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COSINUS will be among the first underground experiments to operate Transition Edge Sensors in a dry dilution refrigerator, measuring temperature changes on the order of μ K. A pulse tube cryocooler is used to cool down to 3K, trading simplified handling, by not using liquid noble gases, for an increased vibration noise level in the acoustic frequency range. As the signals measured with a TES are in the same frequency region, it is necessary to decouple the detectors from all possible noise sources. In COSINUS, a two-level passive decoupling system was developed and tested using piezo-based accelerometers. At the first level, the refrigerator is mechanically isolated from all external noise sources. For the second level an internal spring-based system was developed and tested on a mockup system. On the first level a reduction of the vibrational background up to a factor 4 below 10 Hz could be measured. On the second level a resonance frequency of 1.2 Hz with damping of higher frequencies was achieved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COSINUS is a new cryogenic observatory for rare event searches located in the Laboratori Nazionali del Gran Sasso in Italy. COSINUS's first goal is to clarify whether the signal detected by the DAMA/LIBRA experiment originates from dark matter particle interactions or has a different nature. To this aim, sodium iodide (NaI) cryogenic scintillating calorimeters read out by transition edge sensors (TESs) are developed. To preserve the NaI crystal from the TES fabrication process, COSINUS implemented a novel design, the remoTES, where the TES is deposited on a separate wafer and coupled to the absorber through a Au-bonding wire and a Au-phonon collector. This design has reached baseline resolutions below 100 eV for Si, 200 eV for TeO 2 and 400 eV for NaI absorbers. These results show that the remoTES not only brings COSINUS close to its performance goal of 1 keV energy threshold, but also offers the possibility to employ delicate crystals previously excluded for cryogenic applications as absorbers and to avoid the exposure of the absorbers to the TES fabrication process. It therefore extends the choice of target materials of the rare event searches using TES. In this work, we will provide a detailed description of the remoTES design and present the results of the latest prototypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-efficiency microcalorimeter arrays are required as imaging spectroscopy for X-ray microscopy in general and for astrophysics. We have developed in-house an array of Transition Edge Sensor (TES) X-ray microcalorimeters with mushroom-type absorbers which have a large area of 260 μ m square with multiple support stems. Insufficient thermal conductivity may degrade the energy resolution. We construct a 3D FEM simulation with thermal conduction and electric feedback circuit of TES. Estimated physical parameters were incorporated into the simulation to reproduce the measured pulse waveforms. As a result, the effect of the large absorber on the degradation of energy resolution was small for the mushroom-type absorber TES calorimeter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of astromaterials provide valuable insights into the formation and evolution of the solar system. To analyze such astromaterials on a sub-micrometer scale, one of the most useful tools is energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) in conjunction with scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). The conventional semiconductor-based EDS system is sometimes insufficient to resolve emission lines at closely adjacent energies. A transition edge sensor (TES) X-ray microcalorimeter is a promising solution to overcome this problem. We developed a 64-pixel TES X-ray microcalorimeter array which had an energy resolution of approximately 7 eV (FWHM) at an energy band from B Kα to Cu Kα. However, the counting rate was only approximately 1000 count/s/array. The distance between the detector and the sample is 30 cm, limited by the stage of the refrigerator. Therefore, an X-ray polycapillary is used to focus the X-ray, which focus size is 5 mm in diameter, resulting in a detection efficiency of only 5%. To increase the effective area, we developed a large size absorber with a large-scale array. A three-dimensional structure was created to fill the dead space between TES pixels. Additionally, an array of 224 elements was made to increase the detection efficiency by a factor of 10. In this paper, we provide more details of design, fabrication process of the overhang absorber, and device performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs) are non-autonomous non-LTR retrotransposons widespread across eukaryotes. They exist both as lineage-specific, fast-evolving elements and as ubiquitous superfamilies characterized by highly conserved domains (HCD). Several of these superfamilies have been described in bivalves, however their overall distribution and impact on host genome evolution are still unknown due to the extreme scarcity of transposon libraries for the clade. In this study, we examined more than 40 bivalve genomes to uncover the distribution of HCD-tRNA-related SINEs, discover novel SINE-LINE partnerships, and understand their possible role in shaping bivalve genome evolution. Results: We found that bivalve HCD SINEs have an ancient origin, and they can rely on at least four different LINE clades. According to a "mosaic" evolutionary scenario, multiple LINE partner can promote the amplification of the same HCD SINE superfamilies while homologues LINE-derived tails are present between different superfamilies. Multiple SINEs were found to be highly similar between phylogenetically related species but separated by extremely long evolutionary timescales, up to ~ 400 million years. Studying their genomic distribution in a subset of five species, we observed different patterns of SINE enrichment in various genomic compartments as well as differences in the tendency of SINEs to form tandem-like and palindromic structures also within intronic sequences. Despite these differences, we observed that SINEs, especially older ones, tend to accumulate preferentially within genes, or in their close proximity, consistently with a model of survival bias for less harmful, short non-coding transposons in euchromatic genomic regions. Conclusion: Here we conducted a wide characterization of tRNA-related SINEs in bivalves revealing their taxonomic distribution and LINE partnerships across the clade. Moreover, through the study of their genomic distribution in five species, we highlighted commonalities and differences with other previously studied eukaryotes, thus extending our understanding of SINE evolution across the tree of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we have performed an in-depth study of the complete set of the satellite DNA (satDNA) families (i.e. the satellitomes) in the genome of two barley species of agronomic value in a breeding framework, H. chilense (H1 and H7 accessions) and H. vulgare (H106 accession), which can be useful tools for studying chromosome associations during meiosis. The study has led to the analysis of a total of 18 satDNA families in H. vulgare, 25 satDNA families in H. chilense (accession H1) and 27 satDNA families in H. chilense (accession H7) that constitute 46 different satDNA families forming 36 homology groups. Our study highlights different important contributions of evolutionary and applied interests. Thus, both barley species show very divergent satDNA profiles, which could be partly explained by the differential effects of domestication versus wildlife. Divergence derives from the differential amplification of different common ancestral satellites and the emergence of new satellites in H. chilense, usually from pre-existing ones but also random sequences. There are also differences between the two H. chilense accessions, which support genetically distinct groups. The fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) patterns of some satDNAs yield distinctive genetic markers for the identification of specific H. chilense or H. vulgare chromosomes. Some of the satellites have peculiar structures or are related to transposable elements which provide information about their origin and expansion. Among these, we discuss the existence of different (peri)centromeric satellites that supply this region with some plasticity important for centromere evolution. These peri(centromeric) satDNAs and the set of subtelomeric satDNAs (a total of 38 different families) are analyzed in the framework of breeding as the high diversity found in the subtelomeric regions might support their putative implication in chromosome recognition and pairing during meiosis, a key point in the production of addition/substitution lines and hybrids.Key message: Several satDNAs have been identified in the subtelomeres of wild and cultivated barley species that might contribute to the specificity of these distal chromosome regions during homologous recognition and pairing in meiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) often targets the EEG-guided C3/C4 area that may not accurately represent M1 for hand muscles. This study aimed to determine if the neuroanatomy-based scalp acupuncture-guided site (AC) was a more effective spot than the C3 site for neuromodulation. Fifteen healthy subjects received one 20-minute session of high-definition transcranial alternating current stimulation (HD-tACS) intervention (20 Hz at 2 mA) at the AC or C3 sites randomly with a 1-week washout period. Subjects performed ball-squeezing exercises with the dominant hand during the HD-tACS intervention. The AC site was indiscernible from the finger flexor hotspot detected by TMS. At the baseline, the MEP amplitude from finger flexors was greater with less variability at the AC site than at the C3 site. HD-tACS intervention at the AC site significantly increased the MEP amplitude. However, no significant changes were observed after tACS was applied to the C3 site. Our results provide evidence that HD-tACS at the AC site produces better neuromodulation effects on the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) muscle compared to the C3 site. The AC localization approach can be used for future tES studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One effective approach to reducing the energy required for heating buildings is the use of active thermal insulation (ATI). This method involves delivering low-temperature heat to the exterior walls through a network of pipes carrying water. For ATI to be cost-effective, the energy supply must be affordable and is typically derived from geothermal or solar sources. Solar energy, in particular, requires thermal energy storage (TES) to manage the gap between summer and the heating season. A building that integrates various renewable energy systems and heating/cooling technologies should be managed efficiently and sustainably. The proper integration of these systems with smart management strategies can significantly lower a building's carbon footprint and operational costs. This study analyzes the use of concrete slabs as a method for sustainable energy management in a system incorporating active thermal insulation and solar collectors. Using ambient temperature and solar radiation data specific to Cracow, Poland, the simulations evaluate the feasibility of employing a concrete slab positioned beneath the building as a thermal storage tank. The results reveal some drawbacks of using concrete slabs, including high temperatures that negatively affect system efficiency. Increased temperatures lead to higher heat losses, and during summer, inadequate insulation can cause additional heat leakage into the building. The findings suggest that water may be a more effective alternative for thermal energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Short interspersed nuclear elements (SINEs) are non-autonomous non-LTR retrotransposons widespread across eukaryotes. They exist both as lineage-specific, fast-evolving elements and as ubiquitous superfamilies characterized by highly conserved domains (HCD). Several of these superfamilies have been described in bivalves, however their overall distribution and impact on host genome evolution are still unknown due to the extreme scarcity of transposon libraries for the clade. In this study, we examined more than 40 bivalve genomes to uncover the distribution of HCD-tRNA-related SINEs, discover novel SINE-LINE partnerships, and understand their possible role in shaping bivalve genome evolution. Results We found that bivalve HCD SINEs have an ancient origin, and they can rely on at least four different LINE clades. According to a “mosaic” evolutionary scenario, multiple LINE partner can promote the amplification of the same HCD SINE superfamilies while homologues LINE-derived tails are present between different superfamilies. Multiple SINEs were found to be highly similar between phylogenetically related species but separated by extremely long evolutionary timescales, up to ~ 400 million years. Studying their genomic distribution in a subset of five species, we observed different patterns of SINE enrichment in various genomic compartments as well as differences in the tendency of SINEs to form tandem-like and palindromic structures also within intronic sequences. Despite these differences, we observed that SINEs, especially older ones, tend to accumulate preferentially within genes, or in their close proximity, consistently with a model of survival bias for less harmful, short non-coding transposons in euchromatic genomic regions. Conclusion Here we conducted a wide characterization of tRNA-related SINEs in bivalves revealing their taxonomic distribution and LINE partnerships across the clade. Moreover, through the study of their genomic distribution in five species, we highlighted commonalities and differences with other previously studied eukaryotes, thus extending our understanding of SINE evolution across the tree of life.

This paper analyses the impact of tube arrangement in a latent heat thermal energy storage (LHTES) system on the melting rate of phase change material (PCM). Numerical model was created in ANSYS Fluent 2023 R2, considering natural convection, to investigate the PCM melting process in LHTES. To validate the numerical model, a simulation of the PCM melting process around a single tube was conducted, and the obtained results were compared with experimental findings from other researchers. The validation showed good agreement, confirming the model's accuracy. Next, the melting process of PCM in a latent heat thermal energy storage system constructed of 9 tubes arranged inline was examined. The effect of the distance between the axes of the heating tubes and the distance from the axis of the tubes in the lower row to the bottom edge of the LHTES was investigated to understand the impact of these parameters on the melting dynamics of the PCM. The study showed that lowering the tubes in the LHTES improves natural convection in the PCM, thereby accelerating the melting process, especially in the final stage. For the exchanger with lowered tubes, charging times were reduced by up to 53.7%, and the heat flux was more than twice as high compared to the classic inline tube arrangement. Within the tested range of tube distances, increasing the spacing between the tubes in the inline arrangement decreases the average heat flux, whereas for the lowered tube arrangements, increasing the distance between the tubes does not affect the average heat flux. The conclusions drawn from this research can be used to optimize LHTES designs, contributing to the enhanced performance of thermal energy storage systems. These findings are particularly relevant for applications in renewable energy systems, where efficient thermal management is crucial for overall system performance.

This research aims to produce a test instrument for students' mathematical reflective thinking ability on algebraic material. This research used the Research and Development (R&D) method with the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, Evaluation). The subjects used were 35 seventh grade students in one of the private junior high schools in Tangerang City. Based on the results of the material expert validation received an average score of 87.7% with very valid criteria. The validity of the items received an average of 0.82 very valid criteria. Then it has a Chronbach's Alpha value of 0.945 which means reliable. In addition, the level of difficulty of moderate questions is 3 questions, difficult 1 question and easy 1 question. The results of the student response questionnaire after working on the test instrument obtained a score of 78% with good criteria. Then based on these results, the development of test instruments for students' mathematical reflective thinking skills is valid, reliable and worthy of use

This study presents a systematic analysis of Brayton batteries using Ebsilon Professional® simulations. Over 200,000 concept configurations were evaluated, with less than 1% proving physically feasible. The research aimed to assess electricity generation; coupled generation of electricity and heat; coupled generation of electricity and cooling; and coupled generation of electricity, heat, and cooling, all with or without waste heat integration. Efficiency ranged from 20% to 50% for electricity generation alone, with higher efficiencies at a compressor discharge temperature of 625 °C compared to 450 °C. Co-generation improved the overall efficiency, although at the expense of power efficiency. Notably, simultaneous electricity, heat, and cooling generation solutions were absent within the study's parameters. Lead concepts, predominantly air-based systems with or without charging line recuperators and heat exchange at various stages, were identified. These will undergo detailed dynamic system simulations, focusing on thermal energy storage. Comparison with the existing literature was limited due to differing parameters and topologies, highlighting the value of this systematic analysis in identifying optimal solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, there has been increasing interest in developing detectors which are sensitive to sub-GeV dark matter and low-energy events from coherent neutrino scattering. Due to carbon's light atomic weight and its tendency to form crystals with high-energy, long-lived phonon modes, carbon-based crystals (including diamond and silicon carbide (SiC)) present themselves as natural target materials for scattering-based searches in this regime. We present our preliminary results in adapting our TES-based detectors to these substrates, specifically 4-H SiC and polycrystalline diamond. We focus on our fabrication efforts, specifically tuning the transition temperature ( T C ) of tungsten films sputtered on these materials, as well as our advancement toward fabricating and testing devices on these substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition-edge sensor (TES) bolometers are broadly used for background-limited astrophysical measurements from the far-infrared to mm-waves. Many planned future instruments require increasingly large detector arrays, but their scalability is limited by their cryogenic readout electronics. Microwave SQUID multiplexing offers a highly capable scaling solution through the use of inherently broadband circuitry, enabling readout of hundreds to thousands of channels per microwave line. As with any multiplexing technique, the channelization mechanism gives rise to electrical crosstalk which must be understood and controlled so as to not degrade the instrument sensitivity. Here, we explore implications relevant for TES bolometer array applications, focusing in particular on upcoming mm-wave observatories such as the Simons Observatory and AliCPT. We model the relative contributions of the various underlying crosstalk mechanisms, evaluate the difference between fixed tone and tone-tracking readout systems, and discuss ways in which crosstalk nonlinearity will complicate on-sky measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The LiteBIRD experiment is an international spaceborne mission, led by JAXA, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, to observe cosmic microwave background (CMB) radiation. The satellite will be deployed to measure and characterize the signature of the primordial gravitational waves from cosmic inflation in the B-mode polarization of the CMB radiation. LiteBIRD will also explore the nature of quantum gravity as well as attempt to detect the recombination peak and reionization peak with greater than 5σ significance for a tensor-to-scalar value of r = 0.01. These observations and measurements will take place over 15 separate frequency bands in the range of 34–448 GHz. The 15 frequency channels are separated into three telescopes—low, medium, and high frequency. This paper will describe the process flow developed to fabricate the low frequency detectors, covering bands from 34 to 161 GHz. The detector wafer itself has a device side and a sky side. The device side contains the trichroic polarization sensitive sinuous antennae coupled to transition-edge sensor detectors. The skyside contains the cosmic ray mitigation structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the characterization of the demonstration model of the Cryogenic AntiCoincidence (CryoAC) Detector (ACS-10), a current-dependent parasitic resistance was found in series with the TES network on board the detector. Analysis was possible because the resistance rises for currents above 11 μ A, and is therefore not observed at low bias excitation. A comparison of measurements of the TES across its Nb wiring at different temperatures suggested that the source of resistance was in the wiring and not in the TES network. After several analysis of the wiring fabrication steps, FIB-FE-SEM studies of film sections and tests of niobium film quality, we understood that the parasitic resistance was due to point contact in the Nb step coverage caused by film cracks. The fracture was due to the wall steepness and thickness of the films, since rapid step coverage is less mechanically stable and the stress on the films is proportional to the fourth power of the thickness. Therefore, all thicknesses in the wiring were reduced to the minimum optimum step coverage values and the first negative lithography parameters were optimized to reduce the wall film angle. The samples after this optimization showed no current-dependent series resistance to TES. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The digital frequency-domain multiplexing technique is widely used for astrophysical instruments with large detector arrays. Detailed detector characterization is required for instrument calibration and systematics control. We conduct the TES complex electrothermal-feedback response measurement with the DfMux readout system as follows. By injecting a single sideband signal, we induce modulation in TES power dissipation over a frequency range encompassing the detector response. The modulated current signal induced by TES heating effect is measured, allowing for the ETF response characterization of the detector. With the injection of an upper sideband, the TES readout current shows both an upper and a lower sideband. We model the upper and lower sideband complex ETF response and verify the model by fitting to experimental data. The model not only can fit for certain physical parameters of the detector, such as loop gain, temperature sensitivity, current sensitivity, and time constant, but also enables us to estimate the systematic effect introduced by the multiplexed readout. The method is therefore useful for in situ detector calibration and for estimating systematic effects during astronomical telescope observations, such as those performed by the upcoming LiteBIRD satellite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Simons Observatory is a cosmic microwave background experiment stationed atop Cerro Toco, at an elevation of 5200 ms in Chile's Atacama Desert. The receivers of the Observatory will contain more than 60,000 transition edge sensor bolometers. In order to read out this large detector count in a scalable manner, we utilize a microwave superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) multiplexing scheme where each detector is inductively coupled to an rf SQUID, which in turn is inductively coupled to a GHz resonator. More than 2000 SQUIDs and resonators are fabricated on a single 76.2-mm-diameter silicon wafer. To qualify wafers before integration, we cryogenically screen ∼ 10% of the devices on each wafer by use of a standard set of measurements. From these data, we report parameter value trends in 47 wafers that were fabricated in the past two years. We show good control in key parameters such as frequency placement, internal quality factor, and response to applied flux. We demonstrate a wafer acceptance yield of 86%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been studied extensively for its potential to enhance human cognitive functions in healthy individuals and to treat cognitive impairment in various clinical populations. However, little is known about how tDCS modulates the neural networks supporting cognition and the complex interplay with mediating factors that may explain the frequently observed variability of stimulation effects within and between studies. Moreover, research in this field has been characterized by substantial methodological variability, frequent lack of rigorous experimental control and small sample sizes, thereby limiting the generalizability of findings and translational potential of tDCS. The present manuscript aims to delineate how these important issues can be addressed within a neuroimaging context, to reveal the neural underpinnings, predictors and mediators of tDCS-induced behavioral modulation. We will focus on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), because it allows the investigation of tDCS effects with excellent spatial precision and sufficient temporal resolution across the entire brain. Moreover, high resolution structural imaging data can be acquired for precise localization of stimulation effects, verification of electrode positions on the scalp and realistic current modeling based on individual head and brain anatomy. However, the general principles outlined in this review will also be applicable to other imaging modalities. Following an introduction to the overall state-of-the-art in this field, we will discuss in more detail the underlying causes of variability in previous tDCS studies. Moreover, we will elaborate on design considerations for tDCSfMRI studies, optimization of tDCS and imaging protocols and how to assure high-level experimental control. Two additional sections address the pressing need for more systematic investigation of tDCS effects across the healthy human lifespan and implications for tDCS studies in age-associated disease, and potential benefits of establishing large-scale, multidisciplinary consortia for more coordinated tDCS research in the future. We hope that this review will contribute to more coordinated, methodologically sound, transparent and reproducible research in this field. Ultimately, our aim is to facilitate a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms by which tDCS modulates human cognitive functions and more effective and individually tailored translational and clinical applications of this technique in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition-edge sensor (TES) microcalorimeters are advanced cryogenic detectors that use a superconducting film for particle or photon detection. We are establishing a new production line for TES detectors to serve as cryogenic anticoincidence (i.e., veto) devices. These detectors are made with a superconducting bilayer of titanium (Ti) and gold (Au) thin films deposited via electron beam evaporation in a high vacuum condition on a monocrystalline silicon substrate. In this work, we report on the development of such sensors, aiming to achieve stable sensing performance despite the effects of aging. For this purpose, patterned and non-patterned Ti/Au bilayer samples with varying geometries and thicknesses were fabricated using microfabrication technology. To characterize the detectors, we present and discuss initial results from repeated resistance–temperature (R–T) measurements over time, conducted on different samples, thereby augmenting existing literature data. Additionally, we present a discussion of the sensor's degradation over time due to aging effects and test a potential remedy based on an easy annealing procedure. In our opinion, this work establishes the groundwork for our new TES detector production line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES) generates an electric field (or current density) in the brain through surface electrodes attached to the scalp. Clinical significance has been demonstrated, although with moderate and heterogeneous results partly due to a lack of control of the delivered electric currents. In the last decade, computational electric field analysis has allowed the estimation and optimization of the electric field using accurate anatomical head models. This review examines recent tES computational studies, providing a comprehensive background on the technical aspects of adopting computational electric field analysis as a standardized procedure in medical applications. Methods: Specific search strategies were designed to retrieve papers from the Web of Science database. The papers were initially screened based on the soundness of the title and abstract and then on their full contents, resulting in a total of 57 studies. Results: Recent trends were identified in individual- and population-level analysis of the electric field, including head models from non-neurotypical individuals. Advanced optimization techniques that allow a high degree of control with the required focality and direction of the electric field were also summarized. There is also growing evidence of a correlation between the computationally estimated electric field and the observed responses in real experiments. Conclusions: Computational pipelines and optimization algorithms have reached a degree of maturity that provides a rationale to improve tES experimental design and a posteriori analysis of the responses for supporting clinical studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing installment of solar and wind renewable energy systems create a volatile energy demand to be met by electricity providers. A nuclear hybrid energy system is a nuclear reactor with energy storage that integrates into the grid with renewable energy sources. The Natrium design by TerraPower and GE Hitachi is a sodium fast reactor with molten salt energy storage. The Natrium design operates at steady state of 345 MWe and can boost up to 500 MWe for 5.5 hours. This study uses Dymola and the Modelica language to model the Natrium‐based nuclear‐renewable hybrid energy system. The dynamic system model is tested using hourly historical data from the state of Texas 2021 to show how renewables affect the electricity demand and how energy storage affects the Natrium system response to the demand. According to the results, while the available storage will allow the Natrium design to boost electricity production when the demand and electricity price is high making it more economically viable, the current molten salt storage is slightly undersized for the ERCOT market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is litigation in respect of dementia in ex-rugby football players. The allegation is that these ex-players have suffered a traumatic encephalopathy syndrome causing dementia and other neurological problems. The syndrome is alleged to have been caused by repeated concussion during play. It is alleged that governing bodies of rugby should have been aware, and players should have been warned, of this risk. The dilemma, for both claimants and defendants, is that there is no agreed definition of the syndrome nor are there any diagnostic tests that confirm or refute this diagnosis. This paper reviews the literature of traumatic encephalopathy syndrome and when governing bodies were aware of the possibility of rugby concussion causing dementia. The legal principles are discussed and a framework for determining the probability of an ex-rugby player having the syndrome is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal energy storage (TES) is one of the key technologies for enabling a higher deployment of renewable energy. In this context, the present study analyzes the modeling strategies of one of the most common TES systems: stratified thermal storage tanks. These systems are essential to many solar thermal installations and heat pumps, among other clean energy technologies. Three different one-dimensional tank models are compared by their computing speed and resilience to long time steps. Two of the models analyzed are numerical, one being explicit and the other one implicit, and the other is analytical. The models are validated against data from experiments carried out considering small-scale stratified tanks, showing that their performance can be improved by using the Advanced Flowrate Distribution (AFD) method. The results show that the analytical model maintains its accuracy with longer time steps and is robust against divergence. Conversely, the numerical models show equivalent performance for short time steps, while the computation time is reduced. Although the AFD method shows promising results by achieving an improvement of 43% in terms of Dynamic Time Warping, its parameter optimization must be generalized for different tank designs, flow rates, and temperatures.

Evaluation of host integration profiles by adeno-associated virus (AAV) is an important component of de-risking novel AAV gene therapies. Targeted enrichment sequencing (TES) is a cost-effective and comprehensive method for assessing integration. Most published TES datasets have been generated using short-read sequencing, which enables quantitation of integration sites (ISs) and identifies patterns such as hotspots or clonal expansion. Characteristics such as IS length and recombination require longer reads to measure. The present study compared short-read to long-read TES using samples from monkeys treated with AAV and used in vitro lentiviral-treated samples, a stable cell line, and an engineered spike-in as controls. Both methods showed stochastic integration by both AAV and lentivirus, with most vector domains identified in ISs. More ISs were identified by short-read TES, as deeper coverage per base was achieved from a single sequencing run. AAV-treated samples showed minimal evidence of clonal expansion, in contrast to in vitro treated and stably transduced lentiviral cell line samples. Long-read TES revealed vector rearrangement in 4%–40% of ISs in AAV-treated animals. In summary, both methods yielded similar conclusions about relative numbers of ISs and overall patterns. Long-read TES identified fewer ISs but enabled measurement of IS length and recombination patterns.

ABSTRACTThermal systems, including those utilising solar energy and waste heat recovery, often have a mismatch between the energy supply and demand. It is crucial to implement a form of Thermal Energy Storage (TES) to effectively utilise the energy source. This study evaluates the thermal performance of a packed bed Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage (LHTES) unit that is incorporated with a solar flat plate collector. The results show that the time required to charge the tank is reduced by 7% when the porosity is increased from 0.49 to 0.61, and also when the flow rate is raised from 2 to 4 kg/min, the charging time decreases by 2.5%. Additionally, studies were done to investigate the performances of different kinds of paraffin (RT30, RT28HC, WAX, RT58, and P56-58), and compare the heat capacities of each TES tank which resulted in the RT58 TES tank having the highest heat capacity.Abbreviations: BC: boundary conditions; HTF: heat transfer fluid; LHS: latent heat storage; LHTES: latent heat thermal energy storage; PCM: phase change material; SHS: sensible heat storage; TES: thermal energy storage

The utilization of phase change materials (PCMs) in solar water heating systems (SWHS) has undergone notable advancements, driven by a rising demand for systems delivering superior performance and efficiency. Extensive research suggests that enhancing heat transfer (HTE) in storage systems is crucial for achieving these improvements. This review employs a bibliometric analysis to track the evolution of HTE methods within this field. While current literature underscores the necessity for further exploration into hot water generation applications, several methodologies exhibit significant promise. Particularly, strategies such as fins, encapsulation, and porous media emerge as prominent HTE techniques, alongside nanofluids, which hold the potential for augmenting solar water heating systems. This review also identifies numerous unexplored techniques awaiting investigation, aiming to pave new paths in research and application within the field of hot water generation. It highlights methods that could be used independently or alongside predominantly used techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal energy storage (TES) is crucial in bridging the gap between energy demand and supply globally. Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plants, employing molten salts for thermal storage, stand as an advanced TES technology. However, molten salts have drawbacks like corrosion, solidification at lower temperatures, and high costs. To overcome these limitations, research is focusing on alternative TES materials such as ceramic particles. These solids match molten salts in energy density and can withstand higher temperatures, making them well-suited for CSP systems. This study revolves around subjecting Solar Salt alone and Solar Salt alongside Volcanic Ash (VA) and Electric Arc Furnace Slag (EAFS) to a comprehensive thermal cycling test. This test is designed to assess the compatibility over the thermal cycles of the Solar Salt and the Solar Salt in contact with these solids in a CSP plant with a thermocline configuration. With a final thermal and chemical evaluation, our observations indicate that EAFS and VA demonstrate promising compatibility but an increase in the reduction rate of the Solar Salt due to a catalyst effect from EAFS in contact with the salt. No discernible alterations were detected in the properties of either the solid materials or solar salt when combined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Astrophysics 2020 Decadal Report recommended a line of Probe missions with far-infrared imaging or spectroscopy capabilities. The achievable sensitivity of these FIR missions will be enabled by cooled telescopes and advanced cryogenic detector technologies, potentially resulting in up to three orders of magnitude improvement in sensitivity and mapping speeds up to more than a million times of those achieved so far with past missions. We have obtained NASA funding to build and demonstrate transition edge sensor (TES)-based kilopixel arrays with the properties that match the requirements for cryogenic far-infrared space missions: The arrays are very closely tileable in one direction and with a moderate gap in the other direction. This array architecture can meet the sampling and pixel number requirement of a few 104 pixels. Many details of the architecture have already been demonstrated individually, and the detector board will be optimized for the use of the latest cryogenic NIST 2D time-domain SQUID readout multiplexers with a high-density fanout scheme. Additionally, we will use flex lines that are very similar to those developed at Princeton University for the ACT project. This method allows virtually unlimited tileability of the detector arrays and thus a compact detector/readout design for future FIR instrumentation requiring large pixel counts. We already have a pixel design which, if implemented with TES operating at less than 100 mK, will meet the continuum sensitivity requirements for background-limited cryogenic space missions of NEP < 10–18 W/√Hz). Furthermore, our array design will be compatible with lower noise TES designs for spectroscopy that we are currently demonstrating in our laboratory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEνNS) offers a valuable approach in searching for physics beyond the standard model. The Ricochet experiment aims to perform a precision measurement of the CEνNS spectrum at the Institut Laue–Langevin nuclear reactor with cryogenic solid-state detectors. The experiment plans to employ an array of cryogenic thermal detectors, each with a mass of around 30 g and an energy threshold of below 100 eV. The array includes nine detectors read out by transition-edge sensors (TES). These TES-based detectors will also serve as demonstrators for future neutrino experiments with thousands of detectors. In this article, we present an update on the characterization and modeling of a prototype TES detector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Time division SQUID multiplexing is being developed as the TES readout technology for the ATHENA X-ray integral field unit and CMB-S4. Close packing of TDM and dc-biased SQUID components is motivated by chip area constraints but has resulted in significant physical neighbor crosstalk in previous generation chips. We present techniques to reduce physical neighbor crosstalk in both linear and two dimensional (2D) TDM chips as well as measurements of crosstalk in these chips. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) derived from the long terminal repeat (LTR) family of transposons constitute a significant portion of the mammalian genome, with origins tracing back to ancient viral infections. Despite comprising approximately 8% of the human genome, the specific role of ERVs in the pathogenesis of COVID-19 remains unclear. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide identification of ERVs in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs) and primary lung epithelial cells from monkeys and mice, both infected and uninfected with SARS-CoV-2. We identified 405, 283, and 206 significantly up-regulated transposable elements (TEs) in hPBMCs, monkeys, and mice, respectively. This included 254, 119, 68, and 28 ERVs found in hPBMCs from severe and mild COVID-19 patients, monkeys, and transgenic mice expressing the human ACE2 receptor (hACE2) and infected with SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, analysis using the Genomic Regions Enrichment of Annotations Tool (GREAT) revealed certain parental genomic sequences of these upregulated ERVs in COVID-19 patients may be involved in various biological processes, including histone modification and viral replication. Of particular interest, we identified 210 ERVs specifically up-regulated in the severe COVID-19 group. The genes associated with these differentially expressed ERVs were enriched in processes such as immune response activation and histone modification. HERV1_I-int: ERV1:LTR and LTR7Y: ERV1:LTR were highlighted as potential biomarkers for evaluating the severity of COVID-19. Additionally, validation of our findings using RT-qPCR in Bone Marrow-Derived Macrophages (BMDMs) from mice infected by HSV-1 and VSV provided further support to our results. This study offers insights into the expression patterns and potential roles of ERVs following viral infection, providing a valuable resource for future studies on ERVs and their interaction with SARS-CoV-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Stroke survivors often have motor impairments and related functional deficits. Transcranial Electrical Stimulation (tES) is a rapidly evolving field that offers a wide range of capabilities for modulating brain function, and it is safe and inexpensive. It has the potential for widespread use for post-stroke motor recovery. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS), and Transcranial Random Noise Stimulation (tRNS) are three recognized tES techniques that have gained substantial attention in recent years but have different mechanisms of action. tDCS has been widely used in stroke motor rehabilitation, while applications of tACS and tRNS are very limited. The tDCS protocols could vary significantly, and outcomes are heterogeneous. Purpose: the current review attempted to explore the mechanisms underlying commonly employed tES techniques and evaluate their prospective advantages and challenges for their applications in motor recovery after stroke. Conclusion: tDCS could depolarize and hyperpolarize the potentials of cortical motor neurons, while tACS and tRNS could target specific brain rhythms and entrain neural networks. Despite the extensive use of tDCS, the complexity of neural networks calls for more sophisticated modifications like tACS and tRNS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivated by the suboptimal performances observed in existing compressed air energy storage (CAES) systems, this work focuses on the efficiency optimization of CAES through thermal energy storage (TES) integration. The research explores the dependence of CAES performance on power plant layout, charging time, discharging time, available power, and cavern volume. Hence, a range of solutions are examined, encompassing both solid and liquid TES options, alongside the potential utilization of external air heaters. Inefficiencies in solid TES due to significant retention of thermal power within the medium after complete discharge are identified and mitigated through optimization strategies. In addition, solutions to prevent ice formation at the low-pressure expander phase are suggested to avoid icing issues in CAES layouts with liquid TES. Through this comprehensive investigation, the study provides valuable insights into enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of CAES systems. By constructing a volume–power–time conversion table, the research contributes to the advancement of CAES technology, facilitating more efficient energy storage and utilization, thereby addressing critical challenges in the field of energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) is a complex and multifaceted approach to modulating brain activity and holds the potential for broad accessibility. This work discusses the mechanisms of the four distinct approaches to modulating brain activity non-invasively: electrical currents, magnetic fields, light, and ultrasound. We examine the dual stochastic and deterministic nature of brain activity and its implications for NIBS, highlighting the challenges posed by inter-individual variability, nebulous dose-response relationships, potential biases and neuroanatomical heterogeneity. Looking forward, we propose five areas of opportunity for future research: closed-loop stimulation, consistent stimulation of the intended target region, reducing bias, multimodal approaches, and strategies to address low sample sizes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Developmental Dyslexia (DD) is a brain-based developmental disorder causing severe reading difficulties. The extensive data on the neurobiology of DD have increased interest in brain-directed approaches, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), which have been proposed for DD. While positive outcomes have been observed, results remain heterogeneous. Various methodological approaches have been employed to address this issue. However, no studies have compared the effects of different transcranial electrical stimulation techniques (e.g., tDCS and transcranial random noise stimulation, tRNS), on reading in children and adolescents with DD. Methods: The present within-subject, double-blind, and sham-controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of tDCS and hf-tRNS on reading in children and adolescents with DD. Participants will undergo three conditions with a one-week interval session: (A) single active tDCS session; (B) single active hf-tRNS session; and (C) single sham session (tDCS/hf-tRNS). Left anodal/right cathodal tDCS and bilateral tRNS will be applied over the temporo-parietal regions for 20 min each. Reading measures will be collected before and during each session. Safety and blinding parameters will be recordered. Discussion: We hypothesize that tRNS will demonstrate comparable effectiveness to tDCS in improving reading compared to sham conditions. Additionally, we anticipate that hf-tRNS will exhibit a similar safety profile to tDCS. This study will contribute novel insights into the effectiveness of hf-tRNS, expediting the validation of brain-based treatments for DD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that has aroused considerable attention in recent years. This review aims to provide an overview of the existing literature on tPCS, examine the scope and nature of previous research, investigate its underlying mechanisms, and identify gaps in the literature. Searching online databases resulted in 36 published tPCS studies from inception until May 2023. These studies were categorized into three groups: human studies on healthy individuals, human studies on clinical conditions, and animal studies. The findings suggest that tPCS has the potential to modulate brain excitability by entraining neural oscillations and utilizing stochastic resonance. However, the underlying mechanisms of tPCS are not yet fully understood and require further investigation. Furthermore, the included studies indicate that tPCS may have therapeutic potential for neurological diseases. However, before tPCS can be applied in clinical settings, a better understanding of its mechanisms is crucial. Hence, the tPCS studies were categorized into four types of research: basic, strategic, applied, and experimental research, to identify the nature of the literature and gaps. Analysis of these categories revealed that tPCS, with its diverse parameters, effects, and mechanisms, presents a wide range of research opportunities for future investigations. Transcranial pulsed current stimulation (tPCS) is a cutting‐edge, noninvasive brain stimulation method that utilizes pulsatile current to modulate brain oscillations. It shares parameters and effects with other transcranial electric stimulation techniques like transcranial alternating current stimulation (frequency‐dependent) and transcranial direct current stimulation (polarity dependent). It is believed to have unique mechanisms for personalized treatment. Despite the limited literature, research suggests that tPCS can modulate cortical excitability through entrainment and stochastic resonance. Further studies are recommended to investigate its underlying mechanisms and the effects of different parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been studied extensively for its potential to enhance human cognitive functions in healthy individuals and to treat cognitive impairment in various clinical populations. However, little is known about how tDCS modulates the neural networks supporting cognition and the complex interplay with mediating factors that may explain the frequently observed variability of stimulation effects within and between studies. Moreover, research in this field has been characterized by substantial methodological variability, frequent lack of rigorous experimental control and small sample sizes, thereby limiting the generalizability of findings and translational potential of tDCS. The present manuscript aims to delineate how these important issues can be addressed within a neuroimaging context, to reveal the neural underpinnings, predictors and mediators of tDCS-induced behavioral modulation. We will focus on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), because it allows the investigation of tDCS effects with excellent spatial precision and sufficient temporal resolution across the entire brain. Moreover, high resolution structural imaging data can be acquired for precise localization of stimulation effects, verification of electrode positions on the scalp and realistic current modeling based on individual head and brain anatomy. However, the general principles outlined in this review will also be applicable to other imaging modalities. Following an introduction to the overall state-of-the-art in this field, we will discuss in more detail the underlying causes of variability in previous tDCS studies. Moreover, we will elaborate on design considerations for tDCS-fMRI studies, optimization of tDCS and imaging protocols and how to assure high-level experimental control. Two additional sections address the pressing need for more systematic investigation of tDCS effects across the healthy human lifespan and implications for tDCS studies in age-associated disease, and potential benefits of establishing large-scale, multidisciplinary consortia for more coordinated tDCS research in the future. We hope that this review will contribute to more coordinated, methodologically sound, transparent and reproducible research in this field. Ultimately, our aim is to facilitate a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms by which tDCS modulates human cognitive functions and more effective and individually tailored translational and clinical applications of this technique in the future.

The Simons Observatory (SO) is a cosmic microwave background instrumentation suite being deployed in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile. The telescopes within SO use three types of dichroic transition-edge sensor (TES) detector arrays, with the 90 and 150 GHz Mid-Frequency (MF) arrays containing 65% of the approximately 68,000 detectors in the first phase of SO. All of the 26 required MF detector arrays have now been fabricated, packaged into detector modules, and tested in laboratory cryostats. Across all modules, we find an average operable detector yield of 84% and median saturation powers of (2.8, 8.0) pW with interquartile ranges of (1, 2) pW at (90, 150) GHz, respectively, falling within their targeted ranges. We measure TES normal resistances and superconducting transition temperatures on each detector wafer to be uniform within 3%, with overall central values of 7.5 m Ω and 165 mK, respectively. Results on time constants, optical efficiency, and noise performance are also presented and are consistent with achieving instrument sensitivity forecasts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Enhanced-view totally extraperitoneal plasty (eTEP) has been used worldwide to repair ventral hernias. This study aimed to describe a novel technique to insert ports and create retromuscular space in more detail. Methods: From 2020 to 2022, 23 consecutive ventral hernia repairs were performed using the eTEP technique. In all cases, inside-to-outside puncture following endoscopic localization was utilized to insert ports and create retromuscular space. Results: All cases were completed with the eTEP technique, and no cases with conversion to open repair or IPOM technique. There were no epigastric vessel injuries and posterior sheath tears due to puncture. In addition, no postoperative hematoma cases were reported. Conclusion: Inside-to-outside puncture following endoscopic localization to insert ports and create retromuscular space is a safe, feasible, reproducible technique in eTEP for ventral hernia repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hafnium is a superconductor with a transition temperature slightly above 100 mK. This makes it attractive for such applications as microcalorimeters with high energy resolution. We report the superconducting properties of Hf films of thicknesses ranging from 60 to 115 nm, deposited on Si and Al2O3 substrates by electron beam evaporation. Besides that, we fabricated and measured combinations of hafnium with thin layers of normal metals, decreasing the critical temperature by the proximity effect. The critical temperature of the studied films varied from 56 to 302 mK. We have observed a significant change in the critical temperature of some films over time, which we propose to prevent by covering hafnium films with a thin layer of titanium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the effects of thermal stratification on thermal energy storage (TES) systems during the charging process and choose suitable phase change materials (PCMs) for various layers. The research revealed that fiberglass insulation of 60 mm thick significantly decreased natural convection losses and increased the TES system's potential for energy recovery. For constant heat load, the charging time increased with increasing HTF inlet temperature, but remained constant for the first TES layer at a specified flow rate, resulting in increased storage capacity with minimal heat loss to the surroundings. The solar collector efficiency was shown to be dependent on solar radiation and collector efficiency, with peak efficiency seen at specified periods. The lowest melting point of PCMs at each layer 68°C, 62.7°C, 57°C, and 50°C was chosen based on temperature graphs. For comparing stratification behavior, the "MIX" number versus non‐dimensional charging time plot was effective. Additional experiments are needed to assess the selected PCMs' charging and discharging properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The competitiveness of large-scale offshore wind parks is influenced by the intermittent power generation of wind turbines, which impacts network service costs such as reserve requirements, capacity credit, and system inertia. Buffer power plants smooth the peaks in power generation, distribute electric power when the wind is absent or insufficient, and improve the capacity factor of wind parks and their profitability. By substituting the variable pressure storage with an underwater variable volume air reservoir and reducing the wastage of compression heat using liquid Thermal Energy Storage (TES), which eliminates the combustor, the plant design allows overcoming the most common drawbacks of CAES plants. Underwater Compressed Air Energy Storage (UW-CAES) plants are investigated with a thermodynamic model to drive the power plant design toward efficiency maximization. Functional maps, constrained on the plant pressure ratio and the number of compressor/turbine phases with inter-refrigerated/inter-heating phases, are drawn by solving the model iteratively for the heat exchangers' effectiveness to meet the target turbine discharge temperature, selected in advance to avoid unfeasible mathematical solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]