bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Boron Nitride Additive on Thermal and Thermochromic Properties of Organic Thermochromic Phase Change Materials
Authors: Paprota Natalia , Szumera Magdalena , Pielichowska Kinga
Published: July 2024

Thermochromic phase change materials (TPCMs) are gaining increasing interest among scientists. These multifunctional materials can store thermal energy but also, at the same time, during the phase transition, they can change colour. Thermal conductivity is also extremely important for this type of material, which is why various additives are used for this purpose. This work aimed to study the properties of thermochromic phase change materials with an inorganic modifier. Stearic acid, behenyl alcohol, and bromocresol purple were used as thermochromic system components, while boron nitride particles were used as an additive. The key tests for such systems are thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), which allow determining the thermal stability of the materials (at around 170 °C) and phase transition parameters (thermal energy storage of 300 J/g in the range of 40–75 °C). The thermochromic properties were tested, and satisfactory results were obtained. In the end, laser flash analysis (LFA) tests indicated that boron nitride improves the thermal conductivity of the organic thermochromic phase change material by almost 30%. The results showed that the tested materials have great potential as thermochromic phase change materials for thermal energy storage.
Electromagnetic Characterization of EAC-1A and JSC-2A Lunar Regolith Simulants
Authors: Ramos Somolinos David , Plaza Gallardo Borja , Cidrás Estévez José , Stepanyan Narek , Cowley Aidan , Auñón Marugán Alicia , Poyatos Martínez David
Published: July 2024

The development of devices for the in situ resource utilization (ISRU) of lunar surface powder (regolith) by means of microwaves needs regolith simulants with electromagnetic properties similar to the lunar regolith. This document deals with the measurement of complex permittivity and dielectric loss tangent of the aforementioned simulants at ambient temperature from 400 MHz to 20 GHz, performing measurements using two lunar dust simulants, EAC-1A and JSC-2A, resulting, on the one hand, in permittivity values of ε′=−0.0432f+4.0397 for the EAC-1A lunar dust simulant and ε′=−0.0432f+4.0397 for the JSC-2A simulant, and on the other hand, in loss tangent values of tanδe=−0.0015f+0.0659 for the EAC-1A powder and tanδe=−0.0039f+0.1429 for the JSC-2A powder. In addition, further studies are carried out taking into account the humidity of the samples and their densities at room temperature. The obtained results are applicable for comparing the measured values of EAC-1A and JSC-2A between them and with other previously measured simulants and real samples. The measurements are carried out by applying two different nonresonant techniques: Open-Ended Coaxial Probe (OECP) and transmission line. For this purpose, the DAK and EpsiMu commercial kits are used, respectively.
Unveiling Malicious Network Flows Using Benford’s Law
Authors: Fernandes Pedro , Ciardhuáin Séamus Ó , Antunes Mário
Published: July 2024

The increasing proliferation of cyber-attacks threatening the security of computer networks has driven the development of more effective methods for identifying malicious network flows. The inclusion of statistical laws, such as Benford’s Law, and distance functions, applied to the first digits of network flow metadata, such as IP addresses or packet sizes, facilitates the detection of abnormal patterns in the digits. These techniques also allow for quantifying discrepancies between expected and suspicious flows, significantly enhancing the accuracy and speed of threat detection. This paper introduces a novel method for identifying and analyzing anomalies within computer networks. It integrates Benford’s Law into the analysis process and incorporates a range of distance functions, namely the Mean Absolute Deviation (MAD), the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test (KS), and the Kullback–Leibler divergence (KL), which serve as dispersion measures for quantifying the extent of anomalies detected in network flows. Benford’s Law is recognized for its effectiveness in identifying anomalous patterns, especially in detecting irregularities in the first digit of the data. In addition, Bayes’ Theorem was implemented in conjunction with the distance functions to enhance the detection of malicious traffic flows. Bayes’ Theorem provides a probabilistic perspective on whether a traffic flow is malicious or benign. This approach is characterized by its flexibility in incorporating new evidence, allowing the model to adapt to emerging malicious behavior patterns as they arise. Meanwhile, the distance functions offer a quantitative assessment, measuring specific differences between traffic flows, such as frequency, packet size, time between packets, and other relevant metadata. Integrating these techniques has increased the model’s sensitivity in detecting malicious flows, reducing the number of false positives and negatives, and enhancing the resolution and effectiveness of traffic analysis. Furthermore, these techniques expedite decisions regarding the nature of traffic flows based on a solid statistical foundation and provide a better understanding of the characteristics that define these flows, contributing to the comprehension of attack vectors and aiding in preventing future intrusions. The effectiveness and applicability of this joint method have been demonstrated through experiments with the CICIDS2017 public dataset, which was explicitly designed to simulate real scenarios and provide valuable information to security professionals when analyzing computer networks. The proposed methodology opens up new perspectives in investigating and detecting anomalies and intrusions in computer networks, which are often attributed to cyber-attacks. This development culminates in creating a promising model that stands out for its effectiveness and speed, accurately identifying possible intrusions with an F1 of nearly 80%, a recall of 99.42%, and an accuracy of 65.84%.
Caritas’s Work for the Goals of Agenda 2030: A Study on the Services Provided in Campania
Authors: Musella Mario , Camminatiello Ida , Izzo Francesco
Published: July 2024

The United Nations’ Agenda 2030 has established a series of Sustainable Development Goals to address global challenges, including poverty, food insecurity, access to education, and social inequality. In this context, charitable organizations such as Caritas play a crucial role in mitigating the negative effects of these challenges and promoting fair and sustainable development. This study aims to analyze prevalent needs among individuals seeking assistance from Caritas in Campania and examine how the organization contributes to achieving the Agenda 2030 Goals in the region. The statistical investigation techniques considered include tandem analysis a dimension-reduction technique, such as multiple factor analysis, and then a cluster analysis to identify similar groups of individuals. These exploratory data analysis methods have allowed for the identification of common needs, including food assistance, support for education, employment, and housing assistance. Subsequently, Caritas programs and initiatives aimed at meeting these needs and promoting sustainable development are explored. The results indicate that Caritas plays a significant role in addressing the urgent needs of the vulnerable population in Campania and contributes to the goals of Agenda 2030, particularly those related to poverty alleviation, immigration, health promotion, education, employment, and the reduction of social inequalities. This study provides an important perspective on the relevance and effectiveness of Caritas’s work in the context of Agenda 2030.
Genetic Engineering and Innovative Cultivation Strategies for Enhancing the Lutein Production in Microalgae
Authors: Coleman Bert , Vereecke Elke , Van Laere Katrijn , Novoveska Lucie , Robbens Johan
Published: July 2024

Carotenoids, with their diverse biological activities and potential pharmaceutical applications, have garnered significant attention as essential nutraceuticals. Microalgae, as natural producers of these bioactive compounds, offer a promising avenue for sustainable and cost-effective carotenoid production. Despite the ability to cultivate microalgae for its high-value carotenoids with health benefits, only astaxanthin and β-carotene are produced on a commercial scale by Haematococcus pluvialis and Dunaliella salina, respectively. This review explores recent advancements in genetic engineering and cultivation strategies to enhance the production of lutein by microalgae. Techniques such as random mutagenesis, genetic engineering, including CRISPR technology and multi-omics approaches, are discussed in detail for their impact on improving lutein production. Innovative cultivation strategies are compared, highlighting their advantages and challenges. The paper concludes by identifying future research directions, challenges, and proposing strategies for the continued advancement of cost-effective and genetically engineered microalgal carotenoids for pharmaceutical applications.
Synthesis-Dependent Structural and Magnetic Properties of Monodomain Cobalt Ferrite Nanoparticles
Authors: Milutinović Aleksandra , Lazarević Zorica Ž. , Šuljagić Marija , Andjelković Ljubica
Published: July 2024

This research examines the structural and magnetic properties of monodomain cobalt ferrite nanoparticles with the formula (Co1−xFex)A[Fe2−xCox]BO4. The particles were synthesized using various methods, including coprecipitation (with and without ultrasonic assistance), coprecipitation followed by mechanochemical treatment, microemulsion, and microwave-assisted hydrothermal techniques. The resulting materials were extensively analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and magnetic measurements to investigate how different synthesis methods affect the structure and cation distribution in nanoscale CoFe2O4. For particles ranging from 15.8 to 19.0 nm in size, the coercivity showed a near-linear increase from 302 Oe to 1195 Oe as particle size increased. Saturation magnetization values fell between 62.6 emu g−1 and 74.3 emu g−1, primarily influenced by the inversion coefficient x (0.58–0.85). XRD analysis revealed that as the larger Co2+ cations migrate from B- to A-sites (decreasing x), the lattice constants and inter-cation hopping distances increase, while the average strength of super-exchange interactions decreases. This study establishes a connection between the magnetic properties of the synthesized samples and their structural features. Importantly, this research demonstrates that careful selection of the synthesis method can be used to control the magnetic properties of these nanoparticles.
An Experimental Study in Laser-Assisted Machining of AerMet100 Steel
Authors: Tang Yu , Zhao Yugang , Meng Shuo , Zhang Yusheng , Fan Qilong , Yang Shimin , Zhang Guiguan , Meng Jianbing
Published: July 2024

To solve the problems of poor surface quality and low tool life in conventional machining (CM) of AerMet100 steel, an experimental study was conducted in laser-assisted machining (LAM) of AerMet100 steel. The effects of laser power, cutting speed, feed rate, and depth of cut on the surface roughness of AerMet100 steel were studied based on a single-factor experiment. The degree of influence of each factor on the surface roughness was evaluated by analyses of variance and range in the orthogonal experiment, and the combination of process parameters for the optimal surface roughness was obtained. The order of influence was as follows: laser power > cutting speed > depth of cut > feed rate; the optimal combination of process parameters was laser power 200 W, cutting speed 56.5 m/min, feed rate 0.018 mm/rev, and depth of cut 0.3 mm. Compared to CM, the surface morphology of the workpiece under the optimization of LAM was relatively smooth and flat, the surface roughness Ra was 0.402 μm, which was reduced by 62.11%, the flank wear was reduced from 208.69 μm to 52.17 μm, there were no tipping or notches, and the tool life was significantly improved. The study shows that the LAM of AerMet100 steel has obvious advantages in improving surface quality and reducing tool wear.
A Saturation Artifacts Inpainting Method Based on Two-Stage GAN for Fluorescence Microscope Images
Authors: Liu Jihong , Gao Fei , Zhang Lvheng , Yang Haixu
Published: July 2024

Fluorescence microscopic images of cells contain a large number of morphological features that are used as an unbiased source of quantitative information about cell status, through which researchers can extract quantitative information about cells and study the biological phenomena of cells through statistical and analytical analysis. As an important research object of phenotypic analysis, images have a great influence on the research results. Saturation artifacts present in the image result in a loss of grayscale information that does not reveal the true value of fluorescence intensity. From the perspective of data post-processing, we propose a two-stage cell image recovery model based on a generative adversarial network to solve the problem of phenotypic feature loss caused by saturation artifacts. The model is capable of restoring large areas of missing phenotypic features. In the experiment, we adopt the strategy of progressive restoration to improve the robustness of the training effect and add the contextual attention structure to enhance the stability of the restoration effect. We hope to use deep learning methods to mitigate the effects of saturation artifacts to reveal how chemical, genetic, and environmental factors affect cell state, providing an effective tool for studying the field of biological variability and improving image quality in analysis.
Preparation of High-Purity Quartz Sand by Vein Quartz Purification and Characteristics: A Case Study of Pakistan Vein Quartz
Authors: Xia Mei , Yang Xiaoyong , Hou Zhenhui
Published: July 2024

This study focuses on the purification and evaluation of the high-purity quartz (HPQ) potential of vein quartz ore from Pakistan. Vein quartz is grayish-white and translucent, with its mineral composition mainly comprising quartz crystal. Processed quartz sand is obtained from quartz raw ore through purifying technologies, including crushing, ultrasonic desliming, flotation, high-temperature calcination, water quenching, hot pressure acid leaching, and chlorination roasting. The microscopic characteristics show that the vein quartz raw ore has a medium-coarse granular metacrystalline structure, high quartz content, with only a small quantity of fine-grained K-feldspar. The inclusions primarily consist of large-sized primary inclusions and secondary fluid inclusions developed along the micro-fractures, and the content of inclusions in most areas of the crystal is very low or even nonexistent. The quartz ore with such inclusion characteristics is considered a relatively good raw material for quartz. Component analysis shows that the main impurity elements in the quartz ore are Al, K, Ca, Na, Ti, Fe, and Li, with a total impurity element content of 128.86 µg·g−1. After purification, only lattice impurity elements Al, Ti, and Li remain in the processed quartz sand, resulting in a total impurity element content of 24.23 µg·g−1, an impurity removal rate of 81.20%, and the purity of SiO2 reaching 99.998 wt.%. It is suggested that when the quartz raw ore contains high content of lattice impurity elements, such as Al, Li, and Ti, it is difficult to remove them by the current purification method. In industrial production, considering the economic cost, if quartz sand still contains high content of lattice impurity elements Al, Ti, and Li after flotation, it cannot be used as a raw material for high-end HPQ.
FIB-SEM Study of Archaeological Human Petrous Bones: 3D Structures and Diagenesis
Authors: Ibrahim Jamal , Mintz Eugenia , Regev Lior , Regev Dalit , Gronau Ilan , Weiner Steve , Boaretto Elisabetta
Published: July 2024

The petrous bone generally preserves ancient DNA better than other fossil bones. One reason for this is that the inner layer of the petrous bone of pigs and humans contains about three times as many osteocytes as other bones, and hence more DNA. A FIB-SEM study of modern pig petrous bones showed that the 3D structure of the thin inner layer is typical of woven bone that forms in the fetus, whereas the thicker outer layer has a lamellar structure. The lamellar structure is common in mammalian bones. Here we study human petrous bones that are about 2500 years old, obtained from three Phoenician sites in Sicily, Italy. A detailed FIB-SEM study of two of these bones, one well preserved and the other poorly preserved, shows that the 3D bone type structure of the human petrous inner layer is woven bone, and the outer layer is lamellar bone. These are the same bone type structures found in pig petrous bones. Furthermore, by comparing nine differently preserved petrous bones from the same archaeological region and age, we show that their collagen contents vary widely, implying that organic material can be significantly altered during diagenesis. The mineral crystals are better preserved and hence less crystalline in the inner layers compared to the outer layers. We therefore infer that the best-preserved DNA in fossil petrous bones should be found in the thin inner layers immediately adjacent to the otic cavity where much more DNA is initially present and the mineral phase tends to be better preserved.
Recent Uses of Ionic Liquids in the Recovery and Utilization of Rare Earth Elements
Authors: Alguacil Francisco Jose , Robla Jose Ignacio , Rodriguez Largo Olga
Published: July 2024

The importance of rare earth elements as a basis for the development of new technologies or the improvement of existing ones makes their recovery from raw and waste materials necessary. In this recovery, hydrometallurgy and its derivative solvometallurgy play key roles due to their operational characteristics, which are emphasized with the use of ionic liquids. This manuscript reviews the most recent advances (2023 and 2024) in the use of ionic liquids in unit operations (leaching and separation technologies) aimed at the recovery of these valuable and strategic metals. Moreover, a comprehensive review is presented of the use of these chemicals in the development of advanced materials containing some of these rare earth elements.
Impacts of Impurity Removal Chemical Pretreatment Procedures on the Composition and Adsorption Properties of Bentonites
Authors: Koroleva Tatiana , Krupskaya Victoria , Tyupina Ekaterina , Morozov Ivan , Kozlov Pavel , Pokidko Boris , Zakusin Sergey , Zaitseva Tatiana
Published: July 2024

This work is based on a detailed study of samples from three industrial bentonite deposits in Russia (10th Khutor, Zyryanskoe) and Kazakhstan (Taganskoe). The samples of the listed bentonites were undergoing stage-by-stage purification from carbonates, organic matter, and non-clay iron-bearing phase procedures. The conducted research revealed changes in the composition of bentonites already at the first stage of purification, which, however, were not noted for all bentonites, as well as a change in the forms of Fe in smectite structure. The latter is probably associated with changes in cis- and trans-vacant positions. Sorption characteristics with respect to 137Cs are determined using the localization and charges in the smectite layer and the slight changes during purification, along with the specific surface area indicators.
Serious Games for Cognitive Rehabilitation in Older Adults: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Guzmán Diego E. , Rengifo Carlos F. , García-Cena Cecilia E.
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a conceptual framework for the development of serious games aimed at cognitive rehabilitation in older adults. Following Jabareen’s methodology, a literature review was conducted to identify concepts and theories that are relevant in this field. The resulting framework comprises the use of virtual reality, integration of physical activity, incorporation of social interaction features, adaptability of difficulty levels, and customization of game content. The interconnections between these concepts and underlying cognitive theories, such as the cognitive reserve hypothesis and the scaffolding theory of aging and cognition, are highlighted. As we are in the early stages of our research, our goal is to introduce and test novel interpretations of current knowledge within this conceptual framework. Additionally, the practical implications of the conceptual framework are discussed, including its strengths and limitations, as well as its relevance for future research and clinical practice in the field of cognitive rehabilitation. It is hoped that this framework will provide a guide for the design and implementation of effective interventions to improve cognitive health and well-being in the older adult population.
Output Characteristics of External-Cavity Mode-Hop-Free Tunable Laser Source in C+L Band
Authors: Sun Jisheng , Qiu Liqiang , Liu Lei , Sheng Liwen , Cui Yudong , Huang Lin , Pan Mengchun , Nian Fushun , Hu Jiafei
Published: July 2024

Tunable laser sources with a wide wavelength tuning range, mode-hop-free (MHF) operation, and high spectral purity are essential for applications such as high-resolution spectroscopy, coherent detection, and intelligent fiber sensing. In this paper, we present a wide-range tunable laser source that operates without mode hopping, based on external cavity feedback using a semiconductor gain chip as the laser gain medium. The wavelength, power, and spectral characteristics of the laser are experimentally measured. A wide MHF continuous wavelength tuning range from 1480 nm to 1620 nm with a side-mode suppression ratio of more than 61.65 dB is achieved. An output optical power of more than 11.14 dBm with good power stability can also be realized in the full C+L band. This proposed external-cavity tunable laser source features a narrow intrinsic linewidth and MHF tunable radiation with a maximum sweep speed of 200 nm/s, enabling practical applications such as high-resolution vector spectrum analysis.
Nonlinear Dynamics of Silicon-Based Epitaxial Quantum Dot Lasers under Optical Injection
Authors: Fang Ruilin , Xia Guang-Qiong , Zheng Yan-Fei , Wang Qing-Qing , Wu Zheng-Mao
Published: July 2024

For silicon-based epitaxial quantum dot lasers (QDLs), the mismatches of the lattice constants and the thermal expansion coefficients lead to the generation of threaded dislocations (TDs), which act as the non-radiative recombination centers through the Shockley–Read–Hall (SRH) recombination. Based on a three-level model including the SRH recombination, the nonlinear properties of the silicon-based epitaxial QDLs under optical injection have been investigated theoretically. The simulated results show that, through adjusting the injection parameters including injection strength and frequency detuning, the silicon-based epitaxial QDLs can display rich nonlinear dynamical states such as period one (P1), period two (P2), multi-period (MP), chaos (C), and injection locking (IL). Relatively speaking, for a negative frequency detuning, the evolution of the dynamical state with the injection strength is more abundant, and an evolution path P1-P2-MP-C-MP-IL has been observed. Via mapping the dynamical state in the parameter space of injection strength and frequency detuning under different SRH recombination lifetime, the effects of SRH recombination lifetime on the nonlinear dynamical state of silicon-based epitaxial QDLs have been analyzed.
Role of Endophytic Entomopathogenic Fungi in Mediating Host Selection, Biology, Behavior, and Management of Tarnished Plant Bug, Lygus lineolaris (Hemiptera: Miridae)
Authors: George Justin , Glover James P. , Perera Omaththage P. , Reddy Gadi V. P.
Published: July 2024

Non-insecticidal control strategies using entomopathogens, nematodes, and endophytes provide sustainable and safer alternatives for managing crop pests. This study investigated the potential of different fungal endophytes, specifically Beauveria bassiana strains, in colonizing cotton plants and their efficacy against tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris. The effect of endophytes on plant growth parameters and cotton yield were measured during different plant growth stages. The entomopathogenicity of these fungi was studied in diet cup bioassays using L. lineolaris adults. The behavior of adult males and females toward endophytic cotton squares was analyzed using olfactometer assays. The experiments showed that the fungal endophytes colonized the plant structures of cotton plants, which resulted in an increase in the number of cotton squares, plant height, and weight compared to control plants. B. bassiana strains/isolates such as GHA, NI-8, and JG-1 caused significant mortality in Lygus adults compared to controls. Also, male and female Lygus adults exhibited repellence behavior towards endophytic cotton squares containing JG-1 isolate of B. bassiana and to other B. bassiana strains such as NI-8, GHA, and SPE-120. No differences were observed in the survival and development of L. lineolaris second-instar nymphs on endophytic cotton, and no yield differences were observed in the field experiments.
Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds: Insights into Plant Defense
Authors: Montejano-Ramírez Vicente , Ávila-Oviedo José Luis , Campos-Mendoza Francisco Javier , Valencia-Cantero Eduardo
Published: July 2024

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are low molecular weight molecules that tend to evaporate easily at room temperature because of their low boiling points. VOCs are emitted by all organisms; therefore, inter- and intra-kingdom interactions have been established, which are fundamental to the structuring of life on our planet. One of the most studied interactions through VOCs is between microorganism VOCs (mVOCs) and plants, including those of agricultural interest. The mVOC interactions generate various advantages for plants, ranging from promoting growth to the activation of defense pathways triggered by salicylic acid (systemic acquired resistance) and jasmonic acid (induced systemic resistance) to protect them against phytopathogens. Additionally, mVOCs directly inhibit the growth of phytopathogens, thereby providing indirect protection to plants. Among the current agricultural problems is the extensive use of chemicals, such as fertilizers, intended to combat production loss, and pesticides to combat phytopathogen infection. This causes problems in food safety and environmental pollution. Therefore, to overcome this problem, it is important to identify alternatives that do not generate environmental impacts, such as the application of mVOCs. This review addresses the protective effects of mVOCs emitted by microorganisms from different kingdoms and their implications in plant defense pathways.
From Synthesis to Functionality: Tailored Ionic Liquid-Based Electrospun Fibers with Superior Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Rackov Sanja , Pilić Branka , Janković Nenad , Kosanić Marijana , Petković Marijana , Vraneš Milan
Published: July 2024

Herein, we report an efficient and facile strategy for the preparation of imidazolium-based ionic liquid (IL) monomers ([CnVIm][Br], n = 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12) and their corresponding polymeric ionic liquids (PILs) with potent antimicrobial activities against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and fungi. The electrospinning technique was utilized to tailor the polymers with the highest antimicrobial potency into porous membranes that can be easily implemented into diverse systems and extend their practical bactericidal application. The antimicrobial mechanism of obtained ILs, polymers, and nanomaterials is considered concerning the bearing chain length, polymerization process, and applied processing technique that provides a unique fibrous structure. The structure composition was selected due to the well-established inherent amphiphilicity that 1-alkylimidazolium ILs possess, coupled with proven antimicrobial, antiseptic, and antifungal behavior. The customizable nature of ILs and PILs complemented with electrospinning is exploited for the development of innovative antimicrobial performances born from the intrinsic polymer itself, offering solutions to the increasing challenge of bacterial resistance. This study opens up new prospects toward designer membranes providing a complete route in their designing and revolutionizing the approach of fabricating multi-functional systems with tunable physicochemical, surface properties, and interesting morphology.
Converting Candlenut Shell Waste into Graphene for Electrode Applications
Authors: Siburian Rikson , Tarigan Kerista , Manik Yosia Gopas Oetama , Hutagalung Fajar , Alias Yatimah , Chan Yong Ching , Chang Boon Peng , Siow Jonathan , Ong Amanda Jiamin , Huang Jingfeng , Paiman Suriati , Goh Boon Tong , Simatupang Lisnawaty , Goei Ronn , Tok Alfred Iing Yoong , Yahya Mohd Fakharul Zaman Raja , Bahfie Fathan
Published: July 2024

Graphene was synthesized through a two-step pyrolysis method using waste candlenut (Aleurites moluccanus) shells as the precursor. Cerium (Ce)/graphene composites were prepared via an impregnation technique. The resulting graphene and Ce/graphene were characterized using various analytical methods, including Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Thermo Gravimetric Analysis (TGA), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), and Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV). The bio-carbon produced predominantly exhibited a graphene structure with flat carbon morphology and an interlayer distance of 0.33 nm. This structural information is supported by XRD data, which shows a broad and weak peak at 2θ = 26° corresponding to the C (002) plane, indicative of graphene presence. FTIR, XPS, and Raman spectroscopy further confirmed the presence of graphene through the detection of Csp2 aromatic bonds and the characteristic D, G, and 2D peaks. Notably, the performance of cerium can be enhanced by the incorporation of graphene, attributed to the large surface area and chemical interactions between Ce and graphene. Consequently, candlenut-derived graphene shows potential as a supportive material for modifying the properties of cerium, due to the current value of Ce/Graphene increase with presence of graphene, thereby opening avenues for various advanced applications, such as sustainable and high-performance energy storage systems.
Divine Simplicity, Divine Relations, and the Problem of Robust Persons
Authors: Campbell Ronnie
Published: July 2024

In this paper, I aim to defend a robust concept of “person” as it relates to the Christian doctrine of the Trinity. I begin by situating the debate in the current context between Social Trinitarianism (ST) and Latin Trinitarianism (LT) and then zero in on Thomas Aquinas’s view of the divine Persons as subsistent relations. I will argue that such an understanding of divine Persons has two significant difficulties. First, Aquinas’s view of a strong doctrine of divine simplicity is susceptible to modal collapse. For on such a view, there are no real distinctions within God; such distinctions are conceptually only. If there are no real distinctions within God, then how can we make sense of the eternal relations within God? Second, I question whether a relation can be equated with a Person. After all, relations do not know things, perform actions, or love in the way Scripture portrays the divine Persons. I will then offer a constructive and more robust view of the divine Person—one that aligns with the control of Scripture. In doing so, I consider two objections, one centering on whether defenders of ST fall into tri-theism and the other on whether divine Persons can indeed work together.
The Travelogues of Buddhist Monks and the Knowledge of the Western Regions during the Fourth to the Sixth Centuries
Authors: Zhang Kaiyue
Published: July 2024

In the context of monks traveling westward in search of Buddhist scriptures, their travelogues emerged during the fourth to the sixth centuries as a new channel for producing knowledge about the Western Regions, distinct from official sources. The fundamental reason monks wrote these travelogues was to enhance the sanctity of their journeys and the scriptures. Additionally, they fulfilled the demands among Buddhists for information about Buddhism in Central Asia and India. The knowledge about the Western Regions in these travelogues was referenced in works by Chinese scholars, such as the Weishu, Beishi, Shuijing zhu, and Luoyang qielan ji, thereby expanding the audience for such knowledge. Even after the original texts were lost, their content continued to be transmitted through these citations. However, while Chinese scholars often criticized these travelogues for some absurd accounts and made adaptations or deletions, they were nonetheless compelled to utilize the unique knowledge these travelogues offered about the Western Regions.
Harmonized Landsat and Sentinel-2 Data with Google Earth Engine
Authors: Berra Elias Fernando , Fontana Denise Cybis , Yin Feng , Breunig Fabio Marcelo
Published: July 2024

Continuous and dense time series of satellite remote sensing data are needed for several land monitoring applications, including vegetation phenology, in-season crop assessments, and improving land use and land cover classification. Supporting such applications at medium to high spatial resolution may be challenging with a single optical satellite sensor, as the frequency of good-quality observations can be low. To optimize good-quality data availability, some studies propose harmonized databases. This work aims at developing an ‘all-in-one’ Google Earth Engine (GEE) web-based workflow to produce harmonized surface reflectance data from Landsat-7 (L7) ETM+, Landsat-8 (L8) OLI, and Sentinel-2 (S2) MSI top of atmosphere (TOA) reflectance data. Six major processing steps to generate a new source of near-daily Harmonized Landsat and Sentinel (HLS) reflectance observations at 30 m spatial resolution are proposed and described: band adjustment, atmospheric correction, cloud and cloud shadow masking, view and illumination angle adjustment, co-registration, and reprojection and resampling. The HLS is applied to six equivalent spectral bands, resulting in a surface nadir BRDF-adjusted reflectance (NBAR) time series gridded to a common pixel resolution, map projection, and spatial extent. The spectrally corresponding bands and derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) were compared, and their sensor differences were quantified by regression analyses. Examples of HLS time series are presented for two potential applications: agricultural and forest phenology. The HLS product is also validated against ground measurements of NDVI, achieving very similar temporal trajectories and magnitude of values (R2 = 0.98). The workflow and script presented in this work may be useful for the scientific community aiming at taking advantage of multi-sensor harmonized time series of optical data.
Design Decisions for Wearable EEG to Detect Motor Imagery Movements
Authors: Carretero Ana , Araujo Alvaro
Published: July 2024

The objective of this study was to make informed decisions regarding the design of wearable electroencephalography (wearable EEG) for the detection of motor imagery movements based on testing the critical features for the development of wearable EEG. Three datasets were utilized to determine the optimal acquisition frequency. The brain zones implicated in motor imagery movement were analyzed, with the aim of improving wearable-EEG comfort and portability. Two detection algorithms with different configurations were implemented. The detection output was classified using a tool with various classifiers. The results were categorized into three groups to discern differences between general hand movements and no movement; specific movements and no movement; and specific movements and other specific movements (between five different finger movements and no movement). Testing was conducted on the sampling frequencies, trials, number of electrodes, algorithms, and their parameters. The preferred algorithm was determined to be the FastICACorr algorithm with 20 components. The optimal sampling frequency is 1 kHz to avoid adding excessive noise and to ensure efficient handling. Twenty trials are deemed sufficient for training, and the number of electrodes will range from one to three, depending on the wearable EEG’s ability to handle the algorithm parameters with good performance.
Query-Based Multiview Detection for Multiple Visual Sensor Networks
Authors: Hsu Hung-Min , Yuan Xinyu , Chuang Yun-Yen , Sun Wei , Chang Ray-I
Published: July 2024

In IoT systems, the goal of multiview detection for multiple visual sensor networks is to use multiple camera perspectives to address occlusion challenges with multiview aggregation being a crucial component. In these applications, data from various interconnected cameras are combined to create a detailed ground plane feature. This feature is formed by projecting convolutional feature maps from multiple viewpoints and fusing them using uniform weighting. However, simply aggregating data from all cameras is not ideal due to different levels of occlusion depending on object positions and camera angles. To overcome this, we introduce QMVDet, a new query-based learning multiview detector, which incorporates an innovative camera-aware attention mechanism for aggregating multiview information. This mechanism selects the most reliable information from various camera views, thus minimizing the confusion caused by occlusions. Our method simultaneously utilizes both 2D and 3D data while maintaining 2D–3D multiview consistency to guide the multiview detection network’s training. The proposed approach achieves state-of-the-art accuracy on two leading multiview detection benchmarks, highlighting its effectiveness for IoT-based multiview detection scenarios.
Green Financial Policy, Resource Allocation and Corporate Environmental Responsibility
Authors: Yuan Xueying , Shang Lixia , Xu Jinhua
Published: July 2024

Green finance policy has emerged as a powerful driver for sustainable development worldwide, which has arisen at the top of the political agenda. Drawing on resource allocation theory, this study empirically investigates whether and how green finance policy affects corporate environmental responsibility in achieving sustainable development goals on a micro level. Taking China’s green finance reform and innovation (GFRI) pilot policy as a quasi-natural experiment, this paper employs the difference-in-differences model to investigate the impact of green finance policy on corporate environmental responsibility. The evidence shows that the GFRI policy significantly promotes corporate environmental responsibility. The results hold robust after a series of checks such as parallel trend examination, placebo test, exclusion of other policies, and alternative variable measurement. Moreover, this study explores the potential mechanism channels from the perspective of resource allocation theory. Specifically, green finance policy ultimately accelerates corporate environmental responsibility through financing capacity and environmental protection supervision. The heterogeneity analysis shows that the positive impact of the GFRI policy on corporate environmental responsibility is more pronounced for companies in areas with superior green development, strong law enforcement, and higher levels of pollution. The above findings indicate that the formal institution of government-led green financial policy can positively affect corporate environmental responsibility, with regional green development and law enforcement factors enhancing the effectiveness of these policies. Furthermore, the level of local pollution further intensifies the corporate sensibility to such policy effects. Overall, our study sheds light on the significant role of green financial policy in fostering a sustainable economy, helping reconcile the mixed evidence on the financial function of green finance policy on the firm level.
The Effect of Suppliers’ Green and Traditional Selection Criteria in Supply Chain Management on Purchasing Firms’ Performance
Authors: Abuzaid Ahmad Nasser , Alateeq Manal Mohammad , Madadha Saif-aldeen Marwan , Al Sharari Fayiz Emad Addin , Alsbou Mohammad Khalaf
Published: July 2024

In recent years, procurement managers have introduced environmental considerations into supplier selection and evaluation as a response to strict environmental regulations implemented by governments. Although previous research investigated the selection of eco-friendly suppliers, little research has been conducted on the significance of the wide range of selection criteria used by industrial customers. The aim of this study was to address this gap and examine the difference in the perceived importance of the selection criteria versus the performance achieved using the selection criteria, in addition to the difference in the business performance and the total supply performance. By investigating the selection criteria of manufacturers in the market environment, this study aimed to demonstrate how their business performance was affected by the performance of suppliers in relation to such criteria. To accomplish this task, this study conducted an empirical analysis based on the questionnaire responses of 72 purchasing managers working in the electrical/electronic and heavy chemical industries. Based on previous research, the following six supplier selection factors were identified: eco-friendliness, quality, relationship, flexibility, delivery, and price/finance. By using statistical analyses, including sample t-tests and multiple regression analysis, this study identified a correlation between supplier and manufacturer performance. The findings show that some factors, such as eco-friendliness, flexibility, price, and delivery, were statistically relevant to the performance of manufacturers, which added value to the decision-making strategy employed in supplier selection.
The Role of Collective Action and Identity in the Preservation of Irrigation Access in Dacope, Bangladesh
Authors: Ashik Ur Rahman Md , Beitl Christine M.
Published: July 2024

Agriculture is one of the most culturally and economically important livelihood activities of the Ganges River Delta. In recent years, coastal communities have experienced longer dry seasons and salinity intrusion, which is exacerbated by registration errors in land tenure that have led to increasing encroachment by external interests in the Dacope sub-district of Bangladesh. These challenges threaten to undermine the sustainability of smallholder access to canals that are collectively managed as common-pool resources (CPR). This paper explores how identity and collective action may empower farmers to secure irrigation access in the face of external pressures. Drawing primarily on qualitative data collected through focus group discussions with farmers in Dacope, our findings reveal that identity serves as a powerful force driving collective action and the sustainability of the agricultural community. A shared occupational identity fosters a sense of belonging and collective responsibility among farmers to maintain water flow through construction, annual dredging, and temporary dry-season protections. However, despite a strong commitment to maintaining their irrigation system, challenges remain in farmers’ ability to combat the powerful interests of wealthier members of the community that threaten to undermine the viability of the irrigation commons. Thus, formal support through policy and legislative avenues is also necessary to safeguard common property rights against the threat of privatization and illegal occupation of canals. These findings further underscore the need for more research on how collective identity may strengthen collective action, livelihoods, and sustainability in the absence of strong institutional arrangements that uphold community rights and access to common-pool resources.
Adverse Associations of Long-Term Exposure to PM2.5 and Its Components with Platelet Traits among Subway Shift-Workers without Air Purifier Use
Authors: Liu Junling , Wang Pei , Shang Lv , Ye Fang , Liu Li , He Zhenyu
Published: July 2024

Air purifier use, shift work, and long-term exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) are linked to platelet abnormality. However, the role of air purifier use and shift work in the individual or joint associations of PM2.5 and its components with platelet indices are largely unknown. A total of 8772 participants were recruited from a population of subway workers in China. PM2.5 and its component data were obtained from the Tracking Air Pollution in China dataset. The role of air purifier use and shift work in the association between PM2.5 and its components and platelet indices were analyzed. Among shift workers without air purifier use, positive associations of PM2.5 and each component in PM2.5 with the mean platelet volume (MPV) or platelet counts (PLT) were observed, whereas negative associations of PM2.5 and each component in PM2.5 with the platelet distribution width (PDW) were observed. Furthermore, estimated changes (95%CIs) in PLT, MPV, and PDW in response to each 10th percentile increment in the mixture of PM2.5 and its components were 0.8657 (0.2496, 1.4819), 0.0192 (0.0054, 0.0329), and −0.0648 (−0.0945, −0.0351), respectively, and sulfate in PM2.5 was the major contributor to those associations. Long-term exposure to PM2.5 and its components was related to increased platelet disorders among shift workers without air purifier use, and those associations were mainly attributed to sulfate in PM2.5.
Congenital Rubella Syndrome Does Not Increase with Introduction of Rubella-Containing Vaccine
Authors: Frey Kurt
Published: July 2024

Rubella infection is typically mild or asymptomatic except when infection occurs during pregnancy. Infection in early pregnancy can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital rubella syndrome. Only individuals that are still susceptible to rubella infection during child-bearing age are vulnerable to this burden. Rubella-containing vaccine (RCV) is safe and effective, providing life-long immunity. However, average age-at-infection increases with increasing vaccination coverage, which could potentially lead to increased disease burden if the absolute risk of infection during child-bearing age increases. The dynamics of rubella transmission were explored using EMOD, a software tool for building stochastic, agent-based infection models. Simulations of pre-vaccine, endemic transmission of rubella virus introduced RCV at varying levels of coverage to determine the expected future trajectories of disease burden. Introducing RCV reduces both rubella virus transmission and disease burden for a period of around 15 years. Increased disease burden is only possible more than a decade post-introduction, and only for contexts with persistently high transmission intensity. Low or declining rubella virus transmission intensity is associated with both greater burden without vaccination and greater burden reduction with vaccination. The risk of resurgent burden due to incomplete vaccination only exists for locations with persistently high infectivity, high connectivity, and high fertility. A trade-off between the risk of a small, future burden increase versus a large, immediate burden decrease strongly favors RCV introduction.