Reliability Stability Research Articles

High-Entropy and Na-Rich-Designed High-Energy-Density Na3V2(PO4)3/C Cathode.

The Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) cathode holds the merit of a stable 3D NASICON structure for ultrafast Na+ diffusion, yet it is still confronted with poor electronic conductivity (10-9 S cm-1) and insufficient energy density (∼370 W h kg-1). Herein, a series of high-entropy-doped Na3+xV1.76-xZnx(GaCrAlIn)0.06(PO4)3 (x = 0, 0.2, 0.35, and 0.5) cathodes are systematically prepared with an activated V5+⇌V4+ high-voltage plateau (4.0 V) and elevated discharge capacity, which is derived from the charge compensation of divalent Zn substituting for trivalent V accompanied by extra Na+ input to create an Na-rich phase. A range of in situ/ex situ characterization studies and DFT calculations radically verify the charge conservation mechanism, enhanced bulk conductivity, and robust structural stability. Accordingly, in half-cells, the optimized cathode (x = 0.35) is capable of giving a much-improved discharge capacity (126.8 mA h g-1), reliable cycling stability (97.4%@5000 cycles@40 C), and a competitive energy density (426.1 W h kg-1) at 2.0-4.3 V. Upon reducing the discharge cutoff voltage to 1.4 V, the three-electron reaction (V5+⇌V2+) is entirely activated with superior stability, delivering an unparalleled capacity of 193.4 mA h g-1 with higher energy density (544.3 W h kg-1). Besides, it displays high capacity (126.1 mA h g-1) and energy density (417.2 W h kg-1) in NVPZGCAI-35//hard carbon full-cells at 1.6-4.1 V. Hence, this pioneering high-entropy and Na-rich strategy is above rubies for developing high-energy-density and high-stability sodium-ion batteries.

Widening of Dynamic Detection Range in Real-Time Angular-Interrogation Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensor Based on Anisotropic Van Der Waals Heterojunction

Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensors have experienced rapid development in recent years and have been widely applied in various fields. Angular-interrogation SPR biosensors play an important role in the field of biological detection due to their advantages of reliable results and high stability. However, angular-interrogation SPR biosensors also suffer from low detection sensitivity, poor real-time performance, and limited dynamic detection range, which seriously restricts their application and promotion. Therefore, we designed an angular-interrogation SPR biosensor based on black phosphorus (BP)/graphene two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals heterojunction (vdWhs). On the basis of using the angle-fixed method, this biosensor not only has good real-time performance but also detection sensitivity enhancement. The optical anisotropy characteristic of BP is used to widen the dynamic detection range of biosensors. The simulation results show that the maximum detection sensitivity of the proposed biosensor is 258.6 deg/RIU. Compared with the bare-Ag film structure biosensor, the detection sensitivity was enhanced by 209.2% by 2D vdWhs. The use of anisotropic 2D material BP can not only enhance the detection sensitivity but also widen the detection range. When the fixed incident angle is θ = 5 deg, a maximum dynamic detection range enhanced factor of 123.1% can be achieved, and a detection sensitivity of 185.2 deg/RIU in the corresponding interval can be obtained. The proposed biosensor in this study has potential broad application prospects in several fields, such as biological detection.

Osteogenic tailoring of oriented bone matrix organization using on/off micropatterning for osteoblast adhesion on titanium surfaces.

Titanium (Ti) implants are well known for their mechanical reliability and chemical stability, crucial for successful bone regeneration. Various shape control and surface modification techniques to enhance biological activity have been developed. Despite the crucial importance of the collagen/apatite bone microstructure for mechanical function, antimicrobial properties, and biocompatibility, precise and versatile pattern control for regenerating the microstructure remains challenging. Here, we developed a novel osteogenic tailoring stripe-micropatterned MPC-Ti substrate that induces genetic-level control of oriented bone matrix organization. This biomaterial was created by micropatterning 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) polymer onto a titanium (Ti) surface through a selective photoreaction. The stripe-micropatterned MPC-Ti substrate establishes a distinct interface for cell adhesion, robustly inducing osteoblast cytoskeleton alignment through actin cytoskeletal alignment, and facilitating the formation of a bone-mimicking-oriented collagen/apatite tissue. Moreover, our study revealed that this bone alignment process is promoted through the activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which is triggered by nuclear deformation induced by strong cellular alignment guidance. This innovative material is essential for personalized next-generation medical devices, offering high customizability and active restoration of the bone microstructure. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: This study demonstrates a novel osteogenic tailoring stripe-micropatterned MPC-Ti substrate that induces osteoblast alignment and bone matrix orientation based on genetic mechanism. By employing a light-reactive MPC polymer, we successfully micropatterned the titanium surface, creating a biomaterial that stimulates unidirectional osteoblast alignment and enhances the formation of natural bone-mimetic anisotropic microstructures. The innovative approach of regulating cell adhesion and cytoskeletal alignment activates the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, crucial for both bone differentiation and orientation. This study presents the first biomaterial that artificially induces the construction of mechanically superior anisotropic bone tissue, and it is expected to promote functional bone regeneration by enhancing bone differentiation and orientation-targeting both the quantity and quality of bone tissue.

Enhancing Stability and Efficiency in Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs): A Multicriteria Algorithm for Optimal Multipoint Relay Selection

Mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) are autonomous systems composed of multiple mobile nodes that communicate wirelessly without relying on any pre-established infrastructure. These networks operate in highly dynamic environments, which can compromise their ability to guarantee consistent link lifetimes, security, reliability, and overall stability. Factors such as mobility, energy availability, and security critically influence network performance. Consequently, the selection of paths and relay nodes that ensure stability, security, and extended network lifetimes is fundamental in designing routing protocols for MANETs. This selection is pivotal in maintaining robust network operations and optimizing communication efficiency. This paper introduces a sophisticated algorithm for selecting multipoint relays (MPRs) in MANETs, addressing the challenges posed by node mobility, energy constraints, and security vulnerabilities. By employing a multicriteria-weighted technique that assesses the mobility, energy levels, and trustworthiness of mobile nodes, the proposed approach enhances network stability, reachability, and longevity. The enhanced algorithm is integrated into the Optimized Link State Routing Protocol (OLSR) and validated through NS3 simulations, using the Random Waypoint and ManhattanGrid mobility models. The results indicate superior performance of the enhanced algorithm over traditional OLSR, particularly in terms of packet delivery, delay reduction, and throughput in dynamic network conditions. This study not only advances the design of routing protocols for MANETs but also significantly contributes to the development of robust communication frameworks within the realm of smart mobile communications.

Research on enhancing thermal conductivity of phase change microcapsules with nano-copper

Abstract The unique ability of phase change materials (PCMs) to store and release heat makes their integration into building materials promising for reducing energy consumption and enhancing sustainability. In this work, a novel high-thermal-conductivity microencapsulated phase change material was prepared, with nano-copper embedded in the microcapsule structure. This modification enhanced thermal conductivity while largely preserving the material’s latent heat storage capacity. Poly(ethyl acrylate) (PEA) is chosen as the capsule shell, whereas a eutectic mixture of decanoic acid (CA) and lauric acid (LA) serves as the core material. The analysis results indicate that as the shell-core mass ratio decreases, the microcapsule size increases, and both thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity gradually decrease. Moreover, the latent heat capacity of microencapsulated phase change material (MEPCM) increases. When the shell-core mass ratio is 1:1.5, the melting latent heat and solidification latent heat are 81.85 J/g and 88.68 J/g, respectively. nano-copper doping enhances the material's thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity by 47.5 % and 50 %, respectively, leading to a 20.3 % improvement in heat storage efficiency. After 200 cycles of testing, the material maintains good thermal reliability and chemical stability. Mortar-based composite materials containing microcapsules were prepared. The mortar composite materials containing microcapsules exhibited minimal influence from heating and cooling, with those containing nano-copper microcapsules demonstrating superior thermal response speeds. The method of doping and modifying MEPCM with nano-copper is a promising approach for effectively reducing the impact of temperature fluctuations on the internal comfort of buildings, improving energy utilization efficiency, and providing reliable solutions for temperature-sensitive applications.

Highly responsive gas sensors based on grain boundary–rich polycrystalline few-layer MoS2 films for NO2 detection

Abstract This study addresses the issues of insufficient sensitivity and poor reversibility for NO2 detection by successfully fabricating a sensor based on uniform and high-quality few-layer MoS2 polycrystalline material using chemical vapor deposition. This approach aims to improve the response of the sensor by exploiting the abundance of grain boundary (GB) defects in polycrystalline MoS2 membranes. Comprehensive surface morphology analysis of the few-layer MoS2 polycrystalline films was conducted using microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to characterize their chemical composition and properties. Subsequently, evaluation of 1–100-ppm NO2 was conducted at room temperature (25 °C). The results show excellent performance of the sensor, with a response range of 11–82.24. Notably, under ultraviolet excitation at room temperature, this sensor exhibits a response time of only 41 s to 50 ppm of NO2 with complete recovery and improved sensitivity, maintaining reliable stability over eight weeks. Furthermore, the findings reveal that the sensor demonstrates high selectivity toward NO2 gas with limit of detection and limit of qualification values of 10 and 34 ppb, respectively. Owing to the abundant adsorption sites provided by GB defects in polycrystalline thin films, the response performance of the sensor is effectively enhanced. This study provides valuable insights into the future design and development of high-performance NO2 gas sensors.

Development of building benchmarking index for improving gross-floor-area-based energy use intensity

Energy benchmarking is essential for evaluating building performance and developing energy reduction strategies, typically using floor-area-based energy use intensity (EUI). However, this method has limitations. Studies show that metrics such as site energy, source energy, and CO2 emissions can produce varying benchmark results for the same building, raising concerns about reliability. As carbon reduction in buildings becomes increasingly important, there is a need for comprehensive indicators that assess both energy and carbon efficiency. This study introduces the Building Performance Index (BPI), that integrates energy and carbon emission efficiencies. Using a database of all buildings in Seoul, South Korea, we compared five BPI variants: conventional floor-area-based BPI, floor-area-based BPI adjusted for floor area ratio, volume BPI based on floor area, volume BPI adjusted for floor area ratio, and volume BPI based on building footprint. These were evaluated based on six criteria, including model simplicity, sensitivity analysis, data reliability, and indicator stability. While the relative importance of these criteria was not prioritized, this study proposes a shift from traditional two-dimensional metrics to more comprehensive three-dimensional volume-based metrics, offering practical guidance for decision-makers in selecting more reliable benchmarking methods.

Usefulness of Suture-Tape Augmentation Based on Intraoperative Ankle Stress Radiographs During Anatomical Ligament Repair for Chronic Lateral Ankle Instability.

During the modified Broström procedure for chronic ankle instability, surgeons often experience cases with insufficiently restored mechanical stability even after anatomical ligament repair. In these cases, longer postoperative immobilization and delayed rehabilitation can be required, and a risk for recurrence of instability may persist. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical usefulness of suture-tape augmentation based on intraoperative stress radiographs during anatomical ligament repair for chronic ankle instability. Twenty-four patients who underwent additional suture-tape reinforcement because of residual mechanical instability on intraoperative stress radiographs were followed up ≥3 years. Clinical assessment was performed using the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Changes in mechanical stability were analyzed through periodic stress radiographs, and postural control ability was evaluated with the modified Romberg test. FAOS and FAAM scores improved significantly from preoperative mean 55.1 and 52.4 points to 92.3 and 90.2 points at final follow-up, respectively (P < .001). Talar tilt angle and anterior talar translation improved significantly from preoperative mean 15.8 degrees and 13.6 mm to 2.9 degrees and 4.2 mm, respectively (P < .001). Balance retention time improved significantly from preoperative mean 3.6 to 6.4 seconds (P < .001). Although 9 patients experienced sprain injury after surgery, no patient showed recurrence of mechanical and subjective instability, and 21 patients (87.5%) were able to return to preinjury level of sports activity. Evaluation of residual mechanical instability through intraoperative stress view and additional suture-tape augmentation showed satisfactory clinical outcomes at midterm follow-up. Suture-tape augmentation based on intraoperative stress radiographs seems to be a useful surgical option for patients with insufficiently restored mechanical stability even after anatomical ligament repair. This combined procedure can provide a reliable mechanical stability that can be performed after recognition of residual instability during the index surgery.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Spanish version of the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Motivation Scale (s-CPRMS): a cross sectional study

BackgroundCardiac arrest remains a serious global health issue worldwide which claims for review and improvement. High motivation among resuscitators could lead to high-quality resuscitation and better outcomes. This study aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Motivation Scale into Spanish and assess the psychometric properties of the Spanish version (s-CPRMS).MethodsA sample of critical care and acuity-emergency physicians and nurses (N = 352) participated in an observational cross-sectional study structured in 3 phases.ResultsFace and content validity was confirmed for the s-CPRMS (s-CVI = 0.88). The ordinal alpha was 0.847, ranging from 0.796 to 0.92 for the factors, indicating good reliability and temporal stability (mean ICC = 0.701; p < 0.001). The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) results showed the s-CPRMS was distributed into four factors that explained 58% of the variance with values of the goodness of fit indices indicating an adequate fit for the model extracted in the Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA): χ2 (246) = 402.240; p < 0.001, SRMR = 0.086, RMSEA = 0.059, TLI = 0.965, CFI = 0.969, GFI = 0.990.ConclusionsThe s-CPRMS is a valid and reliable instrument to assess the motivation of resuscitation teams, which might lead to potential effective strategies to resuscitation quality improvement and outcomes.

Abstract A069: Effect of different voided urine sample storage time and temperature, and preservatives, on analysis with the multiplex bead-based Oncuria® bladder cancer immunoassay

Abstract Urinalysis accuracy requires reliable sample stability that is dependent on the chosen collection and storage conditions. If urine sample storage at room temperature (20°C) does not affect sample quality, this may reduce laboratory handling time and expense. This study evaluated whether different voided urine sample collection and storage parameters affected subsequent biomarker analysis by the multiplex Oncuria® bladder cancer immunoassay. The Oncuria® immunoassay simultaneously quantifies 10 protein analytes in urine to generate a bladder cancer diagnostic signature. Samples were stored at varied temperatures (20°C, 4°C, -80°C) for up to 1 month. The effects of adding two commercial urine sample stabilizers and antibiotics (trimethoprim) were also assessed. Subsequently, multiple potential biospecimen stabilizers were added to urine samples and evaluated with Oncuria® in hopes of allowing the urine sample to remain at room temperature for extended periods of time. First, it was demonstrated that voided urine samples stored at room temperate without such stabilizers had different levels of the 10 analytes associated with the Oncuria® test compared to voided urine samples stored at 4°C. Next, we evaluated the effects of commercially available biospecimen stabilizers. Despite the addition of these stabilizers, the levels of the 10 analytes were altered when the samples were stored at room temperature for prolonged periods of time. Therefore, we could not identify a suitable biospecimen stabilizer that would not require sample refrigeration. In conclusion, to minimize sample degradation/alteration after collection, voided urine samples should be refrigerated until analyzed with Oncuria® as the refrigeration is advantageous for the storage and the transport of these urine samples. Citation Format: Sunao Tanaka, Kaoru Murakami, Toru Sakatani, Riko Lee, Wayne Hogrefe, Fernando Siguencia, Steven M Smith, Charles J Rosser, Hideki Furuya. Effect of different voided urine sample storage time and temperature, and preservatives, on analysis with the multiplex bead-based Oncuria® bladder cancer immunoassay [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Liquid Biopsy: From Discovery to Clinical Implementation; 2024 Nov 13-16; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2024;30(21_Suppl):Abstract nr A069.

Laser Direct Structuring of Millable BN‐AlN Ceramic for Three‐Dimensional (3D) Components

This research introduces a novel process for the direct metallization of the composite ceramic BN‐AlN, a millable, high‐temperature resistant material, using laser direct structuring (LDS). LDS is, for example, used for molded interconnect devices (MIDs), to integrate mechanical and electronic functions into a single 3D structure. Traditionally, MIDs have relied on polymers, but increasing thermal demands in electronics are shifting focus toward ceramic substrates like BN‐AlN, which offer superior thermal stability and mechanical strength. Herein, electronic infrastructures are applied onto milled BN‐AlN 3D components through a parameter study on laser activation and electroless copper deposition, followed by the development of a sequential copper–nickel–gold (CuNiAu) deposition process. The laser structuring reveals small grains of elemental aluminum on the surface, which directly catalyzes metal reduction in the electroless copper deposition. The duration and temperature of the copper electroplating process are found to influence the nuclei size and layer thickness. A palladium chloride treatment, as well as additional etching steps during the CuNiAu layer deposition, shows promising results. The metallized BN‐AlN substrates are characterized for adhesion, contact reliability, resistivity, and thermal stability. The findings demonstrate the process's suitability for high‐temperature applications, highlighting its potential for advancing electronic system integration.

A Novel Enhanced Fire Hawks Optimization Approach for Improving the Efficiency of Converter‐Based Controllers in Switched Reluctance Motors

ABSTRACTSwitched reluctance motors (SRMs) have gained popularity in various industrial applications due to their advantages, including structural simplicity, high reliability, low cost, and operational stability over a wide speed range without relying on rare‐earth permanent magnet materials. However, these motors exhibit drawbacks such as weak torque density, low efficiency, and significant torque ripple, particularly in high‐speed operation. An efficient converter‐based control approach is proposed to manage speed and torque variations in SRM motors, addressing these issues. A multilevel converter (MC) is introduced as a fundamental component. The novel multilevel converter (NMC) accommodates SRMs with varying numbers of phases and exhibits quick demagnetization and excitation behaviors, enabling independent operation of each phase even during conduction overlaps. Subsequently, an effective controller is developed for the SRM motor, combining proportional integral derivative (PID) control with enhanced fire hawks optimization (EFHO). The EFHO optimizes the PID gain values to enhance controller performance. The converter operation minimizes torque ripple and facilitates speed management. The EFHO technique is a fusion of fire hawks optimization (FHO) and the sine cosine algorithm (SCA). This amalgamation improves the updating process of FHO by incorporating SCA. The proposed methodology is implemented in MATLAB and evaluated through various metrics, including SRM motor current, voltage, speed, and torque, under electric vehicle (EV) load conditions. Performance comparisons are conducted with traditional optimization algorithms such as the whale optimization algorithm (WOA) and ant colony optimization (ACO). The results validate the effectiveness of the proposed methodology in achieving improved SRM motor control and performance.

Valid RBFNN Adaptive Control for Nonlinear Systems With Unmatched Uncertainties.

In this article, an adaptive tracking controller based on radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs) is proposed for nonlinear plants with unmatched uncertainties and smooth reference signals. The concept of valid RBFNN adaptive control is introduced where all closed-loop arguments of the involved RBFNNs should always remain inside their corresponding compact sets. Considering the local approximation capacity of RBFNNs, validity requirements are necessary for ensuring reliable closed-loop approximation accuracy and stability. To obtain valid RBFNN adaptive controllers, a novel iterative design method is proposed and embedded into the traditional backstepping approach. In the initial iteration, an ideal RBFNN and its online estimated version are introduced in each step where the initial compact set guarantees the validity requirement for only a finite time interval. Then, by carefully investigating the dependence among different signals and introducing some auxiliary variables, the compact sets are redesigned for prolonging the time interval satisfying validity requirements to infinity as the iteration goes on. Consequently, a closed-loop system model can be formulated during the entire control process, which underlies a rigorous proof on closed-loop stability and some guidelines on practical implementation. Meanwhile, rigorous analysis from validity requirements reveals, for the first time, a new feature of RBFNN adaptive controllers in the presence of unmatched uncertainties: excessively large scales of RBFNNs in intermediate steps may impair the closed-loop performance. Finally, simulation results are provided to illustrate the efficiency and feasibility of the obtained results.

Excellent triethylamine (TEA) chemiresistor based on ZIF-8 derived Ag sensitized ZnWO4/ZnO branched heterostructure for indoor environment

The detection of triethyl amine is necessary for environmental and human health concerns. However, sensitivity and selectivity are still challenges for real-time applications. Herein, ultrasensitive ZIF-8-derived Ag-sensitized ZnWO4/ZnO branched heterostructures were synthesized via a solvothermal-calcination process. The surface morphological investigation confirmed that ZnWO4 nanorods randomly grown on 3D whiskers of ZnO and Ag nanoparticles are decorated, which enhanced the sensing performance by synergistic effect. The Ag@ZnWO4/ZnO sensor exhibited 56.15 sensor response towards 5 ppm of TEA at 80 °C, which is 3.86, 3.14, and 1.83 times over from ZIF-8, ZnO, and ZnWO4 sensors respectively. Additionally, the sensitivity of Ag@ZnWO4/ZnO sensors for 1–5 ppm and 5–35 ppm range were found to be 11.96 and 13.78 response/ppm, respectively also, calculated limit of detection is 43 ppb earned.Furthermore, the fabricated sensor showed reliable consistency, outstanding repeatability, and stability. The surface area of branched heterostructure is high (83.39 g/cm2) which enhances the interaction between TEA molecules to thesensing surface. Furthermore, thedecoration of Ag nanoparticles is sensitized to a sensor and enhances the sensing performance.

Targeted Positron Emission Tomography-Tracked Biomimetic Codelivery Synergistically Amplifies Ferroptosis and Pyroptosis for Inducing Lung Cancer Regression and Anti-PD-L1 Immunotherapy Efficacy.

The chemoresistance and systemic toxicity of cisplatin (CDDP) severely limit its application in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, I-124 labeled cancer cell membrane biomimetic nanovesicles loading Polyphyllin VI (PPVI) and CDDP (termed 124I-P/C@CMLvs) were constructed to enhance the sensitivity and efficacy of CDDP. The radiochemical purity (RCP) of 124I-P/C@CMLvs reached more than 99% and maintained reliable stability in vitro. Micro-positron emission tomography (micro-PET) imaging of I-124 quantitatively revealed the distribution and specific homologous tumor targeting ability of 124I-P/C@CMLvs in vivo with superior diagnosis performance, beneficial for dynamically monitoring the efficacy against NSCLC. Loaded PPVI significantly strengthened the sensitivity of NSCLC to CDDP therapy and exerted synergistic anti-tumor effect in vitro and in vivo, which was achieved by PPVI promoting p53 deubiquitination and stimulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production to trigger the crosstalk between the amplification of GPX4 signaling-mediated ferroptosis and NLRP3/GSDMD/Caspase-1 axis-mediated pyroptosis. 124I-P/C@CMLvs also significantly stimulated the infiltration of immune cells including dendritic cells, CD8+ T cells, and CD4+ T cells in tumor tissues (P < 0.05). The combination of 124I-P/C@CMLvs and anti-PD-L1 therapy further synergistically promoted NSCLC regression. Altogether, 124I-P/C@CMLvs provide a transformational solution to the challenge of improving CDDP sensitivity and realizing the integration of diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of NSCLC.

Trans-septal Mattress Suture: Securing Naso-Endotracheal Tubes With Enhanced Stability and Aesthetic Preservation.

Securing the endotracheal tube is vital for airway patency, especially in oral surgeries; naso-endotracheal intubation is ideal, but improper fixation risks nasal injury or accidental extubation. This technical note unveils the trans-septal mattress suture technique as a novel approach to secure naso-endotracheal tubes, amplifying stability, reducing trauma, and elevating aesthetic outcomes in head and neck surgeries. This study was performed at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences, Bhubhaneshwar, Khordha, Odisha, India, from December 2022 to March 2024 with due consent taken from all patients. Naso-endotracheal tube dislodgement during jaw fracture surgeries can cause nasal mucosa trauma and inadequate ventilation. Head and neck oncology cases require secure tube fixation due to prolonged intubation. Adhesive tapes lose adhesiveness, and fixators may obstruct visibility, while sutures offer reliable stabilization. A trans-columellar suture initially anchors the tube, but prolonged surgery risks skin necrosis and nasal deformity. Hence, we advocated a trans-septal mattress technique that relocates the knot to the septal area, preventing necrosis, ensuring stability, and minimizing postoperative deformity. Our trans-septal suture technique secures the naso-endotracheal tube by avoiding columellar scarring, ensuring better cosmesis while minimizing epistaxis risks. It offers a stable, cost-effective airway solution, ideal for prolonged surgeries, balancing function with aesthetics effectively.

Palladium nanocrystals immobilized on boron and nitrogen codoped mesoporous carbon spheres as efficient methanol oxidation electrocatalysts

The development of cost-effective and high-performance electrocatalysts is crucial for the widespread application of direct methanol fuel cell. Herein, a convenient and robust method is developed to the controllable fabrication of Pd nanocrystals in situ immobilized on boron and nitrogen codoped mesoporous carbon spheres (Pd/BNMCS) as anode catalysts for the methanol oxidation reaction. The as-derived Pd/BNMCS hybrids are equipped with a series of useful structural features, such as large specific surface area, abundant mesoporous channels, presence of plentiful B and N atoms, well-dispersive Pd nanoparticles, and good electrical conductivity. As a consequence, the optimized Pd/BNMCS catalyst demonstrates superior electrocatalytic methanol oxidation properties in terms of a large electrochemically active surface area, high mass/specific activities, and reliable long-term stability, which are significantly better than those of traditional carbon black and undoped mesoporous carbon sphere supported Pd catalysts. This study highlights the potential of heteroatom codoped mesoporous carbon matrixes in the construction of advanced noble metal electrocatalysts for practical fuel cell applications.

The degradation mechanism of high power S-band AlGaN/GaN HEMTs under high temperature

Abstract The radio frequency (RF) degradation mechanism under high temperature is proposed in this paper. The saturated output power (P sat), power added efficiency (PAE) and gain of the HEMTs deteriorate significantly under high power dissipation operation conditions, which contribute to an elevation of the junction temperature (T j). The high T j causes a negative shift of the threshold voltage and a reduction of electron mobility, as well as enhancing the trapping effects of the devices. As a result, the P sat and PAE of the high-power HEMTs (P sat = 152 W) decreased by 0.76 dB and 8.3%, respectively, which is more severe compared to low-power HEMTs (P sat = 20 W), where P sat and PAE reduced by 0.16 dB and 3.1% when the operation temperature was increased from 25 °C to 150 °C. By increasing the gate-to-drain distance from 1.625 to 2.175 μm, drain current stability and high temperature reverse bias reliability are improved. The results demonstrate that the trapping effect can be suppressed by decreasing the electric field under the gate; therefore, the RF output characteristics are boosted by 1.2 W, 1 dB and 2.6% for a device with gate width of 11.52 mm.

Autenthity of the indicators of complex visual-motor reaction for trap shooters

The aim of the study was to determine the validity and stability of choice reaction time testing in trap shooters. The following research methods were used: theoretical analysis and summarization of data from scientific and methodological literature and the Internet, medical-biological methods, pedagogical observation, and mathematical statistics methods. Relevant calculations were conducted using the MS Excel analysis software package and functions from the Statistica software package. The study involved 27 athletes of varying qualifications in trap shooting. Each athlete's reaction time was measured in ten attempts. Satisfactory reliability of choice reaction time testing was found among shooters of average skill level (Candidate for Master of Sports, 1st and 2nd categories) with a reliability coefficient of ICC=0.767. Excellent reliability of the test (ICC=0.933) was found in highly qualified shooters (Master of Sports and International Master of Sports). The tested choice reaction time methodology demonstrated acceptable informativeness (validity) and reliability (stability) for the training process of trap shooters.

Selective Void Deposition by Continuous, Ultrathin Ag Film Enabled Stable, High-Performance AgNWs-Based Transparent Heaters.

Metallic nanowire-based transparent conductors (MNTCs) are essential to various technologies, including displays, heat-regulating windows, and photo-communication. Hybrid configurations are primarily adopted to design stable, high-functioning MNTCs. Although hybrid MNTCs enhance electrical performance, they often suffer from optical degradation due to losses associated with the hybrid layers. Highly conductive hybrid MNTCs with minimal reduction in transparency are achieved with AgNWs/Ag(O)/Al-doped ZnO (AZO) design. The design provides a high visible light transmittance of 95.1%, representing a minimized optical loss of 3% compared to pristine AgNWs by optimizing optical interference between the AZO and Ag(O) layers. Furthermore, it allows for enhanced mobility of metallic nanowires by controlling the selective formation of conductive layers in the voids of the nanowire networks. The oxygen additive enables a continuous Ag ultrathin film of 6nm in the macro-voids of AgNWs system, corresponding to 25 times higher mobility for AgNWs/Ag(O)/AZO than that of sole AgNWs. The significant enhancement in the mobility of AgNWs/Ag(O)/AZO induces a reduction of sheet resistance of MNTCs by 73%. The AgNWs/Ag(O)/AZO, with an optimized sheet resistance of 24 Ω sq-1, is explored for transparent heater applications, demonstrating a fast thermal response with reliable stability, as evidenced by consistent high-temperature profiles during prolonged operation.