bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triggering and Modulation of Quantum Magnon‐Photon Hall Insulator in a 1D Cavity Magnonics Lattice
Authors: Xiang Lü , Wang He , Li Zi‐Meng , Zhang Zhu‐Cheng , Wang Yi‐Ping
Published: July 2024

Quantum Hall insulators in artificial systems have become a rapidly developing research field in recent years, and have made significant breakthroughs in observing many novel topological phenomena. However, there are few reports about quantum magnon‐photon Hall insulators. Here, a scheme is proposed for implementing a 1D cavity magnonics lattice that exhibits quantum magnon‐photon Hall insulator behaviors, where each unit cell comprises cavity photons and magnons. By adjusting the system parameters, it is found that not only different energy spectrum structures can be triggered, but also the distribution of the edge states can show the flipping process, which allows the achievement of the multi‐channel topological quantum state transmission. In addition, considering the presence of defects, dissipation, and disorder, it is found that appropriate defects can trigger new topological phases, while dissipation only causes shifts in energy levels without changing the position and period of edge states, and disorder leads to shifts in band structures and edge states, thus demonstrating the robustness of edge states. This work offers an effective way to study topological magnon‐photon Hall insulators, which will have promising applications in magnon‐based quantum information processing.
Sampled‐data cooperative semi‐global robust practical output regulation for nonlinear multi‐agent systems with an uncertain leader
Authors: Liu Wei , Zeng Kaiji , Liu Yu
Published: July 2024

This article explores the problem of sampled‐data cooperative robust practical output regulation for nonlinear multi‐agent systems whose leader system is unknown. In this study, the nonlinearities of the follower systems are not constrained by the linear growth condition. Based on the robust control technology and the adaptive control technology, a distributed output‐based sampled‐data control protocol is developed to deal with the uncertainty of the exosystem which can belong to any large known compact set. We first perform the coordinate transformation of closed‐loop system to obtain the so‐called augmented system, and then perform the stability analysis for this system. As a result, it is proven that the steady‐state tracking errors are in any small given neighborhood of the origin. Finally, the performance of the proposed controller is validated by a numerical example.
Harnessing Biomimicry for Controlled Adhesion on Material Surfaces
Authors: Li Weijun , Zhou Ruini , Ouyang Yirui , Guan Qingwen , Shen Yigang , Saiz Eduardo , Li Ming , Hou Xu
Published: July 2024

Nature serves as an abundant wellspring of inspiration for crafting innovative adhesive materials. Extensive research is conducted on various complex forms of biological attachment, such as geckos, tree frogs, octopuses, and mussels. However, significant obstacles still exist in developing adhesive materials that truly replicate the behaviors and functionalities observed in living organisms. Here, an overview of biological organs, structures, and adhesive secretions endowed with adhesion capabilities, delving into the intricate relationship between their morphology and function, and potential for biomimicry are provided. First, the design principles and mechanisms of adhesion behavior and individual organ morphology in nature are summarized from the perspective of structural and size constraints. Subsequently, the value of engineered and bioinspired adhesive materials through selective application cases in practical fields is emphasized. Then, a forward‐looking gaze on the conceivable challenges and associated opportunities in harnessing biomimetic strategies and biological materials for advancing adhesive material innovation is highlighted and cast.
Twinning and 9R Phase Transition Mediated Extraordinary Cold‐drawn Deformability in NiCoCrFeMo High‐Entropy Alloy
Authors: Liu Xuli , Wu Yidong , Zheng Boyuan , Bai Rui , Gao Lei , Dong Zhao , Song Chaoqian , Yu Yong , Gao Peng , Hui Xidong
Published: July 2024

The production and application of materials are evolving towards the low‐dimensional micro‐nano scale. Nevertheless, the fabrication of micron‐scale alloy fibers remains a challenge. Herein, a novel Ni‐Co‐Cr‐Fe‐Mo high‐entropy alloy (HEA) fiber with a cold‐drawn reduction rate of 99.9995% and a strain (ɛ) of 12.19 is presented without requiring intermediate annealing. The exceptional deformation strain of 11.62 within the fiber leads to extraordinary tensile strengths of 2.8 GPa at room temperature and 3.6 GPa at 123 K. The in‐depth investigation of the microstructure of fibers has revealed the cold drawing deformation mechanisms mediated by the synergistic effects of plane defects. Specifically, various geometrically necessary dislocation interfaces, such as dislocation walls and microbands, along with deformation twins and long‐period 9R structures, form in response to external stress when ɛ≤2.7. As the strain increases, the saturated layered structure emerges and progressively evolves into a 3D equiaxed crystal. Moreover, the formation and evolution of the 9R structure (i.e., the migration of incoherent twin boundaries), coupled with the interaction of partial dislocations and the role of deformation twins, are crucial factors determining the fiber's plastic response. This work provides a novel approach to discovering new high‐strength metallic fibers with excellent deformability through plane defects engineering.
Diamond‐Reinforced Al(H2PO4)3@Epoxy Hybrid Thermal Adhesive With Ultra‐High Thermal Conductivity and Bonding Strength
Authors: Gao Ge , Zhao Yuwei , Cao Wenxin , Su Zhenhua , Wang Xiaolei , Wang Zhuochao , Sun Tingting , Dai Bing , Han Jiecai , Li Bohong , Wang Chao , Zhu Jiaqi
Published: July 2024

The miniaturization, integration, and increased power of electronic devices have exacerbated serious heat dissipation issues. Thermally conductive adhesives, which effectively transfer heat and firmly bond components, are critical for addressing these challenges. This paper innovatively proposed a composite comprising inorganic phosphate/alumina as a matrix and diamond as filler. The composite achieved an isotropic thermal conductivity (TC) of up to 18.96 W m−1 K−1, significantly surpassing existing reports while maintaining electrical insulation. First‐principles calculations and experimental tests confirmed that the high TC of phosphate and excellent interface contact ensured efficient heat transfer. To optimize bonding performance, a modified‐diamond/Al(H2PO4)3@epoxy hybrid composite is subsequently developed using an organic modification method. The unique hybrid structure, combining inorganic thermal pathways and an organic adhesive network, enabled the hybrid composite to simultaneously possess a high TC (3.23 W m−1 K−1) and strong adhesion (14.35 MPa). Compared to previous reports, the comprehensive performance of this hybrid thermally conductive adhesive is exceptionally remarkable. The superior heat dissipation capability of the hybrid thermal adhesive is demonstrated in chip cooling scenarios. This organic/inorganic hybrid approach offered a new direction for obtaining advanced thermal interface materials, demonstrating significant application potential in chip soldering, packaging, and heat dissipation.
Super‐Stable Mineralization of Metal Ions from Smelting Wastewater by In Situ Synthesis of NiFe‐Based Layered Double Hydroxides for Catalytic Phenol Hydroxylation
Authors: Wang Yanling , Xu Yanqi , Li Cunjun , Wang Hai , Wang Linjiang
Published: July 2024

The super‐stable mineralization of metal ions from industrial wastewater by in situ synthesis of layered double hydroxides (LDHs) has been regarded as a sustainable approach from environmental protection and resource utilization perspectives. Herein, the study reports a super‐stable mineralization of metal ions including Ni, Fe, Cr, Mn, Cu, Ca, Al, etc. from smelting wastewater by in situ synthesis of NiFe‐based LDHs through facile coprecipitation. Such approach exhibits superior mineralization efficiency of metal ions simultaneously that can remove hundreds, thousands, or even tens of thousands mg/L of multiple metal ions to below the values of the Chinese National Emission Standards of Pollutants. Furthermore, the obtained NiFe‐based LDHs exhibit excellent catalytic performance of phenol hydroxylation due to the mineralization of multiple metals on the laminates, where 48.24% conversion of phenol and 71.58% selectivity of dihydroxybenzenes are realized under room temperature for 3 h. This work paves a sustainable strategy for hazardous material disposal and resource utilization.
Trapping efficacy of invasive crows is affected by environmental factors and deployment history
Authors: Yong Cheryl K. L. , Soh Malcolm C. K. , Samsuri Astri Noorbaini , Lim Kai Ning , Er Kenneth B. H.
Published: July 2024

House crows (Corvus splendens) are considered an invasive species and are prevalent in parts of Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Existing crow management measures include food limitation, habitat modification, and direct population control. The latter method provides a more immediate solution, particularly in nesting locations where crow attacks occur more frequently. Crow ladder traps are widely adopted to capture crows, but a thorough examination of the environmental conditions that optimize trapping efficacy is lacking. We assessed factors affecting crow trap efficacy in Singapore to better advise future deployment strategies of crow traps. We obtained data from 170 crow trapping operations including the identities of the contractors conducting the trapping operations, operation start date, crow density, intensity of bird feeding, various land use cover proportions, and an index to quantify the spatial‐temporal proximity to previous trapping operations. We used a spatial gamma generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) to determine the factors affecting the daily number of crows captured and a spatial binomial GLM to determine the factors affecting the probability that crows will be captured. The number of bird‐feeding incidents had a negative effect on crow trap efficacy suggesting that crows are probably less inclined to enter traps if proximate anthropogenic food abundance is high. Trapping efficacy increased if traps were placed in high crow‐density areas, likely because more crows could detect the traps. The probability of capture also declined if the traps were placed closer to prior trapping locations or with a shorter time interval from previous trapping operations. Capture rates of crows can be increased by placing traps in high crow density areas, limiting bird‐feeding incidences, and lengthening the spatial and temporal proximities to previous trapping operations. The deployment of ladder traps is a viable means to control the population of house crows and consideration of environmental conditions and trapping history can improve capture rates.
Hydrogen Strategy of Sweden: Unpacking the Multiple Drivers and Potential Barriers to Hydrogen Development
Authors: Ćetković Stefan , Stockburger Janek
Published: July 2024

This chapter investigates the main elements, drivers, and challenges of the hydrogen sector in Sweden. A particular focus is placed on the approach of the Swedish government to hydrogen development and its internal and external dimensions. The domestic interest in hydrogen in Sweden has in the past been primarily focused on the decarbonization of hard-to-abate industrial sectors, in particular the steel industry. Given the current surplus of low-carbon electricity supply, which relies on hydropower, nuclear and increasingly wind power, the attention was solely directed towards domestic production and use of low-carbon hydrogen for the industry. With the growing importance of hydrogen at the EU level, accompanied by the introduction of an EU hydrogen strategy, investment funds and common standards, there has been a rapid increase in interest by business actors in various hydrogen sectors (e-fuels, green hydrogen, ammonia) in Sweden. Individual regions in Sweden have also taken the initiative and made use of EU funds to try position themselves in and benefit economically from the emerging hydrogen sectors. As most private investors aim to use green hydrogen produced by renewable energy sources, the demand for green electricity, particularly in onshore and offshore wind, is expected to skyrocket. The government, however, has so far failed to enact credible plans and policies detailing where and how new wind power projects will be built and which sectors may gain priority access to renewable electricity. There has also been a lack of effort in facilitating the realization of infrastructure for the potential transport of hydrogen through pipelines or Swedish ports. In light of the growing interest in low-carbon hydrogen, the considerable industry know-how and the vast renewable energy potential in Sweden, there is a pressing need for a more comprehensive approach by the government and a stronger alignment with the efforts of the EU and other Member States.
Norway’s Hydrogen Strategy: Unveiling Green Opportunities and Blue Export Ambitions
Authors: Skjærseth Jon Birger , Eikeland Per Ove , Inderberg Tor Håkon Jackson , Larsen Mari Lie
Published: July 2024

This chapter examines the challenges and prospects for Norway’s internal and external hydrogen strategy from around 2019, when Norway’s low-carbon hydrogen policies and activities began to gain traction. Norway has taken a technology-neutral approach to ‘green’ and ‘blue’ hydrogen technologies linked to reducing emissions. Two end-use sectors have been prioritized: maritime transport and energy-intensive industries. This strategy is based on Norway’s energy mix, industry structure/interest and research competence. Climate concerns appear as the predominant motivation underlying the Norwegian government’s low-carbon hydrogen strategy, with industrial value creation as an additional key goal. Political priorities roughly align with actual funding priorities, as there has been a massive increase in direct state aid to low-carbon hydrogen projects. Externally, Norway’s hydrogen strategy has potential significance for Europe, particularly for countries with maritime interests and high hydrogen import needs. However, Norway’s technology-neutral approach differs from those of most other European countries. What Norway’s hydrogen strategy will mean for Europe remains to be seen—but its main interests centre on the export of ‘blue’ hydrogen, with ‘green’ hydrogen reserved primarily for meeting domestic needs.
The Geopolitics of Hydrogen in Europe: The Interplay between EU and Member State Policies
Authors: Quitzow Rainer , Zabanova Yana
Published: July 2024

Drawing on the findings of the case studies presented in this edited volume, this final chapter summarizes and discusses the geopolitical challenges of hydrogen development in the European Union. The chapter provides a review of how the interplay of national and EU-level politics and policies is shaping the EU’s domestic and international hydrogen policy. It presents key insights from the evolution of hydrogen policy in the EU, as well as at the national level in Germany, France, Poland, Hungary, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Norway (as a member of the European Economic Area). After reviewing important commonalities and differences across these cases, the chapter examines their interplay with policies at the EU level as well as potential synergies and sources of tension between the selected countries. It discusses how domestic politics and energy policy legacies shape differing policy approaches and priorities, including chosen technology pathways for hydrogen production, priority hydrogen uses and positions towards the development of cross-border infrastructure and trade. The chapter concludes with a reflection on how Europe’s strengths and vulnerabilities shape its role in the global geopolitics of hydrogen and inform its international engagement on the transition to net zero more broadly.
France’s Hydrogen Strategy: Focusing on Domestic Hydrogen Production to Decarbonise Industry and Mobility
Authors: Bouacida Ines
Published: July 2024

France was one of the European frontrunners in formulating policies to develop hydrogen for decarbonisation, releasing its first hydrogen plan in 2018. This was followed by a larger, €9-billion strategy in 2020 (to be updated in 2024), hot on the heels of plans released by the European Commission and Germany. The French strategy for hydrogen deployment focuses in particular on applications where hydrogen is key for deep decarbonisation, including refineries and the chemical industry as well as steel production, and the mobility sector. The country aims to have a head start on European and world competitors thanks to its large electricity resources from the existing nuclear fleet and by building new nuclear capacity. Additionally, it relies on several existing innovation hubs specialising in hydrogen, as well as on the support of many local governments involved in hydrogen development and a relatively structured hydrogen industry. The French strategy for hydrogen includes few ambitions at the international level beyond scientific and technological cooperation within the European Union. The political priority is to develop a domestic industry sized to meet national demand, which is seen as a more secure sourcing strategy than relying on imports. This comes in contrast with the positions of France’s neighbours, notably Spain, Portugal and Germany, which are pushing to enable cross-border trade of hydrogen as early as possible. This situation has generated political tensions within the European Union and in particular in the Franco-German relationship.
Spain’s Hydrogen Ambition: Between Reindustrialisation and Export-Led Energy Integration with the EU
Authors: Urbasos Ignacio , Escribano Gonzalo
Published: July 2024

The Spanish approach to renewable hydrogen has evolved significantly driven by economic and geopolitical factors. Initially framed as a tool for domestic industrial development during the COVID-19 crisis, the 2020 Spanish Hydrogen Roadmap emphasised creating hydrogen clusters for production and consumption. However, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the European Commission's call for increased ambition in renewable hydrogen in REPowerEU prompted a strategic shift. Spain now focuses on exports and infrastructure development, balancing the drive for domestic green reindustrialisation with an export-oriented model to integrate the Iberian Peninsula's energy with Europe. Despite concerns about historical obstacles to interconnections, Spain prioritises hydrogen diplomacy with key European allies. Looking ahead, Spain envisions hydrogen as a vector for Euro-Mediterranean energy integration, energy cooperation, and business collaboration in Latin America. The chapter concludes that Spain needs to build a national strategy that aligns the domestic and international dimensions of hydrogen development, sending a coherent message to civil society, the private sector and institutions.
Hydrogen Policy in the Netherlands: Laying the Foundations for a Scalable Hydrogen Value Chain
Authors: Stam Roelof , van der Linde Coby , Stapersma Pier
Published: July 2024

This chapter delves into the Dutch hydrogen strategy, examining the Netherlands’ starting position, its national hydrogen strategy, policy initiatives and the international approach adopted by the Dutch government in the low-carbon hydrogen economy. The Dutch Climate Agreement of 2019 identified low-carbon hydrogen as a key part of the carbon reduction strategy, especially in hard-to-abate sectors. The Netherlands is well-placed to make a substantial contribution to Europe’s low-carbon hydrogen market leveraging its current role as a European energy hub, substantial chemical cluster, strategic North Sea location, offshore wind potential, and existing gas and oil infrastructure. To bolster investment security and scale up the low-carbon hydrogen market by 2030, the Dutch government has opted for a blend of obligations and subsidies. The Dutch government favours hydrogen production through electrolysis from renewable energy, while concurrently allowing for the utilization of hydrogen produced from natural gas with Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technology where applicable. Internationally, the Netherlands aims to position itself as the central hub for hydrogen in Northwest Europe. This involves linking Dutch domestic production at the North Sea and international exporters with users in industrial clusters across Northwest Europe.
A differential representation for holographic correlators
Authors: Huang Zhongjie , Wang Bo , Yuan Ellis Ye
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We present a differential representation for holographic four-point correlators. In this representation, the correlators are given by acting differential operators on certain seed functions. The number of these functions is much smaller than what is normally seen in known examples of holographic correlators, and all of them have simple Mellin amplitudes. This representation establishes a direct connection between correlators in position space and their Mellin space counterpart. The existence of this representation also imposes non- trivial constraints on the structure of holographic correlators. We illustrate these ideas by correlators in AdS5 × S5 and AdS5 × S3.
Parton-shower effects in polarized deep inelastic scattering
Authors: Borsa Ignacio , Jäger Barbara
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We present a Monte-Carlo program for the simulation of polarized deep inelastic scattering at next-to-leading order in QCD matched to parton shower programs building on an existing implementation of the unpolarized case in the POWHEG BOX package. We discuss extensions of the POWHEG BOX framework necessary to account for polarized initial states and validate the code by detailed comparisons to existing fixed-order results. We then use the new tool to make predictions for the upcoming Electron Ion Collider. We find that parton-shower effects do have an impact on experimentally accessible distributions and improve the agreement with the next-to-next-to-leading order results.
Integrable structure of higher spin CFT and the ODE/IM correspondence
Authors: Ashok Sujay K. , Parihar Sanhita , Sengupta Tanmoy , Sudhakar Adarsh , Tateo Roberto
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We study two dimensional systems with extended conformal symmetry generated by the $$ \mathcal{W} $$
W
3 algebra. These are expected to have an infinite number of commuting conserved charges, which we refer to as the quantum Boussinesq charges. We compute the eigenvalues of the quantum Boussinesq charges in both the vacuum and first excited states of the higher spin module through the ODE/IM correspondence. By studying the higher spin conformal field theory on the torus, we also calculate thermal correlators involving the energy-momentum tensor and the spin-3 current by making use of the Zhu recursion relations. By combining these results, we show that it is possible to derive the current densities, whose integrals are the quantum Boussinesq charges. We also evaluate the thermal expectation values of the conserved charges, and show that these are quasi-modular differential operators acting on the character of the higher spin module.
Reduced polygons in the hyperbolic plane
Authors: Lassak Marek
Published: July 2024

For a hyperplane H supporting a convex body C in the hyperbolic space $$\mathbb {H}^d$$

H

d

, we define the width of C determined by H as the distance between H and a most distant ultraparallel hyperplane supporting C. The minimum width of C over all supporting H is called the thickness $$\Delta (C)$$

Δ
(
C
)

of C. A convex body $$R \subset \mathbb {H}^{d}$$

R
⊂

H

d

is said to be reduced if $$\Delta (Z) < \Delta (R)$$

Δ
(
Z
)
<
Δ
(
R
)

for every convex body Z properly contained in R. We describe a class of reduced polygons in $$\mathbb {H}^{2}$$

H

2

and present some properties of them. In particular, we estimate their diameters in terms of their thicknesses.
Concentration of solutions for non-autonomous double-phase problems with lack of compactness
Authors: Zhang Weiqiang , Zuo Jiabin , Rădulescu Vicenţiu D.
Published: July 2024

The present paper is devoted to the study of the following double-phase equation $$\begin{aligned} -\text {div}(|\nabla u|^{p-2}\nabla u+\mu _{\varepsilon }(x)|\nabla u|^{q-2}\nabla u)+V_{\varepsilon }(x)(|u|^{p-2}u+\mu _{\varepsilon }(x)|u|^{q-2}u)=f(u)\quad \text{ in }\quad \mathbb {R}^{N}, \end{aligned}$$

-

div
(
|
∇
u
|

p
-
2

∇
u
+

μ
ε

(
x
)

|
∇
u
|

q
-
2

∇
u
)
+

V
ε

(
x
)

(
|
u
|

p
-
2

u
+

μ
ε

(
x
)

|
u
|

q
-
2

u
)
=
f

(
u
)

in

R

N

,

where $$N\ge 2$$

N
≥
2

, $$1<p<q<N$$

1
<
p
<
q
<
N

, $$q<p^{*}$$

q
<

p

∗

with $$p^{*}=\frac{Np}{N-p}$$

p

∗

=

Np

N
-
p

, $$\mu :\mathbb {R}^{N}\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

μ
:

R

N

→
R

is a continuous non-negative function, $$\mu _{\varepsilon }(x)=\mu (\varepsilon x)$$

μ
ε

(
x
)

=
μ

(
ε
x
)

, $$V:\mathbb {R}^{N}\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

V
:

R

N

→
R

is a positive potential satisfying a local minimum condition, $$V_{{{\,\mathrm{\varepsilon }\,}}}(x)=V({{\,\mathrm{\varepsilon }\,}}x)$$

V

ε

(
x
)

=
V

(

ε

x
)

, and the nonlinearity $$f:\mathbb {R}\rightarrow \mathbb {R}$$

f
:
R
→
R

is a continuous function with subcritical growth. Under natural assumptions on $$\mu $$
μ
, V and f, by using penalization methods and Lusternik–Schnirelmann theory we first establish the multiplicity of solutions, and then, we obtain concentration properties of solutions.
Understanding the machined material’s behaviour in electro-discharge machining (EDM) using a multi-phase smoothed particle hydrodynamics (SPH) modelling
Authors: Alshaer Ahmad W. , Abdallah Ramy , Rajab Fatema H. , Barzinjy Azeez A. , Otanocha Omonigho B.
Published: July 2024

Electro-discharge machining (EDM) has been extensively employed for machining hard alloys, and its simulations have been widely conducted using finite element analysis (FEA). However, the majority of mesh-based models depended on forecasting the crater profile only based on the temperature gradient, without offering detailed data regarding the machined material properties. It is crucial to understand the behaviour of the machined material in order to accurately assess the flushing efficiency, analyse the wear on the electrode, and examine the interaction between the debris generated during machining and the remaining workpiece. This is done to ensure that no recast material is left behind after the EDM process. For the first time, a meshless smoothed particle hydrodynamics multi-phase model was implemented to gain practical insights and comprehensively understand a very intricate phenomenon that occurs within a very short time. Additionally, this approach is utilised to investigate the characteristics of the materials being machined. We utilised our SPH model to simulate both the capacitance- and transistor-based EDM of Ti–6Al–4V and AISI304 steel. Our simulation considered the temperature-dependent thermal properties and latent heats of the materials. The accuracy of our model was confirmed by comparing its results with experimental, analytical, and finite element analysis (FEA) results. The machined material was observed during its removal from the surface, and the dimensions of the resulting crater, as well as its aspect ratio and the rate at which the material was removed, were predicted with an error ranging from 2 to 22%. This error is far lower than that of the typical finite element (FE) prediction. This model lays the groundwork for a more complex model that will more accurately represent EDM and other similar manufacturing processes.
A two-level decision-support framework for reverse logistics network design considering technology transformation in Industry 4.0: a case study in Norway
Authors: Sun Xu , Yu Hao , Solvang Wei Deng , Govindan Kannan
Published: July 2024

Reverse logistics network design is a complex decision-making problem that involves the reuse, repair, remanufacturing, and recycling of end-of-life (EOL) under the tradeoff among conflicting objectives. The cutting-edge technologies in Industry 4.0 are now leading to an unprecedented and dynamic transformation of reverse logistics systems, which, however, further complicates the initial network design. In this paper, a two-level decision-support framework combined with both optimization and dynamic simulation is proposed to balance the cost, environmental impact, and service level in smart and sustainable reverse logistics network design under a dynamically evolving and stochastic environment. The results of a real-world case study in Norway show that the method can better support robust strategic decisions, eliminate dominated/near-dominated solutions, and yield holistic performance analyses considering smart reverse logistics transformation. The proposed two-level decision-support framework can better analyze the impact of the technology transformation of Industry 4.0 on reverse logistics systems, while it also provides a fundamental structure for digital reverse logistics twin.
Experimental investigation and optimization of the effects of manufacturing parameters on geometric tolerances in additive manufacturing of AlSi10Mg alloy
Authors: Siyambaş Yusuf , Turgut Yakup
Published: July 2024

While the quality of parts produced by additive manufacturing is generally evaluated by surface roughness, relative density, and mechanical properties, the issue of dimensional accuracy is not examined sufficiently. However, dimensional accuracy is very important for the final use and finishing of a product. Since the dimensional change mainly occurs due to shrinkage resulting from the heat energy applied during the sintering process, the effect of production parameters in the additive manufacturing method is quite large. To minimize shrinkage and increase dimensional accuracy, manufacturing parameters need to be optimized and meticulously examined. This study was aimed at determining the effects of manufacturing parameters on geometric tolerances in the production of parts using the additive manufacturing method. AlSi10Mg powder alloy and selective laser melting (SLM) technology were used in the additive manufacturing of this alloy in part production. Twelve different laser powers and scanning speeds, as well as fixed scanning range and layer thickness parameters, were used in production. In determining geometric tolerances, features such as hole diameter change, deviation from angularity, deviation from perpendicularity, deviation from flatness, and deviation from parallelism were taken into consideration. As a result of the study, deviation values increased in high and low laser power/scanning speed combinations. Minimum deviation amounts were obtained in the range of 250–310 laser power and 785–974 scanning speed, which are the middle values of the parameters used. The optimum values of different output responses have been obtained with different production parameters, but for the final use and quality control approval of the product, it is necessary to determine the input parameters at which all output responses are optimal. In this process, the gray relational analysis optimization method, which is one of the multi-criteria decision-making methods, was preferred. As a result of the optimization, the optimum manufacturing parameters for geometric tolerances were determined as the 290/911 laser power/scanning speed combination.
Structural characterization of wax esters using ultraviolet photodissociation mass spectrometry
Authors: Kloudová Barbora , Vrkoslav Vladimír , Polášek Miroslav , Bosáková Zuzana , Cvačka Josef
Published: July 2024

Wax esters play critical roles in biological systems, serving functions from energy storage to chemical signaling. Their diversity is attributed to variations in alcohol and acyl chains, including their length, branching, and the stereochemistry of double bonds. Traditional analysis by mass spectrometry with collisional activations (CID, HCD) offers insights into acyl chain lengths and unsaturation level. Still, it falls short in pinpointing more nuanced structural features like the position of double bonds. As a solution, this study explores the application of 213-nm ultraviolet photodissociation (UVPD) for the detailed structural analysis of wax esters. It is shown that lithium adducts provide unique fragments as a result of Norrish and Norrish-Yang reactions at the ester moieties and photoinduced cleavages of double bonds. The product ions are useful for determining chain lengths and localizing double bonds. UVPD spectra of various wax esters are presented systematically, and the effect of activation time is discussed. The applicability of tandem mass spectrometry with UVPD is demonstrated for wax esters from natural sources. The UHPLC analysis of jojoba oil proves the compatibility of MS2 UVPD with the chromatography time scale, and a direct infusion is used to analyze wax esters from vernix caseosa. Data shows the potential of UVPD and its combination with CID or HCD in advancing our understanding of wax ester structures.

Graphical Abstract
Severe atypical iliac wing fracture associated with long-term bisphosphonate use
Authors: Kelliher John , Rahmani George , Carey John J. , Bergin Diane
Published: July 2024

Background

Bisphosphonate use is associated with atypical non-traumatic fractures, which are most commonly seen in the femur.

Case presentation

We report a 63-year-old postmenopausal woman who presented acutely with progressively worsening lumbar pain radiating to her left hip for 10 days. There was no antecedent trauma. On examination, the patient could not bear weight on her left leg due to the severity of the pain. Radiography and computed tomography of the pelvis demonstrated an iliac wing fracture which was treated conservatively. The patient had a significant past medical history of breast cancer and intense bisphosphonate use for several years which was discontinued 3 years previously. No discrete bone lesion was seen at the fracture site on computed tomography, and there was no evidence of metastatic disease elsewhere. A dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan showed the lowest bone mineral density T-score of − 1.2. A diagnosis of an atypical fracture related to long-term bisphosphonate therapy was made.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of an isolated iliac wing fracture associated with long-term bisphosphonate therapy in the literature. Whilst the incidence of such fractures is exceedingly rare, it is an important differential in patients with atypical fractures on long-term bisphosphonates.
Neurosurgical management of Myelomeningocele in premature infants: a case series
Authors: Stewart Addison , Hale Andrew T. , Saccomano Benjamin W. , Barkley Ariana S. , Hopson Betsy D. , Arynchyna-Smith Anastasia , Johnston James M. , Rocque Brandon G. , Blount Jeffrey P. , Rozzelle Curtis J.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Myelomeningocele (MMC) is the most common neural tube defect, but rarely seen in premature infants. Most centers advocate for closure of MMC within 24 h of birth. However, this is not always possible in severely premature infants. Given the rarity of this patient population, we aimed to share our institutional experience and outcomes of severely premature infants with MMC.

Methods

We performed a retrospective, observational review of premature infants (≤ 32 weeks gestational age) identified through our multidisciplinary spina bifida clinic (1995–2021) and surgical logs. Descriptive statistics were compiled about this sample including timing of MMC closure and incidence of adverse events such as sepsis, CSF diversion, meningitis, and death.

Results

Eight patients were identified (50% male) with MMC who were born ≤ 32 weeks gestational age. Mean gestational age of the population was 27.3 weeks (SD 3.5). Median time to MMC closure was 1.5 days (IQR = 1—80.8). Five patients were taken for surgery within the recommended 48 h of birth; 2 patients underwent significantly delayed closure (107 and 139 days); and one patient’s defect epithelized without surgical intervention. Six of eight patients required permanent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion (2 patients were treated with ventriculoperitoneal shunting (VPS), three were treated with endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) with choroid plexus cauterization (CPC) and 1 patient treated with ETV; mean of 3 years after birth, ranging from 1 day to 16 years). Two patients required more than one permanent CSF diversion procedure. Two patients developed sepsis (defined as meeting at least 2/4 SIRS criteria). In both cases of sepsis, patients developed signs and symptoms more than 72 h after birth. Notably, both instances of sepsis occurred unrelated to operative intervention as they occurred before permanent MMC closure. Two patients had intraventricular hemorrhage (both grade III). No patients developed meningitis (defined as positive CSF cultures) prior to MMC closure. Median follow up duration was 9.7 years. During this time epoch, 3 patients died: Two before 2 years of age of causes unrelated to surgical intervention. One of the two patients with grade III IVH died within 24 h of MMC closure.

Conclusions

In our institutional experience with premature infants with MMC, some patients underwent delayed MMC closure. The overall rate of meningitis, sepsis, and mortality for preterm children with MMC was similar to MMC patients born at term.
Thyroid ultrasound findings in young and middle-aged adults living in the region of the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Zabirova Aizhan , Saiko Alexsey , Orita Makiko , Furuya Fumihiko , Yamashita Shunichi , Takamura Noboru
Published: July 2024

Nearly forty years have passed since the Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant accident, which resulted in childhood and adolescent thyroid cancers increasing due to internal exposure to iodine-131. Therefore, the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station accident, in 2011, raised serious anxiety about potential risks of thyroid cancers. Considering the causal relationship between thyroid cancer and the Chornobyl accident, radiation dose to the thyroid due to this accident should be considered carefully. In addition, a thorough investigation of any influence of ultrasound screening of the thyroid on the detection of thyroid diseases was still missing. Consequently, from 2019 to 2021, the frequency of abnormal thyroid findings from screening of residents in Zhytomyr, Ukraine, which was heavily contaminated by the accident, was evaluated in this study. For this, the same diagnostic classification of any thyroid ultrasound findings as those of the Fukushima Health Management Survey were used. This classification used the categories “A1” (no findings), “A2” (thyroid cysts less than 20 mm and/or thyroid nodules less than 5 mm), and “B” (thyroid cysts more than 20 mm and/or thyroid nodules more than 5 mm). 2,978 participants were analyzed. It was found that the frequency of “B” findings increased with age. This may be due to the observed increased incidence of not only malignant but also benign thyroid nodules. It may well be that such an increase will also be observed in Fukushima in the future. It is concluded that future thyroid examiners in Fukushima should be aware of findings specific to adults, such as chronic thyroiditis. For comparison, it will be necessary to perform longitudinal studies in the Japanese population not exposed to radiation from the Fukushima accident.
Managing next generation BP-x initiatives
Authors: Schaschek Myriam , Gwinner Fabian , Neis Nicolas , Tomitza Christoph , Zeiß Christian , Winkelmann Axel
Published: July 2024

Past generations of BPM involved the efficient and effective management of business processes. Yet, we currently face a turning point. The technological facets of data-driven BPM add complexity to traditional BPM applications. As a result, organizations face intended and unintended technology-related changes across all business process initiatives. Using the term BP-x, we summarize the recent changes in BPM knowledge that has hitherto been fragmented across academic literature. To address the challenges of BP-x initiatives, we envision a holistic model that focuses on managing related cutting-edge technologies and BPM. Thus, we propose the operationalized BP-x management model as a valuable IT meta-artifact. We develop the model using a two-cycled Design Science Research methodology and conduct a threefold summative evaluation. The results of our study indicate that creating awareness of potentials and opportunities accelerates the process toward action and fosters new business outcomes in terms of performance and innovation. By strategically aligning BP-x endeavors, organizations promote visibility, shared understanding, and culture among stakeholders. Our model guides managers throughout the BP-x adoption journey in conjunction with organizational, managerial, and technological prerequisites.
Transformer-based models for combating rumours on microblogging platforms: a review
Authors: Anggrainingsih Rini , Hassan Ghulam Mubashar , Datta Amitava
Published: July 2024

The remarkable success of Transformer-based embeddings in natural language tasks has sparked interest among researchers in applying them to classify rumours on social media, particularly microblogging platforms. Unlike traditional word embedding methods, Transformers excel at capturing a word’s contextual meaning by considering words from both the left and right of a word, resulting in superior text representations ideal for tasks like rumour detection on microblogging platforms. This survey aims to provide a thorough and well-organized overview and analysis of existing research on implementing Transformer-based models for rumour detection on microblogging platforms. The scope of this study is to offer a comprehensive understanding of this topic by systematically examining and organizing the existing literature. We start by discussing the fundamental reasons and significance of automating rumour detection on microblogging platforms. Emphasizing the critical role of text embedding in converting textual data into numerical representations, we review current approaches to implement Transformer models for rumour detection on microblogging platforms. Furthermore, we present a novel taxonomy that covers a wide array of techniques and approaches employed in the deployment of Transformer-based models for identifying misinformation on microblogging platforms. Additionally, we highlight the challenges associated with this field and propose potential avenues for future research. Drawing insights from the surveyed articles, we anticipate that promising results will continue to emerge as the challenges outlined in this study are addressed. We hope that our efforts will stimulate further interest in harnessing the capabilities of Transformer models to combat the spread of rumours on microblogging platforms.
The Tail Dependence and Lead-Lag Relationship in Financial Markets
Authors: Mar’I Muhammad , Seraj Mehdi
Published: July 2024

The increased interconnection among financial markets and their susceptibility to economic and political fluctuations have spurred investors to seek out markets capable of offering hedging mechanisms for their diversified portfolios. This study aims to elucidate the intricate web of interdependence among various financial markets, namely oil Brent, global equity, green investment, Cryptocurrency, and Islamic markets, focusing on the analysis of tail dependence and lead-lag relationships within bullish and bearish contexts. Employing copula and wavelet techniques on data spanning from January 2014 to December 2022, the results indicate distinctive patterns of dependency and interaction among the examined financial markets. Notably, the observed dependency between specific markets does not extend uniformly across all markets, implying a bilateral influence that does not significantly impact the performance of unrelated markets. However, a noteworthy exception arises in the relationship between the Brent and crypto markets, where the influence may propagate to the green market during both bullish and bearish periods. Further analysis reveals that during bullish periods, the strongest dependence between Brent and green markets reaches 38%, contrasting with a 7% dependency during bearish periods. Additionally, a dependency of 25% is observed between global and green markets, consistent across both bullish and bearish conditions. Furthermore, the interaction between Brent and Crypto markets affects the green market by 5% during both bullish and bearish periods. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamics within financial markets and offer valuable insights for investors seeking to manage risks and optimize their investment strategies.
Negotiating access and belonging in a higher education institution: a postqualitative narrative
Authors: Whitburn Ben , Riffo-Salgado Priscila
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this paper is to foreground accessibility as a necessary aspect of equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). We go about this by highlighting shared experiences of negotiating institutional ableism together, as a disabled scholar employed at a HEI in the UK, and a non-disabled, culturally and linguistically diverse individual employed to bridge inaccessible spaces. Drawing upon Wong’s (2023) conceptual framework of spatial belonging in higher education, which traverses the intersecting terrain of physical, digital, relational and structural spaces, we develop a postqualitative narrative demonstrating the limitations of narrowly defined legal protections that fall short of implementing inclusive ideals. The narrative draws attention to the ways that ‘access intimacy’, understood as shared commitments to accessibility, develops informally, which excuses HEIs from taking responsibility to institutionalise it. We contemplate accessibility as a relational concern and build an argument for learning from our experiences to inform the development of key accessibility considerations into institutional ways of working and relating to difference. The paper is significant for engaging principles from critical disability studies as conceptual means by which to consider accessibility, and the relational account provided contributes a collaborative perspective frequently experienced but not widely considered in higher education research for strengthening EDI.