bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accounting and Macroeconomic Variables Explaining Investment: An Empirical Study with Panel Data in the Portuguese Textile Sector
Authors: Oliveira Isabel , Figueiredo Jorge , Faria Maria , Martins Francisco V.
Published: August 2024

This study analyses the variables that influence investment in a sample of small, labour-intensive companies in a sector that is highly dependent on external demand and the world economy. The aim is to test the three traditional theories of investment (neoclassical theory, free cash flow theory and agency theory), as well as consider the existence of other variables endogenous and exogenous to the company, in order to obtain a model that is appropriate to the reality of the companies in the sample, which consists of 3859 companies in the Portuguese textile sector, for the period from 2010 to 2022. Although there are many studies on the subject, the sample of companies used is different from the others, presenting a unique perspective for understanding investment dynamics in this type of company. The methodology used involves estimating panel data models using the GMM method. The results show that there is a statistically significant and negative relationship between liquidity and asset turnover and investment, so the free cash flow and neoclassical theories, respectively, are partially verified. The agency theory is not confirmed. Other variables are significant in explaining investment: the debt structure is statistically negative, while the size of the company, the GDP and the interest rate are statistically positive. Return on assets proved not to be statistically significant in explaining investment. To summarise, the study highlights the need for financial strategies adapted to the unique characteristics of small businesses.
AI and Computing Horizons: Cloud and Edge in the Modern Era
Authors: Prangon Nasif Fahmid , Wu Jie
Published: August 2024

Harnessing remote computation power over the Internet without the need for expensive hardware and making costly services available to mass users at a marginal cost gave birth to the concept of cloud computing. This survey provides a concise overview of the growing confluence of cloud computing, edge intelligence, and AI, with a focus on their revolutionary impact on the Internet of Things (IoT). The survey starts with a fundamental introduction to cloud computing, overviewing its key parts and the services offered by different service providers. We then discuss how AI is improving cloud capabilities through its indigenous apps and services and is creating a smarter cloud. We then focus on the impact of AI in one of the popular cloud paradigms called edge cloud and discuss AI on Edge and AI for Edge. We discuss how AI implementation on edge devices is transforming edge and IoT networks by pulling cognitive processing closer to where the data originates, improving efficiency and response. We also discuss major cloud providers and their service offerings within the ecosystem and their respective use cases. Finally, this research looks ahead at new trends and future scopes that are now becoming possible at the confluence of the cloud, edge computing, and AI in IoT. The purpose of this study is to demystify edge intelligence, including cloud computing, edge computing, and AI, and to focus on their synergistic role in taking IoT technologies to new heights.
Achieving Sustainable Land Use Allocation in High-Altitude Area by 2030: Insights from Circle Structure and Scenario Predictions for Production–Living–Ecological Land in Xining Marginal Area, China
Authors: Jiang Zizhen , Luo Yuxuan , Wen Qi , Shi Mingjie , Ayyamperumal Ramamoorthy , Wang Meimei
Published: August 2024

The paper focused on the Xining marginal area, providing the concept of land use competitive advantage, employing the PLUS and PFCI model to simulate production–living–ecological (PLE) land in 2030, and revealing the relationship between regional land interactions and sustainable land allocation. The results indicate that the following: (1) By 2030, the land use of the Xining marginal area is primarily production and ecological land, with approximately 0.1% of living land; however, living and production land will increase while ecological land will decrease in general, and the growth momentum of urban and other living space in government-seated regions is stronger. (2) The PLE land does not exhibit a piecemeal expansion pattern, as it is influenced by mountains and rivers. Agricultural production land and grassland ecological land have advantages for development, whereas urban living land has just development potential. (3) Developing the corresponding lands in the dominant regions can result in sustainable land allocation, and five nexus approaches are proposed for the sustainable allocation of PLE land in the Xining marginal region. The study addresses the interaction of different land use types across regions rather than examining them separately, and we provide significant insight into whether the Qinghai Tibet Plateau should be urbanized.
Impact of Land Use Change on the Spatiotemporal Evolution of Ecosystem Services in Tropical Islands: A Case Study of Hainan Island, China
Authors: Yang Mingjia , Luo Jiabao , Zhu Lirong , Lu Peng
Published: August 2024

Land use change drives the ecosystem service value (ESV) to some extent. Investigating the impact of land use distribution patterns under different scenarios on ESV is crucial for optimizing land spatial utilization in tropical island regions. This study employs a combination of multi-objective programming (MOP) and the patch-generating land use simulation (PLUS) model to simulate and predict the spatial distribution of land use in Hainan Island for the year 2030 under three scenarios: natural development, ecological protection priority, and tourism development priority. The ESV for these scenarios is then assessed to provide insights into the sustainable economic, social, and ecological development of tropical island regions. The results indicate the following: (1) Between 2010 and 2020, forest land was the dominant land use type in Hainan Island, accounting for 63% of the total area, followed by arable land. Land use changes were characterized mainly by increases in built-up land and grass land, which increased by 497.13 km2 and 18.87 km2, respectively, with decreases in other types. The largest area of land conversion was from forest land, which was predominantly converted to built-up land and arable land, measuring 259.97 km2 and 174.49 km2, respectively. (2) The PLUS model was used to simulate land use changes in Hainan Island, achieving a Kappa coefficient of 0.88 and an overall accuracy of 0.94, indicating a high consistency between the simulation results and actual data. (3) The ecological protection priority scenario yielded the highest ecosystem service values (CNY 72.052 billion), while the values under other scenarios decreased compared to 2020. The natural development scenario saw a decrease of CNY 1.821 billion, and the tourism development priority scenario saw a decrease of CNY 0.595 billion. Spatially, the ecological protection priority scenario also showed the greatest increase in areas with high ecosystem service values, particularly due to an increase in forest land area, which contributed to an overall increase in the ecosystem service values of the study area. This study offers a scientific foundation and a decision-making reference for selecting priority scenarios for tourism development on Hainan Island, aimed at supporting its future sustainable development. It emphasizes the protection of forest resources, the promotion of greening initiatives, and the achievement of a balance between ecological preservation and tourism activities.
Exploring the Relationship between Urbanization and Vegetation Ecological Quality Changes in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area
Authors: Wu Yanyan , Luo Zhaohui , Wu Zhifeng
Published: August 2024

Rapid global urbanization and its progress have profoundly affected urban vegetation. The ecological quality of urban vegetation is a vital indicator of regional ecological stability and health. A comprehensive assessment of the coupling coordination and coercive relationship between urbanization and the vegetation ecological quality is essential for promoting sustainable regional green development. Using the rapidly urbanizing Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) urban agglomeration in China as an example, this study evaluates the vegetation quality condition and the level of urbanization and explores the dynamic relationship between vegetation ecological quality and urbanization processes. This study introduces the vegetation ecological quality index (VEQI) based on net primary productivity (NPP) and fractional vegetation cover (FVC), as well as the comprehensive urbanization index (CUI) derived from gross domestic production (GDP), population density, and nighttime lighting data. The coupling coordination and Tapio decoupling models are employed to assess the degree of coupling coordination and the decoupling relationship between the VEQI and CUI across different periods. The results showed that (1) from 2000 to 2020, the VEQI in the GBA showed a significant increase, accompanied by continuous urbanization, particularly evident with the high CUI values in central areas; (2) the coupling coordination degree (CCD) exhibits high values and significant change slopes in the central GBA, indicating dynamic interactions between urbanization and vegetation ecological quality; (3) the decoupling states between the VEQI and CUI are dominated by weak decoupling (WD), strong decoupling (SD), expansive negative decoupling (END), and expansive coupling (EC), suggesting improvements in the relationship between urbanization and vegetation ecological quality; (4) the coordinated development level of the VEQI and CUI in the study area shows improvement, and their decoupling relationship displays a positive trend. Nevertheless, it remains crucial to address the impact of urbanization pressure on vegetation ecological quality and to implement proactive measures in response. The results of this study provide theoretical support for mesoscale development planning, monitoring vegetation ecological conditions, and formulating environmental policies.
Technology to Assist Land Management: User Satisfaction with an Online Forest Management System
Authors: Kane Tim , Clatterbuck Wayne K. , Merry Krista , Lee Taeyoon , Bettinger Pete
Published: August 2024

Surveys of forestry professionals who actively manage, or advise upon the management of, forest lands were conducted to determine their opinions of the usefulness of a forest management decision support model. The surveys were aimed at evaluating attitudes and concerns about the eYield model, which was developed to assist in the examination of management options for eastern United States forests. The coronavirus issue that began in 2020 necessitated a virtual workshop environment to illustrate the potential usefulness of the eYield model. Pre- and post-workshop assessment surveys suggested that there was an interest by land managers in tools like eYield that are straightforward to use. The results suggested that the instructions associated with eYield were generally clearly presented, and the outcomes produced by eYield were generally representative of real-world conditions. The surveys also indicated that people represented by the sample frame were willing to consider new technology that may be used to address complex forest land management issues. Improvements suggested by survey participants may result in greater user interaction with Internet-based decision support systems that focus on the management of land.
Spatial Characteristics of Brownfield Clusters and “City-Brown” Patterns: Case Studies of Resource-Exhausted Cities in China
Authors: Fu Quanchuan , Han Yawen , Xiang Shuangbin , Zhu Jingyuan , Zhang Linlin , Zheng Xiaodi
Published: August 2024

In the post-industrial era, many cities have experienced the decline of heavy industry and traditional manufacturing, leading to the widespread emergence of brownfields. These often cluster geographically, forming “brownfield clusters” characterized by shared spatial and functional traits. Our research examined these phenomena within 10 resource-exhausted cities in China, employing kernel density analysis to explore the spatial dynamics within and among these clusters and their urban contexts. We identified three distinct spatial relationships between brownfield clusters and their host cities (coupling, juxtaposition, and encircling), with a detailed case study in Huangshi City further classifying the clusters into five categories based on their dominant factors, spatial morphologies, types of brownfields, and internal dynamics. The study reveals that the spatial configurations of brownfield clusters are significantly influenced by geographic features, transportation infrastructure, and policy frameworks. Based on these findings, we propose targeted regeneration strategies for each cluster type. This research not only enhances our understanding of brownfield challenges and opportunities in China’s resource-exhausted cities but also serves as a valuable reference for other cities and regions worldwide facing similar challenges.
Congenital Pulmonary Airway Malformation in Preterm Infants: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Bertolino Alessia , Bertolo Silvia , Lago Paola , Midrio Paola
Published: August 2024

Congenital pulmonary airway malformations (CPAMs) represent a well-known cluster of rare lung malformations affecting 1 in 2500 live births. The natural history of many CPAMs is to increase their size in the second trimester, reach a plateau, and, in about 50% of cases, regress and to become barely detectable during the third trimester. Little is known about cases of affected neonates born prematurely: only six cases are described in the literature, recording different conduct and outcomes. Herein, we report the case of a very low birth weight infant born at GW 28 without antenatal findings and presenting at birth with severe respiratory distress, requiring ventilation. Chest X-rays and a CT scan showed the presence of a solid mass in the left lung. An initial conservative approach was adopted as the baby gained respiratory stability within the first days of life. Routine ultrasound (US) showed a progressive reduction of the lesion, mimicking the process of involution that CPAM can exhibit during late gestation. The rarity of the condition does not allow the formulation of any suggestions regarding one type of management over the other. An initial conservative approach seems to be appropriate with regards to the outcome and possible intra- and post-operative complications.
Theoretical and Experimental Study of Flexible Structure Tilting Pad Bearings Considering Deformation
Authors: Wu Yunyu , Zhang Weiwei , Yi Shuxiang , Wang Xiaojing , Qin Yanyan , Peng Shuxia
Published: August 2024

In high-speed and heavy-load conditions, ordinary rigid tilting pad journal bearings experience significant contact stress at the pad pivot points, leading to severe pad deformation and increased wear. A flexible structure tilting pad bearing (FSTPB) is presented in this paper, using spring supports to replace the traditional pivot supports and flexible hinge supports. A theoretical calculation model for tilting pad radial journal bearings considering flexible structure deformation is established, and the impact of elastic deformation on the performance of the flexible structure tilting pad bearings is discussed. Based on theoretical research, vibration experiments on flexible tilting pad bearings under different loading conditions were conducted. The influence of various structural parameters on the vibration characteristics of the flexible tilting pad radial bearings was studied. The results indicate that, compared to ordinary tilting pad bearings, flexible structure tilting pad bearings exhibit excellent vibration reduction characteristics at high speeds. Reducing the bearing clearance, lowering the stiffness of the flexible structure, and increasing the offset angle of the flexible structure contribute to enhancing the operational stability of the bearing–rotor system.
Several Characterizations of the Generalized 1-Parameter 3-Variable Hermite Polynomials
Authors: Wani Shahid Ahmad , Hakami Khalil Hadi , Zogan Hamad
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a novel framework for introducing generalized 1-parameter 3-variable Hermite polynomials. These polynomials are characterized through generating functions and series definitions, elucidating their fundamental properties. Moreover, utilising a factorisation method, this study establishes recurrence relations, shift operators, and various differential equations, including differential, integro-differential, and partial differential equations.
A Class of Distributed Online Aggregative Optimization in Unknown Dynamic Environment
Authors: Yang Chengqian , Wang Shuang , Zhang Shuang , Lin Shiwei , Huang Bomin
Published: August 2024

This paper considers a class of distributed online aggregative optimization problems over an undirected and connected network. It takes into account an unknown dynamic environment and some aggregation functions, which is different from the problem formulation of the existing approach, making the aggregative optimization problem more challenging. A distributed online optimization algorithm is designed for the considered problem via the mirror descent algorithm and the distributed average tracking method. In particular, the dynamic environment and the gradient are estimated by the averaged tracking methods, and then an online optimization algorithm is designed via a dynamic mirror descent method. It is shown that the dynamic regret is bounded in the order of O(T). Finally, the effectiveness of the designed algorithm is verified by some simulations of cooperative control of a multi-robot system.
Universal Network for Image Registration and Generation Using Denoising Diffusion Probability Model
Authors: Ji Huizhong , Xue Peng , Dong Enqing
Published: August 2024

Classical diffusion model-based image registration approaches require separate diffusion and deformation networks to learn the reverse Gaussian transitions and predict deformations between paired images, respectively. However, such cascaded architectures introduce noisy inputs in the registration, leading to excessive computational complexity and issues with low registration accuracy. To overcome these limitations, a diffusion model-based universal network for image registration and generation (UNIRG) is proposed. Specifically, the training process of the diffusion model is generalized as a process of matching the posterior mean of the forward process to the modified mean. Subsequently, the equivalence between the training process for image generation and that for image registration is verified by incorporating the deformation information of the paired images to obtain the modified mean. In this manner, UNIRG integrates image registration and generation within a unified network, achieving shared training parameters. Experimental results on 2D facial and 3D cardiac medical images demonstrate that the proposed approach integrates the capabilities of image registration and guided image generation. Meanwhile, UNIRG achieves registration performance with NMSE of 0.0049, SSIM of 0.859, and PSNR of 27.28 on the 2D facial dataset, along with Dice of 0.795 and PSNR of 12.05 on the 3D cardiac dataset.
Self-Intersections of Cubic Bézier Curves Revisited
Authors: Sánchez-Reyes Javier
Published: August 2024

Recently, Yu et al. derived a factorization procedure for detecting and computing the potential self-intersection of 3D integral Bézier cubics, claiming that their proposal distinctly outperforms existing methodologies. First, we recall that in the 2D case, explicit formulas already exist for the parameter values at the self-intersection (the singularity called crunode in algebraic geometry). Such values are the solutions of a quadratic equation, and affine invariants depend only on the curve hodograph. Also, the factorization procedure for cubics is well known. Second, we note that only planar Bézier cubics can display a self-intersection, so there is no need to address the problem in the more involved 3D setting. Finally, we elucidate the connections with the previous literature and provide a geometric interpretation, in terms of the affine classification of cubics, of the algebraic conditions necessary for the existence of a self-intersection. Cubics with a self-intersection are affine versions of the celebrated Tschirnhausen cubic.
Accurate Analytical Approximation for the Bessel Function J2(x)
Authors: Martin Pablo , Ramos-Andrade Juan Pablo , Caro-Pérez Fabián , Lastra Freddy
Published: August 2024

We obtain an accurate analytic approximation for the Bessel function J2(x) using an improved multipoint quasirational approximation technique (MPQA). This new approximation is valid for all real values of the variable x, with a maximum absolute error of approximately 0.009. These errors have been analyzed in the interval from x=0 to x=1000, and we have found that the absolute errors for large x decrease logarithmically. The values of x at which the zeros of the exact function J2(x) and the approximated function J˜2(x) occur are also provided, exhibiting very small relative errors. The largest relative error is for the second zero, with εrel=0.0004, and the relative errors continuously decrease, reaching 0.0001 for the eleventh zero. The procedure to obtain this analytic approximation involves constructing a bridge function that connects the power series with the asymptotic approximation. This is achieved by using rational functions combined with other elementary functions, such as trigonometric and fractional power functions.
Depressive Symptoms during Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period: A Tertiary Hospital Experience
Authors: Mladenovic Danilo , Kostic Sanja , Ivanovic Katarina , Jovanovic Ivana , Petronijevic Milos , Petronijevic Milica , Vrzic Petronijevic Svetlana
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: The prevalence of depressive symptoms during pregnancy is about 20%, and 10–15% in the postpartum period. Suicide is a worrying cause of death among women in these periods. Although ICD-10 lacks specific definitions for perinatal depression (it is planned in ICD-11), the DSM-5 defines it. Various etiological factors and treatment options are being investigated. This study aimed to examine potential etiological factors in order to contribute to potential preventive and therapeutic approaches. Material and Methods: A prospective study at the Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Clinical Center of Serbia, from October 2023 to January 2024 was conducted. Two hundred and five healthy women were surveyed before giving birth (37+ gestational weeks) and 2 weeks and 2 months after childbirth. The following factors were examined: sociodemographic, psychological, and obstetric (using a specially designed questionnaire); relationship quality (DAS-32); and depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms (EPDS; DASS-21). Results: Depression frequency was 26.3% before childbirth, 20% in the second week, and 21.9% in the second month after delivery. DASS-21 test results showed a statistically significant correlation before delivery and two weeks postpartum (p = 0.02). Factors that are significantly associated with the presence of depressive symptoms include the following: before childbirth—miscarriages (p < 0.01); in the second week after childbirth—personal experiences of a difficult birth (p < 0.01), cesarean delivery instead of planned vaginal delivery (p = 0.03), and application of epidural anesthesia (p = 0.04); and in the second month after childbirth—satisfaction with financial status (p = 0.035). Relationship quality is significantly correlated with DASS-21 test results before childbirth, in the second week, and in the second month after childbirth (p < 0.01), and it is significantly different in women with and without depressive symptoms (before childbirth, in the second week, and in the second month after childbirth, p < 0.01). Conclusions: There are risk factors that can be addressed preventively and therapeutically during pregnancy and in labor. This could be achieved through psychotherapy, partner support, and appropriate management of labor.
Reply to Sethuraman et al. Comment on “Utsumi et al. Differences in Pathophysiology and Treatment Efficacy Based on Heterogeneous Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest. Medicina 2024, 60, 510”
Authors: Utsumi Shu , Nishikimi Mitsuaki , Ohshimo Shinichiro , Shime Nobuaki
Published: August 2024

We thank the authors of the Letter to the Editor for their astute points raised in reference to our original study [...]
Formation of Metastable Solid Solutions in Bi-Ge Films during Low-Temperature Treatment
Authors: Bogatyrenko Sergiy , Kryshtal Pavlo , Gruszczyński Adam , Kryshtal Aleksandr
Published: August 2024

We investigated the mechanism and kinetics of the formation of metastable BiGe solid phases during the amorphous-to-crystalline transformation of Ge films in contact with Bi. Ge/Bi/Ge sandwich films with a Bi film between amorphous Ge films, which were fabricated by sequential deposition of the components in a vacuum, were used in this study. The total thickness and composition of the sandwich films varied in the range from 30 to 400 nm and from 22 to 48 wt% Bi, respectively. Electron diffraction, high-resolution (S)TEM imaging, EDX, and EEL spectroscopy were used for in situ and ex situ characterization of the morphology, composition, and structure of Ge/Bi/Ge films in the temperature range of 20–271 °C. We proved the formation of polycrystalline Ge films containing up to 28 wt% Bi during low-temperature treatment. The interaction process was activated at ≈150 °C, resulting in the crystallization of Ge with the simultaneous formation of a quasi-homogeneous supersaturated solid solution throughout the entire volume of the film at ≈210 °C. We showed that the formation of crystalline Ge films with an extended solid solubility of Bi depended mostly on the overall composition of the tri-layer film. The role of metal-induced crystallization of the amorphous germanium in the formation of the supersaturated solid phases is discussed.
Synergistic Effect of Phase Transformation and Stress-Induced Twinning on the Antibacterial Property and Elastic Modulus of Ti-13Nb-13Zr-7Ag
Authors: Cai Diangeng , Wang Jiayu , Yang Lei , Xu Xiaocen , Zhang Erlin
Published: August 2024

Ti-13Nb-13Zr-7Ag (TNZ-7Ag) has a great potential for biomedical application due to its low elastic modulus and excellent antibacterial properties. However, it is difficult to balance low elastic modulus and high antibacterial properties. In this study, the TNZ-7Ag was treated by a pre-deformation and aging treatment to avoid this problem. The results proved that the stress-induced twinning caused a large range of Ti2Ag particle agglomeration, and in turn enhanced the antibacterial performance of Ag-containing titanium alloys. And the twinned martensite formed during the pre-deformation promoted the precipitation of Ti2Ag phase and inhibited the growth of α phase. As a result, TNZ-7Ag with both low elastic modulus and strong antibacterial properties was obtained by the treatments. All results demonstrated that pre-deformation based on the synergistic effect of aging treatment was an effective strategy to develop novel biomedical titanium alloys. Low-elastic-modulus antibacterial titanium alloys, which can be used for the development of novel biomedical titanium alloys, were prepared.
Effect of Si Addition in NiCrAl Coating on Corrosion in Molten Nitrate Salt
Authors: Siripongsakul Thamrongsin , Kettrakul Patchaporn , Kanjanaprayut Noparat , Promdirek Piyorose
Published: August 2024

The materials used in concentrating solar power (CSP) systems are becoming of interest because of the high energy efficiency of energy storage. Molten salts can be used as both heat-storage media and heat-transfer fluid in a CSP system. In molten salts, steel alloys used in vessels and pipelines are highly vulnerable to hot corrosion. To protect steel alloys, applying a coating is an excellent strategy to extend the life of the alloy. NiCrAl coatings are well-suited for high-temperature environments. The purpose of this study was to investigate the corrosion behavior of NiCrAl with Si addition coatings on AISI304 in molten salt. NiCrAl coatings with and without Si addition were deposited using the high-velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) technique. The corrosion test was performed using an immersion test in modified solar salt with 0.5% NaCl at 400–600 °C. Gravimetric methods evaluate the weight change for immersion tests. At 400 °C, an increased amount of weight gain due to the oxidation reaction and molten salt infiltration was observed. At 600 °C, the corrosion reaction was more dominant, and apparent oxidation was decreased; however, oxidation products NiO and sodium aluminum silicate were detected. Si addition supports the formation of the protective oxide sodium aluminum silicate, which inhibits molten salt oxidation reaction and molten salt infiltration.
Corrosion Behaviors of Weathering Steels in the Actual Marine Atmospheric Zone and Immersion Zone
Authors: Yang Ying , Lin Tianzi , Wang Guohui , Wang Yubo , Shao Minghui , Meng Fandi , Wang Fuhui
Published: August 2024

The corrosion behaviors of three bridge steels in a real tropical marine environment for 2 years were studied. One weathering steel (WS) was designed with higher levels of nickel, copper, and molybdenum compared to the other. These two kinds of WSs and one kind of ordinary high-strength low-alloy steel (Q345qe) were compared under two conditions (marine atmospheric zone and marine immersion zone at Sanya Marine Environmental Test Station). The morphology, corrosion rate, and corrosion product analysis of the steels were performed through SEM, XPS, FTIR and other characterization methods. The results demonstrated that weathering steels facilitate the densification of the corrosion product layer due to the addition of alloying elements Cr, Ni, and Cu, promoting rust nucleation and enhancing the compactness of the protective layer. However, in an immersion environment, the extensive erosion by chloride ions renders the benefits of WS ineffective.
Catalytic Activity Evaluation of the Molten Salt-Modified Novel Ni Electrodes for Urea Electrooxidation in Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Kutyła Dawid , Fukumoto Michihisa , Takahashi Hiroki , Wojnicki Marek , Żabiński Piotr
Published: August 2024

The presented paper characterized the molten salt-modified Ni electrode with excellent catalytic activity towards alkaline urea electrooxidation reaction. The electrodes were modified by electrodeposition of Al from molten salt electrolytes containing NaCl-KCl-AlF3 at a temperature of 750 °C and applied potential of −1.9 V. The porous surface was obtained by anodic polarization with a potential of −0.4 V until the anodic current was equal to 0 mAcm−2. The prepared deposits’ structure, surface morphology, and composition were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Anodic polarization was applied to assess the electrocatalytic activity and elucidate the urea electrooxidation mechanism in 1 M KOH + 0.33 M urea solution. The nanocrystalline structure, fine grain size, and microcracks on the surface of the studied electrodes contributed to their notably high electrochemically active surface area (ECSA). The cyclic voltammetry in the non-Faradaic regions of the samples shows that molten salt modification can increase the double layer capacitance of bare Ni plates by around ten times, from 0.29 mFcm−2 to 2.16 mFcm−2. Polarization of the electrodes in urea-containing KOH solution with potential of +1.52 V shows a significant difference in catalytic performance. For the bare nickel sample, the registered current density from the urea electrooxidation reaction was around +1 mAcm−2, and for the molten salt-modified one, it was +38 mAcm−2, which indicates the fact that the molten salt surface treatment can be a promising tool in tailoring the electrochemical properties of materials.
Analyzing Impact of Processing Parameters and Material Properties on Symmetry of Wire-Arc Directed Energy Deposit Beads
Authors: Price Stephen , Judd Kiran , Gleason Matthew , Tsaknopoulos Kyle , Cote Danielle L. , Neamtu Rodica
Published: August 2024

Wire arc-directed energy deposit (wire-arc DED) enables the efficient manufacturing of large-scale metal parts. Many factors can impact overall part quality during manufacturing, including processing parameters such as feed rate, travel speed, and various material properties. Previous works have sought to use machine learning to evaluate and predict these impacts, but they have primarily focused on the width and height of single-layer deposits. Building upon these studies, this work offers a novel technique to characterize and evaluate the asymmetry of deposited beads to better understand the impact these parameters have. Specifically, leveraging time-series analysis techniques, the surface profiles of beads can be compared and analyzed to identify the degree of asymmetry. Additionally, this work relates these factors to the extent to which substrates warp during the depositing of material. With a better understanding of these impacts, manufacturing processes can be optimized for improved quality and reduced waste. These findings highlight that, while material selection and processing parameters do not strongly correlate with bead asymmetry, beads are deposited with varying degrees of asymmetry, requiring further analysis to identify the source. In contrast, substrate warping is significantly influenced by the thermal properties of the materials used. Of the properties analyzed, heat capacity, thermal diffusivity and thermal conductivity were found to be most relevant to substrate warping. Additionally, while to a lesser extent, material properties of the wire were found to be similarly correlated to warping as their substrate counterparts. These insights can inform the optimization of manufacturing processes, leading to improved part quality and reduced material waste. This study also underscores the need for further research into the interplay between processing conditions and material characteristics in wire-arc DED.
Analysis of the Feeding Behavior in a Bottom-Blown Lead-Smelting Furnace
Authors: Sun Kena , Jie Xiaowu , Zhang Yonglu , Gao Wei , Northwood Derek O. , Waters Kristian E. , Ma Hao
Published: August 2024

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software was used to simulate the feeding behavior in a bottom-blown lead-smelting furnace. The results show that when the particle size is less than 30 μm, 20% of the particles are suspended in the gas phase and do not enter the melt pool for smelting, thus resulting in material loss. When the particle size exceeds 75 μm, the particles settle in the metal layer. When the particle size is 40–60 μm, the particles are distributed in the slag and metal phases, and the material is uniformly distributed in the molten pool; additionally, the average velocity of the particles exceeds 1.4 m/s, the average temperature exceeds 960 K, and the particles exhibit better behavior within this range, thus rendering it the optimal range of particle sizes for feeding.
Effects of a High Trans Fatty Acid Diet on Kidney-, Liver-, and Heart-Associated Diseases in a Rabbit Model
Authors: Ismail Hammad , Mubashar Zaryab , Khan Hajra , Naveed Zeenat , Dilshad Erum , Bhatti Muhammad Zeeshan , Anwaar Sadaf , Saleem Samreen , Mehmood Sabba , Rahman Abdur , Rashid Umer , Fouad Dalia , De Waard Michel , Batiha Gaber El-Saber
Published: August 2024

Trans fatty acids are specific unsaturated fats found in processed foods that undergo hydrogenation, leading to hepatic disorders such as metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and conditions like CVD and CKD. The effects of different food samples containing trans fatty acids (elaidic and oleic acid) on the liver, heart, and kidney through antioxidant enzyme activity were investigated in animal models. Liver function tests (ALT, ALP, AST, and LDH), heart biomarker levels (CPK, TC, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides), and kidney biomarker levels (serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and serum uric acid) were examined in serum of rabbits and the histopathology of liver tissues. Results showed that these biomarkers were more elevated in the Mujahid Ghee group than in the normal control, oleic acid, and Kausar Ghee groups. The concentration of antioxidant markers such as peroxidase, glutathione, catalase, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and superoxide dismutase were lower in the Mujahid Ghee group. HPLC showed that Mujahid Ghee had the highest quantified value of elaidic acid among all selected samples. Overall, this study demonstrated that elaidic acid in its purest form aggravated MAFLD in rabbit livers and provoked CVK and CVD.
HS-GC-IMS Analysis of Volatile Organic Compounds in Six Spicy Spices and Their Effects on Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Gao Qi , Zhang Qiang , Wang Chunliang , Geng Xue , Hua Min , Li Nianhong , Dai Yanpeng , Zhang Yan , Zhou Qian
Published: August 2024

The volatile organic compounds of six spices, including black pepper, dried ginger, cinnamon, fennel, clove, and zanthoxylum, were analyzed by gas chromatography–ion mobility spectrometry (HS-GC-IMS) combined with principal component analysis (PCA) and Euclidean distance. In further analyses, the effects of volatile oils in six spices on ulcerative colitis were assayed in a zebrafish model induced by 3-nitrobenzenesulfonic acid. A total of 120 kinds of volatile organic compounds were detected and 80 among them were identified, which included 10 common components and 3 to 24 characteristic components belonging to different spices. The major VOCs in six spices were estimated to be terpenes with the contents of 45.02%, 56.87%, 36.68%, 58.19%, 68.68%, and 30.62%, respectively. Meanwhile, the volatile components of fennel, dried ginger, black pepper, and cinnamon are quite similar, but differ from clove and zanthoxylum. The volatile oils in six spices presented efficient activity to improve ulcerative colitis which can decrease the number of neutrophils, restore the structure of intestinal epithelial and the morphology of the epithelial cells. Our study achieved rapid analysis of the volatile organic compounds and flavors in six spices and further revealed the potential health benefits of their volatile oils on ulcerative colitis, especially for clove and zanthoxylum. This study is expected to provide certain data support for the quality evaluation and the potential use in functional foods of six spices.
Mapping Photogenerated Electron–Hole Behavior of Graphene Oxide: Insight into a New Mechanism of Photosensitive Pollutant Degradation
Authors: Ni Kaijie , Chen Yanlong , Xu Ruiqi , Zhao Yuming , Guo Ming
Published: August 2024

The use of graphene oxide (GO) photogenerated electron–hole (e–h+) pairs to degrade pollutants is a novel green method for wastewater treatment. However, the interaction between photosensitive pollutants and a GO–light system remains unclear. In this work, the mechanism of degradation of photosensitive pollutant tetracycline (TC) promoted by GO photogenerated e–h+ pairs was studied. Our studies encompassed the determination of TC removal kinetics, analysis of active substances for TC degradation, identification of degradation products, and computational modeling. Clear evidence shows that a new reaction mechanism of enhanced adsorption and induced generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was involved. This mechanism was conducive to significantly enhanced TC removal. Kinetic studies showed a first-order behavior that can be well described by the Langmuir–Hinshelwood model. Radical scavenging experiments confirmed that 1O2, •O2−, and holes (h+) were the main active substances for TC degradation. Electron spin resonance analysis indicated that photoexcited TC molecules may transfer electrons to the conduction band of GO to induce the generation of additional ROS. A major transformation product (m/z 459) during TC degradation was identified with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Density functional theory calculation indicated a stronger adsorption between TC and GO under photoirradiation. This mechanism of photo-enhanced adsorption and synergistic induced generation of ROS provides a new strategy for the removal of emerging pollutants in water. Overall, the new mechanism revealed in this work expands the knowledge of applying GO to wastewater treatment and is of great reference value for research in this field.
Novel Approach for the Preparation of a Highly Hydrophobic Coating Material Exhibiting Self-Healing Properties
Authors: Holzdörfer Uwe , Ali Wael , Schollmeyer Eckhard , Gutmann Jochen S. , Mayer-Gall Thomas , Textor Torsten
Published: August 2024

A concept to prepare a highly hydrophobic composite with self-healing properties has been designed and verified. The new material is based on a composite of a crystalline hydrophobic fluoro wax, synthesized from montan waxes and perfluoroethylene alcohols, combined with spherical silica nanoparticles equipped with a hydrophobic shell. Highly repellent layers were prepared using this combination of a hydrophobic crystalline wax and silica nanoparticles. The novel aspect of our concept was to prepare a ladder-like structure of the hydrophobic shell allowing the inclusion of a certain share of wax molecules. Wax molecules trapped in the hydrophobic structure during mixing are hindered from crystallizing; therefore, these molecules maintain a higher mobility compared to crystallized molecules. When a thin layer of the composite material is mechanically damaged, the mobile wax molecules can migrate and heal the defects to a certain extent. The general preparation of the composite is described and XRD analysis demonstrated that a certain share of wax molecules in the composite are hindered to crystallize. Furthermore, we show that the resulting material can recovery its repellent properties after surface damage.
Graphene Oxide Covalently Functionalized with 5-Methyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine for pH-Sensitive Ga3+ Recovery in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Zhu Xi , Guo Yong , Zheng Baozhan
Published: August 2024

A novel graphene-based composite, 5-methyl-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine (MTA) covalently functionalized graphene oxide (GO-MTA), was rationally developed and used for the selective sorption of Ga3+ from aqueous solutions, showing a higher adsorption capacity (48.20 mg g−1) toward Ga3+ than In3+ (15.41 mg g−1) and Sc3+ (~0 mg g−1). The adsorption experiment’s parameters, such as the contact time, temperature, initial Ga3+ concentration, solution pH, and desorption solvent, were investigated. Under optimized conditions, the GO-MTA composite displayed the highest adsorption capacity of 55.6 mg g−1 toward Ga3+. Moreover, a possible adsorption mechanism was proposed using various characterization methods, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with X-ray energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), elemental mapping analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Ga3+ adsorption with the GO-MTA composite could be better described by the linear pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.962), suggesting that the rate-limiting step may be chemical sorption or chemisorption through the sharing or exchange of electrons between the adsorbent and the adsorbate. Importantly, the calculated qe value (55.066 mg g−1) is closer to the experimental result (55.60 mg g−1). The well-fitted linear Langmuir isothermal model (R2 = 0.972~0.997) confirmed that an interfacial monolayer and cooperative adsorption occur on a heterogeneous surface. The results showed that the GO-MTA composite might be a potential adsorbent for the enrichment and/or separation of Ga3+ at low or ultra-low concentrations in aqueous solutions.
Polar Codes with Differential Phase Shift Keying for Selective Detect-and-Forward Multi-Way Relaying Systems
Authors: Ji Ruilin , Leib Harry
Published: August 2024

Relaying with network coding forms a basis for a variety of collaborative communication systems. A linear block coding framework for multi-way relaying using network codes introduced in the literature shows great promise for understanding, analyzing, and designing such systems. So far, this technique has been used with low-density parity check (LDPC) codes and belief propagation (BP) decoding. Polar codes have drawn significant interest in recent years because of their low decoding complexity and good performance. Our paper considers the use of polar codes also as network codes with differential binary phase shift keying (DBPSK), bypassing the need for channel state estimation in multi-way selective detect-and-forward (DetF) cooperative relaying. We demonstrate that polar codes are suitable for such applications. The encoding and decoding complexity of such systems for linear block codes is analyzed using maximum likelihood (ML) decoding for LDPC codes with log-BP decoding and polar codes with successive cancellation (SC) as well as successive cancellation list (SCL) decoding. We present Monte-Carlo simulation results for the performance of such a multi-way relaying system, employing polar codes with different lengths and code rates. The results demonstrate a significant performance gain compared to an uncoded scheme. The simulation results show that the error performance of such a system employing polar codes is comparable to LDPC codes with log-BP decoding, while the decoding complexity is much lower. Furthermore, we consider a hard threshold technique at user terminals for determining whether a relay transmits or not. This technique makes the system practical without increasing the complexity and can significantly reduce the degradation from intermittent relay transmissions that is associated with such a multi-way relaying protocol.
Chemical Composition of Five Lamiaceae Essential Oils and Their Insecticidal and Phytotoxic Activity
Authors: Pei Tianhao , Zhao Yijin , Huang Xudong , Zhao Yinyue , Pan Liudan , Wang Lingwei , Gao Hexin , Xu Meng-Lei , Gao Yu
Published: August 2024

The Lamiaceae family is widely distributed worldwide. In this study, we investigated the insecticidal activity of five Lamiaceae essential oils against Thrips flavus Schrank and the phytotoxic activity against Glycine max (L.) Merr., Zea mays L., Portulaca oleracea L., and Echinochloa oryzoides (Ard.) Fritsch. Then, the chemical composition of the five essential oils was analyzed by using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The five Lamiaceae essential oils were melissa, basil, rosemary, negundo chastetree, and salvia. The main constituents of the five Lamiaceae essential oils were preliminarily determined to be as follows: α-pinene and 1,8-cineole in the rosemary essential oil; β-pinene, γ-terpinene, and d-limonene in the negundo chastetree essential oil; β-cadinene and isolongifolen-5-one in the melissa essential oil; 5-allylguaiacol in the basil essential oil; and isopropyl myristate, linalyl acetate, and linalool in the salvia essential oil. Using a bioassay, it was found that, among the five essential oils, the melissa essential oil exhibited the lowest LC50 value, which was 0.18 mg/mL, and the salvia essential oil exhibited the highest LC50 value, which was 0.42 mg/mL. The control efficacy of the five essential oils significantly increased with time and concentration in pot experiments. The negundo chastetree, basil, rosemary, and salvia essential oils at 900.00 g a.i.·hm−2 showed high control efficacy against T. flavus, with values higher than 90%. Female thrips were attracted to the negundo chastetree essential oil. The five essential oils were also tested for their effects on the germination rate, germination potential, germination index, and shoot length of G. max, Z. mays, P. oleracea, and E. oryzoides. The basil essential oil significantly inhibited the germination of P. oleracea, with germination at a concentration of 1.0 mg/mL being only 11.11 ± 5.09%. This study provides a reference for the development of botanical pesticides to control T. flavus, crops, and weeds.