bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mixed multiple‐variable modelling of acoustic emission signals for valve internal leakage detection
Authors: Ye Guo‐Yang , Xu Ke‐Jun , Wu Wen‐Kai
Published: March 2021

Theoretical analysis and experimental data show that the acoustic emission (AE) technology can detect the internal leakage state of the valve online. One of its key technologies is to determine the relationship between the characteristic of valve internal leakage AE signal (VILAES) and leakage rate and various parameters. However, most of the currently established models are a single‐variable model. In addition, the repeated and verification experiments are rarely introduced, and most experiments are conducted under a large leakage rate. To this end, the mixed multiple‐variable model is built to describe the relationship between the characteristics of VILAES and leakage rates, pressures, valve calibres and flow coefficients for the same type of valve. In the experiments, two rounds of experiments were performed for the same valve; then, a round of experiments was carried out after moving the sensor, and two rounds of experiments were conducted for two valves with the same parameters. In modelling, the VILAES is filtered first, and then the characteristics of the filtered signal are calculated. The mixed multiple‐variable model is established by the least‐squares support vector machine. The results show that the mixed multiple‐ variable model could realise online internal leakage for valves with different calibres and flow coefficients under different pressures.
Evaluation of Groundwater Quality Using Groundwater Quality Index (GWQI) in Sharjah, UAE
Authors: Kayemah Naseraldin , Al-Ruzouq Rami , Shanableh Abdallah , Gokhan Yilmaz Abdullah
Published: March 2021

The rapid growth in the world population resulted in an increase of the freshwater needs in many sectors. Groundwater is the most important freshwater source specially for arid and semi-arid regions due to lack of surface water sources and low precipitation rates in those regions. In this study, monthly groundwater quality data were collected from eleven well fields in Sharjah over the period of 2004-2017. Water quality parameters including bicarbonate, calcium, chloride, fluoride, magnesium, sodium and sulphate were selected for the analysis. In the study, water quality index (WQI) process is used to develop groundwater quality index (GWQI) for Sharjah using above mentioned water quality parameters. Mann-Kendall and Spearman’s Rho tests were adopted as non-parametric trend tests for temporal (trend) analysis of GWQI, whereas inverse distance weighting interpolation was used in GWQI spatial trend analysis. Temporal trend analysis results showed significant trends in 8 out of 11 well fields. Spatial analysis showed the highest values for salinity ions in the well fields closest to the northern region, whereas the lowest values were detected in the southern region.
Study regarding the Determination of the Flammability Characteristics of the Residue Collected from Natural Gas Transport
Authors: Prodan Maria , Ghicioi Emilian , Nalboc Irina , Szollosi-Mota Andrei , Suvar Sonia
Published: March 2021

In the natural gas pipelines, the so-called black powder is formed. It can take many forms, including wet tarred substance or fine dry powder. Black powder occurs in both newer and older natural gas pipelines. This can disrupt the distribution of natural gas either by interrupting distribution to the customer or by reducing the quality of products delivered to customers. This residue, black powder can damage operations that take place in the transport pipelines, such as reduced inspection accuracy, erosion of the control valve and reduced flow. In addition, this powder also presents a health hazard due to the fact that it may contain pyrophoric sulphides, which require specific handling and storage procedures. Black powder is a solid contaminant found in natural gas distribution systems around the world. Drilling mud, dust, construction dirt, sand, iron oxide, iron carbonate, iron sulfides, welding slag, salt crystals, valve grease, corrosion inhibitors, and other organic materials can contribute to the formation and the presence of this residue, also called black powder. In this paper were analyzed the flammability properties of black powder collected from natural gas transmission pipelines of an operator in Romania.
Research on the Diversified Development of Energy System in China
Authors: Zhang Yiming
Published: March 2021

With faster industrial development, the demand for energy increases dramatically. As demand rises, the supply of energy grows a lot. Although with new technologies, traditional energy, such as burning coal, is still the main way of producing energy. Traditional production has a huge and irreversible hurt to the environment, which should be substituted by new clean energy. Finding out the new resources and making them work in the real energy market is the primary goal of energy development. This article mainly describes the current status of China’s natural clean energy, and then combines the advantages and disadvantages of many aspects and proposes several methods suitable for the multiple development of energy. Comprehensively considering the clean and high-efficiency characteristics of future energy development, a circular model of energy consumption and production capacity has been formed in all aspects, reducing energy waste and increasing energy consumption restrictions due to instability. In view of the development characteristics of China’s existing vast land and resources, and the huge energy demand groups, small-quantity, multi-site and diverse energy development is the future trend of China’s energy development. However, the existing utilization and utilization rate of these natural resources are very low, and although a large number of traditional production capacity industries can meet the energy supply demand, they have a great impact on the environment. President Xi once said that green waters and green mountains are our golden and silver mountains. Such environmentally friendly energy development is the ultimate goal we want to achieve.
Research on the Current Situation and Development of Fuel Cell Powered Transportation
Authors: Su Hao
Published: March 2021

Traditional oil consumed transportation including vehicles and vessel produces green house gases, which is not environmentally-friendly. As a new type of energy-consumed unit, the fuel cell is popular due to its less emission level, high efficiency and low noise. This paper introduces the principle and characteristics of fuel cell, with further introduction to the application status of fuel cell system in the vehicle and maritime industry. Further aspects that need to be improved will be discussed and analyzed, in order to promote fuel cell system in transportation area in a large scale. It can be clearly seen that various factors (infrastructure, cost, durability, etc.) should be considered in the near future.
Influence of the Solidity Ratio on the Small Wind Turbine Aerodynamics
Authors: Zawadzki Karol , Śmiechowicz Wojciech , Stępień Małgorzata , Baszczyńska Anna , Tarkowski Michał
Published: March 2021

Increasing popularity of individualised electricity generation from wind by prosumers creates a strong demand for profitable and highly efficient small wind turbines. This paper investigates the influence of rotor blade solidity parameter on device efficiency in hope of determining its optimal value as a part of the development process of the GUST small wind turbine. The study involved experimental analysis in the wind tunnel and numerical simulations performed in QBlade software. Different solidities of the rotor were achieved by alteration of (1) number of blades and (2) chord distribution along the blade span. The increase of rotor solidity resulted in augmentation of the aerodynamic efficiency in both approaches. The elongation of the chord by 33% in a 3-bladed rotor resulted in a bigger power coefficient increment than addition of a 4th blade with original chord distribution. Even though the solidity was the same, the 3-bladed rotor performed better, possibly due to lower form drag. The results emphasize the importance of the rotor solidity optimization during the small wind turbine rotor development and may significantly influence overall power output.
Retention of Physical Gains in the Community Following Physical Training for Multiple Sclerosis: A Systematic Review and Implications
Authors: Mark Victor W.
Published: March 2021

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a progressive neurological illness whose typically young adult onset results in a nearly entire lifetime of worsening disability. But despite being an unrelenting neurodegenerative disease, numerous clinical trials over the past 40 years for MS have vigorously attempted to improve or at least stabilize declining physical function. Although the vast majority of the studies assessed training effects only within controlled laboratory or clinic settings, in recent years a growing interest has emerged to test whether newer therapies can instead benefit real-life activities in the community. Nonetheless, comparatively little attention has been paid to whether the training gains can be retained for meaningful periods. This review discusses the comparative success of various physical training methods to benefit within-community activities in MS, and whether the gains can be retained long afterward. This review will suggest future research directions toward establishing efficacious treatments that can allow persons with MS to reclaim their physical abilities and maximize functionality for meaningful periods.
Digitalisierung des Gesundheitswesens: Den Blick nach vorne richten
Authors: Gocke Peter
Published: March 2021

Noch stecken wir mitten in der Pandemie und sind damit beschäftigt, die nächsten Wochen und Monate durchzustehen.
Corona-Ausbrüche: Erste Kliniken unter Quarantäne
Authors: König Romy
Published: March 2021

In drei deutschen Kliniken stiegen Anfang des Jahres die Corona-Infektionszahlen sprunghaft an – die Häuser mussten unter Quarantäne gestellt werden. Die zügig durchgesetzten Maßnahmen scheinen gewirkt zu haben: Schon nach relativ kurzer Zeit konnte jeweils Entwarnung gegeben werden.
Lagerhaltung im Krankenhaus: Smarte Lager- und Warenwirtschaft
Authors: Kriegel Johannes
Published: March 2021

Lager verschaffen Sicherheit und reduzieren Risiken – gerade für Kliniken hat die Ressourcenverfügbarkeit eine besonders hohe Bedeutung. Smarte Lager- und Warenwirtschaftssysteme streben einen bestmöglichen Fit zwischen Leistungsbereitschaft und Ressourceneffizienz an. Für Entscheidungsverantwortliche gilt es, ein individuelles Lagermanagement-Konzept zu entwickeln und umzusetzen.
Bergman Clinics: „Der deutsche Markt ist extrem attraktiv“
Authors: Rößing Sabine
Published: March 2021

Seit vergangenem November gehören sechs deutsche Kliniken aus dem Bestand des schwedischen Gesundheitskonzerns Capio den niederländischen Bergman Clinics. kma hat mit Hans van der Heijden, dem CEO der Klinikgruppe, und dem für Strategieentwicklung zuständigen Ivo Piest über Patienten-ansprüche, Qualität und Wachstumsziele gesprochen.
Sequential seeding in multilayer networks
Authors: Bródka Piotr , Jankowski Jarosław , Michalski Radosław
Published: March 2021

Multilayer networks are the underlying structures of multiple real-world systems where we have more than one type of interaction/relation between nodes: social, biological, computer, or communication, to name only a few. In many cases, they are helpful in modeling processes that happen on top of them, which leads to gaining more knowledge about these phenomena. One example of such a process is the spread of influence. Here, the members of a social system spread the influence across the network by contacting each other, sharing opinions or ideas, or—explicitly—by persuasion. Due to the importance of this process, researchers investigate which members of a social network should be chosen as initiators of influence spread to maximize the effect. In this work, we follow this direction and develop and evaluate the sequential seeding technique for multilayer networks. Until now, such techniques were evaluated only using simple one layer networks. The results show that sequential seeding in multilayer networks outperforms the traditional approach by increasing the coverage and allowing to save the seeding budget. However, it also extends the duration of the spreading process.
Highly accessible low-loss fiber tapering by the ceramic housed electric furnace (CHEF) and frequency-domain real-time monitoring
Authors: Ren Yundong , Li Mucheng , Ray Subhrodeep , Bozeat Brandon Johann , Liu Yuxiang
Published: March 2021

Tapered optical fibers are versatile tools with a wide spectrum of applications, ranging from sensing to atomic physics. In this work, we developed a highly accessible and controllable fiber tapering system to fabricate tapered optical fibers with a routine optical transmission of 95% and above. With an optimal design, optical transmissions higher than 99% have been experimentally demonstrated. We achieved such results by developing two unique components in a traditional heat-and-pull system: a custom-made miniature heater named as the ceramic housed electric furnace (CHEF) and a real-time, frequency-domain monitoring method. The CHEF enables a well-controlled, uniform, and stable heating zone for an adiabatic tapering process, while the frequency-domain monitoring empowers one to reliably terminate the tapering right after the single-mode trigger. We designed and fabricated the CHEF using low-cost and readily accessible materials and equipment, in order to benefit a broader audience. We carried out a parametric study to systematically characterize the CHEF performance and provided guidelines for the CHEF design, fabrication, and operation. The frequency-domain monitoring method was developed based on our understanding of the dynamic evolution of optical modes in the tapered fiber. Such a method allows real-time visualization of the number of optical models and characterization of the taper adiabaticity during the tapering process, both of which are not available with the commonly used time-domain monitoring. The developed CHEF-based fiber tapering system will meet the urgent need of high-quality tapered optical fibers as well as opening doors to new applications of tapered optical fibers.
The photophysics of Ruddlesden-Popper perovskites: A tale of energy, charges, and spins
Authors: Righetto Marcello , Giovanni David , Lim Swee Sien , Sum Tze Chien
Published: March 2021

Quasi two-dimensional halide perovskites (also known as Ruddlesden-Popper or RPs) are the most recent and exciting evolution in the perovskite field. Possessing a unique combination of enhanced moisture and material stability, whilst retaining the excellent optoelectronic properties, RPs are poised to be a game changer in the perovskite field. Spurred by their recent achievements in solar cells, light-emitting diodes and spintronic devices, these materials have garnered a mounting interest. Herein, we critically review the photophysics of RPs and distill the science behind their structure–property relations. We first focus on their structure and morphology by highlighting the crucial role of large cations: dictating the RPs' layered structure and the statistical distribution of thicknesses (i.e., n-phases). Next, we discuss how optoelectronic properties of RPs differ from conventional halide perovskites. Structural disorder, stronger excitonic, and polaronic interaction shape the nature of photo-excitations and their fate. For example, faster recombinations and hindered transport are expected for charge carriers in thinner n-phases. However, the complex energetic landscape of RPs, which originates from the coexistence of different n-phases, allows for funneling of energy and charges. Presently, the photophysics of RPs is still nascent, with many recent exciting discoveries from coherence effects in the above-mentioned funneling cascade to spin effects. Giant Rashba spin–orbit coupling, also observed in RPs, dictates their spin dynamics and provides exciting spintronics opportunities. To leverage these propitious RPs, future research must entail a cross-disciplinary approach. While materials engineering will unlock new chiral RPs and Dion-Jacobson variants, novel characterization techniques such as in situ synchrotron-based x-ray diffraction, ultrafast electron microscopy, and multidimensional electronic spectroscopy, etc., are essential in unraveling their secrets and unleashing their full potential.
Optimal network planning of AC/DC hybrid microgrid based on clustering and multi-agent reinforcement learning
Authors: Wang Tianjing , Yang Xiaohua
Published: March 2021

According to the characteristics of an AC/DC hybrid microgrid, this paper presents a new method for network planning of an AC/DC hybrid microgrid based on clustering partition and multi-agent reinforcement learning algorithm. The planning method is divided into three steps, namely, sub-microgrid partition, sub-network planning, and main network planning. On the basis of the principle of partition, a clustering partition model considering the location, type, and capacity of distributed generators (DG) and load is established, to divide this system into different AC and DC sub-microgrids. Then, the optimization model of the sub-network considering the annual cost of the converter and the optimization model of the main network considering the change of network loss of the sub-microgrid are proposed, which form a bilayer optimization model of the AC/DC hybrid microgrid. The optimal clustering partition is obtained by combining the k-means clustering algorithm with the particle swarm optimization algorithm, and considering the interaction between main network planning and sub-network planning, the network planning model is solved by the multi-agent reinforcement learning algorithm based on the Stackelberg equilibrium game. A numerical example is given to verify the validity and accuracy of the above models and algorithms.
Hybrid analytical models to estimate non-equilibrium temperatures in live-tissues based on appropriate initial thermal-field and non-invasive therapeutic heating
Authors: Dutta Jaideep , Kundu Balaram
Published: March 2021

This study develops an exact analysis of various bio-heat models, namely, classical, single-phase-lag, and dual-phase-lag models, for heat transfer in a single layer of living tissue. A new hybrid scheme coupled with the separation of variables and finite Fourier transform method has been employed for the closed-form solution. The skin surface of living tissues is heated by constant or unique oscillating heat sources to facilitate non-invasive therapeutic treatment. The existing literature survey highlights that most of the research works were associated with a constant initial temperature of tissues, whereas the present work reveals an implementation of a variable initial temperature to justify the prediction of thermal flow in living tissues before the therapy process to be initiated. Two unique oscillating (time-dependent) heat sources at the skin surface are implemented for the comparative aspect to find out an effective therapeutic condition. The results conclude that a sinusoidal heat source is a better option for the longer duration of the therapeutic heating to reach the thermal equilibrium, while a cosine heat source is more applicable for the short time span of treatment with a range of time-lags in the dual-phase-lag bioheat model. Finally, for the accuracy aspect of the model, the present work was validated with the published work by considering a design case. For the accurately analytical establishment, the present work can predict an actual thermal response which may help to decide a proper treatment protocol for thermal therapies.
Role of corner flow separation in unsteady dynamics of hypersonic flow over a double wedge geometry
Authors: Kumar Gaurav , De Ashoke
Published: March 2021

This study investigates the origin and sustenance of self-induced oscillations of shock structures in a hypersonic flow over a double wedge configuration. Previously, various researchers have considered the double wedge flow configuration for inviscid flow with variations of different inflows as well as geometric parameters such as inflow Mach number (M∞), wedge angles, and wedge lengths. Few recently published articles reveal an unsteady flow physics involved with the hypersonic viscous flow for double wedge configuration with large second wedge angles. However, the reason for such self-sustained flow oscillations is not completely clear. The present work seeks out to investigate the origin of such oscillations in a low enthalpy hypersonic flow with different aft-wedge angles and wedge length ratios. In the current study, viscous flow over a double wedge at M∞ = 7 and fore-wedge angle of 30° is considered. An improved version of rhoCentralFoam solver in OpenFOAM is used to investigate the double wedge flow over different grid resolutions in the separation region and shock–shock interaction region. This study corroborates the observation from the previous literature with an improvement in the range of parameters which results in a self-sustained periodic oscillation. The present study also suggests that the unsteadiness becomes possible when the incidence shock is in the proximity of the aft-wedge expansion corner as a consequence of different wedge length ratios (L1/L2) or aft-wedge angles (θ2). Flow can still be steady at a large aft-wedge angle if the incidence shock is far ahead of the aft-wedge expansion corner.
Implicit large-eddy simulations of turbulent flow in a channel via spectral/hp element methods
Authors: Wang Rui , Wu Feng , Xu Hui , Sherwin Spencer J.
Published: March 2021

The spectral/hp element method [which is the hp-version finite element method, where h denotes the h-version finite element method and p denotes the p-version finite element method (or the spectral element method) with elementwise expansion based on (modified) orthogonal polynomials up to pth-order in each element] together with the regularized spectral vanishing viscosity (SVV) is employed to perform implicit large eddy simulation (iLES) of the turbulent separated flows in a channel with streamwise periodic hill-shaped constriction. The simulations are conducted at a Reynolds number of 10 595 based on the hill height and the bulk velocity magnitude above the crest, where the standard benchmark was presented with abundant experimental and numerical data. The flow statistical properties are discussed in detail, including mean velocities, Reynolds stresses, anisotropy measures, and spectra, which are in good agreement with the available numerical and experimental data in the literature. It is demonstrated that the SVV-iLES model performs at least as well as the established explicit models and therefore, the high-order spectral/hp element method via the calibrated model-free iLES is well-prepared for highly resolved wall-bounded turbulent simulations with large-scale separations and certainly for industrial complex flows.
Toward a high-performance transportable microwave frequency standard based on sympathetically cooled 113Cd+ ions
Authors: Han J. Z. , Qin H. R. , Xin N. C. , Yu Y. M. , Dzuba V. A. , Zhang J. W. , Wang L. J.
Published: March 2021

We report a high-performance transportable microwave frequency standard scheme based on sympathetically cooled 113Cd+ ions using 40Ca+ as coolant ions. A transportable physical package (1.4 m3) with high-performance magnetic shielding (radial shielding coefficient 460 000) has been built. In experiments, more than 105 113Cd+ ions were sympathetically cooled to 90 mK in a Paul trap and the ion-loss time constant extends to 84 hours. Without direct cooling procedures, the Dick effect-limited Allan deviation due to the deadtimes is reduced to 1.8×10−14/τ. Under our scheme, the uncertainties in the main frequency shifts such as those from second-order Zeeman and second-order Doppler terms were reduced below the order of 10−15. The relevant ac Stark shifts uncertainties were estimated to be below 5×10−18. Minor shifts further reflect the superiority of coolant ions 40Ca+ for 113Cd+. These results indicate that a microwave clock based on this sympathetic cooling scheme shows potential in establishing a vehicle transportable ground-based time-frequency reference for navigation systems.
Natural convection of Al2O3-water nanosuspension in a semi-open domain with composite fin
Authors: Shulepova Elena V. , Sheremet Mikhail A. , Oztop Hakan F.
Published: March 2021

Development of modern electronic devices and heat exchangers is related to the energy transport intensity. For this purpose, it is possible to use the internal fins and nanofluids. The present study is devoted to mathematical simulation of free convective thermal transmission of alumina-water nanoliquid in a semi-open cavity with the complicated fin including the wall-mounted part and internal obstacle. Analysis has been carried out by means of the partial differential transport equations written on the basis of the non-dimensional, non-primitive variables. The special procedure has been developed for description of the stream function value at the body surface within the cavity. The developed code has been validated using the mesh sensitivity analysis and computational results of other researchers. Impacts of the Rayleigh number, internal obstacle position, and nano-sized particles concentration on nanoliquid flow and thermal transmission have been considered. It has been revealed that for the present formulation a growth of the solid particles concentration results in the heat transport degradation, while it is possible to find an optimal position of the inner body for the energy transport intensification.
Structural and transport properties of highly Ru-deficient SrRu0.7O3 thin films prepared by molecular beam epitaxy: Comparison with stoichiometric SrRuO3
Authors: Wakabayashi Yuki K. , Kaneta-Takada Shingo , Krockenberger Yoshiharu , Takiguchi Kosuke , Ohya Shinobu , Tanaka Masaaki , Taniyasu Yoshitaka , Yamamoto Hideki
Published: March 2021

We investigate structural and transport properties of highly Ru-deficient SrRu0.7O3 thin films prepared by molecular beam epitaxy on (001) SrTiO3 substrates. To distinguish the influence of the two types of disorders in the films—Ru vacancies within lattices and disorders near the interface—SrRu0.7O3 thin films with various thicknesses (t = 1–60 nm) were prepared. It was found that the influence of the former dominates the electrical and magnetic properties when t ≥ 5–10 nm while that of the latter does when t ≤ 5–10 nm. Structural characterizations revealed that the crystallinity, in terms of the Sr and O sublattices, of SrRu0.7O3 thin films is as high as that of the ultrahigh-quality SrRuO3 ones. The Curie temperature (TC) analysis elucidated that SrRu0.7O3 (TC ≈ 140 K) is a material distinct from SrRuO3 (TC ≈ 150 K). Despite the large Ru deficiency (∼30%), the SrRu0.7O3 films showed metallic conduction when t ≥ 5 nm. In high-field magnetoresistance measurements, the fascinating phenomenon of Weyl fermion transport was not observed for the SrRu0.7O3 thin films irrespective of thickness, which is in contrast to the stoichiometric SrRuO3 films. The (magneto)transport properties suggest that a picture of carrier scattering due to the Ru vacancies is appropriate for SrRu0.7O3 and also that proper stoichiometry control is a prerequisite to utilizing the full potential of SrRuO3 as a magnetic Weyl semimetal and two-dimensional spin-polarized system. Nevertheless, the large tolerance in Ru composition (∼30%) to metallic conduction is advantageous for some practical applications where SrRu1−xO3 is used as an epitaxial conducting layer.
In situ crystallization and magnetic measurement of hexaferrite glass-ceramics
Authors: Lere-Adams Arumala J. , Ahmadzadeh Mostafa , Smith-Gray Natalie , Bollinger David , Boroughs Scott , McCloy John S.
Published: March 2021

Glass-ceramic (GC) materials have the formability advantages of glasses and the opportunity for controlled crystallization of functional ceramic phases. Here, we obtain GCs containing the hard magnetic phase Sr-hexaferrite (SrFe12O19) from a borate glass. Ten compositions in the B2O3-Fe2O3-SrO system were explored, varying B2O3 and Sr/Fe ratio. Compositions forming glass on quenching, according to X-ray diffraction (XRD), were subsequently heat treated to promote crystallization. Three selected compositions were investigated with vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), thermal analysis, and electron probe microanalysis (EPMA). Phases identified by XRD after air heat treatment included α-Fe2O3, Fe3O4, SrB2O4, and SrFe12O19. Glasses were also crystallized in situ in a VSM in an argon environment, measuring magnetic properties during heating to 650°C after in situ heat treatment at 800°C. In samples with SrFe12O19, wasp-waisted loops were observed. First order reversal curve (FORC) measurements confirmed low (magnetite) and high (Sr-hexaferrite) coercivity phases. Room temperature VSM measurements of argon in situ treated samples were compared with two ex situ air heat treated protocols. The microstructures of the three investigated air heat treated GC materials were completely different, and compositional position on the phase diagram appeared to influence crystallization progress. These results suggest that careful control of composition as well as heat treatment protocol including atmosphere is necessary for crystallization of desired magnetic phases. Also, VSM was confirmed to be sensitive to magnetic phases at low concentrations not visible to XRD.
Spin waves transport in 3D magnonic waveguides
Authors: Martyshkin A. A. , Beginin E. N. , Sadovnikov A. V.
Published: March 2021

In this work, the propagation of spin waves in translational symmetry broken irregular magnonic waveguide is investigated. The mechanism of the transfer of the magnetic moment and the conversion of spin waves from backward volume to surface waves is revealed. Mechanisms for controlling spin-wave transport by changing the direction of an external magnetic field are investigated by the method of micromagnetic modeling. The results of studies of structures with broken translational symmetry open up new possibilities for the formation of multilayer magnonic networks of various topologies and miniaturization of computing devices based on the principles of magnonics.
A threatened ecological community: research advances and priorities for Banksia woodlands
Authors: Ritchie Alison L. , Svejcar Lauren N. , Ayre Bronwyn M. , Bolleter Julian , Brace Aaron , Craig Michael D. , Davis Belinda , Davis Robert A. , van Etten Eddie J. B. , Fontaine Joseph B. , Fowler William M. , Froend Ray H. , Groom Christine , Hardy Giles E. S. J. , Hooper Paula , Hopkins Anna J. M. , Hughes Michael , Krauss Siegfried L. , Leopold Matthias , Miller Ben P. , Miller Russell G. , Ramalho Cristina E. , Ruthrof Katinka X. , Shaw Christopher , Stevens Jason C. , Tangney Ryan , Valentine Leonie E. , Veneklaas Erik J. , Hobbs Richard J.
Published: March 2021

The rapid expansion of urban areas worldwide is leading to native habitat loss and ecosystem fragmentation and degradation. Although the study of urbanisation’s impact on biodiversity is gaining increasing interest globally, there is still a disconnect between research recommendations and urbanisation strategies. Expansion of the Perth metropolitan area on the Swan Coastal Plain in south-western Australia, one of the world’s thirty-six biodiversity hotspots, continues to affect the Banksia Woodlands (BWs) ecosystem, a federally listed Threatened Ecological Community (TEC). Here, we utilise the framework of a 1989 review of the state of knowledge of BWs ecology and conservation to examine scientific advances made in understanding the composition, processes and functions of BWs and BWs’ species over the last 30 years. We highlight key advances in our understanding of the ecological function and role of mechanisms in BWs that are critical to the management of this ecosystem. The most encouraging change since 1989 is the integration of research between historically disparate ecological disciplines. We outline remaining ecological knowledge gaps and identify key research priorities to improve conservation efforts for this TEC. We promote a holistic consideration of BWs with our review providing a comprehensive document that researchers, planners and managers may reference. To effectively conserve ecosystems threatened by urban expansion, a range of stakeholders must be involved in the development and implementation of best practices to conserve and maintain both biodiversity and human wellbeing.
S-nitrosylated TDP-43 triggers aggregation, cell-to-cell spread, and neurotoxicity in hiPSCs and in vivo models of ALS/FTD
Authors: Pirie Elaine , Oh Chang-ki , Zhang Xu , Han Xuemei , Cieplak Piotr , Scott Henry R. , Deal Amanda K. , Ghatak Swagata , Martinez Fernando J. , Yeo Gene W. , Yates John R. , Nakamura Tomohiro , Lipton Stuart A.
Published: March 2021

Significance

Aggregation and cell-to-cell spread of TDP-43 are thought to underlie many cases of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Additionally, the aging process and environmental toxins stimulate excessive generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS), thus contributing to the pathological processes of these neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we show that nitric oxide (NO)-related species promote TDP-43 proteinopathy in cell-based and animal models of FTD/ALS via S-nitrosylation of TDP-43 at critical cysteine residues that facilitate disulfide bond formation and abnormal aggregation of the protein. In contrast, expression of nonnitrosylatable mutant TDP-43 ameliorates TDP-43 aggregation, RNA binding, and cell toxicity. Thus, our study provides mechanistic insight into the ROS/RNS-induced TDP-43 proteinopathy and neurotoxicity observed in FTD/ALS patients.
Genre annotation for the Web
Authors: Sharoff Serge
Published: March 2021

This paper describes a digital curation study aimed at comparing the composition of large Web corpora, such as
enTenTen, ukWac or ruWac, by means of automatic text classification. First, the paper presents a Deep Learning model suitable for
classifying texts from large Web corpora using a small number of communicative functions, such as Argumentation or Reporting.
Second, it describes the results of applying the automatic classification model to these corpora and compares their composition.
Finally, the paper introduces a framework for interpreting the results of automatic genre classification using linguistic
features. The framework can help in comparing general reference corpora obtained from the Web and in comparing corpora across
languages.
Geographic distribution of the incidence of osteonecrosis of the femoral head in Japan and its relation to smoking prevalence
Authors: Tani Tetsuro , Ando Wataru , Fukushima Wakaba , Hamada Hidetoshi , Takao Masaki , Ito Kazuya , Sakai Takashi , Sugano Nobuhiko
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Alcohol intake and smoking are modifiable lifestyle-related risk factors for osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). We investigated geographic differences in ONFH incidence in Japan and the correlation with alcohol intake and smoking to develop prevention strategies for ONFH in Japan.

Methods

This ecological study was conducted in Japan primarily using the following data sources: nationwide epidemiological survey and national survey. We estimated the annual ONFH incidence and the prevalence of alcohol drinking and smoking in each prefecture. Prefectural incidence and prevalence were calculated by sex and age-standardization.

Results

The mean annual ONFH incidence per 100,000 population was 3.08 in men and 1.63 in women, respectively. There was no significant correlation between ONFH incidence and the prevalence of any levels of alcohol intake, while smoking ≥20 cigarettes/day showed a significant and moderate correlation in men (r = 0.47, p = .01). This correlation remained significant after adjustment for the prevalence of any levels of alcohol intake (standardized partial regression coefficient = 0.47–0.49, p = .009–.01).

Conclusion

ONFH incidence is geographically variable in Japan, and this may be partly explained by the distribution of smoking prevalence. Smoking cessation may contribute to an effective decline in the overall ONFH incidence in Japan.
RG-2 flow and black hole entanglement entropy
Authors: Andino Oscar Lasso
Published: March 2021

We study the evolution of a Euclidean two-dimensional black hole metric under the second loop renormalization group flow, the RG-2 flow. Since the black hole metric is non-compact (we consider it asymptotically flat) we adapt some proofs for the compact case to the asymptotically flat case. We found that the appearance of horizons during the evolution is related to the parabolicity condition of the flow. We also show that the entanglement entropy of the two-dimensional Euclidean Schwarzschild black hole is monotonic under the RG-2 flow. We generalize the results obtained for the first loop approximation and discuss the implications for higher order loops
Demonstration of a dual-pass differential Fabry–Perot interferometer for future interferometric space gravitational wave antennas
Authors: Nagano Koji , Takeda Hiroki , Michimura Yuta , Uchiyama Takashi , Ando Masaki
Published: March 2021

A dual-pass differential Fabry–Perot interferometer (DPDFPI) is one candidate of the interferometer configurations utilized in future Fabry–Perot type space gravitational wave antennas, such as Deci-hertz Interferometer Gravitational wave Observatory. In this paper, the working principle of the DPDFPI has been investigated and necessity to adjust the absolute length of the cavity for the operation of the DPDFPI has been found. In addition, using the 55 cm-long prototype, the operation of the DPDFPI has been demonstrated for the first time and it has been confirmed that the adjustment of the absolute arm length reduces the cavity detuning as expected. This work provides the proof of concept of the DPDFPI for application to the future Fabry–Perot type space gravitational wave antennas.
Discharge modes and characteristics optimization of nanosecond pulsed discharge in packed bed reactor
Authors: Li Yao , Yang De-Zheng , Qiao Jun-Jie , Zhang Li , Zhou Xiong-Feng , Zhao Zi-Lu , Yuan Hao , Yan Er-Yan , Wang Wen-Chun
Published: March 2021

In this study, comparisons of spatiotemporal resolved images, optical emission spectroscopy technology, and electrical characteristics diagnosis were used to investigate the conversion and optimization of the discharge modes in a packed bed reactor (PBR) in which dielectric materials with different dielectric constants were employed under different peak voltages. The effects of the peak voltages and dielectric materials on the production of reactive species, such as

N

2

(

C

3

Π
u

)

and

N

2

+

(

B

2

Σ
u

+

)

, were also studied for plasma applications. The results show that, when a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) column is employed, with an increase in the peak voltages, the form and modes of the discharge both change. First, the discharge channel becomes ‘wider’ and the discharge volume becomes larger, which results in more reactive species. Second, the discharge mode changes from surface discharge to diffuse discharge during the falling edge of the voltage pulse. When the dielectric constant of the dielectric material is increased, the intensity of the surface streamer decreases during its shorter propagation path because of more electron collision losses. Moreover, a different discharge mode, called ‘local discharge’, was observed at the contact point. Under the same experimental conditions, the numbers of nitrogen molecules distributed at different vibrational levels and the reactive species produced in the alumina PBR were fewer than those in the PTFE PBR.
Electrical response of CdSe-based thin film transistors with different hybrid dielectric gates
Authors: De Urquijo-Ventura M S , Meza-Arroyo J , Garibay-Martínez F , Syamala Rao M G , Flores-García E , Ramírez-Bon R
Published: March 2021

Herein, we fabricated CdSe-based thin-film transistors (TFTs) employing two different hybrid dielectric gates, SiO2–poly(vinylphenol) and Al2O3–3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane–polymethylmethacrylate. These organic–inorganic hybrid dielectric layers were processed by the sol-gel method at low temperatures (<200 °C), and the CdSe semiconductor layer was deposited by R.F sputtering at room temperature. The chemical and physical properties of the hybrid thin films were thoroughly evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscope, atomic force microscopy and surface energy analysis. The results have shown an adequate interaction between both organic and inorganic phases in the hybrid material and the obtained hybrid thin films are very homogeneous with low surface roughness. Further, the dielectric properties of these hybrid thin films showed salient features with similar leakage currents for both dielectrics of the order of 10−6A cm−2, and dielectric constants of 7 and 11 at 1 kHz for the silica and alumina based dielectrics, respectively. The higher dielectric constant of the alumina hybrid dielectric is associated to excessive oxygen defects such as hydroxyl groups (OH) and oxygen vacancies (Vo), which produce high dielectric loss through hopping relaxation. To investigate the feasibility of these two hybrids as dielectric gate layers we constructed TFTs with CdSe as active channel layer. Among these, TFTs fabricated with silica hybrid dielectric showed the best performance with a current off/on ratio of 104, threshold voltage of 1.1 V and mobility of 22.2 cm2V−1s−1. Meanwhile, the TFT device with alumina hybrid as dielectric gate layer exhibited a diminished electrical performance in terms of lower mobilities, which is mostly related to the defects at the dielectric/semiconductor interface. These defects manifested as well in the capacitance measurements of the alumina hybrid dielectric and have a strong influence on the device mobility since the charge carriers traps restrict the electrical transport in the semiconductor channel.
Nanostructured lipid carrier co-delivering paclitaxel and doxorubicin restrains the proliferation and promotes apoptosis of glioma stem cells via regulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling
Authors: Chang Lisha , Zhang Yunhe , Li Min , Zhao Xiaojing , Wang Dali , Liu Jian , Zhou Fuling , Zhang Jiang
Published: March 2021

The development of safe and efficient nanocomposites remains a huge challenge in targeted therapy of glioma. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs), which facilitate specific site drug delivery, have been widely used in glioma treatment. Herein, we aimed to investigate the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic impact of paclitaxel (PTX) and doxorubicin (DOX) loaded NLC (PTX-DOX-NLC) on glioma stem cells (GSCs). To this end, we used a melt-emulsification technique to generate PTX loaded NLC (PTX-NLC), DOX loaded NLC (DOX-NLC), and NLC loaded with both drugs (PTX-DOX-NLC). We firstly confirmed the stability of PTX-DOX-NLC and their ability to gradually release PTX and DOX. Next, we evaluated the effects of PTX-DOX-NLC on apoptosis and proliferation of GSCs by flow cytometry and CellTiter-Glo assay. Besides, the expression of relevant mRNA and proteins was determined by RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Mechanism of action of PTX-DOX-NLC was determined though bioinformatic analysis based on RNA-seq data performed in GSCs derived from different NLC-treated groups. In addition, a mouse xenograft model of glioma was established to evaluate the anti-tumor effects of PTX-DOX-NLC in vivo. Results indicated thar PTX-DOX-NLC showed greater inhibitory effects on proliferation and promotive effects on apoptosis of GSCs compared with PTX-NLC, DOX-NLC, free PTX, and free DOX treatment. Mechanistic investigations evidenced that PTX-DOX-NLC inhibited tumor progression by suppressing the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, PTX-DOX-NLC played an inhibitory role in GSC growth, highlighting a potential therapeutic option against glioma.
A cooperative game solution approach for intensity modulated radiation therapy design: Nash Social Welfare optimization
Authors: Saghand Payman Ghasemi , Charkhgard Hadi
Published: March 2021

We study the fluency map optimization problem in Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy from a cooperative game theory point of view. We consider the cancerous and healthy organs in a patient’s body as players of a game, where cancerous organs seek to eliminate the cancerous cells and healthy organs seek to receive no harm. The goal is to balance the trade-offs between the utility of players by forming a grand coalition between them. We do so by proposing a methodology that solves a few convex optimization problems in order to transform the fluency map optimization problem into a bargaining game. To solve the bargaining game, we employ the concept of Nash Social Welfare (NSW) optimization due to the desirable efficiency and fairness properties of its outcomes. The proposed NSW optimization is convex and can be solved by powerful commercial solvers such as CPLEX. An additional advantage of the proposed approach is that it has a new control lever for the fluency map optimization, the so-called negotiation powers, which enables practitioners to put more emphasis on an organ by changing its negotiation power. To show the efficacy of our proposed methodology, we apply it to the TG-119 case and a liver case. We compare our proposed approach with a state-of-the-art approach through creating Dose Volume Histograms.
A short review of loop quantum gravity
Authors: Ashtekar Abhay , Bianchi Eugenio
Published: March 2021

An outstanding open issue in our quest for physics beyond Einstein is the unification of general relativity (GR) and quantum physics. Loop quantum gravity (LQG) is a leading approach toward this goal. At its heart is the central lesson of GR: gravity is a manifestation of spacetime geometry. Thus, the approach emphasizes the quantum nature of geometry and focuses on its implications in extreme regimes—near the big bang and inside black holes—where Einstein’s smooth continuum breaks down. We present a brief overview of the main ideas underlying LQG and highlight a few recent advances. This report is addressed to non-experts.
Very thin (111) NiO epitaxial films grown on c-sapphire substrates by pulsed laser deposition technique
Authors: Yadav Santosh Kumar , Dhar Subhabrata
Published: March 2021

(111) NiO epitaxial layers are grown on c-sapphire substrates by pulsed laser deposition technique. Structural and morphological properties of the films are studied using in-plane as well as out-of-plane high resolution x-ray diffraction and atomic force microscopy techniques as functions of growth temperature, oxygen pressure and the pulses count of the laser. The study shows that continuous epitaxial films of thickness as low as 3 nm with high crystalline quality, smooth surface and interface morphology can be grown by this technique. The study also reveals the co-existence of 60°-rotated (111) triangular domains of NiO in the film. The study also evidences the presence of a very low density of 60° dislocations in these films. Density of screw and edge dislocations are also estimated to be quite low. It has been found that growth-temperature, oxygen partial pressure and the film thickness can influence differently the density of various dislocation types. These parameters are also found to affect significantly the strain developed in the films.