bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toward the Production of Super Graphene
Authors: Qing Fangzhu , Guo Xiaomeng , Hou Yuting , Ning Congcong , Wang Qisong , Li Xuesong
Published: May 2024

The quality requirements of graphene depend on the applications. Some have a high tolerance for graphene quality and even require some defects, while others require graphene as perfect as possible to achieve good performance. So far, synthesis of large‐area graphene films by chemical vapor deposition of carbon precursors on metal substrates, especially on Cu, remains the main way to produce high‐quality graphene, which has been significantly developed in the past 15 years. However, although many prototypes are demonstrated, their performance is still more or less far from the theoretical property limit of graphene. This review focuses on how to make super graphene, namely graphene with a perfect structure and free of contaminations. More specially, this study focuses on graphene synthesis on Cu substrates. Typical defects in graphene are first discussed together with the formation mechanisms and how they are characterized normally, followed with a brief review of graphene properties and the effects of defects. Then, the synthesis progress of super graphene from the aspects of substrate, grain size, wrinkles, contamination, adlayers, and point defects are reviewed. Graphene transfer is briefly discussed as well. Finally, the challenges to make super graphene are discussed and a strategy is proposed.
Catalyst Supraparticles: Tuning the Structure of Spray‐Dried Pt/SiO2 Supraparticles via Salt‐Based Colloidal Manipulation to Control their Catalytic Performance
Authors: Groppe Philipp , Reichstein Jakob , Carl Simon , Cuadrado Collados Carlos , Niebuur Bart‐Jan , Zhang Kailun , Apeleo Zubiri Benjamin , Libuda Jörg , Kraus Tobias , Retzer Tanja , Thommes Matthias , Spiecker Erdmann , Wintzheimer Susanne , Mandel Karl
Published: May 2024

The structure of supraparticles (SPs) is a key parameter for achieving advanced functionalities arising from the combination of different nanoparticle (NP) types in one hierarchical entity. However, whenever a droplet‐assisted forced assembly approach is used, e.g., spray‐drying, the achievable structure is limited by the inherent drying phenomena of the method. In particular, mixed NP dispersions of differently sized colloids are heavily affected by segregation during the assembly. Herein, the influence of the colloidal arrangement of Pt and SiO2 NPs within a single supraparticulate entity is investigated. A salt‐based electrostatic manipulation approach of the utilized NPs is proposed to customize the structure of spray‐dried Pt/SiO2 SPs. By this, size‐dependent separation phenomena of NPs during solvent evaporation, that limit the catalytic performance in the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol, are overcome by achieving even Pt NP distribution. Additionally, the textural properties (pore size and distribution) of the SiO2 pore framework are altered to improve the mass transfer within the material leading to increased catalytic activity. The suggested strategy demonstrates a powerful, material‐independent, and universally applicable approach to deliberately customize the structure and functionality of multi‐component SP systems. This opens up new ways of colloidal material combinations and structural designs in droplet‐assisted forced assembly approaches like spray‐drying.
Sub‐Band Assisted Z‐Scheme for Effective Non‐Sacrificial H2O2 Photosynthesis
Authors: Wang Wenchao , Zhou Tao , Yang Yuchen , Du Lili , Xia Ruiqin , Shang Congxiao , Phillips David Lee , Guo Zhengxiao
Published: May 2024

Photosynthesis of H2O2 from earth‐abundant O2 and H2O molecules offers an eco‐friendly route for solar‐to‐chemical conversion. The persistent challenge is to tune the photo‐/thermo‐ dynamics of a photocatalyst toward efficient electron–hole separation while maintaining an effective driving force for charge transfer. Such a case is achieved here by way of a synergetic strategy of sub‐band‐assisted Z‐Scheme for effective H2O2 photosynthesis via direct O2 reduction and H2O oxidation without a sacrificial agent. The optimized SnS2/g‐C3N4 heterojunction shows a high reactivity of 623.0 µmol g−1 h−1 for H2O2 production under visible‐light irradiation (λ > 400 nm) in pure water, ≈6 times higher than pristine g‐C3N4 (100.5 µmol g−1 h−1). Photodynamic characterizations and theoretical calculations reveal that the enhanced photoactivity is due to a markedly promoted lifetime of trapped active electrons (204.9 ps in the sub‐band and >2.0 ns in a shallow band) and highly improved O2 activation, as a result of the formation of a suitable sub‐band and catalytic sites along with a low Gibbs‐free energy for charge transfer. Moreover, the Z‐Scheme heterojunction creates and sustains a large driving force for O2 and H2O conversion to high value‐added H2O2.
Improvement of Perovskite Solar Cells Efficiency by Management of the Electron Withdrawing Groups in Hole Transport Materials: Theoretical Calculation and Experimental Verification
Authors: Qi Jiayi , Wang Ruiqin , Zeng Ye , Gao Xing , Chen Xin , Shen Wei , Wu Fei , Li Ming , He Rongxing , Liu Xiaorui
Published: May 2024

Management of functional groups in hole transporting materials (HTMs) is a feasible strategy to improve perovskite solar cells (PSCs) efficiency. Therefore, starting from the carbazole–diphenylamine‐based JY7 molecule, JY8 and JY9 molecules are incorporated into the different electron‐withdrawing groups of fluorine and cyano groups on the side chains. The theoretical results reveal that the introduction of electron‐withdrawing groups of JY8 and JY9 can improve these highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy levels, intermolecular stacking arrangements, and stronger interface adsorption on the perovskite. Especially, the results of molecular dynamics (MD) indicate that the fluorinated JY8 molecule can yield a preferred surface orientation, which exhibits stronger interface adsorption on the perovskite. To validate the computational model, the JY7‐JY9 are synthesized and assembled into PSC devices. Experimental results confirm that the HTMs of JY8 exhibit outstanding performance, such as high hole mobility, low defect density, and efficient hole extraction. Consequently, the PSC devices based on JY8 achieve a higher PCE than those of JY7 and JY9. This work highlights the management of the electron‐withdrawing groups in HTMs to realize the goal of designing HTMs for the improvement of PSC efficiency.
Stable Isotope Probing‐nanoFTIR for Quantitation of Cellular Metabolism and Observation of Growth‐Dependent Spectral Features
Authors: Burr David J. , Drauschke Janina , Kanevche Katerina , Kümmel Steffen , Stryhanyuk Hryhoriy , Heberle Joachim , Perfumo Amedea , Elsaesser Andreas
Published: May 2024

This study utilizes nanoscale Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (nanoFTIR) to perform stable isotope probing (SIP) on individual bacteria cells cultured in the presence of 13C‐labelled glucose. SIP‐nanoFTIR simultaneously quantifies single‐cell metabolism through infrared spectroscopy and acquires cellular morphological information via atomic force microscopy. The redshift of the amide I peak corresponds to the isotopic enrichment of newly synthesized proteins. These observations of single‐cell translational activity are comparable to those of conventional methods, examining bulk cell numbers. Observing cells cultured under conditions of limited carbon, SIP‐ nanoFTIR is used to identify environmentally‐induced changes in metabolic heterogeneity and cellular morphology. Individuals outcompeting their neighboring cells will likely play a disproportionately large role in shaping population dynamics during adverse conditions or environmental fluctuations. Additionally, SIP‐nanoFTIR enables the spectroscopic differentiation of specific cellular growth phases. During cellular replication, subcellular isotope distribution becomes more homogenous, which is reflected in the spectroscopic features dependent on the extent of 13C‐13C mode coupling or to specific isotopic symmetries within protein secondary structures. As SIP‐nanoFTIR captures single‐cell metabolism, environmentally‐induced cellular processes, and subcellular isotope localization, this technique offers widespread applications across a variety of disciplines including microbial ecology, biophysics, biopharmaceuticals, medicinal science, and cancer research.
Nanoarchitectonic Engineering of Thermal‐Responsive Magnetic Nanorobot Collectives for Intracranial Aneurysm Therapy
Authors: Wang Jienan , Zhou Qi , Dong Qi , Shen Jian , Hao Junnian , Li Dong , Xu Tiantian , Cai Xiaojun , Bai Wenkun , Ying Tao , Li Yuehua , Zhang Li , Zhu Yueqi , Wang Longchen , Wu Jianrong , Zheng Yuanyi
Published: May 2024

Stent‐assisted coiling is a main treatment modality for intracranial aneurysms (IAs) in clinics, but critical challenges remain to be overcome, such as exogenous implant‐induced stenosis and reliance on antiplatelet agents. Herein, an endovascular approach is reported for IA therapy without stent grafting or microcatheter shaping, enabled by active delivery of thrombin (Th) to target aneurysms using innovative phase‐change material (PCM)‐coated magnetite‐thrombin (Fe3O4‐Th@PCM) FTP nanorobots. The nanorobots are controlled by an integrated actuation system of dynamic torque‐force hybrid magnetic fields. With robust intravascular navigation guided by real‐time ultrasound imaging, nanorobotic collectives can effectively accumulate and retain in model aneurysms constructed in vivo, followed by controlled release of the encapsulated Th for rapid occlusion of the aneurysm upon melting the protective PCM (thermally responsive in a tunable manner) through focused magnetic hyperthermia. Complete and stable aneurysm embolization is confirmed by postoperative examination and 2‐week postembolization follow‐up using digital subtraction angiography (DSA), contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and histological analysis. The safety of the embolization therapy is assessed through biocompatibility evaluation and histopathology assays. This strategy, seamlessly integrating secure drug packaging, agile magnetic actuation, and clinical interventional imaging, avoids possible exogenous implant rejection, circumvents cumbersome microcatheter shaping, and offers a promising option for IA therapy.
Direct Electrodeposition of Electrically Conducting Ni3(HITP)2 MOF Nanostructures for Micro‐Supercapacitor Integration
Authors: Behboudikhiavi Sepideh , Chanteux Géraldine , Babu Binson , Faniel Sébastien , Marlec Florent , Robert Kevin , Magnin Delphine , Lucaccioni Fabio , Omale Joel Ojonugwa , Apostol Petru , Piraux Luc , Lethien Christophe , Vlad Alexandru
Published: May 2024

Micro‐supercapacitors emerge as an important electrical energy storage technology expected to play a critical role in the large‐scale deployment of autonomous microdevices for health, sensing, monitoring, and other IoT applications. Electrochemical double‐layer capacitive storage requires a combination of high surface area and high electronic conductivity, with these being attained only in porous or nanostructured carbons, and recently found also in conducting metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). However, techniques for conformal deposition at micro‐ and nanoscale of these materials are complex, costly, and hard to upscale. Herein, the study reports direct, one step non‐sacrificial anodic electrochemical deposition of Ni3(2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexaiminotriphenylene)2 – Ni3(HITP)2, a porous and electrically conducting MOF. Employing this strategy enables the growth of Ni3(HITP)2 films on a variety of 2D substrates as well as on 3D nanostructured substrates to form Ni3(HITP)2 nanotubes and Pt@ Ni3(HITP)2 core–shell nanowires. Based on the optimal electrodeposition protocols, Ni3(HITP)2 films interdigitated micro‐supercapacitors are fabricated and tested as a proof of concept.
Ultralight Three‐Layer Gradient‐Structured MXene/ Reduced Graphene Oxide Composite Aerogels with Broadband Microwave Absorption and Dynamic Infrared Camouflage
Authors: Yu Chi , Lin Dexuan , Guo Jianhua , Zhuang Kunjun , Yao Yuanwei , Zhang Xin , Jiang Xinghua
Published: May 2024

Infrared and radar detectors posed substantial challenges to weapon equipment and personnel due to their continuous surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Traditional single‐band stealth devices are insufficient for dual‐band detection in both infrared and microwave bands. To overcome this limitation, a gradient‐structured MXene/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite aerogel (GMXrGA) is fabricated through a two‐step bidirectional freeze casting process, followed by freeze‐drying and thermal annealing. GMXrGA exhibits a distinct three‐layered structure, with each layer playing a crucial role in microwave absorption. This deliberate design amplifies both the efficiency of microwave absorption and the material's effectiveness in dynamic infrared camouflage. GMXrGA displays an ultralow density of 5.2 mg∙cm−3 and demonstrates exceptional resistance to compression, enduring 200 cycles at a maximum strain of 80%. Moreover, it shows superior microwave absorption performance, with a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of –60.1 dB at a broad effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 14.1 GHz (3.9–18.0 GHz). Additionally, the aerogel exhibits low thermal conductivity (≈26 mW∙m−1∙K−1) and displays dynamic infrared camouflage capabilities within the temperature range of 50–120 °C, achieving rapid concealment within 30 s. Consequently, they hold great potential for diverse applications, including intelligent buildings, wearable electronics, and weapon equipment.
Generation of a Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Line Expressing a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Reporter Gene
Authors: Son Yura , Li Pengsheng , Ortega Dakota , Qiu Huiliang , Prachyl Hannah , Yang Ming , Zhu Wuqiang
Published: May 2024

The objective of the current study is to develop a new method for tracking transplanted human induced pluripotent stem cells‐derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC‐CMs) using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The CRISPR/dCas9 activation system is employed to overexpress ferritin heavy chain (FHC) in hiPSC‐CMs. The mRNA and protein expression of FHC in hiPSC and hiPSC‐CMs significantly increased after transfection. Iron chloride does not affect the cell viability in a concentration range from 0 to 2000 µm. hiPSCs overexpressing FHC (hiPSC‐ FHCOE) and hiPSC‐CMs overexpressing FHC (hiPSC‐CM‐FHCOE) significantly enhanced cellular uptake of iron chloride but with no changes in electrophysiological properties compared to hiPSC‐CM‐Control. Furthermore, hiPSC‐CM‐FHCOE presented robust contrast and lower T2* values, signifying their potential as highly effective candidates for cardiac MRI. Next, hiPSC‐CM‐FHCOE is injected into mouse hearts and after 3 days of transplantation, MR images are obtained. hiPSC‐CM‐FHCOE cells exhibited clear signals in the hearts with lower T2* and rapid signal decay. Collectively, data from this proof‐of‐concept study demonstrated that endogenous labeling with FHC in hiPSC‐CMs can be a potent strategy for enhancing the accuracy of cardiac MRI. This technology represents a significant step forward in tracking the transplanted hiPSC‐CMs in the hearts of live animals.
Lithium‐Ion Conductive Coatings for Nickel‐Rich Cathodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Shao Yijia , Xu Jia , Amardeep Amardeep , Xia Yakang , Meng Xiangbo , Liu Jian , Liao Shijun
Published: May 2024

Nickel (Ni)‐rich cathodes are among the most promising cathode materials of lithium batteries, ascribed to their high‐power density, cost‐effectiveness, and eco‐friendliness, having extensive applications from portable electronics to electric vehicles and national grids. They can boost the wide implementation of renewable energies and thereby contribute to carbon neutrality and achieving sustainable prosperity in the modern society. Nevertheless, these cathodes suffer from significant technical challenges, leading to poor cycling performance and safety risks. The underlying mechanisms are residual lithium compounds, uncontrolled lithium/nickel cation mixing, severe interface reactions, irreversible phase transition, anisotropic internal stress, and microcracking. Notably, they have become more serious with increasing Ni content and have been impeding the widespread commercial applications of Ni‐rich cathodes. Various strategies have been developed to tackle these issues, such as elemental doping, adding electrolyte additives, and surface coating. Surface coating has been a facile and effective route and has been investigated widely among them. Of numerous surface coating materials, have recently emerged as highly attractive options due to their high lithium‐ion conductivity. In this review, a thorough and comprehensive review of lithium‐ion conductive coatings (LCCs) are made, aimed at probing their underlying mechanisms for improved cell performance and stimulating new research efforts.
Starchy Films as a Sustainable Alternative in Food Industry: Current Research and Applications
Authors: Singh Shubhi , Gaur Smriti , Sharma Nisha
Published: May 2024

The overconsumption of nonbiodegradable materials, particularly plastics, has had a significant and detrimental impact on the environment. Advancements in research sector have led to the development of biodegradable materials, namely starch‐based biodegradable films, which have the potential to reduce this environmental impact. Starch is a unique biopolymer with distinctive chemical, physical, mechanical, thermal, and optical properties that make it an attractive alternative to nonbiodegradable and harmful materials. This review paper comprehensively discusses the properties of starch and the techniques involved in transforming native starch into starch‐based films. Further a broad overview of recent research on combining starch with several composites to enhance the physicochemical properties has been discussed herein. In addition, this paper also discusses recent insights into the development of starch‐based composite films and their potential applications in food packaging systems. Future studies must focus on the development of starch composites that strike a balance between different versatile properties of the biopolymer. Additionally, a critical examination of the interactions at the molecular level will help to expand our understanding of this sustainable biopolymer. Ultimately, the findings of this review paper will provide valuable insights for researchers and industry professionals interested in the development and utilization of starch‐based biodegradable films.
Experimental investigation on the thermal behavior of two typical stainless steel roof systems
Authors: Chong Cholap , Xin Zhiyong , Wang Mingming , Chen Bao , Liang Jinghao
Published: May 2024

Under long‐term exposure to solar radiation and temperature difference, metal roof systems produce a noticeable thermal behavior. The thermal behavior experiment of two typical metal roof systems in engineering was studied. The temperature stress and displacement of the two typical metal roof systems under different influencing factors are compared and analyzed. The results show that the thermal behavior of the stainless steel roof system is significant. The peak stress accounts for about 69.9% of the stainless steel yield strength, and the peak displacement accounts for 3/3500 of the slab span. The loading rate and temperature difference greatly influence the thermal behavior of the two typical roof systems. The maximum influence of temperature difference and loading rate on the thermal behavior is 77.8% and 67.3%, respectively. The holding temperature time has a minor influence on the thermal behavior of the two typical roof systems, and the maximum influence range is less than 7%. The research conclusions provide a valuable reference for the thermal design of metal roof systems.
A study on climate‐driven vulnerabilities in the Ranganadi river basin: Sand‐Casting impacts on rural households
Authors: Kalita Ananya , Bormudoi Arnob , Pan Saikia Ankur
Published: May 2024

The Ranganadi river basin, spanning a catchment area of 2335 km2 in the North Lakhimpur region of Assam is one of the worst flood‐affected areas in the North Eastern region of India. The basin is densely populated and the land around this river is extensively used for cultivation. Progressive migration of the banklines leads to the loss of cultivable land. Breach in embankments protecting agricultural fields during the monsoon, as well as the presence of infertile sand in agriculture fields are some of the most dominant facets of riverine hazards directly connected with the loss of livelihood in the study area The objective of this research is to assess the vulnerability of the population residing in these flood plains to the impacts of sand casting, utilizing Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI) approach. The research included 377 households, and a comprehensive analysis was carried out. The analysis revealed varying degrees of vulnerability for 0.306 (socio‐demographic profile), 0.489 (livelihood strategies), and 0.413 (social networks). Sensitivity values were 0.495 (health), 0.487 (food security), 0.368 (water availability), and 0.391 (psychological factors). Exposure was rated high at 0.494, indicating vulnerability to natural disasters and climate variability. These values highlighted the most vulnerable components of the population due to the disaster and helped to suggest vulnerability reduction measures. The novelty of the study based on the result is that the LVI was meticulously formulated and adapted specifically for the study area. This localized approach allowed the unique socio‐economic and environmental dynamics of the affected population to be captured very well.
Qualitative and Quantitative X-ray Tomography of Filter Macrostructures and Functional Components
Authors: Hubálková Jana , Aneziris Christos G.
Published: May 2024

This chapter focuses on the application of a conventional attenuation based X-ray computed tomography for the investigation of porous and dense structural components in different stages of the manufacturing process and loading. Firstly, the image acquisition process, image processing and qualitative evaluation are introduced using reticulated foam filter and a nozzle component as examples. Secondly, the quantification strategies of the reconstructed volume data involving segmentation of targeted features and its geometrical characterization are presented. Thirdly, the issue of ex-situ investigations is outlined and discussed using differently sized carbon-bonded alumina filters subjected to thermomechanical loading. Fourthly, the interrupted in-situ compression testing of glass foam structures is demonstrated. Finally, the benefits and limitations of conventional X-ray computed tomography as analysis method for porous and dense materials are emphasized.
Microprocesses of Agglomeration, Hetero-coagulation and Particle Deposition of Poorly Wetted Surfaces in the Context of Metal Melt Filtration and Their Scale Up
Authors: Nicklas Jan , Ditscherlein Lisa , Roy Shyamal , Sandfeld Stefan , Peuker Urs A.
Published: May 2024

In this chapter the fundamental principles of the interaction of poorly wetted particles with interfaces of particles and bubbles are investigated in a water-based model system in which the similarity of poor wettability of non-metallic inclusions by molten metal and the poor wettability of silanized metal-oxide-particles by water is utilized. Capillary forces, the presence of nanobubbles and absorption of gas layers accompany the decreased wettability and lead to strong attractive forces. The combined effect of wettability and surface roughness is analyzed in detail, employing a variety of Atomic Force Microscopy techniques, as well as theoretical modeling of capillary forces and retarded van der Waals Forces for layered substrates. These concepts are extended to investigate particle-bubble interactions at different approach velocities by Colloidal Probe Atomic Force Microscopy and analysis by the Stokes-Reynolds-Young–Laplace model. The influence of temperature effects on the particle–particle interaction is investigated by High Temperature Atomic Force Microscopy. Additionally, the suitability of different interaction potentials for the Molecular Dynamics simulation of sintering alumina nanoparticles is accessed. Macroscopic agglomeration and hetero-coagulation experiments in a baffled stirred tank provide an insight into the dynamics of agglomeration and hetero-coagulation at for the metal melt filtration typical inclusion concentrations and wettability states.
Determination of the Temperature-Dependent Fracture and Damage Properties of Ceramic Filter Materials from Small Scale Specimens
Authors: Abendroth Martin , Takht Firouzeh Shahin , Kuna Meinhard , Kiefer Bjoern
Published: May 2024

Open cell ceramic foam filters are used to improve the quality of metallic cast products. They play a major role on reducing the number of inclusions within the microstructure of the cast product and restraining the liquid flow inside the mold. The newly developed carbon-bonded alumina ceramics are investigated considering the mechanical and thermal loads of the filtration process. The aim of this project is to assess the strength, the fracture mechanical behavior, and the damage properties of the filter material. Since the tiny struts of the foam have different properties than the common bulk material specimen, small specimens of millimeter size are needed. Within this work, a combination of experiments and numerical simulations are conducted for various mechanical tests at temperatures up to 1500 $${}^{\circ }\text {C}$$

∘

C

. The first test is the small punch test (SPT), where a small disk-like specimen is supported on a circular die and loaded with a spherical tipped punch until failure of the disk occurs. The small punch fracture stress is obtained from the experiments, as well as the corresponding parameters of the Weibull distribution necessary for the evaluation of the cold modulus of rupture (CMOR). Furthermore, a modified version of the SPT, the so called ball on three ball test (B3B), is carried out. In the B3B test, miniaturized disk-shaped specimens are supported with three spherical balls and loaded with a spherical tipped punch until failure. Hereby, the fracture mechanical parameters, such as the fracture toughness, are identified with the help of numerical simulations. Moreover, the Chevron notched beam test (CNB) is used to determine the fracture toughness of the ceramics. The final test is the Brazilian disc test (BDT), where compressive loads are exerted on the specimen leading to tensile stresses along the specimen diameter, perpendicular to the applied load direction. This test is employed to determine the Young’s modulus, the yield stress and the fracture toughness. In general the simplicity of all these tests, their setup, application, and results evaluation, in addition to the ease of specimens production, make them very attractive. The size of these specimens is about one order of magnitude smaller than that of common standard tests. The accompanying numerical simulations are inevitable to extract from the measurements the wanted mechanical properties.
Influence of Internal Defects on the Fatigue Life of Steel and Aluminum Alloys in the VHCF Range
Authors: Weidner Anja , Schmiedel Alexander , Seleznev Mikhail , Biermann Horst
Published: May 2024

This chapter concerns the influence of internal defects (i.e. nonmetallic inclusions, secondary phases and cast defects) on the fatigue lifetime of steel and aluminum alloys in the high cycle fatigue (HCF) and very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) regime. The detrimental effect of internal defects depends on multiple factors such as size, morphology, chemical composition, test temperature or position in the material. Specimens were tested after active and/or reactive melt filtration processes of the materials which served to influence the amount and size distribution of internal defects. Fatigue experiments up to 109 cycles were carried out using ultrasonic fatigue testing equipment. In addition, in situ methods, as e.g. full surface view thermography and acoustic emission (AE), were applied to study the processes of crack initiation and propagation, which finally lead to fatigue failure. Furthermore, the cyclically strained samples were subjected to fractographic analysis and the S–N-curves were discussed according to the characteristics of the crack-initiating defects. Based on these investigations, an enhanced knowledge about the correlation of internal defects on the materials’ fatigue strength enables a specific melt filtration strategy adjusted to the materials’ service conditions.
Influence of Filter Structure and Casting System on Filtration Efficiency in Aluminum Mold Casting
Authors: Baumann Benedict , Keßler Andreas , Dommaschk Claudia , Wolf Gotthard
Published: May 2024

Ceramic foam filtershavebeen usedin aluminum foundries since 1974 to increase the purity of the melt. In practice, the implementation of the foam ceramic filter in the casting system is in most cases a question of space on the pattern plate. It does not follow any defined rules but is at best guided by design recommendations from the filter manufacturers. To increase the filtration efficiency, the filter position in the casting system is examined. For this, 20 and 30 ppi filters were scanned with computer tomography (CT). The data from the CT were then loaded into the simulation program Flow 3D. With this program, four different filter positions as well as the influence of the filter length and roughness of the filter surface are investigated concerning their filtration effectiveness. The simulation results are subsequently evaluated with casting trials. For this, four different molds for four different filter positions were created. The same alloy (AlSi7) was used for the trials as for the simulation. To study the behavior of particles during the filtration process, impurities were added to the melt using 3 wt.% Al2O3 - Metal Matrix Composite. After the samples were casted, the filters are cut out and the Al2O3 particles in the filter are counted for each filter position. The comparability of the casting trials and the results of the simulation have been examined.
Body and Mind in Virtual Dark Tourism Experiences and Artwork Creations: Embodied Cognition Reaction Perspectives
Authors: Santoso Halim Budi , Quarshie Benjamin , Ukpabi Dandison , Wang Jyun-Cheng
Published: May 2024

Dark tourism experiences visualized in destinations evoke diverse tourist experiences, triggering negative emotions and offering insights into historical events. Embodied cognition reactions prompt distinct expressions, reflections, and artwork creation, which can leverage Virtual Reality in tourism and augment dark experiences for distant tourists. This study examines embodied cognition reactions in virtual dark tourism with 32 participants, investigating their responses to narratives and auditory stimuli while impacting artwork. Results show amplified affective experiences via added auditory stimuli and cognitive experiences influenced by narratives. Post-experience, participants manifest their encounters in artworks, reflecting body-mind links.
A Journey for All Senses: Multisensory VR for Pre-travel Destination Experiences
Authors: Uhl Jakob C , Prodinger Barbara , Murtinger Markus , Brysch Armin
Published: May 2024

The rapid advancement of Virtual Reality (VR) technologies, bolstered by cutting-edge hardware, has ushered in a new era that blurs the lines between the physical and virtual realms. As opportunities for immersive information absorption in virtual worlds grow, the tourism industry faces escalating pressure to stay competitive. Although traditional VR mainly engages audio-visual senses, this study examines whether multisensory VR in the pre-travel phase enhances users’ sense of presence and technology acceptance. Employing a mixed-methods, between-subjects design, we conducted an experiment with 103 participants divided into a multisensory VR group and an audio-visual VR group. Our aim was to investigate the impact on the sense of ’being there,’ technology acceptance, and the relationship between increased presence and acceptance. Results from tourism professionals reveal no significant variation in physical presence between the two groups; however, the multisensory VR group showed a notable difference in self-presence. Our findings suggest that the inclusion of multisensory stimuli makes VR more approachable and user-friendly, leading to greater self-presence and technology acceptance.
Enhancing the Museum Experience on the Metaverse: The Blend of Technological Embodiment and Social Presence
Authors: Flavián Carlos , Ibáñez-Sánchez Sergio , Orús Carlos
Published: May 2024

The metaverse is currently highlighted as one of the technologies with the greatest potential, particularly in the tourism industry. Despite this fact, most of the research on this topic has been of a conceptual nature. This research aims to contribute to this nascent research field by analyzing how the use of the metaverse for viewing a museum can influence the different dimensions of the customer experience. For this purpose, the degree of technological embodiment of the device, as well as the presence (or not) of other users in the digital environment, will be taken into account. Two focus groups were conducted to explore this matter. The results bring to light the importance of the affective and cognitive states that customers feel when they are in the museum through the metaverse. In addition, participants indicate that they prefer to experience the metaverse museum with other people, noting that this closeness to other users may be greater when embodied technologies are applied. This research contributes empirically to this field of research by trying to delineate how the museum experience should be constructed to offer value through the metaverse.
A Service Ecosystem Perspective on Building a Cultural Tourism Co-creation Platform
Authors: Deng Baolin , Wong IpKin Anthony
Published: May 2024

The aim of the paper is to provide practical insights into a cultural tourism co-creation platform for building a service platform ecosystem from multiple stakeholders’ perspectives. Drawing on the service dominant logic and service ecosystem literature, the paper provides a comprehensive literature review and multiple stakeholder perspectives on the construction of a cultural tourism co-creation platform for the digital practice of Mogao Grottos. Four key actors of cultural tourism co-creation platforms from a service ecosystem perspective are identified, including platform owners, platform partners, technological providers, and platform customers, and the paper explores the actions and strengths of these actors. To the authors’ knowledge, this study represents one of the early attempts to investigate the possible consequences of building a cultural tourism co-creation platform for destination organization management.
Sustainability Nudges While Booking a Flight on an OTA Website
Authors: Stüben Jannina Maleika , Cantoni Lorenzo
Published: May 2024

In recent years the ecological impact of Tourism has been more and more considered, raising the issue of how to ensure higher levels of sustainability. Especially when it comes to flights, the issue of energy consumption and of exploring strategies to reduce the CO2 footprint of civil aviation has attracted a special attention, in particular while taking into account the so-called attitude-behavior gap, which describes major discrepancies between what people say about their commitment to sustainability and what they actually do when taking decisions. A possible strategy to address such issues is leveraging on “nudges” while persons are exploring available flights on an online travel agency’s platform (OTA), ensuring that they are adequately informed and offered good – more sustainable – alternatives. Based on the current literature and on the analyzed cases, this study presents a first map of twelve possible types of nudges, organized in four main categories: CO2 emissions, transportation mode, CO2 compensation, and sustainability efforts. Moreover, it shows their actual, quite limited, presence on ten major OTAs.
Against Social Sustainability? Gender Role Models and Tourism Influencers’ Success on Instagram
Authors: Gewinner Irina V.
Published: May 2024

This paper examines the phenomenon of influencers with a special focus on the tourism industry. The question arises whether self-portrayal within a gender-stereotypical framework correlates positively with success and the number of followers. To this end, the profiles of twelve tourism influencers and their posted content in the first half of 2023 were analyzed. With the help of quantitative content analysis, we examined 427 photos of tourism influencers on the Instagram platform. The results show that while female tourism influencers more often present themselves in a sexualized way and focus on themselves and their bodies, male tourism influencers put their competencies in the foreground. In this way, both female and male influencers comply with their expected gender roles – in addition to the body, a presentation of socially expected actions and attributes is also in the foreground. The results are discussed against the background of social sustainability.
A Closer Look of Revenge Travelers
Authors: Lee Kyoungmin , Kim Minsung , Chen Qiuxia , Kim Jin-young
Published: May 2024

This study investigated how three different types of revenge travel - more expensive trips, longer stays, and more frequent travel - are affected by the combination of consumers’ perceived constraints, negotiation, and compromises. Using fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) on a sample of 500 survey responses, this study identified similar and distinctive patterns for each type of the revenge travel. By enhancing our understanding of the revenge travelers across different types, this study offers insights for industry managers and policymakers in developing better strategies to facilitate recovery in tourism following a crisis.
Senior Tourists’ Digital Travel Experience: A Humanisation Perspective
Authors: Fan Daisy X. F. , Lyu Jiaying , Huang Yi , Shang Kaiti , Buhalis Dimitrios
Published: May 2024

As with the development of digital technology, increasing older adults have used digital technologies in different stages of their travel. While advocating the positive aspects of digital usage among older adults, the downside has been largely neglected. Moreover, older adults vary in their backgrounds, lifestyles, digital competence and specific needs. When seeking appropriate solutions to enhance their digital travel experience, it is important to initially profile the diverse subgroups and delineate their specific preferences. This study adopted a humanisation perspective and a qualitative approach to 1) understand senior tourists’ digital travel experience, 2) explore senior tourists’ needs and requirements regarding digital travel, and 3) develop a senior tourists’ digital travel experience typology. Findings provide rich contributions in understanding senior tourists’ digital use and the humanised digital travel experience. Recommendations are also offered to destinations, tourism service providers and care providers regarding how to develop an age friendly destination digital environment.
An Empirical User Study on Congestion-Aware Route Recommendation
Authors: Yi Kun , Jin Xisha , Bai Zhengyang , Kong Yuntao , Ma Qiang
Published: May 2024

Overtourism has become a significant concern in many popular travel destinations around the world. As one of considerable approaches to handle the overtourism issues, congestion-aware methods can be effective in mitigating overcrowding at popular attractions by spreading tourists to less-visited areas. However, they may lead to a potential Hawk-Dove game: tourists who share the same preference may have some of them assigned worse routes than others to avoid congestion, which raises a possibility that the tourists who are assigned to relatively unfavorable routes may feel dissatisfaction and unfairness. Most existing research focuses on alleviating congestion from an overall planner perspective through simulation studies, with little emphasis on actual user experience. In this study, we conducted a user survey on congestion-aware route recommendation in Kyoto, Japan, aiming to investigate the evaluation of congestion-aware route recommendation methods from each tourist’s personal perspective and to clarify the development status and future research directions of congestion-aware route recommendation methods. We choose five congestion-aware route recommendation methods that vary in their consideration of congestion and multi-agent interactions. We reveal the strengths and weaknesses of these methods from multiple aspects. We cluster the respondents based on their text responses and explore the differences between these clusters. Furthermore, we investigate the factors affecting tourists’ experience and compare the differences among groups of tourists.
Visualizing Explainable Touristic Recommendations: An Interactive Approach
Authors: Neubig Stefan , Cappey Daria , Gehring Nicolas , Göhl Linus , Hein Andreas , Krcmar Helmut
Published: May 2024

Personalized recommendations have played a vital role in tourism, serving various purposes, ranging from an improved visitor experience to addressing sustainability issues. However, research shows that recommendations are more likely to be accepted by visitors if they are comprehensible and appeal to the visitors’ common sense. This highlights the importance of explainable recommendations that, according to a previously specified goal, explain an algorithm’s inference process, generate trust among visitors, or educate visitors by making them aware of sustainability practices. Based on this motivation, our paper proposes a visual, interactive approach to exploring recommendation explanations tailored to tourism. Agnostic to the underlying recommendation algorithm and the defined explainability goal, our approach leverages knowledge graphs to generate model-specific and post-hoc explanations. We demonstrate and evaluate our approach based on a prototypical dashboard implementing our concept. Following the results of our evaluation, our dashboard helps explain recommendations of arbitrary models, even in complex scenarios.
Understanding Users’ Perceptions of Travel Accounts on Instagram: Comparing DMO and Travel Influencer Accounts
Authors: Neuburger Larissa , Barbe Danielle , Fedeli Giancarlo
Published: May 2024

Social Media has become an important marketing tool for destinations due to its easy access, ability to reach broad audiences and capacity to act as a form of eWOM. Instagram in particular is one of the most popular channels for the visual marketing of a destination as well as for influencer marketing. Through Instagram, DMOs can create travel inspiration, and enhance interest in a destination. This study seeks to understand the tourists’ perceptions of Instagram influencers as well as official DMO accounts and looks on their influence on tourists’ participation and engagement on social media. A quantitative survey was conducted to analyze users’ perceptions of DMO and influencer accounts on Instagram, as well as their participation behavior online. The study found that DMOs are perceived as being more trustworthy and credible than travel influencers. In addition, results indicate that active Instagram users are more likely to have positive perceptions of travel influencers, but online participation does not influence perceptions of DMOs.
LPS-induced monocarboxylate transporter-1 inhibition facilitates lactate accumulation triggering epithelial-mesenchymal transformation and pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Feng Jinhua , Zhong Han , Mei Shuya , Tang Ri , Zhou Yang , Xing Shunpeng , Gao Yuan , Xu Qiaoyi , He Zhengyu
Published: May 2024

The epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) process of alveolar epithelial cells is recognized as involved in the development of pulmonary fibrosis. Recent evidence has shown that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced aerobic glycolysis of lung tissue and elevated lactate concentration are associated with the pathogenesis of sepsis-associated pulmonary fibrosis. However, it is uncertain whether LPS promotes the development of sepsis-associated pulmonary fibrosis by promoting lactate accumulation in lung tissue, thereby initiating EMT process. We hypothesized that monocarboxylate transporter-1 (MCT1), as the main protein for lactate transport, may be crucial in the pathogenic process of sepsis-associated pulmonary fibrosis. We found that high concentrations of lactate induced EMT while moderate concentrations did not. Besides, we demonstrated that MCT1 inhibition enhanced EMT process in MLE-12 cells, while MCT1 upregulation could reverse lactate-induced EMT. LPS could promote EMT in MLE-12 cells through MCT1 inhibition and lactate accumulation, while this could be alleviated by upregulating the expression of MCT1. In addition, the overexpression of MCT1 prevented LPS-induced EMT and pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. Altogether, this study revealed that LPS could inhibit the expression of MCT1 in mouse alveolar epithelial cells and cause lactate transport disorder, which leads to lactate accumulation, and ultimately promotes the process of EMT and lung fibrosis.
Application of the TOPSIS decision-making method for selecting a manufacturing technique for children’s furniture elements with therapeutic functions
Authors: Struzikiewicz Grzegorz , Misiniec Marek , Misiniec Kinga , Myrda Anna
Published: May 2024

Making furniture or furniture elements that account for the needs of children at various stages of development or with psychomotor dysfunctions is very difficult. From the point of view of exploitation and production technology, it is difficult to select a specific material and manufacturing technique. In this article, the results of using the APEKS method, which is a type of Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method, are presented to select the best solution for the production of children’s furniture elements with surface structures similar to those of natural materials. Wood bark was selected as a material that, due to the sensory tactile sensations of dysfunctional children, could contribute to therapy and education. Comparative analysis was performed on the basis of the subtractive and additive methods used for manufacturing furniture products. Precise multiaxis milling of ash wood and 3D printing with fused filament fabrication technology using wood PLA filaments were carried out. The method used to select the best option considered quantitative and qualitative criteria in the assessment. Various parameters characterizing the surfaces were analyzed, such as geometric dimensions, hill heights, valley depths, and 3D surface parameters. The quality and surface roughness (Sa, Sz, Ssk, Sku, Sp, and Sv) parameters obtained based on 3D microscope measurements were determined. A scale of 1 to 10 was used to assess qualitative factors (i.e., usability and aesthetics). Based on the critical values obtained from the coefficient Kcri = 79.36, it was assumed that multiaxis wood milling was the best method for producing furniture elements with the required surface characteristics for use as therapeutic and educational tools for children with dysfunctions. The applied method allowed an effective evaluation of the compared variants of the production of furniture elements for customized applications.