bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon dioxide instantly sensitizes female yellow fever mosquitoes to human skin odours
Authors: Dekker Teun , Geier Martin , Cardé Ring T.
Published: July 2005

Female mosquitoes are noted for their ability to use odours to locate a host for a blood meal. Two sensory organs contribute to their sense of smell:the maxillary palps, which measure the level of CO2, and the antennae, which detect other host-released odours. To establish the relative importance and interactions of CO2 and other body emissions in freely flying mosquitoes, we presented female yellow fever mosquitoes Aedes aegypti L. with broad plumes of human skin odour and CO2 at natural concentrations and dilutions thereof in a wind tunnel. 3-D video-recorded flight tracks were reconstructed. Activation,flight velocity, upwind turning and source finding waned quickly as skin odours were diluted, whereas in the presence of CO2 these parameters remained unchanged over more than a 100-fold dilution from exhaled concentrations. Although mosquitoes were behaviourally less sensitive to skin odours than to CO2, their sensitivity to skin odours increased transiently by at least fivefold immediately following a brief encounter with a filament of CO2. This sensitization was reflected in flight velocity, track angle, turning rate upon entering and exiting the broad odour plume and, ultimately, in the source-finding rate. In Ae. aegypti,CO2 thus functions as a `releaser' for a higher sensitivity and responsiveness to skin odours. The initially low responsiveness of mosquitoes to skin odours, their high sensitivity to CO2, and the sensitization of the olfactory circuitry by CO2 are ecologically relevant, because rapidly fluctuating CO2 levels reliably signal a potential host. Possible mechanisms of the instantaneous sensitization are considered.
Combustion and emission characteristics of a homogeneous charge compression ignition engine
Authors: Tiegang Hu , Shenghua Liu , Longbao Zhou , Chi Zhu
Published: July 2005

Dimethyl ether (DME) is a kind of fuel with high cetane number and low evaporating temperature, which is suitable for a homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engine. The combustion and emission characteristics of an HCCI engine fuelled with DME were investigated on a modified single-cylinder engine. The experimental results indicate that the HCCI engine combustion is a two-stage heat release process. The engine load or air-fuel ratio has significant effects on the maximum cylinder pressure and its position, the shape of the pressure rise rate and the heat release rate. The engine speed has little effect. A DME HCCI engine is smoke free, with zero NOx and low hydrocarbon and CO emissions under the operating conditions of 0.25–0.30 MPa brake mean effective pressure.
Influence of ride motions on the handling behaviour of a passenger vehicle
Authors: Mashadi B , Crolla D A
Published: July 2005

A vehicle model was developed for the investigation of the influence of ride motions on handling dynamics of passenger vehicles. The inputs to the vehicle model are the steering wheel angle and a road profile at each wheel. The outputs were first compared with the results of independent handling and ride models, and good agreement was shown to exist. The combined motion of the vehicle was investigated by the application of step steering wheel angle inputs while travelling on a rough road surface. It was seen that the cornering ability at low and moderate levels of lateral acceleration on the roads with moderate roughness was similar to that on the smooth road, but larger body side-slip angles and tyre slip angles occurred over the rough road surfaces for similar steering inputs. The maximum achievable lateral acceleration was reduced on roads with moderate roughness owing to the earlier saturation of tyre slip angles compared with those on smooth roads. Over very rough roads and at high lateral accelerations, because of the large fluctuations of normal loads and the rapid drop in available lateral force, the body side-slip angle dramatically increased, which led to instability characterized by the oversteering behaviour. At high lateral accelerations close to the limit, the vehicle that understeered over the smooth road surface exhibited oversteering behaviour over rough road surfaces.
Computationally efficient filtering algorithms for engine torque estimation
Authors: Stotsky A
Published: July 2005

A new computationally efficient filtering algorithm for the reconstruction of the first harmonic of a periodic signal is presented. The algorithm allows the recovery of the combustion quality information from the engine speed measurements that are noise contaminated. The algorithm is verified by using a spark ignition V8 engine in the torque estimation problem.
Comparison study between mixer and liquefied petroleum injection system fuel supply methods in a heavy-duty single cylinder engine
Authors: Choi Gyeung Ho , Chung Yon Jong , Han Sung Bin
Published: July 2005

The purpose of this study is to analyse the combustion and emission characteristics of a heavy-duty single cylinder engine (HDSCE) with a mixer and a liquefied petroleum injection (LPi) system. The mixer and LPi systems provide liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in vapour and liquid phases throughout the intake manifold. Sensors such as the crankshaft position sensor (CPS) and Hall sensor supply spark and injection timing data to the ignition controller. An HDSCE runs at an engine speed of 800–1400 r/min, a compression ratio (CR) of 8, and a relative air-fuel ratio (Λ) value of 0.8–1.3. The major conclusions of this work include: LPi and mixer systems exhibit similar brake specific fuel consumption (b.s.f.c.) levels of 275g/kWh. Fuel efficiencies of LPi and mixer methods are almost identical. All these methods exhibit generally similar CO emission properties, and LPi wide-open throttle (WOT) and mixer WOT methods exhibit similar NOx emission properties.
Design of an automatic transmission system having an arbitrary power flow using the automatic power flow generation algorithm
Authors: Seo Jungmin , Yi Seung-Jong
Published: July 2005

In this paper, the automatic power flow generation algorithm for designing an arbitrary type of automatic transmission system is proposed. The state equations of motion for the steady state and transient state of the automatic transmission system are developed, not by human hands but by the computer using this algorithm. The deliveries of the angular velocities and torques are only considered for the motion characteristics of the automatic transmission system. The effects of the vibration and noise are not considered. The automatic transmission system is defined by the basic elements, i.e. planetary gear set, clutch, brake, shaft, general gear, and inertia. The transmission system is defined by the combination of these elements. The automatic system components generation algorithm generates the automatic transmission system at each shift and during shifts. An automatic transmission system having an arbitrary power flow can be designed automatically by the software developed based on these algorithms. To prove these algorithms, the double planetary gear system is designed and the simulation results are compared with the experimental results and show good agreement.
Clearweld: welding of clear, coloured, or opaque thermoplastics
Authors: Woosman N M , Frieder L P
Published: July 2005

The Clearweld process is a through-transmission laser welding process that offers engineers unique design options. The absorbing material that enables the welding to be carried out is available as a coating or compounded into a resin. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of through-transmission laser welding and to describe the Clearweld process. Design considerations were included to assist engineering in the design of parts and joint geometries that are compatible with through-transmission laser welding. Guidelines for selecting coatings or dye compounding were also provided. An experiment comparing Clearwelding with solvent bonding of poly(methyl methacrylate) to polysulphone proved Clearweld strengths to be higher than solvent bonding.
Effects of different design parameters on the stone-impact resistance of automotive windshields
Authors: Sun X , Khaleel M A
Published: July 2005

A constitutive model based on continuum damage mechanics is used to study the stone-impact resistance of automotive windshields. An axisymmetric finite element model is created to simulate the transient dynamic response and impact-induced damage tensors for laminated glass layers subject to stone-impact loading. The windshield glass consists of two glass outer layers laminated by a thin poly(vinyl butyral) (PVB) layer. The constitutive behaviour of the glass layers is simulated using the continuum damage mechanics model with linear damage evolution. The PVB layer is modelled with a linear viscoelastic solid. The model is used to predict and examine damage patterns on different glass surfaces for different windshield designs including variations in ply thickness and curvatures.
Decreasing hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions of a natural-gas engine operating in the quasi-homogeneous charge compression ignition mode at low loads
Authors: Ling Su , Longbao Zhou , Shenghua Liu , Hui Zhong
Published: July 2005

Experimental studies have been carried out on decreasing the hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions of a compressed natural-gas (CNG) engine operating in quasi-homogeneous charge compression ignition (QHCCI) mode at low loads. The effects of three technical approaches including partial gas cut-off (PGC), intake air throttling, and increasing the pilot fuel quantity on emissions and the brake thermal efficiency of the CNG engine are studied. The results show that HC and CO emissions can be reduced with only a small penalty on the brake thermal efficiency. An increase in the brake thermal efficiency and reductions in HC and CO emissions can be simultaneously realized by increasing the pilot fuel quantity. It is also indicated from experiments that the HC and CO emissions of the engine can be effectively reduced when using intake air throttling and increasing the pilot fuel quantity are both adopted. However, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions increase with increase in the throttling and the pilot fuel quantity. Under PGC conditions, NOx emissions are lower than those in the standard mode; however, they increase and exceed the values in the standard mode in increases in the load and natural-gas supply.
Multiphysics analysis for the determination of valvetrain characteristics
Authors: Teodorescu M , Votsios V , Rahnejat H
Published: July 2005

The ideal function of a valvetrain system is to synchronize the opening and closing of the inlet and exhaust valves with the required thermodynamics of the combustion process. As such, ideally a kinematic-type mechanism is desired. However, the timing requirements in the action of each valve and between any inlet-exhaust pair necessitate the use of contacting pairs of suitable profiles. The very existence of contact renders the problem one of complex non-linear dynamics, which is further exacerbated by the translational imbalance of the reciprocating compliant elements such as the valve itself. The interplay between these various forms of dynamics, inertial, structural, and impact/contact, make the problem quite complex to analyse. As a result, some of the most important problems with valvetrains are only surmised at, rather than fundamentally understood. The multiphysics modelling approach proposed in this paper renders a better understanding, as well as conforming to experimental observations.
Formation and Nonlinear Optical Properties of a Novel Polymeric Cadmium(II) Complex Bridged by Sulfur Ions
Authors: Li Sheng-Li , Wu Jie-Ying , Tian Yu-Peng , Tao Xu-Tang , Jiang Min-Hua , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: July 2005

The title coordination polymer, [Cd(NH2NHCSNH2)(HS)2]n·nH2O, has been obtained by self-assembling from the reaction of a methanol/water (volume ratio, 1/1) solution containing cadmium chloride with equivalent amount of succinic acid and thiosemicarbazide. The X-ray crystal analysis reveals that the cadmium atoms are bridged by HS− ligands and mutual sulfur atoms which contribute to formation of the infinite one-dimensional (1D) inorganic–organic chain in a zig-zag way. The second harmonic generation (SHG) response of the complex is much stronger than that of urea.
Intercalation of Natural Cyclodextrins into Layered Double Hydroxide by Calcination–Rehydration Reaction
Authors: Sasaki Satoru , Yokohama Yuugou , Aisawa Sumio , Hirahara Hidetoshi , Narita Eiichi
Published: July 2005

Natural α-, β-, and γ-cyclodextrins (CDs) were intercalated in the interlayer of layered double hydroxide (LDH) by calcination–rehydration reaction using the calcined precursor of Mg–Al/CO3/LDH. The intercalated amount was considerably large in spite of nonanionic macrocyclic molecule in the wide CD concentration range. The presence of hydroxyl group on upper and lower rim in CD molecule favors the intercalation driving force by hydrogen bond with the hydroxide basal layer. In addition, CDs in the CD/LDHs were deintercalated by the ion exchange with carbonate ion with regeneration of the pristine Mg–Al/CO3/LDH.
Domain interactions within the Ski2/3/8 complex and between the Ski complex and Ski7p
Authors: WANG LINGNA , LEWIS MARC S. , JOHNSON ARLEN W.
Published: July 2005

The Ski complex (composed of Ski3p, Ski8p, and the DEVH ATPase Ski2p) is a central component of the 3′–5′ cytoplasmic mRNA degradation pathway in yeast. Although the proteins of the complex interact with each other as well as with Ski7p to mediate degradation by exosome, a 3′-exonuclease complex, the nature of these interactions is not well understood. Here we explore interactions within the Ski complex and between the Ski complex and Ski7p using a directed two-hybrid approach combined with coimmunoprecipitation experiments. We also test the functional significance of these interactions in vivo. Our results suggest that within the Ski complex, Ski3p serves as a scaffold protein with its C terminus interacting with Ski8p, and the sub-C terminus interacting with Ski2p, while no direct interaction between Ski2p and Ski8p was found. Ski7p interacts with the Ski complex via its interaction with Ski8p and Ski3p. In addition, inactivating the Ski complex by mutating conserved residues in the DEVH helicase motif of Ski2 did not abrogate its interaction with Ski7p, indicating that Ski2p function is not necessary for this interaction.
Limited English Proficiency and Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening in a Multiethnic Population
Authors: Jacobs Elizabeth A. , Karavolos Kelly , Rathouz Paul J. , Ferris Timothy G. , Powell Lynda H.
Published: July 2005

Objectives. We examined the relationship between ability to speak English and receipt of Papanicolaou tests, clinical breast examinations, and mammography in a multiethnic group of women in the United States.

Methods. We used longitudinal data from the Study of Women Across the Nation to examine receipt of breast and cervical cancer screening among Chinese, Japanese, Hispanic, and White women who reported reading and speaking (1) only a language other than English, (2) another language more fluently than English, or (3) only English or another language and English with equal fluency. Logistic regression was used to analyze the data.

Results. Reading and speaking only a language other than English and reading and speaking another language more fluently than English, were significantly and negatively associated with receipt of breast and cervical cancer screening in unadjusted models. Although these findings were attenuated in adjusted models, not speaking English well or at all remained negatively associated with receipt of cancer screening.

Conclusions. These findings suggest that language barriers contribute to health disparities by impeding adequate health communication.
State Approaches to Stopping Violence Against Health Care Workers
Authors: Ninan Rebekah J. , Cohen I. Glenn , Adashi Eli Y.
Published: February 2024

This Viewpoint examines current state-level approaches to addressing the increased incidence of violence against health care workers, as well as how laws are adapting to protect health care personnel.
Patient and Staff Perspectives on the Impacts and Challenges of Hospital-Based Harm Reduction
Authors: Fraimow-Wong Leah , Martín Marlene , Thomas Laura , Giuliano Ro , Nguyen Oanh Kieu , Knight Kelly , Suen Leslie W.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Harm reduction is associated with improved health outcomes among people who use substances. As overdose deaths persist, hospitals are recognizing the need for harm reduction services; however, little is known about the outcomes of hospital-based harm reduction for patients and staff.

Objective

To evaluate patient and staff perspectives on the impact and challenges of a hospital-based harm reduction program offering safer use education and supplies at discharge.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This qualitative study consisted of 40-minute semistructured interviews with hospitalized patients receiving harm reduction services and hospital staff at an urban, safety-net hospital in California from October 2022 to March 2023. Purposive sampling allowed inclusion of diverse patient racial and ethnic identities, substance use disorders (SUDs), and staff roles.

Exposure

Receipt of harm reduction education and/or supplies (eg, syringes, pipes, naloxone, and test strips) from an addiction consult team, or providing care for patients receiving these services.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes.

Results

A total of 40 participants completed interviews, including 20 patients (mean [SD] age, 43 [13] years; 1 American Indian or Alaska Native [5%], 1 Asian and Pacific Islander [5%], 6 Black [30%]; 6 Latine [30%]; and 6 White [30%]) and 20 staff (mean [SD] age 37 [8] years). Patients were diagnosed with a variety of SUDs (7 patients with opioid and stimulant use disorder [35%]; 7 patients with stimulant use disorder [35%]; 3 patients with opioid use disorder [15%]; and 3 patients with alcohol use disorder [15%]). A total of 3 themes were identified; respondents reported that harm reduction programs (1) expanded access to harm reduction education and supplies, particularly for ethnically and racially minoritized populations; (2) built trust by improving the patient care experience and increasing engagement; and (3) catalyzed culture change by helping destigmatize care for individuals who planned to continue using substances and increasing staff fulfillment. Black and Latine patients, those who primarily used stimulants, and those with limited English proficiency (LEP) reported learning new harm reduction strategies. Program challenges included hesitancy regarding regulations, limited SUD education among staff, remaining stigma, and the need for careful assessment of patient goals.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this qualitative study, patients and staff believed that integrating harm reduction services into hospital care increased access for populations unfamiliar with harm reduction, improved trust, and reduced stigma. These findings suggest that efforts to increase access to harm reduction services for Black, Latine, and LEP populations, including those who use stimulants, are especially needed.
Nanocrystalline Ti‐Al‐Mo‐Zr‐Si Alloy (TC11) by Laser Powder Bed Fusion In‐situ Alloying
Authors: Ouyang Xiao , Dong Yangping , Wang Dawei , Wu Zhongzhen , Tian Yanhong , Yan M.
Published: February 2024

TC11 alloy is an important high temperate Ti alloy. Its laser in‐situ alloying by powder bed fusion‐laser beam (PBF‐LB) has been explored in this study. Results show that it is feasible to print the TC11 alloy using elemental powders rather than pre‐alloyed powder, in terms of high density and good combination of strength and ductility at both room and elevated temperatures, along with minor loss of composing elements. Interestingly, it is noticed that an unusual nanocrystalline microstructure has formed due to the use of ZrH2 powder feedstock, partially explaining the reason for the good mechanical properties achieved. Finite element analysis has been employed to understand the in‐situ alloying. Furthermore, a post processing by micro‐arc oxidation (MAO) has been employed to the alloy, aiming to enhance its high‐temperature oxidation resistance. The results make an implication that hydrides such as ZrH2 may hold the promise to develop nanosized, advanced Ti materials through laser in‐situ alloying, and MAO can be considered for PBF‐LB prepared TC11 alloy.
Pre‐Intercalation of Zn Ions to Enlarge and Stabilize Hierarchical Structure of ZnxMn1‐xSe Cathode for Flexible Zn‐Ion Capacitor
Authors: Fang Cuiqin , Xu Bingang , Han Jing , Liu Xinlong , Gao Yuanyuan , Huang Junxian
Published: February 2024

Zn‐ion capacitors (ZICs) assembled from cathodes with diffusion‐controlled behaviors and capacitive anodes have attracted increasing interest thanks to their satisfactory and balanced energy and power densities. However, currently, only two cathode materials of this type, MnO2 and V2O5, are applied to ZICs. MnSe is increasingly being reported to exhibit diffusion‐controlled characteristics in metal‐ion batteries and supercapacitors, yet its insufficient interlayer spacing and unstable structure lead to poor energy storage capacity. Herein, ZnxMn1‐xSe microflowers with nanosheets can be in situ pre‐intercalated with Zn ions to enlarge and stabilize the interlayer spacing of hierarchical porous structure, demonstrating to be a superior cathode for ZICs. During the charging/discharging process of Zn0.14Mn0.86Se electrode, a redox couple at ≈0.6/0.3 V on cyclic voltammetry profile, and a potential plateau appearing at ≈0.2 V on discharge curve is detected, corresponding to the insertion/extraction of Zn ions. Thus, a long discharge time realizes on the discharge curve of flexible ZIC assembled from polyacrylamide gel electrolyte and activated carbon anode, achieving a superb areal capacitance of 2,038.2 mF cm−2 at 1 mA cm−2. This work offers an exemplary effort to unlock fresh cathodes for ZICs.
Gut microbes as medical signature for the effectiveness of immunotherapy in patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Adugna Adane , Muche Yalew , Jemal Mohammed , Habtegiorgis Samuel Derbie , Belew Habtamu , Azanaw Amare Gashaw
Published: February 2024

Lung cancer (LC) is the most common cause of cancer‐related death worldwide and poses a severe threat to public health. Immunotherapy with checkpoint blockers has improved the outlook for advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) therapy. For the treatment of patients with advanced NSCLC, antibodies such as anti‐programmed death 1 (anti‐PD1), anti‐programmed death ligand 1 (anti‐PD‐L1), and anti‐cytotoxic T lymphocyte‐associated antigen 4 (anti‐CTLA‐4) are of paramount importance. Anti‐PD‐1 and anti‐PD‐L1 monoclonal antibody therapies are used to block the PD‐1/PD‐L1 pathway and identify cancerous cells to the body's defenses. Antibodies directed against CTLA‐4 (anti‐CTLA‐4) have also been shown to improve survival rates in patients with NSCLC. Currently, other immunotherapy approaches like neoadjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (NAICIs) and chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapies are applied in NSCLC patients. NAICIs are used for resectable and early stage NSCLC and CAR‐T is used to find more useful epitope sites for lung tumors and destroy cancer cells. A patient's gut microbiota might influence how their immune system reacts to NSCLC immunotherapy. The majority of intestinal microbes stimulate helper/cytotoxic T cells, induce natural killer (NK) cells, activate various toll‐like receptors (TLR), build up cluster of differentiation 8 (CD8), increase PD‐1 production, and attract chemokine receptors towards cancer cells. Thus, they serve as immune inducers in NSCLC immunotherapy. Nonetheless, certain bacteria can function as immune suppressors by inhibiting DC proliferation, stopping CD28 trafficking, restoring CD80/CD86, increasing immunological tolerance, and upsetting Th17 cells. Therefore, they are prevalent in non‐responders with NSCLC immunotherapy.
Multi‐disciplinary surveys reveal a small subpopulation of Hector's dolphins is frequently exposed to the risk of bycatch
Authors: Williams Hannah , Dawson Steve , Bennington Steph , Rayment William J.
Published: February 2024

Hector's dolphin (Cephalorhynchus hectori) is an endangered species endemic to the coastal waters of Aotearoa New Zealand. To address the unsustainable bycatch of Hector's dolphins, restrictions on commercial gillnetting within 4 nautical miles of the coast were implemented in 2008, covering most of the South Island's east and south coasts.

A small subpopulation of Hector's dolphins, estimated at 42 (95% CI: 19–92) in 2012, is located off Dunedin, on the south‐east coast of the South Island. It is known from other locations that Hector's dolphins are distributed well beyond 4 nautical miles from the coast and hence are vulnerable to ongoing gillnetting.

In this study, a combination of boat‐based surveys, passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) and analysis of fishing effort were used to generate an up‐to‐date abundance estimate for Hector's dolphins off Dunedin and assess their vulnerability to commercial fishing. In the summer of 2021, abundance was estimated at 41 individuals (95% CI = 31–54), providing no evidence for population change since 2012.

Analysis of visual sighting data indicated ongoing overlap between Hector's dolphins and commercial fishing effort. Using PAM, Hector's dolphins were detected on 94% of days at a location approximately 0.3 nautical miles from the coast, suggesting that shallow waters provide critical habitat for these dolphins year‐round. At an offshore mooring, approximately 4.5 nautical miles from the coast and therefore outside the area in which gillnetting is prohibited, detections were made on 35% of days, indicating potential for direct overlap with commercial fisheries.

The inherent vulnerability of small populations to extinction highlights the need to take a precautionary approach to the management of Dunedin's Hector's dolphins if population recovery is to be facilitated.
Enhanced memory and hippocampal connectivity in humans 2 days after brief resistance exercise
Authors: Hashimoto Teruo , Hotta Rikimasa , Kawashima Ryuta
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Exercise has significant health benefits and can enhance learning. A single bout of high‐intensity resistance training may be sufficient to improve memory. This study aimed to assess memory enhancement by a single bout of high‐intensity resistance training and to examine the neural underpinnings using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

Sixty young adults (34 men and 26 women), divided into the training and control groups, participated. The first session included verbal memory recall tests (cued‐ and free‐recall), resting‐state functional MRI (rs‐fMRI), and a single‐bout high‐intensity resistance training for the training group. Two days later, they underwent post‐intervention memory tests and rs‐fMRI. The study design was 2 groups × 2 sessions for memory tests, and within training group comparisons for rs‐fMRI.

Results

Compared to the control group without resistance training, the training group showed higher cued‐recall performance 2 days after the brief resistance training (training: +0.27, control: −0.13, interaction: p = .01), and their free‐recall scores were associated with enhanced left posterior hippocampal connectivity (r = .64, p < .001).

Conclusions

These results suggest that brief high‐intensity resistance exercise/strength training could enhance memory without repeated exercising. The quick effect of resistance training on memory and hippocampal connectivity could be revealed. A focused and one‐shot exercise may be sufficient to enhance memory performance and neural plasticity in a few days.
Calcined schist as promising ordinary Portland cement substitution: C3
Authors: Mokhtari Pozhhan , Hassannezhad Kosar , Parapari Sorour Semsari , Akyol Yasemin , Gülgün Mehmet Ali , Kriven Waltraud M.
Published: February 2024

An effective method to make cement and concrete more sustainable is to blend them with the proper supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs). This study evaluates a pair of schist‐type materials with slightly different phase compositions, as a partial replacement for ordinary Portland cement (OPC). Materials received from several mines in ground powder form were studied by X‐ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy. According to the TGA results, the activation procedures for the candidate SCMs were determined. The as‐received powders were heat treated in three different decomposition regimes (30%, 50%, and 80% of the total weight losses during thermal decomposition). These regimes corresponded to the activation level of the potential SCMs due to the de‐hydroxylation of the clay‐type minerals within them. Pozzolanic reactivity (pozzolanicity) of untreated as well as treated powders were estimated via electrical conductivity measurements in saturated calcium hydroxide solution. Blended cement pastes with 30 wt.% of OPC substituted with calcined clay‐type materials have developed mechanical properties equal to those of pure cement (100 wt.% OPC) paste after 28 days of hydration time. Two blended cement pastes prepared with candidate SCMs were compared to 100% OPC and OPC composite paste with metakaolin, which is regarded in the literature as a standard.
Numerical modeling and statistical analysis of the effect of thermomechanical properties on residual stresses in feldspar‐based ceramic materials after thermal tempering
Authors: Dal Bó Marcelo , Hotza Dachamir
Published: February 2024

This study focuses on the investigation of the impact of the thermomechanical properties of ceramic materials on residual stresses generated after the thermal tempering process. A sodium feldspar matrix was chosen for numerical simulations, with variations in its thermomechanical properties of up to ± 20%, to encompass a range of properties exhibited by other ceramic materials. The simulations demonstrated that the viscosity of the material had the most significant influence on residual stress generation, while the coefficient of thermal expansion, modulus of elasticity, and effective diffusivity also contributed to residual stress formation. A statistical analysis based on a 24 factorial design revealed that increasing residual compressive stress on the surface was achievable by increasing the coefficient of thermal expansion and modulus of elasticity, as well as the viscosity, while reducing the effective thermal diffusivity. Finally, a mathematical model was proposed to relate the thermomechanical properties of the ceramic material to the residual stresses observed on the surface following thermal tempering.
A multimedia learning environment on alternative aviation fuels from the Fischer‐Tropsch‐synthesis
Authors: Janssen Nils , Krause Moritz , Eilks Ingo
Published: February 2024

Der Klimawandel verändert das Leben der Menschen auf der Erde. Um diese Auswirkungen zu begrenzen, hat die Politik verschiedenste Maßnahmen beschlossen. Unter anderem sollen die Treibhausgasemissionen im Verkehrssektor reduziert werden. Hierzu steht eine Vielzahl an Technologien zur Verfügung. Eine Möglichkeit ist der Einsatz von Bio‐to‐Liquid‐ (auch Biomass‐to‐Liquid‐) und Power‐to‐Liquid‐Kraftstoffen aus der Fischer‐Tropsch‐Synthese. Die hier vorgeschlagene Lernumgebung bietet die Möglichkeit, Lernenden die Technologie zur Herstellung dieser alternativen Kraftstoffe näher zu bringen. Zudem werden erste Erfahrungen aus dem Unterricht mit der Lernumgebung beschrieben.
First‐Principles Study of Carbon‐Substituted ZnO Monolayer for Adjusting Lithium Adsorption in Battery Application
Authors: Jonuarti Riri , Zulaehah Siti , Suwardy Joko , Marlina Resti , Suprijadi  , Kurniawan Robi , Darma Yudi
Published: February 2024

Structural stability, local density of states, bonding information, and charge distribution differences of C‐substituted ZnO (C/VZnxOy) monolayer structures, as well as their interactions with lithium atoms, are investigated using the density functional theory (DFT) method. The energy required to generate vacancies in pristine ZnO monolayers is considerably high, but since the C atoms are strongly adsorbed in the vacant sites, the energy required to form C/VZnxOy structures is reduced. These lattice substitutions cause an alteration of the Zn d‐states. The bonding analysis shows that the C−O interaction is stronger than the C−Zn interaction. So, it generates high stability for these structures. Furthermore, because the development of C/VZnxOy is aimed at lithium battery electrode applications, the most fundamental thing that needs to be examined initially is the interaction between the C/VZnxOy surfaces and the lithium atoms. Li3 strongly binds on all C/VZnxOy surfaces, and it turns to Li3+ based on a simple analysis of charge distribution differences. These findings will have a substantial impact on the future development of ZnO monolayers, and their potential as lithium battery electrodes can be studied further.
Energy‐efficient hybrid beamforming for millimeter‐wave‐based massive multiple‐input multiple‐output system
Authors: Biru Selam , Mishra Satyasis , Singh Ram Sewak , Chura Shanko , Satapathy Sunita
Published: February 2024

The advanced wireless communication system requires abridged energy consumption, enhanced data rate, and good signal coverage. The massive MIMO technology for 5G systems has been developed to accommodate several users simultaneously with superior throughput. The claim for high data rate wireless communication services is expanding quickly as time goes. Thus, the key difficulty is that as the number of users grows, the number of phase shifters grows as well, causing the system to consume more power; as a result, the system's energy efficiency decreases. Hybrid beamforming has recently emerged as an attractive technique for millimeter‐wave (mmWave) communication systems. The analog beamformer in the RF domain and digital beamformer in the baseband are coupled through a minimal number of RF chains in hybrid beamforming architecture. Hybrid beamforming utilizes fewer RF (radio frequency) chains than the total number of antennas to have a lower energy consumption design. The hybrid beamforming for a mmWave‐based massive MIMO system through different phase shifter selection mechanisms is proposed to achieve the highest energy efficiency for mmWave communications systems. The fully connected with phase shifter selection, sub‐connected with phase shifter selection (SPSS), and fully connected and sub‐connected with phase shifter selection with halved and doubled switches are considered for this research. The simulation results show the SPSS with halved switch outperforms on energy efficiency.
A comprehensive review of specific activity and intrinsic connections of food‐derived bioactive peptides for human health
Authors: Zhao Tiantian , Su Guowan , Zhang Lijun , Chen Jieqiong , Zhang Yehui , Liu Weifeng , Zhao Mouming , Zhang Jianan , Huang Qingrong
Published: February 2024

Food‐derived peptides have garnered significant attention in research due to their multifaceted functionalities, abundant availability, efficient utilization of agricultural by‐products, and environmentally sustainable preparation methods. These peptides play a crucial role in human health, yet their precise mechanisms of action remain largely unexplored, posing challenges in their screening, preparation, and effective application utilizing protein‐based raw materials. This review offers an extensive examination of 19 types of bioactive peptides derived from food. The sources of food‐derived bioactive peptides are well concluded and the classifications are made according to their potential health benefit based on five primary systems: general bodily functions, the nervous system, the cardiovascular system, the metabolic system, and the immune system. This review specifically highlights the multifaceted impacts of tasty peptides on human health, extending beyond their gustatory effects. Furthermore, it explores the interplay between various functions of bioactive peptides, noting a progression from basic to advanced functionalities. Antioxidant activity and the modulation of key enzymes are identified as fundamental actions that are interconnected with other functional properties. This implies that a single bioactive peptide could exhibit multiple beneficial effects. The key role of antioxidant capabilities is underscored based on their broad influence and straightforward assessment. This comprehensive analysis aims to deepen the systematic understanding of the diverse benefits offered by various food‐derived peptides.
Development of RP HPLC‐PDA method for simultaneous quantitative analysis of Inoscavin A and Meshimakobnol A and application on some Phellinus mushroom species
Authors: Le Anh Ngoc , Nguyen Tuan Ngoc , Dong Dao Thi Anh
Published: February 2024

Phellinus igniarius, a medicinal mushroom containing many active ingredients with health benefits, can be applied in functional food. At present, the quantification of the main active ingredients from higher fungi (Ganoderma, Phellinus…) materials from different growing sources is a mandatory requirement to standardize the input resources of pharmaceutical and food production. Our study's aims are to perfect the RP HPLC‐PDA method for quantitative analysis of Inoscavin A and Meshimakobnol A which are two main active ingredients present in Phellinus mushroom. In this analytical method, a C18‐HPLC column and the mixture of methanol and formic acid solutions (pH = 2.2) are used to analyze and elute the active substances with the column activity parameters being the concentration gradient. This perfect method was tested for system suitability, repeatability, intermediate precision, recovery, and linear curve calibration to validate the method. After validation, the perfected RP HPLC‐PDA method was applied to analyze eight samples of Phellinus and three samples of Ganoderma mushroom category. This method can be the basis for classifying between Phellinus and some other medicinal mushrooms.
Maximum order size and market quality: Evidence from a natural experiment in commodity futures markets
Authors: Peng Kun , Hu Zhepeng , Robe Michel A.
Published: February 2024

We exploit a 2018 exchange‐mandated increase of the maximum order size in some—but, crucially, not all—US agricultural futures markets, to link exogenous constraints on order placement and execution, price volatility, and market liquidity. The old maximum size of 2500 contracts was binding: demand exists for placing and executing much larger orders. Limit‐order book depth at the best bid and ask increases dramatically after the exchange quadruples the maximum order size. Amid relatively stable volatility, bid‐ask spreads narrow, and the price impact of large trades falls. In sum, we find that market quality can improve after an increase in maximum order and trade size.
Striving toward safe abortion services in Nepal: A review of barriers and facilitators
Authors: Atreya Alok , Adhikari Kishor , Nepal Samata , Bhusal Milan , Menezes Ritesh G. , Shrestha Dhan B. , Shrestha Deepak
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Despite the decriminalization of abortion in Nepal in 2002, unsafe abortion is still a significant contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality. Nepal has witnessed a significant drop in abortion‐related severe complications and maternal deaths owing to the legalization of abortion laws, lowered financial costs, and wider accessibility of safe abortion services (SAS). However, various factors such as sociocultural beliefs, financial constraints, geographical difficulties, and stigma act as barriers to the liberal accessibility of SAS. This review aimed to determine key barriers obstructing women's access to lawful, safe abortion care and identify facilitators that have improved access to and quality of abortion services.

Methods

A systematic search strategy utilizing the databases PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Embase was used to include studies on the accessibility and safety of abortion services in Nepal. Data were extracted from included studies through close reading. Barriers and facilitators were then categorized into various themes and analyzed.

Results

Of 223 studies, 112 were duplicates, 73 did not meet the inclusion criteria, and 18 did not align with the research question; thus, 20 studies were included in the review. Various barriers to SAS in Nepal were categorized as economic, geographic, societal, legal/policy, socio‐cultural, health systems, and other factors. Facilitators improving access were categorized as economic/geographic/societal, legal/policy, socio‐cultural, and health systems factors. The patterns and trends of barriers and facilitators were analyzed, grouping them under legal/policy, socio‐cultural, geographic/accessibility, and health systems factors.

Conclusion

The review identifies financial constraints, unfavorable geography, lack of infrastructure, and social stigmatization as major barriers to SAS. Economics and geography, legalization, improved access, reduced cost and active involvement of auxiliary nurse‐midwives and community health volunteers are key facilitators.
Light induced photovoltaic and pyroelectric effects in ferroelectric BaTiO3 film based Schottky interface for self‐powered and flexible multi‐modal logic gates
Authors: Dan Huiyu , Li Hongyu , Xu Lan , Guo Chong , Bowen Chris R. , Yang Ya
Published: February 2024

Optoelectronic logic gates have emerged as one of the key candidates for the creation of next generation logic devices. However, current optoelectronic logic gates can provide only one or two logic gates, severely limiting their applications. Here we report a self‐powered and mechanically flexible device based on a BaTiO3 ferroelectric film to produce multi‐modal logic gates. By exploiting the photo‐induced photovoltaic and pyroelectric effects of a Schottky junction which is created between BaTiO3 and LaNiO3, the device is able to provide five different optoelectronic logic gates, which can be operated using input lasers of different wavelength (405 or 785 nm). The mode of operation of the logic gate can be switched by controlling the wavelength and intensity of the input laser, where the switching process is both lossless and reversible. A logic gate array was designed to conduct the five logic operations, with 100% accuracy, thereby providing application potential for the Internet of Things, big data, and secure solutions for data processing and transmission.

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Helicobacter pylori and Recurrent Abdominal Pain in Children
Authors: Hardikar Winita , Feekery Colin , Smith Arnold , Oberklaid Frank , Grimwood Keith
Published: February 2024

Recurrent abdominal pain is one of the most common presentations to pediatricians; yet an organic etiology can be found in only 10% of cases. Because infection with Helicobacter pylori in adults and children results in gastritis, a causative role for the organism has been postulated. To investigate this theory, we conducted a prospective case‐control study in children with recurrent abdominal pain using serum H. pylori IgG antibodies measured by an enzyme immunoabsorbent assay. Age, sex, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status were adjusted in the statistical model. Five subjects (5.1%) and 14 controls (14.3%) had raised serum IgG antibodies to H. pylori (adjusted OR, 0.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.05, 0.85). The negative association between H. pylori and recurrent abdominal pain indicates that this organism is unlikely to have an important etiologic role in this disorder.
Gut Permeability to Human α‐Lactalbumin, β‐Lactoglobulin, Mannitol, and Lactulose in Celiac Disease
Authors: Kuitunen Mikael , Savilahti Erkki
Published: February 2024

Our objective was to examine the permeability of the gut to protein macromolecules and sugar probes and their possible association in celiac disease patients. We studied the permeability to human α‐lactalbumin, β‐lactoglobulin, mannitol, and lactulose on 46 occasions in 33 celiac disease patients in various phases of the disease; in addition, mannitol and lactulose permeability was studied in 18 healthy controls. Lactalbumin absorption was detected in 19 of 42 patients tested, more often in celiac disease patients with villous atrophy than in those with normal jejunal biopsy (p = 0.01). Higher absorption of lactalbumin was found in patients with subtotal villous atrophy than in those with normal biopsy (p = 0.02). β‐lactoglobulin was found in four of 42 patients tested. Less mannitol was absorbed by patients with either subtotal or partial villous atrophy than by those with normal histology (p = 0.001 and 0.006, respectively). Lactulose recovery was higher in newly diagnosed patients and patients with subtotal villous atrophy than in controls (p = 0.007 and 0.03, respectively). The lactulose/mannitol ratio was higher in newly diagnosed patients and patients with villous atrophy than in controls (p = 0.002 and 0.002, respectively). The correlation between permeability to lactalbumin and mannitol and lactulose was poor. We conclude that permeability to proteins and sugar molecules is abnormal in celiac disease patients with mucosal damage and that they probably reflect different mechanisms of penetration.
Endoscopic Assessment of the Colonic Response to Corticosteroids in Children with Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Beattie R. M. , Nicholls S. W. , Domizio P. , Williams C. B. , Walker‐Smith J. A.
Published: February 2024

Twenty children with active ulcerative colitis were assessed before and after 8 weeks of medical therapy with 5‐aminosalicylic acid (5‐ASA) derivatives and corticosteroids. Local therapy was given for distal disease (seven cases); other disease was terated with oral prednisolone (1‐2 mg/kg/day, maximum 40 mg). Eighteen of the children showed a clinical improvement on therapy, and complete remission of clinical disease activity by 8 weeks was seen in 17 (85%). C‐reactive protein was elevated initially in 10 of 20 children and returned to normal posttreatment in all but one. Reassessment of the colon after treatment showed an improved endoscopic appearance in 15 and complete remission in eight (40%). Histological improvement was seen in 13, with full remission in only three (15%). In conclusion, remission of clinical disease activity by corticosteroid therapy in ulcerative colitis may not be accompanied by endoscopic remission and uncommonly by mucosal healing. This finding may be important prognostically because of the risk of dysplasia in long‐standing persistent mucosal inflammation.