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In light of growing global concern regarding environmental pollution, greenhouse gas emission and fast-depleting petroleum resources, electric buses are being considered as an integral part of future urban transportation system. However, substantial financial resources required for complete transition from conventional fuel-driven buses to electric buses means that this process will take place progressively. We have developed an optimization framework to assist in decision-making during the initial phase of transitioning to electric buses while working within financial constraints. Our approach focuses on a route-specific performance metric, the benefit-to-cost (B/C) ratio, which maximizes fuel savings and emissions reduction when transitioning to electric buses, all while respecting the limitations of available resources. The model identifies the set of bus routes to be electrified, along with the locations of electrified terminals. The proposed model was tested on the extensive public bus network of Delhi, India for two scenarios: compressed natural gas (CNG)-to-electric and diesel-to-electric bus transitions. Additionally, sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate how the available electrification budget and charging power affect the benefit-to-cost ratio and decisions related to route and terminal electrification. To fully realize the environmental benefits of electric buses, it is essential for the bus electrification policy to align with a shift from carbon-intensive energy sources to cleaner alternatives. Our study for Delhi suggests that a minimum of 30% of the electricity should come from clean energy sources to maximize the environmental benefits of bus electrification. This framework can thus serve as a useful tool to public transit agencies when planning the initial phases of the bus electrification. • Bus electrification should proceed in a phased manner due to financial challenges. • Benefit of bus electrification calculated using fuel saving and emissions reduction. • CNG-to-electric and diesel-to-electric bus transitions modelled using B/C ratio. • Optimization model prioritizes routes and terminals electrification under budget. • 30% clean energy grid mix needed for bus electrification's environmental benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elements of field cancerization, including atrophic gastritis, metaplasia, and dysplasia, promote gastric cancer development in association with chronic inflammation. However, it remains unclear how stroma changes during carcinogenesis and how the stroma contributes to progression of gastric preneoplasia. Here we investigated heterogeneity of fibroblasts, one of the most important elements in the stroma, and their roles in neoplastic transformation of metaplasia. We used single-cell transcriptomics to evaluate the cellular heterogeneity of mucosal cells from patients with gastric cancer. Tissue sections from the same cohort and tissue microarrays were used to identify the geographical distribution of distinct fibroblast subsets. We further evaluated the role of fibroblasts from pathologic mucosa in dysplastic progression of metaplastic cells using patient-derived metaplastic gastroids and fibroblasts. We identified 4 subsets of fibroblasts within stromal cells defined by the differential expression of PDGFRA , FBLN2, ACTA2 , or PDGFRB. Each subset was distributed distinctively throughout stomach tissues with different proportions at each pathologic stage. The PDGFRα+ subset expanded in metaplasia and cancer compared with normal, maintaining a close proximity with the epithelial compartment. Co-culture of metaplasia- or cancer-derived fibroblasts with gastroids showing the characteristics of spasmolytic polypeptide-expressing metaplasia–induced disordered growth, loss of metaplastic markers, and increases in markers of dysplasia. Culture of metaplastic gastroids with conditioned media from metaplasia- or cancer-derived fibroblasts also promoted dysplastic transition. These findings indicate that fibroblast associations with metaplastic epithelial cells can facilitate direct transition of metaplastic spasmolytic polypeptide-expressing metaplasia cell lineages into dysplastic lineages. [Display omitted] Altered stromal fibroblasts in the precancerous gastric lining promote the transition of precancerous metaplastic cells into dysplasia, supporting the development of gastric cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effectiveness of incorporating different amino-functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and acrylic triblock copolymer (BCP) into an aerospace-grade relatively high-viscosity epoxy (EA9396) resin to enhance the lap shear and tensile butt-joint strength at room and elevated temperatures (90 °C). To address the common issue of nanoparticle agglomeration in epoxy resin, which is exacerbated by its relatively high viscosity, a novel processing method was developed. This method involves ozone oxidation followed by functionalization with either polyethyleneimine (P + oz-CNTs) or a polyamine hardener (H + oz-CNTs). The functionalization not only ensures uniform dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) but also enhances their chemical reactivity with both the epoxy and block copolymer (BCP) matrix. The bonding performance of the epoxy, incorporating functionalized CNTs and BCP, was evaluated using single lap shear and tensile butt-joint tests. The results emphasize the substantial enhancement of both lap shear and butt-joint strength in the BCP-modified epoxy with the incorporation of functionalized CNTs (P + oz-CNTs and H + oz-CNTs), evident at both room temperature and 90 °C. At ambient conditions, the lap shear strength of the nanocomposite adhesives (P + oz-CNT + BCP/EA9396 and H + oz-CNT + BCP/EA9396) exhibited significant improvements of 40 % and 48 % respectively. At 90 °C, both formulations demonstrated a 20 % increase in lap shear strength. Furthermore, considerable advancements were observed in butt joint strength, with enhancements of 22 % (P + oz-CNT + BCP/EA9396) and 28 % (H + oz-CNT + BCP/EA9396) at room temperature. Importantly, compared to the unmodified epoxy, the butt joint strength displayed even more remarkable improvements of 49 % (P + oz-CNT + BCP/EA9396) and 42 % (H + oz-CNT + BCP/EA9396) at 90 °C. The analysis of fracture studies showed that introducing amine functionalization resulted in a more consistent dispersion of CNTs and enhanced the ability of the BCP/EA9396 to undergo plastic deformation. The study further demonstrates that functionalization with PEI and amine hardener reduces CNT pull-out, which enhances energy dissipation mechanisms and increases lap shear and butt joint strengths. [Display omitted] • Effective CNT functionalization methods were developed to enhance the dispersion and reactivity with high viscosity epoxy. • Solved the critical issue of CNT agglomeration in high viscosity epoxy using novel functionalization and 3-roll mill manufacturing methods. • At room temperature, the functionalized CNTs, combined with BCP, enhanced both lap shear and but joint strengths of epoxy by 40–48 % and 24–28 %, respectively. • At 90 °C, the lap shear strength enhanced by 20 %, whereas butt joint strength significantly improved by 42–49 %. • Discover the mechanism of the nanotechnology via microscale studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the realm of geriatric psychiatry, the management of depression presents a unique set of challenges. Elderly patients often contend with not only the complexities of their mental health but also a myriad of physical ailments and medication regimens. Addressing these challenges necessitates a tailored approach that recognizes the individuality of each patient. This systematic review delves into the emerging field of pharmacogenomic and personalized medication management in geriatric psychiatry, specifically focusing on depression. By evaluating a collection of studies, we aim to explore the significance of personalized care, the integration of genetic insights, and the utility of pharmacogenomic strategies in enhancing treatment outcomes for elderly individuals grappling with depression. A systematic review was conducted using three databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase) to identify the relevant articles published in the english language from 2010 - 2023.Inclusion Criteria focused on:-Individuals aged 60 years or older receiving psychiatric Care (WHO*)-Studies that investigate the use of pharmacogenomics or genetic testing to inform medication selection, dosing, or treatment decisions in geriatric psychiatry-Studies reporting relevant outcomes such as medication efficacy, adverse drug reactions, treatment response, quality of life, cognitive function, or other patient-centered outcomes in geriatric psychiatric patients-Studies included are observational and experimental studies. The studies under scrutiny collectively underscore the paramount importance of individualized care for geriatric patients battling depression. It becomes evident that a one-size-fits-all approach is ill-suited to address the intricacies of this population's mental and physical health. The inclusion of genetic insights, mainly through pharmacogenomic testing, emerges as a promising avenue. Studies such as those examining the serotonin transporter gene polymorphism and antidepressant response (Green Murphy) or pharmacogenetic screening for CYP2D6 (Berm and Schans) demonstrate the practical application of genetic data to inform treatment decisions and reduce the risk of adverse drug reactions. Furthermore, research such as Combinatorial Pharmacogenomic Testing for Older Adults with Depression (Forester) and Integration of a Pharmacist-Led Pharmacogenomic Service in a Geriatric Clinic (Kehr) underscore the potential for personalized approaches to elevate treatment outcomes. Cumulatively, these findings suggest that personalized medication management can significantly enhance the quality of life for elderly patients battling depression by optimizing treatment efficacy and minimizing adverse effects. In conclusion, the systematic review of studies centered on pharmacogenomic and personalized medication management in geriatric psychiatry, with a specific focus on depression, highlights a promising avenue for improving the care of elderly patients. These studies emphasize the necessity of personalized care, accounting for genetic variations, comorbid conditions, and cognitive status. While not all studies unanimously endorse pharmacogenomic strategies, they collectively underscore the potential utility of genetic insights in optimizing treatment outcomes. The path ahead involves continued research, collaboration between clinicians, researchers, and pharmacists, and the integration of genetic information into clinical practice to ensure that every elderly patient receives tailored and effective treatment based on their unique genetic profile. In the realm of geriatric psychiatry, the future holds the promise of more effective, safer, and personalized treatments for depression, ultimately enhancing the well-being of our elderly population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To link to full-text access for this article, visit this link: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ejor.2005.02.033 Byline: DuA an TeodoroviA (a), Panta LuAiA (b) Keywords: Traffic; Uncertainty modeling; Control; Parking; Fuzzy logic Abstract: The basic concepts of the parking reservation system and parking revenue management system are discussed in this paper. The proposed 'intelligent' parking space inventory control system that is based on a combination of fuzzy logic and integer programming techniques makes 'on line' decisions whether to accept or reject a new driver's request for parking. In the first step of the proposed model, the best parking strategies are developed for many different patterns of vehicle arrivals. These parking strategies are developed using integer programming approach. In the second step, learning from the best strategies, specific rules are defined. The uniqueness of the proposed approach is that the rules are derived from the set of chosen examples assuming that the future traffic arrival patterns are known. The results were found to be close to the best solution assuming that the future arrival pattern is known. Author Affiliation: (a) Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Northern Virginia Center, 7054 Haycock Road, Falls Church, VA 22043-2311, United States (b) CSSI, Inc., 400 Virginia Avenue SW, Suite 710, Washington, DC 20024, United States Article Note: (miscellaneous) 'The right to move a car is superior to the right to store cars on the public way' (American City magazine, 1920)

A study on intelligent parking space inventory control system for management of parking reservation and revenue, using integrated fuzzy logic and integer programming, is presented.

This research presents an investigation of the feasibility of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) and glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate (rPETG) thermoplastics using the fused granular fabrication (FGF) 3D printing technique. It focuses on the effects of FGF printing parameters on the mechanical properties of rPET and rPETG printed parts using a Gigabot X 3D printer. The design of experiments (DOE) was first performed considering the main FGF 3D printing parameters such as layer thickness, infill density and number of contours. The experimental studies were then carried out to study the effects of printing parameters on the tensile properties based on the DOE. The effect of interlayer bonding of printed parts on the tensile properties was also evaluated using finite element-based multiscale modelling. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transformation infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used to observe the fracture morphology and chemical structure of post-FGF printing products. The tensile test results indicate that the highest tensile strength of 26.4 MPa was obtained for rPET when using a 1.1-mm layer thickness, a 70% infill density, and 3 contours, whereas, for rPETG, the maximum tensile strength of 44.8 MPa was attained with a 1.2-mm layer thickness, a 100% infill density, and 2 contours. FTIR analysis confirms no significant changes of characteristic peaks for PET in the printed products, suggesting that rPET and rPETG are viable materials for FGF printing. Thermal stability studies also reveal that the glass transition temperature and onset degradation temperatures are not significantly affected by the printing parameters. The study demonstrates the potential of rPET and rPETG as sustainable alternatives to virgin materials and provides insights into the optimal processing conditions for achieving high-quality 3D printed parts via the FGF technique. • The tensile properties of FGF-printed recycled PET (rPET) and glycol-modified PET (rPETG) were examined. • Optimal FGF 3D printing settings for rPET and rPETG were determined using the design of experiments approach. • Effects of interlayer bonding on the tensile properties of 3D printed rPET and rPETG were evaluated using multiscale modelling. • Maximum tensile strengths of 26.4 and 44.8 MPa were obtained for FGF-printed rPET and rPETG, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Systematic reviews suggest that animal-assisted therapy (AAT) and pet-robot interventions (PRI) achieve a reduction in mental health variables such as depressive symptoms. However, these systematic reviews include both randomised and non-randomised studies, which prevents an adequate assessment of the effect of confounding variables. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of AAT and PRI through randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in reducing depression in older adults. Our study is a systematic review. We searched three databases of scientific articles: SCOPUS, Web of Science and PubMed. We included studies that their population was older adults, aged 65 years or older, with or without a clinical condition, clinical diagnosis based on mental examination/test or documentation from medical records, accredited by the facilities' staff. We included trials in which the comparator was a passive intervention or an active intervention. We used the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials (RoB 2) to assess the risk of bias for each study. Our study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023393740). Twenty-three studies were included in this systematic review. However, only 19 trials were included in the meta-analysis. At the overall risk of bias level, 78.9% of the studies were at high risk of bias (n = 15). We found that AAT (g= −0.72; 95%CI −1.13 to −0.31; p = 0.001) has a moderate and statistically significant effect as an intervention to reduce depressive symptoms in older adults. However, the PRIs do not show a significant effect on reducing depressive symptoms in older adults. In addition, a sub-analysis based on dog-assisted therapy (g= −0.65; 95%CI −1.21 to −0.08; p = 0.025), a specific type of AAT, showed a modest effect on reducing depressive symptoms. Our study concluded that AAT and DAT had a moderate and statistically significant effect as interventions to reduce depressive symptoms in older adults. On the other hand, PRI did not show a significant effect in reducing depressive symptoms. • Animal-assisted therapy has a moderate effect as an intervention to reduce depressive symptoms in older adults. • Dog-assisted therapy showed a modest effect on reducing depressive symptoms. • Pet-robot interventions did not show a significant effect in reducing depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper examines the effects of organizational capital on credit ratings. • This study documents a positive relationship between credit ratings and organizational capital. • This paper contributes to credit ratings literature by documenting the importance of non-financial factor such as organizational capital on credit ratings. This study uses pooled OLS to examine the effect of organizational capital on credit ratings using a large sample of US firm data from 1989 to 2017. The main finding reveals that firms with higher organizational capital receive higher credit ratings. This finding is robust to numerous robustness tests, alternative estimation techniques, and attempts to mitigate omitted variable and endogeneity concerns. Further, the positive effect of organizational capital on credit ratings is more prominent when firms are more financially constrained. Overall, our findings reveal the importance of organizational capital in the credit ratings of a firm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) symptoms are more pronounced with respiratory distress including shortness of breath, cough, pneumonitis and consolidation, where later two has relation in decrease in volume of lungs. Automated volumetric Computed tomography of lungs may help in predication to mortality, rapid assessment to treatment, progression and follow up of patients. This study was done to determine the lung volume of COVID-19 patients relating CORADS score and comparing with non COVID and their relation with predictive lung volume. Cross sectional study of upswing month (May 2021) was evaluated of the patients referred for HRCT chest. Patients who tested RT-PCR positive were evaluated separately from negative. The height of the patient were taken to calculate the predictive lung volume as per European respiratory society formula. Semi-automated Thoracic VCAR software was used as tool where -950 HU was kept as pre-set value. Of 146 COVID patients, males and females were 91 (62.32%) and 55 (35.67%) with mean ± SD of 44.43±13.89 and 45.60±15.16 respectively. However in non COVID males and females were 20 (62.5%) and 12 (37.5%)with mean SD of 44.20 ±19.20 and 47.83 ±12.62 respectively.15 patients were excluded due to severe artefacts, measurement issues and age. The study revealed severely compromised lung volume of COVID patients in CT compared to predictive lung volume(r=0.326,p<0.000) with highly significant relation with CORADS score (r=-.391,p<0.000).The study showed compromised lung volume in CT more in older patients and in male indicating need of timely assessment of CT. However CT lung volume and predictive lung volume of non COVID patients were relatively close(r=0.346, p=0.052). Volumetric analysis by help of CT scan may be helpful in assessing the lung volume and may help in diagnosis and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iodinated Contrast media used in Computed tomography are radiopaque chemical compounds used intravenously to diagnose various diseases more preferable with low osmolarity. These agents can cause adverse reactions categorically ranging from mild to severe. This study tends to know the incidence of adverse reactions in relation to season and gender who went through a contrast study in Computed Tomography. A prospective and qualitative study of two separate months, January 2019 and July 2019 with lot number 971CB and KT024SC respectively were taken into account where Iopromide contrast media was used. Adverse reactions were documented after contrast administration by observing, monitoring, and interviewing the patients and delayed reactions were recorded by following up with calls after 24 hours. Adverse reactions were categorized according to American College of Radiology guidelines,2018 on the basis of timing (Acute to Delayed) and with respect to season, gender, and lot number. Out of 712 patients, 86 patients did not come into contact after the examination. 19 out of 626 patients developed adverse reactions. Out of these,18 had acute with type I (mild) and only one had Type II (moderate). Not a single case was of type III (severe) and delayed one. Development of reactions in women was higher (63.15%). Similarly, the reaction rate was higher (68.14%) in January 2019 with a lot number of 971CB. Adverse reactions of low osmolar intravenous contrast mediums are physiologic and mild in nature. No life-threatening reactions were observed during the two separate months and lot numbers. Development of reactions in the winter month was higher prevailing more in female patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adsorptions of Zr atom onto the perfect rutile TiO 2 (110) and the oxygen vacancy rutile TiO 2 (110) ([TiO 2 + V o ]) to form Zr–TiO 2 and Zr‒[TiO 2 + V o ] were studied using periodic density functional theory (DFT) method. Three configurations of both Zr–TiO 2 and Zr‒[TiO 2 + V o ] surfaces were found and binding energies of Zr atom of the most stable Configurations of Zr–TiO 2 and Zr‒[TiO 2 + V o ] surfaces are respectively −3.36 and −3.26 eV. The most stable Configurations of the Zr–TiO 2 and Zr‒[TiO 2 + V o ] surfaces were selected in hydrogen adsorption study. Adsorption energies of single H 2 molecule on the most stable Zr–TiO 2 and Zr‒[TiO 2 + V o ] are −1.43 and −1.45 eV, respectively. Based on the second H 2 molecular adsorption on the hydrogen pre‒adsorbed Zr–TiO 2 and Zr‒[TiO 2 + V o ] surfaces, adsorption energies of −1.90 and −2.55 eV were found, respectively. The second H 2 molecule adsorption was found to be much stronger than the first H 2 molecule adsorbed onto the Zr–TiO 2 and Zr‒[TiO 2 + V o ] surfaces by 32.9% and 75.9%, respectively. Either the Zr–TiO 2 or Zr‒[TiO 2 + V o ] surface is suggested as hydrogen–storage material and the Zr–TiO 2 can be proposed as an electrical resistance‒based hydrogen sensor. Image 1 • H 2 adsorption abilities of both Zr–TiO 2 and Zr-[TiO 2 + V o ] are remarkably high. • High storage capacities of H 2 on the Zr–TiO 2 and Zr-[TiO 2 + V o ] surfaces. • The Zr–TiO 2 and Zr-[TiO 2 + V o ] used as hydrogen storage material are suggested. • The Zr–TiO 2 used as hydrogen sensing material is also suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This paper examines the effects of organizational capital on the readability of annual reports. • This study documents a negative relationship between organizational capital and the readability of annual reports. • This paper contributes to the readability literature by documenting the role of organizational capital on the readability of annual reports. This study uses pooled OLS technique to examine the effect of organizational capital on the readability of 10-Ks reports of a large sample of US firms from 1993 to 2019. The main finding reveals that firms with higher organizational capital report more readable 10-Ks. The effect of organizational capital on readability continues to be significant even after SEC's Plain English Rules of 1998. Our findings also reveal that organizational capital lessens the adverse effects of loss on the readability of annual reports. Overall, our findings reveal the importance of organizational capital in how a company disseminates information in its annual reports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capital-intensive industries consume fossil fuels for mass production with little concern for nature's assimilative capacity, which results in an accumulation of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Pollution abatement systems based on market-induced correctives and multi-national agreements works as ex-post remedial measures and have limited effectiveness in the reduction of GHGs. In this paper, we formulate the sustainable-structure-conduct-performance (S-SCP) paradigm as an ex-ante remedial measure by mimicking the structure-conduct-performance (SCP) paradigm to reduce the GHGs. By using a dynamic panel data, the workability of the S-SCP paradigm was tested on CO 2 emissions for selected major Indian iron and steel industries (IISI). Our findings show that the green relative index was positively significant in respect of green value added (GREVA). However, green R&D and barriers to entry and exit were negatively significant in respect of GREVA. Overall, the S-SCP paradigm's test in ISII suggests that the incorporation of social cost into the firm's structure and conduct will achieve sustainable performance-oriented production practices that reduce CO 2 emissions. We propose general suggestions on industrial parks for green technology innovation, management responsibility mechanisms, environmental impact assessment notifications and an Indian sustainable development commission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract While the use of biochar as a soil amendment for agronomic and environmental management is gaining popularity, quantification of biochar in soil is still challenging. The objective of this work was to develop a fast, simple and inexpensive method to quantify biochar content in field soil with varying organic matter content – the two-temperature loss on ignition (LOI) method. In this approach, biochar mass fraction in a biochar-amended soil is computed by measuring the dry mass of biochar/soil mixture after heating sequentially at two temperatures: low temperature (LT), and high temperature (HT). This method requires the LOI profile for pure soil and pure biochar that are representative of soil and biochar in the field. Although the soil LOI profile may vary due to spatial variation in soil organic matter (SOM) content, the method only requires that the relative soil LOI at LT with respect to LOI at HT is uniform because of similarity in SOM chemical composition. In this method, LT and HT are selected such that the maximum difference in LOI exists at these temperatures between pure soil and biochar. The method was tested by quantifying the biochar content in roadway filter strips with and without a wood biochar pyrolyzed at high temperature (550 °C). The estimates of biochar content from the method matched independent measurements for soils with low (−0.23 ± 0.09 CI%, CI = 95% confidence interval, versus actual 0%) and high (3.9 ± 0.3 CI% versus actual 4.0 ± 1.1 CI%) biochar mass fraction. The method is applicable when SOM content is low to moderate (e.g. <15%) and mostly composed of labile organic compounds, and when biochars are pyrolyzed at moderate to high temperatures (i.e. >400 °C) and composed of relatively low ash content (e.g. <30%). Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Two-temperature loss on ignition (LOI) method developed to quantify biochar in soil. • Spatial variation of soil organic matter (SOM) content is accounted for in the method. • Method applied to biochar-amended roadway soil and error was <3%. • Method is applicable for soils with low to moderate SOM content. • Method is applicable for biochars pyrolyzed at high temperatures with low ash content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report provides a perspective on the relevance of saline water gargling and nasal irrigation to the COVID-19 crisis. While there is limited evidence concerning their curative or preventive role against SARS-CoV-2 infection, previous work on their utility against influenza and recent post-hoc analysis of the Edinburgh and Lothians Viral Intervention Study (ELVIS) provide compelling support to their applicability in the current crisis. Saline water gargling and nasal irrigation represent simple, economical, practically feasible, and globally implementable strategies with therapeutic and prophylactic value. These methods, rooted in the traditional Indian healthcare system, are suitable and reliable in terms of infection control and are relevant examples of harmless interventions. We attempt to derive novel insights into their usefulness, both from theoretical and practical standpoints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Micro Air Vehicles (MAVs) have the potential to revolutionize our capabilities in gathering information, monitoring situations, and surveillance. They are required to maneuver in and around obstacles as well as negotiate atmospheric disturbances whilst holding accurate trajectories and minimizing rotation which can blur imagery. A study of existing literature on MAV control challenges found that current turbulence mitigation systems and control surface configurations lack the speed of response and control authority required to maintain steady flight in turbulence. Improved control response may come from unconventional designs, bio-inspired systems, or from careful manipulation of the flow mechanics. As such, in this paper, key unsteady aerodynamic parameters are also reviewed and considered prior to deriving potential control solutions that could help MAVs fly well in turbulence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pd– and Ag–doped anatase TiO 2 (1 0 1) surfaces were investigated and the binding energies of single atom of Pd (−2.15 eV) and Ag (−2.38 eV) on the anatase (1 0 1) surfaces, respectively denoted as Pd/TiO 2 and Ag/TiO 2, were obtained. Binding sites for Pd and Ag atoms toward the TiO 2 surface atoms are three atoms (Ti 5C and two O 2C atoms) and two O 2C atoms of the TiO 2 (1 0 1) surface, respectively. Due to adsorptions of H 2 and hydrogen–containing (H 2 O, NH 3 , and CH 4 ) gases on the Pd/TiO 2 and Ag/TiO 2 , adsorption abilities on the Pd/TiO 2 and Ag/TiO 2 are in decreasing orders: NH 3  > H 2 O > H 2  > CH 4 and NH 3  > H 2 O > CH 4  > H 2 , respectively. Mulliken–charge transfers from the Pd and Ag atoms to adsorption atoms of the anatase TiO 2 (1 0 1) surface and the adsorption of hydrogen and hydrogen–containing gases to the Pd/TiO 2 and Ag/TiO 2 were observed. The Pd/TiO 2 and/or Ag/TiO 2 have high potentials to be NH 3 sensing materials based on the electric conductivity measurement. The Pd/TiO 2 has high potential to be CH 4 sensing device based on the electric conductivity and surface charge measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrogen molecule (H 2 ) adsorption on noble metals M (Pd, Ag, Pt and Au) doped onto oxygen vacancy anatase TiO 2 (101) surface, denoted by M/[TiO 2 + V o ], was studied using first-principle density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The binding abilities of noble metals atom on the [TiO 2 + V o ] are in order: Ag > Pt ≈ Au > Pd. The Ag adatom on the [TiO 2 + V o ] was found to be the most energetically favorable binding of which binding energy is −4.14 eV. Effect of noble metal doping on the [TiO 2 + V o ] surface on H 2 adsorption was found. All H 2 adsorption on M/[TiO 2 + V o ] surfaces were found to be on the metal atom and adsorption strengths are in order: Pt/[TiO 2 + V o ] (Δ E ads = −2.11 eV) >> Au/[TiO 2 + V o ] (Δ E ads = −1.55 eV) > Pd/[TiO 2 + V o ] (Δ E ads = −1.16 eV) >> Ag/[TiO 2 + V o ] (Δ E ads = −0.62 eV). All the M/[TiO 2 + V o ] surfaces are suggested for use as hydrogen-storage materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of hygrothermal aging on the strength of pure and carbon nano-filler reinforced epoxy adhesive joints is presented. Epoxy adhesives containing three different carbon nano-fillers, namely, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNT), graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) and single walled carbon nanohorns (CNH) were prepared by using a high shear rate mixer. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) of the nano-filler reinforced epoxy indicated an improvement in the thermal stability compared to pure epoxy. Aging studies were carried out on single lap-shear specimens as per EN ISO 9142:2003 standard (cycle D3). The strength of the joints was found to decrease with hygrothermal aging time. The nano-filler reinforced joints showed less reduction in joint strength with aging compared to pure epoxy joints. The GNP/epoxy joints showed the best resistance to aging followed by CNT and CNH reinforced joints. Fourier Attenuated Total Reflectance Transformation Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) analysis of the hygrothermal aged samples indicated lower degradation in terms of hydrolysis of epoxy groups for nano-filler reinforced epoxy. Gravimetric analysis of samples immersed in water showed lower weight gain for nano-filler reinforced epoxy composites. Fracture surface analysis was carried out to study the change in failure mechanism with aging time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]