bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compressive Strength and Chloride Ion Penetration Resistance of GGBFS-Based Alkali-Activated Composites Containing Ferronickel Slag Aggregates
Authors: Lee Jae-In , Kim Chae-Young , Yoon Joo-Ho , Choi Se-Jin
Published: October 2024

Various studies have reported the use of alkali-activated composites to enable sustainable development in the construction industry as these composites eliminate the need for cement. However, few studies have used ferronickel slag aggregates (FSAs) as an aggregate material for alkali-activated composites. Alkali-activated composites are environmentally friendly and sustainable construction materials that can reduce carbon dioxide emissions from cement production, which accounts for 7% of global carbon emissions. In the construction industry, various research was conducted to improve the performance of alkali-activated composites, such as changing the binder, alkali activator, or aggregate. However, research on the application of ferronickel slag aggregate as an aggregate in alkali-activated composites is still insufficient. In addition, the effect of ferronickel slag aggregate on the performance of alkali-activated composites when using calcium-based or sodium-based alkali activators has not been reported yet. Thus, this study prepared ground granulated blast-furnace slag-based alkali-activated composites with 0, 10, 20, and 30% FSA as natural fine aggregate substitutes. Then, the fluidity, micro-hydration heat, compressive strength properties, and resistance to chloride ion penetration of the alkali-activated composite were evaluated. The test results showed that the maximum temperature of the CF10, CF20, and CF30 samples with FSA was 35.4–36.4 °C, which is 3.8–6.7% higher than that of the CF00 sample. The 7 d compressive strength of the sample prepared with CaO was higher than that of the sample prepared with Na2SiO3. Nevertheless, the 28 d compressive strength of the NF20 sample with Na2SiO3 and 20% FSA was the highest, with a value of approximately 55.0 MPa. After 7 d, the total charge passing through the sample with Na2SiO3 was approximately 1.79–2.24 times higher than that of the sample with CaO. Moreover, the total charge decreased with increasing FSA content.
Characteristics of Merging Plasma Plumes for Materials Process Using Two Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jets
Authors: Jeon Sang Un , Kim Jae Wan , Lee Hyun-Young , Kim Gyoo-Cheon , Lee Hae June
Published: October 2024

Atmospheric pressure plasma jets (APPJs) have attracted significant attention due to their ability to generate plasma without vacuum systems, facilitating their use in small areas of plasma processing applications across various fields, including medicine, surface treatment, and agriculture. In this study, we investigate the interaction between two helium plasma jets, focusing on the effects of varying flow rate, voltage, and directional angle. By examining both in-phase and out-of-phase configurations, this research aims to elucidate the fundamental mechanisms of plasma plume merging, which has critical implications for optimizing plasma-based material processing systems. We demonstrate that while increasing voltage and flow rate for the in-phase condition leads to an extended plasma plume length, the plumes do not merge, maintaining a minimal gap. Conversely, plasma plume merging is observed for the out-of-phase condition, facilitated by forming a channel between the jets. This study further explores the impact of these merging phenomena on plasma chemistry through optical emission spectroscopy, revealing substantial differences in the emission intensities of OH, the second positive system of N2, and the first negative system of N2+. These findings offer valuable insights into controlling plasma jet interactions for enhanced efficiency in plasma-assisted processes, particularly where plume merging can be leveraged to improve the treatment area and intensity.
The Generation, Measurement, Prediction, and Prevention of Residual Stress in Nickel-Based Superalloys: A Review
Authors: Zhang Yuanlin , Wen Guangrui , Li Liangbo , Lei Zihao , Qi Xiaogang , Huang Boyang , Su Yu , Zhang Zhifen , Nie Xiangfan , Zhang Zhanling
Published: October 2024

As a crucial high-performance material, nickel-based superalloys inevitably generate residual stresses during processing, manufacturing, and usage. The mechanical properties of nickel-based superalloys are significantly reduced by residual stress, which becomes one of the important factors restricting material reliability. The systematic analysis of residual stresses in nickel-based superalloys throughout the entire manufacturing and usage processes is insufficient. The residual stress generation factors, measurement methods, prediction models, and control methods in nickel-based superalloys in recent years are summarized in this paper. The current challenge and future development trends in the research process of nickel-based superalloy residual stress are also presented. A theoretical reference for further research on residual stresses in nickel-based superalloys can be provided in this review.
A Study on Metallurgical Artifacts Excavated from Luojiaba Site H235 in the Eastern Sichuan Region during the Eastern Han Dynasty
Authors: Li Gaobo , Li Yanxiang , Li Chenyuan , Chen Kunlong , Zheng Luhong , Chen Weidong
Published: October 2024

Currently, research remains limited on ironworking workshops in China and even throughout East Asia. The discovery of Luojiaba Site H235 in 2021 provides significant new material on this issue. This paper comprehensively organized the metallurgical artifacts and employed technological methods such as XRF and SEM-EDS to analyze the slag and hammerscale excavated from Luojiaba Site H235. First, the chemical composition and microstructural phases of the slag were analyzed, with an examination of the hammerscale. Second, the processes leading to the formation of slag and hammerscale are discussed. Third, based on the scale of the site, the chemical composition, and the characteristic shapes of the slag, combined with Serneels’ theoretical framework for quantitative analysis of forging slag, the slag unearthed from Luojiaba Site H235 was tentatively categorized as forging slag. This suggests that the workshop primarily produced or repaired iron objects through forging. Finally, considering the furnace shapes observed at contemporary sites and discussions on the potential sources of iron materials at the Luojiaba site, speculations are made regarding the furnace structure at the Luojiaba site and the possible origin of its iron materials. Unlike ironworking workshops at other contemporary sites, the location of the forging workshop at Luojiaba Site H235 presents a distinctly different choice, situated within a village or town during the Eastern Han Dynasty. This choice of location may reflect a phenomenon closer to consumer proximity. Therefore, analyzing metallurgical artifacts unearthed from Luojiaba contributes to understanding the operation of ironworking workshops and the distribution of resources in village-level settlements in the eastern Sichuan region during the Eastern Han Dynasty.
Physical Sensors Based on Lamb Wave Resonators
Authors: Yu Zixia , Yue Yongqing , Liang Zhaozhao , Zhao Xiaolong , Li Fangpei , Peng Wenbo , Zhu Quanzhe , He Yongning
Published: October 2024

A Lamb wave is a guided wave that propagates within plate-like structures, with its vibration mode resulting from the coupling of a longitudinal wave and a shear vertical wave, which can be applied in sensors, filters, and frequency control devices. The working principle of Lamb wave sensors relies on the excitation and propagation of this guided wave within piezoelectric material. Lamb wave sensors exhibit significant advantages in various sensing applications due to their unique wave characteristics and design flexibility. Compared to traditional surface acoustic wave (SAW) and bulk acoustic wave (BAW) sensors, Lamb wave sensors can not only achieve higher frequencies and quality factors in smaller dimensions but also exhibit superior integration and multifunctionality. In this paper, we briefly introduce Lamb wave sensors, summarizing methods for enhancing their sensitivity through optimizing electrode configurations and adjusting piezoelectric thin plate structures. Furthermore, this paper systematically explores the development of Lamb wave sensors in various sensing applications and provides new insights into their future development.
Designing C9N10 Anchored Single Mo Atom as an Efficient Electrocatalyst for Nitrogen Fixation
Authors: Chen Yibo , Chen Liang , Zhang Xinyu , Zhang Pengyue
Published: October 2024

Electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) is a promising route for realizing green and sustainable ammonia synthesis under ambient conditions. However, one of the major challenges of currently available Single-atom catalysts (SACs) is poor catalytic activity and low catalytic selectivity, which is far away from the requirements of industrial applications. Herein, first-principle calculations within the density functional theory were performed to evaluate the feasibility of a single Mo atom anchored on a g-C9N10 monolayer (Mo@g-C9N10) as NRR electrocatalysts. The results demonstrated that the gas phase N2 molecule can be sufficiently activated on Mo@g-C9N10, and N2 reduction dominantly occurs on the active Mo atom via the preferred enzymatic mechanism, with a low limiting potential of −0.48 V. In addition, Mo@g-C9N10 possesses a good prohibition ability for the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction. More impressively, good electronic conductivity and high electron transport efficiency endow Mo SACs with excellent activity for electrocatalytic N2 reduction. This theoretical research not only accelerates the development of NRR electrocatalysts but also increases our insights into optimizing the catalytic performance of SACs.
Indole Derivatives: A Versatile Scaffold in Modern Drug Discovery—An Updated Review on Their Multifaceted Therapeutic Applications (2020–2024)
Authors: Mo Xingyou , Rao Devendra Pratap , Kaur Kirandeep , Hassan Roket , Abdel-Samea Ahmed S. , Farhan Sara Mahmoud , Bräse Stefan , Hashem Hamada
Published: October 2024

Indole derivatives have become an important class of compounds in medicinal chemistry, recognized for their wide-ranging biological activities and therapeutic potential. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the evaluation of indole-based compounds in the last five years, highlighting their roles in cancer treatment, infectious disease management, anti-inflammatory therapies, metabolic disorder interventions, and neurodegenerative disease management. Indole derivatives have shown significant efficacy in targeting diverse biological pathways, making them valuable scaffolds in designing new drugs. Notably, these compounds have demonstrated the ability to combat drug-resistant cancer cells and pathogens, a significant breakthrough in the field, and offer promising therapeutic options for chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. By summarizing recent key findings and exploring the underlying biological mechanisms, this review underscores the potential of indole derivatives in addressing major healthcare challenges, thereby instilling hope and optimism in the field of modern medicine.
Garlic Peel-Based Biochar Prepared under Weak Carbonation Conditions for Efficient Removal of Methylene Blue from Wastewater
Authors: Shi Tao-Tao , Yang Bi , Hu Wei-Guo , Gao Guan-Jin , Jiang Xin-Yu , Yu Jin-Gang
Published: October 2024

Background: Due to it containing cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin with abundant specific functional groups which could interact with organic dyes, garlic peel (GP) might be used as an efficient biosorbent. The aim of this study is to evaluate the adsorption performances of GP-based bio-adsorbents and obtain optimum preparation conditions. Methods: GP-based bio-adsorbents were prepared by thermal pyrolysis under different temperatures (150–400 °C). The morphologies, chemical states, and surface functional groups of the adsorbents were analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Batch experiments were conducted to investigate the adsorption of methylene blue (MB) under various conditions, including contact time, contact temperature, initial dye concentration, and initial pH value. The equilibrium adsorption data were fitted to different kinetic and isothermal models, and the adsorption thermodynamics were also calculated. Significant Findings: The physicochemical properties of the GP-based bio-adsorbents were primarily dominated by the pyrolysis temperature, because their morphologies and surface functional groups of GP-based bio-adsorbents significantly varied with the changes in pyrolysis temperature. The adsorption capacity of GP materials for MB decreased as the pyrolysis temperature increased. At an initial concentration of 50.00 mg L−1, GP150 possessed a higher adsorption capacity of 167.74 mg g−1 toward MB. The possible adsorbate–adsorbent interactions, including electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonding, and π-π stacking, were recognized. After 10 consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles, GP150 maintained a high removal rate (88%) for MB, demonstrating its excellent adsorption performance, good reusability, and potential application in the treatment of MB-contaminated water.
Research Progress on Methods for the Deacidification of Small Berry Juice: An Overview
Authors: Wang Fei , Wang Yao , Shen Xinting , Zhao Rui , Li Zhebin , Wu Jiawu , Shen Huifang , Yao Xinmiao
Published: October 2024

As some of the richest sources of natural antioxidants, small berry fruits have attractive colors and special tastes, with recognized benefits for human health. However, sour tastes in small berry juices result in a poor flavor and low acceptance among consumers, greatly limiting their marketability. Among the most commonly used deacidification methods, chemical deacidification methods can neutralize fruit juice via the addition of a deacidification agent, while physical deacidification methods include freezing deacidification, ion-exchange resin deacidification, electrodialysis deacidification, and chitosan deacidification. All of these methods can markedly improve the pH of fruit juice, but they introduce new substances into the juice that may have an influence on its color, taste, and stability. Biological deacidification can effectively remove malic acid from fruit juice, reducing the content from 15 g/L to 3 g/L; additionally, it maintains the taste and stability of the juice. Therefore, it is widely applied for fruit juice deacidification. On this basis, some compound deacidification technologies have also emerged, but they also present problems such as high costs and complicated working procedures. This review of deacidification methods for small berry juice provides a foundation for the industrial development of such juices.
RETRACTED: Lee et al. Myogenesis Effects of RGX365 to Improve Skeletal Muscle Atrophy. Nutrients 2023, 15, 4307
Authors: Lee Hye-Jin , Choi Hui-Ji , Lee Sang-Ah , Baek Dong , Heo Jong , Song Gyu , Lee Wonhwa
Published: October 2024

The journal retracts the article, “Myogenesis Effects of RGX365 to Improve Skeletal Muscle Atrophy” [...]
Adaptation of the Food Literacy (FOODLIT) Tool for Turkish Adults: A Validity and Reliability Study
Authors: Ertaş Öztürk Yasemin , Kabalı Sevtap , Açar Yasemin , Ağagündüz Duygu , Budán Ferenc
Published: October 2024

Background: Food literacy is associated with sustainable food systems and encourages individuals to adopt healthy eating habits. However, there is no validated method that can be used to measure food literacy related to sustainable food systems of Turkish adults. This research aimed to assess the validity and reliability of the Turkish adaptation of the “Food Literacy (FOODLIT) Tool” for Turkish adults. Methods: The study involved 328 people aged 19 to 58 years. The FOODLIT-Tool is a five-point Likert-type scale consisting of 24 items and five factors (“culinary competencies”, “production and quality”, “selection and planning”, “environmentally safe” and “origin”). Results: The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was applied to assess internal consistency reliability, showing an excellent scale coefficient of 0.927. The model was evaluated with a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The findings of the CFA suggested that the fit indices were acceptable (χ2/df = 1.257, comparative fit index: 0.991, goodness-of-fit index: 0.977, normed fit index: 0.990 and root mean error of approximation: 0.028). Furthermore, there was a positive relationship between the FOODLIT-Tool score and the “Sustainable and Healthy Eating Behaviors Scale” (SHEB) score (r = 0.518, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Our study shows that the Turkish version of the FOODLIT-Tool integrated with sustainable food systems is a valid and reliable measurement tool for assessing the food literacy of Turkish adults.
Transport of Neutral Amino Acids in the Jejunum of Pigs with Special Consideration of L-Methionine
Authors: Schermuly Isabel I. , Romanet Stella , Patra Amlan K. , Mastrototaro Lucia , Lemme Andreas , Pieper Robert , Zentek Jürgen , Aschenbach Jörg R.
Published: October 2024

Background: Methionine (Met) is a popular nutritional supplement in humans and animals. It is routinely supplemented to pigs as L-Met, DL-Met, or DL-2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid (DL-HMTBA). Methods: We investigated the effect of these Met supplements on jejunal amino acid (AA) transport in male castrated Piétrain × Danbred pigs, also including a non-supplemented group. The mucosal-to-serosal flux of ten [14C]-labeled AAs (L-glutamine, glycine, L-leucine, L-lysine, L-Met, L-serine, L-threonine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine and L-valine) was investigated at two concentrations (50 µM and 5 mM). Inhibition of apical uptake by mucosal L-Met was also measured for these AAs. The intestinal expression of apical AA transporters, angiotensin-converting enzyme II and inflammation-related genes were compared with those of a previous study. Results: Except for tryptophan and lysine at 5 mM, all AA fluxes were Na+-dependent (p ≤ 0.05), and the uptake of most AAs, except glycine and lysine, was inhibited by L-Met (p < 0.001). A correlation network existed between Na+-dependent fluxes of most AAs (except tryptophan and partly glycine). We observed the upregulation of B0AT1 (SLC6A19) (p < 0.001), the downregulation of ATB0,+ (SLC6A14) (p < 0.001) and a lower expression of CASP1, IL1β, IL8, TGFβ and TNFα in the present vs. the previous study (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The correlating AAs likely share the same Na+-dependent transporter(s). A varying effect of the Met supplement type on AA transport in the two studies might be related to a different level of supplementation or a different inflammatory status of the small intestine.
Macronutrient Intake during Complementary Feeding in Very Low Birth Weight Infants Comparing Early and Late Introduction of Solid Foods: A Secondary Outcome Analysis
Authors: Gsoellpointner Melanie , Thanhaeuser Margarita , Kornsteiner-Krenn Margit , Eibensteiner Fabian , Ristl Robin , Jilma Bernd , Brandstetter Sophia , Berger Angelika , Haiden Nadja
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Very low birth weight (VLBW) infants may require enhanced nutrition, even during complementary feeding. However, there are limited data on macronutrient intake during this period, particularly concerning the individual timing of the introduction of solid foods in a representative VLBW infant population. Methods: This prospective observational study analyzed macronutrient intake in VLBW infants with a gestational age < 32 weeks based on whether solid foods were introduced early (<17 weeks corrected age (CA)) or late (≥17 weeks corrected age) Nutritional intake was analyzed using a 24 h recall at 6 weeks CA and 3-day dietary records at 12 weeks, 6, 9, and 12 months CA. Results: In total, 115 infants were assigned to the early and 82 to the late group. The timing of solid food introduction did not affect macronutrient intake, except for a lower fat and higher carbohydrate intake (% of energy) in the early group at 12 weeks and 6 months CA: early vs. late, fat—12 weeks: 47.0% vs. 49.0%, 6 months: 39.2% vs. 43.3%; carbohydrates—12 weeks: 44.9% vs. 43.2%, 6 months: 51.3% vs. 48.0%. Apart from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA), dietary intake recommendations were met in both groups. While nutrient intakes varied significantly between breastfed and formula-fed infants, those with comorbidities exhibited similar nutrient intake levels compared to those without. Conclusions: Our findings suggest adequate macronutrient intakes in VLBW infants irrespective of the timing of solid introduction. However, there is a notable need to enhance dietary intakes of DHA and AA. Future research is crucial to assess whether current nutrient intakes are sufficient for VLBW infants with comorbidities.
6-Shogaol Abrogates Parkinson’s Disease in Rotenone-Induced Rodents: Based on In Silico Study and Inhibiting TNF-α/NF-κB/IL-1β/MAO-B
Authors: Rafeeq Misbahuddin , Al-Abbasi Fahad A. , Afzal Muhammad , Moglad Ehssan , Al-Qahtani Salwa D. , Alzrea Sami I. , Almalki Naif A. R. , Imam Faisal , Sayyed Nadeem , Kazmi Imran
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: 6-Shogaol is a comparatively innovative anti-Parkinson’s remedy with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. This investigation intended to determine the role of 6-shogaol in the Parkinson’s disease (PD) paradigm in rotenone-induced rats. Methods: Thirty male Wistar rats (10–12 weeks old; 180 ± 20 g) were divided into five groups. Animals with rotenone-induced experimental PD were subsequently treated with 6-shogaol-10 at 20 mg/kg for 28 days. After the experimental duration, behavioural investigations were performed, i.e., open field test, forced swim test, rotarod test, and catalepsy test. Biochemical assessments like AChE, GSH, CAT, SOD, MDA, nitrite, ceruloplasmin, proinflammatory markers such as IL-1β, NF-κB, TNF-α, and catecholamines markers (DA, GABA, and MAO-B) were determined. The docking procedure was conducted using the AutoDock Vina docking protocol. Furthermore, histopathology was performed. Results: Rotenone significantly increased the level of MAO-B, oxidative, nitrative, and pro-inflammatory markers. However, there was a decline in ceruloplasmin, dopamine, and endogenous antioxidants. Treatment with 6-shogaol (10 and 20 mg/kg) considerably sustained the elevation of oxidative stress and inflammatory indicators and decreased AChE activity and dopamine levels. In the histology of the brain, 6-shogaol improved the neuronal structure and reduced the degeneration of neurons. Based on the binding energy values, compound 6-shogaol demonstrates a favourable binding affinity to AChE, MAO-B, DA, and GABA with respective binding energies of −8.214, −8.133, −7.396 and −6.189 kcal/mol. Conclusions: In this study, 6-shogaol exhibited neuroprotective properties against PD, which could be employed as a prospective medication for PD.
Benefits of Environmentally Friendly Plaster on Mechanical Properties When Combined with Polyester Resin and Hardener Are Examined under Compression and Tension
Authors: Albadrani Mohammed A. , Almutairi Ahmed D.
Published: October 2024

Recently, plaster has gained increasing attention as a mechanical and environmentally friendly option and is an effective alternative to traditional cement products. Additionally, polyester has an effective impact on the mechanical properties of materials, in addition to being one of the most environmentally friendly materials. However, studies are still ongoing to reach the best ratios of polyester resin, polyester hardener, and gypsum plaster that can improve mechanical properties. This research aims to investigate the impact of these components at various ratios (30%, 45%, and 60%) of gypsum plaster weight on the mechanical properties of plaster material. This study is carried out by conducting compression and tensile tests for three ratios, which are considered among the most important mechanical tests according to their applications. In addition, the environmental emissions resulting from the three different ratios of plaster are evaluated to determine their environmental impact. This study found that the largest ratio (30%) was the most effective from an economic and mechanical point of view, while achieving lower carbon emissions compared to the other ratios, which enhances the trend towards achieving the environmental goals of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to reach zero emissions. This study is highly significant both in terms of scientific research and practical application across a range of industries, since it integrates the enhancement of material performance with the achievement of environmental sustainability requirements.
A Liquid Well Barrier Element for Temporary Plug and Abandonment Operations: A Breakthrough Approach
Authors: da Costa Waleska Rodrigues Pontes , Nóbrega Karine Castro , Costa Anna Carolina Amorim , Nascimento Renalle Cristina Alves de Medeiros , de Souza Elessandre Alves , de Oliveira Tiago Almeida , Barros Michelli , Amorim Luciana Viana
Published: October 2024

Plug and abandonment (P&A) operations demand valuable time and resources for operational procedures and materials to establish the well barrier element. This study aims to investigate the application of a water-based fluid as a liquid well barrier element for temporary abandonment, based on estimates of its lifespan and the survival probabilities of downhole temperatures acquired through accelerated life tests. To achieve this, the water-based formulation was tested and exposed to 95, 110, 140, and 150 °C temperatures for time intervals ranging from 1 to 10 days. After the temperature exposure, the fluid properties were verified, and failure was detected by accounting for any deterioration in rheological parameters and/or a substantial increase in filtrate volume. A statistical analysis of the failure data was performed in RStudio 4.1.3 software using the Weibull Model, and the fluid average lifespans and survival probabilities were estimated for the P&A temperatures. The results obtained demonstrate that the degradation of the fluid was only observed for 140 and 150 °C temperatures. According to the results, the fluid is a promising alternative for temporary abandonment until 80 °C, with no need for monitoring once its lifetime expectation exceeds three years at this temperature. For downhole temperatures above 80 °C, the fluid is a possible alternative, however, the operation’s maximum time and monitoring requirements should consider reliability metrics for each temperature.
Simulation Study on Factors Affecting the Output Voltage of Extended-Range Electric Vehicle Power Batteries
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Bin , E Jiaqiang , Xiao Xidan
Published: October 2024

The power battery configuration of an extended-range electric vehicle directly affects the overall performance of the vehicle. Optimization of the output voltage of the power battery can improve the overall power and economy of the vehicle to ensure its safe operation. Factors affecting the output voltage of power batteries under different operating conditions, such as nominal voltage and the number of series and parallel connections of the battery cells, have been studied. This study uses AVL Cruise to establish an overall model of an extended-range electric vehicle to simulate the output voltage characteristics under the different operating conditions of the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle), WLTC (World Light Vehicle Test Cycle) and CLTC (China Light Duty Vehicle Test Cycle). The influence of the output voltage of the power battery under different operating conditions is studied to ensure that the power battery can output energy with high efficiency. The operating conditions have an impact on the output voltage with an idle voltage fluctuation of the operating conditions. The nominal voltage variation and the number of series and parallel connections of the battery cells affect the frequency and time of breakdown.
Stability Characteristics of Natural Gas Hydrate Wellbores Based on Thermo-Hydro-Mech Modeling
Authors: Sun Shihui , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhou Yunjian
Published: October 2024

During drilling operations, drilling fluids undergo heat exchange with hydrate-bearing formations. The intrusion of drilling fluids affects hydrate stability, leading to variations in stress fields around a wellbore and complex scenarios such as borehole collapse, significantly hindering the efficient development of natural gas hydrate resources. This study establishes a thermo-hydro-mech model for hydrate-bearing inclined wells based on linear thermoelastic porous media theory and an appropriately high inhibitive drilling fluid temperature. This research reveals that drilling should follow directions of minimum horizontal stress or perpendicular to maximum horizontal stress during drilling operations to control wellbore stability. Hydrate decomposition due to factors like drilling fluid pressure and temperature can rapidly reduce the strength of low-saturation formations, significantly increasing the risk of wellbore instability. Therefore, selecting appropriate highly inhibitive and low-temperature drilling fluids during drilling operations helps control hydrate decomposition and reduce fluid intrusion, thereby mitigating risks associated with wellbore instability.
Late Ancient Christian Anxiety over Islamic Geographies of Containment: Two Examples
Authors: Bonar Chance E.
Published: October 2024

In the seventh and eighth centuries CE, Christians across the Mediterranean were experiencing the consequences of the rise of Islam and its expansion. With this challenge to Christian hegemony in the eastern Mediterranean, Christian writers began to ask about the effect of Islamic expansion on their own lives, practices, and worlds to come. In this article, I aim to contextualize two examples of how late ancient Christians questioned their ability to remain Christian in the face of both Islamic captivity and assimilation: 3 Apocryphal Apocalypse of John (3 Apocr. Apoc. John) and Anastasius of Sinai’s (d. ca. 700) Questions and Answers (Questions). I divide this article into three sections. First, I place Christian anxiety over Islamic rule in conversation with Stephanie Camp’s concept of the “geography of containment” to explore how some late ancient Christians understood themselves to be geographically and spatially limited by imprisonment or enslavement. I also provide an overview of recent scholarship on Christian responses to early Islamic expansion and anxiety over enslavement, imprisonment, captivity, and assimilation to Islam. Finally, I turn to 3 Apocr. Apoc. John and Anastasius’s Questions to analyze how late ancient Christians turned to monks and patriarchs to find answers regarding the uncertainty of Christian identity under Islamic rule.
Discriminating between Biotic and Abiotic Stress in Poplar Forests Using Hyperspectral and LiDAR Data
Authors: Zhou Quan , Kuang Jinjia , Yu Linfeng , Zhang Xudong , Ren Lili , Luo Youqing
Published: October 2024

Sustainable forest management faces challenges from various biotic and abiotic stresses. The Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) and drought stress both induce water shortages in poplar trees, but require different management strategies. In northwestern China, ALB and drought stress caused massive mortality in poplar shelterbelts, which seriously affected the ecological functions of poplars. Developing a large-scale detection method for discriminating them is crucial for applying targeted management. This study integrated UAV-hyperspectral and LiDAR data to distinguish between ALB and drought stress in poplars of China’s Three-North Shelterbelt. These data were analyzed using a Partial Least Squares-Support Vector Machine (PLS-SVM). The results showed that the LiDAR metric (elev_sqrt_mean_sq) was key in detecting drought, while the hyperspectral band (R970) was key in ALB detection, underscoring the necessity of integrating both sensors. Detection of ALB in poplars improved when the poplars were well watered. The classification accuracy was 94.85% for distinguishing well-watered from water-deficient trees, and 80.81% for detecting ALB damage. Overall classification accuracy was 78.79% when classifying four stress types: healthy, only ALB affected, only drought affected, and combined stress of ALB and drought. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of UAV-hyperspectral and LiDAR data in distinguishing ALB and drought stress in poplar forests, which contribute to apply targeted treatments based on the specific stress in poplars in northwest China.
High-Precision Multi-Object Tracking in Satellite Videos via Pixel-Wise Adaptive Feature Enhancement
Authors: Wan Gang , Su Zhijuan , Wu Yitian , Guo Ningbo , Cong Dianwei , Wei Zhanji , Liu Wei , Wang Guoping
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we focus on the multi-target tracking (MOT) task in satellite videos. To achieve efficient and accurate tracking, we propose a transformer-distillation-based end-to-end joint detection and tracking (JDT) method. Specifically, (1) considering that targets in satellite videos usually have small scales and are shot from a bird’s-eye view, we propose a pixel-wise transformer-based feature distillation module through which useful object representations are learned via pixel-wise distillation using a strong teacher detection network; (2) targets in satellite videos, such as airplanes, ships, and vehicles, usually have similar appearances, so we propose a temperature-controllable key feature learning objective function, and by highlighting the learning of similar features during distilling, the tracking accuracy for such objects can be further improved; (3) we propose a method that is based on an end-to-end network but simultaneously learns from a highly precise teacher network and tracking head during training so that the tracking accuracy of the end-to-end network can be improved via distillation without compromising efficiency. The experimental results on three recently released publicly available datasets demonstrated the superior performance of the proposed method for satellite videos. The proposed method achieved over 90% overall tracking performance on the AIR-MOT dataset.
Is It Possible to Establish an Economic Trend Correlating Territorial Assessment Indicators and Earth Observation? A Critical Analysis of the Pandemic Impact in an Italian Region
Authors: Prezioso Maria
Published: October 2024

The paper is set within the methodological framework of the Territorial Impact Assessment (TIA) process, which is an instrument designed to facilitate sustainable and cohesive policy-making choices at the European level. The article is developed within the context of a European H2020-RICE cooperative project, which utilises the STeMA (Sustainable Territorial Economic/Environmental Management Approach) TIA methodology to investigate the potential relationship between statistical economic indicators, specifically Gross Domestic Product, and related parameters (metadata), and Earth Observation (EO) data. The objective is to provide evidence of socioeconomic trends during the Coronavirus 2019 pandemic in the Lazio Region (Italy), with a particular focus on the metropolitan area of the Rome capital city Rome. In line with the pertinent European context and the scientific literature on the subject, the paper examines the potential for combining classical and Earth observation indicators to assess macroeconomic dimensions of development, specifically in terms of gross domestic product (GDP). The results of the analysis indicate the presence of certain correlations between grey data and EO information. The STeMA-TIA approach allows for the measurement and correlation of both qualitative and quantitative statistical indicators with typological functional areas (in accordance with European Commission-EC and Committee of Ministers responsible for Spatial/Regional Planning—CEMAT guidance) at the NUTS (Nomenclature des unités territoriales statistiques) 2 and 3 levels. This facilitates the territorialisation of information, enabling the indirect comparison of data with satellite data and economic trends. A time series of data was gathered and organised for the purpose of facilitating comparison between different periods, beginning with 2019 and extending to the present day. In order to measure and monitor the evolution of the selected territorial economies (the Lazio Region), a synthetic index (or composite indicator) was developed in the economic and epidemic dimensions. This index combines single values of indicators according to a specific STeMA methodology. It is important to note that there are some critical observations to be made about the impact on GDP, due to the discrepancy between the indicators in the two fields of observation.
Ease of Recycling in Glendale, Salt Lake City, Utah: Dissecting Recycling Efforts by Household Size, Age, Income and Gender
Authors: García Ivis
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the perceived ease of recycling in Glendale, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA, by household size, age, income, and gender. While existing research has broadly explored how sociodemographic factors impact recycling, there is a lack of comprehensive studies analyzing these factors within specific local contexts. This study aims to identify specific barriers and motivators across different demographics to enhance local recycling efforts using Glendale as a case study. Data were collected through an online survey of 111 respondents and analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The survey included questions about the demographic information, perceptions of recycling ease, and barriers to recycling. The analysis revealed that one-person households and young adults (18–35) face constraints such as limited space for recyclables, a lack of access to recycling bins in rental units, or high costs. Older adults (56 years or older) are highly committed but may face physical challenges. Higher-income households report higher participation due to better access and awareness, whereas lower-income households encounter significant barriers such as limited facility access and insufficient information. Gender differences indicate that women are slightly more proactive and committed to recycling compared to men. Recommendations include expanding recycling facilities, targeted educational campaigns, and economic incentives to encourage lower-income households, males, younger, and older adults. Addressing these demographic-specific barriers can improve recycling rates and contribute to more sustainable communities. Future studies should include in-person surveys as one of the limitations of this study is that an online survey format may introduce biases and the exclusion of residents without internet access.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics as Environmental Contaminants of Emerging Concern: Potential Hazards for Human Health
Authors: Khanna Rita , Chandra Abhilash , Sen Shaundeep , Konyukhov Yuri , Fuentes Erick , Burmistrov Igor , Kravchenko Maksim
Published: October 2024

With nearly 40% of the total plastics produced being used for packaging, up to five trillion plastic bags are consumed in the world annually. The inadequate disposal of plastic waste and its persistence has become a serious challenge/risk to the environment, health, and well-being of living creatures, including humans. The natural degradation of plastics is extremely slow; large pieces of plastic may break down into microplastics (MPs) (1 μm–5 mm) or nanoplastics (NPs) (<1000 nm) after protracted physical, chemical, and/or biological degradations. A brief overview of the transport of micro- and nanoplastics in the aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric environments is presented. Details are provided on the exposure routes for these waste materials and their entry into humans and other biota through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact. The greatest concern is the cumulative impact of the heterogeneous secondary MPs and NPs on planetary and human health. Inhaled MPs and NPs have been shown to affect the upper respiratory tract, lower respiratory tract, and alveoli; prolonged exposure can lead to chronic inflammatory changes and systemic disease. These can also lead to autoimmune diseases and other chronic health conditions, including atherosclerosis and malignancy. Sustainable mitigation strategies to reduce the impact of MPs/NPs include source reduction, material substitution, filtration and purification, transformation of plastic waste into value-added materials, technological innovations, etc. Multidisciplinary collaborations across the fields of medicine, public health, environmental science, economics, and policy are required to help limit the detrimental effects of widespread MPs and NPs in the environment.
Distributed Secondary Control of DC Microgrid with Power Management Based on Time-of-Use Pricing and Internal Price Rate
Authors: Jabbar Muhammad Alif Miraj , Tran Dat Thanh , Kim Kyeong-Hwa
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a novel approach to manage distributed DC microgrids (DCMG) by integrating a time-of-use (ToU) electricity pricing scheme and an internal price rate calculation mechanism. The proposed power-management system is designed to effectively handle uncertainties such as utility grid (UG) availability, fluctuating electricity prices, battery state of charge (SOC) levels, and frequent plug-ins and plug-outs of electric vehicles (EVs). Uncertainties in DCMG systems often lead to inefficiencies, power imbalances, and inexact voltage regulation issues within DCMGs. In addition, to maintain the power balance and constant voltage regulation under various operational states, the proposed scheme also incorporates secondary control into the DCMG power-management system. Unlike the existing approaches that often fail to adapt dynamically to changing conditions, the proposed method is the first approach to consider the concept of internal price rate in designing the DCMG power management. To address this challenge, this approach proposes a more resilient power-management strategy to enhance the efficiency and adaptability of DCMG systems. Extensive simulations and experimental validations demonstrate the practicality and adaptability of the proposed control strategy under diverse test conditions, including operation transitions between grid-connected mode (GCM) and islanded mode (IM), low battery SOC condition, operation transition from the current control mode (CCM) to distributed secondary control mode (DSCM), and EV plug-in scenarios. The test results confirm that the proposed method enhances the reliability, efficiency, and economic viability of DCMG systems, making it a promising solution for future smart grid and renewable energy integrations.
A Study of Chinese University Students’ English Learning Motivation, Anxiety, Use of English and English Achievement
Authors: Liu Meihua , Du Ning
Published: October 2024

Research has found that contact with a second language (L2), L2 motivation and foreign language anxiety are important variables affecting L2 learning. Nevertheless, not much research has explored the relationships among these variables and their interactive effects on L2 learning outcomes. The present large-scale survey study examined the relationships between English learning motivation, English classroom anxiety and use of English, as well as their predictive effects on Chinese university students’ English achievement. A total of 439 randomly sampled students from two Chinese universities in Beijing answered the background information questionnaire, the 8-item English Classroom Anxiety Scale and the 35-item English Learning Motivation Questionnaire. The major findings were as follows: (a) English learning motivation, English classroom anxiety and use of English were significantly correlated with one another, and (b) English classroom anxiety, use of English and English learning motivation generally significantly predicted the students’ English achievements. These findings confirm the importance of L2 motivation, foreign language anxiety and contact with the L2 for second language learners. Hence, specific suggestions (e.g., reading and listening to more of a second language, creating a supportive and relaxed L2 classroom environment, etc.) are discussed regarding how to enhance L2 learning motivation, reduce foreign language anxiety and increase contact with the L2 in second language learning, so as to ensure sustainable development in second language learning.
Gendering Ocean Management for Sustainable Ocean Care in Ghana
Authors: Oduro Georgina Yaa , Boswell Rosabelle , Wilson David , Ansah John Windie
Published: October 2024

UNESCO presently offers a universal regime and policy environment for the identification and management of natural and cultural heritages. However, heritage does not merely signify cultural diversity; it can also facilitate greater equity and equality. The research problem addressed in this article is that in Ghana, the national government perceives and treats the small-scale fishing (SSF) sector as a masculine space and endeavour, ignoring the gendered aspects of this environment, of SSF practice and ocean care. In the article, it is hypothesized that if the SSF sector is treated as a socially differentiated space, and if the concern of ocean care is prioritized as a key imperative in Ghanaian ocean management, it is likely that a more inclusive and sustainable ocean management process and SSF sector will emerge in Ghana. Mindful of the socially differentiated nature of the SSF sector in Ghana, the goal of the research presented in this article is to use mixed qualitative research methods (participant-observation and semi-structured interviews) to investigate gendered knowledge forms and gendered practices in ocean care in the central region of Ghana. A key finding of the research is that gendered ritual practices, including canoe building and use in Ghana, are critical to long-term, sustainable, and inclusive ocean management in the country. Recognition of the gendered dimensions of ocean management in Ghana may also result in more inclusive ocean governance policies and nature management policies in Ghana in general. The conclusion of the article is that ocean governance in Ghana should consider and mainstream a gendered perspective of the SSF sector, to advance transformative, sustainable, and inclusive ocean care. The article draws on theories of intersectionality, African indigenous feminist thought, and critical heritage studies to analyse the data gathered, to support the discussion, and to propose the way forward for the national government.