Resistance Values Research Articles

Application of electrical resistivity and induced polarization for identification and erosion assessment in fine-grained soils – A case study

Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI) and Induced Polarization (IP) are the non-destructive and rapid methods used for mapping the subsurface. This paper presents an application of these methods for erodibility characterization. These tests and Erosion Function Apparatus (EFA) tests were conducted on identical samples with plasticity indices ranging from low to high to establish a correlation of ERI, IP and erosion rates. Erosion rate and erosion category were determined through the analysis of soil Electrical Resistivity (ER) and IP values. Then, the ERI and IP surveys were performed at a site that had CPT data to analyze the subsurface soil layers. In order to verify the developed correlation, three holes were hand augured and Shelby tube samples were extracted from the site to conduct EFA testing. The results show that ER and IP methods can be used to predict soil erosion characterization in the preliminary stages of bridge site developments with concerns about erosions around bridge piers.

Electron-lattice coupling and double exchange effects to improve TCR of La0.67-xNdxCa0.25Sr0.08MnO3 films grown on La0.3Sr0.7Al0.65Ta0.35O3 substrates

In this study, La0.67−xNdxCa0.25Sr0.08MnO3 (LNCSMO, x = 0.09, 0.10, 0.11, 0.12) films were prepared by sol-gel spin coating method. The results indicate that the LNCSMO film is oriented and grown on a La0.3Sr0.7Al0.65Ta0.35O3 (LSATO) (00l) substrate. In addition, with the increase of Nd3+ content, the Mn-O bond length (dMn-O) and Mn-O-Mn bond angle (θMn-O-Mn) decreases. The concentration ratio of Mn4+ increases firstly and then decreases, and resulting in an enhanced and then weakened double exchange (DE) effect. Measuring the variation of sample resistivity with temperature (ρ-T) using the standard four-probe method. As the content of Nd3+ increases, the metal-insulator transition temperature (Tp) gradually decreases, and the resistivity (ρ) gradually increases. The replacement of Nd3+ makes the peak temperature coefficient of resistivity value (TCRmax) of the material firstly increase and then decrease. At x = 0.11, the TCRmax reaches 34.28% K-1 at 254.72 K. This provides new insights into the impact of Nd doping on electrical transport properties.

Growth and Performance of Perovskite Semiconductor CsPbX3 (X = Cl, Br, I, or Mixed Halide) for Detection and Imaging Applications.

The material family halide perovskites has been critical in recent room-temperature radiation detection semiconductor research. Cesium lead bromide (CsPbBr3) is a halide perovskite that exhibits characteristics of a semiconductor that would be suitable for applications in various fields. In this paper, we report on the correlations between material purification and crystal material properties. Crystal boules of CsPbX3 (where X = Cl, Br, I, or mixed) were grown with the Bridgman growth method. We describe in great detail the fabrication techniques used to prepare sample surfaces for contact deposition and sample testing. Current-voltage measurements, UV-Vis and photocurrent spectroscopy, as well as photoluminescence measurements, were carried out for material characterization. Bulk resistivity values of up to 3.0 × 109 Ω∙cm and surface resistivity values of 1.3 × 1011 Ω/□ indicate that the material can be used for low-noise semiconductor detector applications. Preliminary radiation detectors were fabricated, and using photocurrent measurements we have estimated a value of the mobility-lifetime product for holes (μτ)h of 2.8 × 10-5 cm2/V. The results from the sample testing can shed light on ways to improve the crystal properties for future work, not only for CsPbX3 but also other halide perovskites.

Korean Red Ginseng Extract Powder Mitigates Fasting And Postprandial Hyperglycemia in Type 2 Diabetic Mice.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) involves insulin resistance and elevated blood sugar levels, causing complications. Red ginseng extract powder (RGEP) from Panax ginseng Meyer shows promise for diabetes treatment. However, its efficacy in managing T2DM remains unclear. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of RGEP in a mouse model of T2DM. The efficacy of RGEP in treating T2DM was assessed in db/db mice. Mice were divided into seven groups: control, db/db, metformin, and RGEP at 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. Administered orally for 9 weeks, RGEP effects on glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity were assessed through various metabolic parameters. In addition, mRNA expression levels of genes associated with hepatic gluconeogenesis and insulin sensitivity were examined. Fasting blood sugar showed a significant decrease in all RGEP concentration groups, but OGTT and insulin tolerance test showed a significant decrease at the RGEP concentration of 400 mg/kg, indicating enhanced glycemic control. Moreover, RGEP dose-dependently decreased serum glucose, HbA1c levels, and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance values, suggesting its effectiveness in reducing insulin resistance in db/db mice. Furthermore, RGEP downregulated mRNA expression of key components in the gluconeogenesis pathway (G6Pase, FOXO1, GLUT4, and PEPCK), insulin sensitivity (leptin, insulin1, PTP1B, GLP-1, and DPP-4), and mitochondria energy metabolism (PGC1) in either the liver or pancreas, while simultaneously upregulating GLP-1 expression. In conclusion, these findings highlight the potential of RGEP as a complementary therapy for T2DM, indicating therapeutic efficacy in managing diabetic complications through improved metabolic parameters.

An in vitro comparison of the fracture resistance of MOD inlay restorations using different lithium disilicates

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the fracture resistance of MOD inlay preparations restored with two different lithium disilicate glass ceramics. Materials and Methods: Standardized MOD inlay cavities were prepared on 64 human permanent premolar teeth and divided into two groups to be restored with lithium disilicate glass-ceramic materials, i.e. Group I with IPS e.max Press HT and Group II with Shofu Vintage LD Press T. The fracture resistance was assessed using a universal testing machine and recorded in Newtons (N). Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software (Version 17.0, IBM, USA). P <0.05 was set as a statistically significant level. Unpaired Student’s t-test was used to compare the fracture resistance values of both groups. Results: The mean fracture resistance value obtained for Group I (IPS e.max Press HT) was 565.04 N while that obtained for Group II was 732.75 N. Statistically significant difference was found in this intergroup comparison (P = 0.002). Conclusion: The fracture resistance of MOD inlay preparations restored with Vintage LD Press T (Shofu) was significantly higher than those restored with IPS e.max Press HT (Ivoclar Vivadent).

Hydrogen evolution reaction activity of 3D-printed TiB2 and MgB2 matrix reinforced with graphene and carbon nanofiber in alkaline media

In the present study, the TiB2, MgB2/ Graphene (GRP)/PLA and TiB2, MgB2/Carbon Nanofiber (CNF)/PLA 3D-printed electrodes were fabricated via the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technique. The hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER) performance of 3D electrodes was studied using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cathodic polarization analysis methods in 1 M KOH media. The EIS measurement results showed that the total resistance values were significantly reduced due to the addition of GRP and CNF to TiB2/PLA and MgB2/PLA 3D electrodes. In addition, the increase in current density with the addition of GRP and CNF to the 3D electrodes from the cathodic polarization curves supported the EIS measurement results. Moreover, a new activation method without using solvent was applied as different from the literature, to enhance the conductivity of 3D electrodes. The activation process was performed by implementing 50 cycles in 1 M KOH solution with the cyclic voltammetry method. As a result, with this study, both the synergistic effect of multiple composites and the application of the activation method have increased the HER efficiency of the 3D electrocatalyst. Thus, 3D electrocatalysts have been introduced to the energy application field.

The Effect of Saccharin on SnNi Alloy: the Electrodeposition and its Electrocatalytic Activity in Ethanol Oxidation Reaction

The development of Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell (DEFC) has attracted much attention, as alternative energy sources due to its various advantages. However, among its various advantages, DEFC has several problems, such as the kinetics of the ethanol oxidation reaction. Transition metal-based catalysts such as nickel and tin are considered as potential catalysts for DEFC due to their oxophilic properties that can improve catalytic activity. In this study, the effect of saccharin on SnNi bimetallic alloy catalyst synthesized by electrodeposition method on copper wire substrate was investigated. SnNi samples were characterized by several techniques, including X-ray diffraction, Scanning electron microscopy, and energi dispersive X-ray spectrocopy. Saccharin addition had a significant effect on the morphology, crystallite size, and composition of the catalyst. The presence of saccharin causes the formation of more uniform particles and has a smaller size. The sample with the addition of saccharin had a smaller charge transfer resistance value 4.82 Ω, lower tafel slope by 115 mV/dec, and show higher jf/jb ratio by 0.55. Furthermore, as the current density decreases, the SnNi catalyst with saccharin has a slow decrease rate and higher stability than the SnNi catalyst without saccharin.

Study of the Technical and Operational Parameters of Injectors Using Biogas Fuel

Using biogas fuel in a modern internal combustion engine equipped with gas equipment of the fourth and fifth generations can create several difficulties. This is due to the low heat of combustion of untreated biogas, the presence of moisture, and the specifics of the injectors. The main problem of the studies we considered is that there are no data on the operating parameters of biogas fuel injectors. Studies on the parameters of the Matrix, Barracuda, Valtek, Hana, and Keihin injectors in relation to biogas fuel were carried out according to performance indicators, the linearity of operation, the resistance of the injectors, the ability to maintain factory parameters, and service life. According to the indicators of performance and linearity of work, Valtek injectors have the highest deviation in productivity and linearity of work, with an average of 38.8%, and the lowest deviation of Barracuda injectors is 7.5%. Keihin (15.3%) and Hana injectors (19.1%) also showed good performance indicators, and therefore can be used effectively for biogas fuel systems. As a result of research on the response time of the injectors, it was established that the best indicators were found for Hana (1.75 ms) and Keihin (1.99 ms) injectors. Valtek injectors showed good response rates (2.07 ms), as did Barracuda injectors (2.19 ms), but the highest response time was found in Matrix injectors, with 2.44 ms. Keihin injectors had the lowest average resistance value of 1.25 ohms, and Valtek injectors had the highest resistance value of 3 ohms. According to the research results, Keihin, Matrix, and Barracuda injectors provide the best ability to maintain factory performance when using biogas fuel at 2 to 5%, and Valtek had the worst performance up to 20%. Keihin, Barracuda, and Hana experimental injectors had the highest service life, which is from 200 to 250 thousand km of car mileage. The lowest indicators were found for Valtek and Matrix injectors, the service life of which varies from 70 to 100 thousand km of mileage.

Graphene nano particles to improve lightning dissipation on transmission lines

Lightning is the primary cause of outages for many high voltage transmission lines. One approach to reduce the frequency of these outages is the improvement of the grounding system using chemical ground enhancers to better disperse transient or fault currents into the soil. In this paper, the objective is to use graphene nano particles to improve the performance of commercial ground enhancers by exploration of 15 different commercial graphene nano particles used to reformulate 19 commercial ground enhancers and one natural ground enhancer. Incorporation of nano graphene particles is by high shear mixing method. The results show reduction in two of the commercial ground enhancers’ resistivity values by a factor of 60. Moreover, lightning impulse tests show that the use of graphene reduce deterioration of the ground enhancer, which can occur after high current events, thereby prolonging its efficacy. Due to the superior electrical conductivity and chemical stability of the graphene, the reformulated ground enhancers improve short-term performance in managing lightning current impulses, and provide a solution, which is likely to perform better over long periods. However, the compatibility of the constituent parts of the formulation is critical to long-term performance.

Rancang Bangun Grounding Box Soil Treatment Sebagai Media Pengukuran Resistansi Pentanahan untuk Proteksi Pembangkit Hybrid PV – Angin Politeknik Negeri Malang

This study addresses the issue of high resistance in the grounding system of the Savonius-Solar Hybrid Power Plant at Politeknik Negeri Malang, caused by rocky and sandy soil conditions, with an initial resistance value of 35 Ω. The purpose of this research was to test the effectiveness of soil treatment using bentonite, charcoal, and salt in reducing resistance to meet the PUIL 2011 standard (<5 Ω). This study employed an experimental method with a quantitative approach, measuring resistance values before and after soil treatment application using a three-point earth tester.The results showed that soil treatment successfully reduced the soil resistance from 35 Ω to 2.85 Ω, meeting the maximum standard. This finding indicates that soil treatment is effective in improving the safety and reliability of grounding systems, making it beneficial for application in similar electrical systems located in areas with challenging soil characteristics.

Identification of Peridotite Bedrock using Resistivity Geoelectric Method in Lapao Pao Estuary Area, Kolaka District

Ultramafic rocks are the main source of nickel laterite deposits. One of the areas that has an ultramafic complex is located in Muara Lapao Pao Village, Kolaka Regency. The research was conducted in the mining area of PT Tri mitra Babarina Putra using the resistivity geoelectric method of the Wenner - Schlumberger configuration, In the area it is not yet known exactly how much peridotite bedrock is present in the subsurface. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct a geophysical survey in identifying the occurrence of peridotite bedrock, and can determine the depth and thickness of peridotite bedrock in the research area. the occurrence of peridotite bedrock in the mining area of PT Tri Mitra Babarina Putra has a resistivity value between 3000 – 17984 Ohm-meters. Peridotite bedrock in the research area on all four tracks has a depth and thickness that is almost uniform. lines 1 and 2 and 4 are at a depth of 34.5 - 39.6 meters with a thickness of up to 5.1 meters. and line 3 peridotite bedrock is at a depth of 40 m to more. There are 3 layers in the study area, namely, soil/overburden layer with a resistivity value of 16.5 – 122 Ohm-meters, serpentinite rock layer with a resistivity value of 200 – 2438 Ohm-meters and peridotite bedrock layer with a resistivity value of 3000 – 17984 Ohm-meters.

Geoelectrical resistivity mapping for sustainable groundwater management in Umuahia South: Insights from vertical electrical sounding

The study of geoelectrical resistivity provides critical insights into subsurface characteristics and aquifer dynamics, particularly in regions with varying geological formations. This research investigates the geoelectrical properties of the aquifer system in Umuahia South, highlighting its significance for sustainable groundwater management. The primary aim of this study is to characterize the geoelectrical layers, assess aquifer thickness and resistivity, and evaluate the implications for groundwater resource management. Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) was conducted across ten locations to measure the resistivity and thickness of subsurface layers. The data collected were analyzed to identify distinct geoelectrical layers, their respective resistivity values, and thicknesses. The study reveals significant variations in aquifer properties across the region, with VES 1 showcasing the largest thickness of 69.2 m and VES 9 the smallest at 5.2 m. Aquifer thickness decreases from the Benin Formation toward the Ameki and Ogwashi-Asaba Formations. Hydraulic conductivity ranges from 0.207 to 0.954 m/day, indicating varying groundwater flow potential, while transmissivity values vary from 4.965 to 30.441 m²/day, with 60% of aquifers classified as intermediate. Groundwater Potential Index (GWPI) highlights approximately 70% of the area as high potential, underscoring the need for targeted management strategies to optimize water resource extraction and sustainability. The variability in resistivity and thickness across the study area suggests significant subsurface heterogeneity. High resistivity values indicate favorable conditions for groundwater flow, particularly in areas like VES 6. Conversely, lower resistivity in locations such as VES 9 indicates potential challenges for groundwater storage. This study provides vital information on the aquifer system in Umuahia South, emphasizing the need for targeted groundwater management strategies based on the geoelectrical characteristics identified. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of the aquifer dynamics in the region and offers a framework for sustainable groundwater resource management, highlighting the importance of geoelectrical assessments.

Metabolomic Analysis of Elymus sibiricus Exposed to UV-B Radiation Stress.

Plants cultivated on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP) are exposed to high ultraviolet radiation intensities, so they require effective mechanisms to adapt to these stress conditions. UV-B radiation is an abiotic stress factor that affects plant growth, development, and environmental adaptation. Elymus sibiricus is a common species in the alpine meadows of the QTP, with high-stress resistance, large biomass, and high nutritional value. This species plays an important role in establishing artificial grasslands and improving degraded grasslands. In this study, UV-B radiation-tolerant and UV-B radiation-sensitive E. sibiricus genotypes were subjected to simulated short-term (5 days, 10 days) and long-term (15 days, 20 days) UV-B radiation stress and the metabolite profiles evaluated to explore the mechanism underlying UV-B radiation resistance in E. sibiricus. A total of 699 metabolites were identified, including 11 primary metabolites such as lipids and lipid-like molecules, phenylpropanoids and polyketides, organic acids and their derivatives, and organic oxygen compounds. Principal component analysis distinctly clustered the samples according to the cultivar, indicating that the two genotypes exhibit distinct response mechanisms to UV-B radiation stress. The results showed that 14 metabolites, including linoleic acid, LPC 18:2, xanthosine, and 23 metabolites, including 2-one heptamethoxyflavone, glycyrrhizin, and caffeic acid were differentially expressed under short-term and long-term UV-B radiation stress, respectively. Therefore, these compounds are potential biomarkers for evaluating E. sibiricus response to UV-B radiation stress. Allantoin specific and consistent expression was up-regulated in the UV-B radiation-tolerant genotype, thereby it can be used to identify varieties resistant to UV-B radiation. Different metabolic profiles and UV-B radiation response mechanisms were observed between the UV-B radiation-tolerant and UV-B radiation-sensitive E. sibiricus genotypes. A model for the metabolic pathways and metabolic profiles was constructed for the two genotypes. This metabolomic study on the E. sibiricus response to UV-B radiation stress provides a reference for the breeding of new UV-B radiation-tolerant E. sibiricus cultivars.

Parametrical synthesis of various radio devices with the set quantity of identical cascades of type «the nonlinear part – the mixed two-port network»

Background. Presence of possibility of analytical definition of a part of parametres of various radio devices, optimum by criterion of maintenance of preset values of modules and phases of transfer functions on necessary quantity of frequencies, considerably reduces time of numerical optimisation of other part of parametres by criterion of formation demanded frequency response and phase response in a strip of frequencies. Till now such problems dared concerning radio devices only with one cascade of type «a nonlinear part - the coordination the device» or «the coordination the device – a nonlinear part». In quality «the coordination devices were used the jet, resistive, complex or mixed two-port networks. The problem of multicascade radio devices with jet two-port networks is solved also. Change of basis for the coordination two-port networks and a place of inclusion of a nonlinear part leads to change of area of a physical realizability. Aim. Working out of algorithms of parametrical synthesis of radio devices with any quantity of identical and unequal cascades of type «a nonlinear part ‑the coordination the mixed two-port network» by criterion of maintenance of the set frequency characteristics. Nonlinear parts are presented in the form of a nonlinear element and parallel either consecutive on a current or pressure of a feedback. Methods. The theory of two-port networks, matrix algebra, a decomposition method, a method of synthesis of actuation microwave devices, numerical methods of optimisation. Results. In interests of achievement of the specified purpose systems of the algebraic equations are generated and solved. Models of optimum two-port networks in the form of mathematical expressions for definition of interrelations between elements of their classical matrix of transfer and for search of dependences of mixed of two-poles from frequency are received. It is shown, that at certain parities between quantity of cascades and values of resistance of a source of a signal and loading of the one-cascade radio device frequency characteristics of one-cascade and multicascade radio devices appear identical or similar. Such schemes are named by equivalent. Conclusion. The comparative analysis of theoretical results (frequency response and phase response radio devices, value of parametres), received by mathematical modelling in system MathCad, and the experimental results received by схемотехнического of modelling in systems OrCad and MicroCap, shows their satisfactory coincidence.

Evaluating the Impact of Laundering on the Electrical Performance of Wearable Photovoltaic Cells: A Comparative Study of Current Consistency and Resistance

Wearable photovoltaic technology has been prominent in recent years because electronic devices need to be powered continuously without reliance on traditional methods. However, the practical adoption of wearable PV cells is hindered by the need for laundering, potentially degrading performance. This research compared PV cells’ maximum current and electrical resistance before and after laundering testing conditions. This study used eight samples of two types of PV panel cells and laundered them up to five cycles. The current and electrical resistance values were recorded before and after each laundering cycle. This study analyzed the data using a paired sample t-test and MANOVA. It was found that laundering cycles significantly affected the current values in both types of samples, with no differential impact between the types; on the other hand, laundering cycles did not significantly affect the electrical resistance values in both types of samples, with no differential impact between the types. These results are crucial for industries developing textile-based PV panels, where maintaining electrical performance after laundering is essential. These findings could pave the way for more sustainable, self-powered wearable PV technologies, ultimately transforming how users interact with electronic devices daily.

Rietveld refined crystal structure, magnetic, dielectric, and electric properties of Zn substituted Ni-Mg ferrites

Sol − gel technique was used to synthesize Ni0.7-xZnxMg0.3Fe2O4 (Ni – Zn – Mg) ferrites with x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5. Formation of single phase cubic spinel structure of the synthesized samples was confirmed by employing Rietveld refinement technique. Spherical and inhomogeneous distribution of grains was observed from Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) image. The frequency dependent initial permeability (μi), real part of initial permeability (μ′), imaginary part of initial permeability (μ″) was studied for synthesized samples. For zinc content x = 0.2 in Ni – Zn – Mg ferrites μi is observed to be high as compare to other compositions and that attributed to grain size. DC electrical resistivity (ρdc) analysis shows both conducting and semiconducting behavior for all the samples. Room temperature electrical resistivity values were observed to be lower for lower content of zinc and higher for higher content of zinc and that attributed to the hopping mechanisms at octahedral site. The decreasing trend of Curie temperature was observed with increase in zinc content in Ni – Zn – Mg ferrites. Frequency dispersive dielectric properties study of Ni – Zn – Mg ferrites revealed normal dielectric behavior.

Investigation of Structural Phase, Mechanical, and Tribological Characteristics of Layer Gradient Heat-Protective Coatings Obtained by the Detonation Spraying Method.

This paper presents the results of a study of layer gradient thermal protection coatings based on NiCrAlY and YSZ obtained by detonation spraying. Modern gas turbines and high-temperature units operate under extreme temperatures and aggressive environments, which requires effective protection of components from wear, corrosion, and thermal shocks. In this study, the use of layer gradient coatings consisting of alternating layers of NiCrAlY and YSZ was investigated with the aim of solving the problem of thermal stress accumulation due to a smooth change in the composition of the layers. Microstructural and phase analysis showed that alternating layers of NiCrAlY and YSZ formed a dense layer gradient structure with clear interphase boundaries and low porosity. Detonation spraying led to a complete transformation of the monoclinic ZrO2 phase into a tetragonal one, which significantly increased the mechanical strength of the coating and its resistance to thermal shocks. Sample 1D1 demonstrated excellent tribological and corrosion properties in a 3.5% NaCl solution, which can be explained by its higher density and reduced number of pores. Mechanical tests revealed stable values of hardness and wear resistance of the coating, especially for the 1D1 coating. Studies have shown that coatings are resistant to thermal shocks, but thicker layers show a tendency to peel off after thermal cycling. The obtained results indicate high prospects for the use of layer gradient coatings based on NiCrAlY and YSZ for the protection of gas turbine components and other high-temperature installations operating under extreme loads and aggressive environments.

3D printer fabrication of boron doped Cu-MWCNT/PLA electrodes: Investigation of its efficiency in electrocatalytic hydrogen production

In this study, three-dimensional (3D) electrodes based on MWCNT-Cu/PLA with high electrocatalytic efficiency, large surface area and different amounts of nano‑boron doped MWCNT-Cu/PLA were fabricated using Fused Granular Fabrication (FGF) method with a 3D printer. When FE-SEM images are examined, MWCNT fibers and copper particles are seen more clearly on the surface due to the formation of more dense conductive networks between the conductive carbon fibers trapped in the PLA structure due to the increasing amount of boron. When XRD results are examined, it is observed that the characteristic peaks belonging to the face-centered cubic structure of Cu are dominant and the crystal size increases as MWCNT addition and boron doping increase. When Raman spectra were analyzed to investigate the internal structural changes of MWCNTs, three characteristic bands corresponding to the D band (defect), G band (graphite band) and G' band (D overtone) of MWCNTs were determined and it was observed that the ID/IG ratio decreased with increasing boron doping compared to MWCNT-Cu/PLA electrode. The B1s spectrum of the 3D 0.8B@MWCNT-Cu/PLA electrode confirmed the presence of boron with the peak corresponding to B@C bonds at 191.2 eV. The obtained 3D electrocatalysts were used as cathodes in an electrolysis cell in aqueous solution containing 1 M KOH and their catalytic efficiency in hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) was tested. In order to increase the activity of the 3D electrodes, unlike the literature, they were activated by electrochemical activation process without using organic solvent and HER measurements of the activated electrodes were performed. Before activation, the charge transfer resistance (Rct) value of the Cu/PLA electrode, which was 6219.00 Ω cm−2, decreased to 681.90 Ω cm−2 after 5 % MWCNT doping. It is seen that with boron doping, a greater decrease in Rct value is realized, reaching values of 66.50–74.56 Ω cm−2. The cathodic Tafel slopes show that the Volmer reaction is the rate-determining step for HER and the rate-determining step is the electrochemical adsorption of hydrogen on the metal surface. In addition, energy efficiency tests of the 3D electrodes in HER were also performed and electrochemically active surface areas were determined. Thus, this study has taken an important step toward using 3D electrocatalysts, which are produced with more cost and more flexible designs, unlike previous production techniques, for hydrogen energy production.

Short-term high-fat and high-carb diet effects on glucose metabolism and hedonic regulation in young healthy men.

Daily dietary intake of macronutrients and energy is closely associated with long-term metabolic health outcomes, but whether 24-h nutritional intervention under isocaloric conditions leads to changes in metabolism remains unclear. Moreover, the short-term effect of diets with different macronutrient composition on hedonic appetite regulation is less clear. This study examined the impact of an acute high-fat (F+) and high-carbohydrate (C+) diet on glucose metabolism and hedonic regulation of food intake in young healthy men under controlled conditions. Using a cross-over design, 19 male participants received a one-day isocaloric diet with different macronutrient composition (F+ = 11% carbohydrates, 74% fat; C+ = 79% carbohydrates, 6% fat) compared to a control diet (CON = 55% carbohydrates, 30% fat). Protein content was set at 15% of energy in all diets. The feeling of hunger, as well as "liking" and "wanting" for foods, was assessed through visual analog scales, and blood samples for glucose, insulin, and cortisol levels were assessed repeatedly during the experimental day. An intravenous glucose tolerance test was conducted the next morning. Postprandial glucose and insulin levels were lowest in F+ over the 24 h. Except for dinner, the CON diet showed the highest mean values in glucose. F+ diet improved insulin resistance, lowering Homeostatis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) values. Changes in hedonic regulation of food intake were not observed during the intervention between the diets, except for higher feelings of satiety under the CON diet. An acute, isocaloric, high-fat diet improved insulin resistance even in healthy individuals but did not affect hedonic food intake regulation. Macronutrient composition modulate glucose metabolism even under short-term (24-h) and isocaloric diets, which should be considered for personalized preventive dietary treatments.

It's not about building houses; it's about building people's power: Conversation with Carmen and Andrea from the Movimiento territorial de Liberación (MTL) Buenos Aires

This conversation offers a look into the practices of the Movimiento Territorial de Liberación (MTL), a political and social organization in Argentina. It highlights the organization’s history, values, and significant projects, such as housing developments and community initiatives. Founded in 1999 after a break from the Argentine Communist Party over ideological differences, the MTL has its roots in Marxist-Leninist thought. Their work include building neighborhoods and developing collective housing for those displaced by neoliberal policies. The MTL’s projects go beyond merely providing shelter; they aim to foster a way of life that embodies their values of self-management, solidarity, and resistance against capitalist exploitation. Carmen, a leader within MTL, shares their journey, the challenges faced, and the ideological foundations of their work. Andrea, another key figure, manages finances and emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in their operations. The conversation also touches on the broader Latin American and global context, situating MTL's struggle within a larger framework of resistance against neoliberalism and imperialism.