Experimental Methodology Research Articles

Design, synthesis, and evaluation of a pyrazole-based corrosion inhibitor: a computational and experimental study

By employing a synergistic blend of experimental and theoretical methodologies, we investigated the corrosion inhibition efficacy of a synthesized pyrazole derivative (BM-01) in a solution of hydrochloric acid (1 M). We utilized molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), density functional theory (DFT), complexation, plus electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). We conducted weight loss (WL) measurements from 298 to 328 K. Inhibition efficacy reached a maximum at a BM-01 concentration of 10−3 M, achieving 90.0% (EIS), 90.40% (WL), and 90.38% (potentiodynamic polarization (PDP)). SEM unveiled the shielding of the carbon-steel surface from acid-induced damage by BM-01. The Langmuir adsorption isotherm exhibited a robust fit with a low sum of squares, standard deviation, and a high correlation coefficient. PDP findings indicated that BM-01 acted as a mixed-type inhibitor, predominantly favoring the cathodic process, suggesting potential corrosion-mitigation properties. Theoretical analyses involving DFT, MD simulations, and radial distribution function were conducted to postulate a mechanism and identify an inhibitory layer. Theoretical outcomes aligned closely with experimental data, thereby reinforcing the validity of our findings.

Various configurations of externally bonded strain-hardening cementitious composite reducing shear failure risk of defected RC beams

This study delves into the efficacy of external strengthening methods in improving the shear behavior of defected reinforced concrete (RC) beams that lack shear stirrups, utilizing both experimental and numerical methodologies. Failure risk of such beams is a potential threat which is mitigated carefully to increase building safety and sustainability to avoid risk of construction failure. Ten RC beams underwent three-point experimental testing to assess the influence of the strengthening scheme and the presence of mechanical anchors. Two beams were designated as control specimens, while eight beams were strengthened with the application of additional strain-hardening cementitious composite (SHCC) layer in various configurations. These configurations encompassed single-sided, two-sided, and strip applications, with the inclusion of mechanical anchors. The study found that employing a single-sided SHCC, incorporating vertically bent bars into the RC beam, is recognized for its efficient alleviation of degradation in shear reinforcement. The incorporation of three SHCC strips to partially reinforce the compromised beams demonstrated a modest impact on the initial stiffness. Nevertheless, noteworthy enhancements of 46% and 42% were observed in both cracking and ultimate loads, respectively. Furthermore, increasing the number of the SHCC strips to four resulted in a more significant improvement in the load–deflection responses. Enhancing the compromised beams by applying four SHCC strips to the beams using bolts offers a feasible alternative to the configuration where SHCC was uniformly attached along the entire defected zone. Moreover, a numerical model was created to simulate the tested beams. The model effectively anticipated the progression of cracks, ultimate capacity, and deflection, indicating excellent agreement with the experimental observations.

Performing like a Learning Machine: The Emphasis on Performance Goals Results in Self-Objectification.

Little attention has been given to self-objectification, which refers to viewing oneself as an instrument or object rather than a full human, in an educational context. To address this gap, the current research aims to test self-objectification among students, and we hypothesized that a performance goal orientation would result in self-objectification (H1), which would further predict reduced authenticity (H2). Six studies (N = 1,716) confirmed our hypotheses. Studies 1-2, employing cross-sectional and 2-wave designs, found a positive association between a performance goal orientation and self-objectification among college students. Study 3 further showed the link among middle school students (i.e., adolescents). Studies 4-5b employed experimental methodologies to demonstrate the causal relationship between the performance goal orientation and self-objectification. In addition, increased self-objectification triggered by the performance goal orientation was further related to reduced authenticity (Studies 3-5b). This work advances the understanding of self-objectification in the educational domain.

Model Reference Adaptive Control (MRAC) for dual-axis solar tracker applied in CPV

In this work, the simulation of the behavior of an MRAC assisted solar tracker in solar trajectory tracking tasks has been developed for a prototype of a two-axis solar tracker that presents structural and performance characteristics capable of supporting PV, CPV, and HCPV-type technology. The proposal is numerically validated by developing an experimental methodology consisting of two stages. The first stage is associated with developing tests of the MRAC-assisted solar tracker to reproduce a solar trajectory (obtained offline by a numerical method) with and without the injection of disturbances (with dynamics equivalent to wind loads in reality), respectively. On the other hand, in the second stage, after replicating the conditions of the tests of stage one but with the assistance of a simple PID type controller, the analysis and comparison of the performance of each alternative is carried out, the above, in terms of tracking error or pointing accuracy. The results show that both alternatives are functional in the development of tests under favorable conditions. However, under conditions with disturbances, it can be noted that the MRAC reduces the tracking error by around 87% compared to PID control.

Spin-torque nano-oscillators and their applications

Spin-torque nano-oscillators (STNOs) have emerged as an intriguing category of spintronic devices based on spin transfer torque to excite magnetic moment dynamics. The ultra-wide frequency tuning range, nanoscale size, and rich nonlinear dynamics have positioned STNOs at the forefront of advanced technologies, holding substantial promise in wireless communication, and neuromorphic computing. This review surveys recent advances in STNOs, including architectures, experimental methodologies, magnetodynamics, and device properties. Significantly, we focus on the exciting applications of STNOs, in fields ranging from signal processing to energy-efficient computing. Finally, we summarize the recent advancements and prospects for STNOs. This review aims to serve as a valuable resource for readers from diverse backgrounds, offering a concise yet comprehensive introduction to STNOs. It is designed to benefit newcomers seeking an entry point into the field and established members of the STNOs community, providing them with insightful perspectives on future developments.

Robocasting of Hierarchical Porous Al2O3 Structures: A Computational and Experimental Methodology for Porosity Estimation and its Effect

Robocasting of Hierarchical Porous Al2O3 Structures: A Computational and Experimental Methodology for Porosity Estimation and its Effect

Enhanced Experimental Setup and Methodology for the Investigation of Corrosion Fatigue in Metallic Biodegradable Implant Materials.

Biodegradable implants as bone fixations may present a safe alternative to traditional permanent implants, reducing the risk of infections, promoting bone healing, and eliminating the need for removal surgeries. Structural integrity is an important consideration when choosing an implant material. As a biodegradable implant is being resorbed, until the natural bone has regrown, the implant material needs to provide mechanical stability. However, the corrosive environment of the human body may affect the fatigue life of the material. Conversely, mechanical stress can have an effect on electrochemical corrosion processes. This is known as corrosion fatigue. In the presented work, an experimental setup and methodology was established to analyze the corrosion fatigue of experimental bioresorbable materials while simultaneously monitoring the electrochemical processes. A double-walled measurement cell was constructed for a three-point bending test in Dulbecco's Phosphate-Buffered Saline (DPBS- -), which was used as simulated body fluid (SBF), at 37 ± 1 °C. The setup was combined with a three-electrode setup for corrosion measurements. Rod-shaped zinc samples were used to validate the setup's functionality. Preliminary static and dynamic bending tests were carried out as per the outlined methodology to determine the test parameters. Open-circuit as well as potentiostatic polarization measurements were performed with and without mechanical loading. For the control, fatigue tests were performed in an air environment. The tested zinc samples were inspected via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Based on the measured mechanical and electrochemical values as well as the SEM images, the effects of the different environments were investigated, and the setup's functionality was verified. An analysis of the data showed that a comprehensive investigation of corrosion fatigue characteristics is feasible with the outlined approach. Therefore, this novel methodology shows great potential for furthering our understanding of the effects of corrosion on the fatigue of biodegradable implant materials.

Multiobjective design of automated order fulfillment systems: A case study for an existing surgical complex

We present a case study that introduces a systematic framework for designing an automated guided vehicle (AGV) order fulfillment system. The multi-stage framework integrated discrete event simulation (DES), super-efficiency data envelopment analysis (S-DEA) model, and Design of Experiments (DOE) methodologies for the design of an AGV system in an existing large-scale surgical complex within a comprehensive hospital in Singapore. Performance metrics derived from this model were consolidated into a single relative efficiency score using the S-DEA model. This efficiency score was then utilized in a DOE methodology, combined with a post-hoc model selection process, to robustly identify appropriate models for evaluating alternative system designs. The proposed framework optimizes AGV deployment by first identifying opportunities for AGVs to add value within the surgical system through a value-stream mapping approach. It then derives the optimal system design by balancing cost efficiency, manpower reallocation, and order fulfillment rates, facilitated by the S-DEA model augmented with the DOE approach and post-hoc model selection. Application of this framework to the surgical complex revealed several insights that can significantly enhance AGV efficiency prior to actual deployment. However, a key limitation of this case-study-based approach is its limited generalizability across different systems. Despite this, the methodology provides a robust foundation for AGV system design in similar healthcare environments.

Exploring the Role of AI in Improving VAT Reporting Quality: Experimental Study in Emerging Markets

In recent years, artificial intelligence has increasingly been interesting for its role in improving accounting practices. This research investigates whether there is a significant difference in value-added tax (VAT) reporting quality between traditional methods and those assisted by artificial intelligence (AI) in emerging markets. The experiment introduces an AI intervention using ChatGPT-4 to analyze data for accounting errors. The results demonstrate that AI-assisted reporting significantly improves reporting quality, as the AI effectively identified accounting errors that were missed in traditional reporting. This study makes a valuable contribution by providing novel, practical insights into the role and capabilities of AI in tax reporting, employing a rarely used experimental methodology to explore this topic.

Fortifikasi Jamur Tiram Putih (Pleurotus Ostreatus) dalam Pengembangan Produk Roti Tawar

Oyster mushrooms can be used as a substitute for other sources of calcium, phosphorus and iron, and can be used as a nutrient-rich food. Processing of white bread is one of the foods that is easily accepted by Indonesian people. This study aims to determine the effect of oyster mushroom fortification on the chemical and organoleptic properties of the resulting white bread. This study used an experimental methodology with a completely randomized design with three replications. The resulting normality test shows that the data is normally distributed with the Shapiro-Wilk value obtained, which is >0.05 and the homogeneity test shows a significant value, which is >0.05. The results of this study indicate that the best treatment is white bread using the addition of 25% oyster mushrooms with a moisture content of 29.02%, ash content of 2.36, protein content of 8.55%), fat content of 8.05%, carbohydrate content of 51, 99%, calcium level 3743.13 mg/kg), phosphorus level 1258.85 mg/kg), and iron level 8.83 mg/kg). The color organoleptic test value on white bread with the best treatment was the addition of 25% oyster mushrooms, the color value was 3.56%, the aroma value on white bread was 3.36%, the texture value on white bread was 3.5%, and the taste value on white bread bargain 3.54%.

Just Because I'm Great (and You're Not): When, Why, and How Narcissistic Individuals Give Gifts to Others.

We examined the roles of Narcissistic Admiration and Narcissistic Rivalry in gift giving. We hypothesized that Admirative and Rivalrous individuals diverge in their likelihood of giving gifts. Across six studies (ΣN = 2198), we used correlational and experimental methodology and capitalized on both scenarios and actual gift giving. Narcissistic Admiration was positively, but Narcissistic Rivalry was negatively, associated with gift-giving likelihood (Studies 1-2). These findings were explained by diverging communal motivations for gift giving (Study 3). Consistent with the notion that Rivalrous individuals are less likely to give gifts for communal reasons because they feel threatened by social closeness, the negative association between Narcissistic Rivalry and gift-giving likelihood was attenuated when the gift recipient was more socially distant (vs. close; Study 4). Further, gifts that are recipient-centric (e.g., customized with a recipient's name) are less focused on attributes of the giver and less likely to foster social closeness. Therefore, consistent with Admirative individuals' use of gift giving to promote themselves as a superior communal relationship partner, the positive association between Narcissistic Admiration and gift-giving likelihood was attenuated for gifts that were recipient-centric (Study 5). Socially desirable responding, self-esteem, and fear of failure (Study SM1) did not account for the findings.

Ionic liquid catalysts for dehydrochlorination: Stability, reaction mechanism, and catalyst optimization

The catalytic alkaline dehydrochlorination process, characterized by high atom economy, stands as a prevalent method in the synthesis of valuable alkene halides. Nonetheless, the efficacy of ionic liquids (ILs) as catalysts for dehydrochlorination is hindered by challenges such as swift deactivation attributed to decomposition and reduced selectivity without clear causative factors. This investigation employs a systematic approach, integrating Density Functional Theory (DFT) simulations with experimental methodologies, to delve into the mechanisms of IL-catalyzed dehydrochlorination, aiming to elucidate both stabilization strategies and catalytic pathways. The examination of thermal decomposition rates is rooted in a meticulous assessment of the energy barriers associated with decomposition and dissociation processes. The active role of free Cl− is established, albeit its acidification by HCl, which results in diminished catalytic activity. To counteract this acidifying influence, a novel active site denoted as [Cl-KCl]− is conceptually devised to mitigate such effects. Through the strategic implementation of cationic fixation, the IL-KCl combination catalyst is synthesized and empirically confirmed to demonstrate augmented acid resistance while upholding a consistent reaction selectivity of approximately 85 %. This contrasts starkly with the declining catalytic selectivity observed with IL in isolation, plummeting from 85% to 65%. Consequently, the IL-KCl combination catalyst emerges as a promising option for alkali catalyzed dehydrochlorination, offering enhanced stability and sustained high selectivity throughout the catalytic process.

Deep optimal experimental design for parameter estimation problems

Abstract Optimal experimental design is a well studied field in applied science and engineering. Techniques for estimating such a design are commonly used within the framework of parameter estimation. Nonetheless, in recent years parameter estimation techniques are changing rapidly with the introduction of deep learning techniques to replace traditional estimation methods. This in turn requires the adaptation of optimal experimental design that is associated with these new techniques. In this paper we investigate a new experimental design methodology that uses deep learning. We show that the training of a network as a Likelihood Free Estimator can be used to significantly simplify the design process and circumvent the need for the computationally expensive bi-level optimization problem that is inherent in optimal experimental design for non-linear systems. Furthermore, deep design improves the quality of the recovery process for parameter estimation problems. As proof of concept we apply our methodology to two different systems of Ordinary Differential Equations.

Forecasting Waste Generation with Increment Linear Regression Technique: A Case Study of SIMASKOT Application

Forecasting Waste Generation with Increment Linear Regression Technique: A Case Study of SIMASKOT Application

A Brief Review on Caenorhabditis elegans Role in Modelling Neurodegenerative Disease.

A small, translucent nematode known as Caenorhabditis elegans, or C. elegans, is frequently utilized as a model organism in biomedical studies. These worms, which are around 1 mm long and feed on bacteria, are usually found in soil. For accessible and effective research on genetics, developmental biology, neuroscience, cell biology, and aging, C. elegans provide an ideal model. Its simplicity, which includes a translucent body and a nervous system with only 302 neurons, makes it possible to see cellular and developmental processes in great detail. Because of its special benefits, the worm Caenorhabditis elegans allows for a thorough characterization of the cellular and molecular processes causing age-related neurodegenerative diseases. This is a general review of the life cycle, experimental methodologies, and the use of C. elegans to model brain diseases, including those related to molecular and genetic factors that cause neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, we go over how C. elegans is a perfect model organism for studying neurons in instances of prevalent age-related neurodegenerative illnesses due to a combination of its biological traits and new analytical techniques. The literature review process was carried out step-by-step using online search databases such as Web of Science, PubMED, Embase, Google Scholar, Medline, and Google Patents. In the first searches, keywords like C.elegans, disease modelling, and neuroprotective activity were employed. Because of C. elegans's physiological transparency, it is possible to track the development of neurodegeneration in aging organisms by using co-expressed fluorescent proteins. Importantly, a fully characterized connectome provides a unique ability to precisely connect cellular death with behavioural instability or phenotypic diversity in vivo, thus permitting a deep knowledge of the detrimental effect of neurodegeneration on wellbeing. In addition, pharmacological therapies and both forward and reverse gene screening speed up the discovery of modifiers that change neurodegeneration. These chemical-genetic investigations work together to determine important threshold states that either increase or decrease cellular stress in order to unravel related pathways.

Effects of lockdowns in shaping socioeconomic behaviors

Lockdowns were implemented to reduce the transmission of the COVID-19 virus. However, it is unclear how severely curtailed physical interaction shapes individual behaviors that are considered vital for socioeconomic development. In this exploratory study, we investigate the behavior of college students who experienced a strict campus-wide lockdown and those who did not. Employing a combination of experimental and survey methodologies, we elicit students' behavioral variables, which are then integrated with administrative records from the university. We find that those exposed to the lockdown were more likely to trust others and be honest; however, their creativity was lower. Exposure to the lockdown was not found to significantly affect students' trustworthiness, risk preferences, or competitiveness. A follow-up study reveals that the lower creativity among students may be attributed to reduced communication frequency with friends during the lockdown, mediating the lockdown's impact. Conversely, the effects of the lockdown on trust and honesty may operate through a direct pathway, independent of changes in daily activities during the lockdown. Further analysis reveals a gender-dependent trend, with lockdowns exerting a more pronounced influence on male students than their female counterparts. These results underscore the consequences of lockdowns and advocate for enhanced support networks, emphasizing the importance of communicating with friends in similar circumstances.

Theoretical and experimental study of the dynamic and vibratory behavior of gears

AbstractThis study is devoted to condition-based maintenance using vibration analysis. It proposes a numerical and experimental methodology to assist in the detection and vibratory monitoring of chipping faults on gear teeth.The aim of this work is to model the dynamic behavior of the gear link and to treat the vibration behavior of gear flaws theoretically and experimentally. This article is going to study the case of a breast gear, a defect located on the wheel, another defect on the pinion and the wheel and the insufficient center distance defect based on experiments carried out on a test bench manufactured in the laboratory.

The Utilization of Central Composite Design for the Production of Hydrogel Blends for 3D Printing

Central composite design (CCD) is a statistical experimental design technique that utilizes a combination of factorial and axial points to study the effects of multiple variables on a response. This study focused on optimizing hydrogel formulations for 3D printing using CCD. Three biopolymers were selected: sodium alginate (SA), gelatin (GEL), and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). The maximum and minimum concentrations of each polymer were established using a Google Scholar search, and CCD was employed to generate various combinations for hydrogel preparation. The hydrogels were characterized in accordance with their swelling degree (SD) in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM), as well as their printability in 2D and 3D assays. The formulation consisting of 7.5% SA, 7.5% GEL, and 2.5% CMC exhibited the best swelling properties and exceptional printability, surpassing all other tested formulations. This study highlights the effectiveness of design of experiment methodologies in accelerating the development of optimized hydrogel formulations for various applications in 3D printing and suggests avenues for future research to explore their performance in specific biological contexts.

How could you think that? Supervisor misattribution leads to reduced subsequent employee organizational citizenship behavior

PurposeFrom a social cognitive perspective, the current study examines how the relationship between the employee and the organization changes following supervisor motive misattribution of organizational citizenship behavior (OCB).Design/methodology/approachThe current study utilizes an experimental vignette methodology (EVM), linear regression and Hayes' (2017) Process Version 4 macro in SPSS to examine the relationships between supervisor misattribution of employee OCB, personality and individual differences and future organizational citizenship behavior intentions.FindingsResults indicate that supervisor misattribution of employee OCB, specifically when the act is attributed to impression management, will reduce the intention to engage in future OCBs. Results also indicate that this negative relationship is enhanced when subordinates are high in openness.Research limitations/implicationsThis study extends social exchange theory by demonstrating how the misattribution of motivation to perform OCBs creates a negative social exchange and discourages future organizational citizenship behavior from the employee. The current research demonstrates the importance of supervisors understanding employees' motivations for engaging in (OCB). If an employee engages in OCB based on intrinsic motivation, such as a desire to help others, and their motivation is attributed to external motivation, such as impression management, the employee may feel misunderstood and believe their values and motivations are incorrectly perceived, leading to reduced OCB.Originality/valueThe current research is examined using EVM. By immersing participants in realistic hypothetical scenarios, experimental vignette methodology allows researchers to explore the intricacies of decision-making across unique scenarios, unraveling both the “why” and the “what next” behind decision-making.

Commissioning of the tracer-encapsulated solid pellet (TESPEL) injection system for Wendelstein 7-X and first results for OP1.2b

Abstract A new tracer-encapsulated solid pellet (TESPEL) injection system was successfully commissioned for the stellarator fusion experiment Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X) during its OP1.2b operational campaign. TESPELs are polystyrene encapsulated solid pellets loaded with tracer impurities that have been employed in other stellarator devices for impurity transport studies. During the OP1.2b campaign approximately 140 pellet injections were performed with a successful delivery rate of 89%, thus this system has proven to be very reliable. Here, the experimental set-up and methodology are described first. In addition, it is outlined how, through the analysis of TESPEL time-of-flight signals and of the temporal evolution of line emissions originating from shell and tracer species as well as comparisons with ablation models, the radial localization of the deposited tracer is determined. This contribution also provides a general overview of the TESPEL injector performance during OP1.2b, discusses the global effects of TESPEL injections on W7-X plasmas and reports on first results in terms of a summary of TESPEL injections, plasma response to TESPELs, the post-deposition evolution of tracer spectral emission lines and soft x-ray emissions.