bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A heart model of Earth Stewardship
Authors: Scheffer Marten , Anderies John M. , Bjordam Tone , Bollen Johan , Carpenter Stephen R. , Chapin F. Stuart , Folke Carl , Gazitua Francisco , Holmgren Milena , Marcone Jorge , Polasky Steve , Weber Elke , Westley Frances
Published: October 2024

Few disagree that we should pass on the Earth in good shape to future generations, and many scientists want their work to contribute to that goal. Recent work has shown that hopelessness stands in the way of people taking an active attitude. At the same time, it is becoming clear what can be done about that: providing compelling visions of attractive futures and highlighting feasible pathways. Currently, science and the humanities are not well designed for this task. Practices that stand in the way of a more holistic change‐making approach include proposal‐based funding, paralyzing rigor requirements, and a focus on explanation rather than action. Removing those barriers may require culture shifts, a notoriously difficult and slow kind of change. Meanwhile, realistic inspiring future scenarios can be developed by bringing diverse thinkers together in environments where time, space, and immediate outcomes are not pressing.
Construction of Spiro Systems from Tetrathiafulvalene Derivatives by a Pinacol‐Like Rearrangement
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhang Shangxi , Zhang Hui , Zheng Yuanyuan , Liang Lina , Liu Lei
Published: October 2024

An efficient and generalized pinacol‐like rearrangement of tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) derivatives has been achieved using 2, 2, 6, 6‐tetramethylpiperidine oxide (TEMPO) as a key reagent, in place of a traditional metal catalyst. Examination of numerous TTF derivatives demonstrates the reaction's exceptional tolerance to a variety of substituents, achieving an overall yield of up to 97 %. The optimization of reaction conditions and evaluation of reaction applicability were achieved by varying factors such as the first redox potentials (E11/2) of the substrate molecule, substituent type, substituent position, number of substituents, and structural symmetry. Additionally, the reaction mechanism was explored using isotopic labeling, real‐time monitoring UV‐Vis absorption spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Specifically, TTF is oxidized to TTF+⋅ by p‐toluenesulfonic acid (TsOH⋅H2O). TTF+⋅ subsequently reacts with TEMPO and H2O to form a pinacol‐like intermediate, which undergoes a rearrangement to release a 2, 2, 6, 6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐ol (TEMPOH) molecule, forming the rearranged product as a hydrogenated cation, this intermediate undergoes deprotonation, leading to the formation of the final spiro product. This investigation led to the identification of a class of reactions for the efficient conversion of TTF derivatives into their spiro products via pinacol‐like rearrangement reaction.
Using 5G Standards for Smart Healthcare Applications and Designing an Artificial Intelligence‐Based Industry 4.0 Communication System
Authors: Ozturk Bilal A. , Al‐Jumaili Ahmed Sabah Ahmed , Namiq Heba Emad , Mahajan Hemant B. , Uke Nilesh , Shamaileh Anas Atef , Mohammedqasim Hayder , Mohammedqasem Roa'a
Published: October 2024

The introduction of Industry 4.0, to improve Internet of Things (IoT) standards, has sparked the creation of 5G, or highly sophisticated wireless networks. There are several barriers standing in the way of 5G green communication systems satisfying the expectations for faster networks, more user capacity, lower resource consumption, and cost‐effectiveness. 5G standards implementation would speed up data transmission and increase the reliability of connected devices for Industry 4.0 applications. The demand for intelligent healthcare systems has increased globally as a result of the introduction of the novel COVID‐19. Designing 5G communication systems presents research problems such as optimizing resource usage, managing mobility, ensuring cost‐efficiency, managing interference, and maximizing spectral efficiency. The fast advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) in several domains yields improved performance in contrast to traditional methods. Hence, including AI in 5G standards would enhance performance by catering to diverse end‐user applications. Initially, we provide an overview of concepts such as Industry 4.0, the 5G standard, and recent developments in the sphere of wireless communications in the future. The goal is to use 5G technology to look at current research problems. We present a new architecture for Industry 4.0 and 5G‐compliant smart healthcare systems. We develop and run the proposed model to investigate the current 5G methods using the Network Simulator (NS2). The results of the simulation show that 5G resource management and interference management approaches already in use face challenges including performance trade‐offs.
Comparing Satellite, Reanalysis, Fused and Gridded (In Situ) Precipitation Products Over Türkiye
Authors: Akbas Abdullah , Ozdemir Hasan
Published: October 2024

Precipitation is the fundamental source for various research areas, including hydrology, climatology, geomorphology, and ecology, serving essential roles in modelling, distribution, and process analysis. However, the accuracy and precision of spatially distributed precipitation estimates is a critical issue, particularly for daily scale and topographically complex areas. Although many datasets have been developed based on different algorithms and sources are developed for this purpose, determining which of these datasets best reflects actual conditions is quite challenging. This study, hence, aims to compare the 25 global distributed precipitation estimates (gridded, satellite, model, and fused) concerning 221 ground‐based observations based on the ranking of 18 continuous (evaluation statistics), eight categorical (precipitation indices), and two seasonality metric (high and low precipitation). Upon examining the results, gridded and model precipitation data including APHRODITE (Asian Precipitation—Highly‐Resolved Observational Data Integration Towards Evaluation), CPC (Global Unified Gauge‐Based Analysis of Daily Precipitation), ERA5‐Land (ECMWF Reanalysis 5th Generation for Lands), and CFSR (Climate Forecast System Reanalysis) occupy the top four positions in continuous metrics. In contrast, satellite data such as PERSIANN‐PDIR (Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Networks), CMORPH (Climate Prediction Center morphing method), IMERG (The Integrated Multi‐Satellite Retrievals for GPM), and TRMM‐TMPA (Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission/Multi‐satellite Precipitation Analysis) dominate in the top four positions in categorical metrics. For seasonality of high and low precipitation, fused, gridded, and reanalyses products such as CPC, MSWEP (Multi‐Source Weighted‐Ensemble Precipitation, version 2), HydroGFD (Hydrological Global Forcing Data), CFSR rank among top four. Based on the first five rankings of all metrics, fused (multiple sourced) and gridded datasets accurately reflect the actual situations compared to other precipitation products. Reanalysis (model) and satellite‐based follow this rank, respectively. The results clearly indicate that fused precipitation derived products from multiple sources offer better accuracy and precision in representing the spatial distribution of precipitation on a daily scale.
The study of micellar transitions in mixed systems of dibranched cationic/nonionic fluorinated surfactants using various physicochemical methods
Authors: Sardi Amina , Kradra Brahma Khadidja , Bennabi Souad , Abdelkrim Soumia
Published: October 2024

In this study, a new method was introduced to induce micellar transitions by using vesicles formed from mixed surfactants, which offer enhanced stability. Different physicochemical analysis methods were used to study the transition mechanism and the aggregation behavior of the mixed aqueous system composed of the double‐chain cationic didodecyldimethylammonium bromide (DDAB) and a single‐chain nonionic fluorinated surfactant undecafluoro n‐pentyl decaoxyethylene ether (C5F11(EO)10), by varying the fraction of DDAB, then the total surfactant concentration of DDAB/C5F11(EO)10 mixed system at XDDAB = 0.9. The obtained results indicated that the addition of the fluorinated surfactant C5F11(EO)10 to the mixed system resulted in a reduction of the surface tension (γ) and a decrease in the Electrical conductivity (K). Furthermore, even at high total concentrations of the mixed system, the conductivity and charge density at the surface remained stable. As XDDAB values increased, a higher degree of dissociation (α) was observed, along with negative values in the thermodynamic parameters of micellization (Δ, Δ, and Δ), confirming the transition from micelles to vesicles. The dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis revealed the formation of two stable types of aggregates at both low and high concentrations, as supported by the zeta potential (ζ). Upon increasing the concentration of surfactants, UV–Vis absorption measurements indicated that small spherical micelles grow into large multilamellar vesicles, as evidenced by an increase in turbidity and confirmed transmission electron microscopy images.
Automatic segmentation and diameter measurement of deep medullary veins
Authors: Zhou Yichen , Zhao Bingbing , Moore Julia , Zong Xiaopeng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

As one of the pathogenic factors of cerebral small vessel disease, venous collagenosis may result in the occlusion or stenosis of deep medullary veins (DMVs). Although numerous DMVs can be observed in susceptibility‐weighted MRI images, their diameters are usually smaller than the MRI resolution, making it difficult to segment them and quantify their sizes. We aim to automatically segment DMVs and measure their diameters from gradient‐echo images.

Methods

A neural network model was trained for DMV segmentation based on the gradient‐echo magnitude and phase images of 20 subjects at 7 T. The diameters of DMVs were obtained by fitting measured complex images with model images that accounted for the DMV‐induced magnetic field and point spread function. A phantom study with graphite rods of different diameters was conducted to validate the proposed method. Simulation was carried out to evaluate the voxel‐size dependence of measurement accuracy for a typical DMV size.

Results

The automatically segmented DMV masks had Dice similarity coefficients of 0.68 ± 0.03 (voxel level) and 0.83 ± 0.04 (cluster level). The fitted graphite‐rod diameters closely matched their true values. In simulation, the fitted diameters closely matched the true value when voxel size was ≤ 0.45 mm, and 92.2% of DMVs had diameters between 90 μm and 200 μm with a peak at about 120 μm, which agreed well with an earlier ex vivo report.

Conclusion

The proposed methods enabled efficient and quantitative study of DMVs, which may help illuminate the role of DMVs in the etiopathogenesis of cerebral small vessel disease.
Spannende Moleküle
Authors: Golfmann Maxim , Walker Johannes
Published: October 2024

Es gibt viele Arten, wie organische Moleküle unter Spannung stehen können. Setzen sie diese Energie frei, kommen neue Reaktionen oder Strukturen heraus. Einige Moleküle lassen sich nicht nur isolieren, sondern in Medikamente einbauen – und ein gespannter Cyclus war Grund für einen Nobelpreis.
Mit Nase, Fingern und Ohren sehen
Authors: Leusmann Eliza
Published: October 2024

Messungen und Schlussfolgerungen in der Chemie sind stark von optischen Eindrücken abhängig. Doch es gibt auch für blinde Menschen Möglichkeiten, sich mit Chemie zu beschäftigen und Experimente nachzuvollziehen.
Chemie und Kunst
Authors: Jembrih‐Simbürger Dubravka , Sterflinger Katja
Published: October 2024

Naturwissenschaften und Technologie an der Akademie der bildenden Künste Wien
Triple‐oxygen isotopes of stony micrometeorites by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS): Olivine, basaltic glass and iron oxide matrix effects for sensitive high‐mass resolution ion microprobe‐stable isotope (SHRIMP‐SI)
Authors: McKibbin Seann J. , Ávila Janaína N. , Ireland Trevor R. , Van Ginneken Matthias , Soens Bastien , Van Maldeghem Flore , Huber Matthew , Baeza Leonardo , Patkar Aditya , Vanhaecke Frank , Debaille Vinciane , Claeys Philippe , Goderis Steven
Published: October 2024

Rationale

Micrometeorites are extraterrestrial particles smaller than ~2 mm in diameter, most of which melted during atmospheric entry and crystallised or quenched to form ‘cosmic spherules’. Their parentage among meteorite groups can be inferred from triple‐oxygen isotope compositions, for example, by secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). This method uses sample efficiently, preserving spherules for other investigations. While SIMS precisions are improving steadily, application requires assumptions about instrumental mass fractionation, which is controlled by sample chemistry and mineralogy (matrix effects).

Methods

We have developed a generic SIMS method using sensitive high‐mass resolution ion micro probe‐stable isotope (SHRIMP‐SI) that can be applied to finely crystalline igneous textures as in cosmic spherules. We correct for oxygen isotope matrix effects using the bulk chemistry of samples obtained by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) and model bulk chemical compositions as three‐component mixtures of olivine, basaltic glass and Fe‐oxide (magnetite), finding a unique matrix correction for each target.

Results

Our first results for cosmic spherules from East Antarctica compare favourably with established micrometeorite groups defined by precise and accurate but consumptive bulk oxygen isotope methods. The Fe‐oxide content of each spherule is the main control on magnitude of oxygen isotope ratio bias, with effects on δ18O up to ~6‰. Our main peak in compositions closely coincides with so‐called ‘Group 1’ objects identified by consumptive methods.

Conclusions

The magnitude of SIMS matrix effects we find is similar to the previous intraspherule variations, which are now the limiting factor in understanding their compositions. The matrix effect for each spherule should be assessed quantitatively and individually, especially addressing Fe‐oxide content. We expect micrometeorite triple‐oxygen isotope compositions obtained by SIMS to converge on the main clusters (Groups 1 to 4) after correction firstly for magnetite content and secondarily for other phases (e.g., basaltic glass) in each target.
How do cocaine and morphine in methanol solution desorb at the last moment of Leidenfrost phenomenon‐assisted thermal desorption?
Authors: Hiraoka Kenzo , Rankin‐Turner Stephanie , Usmanov Dilshadbek T. , Akhmedov Sherzod M. , Ninomiya Satoshi
Published: October 2024

Rationale

The objective of the present study is to investigate desorption of low‐volatility analytes in Leidenfrost phenomenon‐assisted thermal desorption (LPTD).

Methods

LPTD was investigated for 5 μL solutions of 0.03 ppm cocaine or morphine in methanol (sample weight: 0.12 ng) by using heated metal surfaces (240°C) polished by abrasives with grit numbers from #5000 (~3 μm) to #100 (~200 μm).

Results

The analyte signals were detected only after the complete evaporation of methanol solvent and the formed analyte residues levitated on the heater surface. The strongest ion signals were obtained with grit number #100.

Conclusions

Because the analyte residue does not come into contact with the heated surface but levitates on the hot substrate after the evaporation of the solvent, thermal decomposition of the analyte is largely suppressed. This is a great merit of LPTD for trace analysis of low‐volatility and thermally labile compounds.
A Quasilinear Quadratic Tracking Method for Systems With Saturating Actuators
Authors: He Lidong , Li Mengran , Ni Yuqing , Tong Yanhui
Published: October 2024

Linear quadratic tracker (LQT) is usually employed to solve unconstrained tracking problems but falls short when dealing with systems exhibiting actuator saturation. This paper presents a novel quasilinear quadratic tracking method specifically designed to address this scenario. Firstly, the stochastic linearization (SL) approach is utilized to approximate the saturation nonlinearity with equivalent gains and biases using statistical properties of its input, which are thus incorporated into the system model so as to eliminate the nonlinearity. Then, different time scales are applied in the tracking controller and states in order to improve tracking accuracy. In addition, to reduce computational complexity, two algorithms are provided for approximating the equivalent gains and biases, catering to both scalar and vector control signals. Finally, the proposed algorithms are evaluated through numerical examples, demonstrating their effectiveness and superior tracking performances.
Dose Individualization for Phase I Cancer Trials With Broadened Eligibility
Authors: Silva Rebecca B. , Cheng Bin , Carvajal Richard D. , Lee Shing M.
Published: October 2024

Broadening eligibility criteria in cancer trials has been advocated to represent the intended patient population more accurately. The advantages are clear in terms of generalizability and recruitment, however there are some important considerations in terms of design for efficiency and patient safety. While toxicity may be expected to be homogeneous across these subpopulations, designs should be able to recommend safe and precise doses if subpopulations with different toxicity profiles exist. Dose‐finding designs accounting for patient heterogeneity have been proposed, but existing methods assume that the source of heterogeneity is known. We propose a broadened eligibility dose‐finding design to address the situation of unknown patient heterogeneity in phase I cancer clinical trials where eligibility is expanded, and multiple eligibility criteria could potentially lead to different optimal doses for patient subgroups. The design offers a two‐in‐one approach to dose‐finding by simultaneously selecting patient criteria that differentiate the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), using stochastic search variable selection, and recommending the subpopulation‐specific MTD if needed. Our simulation study compares the proposed design to the naive approach of assuming patient homogeneity and demonstrates favorable operating characteristics across a wide range of scenarios, allocating patients more often to their true MTD during the trial, recommending more than one MTD when needed, and identifying criteria that differentiate the patient population. The proposed design highlights the advantages of adding more variability at an early stage and demonstrates how assuming patient homogeneity can lead to unsafe or sub‐therapeutic dose recommendations.
Hydrogen Spillover‐Bridged Interfacial Water Activation of WCx and Hydrogen Recombination of Ru as Dual Active Sites for Accelerating Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Zhao Jiamin , Kou Meimei , Yuan Qing , Yuan Ying , Zhao Jinsheng
Published: October 2024

Tungsten carbide (WCx) is a promising alternative to platinum catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, strong tungsten–hydrogen bond hinders hydrogen desorption while favoring H+ reduction, thus limiting HER kinetics. Inspired by the phenomenon of hydrogen spillover in heterogeneous catalysis, a ruthenium (Ru) doped‐driven activated hydrogen migration from WCx surface to Ru is reported. This approach achieved high activity with an ultralow overpotential of 9.0 mV at 10 mA·cm−2 and superior stability at an industrial‐grade current density of 1.0 A·cm−2 @ 1.65 V. In situ attenuated total reflectance surface‐enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (ATR‐SEIRAS) and operando electrochemical impedance spectra revealed that this exceptional hydrogen production—which surpasses that of previously reported Pt/C catalysts—is attributable to the outstanding ability of WCx to induce water dissociation and hydrogen spillover from WCx to Ru surface. During the HER process, the rigid interfacial water network negatively affected the HER efficiency under alkaline conditions. The WCx sites disrupted this rigid structure, facilitating the contact between activated hydrogen (H*) and WCx sites. Subsequently, H* migrates to Ru surface, where hydrogen recombination occurs to produce H2. This work paves a new avenue for the construction of coupled catalysts at the atomic scale to facilitate HER electrocatalysis.
Controlled Distribution of MXene on the Pore Walls of Polyarylene Ether Nitrile Porous Films for Absorption‐Dominated Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Materials
Authors: Wei Renbo , Liu Kexin , Liu Yongxian , Wang Zaixing , Jiao Yayao , Huo Qi , Hua Xiufu , Wang Lingling , Wang Xun
Published: October 2024

With the increasing application of electronic devices, absorption‐dominated electromagnetic interference shielding materials (EMISM) have garnered significant attention for preventing secondary electromagnetic pollution. In this study, polyethyleneimine (PEI)‐modified MXene (PEI@MXene) is fabricated and achieved its controlled distribution on the pore walls of polyarylene ether nitrile (PEN) porous films via the phase inversion method (PIM) to obtain a closed porous skeleton of MXene on the pore walls (CPS–MPW). The resulting PEI@MXene/PEN composite film (CFx) exhibited absorption‐dominated EMIS efficiency (EMISE). Attributing to the strong interaction between PEI and the hydrophilic segment of amphiphilic Pluronic F127, with its hydrophobic segment anchored by the PEN matrix, PEI@MXene is directionally distributed on the pore walls of CFx. In addition, resulting from the cladding of MXene with PEI and isolating it with closed honeycomb pores, the obtained CFx are insulators without forming a conductive network. As a result, these CFx demonstrate absorption‐dominated EMISE with the highest SET of 41.2 dB and coefficient A higher than 0.51. Further continuous hot pressing of CFx results in thinner and denser films with an impressive specific EMISE up to 750 dB cm−1. The successful fabrication of these CPS–MPW‐type CFx with absorption‐dominated EMISE provides a reference for developing and preparing novel EMISM.
Polytriphenylamine Conjugated Microporous Polymers as Versatile Platforms for Tunable Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Worth John D. , Seddon Annela M. , Ting Valeska P. , Faul Charl F. J.
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen (H2) as a fuel source presents a promising route toward decarbonization, though challenges in its storage remain significant. This study explores the synthesis and characterization of polytriphenylamine (PTPA) conjugated microporous polymers (CMPs) for H2 storage. Utilizing a combination of Buchwald–Hartwig (BH) coupling, the Bristol–Xi'an Jiaotong (BXJ) approach, and variations in monomer reactive site stoichiometry, a polymer with specific surface areas in excess of 1150 m2 g−1 and micropore volume of 0.47 cm3 g−1 is developed. H2 storage capacities are measured, achieving excess gravimetric uptakes of 1.65 wt.% at 1 bar and 2.51 wt.% at 50 bar and 77 K, with total capacities reaching 4.40 wt.% at 100 bar and 77 K. Net adsorption isotherms reveal advantages to H2 storage using PTPA adsorbents over traditional compression up to pressures of 10 bar at 77 K. High mass transfer coefficients of 4.95 min−1 indicate a strong material affinity for H2. This study highlights the impact of monomer ratio adjustments on the porosity and excess, total, and net H2 adsorption capacities of PTPA‐based CMPs, offering insights into the importance of a non‐stoichiometric monomer concentration when developing efficient CMP‐based H2 storage materials.
Hierarchical Assembly of Ternary MOF‐Derived Sandwich Composites for High‐Efficiency Tunable Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Wu Tong , Ren Fang , Guo Zhengzheng , Wang Jiaqi , Zong Ze , Wang Lunwu , Jin Yanling , Chen Zhengyan , Ren Penggang
Published: October 2024

The proliferation of electronic devices drives the adoption of electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing materials to mitigate electromagnetic pollution. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) reveal great potential in EMW absorption field due to their unique pore structure and outstanding physicochemical properties. However, single MOFs are difficult to achieve both efficient absorption and wide frequency coverage owing to the limited electromagnetic properties and structural composition. Herein, a sandwich‐like ternary MOF composite is successfully synthesized through a hierarchical assembly strategy. Following high‐temperature treatment, the materials are converted into nitrogen‐doped porous carbon with magnetic metals, non‐magnetic metal oxides, and carbon nanotubes on the surface (labeled as TiO2/C@Co/N/C@CNT). The unique sandwich structure of the resulting derivatives provides a multi‐level microstructure and multi‐component synergistic effects, significantly enhancing electromagnetic wave absorption capabilities and broadening the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB). At 1.8 mm matching thicknesses, the material achieves a reflection loss of −56.3 dB and a 6.6 GHz EAB. Adjusting the matching thicknesses to 2.3 and 3.1 mm extends the EAB to 6.1–18 GHz, with absorption peaks of −47.6 and −47.1 dB. This work offers a novel guidance for constructing advanced MOF‐derived materials with ultra‐broadband EAB and strong EMW absorption through meticulous structural design and multiple components combination.
Flow, Heat‐Transfer, and Mixing Behaviors of Scrap Steel in a Refining Ladle with Bottom Blowing
Authors: Fang Qing , Li Xueting , Zhang Lichao , Li Yuxiang , Wang Jianhao , Zhang Hua , Ni Hongwei
Published: October 2024

The flow, heat‐transfer, and mixing behaviors of steel scraps with different amounts, positions, and sizes added from the top of the bottom‐blown 300 t ladle are numerically investigated and compared through a coupled model. In the results, it is shown that it takes 59 s to mix the temperature of molten steel after adding scrap steel at the position of x = 0 mm, y = 553.5 mm, and z = 3375 mm. The further the addition position is from the axial position of the permeable brick, the shorter the mixing time of the speed and temperature of molten steel. For the scrap amount of 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5 t, the mixing time of molten steel temperature is 44, 78, and 47 s, correspondingly, which exhibits a pattern of initial increase followed by decrease, with an ≈8 K decline in molten steel temperature for every additional 1.0 t of scrap. When considering the scrap size of 10, 30, and 50 mm, the average temperature mixing time of molten steel is 44, 61, and 45 s, respectively. In this research, theoretical guidance can be can be provided for the addition of scrap in ladle during practical production processes.
Effects of Different Austenitizing Times on the Microstructure and Properties of Cr‐Ni‐Mo‐V Series High‐Strength Steels
Authors: Zhang Liu , Lu Shumeng , Cheng Qian , Zheng Shanju , Li Mengnie , Xu Zhongdong , Xi Yuanlong
Published: October 2024

Herein, the effects of varying austenitizing times on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Cr‐Ni‐Mo‐V series high‐strength steel are investigated, discussing the mechanisms that enhance strength and toughness. By controlling the austenitizing duration, the microstructure during subsequent heat treatments is improved, leading to enhanced overall mechanical properties. The experimental steel undergoes treatments at different austenitizing times, and the microstructure is characterized using optical microscopy, energy‐dispersive spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction. Mechanical properties are assessed through tensile testing, impact testing, and microhardness measurements. The results indicate that, when comparing an austenitizing time of 1 to 1 h and 15 min, the ultimate tensile strength decreases by 10%, microhardness reduces by 78.2 HV, elongation increases by 1.39 times, and toughness improves by 80%. The enhancement in toughness is primarily attributed to the synergistic effect of tempered martensite and bainite within the microstructure. Fracture morphology analysis reveals that variations in austenitizing time affect carbide distribution, accelerate carbide dissolution, decrease the crack growth zone, and enhance toughness. This study provides valuable insights for designing Cr‐Ni‐Mo‐V series high‐strength steels with optimal strength‐toughness synergies.
Climate Crisis: Systemic Aspects of De-Carbonization and Macro-financial Requirements
Authors: Ghymers Christian
Published: October 2024

Urgent de-carbonization means a massive systemic change that requires a coherent approach for spurring global investments while reorientating them toward Emerging Market and Developing Economies (EMDEs). Both issues require a macroeconomic rebalancing with geographical and geopolitical impacts. Available model-based scenarios are dangerously misleading because they rely upon implicit assumptions that ignore the permacrisis with its growing uncertainty and the systemic and governance issues that plague the present unsustainable economic order. After giving the order of magnitude of the huge amounts of urgent investments required by global de-carbonization, this chapter warns against “greenwishing” (the illusion that low-cost solutions are at hand) and, more precisely, against two major flaws in the current financial system. First, even with a CO2 tax in view, private yields are unable to reorient investments to de-carbonization on time. Second, the asymmetric International Monetary System is unable to ensure the capital inflows necessary to close the estimated funding gap in the EMDEs. This assessment implies the need for a multilateral intervention at two levels: (i) to compensate today’s private yields in investments that abate greenhouse gases, because CO2 taxation, which needs to be slowly progressive, is unable to compensate ex ante the too high uncertain expectations on de-carbonization investments; and (ii) to issue a safe asset at the multilateral level, creating a global Lender-of-Last-Resort able to manage global liquidity, solving the Triffin Dilemma.
Contextualizing China–Africa Collaboration on Food Security: Biographical Narrative
Authors: Gammachu Biraanu
Published: October 2024

China–Africa formal contact began  over half a century ago. Understanding the compound factors in this interaction and contextualizing them with food security is an interesting subject that has preoccupied both academia and practitioners. Conceptually, this Chapter employs a biographical narrative perspective to  contextualize China–Africa collaboration on food security. In Africa, food security is an agenda item linked to foreign direct investment, cooperation, donation, and foreign assistance. China’s advancements in agricultural science, technology, and innovation make a competitive partner for Africa. In the context of the global economic divide between the Global North and the Global South, the study argues that  Africans’ self-image and continuity - i.e., their  biographical narrative - is imperative in achieving a sustainable China–Africa collaboration. Beyond physical geography, poverty dimensions, race, and/or  ethnicity , African nations have multiple realities. Reimagining China’s presence in Africa within the framework of the member states’ inimitable and multiple biographical narrative can undercut the complexity of China–Africa food security collaboration.
Technology, Information and Power: the Role of CGTN Africa in China–africa Relations
Authors: Ramontja Naledi , Petla Vhonani , Zondi Siphamandla
Published: October 2024

As the relations between Africa and China deepen, questions emerge about the extent to which people are getting included in the relationship, given the possibilities that are offered by new technologies for bridging the huge geographical distance between these two territories. The relationship has grown significantly since Mao Zedong’s Three Worlds Theory, which set out China’s global strategy in the aftermath of World War Two. Of course, Zhou Enlai's visit to Africa in the early 1960s and the expansion of Chinese foreign aid after 1968 when Peking then adopted the Eight Principles of Foreign Aid. The post-Cold War has seen a massive increase as China’s rise gained significant momentum and crystallized in the Forum for China–Africa Cooperation. This has seen billions worth of trade and investment flow into Africa, resulting in a massive expansion of critical industrial infrastructure. But with this has also come concerns and controversies about the intentions of China and the preparedness of Africa to harness this relationship to its advantage. There has been concerns about how this relationship includes or reaches out to ordinary people. In response, efforts have been made to expand people-to-people exchange through educational scholarships, research collaboration, public dialogues and, increasingly through the use of the media platforms such as Xinhua, China Central Television (CCTV) and the China Global Television Network CGTN-Africa. However, such initiatives raises questions about the role of broadcasting in China-Africa relation, and, whether it reinforces a one-way asymmetric or unequal relationship, and how does technology transfer and cooperation offer opportunities for more mutually beneficial relationships? In this regard, information technologies have a potential. This chapter will reflect on technology, information, and power in Africa–China Relations through a case study of the Nairobi-based CGNTV-Africa.
Technology Transfer and Technological Spillovers from Chinese Tech Giant in North African Countries: The Case of Huawei in Algeria
Authors: Kadi Tin Hinane El , Djeflat Abdelkader
Published: October 2024

Sino-North African relations intensified at the turn of the century with a significant growth in trade, investment, and turnkey contracts. While economic exchanges did not initially break patterns of unequal exchange, since 2013, Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has signalled a qualitative shift in China’s engagement with the region and the rest of the continent. China has committed to increase investments in high value-added sectors, promote research and innovation and to boost cooperation in science, technology and research with countries across North Africa in the digital sector in particular which is emerging significantly in China-North African partnerships. China is becoming ever-more important actors in North Africa through the Digital Silk Road (DSR), the digital component of the BRI. North African governments see the Digital Silk Road as an opportunity to help bridge the digital divide and bolster their own national efforts to build digital economies, create jobs for the millions of unemployed university graduates and ultimately succeed in effective technology transfer mainly through training and spillover. Drawing on the rich literature on technology transfer and innovation in developing countries and an extensive field work conducted through observant participation methodology in the Algerian industrial sector, this chapter aims at assessing the developmental implications of the Digital. Using the case of the giant chinese tech company Huawei, it will attempt to unpack dynamics between Chinese and local state agencies, firms and universities, and assess the resulting outcomes in terms of technology transfer.
China’s Green Energy Investment in Kenya, Ethiopia and Tanzania: Implications for Aid Policy
Authors: Onjala Joseph
Published: October 2024

Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) countries deal with multiple challenges in the transition to a modern and sustainable energy system. The countries are faced with severe shortage of energy supply after nearly two decades of fast-growing economic activity. The energy challenges are often exacerbated by unsatisfactory services. China’s development financing (among other donors) in infrastructure development has been handy in alleviating the energy challenge in SSA. In this chapter, we examine China’s energy finance in Kenya, Ethiopia and Tanzania as case studies. The Chinese development finance has been however split to several other sectors such as transport infrastructure, manufacturing, construction, agriculture and tourism industry. Characteristically, Chinese development support has been channelled in sectors that Western development partners have shown reluctance to engage. The green energy finance benefitted sectors that ranked high among the flagship projects across the Eastern Africa countries. Even with a multiplicity of donor support, the Eastern Africa region faces myriad challenges in transitioning to modern and sustainable energy systems. Our analysis points to the need to re-examine the debt policy in order to optimize on both the technological and economic benefits of Chinese financial flows to the energy sector.
China–Africa Higher Education Collaboration from the Perspective of Synergistic: The Case of Beijing Foreign Studies University
Authors: Yang Dan , Tang Mingfeng , Zhang Yakun , Mei Yifan , Muchie Mammo
Published: October 2024

The collaboration of China with Africa started with infrastructure synergistic in 1976 by building the Tanzam Railway with the cooperation of China with Tanzania and Zambia. China has continued to support Africa with infrastructure development. Since China launched the “Belt and Road” initiative in 2013, it has been widely supported by many African countries. Education, as the foundation of national prosperity and people's wellbeing plays a fundamental and leading role in China–Africa joint construction of the “Belt and Road”. The relationship of China with Africa is synergistic as the inputs generate outputs that are more than the sum of the parts by working together with cooperation. This research takes one of the leading Chinese universities—Beijing Foreign Studies University as a case study by being inspired with the theory of synergistic. The research analyses the mechanism of interaction and coupling between China and Africa universities, governments, international organizations (e.g. United Nations, UNESCO) to demonstrate cooperative actions, achievements and future cooperation outlook of Beijing Foreign Studies University from the perspective of synergistic, and highlights some policy and managerial implications, and makes some recommendations.
China–Africa Collaboration in Agriculture and Food Security: Prospects and Challenges
Authors: Kampini Tamika , Kalepa Jessie
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores the collaboration between China and Africa in the field of agriculture and food security. China and Africa have a long-standing partnership in various sectors, and agriculture and food security have emerged as key area of collaboration in recent years. Through various initiatives and programs, China and Africa have been working together to address the challenges of food insecurity in Africa, which is a significant impediment to the continent's economic growth and development. However, there are also challenges associated with the collaboration. One of the main challenges is ensuring that the collaboration is based on reciprocal benefit, respect, and understanding, and that it does not lead to the exploitation of African resources or undermine local agriculture systems. This chapter argues that while the collaboration between China and Africa in agriculture and food security presents significant opportunities for addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable development in Africa, there are also challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that it contributes to sustainable development in the long run.
The Role of the Financial Sector in Energy Justice
Authors: Šeho Mirzet , Hodžić Sabina
Published: October 2024

As the twenty-first century is characterised by a growing awareness of climate change and environmental degradation, the financial sector has started to channel funds into more sustainable energy investments. Therefore, this chapter provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of how the financial sector, along with financial institutions and financial innovation, can be a powerful ally in the pursuit of energy justice. Furthermore, this chapter presents how financial institutions, instruments, and innovations play a crucial role in shaping sustainable energy systems. Therefore, policymakers, financial institutions, and energy companies need to work together to create regulatory frameworks and investment strategies for the global energy transition. This will not only fulfil economic or environmental but also moral requirements to ensure a just and sustainable future for all generations.
Differential uptake of arginine derivatives by the human heteromeric amino acid transporter b0,+AT-rBAT (SLC7A9-SLC3A1)
Authors: Banjarnahor Sofna , Scherpinski Lorenz A. , Keller Max , König Jörg , Maas Renke
Published: October 2024

L-arginine and its (patho-)physiologically active derivatives, L-homoarginine and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), show significant differences in their renal clearance. The underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated, but selective tubular transport protein-mediated mechanisms likely play a role. In the present study, we investigate the human heteromeric transporter b0,+AT-rBAT (encoded by the SLC7A9 and SLC3A1 genes) as a potential candidate because it is localized in the luminal membrane of human proximal tubule cells and capable of mediating the cellular uptake of amino acids, including L-arginine. Double-transfected Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells stably expressing human b0,+AT-rBAT exhibited significant uptake of L-arginine and L-homoarginine, with apparent Km values of 512.6 and 197.0 μM, respectively. On the contrary, ADMA uptake was not saturated up to 4000 μM, with a transport rate > 5 nmol × mg protein−1 × min−1. With an IC50 value of 115.8 μM, L-arginine inhibited L-homoarginine uptake. Conversely, L-arginine only exhibited a partial inhibitory effect on ADMA uptake. Taken together, our data indicate that b0,+AT-rBAT may contribute to the differential renal handling of L-arginine, L-homoarginine, and ADMA.
Relationships Between Experiences of Autonomy and Well(Ill)-Being for K-12 Youth: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vite Amanda , Patall Erika A. , Chen Man
Published: October 2024

Childhood and adolescence are pivotal developmental stages for psychological health. An understanding of psychological mechanisms related to well-being is important for promoting positive life outcomes for youth. Research generally shows that the basic psychological need for autonomy is significantly associated with well-being. To examine the magnitude and sources of variation in this relationship, we conducted a meta-analysis of 90 reports to analyze the average effect of autonomy need satisfaction (ANS) and frustration (ANF) on indicators of psychological well- and ill-being for K-12 (Kindergarten to 12th grade) youth. Results indicated that ANS was positively associated with psychological well-being and negatively associated with psychological ill-being among youth. Further, ANF was negatively associated with psychological well-being and positively associated with psychological ill-being. Moderator analyses indicated that the association between ANS and well-being was stronger for studies conducted with children and adolescents in East Asian countries compared to studies conducted in the USA, Canada, or Northern Europe when controlling for publication status and measurement reliability. Results also showed that the average correlation between ANS and well-being was stronger for studies located in more collectivistic countries compared to individualistic countries when controlling for publication status and measurement reliability. The relationship between ANS and ill-being was stronger for studies conducted in the USA and Canada compared to East Asian and European contexts. Together, results suggest that autonomy satisfaction is related to the well- and ill-being of youth across cultural contexts, but that there is cultural variation in the association between experiences of autonomy and well-being.
Paleo-ecological quality status induced by natural and anthropogenic impacts in the last 2000 years: a multidisciplinary approach in the outer region of Sepetiba Bay (SE Brazil)
Authors: Saibro Murilo Barros , Alves Martins Maria Virgínia , Figueira Rubens , Pereira Egberto , Evangelista Heitor , Licínio Marcus Vinícius , Guerra Josefa Varela , de Castro Figueiredo Simões Felipe , Bouchet Vincent Marcel Pierre , Francescangeli Fabio , Fontalini Fabrizo , de Lima Ferreira Paulo Alves , de Oliveira Ana Beatriz Ramos , Dasmaceno Fabricio Leandro , Senez-Mello Thaise , Reis Graziele Arantes , Sousa Silvia Helena Mello , Dino Rodolfo , dos Reis Antonio Tadeu , de Alencar Castro João Wagner , Rocha Fernando
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Some marine organisms can be used as Biological Quality Elements to estimate the degree of environmental impact and to monitor the health of benthic habitats. Organisms with mineralized protections, such as benthic foraminifera, can provide helpful information on the evolution of the coastal system over a long period and determine the Paleo-Ecological Quality Status (Paleo-EcoQS). This work aims at reconstructing the Paleo-EcoQS in the heavily anthropized Sepetiba Bay (SB; Rio de Janeiro State, SE Brazil).

Materials and methods

This work is based on a multiproxy approach, including textural, geochemical, and foraminiferal data along the core SP11 retrieved near the Pico da Marambaia (a mountain on the tip of the Marambaia Barrier Island). Geochemical analyses encompassing total organic carbon (TOC), total sulfur (S), total nitrogen (N), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), stable isotopes in organic matter (OMδ13C, and OMδ15N) and elemental concentrations as well as 201Pb, 137Cs, and radiocarbon dating were performed to characterize the Paleo-EcoQS in the bay.

Results

The values of the Paleo-EcoQS.st (standardized Paleo-EcoQS) index in core SP11 indicate that the paleoenvironmental quality varied from moderate to good between ≈50 AD and ≈1500 AD and from good to high between the ~ 1920s and ~ 1990s. Since the 1990s, the Paleo-EcoQS.st has deteriorated considerably, probably due to the deposition of contaminated dredging material in nearby areas. Ballast water discharge may have introduced alien species, such as Ammonia buzasi, into the SB.

Conclusions

The results obtained in core SP11, compared to those of another core (i.e., SP8) from a nearby area, suggest that the reference level of maximum environmental quality is not always reached in a period before industrialization in coastal ecosystems with significant interaction with the ocean; natural factors, related, for example, to sedimentary dynamic processes or geomorphological changes, can lead to unexpected results.