions. Further, we show that the existence of multiple solutions to the momentum space Ward identities can be attributed to the Fourier transforms of the various possible time orderings. Finally, we extend our analysis to theories with $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1, 2 supersymmetry, where we find that the constraints due to the superconformal ward identities are identical to identities involving hypergeometric functions.
The cosmological switchback effect. Part II
Authors: Baiguera Stefano , Berman Rotem
Published: August 2024

Abstract

Recent developments in static patch holography proposed that quantum gravity in de Sitter space admits a dual description in terms of a quantum mechanical theory living on a timelike surface near the cosmological horizon. In parallel, geometric observables associated with the Einstein-Rosen bridge of a black hole background were suggested to compute the computational complexity of the state dual to a gravitational theory. In this work, we pursue the study of the complexity=volume and complexity=action conjectures in a Schwarzschild-de Sitter geometry perturbed by the insertion of a shockwave at finite boundary times. This analysis extends previous studies that focused either on the complexity=volume 2.0 conjecture, or on the case of a shockwave inserted along the cosmological horizon. We show that the switchback effect, describing the delay in the evolution of complexity in reaction to a perturbation, is a universal feature of the complexity proposals in asymptotically de Sitter space. The geometric origin of this phenomenon is related to the causal connection between the static patches of de Sitter space when a positive pulse of null energy is inserted in the geometry.
Modular forms and hierarchical Yukawa couplings in heterotic Calabi-Yau compactifications
Authors: Ishiguro Keiya , Kobayashi Tatsuo , Nishimura Satsuki , Otsuka Hajime
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We study the modular symmetry in heterotic string theory on Calabi-Yau threefolds. In particular, we examine whether moduli-dependent holomorphic Yukawa couplings are described by modular forms in the context of heterotic string theory with standard embedding. We find that SL(2, ℤ) modular symmetry emerges in asymptotic regions of the Calabi-Yau moduli space. The instanton-corrected holomorphic Yukawa couplings are then given by modular forms under SL(2, ℤ) or its congruence subgroups such as Γ0(3) and Γ0(4). In addition to the modular symmetry, it turns out that another coupling selection rule controls the structure of holomorphic Yukawa couplings. Furthermore, the coexistence of both the positive and negative modular weights for matter fields leads to a hierarchical structure of matter field Kähler metric. Thus, these holomorphic modular forms and the matter field Kähler metric play an important role in realizing a hierarchical structure of physical Yukawa couplings.
Twisted circle compactification of $$ \mathcal{N} $$ = 4 SYM and its holographic dual
Authors: Kumar S. Prem , Stuardo Ricardo
Published: August 2024

Abstract

We consider a compactification of 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM, with SU(N) gauge group, on a circle with anti-periodic boundary conditions for the fermions. We couple the theory to a constant background gauge field along the circle for an abelian subgroup of the R-symmetry which allows to preserve four supersymmetries. The 3D effective theory exhibits gapped and ungapped phases, which we argue are holographically dual, respectively, to a supersymmetric soliton in AdS5 × S5, and a particular quotient of AdS5 × S5. The gapped phase corresponds to an IR 3D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2 supersymmetric Yang-Mills-Chern-Simons theory at level N, while the ungapped phase is naturally identified with the root of a Higgs branch in the 3D theory. We discuss the extension of the twisting procedure to maximally SUSY Yang-Mills theories in different dimensions, obtaining the relevant duals for 2D and 6D, and comment on the odd dimensional cases.
Exploration and genetic analyses of canopy leaf pigmentation changes in soybean (Glycine max L.): unveiling a novel phenotype
Authors: You Hee Jin , Jo Hyun , Kim Ji-Min , Kang Sung-Taeg , Luong Ngoc Ha , Kim Yeong-Ho , Lee Sungwoo
Published: August 2024

Key message

Pigmentation changes in canopy leaves were first reported, and subsequent genetic analyses identified a major QTL associated with levels of pigmentation changes, suggesting Glyma.06G202300 as a candidate gene.

An unexpected reddish-purple pigmentation in upper canopy leaves was discovered during the late reproductive stages in soybean (Glycine max L.) genotypes. Two sensitive genotypes, ‘Uram’ and PI 96983, exhibited anomalous canopy leaf pigmentation changes (CLPC), while ‘Daepung’ did not. The objectives of this study were to: (i) characterize the physiological features of pigmented canopy leaves compared with non-pigmented leaves, (ii) evaluate phenotypic variation in a combined recombinant inbred line (RIL) population (N = 169 RILs) under field conditions, and (iii) genetically identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for CLPC via joint population linkage analysis. Comparison between pigmented and normal leaves revealed different Fv/Fm of photosystem II, hyperspectral reflectance, and cellular properties, suggesting the pigmentation changes occur in response to an undefined abiotic stress. A highly significant QTL was identified on chromosome 6, explaining ~ 62.8% of phenotypic variance. Based on the QTL result, Glyma.06G202300 encoding flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H) was identified as a candidate gene. In both Uram and PI 96983, a 1-bp deletion was confirmed in the third exon of Glyma.06G202300 that results in a premature stop codon in both Uram and PI 96983 and a truncated F3′H protein lacking important domains. Additionally, gene expression analyses uncovered significant differences between pigmented and non-pigmented leaves. This is the first report of a novel symptom and an associated major QTL. These results will provide soybean geneticists and breeders with valuable knowledge regarding physiological changes that may affect soybean production. Further studies are required to elucidate the causal environmental stress and the underlying molecular mechanisms.