bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remarks on wave propagation in an acoustic metamaterial modeled as a relaxed micromorphic continuum
Authors: Voss Jendrik , Rizzi Gianluca , Demetriou Plastiras , Neff Patrizio , Madeo Angela
Published: May 2023

In order to describe elastic waves propagation in metamaterials, i.e. solids with heterogeneities or microstructure, it is necessary to consider non‐local or higher‐order models. The relaxed micromorphic model (RMM) proposed here can describe these effects as a continuous material with enriched kinematics. We present a new unit cell giving rise to a metamaterial for acoustic application. The microstructure is engineered to show a band‐gap in the low acoustic regime (600‐2000 Hz) for which waves cannot propagate through the material. We concentrate on the size effects to make full advantage of the particularly beneficial structure that the model provides. The RMM material parameters are fitted using a new algorithm relying on cutoffs and asymptotes (obtained via a Bloch‐Floquet analysis). In particular, by enhancing the kinetic energy of the model with a new inertia term, we enable decreasing curves (modes with negative group velocity).
Computational Modelling of Nanoporous Materials
Authors: Chandrasekaran Rajesh , Hillgärtner Markus , Itskov Mikhail , Rege Ameya
Published: May 2023

Recently proposed constitutive models that describe the mechanical behavior of open‐porous cellular materials take into account the random pore sizes of the materials but not the randomness in the pore shapes [1]. In the present contribution, a computational model to reconstruct the highly irregular structure of porous materials is developed using sphere packing and Laguerre‐Voronoi tessellation [2]. The mechanical structure‐property relationship is then investigated by means of finite element methods. Under compression, porous materials demonstrate linear‐elastic behaviour followed by an irreversible deformation resulting in a plateau region followed by densification [3]. In this contribution, such mechanical responses of porous materials under cyclic loading are investigated using elasto‐plastic material models. Furthermore, effects of tensile loading on the model are also discussed.
Flat input based canonical form observers for non‐integrable nonlinear discrete‐time systems
Authors: Fritzsche Klemens , Röbenack Klaus
Published: May 2023

We define flat inputs for discrete‐time systems and carry over a flat input based observer design strategy for non‐integrable nonlinear continuous‐time systems to the discrete‐time case. This approach allows to design observers for nonlinear discrete‐time systems that cannot be transformed into observer canonical form, i.e., conventional observer design strategies fail. This approach is illustrated by two examples.
Modeling Minimum Cost Network Flows With Port‐Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: Doganay Onur Tanil , Klamroth Kathrin , Lang Bruno , Stiglmayr Michael , Totzeck Claudia
Published: May 2023

We give a short overview of advantages and drawbacks of the classical formulation of minimum cost network flow problems and solution techniques, to motivate a reformulation of classical static minimum cost network flow problems as optimal control problems constrained by port‐Hamiltonian systems (pHS). The first‐order optimality system for the port‐Hamiltonian system‐constrained optimal control problem is formally derived. Then we propose a gradient‐based algorithm to find optimal controls. The port‐Hamiltonian system formulation naturally conserves flow and supports a wide array of further modeling options as, for example, node reservoirs, flow dependent costs, leaking pipes (dissipation) and coupled sub‐networks (ports). They thus provide a versatile alternative to state‐of‐the art approaches towards dynamic network flow problems, which are often based on computationally costly time‐expanded networks. We argue that this opens the door for a plethora of modeling options and solution approaches for network flow problems.
Geometric and material sensitivities for elasto‐plasticity including non‐local damage regularisation
Authors: Guhr Fabian , Barthold Franz-Joseph
Published: May 2023

Sensitivity analysis is applied to a regularised non‐local ductile damage model. A variational approach is utilised to derive the analytical gradients of different objectives with respect to either geometrical of material parameters. Due to the definition of the material model, enhanced algorithmic treatments are necessary to capture its history dependent nature within the sensitivity computation. The gradient information with respect to the geometrical parameters are used to derive damage tolerant geometries in shape optimisation using Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP). The sensitivities with respect to the material parameters are used to analyse the response and impact of certain material parameters of the model during loading and unloading of a specimen.
Dislocation Motion Induced by Thermally Driven Phase Transformations
Authors: Strobl Rachel , Budnitzki Michael , Sandfeld Stefan
Published: May 2023

The interaction of dislocations with phase boundaries is an interesting aspect of the interplay between phase transformation and plasticity at the nano‐scale. We capture this interaction within a phase field framework coupled to discrete dislocation dynamics. In order to regularize the stress and driving force for phase evolution at the dislocation core, a first strain‐gradient elasticity approach is used, which leads to more physical, discretization‐independent numerical solutions.

From a mathematical point of view, this results in a system of coupled partial differential equations (PDEs) and ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The PDEs include an equation analogous to the balance of linear momentum, a second‐order tensor‐valued Helmholtz‐type equation for the true stress as well as a time‐dependent Ginzburg‐Landau equation for the evolution of the phase field. The ODEs are the equations of motion of the dislocations. The dislocations are modeled as lamellae with eigenstrain that can evolve with time; the resulting stress field is an outcome of the numerical solution. A parallel framework was developed in order to solve these coupled dynamics problems using the finite element library FEniCS. We show the effect of dislocations on phase microstructure as well as the influence of phase microstructure on the motion of dislocations using an illustrative example of a thermally‐driven planar phase boundary, and its interaction with a single edge dislocation.
Reduced‐order modeling for parametrized time‐dependent Navier‐Stokes equations
Authors: Fischer Hendrik , Fau Amelie , Wick Thomas
Published: May 2023

In this work, we apply reduced‐order modeling to the parametrized, time‐dependent, incompressible, laminar Navier‐Stokes equations. The major goal is to reduce the computational costs by replacing the high‐fidelity system by a low‐rank approximation, which preserves the solution behavior. We utilize projection‐based reduced basis methods and carry out the basis generation by POD‐greedy sampling. Both a velocity‐only and a velocity‐pressure reduced‐order model are considered, with the latter stabilized by means of supremizer enrichment. Here, we investigate further reduction possibilities. We present numerical results of the method applied to the benchmark problem of a two‐dimensional flow around a cylinder with physical parametrization.
FEM simulation of thixo‐viscoplastic flow problems: Error analysis
Authors: Begum Naheed , Ouazzi Abderrahim , Turek Stefan
Published: May 2023

This note is concerned with the essential part of Finite Element Methods (FEM) approximation of error analysis for quasi‐Newtonian modelling of thixo‐viscoplastic (TVP) flow problems. The developed FEM settings for thixotropic generalized Navier‐Stokes equations is based on a constrained monotonicity and continuity for the coupled system, which is a cornerstone for an efficient monolithic Newton‐multigrid solver. The manifested coarseness in the energy inequality by means of proportional dependency of its constants on regularization, nonoptimal estimate for microstructure, and extra regularity requirement for velocity, is due to the weak coercivity of microstructure operator on one hand and the modelling approach on the other hand, which we dealt with stabilized higher order FEM. Furthermore, we show the importance of taking into consideration the thixotropy inhabited in material by presenting the numerical solutions of TVP flow problems in a 4:1 contraction configuration.
Analysing the bone cement flow in the injection apparatus during vertebroplasty
Authors: Trivedi Zubin , Gehweiler Dominic , Wychowaniec Jacek K. , Ricken Tim , Gueorguiev-Rüegg Boyko , Wagner Arndt , Röhrle Oliver
Published: May 2023

Vertebroplasty, a medical procedure for treating vertebral fractures, requires medical practitioners to inject bone cement inside the vertebra using a cannula attached to a syringe. The required injection force must be small enough for the practitioner to apply it by hand while remaining stable for a controlled injection. Several factors could make the injection force unintuitive for the practitioners, one of them being the non‐Newtonian nature of the bone cement. The viscosity of the bone cement varies as it flows through the different parts of the injection apparatus and the porous cancellous interior of the vertebra. Therefore, it is important to study the flow of bone cement through these parts. This work is a preliminary study on the flow of bone cement through the injection apparatus. Firstly, we obtained the rheological parameters for the power law model of bone cement using experiments using standard clinical equipment. These parameters were then used to obtain the shear rate, viscosity, and velocity profiles of the bone cement flow through the cannula. Lastly, an analysis was carried out to understand the influence of various geometrical parameters of the injection apparatus, in which the radius of the cannula was found to be the most influential parameter.
Lifetime Prediction with Combined Hygro‐Thermo‐Mechanical Influences on Thick Layer Adhesives
Authors: Kötz Fabian , Matzenmiller Anton
Published: May 2023

Semi‐structural bonded joints of steel components are exposed to long‐term stresses in addition to water diffusion, temperature changes and varying external forces during operation. These hygro‐thermomechanical loadings lead to successive degradation of stiffness and strength due to damage resulting from chemical aging and fatigue processes, causing failure of the bonded joint when its service life is reached. In the following contribution, a methodology is presented to predict the service life of hygro‐thermo‐mechanically loaded semistructural adhesive joints with transient FE simulation. The lifetime prediction is based on a constitutive model with a viscoelastic and a damage part. The first part for viscoelasticity consists of the generalized Maxwell model, in which the effects of temperature changes and varying humidity on the viscoelastic properties of the adhesive bond are captured by the time‐temperature and time‐water concentration shifts. The second part for the material damage is based on an ordinary differential equation for the damage evolution. It consists of a creep and a moisture damage part for the void developments caused by the local water concentration due to mechanical stress and chemical aging. Both damage parts are multiplied by an Arrhenius‐type function to account for the effect of temperature change on the defect growth. The interaction of the creep and the moisture damage part is studied by applying the analytical and numerical solution of the damage differential equation. All parameters of the damage model are determined by using fracture times from creep tests under different climatic conditions and loading levels. The local water concentration in the adhesive is calculated by Fick's model and a concentration boundary condition. The diffusion parameters are determined by gravimetric measurements. A numerical example is setup to demonstrate the lifetime prediction methodology and to show the influence of viscoelasticity on the predicted lifetimes for different hygro‐thermo‐mechanical loading cases.
Computational Fluid‐Structure Interaction towards Simulating Large Wind Turbines with openFOAM and deal.II Coupled via preCICE
Authors: Mang Katrin , Ahrens Jan Dominik , Seume Joerg R. , Rolfes Raimund
Published: May 2023

Wind energy is an essential part of the Green Deal. The trend to increase the size of wind turbines, especially offshore, introduces additional dynamic effects at the long and flexible blades. Embedded in the CRC 1463, DFG, we are working on the fluid‐structure interaction to avoid dynamic stall and investigate flutter effects and blade breathing of ultra‐slim blades [1,2]. This requires an accurate numerical setup that reliably captures the fluid‐structure interactions due to the highly turbulent flow and large deformations of the blades. In preliminary work, the Unsteady Reynolds‐averaged Navier‐Stokes method (URANS) in openFOAM [3] was used to simulate the flow around rotating helicopter blades with a changing angle of attack. [4] successfully predicted the distinct dynamic stall hysteresis with moderate computational effort and captured extreme values (load peaks) within the experimental uncertainties. This aerodynamic solver is to be coupled with a structural solution, for which deal.II [5] provides the linear elastic blade model. The fluid and the structure solvers are coupled via the software preCICE [6] and solved with a staggered approach. Numerical results are presented for a simplified 2D cross‐section of a rectangular solid of carbon‐fiber‐reinforced polymers and a steady inflow velocity. Key challenges for the coupling of the solvers are discussed and the future work is outlined.
Dispersion‐type Anisotropic Viscoelasticity: Model Validation for Myocardium
Authors: Açan Alp Kağan , Altun Cem , Dal Hüsnü
Published: May 2023

This contribution presents a novel constitutive model for rate‐dependent response of the passive myocardium. As a first step, we performed a comparative study on dispersion‐type anisotropic hyperelastic constitutive models [1–3] and assessed performance of various density distribution functions by fitting to experiments conducted on three distinct tissues [4]. Next, we proposed an angular integration type anisotropic viscoelastic constitutive model that uses bivariate von‐Mises distribution function to capture fiber dispersion in passive myocardium. The baseline hyperelasticity is described by a generalized structure tensor formulation proposed by GASSER ET AL. [1]. The non‐equilibrium part of the model utilizes a quadratic free energy function in the logarithmic strain space and a power‐type nonlinear evolution equation in orientation directions. The overstress response is then obtained by the numerical integration over the unit sphere by making use of 21 quadrature points. The proposed model parameters are obtained from cyclic triaxial shear and triaxial shear relaxation experiments on human passive myocardium [5].
Synthesis and properties of UV‐curable star‐shaped polyester
Authors: Liu Yiyang , Ming Shujie , Zhou Yumei , Qu Jinqing
Published: May 2023

UV‐curable coatings mainly include vinyl resin, active thinner, and photoinitiator, among which UV‐curable resin accounts for a large proportion and is the main factor that determines the film performance. Existing vinyl resins have the disadvantages of high viscosity, high cost, and low curable function. Herein, the polyol as the core, first reacted with anhydride to produce half ester, and then with glycolyl methacrylate ring opening to get vinyl star polyester. The molecular structure and molecular weight of UV‐curable star polyesters were analyzed using FTIR, 1H NMR, and GPC. The impact of the type and ratio of anhydride and small molecular polyols on the viscosity and coating properties of vinyl star polyester were investigated. The results indicated that the resin viscosity and film hardness increased as the hydroxyl function of small molecular polyols increased. It was also discovered that the inclusion of polyether polyol N210 in the reaction system reduced the viscosity of the resin to 2025 mPa s and improved the hardness of the film to 2H, as well as its impact toughness.
Additive effect of the Streptomyces albus XJC2‐1 and dimethomorph control pepper blight (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: Long Meimei , Wang Qiuyue , Li Shanshan , Liu Changyun , Chen Shan , Yang Yanhui , Ma Haoyue , Guo Lulu , Fan Guangjin , Sun Xianchao , Ma Guanhua
Published: May 2023

Background

Pepper blight, caused by Phytophthora capsici, is a destructive soilborne disease, which poses a serious threat to pepper, Capsicum annuum L., production. Chemical fungicides, which mainly are used to control pepper blight, have a negative effect on the environment, rendering biological control as a promising alternative to maintain the balance between ecology and pest management. The purpose of this study was to screen the biocontrol bacteria, reduce the dosage of fungicides and increase the stability of biocontrol bacteria, and to find the mixing ratio of biocontrol bacteria and fungicides giving the best control effect.

Results

We isolated actinomycetes strains from the soil surrounding the roots of healthy pepper plants amongst field‐grown plants infected with P. capsici. Of these, Streptomyces albus XJC2‐1 showed a strong inhibition effect on the growth of P. capsici, with an inhibition rate of ≤85%. XJC2‐1 effectively inhibited the formation of sporangium and release of zoospores of P. capsici as well as directly destroyed its hyphae, to achieve the inhibitory effect. Transcriptomic profiling of pepper leaves, postirrigation of plants with the XJC2‐1 fermentation broth, revealed upregulation of genes related to the photosynthesis pathway in pepper. Furthermore, XJC2‐1 treatment improved the net photosynthetic rate and intercellular CO2 concentration, thereby improving the pepper plant's resistance to pathogens. The combination of XJC2‐1 with the fungicide dimethomorph (8 μg mL−1) displayed strong synergism in inhibition of P. capsici infection, with a control efficiency as high as 75.16%, thus providing a basis for its application in the field.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that S. albus XJC2‐1 inhibited Phytophthora pathogens from infecting pepper plants and enhanced plant host resistance. The combination of XJC2‐1 and dimethomorph displayed a more stable and stronger control effect on pepper blight, showing potential for the future application of XJC2‐1 in the field of biological control. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Theoretical study to gain fundamental insight into reaction mechanism of N–S acyl transfer of N‐sulfanylethylanilide‐based protein labeling reagent on protein surface
Authors: Shigenaga Akira , Kyan Ryuji
Published: May 2023

Elucidation of protein function is one of the central issues in the field of life sciences. To study the function of proteins not in isolation, but in a cell or its lysate, thus, it is necessary to selectively label the target protein in a mixture. Affinity labeling is one of several widely used methods for selective labeling; however, this method has the disadvantage that the labeling reagent is always activated, albeit weakly. Therefore, fine‐tuning of the reactivity and/or reaction conditions is generally required for successful target‐selective labeling. We previously developed a new affinity labeling reagent with N‐sulfanylethylanilide (SEAlide) as a key reactive unit. It was designed based on the following hypotheses. SEAlide is less reactive and does not label in the absence of a target protein. Upon target binding, amino acid side‐chain functional groups on the target surface convert SEAlide into a thioester form via N–S acyl transfer, allowing the target to be labeled. However, no evidence has been obtained so far to directly prove the hypothesis. In this study, we examine whether amino acid side‐chain functional groups can activate SEAlide from the viewpoint of theoretical chemistry. The theoretical studies show that the activation free energy and enthalpy of the acyl transfer of SEAlide are reduced in the presence of methylammonium, which is a model for the protonated side chain of Lys, and acetate, which is a model for the deprotonated side chain of Asp/Glu. It suggests that Lys and Asp/Glu side chains could potentially stabilize the activation transition states to accelerate the thioester formation. Furthermore, the significant decrease in the activation enthalpy indicates that the contribution of entropy to the transition state is large. This result supports the original hypothesis that the SEAlide‐based labeling reagent is efficiently activated by binding to the target protein.
Investigating the effect of halogens on the electronic and optical properties of lead‐free double halide perovskites based on CuBi
Authors: Khademi Tahmineh , Movlarooy Tayebeh
Published: May 2023

In recent years, three‐dimensional (3D) lead‐free double halide perovskites have been considered promising candidates for photovoltaic applications due to their high stability and the use of non‐toxic materials, and the absence of organic materials in their structure. The structural, electronic, and optical properties of 3D double Halide perovskites and were investigated in this paper using first‐principles density functional theory (DFT) simulation with BLYP approximation. The results showed that structures and have an indirect band gap, high absorption coefficient, low reflection, and high conductivity. A redshift of absorption edge and band gap shrinkage has been observed in the structure with an increase in the ionic radius of the halogen, which indicates the unique features of structure for photovoltaic applications, LED, laser, and other optoelectronic devices.
Initiatives on exploring the mechanism of eco‐hydrological response to land surface change and adaptive regulation in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Zhang Jianyun , Du Erhu , Yuan Shanshui , Wu Jiefeng , Song Yang , Wang Guoqing
Published: May 2023

The Yellow River Basin faces water scarcity and ecological fragility. Changes on the land surface, characterized by large‐scale soil and water conservation measures, have a significant impact on river runoff and ecological environment. However, there are still great uncertainties in the scientific understanding of the mechanisms by which multiple driver impact eco‐hydrological processes due to the diversity of land surfaces and the complexity of the coupling processes. As an international scientific frontier on interdisciplinary studies in climatology, hydrology, ecology, and other related fields, it is significant to study the mechanisms and assess the impacts of land surface change on eco‐hydrological risk to support ecological restoration plan and sustainable water resources utilization in the Yellow River Basin. Taking the Yellow River Basin as the study area, this study proposes several important research initiatives, focusing on addressing the ecological and water resources problems in the Loess Plateau. These initiatives include (1) to quantify the individual effect of land surface elements (e.g., vegetation, terraces, and check dam) and reveal the nonlinear driving mechanisms of multiple drivers on eco‐hydrological processes; (2) to construct a distributed eco‐hydrological model that couples dynamic land surface features, and simulate eco‐hydrological processes in a changing environment; (3) to improve the ecological risk assessment indicator system and methods for assessing the impacts of land surface changes on eco‐hydrological synergistic functions and ecological risk; (4) to establish an ecological regulation model based on multiobjective game theory and adopt an adaptive regulation mode for ecological risk management. The research could enrich the scientific understanding and theory of eco‐hydrology, and prompt disciplinary studies of ecology, hydrology, climatology, and other fields. The expected academic achievements will innovate eco‐hydrological simulation and assessment techniques in a changing environment, and strongly support the implementation of the national strategy for ecological protection and high‐quality development in the Yellow River Basin.
On informal housing supply restrictions and livelihood in informal settlements: Implications for sustainable development
Authors: Mottelson Johan
Published: May 2023

Land use restrictions can curtail housing supply and lead to increased costs of accommodation, which can have adverse effects on livelihood among low‐income groups and thereby compromise sustainable development. However, limited studies have investigated housing supply restrictions in informal housing markets. To address this knowledge‐gap, this article analyzes a range of indicators of livelihood among residents of informal settlements and informal housing supply restrictions in Maputo, Mozambique and Nairobi, Kenya. The findings underscore that informal urban development is restricted to a far higher extent and livelihood in informal settlements is considerably more compromised in Nairobi compared to Maputo, despite that wages are higher in Nairobi and geographic factors likely curtail urban development to a higher extent in Maputo. The empirical evidence and economic theory reviewed in this article consistently indicate that antagonistic approaches to informal urban development in cities with large segments of the population financially excluded from the formal housing markets have comparable consequences to land use restrictions guiding formal urban development. Namely, that informal land users pay a price premium for basic shelter in such contexts due to the increased pressure on the housing markets and risk of loss of investments through forced evictions. On this basis, the article argues that unless viable legal housing alternatives are available, repressive approaches to informal urban development should be abolished while less restrictive standards for building and planning regulation should be adopted to expand provision of affordable legal accommodation and thereby enhance sustainable development.
Impact of environmental policies on the profitability of greenhouse agriculture in southeastern Spain
Authors: Castillo‐Díaz Francisco José , Belmonte‐Ureña Luis J. , Batlles‐delaFuente Ana , Camacho‐Ferre Francisco
Published: May 2023

Sustainable development has become an essential criterion for structural policies of the European Union, and these policies have extended its environmental dimensions. The EU has decided that circular economy will be framed within the principles of sustainable development. Thus, the changes brought forth will affect activities like agriculture, where environmental policy can undermine the stability of agricultural systems by reducing their profitability. The objective of this study was to evaluate how the implementation of these techniques impacted the southeastern peninsula of Spain, a farming region that supports the sovereignty and food security of the European Union in terms of fruit and vegetable products. The production techniques evaluated can increase production costs by up to 5.5%, although there are no significant differences in crop profitability. It is necessary to guarantee that all producers can access the incentive system to reduce their economic pressure, due in many cases to financial losses. In this regard, it is necessary to establish a specific green architecture for this subsector that factors in the effects of inflation to balance the triple aspect of sustainability.
Constructing Highly Li+ Conductive Electrode Electrolyte Interphases for 4.6 V Li||LiCoO2 Batteries via Electrolyte Additive Engineering
Authors: Bizuneh Girum Girma , Zhu Chunlei , Huang Junda , Wang Huaping , Qi Shihan , Wang Zhongsheng , Wu Daxiong , Ma Jianmin
Published: May 2023

To improve voltage is considered to effectively address the energy‐density question of Li||LiCoO2 batteries. However, it is restricted by the instability of electrode electrolyte interphases in carbonate electrolytes, which mainly originates from Li dendrite growth and structural instability of LiCoO2 at high voltage. Herein, an electrolyte additive strategy is proposed for constructing efficient LiNxOy‐contained cathode electrolyte interphase for 4.6 V LiCoO2 and LiF‐rich solid electrolyte interphase for Li anode to enhance the stability of Li||LiCoO2 battery using 4‐nitrophthalic anhydride as the additive. As expected, the Li||LiCoO2 battery can stably operate up to 4.6 V, with a high specific capacity of 216.9 mAh g−1 during the 1st cycle and a capacity retention of 167.1 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.3 C. This work provides an available strategy to realize the application of high‐voltage Li||LiCoO2 battery.
Directional Superspreading of Water Droplets on Grooved Hydrogel Surfaces for Open Microfluidic Platforms
Authors: Cheng Sha , Huang Cheng , Chen Wen , Zhang Pengchao
Published: May 2023

Directional liquid spreading has an irreplaceable role in applications such as microfluidic devices, disposable biosensors, and point‐of‐care diagnostics. However, how to achieve directional, rapid, and complete spreading (i.e., superspreading) of liquids without external energy input is a great challenge. Herein, inspired by the peristome surface of Nepenthes pitcher, the directional superspreading of water droplets on hydrogel surfaces with predesigned microchannels by using the synergistic effect of the liquid‐like property of hydrogels and the guidance of anisotropic microstructures is reported. Compared with the smooth ones, hydrogel surfaces with isotropic microstructures can facilitate the superspreading of water droplets, which can be realized within 500 ms in the absence of external forces. Furthermore, directional superspreading and the flow of water droplets are realized under the guidance of anisotropic microgrooves. Such a unique spreading behavior can also be observed on the hydrogel surfaces with various shaped microchannels, such as periodic, bent, shunted, divergent, and confluent morphologies, which have potential for the development of open microfluidic platforms for various healthcare‐related applications.
A Thin Composite Polymer Electrolyte Functionalized by a Novel Antihydrolysis Additive to Enable All‐Solid‐State Lithium Battery with Excellent Rate and Cycle Performance
Authors: Li Liansheng , Hu Yangming , Duan Huanhuan , Deng Yuanfu , Chen Guohua
Published: May 2023

Composite solid‐state electrolyte (CSE) incorporated with fluorine‐containing functional additives usually endows the assembled cell with improved electrochemical performance by forming stable electrode/electrolyte interfaces. However, most of fluorine‐containing additives are prone to hydrolysis, which is not suitable for the large‐scale preparation of CSEs. In this work, an antihydrolysis and fluorine‐containing additive of magnesium 2,3,4,5,6‐pentafluorophenylacetate (MgPFPAA) is successfully synthesized and then used to regulate the properties of the electrode/electrolyte interfaces of the all‐solid‐state lithium batteries (ASSLBs). The antihydrolysis property of MgPFPAA facilitates the large‐scale preparation of the ultrathin CSEs in atmospheric environment. Both theoretical calculations and experimental results indicate that MgPFPAA can effectively improve the composition and structure of the generated solid electrolyte interface film by providing rich F sources and Mg2+, thus leading to a stable CSE/Li interface. Furthermore, an ultrathin PEO/PVDF‐based CSE (≈30 µm) functionalized by this novel MgPFPAA additive enables the assembled LiFePO4‐based ASSLB with greatly enhanced electrochemical performances, with high discharge specific capacity of 93.7 mAh g−1 at 10 C and a high capacity retention of 74.9% after 1500 cycles at 5.0 C. Also, this MgPFPAA functionalized CSE can be compatible with the high‐areal‐capacity LiFePO4 and the high‐voltage LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathodes.
Alloy Catalysts for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Liu Lizhen , Akhoundzadeh Hossein , Li Mingtao , Huang Hongwei
Published: May 2023

CO2 conversion is an anticipated route to resolve the energy crisis and environmental pollution, in which electrocatalysis is one of the technologies closest to industrialization. Alloy catalysts are promising candidates for electrocatalysis, and the high tenability in electronic structures and surface physical and chemical properties allows alloy catalysts high catalytic activity and selectivity for electrocatalytic CO2 reduction. Herein, the recent advances in alloy catalysts for electrocatalytic CO2 reduction have been systematically summarized, with insight into the structure of the active center, catalytic performance, and mechanism, to uncover the key to their high catalytic performance. The alloy catalysts are mainly classified as binary and multi‐metallic alloys (medium entropy and high entropy alloy) based on components and mixed configuration entropy, on which the relationship among the active center, catalytic performance, and mechanism has been fully discussed to inspire the rational design of alloy catalysts. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives are presented to propose the dilemma and development direction for alloy catalysts. This review provides an overview of about the recent progress and future development of alloy catalysts to present a guideline for future research work on relevant catalysts.
Ein moderner Kran für alten Schrott am Werksgelände der Badischen Stahlwerke GmbH (BSW)
Authors: Lang Robert , Klapper Georg , Klien Thomas
Published: May 2023

Mit der Fertigstellung des neuen Schrottverladekrans am Werksgelände der Badischen Stahlwerke GmbH steht ein moderner Umschlagkran zum Schrott‐Handling zur Verfügung. Mit einer Gesamtlänge von 100 m und einer Gesamthöhe von über 30 m besticht der Kran nicht nur optisch, sondern in vielen Bereichen mit außergewöhnlichen Detaillösungen. Der patentierte runde Hauptträger ist die sichtbarste Komponente, die neue Maßstäbe setzt. Doch auch andere Teile des Stahlbaus sowie die Maschinenkomponenten sind am Stand der Technik und runden Konstruktion und Funktion ab.
Properties and durability of self‐compacting concrete incorporated with nanosilica, fly ash, and limestone powder
Authors: Hakeem Ibrahim Y. , Amin Mohamed , Zeyad Abdullah M. , Tayeh Bassam A. , Agwa Ibrahim Saad , Abu el‐hassan Khaled
Published: May 2023

This research focused on finding the effect of nanosilica (NS) on the properties of self‐compacting concrete (SCC). NS in various proportions of 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 8%, and 10% was added to SCC with 10% silica fume (SF) or 10% fly ash (FA) by weight of cement to improve the properties of SCC. While the limestone powder (LSP) was used at a fixed supplementation of 15% by cement weight for all mixes. Fifteen SCC mixtures were designed based on the European guidelines for self‐compacting concrete. The properties of fresh SCC were evaluated by several tests of the slump flow, slump T50, V‐funnel, V‐funnel T5min, L‐box J‐ring, and fill box. Meanwhile, several tests evaluated SCC's mechanical properties, including compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, bond strength, and modulus of elasticity. Moreover, the permeability properties of SCC were evaluated by water permeability and air‐content tests. The effect of applying high temperatures (100–800°C) on the compressive strength of SCC containing NS with cementitious materials (SF, FA, and LSP) was also evaluated. Results showed that adding 3% NS with 10% SF and 15% LSP by weight of cement can be used to achieve the best mechanical properties of SCC. The SFNS3 mixture achieved the highest mechanical properties of 75.1, 11.9, and 41,300 MPa for compressive strength, bond strength, and modulus of elasticity tests. While the results for the slump flow, slump T50cm, and fill box were 680 mm, 6 s, and 93%.
“Like a piece of wood”: The potential of multimodal translingual storytelling for restoration and peace
Authors: Zhang‐Wu Qianqian
Published: May 2023

Faced with linguicism, racism, and xenophobia aggravated by COVID‐19 and political tensions in recent years, multilingual international students, especially those of Asian descent, are in urgent need of engaging in healing practices for meaningful identity expression, restoration, and peace. Translingualism is a justice‐oriented literacy practice that disrupts the boundaries of named languages and allows communicators to draw upon all resources in their linguistic repertoires. Storytelling, as a powerful research method and a pedagogical tool, offers a unique opportunity to encourage multilingual students' translingual meaning making for healing. This qualitative case study examined how multimodal translingual storytelling functioned as a form of restoration and peace for a first‐semester Chinese student pursuing her graduate degree in English at a private university in the United States. The findings indicate that when offered opportunities to reflect on her cultural and linguistic identities, the participant was likely to detach deficit self‐perceptions as an “English language learner” and embrace her differences as a strength, which benefited her first‐semester language and academic experiences. This study calls for pedagogical strategies and curriculum design that open up humanizing spaces for culturally and racially minoritized multilingual students by acknowledging, valuing, and inviting their whole linguistic repertories through multimodal, translingual storytelling.
Non-invertible symmetries of class S theories
Authors: Bashmakov Vladimir , Del Zotto Michele , Hasan Azeem , Kaidi Justin
Published: May 2023

Abstract

We study the non-invertible symmetries of class $$ \mathcal{S} $$
S
theories obtained by compactifying the type $$ {\mathfrak{a}}_{p-1} $$

a

p
−
1

6d (2,0) theory on a genus g Riemann surface with no punctures. After setting up the general framework, we describe how such symmetries can be classified up to genus 5. Of central interest to us is the question of whether a non-invertible symmetry is intrinsic, i.e. whether it can be related to an invertible symmetry by discrete gauging. We then describe the higher-dimensional origin of our results, and explain how the Anomaly and Symmetry TFTs, as well as N-ality defects, of class $$ \mathcal{S} $$
S
theories can be obtained from compactification of a 7d Chern-Simons theory. Interestingly, we find that the Symmetry TFT for theories with intrinsically non-invertible symmetries can only be obtained by coupling the 7d Chern-Simons theory to topological gravity.
Carrollian Yang-Mills theory
Authors: Islam Minhajul
Published: May 2023

Abstract

By doing a small c (speed of light) expansion of SU(N) Yang-Mills fields, we construct two different electric and two different magnetic sectors actions of Carrollian Yang-Mills theory. For both electric and magnetic cases, one sector contains non-trivial self-interaction, and another is N2− 1 copies of respective sector Carrollian abelian theory. In d = 4, all the four sectors are invariant under infinite Carrollian Conformal symmetry. There are no central extensions when analyzing charge algebra at the phase space level. Lastly, we compute propagators for all four sectors and vertices for two non-trivial sectors. Propagators in position space show ultra-local behavior.
Endovascular Treatment and Peri-interventional Management of Ruptured Cerebrovascular Lesions During Pregnancy
Authors: Etter Manina M. , Nguyen Anh , Brehm Alex , Aberle Christoph , Tsogkas Ioannis , Guzman Raphael , Dmytriw Adam A. , Parra-Farinas Carmen , Mascitelli Justin R. , Pereira Vitor Mendes , Starke Robert M. , Fragata Isabel , Reis João , Wolfe Stacey Quintero , Porto Guilherme B. , Spiotta Alejandro M. , Psychogios Marios-Nikos
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Hemorrhagic stroke, particularly occurring from ruptured cerebrovascular malformations, is responsible for 5–12% of all maternal deaths during pregnancy and the puerperium. Whether endovascular treatment is feasible and safe for both the mother and the fetus, is still a matter of debate. The main objective of this case series and systematic review was to share our multi-institutional experience and to assess the feasibility and safety of endovascular treatment during pregnancy, as well as the corresponding maternal and fetal outcomes based on currently available evidence.

Methods

We report a case series of 12 pregnant women presenting with hemorrhagic stroke from ruptured cerebrovascular arteriovenous malformations or aneurysms who underwent endovascular treatment prior to delivery. A systematic literature review of pregnant patients with endovascular treated cerebrovascular malformations, published between 1995 and 2022, was performed. Clinical patient information, detailed treatment strategies, maternal and fetal outcomes as well as information on the delivery were collected and assessed.

Results

In most patients the course was uneventful and an excellent outcome without significant neurological deficits (mRS ≤ 1) was achieved. Furthermore, the maternal outcome was not worse compared to the general population who underwent endovascular treatment of ruptured vascular brain lesions. Also, in most cases a healthy fetus was born.

Conclusion

Endovascular treatment of ruptured cerebrovascular malformations during pregnancy is safe and feasible regarding both aspects, the maternal and fetal outcomes. Still, a stronger knowledge base is needed to correctly approach future cases of intracranial hemorrhage in the pregnant population.
Labor market changes and social inclusiveness across regions: evidence from the rise of the modern office
Authors: Bublitz Elisabeth , Wyrwich Michael
Published: May 2023

Could complex changes in the labor market reduce social inequalities across regions? We study the rise of office employment in the early twentieth century that was induced by innovations in office technology and organizational changes affecting the type of required office tasks. The new office jobs required little physical strength. We find that the regional employment share of industries that were strongly connected to the modern office, is positively linked to labor force participation of people with physical impairments. The positive employment effect is more visible for disabled men. In sum, the rise of the modern office that differed across regions started to lower labor market entry barriers and fostered social inclusiveness.
Multidomain Optimal Control of Variational Subpotential Mixed Evolution Inclusions
Authors: Alduncin Gonzalo
Published: May 2023

Multidomain variational optimal control of evolution mixed subpotential inclusions, are formulated and analyzed, on the basis of a perturbation conjugate duality convex analysis theory developed by the author. For Lagrangian optimality mixed conditions, fixed point existence results are demonstrated with an strongly monotone qualifying condition. Governing multidomain state systems correspond to primal evolution macro-hybrid mixed subpotential problems, whose solvability is similarly achieved. Innovative multidomain optimization existence results of primal, dual, Lagrangian mixed, as well as coupled pair state-control problems are established. Applications to underground macro-hybrid mixed control transport flow processes, illustrate the theory.
Pancreas Transplant Alone in the USA, Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Moein Mahmoudreza , Papa Sarah , Bahreini Amin , Saidi Reza
Published: May 2023

Background

Currently, over 63,000 pancreas transplant procedures have been performed worldwide, with only approximately 8% of all pancreas transplants having been a pancreas transplant alone. Our study aimed to quantify outcomes following pancreas transplant alone in the United States from 2001 to 2020, with an emphasis on graft and patient survival.

Methods and materials

We performed a retrospective registry analysis utilizing the OPTN/UNOS database for pancreas transplants alone performed in the United States from January 2001 to May 2020 to assess transplant outcomes. The study population was divided into two subgroups: patients receiving a pancreas transplant between 2000 and 2009 and those receiving a pancreas transplant between 2010 and 2020.

Results

3008 allograft recipients were included in the study. 1679 (54.87%) transplants were done from January 2000 to the end of 2009. 1381 (45.13%) transplants were done from 2010 to May 2020. Although the BMI and recipient sex comparison indicate a statistically significant difference, the differences are not clinically significant. The overall 5‐year allograft survival rate was 52.17% in the 2000–2009 group, which increased to 58.82% in pancreas transplants alone from 2010 to 2020 (P = 0.02). The overall 5‐year patient survival rate was 74.52% in the 2000–2009 group, which increased to 74.92% in pancreas transplants alone from 2010 to 2020 (P = 0.81).

Conclusion

With all the progress in terms of surgical techniques, organ allocation and preservation, and immunosuppressive regimens, the pancreas transplant alone allograft survival has been improving over the years, although it has been still being underutilized around the US.
The Efficacy of Bacteriocins Against Biofilm-Producing Bacteria Causing Bovine Clinical Mastitis in Dairy Farms: A New Strategy
Authors: Raheel Ismail , Mohammed Asmaa N. , Mohamed Asmaa Abdrabo
Published: May 2023

Using an alternative bio-product is one of the most promising ways to control bovine mastitis and avoid new intra-mammary infections. The aims of this study were to ascertain the prevalence of biofilm-forming bacteria responsible for causing clinical mastitis in dairy herds and to assess the effectiveness of bacteriocins, produced by Bacillus subtilis, in controlling the growth of these bacteria in the milk of animals. A total of 150 milk samples were collected from cows and buffalos suffering from mastitis and the etiological agents were isolated and identified by the VITEK-2-COMPACT-SYSTEM®. Additionally, the capability of the bacterial isolates to produce biofilms was determined. RT-PCR was used to detect enterotoxin-producing genes (sed and seb), resistance genes (mecA and blaZ), and biofilm-associated genes (icaA and fnbA) in the isolated bacteria. The susceptibility patterns of the bacterial isolates to bacteriocins were assessed using an agar well-diffusion assay. S. aureus was significantly more capable of producing biofilms than coagulase-negative Staphylococcus isolates. S. ubris was the strongest biofilm producer among the Streptococcus species. The sensitivity profiles of the Staphylococcus spp. (S. aureus and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus) and their biofilm producers to bacteriocins were significantly higher (100% and 90%, respectively) at the same concentration. Bacteriocins had a lethal effect on Staphylococci, Streptococci, and biofilm development at a dose of 250 µg/mL. In dairy farms, bacteriocins are a viable alternative treatment for the prevention and control of bovine clinical mastitis.
Different times, similar mechanism? Convergent patterns in light-induced phenotypic plasticity in Devonian and modern corals
Authors: Majchrzyk Aleksander , Jakubowicz Michał , Bongaerts Pim , Zapalski Mikołaj K.
Published: May 2023

Modern scleractinian corals can display high phenotypic plasticity, which reflects an interplay among various environmental controls, such as sediment input, water hydrodynamics or light intensity. In particular, the latter can strongly influence the morphology of coral species living across broad depth gradients. Light intensity was also a factor shaping the colonies of extinct Palaeozoic tabulate corals (Anthozoa: Tabulata). Based on gradual transitions in morphology observed in corals from the Middle Devonian (Givetian stage, ~ 385 Ma) mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCE) of the Aferdou el Mrakib reef (Anti-Atlas mountains, Morocco) and comparative material originating from different palaeobathymetric and biogeographical settings, we show that Devonian tabulate corals, such as Roseoporella and Alveolites, were characterised by high phenotypic plasticity and the ability to dramatically change their morphology depending on the inferred light conditions. Such a mechanism is similar to that observed in modern scleractinians, e.g. Porites sillimaniana. This recurring morphological theme suggests that Palaeozoic tabulate corals shared many functional characteristics of modern scleractinians.