bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technological Advances and Market Developments of Solid-State Batteries: A Review
Authors: Thomas Felix , Mahdi Lauren , Lemaire Julien , Santos Diogo M. F.
Published: January 2024

Batteries are essential in modern society as they can power a wide range of devices, from small household appliances to large-scale energy storage systems. Safety concerns with traditional lithium-ion batteries prompted the emergence of new battery technologies, among them solid-state batteries (SSBs), offering enhanced safety, energy density, and lifespan. This paper reviews current state-of-the-art SSB electrolyte and electrode materials, as well as global SSB market trends and key industry players. Solid-state electrolytes used in SSBs include inorganic solid electrolytes, organic solid polymer electrolytes, and solid composite electrolytes. Inorganic options like lithium aluminum titanium phosphate excel in ionic conductivity and thermal stability but exhibit mechanical fragility. Organic alternatives such as polyethylene oxide and polyvinylidene fluoride offer flexibility but possess lower ionic conductivity. Solid composite electrolytes combine the advantages of inorganic and organic materials, enhancing mechanical strength and ionic conductivity. While significant advances have been made for composite electrolytes, challenges remain for synthesis intricacies and material stability. Nuanced selection of these electrolytes is crucial for advancing resilient and high-performance SSBs. Furthermore, while global SSB production capacity is currently below 2 GWh, it is projected to grow with a >118% compound annual growth rate by 2035, when the potential SSB market size will likely exceed 42 billion euros.
Investigative Study of the Effect of Damping and Stiffness Nonlinearities on an Electromagnetic Energy Harvester at Low-Frequency Excitations
Authors: Diala Uchenna , Zhu Yunpeng , Gunawardena Rajintha
Published: January 2024

Ambient vibration energy is widely being harnessed as a source of electrical energy to drive low-power devices. The vibration energy harvester (VEH) of interest employs an electromagnetic transduction mechanism, whereby ambient mechanical vibration is converted to electrical energy. The limitations affecting the performance of VEHs, with an electromagnetic transduction structure, include its operational bandwidth as well as the enclosure-size constraint. In this study, an analysis and design of a nonlinear VEH system is conducted using the Output Frequency Response Function (OFRF) representations of the actual system model. However, the OFRF representations are determined from the Generalised Associated Linear Equation (GALE) decompositions of the system of interest. The effect of both nonlinear damping and stiffness characteristics, to, respectively, extend the average power and operational bandwidth of the VEH device, is demonstrated.
Ricci Vector Fields Revisited
Authors: Alohali Hanan , Deshmukh Sharief , Vîlcu Gabriel-Eduard
Published: January 2024

We continue studying the σ-Ricci vector field u on a Riemannian manifold (Nm,g), which is not necessarily closed. A Riemannian manifold with Ricci operator T, a Coddazi-type tensor, is called a T-manifold. In the first result of this paper, we show that a complete and simply connected T-manifold(Nm,g), m>1, of positive scalar curvature τ, admits a closed σ-Ricci vector field u such that the vector u−∇σ is an eigenvector of T with eigenvalue τm−1, if and only if it is isometric to the m-sphere Sαm. In the second result, we show that if a compact and connected T-manifold(Nm,g), m>2, admits a σ-Ricci vector field u with σ≠0 and is an eigenvector of a rough Laplace operator with the integral of the Ricci curvature Ricu,u that has a suitable lower bound, then (Nm,g) is isometric to the m-sphere Sαm, and the converse also holds. Finally, we show that a compact and connected Riemannian manifold (Nm,g) admits a σ-Ricci vector field u with σ as a nontrivial solution of the static perfect fluid equation, and the integral of the Ricci curvature Ricu,u has a lower bound depending on a positive constant α, if and only if (Nm,g) is isometric to the m-sphere Sαm.
Efficiency, Kinetics and Mechanism of 4-Nitroaniline Removal from Aqueous Solutions by Emulsion Liquid Membranes Using Type 1 Facilitated Transport
Authors: León Gerardo , Hidalgo Asunción María , Gómez María , Gómez Elisa , Miguel Beatriz
Published: January 2024

4-Nitroaniline (4NA) is a common organic pollutant that is released into the environment during the manufacture and processing of a wide variety of industrial products. This article describes the use of an emulsion liquid membrane process to remove 4NA from aqueous solutions using a type 1 facilitated transport mechanism. Optimization of the removal process was carried out by analyzing the efficiency of 4NA removal from the feed phase and the initial apparent feed/membrane fluxes and permeabilities under different experimental conditions. The kinetics of the removal process was analyzed using a simplified mass transfer model involving an empirical mass transfer coefficient calculated from experimental data, assuming that the concentrations of 4NA in the external aqueous phase and in the internal w/o emulsion are uniform. The results show that there is a very good fit between the experimental and model data and that the variation in the values of the overall mass transfer coefficients with the experimental conditions coincides with that of the removal efficiency mentioned above. The transport mechanism was studied by identifying the rate-controlling step of the removal process, using models described for adsorption processes, due to the strong parallelism between the transport mechanisms in adsorption and emulsion liquid membrane processes.
How Does In Vitro Digestion Change the Amount of Phenolics in Morus alba L. Leaf? Analysis of Preparations and Infusions
Authors: Przeor Monika
Published: January 2024

The application of Morus alba L. in traditional oriental medicine and cuisine has resulted in numerous studies on its health-promoting effects. However, if the process is not monitored by the manufacturers, the processing of the leaves alters the obtained health-promoting properties and results in different health qualities in the final composition of dietary supplements. This article aims to analyze changes (using the HPLC/DAD method) in the proposed conditioned mulberry leaves in terms of key compounds (phenolic acids and flavonols) responsible for antioxidant activity after being digested in in vitro conditions. The analyzed material was leaves of white mulberry (Morus alba L.) cv. Żółwińska wielkolistna, conditioned (1–4 h) and non-conditioned. The conditioning process of mulberry proposed here, e.g., for industry production, resulted in variable transformations of polyphenols during in vitro digestion. For many polyphenols, especially those shown in the highest amounts, significant correlations were found between their content and conditioning, as well as the stage of digestion. In the case of mulberry infusions, the amounts of individual polyphenols were several times lower than in the preparations, which was due to the degree of dilution. Their amounts tended to decrease in the course of digestion. Taking this into account, it seems justified to continue research on the in vivo bioavailability of bioactive components from conditioned Morus alba L. leaves.
Conditional Vitamin D Receptor Deletion Induces Fungal and Archaeal Dysbiosis and Altered Metabolites
Authors: Claypool Duncan J. , Zhang Yong-Guo , Xia Yinglin , Sun Jun
Published: January 2024

A vitamin D receptor (VDR) deficiency leads to the dysbiosis of intestinal bacteria and is associated with various diseases, including cancer, infections, and inflammatory bowel disease. However, the impact of a VDR deficiency on fungi and archaea is unknown. We conditionally deleted the VDR in Paneth cells (VDRΔPC), intestinal epithelial cells (VDRΔIEC), or myeloid cells (VDRΔLyz) in mice and collected feces for shotgun metagenomic sequencing and untargeted metabolomics. We found that fungi were significantly altered in each knockout (KO) group compared to the VDRLoxp control. The VDRΔLyz mice had the most altered fungi species (three depleted and seven enriched), followed by the VDRΔPC mice (six depleted and two enriched), and the VDRΔIEC mice (one depleted and one enriched). The methanogen Methanofollis liminatans was enriched in the VDRΔPC and VDRΔLyz mice and two further archaeal species (Thermococcus piezophilus and Sulfolobus acidocaldarius) were enriched in the VDRΔLyz mice compared to the Loxp group. Significant correlations existed among altered fungi, archaea, bacteria, and viruses in the KO mice. Functional metagenomics showed changes in several biologic functions, including decreased sulfate reduction and increased biosynthesis of cobalamin (vitamin B12) in VDRΔLyz mice relative to VDRLoxp mice. Fecal metabolites were analyzed to examine the involvement of sulfate reduction and other pathways. In conclusion, a VDR deficiency caused the formation of altered fungi and archaea in a tissue- and sex-dependent manner. These results provide a foundation about the impact of a host factor (e.g., VDR deficiency) on fungi and archaea. It opens the door for further studies to determine how mycobiome and cross-kingdom interactions in the microbiome community and metabolites contribute to the risk of certain diseases.
Vaccinating against a Novel Pathogen: A Critical Review of COVID-19 Vaccine Effectiveness Evidence
Authors: Black Bernard , Thaw David B.
Published: January 2024

We study the experience with COVID-19 vaccination of an initially naïve population, which can inform planning for vaccination against the next novel, highly transmissible pathogen. We focus on the first two pandemic years (wild strain through Delta), because after the Omicron wave in early 2022, very few people were still SARS-CoV-2-naïve. Almost all were vaccinated, infected, or often both. We review the evidence on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness (VE) and waning effectiveness over time and the relative effectiveness of the four principal vaccines used in developed Western countries: BNT162b2 (Pfizer-BioNTech), mRNA1273 (Moderna), Ad26.CoV2.S (Johnson&Johnson), and ChAdOx1-S (AstraZeneca). As a basis for our analysis, we conducted a PRISMA-compliant review of all studies on PubMed through 15 August 2022, reporting VE against four endpoints for these four vaccines: any infection, symptomatic infection, hospitalization, and death. The mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2, mRNA1273) had high initial VE against all endpoints but protection waned after approximately six months, with BNT162b2 declining faster than mRNA1273. Both mRNA vaccines outperformed the viral vector vaccines (Ad26.CoV2.S and ChAdOx1-S). A third “booster” dose, roughly six months after the initial doses, substantially reduced symptomatic infection, hospitalization, and death. In hindsight, a third dose should be seen as part of the normal vaccination schedule. Our analysis highlights the importance of the real-time population-level surveillance needed to assess evidence for waning, and the need for rapid regulatory response to this evidence.
Certification of New Selenium-Enriched Yeast and Supplement Reference Materials for Selenomethionine Using Two Independent Measurement Strategies
Authors: Li Xiao , Shi Ling , Song Panshu , Cai Wei , Luo Ximing , Zhao Bo
Published: January 2024

Selenium-enriched yeast possesses the unique ability of transforming chemical selenium, such as sodium selenite, into a biologically active form, which mitigates its toxic effects on the human body. The transformation product of this process, selenomethionine, can be safely and effectively absorbed and utilized by the human body; hence, it has been spiked into a selenium-enriched supplement. This study employs two distinct measurement strategies to determine the selenomethionine content in two candidate reference materials, a selenium-enriched yeast powder and supplement, using both organic and inorganic mass spectrometry. The concentrations of selenomethionine in the selenium-enriched yeast were determined using HPLC-ICP-MS and HPLC- ESI-MS/MS, with mass fractions measured at 718 mg SeMet kg−1 and 715 mg SeMet kg−1, respectively. Notably, both methods yielded consistent results for the selenium supplement, with a selenomethionine mass fraction of 59 mg SeMet kg−1. Ultimately, the certified values of these candidate reference materials were determined as 716 mg kg−1 and 59 mg SeMet kg−1 with expanded uncertainties of 36 mg SeMet kg−1 (k = 2) and 5 mg SeMet kg−1 (k = 2), respectively. The development of these candidate reference materials serves as a valuable reference for diverse methods aiming to determine the value of organic selenium speciation in complex food substrates.
Salvianolic Acid B Alleviates Liver Injury by Regulating Lactate-Mediated Histone Lactylation in Macrophages
Authors: Hu Shian , Yang Zehua , Li Ling , Yan Qinwen , Hu Yutong , Zhou Feng , Tan Yang , Pei Gang
Published: January 2024

Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) is the primary water-soluble bioactive constituent derived from the roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge. This research was designed to reveal the potential mechanism of Sal B anti-liver injury from the perspective of macrophages. In our lipopolysaccharide-induced M1 macrophage model, Sal B showed a clear dose-dependent gradient of inhibition of the macrophage trend of the M1 type. Moreover, Sal B downregulated the expression of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA), while the overexpression of LDHA impaired Sal B’s effect of inhibiting the trend of macrophage M1 polarization. Additionally, this study revealed that Sal B exhibited inhibitory effects on the lactylation process of histone H3 lysine 18 (H3K18la). In a ChIP-qPCR analysis, Sal B was observed to drive a reduction in H3K18la levels in the promoter region of the LDHA, NLRP3, and IL-1β genes. Furthermore, our in vivo experiments showed that Sal B has a good effect on alleviating CCl4-induced liver injury. An examination of liver tissues and the Kupffer cells isolated from those tissues proved that Sal B affects the M1 polarization of macrophages and the level of histone lactylation. Together, our data reveal that Sal B has a potential mechanism of inhibiting the histone lactylation of macrophages by downregulating the level of LDHA in the treatment of liver injury.
Suberoylanilide Hydroxamic Acid Analogs with Heteroaryl Amide Group and Different Chain Length: Synthesis and Effect on Histone Deacetylase
Authors: Micheletti Gabriele , Boga Carla , Drius Giacomo , Bordoni Silvia , Calonghi Natalia
Published: January 2024

This review covers the last 25 years of the literature on analogs of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA, known also as vorinostat) acting as an HDAC inhibitor. In particular, the topic has been focused on the synthesis and biological activity of compounds where the phenyl group (the surface recognition moiety, CAP) of SAHA has been replaced by an azaheterocycle through a direct bond with amide nitrogen atom, and the methylene chain in the linker region is of variable length. Most of the compounds displayed good to excellent inhibitory activity against HDACs and in many cases showed antiproliferative activity against human cancer cell lines.
Enhanced Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia Using Functionalized Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube-Supported Cobalt Catalyst
Authors: Ye Minghao , Jiang Xiaoli , Zhang Yagang , Liu Yang , Liu Yanxia , Zhao Lin
Published: January 2024

Ammonia (NH3) is vital in modern agriculture and industry as a potential energy carrier. The electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate (NO3−) to ammonia under ambient conditions offers a sustainable alternative to the energy-intensive Haber−Bosch process. However, achieving high selectivity in this conversion poses significant challenges due to the multi-step electron and proton transfer processes and the low proton adsorption capacity of transition metal electrocatalysts. Herein, we introduce a novel approach by employing functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as carriers for active cobalt catalysts. The exceptional conductivity of MWCNTs significantly reduces charge transfer resistance. Their unique hollow structure increases the electrochemical active surface area of the electrocatalyst. Additionally, the one-dimensional hollow tube structure and graphite-like layers within MWCNTs enhance adsorption properties, thus mitigating the diffusion of intermediate and stabilizing active cobalt species during nitrate reduction reaction (NitRR). Using the MWCNT-supported cobalt catalyst, we achieved a notable NH3 yield rate of 4.03 mg h−1 cm−2 and a high Faradaic efficiency of 84.72% in 0.1 M KOH with 0.1 M NO3−. This study demonstrates the potential of MWCNTs as advanced carriers in constructing electrocatalysts for efficient nitrate reduction.
Exploring the Remarkably High Photocatalytic Efficiency of Ultra-Thin Porous Graphitic Carbon Nitride Nanosheets
Authors: Kalantari Bolaghi Zahra , Rodriguez-Seco Cristina , Yurtsever Aycan , Ma Dongling
Published: January 2024

Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is a metal-free photocatalyst used for visible-driven hydrogen production, CO2 reduction, and organic pollutant degradation. In addition to the most attractive feature of visible photoactivity, its other benefits include thermal and photochemical stability, cost-effectiveness, and simple and easy-scale-up synthesis. However, its performance is still limited due to its low absorption at longer wavelengths in the visible range, and high charge recombination. In addition, the exfoliated nanosheets easily aggregate, causing the reduction in specific surface area, and thus its photoactivity. Herein, we propose the use of ultra-thin porous g-C3N4 nanosheets to overcome these limitations and improve its photocatalytic performance. Through the optimization of a novel multi-step synthetic protocol, based on an initial thermal treatment, the use of nitric acid (HNO3), and an ultrasonication step, we were able to obtain very thin and well-tuned material that yielded exceptional photodegradation performance of methyl orange (MO) under visible light irradiation, without the need for any co-catalyst. About 96% of MO was degraded in as short as 30 min, achieving a normalized apparent reaction rate constant (k) of 1.1 × 10−2 min−1mg−1. This represents the highest k value ever reported using C3N4-based photocatalysts for MO degradation, based on our thorough literature search. Ultrasonication in acid not only prevents agglomeration of g-C3N4 nanosheets but also tunes pore size distribution and plays a key role in this achievement. We also studied their performance in a photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), achieving a production of 1842 µmol h−1 g−1. Through a profound analysis of all the samples’ structure, morphology, and optical properties, we provide physical insight into the improved performance of our optimized porous g-C3N4 sample for both photocatalytic reactions. This research may serve as a guide for improving the photocatalytic activity of porous two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors under visible light irradiation.
Compassionate Care: A Qualitative Exploration of Nurses’ Inner Resources in the Face of Burnout
Authors: Flowers Sarah-Louise d’Auvergne , Guillén-Solà Mireia , Sansó Noemí , Galiana Laura
Published: January 2024

There is a universal shortage of nurses, with a current needs-based shortage of 5.9 million. This is not solely a recruitment issue but one of retention, triggered by high levels of work-induced stress, burnout, and reports of low job satisfaction resulting in poor care delivery. Some of the health repercussions on nurses include anxiety, insomnia, depression, migraines, irritability, absenteeism, and sometimes alcoholism and drug abuse. To tackle some of these costly issues, a qualitative exploration into how inner resources is used by nurses to cope with stress at different points of their careers is proposed. Through the lens of grounded theory, semi-structured interviews will be carried out with two distinct sets of participants: (1) Student nurses registered at the University of the Illes Baleares between 2022–2025. (2) Experienced nurses on the Balearic nursing register. Interviews will be coded and then analysed using Atlas.ti. Expected results will inform curriculum improvements that will benefit the well-being of (student) nurses, from the outset of their training, pre-empting potential psycho-social risks before they arise in the workplace. This is vital as it addresses nurses’ mental health as well as chronic issues of retention and absenteeism.
Phenological Variations in the Content of Polyphenols and Triterpenoids in Epilobium angustifolium Herb Originating from Ukraine
Authors: Ivanauskas Liudas , Uminska Kateryna , Gudžinskas Zigmantas , Heinrich Michael , Georgiyants Victoriya , Kozurak Alla , Mykhailenko Olha
Published: January 2024

The composition of secondary metabolites undergoes significant changes in plants depending on the growth phase and the influence of environmental factors. Therefore, it is important to determine the harvesting time of plant material for the optimum secondary metabolite profile and therapeutic activity of the primary material. The shoots of Epilobium angustifolium are used as a healing tea due to the presence of polyphenolic compounds. The aim of this study was to assess the composition of phenolic compounds and triterpenoid saponins in E. angustifolium leaves and flowers and to estimate the dynamics of their content depending on the flowering phase. Qualitative and quantitative characterisation of polyphenols and triterpenoids in E. angustifolium samples from Ukraine of three flowering phases were performed using the high-performance liquid chromatography photo diode array (HPLC-PDA) method. During the present study, 13 polyphenolic compounds and seven triterpenoids were identified in the plant material. It was noted that the largest content and the best polyphenol profile was in late flowering. The most important polyphenolic compounds in the plant material were chlorogenic acid, hyperoside, isoquercitin, and oenothein B. The triterpenoid profile was at its maximum during mass flowering, with corosolic and ursolic acids being the dominant metabolites. The results of the analysis revealed that the quantity of many of the tested metabolites in the raw material of E. angustifolium is dependent on the plant organ and flowering phase. The largest content of most metabolites in the leaves was in late flowering. In the flowers, the quantity of the metabolites studied was more variable, but decreased during mass flowering and increased significantly again in late flowering. The results show that E. angustifolium raw material is a potential source of oenothein B and triterpenoids.
Elicitation Induced α-Amyrin Synthesis in Tylophora indica In Vitro Cultures and Comparative Phytochemical Analyses of In Vivo and Micropropagated Plants
Authors: Mamgain Jyoti , Mujib Abdul , Bansal Yashika , Gulzar Basit , Zafar Nadia , Syeed Rukaya , Alsughayyir Ali , Dewir Yaser Hassan
Published: January 2024

Tylophora indica (Burm. f.) Merrill is an endangered medicinal plant that possesses various active agents, such as tylophorinine, kaempferol, quercetin, α-amyrin and beta-sitosterol, with multiple medicinal benefits. α-amyrin, a triterpenoid, is widely known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, gastroprotective and hepatoprotective properties. In this study, we investigated the metabolite profiling of tissues and the effects of cadmium chloride and chitosan on in vitro accumulation of alkaloids in T. indica. First, the callus was induced from the leaf in 2,4-D-, NAA- and/or BAP-fortified MS medium. Subsequent shoot formation through organogenesis and in vitro roots was later induced. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS)-based phytochemical profiling of methanolic extracts of in vivo and in vitro regenerated plants was conducted, revealing the presence of the important phytocompounds α-amyrin, lupeol, beta-sitosterol, septicine, tocopherol and several others. Different in vitro grown tissues, like callus, leaf and root, were elicited with cadmium chloride (0.1–0.4 mg L−1) and chitosan (1–50 mg L−1) to evaluate the effect of elicitation on α-amyrin accumulation, measured with high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). CdCl2 and chitosan showed improved sugar (17.24 and 15.04 mg g−1 FW, respectively), protein (10.76 and 9.99 mg g−1 FW, respectively) and proline (7.46 and 7.12 mg g−1 FW), especially at T3 (0.3 and 25 mg L−1), in the leaf as compared to those of the control and other tissues. The antioxidant enzyme activities were also evaluated under an elicitated stress situation, wherein catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) displayed the highest activities in the leaf at T4 of both of the two elicitors. The α-amyrin yield was quantified with HPTLC in all tested tissues (leaf, callus and root) and had an Rf = 0.62 at 510 nm wavelength. Among all the concentrations tested, the T3 treatment (0.3 mg L−1 of cadmium chloride and 25 mg L−1 of chitosan) had the best influence on accumulation, irrespective of the tissues, with the maximum being in the leaf (2.72 and 2.64 μg g−1 DW, respectively), followed by the callus and root. Therefore, these results suggest future opportunities of elicitors in scaling up the production of important secondary metabolites to meet the requirements of the pharmaceutical industry.
Fresh Properties, Strength, and Durability of Fiber-Reinforced Geopolymer and Conventional Concrete: A Review
Authors: Mohamed Osama , Zuaiter Haya
Published: January 2024

Reducing the environmental footprint of the construction industry in general and concrete in particular is essential. The addition of synthetic and natural fibers to concrete mixes at appropriate dosages enhances durability and strength and extends the lifespan of concrete infrastructures. This study reviews the geometric and mechanical properties of selected fibers such as steel, basalt, polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene, glass, carbon, and natural fibers and their impact on concrete fresh, mechanical, and durability properties when combined in different configurations. The study focuses on the effect of blending fibers with concrete mixes that use alkali-activated binders based on recycled industrial byproducts such as slag and fly ash and thereby contribute to reduction of CO2 contribution through complete or partial replacement of Ordinary Portland cement (OPC). As a result, the effect of binder content, binder composition, alkaline activator concentration, and water-to-binder (w/b) ratio on fresh properties, mechanical strength, and durability of concrete with blended fibers is also evaluated in this study. The properties of fiber-reinforced concrete with alkali-activated binder and conventional OPC binders are compared. Fiber-reinforced concrete with alkali-activated binders that are based on industrial byproducts may represent sustainable alternatives to conventional concrete and offers competitive fresh and mechanical properties when fiber properties, fiber content, w/b ratio, binder type, and dosage are carefully considered in concrete mix design.
First Approach Using Fluidic Force Microscopy (FluidFM®) to Measure Adhesion Forces between Droplets and Flat/Rough Surfaces Immersed in Water
Authors: Schwan Laura , Bröckel Ulrich
Published: January 2024

The research program “Engineered Artificial Minerals (EnAM)” addresses the challenge of recycling valuable elements from battery waste streams. These elements, such as lithium (Li), often migrate in the slag phase, in some cases as crystals. EnAM crystals represent concentrated reservoirs of these elements, which can only be effectively recycled if they are extracted from the slag matrix and then separated. Selective wet agglomeration is a separation process based on a three-phase system and is often used in coal and ore processing. The produced agglomerates in this process can be easily separated from the remaining suspension. The precise quantification of the wetting properties and adhesion strength between suspended particles and binding liquid droplets is a scientific challenge. An accurate technique suitable for adhesion force measurements in three-phase systems with micrometer-scale particles is Fluidic Force Microscopy (FluidFM®). An experimental setup with optical control is being developed to measure adhesion forces between droplets and flat/rough surfaces. This will enable precise measurements of adhesion forces between solid EnAM crystals and binding liquid droplets. Based on these measurements, optimal agglomeration conditions can be selected in the future to improve selective wet agglomeration with respect to recycling processes.
Preparation of Titanium Carbide by Carburisation of Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Lv Tingting , Tian Fang , Hu Tu
Published: January 2024

Titanium carbide has attracted widespread attention due to its excellent properties. This study investigates the process of carbon thermally reducing TiO2 to prepare TiC through a combination of thermodynamic analysis and experiments. The effects of temperature, TiO2/C molar ratio, and time on the phase transformation and morphology evolution of the products are investigated. The synthesis of titanium carbide involves the main reduction path of TiO2–Magnéli–Ti3O5–Ti2O3–TiCxO1−x. With the increase in reaction temperature and TiC content, the microstructure transitions from a smooth disc-like structure to a loose and porous layered structure, while the particle size decreases significantly. The carburisation rate of the reduced product is more affected by temperature, according to chemical analysis. The carburisation rate increased from 18.37% to 36.09% for 2 h–10 h of holding time at 1400 °C, and from 51.43% to 77.57% for 2 h–10 h of holding time at 1500 °C. The quantification of the carburisation rate provides a valuable reference for the preparation of titanium carbide by TiO2.
Numerical Study and Structural Optimization of Impinging Jet Heat Transfer Performance of Floatation Nozzle
Authors: Liu Xijiang , Yang Zhiming , Ye Xin , Lu Qian , Yuan Shuai , Jiang Fengze
Published: January 2024

A floatation nozzle can effectively transfer heat and dry without touching the substrate, and serves as a vital component for heat transfer to the substrate. Enhancing the heat transfer performance, and reducing its heat transfer unevenness to the substrate play an important role in improving product quality and reducing thermal stress. In this work, the effects of key structural parameters of the floatation nozzle on the heat transfer mechanism are systematically investigated by means of a numerical simulation of computational fluid dynamics. The findings demonstrate that the secondary vortex structure induced by the floatation nozzle with effusion holes increases heat transfer performance by 254.3% compared with the nozzle without effusion holes. The turbulent kinetic energy and temperature distribution between the jet and the target surface are affected by the jet angle and slit width respectively, which change the heat transfer performance of the float nozzle in different degrees. Furthermore, to improve the comprehensive heat transfer performance of the floatation nozzle structure, taking into account the average heat transfer capability and heat transfer uniformity, the floatation nozzle’s design is optimized by the application of the response surface method. The comprehensive heat transfer performance is increased by 26.48% with the optimized design parameters. Our work is of practical value for the design of floatation nozzles with high heat transfer performance to improve product quality in industrial systems.
Extended Definition of Conversion and Reaction Extent for a Systematic Development of the Design Equations for Reactor Networks
Authors: Caravella Alessio
Published: January 2024

The aim of this work is to present in a systematic way a novel general methodology to develop the design equations (heat and mass balances) for networks of ideal reactors, that is, Plug-Flow Reactors (PFRs) and Continuous Stirred Tank Reactors (CSTRs). In particular, after introducing the general definition of conversion to be used for reactor networks, several case studies of interest in chemical engineering are presented as topic-examples of application: (i) adiabatic-stage reactors with recycle, (ii) adiabatic-stage reactors with split, (iii) adiabatic-stage reactors intercooled by reactants and (iv) adiabatic-stage reactors with interstage distributed feed. More generally, the presented methodology can also be applied to develop the design equations for complex networks of interconnected reactors, not restricted to those considered in the present work. The motivation behind the present study lies in the fact that, to the best of our knowledge, a systematic development of the design equations of single reactors in reactor networks is currently missing in the open literature as well as in the reference textbooks of chemical reaction engineering and reactor design.
Study on Erosion Wear of Single- and Double-Orifice Throttling Tools for Underground Coal Gasification
Authors: Wang Jianjun , Zhou Bingchao , Fu Jianglong , Yang Siqi , Wang Chao , Ren Xiangyi
Published: January 2024

In underground coal gasification, as a choke regulating the formation gas lift pressure, the throttling tool can effectively reduce the production cost, the number of ground heating and insertion equipment, and gas consumption. Because in this process, the coal is transformed into composite synthetic gas through a series of technical treatments, the throttling tool is in a working environment with high temperature and pressure. In the process of transportation of combined synthetic gas, the pulverized coal parts produced by incomplete coal combination move with the gas in the throttling tool. The high temperature and high-pressure gas carrying large-diameter pressed coal parts will cause serial erosion and wear to the throttling device, resulting in failure and well-controlled safety risks. Therefore, according to the Joule–Thomson effect, this paper independently designs downhole throttling tools with single- and double-hole structures. According to actual field conditions, the erosion wear of throttling tools with different systems in high-temperature gas–solid two-phase flow was simulated and predicted, and the internal flow field characteristics of throttling means were analyzed. The difference between the wall wear distribution, wall collision position, and wall erosion effect of different structure throttling mechanisms with the change in gas velocity was investigated, which guides the practical use of the subsequent throttling tools.
Three-Dimensional Resistivity and Chargeability Tomography with Expanding Gradient and Pole–Dipole Arrays in a Polymetallic Mine, China
Authors: Wang Meng , Wang Junlu , Lin Pinrong , Meng Xiaohong
Published: January 2024

Three-dimensional resistivity/chargeability tomography based on distributed data acquisition technology is likely to provide abundant information for mineral exploration. To realize true 3D tomography, establishing transmitter sources with different injection directions and collecting vector signals at receiver points is necessary. We implemented 3D resistivity/ chargeability tomography to search for new ore bodies in the deep and peripheral areas of Huaniushan, China. A distributed data acquisition system was used to form a vector receiver array in the survey area. First, by using the expanding gradient array composed of 11 pairs of transmitter electrodes, we quickly obtained the 3D distributions of the resistivity and chargeability of the whole area. Based on the electrical structure and geological setting, a NE-striking potential area for mineral exploration was determined. Next, a pole–dipole array was employed to depict the locations and shapes of the potential ore bodies in detail. The results showed that the inversion data for the two arrays corresponded well with the known geological setting and that the ore veins controlled by boreholes were located in the low-resistivity and high-chargeability zone. These results provided data for future mineral evaluation. Further research showed that true 3D tomography has obvious advantages over quasi-3D tomography. The expanding gradient array, characterized by a good signal strength and field efficiency, was suitable for the target determination in the early exploration stage. The pole–dipole array with high spatial resolution can be used for detailed investigations. Choosing a reasonable data acquisition scheme is helpful to improve the spatial resolution and economic efficiency.
An Ensemble Approach for Robust Automated Crack Detection and Segmentation in Concrete Structures
Authors: Sohaib Muhammad , Jamil Saima , Kim Jong-Myon
Published: January 2024

To prevent potential instability the early detection of cracks is imperative due to the prevalent use of concrete in critical infrastructure. Automated techniques leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning as the traditional manual inspection methods are time-consuming. The existing automated concrete crack detection algorithms, despite recent advancements, face challenges in robustness, particularly in precise crack detection amidst complex backgrounds and visual distractions, while also maintaining low inference times. Therefore, this paper introduces a novel ensemble mechanism based on multiple quantized You Only Look Once version 8 (YOLOv8) models for the detection and segmentation of cracks in concrete structures. The proposed model is tested on different concrete crack datasets yielding enhanced segmentation results with at least 89.62% precision and intersection over a union score of 0.88. Moreover, the inference time per image is reduced to 27 milliseconds which is at least a 5% improvement over other models in the comparison. This is achieved by amalgamating the predictions of the trained models to calculate the final segmentation mask. The noteworthy contributions of this work encompass the creation of a model with low inference time, an ensemble mechanism for robust crack segmentation, and the enhancement of the learning capabilities of crack detection models. The fast inference time of the model renders it appropriate for real-time applications, effectively tackling challenges in infrastructure maintenance and safety.
How Countries Compete for Success in Elite Sport: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gómez-Rodríguez Jaime , Seguí-Urbaneja Jordi , Teixeira Mário Coelho , Cabello-Manrique David
Published: January 2024

The ‘Global Sporting Arms Race’ is the term that describes the competition among different countries to succeed in international sports competitions. The development of that peaceful competition determines two outputs: an increase in soft power at the international level and a promotion of the national identity and social impact. It means increasing the level of influence that the countries obtain internationally as a cornerstone of the concept of a sporting nation with a proud and healthy population. In order to explain the factors involved in the success of a sports system at the elite level, a systematic review was carried out based on the PRISMA protocol in the databases Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and Web of Science. The findings of the study show that the factors that determine success at the international level have received increased attention, as shown by the number of publications since 2010. The results indicate the following research factors: (1) it was observed that most researchers tend to carry out comprehensive analyses with a holistic perspective, while the UK, Australia, Canada, and Spain carry out segmented analyses; (2) Olympic sports—especially athletics—were the most analysed; while in non-Olympic sports, those with social influence predominate in countries, such as netball; (3) the analysis of meso and micro factors is preferred over macro factors; (4) quantitative studies are preferred through the analysis of primary sources, such as official reports; and (5) the economic variable is the most common input, with medals reached at the elite level being the most used output to check the correlation or significativity of the results.
The Importance of Region of Origin in Sparkling Wines: An International Analysis of Consumers’ Perception
Authors: Casolani Nicola , Ciccarelli Andrea , Perito Maria Angela , Chiodo Emilio
Published: January 2024

Consumers’ perception of the region of origin represents a critical issue for building a valuable and sustainable business in the wine sector. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of the region of origin in Italian sparkling wines, comparing consumers’ perception of emerging wines with a designation of origin in regions not traditionally associated with sparkling wine production (Abruzzo and Romagna), with an affirmed brand (Prosecco) and with generic Italian sparkling wine. The three most important markets for Italian sparkling wines (Italy, the USA, and the UK) are considered. The importance of the region of origin is analyzed within a set of wine attributes, including color and sugar content, applying the conjoint analysis technique to simulate realistic market conditions, offering multiple options for wine attributes. There is no cumulative effect of the perception of wines with a Protected Designation of Origin in the three markets since consumers who positively perceive a specific designation do not extend this positive perception to others in comparison with generic sparkling wine. Positive and negative utilities associated with each designation of origin are calculated and used to discriminate consumers according to socio-demographic variables, consumers’ behavior, and attitudes.
Timber-Based Strategies for Seismic Collapse Prevention and Energy Performance Improvement in Masonry Buildings
Authors: Cassol Davide , Danovska Maja , Prada Alessandro , Giongo Ivan
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the effectiveness of a range of timber-based solutions for the seismic and energy retrofitting of existing masonry buildings. These solutions are designed not only to prevent structural collapse during earthquakes but also to create integrated interventions that enhance thermo-physical performance and reduce emissions in existing buildings. Various case scenarios were considered and both mechanical and energetic behaviour post-intervention were evaluated. Timber-engineered products serve as foundational components for the retrofit approach, encompassing one-dimensional vertical elements (strong-backs) and various types of panels (cross-laminated timber panels, laminated veneer lumber panels, and oriented strand board panels). The analyzed retrofit techniques share a common principle involving the attachment of these timber-based elements to the building’s wall surfaces through mechanical point-to-point connections. The proposed solutions integrate strong-backs and timber panels with membranes and insulation layers, yielding cohesive, and highly effective interventions. Finite element modeling was employed to analyze the mechanical and thermal responses of the retrofitted walls. A comprehensive comparative analysis of various techniques was conducted to determine the most effective solution for each specific scenario.
Marketing Strategies for Internationalization in China’s Higher Education: An Ally or Barrier for Sustainable Development?
Authors: Zhou Lei , Alam Gazi Mahabubul , Rasdi Roziah Mohd
Published: January 2024

In this era of the commodification of higher education, the dominating concept of higher education now is that it functions as a commercial product for the purpose of national economic development. Consequently, the free market rules linked to consumerism seem to rule and shape how higher education should operate. A market-driven strategy may offer a benefit targeting the internationalization of higher education at the cost of sustainable development. This study investigates whether a commercialized strategy in the marketing of internationalized higher education helps or hinders sustainable progress in higher education. Adopting a qualitative method, this paper—the first of its kind in China—aims to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the rationales and current marketing strategies for international students. Here, the goal is to examine whether such strategies promote or hinder the development of sustainable education. The findings revealed that many internationalization marketing strategies may not survive well into the long term, and greater attention should be paid to enhancing the quality of international students and the quality of education they receive, as well as a sustainable higher education system. Institutions of higher education should rebrand themselves by enhancing the quality of what and how they teach, and cultivating competent international human resources.
Multi-Performance Degradation System Reliability Analysis with Varying Failure Threshold Based on Copulas
Authors: Gan Weizheng , Tang Jiayin
Published: January 2024

This paper investigated reliability modeling for systems subject to dependent competing risks considering that variation of the failure threshold is not considered in most studies on competing failure reliability. Firstly, the variation of degradation quantity under shocks was analyzed, and the variation of the threshold was considered on this basis. Secondly, the cumulative degradation under the influence of the random shock process was analyzed. The attractive property of Copula functions is symmetry. Then, a linear Wiener process model was applied to model performance degradation failure, and a multi-performance degradation correlated-competition model based on a Copula function was constructed, which considered the correlated competition between multi-performance degradation failures. Lastly, a micromotor system was used to analyze the applicability of the proposed model for bivariate instances, demonstrating the rationality and effectiveness of the proposed model.
Cell-Surface Glycan Labeling and Sensing
Authors: Li Yiran , Wang Lele , Ding Lin , Ju Huangxian
Published: January 2024

Cell-surface glycans are abundant and complex and play a critical role in maintaining protein stability, regulating cell behavior, and participating in cell communication. Obtaining structural information on glycans in situ is helpful to further understand the role of glycans in the physiological and pathological processes of cells and the regulatory mechanism. To achieve this, we can use recognition or labeling strategies to convert the presence of glycans on the cell surface into signals that can be detected. Currently, many different types of in situ sensing strategies for glycans have been developed. The spatial control of the conversion process can realize the restriction of glycan detection to specific proteins, and the introduction of signal amplification technology into the conversion process can improve the sensitivity of sensing. In this paper, the recent progress of glycan labeling methods and sensing technology is reviewed, and the future development direction is prospected.
A New Gonolobus Species (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) from Sinaloa, Mexico
Authors: Alvarado-Cárdenas Leonardo O. , Pío-León Juan F. , Morillo Gilberto , Islas-Hernández Carla Sofía
Published: January 2024

In this study a new species of Gonolobus, G. villasenorii, is described. It is endemic to Sinaloa, Mexico, distributed in the Sierra Madre Occidental in pine–oak forest. This species is characterized by the presence of lanceolate sepals, margin of the corolla lobes with a whitish-green callus, without being cristate, and anthers with rectangular dorsal appendages. The new species is compared to Gonolobus chloranthus and Gonolobus erianthus. Gonolobus grandiflorus, Gonolobus incerianus, and Gonolobus lozadae are species with which it shares reticulate corollas and flowers more than 2 cm in diameter. A detailed description of the new species includes data on its habitat, ecology, phenology, conservation status, a distribution map, and a section where the new species is compared with similar species and how to recognize it.