bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Ethanol Decomposition on Dispersion of PEFC Catalyst Ink
Authors: Sasabe Takashi , Ogura Toshihiko , Okada Koki , Oka Haruto , Sakai Katsunori , Hirai Shuichiro
Published: September 2023

To achieve high power density operation of polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs), it is required to realize higher performance catalyst layer. Because dispersion structure of catalyst ink strongly affects the catalyst layer structure, it is crucial to understand the dispersion mechanism of PEFC catalyst ink. Though water/ethanol solution is used as solvent of the catalyst ink, decomposition of ethanol by Platinum catalyst strongly affect dispersion of the catalyst ink. In this study, influence of ethanol decomposition on dispersion of catalyst inks were investigated. Among the decomposition byproducts of ethanol, results of rheology characteristics and direct observation by scanning electron assisted dielectric microscopy clearly showed that acetaldehyde has a significant impact on aggregation of catalyst ink. To reveal the mechanism of aggregation, particle size measurement and ionomer adsorption fraction measurement of the catalyst ink were carried out. The results suggested that the acetaldehyde impede adsorption of the ionomer on Platinum catalyst.
On the Importance of MPL Structural Characteristics for PEM Fuel Cell Performance
Authors: Schweiss Ruediger , Herb Magnus , Earla Raj , Meiser Christian
Published: September 2023

A systematic study was performed with GDLs based on a singular backing using different MPL types and penetration levels. A simple method to estimate the micro-porous layer penetration in gas diffusion layers based on data obtained from force-deflection behavior of backings and MPL-coated GDLs is proposed. Comparison with SEM and previously published tomographic studies shows that a good estimate for the extent of MPL intrusion into the backing is obtained. MPL loading and penetration is shown to affect different ex-situ GDL properties (in-plane gas permeability, electrical and thermal conductivity) as well as the GDL single cell performance characteristics with respect to humification and high current density operation. Similar effects are reported for MPLs differing with respect to the presence of mud-cracks.
Modeling and Sizing of a Y-Shaped Laminar Flow Micro-Fluidic Fuel Cell
Authors: Espinoza Andaluz Mayken , Zhang Xiaoqiang , Yang Danan , Andersson Martin
Published: September 2023

The high demand for portable and desktop electronic devices requires mobile energy sources. The energy demand to supply micro-devices has been increasing in recent years. Considering the power output of the membraneless microfluidic fuel cell (MMFC), it is a suitable solution to provide the required electrical energy in small devices. The absence of electrolytes and no requirement of platinum as catalytic material are two of the most important advantages of this type of fuel cell. The current study provides detailed information about the design and characteristics of an MMFC. A complete analysis of the different channel shapes is considered in this study, with the Y-shaped channel being selected as the best option. The impact of the inclination degree for the inlet channels has been considered to evaluate the average velocity the flow acquires in the channel flow. In addition, the voltage-current behavior considering the materials, fuel/oxidant, and design characteristics has been obtained through modeling approaches.
Liquid Water Permeability in a Hydrophobic Microporous Layer for the Anode Interdigitated Flow Field of a Gas-Liquid Separating Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Water Electrolyzer
Authors: Kubota Shunji , Nakajima Hironori , Sato Motohiko , Shima Asuka , Sakurai Masato , Sone Yoshitsugu
Published: September 2023

A novel interdigitated flow field for polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolyzers composed of oxygen exhaust channels apart from liquid water feed channels has been developed for ground and space applications. This design can internally separate oxygen gas and liquid water between the flow channels, dispensing with water circulators for bubble removal and external separators with natural or centrifugal buoyancy. In this electrolyzer, pressurized liquid water is injected in the in-plane direction from the water channels to the catalyst layer through the hydrophobic microporous layer (MPL) of the anode porous transport layer. The produced oxygen gas is discharged in the through-plane direction of the MPL, taking advantage of the capillary pressure in the MPL. This study conducted liquid water permeability tests on the MPL with pressurized water. We find gradual permeability decreases with time for different liquid water pressures. The permeability will be a useful parameter for the optimal structural designs of this electrolyzer.
Power Generation Charactristics of Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells with Electrocatalysts Supported on SnO2 in High Current Density Range
Authors: Ogawa Taichi , Nakamura Shogo , Miyamoto Ryo , Yasutake Masahiro , Noda Zhiyun , Matsuda Junko , Nishihara Masamichi , Hayashi Akari , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: September 2023

The durability of cathode catalysts in polymer electrolyte fuel cells remains a significant technical issue. Start-stop cycles cause carbon support corrosion and Pt catalyst particle detachment from the support leading to a significant cell degradation. SnO2-supported electrocatalysts using carbon materials as the conducting framework have the potential to achieve both high activity and high durability. However, cell performance in the high current density range needs to be improved to apply them to heavy-duty vehicles. This study selected mesoporous carbon (MC) as the conductive framework because the use of mesopores could also improve load-cycle durability. In this study, the microstructure of the electrocatalyst layers using Pt/Sn0.98Nb0.02O2/MC is controlled to improve the power generation of the cells. In addition, Pt/Sn0.98Nb0.02O2/MC electrocatalyst demonstrates durability improvement against the start-stop cycles.
Investigation of Gas Diffusion Layer Degradation in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Via Chemical Oxidation
Authors: Edjokola Joel Mata , Hacker Viktor , Bodner Merit
Published: September 2023

The gas diffusion layer (GDL) enables and influences the internal transport of fuel, oxygen, electricity, heat and water. The GDL is made up of the macroporous substrate and the microporous layer. To achieve the hydrophobicity required for water management, the two layers are typically treated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Degradation of GDL, including carbon corrosion and PTFE loss, affects water management, conductivity and mass transport. GDLs were subjected to accelerated stress tests by immersing them in Fenton's reagent for 24 hours. Analysis of hydrophobic properties through contact angle measurements, thermogravimetry, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy indicated that the hydrophobicity of the GDL exposed to Fenton's reagent decreased. This loss of hydrophobicity is associated with surface oxidation and PTFE degradation.
Development of MEAs Using Mesoporous Carbon Fibers as Cathode Carbon Supports
Authors: Yasufuku Daichi , Sasaki Kazunari , Hayashi Akari
Published: September 2023

Mesoporous carbon fibers were synthesized and ball-milled into fine carbon particles to use as cathode carbon support. A critical issue of high ohmic overvoltage, previously found in mesoporous carbon related supports, was successfully reduced. Reducing carbon particle size was realized to be important in order to lower interparticle resistance and further to lower ohmic resistance. When cathodes were successfully prepared, low concentration overvoltage was found to a beneficial point of using mesoporous carbon based supports. Resulting low concentration overvoltage could not be explained by the difference in macro-porous structure of the cathode. Therefore, mesopores are expected to play an important role of the mass transfer, even though the exact mechanism is still under the study.
A Study on Electrochemical Properties of Fuel-Electrode-Supported Reversible Solid Oxide Cells
Authors: Ozaki Ryota , Yamada Kei , Ikegawa Kazutaka , Kawabata Tsutomu , Uryu Chie , Tachikawa Yuya , Matsuda Junko , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: September 2023

Reversible solid oxide cells (r-SOCs) enable both fuel cell power generation and steam-electrolysis hydrogen production by changing the direction of the current in the cells. They are attractive electrochemical devices because of their ability to regulate power supply derived from renewable energy sources. In this study, initial performance was evaluated, and an electrolyte-supported cell and fuel-electrode-supported cells were compared and evaluated with changing operating temperatures. The performances for fuel-electrode-supported cells with various combinations of fuel electrode and electrolyte materials were also evaluated. In addition, the Ni-YSZ/YSZ fuel-electrode-supported cell, which exhibited the highest current-voltage characteristics, was subjected to r-SOC cycling tests to evaluate the cycle durability.
(Digital Presentation) Fabrication and Characterization of 4Sc4YSZ/LSM-4Sc4YSZ Novel Electrode-Supported Half-Cell Composition for Solid Oxide Electrochemical Cells
Authors: Diamansil Pearl Jamela , Cervera Rinlee
Published: September 2023

Scandium and Yttrium co-doped ZrO2 (4Sc4YSZ) thin film solid electrolyte has exhibited improved conductivities and phase stability by considering advantages of both Y-doped zirconia (YSZ) and Sc-doped zirconia (ScSZ). In this study, a solid electrolyte thin film of 4Sc4YSZ deposited on a new LSM-4Sc4YSZ composite electrode was conducted. To obtain a dense electrolyte, the effect of pre-sintering temperature of the LSM-4Sc4YSZ electrode substrate in the deposition of the 4Sc4YSZ thin film was investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed distinct phases of rhombohedral peaks for LSM and cubic peaks for the composite 4Sc4YSZ component and deposited thin film electrolytes. It was observed from the morphological results via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) that pre-sintering of the electrode substrate affects the densification of the deposited solid electrolyte. A dense 4Sc4YSZ thin film electrolyte was obtained by pre-sintering the LSM-4Sc4YSZ electrode at 1300°C than those deposited on the substrates with lower pre-sintering temperatures.
From the Editor: Fly the Friendly(?) Skies
Authors: Kelly Rob G.
Published: September 2023

I may believe in the inherent goodness of people more than is warranted, but I hold out hope. I see more people doing the little things that are the foundation of goodness. Kindnesses can be as simple as holding doors and stepping aside for others, paying for the next person in line at the coffee shop, lending a hand when someone is struggling to move something. All of these random acts of kindness are most impactful when they are done without being asked, and they add up. They brighten the day for people on both sides of the encounter. So, let’s show the world that all electrochemists and solid-state scientists, besides being good-looking, smart, and incredibly interesting, are very, very kind.
Iron Flow Battery with Slurry Electrode for Large Scale Energy Storage: Scale-Up, Intellectual Property, and Commercialization Challenges
Authors: Savinell Robert F. , Wainright Jesse S.
Published: September 2023

For large-scale energy storage, flow batteries present many advantages. These benefits include, but are not limited to, decoupling power rating from energy capacity and projected lower cost energy storage and long cycle life. Several reviews and a comprehensive handbook have come available recently describing the various flow battery chemistries and the details of cell and stack construction. However, none of the chemistries proposed are perfect and the commercialization path to widespread adoption remains challenging. For the purposes of this article, we will take a closer look at the concept and development of an all-iron slurry flow battery and the intellectual property (IP) protection and commercialization process that occurred within an academic environment.
Long-Term Stability of Ni–Sn–Fe-Based Coatings Prepared by Electrodeposition for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Nakamura Nobuhiro , Fujita Wataru , Muranaka Takehiko , Nakayama Masaharu
Published: September 2023

A coating comprising Ni, Sn, and Fe was deposited on a Ni mesh by cathodic polarization from a bath containing Ni2+, Sn2+, and Fe3+ salts in solution, and the oxygen evolution reaction properties of the thus obtained electrode were investigated. The lattice volume of the Ni–Sn–Fe-based coating was estimated to be 77.1 Å3, a much larger value than that (44.0 Å3) of the Ni–Fe-based coating obtained in the absence of Sn2+. The Ni–Sn–Fe-coated electrode manufactured by cathodic polarization at a current density of −120 mA cm−2 afforded a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at an overpotential of 276 mV in 1 M KOH. The said electrode’s Tafel slope was estimated to be 37 mV dec−1. When electrolyzed at constant current density (+50 mA cm−2 to +800 mA cm−2), it exhibited a stable potential for at least 162 h. The Ni–Sn–Fe-coated electrode was also used as the anode in a two-electrode cell (80 °C; 30 wt% KOH) and electrolyzed for 3 d. Evidence indicated a low cell voltage of 1.81 V at a current density of +600 mA cm−2, which is at an industrial level.
The Evolution of Vehicle Pneumatic Vibration Isolation: A Systematic Review
Authors: Atindana Vincent Akolbire , Xu Xing , Nyedeb Andrews Nanzie , Quaisie James Kwasi , Nkrumah Jacob Kwaku , Assam Samuel Passim
Published: September 2023

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a significant concern for vehicle users as it can negatively impact their health and comfort. As such, effective vibration isolation is critical in vehicle suspension design. The ability of a vehicle suspension to isolate vibrations depends primarily on the suspension design and the type of springs used. One type of spring that has proven advantageous for vibration isolation is the air spring. Air springs can vary frequencies and adjust their stiffness in response to different loading conditions, making them ideal for meeting both suspension load-carrying and occupants’ comfort requirements. Pneumatic (air) suspension has been in use in the automotive industry for several decades and has undergone significant advancements during this period. This paper presents a systematic review of pneumatic suspension since its inception. The review highlights different air spring modeling techniques, types of pneumatic suspension, and control methods. The study also discusses the functional flexibility of pneumatic suspension, its ability to offer a wide range of control options to drivers, and its broad application in almost all ranges of vehicles, including chassis, cabin, and seat suspension systems. In addition, this paper presents a summary of the pros and cons of pneumatic suspension and suggests future research directions. The advantages of pneumatic suspension include effective vibration isolation, improved ride comfort, and the ability to adjust suspension stiffness and ride height. On the other hand, the disadvantages include higher cost and complexity compared to other types of suspension. Overall, the findings of this review demonstrate that pneumatic suspension is a viable solution for vehicle suspension design, particularly in situations where vibration isolation and ride comfort are critical.
The Effect of Education through Telenursing on the Caregiver Burden among Family Caregivers of COVID‐19 Patients: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Rad Mostafa , Rajab Dizavandi Fatemeh , Rajab Dizavandi Ahmad
Published: September 2023

Purpose. Family caregivers are under a lot of burden during the treatment of patients with COVID‐19. This study aimed at determining the effect of education through telenursing on the caregiver burden among family caregivers of COVID‐19 patients. Design and Methods. This was a randomized clinical trial that was performed on 66 caregivers of COVID‐19 patients discharged from Vasei Hospital, Sabzevar, Iran, during 6 months from March to August 2021. The research units were selected using the convenience sampling method and were randomly allocated to two groups, intervention and control, by using permutation blocks. The training workshop and telenursing were conducted in the experiment group, and the control group received only usual care. Novak and Guest care burden scale and demographic questionnaire were collected online by caregivers before and one month after the intervention. Data were analyzed by using SPSS version 24 and paired t‐test, independent t‐test, Fisher’s exact test, chi‐square tests, and covariance analysis. The significance level of the tests was considered to be 5%. Findings. After training the intervention group, the mean caregiver burden before and one month after the intervention was significantly decreased compared to the control group (p < 0.001). The groups show a significant difference only in terms of educational resources (p = 0.005). The results of analysis of covariance for the total caregiver burden score in post‐test indicated that the mean values of the caregiver burden score between the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Practice Implications. Telenursing has suggested that health care managers put the telenursing process by creating appropriate policies and careful planning.
Analyzing the Success of Adopting Metaverse in Construction Industry: Structural Equation Modelling
Authors: Waqar Ahsan , Othman Idris , Shafiq Aiman Muhammad , Basit Khan Muhammad , Islam Md. Mahmodul , Almujibah Hamad , Abdul Karim Malik
Published: September 2023

The application of metaverse technology in the field of civil engineering has the potential to improve project efficiency and accuracy. Nevertheless, the pervasive adoption and effective integration of metaverses are contingent on a number of crucial factors. This study investigates the critical factors underlying the successful implementation of metaverse technology within a business context. This research employs a comprehensive mixed-method approach comprised of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and structural equation modelling (SEM) to examine survey responses gathered from seasoned professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) sectors in Bangladesh. In areas such as communication and collaboration, design visualization, and monitoring and maintenance, the construction industry has made extraordinary strides. As imperatives for managerial consideration strategic investment in resources, targeted training initiatives, heightened awareness campaigns, and prudent deployment of cost-effective and efficient metaverse-based solutions emerge, future investigations should include a larger sample size and an evaluation of the lasting effects over extended time periods. The key to unleashing the full potential of the metaverse within the architecture, engineering, and construction industries lies in addressing these identified success determinants, thereby ushering in enhanced project outcomes and enhanced efficiency within the constructed environment. The combination of these initiatives is expected to pave the way for a new era in the AEC landscape.
Field Tests on Thermal Performance of Bridge Pile Groups under Embankment Load and Cap Constraint Condition
Authors: Ren Lian-wei , Han Zhi-pan , Wang Shu-biao , Gao Yu-jia
Published: September 2023

Based on the project of National Highway No. 310 located in Sanmenxia City, China, field tests on the thermal responses of the

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pile groups under embankment load in winter condition are carried out. The temperatures and stresses of piles along pile depth under the combined action of embankment load and temperature are measured. The thermal characteristics of the pile body, such as thermal-induced stress, cumulative deformation of the pile top, and heat exchange efficiency per unit area, are analyzed. The feasibility of a new piping method compatible with the segmented reinforcement cage is discussed. A calculation method for heat exchange in a large-diameter energy pile is proposed. The layout of the heat exchange pipe used in this study is feasible, and there is no large stress mutation in the dense and nondense areas. The maximum tensile stress in the middle of the pile body is about 0.4 MPa, which is nearly 22% of the concrete tensile strength value. The settlement of the pile top is about 0.33 mm after seven days of cooling condition, which is about 0.27‰ of the pile diameter.
Metabolic Hallmarks for Purine Nucleotide Biosynthesis in Small Cell Lung Carcinoma
Authors: Tabata Sho , Umemura Shigeki , Narita Miyu , Udagawa Hibiki , Ishikawa Takamasa , Tsuboi Masahiro , Goto Koichi , Ishii Genichiro , Tsuchihara Katsuya , Ochiai Atsushi , Kobayashi Susumu S. , Soga Tomoyoshi , Makinoshima Hideki
Published: September 2023

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) has a poor prognosis, emphasizing the necessity for developing new therapies. The de novo synthesis pathway of purine nucleotides, which is involved in the malignant growth of SCLC, has emerged as a novel therapeutic target. Purine nucleotides are supplied by two pathways: de novo and salvage. However, the role of the salvage pathway in SCLC and the differences in utilization and crosstalk between the two pathways remain largely unclear. Here, we found that deletion of the HPRT1 gene, which codes for the rate-limiting enzyme of the purine salvage pathway, significantly suppressed tumor growth in vivo in several SCLC cells. We also demonstrated that HPRT1 expression confers resistance to lemetrexol (LMX), an inhibitor of the purine de novo pathway. Interestingly, HPRT1-knockout had less effect on SCLC SBC-5 cells, which are more sensitive to LMX than other SCLC cell lines, suggesting that a preference for either the purine de novo or salvage pathway occurs in SCLC. Furthermore, metabolome analysis of HPRT1-knockout cells revealed increased intermediates in the pentose phosphate pathway and elevated metabolic flux in the purine de novo pathway, indicating compensated metabolism between the de novo and salvage pathways in purine nucleotide biosynthesis. These results suggest that HPRT1 has therapeutic implications in SCLC and provide fundamental insights into the regulation of purine nucleotide biosynthesis.

Implications:

SCLC tumors preferentially utilize either the de novo or salvage pathway in purine nucleotide biosynthesis, and HPRT1 has therapeutic implications in SCLC.
Supplementary Table S5 from An Early Neoplasia Index (ENI10), Based on Molecular Identity of CD10 Cells and Associated Stemness Biomarkers, is a Predictor of Patient Outcome in Many Cancers
Authors: Guyot Boris , Clément Flora , Drouet Youenn , Schmidt Xenia , Lefort Sylvain , Delay Emmanuel , Treilleux Isabelle , Foy Jean-Philippe , Jeanpierre Sandrine , Thomas Emilie , Kielbassa Janice , Tonon Laurie , Zhu Helen He , Saintigny Pierre , Gao Wei-Qiang , de la Fouchardiere Arnaud , Tirode Franck , Viari Alain , Blay Jean-Yves , Maguer-Satta Véronique
Published: September 2023

Supplementary Table S5 shows the drugs corresponding to the targets indicated in Figures 2K and 5E of the main text.
Violation of the Constant Genetic Effect Assumption Can Result in Biased Estimates for Non-Linear Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Burgess Stephen
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Non-linear Mendelian randomization is an extension of conventional Mendelian randomization that performs separate instrumental variable analyses in strata of the study population with different average levels of the exposure. The approach estimates a localized average causal effect function, representing the average causal effect of the exposure on the outcome at different levels of the exposure. The commonly used residual method for dividing the population into strata works under the assumption that the effect of the genetic instrument on the exposure is linear and constant in the study population. However, this assumption may not hold in practice. Methods: We use the recently developed doubly ranked method to re-analyse various datasets previously analysed using the residual method. In particular, we consider a genetic score for 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) used in a recent non-linear Mendelian randomization analysis to assess the potential effect of vitamin D supplementation on all-cause mortality. Results: The effect of the genetic score on 25(OH)D concentrations varies strongly, with a five-fold difference in the estimated genetic association with the exposure in the lowest and highest decile groups. Evidence for a protective causal effect of vitamin D supplementation on all-cause mortality in low vitamin D individuals is evident for the residual method but not for the doubly ranked method. We show that the constant genetic effect assumption is more reasonable for some exposures and less reasonable for others. If the doubly ranked method indicates that this assumption is violated, then estimates from both the residual and doubly ranked methods can be biased, although bias was smaller on average in the doubly ranked method. Conclusion: Analysts wanting to perform non-linear Mendelian randomization should compare results from both the residual and doubly ranked methods, as well as consider transforming the exposure for the residual method to reduce heterogeneity in the genetic effect on the exposure.
Arginine-Stimulated Copeptin-Based Diagnosis of Central Diabetes Insipidus in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Gippert Sebastian , Brune Maik , Dirksen Ruth L. , Choukair Daniela , Bettendorf Markus
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Diagnosis of central diabetes insipidus (CDI) remains challenging. Water deprivation testing and hypertonic saline infusion, as established diagnostic tests, are mentally and physically demanding for patients. Arginine-stimulated copeptin has been shown as a putative parameter for the differential diagnosis of CDI in adults. Methods: In this single-centre retrospective study, we identified paediatric patients with suspected pituitary disorders who underwent standard arginine testing. Patients with CDI, matched controls, and primary polydipsia (PP) were identified. Diagnoses were confirmed retrospectively using comprehensive clinical and diagnostic characteristics. Serum copeptin concentrations were measured using a commercially available automated immunofluorescence assay (B.R.A.H.M.S Copeptin-proAVP KRYPTOR®) in samples stored for a median of 4.6 years (1.3–10.84) and collected before and 60 min after arginine infusion. Cut-off analyses were performed using ROC curves. Results: Serum samples from 32 patients with CDI, 32 matched controls, and 5 patients with PP (n = 69; 51 males, 18 females) were available for analysis. Median copeptin concentrations increased from 4.47 pmol/L (interquartile range [IQR]: 3.47–8.36) to 6.96 pmol/L (IQR: 4.51–12.89; p < 0.001) in controls, from 1.46 pmol/L (IQR: 1.21–2.12) to 1.44 (IQR: 1.10–1.87; p = 0.645, ns) in CDI, and from 4.40 pmol/L (3.95–6.33) to 9.58 pmol/L (8.19–11.42; p < 0.001) in PP. The published cut-off value of 3.8 pmol/L revealed a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 86.5% in confirming CDI. Conclusion: Our results suggest that arginine-stimulated serum copeptin concentrations are a sensitive and specific diagnostic tool for CDI in paediatric patients, which may replace and simplify the conventional diagnostic pathway of water deprivation testing and hypertonic saline infusion.
Puidu- ja mööblitööstuse ettevõtete motiveerimise võimalused rohepöörde elluviimise kontekstis, Uuringu aruanne
Authors:   Tallinn University of Technology, Gerstlberger Wolfgang , Küttim Merle , Niine Tarvo , Hurt Ulrika , Tuisk Tarmo , Hartsenko Jelena , Kull Margit , Trei Mariliis , Kotov Arseni , Kängsepp Kärt
Published: September 2023

The purpose of the study was to find out how to motivate Estonian companies in the wood and furniture industry to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the green economy and to mitigate the risks associated with it, and to provide concrete tools and ready-to-implement solutions. The information generated by the survey should provide input for sustainable development action plans and measures. More specifically, the survey focused on companies in the wood and furniture sectors, which account for 80% of the sectors' exports.
Soundscapes of a Century: The Art and Transmission of Irish Broadcasting’s 100-Year Milestone
Authors: Eadie Jimmy
Published: September 2023

This article examines two renditions of an artwork titled 100, which celebrate a historic radio transmission in 1916 during the Irish war for independence. The centenary artwork delves into the concept of radio transmission as an artistic expression rather than solely a practical function. The work explores the intersection of radio transmission with installation art, as well as its connections to sound art and sound design. Engaging with diverse theoretical frameworks, the article interrogates the boundaries of radio and its relationship with other media expressions. It also seeks to understand important historical works and events within radio, with a focus on exploring the roots of radio and its history in Ireland.
Evidence of long-lasting memory of a free-ranging top marine predator, the bull shark Carcharhinus leucas
Authors: Séguigne Clémentine , Vignaud Thomas , Meyer Carl , Bierwirth Jan , Clua Éric
Published: September 2023

Recent studies suggest sharks cognitive abilities are comparable to other vertebrates such as mammals and birds, but we still know relatively little about the long-term memory capacity of sharks. We took advantage of the COVID-19 anthropause to determine whether bull sharks conditioned at a provisioning ecotourism site in Fiji would remember the site after an 18-month hiatus in shark feeding activities. We hypothesized that if bull sharks remembered the food rewards associated with divers at the site, they would return to the reactivated site more rapidly than the original recruitment process that occurred when the site was first established in, 2015. We assumed that original recruitment to the newly established site represent a period of learning and conditioning, whereas a significantly faster recolonization of the site would imply memory recall of the original conditioning. We monitored bull shark abundance at the site for three years (1018 dives) from its original establishment in 2015 until all feeding and diving activities were ceased for 18 months in December, 2020. When shark feeding resumed, we documented bull sharks returning to the site over a three-week period (45 dives beginning June 22, 2022) and compared observed abundances with modelled predictions assuming no interruption to provisioning. Results revealed a rapid return to ‘business as usual’, suggesting that bull sharks still remembered the food reward conditioning despite an 18-month hiatus in provisioning. This supports the existence of long-lasting cognitive capacities in this species and highlights their relevance for managing activities that could disrupt their natural ecology.
Contribution to the knowledge of the genus Nephelomilta Hampson, 1900(Lepidoptera, Erebidae, Arctiinae) from China with descriptions of two new species
Authors: HUANG SI-YAO , VOLYNKIN ANTON V. , XIONG YUN , LI YING-CHUN , SALDAITIS AIDAS , LI XIAN-FU
Published: September 2023

New information on the genus Nephelomilta Hampson, 1900 from China is reported. Two new species are described from southwestern China: N. medogensis Huang, Volynkin & Saldaitis, sp. n. from Motuo County, Xizang Autonomous Region and N. nu Huang, Volynkin & Saldaitis, sp. n. from Nujiang Valley, Yunnan Province. The female of N. yasunorikishidai Huang & Wang, 2019 is discovered and illustrated for the first time, and the species is erected into a separate species-group. Adults and genitalia of the aforementioned taxa and related ones as well are illustrated.
The significance of the wounds of Jesus in the Fourth Gospel
Authors: Lee Dorothy A.
Published: September 2023

In the resurrection narratives of John 20–21, the wounds of the risen Jesus serve a number of important functions. They work as markers of revelation, enabling disciples to recognize the identity of the crucified one in the risen one. They are symbols of colonialism and imperialism, creating solidarity between Jesus and the victims of such abuse and suffering. They are cultic symbols of sacrifice and purification, linked to the Johannine motif of Jesus as the Temple and sacrificial Lamb of God whose death on the cross effects cleansing, taking away the world’s sin. The wounds are also figures of new life and peace, forged ironically through violence and death, signs of triumph and glory. The wounds of the Johannine Jesus thus spell the end of what they embody: suffering and its healing, violence and its peaceful resolution, death and its defeat.
The Future(s) of Work? Disparities Around Changing Job Conditions When Remote/Hybrid or Returning to Working at Work
Authors: Fan Wen , Moen Phyllis
Published: September 2023

The future of work is ambiguous at best. Despite widespread shifts to remote/hybrid work during the COVID-19 lockdown, there is a paucity of knowledge about changing job conditions in tandem with different work locales. Is the move to remote/hybrid work a disrupter or accentuator of existing norms and inequalities? Drawing on nationally representative, four-wave panel survey data (October 2020 to April 2022) collected from U.S. workers who spent at least some time working from home since the pandemic onset, we examine effects of within-person changes in where respondents work on changes in job conditions (psychological job demands, job control, coworker support, and monitoring). Estimates from fixed-effects models show that, compared with returning to working at work, ongoing remote and moving to hybrid work lead to greater reductions in psychological job demands, especially among older women and men. Black and Hispanic women moving back to the office experience the greatest loss of decision latitude and schedule control. While white workers see increased coworker support when returning to the office, returning Black and Hispanic men report a decline in coworker support. Family caregivers’ job conditions do not improve whether remote/hybrid or returning to work. Qualitative data collected from Amazon Mechanic Turk illuminate mechanisms leading to salutary effects of remote work, but also the stress of combining jobs with family carework.
Integrating Immersive Scenes and Interactive Contextual Clue Scaffolding Into Decision-Making Analysis Ability Training Game
Authors: Chien Chih-Chung , Ho Yen-Ting , Hou Huei-Tse
Published: September 2023

In the post-pandemic era, distance education and training modes without space constraints are gradually becoming a new trend in training. Game-based training combined with situational simulations is a potential approach. This study used a simulation company scenario and a decision-making analysis task of promotion assessment as the game context, and proposed an innovative game mechanism integrating the simulation situation scenario and the interactive contextual clue scaffolding as a guide to enhance learning effectiveness. This study used the Gather Town platform to design a simulation office scenario, and Google Forms to design interactive contextual clue scaffolding. This study conducted empirical research to evaluate this mechanism, with a total of 60 participants divided into an experimental group that conducted game activities and a control group that was only provided with document files as scaffolding for comparative analysis. The results of the study revealed that the proposed exploration guidance mechanism of integrating immersive scenes and interactive contextual clue scaffolding could allow learners to experience a high level of game fidelity and increase the discovery rate and usefulness of the scaffolding. It also reduced learning anxiety, maintained learning motivation and high flow, and resulted in significantly higher learning effectiveness than the control group approach.
One dimensional approach to predict the performance of high pressure multi-stage axial turbine considering air cooling and diffuser performance
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Yang Fan
Published: September 2023

This paper provides an improved 1D mid-span program to quickly grasp the off-design characteristic of modern axial turbines. The improvements are mainly focused on cooling, diffuser and the calculation of choke condition. Disk cooling and blade cooling air mixing are considered in detail. A 1D diffuser model that considers the effects of area change, heat transfer, and friction is added so that a realistic boundary condition at the turbine outlet can be obtained. A choke routine that enables the assessment of choked flow up to limit load conditions is introduced to avoid the shortcoming that the calculation method fails to converge near or at the initial choking mass flow rate. Flexible modules for losses, deviation, and mixing models are built-in to increase the accuracy and versatility of the program. This work is of great value because few programs take cooling and diffuser into account in such detail when calculating turbine performance in the form of maps. The salient issues presented here deal first with the construction of the turbine performance prediction program. The validation of the code is first performed on public data for a five-stage low pressure turbine (LPT). The results show that the efficiency relative errors with the experimental value is in the range of −(0.11%−1.64%), which is within acceptable limits. Then, the performance of GE PG9351FA transonic axial turbine is estimated using this program. This industrial axial turbine is predicted for the first time in a form of turbine performance maps in open literature and the obtained performance map is very useful for the simulation of gas turbine.
Transplantation of Cryopreserved Olfactory Ensheathing Cells Restores Loss of Functions in an Experimental Model
Authors: Minkelyte Kamile , Li Daqing , Li Ying , Ibrahim Ahmed
Published: September 2023

In the past decades, the properties of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) have been widely investigated. Studies have shown that transplantation of OECs cultured from the olfactory bulb mediates axonal regeneration, remyelination and restores lost functions in experimental central nervous system (CNS) injury models. Autologously sourcing the cells from the nasal mucosa or the olfactory bulb to treat patients with spinal cord injuries would be ideal, but the cell yield achieved may be inadequate to cover the surface area of the lesions typically encountered in human spinal cord contusion injuries. Therefore, banking allogenic cryopreserved olfactory bulb cells from donors or generating cell lines could provide a marked increase in cell stock available for transplantation. This study is undertaken in two control and two intervention groups. The control groups have lesions alone and lesions with collagen gel but without cells. The intervention groups have either transplantation of primary cultured olfactory bulb OECs (bOECs) encapsulated in collagen gel or cryopreserved bulb OECs (CbOECs) encapsulated in collagen gel. Here, we report that transplantation of cryopreserved rat bOECs encapsulated in collagen restored the loss of function in a vertical climbing test in a unilateral C6-T1 dorsal root injury model. The loss of function returns in 80% of rats with injuries in about 3 weeks comparable to that we observed after transplantation of primary cultured bOECs. The regeneration axons induced by the transplant are identified by neurofilament antibodies and ensheathed by OECs. Our results indicate that cryopreserved OECs retain their properties of inducing axon regeneration and restoring loss of function in the experimental model. This is a step forward to translate the research into future clinical applications.
Walking Alongside: Views of Family Members on Medical Assistance in Dying for Mental Illness as the Sole Underlying Medical Condition
Authors: Bastidas-Bilbao Hamer , Stergiopoulos Vicky , Cappe Vivien , van Kesteren Mary Rose , Stewart Donna E. , Gupta Mona , Simpson Alexander I. F. , Dawthorne Michael , Rajji Tarek K. , Castle David , Hawke Lisa D.
Published: September 2023

Medical assistance in dying (MAiD) was introduced into Canadian federal legislation in 2016. Mental illness as the sole underlying medical condition (MI-SUMC) is currently excluded from eligibility; such exclusion is scheduled to expire on March 17, 2024. Irremediability, capacity, quality of life, autonomy, family involvement, and healthcare system constraints have been debated intensively. Recent studies have not explored the views of family members of persons with mental illness on MAiD MI-SUMC. This study aimed to fill this knowledge gap. Twenty-five Ontario residents who had a loved one with mental illness participated. A persona–scenario exercise was designed to explore participants’ views on MAiD MI-SUMC in hypothetical situations. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. A lived experience-advisory panel was engaged throughout the study. Seven themes were developed: Witnessing suffering; A road with barriers and limitations; Societal barriers; The unknowns of mental illness; Individual choices: the life or death that a person wants; MAiD MI-SUMC as an acceptable choice when suffering cannot be relieved with available treatments and supports; and The emotional outcome. Participants constructed their views based on their experience of supporting a loved one with mental illness. MAiD MI-SUMC was perceived as a multifaceted issue, whose acceptability and potential introduction required a concurrent exploration and discussion of the challenges arising due to limitations of the healthcare system, the opportunities and limits to family involvement, and the value of patient autonomy.
A Comparison of Imaging Outcomes From 2 Weightbearing CT Modalities
Authors: Smolinski Michael P. , Amadio Joeseph , Prisk Victor , Conti Stephen F. , Miller Mark Carl
Published: September 2023

Background:

The use of weightbearing images to diagnose foot and ankle injuries continues to offer hope for improved insight into pathologies, but weightbearing CT imaging has been limited by availability. The ability to apply force to the lower limb in a horizontal bore CT system may offer an adaptation to currently available imaging systems that provides access to weightbearing images without the acquisition of additional expensive imaging space or equipment.

Methods:

In order to determine whether a horizontal CT system could produce the same results as a standing CT, 3 images of one foot from 10 subjects was obtained and standard measures were calculated. Each subject underwent a standing CT scan, a scan in a horizontal bore CT machine while the subject pressed against a pedal with spring resistance and a finally a scan with the foot placed on the pedal but without any pressure.

Results:

No statistically significant difference between the standing and pedal-based CTs resulted. Navicular height and Meary angle (axial) were statistically different from nonweightbearing for both standing and horizontal systems. The horizontal results were statistically different from nonweightbearing in IM angle, talocalcaneal angle, and talonavicular coverage. No differences from nonweightbearing were found for either system in talar tilt, talocrural angle, or the lateral Meary angle.

Conclusion:

The results in this initial study of normal control subjects suggest that a pedal-based loading mechanism may adapt a horizontal-bore CT system for the acquisition of weightbearing images.

Clinical Relevance:

The ability to acquire a weightbearing CT from a horizontal bore CT machine can make these images more available.
Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate
Authors: Akinsulie Alice , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Fiume Monice , Heldreth Bart
Published: September 2023

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety reviewed newly available studies since their original assessment in 2002, along with updated information regarding product types and concentrations of use, and confirmed that Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate is safe as a cosmetic ingredient in the practices of use and concentration as described in this report.
‘To improve quality of life’: Diverging enactments of a value in nephrology clinical practices
Authors: Mann Anna
Published: September 2023

Quality of life has become a central value in the provision of healthcare for patients with chronic conditions. This has engendered debates in critical medical sociology on the non-neutral effects that valuing health and illness, medical interventions, and health care delivery in terms of quality of life yields. Focusing on the case of nephrology, this paper presents qualitative data collected in Austria of two dialysis units in which nephrologists initiated projects aimed towards ‘the improvement of patients’ quality of life’. Whereas the first involved nurses supporting patients in the administration of peritoneal dialysis at home, the second implied the provision of treatment and care exclusively focused on a well-being ‘in the here and now’ to patients. By conceptualising physicians as actors within networks of relations and values enacted in practices, it analyses how in both dialysis units reference to quality of life enabled nephrologists to problematise the provision of standard haemodialysis treatment to multi-morbid, elderly patients, to develop a new treatment protocol, and to interest and enrol others in the provision of healthcare according this new protocol. Valuing medical interventions in terms of quality of life not only leads to a governmentalization of living and an economisation of health. It also allows physicians to articulate a socio-medico-ethical problem – the availability of life-prolonging technologies for a growing population of elderly, multi-morbid patients – and develop solutions locally. What the solutions consist in may fundamentally differ, however.
Assessing the adequacy of transportation overall vehicle effectiveness for sustainable road transportation
Authors: Ferraro Saverio , Cantini Alessandra , Leoni Leonardo , De Carlo Filippo
Published: September 2023

Organizations in today’s supply chains strive for transportation activities optimization. However, transportation is a significant environmental impact activity. Particularly, road transportation is the highest emission rate source and the most widespread modality for last-mile delivery. In this context, the use of performance management tools, such as key performance indicators (KPIs), is a strategy to reach both economic-operative and environmental benefits. Among all KPIs, overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is one of the most suitable KPIs to measure the utilization of an industrial asset. In the transportation sector, a variant of the OEE, known as the transportation overall vehicle effectiveness (TOVE), is used to define the performance of vehicle distribution activities, such as road transportation for last-mile delivery and urban logistics. Although TOVE is effective for evaluating vehicle performance in terms of administrative availability, operating availability, performance, and quality, the indicator does not take into the environmental impact related to road transportation activities. Literature has proposed several formulations to quantify transport carbon emissions, most of which are linear relationships to the distance travelled. However, these models are not suitable for assessing the TOVE performance of road transportation activities. This paper aims to compare the performance of last-mile delivery in terms of TOVE and carbon emissions evaluated with a distance travelled formulation in two different scenario systems. The comparison shows the inadequacy of TOVE in terms of environmental sustainability, as maximizing road transport performance while ignoring the environmental dimension excludes the minimization of CO2 emissions. Therefore, the foundation for future developments of TOVE for sustainable road transportation can be established from this divergence.