Search Results (5,250)

Burgeoning two-dimensional (2D) materials provide more opportunities to overcome the shortcomings of silicon-based photodetectors. However, the inevitable carrier loss in the 2D material/Si heterojunction has seriously hindered further improvement in responsivity and detection speed. Here, we propose a graphene/PtSe₂/ultra-thin SiO₂/Si photodetector (PD) with multiple optimization mechanisms. Due to the fact that photo-generated carriers can travel in the graphene plane toward the Au electrode, the introduction of a top graphene contact with low sheet resistance provides a carrier collection path in the vertical direction and further restricts the carrier recombination behavior at the lateral grain boundary of PtSe₂ film. The ultra-thin SiO₂ passivation layer reduces the defects at the PtSe₂/Si heterojunction interface. As compared to the counterpart device without the graphene top contact, the responsivity, specific detectivity, and response speed of graphene/PtSe₂/ultra-thin SiO₂/Si PD under 808 nm illumination are improved to 0.572 A/W, 1.50 × 10¹¹ Jones, and 17.3/38.8 µs, respectively. The device can detect broad-spectrum optical signals as measured from 375 nm to 1550 nm under zero bias. The PD line array with 16-pixel units shows good near-infrared imaging ability at room temperature. Our study will provide guiding significance for how to improve the comprehensive properties of PDs based on 2D/Si heterostructure for practical applications. Full article

Organizational change remains a significant challenge in developing countries, often hindered by entrenched bureaucratic cultures and resistance to reform. This study investigates the key determinants of change acceptance among public sector employees in Pakistan, focusing on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) region. Using a survey of 320 public sector workers, this research examines employee attitudes toward organizational change through a multi-conceptual framework that incorporates technical, organizational, and environmental factors. Ten influencing factors were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) in AMOS. The findings reveal a strong positive relationship between nine factors—change management, IT infrastructure, reward systems, technical competency, top management support, legal frameworks, organizational culture, and HRM practices—and employees’ willingness to accept change. This study presents a robust explanatory model with high predictive power for change acceptance. It provides valuable insights into reform dynamics in developing nations and offers practical strategies to guide successful public sector change management initiatives. Full article

Urban planning in the 1950s laid the foundation for innovative urban and architectural practices, not only by investigating the spatial and constructive aspects of housing, but also by attempting to expand and improve free green spaces. This paper aims to go deep into the theoretical principles of two Lisbon neighborhoods recognized as urban paradigms on public housing, namely, the Olivais Norte and Olivais Sul (1954–1964), trying to perceive a concept of living that interweaves the private and public dynamics through the green spaces. Digging into the municipal archives, the paper sheds light on the Gabinete de Estudos de Urbanização (GEU) (Urban Studies Office, 1954–1959) urbanistic contributions through its development of the 1959 Lisbon Master Plan and the creation of more than 100 urbanization plans for Lisbon. The Olivais were the only ones implemented, even though it underwent considerable transformations. The GEU vision for Lisbon included a population of up to 1,100,000 inhabitants and a green space ratio of 55 m² per inhabitant. The built Lisbon struggles to provide housing for approximately 534,000 inhabitants, with a green space ratio of 36 m² per inhabitant. Critically analyzing the (mis)steps of Lisbon’s planning processes through the lens of the 1950s experience can help guide current decisions and chart future paths. Full article

Archaeal lipids, defining a primordial life domain alongside Bacteria and Eukarya, are distinguished by their unique glycerol-1-phosphate backbone and ether-linked isoprenoid chains. Serving as critical geochemical biomarkers, archaeal lipids like glycerol dialkyl glycerol tetraethers (GDGTs) underpin paleoclimate proxies, while their phylum-specific distributions illuminate phylogenetic divergence. Despite the maturity of Mass Spectrometry-based quantitative biomarkers—predominantly those with established structures—becoming well-established in geochemical research, systematic investigation of archaeal lipids as natural products has notably lagged. This deficit manifests across three key dimensions: (1) Extraction methodology lacks universal protocols adapted to diverse archaeal taxa and sample matrices. While comparative studies exist, theoretical frameworks guiding method selection remain underexplored. (2) Purification challenges persist due to the unique structures and complex isomerization profiles of archaeal lipids, hindering standardized separation protocols. (3) Most critically, structural characterization predominantly depends on decades-old foundational studies. However, the existing reviews prioritize chemical structural, biosynthetic, and applied aspects of archaeal lipids over analytical workflows. This review addresses this gap by adopting a natural product chemistry perspective, integrating three key aspects: (1) the clarification of applicable objects, scopes, and methodological mechanisms of various extraction technologies for archaeal lipids, encompassing both cultured and environmental samples; (2) the elucidation of separation principles underlying polar-gradient lipid fractionation processes, leveraging advanced chromatographic technologies; (3) the detailed exploration of applications for NMR in resolving complex lipid structures, with specialized emphasis on determining the stereochemical configuration. By synthesizing six decades of methodological evolution, we establish a comprehensive analytical framework, from lipids extraction to structural identification. This integrated approach constructs a systematic methodological paradigm for archaeal lipid analysis, bridging theoretical principles with practical implementation. Full article

This study aims to address the low cleaning efficiency (73.12%) and high cotton loss rate (12.50%) of existing stripper-and-stick cleaners when processing machine-harvested long-staple cotton. Based on the material characteristics of Xinjiang long-staple cotton, a novel impurity removal device was designed specifically for its cleaning. A mechanical model of cotton–impurity interaction was established to guide the design of U-shaped saw cylinder parameters. Static analyses conducted via Ansys Workbench revealed that both straight and arc-shaped sawteeth exhibited negligible deformations (≤4.73 × 10⁻⁴ mm) and von Mises stresses (≤9.52 MPa), meeting the practical operational requirements. Through orthogonal experiments (sawtooth type, linear velocity, and feed speed), the optimal operating parameters were determined as arc-shaped sawteeth, 7.5 m/s linear velocity, and 11 t/h feed speed. Prototype testing demonstrated that under these parameters, the impurity removal device achieved an average cleaning efficiency of 82.42% (a 9.30% improvement over conventional devices) and an average cotton loss rate of 8.34% (a 4.16% reduction compared to conventional devices). This study provides a valuable reference for the design and optimization of stripper-and-stick cleaners specifically tailored for machine-harvested long-staple cotton. Full article

Introduction: Endometrial cancer is the most common malignancy of the female genital tract in high-income countries. A prompt diagnosis of this condition is of utmost importance in ensuring that patients receive the best treatment strategy. The new FIGO 2023 molecular classification of endometrial cancer radically changes the current landscape of this disease’s treatment and follow-up. Among the various diagnostic techniques used to identify endometrial lesions, hysteroscopy and vacuum biopsy techniques are the most employed in clinical practice. The aim of this systematic literature review is to compare the efficacy, sensitivity, specificity, and safety of these methods when employed to diagnose endometrial cancer, as well as to assess the feasibility of endometrial cancer molecular profiling on biopsy specimens. Methods: A systematic literature search of studies evaluating hysteroscopy and VABRA biopsy performance in diagnosing endometrial cancer was conducted using the main online databases (PubMed, EMBase, Cochrane Library). An additional literature search was conducted, focusing on the feasibility of endometrial cancer molecular profiling on hysteroscopic biopsy and VABRA samples, as well as on the diagnostic concordance of biopsy and final surgery specimens. Two authors performed the literature search independently, while other two authors assessed the retrieved publications’ risk of bias using Begg’s and Egger’s tests. Twenty-four studies were included in the final report. Results: Both techniques have shown high effectiveness in diagnosing endometrial cancer, although with important differences. Hysteroscopy provides direct visualization of the endometrium and allows clinicians to perform biopsies of suspicious lesions, but it also entails important limitations, as in the case of diffused lesions or technical difficulties, especially in nulliparous and elderly women. VABRA and other vacuum biopsy techniques, on the other hand, offer a wider sampling of endometrial tissue and are less operator-dependent but may be associated with a higher risk of failed diagnosis when compared to hysteroscopy. Discussion: Hysteroscopy, especially when combined with targeted biopsies, has been proven to be a valid technique, especially in pre-surgical diagnostic workup of early-stage endometrial cancer. Vacuum techniques, although less invasive and providing larger tissue samples, do not seem to be able to completely replace hysteroscopy in diagnosing endometrial cancer but remain a valid alternative in selected cases, especially when endometrial lesions prove harder to reach and/or to identify. They may also prove useful in low resource countries in which hysteroscopy is not widely available. Conclusions: Based on our findings, early assessment of endometrial cancer should be carried out through hysteroscopic evaluation and targeted endometrial biopsies, ideally including molecular assessment on biopsy specimens to further guide treatment decisions. Other biopsy techniques, such as vacuum-assisted biopsy, should be reserved for specific settings in which hysteroscopy is not readily available. The ideal diagnostic approach to endometrial cancer should take multiple factors into account, such as the location and extension of the disease, patient characteristics, clinical skills, and resource availability. Further studies are needed to assess the feasibility of molecular cancer profiling on biopsy specimens, as well as cost-containment strategies which would allow equal access to targeted treatment modalities for all endometrial cancer patients worldwide. Full article

Realistically modeling interactions between road users — like those between drivers or between drivers and pedestrians — within experimental settings come with pragmatic challenges. Due to practical constraints, research typically focuses on a limited subset of potential scenarios, raising questions about the scalability and generalizability of findings about interactions to untested scenarios. Here, we aim to tackle this by laying the methodological groundwork for defining representative scenarios for dyadic (two-actor) interactions that can be analyzed individually. This paper introduces a conceptual guide for operationalizing controlled dyadic traffic interaction studies, developed through extensive interdisciplinary brainstorming to bridge theoretical models and practical experimental design. It elucidates critical trade-offs in scenario selection, interaction approaches, measurement strategies, and timing coordination, thereby enhancing reproducibility and clarity for future traffic interaction research and streamlining the design process. The methodologies and insights we provide aim to enhance the accessibility and quality of traffic interaction research, offering a guide that aids researchers in setting up studies and ensures clarity and reproducibility in reporting, bridging the gap between theoretical traffic interaction models and practical applications in controlled experiments, thereby contributing to advancements in human factors research on traffic management and safety. Full article

Plastic injection molding is a fundamental manufacturing process used in various industries, accounting for approximately 30% of the global plastic product market. A significant challenge of this process lies in the need to employ sophisticated computational techniques to optimize the various phases. This review examines the optimization methodologies in injection molding, with a focus on integrating advanced modeling, surrogate models, and multi-objective optimization techniques to enhance efficiency, quality, and sustainability. Key phases such as plasticizing, filling, packing, cooling, and ejection are analyzed, each presenting unique optimization challenges. The review emphasizes the importance of cooling, which accounts for 50–80% of the cycle time, and examines innovative strategies, such as conformal cooling channels (CCCs), to enhance uniformity and minimize defects. Various computational tools, including Moldex3D and Autodesk Moldflow, are discussed due to their role in process simulation and optimization. Additionally, optimization algorithms such as evolutionary algorithms, simulated annealing, and multi-objective optimization methods are explored. The integration of surrogate models, such as Kriging, response surface methodology, and artificial neural networks, has shown promise in addressing computational cost challenges. Future directions emphasize the need for adaptive machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques to optimize molds in real time, offering more innovative and sustainable manufacturing solutions. This review is a comprehensive guide for researchers and practitioners, bridging theoretical advancements with practical implementation in injection molding optimization. Full article

Background: Against the backdrop of the transformation and upgrading of the manufacturing industry, lean manufacturing has emerged as a systematic and advanced production paradigm that has deeply permeated the entire value chain of enterprises. Objective: However, there is a lack of systematic and effective lean technology paradigms in aspects such as lean practice processes and improving manufacturing process efficiency. Moreover, a comprehensive analysis of the current status and development strategies of lean technologies in discrete manufacturing enterprises has yet to be conducted to address issues such as the fragmentation of lean technology applications and the ambiguity of implementation strategies in discrete manufacturing enterprises. Methods: This paper conducts an extensive review of the literature on lean technologies and transformation methods in discrete manufacturing enterprises. A multi-stage data analysis approach (including data identification, screening, eligibility assessment, classification, and comprehensive analysis) is utilized to analyze 369 highly relevant documents. Results: The main contributions of this study are as follows: (1) A comprehensive review of existing lean manufacturing technologies and methods is provided, classifying, comparing, and summarizing the current status of lean technology and strategy applications, and delineating nine categories of lean technology application directions. (2) A “5P” theoretical framework (Philosophy, Process, People, Problem-solving, and Product) is proposed, redefining a lean technology framework that covers the value streams of discrete manufacturing. (3) Future application trends of lean technologies in discrete manufacturing are summarized and predicted, and an implementation strategy for lean technologies tailored to small and medium-sized discrete manufacturing enterprises, along with six lean technology development strategies, are proposed. The results indicate that many enterprises have derived diversified methods based on their own circumstances, which compensate for the deficiencies of the original lean models. Discussion and Conclusions: This paper organizes these methods to serve as a reference for future research on the lean technology system. The proposed strategies include formulating lean transformation strategies for discrete manufacturing enterprises, enhancing proactive lean capabilities, adapting to passive lean factors, and creating value for the enterprises’ reasonable lean needs from three levels: strategic philosophy, objective principles, and tool technologies. This research will play a guiding role in promoting the coordinated development of lean implementation and achieving high-quality development in discrete manufacturing enterprises. Full article

The Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) Unit in the Combustion Science Experimental System (CSES) aboard the China Space Station (CSS) is designed for flow field measurements in microgravity combustion experiments. However, the lack of a reliable microgravity-compatible tracer particle seeder has hindered its practical application. To address this issue, the cyclone PIV particle seeder was proposed and evaluated through steady and transient numerical simulations using the Reynolds Stress Model (RSM) and Eulerian multiphase model to assess the effects of geometric parameters, gravity, and particle accumulation on flow characteristics and particle seeding performance. Ground-based cold jet and premixed combustion PIV experiments were also conducted. Results show that while the flow field of the cyclone particle seeder is generally similar to conventional cyclone separators, localized differences exist. Traditional optimization strategies of cyclone separators may not be applicable, while a longer vortex finder improved particle seeding performance compared to the shorter configuration and the guide vane design. By combining numerical simulations and experiment results, this study demonstrates the feasibility of using the cyclone particle seeder under microgravity conditions, provides key theoretical support for optimizing cyclone seeders, and enables flow field measurements in future microgravity combustion experiments aboard the China Space Station. Full article

Recent years have seen increasing attention paid to autonomous decentralized microgrids that are disaster-resistant and suitable for local consumption of locally generated renewable energy power. Although various methods have been discussed for achieving microgrids through autonomous decentralized cooperative control, there are few reports that have reached the stage of field testing. In this study, I propose a novel method for configuring the baseline of DC microgrids, where storage batteries are distributed and directly connected to the DC bus. I have built a testbed to demonstrate the operation of the DC microgrid through autonomous decentralized cooperative control. My method simply employs the droop characteristics inherent in batteries, and I introduce the new concept of a ‘weakly coupled grid’. This approach allows the realization of microgrids with autonomous decentralized cooperative control without the need for advanced and complex grid control technologies using DC/DC converters, and with a simple configuration. Additionally, by directly connecting batteries to the baseline, I introduce a grid stabilization method achieved by imparting electrical inertia to the baseline. This paper describes the construction method, the operation principle, and safe and stable operational methods for autonomous decentralized microgrids using this approach, aiming to serve as a guide for those who wish to build autonomous decentralized controlled microgrids in practice. Full article

This study examines the quality of university teaching in Mathematics, focusing on the evolution of teaching performance from students’ perspectives. It highlights the importance of adhering to quality standards to enhance teaching, research, and administrative processes, guided by the Andalusian Knowledge Agency. Key factors analyzed include effectiveness, planning, classroom performance, tutorials, and the use of bibliographic materials, using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA) with structural equations. The research involved 229 students from various programs, such as Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, Primary Education, Early Childhood Education, and a Master’s Degree in Secondary Education with a Mathematics specialization, within an Andalusian university center. The results confirmed the reliability and validity of the questionnaire and demonstrated the effectiveness of structural equation methodologies. The findings underscore the importance of integrating effective knowledge transmission, teacher-led motivation, careful planning, individual attention, and complementary materials to improve Mathematics teaching. It concludes that quality teaching depends on a holistic approach that balances pedagogical strategies with student-centered practices. Full article

Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is routinely practiced in the semiconductor industry to measure the viscoelastic properties of various thermosetting polymers. Modern commercial DMA test machines are highly-advanced systems which enable users to perform automatic testing and post-processing of the experimental data. When highly filled thermosets like epoxy-based molding compound (EMC) are tested, unique challenges are encountered during measurements due to the extremely large change in modulus over the testing temperature range. An advanced procedure is proposed to cope with these problems. The first part is the use of different oscillation strain amplitudes so that the variations in stress amplitudes across the testing domain remain consistent. The second part is the conducting of two monotonic tests at the lowest and highest temperatures to obtain the glassy modulus and equilibrium modulus, which can guide the master curve construction accurately. The results of the proposed procedure are presented. The relaxation modulus master curve is used to conduct a virtual testing to verify the accuracy of the generalized Maxwell model constants determined from the frequency data using the proposed procedure. Full article

Population-based cancer registries are crucial for tracking cancer trends, supporting research, guiding policy decisions, and ensuring efficient healthcare resource allocation. However, their effectiveness relies heavily on data quality, specifically the completeness of the cancer registration process. Background/Objectives: This systematic review aims to identify the methods used by adult population-based cancer registries worldwide to assess the completeness of their data. It also considered the significant role of high-quality data in method selection and the significant challenges of data handling. Methods: A comprehensive electronic literature search was conducted across the Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed for studies published from January 2004 to December 2024. The review was written according to PRISMA guidelines, and the risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Results: The review identified 83 studies from 31 countries, the majority from Europe, especially Nordic and Central European countries. Most studies met high-quality standards, with only one study scoring below 75%. Common approaches include independent case ascertainment (the most used), a capture–recapture analysis, a death-certificate-only analysis, and comparisons with historical rates. While independent case ascertainment is valuable when high-quality auxiliary sources are available, its accuracy varies. Other methods, like capture-recapture or Mortality-to-Incidence ratios, may be more accurate or feasible in some cases. Conclusions: The findings suggest that methods for completeness evaluations vary widely across registries, influenced by data quality and regional practices. The results emphasize the importance of the continuous refinement of these assessment methods to improve the reliability and global comparability of cancer registry data. Full article

Prenatal and postnatal health guidance, along with women’s individual experiences, greatly influences mothers’ breastfeeding decisions and duration. To understand this better, a methodology combining quantitative and qualitative data is essential. Objective: To map the scientific production on the promotion, protection, and support of breastfeeding developed from mixed methods research. Method: A scoping review that followed the JBI and PRISMA-ScR methodology. The search was carried out in the following databases: Medline/PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, BVS, CINAHL, Web of Science, and BDTD. The guiding question was: Which studies on the promotion, protection, and support of breastfeeding were developed using mixed methods? The research took place from December 2023 to June 2024. Results: Of the 3569 studies found, 36 studies using mixed methods were included, with a prevalence of explanatory sequential approaches. Breastfeeding rates in the selected studies remain lower than global recommendations. The barriers to breastfeeding reported by mothers include biological; emotional; cultural; unfavorable social and hospital environment; difficulties in clinical management; lack of support from family, friends, health professionals, and employers; and skepticism about the benefits of breastfeeding. On the other hand, the main facilitators of breastfeeding reported were education and counseling during prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum periods; women’s intention to breastfeed; support from family, employer, spouse, and health professionals. Conclusions: The studies highlighted various issues related to breastfeeding rates, barriers, and facilitators across different contexts and cultures worldwide. The findings demonstrate that employing mixed methods enables a comprehensive and nuanced assessment of breastfeeding practices and the evaluation of relevant interventions. Full article