bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of carbonyl compounds and ionol in transformer oil by IR spectrometry
Authors:   Yugra State University, Muratova V. M. , Nekhoroshev S. V. ,   Khanty-Mansiysk State Medical Academy, Liutikova M. N. ,   Branch of PJSC "Rosseti" - Yamalo-Nenets PMES, Gadzhieva A. S. ,   Yugra State University
Published: February 2024

Currently, transformer oil is the most widely used liquid dielectric in high-voltage equipment and especially in power transformers. However, in the process of operation oil undergoes gradual aging and physical and chemical properties of oil change resulting in deterioration of insulating properties. Therefore, the main task of preventive diagnostics is to control the quality of the liquid dielectric by some parameters, including tracking changes in the properties of the transformer oil by consumption of the antioxidant additive ionol, as well as by accumulation of oxidized compounds. Compounds of acidic nature (carboxylic acids, esters, aldehydes, ketones, etc.) occupy specific place among the degradation products. A method of simultaneous determination of ionol and carbonyl compounds in oil during its operation in high-voltage transformers is proposed in the present work. The technique is based on infrared spectrometry. Unlike the traditional methods of ionol and acid number determination, the proposed method allows quickly and qualitatively obtain more complete information about the state of liquid dielectric, and, consequently, to take measures for improving its physical, chemical and insulating properties.
Alloying and Strengthening Effects of Rare Earths in Palladium
Authors: Ning Yuantao
Published: February 2024

The effect of adding small amounts of rare earth elements to Palladium is to strengthen the Palladium. These strengthening effects are discussed here, based on known phase diagrams of Palladium-rare earths, Palladium-rare earth alloying behaviour and atomic (or ionic) size effects. The Solid solubilities of the rare earths in Palladium, transition temperatures of various intermediate phases and eutectic temperature in these systems are influenced by the ionic (or atomic) size of the rare earth elements. A parameter, Hs, the product of the relative difference in atomic weights and the relative difference in atomic radii, between a rare earth and Palladium is used to examine the Solid solution strengthening effects caused by dilute rare earths. The alloying behaviours of Palladium with the rare earths are very analogous, and could perhaps be used to predict alloying behaviour in some unexamined Palladium systems.
Platinum Metal Salts and Complexes as Homogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Bond G. C.
Published: February 2024

Olefin complexes of the platinum group metals have recently been recognised as intermediates in a number of homogeneous catalytic processes. Among the reactions undergone by co-ordinated olefins are oxidation, isomerisation, hydrogenation and polymerisation. The oxidation of olefins to aldehydes or ketones catalysed by palladium chloride is already an important commercial process, and it seems likely that many other similar reactions will achieve prominence in the future.
Platinum Metal Alloys in Electrocatalysis
Authors: Brooman E. W. , Hoar T. P.
Published: February 2024

The relative electrocatalytic activities of some binary platinum alloys for the oxidation and ionisation of hydrogen and the anodic oxidation of methanol are briefly described. For the hydrogen electrode reaction in acid solution the ruthenium-platinum and rhodium-platinum alloys are generally not as active as bright platinum itself. This is also found for the anodic oxidation of methanol in acid solution. At the low voltametric “sweep” rates used in the latter experiments the activities are somewhat greater on the reverse scan, from high to low positive potentials, than on the forward scan.
The Role of Palladium in Enhancing Corrosion Resistance of Titanium
Authors: Cotton J. B.
Published: February 2024

It is well known that the addition of about 0.2 per cent palladium to titanium significantly increases its resistance to corrosion in non-oxidising acids. It has usually been assumed that the palladium is present as elemental particles at the metal surface and that these function electrochemically to provide anodic passivation of the titanium matrix. It has, however, now been demonstrated that even in low concentration palladium additions to titanium form Ti2Pd, and that before onset of passivation the palladium dissolves in the corrodent and is then reprecipitated in elemental form from solution. This process is accompanied by the growth of a protective film of TiO2. In substantiation of this mechanism it can be shown that corrosion of unalloyed titanium in non-oxidising acids can be halted by the addition to the acid of a very small quantity of a soluble palladium salt.
Improved Metal Sheathed Thermocouples
Authors: A. S. D.
Published: February 2024

Long-term calibration changes of rhodium-platinum thermocouples operating close to their maximum service temperatures are attributable to rhodium migration from the positive to the negative limb. In the metalclad thermocouple described here the effects of this phenomenon are considerably reduced by balancing the rhodium content of the sheath and of the thermocouple wires.
High Activity Fuel Cell Electrodes
Authors: Tseung A. C. C. , Hobbs B. S.
Published: February 2024

By making more efficient use of the platinum and by extending the reaction zone into the catalyst support, a fuel cell electrode has been developed to give excellent current output with extremely low platinum loadings.
The Platinum Metals in Organic Syntheses
Authors: Johnson B. F. G.
Published: February 2024

The synthesis of organic molecules is of growing importance to the chemical industry but conventional methods are becoming increasingly inadequate. Transition metal complexes, in particular those of the platinum metals, provide routes in synthetic chemistry to many useful and interesting compounds. Here the principles involved are explained and a number of the reactions are described.
Thick-film Ruthenium Resistor Pastes
Authors: Lemon T. H.
Published: February 2024

New and improved compositions of pastes for ruthenium resistors have been developed at the Johnson Matthey Research Laboratories. Evaluation of the properties of such resistors shows that these materials are suitable both technically and economically for use in circuits designed for the domestic electronics market. This article is based on a paper given at Internepcon 72, Brighton, last October.
Anti-tumour Platinum Compounds
Authors: Cleare Michael J. , Hoeschele J. D.
Published: February 2024

A wide variety of platinum(II) complexes have been synthesised and tested for anti-tumour activity resulting in the identification of additional potentially active anti-tumour drugs. Several structural features have been shown to be necessary for a complex to show activity. This article follows up the article by Professor Barnett Rosenberg in the April 1971 issue.
Alloy Films of the Platinum Metals as Model Catalysts for Research
Authors: Moss R. L.
Published: February 2024

The first part of this article described methods for the preparation and characterisation of evaporated alloy films containing one or more platinum metals. Their use in catalyst research has provided new examples of the variation of catalytic activity with alloy composition and the formation of unexpected reaction products. Various secondary factors which might be involved in determining the activity of alloy catalysts have also been demonstrated in recent work with alloy films.
Ammonia Oxidation Catalysts
Authors: Harbord N. H.
Published: February 2024

Rhodium-platinum gauzes used as catalysts in nitric acid plants operating at various pressures have been examined by microscopy and by X-ray diffraction. Some gauzes possess low conversion efficiency and these are usually covered with deposits that can frequently be traced to sources of contamination. Gauzes operated at pressures of four or more atmospheres also possess coatings of rhodium oxide that are difficult to remove by fusion or pickling. The suggested cause of formation of this oxide shows that it cannot be avoided but that methods exist for cleaning gauzes from higher pressure plants.
Exhaust Purifiers for Compression Ignition Engines
Authors: Sercombe E. J.
Published: February 2024

A new platinum catalyst system has been developed at the Johnson Matthey Research Laboratories for the oxidation of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide emitted by compression ignition internal combustion engines. The catalyst was evaluated during tests on a direct injection diesel engine using the 13-mode cycle devised by the California Air Resources Board, thereby assisting the design of catalyst systems to meet specific emission control targets in particular industrial applications. The new catalyst combined with retardation of injection timing can provide overall control of exhaust emissions, including the nitrogen oxides, from diesel engines.
A Thick Film Platinum Resistance Thermometer
Authors: Iles G. S. , Tindall R. F.
Published: February 2024

A novel temperature detector, known as Matthey Thermafilm, has been developed. It consists essentially of a platinum film firmly bonded to a ceramic substrate. The film is protected from the possible corrosive effects of gaseous environments by an overglaze of impervious, electrically insulating glass, forming a device that is mechanically and thermally robust. Since the sensing unit generally does not require further protection by encapsulation in a metal or ceramic sheath, it responds very rapidly to thermal changes. The construction of the detector renders it eminently suitable for monitoring transient thermal changes in most environments.
Rhodium-Platinum Gauzes for Ammonia Oxidation
Authors: Sperner Franz , Hohmann Wolfgang
Published: February 2024

In the industrial production of nitric acid by the oxidation of ammonia over rhodium-platinum gauze catalysts the infrequent occurrence of an inactive gauze has prompted a number of investigations into their behaviour. This paper reports on a survey of the surface structure of individual gauzes in a catalyst pack and offers some indications towards the choice of optimum process variables.
The Affinity of the Platinum Metals for Refractory Oxides
Authors: Raub Christoph J. , Ott Dieter
Published: February 2024

The presence of a platinum metal enhances the ability of hydrogen, carbon, carbon monoxide and organic vapours to reduce the more stable refractory oxides. Such reactions, which may start at temperatures as low as 600°C, occur because of the high affinity of the platinum metals for the metal of the refractory oxide and result in the formation of intermetallic compounds or stable solid solutions. This account, based on experimental studies which yielded useful information on the thermodynamic behaviour of platinum metal alloys, presents results which should assist in preventing damage to industrial platinum apparatus. It also suggests that metals could be brazed to refractory oxides using a platinum containing brazing alloy under suitable reducing conditions.
Dispersion-Strengthened Rhodium-Platinum
Authors: Selman G. L. , Bourne A. A.
Published: February 2024

This article describes the properties and characteristics of a new addition to the range of platinum-based alloys for high-temperature structural use, known commercially as ZGS 10 per cent rhodium-platinum. The processes developed at the Johnson Matthey Research Centre for the introduction of a highly dispersed non-metallic phase into pure platinum, outlined in a previous article in this journal, have now been further optimised to a stage where a similar strengthening dispersion can be produced within a rhodium-platinum alloy matrix. The resulting material is significantly stronger and more creep resistant than the conventional high-temperature rhodium-platinum alloys, while retaining the useful electrical and chemical properties that have made these alloys so attractive as materials of construction in many industrially important areas.
Solar Energy Conversion Using Platinum Group Metal Co-ordination Complexes
Authors: Watkins D. M.
Published: February 2024

Co-ordination complexes of ruthenium and rhodium have been shown to have potential applications in solar energy conversion. When illuminated with visible light on a laboratory scale these complexes catalyse photolysis reactions or exhibit photogalvanic effects to produce hydrogen or electricity. These processes and the problems involved in their immediate scale-up to practical solar energy conversion devices are discussed in this paper.
Ensuring the Most Advantageous Use of Platinum
Authors: Knapton A. G.
Published: February 2024

The unique high temperature and corrosion resistant properties of the platinum group metals can best be utilised if the mechanisms which may result in the degrading of these properties are acknowledged and understood. This article reviews the more important of these mechanisms, thus enabling the conditions which promote them to be avoided, and the nobility of the platinum metals to be maintained in everyday practice.
The Corrosion and Electrochemical Behaviour of Ductile Chromium Alloys
Authors: Tomashov N. D. , Chernova G. P. , Ustinski E. N.
Published: February 2024

Until recently the brittleness of chromium and its alloys has limited their use in applications which require a high resistance to corrosion in oxidising environments. Now, minor additions of selected metals can produce alloys with satisfactory low temperature ductility and workability, but even these alloys are susceptible to corrosion in non-oxidising environments. Passivation and corrosion resistance in such conditions can be increased by cathodic additions of noble metals; this paper reports a study of the effects of such additions on the corrosion and electrochemical behaviour of ductile chromium alloys in non-oxidising environments.
Injection Moulding Fumes Purified
Authors: Budd A. E. R.
Published: February 2024

Catalytic combustion is now a well established method of controlling a wide range of air pollution problems. A relatively new and improved process for the production of plastic injection mouldings resulted in the discharge to the working environment of small, but potentially offensive, volumes of malodorous or toxic fumes. This article very briefly describes the new process, then shows how existing well tried technology has been adapted to solve the pollution problem economically.
The Characterisation of Catalysts
Authors: Acres G. J. K.
Published: February 2024

This paper is based upon an introductory address given by Dr. Acres to a residential course on Characterisation of Catalysts organised by Professor J. M. Thomas and Dr. R. M. Lambert for representatives from industry, government research centres and universities and held last year in King’s College, Cambridge.
The Use of Platinum Metals in Modern Thermionic Emitters
Authors: Tuck Richard A.
Published: February 2024

The performance of dispenser cathodes has been considerably improved over the last quarter of a century. This review considers advances made in the materials used either for the matrix of the thermionic emitter, or to coat its surface, which have resulted in lower effective work functions. The use of iridium, osmium and ruthenium has played a significant role in this improvement.
Composite Platinum Group Metals
Authors: Rowe M. S. , Heywood A. E.
Published: February 2024

The cost of platinum and platinum-rich alloys inevitably leads to attempts to find cheaper alternative materials, particularly for applications where they are used for structural purposes. Previous work has generally centred on coating base metals with platinum or on the development of palladium-rich alloys. However, both of these approaches have limitations particularly with regard to strength, corrosion resistance and reliability. The application of zirconia grain stabilised technology to this problem has now resulted in the production of a composite trimetallic material, designated ZGS Platinum “TriM”. This largely overcomes the problems associated with earlier materials and dramatically reduces material costs.
A Standard Platinum/Silica Catalyst
Authors: Wells P. B.
Published: February 2024

The platinum on silica catalyst designated EUROPT-1 has recently become available as a standard reference catalyst for the scientific communities in academy and industry. The material, which was manufactured by Johnson Matthey, has been characterised by the Council of Europe’s Research Group on Catalysis, and the full report of that characterisation study is about to appear in the scientific literature.
Hydrogen Permeable Palladium Membrane Catalysts
Authors: Gryaznov V. M.
Published: February 2024

The catalytic properties of selected palladium binary alloy membranes have been studied during hydrogenation and dehydrogenation reactions. When hydrogen, from a variety of hydrogen-rich sources, is introduced through such membrane catalysts the yield and selectivity of hydrogenation products may be increased, the energy requirement reduced and finite natural resources conserved.
Sintering Aids in Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Corti C. W.
Published: February 2024

When a metallic powder is subjected to a sufficiently high pressure a certain amount of adhesion takes place between individual particles. If this compact is then sintered the bond is improved by diffusion and intergranular grain growth. The earliest known platinum objects were fabricated by such a powder metallurgical process, and when European scientists first addressed the problem of manufacturing platinum bars they also used powder metallurgy to overcome their inability to melt the metal. Now powder metallurgical methods are widely used for fabricating a variety of materials, and this paper reviews studies made of the sintering of refractory metals when this process is promoted by the addition of a minor amount of a platinum group metal activator.
Emission Control for Gas Turbines
Authors: Jung H. J. , Becker E. R.
Published: February 2024

Johnson Matthey are reporting successful commercialisation of oxidation catalysts for the clean-up of gas turbine exhaust. The reduction of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons is achieved with a platinum-rhodium catalyst which minimises the formation of sulphur trioxide. The catalyst system, supported on an energy saving, low pressure drop metal monolith, has been used continuously for five years on large industrial gas turbines.
The “Uphill” Diffusion of Hydrogen
Authors: Lewis F. A. , Kandasamy K. , Baranowski B.
Published: February 2024

Certain unexpected effects observed during developments and reductions of pressures of hydrogen gas inside tubular membranes of palladium alloys now seem to be self-consistently interpretable in terms of lattice-strain-induced temporary “uphill” hydrogen diffusion processes.
Car Exhaust Pollution Control
Authors: Searles R. A.
Published: February 2024

Over the past twenty years catalysts containing platinum group metals have become the preferred means of limiting the polluting emissions of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides from motor vehicles. However, from time to time methods of exhaust control are proposed which appear to offer a viable alternative to autocatalysts. Europe has been slow to adopt emission control standards for vehicles which is, perhaps, surprising bearing in mind that European catalyst manufacturers have been producing autocatalysts and European car producers have been fitting them to vehicles destined for the U.S. and Japanese markets for over fourteen years. This article gives the background to the suggested alternatives, which are in the main different approaches to lean burn operation, and to other engine based controls. It explains why, for the foreseeable future, a platinum-containing autocatalyst will still be required to ensure that the cleanest possible exhaust is emitted under all driving conditions.
The Electrodeposition of Platinum and Platinum Alloys
Authors: Baumgärtner M. E. , Raub J.
Published: February 2024

Work on the electrolytic deposition of platinum and some platinum alloys is reviewed, and the results of our recent work on the deposition and the properties of the layers produced from some promising electrolytes are briefly discussed. In general, studies of plating solutions are restricted by the economic availability of the relevant platinum salts. On the other hand the hydrolysis of the platinum salts in solution, and the incorporation of decomposition products are also critical factors, especially for their influence on internal stress. Recent work has shown that it is possible to deposit platinum-cobalt alloys which have excellent magnetic and mechanical properties, and these alloy deposits look very promising for data storage applications and for small permanent magnet layers.
Cryogenic Temperature Measurement
Authors: Ricketson B. W. A.
Published: February 2024

Applications of the rhodium-iron resistance thermometer over the last two decades have demonstrated that this sensor has the widest temperature range known; it has been used between 0.01 and 800 K, nearly five orders of magnitude. Recent developments have resulted in the production of a small planar device, which is finding many uses in cryogenic instrumentation.
Platinum Group Metals in Phase Transfer Catalysis
Authors: Gore Ernest S.
Published: February 2024

Phase transfer catalysis is an elegant method for ameliorating the reaction conditions of many organic reactions and improving yields and selectivities. A review is presented of the role and scope of the compounds of the platinum group metals as cocatalysts under phase transfer conditions. The most useful improvements have been found in reactions involving the formation of carbon-carbon bonds such as in carbonylations and vinylations, and in reductions with formate.
Palladium-Chromium Strain Gauges
Authors: Lei Jih-Fen
Published: February 2024

In order to meet urgent needs in aerospace research, an electrical resistance strain gauge of palladium-13 weight per cent chromium alloy is being developed both in fine wire and thin film forms at the NASA Lewis Research Center. The wire strain gauge has platinum wire wound around the gauge grid to serve as the temperature compensator, and is coated with a special alumina-based overcoat. This gauge has a sufficiently small apparent strain, with good reproducibility between thermal cycles to 800°C. The apparent strain of the gauge can therefore be corrected within a reasonable error up to this temperature. The thin film gauge, which provides a means for non-intrusive strain measurements, demonstrates the possibility of extending the use of this palladium alloy to approximately 1000°C.
Fluorophosphine Complexes of the Platinum Group Metals
Authors: Heuer Lutz
Published: February 2024

Dedicated to Henri Moissan on the occasion of the one hundredth anniversary of his discovery of the first fluorophosphine platinum complex, this review describes the recent interest, and developments in fluorophosphines as ligands for platinum group metals. The synthesis, structure, reactions, stability, and the potential of these compounds as homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts are the main features of this article.
Electrochemical Supercapacitors as Versatile Energy Stores
Authors: Trasatti S. , Kurzweil P.
Published: February 2024

“Supercapacitors” are a new category of electrical condenser which are based on the properties of charge distribution at the interface of an electrode/electrolyte solution. After an introduction to the features of such devices, a brief history of their development is followed by a description of some technical details. The latter part of the paper is devoted to some specific properties of ruthenium and iridium oxides, RuOx and IrOx, which exhibit very interesting interfacial behaviour for their potential use in supercapacitors. In particular, these materials are very versatile in their method of preparation and in their surface properties. Prospects for changing the properties of the active layer of the superconductor by mixing two or more oxides are discussed.
Platinum for Glass Making at Jena
Authors: Fischer B. , Gerth K.
Published: February 2024

The use of platinum for the preparation of optical glass can be traced back to Michael Faraday who, in 1824, investigated ways of improving the manufacture of optical glass. During this work he began to use platinum for containment vessels, stirrers and ladles. Prior to this Johann Wolfgang Döbereiner had been appointed Professor of Chemistry at the University of Jena and was later supplied with platinum crucibles by his patrons. Crucibles and stirrers made from platinum were also used when Otto Schott was collaborating with Ernst Abbe on the development of new optical glasses. Their work led to a revolutionary upsurge in the optical industry in Jena and, following the involvement of Carl and Roderich Zeiss, the establishment of a reputation for optical-mechanical excellence which has been maintained ever since.
The Development of Molecular Wires
Authors: Grosshenny V. , Harriman A. , Hissler M. , Ziessel R.
Published: February 2024

The growth in research in molecular sized electronic devices in the very recent past, for functions such as optical switches, fast recording devices, miniaturised sensors and molecular computers, has created a need for equally small connectors which comply with the stringent requirements of such structures to link them to the surrounding assembly. Among materials that are suitable for the terminal subunits are polypyridyl complexes of ruthenium(II), osmium(II) and rhenium(I), linked together by bridging polyynes. The triplet excited states of these complexes have long lives and are formed under visible-light illumination. Their metal-to-ligand charge-transfer character allows electron promotion from the metal centre to the bridging ligand, giving directional electron transfer. Complexes based on ruthenium(II) or osmium(II) seem more promising due to their amenable absorption and emission spectral profiles and their facile oxidation-reduction processes. This paper looks at the development of the molecular materials and structures that are required to act as molecular-scale connectors enabling molecular-scale electronic devices to function successfully.
Platinum Metals Complex Catalysts for Liquid-Phase Hydrogenations
Authors: Frolov V. M.
Published: February 2024

Results of the syntheses and applications of platinum metals complex catalysts, which are uniquely active for the liquid-phase hydrogenation of unsaturated organic compounds, such as olefins, dienes, acetylenes and aromatics, are described. The platinum metals complex catalysts are synthesised by the interaction between platinum metals compounds and aliphatic amines with sufficiently long alkyl groups (C8 and higher). Similarities are shown in the production of palladium-, platinum-, and rhodium-based catalysts, which involves the formation of hydride ligands, using the hydrogen atoms of the alkyl groups, and the specific catalytic behaviour of each metal is described. Examples of synergistic effects for these platinum group metal catalysts and some of their related systems are discussed.
Flux Pinning by Platinum and Rhodium in High Temperature Superconductors
Authors: Langhorn J. B.
Published: February 2024

Screen printed thick film technology is recognised as an inexpensive and effective means for the production of superconductors which have potential applications in the electronics and microwave device industries. Additions of the platinum group metals have been made to superconducting thick films of YBa2Cu3O7-δ, and these have shown significant improvements, relative to melt processed films, in both their superconducting and physical properties, particularly in their critical current densities. A possible mechanism to explain the improvements is discussed.
Platinum Recovery by Palladium Alloy Catchment Gauzes in Nitric Acid Plants
Authors: Ning Yuantao , Yang Zhengfen , Zhao Huaizhi
Published: February 2024

Since the introduction of palladium-gold catchment gauzes for the recovery of the platinum lost from the catalyst gauzes used in the manufacture of nitric acid, the mechanism by which these high palladium content alloys catch and recover the platinum has been of interest to both researchers and manufacturers, alike. Using analyses of the surface chemical species which form on palladium, both in flowing oxygen and during the ammonia oxidation reaction, this paper describes how the surface of the palladium, at temperatures above 800°C, is a multilayer structure with the bright palladium metal surface being covered by a thin layer of palladium metal vapour and then by a layer of palladium oxide vapour. The mechanism of the platinum recovery is related to the surface state of the palladium, and the high recovery rate by the palladium alloy catchment gauze is attributed to this unique multilayer structure and to the ability of palladium to reduce platinum oxide. Damage to either the surface multilayer structure or the oxidation characteristics of palladium decreases the platinum recovery rate. Thus, catchment gauzes made from palladium alloys containing high concentrations of base metal solutes, such as nickel, cannot be expected to have such a high platinum recovery rate.
Platinum Catalysts Used in the Silicones Industry
Authors: Lewis Larry N. , Stein Judith , Gao Yan , Colborn Robert E. , Hutchins Gudrun
Published: February 2024

Hydrosilylation is a reaction widely used in the silicones industry for the preparation of monomers, containing silicon-carbon bonds, and for crosslinking polymers, and results in a variety of products. Hydrosilylation reactions are catalysed by highly active platinum catalysts, such as the silicone-soluble Karstedt’s catalyst, which is prepared by the reaction of chloroplatinic acid, H2PtCl6, with vinyl-silicon containing compounds, such as divinyltetramethyl-disiloxane, Mvi Mvi – Inhibitors are widely used during hydrosilylation reactions to prevent premature crosslinking of polymers at ambient temperature, but permit rapid platinum-mediated crosslinking reactions at higher temperatures. Platinum colloids are formed at the end of the reaction and were identified by analysis. This paper discusses the mechanism of the hydrosilylation reaction, catalyst formation, characterisation, the effects of inhibitors and the range and complexity of the end products.
Reinforcement Learning for Generative AI: State of the Art, Opportunities and Open Research Challenges
Authors: Franceschelli Giorgio , Musolesi Mirco
Published: February 2024

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most exciting developments in Computer Science of the last decade. At the same time, Reinforcement Learning (RL) has emerged as a very successful paradigm for a variety of machine learning tasks. In this survey, we discuss the state of the art, opportunities and open research questions in applying RL to generative AI. In particular, we will discuss three types of applications, namely, RL as an alternative way for generation without specified objectives; as a way for generating outputs while concurrently maximizing an objective function; and, finally, as a way of embedding desired characteristics, which cannot be easily captured by means of an objective function, into the generative process. We conclude the survey with an in-depth discussion of the opportunities and challenges in this fascinating emerging area.
Disparities in Electronic Cigarette Use: A Narrative Review
Authors: Edwards Kyle , Manoharan Aysswarya , Asfar Taghrid , Kareff Samuel , Lopes Gilberto , Rodriguez Estelamari , Olazagasti Coral
Published: February 2024

The prevalence of electronic cigarette use has been declared an epidemic by the U.S. Surgeon General in 2018, particularly among youth aged 18-24 years old. Little is known about the differential use of e-cigarettes by different groups. PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were used to find relevant articles. A total of 77 articles were included. The extant literature reveals disparities in e-cigarette use by race/ethnicity and sexuality/gender. There are conflicting conclusions regarding disparities by socioeconomic status.
Sensory Experiences in the Roman North: Emerging Themes and Future Directions
Authors: Derrick Thomas J. , Savani Giacomo
Published: February 2024

The senses were functionally significant to all aspects of Roman life and played a central role in private and public events, from religious ceremonies to gladiatorial fights. However, to date, these studies primarily focus on archaeological sites from Italy. The scope of this Special Issue, however, was on the sensory implications of archaeological material from a region so far neglected by sensory studies: the ‘Roman North’ (including modern France, western Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain and immediately adjacent areas), from the earliest interactions with Roman civilization to Late Antiquity. The contributing authors to this Special Issue come from several different sectors but they all have something in common: they use Roman material from the north to tell stories about Roman lived experience.This editorial is a piece underscoring the present ‘state of the discipline’. At this stage, however, it would be very generous to designate the research theme as a ‘discipline’. We hope that this editorial and the excellent papers in this Special Issue contribute to addressing this disparity and will encourage others to explore these themes in their own work.
PRACTICAL-ORIENTED TRAINING AS PART OF THE FORMATION OF SOCIAL AND PERSONAL COMPETENCE OF STUDENTS OF PEDAGOGICAL UNIVERSITIES
Authors:   Pavlodar Pedagogical University, Ramazanova Nazgul
Published: February 2024

The direction of the research determined by the author is confirmed by its psychological, pedagogical, social and practical relevance, taking into account the changes taking place in almost all spheres of life of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The article considers practice-oriented tasks as a means of forming the socio-personal competence of students of the educational program 6B01310 "Pedagogy and methodology of primary education". The author proves the relevance of the inclusion of future primary school teachers in conditions close to professional activity in order to develop the necessary abilities, the formation of social and personal qualities of the individual. The paper defines a key concept, shows an algorithm for constructing practice-oriented tasks for the preparation of future primary school teachers in social and personal interaction with the subjects of the educational process. The paper defines the key concept of «practice-oriented tasks», shows an algorithm for constructing practice- oriented tasks for training future primary school teachers in social and personal interaction with the subjects of the educational process. The study involved young professionals with less than 3 years of experience in primary school, and students of the educational program 6B01310 «Pedagogy and methodology of primary education» of Pavlodar Pedagogical University named after A. Margulan. The system of evaluation by a university teacher of the quality of students' performance of practice-oriented tasks is presented.
War Department Light Railways of the First World War
Authors:   Queensland Museum, Mewes David
Published: February 2024

This paper recounts some experiences on the Western Front of two men who had worked at the Ipswich Railway Workshops before the First World War. Lt. Colonel A. C. Fewtrell , who trained as a cadet engineer at Ipswich Railway Workshops, and was involved in the operations of a light railway unit on the Western Front presented a paper about his experiences to some graziers in New South Wales in 1920. Major S. H. Hancox had been in charge of the powerhouse at Ipswich Railway Workshops before enlisting and being sent to France where he worked on the construction of a section of the 60 cm gauge light railways during 1917. Hancox relates some of the horrific conditions he encountered through letters to his mother in Brisbane. In 1916, the British adopted the 60 cm gauge light railway system which was already being successfully used by both the Germans and the French. The British introduced the Hunslet 4-6-0T locomotives, many hundreds of other steam and early internal combustion locomotives as well as thousands of wagons providing a solution to maintaining the necessary supplies to the front lines. Following the end of the War, fifteen Hunslet locomotives built for use in France came to Queensland for use in the sugar industry. Hunslet Engine Company Works Number 1239, delivered to France in late 1916, was one of those Hunslet locomotives. We briefly follow the history of No.1239 after its delivery to Australia in 1920 and donation to the Queensland Museum in 2005.
From Aero Clubs to Aviation Companies: the experiences of Thomas Macleod and his contemporaries 1910–1919
Authors:   Queensland Museum, High Jennifer
Published: February 2024

Rapid developments undertaken by a number of ambitious and adventurous Queenslanders are summarised by Major Thomas Macleod in his article ‘Flying in Queensland: Early Difficulties’, a typed manuscript in Queensland Museum’s Thomas Macleod Queensland Aviation Collection. Writing on 7 September 1919, Macleod reflected on his and others’ initial experiments with aircraft in Queensland, noting that ‘flying at the present day has been so far advanced by the experience gained during the war’. Macleod’s article, along with other photographs and documents housed in the archive named in his honour, provide a significant overview of the development of aviation in Queensland. This paper presents a summary of some of the aviators, events and connections mentioned by Macleod and represented in the collection from 1910–1919. Further investigation will offer a summary of individuals and activities during the following decades.
Treasures from the Tablelands: communities, collaboration and collections
Authors:   Queensland Museum, Wills Joanna
Published: February 2024

The First World War Centenary has stimulated numerous activities throughout Australia, activating interest in heritage projects that have involved the broader community. This paper explores the value of community museum projects by analysing the development and delivery of the Tablelands Heritage Network’s Anzac Treasures of the Tablelands exhibition. By examining the collaborative nature of the project, what it takes to develop participatory projects and showcasing some of the objects uncovered during the project, it reflects on the community and museological benefits of working collaboratively.
Dark Tourism: collections and memories of war
Authors:   Queensland Museum, Mate Geraldine
Published: February 2024

While battlefield tourism, museums and exhibitions to mark the dark side of war are now the subject of research through ideas such as dark tourism or thanatourism, these investigations are generally focused around present-day tourism. During the four years that marked the centenary of the First World War, museums within the Queensland Museum Network created and hosted several exhibitions pertaining to ‘the Great War’. These exhibitions together are conceptually of a style that can be considered a form of dark tourism. However, in examining the many souvenirs, photographs and postcards considered for these exhibitions, it became apparent that considerations of dark tourism of the War and its sites is really a continuation of dark tourism in the War. This involved not only physical visits to sites of death and destruction during and after the War, but the collection of mementos of those visits and pictorial depictions to show at home. This paper examines the practice of battlefield collecting and tourism during the First World War through the objects held in the Queensland Museum. It explores ideas that thanatourism may not be a new phenomenon, instead being part of a long tradition. The examples of collection objects that illustrate this ‘morbid curiosity’ are examined within the context of the war and the ideologies and personal motivations surrounding enlistment and military service in Europe and the Middle East.
We Remember: the Ipswich Railway Workshops War Memorial
Authors:   Queensland Museum, Hampton David
Published: February 2024

The Ipswich Railway Workshops War Memorial stands as a tribute to the men from the workshops who enlisted to serve in the First World War. Research into the efforts to raise funds, construct and dedicate the memorial provides insight into the culture and internal workings of the workshops, its workforce and its role within Queensland Railways. The cost of producing the memorial it was met through contributions from the workshops workforce, as well as in kind donations and provision of materials and equipment from the Railways. It was designed by the Queensland Railways architect Vincent Price. As it was located on Queensland Railway property it was the railway department’s responsibility to ensure it was maintained and cared for just like any other asset in the Railway’s portfolio. Despite these unique qualities the story of this memorial also runs parallel to the efforts of cities, towns and communities across Queensland and Australia to raise funds and build tributes to the members of their communities who served and died in the First World War. Communities across Queensland commissioned 61 similar memorials in response to the significant loss of community members as a result of the war. The Ipswich Workshops Memorial therefore reflects a broader aesthetic and commemorative trend. The legacy of this trend continues to influence aspects of community remembrance today. The Ipswich Workshops Memorial and many like it continue to serve as the focal point for commemorative activities on ANZAC and Remembrance Day.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE RECYCLING PROCEDURE FOR RAPID ANTIGEN TESTS
Authors: Rudolf Rebeka , Feizpour Darja , Jelen Žiga , Majerič Peter , Švarc Tilen , Zadravec Matej , Gomboc Timi , Kocijan Aleksandra
Published: February 2024

The article presents the problem of rapid antigen tests when they become mass waste after use. Based on this, the hypothesis was made that rapid antigen tests can be recycled. Rapid antigen tests, which were used in the Covid-19 epidemic to quickly detect infections in the population or to confirm the presence of the Sars-Cov 2 virus in patients, were intended to limit the spread of the epidemic. To confirm the hypothesis of recycling for rapid antigen tests, the LFIA-REC ATP 150 project was prepared, which was selected for co-financing by the Norwegian Fund.

Rapid antigen tests consist of a sample and conjugate pad, detectable or nitrocellulose membranes and absorbent pads and a plastic case. The function of the sample pad is to evenly absorb the sample (mucus, blood) and lead it to the conjugate pad with a steady flow. Gold nanoparticles (labels) are deposited on the conjugate pad. The key is that the gold nanoparticles are conjugated with capture molecules capable of binding to potentially present antibodies or virus in the sample.

The scope of the research problem thus required the inclusion of various characterization techniques that must be applied to the individual material in the rapid antigen test to subsequently develop an efficient recycling process for the rapid antigen tests. The result of the research presented in this paper represents a newly developed algorithm of characterization techniques, which includes a recommended description of the preparation of samples of key materials from rapid antigen tests. This algorithm successfully achieved the characterization of gold nanoparticles from rapid antigen tests. Based on the developed algorithm, the final part of the project will validate the recycling process of rapid antigen tests, so that they can be recycled, i.e. gold nanoparticles or plastic used in new products. The paper presents the algorithm of characterization techniques with a description of the preparation of material samples from rapid antigen tests.
SOLAR TECHNOLOGY: EMPOWERING SERBIA’S RENEWABLE ENERGY FUTURE
Authors: Djordjevic Luka , Prvulovic Slavica , Djurdjev Mica , Novakovic Borivoj , Bakator Mihalj
Published: February 2024

This study investigated the solar power potential and performance in Serbia, a country with favorable solar conditions but limited resource utilization. The principal objectives of the investigation were to analyze the performance ratio (PR) and assess the electricity production of simulated solar power plants in different distribution areas. The Photovoltaic System software (PVsyst 7.3) was employed to simulate five grid-connected solar power plants, each with a capacity of 10 MW, in five distribution areas of the Serbian Public Electric Utility Company. The study found that the PR values varied from 81.7 % to 84 %, indicating favorable conditions for harnessing the solar potential. The simulations projected an annual electricity delivery to the grid of 64.41 GWh. According to the study’s estimates, installed solar power plants would be capable of meeting 0.22 % of the electricity needs in Serbia.
CITY-FORMING ROLE OF UNIVERSITIES: IMPACT ON THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT OF CITIES
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, PROVOTAR Nataliia , SHCHURYK Khrystyna ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: February 2024

The article presents the results of an evaluation of universities’ role in shaping cities and impact on their socio-economic and spatial development. Using the examples of Lund and Cambridge as university cities, it examines the positive and negative aspects of studentification. Universities exert a multifaceted influence on city development manifested in economic dynamics, demographic shifts, spatial changes, and community cohesion issues. The specifics of contemporary social, economic, and spatial aspects of "studentification" are highlighted through the case studies of Lund and Cambridge. Concentration of students, constituting nearly a third of residents, emerges as the primary outcome of university influence, affecting population dynamics, shaping age structure, and mitigating population aging. Universities’ pivotal role lies in knowledge production and high-quality personnel training, fostering innovative economic sectors within cities. Assessing universities’ spatial impact on city development, GIS-generated heat maps illustrate the distribution of bicycle infrastructure and service areas in urban spaces. The correlation between bicycle parking, entertainment venues, eateries, and other service facilities concentration with university infrastructure and main student accommodation places is evident. Challenges in city development encompass seasonal load on the city environment and infrastructure, the "city and mantle" phenomenon fostering conflicts between residents and students over urban planning, new housing construction, and use of public spaces, alongside issues of gentrification and spatial segregation. Conducting a SWOT analysis of Lund and Cambridge as university cities, this article outlines their development strategies.