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Capillary wicking in a thicker gel blot microfluidics paper has been investigated through a combination of an analytical framework, experiments, and numerical simulations. The primary objectives of this work are to investigate the concentration-dependent wicking process inside thicker microfluidic paper and to estimate the concentration-dependent permeability using both theoretical models and experimental data. An additional goal is to estimate the parameters for saturation-dependent flow modeling in thicker microfluidic paper. To comprehend the wicking phenomenon on thicker gel blot paper, a series of experiments employing aqueous food dye solutions at varying concentrations has been conducted. In order to calculate the temporal wicking length analytically, the Brinkman-extended Darcy equation is implemented. By modifying the permeability expression for a simple rectangular unidirectional fiber cell and pure liquid, the expression of effective permeability for the analytical framework has also been introduced. The concentrations of the food dye solutions appear to have a substantial influence on the wicking phenomenon. Effective permeability and wicking length have been found to follow a decreasing pattern at lower concentrations while both increase at higher values. Intriguingly, employing a microfluidics paper with a relatively greater thickness facilitates the visualization of the fluid front. This phenomenon is identified by the formation of an acute angle at intermediate time instants, while the fluid front angle assumes an angle nearly ∼90° during smaller and higher time instants. In order to evaluate the saturation-dependent capillary pressure and permeability, the empirical correlation of concentration-dependent Brooks and Corey parameters is additionally determined experimentally. These parameters are subsequently employed in numerical simulations to illustrate the saturation-dependent flow field using Richards' equation. Furthermore, numerical simulations based on these estimated model parameters have been conducted, and it turns out that the saturation field has an excellent agreement with the experimental results. The results of the current study can be used to design low-cost paper-based diagnostic devices for usage in healthcare and environmental applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we present a mathematical model and numerical simulation of the coffee-ring effect on porous papers. The numerical method is based on Monte Carlo simulation. The proposed model is simple but can capture the main mechanism of coffee stain formation on porous papers. Several numerical experiments are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed algorithm. We can obtain the coffee-ring effect on porous papers as the computer simulation results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerical simulation of polypropylene laminated paper insulation is a serious challenge, as it must take into account the layered structure and presence of longitudinal and radial gaps in the coils of the winded tape for cables with sector-shape conductive cores. Thus far, it has been performed only with serious simplifications. We propose a technique for numerical modeling of electric parameters in this type of insulation by reducing a complex 3D problem to a simplified 2D model that takes into account the main influencing factors. The results of modeling the distribution of electric field strength and current density in insulation are presented, and the influence of the location of gaps between the edges of winded tape on the conductivity of cable insulation is estimated. Analytical expressions are obtained for estimating the electrical resistance of insulation while taking into account the parameters of the butt gap between the insulating tapes. The results of calculations, numerical modeling, and experimentally measured values of electrical resistance are compared, showing that there is a good match. The main effects affecting the properties of polypropylene laminated paper insulation are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the present situation that the exhaust waste heat of the hot air hood in the paper drying section is too much and the environment is not friendly, a closed heat pump drying system model applied to the exhaust air hood is proposed and established. Effects of evaporation temperature and condensation temperature on supply air temperature, supply air moisture content, system performance coefficient (COP) and dehumidification energy consumption ratio (SMER) were studied. Results show that with the increase of condensation temperature, the supply air temperature is unchanged, and the moisture content of the supply air increase, while the COP and SMER of the system show a downward trend. The moisture content of supply air decrease with the increase of evaporation temperature, while the supply air temperature, COP and SMER all show an upward trend. Therefore, in order to improve the drying characteristics and improve the performance of the heat pump system, the condensation temperature can be reduced and the evaporation temperature can be increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternating current (ac) losses in conductor-on-rounded-core (CORC) cables of YBCO high-temperature superconducting (HTS) tapes are a significant challenge in HTS power applications. This study employs two finite element analysis (FEA) models to investigate the contributions from different ac loss components and provide approaches for reducing ac losses in cables. An FEA model based on the T-A formulation treats the cross section of thin superconducting layers as 1D lines and, therefore, only can predict the ac loss generated by the perpendicular magnetic field. In contrast, the model based on H-formulation can be performed on the actual 2D rectangular cross section HTS tapes to provide the total ac losses generated by magnetic fluxes penetrating from both the edges and surfaces of HTS tapes, although this model requires more computing time and memory. The 1D and 2D simulation models were validated by cross comparing the results from both models and by comparing sub-section and full cross section models. Subsequently, two models relate cable design and operational parameters to the surface and edge losses of a two-layer CORC cable by considering the (1) relative contributions of edge and surface losses to the overall ac losses; (2) effect of the current distribution between inner and outer HTS layers on ac losses; (3) impact of the tape alignment on ac losses in each HTS layer; (4) influence of the thickness of HTS layers on ac losses; (5) effect of size and number of inter-tape gaps on ac losses; and (6) contribution frequency on the ac losses. The research results given in this paper are therefore not only valuable to suggest strategies for reducing ac loss in multi-layer cables but also for developing more accurate and effective methods to calculate ac loss in CORC HTS cables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The specific energy absorption of a thin-walled tube can be improved by filler. This study examined the potential use of a cheaper biomass filler, paper scraps, to enhance the energy absorption characteristics of the structure while reducing its cost, compared to that with a traditional filler such as foam material. Quasi-static crushing tests and finite element simulations were performed by using the explicit non-linear finite element software LS-DYNA to determine the improvements to the mean crushing force and specific energy absorption of the steel tube when filled with different densities of paper scraps. The mean crushing force and specific energy absorption of the empty tube, the paper scraps, and thin-walled tube filled with paper scraps were determined, and corresponding numerical simulations were performed. The simulation and test results showed that the impact performance of tube filled with paper scraps was greatly improved when paper scraps density was 0.35 g/cm3. By optimizing paper scraps filling structure, a new structure that could further enhance the specific energy absorption was obtained. The optimal scheme could increase the specific energy absorption of Q345 steel tube by 11.35%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The heterocharge accumulated in the oil‐paper insulation system of the converter transformer will enhance the local electric field and cause insulation deterioration. Numerical simulation is an effective method to analyze heterocharge. Currently, the numerical simulation of heterocharge is mainly based on the bipolar charge transport (BCT) model and the impurity ion transport (IIT) model. However, the effects of temperature, conductivity, and thickness of oil‐impregnated paper on charge transport have not been considered in these models. In view of this, a modified charge transport (MCT) model by introducing the Maxwell–Wagner model and heat conduction equation is proposed in this paper based on the BCT model and IIT model. Then, the influence of multi‐factors (temperature gradient, moisture content, and oil‐impregnated paper thickness) on heterocharge accumulation is investigated by using the MCT model. The simulation results obtained by the MCT model are more consistent with the experimental results than the BCT model, which proves the accuracy and superiority of the MCT model. Moreover, the increase in temperature gradient, moisture content, and oil‐impregnated paper thickness will enlarge the ion dissociation rate, conductivity, and trap density, and thus promote the generation of heterocharge. In that respect, the MCT model is expected to optimize the insulation design and provide a reference for space charge dynamic simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thin-walled tubular deployable composite boom (DCB) has gained significant attention due to its lightweight, simple structure and high packaging efficiency. The experimental and numerical simulation methods were employed in this paper to investigate the folding behavior of the DCB. Using T700/epoxy unidirectional reinforced prepreg as raw material, DCB specimens were prepared by the vacuum bag method. To complete the folding experiments of DCB specimens, a folding mechanism was designed and manufactured. Folding experiments of DCB specimens were conducted and folding moment versus rotational displacement curves were measured. In addition, a Finite Element Model (FEM) was established to predict the folding behavior of the DCB. Different failure criteria were considered in the numerical analysis, including the Tsai‐Hill criterion and maximum stress criterion. Prediction results using the FEM were compared with experimental results, and both sets of results were in good agreement. It is shown that the DCB can achieve the folding function without failure. The research results in this paper are of great significance to the practical engineering application of the DCB. [Display omitted] • Six tubular deployable composite boom specimens and a precise folding mechanism were designed and prepared. • Folding experiments were conducted to measure the folding moment and rotational displacement curves. • A finite element model for predicting the folding behavior of the tubular deployable composite boom was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a brief overview of the use of magnetic field in studying droplet adhesion to a fiber or a fibrous surface. The paper starts by discussing ways to quantify the force required to detach a droplet from a fiber for its applications in coalescence filtration, i.e., removal of dispersed droplets from a gaseous or liquid flow using a fibrous filter. It then continues to discuss droplet detachment from a fibrous surface or penetrating into a thin fibrous coating. The emphasis is put on a recently develop magnetic approach for measuring force of detachment and on its novel simplicity and non-intrusive nature in the context of existing droplet detachment methods. Our review also includes a discussion on force of detachment for multiphase droplets comprised of two immiscible liquids, i.e., compound droplets. Atomistic- and continuum-level numerical simulations pertaining to droplet detachment are also discussed throughout the paper when appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paper chromatography is a simple and harmless experiment suitable for lower secondary education. Besides the training of subject‐specific contents, paper chromatography allows the application of modelling and simulation since the submicroscopic processes can be simplified in a way that they become understandable in lower secondary education. Here, the application of digital tools in addition to the experimental performance of paper chromatography in a compulsory STEM course in grade 6 is reported. Following a series of experiments, chromatography is at first simulated by a board game and then by computer simulations. Such simulation program allows the variation of the parameters in order to explore the model and to introduce the particle concept of matter and molecular interactions. The implementation with a graphical programming environment such as Scratch also allows the programming by pupils in this age group. In this way, it is possible to introduce modelling and simulation in an early stage as important contributions to scientific work in natural sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An epiretinal membrane (ERM) is a fibrocellular proliferation on the inner surface of the retina causing blurred and distorted central vision. Surgery is the only effective method for ERM removal. This paper investigated the mechanical properties of ERM peeling using the finite element (FE) method. A FE model of ERM formation on the retina surface was constructed. The failure criterion was applied to the attachment pegs to represent the adhesive force between the ERM and retina. The simulation results were consistent with the experimental data in published research. The maximum peeling force was 4.1 mN at a peeling velocity of 2 mm/s and an angle of 30°. The peeling force was minimum at the peeling angle of 45° and increased with the increase in peeling velocity and Young's modulus of the membrane. The outcome of this paper can improve the safety and efficiency of ERM removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspired by the emerging field of twistronics, moiré photonic structures have attracted great interest. In this paper, we introduce the concept of the moiré Kagome lattice (MKL), which arises from the overlapping of a Kagome lattice at a commensurable angle of 38.211°. MKL exhibits a significantly broader main photonic bandgap (PBG) when compared to the traditional Kagome lattice. Through numerical simulations, we delved into the adjustable properties of the PBG of MKL by varying lattice parameters, including filling factors and materials. Meanwhile, we also observed the presence of photonic flatbands within the MKL structure. Specifically, the emergence of a super flat isolated flatband aids in achieving single-mode omnidirectional lasers and enhancing the omnidirectional electromagnetic interaction of materials, thereby expanding the applications of moiré photonic crystals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrothermal treatment of sludge within the pulp and paper industry can have a wide range of possible reactor solid loads for different sludge types. The objectives of this work were to determine the effect of reactor temperature and solid load on the properties of sludge hydrochar and to simulate hydrothermal treatment of sludge within a pulp and paper mill. Laboratory experiments were first performed within reactor temperature and solid load ranges of 180–260 °C and 10–50%, respectively, and the effects of sludge treatment were determined by comparing parallel mill-scale simulations. Based on the results, both reactor temperature and solid load had a statistically significant effect on the solid, ash, carbon and energy yields of sludge hydrochar. Increasing solid load minimized carbon dissolution to the liquid phase and increased the solid and energy yield of the attained hydrochar. According to mill-scale simulations in a 9 m 3 batch reactor, treating primary sludge alone produced an energy surplus of 22–36 GJ through char incineration, decreasing to 12–22 GJ and 3.4–9.1 GJ for mixed and secondary sludge, respectively. Mixing primary and secondary sludge reduced the overall energy surplus by 2–8% compared with treating the sludge streams separately in two reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the space charge in oil-impregnated thick pressboard and Kraft paper were measured by the pulsed electroacoustic (PEA) method from -20 to +60 °C. A bipolar charge transport model was used to simulate the transport processes of homocharge and heterocharge, and the acoustic attenuation process in the samples. The test results show that space charge accumulates in the thick pressboard and Kraft paper increases first and then decreases with temperature, and its maximum appears at 40°C, while little space charge accumulates at -20°C. The space charge near the lower electrode shrinks in the oil-impregnated thick pressboard at high temperature and the shrinkage is larger at 60°C. In the oil-impregnated Kraft paper, the accumulation and charge density of positive charge is different from negative charge. The ion transport process model simulates the charge shrinkage near the electrode, and disappears at the upper electrode after the acoustic attenuation simulation. The model established in this paper can well simulate the space charge distribution of oil-impregnated thick pressboard and Kraft paper under different temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability to determine the condition of paper (e.g. its brittleness) and its permanence is a need in libraries and archives. This study investigates various bend tests and applies these tests to aged paper with the goal of finding easy, non-destructive tests to determine the mechanical properties of paper. The cantilever test was previously shown to accurately assess mechanical properties of paper-based materials, such as elastic and bending moduli as well as the bending length. This work investigates the hanging pear loop and clamped fold tests and compares the results with those found with the cantilever test. The results show that the strain and curvature induced by the two tests are much larger than those experienced in the cantilever test. This large strain and curvature induce plastic behaviour and make the hanging pear loop and clamped fold tests inappropriate for use on paper-based materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive modeling involves the creation of computer simulations that emulate the internal processes of the mind. This set of papers are the five best representatives of the papers presented at the 17th International Conference on Cognitive Modeling, ICCM 2019. While they represent a diversity of techniques and tasks, they all also share a striking similarity: They make strong statements about the importance of accounting for individual differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Paper-based thin sample layer ion transfer voltammetry was realized. • Linear scan voltammetry was chosen to investigate the electrochemical behavior. • Electrochemical behavior are compared to numerical simulation. • Background corrections can be used to eliminate undesired interference. Abstract We report here on paper-supported thin sample layer voltammetry for the determination of ions. To achieve this goal, a simple setup for the coupling of a commercially available electrode to a silver rod electrode was designed and evaluated for paper-supported thin-layer voltammetry. Linear scan ion transfer voltammetry was explored here for ion-selective membranes doped with an ionophore. The ion-transfer processes and electrochemical behaviors of the system are here evaluated and confirmed by numerical simulation. In the proof-of-concept experiments described, the ions tetrabutylammonium chloride (TBA+) and potassium (K+) were studied as model analytes at membranes without and with ionophore, respectively. A linear relationship from 0.1 mM to 1.0 mM K+ was obtained between the charge and ion concentration. The coexistence of background sodium ions did not give appreciable interference, but the background wave was not completely isolated from the analyte wave, as also confirmed by the model. The methodology was successfully demonstrated for determination of K+ in mineral water. It is anticipated that this paper-supported thin-layer detection approach may provide an attractive readout protocol for disposable paper-based analytical devices as the methodology does not place strict demands on reference electrode performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A number of problems associated with dimensional stability of paper products have to do with hygroexpansion in response to changes in humidity or moisture content. The main underlying mechanism of hygroexpansion in paper is the effect of the change of fiber cross-sections transferred through fiber bonds. In fact, the transverse expansion of fibers can be an order of magnitude greater than the longitudinal expansion. Addressing such problems using modeling on the microscale is associated with large computational costs since both the bonds and the fibers need to be resolved. We present a method for modeling the hygro or thermal expansion of interconnected fiber networks modeled with beam elements and connected through beam-to-beam contact. Being a line structure, beams can only support pointwise contact, which poses a challenge for modeling the force transfer induced by the deformation of the cross-sections at the contact point. The idea of implementing the stress transfer is to use a concurrent multiscale approach in which the bond level is resolved in detail using the configuration of the fibers and the computed strains are passed over to the beam elements. We verify and prove the applicability of this approach by comparing it with continuum models. We demonstrate the advantage of using this approach in terms of its tremendous saving in time. The use of beam models for modeling the hygro- or thermal expansion of fiber networks enables considering relevant sizes in the problems involving dimensional stability, in particular those associated with embedded inhomogeneities. We will show the applicability of the model by providing insights into published experimental observations on the hygroexpansion properties of paper products. Finally, we will demonstrate that the use of a 2D model to simulate the inter-fiber bonds in a network, not only leads to underestimation of out-of-plane deformations, but also to overestimation of the contribution of the transverse deformation of fibers to the in-plane dimensional change of the network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper's primary motivation is to present a globally predefined-time sliding mode control (PtSMC) strategy to stabilize a class of second-order systems subjected to matched and mismatched disturbances. To achieve this, the paper proposes a new exact time disturbance observer (DOB) based on a terminal time regulator, which accurately estimates the disturbances within a prescribed time, effectively preventing the system state from escaping to infinity due to high gains and overestimation. In addition, a new predefined-time sliding mode variable with the estimation of DOB is developed to ensure a predefined-time convergence on the sliding mode phase against mismatched disturbances. The proposed DOB-based technique can alleviate the chattering resulting from the use of an overestimated gain, in contrast to the controller without employing a DOB. Furthermore, a predefined-time reaching law is introduced to guarantee a global predefined-time convergence. This paper establishes the stability of the disturbed second-order system under the proposed controller through strict Lyapunov analysis. The novelty of the proposed method lies in its global predefined-time convergence, chattering-reduced properties and robustness against matched and mismatched disturbances. Finally, numerical simulations and application examples validate the proposed methodology's effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the finite‐time stability of reaction–diffusion genetic regulatory networks with time‐varying mixed delays. These delays encompass discrete delays and distributed delays. Unlike many existing studies, this paper assumes that both types of delays are bounded and continuous, without requiring differentiability. Additionally, the analysis combines the inequality approach and comparison method, while neither a Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional is constructed nor the finite‐time stability theorem is involved. The finite‐time stability of the addressed networks is then ensured by several suitable algebraic criteria. Some extended results are deduced for networks without considering reaction–diffusion and distributed delays effects as special cases. Finally, the validness of the derived results is proved by numerical simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metaphors that compare the computer to a human brain are common in computer science and can be traced back to a fertile period of research that unfolded after the Second World War. To conceptualize the emerging "intelligent" properties of computing machines, researchers of the era created a series of virtual objects that served as interpretive devices for representing the immaterial functions of the computer. This paper analyses the use of the terms "artificial" and "virtual" in scientific papers, textbooks, and popular articles of the time, and examines how, together, they shaped models in computer science used to conceptualize computer processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate various stabilisation problems of a hybrid system of elasticity, consisting of a thin tape, which moves axially between two sets of rollers. We present a control solution, which works simultaneously, for three variants of the tape model. In particular, we design boundary feedback control laws via Lyapunov's second method. The resulting closed-loop system for the general case is then analysed, where we prove the existence and uniqueness of solution using the semigroup theory of linear operators; furthermore, we prove the exponential decay of the solution via a frequency domain theorem. The stabilisation of the two other special cases is derived implicitly from the general case proofs presented in the paper. Finally, the paper is concluded by presenting computer simulations to support the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A complex dynamical network (CDN) can be considered as the composition system with the nodes subsystem (NS) and the links subsystem (LS), and both subsystems are coupled with each other. In this paper, two vector differential equations (VDE) are used to describe the dynamical behaviours of NS and LS, respectively, in which the dynamical behaviour of NS is considered as the VDE with the second derivative term (SDT). This paper mainly focuses on the dynamics of LS, which is represented as VDE with the intuitive topologic feature of outgoing links, and investigates the design of the tracking controller for NS and the auxiliary tracking objectives (ATO) for LS. Firstly, the dynamical models of NS and LS in CDN are proposed, and the corresponding assumptions are given. Secondly, based on Lyapunov stability theory, the controller of NS and the ATO of LS are designed so that the state of NS can asymptotically track the given reference signal. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy in this paper is verified by the numerical simulation example with N two-links robots. Abbreviations: ATO: auxiliary tracking objectives; CDN: complex dynamical network; LS: links subsystem; MDE: matrix differential equation; NS: nodes subsystem; SDT:second derivative term; VDE: vector differential equation; [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several real-life problems that involve a time delay are modeled using fractional time-delay systems. However, most studies related to these systems assume that the delay is already known, which is not the case in practical scenarios where the delay is often uncertain or unknown. To address this issue, this paper proposes an algebraic and robust method to estimate the input delay for a class of fractional time-delay systems in a noisy environment, by applying a cross-convolution approach. Besides, a filtering methodology is incorporated with the proposed approach to enhance its efficacy. In addition, this paper presents novel theories on convolution in the field of fractional calculus. Finally, the performance of the proposed approach is demonstrated by numerical simulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a previous paper (Feng et al., J. Differential Equations (2023)), we studied a seasonally interactive model between closed seasons and open seasons with Michaelis-Menten type harvesting, in which we assumed that the harvesting quantity was relatively large (0 < κ = l G c E < 1) and obtained a length threshold of the closed season T ¯ ⁎ depending on the harvesting parameter and the seasonal fluctuation period. It was shown that the origin is globally asymptotically stable if and only if T ¯ ≤ T ¯ ⁎ , and there exists a unique globally asymptotically stable T -periodic solution if and only if T ¯ > T ¯ ⁎. In this paper, we continue to investigate the periodic dynamics of this model when the harvesting quantity is relatively small (κ = l G c E ≥ 1). By finding another smaller length threshold T ¯ ⁎ ∈ (0 , T ¯ ⁎) , we determine the number of periodic solutions and study their stability, which imply the occurrence of bifurcation of periodic solutions. Our results demonstrate that designing the closed harvesting season properly can prevent the species from extinction. Moreover, by comparing with the continuous harvesting model and combining the results in our previous paper and this article, we provide a complete understanding on the global dynamics for the periodic switching model. Some numerical simulations are also carried out to illustrate the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The planetary-type vibration exciters are relatively novel and prospective types of actuators for various vibratory technological equipment. Numerous research papers substantiated the possibilities of implementing such exciters for generating circular, elliptical, and rectilinear oscillations of the working members of different technological machines. The present research continues the authors’ previous investigations dedicated to kinematics and dynamics of planetarytype vibration exciters and is focused on the analysis of forces, moments, and torques acting upon the elements of the corresponding actuating mechanisms. The research methodology contains the development of the simplified dynamic diagrams of two different designs of planetary-type mechanisms, derivation of the analytical expressions describing force parameters of the considered mechanical systems, performing the mathematical modeling and computer simulation of the mechanism motion in order to analyze the corresponding forces, moments, and torques. The obtained results present the time dependencies of the mentioned force parameters under different operational conditions and design parameters of the planetary-type mechanism. The major scientific novelty of the paper consists in defining the minimal required torque of the motor needed to be applied for driving the mechanism at different conditions. The research outcomes can be effectively used by engineers while developing new and improving existent vibratory technological machines equipped with the considered planetary-type vibration exciter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the process of long-term water flooding in the Gaoqian Southern Area with an average porosity of 30% and an average permeability of 1333.5 × 10 − 3 μm2, the fluid-solid interaction among oil, water, and rock has a great influence on the pore structure. It has resulted in changes in reservoir parameters with the extension of time. This paper used electron microscopy scanning, mercury injection, X-ray diffraction, physical properties, and oil-water relative permeability curves to study the variation of clay mineral content, pore throat structure, porosity, permeability, and relative permeability curves of high-permeability sandstone after high-pressure water flooding. The results showed that clay minerals such as montmorillonite and kaolinite were dissolved, hydrated, and migrated after long-term water flooding, which resulted in the decrease of clay mineral content in fine sandstone and medium sandstone, the increase of pore throat radius, and the decrease of displacement pressure, median pressure, and separation coefficient. The saturation of the isotonic point of the oil-water relative permeability curve was obviously shifted to the right, the hydrophilicity was significantly enhanced, and the porosity and permeability were effectively improved, but there was a blockage of the throat less than 2 μm in the fine sandstone. In addition, this paper established the equations of water injection, permeability, irreducible water saturation, residual oil saturation, and oil-water relative permeability curve coefficient and establishes the initial permeability model with the well data before water flooding. The logging interpretation results of development wells in the process of water flooding as verification data were used, and the relative error of permeability far lower than the general requirement of permeability error within an order of magnitude was less than 30%, which verified the rationality of the method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The potential of learning analytics dashboards in virtual reality simulation‐based training environments to influence occupational self‐efficacy via self‐reflection phase processes in the Chemical industry is still not fully understood. Learning analytics dashboards provide feedback on learner performance and offer points of comparison (i.e., comparison with one's own past performance or comparison with peer performance) to help learners make sense of their feedback. Objectives: We present a theoretical framework for describing learning analytics reference frames and investigate the impact of feedback delivered through dashboards with different reference frames on occupational self‐efficacy, while controlling for workplace self‐reflection. Methods: This experimental study engaged 42 chemical operator employees, aged between 18 and 55 years, each with at least one year of experience. We utilised a two‐group design to ask two research question each with three competing hypotheses related to changes in occupational self‐efficacy, employing Bayesian informative hypothesis evaluation. Results and Conclusions: Results for the primary research question suggest that dashboards with progress reference frames do not elicit greater change to self‐efficacy than those with social reference frames, however, they may elicit equal change. Furthermore, dashboards with social reference frames may elicit greater change to self‐efficacy than those with progress reference frames. Exploratory results found that dashboards with progress reference frames may elicit greater positive directional change than those with social reference frames and that they may elicit equal directional change. These findings contribute to the understanding of self‐efficacy beliefs within the Chemical industry, with potential impacts on skill development. The research may inform the design of targeted interventions and training programs to influence self‐efficacy. From a practical perspective, this research suggests that careful consideration is needed when choosing reference frames in learning analytics dashboards due to their potential consequences on the formation of learner self‐efficacy. Lay Description: What is already known about this topic?: Learning analytics dashboards often aim to stimulate self‐regulated learning by providing feedback.Feedback plays a crucial role in simulation‐based learning and learning analytics dashboards can be a valuable tool to deliver feedback and facilitate the learning process by providing learners with insights into their performance and progress.Previous research has highlighted the importance of reference frames as critical design features of learning analytics dashboards, as they assist learners in making sense of learning analytics feedback.Self‐efficacy is a powerful determine factor of workplace performance and is influenced by mastery experiences and social modelling information. What the paper adds?: A theoretical framework describes the mediating role self‐reflection phase processes of the self‐regulated learning cycle plays in the formation of occupational self‐efficacy.This paper introduces the concept of three learning analytics reference frame components which include the performance outcome component, point of comparison component and score delta component.The paper indicates that learning analytics dashboards designed with a progress reference frame does not elicit greater change to occupational self‐efficacy than the social reference frame.Exploratory results suggest dashboards with progress reference frames might produce greater positive directional change compared to social reference frames or elicit equal change. Implications for practice?: Learning analytics system designers who use reference frames to help learners make sense of their feedback should carefully consider which reference frames they use as these decisions likely have consequences on the formation of learner self‐efficacy beliefs.For LAD designers and stakeholders, recognising the absolute change and directional shift in self‐efficacy is crucial, as LAD designs significantly influence these dynamics and guide the tailoring of effective tools.In industries like the chemical sector, where overconfidence can result in severe consequences, understanding the nuance of self‐efficacy changes is especially pertinent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims at proposing a calculation model to deal with the face stability of shield tunnels in unsaturated soil. Based on the existing results of centrifugal test and numerical simulation, a new failure mechanism is proposed, which combines the logarithmic spiral with upper loosening arch mechanisms. The failure mechanism considers the influence of the soil arching effect and the logarithmic spiral height coefficient. Formulas for calculating the loosening earth pressure of unsaturated soil are deduced. Subsequently, this model of loosening earth pressure is introduced into an analytical model to compute the limit support pressure on the tunnel face. Compared with other height coefficients and the degree of soil arching effect, when the height coefficient is 0.95 and the degree of soil arching effect is 10%–30%, the limit support pressure proposed in this paper is in good agreement with the centrifugal test results. Finally, comparisons are performed with the proposed model and classical models as well as typical centrifuge model tests. The comparative analysis shows that the proposed theoretical model is in good agreement with the numerical simulation. The outline of the failure zone by the theoretical model in this paper is in good agreement with the centrifuge results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new delayed fractional-order model including susceptible migratory birds, infected migratory birds and predators is proposed to discuss the spread of diseases among migratory birds. Fear of predators is considered in the model, as fear can reduce the reproduction rate and disease transmission rate among prey. First, some basic mathematical results of the proposed model are discussed. Then, time delay is regarded as a bifurcation parameter, and the delay-induced bifurcation conditions for such an uncontrolled system are established. A novel periodic pulse feedback controller is proposed to suppress the bifurcation phenomenon. It is found that the control scheme can successfully suppress the bifurcation behavior of the system, and the pulse width can be arbitrarily selected on the premise of ensuring the control effect. Compared with the traditional time-delay feedback controller, the control scheme proposed in this paper has more advantages in practical application, which not only embodies the advantages of low control cost and easy operation but also caters to the periodic changes of the environment. The proposed control scheme, in particular, remains effective even after the system has been disrupted by a constant. Numerical simulation verifies the correctness of the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Although paper-based analysis is known for centuries, only during the last decade this simple substrate became an object of detailed microfluidic studies. In order to obtain optimum performance and separation of the analytes in a microfluidic channel, devices should be optimized, both in terms of architecture and paper properties. Enzyme immobilization methods can not only increase the storage stability but also have an impact on the flow in paper matrix, providing additional charges, and changing the porous structure of paper. Therefore it should be guaranteed that the method of choice will not obstruct the flux in the final device. Paper-based device proposed in this study was composed of a bioactive channel, Pt working electrode, pencil drawn pseudo-reference electrode, a buffer filled sponge providing the wicking solution and a stack of wicking pads to guarantee continuous flow. Based on our previous research we chose 4 methods of enzyme immobilization relying on different phenomena (adsorption, covalent linkage, layer-by-layer, capsules). Different channel architectures were also evaluated in order to achieve optimum time of the enzymatic reaction, separation of peaks and the time of measurement. Experimental results were compared with computer simulations. Final device could quantify glucose (2.0-10.0 mmol L−1) and uric acid (0.1-1.2 mmol L−1) in their clinical range with good repeatability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The axial deployment force is an indispensable parameter of a lanyard-deployed coilable mast, which reflects its load capacity in practical applications. However, research on the axial deployment force in the literature is very limited, and there are no mature numerical methods to determine this parameter in the design stage of coilable masts. In this paper, a numerical method for determining the axial deployment force of a lanyard-deployed coilable mast in the local coil mode is presented. Through this method, the designer can quickly obtain the estimated value of the axial deployment force in the design stage, which is convenient for the quantitative design of parameters. To verify the correctness of the proposed method, a dynamic simulation of the coilable mast is carried out, and a microgravity test is performed. The comparison results show that the error between the numerical method and the simulation and experimental results is less than 5%, which proves the correctness of the proposed method. In addition, the coilable mast studied in this paper has been verified by an actual microsatellite deployment in orbit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Channel coding technology plays an important role in wireless communication systems, and it serves as a crucial mechanism to reduce interference during the transmission process. As the fifth-generation (5G) and sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication systems rapidly advance, requirements of the users on the quality and security of wireless service are increasing. To solve these problems, it calls for us to explore the new channel coding technologies. In this paper, a linear feedback coding scheme for fading multiple-access channels with degraded message sets (FMAC-DMS) is proposed. In this scheme, the transmitting beamforming and channel splitting are used to transform the channel with complex signals into scalar equivalent sub-channels. Then, the extended Schalkwijk-Kailath coding scheme (SK) is further applied to each sub-channel. The channel capacity, finite blocklength (FBL) sum-rate and FBL secrecy achievable sum-rate of the FMAC-DMS in single-input single-output (SISO) and multi-input single-output (MISO) cases are derived. Finally, we show that the proposed scheme not only provides a FBL coding solution but also guarantees physical layer security(PLS). The numerical and simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed scheme as a channel coding solution. The study of this paper provides a new method to construct a practical FBL scheme for the FMAC-DMS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mobile manipulator robots that combine mobile platforms and robotic arms have been attracting considerable attention in recent years. In this paper, the motion control problem of the mobile manipulator system is considered with the following proposed control strategy. Firstly, a decoupled dynamic model is created to increase operation safety and to reduce complexity such that the independent controllers can be designed for the mobile system and the manipulator system. Subsequently, an effective reference trajectory generator is proposed to guide the mobile manipulator systems to the proper position for the manipulation being able to grip the target. Thereafter, the fuzzy controllers are designed for the mobile system to eliminate the tracking error and for the manipulator system to accomplish the gripping mission. The stability of the mobile manipulator control system can be guaranteed by the Lyapunov theory. Finally, the numerical simulations are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach. From the simulation results, it can be seen that this paper as well as other compared methods have good control response in case of small controller gain, in which the convergence time are about 4–5 s. However, by increasing the controller gain to improve the control response, the other methods will make the system unstable or the controller output will produce a large amount of chattering. The proposed controller in this paper can not only decrease the convergence time, from 5 to 3 s, but also provide a smooth control response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we consider the problem of accelerating the numerical simulation of time dependent problems involving a multi-step time scheme by the parareal algorithm. The parareal method is based on combining predictions made by a coarse and cheap propagator, with corrections computed with two propagators: the previous coarse and a precise and expensive one used in a parallel way over the time windows. A multi-step time scheme can potentially bring higher approximation orders than plain one-step methods but the initialisation of each time window needs to be appropriately chosen. Our main contribution is the design and analysis of an algorithm adapted to this type of discretisation without being too much intrusive in the coarse or fine propagators. At convergence, the parareal algorithm provides a solution that coincides with the solution of the fine solver. In the classical version of parareal, the local initial condition of each time window is corrected at every iteration. When the fine and/or coarse propagators is a multi-step time scheme, we need to choose a consistent approximation of the solutions involved in the initialisation of the fine solver at each time windows. Otherwise, the initialisation error will prevent the parareal algorithm to converge towards the solution with fine solver's accuracy. In this paper, we develop a variant of the algorithm that overcome this obstacle. Thanks to this, the parareal algorithm is more coherent with the underlying time scheme and we recover the properties of the original version. We show both theoretically and numerically that the accuracy and convergence of the multi-step variant of parareal algorithm are preserved when we choose carefully the initialisation of each time window. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of explosives to target civilian buildings and other structures around the world is becoming a growing problem in modern societies. This paper focuses on RC beams exposed to free air blast loads. The paper first presents a parametric study on the behavior of RC beams subjected to blast loads using finite element simulation and then proposes an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model to predict that behavior in a simple and easy manner. The ABAQUS program is used to simulate RC beams under blast loads. Experimental data was collected from the literature and used to validate the ABAQUS models. Deflection, reaction forces, ultimate stress, ultimate strain, and failure mode of RC beams are investigated. The considered design parameters in the parametric study are the characteristic compressive strength of concrete (fcu), the transverse reinforcement ratio (ρT%), the longitudinal reinforcement ratio (ρL%), and the scaled distance (Z). In this paper, the proposed ANN model was trained and tested using datasets produced using ABAQUS. The input parameters of the ANN model are TNT weight, standoff distance (D), characteristic compressive strength of concrete, transverse reinforcement ratio, longitudinal reinforcement ratio, width-to-thickness ratio (b/t), and length-to-thickness ratio (L/t). The predicted behavior using the ANN model showed the credibility of the model. The results indicated that L/t, b/t, and Z have significant effects on the behavior of RC beams under blast loads compared with fcu, ρT%, and ρL%, the cracks area increases with the decrease in Z, fcu, and b/t and decreases with L/t decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This paper presents a novel approach to produce virtual contrast enhanced (VCE) images for nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) without the use of contrast agents, which carry certain risks. This model uses pixelwise gradient term to capture the shape and a GAN terms to capture the texture of the real contrast enhanced T1C images With similar accuracy to existing models, our method shows an advantage in reproducing texture closer to the realistic contrast-enhanced images. This results are tested by various measures, including mean absolute error (MAE), mean square error (MSE) and structural similarity index (SSIM) for similarity accuracy; total mean square variation per mean intensity (TMSVPMI), the total absolute vari-ation per mean intensity (TAVPMI), Tenengrad function per mean intensity (TFPMI) and variance function per mean intensity (VFPMI) Various variations of the model, including fine-tuning of the hyperparameters, normalization methods on the images and using single modality, have also been investigated to test the optimal performance. Background: The development of advanced computational models for medical imaging is crucial for improving diagnostic accuracy in healthcare. This paper introduces a novel approach for virtual contrast enhancement (VCE) in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particularly focusing on nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC). Methods: The proposed model, Pixelwise Gradient Model with GAN for Virtual Contrast Enhancement (PGMGVCE), makes use of pixelwise gradient methods with Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) to enhance T1-weighted (T1-w) and T2-weighted (T2-w) MRI images. This approach combines the benefits of both modalities to simulate the effects of gadolinium-based contrast agents, thereby reducing associated risks. Various modifications of PGMGVCE, including changing hyperparameters, using normalization methods (z-score, Sigmoid and Tanh) and training the model with T1-w or T2-w images only, were tested to optimize the model's performance. Results: PGMGVCE demonstrated a similar accuracy to the existing model in terms of mean absolute error (MAE) (8.56 ± 0.45 for Li's model; 8.72 ± 0.48 for PGMGVCE), mean square error (MSE) (12.43 ± 0.67 for Li's model; 12.81 ± 0.73 for PGMGVCE) and structural similarity index (SSIM) (0.71 ± 0.08 for Li's model; 0.73 ± 0.12 for PGMGVCE). However, it showed improvements in texture representation, as indicated by total mean square variation per mean intensity (TMSVPMI) (0.124 ± 0.022 for ground truth; 0.079 ± 0.024 for Li's model; 0.120 ± 0.027 for PGMGVCE), total absolute variation per mean intensity (TAVPMI) (0.159 ± 0.031 for ground truth; 0.100 ± 0.032 for Li's model; 0.153 ± 0.029 for PGMGVCE), Tenengrad function per mean intensity (TFPMI) (1.222 ± 0.241 for ground truth; 0.981 ± 0.213 for Li's model; 1.194 ± 0.223 for PGMGVCE) and variance function per mean intensity (VFPMI) (0.0811 ± 0.005 for ground truth; 0.0667   ± 0.006 for Li's model; 0.0761   ± 0.006 for PGMGVCE). Conclusions: PGMGVCE presents an innovative and safe approach to VCE in MRI, demonstrating the power of deep learning in enhancing medical imaging. This model paves the way for more accurate and risk-free diagnostic tools in medical imaging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bone lacunar-canalicular system (LCS) is a unique complex 3D microscopic tubular network structure within the osteon that contains interstitial fluid flow to ensure the efficient transport of signaling molecules, nutrients, and wastes to guarantee the normal physiological activities of bone tissue. The mass transfer laws in the LCS under microgravity and hypergravity are still unclear. In this paper, a multi-scale 3D osteon model was established to mimic the cortical osteon, and a finite element method was used to numerically analyze the mass transfer in the LCS under hypergravity, normal gravity and microgravity and combined with high-intensity exercise conditions. It was shown that hypergravity promoted mass transfer in the LCS to the deep lacunae, and the number of particles in lacunae increased more significantly from normal gravity to hypergravity the further away from the Haversian canal. The microgravity environment inhibited particles transport in the LCS to deep lacunae. Under normal gravity and microgravity, the number of particles in lacunae increased greatly when doing high-intensity exercise compared to stationary standing. This paper presents the first simulation of mass transfer within the LCS with different gravity fields combined with high-intensity exercise using the finite element method. The research suggested that hypergravity can greatly promote mass transfer in the LCS to deep lacunae, and microgravity strongly inhibited this mass transfer; high-intensity exercise increased the mass transfer rate in the LCS. This study provided a new strategy to combat and treat microgravity-induced osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the qualitative behaviors of an important four-dimensional Lorenz system with wild pseudohyperbolic attractor that proposed in (Gonchenko et al 2021 Nonlinearity 34 2018–47) are considered. Here, we prove that the four-dimensional Lorenz system with varying parameters is global bounded according to Lyapunov's direct method. Furthermore, we provide a collection of global absorbing sets, where in addition we obtain the rate of the trajectories going from the exterior to the global absorbing set. In particular, we solve the critical case k → 0 + that cannot be resolved by using the previous methods. The fundamental qualitative behaviors are analyzed theoretically and numerically. We present bifurcation diagrams to further explore the complicated dynamical behaviors of this system. The period-doubling bifurcation phenomenon is found. To illustrate the efficiency of our method, we present numerical simulations to show the validity of our research results. Finally, we present some applications of our research results in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the seven equivalent conditions of complete moment convergence and complete integral convergence for m -asymptotic negatively associated ( m -ANA, for short) random variables are established. The results obtained in the paper extend and improve some corresponding ones for negatively associated (NA, for short) random variables and negatively orthant dependent (NOD, for short) random variables. As an application of our main results, we present a result on complete consistency for the weighted estimator in a nonparametric regression model based on m-ANA errors. We perform a numerical simulation to verify the validity of the theoretical results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burden is one of the major influencing blast design parameters which should be optimised for the extraction of narrow vein ore bodies. Numerical simulation-based approach has been used for the optimisation of burden in this paper. Different models were prepared under varying parametric conditions including width of the vein, blasthole diameter and burden. The RHT concrete constitutive model was used for the analysis of damage contour. The volume of the excavated rock along the free face (EV) was quantified from the model output in all the scenario. The study showed that EV initially increases with the increase in burden for a particular width of vein. Furthermore, EV starts decreasing after a point termed as pivot point. The value of burden at this pivot point was considered as optimal in this study. The best fit curve between EV and burden for three blasthole diameter and seven different width of vein were plotted. In all instances, the outputs of the model followed the second-degree polynomial equation. The study also suggests that the optimum burden reduces with the increase in the width of the vein. It has also been found that the optimum burden follows power trend with the increase in width of the ore body irrespective of blasthole diameter. Based on the optimum burden obtained from the output of simulation along with different blasthole diameter and width of the ore body, an empirical relationship has been established. The developed empirical relationship has a good agreement with the experimental trial data. Highlights: Numerical simulation technique has been used in this paper for the optimisation of burden while extraction of narrow vein stopes. The study suggest that the relation of volume of the excavated rock along the free face and burden is second-degree polynomial in nature. It has been found that the optimum burden for narrow vein is higher as compared to wider width ore body. Study also suggest that optimum burden follows power trend with the increase in width of ore body. The influence of width of the ore body in the selection of burden vanishes after certain width of ore body as per the observation of model output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to investigate the effect of frictional heat on the wear of high-speed rotary lip seals in engines. Design/methodology/approach: In this research paper, the authors focus on the high-speed rotating lip seal of aircraft engines. Using the hybrid lubrication theory, a thermal-fluid-solid coupled numerical simulation model is established to investigate the influence of parameters such as contact pressure distribution, temperature rise and leakage rate on the sealing performance under different operating conditions. By incorporating the Rhee wear theory and combining simulation results with experimental data, a method for predicting the wear of the rotating seal lip profile is proposed. Experimental validation is conducted using a high-speed rotating test rig. Findings: The results indicate that as the speed increases, the rise in frictional heat leads to a decrease in the sealing performance of the lip seal contact region. The experimental results show a similar trend to the numerical simulation results, and considering the effect of frictional heat, the predicted wear of the lip seal profile aligns more closely with the actual wear curve. This highlights the importance of considering the influence of frictional heat in the analysis of rotating seal mechanisms. Originality/value: This study provides a reference for the prediction of wear profiles of engine high-speed rotary lip seals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]