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Aim: We studied the legacy effects of shrubs during the downgrade phase of high-cover patches. Specifically, are woody species able to modify environmental attributes at patch level to such an extent as to alter the colonization once they have vacated their original position? Methods: We monitored five environmental variables along an experimental four-stage downgrading gradient of high-cover patches during two years in cold- and warm-seasons, individual plant growth during three years, as well as the floristic composition of patches along the same gradient after 13 years. Results: The downgrade of high-cover patches reduces the aboveground protection due to the increase in wind speed (400-500%) and evaporation rate (43-160%) associated with shrub death and senescence. In addition, high-cover patches increase the total soil nitrogen (400-600%) and reduce the infiltration rate (44-73%) on the top layer. Leaf length and flower culms of grass tussocks were lower in bare soil patches (7.5 cm and 3) compared to whatever degradation stage of high-cover patches (9-10 cm and 18-32). Floristic composition after 13 years reveals that grass species occupied the patch stages differentially, with a disjunctive pattern among species within the Poa and Pappostipa genus. Conclusions: Legacy effects prompted by shrubs through changes in soil properties at the horizontal plane can conditioned the patch dynamics. The ability of different plant species to cope with the spatial heterogeneity at the horizontal plane should be included as a new criterion to define plant strategies from arid ecosystems according to the gap-phase dynamics and mosaic maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Analysis of ex vivo Per2 bioluminescent rhythm previously recorded in the mouse dorsal vagal complex reveals a characteristic phase relationship between three distinct circadian oscillators. These signals represent core clock gene expression in the area postrema (AP), the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and the ependymal cells surrounding the 4th ventricle (4Vep). Initially, the data suggests a consistent phasing in which the AP peaks first, followed shortly by the NTS, with the 4Vep peaking 8–9 h later. Wavelet analysis reveals that this pattern is not consistently maintained throughout a recording, however, the phase dynamics strongly imply that oscillator interactions are present. A simple phase model of the three oscillators is developed and it suggests that realistic phase dynamics occur between three model oscillators with coupling close to a synchronisation transition. The coupling topology suggests that the AP bidirectionally communicates phase information to the NTS and the 4Vep to synchronise the three structures. A comparison of the model with previous experimental manipulations demonstrates its feasibility to explain DVC circadian phasing. Finally, we show that simulating steadily decaying coupling improves the model's ability to capture experimental phase dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two parallel stacks of coupled Josephson junctions (JJs) are investigated to clarify the physics of transitions between the rotating and oscillating states and their effect on the IV-characteristics of the system. The detailed study of phase dynamics and bias dependence of the superconducting and diffusion currents allows one to explain all features of simulated IV-characteristics and demonstrate the correspondence in their behavior. The coupling between JJ in the stacks leads to the branching of IV-characteristics and a decrease in the hysteretic region. The crucial role of the diffusion current in the formation of the IV-characteristic of the parallel stacks of coupled JJs is demonstrated. We discuss the effect of symmetry in a number of junctions in the stacks and show a decrease of the branching in the symmetrical stacks. The observed effects might be useful for development of superconducting electronic devices based on intrinsic JJs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper studies the effects of distributed-delay coupling on the dynamics in a system of non-identical coupled Stuart-Landau oscillators. For uniform and gamma delay distribution kernels, the conditions for amplitude death are obtained in terms of average frequency, frequency detuning and the parameters of the coupling, including coupling strength and phase, as well as the mean time delay and the width of the delay distribution. To gain further insights into the dynamics inside amplitude death regions, the eigenvalues of the corresponding characteristic equations are computed numerically. Oscillatory dynamics of the system is also investigated, using amplitude and phase representation. Various branches of phase-locked solutions are identified, and their stability is analysed for different types of delay distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional infrared (2D-IR) spectroscopy is used to measure the spectral dynamics of the metal carbonyl complex cyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (CMT) in a series of linear alkyl nitriles. 2D-IR spectroscopy provides direct readout of solvation dynamics through spectral diffusion, probing the decay of frequency correlation induced by fluctuations of the solvent environment. 2D-IR simultaneously monitors intramolecular vibrational energy redistribution (IVR) among excited vibrations, which can also be influenced by the solvent through the spectral density rather than the dynamical friction underlying solvation. Here, we report that the CMT vibrational probe reveals solvent dependences in both the spectral diffusion and the IVR time scales, where each slows with increased alkyl chain length. In order to assess the degree to which solute–solvent interactions can be correlated with bulk solvent properties, we compared our results with low-frequency dynamics obtained from optical Kerr effect (OKE) spectroscopy—performed by others—on the same nitrile solvent series. We find excellent correlation between our spectral diffusion results and the orientational dynamics time scales from OKE. We also find a correlation between our IVR time scales and the amplitudes of the low-frequency spectral densities evaluated at the 90-cm−1 energy difference, corresponding to the gap between the two strong vibrational modes of the carbonyl probe. 2D-IR and OKE provide complementary perspectives on condensed phase dynamics, and these findings provide experimental evidence that at least at the level of dynamical correlations, some aspects of a solute vibrational dynamics can be inferred from properties of the solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A chemical kinetics model was developed to characterise the gas‐phase dynamics of H2 production in nanosecond‐pulsed CH4 plasmas. Pulsed behaviour was observed in the calculated electric field, electron temperature and species densities at all pressures. The model agrees reasonably with experimental results, showing CH4 conversion at 30% and C2H2 and H2 as major products. The underlying mechanisms in CH4 dissociation and H2 formation were analysed, highlighting the large contribution of vibrationally excited CH4 and H2 to coupling energy from the plasma into gas‐phase heating, and revealing that H2 synthesis is not affected by applied pressure, with selectivity remaining unchanged at ~42% in the 1–5 bar range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eastward propagation of atmospheric waves along the equatorial band from the central equatorial Indian Ocean to the western Pacific Ocean passing through the Indonesian Maritime Continent (IMC), known as the intraseasonal Madden Julian Oscillation (MJO) event, plays an important role on modulating both atmospheric and upper ocean dynamics along its path. This study aims to investigate the MJO active phase dynamics and its impact on changes in near-surface seawater temperature and mixed layer depth (MLD) anomaly in the Banda Sea Indonesia, using multi-datasets of atmospheric reanalysis, satellites derived sea surface temperature (SST), and Argo float between 2017 - 2018. This study revealed that the MJO waves propagate eastward along the southern equator-line over the IMC and pass through the Banda Sea, associated with significant decreased on Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) and increased in zonal wind speed at 850hPa. The study result shows anomalous increased on surface wind speed and SST cooling during of MJO active phase. The amplitude peaks of filtered ocean-atmosphere variables range between 30 - 60 days. Argo float datasets in the Banda Sea for the first time captured upper ocean responses to the arrival of the MJO active phase, as characterized by a negative temperature anomaly of ~0.3°C in the surface mixed layer, large temperature anomaly of ~0.8°C in the thermocline layer and the deepening of the MLD of ~25 m. Hence, the MJO active phase impacts significantly on surface and vertical temperature cooling and regulate upper ocean mixing intensity in the Banda Sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper portrays the solution-phase dynamics as copper(II) and ethylenediamine explore a multitude of different complexes. The data from five spectrophotometric titrations were globally analysed, evidencing four predominant species ([Cu]2+, [Cu(en-N,N')]2+, [Cu(en-N,N')2]2+, [Cu(en-N)4]2+) along with their molar absorptivity curves and associative binding constants. The data also seem to support a fifth species, [Cu2(µ-en-N,N')]4+, in which ethylenediamine bridges two Cu(II) centres. The thermodynamic stability of all five species is corroborated by ab initio computational calculations. The potential existence of [Cu(en-N)4]2+ highlights the suprachelate effect – going beyond the chelate effect – where multidenticity is overtaken by monodenticity. Such dangling multidentate ligands are available to bind to additional metal centres and thus build towards self-assembling supramolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanical structures of the rapier loom are strongly coupled, resulting in faults that are characterized by strong coupling, hierarchy, phase dynamics, and a transient nature. However, current fault diagnosis methods using a single approach are not satisfactory. Additionally, fault diagnosis of the entire operation cycle of the rapier loom equipment is lacking. This paper proposes a fault tree diagnosis method with probabilistic neural network optimization to build a complete fault diagnosis system for rapier looms and improve their intelligent diagnosis capability. The method has strong fault tolerance and self-adaptive capability, allowing for accurate location of the root cause of the fault from multiple fault sources. By accumulating fault samples and continuously improving the diagnosis network, the accuracy of diagnosis can be further enhanced. Initially, the failure mechanism of key subsystems of rapier loom is analyzed. A fault tree model is established for each subsystem based on expert experience and historical data. The model identifies the characteristic sign quantities of typical fault types and serves as the basic input for fault identification. A probabilistic neural network is used to train the fault sample set and complete the diagnosis of the cause of the fault. According to field experiments, the proposed method has demonstrated a significant improvement in the efficiency of locating and identifying fault signs in rapier looms. This improvement allows for accurate and quick identification of faults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pseudopotential models are very convenient, flexible and robust for practical purposes of two-phase dynamics, but the presence of spurious velocities is inevitable due to the limited discretization of gradient terms, and large amount of intermolecular forces at the interface of liquid and gas phases. The existence of such velocities, in addition to creating counterfeit flows, causes errors in obtaining the temperature field and solving the energy equation. Here, two models (Li (Phys Rev 89(5):053022, 2014) and Kupershtokh (Phys Rev E 98(2):023308, 2018)) are examined to show their capability in weakening and reducing the temperature parasites arising from the spurious velocities. Results are presented for a stationary droplet, which show the good performance of the exact difference method in reducing the parasitic temperatures. Also, the Marangoni phenomenon is simulated to validate the solution of the temperature field in the two-phase flow, which expresses the movement of droplet caused by the surface tension gradient. For more complicated problem, the Rayleigh–Bénard convection is simulated and effects of density ratio, Rayleigh number, and contact angle on the average wall Nusselt number and the average temperature of the droplet and vapor phases are investigated. The results of this work show the capability of the improved passive scalar method in simulating the two-phase heat transfer problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafast phase dynamics of free-induction decay for carriers in bulk GaAs is studied with differential-phase spectroscopy. The instantaneous phase shifts of the free-induction decay with respect to the excitation pulses are extracted from simultaneously recorded laser pulse autocorrelation and free-induction decay in GaAs. Ultrafast phase dynamics during and immediately after the femtosecond pulse excitation are numerically evaluated with optical Bloch equations using pump pulse and semiconductor exciton parameters as input. Good agreement of the theory with experiment is obtained. © 1998 American Institute of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Earth's inner core (IC) is known to exhibit heterogeneous structures with their origins still unknown. From the onset of nucleation, the IC can grow via sedimentation and compaction of iron crystals freezing out from the fluid outer core. Previous studies of IC growth have shown entrapment of fluid within the solid matrix, and unstable density profiles in 1D can appear depending on the efficiency of fluid percolation. In this study, we perform simulations of IC growth in spherical geometries (assuming axisymmetry). We find that it is possible for the IC to develop large‐scale convective flows under certain conditions and, in some instances, produce small‐scale heterogeneites close to the IC boundary. Assuming representative values for the physical properties of the Earth's IC, we show that it is possible for the IC to exhibit compaction‐driven convection today. Plain Language Summary: The Earth's inner core is a solid body composed primarily of an iron‐nickel alloy, formed from crystallization of the fluid outer core over time. Seismologists studying its structure have found some peculiarities such as elastic properties that depend on direction, but figuring out the cause of these peculiarities have been challenging. One theory is the presence of fluids trapped within the solid body of the inner core during its growth, giving rise to its anomalous structure and seismic velocities. In this study, we model the growth of the inner core in 3D spherical geometry (assuming cylindrical symmetry) to investigate the distribution of fluids in the interior. We observe that under certain conditions, instabilities can develop across different scales in the interior which redistribute the fluids within. Taking certain representative values of the properties of the Earth's core, it is possible that instabilities are present in the inner core today. Key Points: For the first time we simulate inner core growth via compaction and melt migration in spherical geometry (assuming axisymmetry)The inner core can develop convective flows under certain parameter ranges to create internal structural heterogeneitiesAssuming values of relevant physical parameters, the Earth's inner core can be expected to exhibit compaction‐driven convection today [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The melting of an ultrathin lubricant film is studied at friction between atomically flat surfaces. We take into account fluctuations of lubricant temperature, which are defined by the Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process. Phase diagrams and portraits are calculated for second- and first-order transitions (the melting of an amorphous and that of a crystalline lubricants, respectively). It is shown that, in the former case, a stick-slip friction domain, separating the regions of dry and sliding friction, appears. In the latter case, three domains of stick-slip friction arise, which are characterized by the transitions between dry, metastable and stable sliding friction. The increase in the correlation time of lubricant temperature fluctuations leads to increasing in the rubbing-surface temperature needed for realization of sliding friction. The stationary states, corresponding to dry, stable and metastable sliding friction, are reached as a result of damped oscillations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Modeling and interpreting (partial) synchronous neural activity can be a challenge. We illustrate this by deriving the phase dynamics of two seminal neural mass models: the Wilson-Cowan firing rate model and the voltage-based Freeman model. We established that the phase dynamics of these models differed qualitatively due to an attractive coupling in the first and a repulsive coupling in the latter. Using empirical structural connectivity matrices, we determined that the two dynamics cover the functional connectivity observed in resting state activity. We further searched for two pivotal dynamical features that have been reported in many experimental studies: (1) a partial phase synchrony with a possibility of a transition towards either a desynchronized or a (fully) synchronized state; (2) long-term autocorrelations indicative of a scale-free temporal dynamics of phase synchronization. Only the Freeman phase model exhibited scale-free behavior. Its repulsive coupling, however, let the individual phases disperse and did not allow for a transition into a synchronized state. The Wilson-Cowan phase model, by contrast, could switch into a (partially) synchronized state, but it did not generate long-term correlations although being located close to the onset of synchronization, i.e. in its critical regime. That is, the phase-reduced models can display one of the two dynamical features, but not both. Highlights • Networks of neural masses are reduced to phase oscillator models. • Freeman- and Wilson-Cowan-based phase models can resemble empirically observed functional connectivity. • Neither a network of Freeman nor of Wilson-Cowan phase models can. • Capture both partial synchronization and scale-free temporal correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes an analysis method based on the magnitude-phase dynamic theory for isolated power systems with static synchronous compensators (STATCOMs). The stability margin of an isolated power system is greatly reduced when a load is connected, due to the disadvantageous features of the self-excited induction generators (SEIGs). To analyze the control process for system stability and to grasp the dynamic characteristics in different timescales, the relationships between the active/reactive components and the phase/magnitude of the STATCOM output voltage are derived in the natural reference frame based on the magnitude/phase dynamic theory. Then STATCOM equivalent mechanical models in both the voltage time scale and the current time scale are built. The proportional coefficients and the integral coefficients of the control process are converted into damping coefficients, inertia coefficients and stiffness coefficients so that analyzing its controls, dynamic response characteristics as well as impacts on the system operations are easier. The effectiveness of the proposed analysis method is verified by simulation and experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the switching current distributions of ferromagnetic anomalous Josephson junctions subjected to a linearly increasing bias current. Our study uncovers a significant correlation between the position of the switching current distributions and crucial system parameters, such as the strength of the spin–orbit coupling and the Gilbert damping parameter. This indicates that these parameters can be directly determined through experimental measurements. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of the interplay among noise, magnetization, phase dynamics, and the statistical properties of the switching current distribution, we deepen our understanding of these intriguing cryogenic spintronics devices. These findings hold potential for applications in the field of quantum computing architectures and information processing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Southern African Customs Union is the oldest customs union in the world and the member states form a currency union with the South African Rand being the regional currency anchor. Therefore, currency movements amongst SACU member are dependent on the developments on the Rand which, in turn, can affect stock market development in the region. We examine the time-frequency relationship between exchange rates and stock market returns in SACU countries using continuous wavelet transforms. Our empirical analysis is two-staged. Firstly, we employ wavelet power spectrum to examine the time-frequency properties of the individual series. Secondly, we use wavelet coherence analysis and phase dynamics to examine the synchronization between the variables in a time-frequency space. Our findings show stronger (weaker) exchange rate-stock returns relations are found during periods of higher (lower) inflation whereas we observe a stronger (weaker) relationship during periods of lower interest rate environment. Moreover, we find more significant long-run relationships for countries with more independent monetary policy (South Africa and Botswana) whereas these relations are more prominent over the short-run for countries with pegged exchange rates (Eswatini and Namibia). We also observe that periods of oil and currency shocks impact the exchange rate-stock returns relationship in SACU countries with pegged exchange rates (Eswatini and Namibia). Our findings bear important implications for different stakeholders. For instance, this study has implications for exchange rate policy as it addresses the issue of whether the exchange rate can be used to improve market performance or exchange rate developments spillover into the stock market. Furthermore, corporate managers and stock market participants would be interested in our findings as it identifies periods of market inefficiency when exchange rates can be used to beat the stock market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neural interactions occur on different levels and scales. It is of particular importance to understand how they are distributed among different neuroanatomical and physiological relevant brain regions. We investigated neural cross-frequency couplings between different brain regions according to the Desikan–Killiany brain parcellation. The adaptive dynamic Bayesian inference method was applied to EEG measurements of healthy resting subjects in order to reconstruct the coupling functions. It was found that even after averaging over all subjects, the mean coupling function showed a characteristic waveform, confirming the direct influence of the delta-phase on the alpha-phase dynamics in certain brain regions and that the shape of the coupling function changes for different regions. While the averaged coupling function within a region was of similar form, the region-averaged coupling function was averaged out, which implies that there is a common dependence within separate regions across the subjects. It was also found that for certain regions the influence of delta on alpha oscillations is more pronounced and that oscillations that influence other are more evenly distributed across brain regions than the influenced oscillations. When presenting the information on brain lobes, it was shown that the influence of delta emanating from the brain as a whole is greatest on the alpha oscillations of the cingulate frontal lobe, and at the same time the influence of delta from the cingulate parietal brain lobe is greatest on the alpha oscillations of the whole brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a generalized Su–Schrieffer–Heeger model, the energy zero is always critical and hyperbolic in the sense that all reduced transfer matrices commute and have their spectrum off the unit circle. Disorder-driven topological phase transitions in this model are characterized by a vanishing Lyapunov exponent at the critical energy. It is shown that away from such a transition the density of states vanishes at zero energy with an explicitly computable Hölder exponent, while it has a characteristic divergence (Dyson spike) at the transition points. The proof is based on renewal theory for the Prüfer phase dynamics and the optional stopping theorem for martingales of suitably constructed comparison processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The cell division cycle is tightly regulated to ensure faithful and complete DNA replication. A critical cell cycle phase is G1 in which cells prepare DNA for replication in S phase. Interestingly, stem cells and cancer cells have both similarities and differences in their cell cycle regulatory mechanisms. In this review, we address the role of various cell cycle regulators in controlling the dynamics of G1 phase in stem cells and cancer cells. We also discuss recent advances in understanding how core pluripotency factors regulate the cell cycle and play dual roles in stem cell pluripotency and in cancers where they are aberrantly expressed. A better understanding of these common regulatory networks could offer potential new therapeutic avenues for cancer. G1 cell cycle phase dynamics are regulated by intricate networks involving cyclins, cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs), and CDK inhibitors, which control G1 progression and ensure proper cell cycle transitions. Moreover, adequate origin licensing in G1 phase, the first committed step of DNA replication in the subsequent S phase, is essential to maintain genome integrity. In this review, we highlight the intriguing parallels and disparities in G1 dynamics between stem cells and cancer cells, focusing on their regulatory mechanisms and functional outcomes. Notably, SOX2, OCT4, KLF4, and the pluripotency reprogramming facilitator c-MYC, known for their role in establishing and maintaining stem cell pluripotency, are also aberrantly expressed in certain cancer cells. In this review, we discuss recent advances in understanding the regulatory role of these pluripotency factors in G1 dynamics in the context of stem cells and cancer cells, which may offer new insights into the interconnections between pluripotency and tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivated by studies of the Greenberg-Hastings cellular automata (GHCA) as a caricature of excitable systems, in this paper we study kink-antikink dynamics in the perhaps simplest PDE model of excitable media given by the scalar reaction diffusion-type θ -equations for excitable angular phase dynamics. On the one hand, we qualitatively study geometric kink positions using the comparison principle and the theory of terraces. This yields the minimal initial distance as a global lower bound, a well-defined sequence of collision data for kinks- and antikinks, and implies that periodic pure kink sequences are asymptotically equidistant. On the other hand, we study metastable dynamics of finitely many kinks using weak interaction theory for certain analytic kink positions, which admits a rigorous reduction to ODE. By blow-up type singular rescaling we show that distances become ordered in finite time, and eventually diverge. We conclude that diffusion implies a loss of information on kink distances so that the entropic complexity based on positions and collisions in the GHCA does not simply carry over to the PDE model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The thermal behaviour, the physical ageing and the amorphous phase dynamics of polysulfone (PSU) and sulfonated polysulfone (SPSU) are characterized by thermogravimetric analysis and temperature modulated differential scanning calorimetry. The sulfonic group introduction (the sulfonation degree is 70%) in the polymer implies a drastic decrease of the thermal decomposition temperature (220 and 517°C for SPSU and PSU respectively) and a modification of calorimetric parameters (for SPSU, the heat capacity in the glassy state is lower and the glass transition temperature T g is higher than for PSU). In terms of molecular dynamics, the amorphous phase heterogeneities are greater and the cooperative rearranging region size at the glass transition temperature is smaller for SPSU than for PSU. Moreover, after a physical ageing process, the enthalpy recovery kinetic has slowed down by sulfonation. These results can be explained from the existence of sulfonic domains confining the amorphous phase domains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We study the emergent dynamics of Kuramoto oscillators under the interplay between inertia and adaptive couplings. For the phase dynamics, we use the inertial Kuramoto model with time-dependent mutual coupling strengths. For the constant and uniform coupling strength, the inertial Kuramoto model can exhibit the slow relaxation dynamics toward phase-locked state under suitable conditions on system parameters and initial data. To model the time-evolution of mutual coupling strengths, we employ two types of coupling functions, namely " Hebbian coupling " and " anti-Hebbian coupling ". With these modeling spirit, the resulting coupled dynamics for the phase and mutual coupling strength becomes the coupled second-order and first-order systems of ordinary differential equations. For the proposed coupled system, we provide several sufficient frameworks for phase and frequency synchronization in terms of system parameters and initial data for Hebbian and anti-Hebbian coupling functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase dynamics of two phase wavetrains in the coupled non-linear Schrödinger (NLS) equations are investigated as an example of the dispersion arising from singular wave action. It is shown that when the wavetrain becomes singular, there is a reduction from coupled NLS to a scalar Korteweg–de Vries (KdV) equation, and if there is a further degeneracy the scalar two-way Boussinesq emerges. This is the first such derivation of the two-way Boussinesq reduction in this setting. A novelty in the theory is that the coefficients in the resulting equations are determined from properties of the wavetrain and underlying conservation laws. This theory generalizes the reduction from a single defocussing NLS equation to the KdV equation, and introduces Boussinesq dynamics to finite amplitude states in this family. A discussion of the effect of the phase dynamics on the wavetrain solution shows that the reductions provide an insight into a mechanism for the bifurcation of periodic wavetrains to dark and bright solitary waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many pilot research and development (R&D) microgrid projects, engine-based generators are employed in their power systems, either generating electrical energy or being mixed with the heat and power technology. One of the critical tasks of such engine-based generation units is the frequency regulation in the islanded mode of modernized microgrid (MMG) operation; MMGs are microgrids equipped with advanced controls to address more emerging scenarios in smart grids. For having a stable and reliable MMG, we need to synthesize an optimal, robust, primary frequency controller for the islanded mode of MMG of the future. This task is challenging because of unknown mechanical parameters, occurrence of uncertain disturbances, uncertainty of loads, operating point variations, and the appearance of engine delays, and hence nonminimum phase dynamics. This article presents an innovative primary frequency control for the engine generators regulating the frequency of an islanded MMG in the context of smart grids. The proposed approach is based on an adaptive optimal output-feedback control algorithm using adaptive dynamic programming (ADP). The convergence of algorithms, along with the stability analysis of the closed-loop system, is also shown in this article. Finally, as experimental validation, hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) test results are provided in order to examine the effectiveness of the proposed methodology practically. Note to Practitioners—This article was motivated by the problem of primary frequency controls in modernized microgrids (MMGs) using engine generators, which are still one of the prime sources of regulating frequency in pilot research and development (R&D) microgrid projects. Although MMGs will be integral parts of the smart grid of the future, their primary controls in the islanded mode are not advanced enough and not considering existing theoretical challenges scientifically. Existing approaches to regulate frequency using industrially accepted methods are highly model-based and not optimal. Besides, they are not considering the nonminimum phase dynamics. These dynamics are mainly associated with the engine delays—an inherent issue of mechanical parts—for islanded microgrids. This article suggests a new adaptive optimal output-feedback control approach based on the adaptive dynamic programming (ADP) to the abovementioned problem under consideration. By using the proposed methodology, MMGs can deal with the issues mentioned earlier, which are challenging. The proposed approach is optimally rejecting uncertain disturbances (considering the load uncertainty and operating point variations) and reducing the impacts of nonminimum phase dynamics caused by the engine delay. Based on our currently available hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) device’s capability of modeling power systems’ components in real time, our HIL-based experiments demonstrate that this approach is feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a class of one-dimensional systems of nonlinear parabolic equations for which the phase dynamics at large time can be described by an ODE with a Lipschitz vector field in . In the considered case of the Dirichlet boundary value problem, the sufficient conditions for a finite-dimensional reduction turn out to be much wider than the known conditions of this kind for a periodic situation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Menthol and C8 – C10 fatty form a paradigmatic type V hydrophobic eutectic solvent (V-HDES). • Both H-bond and dispersive interactions contribute to the liquid structuration. • The formation of cyclic hetero-dimers via intermolecular and interspecies H-bonds is predicted by DFT and MD. • COSMO-RS predicts several thermodynamic properties of V-HDES. • In silico toxicological profile suggests V-HDES - human target proteins interactions. In this work, we present experimental and molecular modeling results on archetypal hydrophobic natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) based on fatty acids (octanoic and dodecanoic acid) and menthol, a representative monoterpenoid. Our goal is to provide a multiscale characterization to enhance the understanding of this field by studying these selected archetypical mixtures. We examine their liquid state properties, intermolecular forces, nanoscopic arrangements, toxicity, and environmental impact. The computational study integrates quantum chemistry, molecular dynamics (both all-atom and coarse-grained approaches), and thermodynamic modeling (COSMO-RS approach) to analyze the fluids and their interactions with biological entities, such as proteins and plasma membranes. The experimental characterization focuses on elucidating intermolecular interactions and liquid phase dynamics using NMR spectroscopy, visible and UV Resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR). Notably, this is the first report of UVRR data on NADES. Additionally, we simulate the effect of the molecular moieties forming the solvents on biological targets—specifically, protein and cell membrane models –. This in silico analysis aims to rationalize and predict their potential toxicity. Overall, our experimental findings and in silico simulations contribute to a deeper understanding of these novel solvents in terms of their network of interactions. Additionally, they highlight the potential impact on biological targets, providing new data to accurately define the eco-friendliness of type V DES and their suitability as sustainable alternatives to traditional molecular solvents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The non-isothermal crystallization behavior and kinetics of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) composites with boron nitride nanobarb (BNNB), a new generation nanostructure with unique surface morphology and mechanical "barbs" have been analyzed, understanding these properties is essential for their high-end applications as thermal interface materials (TIM) for microwave, 5G and microelectronic devices. • The analysis of the crystallization parameters includes crystallization onset, peak and end temperatures, crystallization half-life and overall crystallinity of PTFE, modified PTFE and their BNNB composites. The results were further analyzed using theoretical models such as the combined Avrami-Ozawa model. It was found that BNNB supports crystallization in the modified PTFE but shows minimal effect on the crystallization of PTFE. • Due to the limitation of the classical theoretical models used above in fully characterizing the multi-step crystallization process of PTFE, an in-depth analysis using the model-free advanced isoconversional computation was used to characterize the PTFE crystallization based on the evolution of activation energy with fractional crystallinity and for the first time with temperature. Three kinetic regions were identified in the crystallization mechanism. • The study investigated the molecular organization and microstructural evolution of PTFE, modified PTFE and their composites during non-isothermal crystallization using advanced X-ray scattering measurements. An insight into the changes undergone by the material's microstructural units including crystallite size and morphology, lamellar thickness and lamellar interfacial layer thickness, and crystallographic phase dynamics during non-isothermal cooling from the melt, was provided in this work. • The effect of copolymer modification of PTFE and the inclusion of pristine and fucntionalized BNNB (a thermally conductive and electrically insulating ceramic) are both new investigations that provide valuable knowledge for the development of materials with strong matrix-nanofiller interaction and guidance for optimizing sintering and cooling cycles, two key steps in PTFE processing that largely affect the material microstructural features. Overall, the result of the three-part investigation demonstrates that BNNB supports crystallization in the modified PTFE up to 20 wt% concentration and at low and high cooling rates typically used in the industrial processing of PTFE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Menthol and C8 – C10 fatty form a paradigmatic type V hydrophobic eutectic solvent (V-HDES). • Both H-bond and dispersive interactions contribute to the liquid structuration. • The formation of cyclic hetero-dimers via intermolecular and interspecies H-bonds is predicted by DFT and MD. • COSMO-RS predicts several thermodynamic properties of V-HDES. • In silico toxicological profile suggests V-HDES - human target proteins interactions. In this work, we present experimental and molecular modeling results on archetypal hydrophobic natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) based on fatty acids (octanoic and dodecanoic acid) and menthol, a representative monoterpenoid. Our goal is to provide a multiscale characterization to enhance the understanding of this field by studying these selected archetypical mixtures. We examine their liquid state properties, intermolecular forces, nanoscopic arrangements, toxicity, and environmental impact. The computational study integrates quantum chemistry, molecular dynamics (both all-atom and coarse-grained approaches), and thermodynamic modeling (COSMO-RS approach) to analyze the fluids and their interactions with biological entities, such as proteins and plasma membranes. The experimental characterization focuses on elucidating intermolecular interactions and liquid phase dynamics using NMR spectroscopy, visible and UV Resonance Raman spectroscopy (UVRR). Notably, this is the first report of UVRR data on NADES. Additionally, we simulate the effect of the molecular moieties forming the solvents on biological targets—specifically, protein and cell membrane models –. This in silico analysis aims to rationalize and predict their potential toxicity. Overall, our experimental findings and in silico simulations contribute to a deeper understanding of these novel solvents in terms of their network of interactions. Additionally, they highlight the potential impact on biological targets, providing new data to accurately define the eco-friendliness of type V DES and their suitability as sustainable alternatives to traditional molecular solvents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macroscopic oscillations in the brain are involved in various cognitive and physiological processes, yet their precise function is not completely understood. Communication through coherence (CTC) theory proposes that these rhythmic electrical patterns might serve to regulate the information flow between neural populations. Thus, to communicate effectively, neural populations must synchronize their oscillatory activity, ensuring that input volleys from the presynaptic population reach the postsynaptic one at its maximum phase of excitability. We consider an Excitatory–Inhibitory (E–I) network whose macroscopic activity is described by an exact mean-field model. The E–I network receives periodic inputs from either one or two external sources, for which effective communication will not be achieved in the absence of control. We explore strategies based on optimal control theory for phase–amplitude dynamics to design a periodic control that sets the target population in the optimal phase to synchronize its activity with a specific presynaptic input signal and establish communication. The control mechanism resembles the role of a higher cortical area in the context of selective attention. To design the control, we use the phase–amplitude reduction of a limit cycle and leverage recent developments in this field in order to find the most effective control strategy regarding a defined cost function. Furthermore, we present results that guarantee the local controllability of the system close to the limit cycle. • Optimal-control strategies provide controls that suitably adjust the dynamics for enhanced communication. • Controlled synchronization is decisive for effective communication in mean-field models of E–I networks. • Using phase–amplitude description, optimal periodic controls minimally alter the oscillation, while enhance communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To study the effects and mechanisms of molecular targeted drug combination on multidriven proliferation hepatocellular carcinoma SK-Hep-1 cells.  Methods Four molecular targeted drugs (HG6-64-1, Dasatinib, Crizotinib, and Sunitinib) were used to treat SK-Hep-1 cells, and the monophasic kinetic analysis curve and two-phase analysis curve were drawn. Western blot analysis was used to detect the effects of the above drugs on key signaling pathways in SK-Hep-1 cells.  MTT assay was used to detect the effects of the above drugs and their combination on the proliferation of SK-Hep-1 cells.  Results Compared with the monophasic kinetic analysis curve, the biphase analysis curve could better fit the effects of molecular targeted drugs on SK-Hep-1 cells, which predicted that the combination of HG6-64-1, Dasatinib, and MK-2206 could effectively inhibit the proliferation of SK-Hep-1 cells. Conclusion Two-phase kinetic analysis can quantitatively describe the response of multi-driven proliferation hepatocellular carcinoma SKHep-1 cells to molecular targeted therapy. The combination of HG6-64-1, Dasatinib, and MK-2206 is a potential drug combination for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Control‐channel interactions in a linear diffusive network model are studied, with the aim of determining the role of the network's topology in such interactions. Specifically, the influence of a built controller on the infinite and finite zero structure of a second control channel is characterized. The analysis shows how the network's graph topology, the relative positions of the two channels, and the architecture of the built controller influence the zero structure of the second control channel. Further, the influence of low or high gain controller designs on remote channels is examined. The analyses demonstrate that some control architectures and positions can introduce undesirable nonminimum‐phase dynamics at remote locations, while others are guaranteed to maintain or promote minimum‐phase dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the nature, the fish can control the wave propagation on the caudal fin using the sarcomere at the leading edge of the caudal fin. The control methods can be classified into three modes: Active Heave and Active Pitch (AHAP),Passive Heave and Active Pitch (PHAP), Active Heave and Passive Pitch (AHPP). Which mode can produce the largest thrust? Which mode can develop the most efficient swimming performance? So far, the research on these issues still cannot be found in the article. In this paper, we have studied the self-propulsion of the flexible plates driven by these three modes. It is expected that results can shed new light on understanding the locomotion mechanism of the fish and give a new idea for the design and control of the robot fish. The vibration of the flexible plate in the high velocity flow maybe unstable, and the velocity threshold of the flow are depending on the stiffness of the plate. The motion of the plate driven by AHAP is the most unstable, while AHPP is the most stable driving mode. The thrust on the flexible plate is mainly affected by the resonance effect, and the thrust in AHAP mode and AHPP mode are larger than that in PHAP mode. The propulsive efficiency is affected by both the resonance effect and the phase dynamics in the oscillator model. The phase dynamics is the dominant factor, and the resonance effect is the secondary factor. • The plate is driven by three modes: AHAP, PHAP and AHPP. • AHPP is the most stable driving way. • AHPP is the most efficient driving modes for moderate stiffness. • PHAP is the most efficient driving modes as stiffness is large enough or small enough. • For improve the propulsive efficiency, the phase dynamics in the oscillator model is the dominant factor, and the resonance effect is secondary factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eukaryotic chromosomes are organized into structural and functional domains with characteristic replication timings, which are thought to contribute to epigenetic programming and genome stability. Differential replication timing results from epigenetic mechanisms that positively and negatively regulate the competition for limiting replication initiation factors. Histone deacetylase Sir2 negatively regulates initiation of the multicopy (∼150) rDNA origins, while Rpd3 histone deacetylase negatively regulates firing of single-copy origins. However, Rpd3’s effect on single-copy origins might derive indirectly from a positive function for Rpd3 in rDNA origin firing shifting the competitive balance. Our quantitative experiments support the idea that origins compete for limiting factors; however, our results show that Rpd3’s effect on single-copy origin is independent of rDNA copy-number and of Sir2’s effects on rDNA origin firing. Whereas RPD3 deletion and SIR2 deletion alter the early S phase dynamics of single copy and rDNA origin firings in opposite fashion, unexpectedly only RPD3 deletion suppresses overall rDNA origin efficiency across S phase. Increased origin activation in rpd3Δ requires Fkh1/2, suggesting that Rpd3 opposes Fkh1/2-origin stimulation, which involves recruitment of Dbf4-dependent kinase (DDK). Indeed, Fkh1 binding increases at Rpd3-regulated origins in rpd3Δ cells in G1, supporting a mechanism whereby Rpd3 influences initiation timing of single-copy origins directly through modulation of Fkh1-origin binding. Genetic suppression of a DBF4 hypomorphic mutation by RPD3 deletion further supports the conclusion that Rpd3 impedes DDK recruitment by Fkh1, revealing a mechanism of Rpd3 in origin regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Source activity was extracted from resting-state magnetoencephalography data of 103 subjects aged 18–60 years. The directionality of information flow was computed from the regional time courses using delay symbolic transfer entropy and phase entropy. The analysis yielded a dynamic source connectivity profile, disentangling the direction, strength, and time delay of the underlying causal interactions, producing independent time delays for cross-frequency amplitude-to-amplitude and phase-to-phase coupling. The computation of the dominant intrinsic coupling mode (DoCM) allowed me to estimate the probability distribution of the DoCM independently of phase and amplitude. The results support earlier observations of a posterior-to-anterior information flow for phase dynamics in {α1, α2, β, γ} and an opposite flow (anterior to posterior) in θ. Amplitude dynamics reveal posterior-to-anterior information flow in {α1, α2, γ}, a sensory-motor β-oriented pattern, and an anterior-to-posterior pattern in {δ, θ}. The DoCM between intra- and cross-frequency couplings (CFC) are reported here for the first time and independently for amplitude and phase; in both domains {δ, θ, α1}, frequencies are the main contributors to DoCM. Finally, a novel brain age index (BAI) is introduced, defined as the ratio of the probability distribution of inter- over intra-frequency couplings. This ratio shows a universal age trajectory: a rapid rise from the end of adolescence, reaching a peak in adulthood, and declining slowly thereafter. The universal pattern is seen in the BAI of each frequency studied and for both amplitude and phase domains. No such universal age dependence was previously reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we will investigate if red blood cell (RBC) membrane fluidity, influenced by several hyperglycemia-induced pathways, could provide a complementary index of HbA1c to monitor the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)-related macroangiopathic complications such as Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). The contextual liquid crystalline (LC) domain spatial organization in the membrane was analysed to investigate the phase dynamics of the transition. Twenty-seven patients with long-duration T2DM were recruited and classified in DM, including 12 non-PAD patients, and DM + PAD, including 15 patients in any stage of PAD. Mean values of RBC generalized polarization (GP), representative of membrane fluidity, together with spatial organization of LC domains were compared between the two groups; p-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Although comparable for anthropometric characteristics, duration of diabetes, and HbA1c, RBC membranes of PAD patients were found to be significantly more fluid (GP: 0.501 ± 0.026) than non-PAD patients (GP: 0.519 ± 0.007). These alterations were shown to be triggered by changes in both LC microdomain composition and distribution. We found a decrease in Feret diameter from 0.245 ± 0.281 μm in DM to 0.183 ± 0.124 μm in DM + PAD, and an increase in circularity. Altered RBC membrane fluidity is correlated to a spatial reconfiguration of LC domains, which, by possibly altering metabolic function, are associated with the development of T2DM-related macroangiopathic complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel second-order partial differential equation that describes the phase dynamics in the long Josephson junction and takes into account the flow of unpaired electrons across the junction is proposed. It has the form of the modified sine-Gordon equation with the nontrivial current–phase relation. The spatial behavior of the penetrated magnetic flux quantum (Josephson vortex or fluxon) is analyzed for the different values of the insulating layer transparency. The proposed equation of motion is used to investigate the dependence of the equilibrium fluxon velocity on the constant bias current for the different values of the insulating layer transparency. The self-consistent approach where the dissipation coefficient also depends on the layer transparency is applied. The resulting current–voltage characteristics (CVCs) have demonstrated better fluxon mobility for smaller values of the transparency coefficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A ferromagnetic Josephson junction (JJ) represents a special class of hybrid system where different ordered phases meet and generate novel physics. In this work we report on the transport measurements of underdamped ferromagnetic NbN/GdN/NbN JJs at low temperatures. In these junctions the ferromagnetic insulator gadolinium nitride barrier generates spin-filtering properties and a dominant second harmonic component in the current-phase relation. These features make spin filter junctions quite interesting also in terms of fundamental studies on phase dynamics and dissipation. We discuss the fingerprints of spin filter JJs, through complementary transport measurements, and their implications on the phase dynamics, through standard measurements of switching current distributions. NbN/GdN/NbN JJs, where spin filter properties can be controllably tuned along with the critical current density (J c ), turn to be a very relevant term of reference to understand phase dynamics and dissipation in an enlarged class of JJs, not necessarily falling in the standard tunnel limit characterized by low J c values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the structural transition pathways of U 3 O 8 under varying temperature and pressure conditions, focusing on both bulk and nanocrystalline forms. The bulk U 3 O 8 is known to undergo reversible phase transitions to a hexagonal structure at temperatures above 150°C and irreversible transitions to a fluorite structure under pressure at ambient temperature. High-pressure XRD experiments reveal a significant decrease in transition pressure for the hexagonal to fluorite phase transition in bulk U 3 O 8 , with the HT-hex phase exhibiting a bulk modulus of 155 ± 21 GPa at 450°C. In 82 nm nanocrystalline U 3 O 8 , the transition from orthorhombic to hexagonal phase is reversible up to 1.0 GPa and 500°C but becomes irreversible above 1.7 GPa. The bulk modulus of the hexagonal phase of nanocrystalline U 3 O 8 is estimated to be 168±12 GPa and 146±16 GPa at 400°C and 500°C, respectively. The findings highlight the complexity of structural transformations in U 3 O 8 and their dependence on temperature and pressure, offering insights valuable for materials science and nuclear reactor engineering. • In U 3 O 8 phase dynamics, pressure triggers fluorite transformation, while temperature increases its kinetics. • Elevated temperatures quadruple the kinetics of the pressure-induced transition to the fluorite structure. • The transition from orthorhombic to hexagonal phases becomes irreversible at ∼ 2 GPa and 500°C. • The hexagonal form of U 3 O 8 exhibits a bulk modulus value of 155 GPa at 450°C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Image-based reconstruction and characterization of GDL are conducted considering different fractions of binder, PTFE, and carbon fiber. • Gas-water displacement phase diagram and its correlation with the pore structures are predicted by pore network modeling. • The phase diagram shows a tendency to transit from the viscous to capillary fingering (unfavorable), and capillary fingering to stable displacement (favorable) with an increase in binder content. • Increasing binder content will promote effective water permeability under real operating conditions. Understanding the gas-water flow dynamics in the gas diffusion layer (GDL) is one of the keys to improving the proton exchange membrane fuel cell's (PEMFC) overall performance and avoiding water flooding. Yet, the relationship between the two-phase flow and micro-scale GDL structures (including binder, PTFE, and fiber skeleton) is not well understood. In this study, three-dimensional GDL structures with different fractions of binder contents (φ b = 0 % ∼ 50 %) and a fixed porosity of 75.6 % are confidently reconstructed based on high-resolution images from the confocal microscope, implying that the addition of binder will increase the number of large pores and cause a bimodal throat size distribution through morphology analysis. Thereafter, drainage simulations are performed under a wide range of capillary number (−9 < log Ca <0) and viscosity ratio (−3 < log M < 2) by the pore network model (PNM), which robustly predicts the displacement phase diagram of viscous fingering, capillary fingering, stable displacement, and transitional regime. In the viscous fingering and stable displacement regime, the nonwetting phase saturation (S n w) is nearly the same for different φ b , implying the fluid invading pathway does not change much with the addition of binder. However, in the capillary fingering regime (refer to the actual operating conditions), S n w increases rapidly with φ b at the breakthrough time and its transient value continues to increase until the steady state, which may be attributed to the increased fractions of pores above the capillary threshold attributed by the bimodal throat size distribution. In addition, the effective water permeability increases sharply with φ b , whereas the gas permeability remains almost constant, which means such pore structure alteration by adding the binder is beneficial to water disposal in PEMFC. This research provides insights into delineating the effect of pore and throat size distribution alteration by adding binder on two-phase dynamics in GDL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the underlying physical mechanisms responsible for the triggering of high-frequency transverse combustion dynamics is of fundamental importance in the development of heavy-duty gas turbine combustors, aircraft engine afterburners, and bipropellant liquid rocket engines. Detailed information about three-dimensional thermoacoustic interactions and local flame dynamics, however, remains largely unknown and unanticipated, mainly because high-amplitude transverse mode instabilities are challenging to excite and detect in well-controlled sub-scale laboratory environments. To overcome this impasse, here we exploit a spatially tailored rectangular injector assembly consisting of ten equidistant horizontal slit nozzles to eliminate the complications of out-of-plane flame dynamics characterization. A total of 56 datasets of self-induced instabilities were acquired over a wide range of operating conditions to understand spatiotemporal phase dynamics and important mode shapes, in conjunction with 2D Rayleigh angle reconstruction and phase-resolved OH PLIF-based local flame front identification. Experimentally, we show that high-frequency transverse instabilities are excited only under high temperature and high thermal power conditions, manifested as non-evanescent pressure fluctuations at 6.50 kHz strongly coupled to the second-order tangential mode of the rectangular combustion chamber. Two vertically-oriented pressure nodal planes and the characteristic phase transition perpendicular to the horizontal slit injector direction are accurately measured and reconfirmed by Helmholtz simulations in terms of their interpositions and spatial orientation. Remarkably, the periodic formation of co-propagating coherent structures and concomitant local flame displacement/pinch-off are revealed to play an important role in driving the high-frequency hydrogen combustion dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]