bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilization of mango seed waste and lemongrass leaf extract as biomaterials for edible coating product
Authors: Harahap Hamidah , Galatea Angelia P. , Gultom Ricky R.E. , Halimatuddahliana  , Yustira Ayuni , Ginting M. Hendra S.
Published: August 2024

Mango seed waste is waste from mango fruit that is not utilized and is a concern because it causes environmental problems. Utilizing mango seed waste as a raw material for making biomaterials for edible coating products is the right step. To support the use of mango seed waste as a good edible coating biomaterial, it is necessary to add lemongrass leaf extract as an antibacterial so that the resulting edible coating biomaterial has good mechanical characteristics and can extend the shelf life of food. This research used 100 mL of coating solution consisting of mango seed waste starch with a weight percent variation of 5; 10; 15%, lemongrass leaf extract with a weight percent variation of 0; 3; 6; 9%, glycerol 2%, CMC 1%, and distilled water. The characteristics of the film produced, the best tensile strength and Young’s modulus were obtained from variations of 5% mango seed waste starch and 0% lemongrass extract with a tensile strength value of 0.000486 MPa and a Young’s modulus of elasticity value of 0.0103 MPa. Meanwhile, for the elongation at break value, the film containing 5% mango seed waste starch and 9% lemongrass extract had the best value, namely 2.24%. The results of SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) analysis also show that the morphology of the film with the addition of lemongrass leaf extract has a smoother and flatter surface so that the film with the addition of lemongrass leaf extract is better than without lemongrass leaf extract
Molybdenum and its alloys in advanced engine applications: From material selection to surface optimization
Authors: Kuang Zhiyu
Published: August 2024

This article explores the potential of molybdenum and its alloys for use in advanced aerospace engines, focusing on their high-temperature capabilities and corrosion resistance. It highlights the importance of enhancing oxidation resistance through methods such as alloying and the application of specialized coatings. The paper provides a detailed overview of high-temperature alloys, especially molybdenum-based alloys, discussing the benefits of various alloying elements and the types of oxidation-resistant coatings like aluminide and silicide coatings that protect against high-temperature degradation. The review of coating technologies includes modern methods like slurry sintering, atmospheric plasma spraying, and chemical vapor deposition, which improve the performance and longevity of these coatings. The paper concludes by identifying future research directions, emphasizing the need to boost the high-temperature oxidation resistance of coatings to meet the evolving demands of aerospace engine technologies.
Facetten von Intimität in konsensuell nicht-monogamen Liebesbeziehungen. Eine qualitative Interviewstudie
Authors: Bröning Sonja , Clüver Annette , Gebhard Klara Patrizia
Published: August 2024

Einleitung Bedürfnisse nach Autonomie und Verbundenheit stehen im Kontext romantischer Beziehungen in einem spannungsreichen Verhältnis. In polyamoren Beziehungsmodellen herrscht im Vergleich zu monogamen Partnerschaften eine hohe sexuelle und romantische Autonomie. Gleichzeitig muss dort Intimität trotz Nicht-Exklusivität hergestellt werden.

Forschungsziele Wir explorieren die Alltagspraxis der Intimität in konsensuell nicht-monogamen Liebesbeziehungen. Wie erleben polyamor lebende Menschen ihre Simultanbeziehungen in Hinblick auf (1) Facetten von Intimität wie Selbstoffenbarung und emotionale Verbundenheit sowie (2) emotionale Distanz? Zeigen sich jeweils Unterschiede zwischen den verschiedenen Partnerschaften?

Methoden Mittels halbstandardisierter Leitfadeninterviews wurde eine Gelegenheitsstichprobe von 20 polyamor lebenden Individuen (M
Alter = 33.15, 70 % weiblich, 35 % bisexuell, 30 % pansexuell, 70 % kinderlos) befragt. Verglichen wurden Facetten von Intimität und Distanz (1) in der Beziehung zu der engsten Bindungsperson (operationalisiert als Partner*in, der*die im Falle einer persönlichen Krise als Erstes kontaktiert werden würde) und (2) in der zweitwichtigsten Liebesbeziehung. Die Auswertung erfolgte mittels qualitativer Inhaltsanalyse mit induktiver Kategorienbildung. Zusätzlich wurde Bindungssicherheit im Selbstbericht erfasst.

Ergebnisse Die Teilnehmenden wiesen insgesamt eine hohe Bindungssicherheit auf und beschrieben ein hohes Maß an emotionaler Verbundenheit mit ihren Primärpartner*innen, während sich bezüglich dieser Merkmale bei Sekundärpartner*innen ein differenzierteres Bild ergab. Bezogen auf emotionale Distanz zeigten sich in der Primärpartnerschaft mehr Absprachen und Regeln, aber auch mehr offene Kommunikation über Konflikte und Eifersucht. Sorgen bezüglich einer übermäßigen Distanz traten sowohl in Primär- als auch Sekundärpartnerschaften vielfach auf.

Schlussfolgerung Polyamorie bietet Potenzial für ein hohes Maß an Intimität in simultanen Liebesbeziehungen, setzt jedoch ausgeprägte Kompetenzen in der Selbstregulation und Kommunikation voraus.
Cannabisprävention in der Schule: Ergebnisse einer
cluster-randomisierten Studie
Authors: Suchert Vivien , Isensee Barbara , Goecke Michaela , Hanewinkel Reiner
Published: August 2024

Zur Ergebnisevaluation einer schulbasierten Cannabispräventionseinheit wurde eine
cluster-randomisierte Studie in fünf deutschen Bundesländern durchgeführt.
Insgesamt 55 Schulen wurden nach dem Zufallsprinzip in die Interventionsgruppe,
d. h. mit Teilnahme an einem zweistündigen Workshop zur Cannabisprävention, der
von Suchtpräventionsfachkräften in den Klassen 8 und 9 durchgeführt wurde, oder
in eine Wartelisten-Kontrollgruppe eingeteilt. Wissen, Einstellungen,
Intentionen und das Verhalten der Jugendlichen in Bezug auf Cannabis wurden bei
Studienbeginn und sechs Monate später gemessen. 2.669 Schüler (50,8% Mädchen,
Durchschnittsalter=14,12 Jahre) bilden die Stichprobe. Es konnten Auswirkungen
der Intervention auf das Wissen der Schüler (adjustierter
Regressionskoeffizient=0,26 [0,15–0,38], p<0,001) sowie auf die erwarteten
negativen Folgen des Cannabiskonsums bei Jugendlichen (adjustierter
Regressionskoeffizient=0,15 [0,04–0,25], p=0,006) festgestellt werden. Beide
Faktoren nahmen in der Interventionsgruppe im Vergleich zur Kontrollgruppe
signifikant stärker zu. Es gab keine Auswirkungen auf andere
einstellungsbezogene Variablen, Intentionen oder Verhalten. Ein sehr kurzer
schulischer Workshop kann das Wissen und die kritische Einstellung zum
Cannabiskonsum bei Schülern der Klassen 8 und 9 verbessern, hatte jedoch keinen
Einfluss auf die zukünftigen Absichten und den Cannabiskonsum.
Design of Molecular Diversity by Olefin Metathesis in Tandem with Other Reactions
Authors: Gupta Naveen Kumar , Ansari Saima , Kotha Sambasivarao , Singh Deepshikha
Published: August 2024

This review summarizes various strategies that combine metathesis with diverse named and unnamed reactions to create molecular diversity in producing carbocycles, macrocycles, and heterocycles.

1 Introduction

2 Olefinations

3 Rearrangement

4 Allylation

5 Cycloadditions

6 Coupling Reactions

7 Grignard Reaction

8 Radical reactions

9 Conjugate Addition–Metathesis

10 Multicomponent Reactions

11 Miscellaneous

12 Conclusions
Discovery Process Chemistry: An Innovation Hub at the Interface of Academia, the Pharmaceutical Industry, and Contract Research Organizations
Authors: Horwitz Matthew A.
Published: August 2024

Discovery Process Chemistry (DPC) is an emerging intersectoral space that is characterized by the development of new chemical reactions or syntheses that enable the efficient elucidation of structure-activity relationships (SARs) and structure-property relationships (SPRs) as well as a rapid transition to process development. Drug discovery and development are accelerated by such efforts and this has led chemists in academia and industry alike to place an increasing importance on these aims. In this Short Review, we explore recent advances in DPC and the impact that it can have on SAR/SPR interrogation and downstream drug development efforts.

1 Introduction

2 Enabling SAR/SPR Interrogation with Bioisosteres

3 Couplings of Diversifiable Reaction Partners

4 Late-Stage Functionalization

5 Conclusion and Outlook
Impact of Periodontal Diseases on Oral Health-Related Quality of Life: A Study with a Condition-Specific Questionnaire in Croatian Population
Authors: Pupovac Aleksandar , Kuiš Davor , Mišković Ivana , Prpić Jelena
Published: August 2024

Objectives The aim of this study was to translate and validate the condition-specific Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP) in the Croatian cultural context and assess the impact of periodontal diseases and nonsurgical periodontal therapy on quality of life (QoL).

Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was carried out on 150 individuals: 50 periodontally healthy, 50 with gingivitis, and 50 with periodontitis who self-administrated the OHIP. The participants' age ranged between 18 and 71 years, with the median age of 45 (34–57) years. Forty-seven percent of the participants were females. The validity and reliability of the Croatian OHIP version were tested. The impact of gingivitis and periodontitis on QoL was assessed. Changes in QoL induced by nonsurgical periodontal therapy in 20 patients with periodontitis were analyzed.

Statistical Analysis Categorical data were presented by absolute and relative frequencies. The normality of the distribution of continuous variables was tested by the Shapiro–Wilk test. Continuous data were described by the median and the limits of the interquartile range (IQR). Differences in continuous variables between two independent groups were tested with the Mann–Whitney U test, and between three groups with the Kruskal–Wallis test (post hoc Conover). The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to examine the differences in the total score before and after therapy. All p values were two-sided. The level of significance was set at alpha of 0.05.

Results The analysis detected a single-factor structure that explained for the 56.9% of the variance. Cronbach's alpha value was 0.937, which indicated an excellent internal consistency. Overall OHIP score reported a strong correlation with the subjective estimate of periodontal problems (Rho = 0.92; p < 0.001). Test–retest reliability was high (r = 0.984; p < 0.001). The periodontitis group had the highest OHIP score (28 [23–34]), followed by the gingivitis group (14 [12–20]) and the periodontally healthy group (9 [5–11]; p < 0.001). Nonsurgical periodontal therapy significantly improved the QoL in those with periodontitis (p < 0.001).

Conclusion The condition-specific Croatian version of the OHIP instrument can be considered adequate to measure the impact of periodontal diseases on oral health–related QoL. Periodontal diseases, especially periodontitis, have a negative effect on the patient's QoL. Nonsurgical periodontal treatment can improve patients' QoL.
Management of a Portobiliary Fistula and Obstructive Biliopathy in a Split Liver Graft Transplant Recipient Posthepaticojejunostomy with Portal Stent Graft
Authors: Kumar Saurabh , Batra Apoorva , Kumar Vaibhaw , Vij Vivek
Published: August 2024

Biliary complications following liver transplantations, in the form of bile leak and bile duct strictures, are well recognized. Portobiliary fistulas in the transplant setting are rare, but may cause potentially life-threatening complications. The presented case shows the successful treatment of a hilar portobiliary fistula in a transplanted liver posthepaticojejunostomy with portal vein stent graft followed by biliary drainage with percutaneous hepaticojejunostomy stricture dilatation.
The Hematoma Block versus Hematoma Plus Wrist Nerve Block in the Reduction of Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Jiménez Isidro , Aniel-Quiroga Bilbao Manuel , Monge-Baeza Alejandro , Fruner Giovanni , García-Toledo Alba , Liñán-Padilla Alejandro
Published: August 2024

Background Distal radius fractures are extremely common. Most of them can be treated conservatively, but there are still many controversies about this nonoperative treatment. The purpose of this study was to assess whether the pain experienced during distal radius fracture reduction using the hematoma block plus a nerve block at the wrist is less than the perceived pain using an isolated hematoma block and whether the success of the closed reduction remains at least the same.

Methods A total of 192 patients were included in a comparative study to assess whether the pain experienced during wrist fracture reduction using the hematoma block plus a nerve block at the wrist was less than using an isolated hematoma block and whether they were equally effective.

Results The mean Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain at the wrist was 4.6 in the hematoma plus nerve block and 5.1 in the isolated hematoma block. The score at the fingers was 5.2 in the hematoma plus nerve block and 7.3 in the hematoma block. The success of the procedure was the same among groups.

Conclusions The hematoma plus nerve block is more effective than the isolated hematoma block in reducing the pain during wrist fracture reduction, especially for fingers pain. The mean VAS was far from ideal and further focused research can be very useful because of the great clinical impact it can have.

Level of Evidence Therapeutic study. Prospective cohort study—Level II.
Cardiac Arrest during Temporary Clipping for Ruptured Internal Carotid Artery Aneurysm: A Case Report
Authors: Shimizu Toshihiko , Kosaka Hiroshi , Yamamoto Yuji
Published: August 2024

Mechanical stimulation of the trigeminal nerve during craniofacial, skull base, or dental surgeries may cause bradycardia, hypotension, or cardiac arrest. This phenomenon is called trigeminal cardiac reflex (TCR). We encountered a rare case of a patient who experienced sinus arrest due to temporary clipping of the intracranial carotid artery during the clipping of a ruptured aneurysm. We discuss possible reasons for the occurrence of TCR in this case. A man in his 30s with no medical history presented with a sudden-onset headache. Computed tomography revealed a subarachnoid hemorrhage in the basal cistern and left Sylvian fissure. Angiography revealed a saccular aneurysm of the left internal carotid-anterior choroidal artery. A left frontotemporal craniotomy and dural incision were performed, followed by a trans-Sylvian approach. Cardiac arrest occurred twice during the temporary clipping of the intracranial carotid artery. After surgery, we performed a cardiac ultrasound echo and a 1-week Holter electrocardiogram. Neither showed abnormalities. No arrhythmia or cardiac events were observed over a one and half-year follow-up period. The cardiac arrest might have been triggered by the stimulation of the trigeminal nerve in the internal carotid artery. The repeated and anatomical features of this case suggest that TCR triggered cardiac arrest. The high probability that cardiac arrest was induced by trigeminal nerve stimulation should be considered during the temporary clipping of the internal carotid artery. However, the predisposing factors and exact underlying mechanisms for these arrhythmias remain unknown and require further investigation.
Impact of risk factors on the link between natural resources rents and carbon emissions: Evidence from economic, financial, and political risks
Authors: Wang Qiang , Zhang Siqi , Li Rongrong
Published: August 2024

Effective management of natural resources is crucial for diminishing carbon emissions. This research explores how economic, financial, and political risks influence the relationship between natural resources rents and carbon emissions. Analyzing data from 66 countries, this study utilizes methods such as quantile regression and dynamic threshold regression to thoroughly assess the data. The findings reveal: (i) Natural resources rents tend to increase carbon emissions consistently across different quantiles (0.1 to 0.9). The fact is confirmed by robustness checks, illustrating that increased natural resources rents lead to higher emissions. (ii) Economic, financial, and political risks affect how natural resources rents impact carbon emissions. Notably, reduced economic and financial risks lessen the propensity of natural resources rents to boost emissions at higher quantiles, while a decline in political risk decreases the exacerbating effect of natural resources rents on emissions from the 0.1 to 0.9 quantiles. (iii) This analysis uncovers threshold effects where economic, financial, and political risks act as threshold factors. Specifically, when economic and political risks are low, a rise in natural resources rents actually leads to a decline in carbon emissions. The findings underscore the importance of considering these risks in the formulation of policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions from natural resource exploitation.
A novel micro-capillary discharge plasma jet triggered gas switch
Authors: Chen L. , Zhang W. , Tian S. , Zhang Q. , Cao H. , Li X. , Zhang B. , Zhang F. , Wei Y. , Liu Y.
Published: August 2024

To reduce the working coefficient and jitter of the three-electrode gas switch used in linear transformer drivers, a novel trigger method that uses a nanosecond pulse in cooperation with the microplasma jet generated by capillary discharge was developed. A microplasma jet was generated by the nanosecond trigger pulse and injected into the follow-up breakdown gap of the gas switch to decrease the working coefficient. The influence of capillary parameters on the development of the microplasma jet was simulated. The results showed that the microplasma jet significantly reduced the breakdown delay time, jitter, and working coefficient. Increasing the capillary length and decreasing the diameter results in better triggered breakdown performance. Furthermore, the gas switch triggered by a positive pulse exhibits a lower breakdown delay and jitter. Combined with the intensified charge coupled device’s shooting results, it can be concluded that the microplasma jet has a distinct influence on streamer formation, which is important for improving the working performance of the gas switch.
High-performance GaN ultraviolet polarization-sensitive photodetector based on ferroelectric polarization LiNbO3
Authors: Zhang Weina , Fang Ziliang , Xie Yicheng , Lin Yun , Chen Bingyu , Liu Yuyu , Wang Zi , Yang Tiefeng , Peng Gangding , Lu Huihui , Wang Xingfu , Guan Heyuan
Published: August 2024

High responsivity ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors (PDs) are essential for abundant civilian and military applications. Gallium nitride (GaN) has emerged as an ideal material for UV PD fabrication due to its favorable properties. However, the quality of GaN epitaxial layers significantly impacts device performance and reliability. Sapphire-based GaN epitaxial growth technology enables the realization of high-quality GaN epitaxial layers, making it the preferred choice for GaN substrates. Nonetheless, the thermal expansion coefficient mismatch between sapphire and GaN can lead to crystal mismatch and stress accumulation at high temperatures, affecting device performance and reliability. In contrast, lithium niobate (LiNbO3) exhibits similar coefficients of thermal expansion to GaN, mitigating crystal mismatch and stress accumulation issues. Here, we report the realization of a GaN UV PD by laminating GaN membrane onto ferroelectric LiNbO3 through selective electrochemical etching of the sapphire-based GaN epitaxial film. The LiNbO3-based GaN PD achieves a specific high on/off ratio of 107. At a 5 V bias voltage, the device exhibits a high peak responsivity of 1.712 × 103 A/W under 325 nm laser illumination. Furthermore, the device demonstrates excellent performance for polarization light detection, with a polarization ratio of approximately 54.95. Exploiting the local ferroelectric polarization of x-cut LiNbO3, the photogenerated electron–hole pairs in GaN are efficiently separated by the electrostatic field from the polarization of ferroelectric LiNbO3, resulting in enhanced light-to-electric conversion efficiency. Our work presents a method for fabricating high responsivity GaN-based UV PD, showcasing the potential of integrating ferroelectric LiNbO3 to enhance device performance.
A critical assessment of Navier–Stokes and lattice Boltzmann frameworks applied to high-lift configuration through a multiresolution approach
Authors: Husson J. , Terracol M. , Deck S.
Published: August 2024

The present work focuses on a thorough assessment of the influence of two very different numerical approaches, namely, Navier–Stokes (NS) and the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), to simulate the flow past a three-element airfoil through zonal detached eddy simulation (ZDES). Both computations (ZDES-NS and ZDES-LBM) are compared to the reference results, namely, a wall-resolved large eddy simulation (WRLES) as well as the experimental data. It is shown that despite very different numerical modeling, the two ZDES provide very consistent results, with the first- and second-order statistics obtained with equivalent accuracy in the impingement region. In light of present results, the ZDES mode 2 (2020) turbulence model within an LBM framework appears as a judicious combination for high-lift flow applications owing to its robustness regarding the use of very fine isotropic Cartesian grids. In addition, ZDES-NS exhibits a very good agreement with both references, especially WRLES despite having 40 times less nodes.
Effects of disturbed transmitted shock and interface coupling on heavy gas layer evolution
Authors: Chen Chenren , Li Jiaxuan , Zhai Zhigang , Luo Xisheng
Published: August 2024

Development of a heavy gas layer with an upstream single-mode interface and a downstream planar interface accelerated by a shock wave is investigated. By considering the amplitude variation of the transmitted shock and interface coupling, a modified model is established, which provides good predictions on the linear growth rates of the perturbations on both interfaces. Through the model, the perturbation growth of the downstream interface can be frozen by choosing a suitable layer width. In such a shocked layer, interface coupling has an ignorable effect on the nonlinear evolution of the upstream interface but significantly changes the nonlinear evolution of the downstream interface. A new dimensionless approach is proposed to scale the nonlinear growth of the middle spike on the downstream interface. Finally, through modal analysis, we find that the pressure perturbations rather than interface coupling result in the formation of the small spike on the bubble head of the downstream interface.
Two-dimensional spanwise flow regime influenced by tip vortex around a ground-mounted square cylinder in low turbulence uniform flow
Authors: Wang Tianhang , Yue Xinyi , Yang Qingshan , Guo Kunpeng , Shan Wenshan
Published: August 2024

The time series data of the lift force acting on a ground-mounted square cylinder in low-turbulence uniform flow reveal a distinctive pattern characterized by a predominant high-amplitude process modulated by intermittent low-amplitude fluctuations. This behavior arises from the intricate interplay between tip and Kármán vortices. However, conflicting interpretations persist, with some findings even presenting contradictory conclusions, particularly regarding the presence of symmetric shedding in the fluctuating lift force process with low amplitude. Furthermore, a clear consensus regarding the mechanism governing the interaction between the tip vortex and the spanwise vortex remains elusive. This study aims to elucidate the two-dimensional flow regime in the spanwise direction influenced by the tip vortex of a ground-mounted square cylinder in low-turbulence uniform flow through experimental investigation. Multiple-point synchronous pressure measurement and particle image velocimetry systems are utilized to measure wind pressure on the side walls and the corresponding flow field at 2/3 of the cylinder's height. The analysis confirms the presence of two distinct types of lift force coefficient behavior: low-amplitude fluctuation (LAF) characterized by longer durations and high-amplitude fluctuation (HAF) occurring in shorter intervals. Subsequently, the flow regime in the near wake corresponding to each mode of the lift force coefficient is discussed. It is observed that the LAF regime corresponds to symmetrical vortex shedding with a prolonged shear layer, maintaining nearly constant curvature. Conversely, for HAF, a pronounced Kármán vortex street is evident. This study conclusively demonstrates the existence of symmetrical vortex shedding, which predominantly contributes to the LAF component of the lift force.
Imbibition models quantifying interfacial interactions: Based on nuclear magnetic resonance investigation and coupled structural characteristics
Authors: Zhou Hongwei , Zhang Longdan , Hou Wei , Xie Senlin , Jia Wenhao , Liu Zelin , Zhang Shuai
Published: August 2024

An investigation into spontaneous imbibition in porous media is of paramount scientific significance in various projects. However, a precise understanding of the interaction mechanisms between media structural characteristics and imbibition remains elusive, and quantitative analysis of the interfacial interaction is lacking. Therefore, to mitigate the influence of dispersion, this study first investigates cyclic imbibition experiments of coal samples to explore the interaction mechanism between pore-fracture structure (PFS) and imbibition. Nuclear magnetic resonance is used to visualize water transport during imbibition across all scales. Subsequently, the slake durability index is suggested to clarify the coupling relationship between water–coal interactions and imbibition. Two more comprehensive and accurate imbibition models are established, based on pore size and comprehensive seepage parameters, respectively. The results demonstrate that both new models exhibit superior conformity with experimental data compared to traditional models. The memory factor quantifies interface interaction within these models. Sensitivity analysis reveals that strong interface interaction diminishes the effective imbibition ratio, while the structural characteristics of porous media significantly influence the interaction. Furthermore, the fractal dimension quantitatively characterizes the PFS features of coal samples. An exploration of the relationship between fractal dimension and memory factor indicates the influence of porous media heterogeneity on imbibition.
Structural changes in Ge1−xSnx and Si1−x−yGeySnx thin films on SOI substrates treated by pulse laser annealing
Authors: Steuer O. , Schwarz D. , Oehme M. , Bärwolf F. , Cheng Y. , Ganss F. , Hübner R. , Heller R. , Zhou S. , Helm M. , Cuniberti G. , Georgiev Y. M. , Prucnal S.
Published: August 2024

Ge1−xSnx and Si1−x−yGeySnx alloys are promising materials for future opto- and nanoelectronics applications. These alloys enable effective bandgap engineering, broad adjustability of their lattice parameter, exhibit much higher carrier mobility than pure Si, and are compatible with the complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor technology. Unfortunately, the equilibrium solid solubility of Sn in Si1−xGex is less than 1% and the pseudomorphic growth of Si1−x−yGeySnx on Ge or Si can cause in-plane compressive strain in the grown layer, degrading the superior properties of these alloys. Therefore, post-growth strain engineering by ultrafast non-equilibrium thermal treatments like pulse laser annealing (PLA) is needed to improve the layer quality. In this article, Ge0.94Sn0.06 and Si0.14Ge0.8Sn0.06 thin films grown on silicon-on-insulator substrates by molecular beam epitaxy were post-growth thermally treated by PLA. The material is analyzed before and after the thermal treatments by transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), Rutherford backscattering spectrometry, secondary ion mass spectrometry, and Hall-effect measurements. It is shown that after annealing, the material is single-crystalline with improved crystallinity than the as-grown layer. This is reflected in a significantly increased XRD reflection intensity, well-ordered atomic pillars, and increased active carrier concentrations up to 4 × 1019 cm−3.
Influence of impact velocity on the semi-sealed cylindrical shell during water entry
Authors: Xia Shengsheng , Wei Yingjie , Wang Cong
Published: August 2024

To study the motion characteristics and cavity evolution of the cylindrical shell with different initial velocity, the numerical simulation based on the Star-CCM+ and ABAQUS collaborative simulation method is carried out in this paper. The results show that when the shell penetrates into the water at a lower speed, only a small amount of external fluid can enter into the shell, and the internal fluid shows a reciprocating motion trend. Moreover, the speed of the shell and the force at the bottom wall show a fluctuating trend. As the speed increases, the volume of fluid entering into the interior of the shell gradually increases. After the speed reaches 30 m/s, the fluid can impact the upper wall of the shell, which also causes sudden changes in velocity and displacement. When the initial velocity of the shell reaches 80 m/s, significant deformation occurs at the upper wall of the shell, and the deformation is not fully restored after the fluid leaves the upper wall. As the speed increases, the degree of deformation gradually increases, and the volume of the cavity gradually increases.
Active fault-tolerant control for asynchronous machines using EKF-based fault estimation and 3-H-bridge inverter mitigation of ITSCs
Authors: Bellali Badreddine , Makhloufi Salim , Belbekri Tahar , Alkhafaji Mohammed Ayad , Hirpha Tolasa Tamasgen , Bousserhane Ismaïl Khalil , Menni Younes
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces an active fault-tolerant control system designed to effectively detect and mitigate inter-turn short-circuit (ITSC) faults in asynchronous machines. Utilizing the extended Kalman filter, the system precisely estimates electrical parameters, including resistances and inductances, crucial for identifying such faults. By integrating these estimations into the control mechanism, the system dynamically detects, isolates, and adjusts control laws based on fault severity assessments. The proposed controller, built upon an accurate three-phase faulty model, not only addresses torque ripple issues but also incorporates a 3-H-bridge inverter to manage current imbalances, particularly in degraded operating conditions. To evaluate its efficacy and robustness, comprehensive numerical simulations were conducted using MATLAB/SIMULINK. Results validate the effectiveness of the proposed control approach in ensuring the uninterrupted safe operation of asynchronous motors, even in the presence of ITSC faults, presenting a promising solution for enhancing fault tolerance in industrial settings. Further exploration is warranted to assess its real-world applicability and potential limitations across diverse operational scenarios. This system’s implementation promises practical benefits by bolstering operational reliability and safety in industrial machinery, contributing to improved workforce safety and reduced downtime, thus offering significant social advantages.
Electromechanical coupling in polyetheretherketone through flexoelectricity
Authors: Zhang C. L. , Wu J. J. , Wu C. W. , He Z. Z. , Zhu D. J. , Chen W. Q.
Published: August 2024

The electrical signals generated by an electromechanical coupling mechanism in biomaterials have significant potential applications in the field of biomedical engineering. For example, the piezoelectric- or flexoelectric-induced electrical signals in bone biomaterials play an important role in facilitating self-repair, remodeling, and reshaping processes. Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) has been found to possess excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility with bone, making it an outstanding choice as an implantable polymer material. It is particularly important to investigate the electromechanical response performance of PEEK materials. In this study, we experimentally examine the flexoelectricity of PEEK and evaluate its effective out-of-plane direct and converse flexoelectric coefficients. Using the piezoresponse force microscopy module of atomic force microscopy, we observe a clear converse flexoelectric effect in a PEEK disk-shaped sample. The effective out-of-plane converse flexoelectric coefficient of the PEEK disk-shaped sample is about μ3333eff=0.21 ± 0.02 nN/V. The effective out-of-plane direct flexoelectric coefficient, determined through the bending experiment of a PEEK cantilever, is f3113eff = 17.61 nC/m, which is larger than that of polyvinylidene fluoride and is nearly two orders of magnitude superior over other biomaterials such as bone and hydroxyapatite. This indicates that PEEK materials have even greater potential for development and research in biomedical engineering applications such as intervertebral fusion, bone joint replacement, bone rehabilitation and regeneration, etc.
The neural basis of swap errors in working memory
Authors: Alleman Matteo , Panichello Matthew , Buschman Timothy J. , Johnston W. Jeffrey
Published: August 2024

When making decisions in a cluttered world, humans and other animals often have to hold multiple items in memory at once—such as the different items on a shopping list. Psychophysical experiments in humans and other animals have shown remembered stimuli can sometimes become confused, with participants reporting chimeric stimuli composed of features from different stimuli. In particular, subjects will often make “swap errors” where they misattribute a feature from one object as belonging to another object. While swap errors have been described behaviorally and theoretical explanations have been proposed, their neural mechanisms are unknown. Here, we elucidate these neural mechanisms by analyzing neural population recordings from monkeys performing two multistimulus working memory tasks. In these tasks, monkeys were cued to report the color of an item that either was previously shown at a corresponding location or will be shown at the corresponding location. Animals made swap errors in both tasks. In the neural data, we find evidence that the neural correlates of swap errors emerged when correctly remembered information is selected from working memory. This led to a representation of the distractor color as if it were the target color, underlying the eventual swap error. We did not find consistent evidence that swap errors arose from misinterpretation of the cue or errors during encoding or storage in working memory. These results provide evidence that swap errors emerge during selection of correctly remembered information from working memory, and highlight this selection as a crucial—yet surprisingly brittle—neural process.
Sex bias in pain management decisions
Authors: Guzikevits Mika , Gordon-Hecker Tom , Rekhtman David , Salameh Shaden , Israel Salomon , Shayo Moses , Gozal David , Perry Anat , Gileles-Hillel Alex , Choshen-Hillel Shoham
Published: August 2024

In the pursuit of mental and physical health, effective pain management stands as a cornerstone. Here, we examine a potential sex bias in pain management. Leveraging insights from psychological research showing that females’ pain is stereotypically judged as less intense than males’ pain, we hypothesize that there may be tangible differences in pain management decisions based on patients’ sex. Our investigation spans emergency department (ED) datasets from two countries, including discharge notes of patients arriving with pain complaints (N = 21,851). Across these datasets, a consistent sex disparity emerges. Female patients are less likely to be prescribed pain-relief medications compared to males, and this disparity persists even after adjusting for patients’ reported pain scores and numerous patient, physician, and ED variables. This disparity extends across medical practitioners, with both male and female physicians prescribing less pain-relief medications to females than to males. Additional analyses reveal that female patients’ pain scores are 10% less likely to be recorded by nurses, and female patients spend an additional 30 min in the ED compared to male patients. A controlled experiment employing clinical vignettes reinforces our hypothesis, showing that nurses (N = 109) judge pain of female patients to be less intense than that of males. We argue that the findings reflect an undertreatment of female patients’ pain. We discuss the troubling societal and medical implications of females’ pain being overlooked and call for policy interventions to ensure equal pain treatment.
Single–particle rotational microrheology enables pathological staging of macrophage foaming and antiatherosclerotic studies
Authors: Shang Jinhui , Ma Yuan , Liu Xixuan , Sun Shijie , Pang Xiayun , Zhou Rui , Huan Shuangyan , He Yan , Xiong Bin , Zhang Xiao-Bing
Published: August 2024

The formation of macrophage–derived foam cells has been recognized as the pathological hallmark of atherosclerotic diseases. However, the pathological evolution dynamics and underlying regulatory mechanisms remain largely unknown. Herein, we introduce a single–particle rotational microrheology method for pathological staging of macrophage foaming and antiatherosclerotic explorations by probing the dynamic changes of lysosomal viscous feature over the pathological evolution progression. The principle of this method involves continuous monitoring of out–of–plane rotation–caused scattering brightness fluctuations of the gold nanorod (AuNR) probe–based microrheometer and subsequent determination of rotational relaxation time to analyze the viscous feature in macrophage lysosomes. With this method, we demonstrated the lysosomal viscous feature as a robust pathological reporter and uncovered three distinct pathological stages underlying the evolution dynamics, which are highly correlated with a pathological stage–dependent activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome–involved positive feedback loop. We also validated the potential of this positive feedback loop as a promising therapeutic target and revealed the time window–dependent efficacy of NLRP3 inflammasome–targeted drugs against atherosclerotic diseases. To our knowledge, the pathological staging of macrophage foaming and the pathological stage–dependent activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome–involved positive feedback mechanism have not yet been reported. These findings provide insights into in–depth understanding of evolutionary features and regulatory mechanisms of macrophage foaming, which can benefit the analysis of effective therapeutical drugs as well as the time window of drug treatment against atherosclerotic diseases in preclinical studies.
Dominance analysis to assess solute contributions to multicomponent phase equilibria
Authors: Qian Daoyuan , Ausserwoger Hannes , Sneideris Tomas , Farag Mina , Pappu Rohit V. , Knowles Tuomas P. J.
Published: August 2024

Phase separation in aqueous solutions of macromolecules underlies the generation of biomolecular condensates in cells. Condensates are membraneless bodies, representing dense, macromolecule-rich phases that coexist with the dilute, macromolecule-deficient phases. In cells, condensates comprise hundreds of different macromolecular and small molecule solutes. How do different solutes contribute to the driving forces for phase separation? To answer this question, we introduce a formalism we term energy dominance analysis. This approach rests on analysis of shapes of the dilute phase boundaries, slopes of tie lines, and changes to dilute phase concentrations in response to perturbations of concentrations of different solutes. The framework is based solely on conditions for phase equilibria in systems with arbitrary numbers of macromolecules and solution components. Its practical application relies on being able to measure dilute phase concentrations of the components of interest. The dominance framework is both theoretically facile and experimentally applicable. We present the formalism that underlies dominance analysis and establish its accuracy and flexibility by deploying it to analyze phase diagrams probed in simulations and in experiments.
Some coordinates for mapping a literary translation activism
Authors: Washbourne Kelly
Published: August 2024

Translation and activism have been closely linked in the scholarly discourse. It is hard to parse out, however, the goals and contours of a specifically literary translation activism (LTA), particularly as it may intersect with literary activism, literary advocacy, and other forms of praxis. What constitutes an act of literary translation activism? And what forms are literary translation activism taking, and how does a text become activist? The answers have implications for literary translators’ self-concept, agency, and identity construction as well as the ethics involved. LTA is manifested in prizegiving, framing, choice of language, adapting, choosing texts (or even refusing translation), translation strategy, memorializing, heightening status, ‘reinventing’ literary affiliation, and changemaking or awareness-raising for extraliterary causes. After taking stock of some of literary translation activism’s forms and even caveats, I draw some paths for a pedagogy of LTA, which can play a constitutive role in drawing the field’s boundaries.
Educational technology, higher education discourses and the lived experience of lecturers as users
Authors: Bailey Richard
Published: August 2024

Technological innovations, under the aegis of ‘technology-enhanced learning’ (TEL), are high on policy agenda in
higher education institutions (HEIs) in the UK and elsewhere. These developments have a direct impact on the conditions of
teaching and learning. The socio-cultural dimension – the impact of change on working communities and their practices and beliefs
on the ground – appears under-researched in empirical work (Selwyn, 2022). This paper
reports on a qualitative study incorporating an analysis of linguistic metaphors that attempted to investigate that gap in one
institutional context.

It begins with a critical review of metaphors associated with policy and educational technology innovation in
education discourses more broadly. Teaching staff were interviewed from across the institution’s main faculties. The interview
transcripts formed a databank of naturally occurring language. Respondents used a range of metaphors, both conventional and novel,
revealing insights into the affective and sociocultural dimensions of experience and understanding as well as perceptions of
changing professional roles. For triangulation, linguistic analyses of relevant documentary sources, where available, were made
and an example is included here. Overall, a more nuanced understanding of lecturers’ lived experience and engagement with
educational technology was achieved by focusing on their metaphor usage.
Small GTPase ActIvitY ANalyzing (SAIYAN) system: A method to detect GTPase activation in living cells
Authors: Maeda Miharu , Arakawa Masashi , Komatsu Yukie , Saito Kota
Published: August 2024

Small GTPases are essential in various cellular signaling pathways, and detecting their activation within living cells is crucial for understanding cellular processes. The current methods for detecting GTPase activation using fluorescent proteins rely on the interaction between the GTPase and its effector. Consequently, these methods are not applicable to factors, such as Sar1, where the effector also functions as a GTPase-activating protein. Here, we present a novel method, the Small GTPase ActIvitY ANalyzing (SAIYAN) system, for detecting the activation of endogenous small GTPases via fluorescent signals utilizing a split mNeonGreen system. We demonstrated Sar1 activation at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) exit site and successfully detected its activation state in various cellular conditions. Utilizing the SAIYAN system in collagen-secreting cells, we discovered activated Sar1 localized both at the ER exit sites and ER–Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC) regions. Additionally, impaired collagen secretion confined the activated Sar1 at the ER exit sites, implying the importance of Sar1 activation through the ERGIC in collagen secretion.
Thrust of a pulsed plasma jet measured from deviations of a ballistic pendulum
Authors: Scurtu A , Ticoș D , Udrea N , Mitu M L , Ticoș C M
Published: August 2024

We measured the peak force of the plasma jet produced by a pulsed coaxial plasma gun operated at voltages up to 2 kV, using a home-made ballistic pendulum positioned in two locations, one in the proximity of the gun nozzle at 0.75 cm and the second at a distance of 9 cm from the gun nozzle. The force of the plasma wind is inferred and ranges from 11 to 60 N, which is almost an order of magnitude higher than that of typical ion-based thrusters. The results of various models of self-field magneto-plasmadynamic thrusters indicate that the magnetic component thrust tends to dominate over the thermal expansion, particularly at higher discharge voltages of 1.5 kV and 2 kV. The highest thrust of 60 N is obtained for a 2 kV discharging voltage. The plasma was ignited in CO2 at pressures between 1 and 5 Torr. The displacement of the pendulum pushed by the plasma wind force was measured using a high-speed camera.
Optimal control for nonlinear time-fractional Schrödinger equation: an application to quantum optics
Authors: Vijayaram S , Balasubramaniam P
Published: August 2024

In this research article, a fractional optimal control problem (FOCP) is applied to a nonlinear time-fractional Schrödinger equation (NTFSE) incorporating a trapping potential. The NTFSE is an innovative mathematical advancement in the field of quantum optics, bridging fractional calculus with nonlinear quantum mechanics and addressing the intricacies of systems involving memory and nonlinearity. This exploration helps with potential technological advancements in quantum optics and related domains. Examining the FOCP within this system allows one to design quantum optical systems with enhanced performance, improved precision stability, and robustness against disturbances. In this work, the performance index for the problem is constructed, and then it is reformulated using the fractional variational principle and the Lagrange multiplier method. Additionally, the Jacobi collocation numerical method is employed to solve the FOCP and numerical simulations are demonstrated across various parameters which offer valuable insights into the implemented methodology.
A novel plaintext-related image encryption and compression method based on a new coupled map lattices model
Authors: Li Zhen , Yang Siqi , Tan Weijie , Huang Zhi , Wang Jiakun
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we propose a new Sine-Logistic Map Coupled Map Lattices (SLMCML) model, which exhibits enhanced chaotic characteristics and more suitable for image encryption compared with the classical coupled map lattices. Based on the SLMCML system, we propose an image encryption and compression method. To improve the plaintext sensitivity of image cryptosystem, we propose a novel plaintext-related internal keys generation method, which can obviously improve the plaintext sensitivity of initial values of SLMCML system, thus improve the plaintext sensitivity of whole process of compression and encryption. Our proposed image encryption scheme contains several steps. Initially, the discrete wavelet transform (DWT) is utilized to convert original image into coefficient matrix. Then a plaintext relation method is constructed, which generate internal keys as initial values of SLMCML system. Next the coefficient matrix is permutated by permutation sequences generated by SLMCML system to cyclic shift for making the energy evenly distributed. Next the coefficient matrix is done sparse processing. The compressed sensing is employed to compress coefficient matrix. Subsequently, the compressive image is permutated with spiral traversal and twice zigzag transform. Finally, the permutated image is diffused with column diffusion to generate cipher image. Through some common security analyses, our proposed image encryption scheme has good security performance and excellent image recovery quality.