bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of single and multiple MPPT structures of solar PV-system under partial shading conditions considering direct duty-cycle controller
Authors: Youssef Abdel-Raheem , Hefny Mostafa M. , Ali Ahmed Ismail M.
Published: November 2023

Partial shading of solar panels diminishes their operating efficiency and energy synthesized as it disrupts the uniform absorption of sunlight. To tackle the issue of partial shading in photovoltaic (PV) systems, this article puts forward a comprehensive control strategy that takes into account a range of contributing factors. The proposed control approach is based on using multi-string PV system configuration in place of a central-type PV inverter for all PV modules with a single DC-DC converter. This adaptation enhances overall efficiency across varying radiation levels. Also, the proposed technique minimizes the overall system cost by reducing the required sensors number by utilizing a radiation estimation strategy. The converter switching strategy is synthesized considering direct duty-cycle control method to establish the maximum power point (MPP) location on the P–V curve. The direct duty-cycle tracking approach simplifies the control system and improves the system’s response during sudden partial shading restrictions. To validate the effectiveness of the suggested MPPT method, two system configurations were constructed using MATLAB/SIMULINK software and assessed under various partial shading scenarios. Additionally, a multi-string system was subjected to real irradiance conditions. The sensor-less MPPT algorithm proposed achieved an impressive system efficiency of 99.81% with a peak-to-peak ripple voltage of 1.3V. This solution offers clear advantages over alternative approaches by reducing tracking time and enhancing system efficiency. The system findings undoubtedly support the theoretical scrutiny of the intended technique.
Significant influence of four highly conserved amino-acids in lipochaperon-active sHsps on the structure and functions of the Lo18 protein
Authors: Bellanger Tiffany , da Silva Barreira David , Wien Frank , Delarue Patrice , Senet Patrick , Rieu Aurélie , Neiers Fabrice , Varela Paloma Fernández , Combet Sophie , Weidmann Stéphanie
Published: November 2023

To cope with environmental stresses, bacteria have developed different strategies, including the production of small heat shock proteins (sHSP). All sHSPs are described for their role as molecular chaperones. Some of them, like the Lo18 protein synthesized by Oenococcus oeni, also have the particularity of acting as a lipochaperon to maintain membrane fluidity in its optimal state following cellular stresses. Lipochaperon activity is poorly characterized and very little information is available on the domains or amino-acids key to this activity. The aim in this paper is to investigate the importance at the protein structure and function level of four highly conserved residues in sHSP exhibiting lipochaperon activity. Thus, by combining in silico, in vitro and in vivo approaches the importance of three amino-acids present in the core of the protein was shown to maintain both the structure of Lo18 and its functions.
Synergistic effect of biochar-based compounds from vegetable wastes and gibberellic acid on wheat growth under salinity stress
Authors: Anwar Tauseef , Munwwar Fahmida , Qureshi Huma , Siddiqi Ejaz Hussain , Hanif Asma , Anwaar Sadaf , Gul Sarah , Waheed Abdul , Alwahibi Mona S. , Kamal Asif
Published: November 2023

Soil salinization is a prevalent form of land degradation particularly in water-deficient regions threatening agricultural sustainability. Present desalinization methods demand excessive water use. Biochar has been recognized as a potential remedy for saline soils and Gibberellic acids (GA3) are known to mediate various biochemical processes aiding in stress mitigation. This study was undertaken at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur during winter 2022–23 to explore the combined effect of biochar and GA3 on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in saline conditions. Employing a fully randomized design wheat seeds in 24 pots were subjected to two salinity levels with three replications across eight treatments: T1 to T8 ranging from controls with different soil electrical conductivities (ECs) to treatments involving combinations of GA3, biochar and varying soil ECs. These treatments included T1 (control with soil EC of 2.43dS/m), T2 (salinity stress with soil EC of 5.11dS/m), T3 (10 ppm GA3 with soil EC of 2.43dS/m), T4 (10 ppm GA3 with soil EC of 5.11dS/m), T5 (0.75% Biochar with soil EC of 2.43dS/m), T6 (0.75% Biochar with soil EC of 5.11dS/m), T7 (10 ppm GA3 combined with 0.75% biochar at soil EC of 2.43dS/m) and T8 (10 ppm GA3 plus 0.75% biochar at soil EC of 5.11dS/m). The results indicated that the combined applications of GA3 and biochar significantly enhanced plant growth in saline conditions viz. germination rate by 73%, shoot length of 15.54 cm, root length of 4.96 cm, plant height of 16.89 cm, shoot fresh weight 43.18 g, shoot dry weight 11.57 g, root fresh weight 24.26 g, root dry weight 9.31 g, plant water content 60.77%, photosynthetic rate 18.58(CO2 m−2 s−1) carotenoid 3.03 g, chlorophyll a 1.01 g, chlorophyll b 0.69 g, total chlorophyll contents by 1.9 g as compared to the control. The findings suggest that the combined application of these agents offers a sustainable and effective strategy for cultivating wheat in saline soils. The synergy between biochar and GA3 presents a promising avenue for sustainable wheat cultivation in saline conditions. This combined approach not only improves plant growth but also offers an innovative, water-efficient solution for enhancing agricultural productivity in saline-affected regions.
In situ profiling reveals metabolic alterations in the tumor microenvironment of ovarian cancer after chemotherapy
Authors: Corvigno Sara , Badal Sunil , Spradlin Meredith L. , Keating Michael , Pereira Igor , Stur Elaine , Bayraktar Emine , Foster Katherine I. , Bateman Nicholas W. , Barakat Waleed , Darcy Kathleen M. , Conrads Thomas P. , Maxwell G. Larry , Lorenzi Philip L. , Lutgendorf Susan K. , Wen Yunfei , Zhao Li , Thaker Premal H. , Goodheart Michael J. , Liu Jinsong , Fleming Nicole , Lee Sanghoon , Eberlin Livia S. , Sood Anil K.
Published: November 2023

In this study, we investigated the metabolic alterations associated with clinical response to chemotherapy in patients with ovarian cancer. Pre- and post-neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) tissues from patients with high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC) who had poor response (PR) or excellent response (ER) to NACT were examined. Desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) was performed on sections of HGSC tissues collected according to a rigorous laparoscopic triage algorithm. Quantitative MS-based proteomics and phosphoproteomics were performed on a subgroup of pre-NACT samples. Highly abundant metabolites in the pre-NACT PR tumors were related to pyrimidine metabolism in the epithelial regions and oxygen-dependent proline hydroxylation of hypoxia-inducible factor alpha in the stromal regions. Metabolites more abundant in the epithelial regions of post-NACT PR tumors were involved in the metabolism of nucleotides, and metabolites more abundant in the stromal regions of post-NACT PR tumors were related to aspartate and asparagine metabolism, phenylalanine and tyrosine metabolism, nucleotide biosynthesis, and the urea cycle. A predictive model built on ions with differential abundances allowed the classification of patients’ tumor responses as ER or PR with 75% accuracy (10-fold cross-validation ridge regression model). These findings offer new insights related to differential responses to chemotherapy and could lead to novel actionable targets.
Identification of circulating proteins associated with general cognitive function among middle-aged and older adults
Authors: Tin Adrienne , Fohner Alison E. , Yang Qiong , Brody Jennifer A. , Davies Gail , Yao Jie , Liu Dan , Caro Ilana , Lindbohm Joni V. , Duggan Michael R. , Meirelles Osorio , Harris Sarah E. , Gudmundsdottir Valborg , Taylor Adele M. , Henry Albert , Beiser Alexa S. , Shojaie Ali , Coors Annabell , Fitzpatrick Annette L. , Langenberg Claudia , Satizabal Claudia L. , Sitlani Colleen M. , Wheeler Eleanor , Tucker-Drob Elliot M. , Bressler Jan , Coresh Josef , Bis Joshua C. , Candia Julián , Jennings Lori L. , Pietzner Maik , Lathrop Mark , Lopez Oscar L. , Redmond Paul , Gerszten Robert E. , Rich Stephen S. , Heckbert Susan R. , Austin Thomas R. , Hughes Timothy M. , Tanaka Toshiko , Emilsson Valur , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Guo Xiuqing , Zhu Yineng , Tzourio Christophe , Rotter Jerome I. , Walker Keenan A. , Ferrucci Luigi , Kivimäki Mika , Breteler Monique M. B. , Cox Simon R. , Debette Stephanie , Mosley Thomas H. , Gudnason Vilmundur G. , Launer Lenore J. , Psaty Bruce M. , Seshadri Sudha , Fornage Myriam
Published: November 2023

Identifying circulating proteins associated with cognitive function may point to biomarkers and molecular process of cognitive impairment. Few studies have investigated the association between circulating proteins and cognitive function. We identify 246 protein measures quantified by the SomaScan assay as associated with cognitive function (p < 4.9E-5, n up to 7289). Of these, 45 were replicated using SomaScan data, and three were replicated using Olink data at Bonferroni-corrected significance. Enrichment analysis linked the proteins associated with general cognitive function to cell signaling pathways and synapse architecture. Mendelian randomization analysis implicated higher levels of NECTIN2, a protein mediating viral entry into neuronal cells, with higher Alzheimer’s disease (AD) risk (p = 2.5E-26). Levels of 14 other protein measures were implicated as consequences of AD susceptibility (p < 2.0E-4). Proteins implicated as causes or consequences of AD susceptibility may provide new insight into the potential relationship between immunity and AD susceptibility as well as potential therapeutic targets.
Working memory performance is tied to stimulus complexity
Authors: Pusch Roland , Packheiser Julian , Azizi Amir Hossein , Sevincik Celil Semih , Rose Jonas , Cheng Sen , Stüttgen Maik C. , Güntürkün Onur
Published: November 2023

Working memory is the cognitive capability to maintain and process information over short periods. Behavioral and computational studies have shown that visual information is associated with working memory performance. However, the underlying neural correlates remain unknown. To identify how visual information affects working memory performance, we conducted behavioral experiments in pigeons (Columba livia) and single unit recordings in the avian prefrontal analog, the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL). Complex pictures featuring luminance, spatial and color information, were associated with higher working memory performance compared to uniform gray pictures in conjunction with distinct neural coding patterns. For complex pictures, we found a multiplexed neuronal code displaying visual and value-related features that switched to a representation of the upcoming choice during a delay period. When processing gray stimuli, NCL neurons did not multiplex and exclusively represented the choice already during stimulus presentation and throughout the delay period. The prolonged representation possibly resulted in a decay of the memory trace ultimately leading to a decrease in performance. In conclusion, we found that high stimulus complexity is associated with neuronal multiplexing of the working memory representation possibly allowing a facilitated read-out of the neural code resulting in enhancement of working memory performance.
Microwave-assisted Synthesis of Nanostructured Oxide Catalysts
Authors: Venkataswamy Perala , Jampaiah Deshetti , Reddy Benjaram M.
Published: November 2023

Nanostructured metal oxides represent one of the most important and well-recognized classes of materials owing to their unique size-tunable properties (e.g., optical, electronic, magnetic, catalytic, and mechanical), which make these materials potentially suitable for technological applications in the fabrication of devices for energy harvesting and storage, photonics, sensors as well as medical and biological applications. In the last two decades, the use of microwave irradiation, either alone or in conjunction with other synthesis techniques, has grown in popularity among scientists and researchers for the production of nanostructured oxides. In this chapter, we especially provide a detailed insight into microwave-assisted synthesis of different nanostructured materials including pure metal oxides, mixed metal oxides, spinels, perovskites, and composite oxides because these materials have attracted significant research interest.
Microwave-assisted Depolymerization of Polymeric Materials
Authors: Tuli Vishal , Parmar Kaushal , Hu Jianli , Wang Yuxin
Published: November 2023

Polymers have played a vital role in the growth and development of human life. Due to their unique properties, polymer production and consumption have skyrocketed. At the same time, they have been a major source of environmental pollution due to their limited degradability, recyclability, and long life span. Over the decades, many recycling and upcycling approaches have been proposed and exercised for depolymerization. These approaches have undergone continuous evaluation and upgradation. However, the majority of them are environmentally unfriendly and economically unsustainable. Microwave-assisted depolymerization is one of the potential approaches that can address both the issues. Due to site-specific heating, microwave pyrolysis has an inherent advantage over other conventional thermal technologies. Additionally, the usage of a metal catalyst in the depolymerization process not only ensures complete degradation but also leads to the production of selective high-value products. With the use of a specific catalyst, high-yield and highly selective products can be achieved. This chapter mainly focuses on microwave technology for polymer degradation along with a discussion of recent studies in this field.
Experimental and theoretical insights into palladium-mediated polymerization of para-N,N-disubstituted aminostyrene
Authors: Cheung Chi Shing , Qiu Zonglin , Li Donghui , Deng Huiyun , Zheng Handou , Gao Haiyang
Published: November 2023

Experimental and theoretical insights into polymerization of para-N,N-disubstituted aminostyrene monomers (St-4-NR2, R = Me, Et, Ph) using cationic α-diimine palladium complexes have been initially reported.
Size-dependent magnetomechanically enhanced photothermal antibacterial effect of Fe3O4@Au/PDA nanodurian
Authors: Xu Yunqi , Wang Kang , Zhu Yi , Wang Jing , Ci Dazheng , Sang Min , Fang Qunling , Deng Huaxia , Gong Xinglong , Leung Ken Cham-Fai , Xuan Shouhu
Published: November 2023

A novel Fe3O4@Au/PDA nanodurian with spiky surfaces has been fabricated, demonstrating excellent photothermal-magnetomechanic coupling antibacterial behavior.
In situ polymerization of 1,3-dioxane as a highly compatible polymer electrolyte to enable the stable operation of 4.5 V Li-metal batteries
Authors: Liu Yang , Zou Hanqin , Huang Zili , Wen Qiuxia , Lai Jiawei , Zhang Yuping , Li Jinghao , Ding Kui , Wang Jian , Lan Ya-Qian , Zheng Qifeng
Published: November 2023

In situ polymerization of six-membered cyclic 1,3-dioxane leads to a polymer electrolyte with superior oxidation stability and elevated Li-metal compatibility, which enables the stable operation of Li-metal batteries with various state-of-the-art high-voltage cathodes.
Cation/anion-exchange mode switching chromatography utilizing pH-responsive mixed charge polymer-modified silica beads
Authors: Kaku Taisei , Deura Koichi , Yoshii Tomoka , Citterio Daniel , Hiruta Yuki
Published: November 2023

An environmental pH-sensitive cation/anion-exchange mode switching chromatography system was developed by utilizing a pH-responsive mixed-charge polymer.
Interaction of gyrotactic moment of microorganisms and nanoparticles for magnetized and chemically reactive shear-thinning fluid with stratification phenomenon
Authors: Hussain Zubair , Khan Waqar Azeem , Irfan M. , Muhammad Taseer , Eldin Sayed M. , Waqas M. , Narayana P. V. Satya
Published: November 2023

Nanotechnology has gained substantial attention on account of its vast applications in food manufacturing, heat exchanges, electronic cooling systems, medical treatment, coolant processes, energy production, biotechnology, transportation, biochemistry, nuclear reactors, and metrology.
Large-scale production of MXenes as nanoknives for antibacterial application
Authors: Liu Yuchen , Chen Xing , Sun Jiazhi , Xu Nuo , Tang Qi , Ren Jie , Chen Cheng , Lei Weiwei , Zhang Chao , Liu Dan
Published: November 2023

In this work, we have developed an efficient one-step mechanical exfoliation (ECO-ME) method for the large-scale preparation of MXenes. The resulting E-Ti3C2 MXene nanosheets exhibit a unique nanoknife effect and produce good antibacterial activity.
Expression of concern: Ultrasound-assisted diversion of nitrobenzene derivatives to their aniline equivalents through a heterogeneous magnetic Ag/Fe3O4-IT nanocomposite catalyst
Authors: Taheri-Ledari Reza , Rahimi Jamal , Maleki Ali , Shalan Ahmed Esmail
Published: November 2023

Expression of concern for ‘Ultrasound-assisted diversion of nitrobenzene derivatives to their aniline equivalents through a heterogeneous magnetic Ag/Fe3O4-IT nanocomposite catalyst’ by Reza Taheri-Ledari et al., New J. Chem., 2020, 44, 19827–19835, https://doi.org/10.1039/D0NJ05147K.
Concise access to C2-ethylidene pyrrolo[1,4]benzodiazepine natural products
Authors: Leitis Zigmārs , Sakaine Guna , Brokāne Katrīna , Smits Gints
Published: November 2023

The shortest total synthesis of three pyrrolo[1,4]benzodiazepine (PBD) antitumor antibiotic family natural products has been accomplished employing the Julia–Kocienski olefination as the key step.
Strengths of covalent bonds in LnO2 determined from O K-edge XANES spectra using a Hubbard model
Authors: Lukens Wayne W. , Minasian Stefan G. , Booth Corwin H.
Published: November 2023

A Hubbard model allows the covalent contribution to bond strength to be determined spectroscopically from O K-edge X-ray absorption fine structure spectra.
Reconstructing the star formation rate for compact binary populations with the Einstein telescope
Authors: Singh Neha , Bulik Tomasz , Belczynski Krzysztof , Cieslar Marek , Calore Francesca
Published: November 2023

The Einstein Telescope (ET) is a proposed third-generation, wide-band gravitational wave (GW) detector. Given its improved detection sensitivity in comparison to the second-generation detectors, it will be capable of exploring the Universe with GWs up to very high redshifts. In this paper, we present a population-independent method to infer the functional form of star formation rate density (SFR) for different populations of compact binaries originating in stars from Population (Pop) I+II and Pop III using ET as a single instrument. We use an algorithm to answer three major questions regarding the SFR of different populations of compact binaries. Specifically, these questions refer to the termination redshift of the formation of Pop III stars, the redshift at peak SFR, and the functional form of SFR at high redshift, all of which remain to be elucidated. We show that the reconstruction of SFR as a function of redshift for the different populations of compact binaries is independent of the time-delay distributions up to z ∼ 14, and that the accuracy of the reconstruction only strongly depends on this distribution at higher redshifts of z ≳ 14. We define the termination redshift for Pop III stars as the redshift where the SFR drops to 1% of its peak value. In this analysis, we constrain the peak of the SFR as a function of redshift and show that ET as a single instrument can distinguish the termination redshifts of different SFRs for Pop III stars, which have a true separation of at least Δz ∼ 2. The accurate estimation of the termination redshift depends on correctly modelling the tail of the time-delay distribution, which constitutes delay times of ≳8 Gyr.
Wave transformations near a coronal magnetic null point
Authors: Yadav N. , Keppens Rony
Published: November 2023

Context. Null points are often invoked in studies of quasi-periodic coronal jets and in connection with periodic signals preceding actual reconnection events. Although the periodicity of these events spans a wide range of periods, most show a 2- to 5-min periodicity compatible with the global p-modes.

Aims We investigate whether magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) waves, in particular, acoustic p-modes, can cause strong current accumulation at the null points. This can in turn drive localized periodic heating in the solar corona.

Methods. To do this, we began with a three-dimensional numerical setup incorporating a gravitationally stratified solar atmosphere and an axially symmetric magnetic field including a coronal magnetic null point. To excite waves, we employed wave drivers mimicking global p-modes. Using our recently developed wave-mode decomposition technique, we investigated the process of mode conversion, mode transmission, and wave reflection at various important layers of the solar atmosphere, such as the Alfvén acoustic equipartition layer and transition region. We examined the energy flux distribution in various MHD modes or in acoustic and magnetic components, as the waves propagate and interact with a magnetic field of null topology. We also examined current accumulation in the surroundings of the null point.

Results. We found that most of the vertical velocity is transmitted through the Alfvén acoustic equipartition layer and maintains an acoustic nature, while a small fraction generates fast waves via the mode conversion process. The fast waves undergo almost total reflection in the transition region due to sharp gradients in density and Alfvén speed. There are only weak signatures of Alfvén wave generation near the transition region through the fast-to-Alfvén mode conversion. Because the slow waves propagate with the local sound speed, they are not much affected by the density gradients in the transition region and undergo secondary mode conversion and transmission at the Alfvén-acoustic equipartition layer surrounding the null point. This leads to fast-wave focusing at the null point. These fast waves have associated perturbations in current density and show oscillatory signatures that are compatible with the second harmonic of the driving frequency. This might result in resistive heating and in an enhanced intensity in the presence of finite resistivity.

Conclusions. We conclude that MHD waves are a potential source for oscillatory current dissipation around the magnetic null point. We conjecture that in addition to oscillatory magnetic reconnection, global p-modes could lead to the formation of various quasi-periodic energetic events.
Novel KOH treated Li-CuO as cathode for the application of lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Mohan Varishetty Madhu , Suvarna Thirukachhi , Bhargav Pamula Balaji , Mohan Babu Pachuru
Published: November 2023

Lithiated CuO (Li-CuO) micro-structures were synthesized by the hydrothermal method using KOH as a reactive solution. The structural properties of pure Li-CuO and other KOH-reacted CuO samples were characterized by XRD analysis. Various vibrational bands were observed by FTIR spectra analysis. The SEM images indicated the formation of Li-CuO hexagonal rods of 1–2 µm dimension. The cyclic efficiencies of pure Li-CuO and 12 M KOH surfactant Li-CuO microstructures were observed to be 78.5% and 91.2%, respectively. The battery discharge characteristics revealed that after 50 cycles, the specific capacity of the battery based on a pure Li-CuO microstructure electrode showed 97 mAh g−1 whereas KOH surfactant Li-CuO microstructures electrode showed 150 mAh g−1 at a constant current density of 17.79 mA g−1 with a 1.0–4.0 V vs. Li/Li+ potential range. The enhancement of specific capacity and its stability due to a well-defined hexagonal crystal structure leads to increase Li+ ion kinetics during the insertion and extraction processes of batteries.
Association Between Metabolic Syndrome and the Risk of Lung Cancer: A
Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Liu Qinxiang , Huang Congcong , Wu Jun , Wen Yingsheng
Published: November 2023

Previous studies showed conflicting results regarding the association between
metabolic syndrome (MetS) and risk of lung cancer. We performed a systemic
review and meta-analysis to determine the relationship between MetS and lung
cancer incidence and mortality in adults. Longitudinal follow-up studies were
identified by search of Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science.
By incorporating potential heterogeneity into the model, a randomized-effects
model was selected to pool the results. Fourteen observational studies were
included. Pooled results showed that MetS was associated with a higher risk of
lung cancer incidence [risk ratio (RR): 1.15, 95% confidence interval
(CI): 1.05 to 1.26, p=0.002; I2=89%).
Subgroup analysis suggested that the association was not significantly affected
by study country, design, sex of the participants, adjustment of smoking, or
different study quality scores (p for subgroup difference all>0.05). The
association was predominantly contributed by studies with MetS defined by the
National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel-III rather than
those with MetS defined by the International Diabetes Foundation criteria, and
the association seemed to be stronger in studies with follow-up within 6 years
than those over 6 years (p for subgroup difference=0.03 and 0.04,
respectively). In addition, pooled results also showed that MetS was associated
with a higher risk of lung cancer mortality (RR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.19 to
1.79, p <0.001; I2=0%). In conclusion, in
adult population, MetS may be a risk factor of lung cancer incidence and
mortality.
Convenient Synthesis of Functionalized Tetracyclic Dihydrochromeno[2,3-b]pyrrolo[3,4-e]pyridine-triones via Four-Component Reactions
Authors: Alizadeh Abdolali , Rostampoor Azar
Published: November 2023

In this research, a simple and efficient strategy for the straightforward synthesis of tetracyclic dihydrochromeno[2,3-b]pyrrolo[3,4-e]pyridine-trione derivatives is presented by a sequential four-component reaction of arylamines, dimethyl acetylenedicarboxylate, alkylamines, and 3-formylchromones as readily available starting materials in MeOH at room temperature. The merit of this sequential enamine formation/1,2-nucleophilic addition/intramolecular aza-Michael addition is highlighted by its high energy conserving (short reaction times at room temperature), excellent yields, metal-free catalyst, easy purification (the products can be purified by simple filtration and washing with EtOH), and green and mild conditions in a one-pot reaction. Presumably, there are no previous reports for the synthesis of these classes of heterocyclic dihydrochromeno[2,3-b]pyrrolo[3,4-e]pyridine-trione derivatives.
Modelling the significance of strategic orientation on green innovation: mediation of green dynamic capabilities
Authors: Xiao Han , Al Mamun Abdullah , Masukujjaman Mohammad , Yang Qing
Published: November 2023

The increasing recognition of environmental concerns has prompted both nations and corporations to adopt green innovation as a significant strategy for addressing environmental risks and promoting sustainable development. To excel in this pursuit, companies must cultivate green dynamic capabilities, infusing environmental considerations into their strategic decision-making processes. The purpose of this study is to investigate the association between strategic orientation components and green dynamic capabilities, as well as their impact on green product and process innovation, in medium-to-large-sized manufacturing firms in China. Employing a quantitative methodology, an online cross-sectional research design was used to gather 582 valid responses through a structured questionnaire. Results indicated a positive association between learning orientation and green dynamic capabilities. Furthermore, green dynamic capability was found to mediate the relationship between learning orientation and green product and process innovation. However, no significant relationship was observed between green entrepreneurial orientation, market orientation, internationalisation orientation, and green dynamic capabilities. By conducting multi-group analysis and studying the context of Chinese manufacturing firms, this research contributes new insights into the relationship between resource-based theory constructs and green innovation, including the integration of green dynamic capabilities. The results emphasise the significance of adopting a learning mindset, developing green dynamic capabilities, and fostering green innovation. These findings offer useful insights for the Chinese manufacturing industry, enabling it to strengthen its competencies in green innovation.
Experimental realization of Weaire–Phelan foams as photonic crystals
Authors: Uribe A. Aguilar , Yazhgur P. , Scheffold F.
Published: November 2023

We experimentally investigate the properties of crystalline 3D Weaire–Phelan foam structures as photonic crystals. We generate templates on the computer and use direct laser writing (DLW) lithography to fabricate foam designs in a polymer material. Due to the complicated structure of the foams, conventional DLW does not offer the resolution to produce systems with a stop band for telecommunication wavelengths. We employ shrinkage by thermal processing to circumvent this problem and show experimentally that foam Plateau border networks built in this way provide a stop-band within the wavelength interval of λ = 1–2 μm, with the specific wavelength dependent on the degree of shrinkage. We also investigate the dependence of the position and strength of the stop-gap on the solid filling fraction.
Micellar catalysis: Polymer bound palladium catalyst for carbon-carbon coupling reactions in water
Authors: Sengoden Mani , Bhat Gulzar A. , Rutledge Ryan J. , Rashid Showkat , Dar Aijaz A. , Darensbourg Donald J.
Published: November 2023

Metallosurfactants, defined here as hydrophobic metal-containing groups embedded in hydrophilic units when dispersed in water, emanate in the formation of metallomicelles. This approach continues to attract great interest for its ability to serve as micellar catalysts for various metal-mediated chemical transformations in water. Indeed, relevant to green chemistry, micellar catalysis plays a preeminent function as a replacement for organic solvents in a variety of chemical reactions. There are several methods for the interaction of metal complexes (catalysts or catalyst precursors) and surfactants for producing micellar aggregates. A very effective manner for achieving this involves the direct bonding of the metal center to the amphiphilic polymeric materials. Herein, we describe the synthesis of a metallosurfactant containing a palladium complex covalently incorporated into a CO
2
-based triblock polycarbonate derived using a dicarboxylic acid chain-transfer agent. This amphiphilic polycarbonate was shown to self-assemble in water to provide uniform and spherical micelles, where the catalytic metal center is located in the hydrophobic portion of the micelle. The resulting metallosurfactant was demonstrated to effectively catalyze carbon–carbon coupling reactions at very low catalyst loadings.
Evaluating the Pretoria Agreement: the limitations of presentist analysis of conflicts in Ethiopia
Authors: Abbink Jon
Published: November 2023

This debate piece contains an assessment of the debate on the ‘Pretoria Agreement’ (or Cessation of Hostilities Agreement) concluded on 2 November 2022 regarding the armed conflict in Ethiopia. On the basis of a critical discussion of a paper by F. Gebresenbet and Y. Tariku (2023) published in the Spring issue of the Review of African Political Economy (ROAPE), the author here contests the short-term analysis of the authors, who miss essential points of the wider context of political conflict in Ethiopia and also scholastically misrepresent some other authors in the debate.
Study on deformation theory and resonance frequency of circular-plane PVC actuator
Authors: Du Zhuoao , Luo Bin , Zhu Kejun
Published: November 2023

The polyvinyl chloride (PVC) gel actuator has the advantages of low mass density, large actuation strain, good compliance, and simple fabrication. It deforms when excited by a voltage, and the deformation amplitude of the actuator is higher when an alternating current voltage of a specific frequency causes the actuator to resonate. In this paper, a circular-plane actuator based on PVC gel film and flexible electrodes was developed. Then, a theoretical model is established based on the Yeoh strain energy density function model and the mechanical analysis of deformation region-boundary constraints, the key parameters affecting the deformation are obtained. Subsequently, finite element simulation tests were done on the basis of this model, and the values of uniaxial stretching were highly consistent with the previous actual experimental results, which verified the reasonableness of the model and simulation method. Then, we focus on the analysis of the resonance frequencies of PVC actuators with different plasticizer content, electrode diameter, and pre-stretching degree. Finally, we compare the differences in time-domain characteristics of PVC actuators in the resonant and non-resonant states.
Optimal spatially-dependent diffusion tensors
Authors: Oakley Bryan W , Bonner Gage , Thiffeault Jean-Luc
Published: November 2023

We consider the spatially-dependent diffusion tensors that maximize the rate of convergence to equilibrium of solutions to the heat equation in inhomogeneous media. We formulate a variational problem for the optimal spectral gap, subject to an Lp
constraint on the diffusion tensors, and solve a relaxed version of this variational problem. This provides an upper bound for the optimal spectral gap. The solution is characterized in terms of the extremals of Sobolev and Poincaré type inequalities. To illustrate this result, we give a presentation of the one-dimensional case. In this case, we can adapt the known closed solution of a related eigenvalue problem to write the solution to the relaxed variational problem, arriving at an expression for the upper bound on the optimal spectral gap. The sharpness of this upper bound is then investigated by comparison to numerical simulations.
Non-analytic behaviour in large-deviations of the susceptible-infected-recovered model under the influence of lockdowns
Authors: Mulholland Leo Patrick , Feld Yannick , Hartmann Alexander K
Published: November 2023

We numerically investigate the dynamics of an SIR model with infection level-based lockdowns on Small-World networks. Using a large-deviation approach, namely the Wang–Landau algorithm, we study the distribution of the cumulative fraction of infected individuals. We are able to resolve the density of states for values as low as 10−85. Hence, we measure the distribution on its full support giving a complete characterization of this quantity. The lockdowns are implemented by severing a certain fraction of the edges in the Small-World network, and are initiated and released at different levels of infection, which are varied within this study. We observe points of non-analytical behaviour for the pdf and discontinuous transitions for correlations with other quantities such as the maximum fraction of infected and the duration of outbreaks. Further, empirical rate functions were calculated for different system sizes, for which a convergence is clearly visible indicating that the large-deviation principle is valid for the system with lockdowns.
Modeling the electrical properties of heterojunctions using ANFIS, ANFIS-GA and ANFIS-PSO Models
Authors: Mohamed R A
Published: November 2023

The present research introduces a theoretical study that aims to utilize ANFIS in estimating and predicting the electrical behavior of heterojunctions. For this purpose, five different heterojunctions were chosen. The experimental datasets that represent the electrical behavior of the chosen heterojunctions were extracted and employed in ANFIS as targets. To enhance the ANFIS performance two hybrid heuristic algorithms, genetic algorithm (GAs) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) were combined with ANFIS. The major contribution of the current research is to predict the electric characteristics of heterojunctions using ANFIS and increase the modeling accuracy of ANFIS by optimizing the premise and consequent parameters using (GAs) and (PSO). Also, compare the proportion of enhancement produced by using ANFIS-GA and ANFIS-PSO to decide which of them is more powerful under the study conditions. However, to the author’s knowledge, the presented goals have not been investigated before for heterojunctions. The mean squared error (MSE), the correlation coefficient (R2), and the standard deviation error (Std. error) were calculated for all trained models. The modeling errors of ANFIS-GA and ANFIS-PSO were compared to the error values produced by ANFIS. According to modeling results, simulation ANFIS outputs follow the experimental data patterns in excellent response. Predictions of electrical characteristics for heterojunctions using the trained models provide acceptable results where the MSE values obtained by training ANFIS-PSO are lower than their values obtained by ANFIS and ANFIS-GA models. The improvements in average percentages in ANFIS performance when combined with GA and PSO are equal to 2.2% and 3%, respectively. Consequently, the proposed ANFIS-PSO model is more accurate in predicting the electrical behavior of heterojunctions under the study conditions.
Mass production of carbon nanotube fibers and hybrid yarns for high-performance helical auxetic yarn strain sensors
Authors: Yu Long , Liu Han , Liu Xinyu , Yang Ming , Xie Jinlin , Qiu Hua , Chen Kunlin , Wei Guoke , Gu Peng
Published: November 2023

With the spectacular physical properties of electrical conductivity, mechanical strength and thermal conductivity, carbon nanotube (CNT) fibers are favored in many fields such as energy storage devices, sensing, electromagnetic shielding and structural reinforcement, especially in flexible sensing devices. However, the lower tensile properties of CNT fibers limit their further application in stretchable strain sensors, especially when monitoring large deformation variables. Here, large-scale continuous production of CNT fibers has achieved through floating catalytic chemical vapor deposition (FCCVD) technology. In the meantime, the CNT fibers were hybrid with Kevlar fibers to obtain hybrid CNT yarns with the strength of 168.4 MPa and the electrical conductivity of 7.78 × 104 S m−1. The strength of the hybrid CNT yarns produced by this method is higher than that of 40 count cotton yarns, which is perfectly suited for the fabrication of textile devices. Through knitting with three-dimensional elastic fabrics, the textile-based sensors exhibit promising sensing ability, washability, weather tolerance and sweat resistance, owing to the excellent physical and chemical properties of the hybrid CNT yarns. Moreover, stretchable strain sensors exhibit fast response and cycle stability, which provides unique opportunities in designing smart textiles with fast response and environmental durability.
A new mechanism for internal kink stabilization by plasma flow and anisotropic thermal transport
Authors: Bai Xue , Liu Yueqiang , Hao Guangzhou , Dong Guanqi , Zhang Neng , Wang Shuo
Published: November 2023

Stability of the internal kink (IK) mode is numerically investigated with inclusion of the anisotropic thermal transport effect and the toroidal plasma flow. It is found that anisotropic thermal transport, in combination with plasma flow, stabilizes the IK in two ways. One is direct stabilization of the mode synergistically with plasma flow. The other, indirect stabilization involves generation of a finite mode frequency in static plasmas by thermal transport, which in turn invokes wave-wave resonance damping of the mode via interaction with stable shear Alfvén waves. This second IK stabilization mechanism is further corroborated by examining the eigenmode structure, which peaks at the radial locations where the mode frequency matches that of the shear Alfvén wave. Finally, two branches of unstable IK are identified, with mode conversion occurring at certain plasma flow speed and thermal transport level. These findings provide new physics insights in the IK stability in tokamak fusion plasmas.
High Power Electromagnetic Pulse Damage Effect of a Low Noise Amplifier
Authors: Xu Yi , Meng Cangzhen , Xiang Jiantao , Hu Xin
Published: November 2023

Low noise amplifier (LNA) is the most sensitive component in the front end of a wireless communication system, which is very vulnerable to coupling attack of high-power electromagnetic pulse (HPEMP). This paper first analyzes the damage mechanism of a high-power electromagnetic pulse to a low noise amplifier, then designs the damage experiment of high-power electromagnetic pulse injection to the low noise amplifier, and verifies the damage mechanism and damage threshold of a certain radar low noise amplifier. The experimental results show that the LNA is not affected by the linear effect of high-power electromagnetic pulse. When the high-power electromagnetic pulse exceeds the damage threshold, thermal melting occurs between the FET grid sources in the device, causing permanent damage to the LNA and performance failure. This conclusion can provide data support for the high-power electromagnetic pulse protection design of this type of LNA.
The Relationship between Complete Vehicle and Components in Narrowband Radiation Emission Limits in the Standard of ECE R10
Authors: Zhou Lusha , Zeng Aijing , Ding Yifu , Liu Guangfu , Liu Zhe , She Haijun
Published: November 2023

The narrowband radiated emission limit curve of the vehicle has changed significantly in the sixth revision of ECER 10. In this article, the emission value of electromagnetic waves at different distances in different frequency bands is measured. Meanwhile, the correspondence between the narrowband radiation emission limits of the whole vehicle and the components is explored. Finally, the correspondence between the far field and near field applicable to narrowband radiation emission of components in automotive inspection engineering is proposed.
Spectral response of sulfonated polystyrene photonic crystals with varying concentrations of ethanol
Authors: S S Sree Sanker , Thomas Subin , Jacob Dhanya P , Nalini Savitha , Madhusoodanan K N
Published: November 2023

Modifying polystyrene (PS) spheres through sulfonation is a well-established method to enhance their hydrophilic properties, rendering them valuable in diverse applications. Fabrication of photonic crystals (PCs) with sulfonated polystyrene (SPS) spheres offers an important platform for sensing applications. The hydrophilic nature of such PC platform helps in improving the detection of water content. In the present work, monodispersed SPS spheres were synthesized by adjusting the duration of the sulfonation reaction on the PS spheres created via emulsifier-free emulsion polymerization. PC opal films were fabricated using self-assembled PS and SPS spheres. The opal films were characterized using various techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), atomic force microscopy (AFM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), angle-resolved reflection spectroscopy (ARRS), zeta potential and dynamic light scattering, and the results were compared and analysed. The hydrophilicity of the opal films was investigated using the water contact angle measurement, and it was found to improved by sulfonation. The spectral response of the PC opal films was investigated by monitoring Bragg’s diffraction spectra from the films using UV–VIS spectrometer. As a demonstration of a specific application, the prepared PC opal films were used to measure the water content in ethanol. PS and SPS opal films exhibited a noticeable blue shift in their spectral response when the water content in ethanol was increased to 3.8% and 3.4%, respectively. The added hydrophilicity brought on by the attached sulfonic groups improved the SPS film’s sensitivity to the water in the ethanol. SPS spheres demonstrated an optical response over a significantly more extensive range of the water content in ethanol than PS, which has a limited response range of up to 50%. Sulfonating PS spheres enhances colloidal stability and minimizes the tendency for aggregation in solution. Sulfonation for more than 3 h is found to exhibit reduced mechanical strength. Though the sulfonation induces an increase in surface roughness, the quality of the ordered arrangement of the spheres remained the same in comparison with PS films. By taking advantage of SPS’s hydrophilicity, high reactivity, stability, and the possibility of attaching additional functional groups, the present study opens up new possibilities for sensing water content in ethanol.
A quasi three–dimensional model for PEM fuel cell impedance: The effect of local oxygen depletion under the flow field rib
Authors: Reshetenko Tatyana , Kulikovsky Andrei
Published: November 2023

Our previous 1d+1d model for PEM fuel cell impedance is extended to take into account 2d distribution of the oxygen concentration in the gas–diffusion layer under the flow field channel and rib. Fitting of the model impedance to the experimental spectra from the segmented PEMFC shows that in spite of nearly uniform GDL oxygen diffusivity, local oxygen concentration and current density exhibit strong decay under the rib (land). The effect is merely due to larger oxygen transport distance under the rib. The results demonstrate validity of local EIS for measuring 3D distribution of local current in an operating PEM fuel cell.
Improving the generalization of patient non-specific model for epileptic seizure detection
Authors: Sigsgaard Gustav Munk , Gu Ying
Published: November 2023

Epilepsy is the second most common neurological disorder characterized by recurrent and unpredictable seizures. Accurate seizure detection is important for diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy. Many researches achieved good performance on patient-specific seizure detection. However, they were tailored to each specific individual which are less applicable clinically than the patient non-specific detection, which lacked good performance. Despite several decades of research on automatic seizure detection, seizure detection is currently still based on visual inspection of video-EEG (Electroencephalogram) in clinical setting. It is time consuming and prone to human error and subjectivity. This study aims to improve patient non-specific seizure detection to assist neurologist with efficient and objective evaluation of epileptic EEG. The clinical data used was from the open access Siena Scalp EEG Database which consists of 14 patients. First the data were pre-processed to remove artifacts and noises. Second the features from time domain, frequency domain and entropy were extracted from each channel and then concatenated into a feature vector. Finally, a machine learning approach based on random forest was employed for seizure detection with leave-one-patient-out cross-validation scheme. Automatic seizure detection was carried out with the trained model. The study achieved a specificity of 99.38%, sensitivity of 81.43% and 3.61 FP/h (False Positives per hour), which outperformed some other patient non-specific detectors found in literature. The findings from the study shows the possibility of clinical application of automatic seizure detection and indicate that further work should focus on dealing with reducing false positives.