bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cage-Like La4B24 and Core-Shell La4B290/+/-: Perfect Spherically Aromatic Tetrahedral Metallo-Borospherenes
Authors: Lu Xiao-Qin , Gao Cai-Yue , Wei Zhi-Hong , Li Si-Dian 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Cage-like and core-shell metallo-borospherenes exhibit interesting structures and bonding. Based on extensive global searches and first-principles theory calculations, we predict herein the perfect tetrahedral cage-like Td La4B24 (1) and core-shell Td La4B29 (2), Td La4B29+ (3), and Td La4B29- (4) which all possess the same geometrical symmetry as their carbon fullerene counterpart Td C28, with four equivalent interconnected B6 triangles on the cage surface and four nona-coordinate La centers in four conjoined η9-B9 rings. In these tetra-La-doped boron complexes, La4[B@B4@B24]0/+/- (2/3/4) in the structural motif of 1+4+28 contain a B-centered tetrahedral Td B@B4 core in a La-decorated tetrahedral La4B24 shell, with the negatively charged tetra-coordinate B- at the center being the boron analog of tetrahedral C in Td CH4 (B-~C). Detailed orbital and bonding analyses indicate that these Td lanthanide boride complexes are spherically aromatic in nature with a universal La--B9 (d-p) σ and (d-p) δ coordination bonding pattern. The IR, Raman, and UV-Vis or photoelectron spectra of these novel metallo-borospherenes are computationally simulated to facilitate their spectral characterizations.
A Sustainable Filtering Material for Efficient Removal of Volatile Organic Compounds From Their Aqueous Mixtures
Authors: Lv Yong , Xi Xiangju , Xue Yijiao , Jiang Feng , Zhu Xianqi , Dai Lei , Chen Zhirong 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are hazardous to the environment and human health. Thus, tremendous effort has gone into developing effective/efficient techniques for VOCs separation from their aqueous mixtures. In this work, a simple and versatile strategy was proposed to fabricate a new material for hydrophobic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) separation, in which a self-assembling hydrogel consisting of TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibers (TOCN) and cationic guar gum (CGG) was used. Specifically, TOCN and CGG were deposited onto a filter paper via a layer-by-layer procedure, resulting in a TOCN/CGG hydrogel-coated filtering material, in which no crosslinking agent was used. The hydrogel is spontaneously formed by electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding. The as-prepared filtering material exhibits oil-repellence and underwater oleophobicity resulting from the formation of hydration layer on hydrogel, thus demonstrating good VOCs separation performance. One-layer of TOCN/CGG hydrogel coating (dried mass of 0.032 g·m-2) was proved to realize the VOCs separation (separation efficiency of around 99% and water flux of as high as 905.14 L·m-2·h-1). Further increase of the hydrogel layers has negligible influence on the separation efficiency although it decreases the water flux. This filtering material also exhibits good stability during recycling. Consequently, this TOCN/CGG self-assembling hydrogel-coated filtering material has great potential in VOCs-contaminated wastewater treatment.
Waterlogging Risk Assessment of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Urban Agglomeration in the Past 60 Years
Authors: Wang Yujie , ZHAI JIANQING , Song Lianchun 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In the context of global climate change and rapid urbanization, the risk of urban waterlogging is one of the main climate risks faced by the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) urban agglomeration. In this study, we obtain the urban waterlogging risk index of the BTH urban agglomeration and assess waterlogging risks in the built-up area of the BTH for two time periods (1961–1990 and 1991–2019). We analyze the economic and social data as well as the climate data from 149 meteorological observation stations in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei provinces and consider the hazard, exposure, and vulnerability factors. The results showed that for the two time periods considered, the areas with the lowest (Level-1) waterlogging risk have decreased by nearly 50%, and the second-lowest (Level-2) ones have increased by nearly 55%. Although the areas at Level-3 and above have decreased by 17%, the variations in each city were quite different. Among them, the areas at Level-3 have increased by 52% and 51% in Beijing and Handan, respectively. During the years 1991–2019, the areas at Level-3 risk and above were mainly found in Beijing, Tianjin, Shijiazhuang, Qinhuangdao, Handan, and Xingtai. Among them, Beijing had the highest waterlogging risk index. In particular, the areas with Level-3 risk and above have increased by 76% in the past 30 years. The areas with the highest risk level (Level-4) of waterlogging in Beijing were mostly found in the downtown areas (Haidian, Chaoyang, Dongcheng, and Xicheng districts). This study provides a scientific background for urban waterlogging risk management and implementation of the national strategy for the development of the BTH region.
Secretomics: A Possible Biochemical Foot Printing Tool in Developing Microalgal Cultivation Strategies
Authors: Dixit Rakhi Bajpai , Raut Balu , Manjre Suvarna , Gawde Mitesh , Gocher Chandra , Shukla Manish R , Khopkar Avinash , Prasad Venkatesh , Griffin Thomas P , Dasgupta Santanu 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Comparative Performance of Medium-Chain-Length Polyhydroxyalkanoates Production Between Pseudomonas Aeruginosa and Pseudomonas Putida
Authors: Boonyawanich Siriorn , Tanikkul Pinanong , Thenchartanan Pornpanna , Pisutpaisal Nipon 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Non-degradable polymer waste enlarged over increasing of human population. This badly affected on environmental pollution and biosphere changing. Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), an eco-friendly biopolymer, were substituted for conventional- or petrochemical-derived polymer. They are reserve carbon energy produced from diversity of microorganisms in granular under limited nutrient for bacterial growth (e.g. nitrogen and phosphorus). Pseudomonas aeruginosa TISTR 1287 was used to catalyze emulsified palm oil to produce valuable PHAs. The highest yield of PHAs production (0.65 g/L, 38.0%) was obtained in MSM supplemented with 0.75% (v/w) emulsified palm oil after 72-hr cultivation, which was a few lower than that produced by Pseudomonas putida TISTR 1522 (0.95 g/L, 40.15%) cultivated in 1% (w/v) fatty acid salt for after 24-hr cultivation. The intracellular PHAs were detected by staining with Nile red . The characters of intracellular PHAs examined by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM) exhibited that PHAs accumulate in white and roundish-shaped granules with 0.2-0.5 m m diameter inside the cells, about 2-3 granules per rod-shaped bacterium cell. These optimizations were successfully demonstrated high content of intracellular PHAs accumulation in P. aeruginosa TISTR 1287 by utilization of emulsified palm oil.
Calculation of Electron Transport in Branched Semiconductor Nanostructures Using Quantum Network Model
Authors: Tsurikov Davyd 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Electron transport in branched semiconductor nanostructures provides many possibilities for creating fundamentally new devices. We solve the problem of its calculation using a quantum network model. The proposed scheme consists of three computational parts: S-matrix of the network junction, S-matrix of the network in terms of its junctions’ S-matrices, electric currents through the network based on its S-matrix. To calculate the S-matrix of the network junction, we propose scattering boundary conditions in a clear integro-differential form. As an alternative, we also consider the Dirichlet-to-Neumann and Neumannto- Dirichlet map methods. To calculate the S-matrix of the network in terms of its junctions’ S-matrices, we obtain a network combining formula. We find electrical currents through the network in the framework of the Landauer– B¨uttiker formalism. Everywhere for calculations, we use extended scattering matrices, which allows taking into account correctly the contribution of tunnel effects between junctions. We demonstrate the proposed calculation scheme by modeling nanostructure based on two-dimensional electron gas. For this purpose we offer a model of a network formed by smooth junctions with one, two and three adjacent branches. We calculate the electrical properties of such a network (by the example of GaAs), formed by four junctions, depending on the temperature.
Experimental Design Modelling and Optimization of Triazine Herbicides Removal With Reduced Graphene Oxide Using Response Surface Method
Authors: Foschi Martina , Capasso Paola , Maggi Maria Anna , Ruggieri Fabrizio , Fioravanti Giulia 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
In this work, triazines were chosen as the organic micropollutants model, to develop a useful method for the removal of triazine products, using a reduced derivative of graphene oxide as adsorbent material. The pristine graphene oxide and its thermally reduced derivatives under mild conditions were tested, optimizing the GO reduction conditions by means of DOE coupled with the response surface methodology. For the reduction it was decided to choose the mildest and simplest conditions possible, using an air heat treatment in a common laboratory oven. The optimal reduction conditions deduced from the response surface were calculated at a reduction temperature of 110 °C maintained for 24 hours and rGO sample was employed in the adsorption of the triazines. All the adsorbent materials have been characterized before use, by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Brunauer-Emmett- Teller (BET) surface area analysis. Triazine analyses were performed by HPLC. The data obtained from the adsorption isotherms have been fitted with the Langmuir and Freundlich models, and the Freundlich model was the best one, especially for the Atraton and the Prometryn. The maximum adsorption capacity obtained was 4.4 mg/g for Atrazine, 19.4 mg/g for Atraton and 18.4 mg/g for Prometryn, at room temperature.
Development the Flexible Magnetic Abrasive Finishing Process by Transmitting the Magnetic Fields
Authors: moghanizadeh abbas 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The objective of this research is to present a novel approach in magnetic abrasive finishing to improve its potential for creating different finishing patterns in free-form surface using no special fixtures or tool machines to minimize the complexity of the process. The key point of this idea is that magnetic abrasive particles can move in especial patterns by transfer magnetic fields (similar a magnetic train moving on a magnetic rail) and create the desired polishing patterns on the surface simultaneously. The coils are placed under a thin plate, then a flexible magnetic path is created by a special arrangement of magnetic coils, after that, the coils are turned on and off in turn, and the magnetic abrasive particles move in the created path and abrasive the surface. The continuous movement of magnetic abrasive particles under the magnetic field will lead to abrasive the surface of thin sheets. The tests were performed on copper sheets with a thickness of 1 mm. Experimental parameters include electric current (0.25, 0.5, and 0.75A), speed of turning on and off of the coils (speed of magnetic abrasive particle movement) (20, 30, and 40 mm/s), and process time (1, 2, and 3 hours). The experiments were performed on an L-shaped and free-form sheets. The results show that using a transmission magnetic field in the MAF (TMAF) makes it easy to create different surface roughness patterns in different directions simultaneously. While in one part of the L shape the electric current is 0.25A, the surface roughness of is around 0.9 µm, in the other part, where the electric current is 0.75A, the surface roughness of is around 0.55 µm. Meanwhile, TMAF makes it possible to finish a free-form surface with no special fixtures. Moreover, there is a direct relationship between the change in the surface roughness and the electric current and process time.
Optimization of Metallic Powder Filaments for Additive Manufacturing Extrusion (MEX)
Authors: Cerejo Fábio Silva , Gatões Daniel , Vieira Teresa 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Additive manufacturing (AM) of metallic powder particles has been establishing itself as sustainable, whatever the technology selected. Material Extrusion (MEX) integrates the ongoing effort to improve AM sustainability, in which low-cost equipment is associated with a decrease of powder waste during manufacturing. MEX has been gaining increasing interest for building 3D functional/structural metallic parts because it incorporates the consolidated knowledge from powder injection moulding/extrusion feedstocks into the AM scope—filament extrusion layer-by-layer. Moreover, MEX as an indirect process can overcome some of the technical limitations of direct AM processes (laser/electron-beam-based) regarding energy-matter interactions. The present study reveals an optimal methodology to produce MEX filament feedstocks (metallic powder, binder and additives), having in mind to attain the highest metallic powder content. Nevertheless, the main challenges are also to achieve high extrudability and a suitable ratio between stiffness and flexibility. The metallic powder volume content (vol.%) in the feedstocks was evaluated by the critical powder volume concentration (CPVC). Subsequently, the rheology of the feedstocks was established by means of the mixing torque value, which is related to the filament extrudability performance.
Narrowing but Persisting Gender Pay Gap among Employees of the US Department of Health and Human Services during 2010-2018
Authors: Chen Zhuo (Adam) , Zhang Yihong , Luo Huabin , Zhang Donglan , Rajbhandari-Thapa Janani , Wang Yuheng , Wang Ruoxi , Bagwell-Adams Grace 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background. The gender pay gap in the United States (US) has narrowed over the last several decades, with the female/male earnings ratio in the US increased from about 60% before the 1980s to about 79% by 2014. However, the gender pay gap among the healthcare workforce persists. The objective of this study is to estimate the gender pay gap in the US federal health workforce during 2010-2018. Methods. We used an administrative dataset including annual pay rates and job characteristics of employees of the US Department of Health and Human Services. Employees’ gender was classified based on first names. Regression analyses were used to estimate the gender pay gap using the predicted gender. Results. Women employees of the DHHS earn about 13% less than men in 2010, and 9.2% less in 2018. Occupation, pay plan, and location explain more than half of the gender pay gap. Controlling job grade further reduces the gap. The unexplained portion of the gender pay gap in 2018 may fall between 1.0% and 3.5%. Women have a small advantage in terms of pay increase over the study period.Conclusions. While the gender pay gap has narrowed within the last two decades, the pay gap between men and women in the federal health workforce persists and warrants continuing attention and research. Continued efforts should be implemented to reduce the gender pay gap among the health workforce.
Analogical Reasoning as an Inference Scheme
Authors: Walliser Bernard , ZWIRN Denis , ZWIRN Hervé 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Analogy plays an important role in science as well as in non-scientific domains such as taxonomy or learning. We make explicit the difference and complementarity between the concept of analogical statement, which merely states that two objects have a relevant similarity, and the concept of analogical inference, which relies on the former in order to draw a conclusion from some premises. For the first, we show that it is not possible to give an absolute definition of what it means for two objects to be analogous; a relative definition of analogy is introduced, only relevant from some point of view. For the second, we argue that it is necessary to introduce a background over-hypothesis relating two sets of properties; the belief strength of the conclusion is then directly related to the belief strength of the over-hypothesis. Moreover, we assert the syntactical identity between analogical inference and single case induction despite important pragmatic differences.
Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs): the importance of human capital
Authors: Campino José , Brochado Ana , Rosa Álvaro 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) subject has been gaining relevance due to its novelty, due to the capital amounts involved in the projects, as well as the disruptive technology and methods involved. ICOs are a disruptive way to finance new projects which involve high risks and which are mainly technological. This way to finance a project has been compared to others, namely, crowdfunding, venture capital or Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). Nevertheless, ICOs have very specific characteristics which make them unique. We have studied the ICO projects and developed a literature review on the topic. Building on the Human Capital Theory (HCT), we have also studied the importance given to the project’s team and its perceived impact on projects’ success. Our contribution to fill in this literature gap was to develop an econometric model which measures the impact of team’s characteristics on the success of a project. The database was collected with the combination of two data sources and is composed of 3158 profiles and 340 ICO projects. We have concluded that team variables are significant contributors to project’s success. Our data suggests that people’s location contributes to projects’ success as well as promoters’ networks. The ratings attributed by external parties to the project are also indicators of success. Several control variables such as the implementation of thresholds to investment, the number of currencies accepted, the platform in which the ICO is developed, the existence of bonus schemes and the year of the project were found to be statistically significant having an impact on projects’ outcome.
Canopy Characterization of Sweet Chestnut Coppice in the North of Spain From Lidar Data
Authors: Prada Marta , Canga Elena , MAJADA Juan , Martínez-Alonso Celia 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
One important part of a forest stand that is impacted by forest management is the canopy structure. Canopy structure is closely related to ecosystem functions as it plays an important role in the relationships between structural complexity, biodiversity and stand productivity. The Leaf Area Index (LAI) is a key parameter that helps to understand the connection between canopy structure and ecosystem functions. In this study, the main aims were to examine the impact of forest management on canopy structure using LiDAR data to characterize the canopy vertical profile, the development of LAI models and a descriptive mapping tool for sweet chestnut (Castanea Sativa Mill.) coppice. Twenty-one circular plots (r=10m) were established, each of which was submitted to one of the following forest management treatments: Control, with no intervention (3300-3700 stems ha-1); Treatment 1, one thinning to leave a living stock density of 900–600 stems ha-1; or Treatment 2, a more intensive thinning, leaving 400 stems ha-1. An LAI field measurement was made in all plots and the study area was recorded by LiDAR. With the LiDAR two types of metrics were calculated: standard elevation metrics and canopy metrics. The latter allowed the complete characterization of the canopy from ground to maximum height. The results showed the different canopy layers of the study area, highlighting how the resprout layer influences the canopy structure of sweet chestnut coppice. By combining the LiDAR data and the LAI field estimates various linear and non-linear models were developed and tested, the linear model being found to have the best accuracy for the study area (Cross-validation: R2 (0.79) and RMSE (0.20)). With the selected linear model and other LiDAR data of interest such as the 95th percentile, an automatic mapping tool was designed. This tool allows spatially information to be generated that can be used to implement management strategies to improve productivity, ecosystem functions, forest management planning and/or fuel management.
Comparison of Airborne Laser Scanning (3D) with Sentinel-2 (2D) for Estimating Above Ground Biomass/Carbon Stock in a Subtropical Chir Pine Forest of Balakot, Pakistan
Authors: Ullah Sami , Saeed Tahir , Shafique Muhammad , Saad Muhammad , Khan Adnan 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Forest ecosystems act as a sink of atmospheric carbon dioxide in the form of biomass, and plays one of the crucial role for carbon sequestration and in regulating the global carbon cycle. Few studies based on ground sample plots were conducted for estimating forest biomass/carbon stock across Pakistan. This study comparing the first time the potential of three dimensional (3D) airborne laser scanning (ALS) with two dimensional (2D) Sentinel-2 to estimate above-ground biomass/carbon stock (AGB/C) in a Subtropical Chir Pine forest of Balakot, Pakistan. We derived height and density metrics from the ALS canopy height model (CHM), and different metrics from Sentinel-2 images, and were regressed with field measured AGB/C at sample plots locations. We found R2 = 0.86 with RMSE% = 25.70, and R2 = 0.62 with RMSE% = 43.92 for ALS and for Sentinel-2 respectively with ground measured AGB/C at sample plots locations. Our study demonstrated that 3D ALS technology has greater potential and is the most accurate option as compared to 2D Sentinel-2 for regular planning and monitoring of AGB/C in the context of the national forest inventory of Pakistan. Our study will be useful for the accomplishment of the REDD+ in measuring, reporting, and verification of forest resources, and future sustainable utilization of forest, safeguarding the livelihoods of forest-dependent people, and reducing pressure on forest ecosystems.