bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socio-economic aspects of sustainable development
Authors: Suleymanov Magomed , Aslakhanova Seda , Khazhuev Islam
Published: November 2023

As technology advances, new dangers begin to emerge. Some hazards appear due to emergencies. Technogenic hazards may arise due to the lack of necessary knowledge in the field of environmental protection. Disasters at nuclear power plants and accidents on oil tankers have shown the degree of danger hanging over humanity. It is also necessary to consider the role and importance of the human factor, socio-psychological, economic factors in ensuring the security of modern society
Industrial biotechnologies: Global technology trends
Authors: Molochaeva Luiza , Suleymanov Magomed , Mutsalova Satsita
Published: November 2023

Because of the depletion and deterioration of fossil sources of raw materials, adverse climate change in populations, pollution, environmental pollution and other factors, it is important to develop a bioeconomy based on its use of new resources of raw materials and technology for processing them. It is worth noting that the most important task for development of industrial biotechnology, the pharmaceutical industry and forest complex, bioenergy and other products has to provide new raw materials with the required properties. In many ways, the problem is resolved by creating fast-growing plant for different purposes obtained by biotechnological methods, and also to obtain non-traditional renewable raw materials (microalgae, biomass of cultivated cells from high plants, etc.). Another special place is occupied by technologies for the production and use of unicellular organisms (microalgae, yeast and bacterial producers), as well as technologies for the production and use of unicellular organisms (microalgae, yeast and bacterial producers), as well as plant transformants. Plant transformants and microclonal propagation are also used in this field.
Eco-innovation and technology
Authors: Musaeva Bela
Published: November 2023

The primary characteristic of environmental innovations is their versatility in addressing societal challenges aimed at enhancing environmental responsibility and raising public awareness. The shift towards a "green economy" through the utilization of innovative technologies represents the predominant trajectory for fostering sustainable growth and development over the next three decades.тA major impediment to the innovative endeavors of many Russian firms is the insufficient availability of equity capital. Furthermore, Russian commercial banks exhibit minimal interest in extending loans to innovative environmental initiatives due to their elevated risk profile and extended payback periods. The government also faces constraints in furnishing the requisite financial resources for advancing the environmental investment sector due to economic instability. In essence, funding for environmental innovation remains constrained, primarily limited to specific initiatives, such as the National Ecology Project. Consequently, the challenge of nurturing environmental innovation in Russia remains pertinent in the present day.
Processing industries in the implementation of the country’s “green” economy
Authors: Blaginin Victor , Goncharova Maria , Sokolova Elisaveta , Kondakova Anastasia
Published: November 2023

The scientific article is devoted to the issues of a “green” economy, which ensures the creation of rational models of consumption and production, including the adoption of measures to reduce, recycle and reuse waste. The main branches of the processing industry, the system and mechanism of SHW (solid household waste) management in Russia are considered.
Housing construction as a driver of improving the quality of life of the population in conditions of sustainable development
Authors: Shulekin Alexander , Shulekina Elena , Kanunnikova Ekaterina
Published: November 2023

In modern conditions of sustainable development of society, the problems of improving the quality of life of the population come to the fore, the solution of which is a priority when developing programs for the socio-economic development of the country. The housing construction industry plays one of the most important roles in solving this problem. The article defines the essence of sustainable development in relation to the housing construction industry, discusses in detail the social and environmental aspects of sustainable development of the industry. Using statistical tools, the authors determined the relationship between the indicators "GRP per capita" and "Commissioning of residential buildings per capita".
Pain Relief with Narcotic Drugs as a Guarantee of Proper Quality of Life
Authors: Savoskin A. V. , Meshcheriagina V. A. , Rukoleev V. A.
Published: November 2023

The study considers a topic relevant to the life quality of citizens. It reveals the guarantees of the realization of the legal right to receive narcotic drugs and its regulation. The article studies the problems of violation of this right in case of unfair behavior of medical workers. The authors pay special attention to the issue of subjectivity in assessing the intensity of pain. They established that the right to pain relief with narcotic drugs arises from the moment of the onset of intense pain. However, this right can be realized only when a medical professional issues a prescription form, and in case medical care is provided in a hospital setting – at the time of appointment. In the future, the right to receive narcotic drugs is not subject to restriction. Another approach encroaches on the essence of the right to life, creating obstacles to its realization. An extensive system of guarantees in the Russian Federation provides pain relief with narcotic drugs, including the constitutional right to medical care and the constitutional right to protect the dignity of the individual and ensures an adequate quality of life for citizens in the Russian Federation.
Principles of creation and development of human capital
Authors: Dasuev Muslim
Published: November 2023

This is possible when we adopt an intricate perspective on human capital, considering it as an intricate network of economic relationships expressed through economic activities, and the development of its reproductive and produktive qualities will be achieved. According to this holistic view, the human capital is an individualized embodiment of economic relations. This holistic view interprets human capital as a personal embodiment of these economic relationships. It involves the accumulation of professional competencies in all life, the integration of technological methods into production to improve labor performance, and pursuit for equitable payments for one's work. Each of the roles in human development is complex and multifaceted: individuals act as architects, consumers of material goods, scriptwriters, and performers. All this under the framework of measures, emotions, responsibilities, hard work, diligence, and integrity towards oneself and others. So, it is through the harmonious interplay of these roles that human capital reproduction unfolds.
Strategies for improving efficiency and developing human capital in the context of digitalization
Authors: Aida Akavova , Raabat Mukhudadayeva , Rizvan Turluyev
Published: November 2023

The rapid development of technology has led to revolutionary changes in various spheres of society, including education. Educational technologies, commonly referred to as EdTech, have become a powerful tool for improving the efficiency of human capital formation. The purpose of this article is to explore strategies for using EdTech to optimize human capital development. It will discuss the benefits of educational technology, the challenges encountered in its implementation, and suggest effective strategies for integrating EdTech into educational systems. In addition, this paper will emphasize the importance of collaboration among stakeholders such as educators, policy makers, and technology developers to ensure successful implementation and maximize the potential and in education. This article discusses strategies for increasing the efficiency of human capital formation through educational technologies. It will primarily focus on the use of educational institutions such as schools and universities. However, the potential of digitalization in education in non-formal and continuing education institutions will also be considered..
Theoretical and Methodological Approaches to Analysis and Forecasting of the Labour Market within the Framework of Sustainable Development
Authors: Vankevich Alena , Kalinouskaya Iryna , Zaitsava Volha , Alyakseeva Alena
Published: November 2023

The escalating risk of precarious employment underscores the necessity to examine the impact of digitalization of the labour market on sustainable economic development. The precarization of employment may result in diminished performance metrics for the achievement of decent work goals. The study is aimed at the development of a theoretical approach in order to supplement sustainable development indicators with the characteristics of vacancies in the labour market in the context of its digitalization. Official statistical data, as well as online information sources for the period 2013-2023, summarized with the help of Big Data and AI technologies serve as the empirical basis of the study. A forecasting model for demand metrics of the labour market was chosen on the basis of evidence from the labour market in Minsk. The XGBoost model demonstrated superior results compared to other time series models. The results of October 2023 - October 2024 forecasting of the number of vacancies in Minsk are given in the article. The results are received after the predictive model of gradient boosting was adjusted. The predictive model of gradient boosting was trained using actual data. Further research to improve the quality of forecasts will focus on the following: optimization of the model of gradient boosting using deep learning; identification of additional features and factors that influence appearance of new vacancies in the regions of Belarus.
Evaluating Students' Skills for Sustainable Development
Authors: Chudinovskikh Marina , Serbina Natalia
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to the assessment of the student skills for sustainable development. The study was conducted on the basis of the Ural State University of Economics on the platform of the ANO "Russia - country of opportunities". 554 first-year students aged from 17 to 23 years, living in Ekaterinburg and the Sverdlovsk region, took part in the testing. The results are translated into a three-level scale - initial, intermediate and high levels of competencies. The results of the study show that the most developed competencies of first-year students are "client orientation", "partnership" and "emotional intelligence". The most problematic competencies with an initial level are: "leadership", "information analysis" and "passive vocabulary". The test results are compared with the requests of employers, as well as the Federal State Educational Standard in the field of «Economics». Based on the results of the study, some recommendations aimed at improving the process of education in the direction of "Economics" are presented.
Recreational and active tourism in the Urals: Potential for longevity and sustainable development
Authors: Stikhina Irina , Skopova Ludmila , Lapina Valentina
Published: November 2023

The tourism industry has a direct impact on social and economic development, quality of life and longevity. Recently, the sustainable development of the industry has been actively supported by the government of the Russian Federation through national projects and initiatives. As the Ural region offers highly favourable location and a variety of places for recreational and active tourism, it is of utmost importance to consider the ways to promote the region as a tourist destination that provides unique opportunities for healthier lifestyles and active aging. This paper considers the existing issues that have to be resolved in order to promote sustainable tourism development in the Urals, as well as shows evidence of the benefits for further development of the territory as a sustainable tourist destination.
R&D status for an innovative crystal calorimeter for the future Muon Collider
Authors: Cantone C. , Ceravolo S. , Colao F. , Di Meco E. , Diociaiuti E. , Gianotti P. , Liedl A. , Lucchesi D. , Paesani D. , Pastrone N. , Pezzullo G. , Saputi A. , Sarra I. , Sestini L. , Tagnani D.
Published: November 2023

The measurement of physics processes at new energy frontier experiments requires excellent spatial, time, and energy resolutions to resolve the structure of collimated high-energy jets. Calorimeters, as other detectors, must face this increasing performance demand. In a future TeV-scale Muon Collider, the beam-induced background (BIB) represents the main challenge in the design of the detectors and of the event reconstruction algorithms and can pose serious limitations to the physics performance. However, it is possible to reduce the BIB impact on the Muon Collider calorimeter by exploiting some of its characteristics and by ensuring high granularity, excellent timing, longitudinal segmentation and good energy resolution. The proposed R&D is an innovative semi-homogeneous electromagnetic calorimeter based on stackable modules of lead fluoride crystals (PbF2) readout by surface-mount UV-extended Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPMs): the Crilin calorimeter (CRystal calorImeter with Longitudinal INformation). The calorimeter should operate in a very harsh radiation environment, withstanding yearly a neutron flux of 1014 n1MeV /cm2 and a dose of 100 krad.

In this paper, the radiation tolerance measured in several irradiation campaigns and the timing performances evaluated during a test beam at CERN-H2 with 120-GeV electron are discussed. A description of the latest prototype Proto-1, that will be shortly tested, is also provided.
Concept of calorimetry system for ITER
Authors: Tomkow Lukasz , Geulin Eleonore , Iglesias Daniel , Clough Matthew , Vayakis George
Published: November 2023

The ITER tokamak is expected to produce up to 500 MW of fusion power. Other energy inputs will contribute up to 100 MW. All of this power ultimately converts to heat and the Tokamak Cooling Water System (TCWS) will remove most of it. To ensure safety, diagnostics methods, including calorimetry, will be used.

Thermal methods used in calorimetry are not suitable for online control but rather provide time-averaged or integrated values. The ITER calorimetric system aims to calculate the integrated fusion power after each pulse by determining the total tokamak power using data from the TCWS and other systems involved in the energy transfers. The total fusion power will be then determined by analyzing the thermal balance of the machine. As most of the energy transfers are realised by cooling loops, a general forward model has been developed for their analysis.

The system is designed to measure net fusion power production. At approximately 200MW, the accuracy is around 10%, and at about 500MW, the accuracy improves to 3%. The expected time constant of the measured instantaneous value is in order of 40s (the nominal ITER burn times are in the range 300 3000s). System will be most useful in cross-calibration with fast time resolution neutron systems. The developed system will also serve as a model for future tokamak-based fusion power plants, where its accuracy will be even higher. The paper gives a general description of the system concept, with main inputs required and the expected outputs.
Evaluation of the energy calibration of diamond detectors for fast neutrons applications
Authors: Gandolfo Giada , Lepore Luigi , Cherubini Nadia , Piccinelli Ermanno , Marzo Giuseppe Augusto
Published: November 2023

The radiation hardness, the chemical resistance, and the capabilities to operate at high temperature conditions make diamond detectors a good option for carrying out fast neutron measurements on fusion plasma experiments or facilities using accelerator-driven neutron sources. A correct energy calibration of pulse-height spectra acquired through diamond detectors allows to perform fast neutron spectrometry. As a general rule, energy calibration of diamond detectors is performed using an alpha source, e.g. 239Pu, 241Am, 244Cm, whose characteristic emission energies are in the range from 5 to 6 MeV. Calibration at higher energies, such as those related to charged particles (about 8.4 MeV) produced by the 12C(n,alpha)9Be induced by fast neutrons coming from D-T fusion reaction, is traditionally extrapolated with the hypothesis of linearity for the energy calibration curve. In this work an evaluation of the diamond detector energy calibration based on alpha source emissions is performed at higher energies by means of a compact D-T neutron generator, able to produce neutrons within a broad energy range, by changing the accelerator voltage and the neutron emission angle. A relative deviation less than 2% between experimental and theoretical energies was observed, showing that the energy calibration through alpha sources could be still valid for fast neutrons coming from D-T fusion reactions.
Experimental and numerical results for a new single-cell calorimeter dedicated to nuclear heating rate measurement
Authors: Rebaud J. , Volte A. , Carette M. , Lyoussi A. , Reynard-Carette C.
Published: November 2023

This paper presents the study of a new innovative heat flow single-cell calorimeter dedicated to the measurement of the nuclear heating rate in research reactors. Before irradiating this type of sensor, it is necessary to characterize it under laboratory conditions to determine its metrological properties.

A general description (design, geometry and materials nature) of this new calorimeter will be given, focusing on the motivations that led to its development. This part will be followed by a presentation of the experimental set-up and operating protocol used to characterize this sensor. The sensor sensitivity and response time will be quantified and discussed with a comparison of those obtained with previous calorimeters. In parallel with these experimental characterizations, parametric 3-D numerical simulations will be carried out using COMSOL Multiphysics software. These results, obtained both experimentally and numerically, will be compared to present a complete calorimeter study under laboratory conditions.
Validation of Monte Carlo simulations by experimental measurements of neutron-induced activation in cyclotrons
Authors: Collin Jonathan , Horodynski Jean-Michel , Arbor Nicolas , Barbagallo Massimo , Carminati Federico , Galli Carminati Giuliana , Tagliapietra Luca J. , Nourreddine Abdel-Mjid
Published: November 2023

Nuclear activation is the process of production of radionuclides by irradiation. This phenomenon concerns particle accelerators used in various fields, from medical applications to industrial ones, both during operation and at the decommissioning phase. For more than three decades, the possibility of using cyclotrons for nuclear power generation and nuclear waste reduction has also been discussed, i.e. in the case of Accelerator-Driven Systems [1]. The radioprotection and dismantling issues of accelerator facilities, that have been raised recently, is even more potent for such installations.

In our study, we are particularly interested in the activation due to secondary neutrons produced by (x,n) reactions, mostly (p,n) occurring in the accelerator’s components. This work focuses on the study of the radioactivity induced in various materials (V, Sc, Tb, W, Ta) irradiated by fast and thermal neutrons, in two different scenarios: through direct irradiation -with an AmBe sourceand around an operating cyclotron at the CYRCé facility (Strasbourg). A broad Monte Carlo study including FLUKA, GEANT4, PHITS and MCNP simulation has been performed, with and without a FISPACT-II coupling, to estimate the reaction rates and to trace the induced radioactivity in samples of known composition. The results of the simulations are compared with the values extracted in two dedicated experimental campaigns in which activated samples underwent high resolution gamma-ray spectrometry.
Neutron coincidence counters for disarmament verification: Experiments and modeling
Authors: Borella Alessandro , Çelik Yurdunaz , Rossa Riccardo
Published: November 2023

A measurement campaign in support of nuclear disarmament verification was carried out in 2019 on the premises of the Belgian Nuclear Research Centre, SCK CEN. Well-characterized MOX sources with different types of shielding materials were used during the campaign. The relative content of Pu was up to 14%wt and the isotopic abundance of 239Pu was up to 93%wt. One of the technologies that were deployed was neutron coincidence counting with 3He based slab counters.

The obtained background and dead time corrected total and reals rates were used to determine the mass of the assayed sample by using the so-called point model equations. The obtained masses were systematically underestimated by 15 % in average. A calibration approach based on Monte Carlo simulations where the mass is estimated from the calculated number of reals per spontaneous fission event was also used. A Monte Carlo model of the measurements setup was therefore developed to account for the finite source size, multiplication, moderation and absorption in the detector and scattering in the environment, including the measurement room walls, floor and ceiling. By using a Monte Carlo based efficiency for the reals the masses were slightly overestimated by typically few percent. However, outliers were observed.

In an effort to understand the obtained results, additional calculations were carried out to estimate the impact due to both the neutron emission by (>,n) reactions and spontaneous fission decay on the measured observables. The associated total and reals counts were obtained for various configurations and compared with the experimental data. The obtained results indicate the importance of (>,n) reactions when neutron multiplication is not negligible.
Assessing performance of Nucleco Passive/Active System (PANWAS) through a long-term verification campaign
Authors: Gagliardi Filippo , Ciotoli Alessandro , De Angelis Andrea , Gorello Edoardo , Meschini Luigi , Pagliuca Marco , Mauro Egidio
Published: November 2023

Nucleco SpA is responsible for the management of radioactive waste produced in Italy by industrial research, medical processes and decommissioning of nuclear installations. Nucleco SpA has an integrated gamma/neutron facility for the radiological characterization of the radioactive waste. This comprises high resolution gamma spectrometry systems using several possible measurements approaches (open geometry, segmented scanning, tomographic scanning) and a combined Passive/Active Neutron Waste Assay System (PANWAS). PANWAS system is used for quantification of Special Nuclear Materials in standard drums and cemented overpacks, thanks to its 3He detectors, a deuterium-tritium (D-T) neutron generator, a 252Cf neutron source and complex electronics. Starting from end of 2019, along with the scheduled and extraordinary maintenance, and in consideration of the standard operations to be performed for decommissioning activities, PANWAS system is undergoing to a performance study measuring a Plutonium standard source repetitively, to prevent subtle malfunctions (although not triggering daily quality assurance checks). In addition, thanks to the presence of a weather station installed in the measurement room, the same measurements have been used for studying the system performances as a function of the environmental conditions, namely temperature, humidity, pressure. In this study an interesting correlation was found between the temperature and the system response and the impact that the replacement of a neutron generator can have in quantifying the result.
Neutron-gamma survey system for decommissioning and dismantling activities
Authors: Delgado Jessica C. , Pino Felix , Fanchini Erica , Iovane Alessandro , Fabris Daniela , Moretto Sandra
Published: November 2023

The nuclear plant decommissioning and dismantling (D&D) operations will amount to €200 billion in costs over decades around the world, with three-fourths coming from Europe. Decommissioning includes activities such as planning, physical and radiological characterization, facility and site decontamination, dismantling, and materials management. This work is focused on the development of a compact, light and low-power consumption neutron-gamma survey system which could be easily mounted on an remotely operated vehicle. It is made up of a 4”x4”x2” NaIL (NaI:Tl + 1% 6Li [95% enriched]) neutron/gamma scintillation detector coupled to a SiPM array. Digital pulse processing techniques were implemented to acquire and process the signals, by means of a CAEN DT5780 unit. A comprehensive characterization of this system, based on experiments and Monte Carlo simulations, is reported. The system can be used as a secondary inspection tool, useful for identifying radioactive and special nuclear materials in hotspots.
Pure Beta Emitters in Water Samples from Neutron Irradiation Facilities: Activity Determination Via Vacuum Distillation and Liquid Scintillation Counting
Authors: Masci D. , Ferri D. , Gandolfo G. , Lepore L. , Contessa G.M. , Pietropaolo A. , Pillon M. , Marzo G.A.
Published: November 2023

In the decommissioning of nuclear facilities, it is necessary to assess the radioactivity inventory for waste classification and management. For nuclear fusion experiments or accelerator-driven neutron sources, the main contribution to the radiological inventory comes from activation products and tritium. When water is used as coolant of components, it may be activated by neutrons with the consequent production of tritium, and short-lived oxygen and nitrogen isotopes. In most cases several chemical elements may be in solution or suspension in water, because of metallic pipes corrosion when occurring, or functional reasons, e.g. chemical conditioning, addition of antifreeze agent, etc. In this case other activation products could be present and need to be characterized. In this case study, a sample of the coolant of the ENEA Frascati Neutron Generator (FNG) has been radiologically, chemically and physically characterized. In such a facility, during the operation, a beam of deuterons is accelerated up to 300 keV and impacts on a tritiated target for producing 14 MeV neutrons exploiting the fusion reaction T(d,n)α. To avoid overheating in the area around the target, a water-cooling loop is used. After several years of operation, a sample of the fluid has been extracted to undergo a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the radionuclides inventory. Gamma spectrometry has not shown any presence of gamma emitters. On the other hand, Liquid Scintillation Counting (LSC) has provided evidence of the presence of beta emitters. It is known that tritium is expected to occur in the sample because of releases from the tritiated titanium target. This work concerns the development of a method to discriminate the tritium contribution with respect to the total beta activity within the FNG coolant. Since it is known that an unspecified percentage of an unknown anticorrosive agent was added to the water coolant, vacuum distillation has been used to extract purified water (containing only tritium) from the coolant sample leaving any (activated) non-volatile compound in the undistilled fraction. After distillation, any fraction has been investigated by Raman spectroscopy, to determine: a) the chemical composition of the colored anticorrosive agent, b) the efficiency of the separation. Afterwards, both fractions have been analysed by means of LSC, and results showed that the main contribution to sample activity is due to tritium and the activity values are consistent with the theoretical H atomic concentration in both fractions.
Systematic Radioecological Experiments in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for Nuclear Safety and Emergency-Preparedness
Authors: Raj Prasoon , Padiyath Nemeer , Foulon Francois , Almakrani Maryam
Published: November 2023

Nuclear power and other radioactivity-producing industries like oil and gas, desalination, etc. are rapidly maturing in the arid countries, most importantly in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Thus, it becomes vital to study and model the transfers and impacts of radionuclides’ release into the local environments. Baseline or predictive studies on this subject are extremely scarce for the UAE-like desert-marine ecosystems. In global literature, the retention and transfer mechanisms of natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in arid soils and plants are grossly underrepresented. We debrief the recent research activities in the UAE and nearby nations on background radioactivity measurements in soils and plants, as well as those estimating the radioecological transfer factors or concentration ratios. Soil to plant transfer is a key sought after data for arid region radioecology. We further outline some systematic field and laboratory experiments executed by Khalifa University of the UAE, which includes numerous field surveys, identifying radionuclides and crop categories of importance, sampling in representative localities in the Abu Dhabi emirate, developing protocols for sample management and processing, and radiometry using gamma-spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry.
Radioactive Direction of Arrival Estimation Using Neural Networks Approach
Authors: Salomon Yossi , Vax Eran , Osowizky Alon , Knafo Yakir , Ben David Nadav , Vilenchick Dan
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we present a comprehensive investigation into improving Direction of Arrival (DOA) estimation for gamma-emitting isotopes using deep neural networks. The direction of arrival estimation is most valuable for Home Land Security (HLS) applications or increased safety in Decontamination and Decommissioning (D&D). Traditional methods, such as beamforming (BF), have limitations in accuracy and sensitivity to noise and background variations. In recent years, data-driven approaches utilizing deep neural networks, including Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) models, have shown promise in enhancing DOA estimation. By considering the full energy spectrum and augmenting recorded data, our neural network models outperform traditional BF methods and exhibit greater resilience in diverse background scenarios. The 2-layer CNN model, in particular, achieves up to 40% improvement in estimation accuracy. Our research provides a reliable and data-driven approach for precise DOA estimation with potential applications in nuclear security and safety in D&D.
Semiconductor-based diodes for tritium detection
Authors: Eyméoud Paul , Biondo Stéphane , Vervisch Vanessa , Grillet Nadia , Ottaviani Laurent , Vervisch Wilfried
Published: November 2023

In order to plan an experimental betavoltaic detection process of tritium using 4H-SiC diodes, we have performed a preliminary numerical Monte-Carlo investigation. In a first part, by evaluating the transparency of several materials to the electrons produced by tritium decay, we have shed light on: (i) the necessity to place the detection diode in close neighborhood of the tritiated sample (less than 1mm distance) or to work in vacuum, (ii) the importance to use very thin coating layers (less than 0.1μm), containing low density materials, (iii) the strong screening effect of 4H-SiC (0.4μm thickness of 4H-SiC divides the intensity flux by 4). In a second part, we have built a deposition energy cartography in PIN and Schottky diodes, confirming that the upstream surface part of the diode (less than 0.5μm depth layers) will constitute the detection region.
Innovative Alveolar Ridge Preservation Surgical Technique with Immediate Dental Implant Placement: A Retrospective Case Report of 1-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Grassi Andrea , Monica Daniele , Minetti Elio , Ballini Andrea , Gianfreda Francesco , Bollero Patrizio , Cicciù Marco , Mastrangelo Filiberto
Published: November 2023

Following tooth extraction, the alveolar ridge undergoes morphological and dimensional changes, including a clot formation that is gradually replaced by granulation tissue. Studies indicate that both horizontal and vertical ridge dimensions decrease after extraction; however, these changes can be mitigated through grafting with biomaterials and barrier membranes. Alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) techniques are employed to counteract bone resorption postextraction, encompassing periosteal inhibition and modified periosteal inhibition (MPI) techniques. The Degidi clot chamber technique offers a means to achieve biomaterial-free extraction sockets, promoting healing and osteointegration. This study aims to present the first rehabilitation of a postextraction dental implant in the maxilla using an innovative ARP procedure via a MPI technique. The technique does not involve autologous or heterologous grafting materials; instead, a cortical lamina and a customized screw are used in conjunction with the blood clot. The primary objective is to protect the vestibular cortical bone from preosteoclastic aggression, which can trigger bone resorption. The technique employs a 0.5-mm cortical lamina to mechanically shield the vestibular cortical bone, preventing vestibular cortical bone resorption and increasing its thickness without the need for biomaterial insertion, relying on the blood clot. The effectiveness of the technique was assessed through a 12-month postimplantation cone-beam computed tomography scan, revealing a 0.5-mm increase. Although based on a single case, the 1-year follow-up results are promising, and further studies are warranted to validate the technique's efficacy.
An analysis of legislation and policies that guide maternity leave decision making in Australian midwifery students
Authors: Gray Michelle , McNeill Liz , Downer Terri , Bloxsome Dianne , Jefford Elaine
Published: November 2023

Objective There are no guidelines to assist midwifery academics or students in determining the optimal time to return to their educational programs following pregnancy. Rather, students need to navigate balancing new motherhood with the pressures of returning to their clinical midwifery placement and completing their statutory requirements to meet the Australian Midwife Accreditation Standards before the end of their program. The aim of this study was to seek best practice information that provides guidance to academics supporting midwifery students returning to study after maternity leave. Methods An analysis of contemporary Australian legislation, workforce guidelines, professional association statements, and university policies was undertaken to determine what guidance is available to assist midwifery academics in providing advice to midwifery students about the optimal time to return to their studies following birth. This document analysis was performed during 2021–2022 and followed Altheide and Schneider’s 12 step process divided into five stages to clarify best practice advice for midwifery academics to provide guidance to students returning to study after maternity leave. Results Policy documents that refer to pregnancy confirm women have legal rights, and there is clear guidance on maternity leave; however, advice for midwifery students on the optimum time to return to study and clinical placements after birth is missing from the result of this document analysis search. Conclusion Transition to motherhood during the postnatal period is an important time. Clear national guidelines are needed to provide support and recommendations regarding a safe and optimal time to return to study and placement.
The incidence of personal importation of prescription medicines among Australians 45 and older: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Ghinea Narcyz , Roberts Andrew , Prvan Tania , Rogers Wendy
Published: November 2023

Objective This study is the first to investigate the incidence of personal importation of prescription medicines among Australians aged 45 years or older, and the reasons driving this behaviour. Methods An online survey was distributed to Australians, aged 45 years or older, who were taking prescription medicines. Recruitment was conducted via Qualtrics. The survey was completed by 1180 respondents. Results In our sample, 1.8% of respondents had imported prescription medicines in the previous 12 months, 21.9% had not taken, or had delayed taking, a prescribed medicine due to cost, 21.9% described medicines as unaffordable/very unaffordable, and 17.7% took some budgetary measure to pay for their medicines. The most significant predictors (P < 0.001) of importation were doctors raising it as an option (1.0% vs 42.9%), awareness of the Personal Importation Scheme (0.8% vs 22.6%), believing that importing was safe (1.6% vs 20.9%), paying more than the maximum PBS co-payment for any individual medicine (0.4% vs 8.1%), higher monthly spend on medicines (1.0% vs 6%), and delaying or not taking a medicine due to cost (0.9% vs 5.0%). Almost half (44.4%) would consider importing medicines to save money. Conclusions Potentially hundreds of thousands of Australians are importing prescription medicines from abroad, and many Australians indicate they are willing to import medicines to save money.
Topical review: characterization of chalcopyrite CuGa(In)Te2 compounds for high thermoelectric performance
Authors: Zhang Zipei , Luo Sitong , Yu Lu , Wei Sitong , Ji Zhen , Zheng Shuqi , Ang Lay Kee
Published: November 2023

The chalcopyrite compound CuGa(In)Te2 has garnered significant attention due to its safe elemental composition and high thermoelectric potential. Optimizing the carrier concentration and reducing the lattice thermal conductivity of CuGa(In)Te2 can significantly enhance its thermoelectric performance. In this mini-review, we analyze the electronic and phonon structures of CuGa(In)Te2, summarize and categorize the representative methods employed in recent years to improve its thermoelectric performance. Our analysis reveals that reducing thermal conductivity has a more significant impact on enhancing the ZT value of CuGa(In)Te2 compared to increasing the power factor. In conclusion, we outline potential challenges and provide a brief outlook, offering valuable insights into the design of CuGa(In)Te2 chalcopyrite compounds as high-performance thermoelectric materials.
Granular micromagnetic HAMR model: investigation of damping dependence and parametric optimization for high performance
Authors: Pantasri W , Meo A , Chantrell R W , Chureemart P , Chureemart J
Published: November 2023

Heat assisted magnetic recording (HAMR) is a novel high-density magnetic recording technology that relies on thermal assist from a laser during the writing process. To achieve high writing performance, it is important to study and optimize the crucial factors affecting the magnetization reversal mechanism at elevated temperature. In this work, we use a multiscale approach that combines atomistic and micromagnetic models to study the magnetization reversal behavior in the recording medium. The atomistic model allows to parameterize accurately the macroscopic approach, which is utilized to model the system and its dynamics. We perform a parametric investigation of the switching properties as a function of the HAMR setup characteristics as well as the material properties, such as magnetic damping. The results show that high damping and moderate external fields can achieve high-performance HAMR media characterized by high switching probability, short switching time and low peak temperature. We demonstrate that switching occurs via the linear reversal mechanism. By systematic variation of the longitudinal susceptibility we force a transition to coherent reversal and demonstrate that this reduces the switching probability, showing linear reversal to be an important component within the HAMR process.
An ensemble deep learning approach for untrained compound fault diagnosis in bearings under unstable conditions
Authors: Jiang Miao , Xiang Yang
Published: November 2023

Based on the dimension invariance property of the data-driven bearing fault diagnosis method, unstable condition data can result in the loss of information and reduced diagnostic accuracy due to inconsistent data dimensions. Furthermore, the fixed parameters of the output layer restrict its ability to accurately diagnose faults beyond the training set, particularly compound faults with limited data. To address these challenges, this study proposes an ensemble deep learning approach for identifying untrained compound faults in bearings operating under non-stationary conditions. Firstly, a signal angular domain processing technique is employed to standardize the dimensionality of the bearing’s state information, effectively mitigating information loss. Secondly, a feature extraction model is established to dynamically capture local microscopic and multilevel features utilizing the adaptability of convolutional neural network (CNN), and it can mine the relevant features of compound faults through the single-fault features. In the verification process, the kmeans algorithm with scalable classification is used to optimize the classifier of CNN. Specifically, the number of cluster centers in kmeans is set to exceed the count of training fault categories. Identification of untrained compound faults is achieved by calculating the Euclidean distances between each feature and the cluster centers, based on the principle of minimum distance. It addresses the challenge of inadequate diagnostic rates for untrained compound faults. The diagnostic outcomes prove that the proposed method has a high diagnostic robustness and generalization ability, which can effectively solve the problem of insufficient fault data and provide a new way of diagnosing untrained compound faults.
Reconstructed estimation method of the multi-frequency GNSS inter-frequency clock bias
Authors: Xiao Jingxin , Li Haojun , Kang Qi , Wang Hu
Published: November 2023

In consideration of contributions from both carrier phase and pseudorange observations during computation, this study introduces a reconstructed method for estimating the multi-frequency global navigation satellite system (GNSS) inter-frequency clock biases (IFCB). Diverging from conventional approaches that separately calculate the time-varying and constant parts of IFCBs using carrier phase and pseudorange observations, the reconstructed method directly utilizes their combination to estimate satellite IFCBs. To validate the efficacy of the presented approach, 7 d observations from 87 International GNSS Service (IGS) stations are analyzed, with a specific focus on triple-frequency GPS, multi-frequency BDS-3, and Galileo IFCBs, aiming to scrutinize their distinctive characteristics. Furthermore, the performances of satellite IFCB estimation are investigated in both precise point positioning (PPP) and single-point positioning (SPP) using 35 IGS stations over 3 d. The results demonstrate that IFCBs of GPS BLOCK IIIA satellites exhibit centimeter-level variations, distinguishing them from BLOCK IIF counterparts. The Galileo IFCBs vary from millimeter to centimeter level, while those of BDS-3 reach a centimeter level. These variations significantly impact GPS PPP convergence performances but have minimal effects on Galileo and BDS-3 PPP. SPP performances are slightly enhanced when the time-varying IFCB part are taken into account. Additionally, we note disparities in the constant parts of satellite IFCBs computed with differential code bias (DCB) products, reconstructed, and pseudorange observation-based methods, particularly for BDS-3 C2I/C6I-C1P/C5P and C2I/C6I-C1P/C6I combinations. The differences of IFCB estimated with different strategies, SPP and PPP performances show that the reconstructed method is better than others, and the IFCB accuracy decreases when computed with satellite DCB products.
Preparation of cellulose acetate based flexible separator and its application in zinc–air batteries
Authors: Yuan Yifan , Chen Hongyou , Peng Liangkui , Liu Yingqi , Zou Jin , Cheng Lu , Wang Ying , Xia Xin , Zhou Huimin
Published: November 2023

Flexible solid-state zinc–air batteries as a wearable energy storage device with great potential, and their separators, which control ion permeability, inhibit zinc dendrite generation, and regulate catalytic active sites, have been developed as gel electrolyte separators with high retention of electrolyte uptake. However, the gel electrolyte separator still has problems such as poor affinity with the electrolyte and poor ionic conductivity, which limits its further application. In order to further improve the electrolyte absorption, ionic conductivity and mechanical strength of cellulose acetate(CA)/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers, TiO2 was added to CA/PVA to increase the porosity, and glutaraldehyde (GA) was used to modify the CA/PVA/TiO2 separator by acetal reaction with CA and PVA to make the molecules closely linked. The results shows that the optimal mass fractions of TiO2 and GA were 2% and 5%, respectively. At this time, the porosity and absorption rate of the separator increased from 48% to 68.2% and 142.4% to 285.3%, respectively. The discharge capacity reached 179 mA cm−3, and the cycle stability rate was 89% after 7 stable constant current charge/discharge cycles.
Performance analysis of the damper with built-in magnetorheological valve
Authors: Dong Xiaomin , Liu Qinglin , Li Pingyang , Li Xin , Fei Zhenyang
Published: November 2023

Commercial vehicles are usually equipped with suspension seats to improve ride comfort. As a semi-active intelligent device, magnetorheological damper can effectively improve seat comfort when applied to seat suspension. Firstly, a novel damper with built-in magnetorheological valve (MRVD) based on the squeeze mode of magnetorheological fluid (MRF) is designed, which integrates the magnetorheological valve (MRV) into the piston. This structure adopts a bidirectional controllable flow channel, double coil, and double squeeze chamber. Secondly, the mathematical model of the MRVD is derived based on the Bingham plastic model of the MRF. Then, the distribution of magnetic flux density in the effective damping gaps is simulated using finite element method. Finally, it is shown from a comparative work between the simulation results from the derived mathematical model and experimental test results of the MRVD that the established mathematical model can predict the field-dependent damping force well. The idea of integrating the MRV into the piston provides a new approach for the application of magnetorheological technology.
THz hooks generated on the basis of hollow reflection mirror
Authors: Yang Yu-Jing , Zhang De-Long
Published: November 2023

THz hook (TH) is a curved beam in THz frequency region, which is characterized additionally by the bending angle θ besides focal length, intensity and transverse size. Here, we study paired THs generated by two cuboid scatterers placed on a hollow mirror. The study focuses on the effects of hollow geometry and polarization state of incident wave on the THs performance. The results show that the hollow geometry affects mainly the bending angle θ, which can change by two fold. The effect is associated with the hollow geometry induced changes of number and position of phase singularity in Poynting vector distribution. The polarization state of incident wave affects considerably both bending angle and focal length. As the polarization state is changed, the FL (focal length) can change by ∼26 fold and the θ by ∼9° due to the interactions of the polarized electric field with scatterers and with the hollow mirror. It implies that the use of hollow mirror results in significant enhancement of polarization effect on the TH performance. Present study allows to conclude that the bending angle and focal length of paired THs generated on the basis of the hollow mirror can be efficiently tailored by the hollow geometry and polarization state.