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22 pages, 12914 KB  
Article
Distribution-Preserving Latent Image Steganography via Conditional Optimal Transport and Theoretical Target Synthesis
by Kamil Woźniak, Marek R. Ogiela and Lidia Ogiela
Electronics 2026, 15(6), 1321; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics15061321 (registering DOI) - 22 Mar 2026
Abstract
We propose Distribution-Preserving Latent Steganography via Conditional Optimal Transport (DPL-COT), a coverless image steganography framework for latent diffusion models. Unlike classical cover-modifying schemes, DPL-COT embeds a bitstream directly into the initialization noise latent zTN(0,I) without [...] Read more.
We propose Distribution-Preserving Latent Steganography via Conditional Optimal Transport (DPL-COT), a coverless image steganography framework for latent diffusion models. Unlike classical cover-modifying schemes, DPL-COT embeds a bitstream directly into the initialization noise latent zTN(0,I) without model retraining. Our primary objective is high recoverability and a low bit error rate (BER) under deterministic inversion, which is inherently imperfect due to numerical discretization and VAE nonlinearity. To maximize decoding stability, we restrict embedding to the natural tails of the latent prior by selecting the largest-magnitude coordinates, thereby increasing the sign decision margin against inversion drift. To preserve distributional stealth, per-bit target values are analytically derived from truncated Gaussians matching the marginal distribution of the selected coordinates. Conditional 1D optimal transport is applied independently for each bit class, mapping every coordinate to its target value while preserving rank order. We generate 5000 stego images using a pretrained diffusion model and demonstrate a favorable capacity–reliability trade-off (e.g., 4916 bits/image with 0.473% mean BER) and strong robustness to JPEG compression (sub-1% mean BER at Q=60). Compared with LDStega, a recent LDM-based scheme reporting 99.28% clean-channel accuracy, DPL-COT achieves 99.53% at a comparable operating point and sustains above-99% accuracy under all tested JPEG quality factors. Latent-space tests further confirm negligible cover–stego distribution shift (mean KS2<0.003, mean W1<0.003), a property not formally addressed by prior methods. Full article
11 pages, 620 KB  
Article
Analysis of High-Field-Induced Processes with Enthalpy Release in Martensite–Austenite MnCo(Fe)(GeSi) Alloys: Solving PPMS Artifact and Recovery of Heat Capacity
by Antonio Vidal-Crespo, F. Javier Romero, Jhon J. Ipus and Javier S. Blázquez
Materials 2026, 19(6), 1253; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19061253 (registering DOI) - 22 Mar 2026
Abstract
The relaxation calorimeter option in the commercial Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS) has become widely used. Since its introduction, the capabilities of this technique for specific heat measurements have been critically discussed, particularly to avoid misinterpretation of data near phase transitions. Traditional methods [...] Read more.
The relaxation calorimeter option in the commercial Physical Property Measurement System (PPMS) has become widely used. Since its introduction, the capabilities of this technique for specific heat measurements have been critically discussed, particularly to avoid misinterpretation of data near phase transitions. Traditional methods rely on cooling curves after sample excitation, where sharp latent heat contributions during heating lead to clear deviations from the fitting model. However, subtle but extended enthalpy contributions (e.g., strain release) may mask these effects, allowing both heating and cooling curves to be well fitted using the standard PPMS protocol. In this work, we develop a procedure that assumes a constant extra power supplied due to subtle enthalpy contributions, enabling consistent interpretation of both heating and cooling curves. This procedure allows: (1) correction of specific heat measurements; and (2) quantification of the enthalpy involved in the transition. The procedure is applied to a magnetic-field-induced transformation in MnCo(Fe)Ge(Si) alloys. Two samples were studied: a single-phase austenite without any field-induced transition, used as a reference, and a mixed austenite-martensite sample, in which apparent deviations in the conductance of the wires evidence the presence of the anomaly. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)
30 pages, 388 KB  
Article
Convex Components and Multi-Slice Decompositions via Convex Functions
by Mohammad H. M. Rashid and Ahmad Al-Omari
Symmetry 2026, 18(3), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym18030540 (registering DOI) - 22 Mar 2026
Abstract
This paper develops a comprehensive theory of multi-slice decompositions via convex functions, extending the classical framework of slices determined by linear functionals to arbitrary convex functions with disjoint zero sets. We establish a fundamental structure theorem that completely characterizes the convex component decomposition [...] Read more.
This paper develops a comprehensive theory of multi-slice decompositions via convex functions, extending the classical framework of slices determined by linear functionals to arbitrary convex functions with disjoint zero sets. We establish a fundamental structure theorem that completely characterizes the convex component decomposition of multi-slices, showing that under natural conditions of pairwise disjoint zero sets and convex separation, the multi-slice decomposes canonically into convex components that correspond precisely to the individual functions in the family. Our results reveal several key properties: the component-wise exposing nature of the supremum function, the closedness of components in appropriate topologies, the maximality of the resulting decomposition, and the affine invariance of convex component structures under injective affine maps. These contributions significantly extend the existing theory of multi-slices and convex components, providing new tools for understanding the geometric structure of convex sets under nonlinear constraints, with potential applications in optimization theory, high-dimensional data analysis, and modern convex geometry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Mathematics)
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16 pages, 1782 KB  
Article
Charge Transport and Thermoelectric Properties of Bornite with Fe-Site Off-Stoichiometry
by Hyemin Oh, Seungmin Lee, Hyeon-Sik O and Il-Ho Kim
Materials 2026, 19(6), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19061252 (registering DOI) - 22 Mar 2026
Abstract
The effects of Fe non-stoichiometry on crystal structure, microstructural evolution, and thermoelectric transport properties were systematically investigated in bornite (Cu5Fe1+yS4; −0.06 ≤ y ≤ 0.06) synthesized by mechanical alloying followed by hot pressing. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed [...] Read more.
The effects of Fe non-stoichiometry on crystal structure, microstructural evolution, and thermoelectric transport properties were systematically investigated in bornite (Cu5Fe1+yS4; −0.06 ≤ y ≤ 0.06) synthesized by mechanical alloying followed by hot pressing. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the formation of a single-phase orthorhombic bornite structure over the entire composition range. Anisotropic lattice distortion was observed with increasing Fe non-stoichiometry, manifested as contraction along the a-axis and expansion along the b- and c-axes, with a non-linear dependence on composition. Crystallite sizes estimated from Lorentzian peak fitting increased from 64.1 nm for the stoichiometric composition to 70.6–76.3 nm for Fe-deficient samples and 73.2–90.9 nm for Fe-excess samples. Hall-effect measurements revealed p-type semiconducting behavior for the stoichiometric composition, degenerate p-type transport with increased hole concentration under Fe-deficient conditions, and a transition to n-type behavior with reduced carrier mobility under Fe-excess conditions. While Fe-deficient samples retained high electrical conductivity and positive Seebeck coefficients, Fe-excess samples exhibited negative Seebeck coefficients at low temperatures with sign reversal at elevated temperatures. As a consequence, the power factor of Fe-deficient samples was enhanced by approximately 20–30% relative to the stoichiometric composition. In addition, the total thermal conductivity remained below 0.8 W·m−1·K−1 for all samples, and Fe non-stoichiometry effectively suppressed lattice thermal conductivity. Consequently, the Cu5Fe0.94S4 composition achieved a maximum dimensionless figure of merit of ZT = 0.61 at 673 K, representing a performance enhancement of approximately 30–70% compared with the stoichiometric composition (ZT = 0.36 at 673 K and 0.47 at 723 K). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Thermoelectric Materials and Micro/Nanoscale Heat Transfer)
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35 pages, 20337 KB  
Article
The Use of Recycled Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate)/Amorphous Polyester Blends/Composites in Materials Extrusion (MEX) Additive Manufacturing Techniques: The Influence of Talc and Carbon Fiber on the Mechanical Performance and Hear Resistance
by Jacek Andrzejewski, Natan Zelewski, Wiktoria Gosławska, Adam Piasecki, Patryk Mietliński, Frederik Desplentere and Aleksander Hejna
Polymers 2026, 18(6), 768; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym18060768 (registering DOI) - 22 Mar 2026
Abstract
The conducted study was focused on the development of a new type of polymer blends intended for additive manufacturing applications, in particular, the material extrusion method (MEX). The developed materials were prepared from recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) and amorphous copolymers poly(ethylene terephthalate-glycol) (PETG), and [...] Read more.
The conducted study was focused on the development of a new type of polymer blends intended for additive manufacturing applications, in particular, the material extrusion method (MEX). The developed materials were prepared from recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) and amorphous copolymers poly(ethylene terephthalate-glycol) (PETG), and poly(cyclohexylenedimethyl terephthalate-glycol) (PCTG). The basic blend systems were additionally modified with POE-g-GMA impact modifier (IM) during the reactive extrusion process. The main aim of the work was to assess the effectiveness of using composite additives and their influence on the mechanical and thermomechanical parameters of the tested systems. To prepare the composites, selected polymer blends were modified with 10% of talc (T) and carbon fibers (CF). The properties evaluation includes the mechanical/thermomechanical testing, thermal analysis and structural observations. The accuracy of printing was measured using optical scanning methods. The test results indicate that even the relatively small amount of the CF filler could lead to a significant increase in tensile modulus from reference 1.6 GPa to 2.9 GPa; the same improvement applies to strength values, where the CF-modified materials reached 45 MPa, compared to the reference 31 MPa. The heat deflection tests (0.455 MPa) after annealing revealed the maximum HDT of around 170 °C for both types of CF-modified materials. The Vicat test results were also favorable for annealed materials. Considering that the Vicat/HDT results after the 3D-printing process usually reach around 70 °C, the performed heat treatment strongly enhanced the heat resistance for most of the prepared blends. The performed studies revealed that for most of the prepared materials, the brittleness was a common drawback for both MEX-printed and injection-molded materials. Full article
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21 pages, 2679 KB  
Article
Cryoprotective Effects of Tuna Skin Antifreeze Peptides on the Quality of Salmon Flesh During Low-Temperature Fluctuations
by Zhe Xu, Ziyu Zhang, Zijin Qin, Tengfei Li, Zihao Zhang, Shuyu Zhou, Jianbo Sun and Tingting Li
Foods 2026, 15(6), 1105; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15061105 (registering DOI) - 22 Mar 2026
Abstract
Repetitive temperature fluctuations during transportation and storage promote ice crystal formation in salmon flesh, leading to protein denaturation, lipid oxidation, and quality loss. Tuna skin, a major by-product of tuna processing, is a potential source of antifreeze peptides (AFPs) but remains underutilized. This [...] Read more.
Repetitive temperature fluctuations during transportation and storage promote ice crystal formation in salmon flesh, leading to protein denaturation, lipid oxidation, and quality loss. Tuna skin, a major by-product of tuna processing, is a potential source of antifreeze peptides (AFPs) but remains underutilized. This study examined the cryoprotective effects of tuna skin-derived AFPs on salmon cubes subjected to repeated freeze–thaw cycles. Cubes treated with AFPs from three groups of protein hydrolysates prepared using trypsin, pepsin, or neutral protease were evaluated for texture, color, water holding capacity (WHC), volatile odor profiles, protein conformation, biochemical indices, and microstructure. AFP treatment improved textural properties, maintained color stability, and reduced thawing, cooking, and centrifugal losses. The neutral protease-treated group exhibited the optimal cryoprotective ability and it also limited aldehyde and sulfide accumulation, preserved the retention rate of α-helix structure at 49% which was higher than 39% in controls, and enhanced Ca2+-ATPase activity to 1.75 μmol Pi·mg−1·h−1 with a 45.8% increase compared to controls, and significantly inhibited protein and lipid oxidation. Microstructural analysis showed compact fibers and intact sarcolemma in the neutral protease-treated group samples, contrasting with severe disruption in controls. This study showed that tuna skin AFPs mitigate freeze–thaw damage in salmon cubes by stabilizing proteins and reducing oxidative deterioration, highlighting their potential as natural, healthy cryoprotectants for seafood preservation, meeting the growing demand of the food industry for clean-label, low-calorie preservation solutions, while advancing the circular economy of aquatic processing via the valorization of tuna skin by-products for high-value seafood applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrition, Safety and Storage of Seafoods)
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20 pages, 22059 KB  
Article
Physio-Transcriptomic Mechanism of Antimony Tin Oxide Nanoparticle-Induced Midgut Toxicity in Bombyx mori
by Yang Fang, Xuan Li, Fengchao Zhang, Yang Liu, Liang Ma, Liping Chen and Qijun Xie
Biology 2026, 15(6), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology15060508 (registering DOI) - 22 Mar 2026
Abstract
The silkworm (Bombyx mori) is an economically important insect that plays a crucial role in agricultural development. Antimony tin oxide, a high-tech multifunctional nanomaterial, is extensively utilized in contemporary industries due to its properties of transparency, conductivity, and stability. Nevertheless, the [...] Read more.
The silkworm (Bombyx mori) is an economically important insect that plays a crucial role in agricultural development. Antimony tin oxide, a high-tech multifunctional nanomaterial, is extensively utilized in contemporary industries due to its properties of transparency, conductivity, and stability. Nevertheless, the toxicity and potential adverse effects of antimony tin oxide on living organisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we evaluated the effects of antimony tin oxide at varying concentrations (0–3.2 μg/μL) on the growth, oxidative stress response, gene expression, and midgut integrity of fifth-instar silkworm larvae. Exposure to high concentrations of antimony tin oxide resulted in a significant reduction in larval weight and severely disrupted the antioxidant defense system. RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) analysis identified 239 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were confirmed by qPCR, revealing up-regulated lipid synthesis gene AGPAT5, down-regulated chitin degradation gene Chi, and suppressed glycerolipid hydrolysis gene H9J6N7_BOMMO. Histopathological and ultrastructural examinations revealed severe damage to the structure of midgut epithelial cells. Structural and functional analysis of conserved domains in key DEG-encoded proteins revealed that gene dysregulation disrupted energy metabolism and compromised the physical barrier, ultimately linking molecular abnormalities to observed tissue damage. These findings elucidate the mechanisms by which antimony tin oxide induces midgut toxicity through interference with critical metabolic pathways and functional perturbations at the molecular level. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ecotoxicology and Environmental Toxicology)
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12 pages, 532 KB  
Review
Additive Manufacturing in Orthopaedic Trauma: Current Evidence and Applications
by Nikolaos A. Stavropoulos, Fotios Kantas, Dimitrios V. Papadopoulos, Vasileios S. Nikolaou and George C. Babis
Medicina 2026, 62(3), 599; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina62030599 (registering DOI) - 21 Mar 2026
Abstract
Additive manufacturing also known as three-dimensional printing (3D printing), provided the ability to produce precise three-dimensional structures, representing a rapidly growing field in Orthopaedics. Its clinical value has been attributed to the ability to create complex three dimensional objects with relative ease and [...] Read more.
Additive manufacturing also known as three-dimensional printing (3D printing), provided the ability to produce precise three-dimensional structures, representing a rapidly growing field in Orthopaedics. Its clinical value has been attributed to the ability to create complex three dimensional objects with relative ease and at low cost. However, the available evidence regarding its applications in trauma was heterogeneous. This narrative review aimed to analyze the clinical applications of 3D printing in traumatology. Additionally, the research gaps that emerged in our literature search were underscored. Four application domains were selected based on their prevalence in the screened literature and relative level of clinical implementation within orthopaedic traumatology, including (1) 3D-printed anatomical models, (2) patient-specific surgical guides (PSSGs), (3) 3D-printed implants, and (4) temporary 3D-printed external fixation devices. 3D-printed anatomical models were found to help in reducing operative time, estimated blood loss, and the intraoperative radiation exposure. The use of PSSGs was shown to improve intraoperative accuracy and to provide a basis for consistent, accurate, and reproducible outcomes. However, their implementation was hindered by preparation time, the need for stable anatomical landmarks, and reduced accuracy due to potential soft-tissue injury and swelling. In contrast, 3D-printed implants and external fixation devices constituted promising but less extensively studied applications of 3D printing in trauma. The production of customized implants and external fixators, as suggested by the studies available, was deemed feasible, with comparable mechanical properties and significantly lower cost. Larger multicenter studies are required to support and validate these findings. Overall, based on the available evidence, 3D-printed anatomical models and patient-specific surgical guides demonstrate the highest level of clinical applicability, primarily in preoperative planning and intraoperative guidance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances and Future Challenges in Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery)
16 pages, 837 KB  
Article
A Wright-Based Generalization of the Euler Beta Function with Statistical Applications
by Layth T. Khudhuir, Hiba F. Al-Janaby, Firas Ghanim and Alina Alb Lupaș
Mathematics 2026, 14(6), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/math14061069 (registering DOI) - 21 Mar 2026
Abstract
In recent years, special function theory has played an increasingly important role in the development of advanced mathematical models and statistical distributions. In this paper, a new extension of the Euler Beta function is introduced by employing the Wright function as a kernel, [...] Read more.
In recent years, special function theory has played an increasingly important role in the development of advanced mathematical models and statistical distributions. In this paper, a new extension of the Euler Beta function is introduced by employing the Wright function as a kernel, leading to the formulation of the Beta–Wright function. Several fundamental properties of the proposed function are systematically investigated, including summation formulas, functional relations, Mellin transforms, integral representations, and derivative formulas. Furthermore, extended forms of Gauss and confluent hypergeometric functions are constructed within this framework. In addition to its theoretical significance, the proposed function is applied to statistical modeling, and the associated distributions are analyzed using graphical and analytical techniques. The obtained results demonstrate that the Beta–Wright function provides a flexible and effective tool for both analytical investigations and statistical applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Topics in Geometric Function Theory, 2nd Edition)
22 pages, 12860 KB  
Article
Opportunities for Producing Laser Beam Spot-Welded Joints in Nimonic 80A Superalloys
by Călin Lucian Burcă, Olimpiu Karancsi, Dragoş Vâlsan, Ion Mitelea, Corneliu Marius Crăciunescu and Ion-Dragoș Uțu
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 3054; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16063054 (registering DOI) - 21 Mar 2026
Abstract
The present work aims to investigate the microstructure and mechanical properties of laser beam spot welds in the superalloy Nimonic 80 A. Considering the importance of this innovative process in the manufacturing of engineering components for high-security industries, it is necessary to study [...] Read more.
The present work aims to investigate the microstructure and mechanical properties of laser beam spot welds in the superalloy Nimonic 80 A. Considering the importance of this innovative process in the manufacturing of engineering components for high-security industries, it is necessary to study the influence of the welding thermal cycle on the microstructure and mechanical properties of welded joints. The rapid heating/cooling, melting, and re-solidification phenomena that occur during welding modify the metallurgical characteristics of the weld compared with the microstructure of the base metal. Because the energy density is high and the process duration is very short, the microstructure obtained after solidification is fine dendritic in the central area of the joint and columnar in the weld–base metal transition zone. For the same reasons, the heat-affected zone (HAZ) is slightly extended. The increase in the size of the crystalline grains in the HAZ is negligible due to the low diffusivity of the nickel-based γ solid solution matrix, which inhibits the rapid migration of grain boundaries during the welding process. Metallographic analyses were performed using optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The microhardness values, 152–168 HV0.05 in the weld and 180–190 HV0.05 in the base metal, together with the tensile–shear strength values (760–780 N/mm2) obtained at room temperature, demonstrate that the proposed welding process is appropriate and feasible for engineering applications involving Nimonic 80A superalloys. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Metal Forming Materials and Technologies)
18 pages, 5470 KB  
Article
Configuration Optimization of Lazy-Wave Dynamic Umbilicals Using Random Forest Surrogates and NSGA-II
by Jing Hou, Yi Liu, Fucheng Li and Depeng Liu
Processes 2026, 14(6), 1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr14061015 (registering DOI) - 21 Mar 2026
Abstract
Dynamic umbilicals, as critical components connecting offshore platforms to subsea production systems, can effectively decouple platform motions through a lazy-wave configuration, thereby reducing top tension and fatigue damage. To address the engineering challenges of numerous configuration design variables and time-consuming dynamic analyses for [...] Read more.
Dynamic umbilicals, as critical components connecting offshore platforms to subsea production systems, can effectively decouple platform motions through a lazy-wave configuration, thereby reducing top tension and fatigue damage. To address the engineering challenges of numerous configuration design variables and time-consuming dynamic analyses for dynamic umbilicals, an efficient design optimization framework based on surrogate modeling and multi-objective optimization is proposed. An integrated finite-element model of a lazy-wave dynamic umbilical–offshore platform system is developed in OrcaFlex, incorporating environmental loads, material properties, and geometric parameters. The arrangement parameters of clump weights and buoyancy modules are selected as design variables, and the dynamic responses and parameter sensitivities of multiple configurations are investigated. Using simulation data, surrogate models for predicting tension and curvature are constructed via random forest regression, achieving coefficients of determination (R2) of 0.9948 and 0.9121 on the test set, respectively. Based on the surrogate predictors, the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) is employed to solve a multi-objective optimization problem that minimizes the maximum tension and curvature, yielding a set of Pareto-optimal solutions. The proposed approach effectively improves the stability and reliability of the dynamic umbilical system under complex sea states. Full article
18 pages, 1545 KB  
Article
Formulation and 3D Printing of Collagen/Chitosan Inks: Tailoring the Scaffold Properties
by Teresa Carranza, Mireia Andonegui, Raquel Hernáez, Ana Aiastui, Yi Zhang, Koro de la Caba and Pedro Guerrero
Gels 2026, 12(3), 261; https://doi.org/10.3390/gels12030261 (registering DOI) - 21 Mar 2026
Abstract
The development of inks with suitable rheological, physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties is crucial for the successful fabrication of functional scaffolds via extrusion-based 3D printing. In this study, collagen/chitosan hydrogels with varying polymer ratios were developed and characterized to evaluate their printability and [...] Read more.
The development of inks with suitable rheological, physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties is crucial for the successful fabrication of functional scaffolds via extrusion-based 3D printing. In this study, collagen/chitosan hydrogels with varying polymer ratios were developed and characterized to evaluate their printability and suitability for cartilage tissue engineering. Rheological analyses revealed that all samples exhibited shear-thinning behavior and solid-like viscoelasticity, with the formulation of an 80:20 COL/CHI ratio (20CHI) demonstrating optimal filament formation and dimensional stability. Physicochemical analyses confirmed the preservation of the collagen triple helix and the formation of hydrogen bonding between chitosan and collagen. 20CHI scaffolds showed swelling capacity and high cohesiveness. In vitro studies confirmed the cytocompatibility of the scaffolds with murine fibroblasts and the ability of the scaffolds to promote adhesion, proliferation, and extracellular matrix production of both chondrocytes and adipogenic mesenchymal stem cells (aMSCs). Quantification of sulfated glycosaminoglycan (sGAG) indicated sustained matrix deposition over 28 days, particularly by chondrocytes. These findings demonstrate that 20CHI hydrogel is a promising candidate for 3D printing of biomimetic scaffolds for cartilage regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrogels: Properties and Application in Biomedicine)
18 pages, 8085 KB  
Article
Investigation of Microstructural Characterization and Tensile Deformation Mechanisms in Inconel 617 Welded Joints Produced by GTAW
by Mingyang Zhao, Lang Wang, Wenhao Ren, Yuxin Wang, Tao Zhang and Zhengzong Chen
Materials 2026, 19(6), 1251; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma19061251 (registering DOI) - 21 Mar 2026
Abstract
The microstructural evolution and tensile behavior of Inconel 617 welded joints produced by gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) with ERNiCrCoMo-1 filler were systematically investigated. Detailed microstructural characterization revealed that Cr-rich M23C6 and Ti-rich MC carbides are the dominant precipitates, while [...] Read more.
The microstructural evolution and tensile behavior of Inconel 617 welded joints produced by gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW) with ERNiCrCoMo-1 filler were systematically investigated. Detailed microstructural characterization revealed that Cr-rich M23C6 and Ti-rich MC carbides are the dominant precipitates, while Mo-rich M6C forms locally along grain boundaries after thermal exposure. The fusion and weld zones exhibit fine dendritic morphologies with uniformly distributed precipitates, resulting in significant strengthening through precipitation and dislocation–pinning mechanisms. Owing to the low heat input and compositional compatibility between the weld and base metals, the heat-affected zone remains extremely narrow and free of compositional transitions. The welded joint attains tensile strengths of 920 MPa at room temperature and 605.5 MPa at 750 °C, corresponding to joint efficiencies of 117% and 121%, respectively, with fracture consistently occurring in the base metal. Deformation analysis shows that plasticity at room temperature is governed by planar slip and dislocation entanglement, whereas deformation twinning predominates at elevated temperatures owing to the reduced stacking-fault energy and the pinning effect of M23C6 carbides. These results provide key insights into the deformation and strengthening mechanisms controlling the high-temperature performance of GTAW-welded Inconel 617 joints and offer guidance for their application in advanced nuclear and high-temperature energy systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Metals and Alloys)
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25 pages, 3484 KB  
Article
Temporal Variation in the Essential Oil Production of Piper aduncum L.: Influence of Circadian Rhythms and Insights into Dillapiole Production Dynamics
by Jeferson A. S. Assunção, Camila G. Oliveira, Jessica S. Felisberto, Daniel B. Machado, Ygor Jesse Ramos and Davyson de Lima Moreira
Plants 2026, 15(6), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15060976 (registering DOI) - 21 Mar 2026
Abstract
Piper aduncum L. (Piperaceae) is a neotropical species widely recognized for its bioactive essential oils (EOs), which exhibit antifungal, insecticidal, larvicidal, and antimicrobial properties. This study investigates the influence of circadian rhythms on the chemical composition and yield of P. aduncum EOs cultivated [...] Read more.
Piper aduncum L. (Piperaceae) is a neotropical species widely recognized for its bioactive essential oils (EOs), which exhibit antifungal, insecticidal, larvicidal, and antimicrobial properties. This study investigates the influence of circadian rhythms on the chemical composition and yield of P. aduncum EOs cultivated under agroecological conditions in the Rio de Janeiro Botanical Garden. Fresh leaves were collected every three hours over a 24 h cycle during both dry (July 2023) and rainy (February 2024) seasons. EOs were extracted by hydrodistillation and analyzed using GC-MS and GC-FID. A total of 20 compounds were identified in the dry season, while 10 were detected in the rainy season. Dillapiole was the predominant constituent in both periods, ranging from 75.78% to 88.27% (dry) and 75.90% to 90.86% (rainy). The highest EO yield was observed at 3:00 p.m. (0.73%) in the dry season and at 12:00 p.m. (0.61%) in the rainy season. Despite seasonal variations in chemical diversity, dillapiole content remained stable, reinforcing its biotechnological potential. The results highlight the importance of optimized harvesting times to maximize EO yield and composition, contributing to the sustainable exploitation of P. aduncum for medicinal and agricultural applications. Full article
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19 pages, 546 KB  
Article
Multichannel Quantum Defect Theory with Numerical Reference Functions: Applications to Cold Atomic Collisions
by Dibyendu Sardar, Arpita Rakshit, Somnath Naskar and Bimalendu Deb
Atoms 2026, 14(3), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/atoms14030026 (registering DOI) - 21 Mar 2026
Abstract
We develop a method for calculating multichannel wavefunctions in the spirit of quantum defect theory, based on numerically calculated reference functions. We benchmark the method by calculating cold collisional properties of 85Rb and 6Li in the presence of external magnetic fields [...] Read more.
We develop a method for calculating multichannel wavefunctions in the spirit of quantum defect theory, based on numerically calculated reference functions. We benchmark the method by calculating cold collisional properties of 85Rb and 6Li in the presence of external magnetic fields tuned across specific s-wave Feshbach resonances and thereby reproducing known results. We then apply the method to calculate experimentally observed d-wave Feshbach resonance in 87Rb-85Rb cold collisions. Our numerical results for this d-wave resonance show good agreement with the experimental observations. The method is applicable to arbitrary interaction potentials and to any energy range near the scattering threshold. The implementation of our method to any multichannel two-body scattering problem is straightforward. Full article
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