Light-Harvesting Efficiency Cannot Depend on Optical Coherence in the Absence of Orientational Order

The coherence of light has been proposed as a quantum-mechanical control for enhancing light-harvesting efficiency. In particular, optical coherence can be manipulated by changing either the polarization state or the spectral phase of the light. Here, we show that, in weak light, light-harvesting efficiency cannot be controlled using any form of optical coherence in molecular light-harvesting systems and, more broadly, those comprising orientationally disordered subunits and operating on longer-than-ultrafast time scales. Under those conditions, optical coherence does not affect the light-harvesting efficiency, meaning that it cannot be used for control. Specifically, polarization-state control is lost in disordered samples or when the molecules reorient on the time scales of light harvesting, and spectral-phase control is lost when the efficiency is time-averaged over a period longer than the optical coherence time. In practice, efficiency is always averaged over long times, meaning that coherent optical control is only possible through polarization and only in systems with orientational order

Using Machine Learning Methods to Estimate the Gender Wage Gap

The Gender Wage Gap (GWG) is a classic topic in labour economics. Simply put, how do we explain the observed gap in earnings between men and women? Traditionally the GWG has been estimated using regression models based on Mincer-type wage equations controlling for individual, job and firm characteristics. Recently the literature has shifted towards understanding the relevance of methodological choices in estimating the GWG, including new machine learning (ML) techniques. This paper contributes to the discussion by exploring the alternative machine learning techniques to estimate the GWG. Specifically, we illustrate how to implement the proposal of Ahrens et al. [3] to use “stacking regression” in combination with the “Double-Debiased Machine Learning” methodology of Chernozhukov et al. [12]

Acanthamoeba keratitis:new hopes for potential interventions for a curable but often refractory disease

Introduction: Often associated with contact lens wear, Acanthamoeba keratitis is an extremely painful blinding infection that has remained significant despite advances in drug discovery and chemotherapies. Current treatment is intricate and demands early diagnosis, aggressive and prolonged application, and may result in infection recurrence. The latter is due to the ability of the parasite to undergo cellular differentiation and transform into a resistant cyst form or infective trophozoite form.Areas covered: Here, we present a review of our current understanding of emerging therapies and priorities tackling Acanthamoeba keratitis. Literature searches were carried out using bibliographic databases and results sifted and reviewed to present recent findings, challenges and novel opportunities in the development of therapeutic interventions and/or preventative measures against Acanthamoeba keratitis.Expert opinion: Nanomedicine-based theranostics to combine diagnosis and treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis offer remarkable opportunity in the development of clinical applications in the management of Acanthamoeba keratitis.</p

Models of Firm Dynamics and the Hazard Rate of Exits: Reconciling Theory and Evidence using Non-proportional Hazard Regression Models

We propose a new hazard regression model with age-varying covariate effects that incorporates many of the most prominent empirical regularities in studies of firm dynamics. The model admits negative effects of initial size that may either fall to zero with age (active learning model) or stay persistently negative (passive learning model), baseline hazard rates that decrease with age at higher durations, and adverse effects of macroeconomic shocks that affect only younger firms. We also allow for individual firm level unobserved heterogeneity. Our model estimates show evidence of active learning in quoted UK firms. Further, the effect of macroeconomic shocks decreases with age, and baseline hazard exhibits Increasing Mean Residual Life

Role of scandium addition to microstructure, corrosion resistance, and mechanical properties of AA7085/ZrB₂+Al₂O₃ composites

The effect of varying amounts of scandium (Sc) on themechanical performance and corrosion resistance of aluminum alloy (AA7085)composites reinforced with Zirconium diboride (ZrB2) and Aluminumoxide (Al2O3) nanoparticles was investigated. Thespecimens were made using an in-situ process with varying amounts of Sc up to0.5 wt%, and theirmicrostructural behavior, corrosion, and mechanical properties were explored indetail. Phase structural analysis revealed the successful incorporation of ZrB2 andAl2O3 into the matrix through in-situ synthesis,ranging from 30 to 61.7 nm.In addition, HRTEM and XRD analysis displays the Al3Zr prominenceobserved with 0.1 wt% Sccontent, transforming to Al3(Sc, Zr) in the 0.3 wt% Sc composite, and finallybecoming Al3Sc with 0.5 wt%Sc. Corrosion analysis revealed that the 0.3 wt%Sc composite exhibited fine Al3(Sc, Zr) precipitate phases thatenhanced corrosion properties. The Sc addition leads to a significantimprovement in the mechanical properties of AA7085/ZrB2+Al2O3 composites.The ultimate tensile strength of 678 ± 5 MPafor 0.5 wt% Sc under thehot rolled and T6 aged condition was achieved. The optimum content of Sc inAA7085/ZrB2+Al2O3 composites hasidentified both corrosion and mechanical properties enhancement at 0.3 wt% and 0.5 wt%, respectively.</p

Enhancing Thermal Management in Protective Textiles Using Hydrated Salt as Phase Change Materials

The thermal properties of textiles are essential for ensuring the comfort of both fabric and clothing systems. Phase change materials (PCMs), which contain latent heat, play a significant role in this area. As ambient temperature fluctuates, PCMs absorb heat, melt or release heat, and solidify. Throughout these melting and crystallizing processes, the temperature of the PCM remains constant. Integrating suitable PCMs into garments helps maintain a stable temperature within the micro-environment between the garment and the wearer. The effectiveness depends on the quantity of PCMs used. This study synthesised and evaluated a novel type of nano-capsule containing PCM Glauber’s salt. Advanced techniques such as Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were employed to analyze the developed nano-capsules. Additionally, a finite element model was created to enhance the understanding of the thermal mechanisms in textiles incorporating PCMs. This comprehensive analysis aims to promote the application of PCMs in protective textiles, contributing to developing next-generation materials that provide thermal regulation and protection for the wearer

On the accuracy of Eulerian-Lagrangian CFD simulations for spray evaporation in turbulent flow

CFD simulation of droplet evaporation in turbulent flows is challenging as the accuracy and reliability of the results strongly depend on the available sub-models and their modeling parameters. This study presents a systematic sensitivity analysis focused on the impact of the most widely used discrete random walk (DRW) model, the constant time scale coefficient (CL), the turbulence model, and the drag coefficient model. CFD simulations with the Eulerian-Lagrangian approach are employed. The analysis is based on grid-sensitivity analysis and validation with measurements of spray evaporation in a heated turbulent airflow. The results show that using the DRW model leads to a good agreement between the CFD results and the experimental data of droplet size and droplet mean velocity, attributed to the turbulent fluctuations inducing droplet dispersion. The best performance is observed for the standard k-ε turbulence model with CL = 0.30 and 0.45. This is mainly attributed to the reasonable interaction time between droplets and turbulent eddies at these CL values. The three drag coefficient models (i.e., Spherical, Ischii-Zuber, and Grace) lead to similar results due to the low droplet Reynolds number

Examining the Impact of House Size on Building Embodied Energy

The effects of buildings on the environment can be reduced with research-based alternative building designs. This study focuses on reducing the building space to lower the overall size of a building as a strategy to reduce the building’s embodied energy. The aim of this study was to investigate the initial embodied energy (IEE) of a residential building that was systematically reduced in size. Using input–output-based hybrid analysis, the IEE for three architecturally distinct four-bedroom residential prototypes (P1, P2, and P3) was calculated. The IEE for P1 (525 m2), P2 (266 m2), and P3 (109 m2) were 3555, 2008, and 1000 GJ, respectively. This indicates a 72% reduction in embodied energy consumption when the largest prototype (P1) was transitioned to the smallest (P3). When analyzing IEE/m2 and IEE/m2/occupant, it becomes apparent that larger spaces tend to have a lower IEE/m2. However, when the occupancy increases, the IEE/m2/occupant decreases by 25–33%. Therefore, considering occupant-centered design for residential buildings, the benefits of a large house are not justifiable. These findings can help inform decisions regarding the optimization of residential spaces to minimize environmental impacts

More than Noise: Lived Experiences of Autistic Peoplein Real-Life Acoustic Environments

The study of the human response to sound has typically considered the average experiences of young individuals with standard hearing capabilities and sensitivity, and although research on high noise sensitivity and its effects is extensive, practical considerations in acoustics are usually limited to specific facilities. Thus, the acoustical characteristics of daily life environments can constitute an important barrier, for example, to autistic people, who often experience high noise sensitivity. To contribute to an in-depth understanding of the impact of noise sensitivity in real-life scenarios, this study presents the results of interviews with 12 autistic adults living in the UK exploring their lived experiences with sounds, spaces and society. Four themes were developed in the thematic analysis of the interviews: 1) High sound sensitivity affects every aspect of life; 2) Lack of understanding and acceptance - sensory gaslighting; 3) Agency is crucial; 4) Positive impact of music and natural environments. The findings suggest that challenges associated to high noise sensitivity can be the result of a heightened response to sound, but are significantly aggravated by social attitudes to sensory differences and pre-conceptions of what is “normal”. Failing to consider diversity in auditory experiences can have important negative consequences for personal and professional life, financial prospects, health and overall well-being. This study calls to observe these experiences under a human rights lens to guarantee the full participation in society on an equal basis, and to continue the work in aural diversity and auditory accessibility in acoustics and soundscape research and practice