bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Performance evaluation of p-type Cr2O3 thin films grown by reactive DC magnetron sputtering for Schottky diode applications
Authors: Prathiksha  , Jagadish K A , Kekuda Dhananjaya 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
In this study, we present a comprehensive investigation into the impact of combined oxygen and argon flow rates on the physical properties of Cr2O3 thin films produced via reactive DC magnetron sputtering. Additionally, we explore the influence of oxygen flow rate on various aspects, including structural, morphological, optical, chemical, and electrical characteristics of the sputtered Cr2O3 thin films. Our analysis, based on XRD results, reveals the polycrystalline nature of the films. Surface morphology was examined through scanning electron microscopy. Optical analysis indicates a band gap ranging from 2.70 eV to 2.99 eV for the films. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis shows the splitting of Cr 2p core spectra into Cr 2p3/2 and Cr 2p1/2 domains within the range of 573 eV to 585 eV, alongside the presence of satellite peaks. Moreover, extracted electrical properties reveal the p-type conductivity of the deposited Cr2O3 thin film under various oxygen flow rates. Furthermore, we fabricate and characterize an ITO/p-Cr2O3/Al Schottky diode to provide additional insights into p-Cr2O3/Al Schottky diodes. Overall, this study contributes valuable insights and enhances our understanding of Cr2O3 thin film properties, particularly in the context of semiconductor devices like Schottky diodes.
Study of austenite grain growth and recrystallization behavior in pipeline steels containing niobium
Authors: Tan Fengliang , Cui Jinbiao , Liu Ning , Wang Li , Chen Jiansheng , Tian Shiwei , Li Yantao 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The austenite grain growth and recrystallization behaviors of three pipeline steels with different Nb contents were investigated through reheating and thermal simulation compression experiments. The initiation conditions for dynamic and sub-dynamic recrystallization of austenite were analyzed, and sub-dynamic recrystallization equations in Avrami form were established. The influences of Nb content and deformation conditions on the evolution of grain size during austenite recrystallization was examined. The findings indicate that the austenite grain size of the three steels increases gradually with higher reheating temperatures, while the average grain size decreases with increasing Nb content. Sub-dynamic recrystallization initiation temperatures for the B150-steel, B145-steel, and 73-steel were found to be 920 °C for 10 s, 940 °C for 30 s, and 960 °C for 30 s, respectively. During high-temperature deformation, Nb in solid solution hindered recrystallization by impeding grain boundary and dislocation movement. At lower deformation temperatures, Nb(C, N) precipitation pinned grain boundaries and dislocations and consumed substantial free energy, thus competing with recrystallization. As Nb content increased, strain-induced precipitation became more pronounced, resulting in more effective inhibition of recrystallized grain growth.
Synthesis and characterization of boiled linseed oil integrated with and without reduced graphene oxide nanosheets blended microcapsules
Authors: John Prathap Singh P , Vasanthanathan A 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The synthesis and characterization of reduced graphene oxide, boiled linseed oil(BLO), and reduced graphene oxide(rGO)—boiled linseed oil microcapsules (BLO-rGO MCs) are effectuated. The synthesis of reduced graphene oxide involved the reduction of graphene oxide using a reducing agent, resulting in the formation of reduced graphene oxide sheets with a high degree of reduction. Characterization techniques such as XRD and FTIR confirmed the successful reduction of graphene oxide to reduced graphene oxide. Boiled linseed oil was characterized using FTIR and SEM techniques, which revealed the molecular structure and surface morphology of the BLO. These microcapsules were synthesized using a simple and scalable method that involves the encapsulation of reduced graphene oxide and boiled linseed oil within a protective shell. The microcapsules were characterized using various techniques such as SEM, FTIR, and XRD, which evidently demonstrated the successful encapsulation of reduced graphene oxide and boiled linseed oil as microcapsules. The combination of reduced graphene oxide and boiled linseed oil as microcapsules offers unique properties such as improved stability, controlled release, as well as increased functionality. These microcapsules have potential applications in numerous fields such as coatings, composites, and drug delivery. The overall output of this study demonstrates the high possibility for the development of novel materials with unique properties and potential applications in numerous fields via the synthesis and characterization of reduced graphene oxide, boiled linseed oil, and reduced graphene oxide-boiled linseed oil microcapsules.
Comparative investigation of friction stir welds reinforced with graphene nanoplatelets and copper in AA6082-T6 alloy
Authors: Biradar Rahul , Patil Sachinkumar , Sharma Priyaranjan , Fernandes Filipe 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Friction stir welding (FSW) represents a solid-state welding method renowned for producing high-quality joints, particularly in aluminum alloys. This study focuses on enhancing weld strength in the aerospace alloy AA6082-T6. The research involved conducting experiments to create FSW joints in AA6082-T6 by incorporating graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and copper as filler materials. Various characteristics of the joints, including microhardness, tensile strength, wear resistance, and corrosion behavior, were meticulously investigated. The experimental findings demonstrated that AA6082-T6 joints reinforced with GNPs exhibited significantly higher weld strength than conventional joints. This improvement can be attributed to the superior bonding and reinforcing effects of GNPs within the aluminum matrix. Furthermore, the GNPs incorporated joints displayed enhanced electrochemical and wear properties. This innovative approach in FSW presents a promising avenue for enhancing weld strength across diverse alloys through the integration of different reinforcement materials.
Enhanced degradation of diclofenac via H2O2-assisted photocatalysis in a submerged membrane reactor using N-doped TiO2
Authors: Van Tung Tra , Tuan Nguyen Quang , Van Huu Tap , Thanh Huong Hoang , Tran Quoc Ba 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This study presents an in-depth investigation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-assisted photocatalytic degradation of diclofenac (DCF) using N-doped TiO2 (N-TiO2) in a submerged membrane photocatalytic reactor (SMPR) under visible light. The technical achievements of this work include optimizing critical parameters such as solution pH, catalyst concentration, DCF concentration, and H2O2 concentration to maximize degradation efficiency. The results indicate that the optimal conditions for DCF removal were achieved at pH 6.5, [N-TiO2] of 1.0 g l−1, DCF concentration of 20 mg l−1, and H2O2 concentration of 21.75 mg l−1. Under these conditions, DCF removal efficiency significantly improved from 42.21% in the absence of H2O2 to 79.55% with the addition of H2O2. This demonstrates the crucial role of H2O2 in enhancing photocatalytic degradation performance. Comparative analysis with other studies using UV light further emphasizes the efficacy of this visible light-driven process, which achieved competitive removal rates, demonstrating the potential of visible light and N-TiO2 as a sustainable solution for DCF degradation in wastewater. This research provides valuable insights into optimizing conditions for DCF degradation using N-TiO2 under visible light, offering potential applications for this photocatalytic process.
TRU-IMP: techniques for reliable use of images in medical physics; a graphical user interface to analyze and compare segmentations in nuclear medicine
Authors: Laporte Philippe , Carrier Jean-François 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background. In the context of pharmacokinetic analyses, the segmentation method one uses has a large impact on the results obtained, thus the importance of transparency. Innovation. This paper introduces a graphical user interface (GUI), TRU-IMP, that analyzes time-activity curves and segmentations in dynamic nuclear medicine. This GUI fills a gap in the current technological tools available for the analysis of quantitative dynamic nuclear medicine image acquisitions. The GUI includes various techniques of segmentations, with possibilities to compute related uncertainties. Results. The GUI was tested on image acquisitions made on a dynamic nuclear medicine phantom. This allows the comparison of segmentations via their time-activity curves and the extracted pharmacokinetic parameters. Implications. The flexibility and user-friendliness allowed by the proposed interface make the analyses both easy to perform and adjustable to any specific case. This GUI permits researchers to better show and understand the reproducibility, precision, and accuracy of their work in quantitative dynamic nuclear medicine. Availability and Implementation. Source code freely available on GitHub: https://github.com/ArGilfea/TRU-IMP and location of the interface available from there. The GUI is fully compatible with iOS and Windows operating systems (not tested on Linux). A phantom acquisition is also available to test the GUI easily.
Producer services agglomeration and low-carbon economic transition: the role of economic growth target constraint
Authors: Yang Yuping , Wang Yixuan , Gong Dinglin , Lam Johnny F I , Feng Linjie , Chen Huangxin , Zhan Weipeng 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Objective. Producer services are an intermediate input factor that permeates every link in the industrial production chain and is essential to the growth of a low-carbon economy. This study aims to elucidate the connection between producer services agglomeration (PSA) and low-carbon economic transition. Methods. Based on China’s provincial panel data from 2004 to 2021, we empirically test the influence of PSA on low-carbon economic transition using a two-way fixed effects model, and utilize government work reports to construct an indicator of economic growth target constraints and its characteristics to further explore its moderating effect. Results. PSA contributes to enhancing low-carbon economic transition. The heterogeneity test finds that PSA significantly helps low-carbon economic transition in the east and west regions, but not in the central region. The quantile regression findings demonstrate that PSA is more effective at raising the level of low-carbon economic transition at the 10th and 90th quantiles, which indicates that the carbon reduction and efficiency enhancement effects of PSA play a greater role in regions with lower and higher low-carbon economic transition levels. Further research presents that the economic growth target constraint negatively moderates PSA’s impact on low-carbon economic transition, but this constraint characterized by soft constraints strengthens the positive effect of PSA on low-carbon economic transition. Implications. In view of this, the government can foster PSA in accordance with local conditions, optimize agglomeration area layout, and establish a scientific and reasonable government target management system to strengthen low-carbon and high-quality economic development.
Analysis of mechanical properties and stress distribution in self-healing microcapsules using micro-compressive test, nanoindentation test, and finite element analysis
Authors: Kim Hyeon Ji , Yoon Sung Ho 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This study analyzed self-healing microcapsules composed of melamine, urea, and formaldehyde (MUF). The thin shell’s mechanical properties were predicted using various techniques to gain a comprehensive understanding of their behavior. The compressive behavior of the microcapsules was assessed through micro-compression testing. The elastic modulus of the thin shell was precisely determined using nanoindentation, a method known for its accuracy in measuring material properties. Finite element analysis (FEA) was then applied, modeling the microcapsule between two plates and treating the core, which contains the healing agent, as an incompressible liquid. The mechanical properties of the thin shell, based on the elastic modulus derived from the nanoindentation test, were incorporated into the FEA, and the results were compared with those from the micro-compression test. Additionally, we analyzed the von Mises stress distribution to evaluate stress concentration within the spherical core–shell structure, ensuring the reliability of our conclusions. The test methods and analysis techniques presented in this study provide guidelines for improving the stiffness of MUF microcapsules. They can be further applied to predict the properties of materials with a spherical core–shell structure.
First principle atomistic modelling of magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) to enhance its tunnel magneto-resistance (TMR) ratio
Authors: Asif Akhtar Shagufta Parveen , Prasad Santashraya , Islam Aminul 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
This paper investigates the impact of electrode materials on the Tunnel Magneto-Resistance (TMR) ratio of Magnetic Tunnel Junction (MTJ) device. Four different structures of MTJ have been simulated by using cobalt (Co), Nickel (Ni), Iron (Fe) and two alloy materials of nickel-iron (NiFe) and cobalt-iron (CoFe). These materials have been used as ferromagnetic electrodes. Mulliken population and transmission spectrum observed in both parallel and antiparallel configurations of these devices to understand the spin transport properties and Tunnel Magneto-Resistance (TMR) ratio has been estimated. The first principal study was performed based on density function theory (DFT) and Non-equilibrium Green’s Function (NEGF) computational methods using the QuantumATK simulation tool to study properties such as band structure, the density of states (DOS), Spin Transfer Torque (STT), I-V characteristics and TMR. This study explores how different electrode materials affect the Tunnel Magneto-Resistance (TMR) ratio in Magnetic Tunnel Junction (MTJ) devices. With these results, it is observed that cobalt-based MTJ devices (that is Co-MgO-Fe and CoFe-MgO-CoFe) exhibit higher TMR ratio as compared to Nickel- and Iron-based MTJ devices (that is NiFe-MgO-NiFe and Ni-MgO-Fe). As Cobalt has a high spin polarization this property makes it suitable for use in spintronics devices like MTJs, where the manipulation of electron spins is essential for data storage and information processing. These findings can be employed to improve the performance characteristics of the MTJ-based Random Access Memory (MRAM) in the field of spintronics.
Equitable stormwater utility fees: an integrated analysis of environmental, socioeconomic and infrastructure factors at the community scale
Authors: Garcia Hannah , Techapinyawat Lapone , Lee Jim , Zhang Hua 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Municipalities worldwide implement stormwater management programs to mitigate the hydrological and water quality impacts of stormwater runoff. Stormwater utility fees (SWUF) are often used to fund such important programs by collecting revenue from residential and commercial properties. However, existing SWUFs often solely rely on the estimate of impervious surfaces and do not consider other environmental, infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors in the generation and effects of stormwater runoff. This study is the first attempt to propose a reconstruction of SWUFs from the perspectives of social equity and environmental justice. The method aims to address disparities in fee rates among residential parcels, focusing on helping economically disadvantaged communities. It integrates drainage service, potential contribution to non-point source pollution, and socioeconomic status through two alternative schemes. The two schemes allocate fees based on combined rankings of the three factors at the level of census block groups. The proposed method was applied to 88 180 residential parcels in Corpus Christi, Texas, a mid-sized coastal community. The results suggest that over 70% of the disadvantaged communities would benefit from the reconstructed SWUFs without affecting the targeted funding for stormwater infrastructure. This method builds on publicly available datasets and offers an adaptive framework for other municipalities to incorporate additional factors or datasets, representing an exploratory step toward achieving more equitable stormwater management practices.
Canopy height damage by Typhoon Songda in Northern Hokkaido, Japan, in 2004
Authors: Kwon TaeOh , Shibata Hideaki , Takemi Tetsuya , Takagi Kentaro 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
The increasing need for the risk assessment of disastrous wind disturbance, especially by tropical cyclones (TCs), has been emphasized because the number of intense TCs is projected to increase due to global warming, though there are some discrepancies across oceanic basins. There is also an agreement of the northward migration of TC disturbance in Far East Asia in the future, when meteorological changes accompanying global warming are considered together. This study assessed the canopy height damage caused by the historic Typhoon Songda in 2004 from the perspective of the relations with topography, wind traits, and forest canopy types in northern Hokkaido, Japan. We found that the order of canopy height damage was consistent along every single aspect and every canopy height class with conifer-canopied forest > mixed-canopied forest > hardwood-canopied forest and higher damage on windward aspects than on leeward aspects. It was noted that the canopy height damage to hardwood and mixed forests showed a threshold pattern at around 14 m in canopy height, whereas for conifer forests, this was not the case. Strong causal relations were not observed between canopy damage (outcomes) and wind severity, inclination of slope, or canopy height (causes), though the causal relations were highly significant between wind severity or canopy height (mediators) and altitude or inclination of slope (causes) for all the studied canopy types. Given typhoon-induced forest damage is the consequence of the interactions among various intermingled biotic and abiotic causes and that areas affected by intense typhoons are anticipated to extend northward, more case studies in regions such as Hokkaido in Japan and the further north, which have rarely been visited by typhoons but are projected to be more affected by increasing number of intense typhoons, should be regarded as a high priority from this time forward for sustainable forest management.
Is There An “Ideal Instagram Face” for Caucasian Female Influencers? A Cross-Sectional Observational Study of Facial Proportions in 100 Top Beauty Influencers
Authors: Loucas Rafael , Sauter Bruno , Loucas Marios , Leitsch Sebastian , Haroon Omar , Macek Aljosa , Graul Silke , Kobler Alexander , Holzbach Thomas 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
In the digital arena, wherein younger generations predominantly spend their time, social media continues to determine what is considered beautiful. Social media, particularly Instagram (Meta, Menlo Park, CA), is becoming a prominent aspect of the plastic surgeon–patient relationship. Therefore, the beauty ideal escalates without any barriers and breaks. The majority of influencers look alike. This sets a new trend for a beauty ideal.

Objectives
In this study, the authors aimed to analyze the facial proportions of 100 top female beauty influencers, to evaluate them for identifying the “ideal Instagram face,” and to determine whether there existed a deviation from the standard golden ratio.

Methods
The authors identified the top 100 beauty influencers, according to the latest rankings of November 2022. A detailed facial analysis has been conducted using the Fiji biomedical image analysis software. The primary outcome parameters included facial proportions such as lip ratio, Ricketts’ line, and nasal dimensions. Secondary outcomes comprised BMI, age, and ethnicity. The results were collected and analyzed descriptively using graphs and statistics.

Results
Complete datasets were obtained from the top 100 female beauty influencers with a mean age of 31.3 ± 6.3 years (range, 24-38 years). The majority of influencers were Americans, followed by Germans and British. Based upon the mean of the aforementioned parameters, we could design the ideal Instagram face. There was no significant difference between the golden ratio and the new trend of the ideal Instagram face.

Conclusions
Despite the existence of varied ethnic population groups and nonstandard measurements, the ideal Instagram face represents today's ideal trending face. The ideal Instagram face is symmetrical, matching the golden ratios, with a small and neat nose, full and lush lips, high cheekbones, as also a sharp and chiseled jawline. Further studies on this topic, involving a greater number of influencers with standardized measurements, should be advocated to identify the ideal facial proportions. This will lead to improvements in invasive and noninvasive cosmetic treatments.

Level of Evidence: 5 (Diagnostic)
Intracranial vasculopathy with MR vessel wall imaging: a case series
Authors: Sin Long Hin , Lee Yat Sing , Chan Wai Tat Victor , Siu Chi Wai , Tan Chong Boon 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Conventional luminal imaging, often the first line investigation, has helped physicians in diagnosing countless patients with cerebrovascular disease but regrettably, it offers little diagnostic clues in patients with challenging vasculopathy, which the latter often requires invasive histopathological diagnosis. In past decade, MR vessel wall imaging has quickly emerged as a non-invasive modality that greatly enhances radiologists’ capability of differentiating underlying aetiology. Not only it minimizes surgical trauma to patients, but also provide timely and accurate diagnosis for physicians to offer prompt appropriate treatment and avoid devastating outcomes. Tuen Mun Hospital, the neuroscience centre serving more than 1.3 million population in New Territories, Hong Kong, has been the pioneer in optimizing this novel modality within the district. In this article, we hope to share few interesting cases in our centre on how we utilize its advantage in solving some challenging cases. We would also discuss some common imaging pitfalls and tips on interpretation.
Pannus formation: a rare culprit of early bioprosthetic valve dysfunction—a case report
Authors: Takemoto Sho , Kumano Hiroshi , Shimamura Junichi , Shiose Akira 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Early bioprosthetic valve dysfunction (BVD) due to pannus formation is uncommon in elderly patients, and only a limited number of cases have been reported.

Case summary
An 84-year-old man presented with exertional dyspnoea 3 years after surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) with a 19 mm Epic™ valve (Abbott, Santa Clara, CA, USA). Transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated progressive BVD, and cardiac computed tomography (CT) revealed sub-aortic pannus formation. Re-operative SAVR was performed using a 19 mm INSPIRIS RESILIA® valve (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, CA, USA), and pathological examination confirmed valve leaflet deformation caused by pannus overgrowth. At the 18-month follow-up, the patient exhibited favourable progress, with no indications of BVD or pannus recurrence.

Discussion
This case highlights the importance of recognizing early pannus formation as a cause of BVD, even in elderly patients. Early detection of BVD based on clinical symptoms and echocardiography is vital to allow timely surgical intervention before the deterioration of cardiac function. Cardiac CT helps to differentiate pannus from thrombus formation and guide treatment decisions.