bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical and Morphological Changes in Heat-Treated and Densified Fast-Growing Timber Material
Authors: Liew Kang Chiang , Albert Charles Michael , Shamsuddin Elise Olivia
Published: November 2023

Heat treatment is a modification method that can alter the polymeric components of wood (cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin). Densification technology has emerged as one of the promising technologies capable of improving the properties of low-density wood. In this study, the effects of heat treatment and densification on moisture content, density, and morphological features of low-density Paraserianthes falcataria laminas were examined. Laminas were heat-treated (100°C, 120°C and 140°C for 1 hour) and compressed at 50% compression ratio. Non-heat-treated laminas, on the other hand, were compressed at 40-60% compression ratios. The changes in pores area, moisture content and density of the heat-treated and densified laminas were identified. The lowest moisture content for heat-treated laminas was at 120°C. Laminas with 60% compression ratio were observed to have the highest deformed pores, where it increased the density of the laminas. In summary, heat treatment and densification affected the properties of the laminas. Heat treatment at high temperatures resulted in decreased density and moisture content, while increasing the compression ratio during densification increased the density. The results suggest that combining heat treatment and densification could be a viable method for improving the properties of low-density wood.
Community Perception In Domestic Wastewater Treatment To Reduce River Pollution: A Study In Rw 09 Kotalama Village, Kedungkandang Subdistrict, Malang City
Authors: Pratiwi Jenvia Rista , Ramadani Bakhrul Mukhid Fadilah , Tambunan Esty Adelin
Published: November 2023

The basic human need is for clean water, essential for daily needs such as drinking, cooking, and industrial processing. This makes the function of water not only economic but also social. The domestic water demand in Malang will reach 1304 liters/second in 2023. However, the current condition of the Brantas River has a pollution index value classified as “lightly polluted”, so domestic wastewater treatment management is needed. The role of the community is very influential in domestic wastewater treatment to reduce the pollution of the Brantas River. This can also support the Regional Government Work Plan of Malang City in 2023. The steps taken are to determine the status of domestic wastewater treatment and to analyze the perceptions of the community along the Brantas River. The data collection method used a questionnaire with purposive sampling with the number of respondents with similar characteristics. The results showed that the level of education of the community had a better influence, but did not affect the good behavior of domestic wastewater treatment. The community still discharges domestic wastewater into the river. The community’s domestic wastewater treatment behavior is influenced by their knowledge and attitude toward the existing drainage system in their house.
Andesite waste powder as mineral admixture in concrete: A Review
Authors: Handayani Agil Fitri , Rosyidah Dyah Hayu , Sulaksitaningrum Roro , Susanto Prijono Bagus , Umniati Sri
Published: November 2023

Massive production of andesite natural stone causes environmental problems due to the large amount of powder waste produced. Andesite stone contains a high percentage of SiO2 which indicates its possibility to be used as a mineral additive for concrete. Research that has been conducted by researchers from various countries shows that andesite stone has fine grains with a specific gravity of 2.66 - 2.68, Loss on Ignition 2.37 - 3.38, has a content of SiO2+Al2O3+Fe2O3>70% which can be classified as fly ash type F based on ASTM 618-92a. The use of andesite stone powder waste as a partial replacement of cement in concrete showed that concrete properties improved at an optimum of 10% at 28 days and 90 days of concrete age, respectively. The use of andesite waste powder in larger quantities showed a decrease in concrete properties. The use of andesite powder waste in concrete is recommended to reduce the impact of waste on the environment as well as to reduce the use of cement in concrete as an effort to support sustainable and more environmentally friendly construction.
Effect of TiO2/Al2O3 Hybrid Nanofluid and Irradiation Time on Solar Photovoltaic Thermal Performance
Authors: Arina Manasikhana Dita , Permanasari Avita Ayu , Puspitasari Poppy , Mohd Rosli Mohd Afzanizam , Sukarni Sukarni , Kusumaningsih Haslinda , Dzulfikar Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Photovoltaic thermal (PVT) is a technology capable of converting solar energy into energy in the form of electricity and thermal (heat). Absorption of solar thermal energy can cause PVT to experience a high temperature increase which affects the efficiency of electricity that can be generated by PVT. Nanofluid is a fluid with high thermal conductivity that can be used as a coolant to absorb the high temperature generated by PVT and recover some of the energy lost as heat to increase the efficiency of PVT. The combination of two nanoparticles as a hybrid nanofluid was produced by mixing 1000 ml distilled water with TiO2/Al2O3 hybrid nanoparticles (80:20) of 0.1% with irradiation time for 60 minutes using light intensity of 1200 W/m2. The results showed that TiO2 nanofluid had the best thermal and electrical efficiency compared to hybrid nanofluid, Al2O3 nanofluid, and distilled water. Thermal efficiency decreased due to the long irradiation time with constant intensity causing ineffective cooling over time, while electrical efficiency increased due to heat reduction on the PVT surface, but after 15 minutes there was a decrease in electrical efficiency caused by the PVT surface overheating.
Potential of Local Clay for the Development of Limestone Calcined Clay Cement in East Java
Authors: Antoni Antoni , Kuncoro Albert , Fernaldy Ivan , Davian Matthew , Susanto Tri Eddy , Hardjito Djwantoro
Published: November 2023

Limestone Calcined Clay Cement (LC3) offers an innovative and sustainable alternative to traditional binders, utilizing calcined clay and limestone as partial substitutes for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) clinker. This study investigated the potential of local clays found in East Java, Indonesia, for LC3 production. Clay samples from three sites in East Java, with pure kaolin as a benchmark, were assessed. A formulation with 50% OPC clinker substitution was employed, integrating limestone powder, calcined clay, and gypsum. The clays underwent drying, grinding, sieving, and calcination at both 700°C and 800°C. For comparison, a sample of local Trass, typically used in Portland Composite Cement, was also evaluated. Compared to OPC, the LC3 samples exhibited reduced workability and a faster initial setting time. However, the LC3 mortar displayed commendable compressive strength, achieving a Strength Activity Index exceeding 75% at 28 days. The calcination temperature influenced the ultimate strength, especially in specimens with a higher kaolin concentration. One of the local clays, sourced from Trenggalek, with a kaolinite content of 49%, achieved a compressive strength of 43 MPa at 28 days. This value closely parallels the strengths of both OPC (49 MPa) and the metakaolin (42 MPa) mixtures.
Pulmonale Hypertonie assoziiert mit Lungenerkrankungen
Authors: Halank Michael , Zeder Katarina E. , Sommer Natascha , Kneidinger Nikolaus , Behr Jürgen , Ulrich Silvia , Held Matthias , Köhler Thomas , Foris Vasile , Heberling Melanie , Neurohr Claus , Ronczka Julia , Holt Stephan , Skowasch Dirk
Published: November 2023

Nicht selten sind Lungenerkrankungen und Hypoventilationssyndrome mit einer pulmonalen Hypertonie (PH) assoziiert. In den meisten Fällen liegt eine nicht schwere PH vor. Diese ist hämodynamisch definiert durch einen pulmonalarteriellen Mitteldruck (PAPm) > 20 mmHg, einen pulmonalarteriellen Verschlussdruck (PAWP) ≤ 15 mmHg und einen pulmonal-vaskulären Widerstand von ≤ 5 Wood-Einheiten (WU). Sowohl die nicht schwere (PVR ≤ 5 WU) als auch deutlich ausgeprägter die schwere PH (PVR > 5 WU) sind prognostisch ungünstig. Bei Verdacht auf eine PH wird empfohlen, primär zu prüfen, ob Risikofaktoren für eine pulmonalarterielle Hypertonie (PAH, Gruppe 1 PH) oder eine chronisch thromboembolische pulmonale Hypertonie (CTEPH, Gruppe 4 PH) vorliegen. Falls Risikofaktoren vorliegen oder bei Lungenkranken der Verdacht auf eine schwere PH besteht, wird eine zeitnahe Vorstellung der Patient*innen in einer PH-Ambulanz empfohlen. Bei Patient*innen mit einer schweren PH assoziiert mit Lungenerkrankungen wird eine personalisierte, individuelle Therapie – möglichst im Rahmen von Therapiestudien – empfohlen. Aktuell sollte bei COPD-Patient*innen nur ein Therapieversuch erwogen werden, wenn die assoziierte PH schwergradig und ein „pulmonalvaskulärer“ Phänotyp (schwere präkapilläre PH, aber typischerweise nur milde bis moderate Atemwegsobstruktion, keine oder milde Hyperkapnie und DLCO < 45 % vom Soll) vorliegt. Bei schwerer PH assoziiert mit einer interstitiellen Lungenerkrankung können entsprechend individueller Abwägung Phosphodiesterase-5-Inhibitoren erwogen werden. Inhaliertes Treprostinil kommt bei diesen Patient*innen auch bei nicht schwerer PH in Betracht.
Glycoprotein Non-Metastatic Protein B (GPNMB): The Missing Link
Between Lysosomes and Obesity
Authors: Bianco Valentina , Kratky Dagmar
Published: November 2023

As a result of an unhealthy diet and limited physical activity, obesity has
become a widespread pandemic worldwide and is an important predictor for the
development of cardiovascular disease. Obesity is often characterized by a
pro-inflammatory environment in white adipose tissue (WAT), mainly due to
increased macrophage infiltration. These immune cells boost their lipid
concentrations by accumulating the content of dying adipocytes. As the lysosome
is highly involved in lipid handling, the progressive lipid accumulation may
result in lysosomal stress and a metabolic shift. Recent studies have identified
glycoprotein non-metastatic melanoma protein B (GPNMB) as a novel marker of
inflammatory diseases. GPNMB is a type I transmembrane protein on the cell
surface of various cell types, such as macrophages, dendritic cells,
osteoblasts, and microglia, from which it can be proteolytically cleaved into a
soluble molecule. It is induced by lysosomal stress via
microphthalmia-associated transcription factor and thus has been found to be
upregulated in many lysosomal storage disorders. In addition, a clear connection
between GPNMB and obesity was recently established. GPNMB was shown to have
protective and anti-inflammatory effects in most cases, preventing the
progression of obesity-related metabolic disorders. In contrast, soluble GPNMB
likely has the opposite effect and promotes lipogenesis in WAT. This review aims
to summarize and clarify the role of GPNMB in the progression of obesity and to
highlight its potential use as a biomarker for lipid-associated disorders.
A Decade of Exploration of Transition-Metal-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions: An Overview
Authors: Kumar Anil , Kumar Saurav , Jyoti Jyoti , Gupta Deepak , Singh Gajendra
Published: November 2023

During the previous couple of decades, transition-metal (Fe, Co, Cu, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Au) catalyzed inter- and intramolecular coupling reactions have attracted huge attention for the construction of C–C and C–heteroatom (like C–N, C–P, C–O, C–S, etc.) bonds to synthesize a diverse range of polymers, fine chemicals, and agrochemicals (mainly fungicides, herbicides, and insecticides), as well as biologically and pharmaceutically important organic molecules. Furthermore, the employment of lower cost and easily available metals such as first-row transition-metal salts or metal complexes of Fe, Co, Cu, Ni as catalysts compared to the precious metals such as Pd, Ag, Au in cross-coupling reactions have led to major advances in applications within the fields of synthesis. A number of cross-coupling reactions catalyzed by transition metals have been explored, including Suzuki, Heck, Sonogashira, Stille, Kumada, Kochi, Murahashi, Corriu, and Negishi reactions, as well as carbonylative, decarboxylative, reactions and α-arylations. In this review, we offer a comprehensive summary of the cross-coupling reaction catalyzed by different transition metals from the year 2009 to date.

1 Introduction

2 Pd-Catalyzed Reactions

2.1 C–C Cross-Coupling Reactions

2.2 C–N Cross-Coupling Reactions

2.3 C–P Cross-Coupling Reactions

3 Ni-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions

3.1 C–C Cross-Coupling Reactions

4 Cu-Catalyzed Cross-Coupling Reactions

4.1 C–C Cross-Coupling Reactions

4.2 C–O Cross-Coupling Reactions

4.2 C–N Cross-Coupling Reactions

4.4 C–P Cross-Coupling Reactions

4.5 C–Se Cross-Coupling Reactions

4.6 C–S Cross-Coupling Reactions

5 Fe-Catalyzed Reactions

5.1 C–C Cross-Coupling Reactions

5.2 C–S Cross-Coupling Reactions

6 Co-Catalyzed Reactions

7 Transition-Metal Nanoparticle-Promoted Reactions

7.1 Pd Nanoparticles

7.2 Cu Nanoparticles

8 Miscellaneous Reactions

9 Perspectives and Future Directions
The Incidence of Ischemic Cholecystitis after Prophylactic Cystic Artery Embolization: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Walker Benjamin J. , Lung Michael , Lataifeh Hanin , Patel Aditi , Abukhiran Ibrahim , Amarneh Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Background Prophylactic cystic artery embolization (CAE) is used to prevent radiation cholecystitis in patients undergoing transarterial radioembolization (TARE), but the incidence of ischemic cholecystitis following CAE remains unclear.

Purpose This retrospective study aimed to determine the incidence of ischemic cholecystitis after prophylactic CAE prior to TARE.

Methods The medical records of 22 patients who underwent CAE prior to TARE between 2002 and 2021 were reviewed. Patients were assessed for evidence of acute cholecystitis and gallbladder imaging changes after the procedure.

Results Four out of the 22 patients (18.2%) developed cholecystitis after CAE, and two of these patients showed evidence of microsphere deposition consistent with radiation cholecystitis. Excluding these two patients, the incidence of ischemic cholecystitis was 9.1%. Additionally, 8 out of 22 patients (36.4%) developed gallbladder imaging changes after the embolization.

Conclusion The incidence of ischemic cholecystitis following CAE is comparable, if not greater than the risk of radiation cholecystitis without prophylactic embolization. Further research is necessary to better understand the risk factors associated with the development of cholecystitis after CAE and to inform recommendations for future preventative measures.
Complete Long-Term Response to Radioembolization of Hepatic Metastases from Undifferentiated Uterine Sarcoma
Authors: Barakat Fuad , Volker Andrea Regine , Warth Dirk , Binnenhei Martin , Reimer Peter , Tatsch Klaus
Published: November 2023

We report a case of long-term complete response to selective intra-arterial radiation therapy in a 48-year-old female patient with metastatic liver disease from undifferentiated uterine sarcoma.
Platelet Receptor Glycoprotein VI-Dimer Is Overexpressed in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation at High Risk of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Induruwa Isuru , Kempster Carly , Thomas Patrick , McKinney Harriet , Malcor Jean-Daniel , Bonna Arkadiusz , Batista Joana , Soejima Kenji , Ouwehand Willem , Farndale Richard W. , Downes Kate , Moroi Masaaki , Jung Stephanie M. , Warburton Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases the risk of ischemic stroke (IS). We hypothesized that the functional form of platelet receptor glycoprotein (GP) VI, GPVI-dimer, which binds to collagen and fibrin causing platelet activation, is overexpressed in patients with AF who have not had a stroke.

Methods A total of 75 inpatients with AF were recruited. None were admitted with or had previously had thrombotic events, including IS or myocardial infarction. Platelet surface expression of total GPVI, GPVI-dimer, and the platelet activation marker P-selectin were quantitated by whole blood flow cytometry. Serum biomarkers were collected in AF patients. Results were compared against patients contemporaneously admitted to hospital with similar age and vascular risk-factor profiles without AF (noAF, n = 30).

Results Patients with AF have similar total GPVI surface expression (p = 0.58) and P-selectin exposure (p = 0.73) on their platelets compared with noAF patients but demonstrate significantly higher GPVI-dimer expression (p = 0.02). Patients with paroxysmal AF express similar GPVI-dimer levels compared with permanent AF and GPVI-dimer levels were not different between anticoagulated groups. Serum N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (p < 0.0001) and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (p < 0.0001) were significantly correlated with GPVI-dimer expression in AF platelets. AF was the only vascular risk factor that was independently associated with higher GPVI-dimer expression in the whole population (p = 0.02).

Conclusion GPVI inhibition is being explored in clinical trials as a novel target for IS treatment. As GPVI-dimer is elevated in AF patients' platelets, the exploration of targeted GPVI-dimer inhibition for stroke prevention in patients at high risk of IS due to AF is supported.
Construction of type-II SnO2/InGaN nanorods heterostructure toward high photoelectrochemical performance
Authors: Thota C. , Ramu S. , Gangadhara C. , Murali G. , Yang J. H. , Upare D. P. , Bak N.-H. , Kshetri Y. K. , Sohn Y. , Reddeppa M. , Kim M.-D.
Published: November 2023

Exploring highly efficient and stable photoelectrode material is essential for high-performance photoelectrochemical (PEC) water-splitting applications. III-nitride semiconductors, particularly InGaN, have been considered as prospective materials for PEC hydrogen evolution. However, their surface states and other recombination centers, which enhance the charge recombination kinetics, are bottlenecks for the high PEC performance. In this work, we report the construction of type-II heterojunction by sputter depositing SnO2 on InGaN nanorods (NRs) to promote interfacial carrier transport and thereby enhance PEC performance. The energy band offsets at the SnO2/InGaN NRs interface were analyzed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Type-II heterojunction was defined at the SnO2/InGaN NRs interface with a valence band offset of 0.77 eV and conduction band offset of 0.25 eV. The photocurrent density of the SnO2/InGaN NRs photoanode is 7.09 mA/cm2 at 0.77 V vs Ag/AgCl electrode with 80 nm SnO2 thickness, which is ∼14-fold higher than that of the pristine InGaN NRs photoanode. Furthermore, the applied bias photo-to-current efficiency of SnO2/InGaN NRs photoanode records 3.36% at 0.77 V vs Ag/AgCl electrode. The enhanced PEC performance is mainly ascribed to the formation of high-quality SnO2/InGaN NRs heterojunction that enforces the directional charge transfer and substantially boosts the separation of photogenerated electron–hole pairs at the interface of InGaN NRs and SnO2. Overall, this work sheds light on the promising strategy to design and fabricate III-nitride nanostructures-based photoelectrodes for feasible PEC water-splitting applications.
Correlation measures of a quantum state and information characteristics of a quantum channel
Authors: Shirokov M. E.
Published: November 2023

We discuss the interconnections between basic correlation measures of a bipartite quantum state and basic information characteristics of a quantum channel, focusing on the benefits of these interconnections for solving specific problems concerning the characteristics of both types. We describe properties of the (unoptimized and optimized) quantum discord in infinite-dimensional bipartite systems. In particular, using the generalized Koashi–Winter relation, a simple condition is obtained that guarantees that a state with zero quantum discord is quantum-classical. Two possible definitions of the quantum discord for states with infinite one-way classical correlation are proposed and analysed. The generalized versions of Koashi–Winter and Xi–Lu–Wang–Li relations are used to obtain advanced continuity bounds for the Holevo information at the outputs of a channel and its complementary channel (as functions of a channel for a given ensemble of input states), for the Holevo capacity and the unregularized private capacity of a quantum channel depending either on the input dimension or on the input energy bound. We also discuss the properties of quantum channels which are “doppelgangers” of the monotonicity of the quantum discord and the entropy reduction of a local measurement under quantum channels acting on an unmeasured subsystem.
Spectral tuning of broadband terahertz radiation from dc-biased laser plasma filaments
Authors: Zhang Jiayang , Zhang Zhelin , Zhang Zhen , Xia Tianhao , Wang Linzheng , Wang Chen , Chen Liming , Chen Yanping
Published: November 2023

Terahertz radiation from laser plasmas exhibits a broadband spectrum, making it a bright prospect for terahertz spectroscopy. In this work, we demonstrate that the continuous redshift of terahertz radiation from a dc-biased plasma filament can be achieved by increasing the length of the plasma filament. A theoretical model concerning a Lorentz distribution of the plasma density along a filament is proposed to interpret this spectral tuning effect. This finding provides not only an approach to spectral tuning but also a gentle way of diagnosing the distribution of the plasma density inside such plasmas.
Unusual spectral features in square-net based nonsymmorphic Kondo lattice system, CeCuX2 (X = As/Sb)
Authors: Datta Sawani , Pandeya Ram Prakash , Dey Arka Bikash , Gloskovskii A. , Schlueter C. , Peixoto T. R. F. , Singh Ankita , Thamizhavel A. , Maiti Kalobaran
Published: November 2023

We study the electronic structure of a nonsymmorphic Kondo lattice system, CeCuX2 (X = As/Sb), a promising class of correlated topological materials important for advanced technology. While both the materials show Kondo behavior in their transport properties, CeCuSb2 is antiferromagnetic and no magnetic order is observed in CeCuAs2. We studied high-quality single-crystalline samples employing hard x-ray photoemission spectroscopy. The sample cleaving exposes the square-net structured pnictogen layers. The CeCuSb2 valence band indicates a highly metallic phase. The spectral intensity at the Fermi level in CeCuAs2 is weak, revealing close to semi-metallic behavior of the system. The Ce 3d spectra exhibit multiple features; the intensity of the features changes with the change in surface sensitivity of the technique, suggesting significant differences in the surface and bulk electronic structure. The bulk spectra of the Kondo system do not exhibit the typical f0-feature often observed in such materials. Instead, a distinct feature is observed at the lower binding energy side of the well-screened peak; the signature of this feature is manifested in the spectra from high-quality single-crystalline samples. This is outstanding and calls for physics beyond existing theories of correlated systems.
Dual-band photoluminescence mechanism of magnetic doped two-dimensional (PEA)2PbBr4 single crystals
Authors: Liu Kangning , Dong Liyuan , Li Feida , Li Yang , Zhao Minglin , Dai Jun
Published: November 2023

Mn2+ doping effectively realizes white light emission in three-dimensional lead halide perovskite nanocrystals. Meanwhile, research on Mn-doped two-dimensional layered perovskite single crystal is limited. We report centimeter-scale Mn-doped PEA2PbBr4 (C6H5CH2CH2NH3+ and PEA+) single crystals prepared by a slow evaporation method. Mn2+ dopants mainly act as substitutional doping and exhibit paramagnetic properties in the crystal at low doping density, while interstitial doping of Mn2+ prevails and induces antiferromagnetic characteristics at high doping density. Mn:PEA2PbBr4 single crystals exhibit dual-band chromacity-tunable blue-orange photoluminescence originating from excitons and Mn2+ emission. The negative temperature quenching effect is achieved by Mn-doping defects for the temperature-dependent exciton photoluminescence. Upon testing in the low-pressure vacuum chamber, the Mn2+ peak of the single crystal shows a dramatic shift from 610 to 690 nm. These results indicate that Mn:PEA2PbBr4 single crystal can serve as a potential and promising luminescent device material that achieves color tunable properties by regulating the systematic changes in the intensity ratio of exciton emission and Mn2+ emission, which will be very helpful for exploring the application of perovskite in magneto-optical devices in the future.
Analysis of natural planar jump in power-law liquids—A generalized “shallow flow” approach
Authors: Samanta Banashree , Kaushal Manish , Das Gargi , Ray Subhabrata
Published: November 2023

The study presents a generalized “shallow flow” analysis of natural planar hydraulic jump in power-law liquids. It is based on self-similar velocity profile defined as function of flow behavior index, n, and shows significant improvement over the previous analysis which assumed a quadratic velocity profile and failed for n < 0.5. Thus, the study enables a deeper understanding of the influence of n for shear thinning vis-a-vis shear thickening liquids and emphasizes that the power-law description is adequate for highly shear thinning liquids if the flow parameters are valid over the range of interest.
Effects of rotating inlet distortion on the stall mechanism of an axial flow compressor
Authors: Qiu Jia-Hui , Du Juan , Fan Zhong-Gang , Zhang Min , Yang Chen , Zhao Ming
Published: November 2023

To study the influence of rotating inlet distortion on a single-stage axial compressor, both experiment and full-annulus unsteady simulation methods are carried out to reveal the stall mechanism under different inflows. First, the experimental results show that compared with static distortion, rotating distortion reduces the compressor stall margin more seriously. The wavelet analysis of dynamic pressure data shows that although the addition of inlet distortions has changed the stalling process, the compressor still stalls through spike-type. The full-annulus unsteady simulations indicate that the low-velocity zone first appears at the hub under uniform inflow condition. When the compressor is subjected to rotating distortion, the low-velocity zone first appears at the tip region. Time-averaged solutions of unsteady simulations are further studied to reveal the underlying mechanisms. Compared with the flow field under uniform inflow, the addition of rotating distortion can produce co-swirl, but it also causes the change of axial velocity distribution along the radial direction. Under the combined effect of both, the blade loading of rotor tip increases significantly, altering the position where the low-velocity zone first appears.
Quantum-secure fault-tolerant distributed cloud storage system
Authors: Ma Chun-Li , Li Dong-Dong , Li Yalin , Wu Yinghao , Ding Song-Yan , Wang Jun , Li Pei-Yuan , Zhang Song , Chen Junjie , Zhang Xiaoxing , Wang Jia-Yong , Li Jin , Li Qiang , Chen Zhi-Tong , Zhou Lei , Zhao Mei-Sheng , Zhao Yong
Published: November 2023

With the increasing prominence of data security in cloud storage, we propose a practical and robust cloud storage scheme, which uses quantum random numbers as encryption keys, disperses the keys using Shamir’s secret sharing scheme, applies erasure coding to the ciphertext, and securely transmits the data through quantum key distribution protected networks to the distributed clouds. This system offers several key advantages, including quantum-level security, fault tolerance, and storage space saving. To validate its feasibility, we conduct comprehensive experimental tests covering essential functionalities such as encryption/decryption, key preservation, and data storage. By successfully demonstrating the effectiveness of our proposal, we aim to accelerate the application of quantum technology in cloud storage.
Flow and heat transfer regimes in Rayleigh–Bénard convection with a melting boundary
Authors: De Rosis Alessandro , Giustini Giovanni
Published: November 2023

This paper analyses the flow and heat transfer regimes arising in Rayleigh–Bénard convection with a melting boundary by means of numerical simulations based on the lattice Boltzmann method. By systematically varying the Rayleigh and Prandtl numbers, we unveil an intriguing spectrum of patterns and transitions. Our results provide critical insight into the mutual interplay between thermal convection, melting, and fluid dynamics, shedding light on the complex behavior of such systems.
Measurement and calculation for high frequency magnetic losses of Terfenol-D alloy rod under coupled stress and DC bias fields
Authors: Huang Wenmei , Zhang Zeyuan , Guo Pingping , Feng Xiaobo , Weng Ling
Published: November 2023

Compressive stress, a DC bias magnetic field, and an AC excitation field significantly affect hysteresis characteristics and magnetic energy losses of magnetostrictive materials. Therefore, studying high frequency magnetic losses of magnetostrictive materials under coupling of these three conditions is of great importance for improving the output performance of high power magnetostrictive transducers. In this paper, a magnetic property testing system for magnetostrictive materials has been constructed. It enables the magnetic property testing of Terfenol-D alloy rods under the simultaneous application of stress and DC bias at high frequency excitation (a maximum AC magnetic flux density of 0.5 T at an excitation frequency of 9 kHz). Based on Bertotti separation theory and experimental data, considering the coupling effect of stress and DC bias, a computational model for the high frequency magnetic losses of Terfenol-D materials is proposed. The model incorporates relevant parameters of stress and DC bias to modify loss coefficients, and the expressions for loss coefficients are identified using the symbolic regression method. A comparative analysis between experimental data and model calculation shows good agreement, with the maximum and average errors of 4.68% and 1.74%, respectively.
Deposition products predicted from conceptual DFT: The hydrolysis reactions of MoF6, WF6, and UF6
Authors: Lutz Jesse J. , Jensen Daniel S. , Hubbard Joshua A.
Published: November 2023

Metal hexafluorides hydrolyze at ambient temperature to deposit compounds having fluorine-to-oxygen ratios that depend upon the identity of the metal. Uranium-hexafluoride hydrolysis, for example, deposits uranyl fluoride (UO2F2), whereas molybdenum hexafluoride (MoF6) and tungsten hexafluoride deposit trioxides. Here, we pursue general strategies enabling the prediction of depositing compounds resulting from multi-step gas-phase reactions. To compare among the three metal-hexafluoride hydrolyses, we first investigate the mechanism of MoF6 hydrolysis using hybrid density functional theory (DFT). Intermediates are then validated by performing anharmonic vibrational simulations and comparing with infrared spectra [McNamara et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 25, 2990 (2023)]. Conceptual DFT, which is leveraged here to quantitatively evaluate site-specific electrophilicity and nucleophilicity metrics, is found to reliably predict qualitative deposition propensities for each intermediate. In addition to the nucleophilic potential of the oxygen ligands, several other contributing characteristics are discussed, including amphoterism, polyvalency, fluxionality, steric hindrance, dipolar strength, and solubility. To investigate the structure and composition of pre-nucleation clusters, an automated workflow is presented for the simulation of particle growth. The workflow entails a conformer search at the density functional tight-binding level, structural refinement at the hybrid DFT level, and computation of a composite free-energy profile. Such profiles can be used to estimate particle nucleation kinetics. Droplet formation is also considered, which helps to rationalize the different UO2F2 particle morphologies observed under varying levels of humidity. Development of predictive methods for simulating physical and chemical deposition processes is important for the advancement of material manufacturing involving coatings and thin films.
On improved fitting using a new probability distribution and artificial neural network: Application
Authors: Al-Marzouki Sanaa , Alrashidi Afaf , Chesneau Christophe , Elgarhy Mohammed , Khashab Rana H. , Nasiru Suleman
Published: November 2023

Statistical modeling and forecasting are crucial to understanding the depth of information in data from all sources. For precision purposes, researchers are always in search of ways to improve the quality of modeling and forecasting, whatever the complexity of the situation. To this end, new (probability) distributions and suitable forecasting methods are demanded. The first part of this paper contributes to this direction. Indeed, we introduce a modified version of the flexible Weibull distribution, called the modified flexible Weibull distribution. It is constructed by mixing the flexible Weibull distribution with the exponential T-X scheme. This strategy is winning; the new distribution has a larger panel of functionalities in comparison to those of the classical Weibull distribution, among other things. To check the quality of the fitting of the modified flexible Weibull distribution, two different datasets are analyzed. After analyzing these datasets, it is observed that the modified flexible Weibull distribution has improved fitting power compared to other similar distributions. Apart from this, the conventional time series model, namely, the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model, and the modern artificial neural network (ANN) model are considered for forecasting results. Utilizing the two datasets discussed earlier, it was discovered that the ANN model is more effective than the traditional ARIMA model.
Sustainable solution for water crisis in Indian coastal district: A multi-criteria approach to evaluating solar PV powered reverse osmosis desalination
Authors: Somasi Anantha Sai , Srichandan Kondamudi
Published: November 2023

Visakhapatnam, poised to become the executive capital of Andhra Pradesh, is confronting escalating population growth and water scarcity challenges. With over 19 lakh residents and an 11.96% growth rate, the city’s water demand is expected to outstrip its current supply capacity. The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation relies on diverse water sources, but encroachments on water bodies and industrial pollution exacerbate the scarcity issue. Against this backdrop, desalination emerges as a sustainable solution, leveraging the city’s extensive coastline. This study explores the technical, economic, environmental, social, and political dimensions of implementing a solar-powered Reverse Osmosis (RO) desalination plant in Visakhapatnam. While various desalination methods exist, solar-powered RO is highlighted for its ecological sustainability, utilizing abundant and renewable solar energy. The study employs the Multi-Criteria Decision-making Approach (MCDA) to comprehensively evaluate the proposed solution. The application of fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) aids in identifying the optimal solution under uncertain conditions. Furthermore, a graph theory and matrix approach are introduced to analyze the decision-making problem. The attribute digraph visually represents the relationships between different criteria, while the permanent matrix quantifies the relative importance of these criteria. The study location selection process involves linear normalization and a permanent matrix computation, ultimately ranking Chinna Rushikonda as the top choice for implementing a solar photovoltaic-powered RO desalination plant. The integration of MCDA, fuzzy TOPSIS, and graph theory provides a comprehensive and robust methodology for decision-making in complex projects, ensuring sustainable and well-informed choices.
The F pilus serves as a conduit for the DNA during conjugation between physically distant bacteria
Authors: Goldlust Kelly , Ducret Adrien , Halte Manuel , Dedieu-Berne Annick , Erhardt Marc , Lesterlin Christian
Published: November 2023

Horizontal transfer of F-like plasmids by bacterial conjugation is responsible for disseminating antibiotic resistance and virulence determinants among pathogenic Enterobacteriaceae species, a growing health concern worldwide. Central to this process is the conjugative F pilus, a long extracellular filamentous polymer that extends from the surface of plasmid donor cells, allowing it to probe the environment and make contact with the recipient cell. It is well established that the F pilus can retract to bring mating pair cells in tight contact before DNA transfer. However, whether DNA transfer can occur through the extended pilus has been a subject of active debate. In this study, we use live-cell microscopy to show that while most transfer events occur between cells in direct contact, the F pilus can indeed serve as a conduit for the DNA during transfer between physically distant cells. Our findings enable us to propose a unique model for conjugation that revises our understanding of the DNA transfer mechanism and the dissemination of drug resistance and virulence genes within complex bacterial communities.
A quality assessment of Korean–English patent machine translation
Authors: Lee Jieun , Choi Hyoeun
Published: November 2023

This paper aims to investigate the quality Korean–English patent translations by three machine translation (MT) engines based on automatic and human evaluations of Korean to English Patent Automatic Translation (K2E-PAT), a pattern-based statistical MT; and Patent Translate and WIPO Translate, both neural MTs. For title translations, WIPO Translate scored the highest in automatic and human evaluations, while results were mixed for the other two MTs. K2E-PAT slightly outperformed Patent Translate in automatic evaluation, whereas Patent Translate outperformed K2E-PAT in human evaluation. For abstract translations, Patent Translate scored the highest in automatic evaluation, followed by WIPO Translate and K2E-PAT. In human evaluation, the ranking order was the same as that of title translations, with WIPO Translate scoring the highest on average. The results indicated correlations between automatic and human evaluations, and the NMTs subject to the current study still do not render satisfactory gist translation from Korean to English.
Identifying language requirements of pre‑scientific writing for learners in science education using a task‑based needs
analysis
Authors: Taglieber Johanna , Pieber Corinna , Kapelari Suzanne , Dür Wolfgang , Hinger Barbara
Published: November 2023

In science, subject-specific languages have a communicative and epistemic function. Thus, in science education learners
need to both learn the language of science and learn through this specific language. Based on the assumption that learning subject-specific
languages can be compared to second language acquisition, the study transfers Task-based Language Teaching to science education and explores
the language needs of Austrian upper secondary school learners in science education when writing a Pre-Scientific Paper (PSP), using
multiple methods (semi-structured interviews, online questionnaires) and data sources (curriculum, learners, teachers). The study reveals
pre-scientific writing as a relevant overall task, identifies over 30 target tasks, describes subject-specific linguistic challenges
students face when performing these tasks and shows how they are supported in their pre-scientific writing skills. Altogether, the paper
shows the importance of having a more regular and systematic implementation of subject-specific language tasks in upper secondary science
education.
Phonon thermal transport in ferroelectric α-In2Se3 via first-principles calculations
Authors: Qi Haoyue , Wu Chao , Lu Ping , Liu Chenhan
Published: November 2023

Two-dimensional (2D) ferroelectrics are promising candidates in the field of microelectronics due to their unique properties such as excellent photoelectric responsiveness. However, the thermal properties of 2D ferroelectrics are less investigated. Here, the thickness dependent thermal conductivity in ferroelectric α-In2Se3 is systematically investigated by the first-principles method combined with the phonon Boltzmann transport equation. On this basis, the strain and oxidation effects on the thermal conductivity of monolayer α-In2Se3 is further studied. The calculation results show that the thermal conductivity has a significant reduction with decreasing film thickness or increasing tensile strain, and the anharmonic phonon–phonon scattering rate is the intrinsic mechanism for the reduction in thermal conductivity. On the other hand, the replacement of Se atoms by O atoms can achieve a bidirectional and wide-range (12×) tuning of thermal conductivity. The increase in specific heat and phonon group velocity is responsible for the thermal conductivity enhancement at high doping levels while that in phonon–phonon scattering rate is responsible for the thermal conductivity reduction at low doping levels. In all cases, acoustic phonons dominate the in-plane thermal transport behavior. These findings broaden our understanding of phonon transport and its control in ferroelectric semiconductor α-In2Se3.
On the energy density in quantum mechanics
Authors: Arvizu Francisco Ricardo Torres , Ortega Adrian , Larralde Hernán
Published: November 2023

There are several definitions of energy density in quantum mechanics. These yield expressions that differ locally, but all satisfy a continuity equation and integrate to the value of the expected energy of the system under consideration. Thus, the question of whether there are physical grounds to choose one definition over another arises naturally. In this work, we propose a way to probe a system by varying the size of a well containing a quantum particle. We show that the mean work done by moving the wall is closely related to one of the definitions for energy density. Specifically, the appropriate energy density, evaluated at the wall corresponds to the force exerted by the particle locally, against which the work is done. We show that this identification extends to two and three dimensional systems.
Explainable cross-task adaptive transfer learning for motor imagery EEG classification
Authors: Miao Minmin , Yang Zhong , Zeng Hong , Zhang Wenbin , Xu Baoguo , Hu Wenjun
Published: November 2023

Objective. In the field of motor imagery (MI) electroencephalography (EEG)-based brain-computer interfaces, deep transfer learning (TL) has proven to be an effective tool for solving the problem of limited availability in subject-specific data for the training of robust deep learning (DL) models. Although considerable progress has been made in the cross-subject/session and cross-device scenarios, the more challenging problem of cross-task deep TL remains largely unexplored. Approach. We propose a novel explainable cross-task adaptive TL method for MI EEG decoding. Firstly, similarity analysis and data alignment are performed for EEG data of motor execution (ME) and MI tasks. Afterwards, the MI EEG decoding model is obtained via pre-training with extensive ME EEG data and fine-tuning with partial MI EEG data. Finally, expected gradient-based post-hoc explainability analysis is conducted for the visualization of important temporal-spatial features. Main results. Extensive experiments are conducted on one large ME EEG High-Gamma dataset and two large MI EEG datasets (openBMI and GIST). The best average classification accuracy of our method reaches 80.00% and 72.73% for OpenBMI and GIST respectively, which outperforms several state-of-the-art algorithms. In addition, the results of the explainability analysis further validate the correlation between ME and MI EEG data and the effectiveness of ME/MI cross-task adaptation. Significance. This paper confirms that the decoding of MI EEG can be well facilitated by pre-existing ME EEG data, which largely relaxes the constraint of training samples for MI EEG decoding and is important in a practical sense.
Lead-free Perovskites TlGeClxBr3-x (x=0,1,2,3) as Promising Materials for Solar Cell Application: a DFT Study
Authors: Pingak R K , Johannes A Z , Hauwali N U J , Deta U A
Published: November 2023

This study investigates the structural parameters and the electronic properties of cubic TlGeClxBr3-x (x=0,1,2,3) lead-free perovskites to evaluate their potential as absorbers in perovskite solar cell devices. Density Functional Theory (DFT) embedded in the Quantum Espresso code was used to calculate these properties. The results revealed that the compounds have optimized lattice constants of 5.244 Å, 5.336 Å, 5.416 Å, and 5.501 Å, for TlGeCl3, TlGeCl2Br, TlGeClBr2, and TlGeBr3 perovskites, respectively. In addition, the compounds are direct band gap (R→R) semiconductors with energy gap values of 0.847 eV, 0.683 eV, 0.556 eV, and 0.518 eV for the respective materials. It is important to note that the band gap of the perovskites reduces as a Cl− ion, two and three Cl− ions are replaced by a Br− ion, two and three Br− ions, respectively. The analysis of their projected density of states indicated that near the valence band maximum of the perovskites, Cl-3p and Br-4p states contributes the most to their total DOS. In contrast, the Ge-4p orbital is the most dominant state close to the conduction band minimum. Based on these energy gap values, the studied materials are promising candidates for lead-free perovskite solar cell devices, with TlGeBr3 projected to be more promising than the other three materials.
Design of Automatic Insect Trap Hypothenemus hampei Ferr. based on Solar Cells as a Source of Stinging Energy
Authors: Rachmanita R E , Anggraini S , Apriadana M I R
Published: November 2023

One of the plant-disturbing organisms that always harms coffee plants is the insect Hypothenemus hampei Ferr. which causes fruit borer attacks. This study aims to design a solar panel-based H. hampei trapper. This tool is designed to work automatically according to the settings on the solar charge controller; it can catch H. hampei effectively; this tool has a low current (DC) that is safe for farmers; this tool can be used in plantation areas far from PLN because the source of electrical energy comes from solar cells; maintenance costs are relatively cheap, but the tool is designed to operate in the long term. The H. hampei trap uses solar panels as an energy source and is equipped with a stinger that works automatically by utilizing the solar charge controller feature. The functional test results show that the tool that has been designed can work well according to the plan made. The average consumption of stingers is 23.70 Wh. The average panel energy yield is 26.85 Wh. The panels’ energy output has exceeded the amount of energy the stingers need. The tool is designed to trap H. hampei well.