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At least 235 records · Page 13

Next Generation Agricultural System Data, Models and Knowledge Products: Introduction

Agricultural system models have become important tools to provide predictive and assessment capability to a growing array of decision-makers in the private and public sectors. Despite ongoing research and model improvements, many of the agricultural models today are direct descendants of research investments initially made 30-40 years ago, and many of the major advances in data, information and communication technology (ICT) of the past decade have not been fully exploited. The purpose of this Special Issue of Agricultural Systems is to lay the foundation for the next generation of agricultural systems data, models and knowledge products. The Special Issue is based on a 'NextGen' study led by the Agricultural Model Intercomparison and Improvement Project (AgMIP) with support from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Next generation↗

Small Next-Generation Atmospheric Probe (SNAP) Concept

We present the Small Next-Generation Atmospheric Probe (SNAP) as a secondary payload concept for future missions to giant planets. As a case study, we examine the advantages, cost and risk of adding SNAP to the future Uranus Orbiter and Probe flag-ship mission; in combination with the missions main probe, SNAP would perform atmospheric in-situ measurements at a second location.

Uranus↗

Next Generation Agricultural System Models and Knowledge Products: Synthesis and Strategy

The purpose of this Special Issue of Agricultural Systems is to lay the foundation for the next generation of agricultural systems data, models and knowledge products. In the Introduction to this Special Issue, we described a vision for accelerating the rate of agricultural innovation and meeting the growing global need for food and fiber. In this concluding article of the NextGen Special Issue we synthesize insights and formulate a strategy to advance data, models, and knowledge products that are consistent with this vision. This strategy is designed to facilitate a transition from the current, primarily supply-driven approach toward a more demand-driven approach that would address key Use Cases where better data, models and knowledge products are seen by end-users as essential to meet their needs.

Next generation↗

PMAD for the Next Generation Spacecraft

The next generation spacecraft is reducing the power, mass and volume envelope for the power system. The Power Management and Distribution (PMAD) function has traditionally been the largest

Next↗

Binder-Free Graphite Anodes for Next-Generation High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

High-energy density anodes are crucial for next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) particularly for electric vehicle (EV) applications. Sluggish lithium-diffusion kinetics coupled with conventional anode fabrication processes containing polymeric binders hinder fast-charging capabilities and high-energy density of graphite. Herein, we introduce a binder-free graphite anode fabrication strategy using the electrospinning technique that contains ~2.41% carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Our strategy relies on the formation of an interconnecting conductive CNT network coupled with an ultrathin N-doped carbon coating on graphite particles from sacrificial binders. This combination enhances both structural integrity and electrical conductivity and, in turn, improves fast-charging capabilities and high energy density of LIBs. The binder-free graphite anode achieves ~335.0 mAh g–1 capacity at C/3 rate over 400 cycles with capacity retention of >95% and average Coulombic efficiencies >99.95%. These promising results suggest that the binder-free anode fabrication with a multifunctional design approach could elevate the energy-density limits of the graphite anodes, solving high-energy density requirements of EVs, and potentially provides a path forward for the development of economically feasible energy storage systems for various applications.

Ozcan, Muca [ORNL] (ORCID:0000000320020474)↗

Semi-inclusive single-jet production in DIS at next-to-leading order in the Color Glass Condensate

Within the Color Glass Condensate (CGC) effective field theory, we derive the next-to-leading order (NLO) cross-section for the single-jet semi-inclusive cross-section in deep inelastic scattering (DIS) at small x, for both longitudinally and transversely polarized virtual photons. We provide analytic expressions, valid at finite N c and suitable for numerical evaluation, for both the cross-section differential in rapidity and transverse momentum and the cross-section differential in rapidity only. Our NLO formulae demonstrate that the very forward rapidity regime is plagued by large double logarithmic corrections coming from phase space constraints on soft gluons close to the kinematic threshold for jet production. A joint resummation of small-x and threshold logarithms at single logarithmic accuracy is proposed to remedy the instability of the cross-section in this regime. By integrating over the single-jet phase space, we recover known results for the NLO DIS structure functions at small x, previously obtained using the optical theorem.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗

Transverse momentum-dependent heavy-quark fragmentation at next-to-leading order

The transverse momentum-dependent fragmentation functions (TMD FFs) of heavy (bottom and charm) quarks, which we recently introduced, are universal building blocks that enter predictions for a large number of observables involving final-state heavy quarks or hadrons. They enable the extension of fixed-order subtraction schemes to quasi-collinear limits, and are of particular interest in their own right as probes of the nonperturbative dynamics of hadronization. In this paper we calculate all TMD FFs involving heavy quarks and the associated TMD matrix element in heavy-quark effective theory (HQET) to next-to-leading order in the strong interaction. Our results confirm the renormalization properties, large-mass, and small-mass consistency relations predicted in our earlier work. We also derive and confirm a prediction for the large-z behavior of the heavy-quark TMD FF by extending, for the first time, the formalism of joint resummation to capture quark mass effects in heavy-quark fragmentation. Our final results in position space agree with those of a recent calculation by another group that used a highly orthogonal organization of singularities in the intermediate momentum-space steps, providing a strong independent cross check. As an immediate application, we present the complete quark mass dependence of the energy-energy correlator (EEC) in the back-to-back limit at $\mathcal{O}\left({\alpha}_s\right)$.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗

All order factorization for virtual Compton scattering at next-to-leading power

We discuss all-order factorization for the virtual Compton process at next-to leading power (NLP) in the Λ QCD /Q and $\sqrt{-t}$/Q expansion (twist-3), both in the double deeply-virtual case and the single-deeply-virtual case. We use the soft-collinear efective theory (SCET) as the main theoretical tool. We conclude that collinear factorization holds in the double-deeply virtual case, where both photons are far of-shell. The agreement is found with the known results for the hard matching coefcients at leading order $α^0_s$, and we can therefore connect the traditional approach with SCET. In the single-deeply-virtual case, commonly called deeply virtual Compton scattering (DVCS), the contribution of non-target collinear regions complicates the factorization. These include momentum modes collinear to the real photon and (ultra)soft interactions between the photon-collinear and target-collinear modes. However, such contributions appear only for the transversely polarized virtual photon at the NLP accuracy and in fact it is the only NLP ~ (Λ QCD /Q) 1 ~ ( $\sqrt{-t}$/Q) 1 contribution in that case. We therefore conclude that the DVCS amplitude for a longitudinally polarized virtual photon, where the leading power ~ (Λ QCD /Q) 0 ~ ($\sqrt{-t}$/Q) 0 contribution vanishes, is free of non-target collinear contributions and the collinear factorization in terms of twist-3 GPDs holds in that case as well.

73 NUCLEAR PHYSICS AND RADIATION PHYSICS↗

Global interfertility and heterosis in sugar kelp populations: a next step in sugar kelp breeding

Abstract The potential of seaweed aquaculture is restricted by high labor, production and processing costs, leading to low economic viability. Selective breeding can improve yields and cultivation efficiency, thereby decreasing production costs. Until now, genetic resources as input for Saccharina latissimabreeding trials have been sourced strictly locally, due to concerns regarding outplanting genetically exogenous material in local waters. Here we study, for the first time, worldwide interregional fertility of the seaweedS. latissima,in order to assess the potential of including globalS. latissimagenetic resources for selective breeding with regard to heterosis. We quantified the yield (as an indicative aquacultural performance) and morphological traits of intra- and interregionalS. latissimahybrids originating from a broad range of locations in a common garden experiment. Our results show that the practical application of worldwideS. latissimagenetic resources in breeding programs is feasible based on global interfertility. We found a wide morphological diversity of hybrids and observed significant heterosis in interregional hybrids. The degree of heterosis could not be linked to geographic distance. These findings reveal that worldwide genetic resources can considerably contribute toS. latissimabreeding programs and could offer a major next step in improving yields and quality traits.

Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology↗

Apollo Next Generation Sample Analysis (ANGSA): an Apollo Participating Scientist Program to Prepare the Lunar Sample Community for Artemis

As a first step in preparing for the return of samples from the Moon by the Artemis Program, NASA initiated the Apollo Next Generation Sample Analysis Program (ANGSA). ANGSA was designed to function as a low-cost sample return mission and involved the curation and analysis of samples previously returned by the Apollo 17 mission that remained unopened or stored under unique conditions for 50 years. These samples include the lower portion of a double drive tube previously sealed on the lunar surface, the upper portion of that drive tube that had remained unopened, and a variety of Apollo 17 samples that had remained stored at -27 °C for approximately 50 years. ANGSA constitutes the first preliminary examination phase of a lunar “sample return mission” in over 50 years. It also mimics that same phase of an Artemis surface exploration mission, its design included placing samples within the context of local and regional geology through new orbital observations collected since Apollo and additional new “boots-on-the-ground” observations, data synthesis, and interpretations provided by Apollo 17 astronaut Harrison Schmitt. ANGSA used new curation techniques to prepare, document, and allocate these new lunar samples, developed new tools to open and extract gases from their containers, and applied new analytical instrumentation previously unavailable during the Apollo Program to reveal new information about these samples. Most of the 90 scientists, engineers, and curators involved in this mission were not alive during the Apollo Program, and it had been 30 years since the last Apollo core sample was processed in the Apollo curation facility at NASA JSC. There are many firsts associated with ANGSA that have direct relevance to Artemis. ANGSA is the first to open a core sample previously sealed on the surface of the Moon, the first to extract and analyze lunar gases collected in situ, the first to examine a core that penetrated a lunar landslide deposit, and the first to process pristine Apollo samples in a glovebox at -20 °C. All the ANGSA activities have helped to prepare the Artemis generation for what is to come. The timing of this program, the composition of the team, and the preservation of unopened Apollo samples facilitated this generational handoff from Apollo to Artemis that sets up Artemis and the lunar sample science community for additional successes.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Overview, Progress and Next Steps for Our Understanding of the Near-Earth Space Radiation and Plasma Environment: Science and Applications

The Near-Earth Space Radiation and Plasma Environment falls within the realm of G3 Cluster (G3 refers to ‘Near-Earth Radiation and Plasma Environment’ of the ‘Coupled Geospace System’) under the COSPAR (Committee On Space Research) /International Space Weather Action Teams (ISWAT) Initiative. The diverse and dynamic particle populations from this region pose challenges from both science and space weather-impact perspectives. The G3 cluster has intimate connections with solar, heliosphere clusters, and the other Geospace ones (G1, G2) through a chain of physical processes. This paper reviews recent scientific advances in understanding this complex space environment, identifies gaps in research and space weather applications, and maps out our recommendations on priorities for the next 5-10 years.

Zheng, Yihua↗

Towards the next generation of Geospatial Artificial Intelligence

Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI), as the integration of geospatial studies and AI, has become one of the fastest-developing research directions in spatial data science and geography. This rapid change in the field calls for a deeper understanding of the recent developments and envision where the field is going in the near future. In this work, we provide a quantitative analysis of the GeoAI literature from the spatial, temporal, and semantic aspects. We briefly discuss the history of AI and GeoAI by highlighting some pioneering work. Then we discuss the current landscape of GeoAI by selecting five representative subdomains including remote sensing, urban computing, Earth system science, cartography, and geospatial semantics. Finally, we highlight several unique future research directions of GeoAI which are classified into two groups: GeoAI method development challenges and GeoAI Ethics challenges. Topics include heterogeneity-aware GeoAI, knowledge-guided GeoAI, spatial representation learning, geo-foundation models, fairness-aware GeoAI, privacy-aware GeoAI, as well as interpretable and explainable GeoAI. We hope our review of GeoAI’s past, present, and future is comprehensive and can enlighten the next generation of GeoAI research.

58 GEOSCIENCES↗

A robust alloy design (RAD) strategy for next-generation (IV) nuclear fission reactors

Next-generation nuclear reactors demand structural materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions, including high temperatures, intense neutron flux, and corrosive environments. Multi-Principal Element Alloys (MPEAs) have emerged as promising candidates due to their exceptional radiation tolerance, thermal stability, and compositional flexibility. This study introduces a versatile and customizable Robust Alloy Design (RAD) strategy for systematically designing MPEAs for GEN-IV reactor fuel cladding. The RAD framework integrates nuclear-relevant selection criteria, empirical parameter assessments, and high-throughput CALPHAD simulations to efficiently narrow compositional space and identify stable alloys. A unified RAD score developed for the first time, combines key performance metrics, including fuel-clad chemical interaction (FCCI), neutron absorption cross-section (NAC), valence electron configuration (VEC), and melting point factor (MPF), into a flexible ranking system adaptable to reactor-specific priorities. Among 724 candidates, V555(5Al–5Cr–5Fe–85V) emerged as the top alloy, validated experimentally with a homogeneous single-phase BCC microstructure and superior mechanical properties (nano-indentation: 3.389 ± 0.258 GPa; Vickers hardness: 240 ± 6.7 HV), significantly outperforming Zircaloy-4 and V-4Cr-4Ti. Importantly, the RAD strategy is not limited to nuclear applications; its customizable weighting system enables scalability to other extreme environments. This adaptability positions RAD strategy as a versatile tool for advanced materials design across multiple industries.

Alloy design↗

Heuristic solutions to the single depot electric vehicle scheduling problem with next day operability constraints

This study focuses on the single depot electric vehicle scheduling problem (SDEVSP) within the broader context of the vehicle scheduling problem (VSP). By developing an effective scheduling model using mixed-integer linear programming, we generate bus blocks that accommodate electric vehicles (EVs), ensuring successful completion of each block while considering recharging requirements between blocks and during off-hours. Next day operability constraints are also incorporated, allowing for seamless repetition of blocks on subsequent days. The SDEVSP is known to be computationally complex, deriving optimal solutions unattainable for large-scale problems within reasonable timeframes. To address this, we propose a two-step solution approach: first solving the single depot VSP, and then addressing the block chaining problem (BCP) using the blocks generated in the first step. The BCP focuses on optimizing block combinations to facilitate recharging between consecutive blocks, considering operational constraints. Further, a case study conducted reveals that nearly 100% electrification for Chicago, IL and Austin, TX transit buses is viable yet requires 1.6 EVs at 150-mile range per diesel vehicle.

33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS↗

Bismuth-oxo Clusters for Next Generation Extreme Ultraviolet Light Photolithography

Photolithography is the primary technique used for the patterning of semiconducting materials for chip manufacturing; however, as requisite pattern dimensions and feature sizes continue to decrease, state-of-the-art lithographic methods now require the use of 13.5 nm extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light. The shift toward these higher energy wavelengths of light has resulted in a need for new single component materials, with high EUV absorption cross sections and high etch resistance. Herein, we report the exploration of Bi 9 O 7 (hfac) 13 as the first bismuth oxo cluster based EUV photoresist. It was determined this material has an exceptional EUV linear absorption coefficient (24 μm –1 ), nearly an order of magnitude larger than commercially available chemically amplified resists (CARs) (∼5 μm –1 ). Additionally, the resist was determined to be highly sensitive to EUV exposure and displayed a dose-to-gel of 10 mJ/cm 2 , undergoing ligand decomposition during exposure and cross-linking during the postexposure bake, which was supported by FTIR and residual gas analysis. In conclusion, this class of bismuth-oxo cluster resists can lead to the development of more efficient, effective and safe EUV resist materials required for next-generation photolithography.

MacKenzie, Harvey K. [Univ. of Victoria, BC (Canad↗

Bridging Atomic Solvation Environment with Electrochemical Properties for the Bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide-Based Divalent Cation Electrolytes for the Next-Generation Energy Storage Systems

A deep molecular-level understanding of the multivalent electrolyte and its correlation with the electrochemical properties is crucial for designing optimized electrolytes for next-generation rechargeable batteries. Comprehensive knowledge of the atomic level of the solvation structure and its connection with electrochemical stability and ion transport properties is especially critical. However, the interaction of these three components coupled with clear atomistic insights is lacking in the literature. Here, our current contribution evaluates representative electrolytes with the bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (TFSI) anions for multivalent cations of Mg, Ca, and Zn, at different ionic conditions with and without a cosolvated environment in ether-based solvent. Two critical problems are investigated: first, resolving the solvation structures in the electrolyte solutions as a function of concentrations through pair distribution function analysis and the corresponding electrochemical transport properties; second, unmasking the quantitative correlation of the atomistic environment with both electrochemical kinetics and cation dependence. We discovered that the magnesium- and calcium-based electrolytes display versatile coordination lengths but poor average anodic stability due to ion pairing with TFSI - . On the contrary, the zinc-based electrolytes show the shortest solvent coordination lengths, shielding the Zn cation from rigid solvent interactions and resulting in the highest anodic stabilities. Calcium-based electrolytes exhibit the longest and most concentration-independent coordination lengths. This work provides valuable insights into the molecular structural and electrochemical features of diverse multivalent electrolyte systems with cations in various solvation environments, emphasizing the importance of the solvation structure and construction in designing high-performance electrolytes.

cation coordination↗

Predictive Chemical Kinetic Modeling: Where We Succeed, Where We Struggle, and What Comes Next

Chemical kinetic modeling plays a foundational role in fields ranging from energy to environmental science, pharmaceuticals, and advanced materials. The past two decades have seen remarkable progress, particularly in modeling gas-phase reactions for thermochemical processes, leading to impactful industrial applications such as steam cracking and air quality management. However, new challenges are emerging. The successful development of systematic methodologies for the description of gas-phase kinetics opens the possibility to apply the same approach to the study of more challenging systems. Here, we review recent advances, including ab initio transition state theory-based master equation estimation of elementary rates, automated mechanism generation, machine-learning-assisted kinetics, and uncertainty quantification, and discuss the advances needed to apply the same methodological approach in areas such as heterogeneous catalysis, electrochemistry, liquid-phase and solid-state reactivity, and multiscale model integration. We advocate for the development of targeted tools, especially methods that go beyond empirical tuning toward first-principles-based predictions. We highlight the need for accessible software and AIaugmented workflows to democratize modeling for industry and academia alike. In this perspective, we call attention to not only what has worked but also what remains unsolved, advocating to avoid overemphasizing successes in scientific works at the expense of realism. The next decade should focus on predictive capability, physical accuracy, and community infrastructure (e.g., databases and services) to enable innovation across diverse fields. We argue that kinetic modeling, properly equipped, can accelerate discovery far beyond its traditional domains.

ab initio calculations↗