bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N-doped graphene encapsulated FeNi core–shell with S defects for the oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Feng Rumeng , Chen Lu , Huang Liping , Wu Haihong , Ge Yuanyu , Xu Jiani , Zeng Min , Li Wenyao
Published: November 2024

The current density of a S–FeNi@NG core–shell structure catalyst reaches 10 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of just 250 mV, and the Tafel slope was 90.95 mV dec−1, which exhibits excellent OER catalytic activity.
UV-assisted synthesis of an Ag-poly (aminosalicylic acid) hybrid system for an asymmetric supercapacitor and its application as a low pass filter
Authors: Kumari Pooja , Saha Chandan , Ghosh Sarit K , Perla Venkata K , Singh Harishchandra , Mallick Kaushik
Published: November 2024

Supercapacitors have attracted substantial research interest as energy storage devices because of their long cycle life, quick electrochemical charging–discharging process and high energy and power densities.
A solar rotation signature in cosmic dust observed in STEREO spacecraft data
Authors: Chadda Shivank , Malaspina David M. , Baalmann Lennart R. , Sterken Veerle J. , Hunziker Silvan , Sternovsky Zoltan
Published: November 2024

Aims. Cosmic dust within the Solar System is subject to a range of forces that can modify its trajectory, including gravity, radiation pressure, and the Lorentz force. Lorentz force interactions between the solar wind and dust arise due to the motion of charged dust grains with respect to the solar wind plasma flow and the magnetic fields carried by that flow. For dust grains where the charge to mass ratio is sufficiently large, the Lorentz force can significantly modify the dust grain motion. At the same time, properties of the magnetic fields and plasma in the solar wind are modulated by solar periodicities, such as the 11-year solar cycle and the solar rotation period. These solar periodicities are therefore expected to be imparted onto the trajectories of dust moving within the Solar System via Lorentz force interactions.

Methods. We examined nearly two decades of cosmic dust observations made by the twin STEREO spacecraft at 1 AU for periodicities in the dust flux. We created a two-dimensional toy model to examine whether it is reasonable to expect solar-rotation variability in solar wind magnetic field and plasma velocities to modify the trajectories of dust that reaches 1 AU.

Results. Periodic modulations of the dust flux observed by STEREO at 1 AU are identified near the solar rotation period and its harmonics. The toy model suggests that solar-rotation variability of the solar wind can be sufficient to alter the trajectories of some dust within the Solar System.
The Economic Diversification and Sustainability Development in Oil-Rich Countries: A Panel Data Study
Authors: Sakti Muhammad Rizky Prima
Published: November 2024

Diversifying income sources in oil-producing countries is necessary for achieving financial sustainability and a pathway to a more prosperous future. Despite the recognized importance of diversification, there remains a research gap in understanding the combined impact of factors like capital formation, oil rents, foreign investment, labor dynamics, rule of law, and CO2 emissions on sustainable growth. This research delves into the nexus between economic diversification and sustainable development in GCC countries, aiming to identify the key factors influencing economic diversification in this region. The study meticulously analyzes the impact of these critical variables on the economic diversification efforts of GCC countries. The findings reveal a robust positive correlation between economic diversification and these influential factors, as measured by GDP. This correlation underscores the potential benefits of economic diversification, such as enhanced sustainability and resilience, reinforcing the importance of this research topic. Also, the study emphasizes the urgent need for GCC countries to invest in non-oil economic sectors.
Privacy Principles in Malay House Design: Integrating Visual and Acoustic Privacy in Selatpanjang Residences
Authors: Samra Boby , Aulia Dwira Nirfalini , Lindarto Dwi , Fachrudin Hilma Tamiami
Published: November 2024

The House of Malay Selatpanjang (RMS) in Riau, Indonesia, integrates traditional Malay architectural design and Islamic environmental principles into the privacy of the built environment. This research aims to understand the visual and acoustic privacy of RMS compared to the principles enlisted in the book “Traditional Islamic Principles of Built Environment.” It involves detailed observations, spatial measurements, and in-depth interviews of the occupants about how privacy is maintained in their daily activities and what it means. The findings show that RMS successfully incorporates the guidelines given by Islamic privacy through the strategic placement of doors, windows, and partitions. While visual privacy is assured through window and door design that is restricted from allowing views or approaches from without, acoustic privacy is achieved using physical dividers and cultural norms that require talking at low volume while within the house. These measures translate to distinctive public, semipublic, and private zones within the home, thus affording proper interaction while respecting personal space. This study is beneficial as it provides critical insight into how Islamic architectural principles could be translated into the practical set-up of modern residential design. The study gives valuable recommendations for architects and designers who want to make culturally and religiously sensitive housing solutions by showing how traditional values can be retained and brought into contemporary living environments. Implications go beyond the local context, pointing out a model of sustainable and respectful residential design that honors cultural heritage and modern needs.
Reducing Congestion via Coordination of Signalized Intersection on Corridor KH. Abdul Halim Majalengka District
Authors: Yasa Kadek Satya Adi Dwi , Hardianto Dani , Sarjana Sri , Prasadda Ahmad Kemal
Published: November 2024

KH Abdul Halim Street have three intersections where the conditions are uncoordinated, resulting in vehicles that have just passed Mambo Market Intersection having to stop and wait for the green phase again at Abok Intersection, and a similar situation occurs at Tugu Kecap Intersection. Consequently, long queues, delays, and numerous stops, especially during peak hours, are unavoidable. Therefore, a thorough coordination analysis among the intersections is necessary to reduce traffic congestion at these three intersections. The purpose of this study is to analyze the signal coordination among the three intersections using Transyt 14.1 software. The research was conducted by analyzing primary and secondary data with Indonesian Highway Capacity Manual to obtain values for Capacity, Queue Length, Delay, Degree of Saturation, and Level of Service in the existing conditions, followed by analyzing the existing signal settings at these intersections using the Time-Distance Method diagram. The signal coordination analysis was carried out using Transyt 14.1, and the results from the software were compared with the existing conditions. The study results show that the delay has increased from the existing conditions at Pasar Mambo, Abok, and Tugu Kecap Intersections. The Degree of Saturation has decreased, and the Queue Length has also decreased. The novelty of this research lies in its practical application of signal optimization software to an understudied area, offering actionable recommendations for local governments to improve urban traffic flow and reduce congestion on busy corridors.
Evaluation of Four Indonesian Leaf Extracts for Their Antimicrobial Activity against Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) & Escherichia coli (K-12)
Authors: Purnama Indra , Swebocki Tomasz , Ihsan Fikratul , Mutamima Anisa , Boukherroub Rabah , Mechouche Meroua Safa , Fadilaturahmah Fadilaturahmah
Published: November 2024

The prolonged use of synthetic pesticides can lead to adverse effects on both the environment and human health, manifesting in conditions such as organ dysfunction, hormonal disturbances, and even cancer. Thus, there is an imperative need to explore natural-based pesticides (biopesticides) that possess antimicrobial capabilities, are environmentally friendly, and are beneficial for health. Several plants, including Muntingia calabura, Mangifera indica, Psidium guajava, and Tithonia diversifolia, offer potential as sources for biopesticides. This research aims to assess the antimicrobial efficacy of extracts from these leaves with water-based solvent, evaluating their potential use as biopesticides. The plant samples were extracted using the maceration method with water as the solvent. Each extract was tested for its antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli (K-12) and Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Antimicrobial efficacy was quantitatively measured by calculating the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) using the CLSI guidelines (M07-A13). The results demonstrated that the T. diversifolia leaf extract, with a 3-hour simplicia immersion duration, exhibited the most potent antimicrobial activity against the test bacterial strain E. coli, given its lowest MIC value of (7.03 ± 0.79 µg/ml). Hence, the T. diversifolia leaf extract holds significant promise for development into a biopesticide, owing to its superior antimicrobial capabilities.
Enactment of Opinion Mining for Medium and Small Medium Enterprises in the Face of Digital Marketing Era
Authors: Walhidayat Walhidayat , Sadar Muhamad , Yuhelmi Yuhelmi , Samsidar Raja
Published: November 2024

This research article aims to investigate the sentiment of Medium and Small Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) towards digital marketing using machine learning algorithms. In the growing digital era, digital marketing has become a key element in the marketing strategy of MSMEs. While digital marketing is pivotal for MSME growth in the digital era, there is a notable gap in understanding MSMEs’ attitudes and adoption challenges. This research uses sentiment analysis methods with machine learning algorithms to analyze data from various sources, including social media, online reviews, and surveys. The results of this study are expected to provide deep insights into how MSME players perceive and view digital marketing, whether positively or negatively, as well as what factors influence their views. The findings can serve as an important foundation for the development of more effective and sustainable marketing strategies for MSMEs in the face of challenges and opportunities in the digital era. The application of machine learning for nuanced sentiment analysis in MSME digital marketing offers valuable insights to refine marketing strategies and foster sustainable digital growth for small businesses.
Comprehensive Exploration of Ecopreneurship Principles for Sustainable Business Practices
Authors: Awa Awa , Pramestidewi Chandra Ayu , Aziz Ayi Jamaludin
Published: November 2024

Ecopreneurship is about producing environmentally friendly products and technologies, where innovation and market orientation align with sustainability and ecological awareness. Ecopreneurship is important because environmental innovation is a potential competitive advantage. However, there are still many parties who do not know, understand, apply, and practice the principles of ecopreneurship properly, which can create sustainable businesses. No comprehensive research on ecopreneurship principles has been conducted. The purpose of this study is to comprehensively explore the principles of ecopreneurship for sustainable business practices. This research uses a library research method using critical analysis techniques. Researchers review various reputable references that discuss ecopreneurship, then conduct an in-depth analysis of ecopreneurship to find its principles. After many ecopreneurship principles were discovered, these ecopreneurship principles were then categorized into main principles. The research results explain that ecopreneurship concept is based on three pillars, namely: innovation, concern for the environment, and long-term sustainability. The research results found 28 ecopreneurship principles which were categorized into 6 main principles: environmental principles, business principles, ethical principles, benefit to society principles, circular economy principles, and sustainable principles. By implementing ecopreneurship principles comprehensively, it will contribute to community development (through the benefit to society principles). This will create a circular economic model (through the circular economy principles), so that it will increase sustainable business (through sustainable principles). This research can be used as a practical recommendation for entrepreneurs and policy makers, and it is hoped that future research areas can investigate how the principles of ecopreneurship are applied in various industries.
Circular boron steel: a case study on high performance materials for a zero emission automobile industry
Authors: Pujante Jaume , Garcia-Llamas Eduard , Grané Marc , Boulaajaj Ahmed , Esteve Francesc
Published: November 2024

The European automotive sector is under pressure to transform into a zero net emission industry. This involves lightweight, highly efficient vehicles, but also zero emission structural materials. At the same time, a steel industry with automotion as its main customer faces a similar conundrum; it is only natural that this synergy is explored. One of the possible ways this need can be solved is by producing the high performance sheet steel consumed by the Auto industry through scrap-intensive Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) routes, saving an approximate 1.5 tCO2/tsteel compared through the integrated steelmaking route. However, in order to do this, the effect of Residual or Tramp elements inherited from the scrap needs to be considered into the downstream process and use phase. In this scenario, hot stamping of Boron steel sheet presents itself as an excellent use case. This process has become a mainstay in lightweight, high performance safety cage components in passenger cars. It is also gaining traction into light transport vehicles and trucks, and all future trends point to stable usage in the future. Transformed through hot stamping, boron steel shows incredible flexibility to cover different usage scenarios, all while having a simple chemical composition and reasonable cost. And as an added benefit, forming at high temperature bypasses many of the difficulties posited by the presence of residuals affecting springback and formability. This work shows a preliminary study on the concept of circular boron steel for automotive applications, produced by EAF instead of blast furnace. First, sources of scrap commonly used in steelmaking are analyzed to determine the residual elements and inclusions present in this raw material. From this study, studies have been performed to determine the effect on the steel CCT of the residuals with highest impact (in this case, Mo, Cr and Cu). Finally, an industrial cast has been produced and rolled into 4 mm thick sheet, such as it is being used in components like bumpers or in light trucks. Subject to common heat treatments, this material has shown performance on par with commercial, blast furnace products. Results show that scrap-intensive EAF production of Boron steel is possible, and that the impact of moderate amounts of residual elements can be acceptable in this application.
Roadmap for recycling practices and resource utilization in the iron and steelmaking industry: a case studies
Authors: Kieush Lina , Rieger Johannes , Attrotto Rosella , Sorino Angelo , van der Stricht Wim , Oterdoom Harmen , Heikkinen Eetu Pekka , Dall’Osto Gianluca , Mapelli Carlo , Mombelli Davide , Di Sante Loredana , Cirilli Filippo , Colla Valentina , Branca Teresa Annunziata , Matino Ismael , Petrucciani Alice , Zaccara Antonella , Brondi Carlo , Mousa Elsayed , Nylund Erland , Sandberg Erik , Guzzon Marta , Malfa Enrico , Schröder Antonius , Bellemans Inge
Published: November 2024

This paper aims at providing an overview of the ways for residue valorization in the iron and steelmaking industry. The important role of recycling in iron and steelmaking as a cornerstone for achieving a cleaner and resource-efficient potential is described. Several research results concerning metals and metal oxides (scrap, scale), slags, dusts, process gases, and water recycling from the iron and steelmaking process are reviewed here, aiming to detect those research gaps that still need implementation and suggest potential approaches toward potential solutions. Through a comprehensive evaluation, several possibilities are provided to incorporate effectively in metallurgical processes the bio-based or bio-derived carbon materials, namely biomass, biochar, biocoke, and polymers from waste plastics to reduce the dependence on fuel and reducing agents from fossil sources, and therefore mitigating the related environmental impact of the steel industry. Eventually, this review highlights the importance of embracing circular economy (CE) principles in iron and steelmaking, along with considering opportunities for industrial symbiosis (IS) and exploring the role of digitalization and digital solutions in recycling practices.
Validation to Brazilian Portuguese of the coma recovery scale-revised
Authors: Champs Ana Paula Silva , Santanna Thayse Nayara Freitas do Vale , Couto Christian Marques , Macedo Roberta Correa , Penna Patricia Sola , Cruz Luciana Charchar Vilas Boas , Silva-Neto Rafael Xavier da , Vaz Luiz Sérgio
Published: November 2024

Background To improve the diagnostic accuracy of the state of consciousness of patients with severe brain injury, Giacino et al. introduced the Coma Recovery Scale (CRS) in 1991, which underwent revision in 2004, resulting in the revised CRS scale (CRS-R).

Objective To determine the concurrent validity, as well as inter- and intrarater agreement of the CRS-R's adaptation to Brazilian Portuguese.

Methods This study involved a sample of 30 patients with severe brain injury. Concurrent evaluations were also performed with the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and the Full Outline of UnResponsiveness (FOUR) scale. A total of seven rehabilitation experts were recruited to assess the inter- and intrarater reliability agreement.

Results Interrater reliability was moderate to high for auditory, visual, motor, verbal, communication, and arousal subscales (Cohen weighted kappa = 0.765 to 0.892; p < 0.001). Significant inter and intrarater intraclass correlation coefficients were observed for the total CRS-R scores, all of which were statistically significant (p < 0.001). Also, total CRS-R scores exhibited a high correlation with the total GCS and FOUR scores, indicating acceptable concurrent validity (p < 0.001).

Conclusion The Brazilian Portuguese version of CRS-R can be reliably administered by trained examiners. This study demonstrated substantial to almost perfect interrater agreement for the total score and subscales, as well as high concurrent validity between the Brazilian Portuguese version of CRS-R and the other two standardized behavioral scales.
Curious cross-field transport effects in multi-ion, magnetized plasma
Authors: Mlodik M. E. , Fisch N. J.
Published: November 2024

In contrast to single-ion plasma, multiple-ion-species plasma exhibits new, curious, and large transport effects. On short timescales, where ions exchange momentum, magnetized multi-ion plasma behaves as a most unusual substance, compressible across field lines in number density but incompressible in charge density. It takes 40 times longer for electrons to participate. In this ion–ion cross-field transport regime, we identified the charge-incompressibility heat pump effect, transferring heat both spatially and between species. Curiously, the direction of impurity transport strongly depends on plasma magnetization, characterized by the ratio of light ion gyrofrequency to the collision frequency between light and heavy ion species. The expulsion of heavy ion impurities from a hotspot occurs sufficiently quickly to be observable on MagLIF, so long as plasma becomes sufficiently collisionally magnetized under implosion. Even more curious, multi-ion transport changes its nature in partially ionized plasma, where ions occupy different charge states. In this regime, we identify a partial-ionization deconfinement effect. The combination of cross-field transport, ionization, and recombination leads to a net ion charge moving across magnetic field lines on the ion–ion transport timescale as opposed to the electron–ion transport timescale. Cross-field transport effects in multi-ion plasma are important in a number of applications, including nuclear fusion and plasma mass filters.
Second harmonic generation null angle polarization analysis for determining interfacial potential at charged interfaces
Authors: Egemba Celestine C. , Ohno Paul E.
Published: November 2024

Methods of quantifying the electrostatics of charged interfaces are important in a range of research areas. The surface-selective nonlinear optical technique second harmonic generation (SHG) is a sensitive probe of interfacial electrostatics. Recent work has shown that detection of the SHG phase in addition to its amplitude enables direct quantification of the interfacial potential. However, the experimental challenge of directly detecting the phase interferometrically with sufficient precision and stability has led to the proposal and development of alternative techniques to recover the same information, notably through wavelength scanning or angle scanning, each of which has their own associated experimental challenges. Here, we propose a new polarization-based approach to recover the required phase information, building upon the previously established nonlinear optical null ellipsometry (NONE) technique. Although NONE directly returns only relative phase information between different tensor elements of the second-order susceptibility, it is shown that a symmetry relation that connects the tensor elements of the potential-dependent third-order susceptibility can be used to generate the absolute phase reference required to calculate the interfacial potential. The sensitivity of the technique to potential at varying surface charge densities and ionic strengths is explored by means of simulated data of the silica:water interface. The error associated with the use of the linearized Poisson–Boltzmann approximation is discussed and compared to the error associated with the precision of the measured NONE null angles. Overall, the results suggest that NONE is a promising approach for performing phase-resolved SHG based quantification of interfacial potentials that experimentally requires only the addition of standard polarization optics to the basic single-wavelength, fixed-angle SHG apparatus.
Chaotic convection in Rivlin–Ericksen fluid flowing through highly permeable porous medium
Authors: Singh Anupama , Gupta Vinod K. , Kumar Anand
Published: November 2024

In this article, we explored the recurring nature of chaos and bifurcations in Rivlin–Ericksen fluid layer proceeding through porous medium. Subject to heated from below. The Brinkman model is employed as a porous medium. A low-dimensional system, like the Lorenz model, has been constructed using the truncated Galerkin approximation. The fourth-order Runge–Kutta method is adopted to determine the computational solution of a Lorenz-like framework of mathematical equations. For further quantitative assessments, we relied on MATLAB software, and executed plots. We demonstrated an inversely proportional correlation between Darcy number and the scaled Rayleigh number. It indicates that increasing the value of Darcy number causes the chaotic behavior, while increment in elastic parameter promotes an interruption in the commencement of chaotic convection. Our findings showed that elastic parameter and Darcy number influence the transition from stationary to chaotic convection. Comprehending the viscoelastic properties of this fluid is essential for formulating products, streamlining processes, and projecting outcomes.
Flame acceleration and deflagration to detonation transition in a microchannel with catalytic nickel walls
Authors: Ramachandran Suryanarayan , Narayanan Sai Ranjeet , Wang Zhiyan , Behkish Arsam , Yang Suo
Published: November 2024

The characteristic behavior of the wall exerts a strong influence on the flame acceleration (FA) and deflagration-to-detonation transition (DDT) processes in microchannels [Ramachandran et al., “A numerical investigation of deflagration propagation and transition to detonation in a microchannel with detailed chemistry: Effects of thermal boundary conditions and vitiation,” Phys. Fluids 35, 076104 (2023)]. In this work, motivated by the catalytic microcombustors in realistic industrial settings, we study the influence of catalytic nickel walls on the FA & DDT processes. Highly resolved numerical simulations (spanning 10–20 grid points across the flame thickness) are performed, employing a 9-species 21-reaction combustion mechanism for H2-combustion by Li et al. [“An updated comprehensive kinetic model of hydrogen combustion,” Int. J. Chem. Kinet. 36, 566–575 (2004)] for the gas-phase chemistry and a 5-species 12-reaction submechanism derived from a methanation microkinetic mechanism by Schmider et al. [“Reaction kinetics of CO and CO2 methanation over nickel,” Ind. Eng. Chem. Res. 60, 5792–5805 (2021)] for the catalytic surface chemistry. Stoichiometric H2/air with and without 25% (by mole) of H2O dilution/vitiation are investigated. The simulations demonstrate that catalytic walls enhance flame propagation in the vitiated mixture (which exhibits lower flame speeds) by providing additional radical production and heat release at the surface. As a result, the traditionally observed parabolic-like flame front profile in microchannels inverts due to preferential propagation of the flame along the wall. In contrast, the unvitiated mixture exhibits rapid flame acceleration, and the influence of catalytic walls is found to be minimal. These observations are due to the fact that the residence time available for coupling the heterogeneous wall chemistry with the gas-phase combustion is smaller at higher flame speeds (in unvitiated mixtures).
Experimental and theoretical studies on emulsified drag reducers in microtubes
Authors: Zhang Xin , Dai Xiaodong , Jing Dengwei , Cheng Zhensong , Ding Wenwu , Wang Xudong , Xin Yanping , Liu Kun , Hou Bin , Wang Xinyu , Ma Wenfeng , Zhang Guoxin , Lu Yuan
Published: November 2024

In this work, we propose a promising emulsified drag reducer with multiple components and investigate its flow characteristic within a microtube flow system experimentally and theoretically. The drag reducer in this investigation is an emulsified drag-reducing agent, including dispersant, thickener, octanol, glycol, and polymer. The experimental results indicate flow patterns in microtube flow are quite different from those in regular-size pipe flow, which is manifested by the transition Reynolds numbers for laminar flow, transient flow, and turbulent flow. Furthermore, drag reduction of up to 20% can be achieved with a very low additional concentration of this emulsion at 1 ppm, and drag reduction can be higher at higher concentrations. In the transitional and turbulent regime of drag-reducing flow, once the concentration is known, the viscosity under this concentration can be calculated by the shear rate and shear stress at the wall, and the Reynolds number based on this viscosity can be used to predict the friction factor via a single equation. Finally, we use fast Fourier transform to interpret the chaos of fluctuation of pressure drop in turbulent flow. We propose a newly defined parameter, the dimensionless fluctuation of the pressure drop, to interpret the pressure-drop data in a chaotic state and find that owing to the decreased strength of turbulent kinetic energy in the presence of the drag reducer, the characteristic peak and area enveloped by the curve of magnitude and frequency axis in drag-reducing flow are lower than those in non-drag-reducing flow.
Coaxial composite resonator for vibration damping: Bandgap characteristics and experimental research
Authors: Qin Yu-Xuan , Xie Yu-Xin , Tang Yang , Pang Fu-Zhen , Gao Cong
Published: November 2024

In this study, we propose a coaxial composite resonator (CCR) structural unit and experimentally demonstrate that a periodic structural plate composed of CCR units effectively suppresses low-frequency vibrations. Each CCR unit comprises a cylindrical resonant element, a steering wheel-shaped elastic connection, and a framework structure. These components collectively generate elastic wave bandgaps through the intrinsic damping properties of the resonant elements. Finite element analysis was employed to investigate the influence of key parameters on the bandgap (BG) characteristics of the CCR structure. The results indicate that the resonator mass is the primary determinant of the BG onset frequency, with larger resonator masses leading to a lower onset frequency. Additionally, the lattice constant was identified as the most sensitive parameter influencing the BG width, such that an increased lattice constant results in an expanded frequency range of the BG. The validity of the finite element models and the predicted BG properties were confirmed through experimental testing. The CCR structure exhibits significant potential for applications in low-frequency vibration and noise control.
Critical adsorption of polyelectrolytes onto highly oppositely charged surfaces: Effects of charge renormalization
Authors: Africo Felipe Arantes , Cherstvy Andrey G. , Jurado de Carvalho Sidney
Published: November 2024

The critical adsorption conditions of polyelectrolytes (PEs) onto planar, cylindrical, and spherical surfaces were obtained by solving the Edwards equation using the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin (WKB) method. It demonstrated to provide a suitable analytical approach for all three geometries, in conformity with some experimental results for weakly charged micelles. However, our Monte Carlo simulations implementing approximate solutions of the nonlinear Poisson–Boltzmann equation for highly charged surfaces indicated recently the emergence of a limiting value of ionic strength due to a nonlinear dependence of the electrostatic (ES) potential on the surface-charge density σ. Beyond this limiting ionic strength, the PE adsorption no longer occurs, shifting the standard paradigm. In this work, we employ the concept of a renormalized charge and use the WKB method to study the effects of this nonlinearity on the critical adsorption conditions, density profile, and adsorbed layer of PE segments, all in comparison with the results of the linear Debye–Hückel (DH) approach. Charge renormalization makes it possible to use the known WKB solutions in the DH regime also for surfaces with high σ, introducing a saturation effect observed in the nonlinear case. The larger ES screening affects the density profile and the adsorbed layer of PEs, promoting a more dispersed distribution of PEs at higher surface-charge densities. Our analytical results for the critical adsorption curve reproduce the limiting ionic strength for high σ and also recover the DH regime at low σ.
Modeling and analysis on thermal stimulation of gas transport considering hydrodynamics and geomechanics coupling in coal
Authors: Shi Yu , Lin Baiquan , Liu Ting , Li Zijie
Published: November 2024

Thermal stimulation can activate adsorbed gas, enhancing cross-scale gas transport (CSGT) in coal. Nevertheless, the thermal stimulation mechanism of CSGT remains unclear. In this study, He and CH4 desorption experiments under different temperatures were conducted, and propagation characteristics of longitudinal and transverse waves of gas-containing coal before and after thermal stimulation were tested. Based on the results, the intrinsic relationship between gas diffusion parameters and thermal stimulation temperatures was elucidated, and the dynamic mechanical responses of gas-containing coal induced by thermal stimulation were analyzed. It has been revealed that more gas of surface diffusion state transfers into the gas of bulk diffusion state as the thermal stimulation temperature rises, and the gas-containing coal occurs three phenomena, i.e., inward expansion-fracture compression, outward expansion-fracture enlargement, and outward expansion-coal damage. Additionally, a CSGT model was constructed based on the micro-scale fractal geometry of coal, and how changes in pore-fracture scale, matrix gas pressure, and adsorbed gas content influence the multi-modal gas diffusion conductivity under varying temperatures were analyzed. The results suggest that the gas emission rate is sequentially controlled by the free gas diffusion, the desorption of mono-layer adsorbed gas in diffusion pores, and the surface diffusion of adsorbed gas in filling pores. Ultimately, the mechanical response of gas-containing coal induced by thermal stimulation was analyzed considering hydrodynamics and geomechanics coupling, fining that the critical transformation and instability temperature have a significant influence on stimulation mechanisms. The research can provide a theoretical reference for thermal stimulation of gas drainage in deep coal seams.
Analytical formulation of the steady-state planar Taylor–Couette flow constitutive equations with entropy considerations
Authors: Jalili Bahram , Azar Ali Ahmadi , Liu Dong , Jalili Payam , Kang Can , Ganji Davood Domiri
Published: November 2024

This study presents a comprehensive analytical approach to address the complexities of flow and heat transfer in planar Taylor–Couette systems. Utilizing innovative simplifying assumptions and conversion variables, we analyze the fluid dynamics between two cylinders, where the outer cylinder is hotter, and the inner cylinder rotates at a higher velocity. Employing a cylindrical coordinate system, the research derives the governing equations for continuity, momentum, and energy in two dimensions under steady-state conditions. These nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into a set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using specific assumptions and conversion variables, facilitating a more practical analysis of Taylor–Couette flow. The study leverages two distinct mathematical methods to solve the ODEs, introducing a novel application of a penalty function to replace the pressure term, which is traditionally used in numerical studies. Our findings indicate that with a Reynolds number (Re) of 900 and a Prandtl number (Pr) of 6.9, the dimensionless radial velocity approaches zero, validating the Taylor–Couette flow model. The analysis reveals a significant tangential velocity gradient between the inner and outer cylinders and an efficient heat transfer from the outer to the inner cylinder, with entropy values decreasing radially outward. Quantitative results include calculated Nusselt numbers of 1.58 for the inner cylinder and −0.58 for the outer cylinder, while skin friction coefficients are −0.0049 and −0.0012, respectively. The non-negative entropy values corroborate compliance with the second law of thermodynamics, ensuring the robustness of the results. Additionally, the study delves into the entropy generation, Nusselt number, and skin friction coefficient, offering a holistic view of the Taylor–Couette flow dynamics.
Penetration of hydrophilic colloidal magnetite nanoparticles through a lipid membrane in an inhomogeneous magnetic field
Authors: Anosov A. A. , Borisova E. D. , Smirnova E. Yu. , Cheburenkova A. S. , Cherepenin V. A. , Taranov I. V. , Grigoryan I. V. , Yaroslavov A. A. , Spiridonov V. V. , Khomutov G. B.
Published: November 2024

In this study, we provide the first experimental evidence that colloidal hydrophilic magnetite nanoparticles can penetrate through bilayer lipid membrane in a non-uniform stationary magnetic field. Hydrophilic ligand-free cationic colloidal magnetite nanoparticles with an average diameter of 4 nm were added to the surrounding aqueous solution on one side of the azolectin membrane. An external non-uniform magnetic field ensured the attraction of superparamagnetic magnetite nanoparticles to the membrane, resulting in the formation of a near-membrane charged layer of cationic nanoparticles resulting in the initial polarization of the membrane. As a result of the passage of magnetite nanoparticles through the membrane, the polarization of the membrane decreases, and the membrane becomes depolarized. Independent methods were used to detect magnetite nanoparticles that passed through the lipid membrane including transmission electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. The discovered effect may be due to the following factors and interactions of nanoparticles. Interaction of magnetic nanoparticles with external inhomogeneous magnetic field provides localization of nanoparticles on the membrane surface. Collective interactions between nanoparticles, as well as their interactions with external electric and magnetic fields, lead to the formation of magnetite nanoparticle aggregates. Interaction of nanoparticles with the membrane lipid matrix leads to the formation of organic–inorganic complexes in which the polar surface of nanoparticles is enveloped by a lipid layer. The penetration of nanoparticles through the membrane is caused by the interaction of organic–inorganic complexes of nanoparticles and their aggregates with local intramembrane and near-membrane electric and magnetic fields.
Characteristics of flow-induced vibration of cut-corner prisms at different aspect ratios
Authors: Wang Weizhe , Yao Zhaohui
Published: November 2024

This paper presents an experimental investigation of flow-induced vibration characteristics of cut-corner prisms with various aspect ratios (H* = 1.0–13.33). Experiments were conducted in a recirculating wind tunnel with Reynolds numbers ranging from 2651 to 7953, based on the prism's side length. Four prism types (square, PS = 0.2D, PS = 0.5D, and PS = 0.8D, where PS is the cut-corner length parallel to the incoming flow) exhibited five distinct vibration modes as wind speed increased: vortex-induced vibration (VIV), transition from VIV to galloping, pure galloping, separated weak VIV-like and galloping, and coupled VIV and galloping. Compared to the square prism, cut-corner prisms transition from VIV mode to galloping mode at higher aspect ratios. As H* increases, end effects diminish, resulting in more concentrated vortex shedding and the disappearance of vortex splitting. The vortex shedding mode transitions from 2S (two single vortices shed per vibration cycle) to 2 P (two pairs shed per vibration cycle). Additionally, the prism with the largest amplitude transitions from PS = 0.8D to PS = 0.5D. Unilateral close-view particle image velocimetry results show that as H* decreases, the shear layer is stretched away from the rear end of the prism due to end effects, altering the interaction between the shear layer and the prism and causing a transition between galloping and VIV modes. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing the design of cut-corner piezoelectric wind energy harvesters.
Community-engaged strategies to improve sexual health services for adults aged 45 and above in the United Kingdom: a qualitative data analysis
Authors: Nunez Michel , Sakuma Yoshiko , Conyers Hayley , Day Suzanne , Terris-Prestholt Fern , Ong Jason J. , Pan Stephen W. , Shakespeare Tom , Tucker Joseph D. , Kpokiri Eneyi E. , Wu Dan
Published: November 2024

Background Sexual health is an essential component of health and well-being across the life course. However, sexual health research often focuses on young adults and excludes those aged 45 years and older. We organized a national crowdsourcing open call and co-creation events to identify recommendations to improve sexual health service provision for middle-aged and older adults in the United Kingdom (UK). Methods We conducted a crowdsourcing open call and seven co-creation events consisting of workshop-style meetings and one-to-one in-depth interviews. Open call submissions and qualitative data from the co-creation events were analyzed using a thematic approach. A social-ecological framework was used to code deductively, but new codes were allowed to emerge. Thematic categories were organized to describe factors influencing the accessibility and inclusivity of sexual health services for middle-aged and older adults. Results We received 22 submissions in total; of those, 35% of participants reported a disability, 40% of individuals were aged 45–65 years, and 6% of submissions came from individuals that identified as gay/lesbian. Five key themes highlighted that improving sexual health services for adults aged 45 years and over requires a multi-leveled approach: increase sexual health education, enhance patient and provider relationships, utilize community-led sexual health promotion efforts and delivery of reliable sexual health information, improve inclusive sexual health services, and break down sexual health taboos against adults aged 45+ years. Conclusions Our data suggest that middle-aged and older adults can co-create compelling strategies to enhance sexual health services for middle-aged and older adults in the UK. Further implementation research is needed to pilot these strategies.
Flock size does not influence escape decisions of urban lawn-foraging birds
Authors: Zhao Jin-Ming , Song Xiang-Rong , Yang Xiao-Yu , Xie Yue , Yang Xiao-Nong
Published: November 2024

Context Predator avoidance is considered a key evolutionary driver shaping aggregation behavior. An overlooked aspect in the study of predator avoidance is whether individuals can make better escape decisions (i.e. gain greater benefits) when in larger groups. Escape decisions encompass when to flee (FID: the distance at which an animal moves away from approaching threats), how far to flee (distance fled, DF), flight direction (FD) and whether to seek refuge. Aim This study evaluates the influence of flock size on the FID, DF and FD in urban birds. Methods We studied a series of escape behaviors of eight urban lawn-foraging bird species in Huaibei city, China, approached by one, two or three persons representing varying levels of predation risk. Key results We found that flock size had a limited effect on birds’ escape decisions, including FID, DF, FD and refuge-seeking behavior, with some species-specific effects. Predation risk (number of approachers) also had a subtle influence on birds’ escape decisions. Conclusions Urban birds generally exhibit consistent escape behavior regardless of flock size or predation risk. Implications Urban birds might maintain a minimum antipredator response to approaching humans due to their extensive habituation to human occurrence. Future research should examine how urban birds’ responses to humans compare with their reactions to natural predators, and investigate the varying impacts of urbanization on these behaviors.
Identification of FBLL1 as a neuron-specific RNA 2′-O-methyltransferase mediating neuronal differentiation
Authors: Zhang Deyu , Li Bo , Xu Henan , Li Jingying , Ma Chao , Ge Wei , Lu Congcong , Cao Xuetao
Published: November 2024

2′-O-methylation is one of the most prevalent RNA modifications found in different RNA types. However, the identities of enzymes participating in the transfer of methyl groups are not well defined. To date, fibrillarin (FBL) is the only known small nucleolar ribonucleoprotein (snoRNP) 2′-O-methyltransferase. Whether other snoRNP 2′-O-methyltransferases exist and their functions in targeting RNAs to determine cell differentiation and function need to be elucidated. Here, we identify FBL-like protein 1 (FBLL1) as a 2′-O-methyltransferase and find its function in promoting neuronal differentiation. We show that FBLL1 is a key snoRNP complex enzyme that transfers methyl groups to substrate RNAs both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, FBLL1 exhibits different 2′-O-methyltransferase site selectivity from FBL and tissue-specific distribution. FBLL1 is preferentially expressed in the brain, especially in human neuron cells, and promotes neuronal differentiation through 2′-O-methylation of
GAP43
messenger RNA (mRNA). Knockdown of FBLL1, but not FBL, reduced 2′-O-methylation levels in GAP43 mRNA, decreased expression of GAP43 proteins, and eventually repressed neuronal differentiation. Our finding of neuron-specific FBLL1 adds insights into RNA modification in neurobiology and provides clues for understanding 2′-O-methylation in health and disease.
Bulk and surface Dirac states accompanied by two superconducting domes in FeSe-based superconductors
Authors: Hou Qiang , Wei Wei , Zhou Xin , Liu Wenhui , Wang Ke , Xing Xiangzhuo , Zhang Yufeng , Zhou Nan , Pan Yongqiang , Sun Yue , Shi Zhixiang
Published: November 2024

Recent investigations of FeSe-based superconductors have revealed the presence of two superconducting domes and suggest possible distinct pairing mechanisms. Two superconducting domes are commonly found in unconventional superconductors and exhibit unique normal states and electronic structures. In this study, we conducted electromagnetic transport measurements to establish a complete phase diagram, successfully observing the two superconducting domes in FeSe

1−
x

S

x

(0 ≤
x
≤ 0.25) and FeSe

1−
x

Te

x

(0 ≤
x
≤ 1) superconductors. The normal state resistivity on SC1 shows the strange metal state, with a power exponent approximately equal to 1 (
ρ
(
T
) ∝

T
n

with
n
~ 1), whereas the exponent on SC2 is less than 1. A bulk Dirac state observed on SC1, completely synchronized with the strange metal behavior, indicating a close relationship between them. While a topological surface Dirac state is witnessed on SC2 and undergoes a sign change near the pure nematic quantum critical point. The evolution of the Dirac states indicates that the appearance of the two superconducting domes may originate from the Fermi surface reconstruction. Our findings highlight distinct Dirac states and normal state resistivity across the two superconducting domes, providing convincing evidence for the existence of the two different pairing mechanisms in FeSe-based superconductors.
Short-sighted evolution of virulence for invasive gut microbes: From hypothesis to tests
Authors: Scanlan Pauline D. , Baquero Fernando , Levin Bruce R.
Published: November 2024

Why microbes harm their hosts is a fundamental question in evolutionary biology with broad relevance to our understanding of infectious diseases. Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain this "evolution of virulence." In this perspective, we reexamine one of these hypotheses in the specific context of the human gut microbiome, namely short-sighted evolution. According to the short-sighted evolution hypothesis, virulence is a product of niche expansion within a colonized host, whereby variants of commensal microbes establish populations in tissues and sites where the infection causes morbidity or mortality. This evolution is short-sighted in that the evolved variants that infect those tissues and sites are not transmitted to other hosts. The specific hypothesis that we propose is that some bacteria responsible for invasive infections and disease are the products of the short-sighted evolution of commensal bacteria residing in the gut microbiota. We present observations in support of this hypothesis and discuss the challenges inherent in assessing its general application to infections and diseases associated with specific members of the gut microbiota. We then describe how this hypothesis can be tested using genomic data and animal model experiments and outline how such studies will serve to provide fundamental information about both the evolution and genetic basis of virulence, and the bacteria of intensively studied yet poorly understood habitats including the gut microbiomes of humans and other mammals.