bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on dislocation density, microstructure, and mechanical properties of P92 steel for different heat treatment conditions
Authors: Sharma G. , Dwivedi D. K. , Sharma P.
Published: September 2023

The impact of various heat treatment procedures on microstructure, dislocation density, hardness, tensile characteristics, and impact toughness of P92 steel was examined in the current experiment. The martensitic microstructure and average microhardness of 463 HV 0.2±8 HV 0.2 of the normalized steel were prevalent. A tempering procedure was carried out at 760 °C for a range of 2 hours to 6 hours. Additionally, an X‐ray diffraction examination was carried out, and the results were used to determine the dislocation density. The normalized sample was characterized by a high dislocation density. The dislocation density was decreased by tempering of normalized samples. With an increase in tempering time, the effect of the treatment coarsened the grains, precipitates, and decreased the area fraction of precipitates. After tempering, MX, M23C6, and M7C3 types precipitates were found to have precipitated, according to energy dispersive spectroscopy and x‐ray diffraction research. The ideal tempering period was determined to be 4 hours at a tempering temperature of 760 °C based on the microstructure and mechanical characteristics. Steel that was tempered at 760 °C for 4 hours had a yield strength of 472 MPa, an ultimate tensile strength of 668.02 MPa, and an elongation of 26.05 %, respectively.
The influence of coefficient of friction in thermal prediction of refill friction stir spot welding process of AA7075‐T6
Authors: Janga V. S. R. , Awang M.
Published: September 2023

Numerical modelling of refill friction stir spot welding helps in the deep investigation of physics involved in the joining process. The current study investigates four variants of contact models and their influence on thermal prediction in the process. The contact models with constant shear and coulomb friction coefficients and temperature‐dependent shear and coulomb friction coefficients were used in the numerical models to investigate the influence of friction coefficients in the prediction of thermal cycles in refill friction stir spot welding. The results from the numerical model are compared and validated with the experimental results from a previous study. The contact model with temperature‐dependent coulomb friction coefficient was concluded to be more reliable when compared to the other three contact models. The temperature for this contact model at the centre of the weld is 505 °C, which differs from the temperature recorded in the experiment by 2 %. The peak temperatures of numerical models with constant coulomb and shear friction coefficients differ from the experimental temperature at the weld centre by 5.17 % and 16.8 % respectively.
Simultaneous anodization and silanization for adhesive joining of AA 3031 using an epoxy adhesive
Authors: Tiwari M. M. , Noormohammed S. , Chen X.‐G , Sarkar D. K.
Published: September 2023

One step process, simultaneous anodization and silanization, to improve structural adhesive bonding of american aluminium 3031 alloy for wide ranges of applications was investigated. In this study, an optimized aqueous solution of zinc nitrate salt and a glycidoxy propyl‐trimethoxy silane was used as the electrolyte at a controlled temperature of ~5 °C with different current densities. The morphology of the deposited anodic layers revealed the presence of randomly clustered microstructures on the surface. The anodic layers formed with 120 m A cm−2 for 300 sec exhibited the most promising profile with optimum surface roughness among others, showing potentials for excellent mechanical anchoring of the adhesive within its rough structure. The infrared spectra and the energy‐dispersive x‐ray analysis also showed that these surfaces were chemically rich, indicating benefits of both mechanical and chemical bonds at the adhesive‐surface interface.
Formability prediction of high‐strength steel sheet using experimental, analytical and theoretical analysis based on strain and stress forming limit curves and its application to automotive forming parts
Authors: Nakwattanaset A. , Panich S. , Suranuntchai S.
Published: September 2023

In this work, the high‐strength steel (HSS) sheet dual‐phase 440 (DP440) were conducted to establish the forming limit curve (FLC) and analytical forming limit stress curve (FLSC) obtained from experimental forming limit curve. First, the Nakajima stretch forming examination was carried out to obtain forming limit curve of investigated sheet. Afterwards, the theoretical Marciniak–Kuczinsky (M–K) model was developed and calculated to evaluate localized necking limits both in strain and stress spaces combination with anisotropic yield criteria. Then, the analytical forming limit stress curves were plastically calculated by using experimental forming limit curve data combination with Swift hardening model and anisotropic yield criteria namely, Hill’48 and Yld2000‐2d for representing anisotropic plastic deformation behavior on examined steel sheet. Finally, automotive stamping parts were performed in order to verify an applicability of all developed curves. It was observed that the analytical forming limit stress curves could more precisely predict the formability of automotive parts better than the forming limit curve based on strain. Particularly, the one based on Yld2000‐2d predict better than the one based on Hill’48. Simultaneously, the experimental forming limit curve and analytical forming limit stress curve were also evaluated comparing with the theoretical calculated forming limit curve and forming limit stress curve using the Marciniak–Kuczinsky model. It should be noted again that the experimental forming limit curve and analytical forming limit stress curve are the best one. Therefore, the Yld2000‐2d yield function better represented the anisotropic behavior of the high‐strength steel sheet dual‐phase 440 than Hill′ 48 yield function, and can suitable be used for the analysis prediction and design of bumper automotive parts under forming processes.
The JAK3Q988P mutation reveals oncogenic potential and resistance to ruxolitinib
Authors: Lahera Antonio , Vela‐Martín Laura , Fernández‐Navarro Pablo , Llamas Pilar , López‐Lorenzo José L. , Cornago Javier , Santos Javier , Fernández‐Piqueras José , Villa‐Morales María
Published: September 2023

T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T‐ALL) arises from the malignant transformation of T‐cell progenitors at various differentiation stages. Given that patients who relapse have a dismal prognosis, there is an urgent need to identify the molecular alterations that are present in such patients and promote leukemogenesis to implement personalized therapies with higher efficacy and fewer adverse effects. In the present manuscript, we identified the JAK3Q988P mutation in a T‐ALL patient who did not achieve a durable response after the conventional treatment and whose tumor cells at relapse presented constitutive activation of the JAK/STAT pathway. Although JAK3Q988P has been previously identified in T‐ALL patients from different studies, the functional consequences exerted by this mutation remain unexplored. Through the combination of different hematopoietic cellular models, we functionally characterize JAK3Q988P as an oncogenic mutation that contributes to leukemogenesis. Notably, JAK3Q988P not only promotes constitutive activation of the JAK/STAT pathway in the absence of cytokines and growth factors, as is the case for other JAK3 mutations that have been functionally characterized as oncogenic, but also functions independently of JAK1 and IL2RG, resulting in high oncogenic potential as well as resistance to ruxolitinib. Our results indicate that ruxolitinib may not be efficient for future patients bearing the JAK3Q988P mutation who instead may obtain greater benefits from treatments involving other pharmacological inhibitors such as tofacitinib.
Efficacy of educational instructions on pelvic floor muscle training in the treatment of urinary incontinence: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Leite Alana Mirelle Coelho , de Araújo Rodrigo Cappato , Santos Ana Vitória Rodrigues dos , Barbosa Sháyra Anny Moura , Amorim Danielly Alves , da Sena Fraga Chalana Duarte , Pitangui Ana Carolina Rodarti
Published: September 2023

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the efficacy of educational interventions on pelvic floor (PF) muscle training in the treatment of urinary incontinence (UI).

Methods

This is a systematic review of literature with meta‐analysis, performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA). To do so, randomized clinical trials that performed educational interventions of PF, UI, and developed the training of PF muscles (TPFM) for incontinent women, performing group or individual comparisons, with control and experimental groups or with two or more experimental groups were selected. The search for papers was performed in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and SciELO, no specific publication date was chosen. The risk of bias was performed using the PEDro scale and the quality of the evidence was performed using GRADE.

Results

The review included six studies with 1003 participants. Most studies presented 5−8 points regarding risk of bias. Most of the studies were performed in the last 5 years, with women of various ages, high educational level and prevalence of UI of effort. The present study showed that offering educational instructions and guiding women on TPFM was capable of reducing urinary symptoms. When compared to control, significant between‐group differences were found in the studies, in which the control group did not receive any kind of instructions or treatment (p < 0.05). The use of technologies through mobile apps was efficient in the treatment of incontinent women (p < 0.05). Performing TPFM individually or in groups did not present differences in the results, with both improving urinary symptoms. The meta‐analysis presented a mean effect and a clinically important difference in three studies.

Conclusion

The interventions involving instructions to TPFM associated to health education brought improvements to urinary symptoms.
Anesthesia‐related brain microstructure modulations detected by diffusion magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Lindhardt Thomas Beck , Skoven Christian Stald , Bordoni Luca , Østergaard Leif , Liang Zhifeng , Hansen Brian
Published: September 2023

Recent studies have shown significant changes to brain microstructure during sleep and anesthesia. In vivo optical microscopy and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies have attributed these changes to anesthesia and sleep‐related modulation of the brain's extracellular space (ECS). Isoflurane anesthesia is widely used in preclinical diffusion MRI (dMRI) and it is therefore important to investigate if the brain's microstructure is affected by anesthesia to an extent detectable with dMRI. Here, we employ diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) to assess brain microstructure in the awake and anesthetized mouse brain (n = 22). We find both mean diffusivity (MD) and mean kurtosis (MK) to be significantly decreased in the anesthetized mouse brain compared with the awake state (p < 0.001 for both). This effect is observed in both gray matter and white matter. To further investigate the time course of these changes we introduce a method for time‐resolved fast DKI. With this, we show the time course of the microstructural alterations in mice (n = 5) as they transition between states in an awake‐anesthesia‐awake paradigm. We find that the decrease in MD and MK occurs rapidly after delivery of gas isoflurane anesthesia and that values normalize only slowly when the animals return to the awake state. Finally, time‐resolved fast DKI is employed in an experimental mouse model of brain edema (n = 4), where cell swelling causes the ECS volume to decrease. Our results show that isoflurane affects DKI parameters and metrics of brain microstructure and point to isoflurane causing a reduction in the ECS volume. The demonstrated DKI methods are suitable for in‐bore perturbation studies, for example, for investigating microstructural modulations related to sleep/wake‐dependent functions of the glymphatic system. Importantly, our study shows an effect of isoflurane anesthesia on rodent brain microstructure that has broad relevance to preclinical dMRI.
Energy expenditure deficits drive obesity in a mouse model of Alström syndrome
Authors: Stephenson Erin J. , Kinney Clint E. , Stayton Amanda S. , Han Joan C.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Alström syndrome (AS) is a rare multisystem disorder of which early onset childhood obesity is a cardinal feature. Like humans with AS, animal models with Alms1 loss‐of‐function mutations develop obesity, supporting the notion that ALMS1 is required for the regulatory control of energy balance across species. This study aimed to determine which component(s) of energy balance are reliant on ALMS1.

Methods

Comprehensive energy balance phenotyping was performed on Alms1tvrm102 mice at both 8 and 18 weeks of age.

Results

It was found that adiposity gains occurred early and rapidly in Alms1tvrm102 male mice but much later in females. Rapid increases in body fat in males were due to a marked reduction in energy expenditure (EE) during early life and not due to any genotype‐specific increases in energy intake under chow conditions. Energy intake did increase in a genotype‐specific manner when mice were provided a high‐fat diet, exacerbating the effects of reduced EE on obesity progression. The EE deficit observed in male Alms1tvrm102 mice did not persist as mice aged.

Conclusions

Either loss of ALMS1 causes a developmental delay in the mechanisms controlling early life EE or activation of compensatory mechanisms occurs after obesity is established in AS. Future studies will determine how ALMS1 modulates EE and how sex moderates this process.
Numerical accuracy of principal geodesic analysis on the sphere in director‐based dynamics of hybrid mechanical systems
Authors: Schubert Jenny , Steinbach Marc C.
Published: September 2023

We aim at nonlinear model order reduction (MOR) in hybrid mechanical systems by means of Principal Geodesic Analysis (PGA) on the Riemannian manifolds S2 (the sphere) and SO(3) (the rotation group). MOR requires highly accurate and efficient implementations of the logarithm maps and the resulting lifts across multiple branches. However, in our cases these maps have singularities due to periodicity. In this work we focus on the logarithm and lift maps for the sphere S2. We conduct detailed numerical experiments on mechanical systems to achieve maximal accuracy in spite of the singularities.
An approach for improving SHM systems with GUW detection and embedded sensors by a planar gradient acoustic impedance matching
Authors: Rottmann Max , Weber Wolfgang E.
Published: September 2023

For technical structures, such as airplanes, the service life must be increased to satisfy the requirements for high efficiency in terms of costs and sustainability. Monitoring the system's current health and providing solutions to maintain it reliably is one way to accomplish this objective. A structural health monitoring system, in which actuators induce a guided ultrasonic wave or wavefield monitored by a sensor or a network of sensors, is a standard for thin‐walled structures, which are made of, for example, fibre‐metal‐laminates. The sensor measurements provide information that can be used to determine the respective health state of the system. However, embedding the actuator and sensors in the system typically results in a distortion of the wavefield, for example, mode‐conversion and reflections. The distortion can lead to over‐ or underestimation of the quantity, location and severity of the damage. Due to these false detections, both an unnecessary high effort for retrofitting the structure and a reduction of the structure's technical reliability may be needed. The objective of the current contribution is to reduce the wave‐field distortion/reflections caused by the sensors to prevent or minimise these false detections. To reduce the distortion and reflection of the wavefield, a functionally graded material with an acoustic impedance matching based on a mechanical model is used. In order to control and adjust the acoustic impedance, which is the leading parameter concerning distortion and reflections of waves, tungsten particles were added to the uncured epoxy resin. The design of an interphase between the sensor or its glass housing and the surrounding structure is achieved by this novel approach. The interphase properties are varying in the radial direction to the sensor and are depending on the tungsten particle content in the epoxy resin. In this work, several models regarding the radial distribution of the tungsten particle content and the excitation frequency are investigated. Additionally, the dependence on geometrical influence is also addressed. The approach results, for specific configurations, in (i) reduced reflections from the sensor (less distortion) and (ii) amplified measuring signals of the sensor. Numerous numerical examples demonstrate the benefit of the presented approach.
Release of ‘UI Gold’ hard white spring wheat
Authors: Chen Jianli , Wheeler Justin J. , Marshall Juliet M. , Chen Xianming , Windes Sarah , Wilson Cathy , Su Meng , Yimer Belayneh , Schroeder Kurtis , Jackson Chad
Published: September 2023

‘UI Gold’ (Reg. no. CV‐1205, PI 700874) hard white spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was developed by the Idaho Agricultural Experiment Station and released in 2022. UI Gold was derived from the cross A03018S‐E × WA8123. It was tested under experimental numbers A11434‐14 and IDO1804S and showed high grain yield and excellent bread‐baking quality when grown in both irrigated and dryland conditions. UI Gold has grain yield comparable to the high‐yielding hard white spring check cultivar ‘Dayn’ and higher yield than the widely grown hard white spring wheat cultivars ‘SY Teton’ and ‘UI Platinum’. UI Gold has gluten strength similar to SY Teton and greater gluten strength than Dayn and UI Platinum. Compared with Dayn, in various trials UI Gold matured 3–4 days later and was 1–5 cm shorter.
Immune capture and protein profiling of small extracellular vesicles from human plasma
Authors: Skoczylas Łukasz , Gawin Marta , Fochtman Daniel , Widłak Piotr , Whiteside Theresa L. , Pietrowska Monika
Published: September 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs), the key players in inter‐cellular communication, are produced by all cell types and are present in all body fluids. Analysis of the proteome content is an important approach in structural and functional studies of these vesicles. EVs circulating in human plasma are heterogeneous in size, cellular origin, and functions. This heterogeneity and the potential presence of contamination with plasma components such as lipoprotein particles and soluble plasma proteins represent a challenge in profiling the proteome of EV subsets by mass spectrometry. An immunocapture strategy prior to mass spectrometry may be used to isolate a homogeneous subpopulation of small EVs (sEV) with a specific endocytic origin from plasma or other biofluids. Immunocapture selectively separates EV subpopulations in biofluids based on the presence of a unique protein carried on the vesicle surface. The advantages and disadvantages of EV immune capture as a preparative step for mass spectrometry are discussed.
Model‐Independent Study for a Quintessence Model of Dark Energy: Analysis and Observational Constraints
Authors: Bouali Amine , Chaudhary Himanshu , Mehrotra Amritansh , Pacif Shibesh Kumar Jas
Published: September 2023

In this paper, a well‐motivated parameterization of the Hubble parameter (H) is revisited that renders two models of dark energy showing some intriguing features of the late‐time accelerating Universe. A general quintessence field is considered as a source of dark energy. Tighter constraints using recently updated cosmic observational datasets for the considered models have been obtained. The two models described here show a nice fit to the considered uncorrelated Hubble datasets, Standard candles, Gamma Ray Bursts, Quasars, and uncorrelated Baryonic Acoustic Oscillations datasets. Using the constrained values of the model parameters, some features of the late‐time accelerating models and obtained the present value of the deceleration parameter (q0), the present value of the Hubble parameter (H0) and the transition redshift () from deceleration to acceleration have been discussed. The current value of the deceleration parameter for both models is consistent with the Planck 2018 results. The evolution of the geometrical and physical parameters is discussed through graphical representations for both models with some diagnostic analysis. The statistical analysis performed here shows greater results and overall, the outcomes of this investigation are superior to those previously found.
The association between beta‐blockers use and prostate cancer mortality: A mini systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Uleri Alessandro , Baboudjian Michael , Tedde Alessandro , Rajwa Pawel , Pradere Benjamin , Gallioli Andrea , Breda Alberto , Ploussard Guillaume
Published: September 2023

Background

Preclinical studies have shown that the sympathetic nervous system is involved in the development of metastases, suggesting a potential antitumor effect of beta‐blockers. These findings sparked a controversy over the past decade regarding the direction of the association between beta‐blocker use and prostate cancer (PCa) mortality. To investigate this association, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

The review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses guidelines to identify eligible studies. The primary outcome was PCa mortality in beta‐blocker users versus nonusers, and overall survival was studied as a secondary endpoint. We assessed heterogeneity using the Cochrane Q test and quantified it using I2 values. In the case of heterogeneity (Cochrane Q test p < 0.05 and I2 > 50%), random‐effect models were used to determine the association between beta‐blockers use and survival outcomes.

Results

Ten studies met our inclusion criteria and a total of 74,970 patients were included: 26,674 beta‐blocker users and 48,326 nonusers.

There was no statistically significant association between beta‐blocker exposure and PCa mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 0.97; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.87–1.09; p = 0.61). However, significant heterogeneity was found. Meta‐regression analysis to explain heterogeneity showed no effect of any of the variables assessed (country, percentage of beta‐blocker users, type of beta‐blocker [selective and nonselective], study period, PCa stage and follow‐up duration; all p > 0.05). We found similar results when we restricted the analysis to studies that include only patients with advanced PCa (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.80–1.06; p = 0.24). Similarly, we found no association with overall survival (HR 1.02; 95% CI 0.94–1.10; p = 0.64). Meta‐regression analysis was also performed, but none of the variables assessed explained the observed heterogeneity (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions

We found no association between beta‐blockers use and overall survival or PCa mortality. This meta‐analysis, which includes a considerable population and the most recent literature, provides important data for routine clinical care and patient counseling.
Pressure Dependence of Mechanical and Thermodynamic Properties of MAX‐Phase M2GaC (M = Nb and Ta) from First‐Principles Calculations
Authors: Luo Kailiang , Xu Yang , Li Zhengyi , Hu Changyi , Wei Yan
Published: September 2023

Herein, the high‐pressure impacts on the electronic, mechanical, and thermodynamic properties of MAX‐phase M2GaC (M = Nb and Ta) are calculated through the first principles. The phonon dispersion results indicate that M2GaC (M = Nb and Ta) is dynamically stable. The elastic constants and elastic modulus of Nb2GaC and Ta2GaC increase with the pressure increase, while the elastic anisotropic 3D surface structure and projection diagram show that bulk modulus, shear modulus, and Young's modulus all show anisotropy. M2GaC (M = Nb and Ta) has metallic, covalent, and ionic bonds. In addition, based on the quasiharmonic Debye model, the effects of high pressure (0–50 GPa) and temperature (0–2000 K) on the thermodynamic properties of Nb2GaC and Ta2GaC are systematically studied. The constant pressure heat capacity (CP) and thermal expansion coefficient (α) of Nb2GaC and Ta2GaC decrease with the increase of pressure, while the internal energy (U) and Gibbs free energy (G) of Nb2GaC and Ta2GaC increase with the increase of pressure. The sound velocity and kmin increase with the pressure increase, and Nb2GaC has a higher thermal conductivity than Ta2GaC.
Trophic niche isotope analysis of the fish assemblages in a subtropical river, Southern China
Authors: Chen Gang , Xiong Weifeng , Zhou Hui , Zhang Jiandong , Zhang Man , Li Yuncong , Gu Binhe
Published: September 2023

Freshwater fishery resources in Chinese rivers have been markedly impaired as the results of overfishing, damming, and watershed development. However, little is known about trophic ecology of fish assemblages in the rivers of China. In this study, fishes were collected from an upstream, midstream, and downstream site of the Moyangjiang River, Southern China, to investigate trophic niche structure using stable isotope analysis. We calculated several trophic niche metrics using δ13C and δ15N ratios of the fish assemblages at each study site. Results showed no significant differences in the δ13C ratios between the pelagic and benthic fish assemblages at each study site. This suggests a homogenous dietary base shared by all fish at each site, likely as the result of continuous water column mixing in this shallow and fast‐moving river. The upstream fish assemblage had the greatest species abundance and trophic diversity. The fish assemblage at the midstream site displayed the smallest trophic niche space (total area of the δ13C and δ15N bi‐plot space) and trophic diversity. The midstream site also showed the most depleted 13C, suggesting a more degraded habitat compared with the other two study sites. The fish assemblages at the downstream site displayed the greatest basal resource diversity, largest CR, and trophic niche space and trophic diversity. However, the fish assemblage at the downstream site also displayed the lowest species abundance, redundancy, and evenness of trophic spacing. These findings suggest that the trophic niche of the fish assemblage at the downstream site, which received resources from upstream flow, experienced greater watershed development and greater in situ production, demonstrating positive and negative impacts by anthropogenic activities. Future studies should also gather information on fish production, watershed development, and water quality, to aid in the interpretation of the stable isotope analysis of fish trophic niches.
Tracking endolithic microbiomes to support the sustainability and functioning of global drylands
Authors: Coleine Claudia , Egidi Eleonora , Delgado‐Baquerizo Manuel , Selbmann Laura
Published: September 2023

Drylands cover almost half of the planet and support >25% the global population. In this era of global warming, they are expected to continue expanding by the end of the century as a consequence of predicted increases in aridity, which will affect multiple global locations that are already characterised by extreme temperatures, low and variable rainfall, and low soil fertility. In these fragile ecosystems, where microorganisms are integral to maintain functioning and primary productivity, endoliths (i.e., rock‐inhabiting microorganisms) play a key role in soil formation and dynamics and are and critical drivers of ecological succession. Here, we posit that endolithic microbes could also function as early alarm warning indicators for environmental changes in the most arid ecosystems. Nevertheless, studies on endoliths are still rather fragmentary and mainly focused in a few specific dry areas such as the Antarctic or Atacama deserts. A global appraisal of the structure and function of the endolithic microbiome is needed for the assessment of the current state of dryland biodiversity worldwide, and to identify the regions that are more vulnerable to global changes. Such an effort will provide new knowledge and will implement official and international initiatives to track and conserve biodiversity on global drylands.
Determinants of the dissemination of economic, social and environmental information at the university level in the context of commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Flórez‐Parra Jesús Mauricio , López‐Pérez María Victoria , López‐Hernández Antonio Manuel , Arco‐Castro María Lourdes
Published: September 2023

In the context of universities' commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the paper aims to analyse the factors that influence the degree of information disclosure related to the economic, social, and environmental (ESE) aspects of SDGs. Based on a content analysis of the annual and/or sustainability reports for 2021 and the websites of the top 200 universities in the Shanghai ranking, the results show that the volume of ESE disclosures at universities is associated with gender diversity in the governance team, stakeholder commitment and position in academic and environmental rankings. By taking entities that are global benchmarks, the results make practical and managerial contributions. First, they can serve as a guide to setting policy frameworks for institutions to create procedures to develop their SDG‐compliant actions. Second, the promotion of women's participation on the board and the active presence of stakeholders favour universities' information disclosure policies. Third, the results show that the efforts towards disclosure at the top universities in both academic and environmental rankings are related to legitimising their actions and meeting stakeholders' demands. In addition, this study proposes the development of an index that could help improve the ESE information disclosed by universities, which is currently low, yet some aspects of it, such as economic aspects, are barely covered but essential to ensure sustainability. Finally, the proposed indicators can also serve as a guide for governing bodies' management of SDG‐related aspects.
Creation of a High‐Throughput Microfluidic Platform for Single‐Cell Transcriptome Sequencing of Cell‐Cell Interactions
Authors: Qi Jingyu , Zhu Haibin , Li Yijian , Guan Xiangyu , He Ying , Ren Guanhua , Guo Qiang , Liu Longqi , Gu Ying , Dong Xuan , Liu Ya
Published: September 2023

Cell‐cell interaction is one of the major modalities for transmitting information between cells and activating the effects of functional cells. However, the construction of high‐throughput analysis technologies from cell omics focusing on the impact of interactions of functional cells on targets has been relatively unexplored. Here, they propose a droplet‐based microfluidic platform for cell‐cell interaction sequencing (c‐c‐seq) and screening in vitro to address this challenge. A class of interacting cells is pre‐labeled using cell molecular tags, and additional single‐cell sequencing reagents are introduced to quickly form functional droplet mixes. Lastly, gene expression analysis is used to deduce the impact of the interaction, while molecular sequence tracing identifies the type of interaction. Research into the active effect between antigen‐presenting cells and T cells, one of the most common cell‐to‐cell interactions, is crucial for the advancement of cancer therapy, particularly T cell receptor‐engineered T cell therapy. As it allows for high throughput, this platform is superior to well plates as a research platform for cell‐to‐cell interactions. When combined with the next generation of sequencing, the platform may be able to more accurately evaluate interactions between epitopes and receptors and verify their functional relevance.
Optimal selection of time windows for preventive maintenance of offshore wind farms subject to wake losses
Authors: Zhang Junqiang , Chowdhury Souma , Zhang Jie , Tong Weiyang , Messac Achille
Published: September 2023

The maintenance of wind farms is one of the major factors affecting their profitability. During preventive maintenance, the shutdown of wind turbines causes downtime energy losses. The selection of when and which turbines to maintain can significantly impact the overall downtime energy loss. This paper leverages a wind farm power generation model to calculate downtime energy losses during preventive maintenance for an offshore wind farm. Wake effects are considered to accurately evaluate power output under specific wind conditions. In addition to wind speed and direction, the influence of wake effects is an important factor in selecting time windows for maintenance. To minimize the overall downtime energy loss of an offshore wind farm caused by preventive maintenance, a mixed‐integer nonlinear optimization problem is formulated and solved by the genetic algorithm, which can select the optimal maintenance time windows of each turbine. Weather conditions are imposed as constraints to ensure the safety of maintenance personnel and transportation. Using the climatic data of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, the schedule of preventive maintenance is optimized for a simulated utility‐scale offshore wind farm. The optimized schedule not only reduces the annual downtime energy loss by selecting the maintenance dates when wind speed is low but also decreases the overall influence of wake effects within the farm. The portion of downtime energy loss reduced due to consideration of wake effects each year is up to approximately 0.2% of the annual wind farm energy generation across the case studies—with other stated opportunities for further profitability improvements.
Bioconvection flow of Prandtl–Eyring nanofluid in the presence of gyrotactic microorganisms
Authors: Ullah Zakir , Zaman Gul , Ullah Ikram , Makinde Oluwole Daniel
Published: September 2023

This work presents a theoretical numerical study of the bioconvection flow of Prandtl–Eyring nanofluid through a stretching cylinder with gyrotactic microorganisms. The mathematical model developed also incorporated the inclined magnetic field and heat generation effects. Further, stratification conditions are considered at the boundary of the stretched cylinder. The described flow problem conducting coupled high‐order partial differential equations (PDEs) is first reduced to the nonlinear system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by introducing suitable mathematical transformations. The resulting highly nonlinear flow equations are treated numerically by applying the shooting method. A comparison of the adapted method with previously reported data is also made to validate the presented results. The comparisons are in excellent agreement. The individual effect of controlling flow parameters/numbers on the flow profiles and physical quantities of engineering interest are represented graphically with physical descriptions. The significant results of the present analysis revealed that a rise in bioconvection Rayleigh number, thermal Grashof number, and angle of inclination boosts the velocity profile. The study shows that thermal stratification, mass stratification, and motile density stratification parameters diminish the temperature, concentration, and microorganism profiles, respectively. The nondimensional Sherwood number is decelerated significantly by thermophoresis and mass stratification parameters.
A Call for Action—Tackling the Profound Transitions Ahead
Authors: Caro-Gonzalez Antonia
Published: September 2023

In this chapter, we embark on a compelling journey, exploring the urgency of acting and preparing ourselves for the deep transitions we are immersed in.
Driving Systemic and Multi-level Transformative Governance
Authors: Caro-Gonzalez Antonia
Published: September 2023

This chapter explores how transformative governance can continually evolve and improve, ensuring that it remains responsive to the ever-changing challenges of the future. It underlines the value of continuous learning and innovation within multi-level and multi-agent governance processes.
Thermal leptogenesis in the minimal gauged $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$ model
Authors: Granelli A. , Hamaguchi K. , Nagata N. , Ramirez-Quezada M. E. , Wada J.
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We discuss the thermal leptogenesis mechanism within the minimal gauged $$ \textrm{U}{(1)}_{L_{\mu }-{L}_{\tau }} $$
U

1

L
μ

−

L
τ

model to explain the observed baryon asymmetry of the Universe (BAU). In such framework, the phases of the Pontecorvo-Maki-Nakagawa-Sakata neutrino mixing matrix and the sum of the Standard Model neutrino masses are predictable because of a restricted neutrino mass matrix structure. Additionally, in the context of thermal leptogenesis, the BAU can be computed in terms of the three remaining free variables that parameterise the right-handed neutrino masses and their Yukawa couplings to the Higgs and lepton doublets. We identify the ranges of such parameters for which the correct BAU can be reproduced. We adopt the formalism of the density matrix equations to fully account for flavour effects and consider the decays of all the three right-handed neutrinos. Our analysis reveals that thermal leptogenesis is feasible within a wide parameter space, specifically for Yukawa couplings ranging from approximate unity to $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(0.03–0.05) and mass of the lightest right-handed neutrino M1 ≳ 1011−12 GeV, setting a leptogenesis scale in the considered model which is higher than that of the non-thermal scenario.
BMS3 (Carrollian) field theories from a bound in the coupling of current-current deformations of CFT2
Authors: Parekh Pulastya , Tempo David , Troncoso Ricardo
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Two types of Carrollian field theories are shown to emerge from finite current-current deformations of toroidal CFT2’s when the deformation coupling is precisely fixed, up to a sign. In both cases the energy and momentum densities fulfill the BMS3 algebra. Applying these results to the bosonic string, one finds that the electric-like deformation (positive coupling) reduces to the standard tensionless string. The magnetic-like deformation (negative coupling) yields to a new theory, still being relativistic, devoid of tension and endowed with an “inner Carrollian structure”. Classical solutions describe a sort of “self-interacting null particle” moving along generic null curves of the original background metric, not necessarily geodesics. This magnetic-like theory is also shown to be recovered from inequivalent limits in the tension of the bosonic string. Electric- and magnetic-like deformations of toroidal CFT2’s can be seen to correspond to limiting cases of continuous exactly marginal (trivial) deformations spanned by an SO(1,1) automorphism of the current algebra. Thus, the absolute value of the current-current deformation coupling is shown to be bounded. When the bound saturates, the deformation ceases to be exactly marginal, but still retains the full conformal symmetry in two alternative ultrarelativistic regimes.
Fitting a deep generative hadronization model
Authors: Chan Jay , Ju Xiangyang , Kania Adam , Nachman Benjamin , Sangli Vishnu , Siódmok Andrzej
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Hadronization is a critical step in the simulation of high-energy particle and nuclear physics experiments. As there is no first principles understanding of this process, physically-inspired hadronization models have a large number of parameters that are fit to data. Deep generative models are a natural replacement for classical techniques, since they are more flexible and may be able to improve the overall precision. Proof of principle studies have shown how to use neural networks to emulate specific hadronization when trained using the inputs and outputs of classical methods. However, these approaches will not work with data, where we do not have a matching between observed hadrons and partons. In this paper, we develop a protocol for fitting a deep generative hadronization model in a realistic setting, where we only have access to a set of hadrons in data. Our approach uses a variation of a Generative Adversarial Network with a permutation invariant discriminator. We find that this setup is able to match the hadronization model in Herwig with multiple sets of parameters. This work represents a significant step forward in a longer term program to develop, train, and integrate machine learning-based hadronization models into parton shower Monte Carlo programs.
Singular products and universality in higher-derivative conformal theory
Authors: Makeenko Yuri
Published: September 2023

Abstract

I investigate universality of the two-dimensional higher-derivative conformal theory using the method of singular products. The previous results for the central charge at one loop are confirmed for the quartic and six-derivative actions.
Multi-planarizable quivers, orientifolds, and conformal dualities
Authors: Amariti Antonio , Bianchi Massimo , Fazzi Marco , Mancani Salvo , Riccioni Fabio , Rota Simone
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We study orientifold projections of families of four-dimensional $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 1 toric quiver gauge theories. We restrict to quivers that have the unusual property of being associated with multiple periodic planar diagrams which give rise, in general, to inequivalent models. A suitable orientifold projection relates a subfamily of the latter by conformal duality. That is, there exist exactly marginal deformations that connect the projected models. The deformations take the form of a sign flip in some of the superpotential interactions, similarly to the β-deformation of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM. Our construction generalizes previous results on the orientifold projections of the PdP3b and PdP3c singularities.
Multi-fractional instantons in SU(N) Yang-Mills theory on the twisted $$ {\mathbbm{T}}^4 $$
Authors: Anber Mohamed M. , Poppitz Erich
Published: September 2023

Abstract

We construct analytical self-dual Yang-Mills fractional instanton solutions on a four-torus $$ {\mathbbm{T}}^4 $$

T
4

with ’t Hooft twisted boundary conditions. These instantons possess topological charge $$ Q=\frac{r}{N} $$
Q
=

r
N

, where 1 ≤ r < N. To implement the twist, we employ SU(N) transition functions that satisfy periodicity conditions up to center elements and are embedded into SU(k) × SU(ℓ) × U(1) ⊂ SU(N), where ℓ + k = N. The self-duality requirement imposes a condition, kL1L2 = rℓL3L4, on the lengths of the periods of $$ {\mathbbm{T}}^4 $$

T
4

and yields solutions with abelian field strengths. However, by introducing a detuning parameter ∆ ≡ (rℓL3L4 – kL1L2)/$$ \sqrt{L_1{L}_2{L}_3{L}_4} $$

L
1

L
2

L
3

L
4

, we generate self-dual nonabelian solutions on a general $$ {\mathbbm{T}}^4 $$

T
4

as an expansion in powers of ∆. We explore the moduli spaces associated with these solutions and find that they exhibit intricate structures. Solutions with topological charges greater than $$ \frac{1}{N} $$

1
N

and k ≠ r possess non-compact moduli spaces, along which the $$ \mathcal{O}\left(\Delta \right) $$
O

∆

gauge-invariant densities exhibit runaway behavior. On the other hand, solutions with $$ Q=\frac{r}{N} $$
Q
=

r
N

and k = r have compact moduli spaces, whose coordinates correspond to the allowed holonomies in the SU(r) color space. These solutions can be represented as a sum over r lumps centered around the r distinct holonomies, thus resembling a liquid of instantons. In addition, we show that each lump supports 2 adjoint fermion zero modes.
Boundedness and compactness of weighted composition operators and monomial operators
Authors: Chalendar I. , Partington J. R.
Published: September 2023

This paper characterises the boundedness and compactness of Agler–McCarthy monomial operators by reducing them to weighted composition operators and deriving explicit Carleson measure criteria on the half-plane. The results are illustrated by examples.
Global-in-time well-posedness of the one-dimensional hydrodynamic Gross–Pitaevskii equations without vacuum
Authors: Wegner Robert
Published: September 2023

We establish global-in-time well-posedness of the one-dimensional hydrodynamic Gross–Pitaevskii equations in the absence of vacuum in $$(1 + H^s) \times H^{s-1}$$

(
1
+

H
s

)

×

H

s
-
1

with $$s \ge 1$$

s
≥
1

. We achieve this by a reduction via the Madelung transform to the previous global-in-time well-posedness result for the Gross–Pitaevskii equation in Koch and Liao (Adv Math 377, 2021; Adv Math 420, 2023). Our core result is a local bilipschitz equivalence of the relevant function spaces, which enables the transfer of results between the two equations.
Costal chondrocyte‐derived pellet‐type scaffold‐free autologous chondrocyte implantation provided acceptable mid‐term outcomes in osteochondral defects with up to 10‐mm depth
Authors: Yoon Kyoung Ho , Song Sang Jun , Hwang Sung Hyun , Jang Woo Jae , Park Cheol Hee
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To evaluate clinical, radiographic, and magnetic resonance (MR) results of costal chondrocyte‐derived pellet‐type scaffold‐free autologous chondrocyte implantation (CCP‐ACI) in osteochondral defects (ODs) up to 10‐mm depth during 5 years of follow‐up.

Methods

Ten patients with CCP‐ACI performed in ODs with depth up to 10 mm were retrospectively analyzed. The minimum follow‐up period was 5 years. The median age was 36.5 (range 20–55) years. The median size and the depth of the OD lesion were 4.25 cm2 (range 2–6) and 7.0 mm (6–9), respectively. Clinically, the International Knee Documentation Committee, Lysholm, and visual analog scale pain scores were evaluated. Radiographically, the hip‒knee‒ankle (HKA) angle and the Kellgren‒Lawrence (K‒L) grade were assessed. On MR imaging, the magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) 2.0 score and the defect depth were evaluated.

Results

All average clinical scores improved significantly by 1, 2, and 5 years postoperatively. The average HKA angle and the proportion of K‒L grade did not change significantly within 5 years. The median total MOCART scores were 50 (range 45–65), 50 (35–90), 57.5 (40–90), and 65 (50–85) at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years postoperatively, respectively (p = 0.001), with significant improvement at 2 years compared to that at 6 months postoperatively. The signal intensity of the repair tissue and subchondral change significantly improved from 10 (range 10–10) to 12.5 (10–15) (p = 0.036), and from 10 (10–10) to 17.5 (0–20) (p = 0.017), respectively. Significant improvements were seen at 5 years postoperatively for the former and at 2 years postoperatively for the latter. The average depths on MR imaging were 6.7, 6.7, 6.8, 6.6, and 6.6 mm preoperatively and at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years postoperatively with no significant changes (n.s).

Conclusion

CCP‐ACI provided acceptable mid‐term outcomes in ODs up to 10‐mm in depth without bone grafting despite of no scaffold. The procedure can be one of minimally invasive treatment options for ODs without scaffold‐related problems.

Level of evidence

IV.