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2023-10-01 | Yarn reduction is the core technology of near-net forming conical rotating components. This paper presents the influence of yarn reduction defects on the low-velocity impact (LVI) and compression after impact (CAI) damage mechanism of 3D woven composites. Three kinds of specimens with different yarn reduction defects, no yarn reduction (NO-YR), half row-yarn reduction (HIN-YR), and all row-yarn reduction (AIN-YR), were tested using drop weight LVI and CAI equipment. X-ray micro-computed tomography (Micro-CT) and Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique were used to identify the damage distribution and damage development of the impact of 3D woven composites. Results indicated that the yarn reduction defects can reduce the LVI and CAI mechanical characteristic values of 3D woven composites. The maximum deflection, permanent deformation, and energy absorption rate of HIN-YR and AIN-YR are about 3% and 6% lower than NO-YR, respectively. At the same impact energy, NO-YR damage was the least and AIN-YR damage was the most severe. Furthermore, compared with AIN-YR, HIN has higher CAI strength. More importantly, yarn reduction changed the damage mechanism of the specimens. The final failure of NO-YR is decided by debonded, whereas that of HIN-YR and AIN-YR are mainly influenced by yarn breakage and delamination. | Effect of Yarn Reduction Types on the Mechanical Response and Damage Mechanism of 3D Woven Composites Subjected to Low-velocity Impact | 10.1007/s10443-023-10127-7 |
2023-10-01 | The development and renewal of gas sensor technology have enabled more and more low-cost gas sensors to form a carbon monitoring network to meet the requirements of the city. In the context of China’s commitment to achieving the “double carbon” target by 2060, this paper reviews the principles of four standard gas sensors and the application of several low-cost sensors in urban carbon monitoring networks, with the aim of providing a practical reference for the future deployment of carbon monitoring networks in Chinese cities. Moreover, the types, prices, and deployment of the sensors used in each project are summarized. Based on this review, non-dispersive infrared sensors have the best performance among the sensors and are commonly used in many cities. Lots of urban climate networks in cities were summarized by many reviews in the literature, but only a few sensors were studied, and they did not consider carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) sensors. This review focuses on the dense CO 2 urban monitoring network, and some case studies are also discussed, such as Seoul and San Francisco. To address the issue of how to better ensure the balance between cost and accuracy in the deployment of sensor networks, this paper proposes a method of simultaneously deploying medium-precision and high-precision fixed sensors and mobile sensors to form an urban carbon monitoring network. Finally, the prospects and recommendations, such as different ways to mitigate CO 2 and develop an entire carbon monitoring system for future urban carbon monitoring in China, are also presented. Graphical abstract | Low-cost urban carbon monitoring network and implications for china: a comprehensive review | 10.1007/s11356-023-29836-4 |
2023-10-01 | In this study, the geometric features of ZL205A alloy castings as well as the formation mechanism of hot tearing under the low-pressure casting process were investigated. To explore the effects of geometric features and the low-pressure casting process on the envelope density and stresses of the ZL205A alloy cylindrical components, pouring experiments were performed, and the solidification process was simulated using the commercial software ProCAST. The results demonstrate that, among the castings with various geometric cross sections, those with round features are most considerably hindered. The experimental results show that hot tearing occurs in the castings when the hindrance factor ε = 0.129 or δ : R = 1:15 at the outside radius of R = 150 mm of the cylindrical components. The simulation results reveal that the position of hot tearing formed in the cylindrical casting is (0.44~0.48) h heights, (0~0.2) δ thickness for a cylindrical envelope with a low-pressure casting process. The combination of copper-rich, hindered stresses and welding stresses causes hot tearing in cylindrical castings. | Hot Tearing Behavior of ZL205A Alloy Cylindrical Low-Pressure Castings with Slit Gating and Feeding System | 10.1007/s40962-023-00967-1 |
2023-10-01 | Abstract Experimental data presented in the literature on the depth of processing of polymer films using low-temperature plasma are considered. Changes in the chemical composition and structure along the depth of the samples have been studied using the modern experimental techniques of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, secondary ion mass spectrometry, and transmission electron microscopy; precision etching was carried out with an Ar + 2500 cluster beam; and the pit depth was measured by profilometry. It has been found that the thickness of the modified layer is ≤50 nm and depends relatively little on the polymer nature. | Thickness of the Modified Polymer Layer Formed by Low-Temperature Plasma Treatment | 10.1134/S001814392305003X |
2023-10-01 | Varied origins have the ability to construct the continental red beds, such as paleoclimate, provenance, drainage status, etc. Reconstructing paleoclimate is the key to investigate the origin. Thus, this paper outlines the normal distribution constrained method (NDCM) to reconstruct paleoclimate quantitatively and accurately during the lower fourth sub-member of Shahejie (Es4 x ) in the Bonan Sag, which is in low requirement of data and environmental conditions. Based on the NDCM, the paleoclimate is still in a long-term arid background as the potential evapotranspiration rates (PERs) are larger than 6 in the transgressive system tract (TST) and regressive system tract (RST) during the period of Es4 x . The decreasing PERs that range from 6.28 to 6.04, decreasing atmospheric temperature range from 14.37 to 13.95 °C and increasing mean precipitation of the wettest month and mean precipitation of the driest month indicate the paleoclimate is breaking away from the hot and arid background from TST to RST. Meanwhile, the paleoclimate fluctuation develops decreasing frequency and increasing amplitude which can be inferred from the increasing standard deviation (std), Th/K and Th/U curves. The hot and arid background is still the main origin of red color during the Es4 x . Moreover, the other origin may also develop since there is no clear law between red coloration and the developing location of sediments. | Paleoclimate quantitative reconstruction and characteristics of continental red beds: a case study of the lower fourth sub-member of Shahejie Formation in the Bonan Sag | 10.1007/s13202-023-01663-w |
2023-10-01 | The different stages of an impact on laminated glass are difficult to observe and quantify but are essential for numerical model validation. To assess the performance of this composite to low-velocity ( $$\sim $$ ∼ 10 m/s) high-mass impacts, dynamical impact tests, inspired by ball-drop tests, are performed, equipped with multiple high-speed cameras. From the set of images, a continuous 3D shape reconstruction of the deformed laminated glass over time is performed using Stereo-Digital Image Correlation (S-DIC). Significant brightness and contrast variations captured by two cameras due to large rotations of glass fragments and large strain of the polymer interlayer between fragments render the use of S-DIC difficult as the impactor penetrates deeper into the plate. To circumvent this problem, an axisymmetric regularization is introduced which has the advantage of not requiring prior knowledge of the mechanical behavior for the tested specimen. It is shown that it offers a more extended period of time (as compared to regular S-DIC) over which a trustful analysis can be performed. The time evolution of the fragmented laminated glass and the density of cracks, both available from our analysis, are key ingredients to elaborate quantitative modeling of the dynamic performance of the laminate. | High speed stereo-vision study of laminated glass fragmentation upon impact | 10.1007/s40940-023-00231-2 |
2023-10-01 | A family of new triphenylmethane (TPM)-based polyimides (PIs) containing bulky tert -butyldimethylsiloxy (TBS) side-groups (PI-TPMOSis) has been prepared by a post-polymerization modification via a simple silyl ether reaction of TPM-based PIs containing hydroxyl (OH) groups (PI-TPMOHs). The attachment of TBS side-groups in PI-TPMOSis can be achieved up to 100%, as confirmed by the 1 H-NMR and IR spectra. Due to the presence of the TPM structure, PI-TPMOSi films still display the excellent thermal stability with high glass transition temperature ( T g ) of 314–351 °C and high degradation temperature ( T d5% ) of 480–501 °C. It is quite remarkable that the introduction of TBS side-groups into PI-TPMOSi chains results in more superior optical, dielectric and solubility properties in comparison with the precursor PI-TPMOH films, probably due to the reductions of the packing density and charge-transfer complexes (CTCs) formation. The optical transmittance at 400 nm ( T 400 ) of PI-TPMOSi films is significantly increased from 45.3%–68.8% to 75.4%–81.6% of the precursor PI-TPMOH films. The dielectric constant ( D k ) and dissipation factor ( D f ) at 1 MHz of PI-TPMOSi films are reduced from 4.11–4.40 and 0.00159–0.00235 to 2.61–2.92 and 0.00125–0.00171 of the precursor PI-TPMOH films, respectively. Combining the molecular design and simple preparation method, this study provides an effective approach for enhancement of various properties of PI films for microelectronic and photoelectric engineering applications. | Modified Triphenylmethane-based Polyimides with Improved Optical, Dielectric and Solubility Properties via Post-Polymerization Modification | 10.1007/s10118-023-3018-z |
2023-10-01 | A new thermomechanical process consisting of heavy cold rolling (HCR) and short-time heat treatment (STH) is developed to fabricate fine-grained martensite microstructure in a low-cost plain low-carbon steel. To achieve the optimal mechanical properties after STH, three different ferrite–pearlite (F–P) dual-phase microstructures are prepared via hot rolling (HR), HR and austenitizing, and HR and HCR. The microstructure evolution and the comprehensive mechanical properties of the alloy during STH are then investigated. We find that the volume fractions of transformed martensite after STH increase with decreasing grain sizes of the pre-STH F–P dual phases. The rapid heating and short-time holding of STH promote grain nucleation and inhibit grain growth, resulting in microstructure refinement. The formation of martensites with different morphologies and different carbon concentrations in the HR and HCR + STH alloy is identified, owing to the inhomogeneous carbon distribution by STH. Tensile experiments demonstrate that STH greatly improves the comprehension mechanical properties of the alloy. Excellent mechanical properties, with a yield strength of 1224 MPa, a tensile strength of 1583 MPa, a uniform elongation of 4.0% and a total elongation of 7.3% are achieved in the HR and HCR + STH alloy. These excellent mechanical properties are principally attributed to the microstructure refinement and martensite formation induced by STH, with a yield strength improvement of 134% and a tensile strength improvement of 150% relative to the HR alloy. | Achieving Fine-Grained Microstructure and Superior Mechanical Property in a Plain Low-Carbon Steel Using Heavy Cold Rolling Combined with Short-Time Heat Treatment | 10.1007/s40195-023-01579-8 |
2023-10-01 | Al-Ti based porous materials were successfully synthesized via a combination process of evaporation and hot pressing, utilizing zinc powder as space holder, from Al-25at. % Ti element powders. The phase composition, porous structure, expansion behavior, and porosity were investigated under various evaporation times. Dominant phase Al 3 Ti exhibited cubic or long strip microstructures with the action of zinc, and the diffraction peaks continuously enhanced with the extension of evaporation time. The results illustrated that porous Al 3 Ti intermetallic compounds with open porosity of 66.9% could be prepared by adding 20vol. % zinc powder, while volume expansion was only 16.4%. It was confirmed that two types of pore structure could be observed, including large pores and small pores. Furthermore, the processed porous materials presented a uniform, labyrinth-like network structure. | Study on Processing of Porous Al-Ti Materials with Zinc Powder as Space Holder | 10.1007/s12666-023-02927-z |
2023-10-01 | A visible transparent metamaterial absorber was designed and fabricated with ultrabroadband microwave absorption and low infrared emissivity to meet the increasing demand for multispectral compatible camouflage. The absorber was fabricated with a low-infrared emissive layer at the top, a microwave-absorbing layer in the middle, and a reflective layer at the bottom, which were separated by polymethyl methacrylate plates. The absorber showed an average visible transmittance of 55%, infrared emissivity of ∼0.37, and effective microwave absorption bandwidth of 32.1 GHz with a total thickness of 3.0 mm. Furthermore, microwave absorption exhibited wide-angle stability and polarization insensitivity characteristics. The mechanism of microwave attenuation was further explored through effective electromagnetic parameters as well as surface current, electric field, magnetic field, and energy loss density distributions. The experimental results were consistent with those of the simulations and calculations, indicating the potential of the designed metamaterial absorber for future applications in multispectral compatible camouflage. | Optical transparent metamaterial structure for microwave–infrared-compatible camouflage based on indium tin oxide | 10.1007/s11431-023-2450-0 |
2023-10-01 | Abstract To upgrading the caking property of Shenhua long-flame coal (SH), imidazole ionic liquids (IILs) were used. SH and the treated samples were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and Raman spectroscopy to reveal the upgrading mechanism. The results showed that IILs treatment could improve the caking property of SH. When exploring the effects of IILs with different chain lengths on the caking property of SH, it was found that the caking index of the treated samples first increased and then decreased with increasing chain length, and [C 5 MIM]Cl treatment exhibited the best modification effect among all IILs used. Additionally, an upgrading mechanism of caking property of SH using IILs is proposed. IILs treatment could increase the content of small aromatics with 3–5 rings and decreased the length of side chain alkanes and oxygen content, which could increase the caking property of SH. | Effects of Imidazole Ionic Liquids with Different Chain Lengths on Caking Property of Shenhua Long-Flame Coal | 10.3103/S1068364X23701235 |
2023-10-01 | Environmental and social concerns due to the generation of huge amounts of waste and their improper disposal are some of the serious challenges faced by contemporary civilisation. In the present study, the feasibility of waste-based composites (WBC) which were developed using banana stalk fibres and waste low-density polyethylene (LDPE) was characterised and studied. Pre-treated and untreated banana fibres were added as reinforcement to the LDPE matrix with different weight percentages of 0, 10, 15, 20 and 25%. Mercerisation process was undertaken as the pre-treatment method and 5% (by weight) of NaOH solution was used. WBC sheets were developed using hand lay-up process, and with hot press and cold press machines. Density, uniaxial tensile and water absorption tests were conducted for the developed WBC. Density, Young’s modulus, yield stress, yield strain, ultimate stress, failure strain, resilience modulus, toughness modulus and saturated water absorption were analysed to characterise their properties. The findings indicated that with the addition of banana fibres, enhancements in density, Young’s modulus, yield stress, maximum stress, resilience modulus and water absorption capacity were observed while showing reductions in yield strain, failure strain and toughness modulus compared to unreinforced waste-based LDPE sheets. By considering the overall results, 20 and 15% of optimum fibre additions were observed for pre-treated and untreated fibres, respectively, and mercerisation has positively attributed to the characteristics of WBC. Graphical abstract | Synthesis and characterisation of waste-based composites from banana fibre and low-density polyethylene | 10.1007/s13762-022-04744-1 |
2023-10-01 | Members of the genus Thermaerobacter belong to the phylum Firmicutes and all isolates characterised to date are strictly aerobic and thermophilic. They were isolated from a mud sample of the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench, hydrothermal vents, and silt compost. A novel thermophilic, facultatively lithoautotrophic bacteria of the genus Thermaerobacter , strain PB12/4term (=VKM B–3151 T ), with a metabolism that is uncharacteristic of the type species, was isolated from low-temperature surface sediments near the Posolsk Bank methane seep, Lake Baikal, Russia. The new strain grows with molecular hydrogen as electron donor, elemental sulfur, and thiosulfate as electron acceptors, and CO 2 / $${\textrm{HCO}}_3^{-}$$ HCO 3 - as carbon source. The genome of strain PB12/4term consists of one chromosome with a total length of 2.820.915 bp and the G+C content of the genomic DNA was 72.2%. The phylogenomic reconstruction based on 120 conserved bacterial single-copy proteins revealed that strain PB12/4term belongs to the genus Thermaerobacter within in the class Thermaerobacteria , phylum Firmicutes_E . The strain PB12/4term is closely related to Thermaerobacter subterraneus DSM 13965 (ANI=95.08%, AF=0.91) and Thermaerobacter marianensis DSM 12885 (ANI=84.98%, AF=0.77). Genomic and experimental data confirm the ability of the Thermaerobacter PB12/4term pure culture to facultatively lithotrophic growth, which is provided by the presence of [NiFe]hydrogenase enzymes that are absent in T. marianensis DSM 12885 and T. subterraneus DSM 13965. The data obtained on the physiological and biochemical differences of strain PB12/4term provide a deeper insight into the species diversity and functional activity of the genus Thermaerobacter . | Description and Genomic Analysis of the First Facultatively Lithoautotrophic, Thermophilic Bacteria of the Genus Thermaerobacter Isolated from Low-temperature Sediments of Lake Baikal | 10.1007/s00248-023-02182-1 |
2023-10-01 | Cold stress is one of the abiotic stresses that leads to most losses in citrus. ‘Mexican’ lime is one of the commercial citrus cultivars in the world, which is commonly used as a citrus rootstock. This study aimed to investigate the effect of acetic acid (0 and 15 mM) as a cost-effective agent on the cold tolerance of ‘Mexican’ lime plants at 0 and −6 °C. The results showed that at 0 °C, the increase of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant system significantly increased the cold tolerance of ‘Mexican’ lime plants, while at −6 °C, the non-enzymatic antioxidant system played a more effective role. Plants treated with acetic acid exhibited lower electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde, absorption flux per active reaction center (ABS/RC), and DI 0 /RC at both stress levels. On the other hand, higher levels of total soluble carbohydrate, pigments, F v /F m (maximum quantum yield of PSII [photosystem II] photochemistry), F v /F 0 , PI ABS (performance index of PSII based to absorption), antioxidant capacity, and total phenol were found in acetic acid treated plants. At 0 °C, peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes increased in the treated plants, but a different trend was observed at −6 °C. This study provides strong evidence that acetic acid could moderate cold and freezing stresses in ‘Mexican’ lime plants. | Physio-biochemical Mechanisms of Acetic Acid Involved in Cold and Freezing Tolerance in Mexican Lime Plants (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) | 10.1007/s10341-023-00885-w |
2023-10-01 | Abstract A new mechanism for the renewal of the Sea of Japan intermediate water mass due to the transport of water volumes by mesoscale anticyclonic eddies in the summer season has been established. The structure and dynamics of three eddies over the continental slope east of the Peter the Great Bay are studied in the Sea of Japan based on the data of an autonomous mooring with the Aqualog profiler in June–July 2015. It is shown that the cores of the eddies had an ellipsoidal shape with an elongated lower part. Anticyclones, as isolated dynamic formations, transported water enriched with dissolved oxygen in the western-southwestern direction downstream the Primorye Current along the continental slope. This water based on its thermohaline characteristics corresponded to an intermediate water mass of low salinity in the source of its formation south of the Peter the Great Bay. | Mesoscale Anticyclonic Eddies in the Primorye Current System of the Japan Sea in Summer | 10.1134/S0001437023050107 |
2023-10-01 | Climate warming has gradually become a major problem threatening human survival, and countries have begun to pay attention to carbon emissions. Energy conservation and emission reduction has become a central task in China’s economic development since the 14th Five-Year Plan. As the main force of carbon emissions in China, thermal power industry is bound to become the focus of attention in China’s low-carbon development strategy and energy conservation and emission reduction. Moreover, with the marketization of the power industry, the state has joined the market competition at the power generation sectors and the power sale sectors, and implemented the “opening the middle of the two pipes.” Therefore, the coverage of influence of carbon emissions and carbon investment behavior of power generation companies is not limited to itself, but will also be extended to the supply chain level. Based on the above background, this paper evaluates the scientific rationality of low-carbon investment projects of thermal power enterprises from the perspective of low-carbon supply chain, which not only can help enterprises achieve a win–win situation of economic and environmental benefits, but also contribute to the carbon emission reduction of the entire supply chain, thereby promoting China’s entire social and economic energy conservation and emission reduction work. | Exploration on the scientific rationality of low-carbon investment projects from the perspective of supply chain: a case study of CS thermal power plant | 10.1007/s11356-023-29602-6 |
2023-10-01 | Adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) are a significant cause of fetal death. A wide range of maternal psychological, social, and environmental factors may contribute to these outcomes. Mounting epidemiological studies have indicated that PM 2.5 may result in these unfavorable consequences. Previously published meta-analyses have been updated and extended. Cohort studies were searched from three databases (up to July 24, 2023), and their quality was assessed by Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Publication bias was examined by Egger’s test and funnel plot. Despite a large number of studies showing similar results, the inconsistencies between these findings require careful generalization before concluding. This meta-analysis included 67 cohort studies from 20 countries, and the findings revealed that maternal PM 2.5 exposure and five APOs were correlated significantly throughout pregnancy: preterm birth (PTB) (RR = 1.05; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.07); low birth weight (LBW) (RR = 1.02; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.04); small for gestational age (SGA) (RR = 1.03; 95% CI: 1.01, 1.04); stillbirth (RR = 1.24; 95% CI: 1.06, 1.45); and change in birthweight (weight change = −6.82 g; 95% CI: −11.39, −2.25). A positive association was found between APOs and PM 2.5 exposure in this meta-analysis, and the degree of increased risk of APOs varied due to different gestation periods. Therefore, it is necessary to protect pregnant women at specific times. | Prenatal PM2.5 exposure increases the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes: evidence from meta-analysis of cohort studies | 10.1007/s11356-023-29700-5 |
2023-10-01 | Surface integrity and machining accuracy have important effects on the fatigue life of blisk. During the electrochemical machining (ECM) of blisk, the blade is processed piece by piece. The machined blade profile is exposed to the electric field under low current density and is corroded when the next blade is processed. To investigate stray corrosion during the ECM of blisk, we analyzed the ηω–i curve of Inconel 718 and found that Inconel 718 continues to dissolve at very low current density. We then established a mathematical model of the stray corrosion of blisk in consideration of the electric field factor. Numerical simulations demonstrated that stray corrosion occurs during the ECM of blisk when the machining gap is large (> 1 mm). In a basic experimental investigation of the stray corrosion of Inconel 718, when the machining gap reached 40 mm, the machining time was 220 s, and the amount of corrosion was 0.033 mm. We also carried out ECM experiments with and without protecting the blade from attack by stray current using electrical insulation tape. The maximum corrosion amount of the machined blade was 0.035 mm without protection. In contrast, the protected machined blade was not corroded, and protection enhanced the accuracy and quality of the blisk blade ECM profile. | Investigation of the stray corrosion of Inconel 718 at low current density in NaNO3 solution | 10.1007/s00170-023-11996-9 |
2023-10-01 | The low-carbon transformation of manufacturing enterprises is considered to be imperative to achieve carbon neutrality. Therefore, we propose a data-driven strategy to achieve a low-carbon transformation of manufacturing enterprises from an eco-efficiency perspective. Following the collection of input (energy, materials, equipment, R&D, and services) and output (waste and products) data from production systems of manufacturing enterprises, an ecological efficiency model of manufacturing enterprise production system was constructed from the perspective of carbon emissions, thus allowing the quantitative evaluation of the ecological efficiency of the production system. Furthermore, a “measurable, evaluable, and optimized” low-carbon transformation and upgrading method for manufacturing enterprise production system was established. Finally, through the production practice data of an enterprise from 2017 to 2021, the feasibility and effectiveness of this method were verified. The results show that this method can effectively improve the ecological efficiency of enterprises by 3.6% and reduce waste emissions by 12%. Our study provides new tools for improving the ecological efficiency of manufacturing systems, along with theoretical and methodological support to manufacturing enterprises for low-carbon transformation. | Data-driven low-carbon transformation management for manufacturing enterprises: an eco-efficiency perspective | 10.1007/s11356-023-29573-8 |
2023-10-01 | Storage trials of 4 and 8 months’ duration, using ‘Bartlett’ pear ( Pyrus communis ) fruit treated with and without aminoethoxyvinylglycine (AVG) and stored using ultra low oxygen (ULO) storage (1.5 kPa O 2 ) versus dynamic controlled atmosphere (DCA) (≈ 0.6–0.7 kPa O 2 ) based on chlorophyll fluorescence were conducted over 2 years. AVG applied preharvest and DCA storage produced pears with significantly lower respiration, ethylene, acetaldehyde, ethyl acetate and ethanol post-storage compared to the other treatment combinations. Lower volatiles reflected a higher level of fruit quality. AVG + DCA also exhibited greater green color and firmness retention than the other treatment combinations. There were few disorders in both years of study, with no correlation with field and storage treatments, with the exception of pear scuffing, which was only present in year 2. The incidence of scuffing was positively associated with both fruit softening and yellowing, with DCA + AVG showing the lowest incidence (10%) and ULO + control, the highest (65%). Softening occurred during the shelf life period, as required, and was not an issue for any treatment combination. However, uneven degreening was a concern for fruit treated with DCA + AVG (mainly when firmness at harvest was > 85 N). Future research on higher maturity levels at harvest or reduced AVG rates could address this concern. | The Effect of Aminoethoxyvinylglycine and Dynamic Controlled Atmosphere on the Storage of ‘Bartlett’ Pear | 10.1007/s10341-023-00842-7 |
2023-10-01 | The weldability of steel under the water is limited due to the influence of the environment. Water causes limited visibility, presence of the residual stresses, increasing the cooling rate, and increasing the diffusible hydrogen content in deposited metal, leading to the formation of brittle microstructures in heat-affected zone (HAZ). The paper presents the results of mechanical properties testing of S420G2+M steel welded joints made with covered electrodes in the water with salinity values: 0‰, 7.5‰, and 35‰. The non-destructive tests: ultrasonic (UT) and radiographic (RT), and destructive tests: Vickers HV10 measurements, Charpy impact, and bending and metallographic macro- and microscopic tests were performed. Moreover, the diffusible hydrogen content in deposited metal by the mercury method was measured. It was observed that water salinity has an influence on the stability of the welding arc and the properties of joints. In particular, it was found that increasing the water salinity provides to: decreasing the hardness of HAZ (from 211 HV10 to 193 HV10), increasing the impact strength (from 82.5 to 101.3 J/cm 2 ). Additionally, a slight increase in the diffusible hydrogen content in deposited metal (up to 65 ml/100g) was observed. The number of microcracks in the joints decreased with increasing the water salinity. | Effect of water salinity on properties of multipass underwater wet manual metal arc welded joints | 10.1007/s40194-023-01554-y |
2023-10-01 | Biomass cogeneration systems are capable of producing electrical and thermal energies simultaneously from the same power source in an effective manner. The sugarcane industry is one of the most significant biomass cogeneration systems in the world, and it gets its energy from sugarcane bagasse. Biomass cogeneration systems are capable of producing electrical and thermal energies simultaneously from the same power source in an effective manner. The sugarcane industry is one of the most significant biomass cogeneration systems in the world, and it gets its energy from sugarcane bagasse. The boiler, turbine, mills, and Sugar Distributed Heating System (SDHS) of the Elgunied sugar factory are investigated and tested in the present study using a helpful idea of analyzing the energy and exergy. The flow of energy and exergy across various components is depicted in the current work. It was found that the boiler has the greatest percent of energy destruction compared to the total amount of energy destruction (81.39%), indicating that it is the most important contributor of irreversibilities (34.393 MW exergy destruction compared to (2.857 MW) exergy destruction in mills). In order to maximize the system performance in older systems, extra attention and research must be given to the boiler in particular. | Study of Energy and Exergy of Elgunied Sugar Company Plant in Sudan | 10.1007/s12355-023-01255-2 |
2023-10-01 | Based on the density functional theory (DFT), we investigate the friction properties of inevitable oxidized black phosphorus (o-BP). o-BP with the weaker interlayer adhesion exhibits their great potential as a solid lubricant. At the zero load, the friction property of o-BP is adjusted by its oxidation degree. Expressly, ultra-low friction of P4O2 (50% oxidation, O : P = 2 : 4 = 50%) is obtained, which is attributed to the upper O atoms with lower sliding resistance in the O channel formed by lower layer O atoms. More attractive, we observe superlubricity behavior of o-BP at the critical load/distance due to the flattening potential energy surface (PES). The flattening PES is controlled by the electrostatic role for the high-load (P4O3, O : P = 3 : 4 = 75%), and by the electrostatic and dispersion roles for the low-load (P4O2). Distinctly, the transform from ultra-low friction to superlubricity state of black phosphorus (BP) can be achieved by critical oxidation and load, which shows an important significance in engineering application. In addition, negative friction behavior of o-BP is a general phenomenon (Z > Z min , Z min is the interlayer distances between the outermost P atoms of minimum load.), while its surface-surface model is different from the fold mechanism of the tip-surface model (Z 0 < Z < Z min , Z 0 is the interlayer distances between the outermost P atoms of equilibrium state.). Thus, this phenomenon cannot be captured due to the jump effect with instability of the atomic force microscopy (AFM) (Z > Z min ). In summary, o-BP improves the friction performance and reduces the application limitation, comparing to graphene (Gr), MoS 2 , and their oxides. | From ultra-low friction to superlubricity state of black phosphorus: Enabled by the critical oxidation and load | 10.1007/s40544-022-0699-1 |
2023-10-01 | In Western Norway, farmers have traditionally used fire as a management tool in coastal heathlands to enhance the fodder quality for livestock. Rotational prescribed burning increases landscape heterogeneity by creating a mosaic of different regeneration stages of heather. Ground beetle (Coleoptera: Carabidae) responses to fire in traditionally managed coastal heathland have already been studied, but less is known about other beetle groups in this system. We compared the beetle activity between patches of mature and recently burnt heath, by looking at diversity indices, species composition and ecological preferences and traits. Contrary to previous studies, we did not find an increase in beta diversity after disturbance, but we found that prescribed burning offers micro-environmental conditions which enhanced the activity of sun-loving and xerophilous species. We also identified new indicator species for both mature and pioneer heath in five beetle families: Carabidae, Staphylinidae, Curculionidae, Leiodidae, and Scirtidae. Rotational prescribed burning was confirmed to be an efficient conservation tool for specialists without affecting the overall diversity of the site. We recommend the use of several taxa, ecological preferences and traits to assess the impact of prescribed burning and to monitor the condition of traditionally managed coastal heathlands. | Traditional prescribed burning of coastal heathland provides niches for xerophilous and sun-loving beetles | 10.1007/s10531-023-02684-x |
2023-10-01 | The construction of low-carbon cities is an essential component of sustainable urban development. However, there is a lack of a comprehensive low-carbon city design and evaluation system that incorporates “ carbon sink accounting—remote sensing monitoring—numerical modelling—design and application ” in an all-around linkage, multi-scale coupling, and localized effects. This paper utilizes the Citespace tool to evaluate low-carbon city design applications by analyzing literature in the Web of Science (WOS) core collection database. The results reveal that low-carbon cities undergo four stages: “ measurement—implementation—regulation – management .” The research themes are divided into three core clustering evolutionary pathways: “ extension of carbon sink functions ,” “ spatialisation of carbon sink systems ,” and “ full-cycle, full-dimensional decarbonisation .” Applications include “ Utility studies of multi-scale carbon sink assessments ,” “ Correlation analysis of carbon sink influencing factors ,” “ Predictive characterisation of multiple planning scenarios ,” and “S patial planning applications of urban sink enhancement .” Future low-carbon city construction should incorporate intelligent algorithm technology in real-time to provide a strong design basis for multi-scale urban spatial design with the features of “high-precision accounting, full-cycle assessment and low-energy concept.” | A review of applied research on low-carbon urban design: based on scientific knowledge mapping | 10.1007/s11356-023-29490-w |
2023-10-01 | Emulsion treated base (ETB) is a cold mix base layer stabilization technique in which virgin aggregates or recycled aggregates are treated with slow-setting bituminous emulsion. ETB in low-volume roads (LVR) can act as a stabilized base layer, which could replace the granular base layer. However, not many projects are coming up with ETB due to the absence of appropriate construction guidelines and pavement design catalogues for LVR incorporating ETB. In the present study, test sections were constructed on a LVR with six different combinations of ETB, and moduli values were back-calculated from the deflection data collected using falling weight deflectometer. Moduli of ETB layers were back-calculated using KGPBACK software, and the critical pavement responses were evaluated using IITPAVE software. Design catalogues were developed based on mechanistic empirical design principles, considering the back-calculated moduli of ETB, and was compared with the thicknesses required in case of pavements incorporating conventional granular base layers. It was observed that the application of ETB in LVR can reduce the need for virgin aggregates in base layers by 35–40%. The study proposes relationship between indirect tensile strength and back-calculated moduli of ETB, so that the designer can appropriately select the moduli values corresponding to the design mix, and evaluate the required pavement thicknesses. Based on the calculated equivalent layer thickness of ETB, it was concluded that 1 unit of ETB layer was equivalent to 1.4–1.7 times the conventional granular base layer, depending upon the mix constituents. | Construction and Evaluation of Low-Volume Roads Incorporating Emulsion Treated Base Layers | 10.1007/s40098-023-00724-5 |
2023-10-01 | Background Ovarian cancer is the most lethal cancer in gynaecology. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are the most often used cancer-fighting strategies. Post-surgery infection is fairly prevalent, especially among people with insufficient immunity. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnOnps) have amazing biomedical features as anticancer and antibacterial agents. Methods We investigated the behaviour of ZnOnps synthesized by green methods on ovarian cancers using established human ovarian cancer cell lines, besides the antibacterial action toward models of gram + ve and gram -ve bacteria. The cytotoxic effect of ZnOnps was calculated using a Sulforhodamine B (SRB) trial. Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli ( E. coli) were tested as models for gram + ve and gram -ve bacteria. The selected bacteria were subjected to concentrations of 20, 40, 80, and 100 μg/ml. Results The synthesized ZnOnps induced 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) at a concentration of 27.45 μg/ml. The diameter of inhibition ranged between 20.16 ± 0.16 and 27 ± 0.57 mm for S. aureus and 25.66 ± 0.33 to 31 ± 0.33 mm for E. coli . ZnOnps antagonistic effect statistically differed with neomycin, cefaclor, and cefadroxil. Conclusions Green synthesis of ZnOnps is easily prepared, low cost, non-toxic, and eco-friendly. Their cytotoxic action on SKOV3 cells and their antibacterial characteristics pave the way to be an alternative therapy for ovarian cancer and S. aureus and E. coli infection. | Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Promise Anticancer and Antibacterial Activity in Ovarian Cancer | 10.1007/s11095-023-03505-0 |
2023-10-01 | Abstract The mechanism of the formation of large sedimentary basins on the continents is among the main problems in geodynamics. The formation of such structures far from convergent plate boundaries is most often explained by intense stretching of the lithospheric layer (rifting). This should be followed by a large and prolonged crustal subsidence due to cooling of the stretched lithosphere. A characteristic feature of the post-rift subsidence is a decrease in its rate in time by several times over a hundred million years. Rifting in the West Siberian Basin was associated with the formation of Permian–Triassic graben-rifts. The subsequent (post-rift) subsidence is considered by many researchers as a cause of the formation of a thick layer of Mesozoic and Cenozoic sediments in the basin. Over the 86 Ma that passed from the beginning of the Middle Triassic to the end of the Middle Jurassic, the rate of post-rift subsidence should have decreased by about a factor of three. In fact, the opposite trend developed. Judging by the data of the Tyumen (SG-6) and En-Yakhin (SG-7) superdeep wells drilled in the northern part of the basin, the rate of crustal subsidence increased several times during this period of time. Such a sharp difference between the expected post-rift subsidence and the actual subsidence of the crust indicates that lithospheric stretching was not the main subsidence mechanism, and it could support only a small part of the subsidence. Under such circumstances, the main cause of the subsidence would have to be contraction of rocks in the Earth’s crust due to prograde metamorphism. | The Origin of the West Siberian Sedimentary Basin without Strong Crustal Stretching: An Analysis of Superdeep Drilling Data | 10.1134/S1028334X23601517 |
2023-10-01 | Low-volatility organophosphorus chemical warfare agents (OP CWAs) are cholinesterase inhibitors which easily absorb into the skin, leading to the formation of a dermal depot from which they slowly enter the bloodstream. This leads to sustained cholinergic hyperstimulation, which if untreated may lead to death. However, current available countermeasures are not adequate to neutralize the agent residing in the dermal depot. Accordingly, we evaluated the efficacy of the potassium salt of acetohydroxamic acid (880 mg/ml in DMSO/H 2 O 1:4, AHAK), as a potential “catch-up” therapy lotion intended to neutralize the dermal depot, by penetrating the skin and decomposing it before it reaches the bloodstream. To that end, we compared the clinical outcome following skin surface decontamination combined with antidotal treatment, to that following the same antidotal treatment combined with dermal application of AHAK at the site of VX exposure, against percutaneous poisoning by a lethal neat dose (4 mg/kg) of the low-volatility nerve agent VX, in an unanesthetized swine model. Following skin surface decontamination and antidotal treatment, recurrence of intoxication signs and a prolonged recovery time were observed. In contrast, similar antidotal treatment combined with dermal application of AHAK significantly reduced intoxication signs recurrences and accordingly medical supervision duration needed, paralleled by a significantly faster recovery of whole blood cholinesterase activity. An initial evaluation demonstrated the safety of prolonged whole-body AHAK application. Hence, the AHAK lotion may act as an efficient “catch-up” therapy against percutaneous poisoning by low-volatility OP CWAs, improving the clinical outcome and reducing the burden on medical staff. | “Catch-up" therapy: combining antidotal treatment with dermal application of AHA following percutaneous VX poisoning in the domestic swine | 10.1007/s00204-023-03574-5 |
2023-10-01 | Exposure to air pollution is associated with increased cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases. However, the evidence regarding the short-term effect of air pollution on cardio- and cerebrovascular hospitalisations in areas with relatively low air pollution levels is limited. This study aims to examine the effect of short-term exposure to different air pollutants on hospital admissions due to cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases in rural and regional Australia with low air pollution. The study was conducted in five local Government areas of Hunter New England Local Health District (HNE-LHD). Hospitalisation data from January 2018 to February 2020 (820 days) were accessed from the HNE-LHD admitted patients’ dataset. Poisson regression model was used to examine the association between the exposure (air pollutants) and outcome variables (hospitalisation due to cardio- and cerebrovascular disease). The concentrations of gaseous air pollutants, Sulphur Dioxide (SO 2 ), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO 2 ), Ozone (O 3 ), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Ammonia (NH 3 ) were below national benchmark concentrations for every day of the study period. In single pollutant models, SO 2 and NO 2 significantly increased the daily number of cardio- and cerebrovascular hospitalisations. The highest cumulative effect for SO 2 was observed across lag 0–3 days (Incidence Rate Ratio, IRR: 1.77; 95% Confidence Interval, CI: 1.18–2.65; p -value: 0.01), and for NO 2 , it was across lag 0–2 days (IRR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.02–1.25; p -value: 0.02). In contrast, higher O 3 was associated with decreased cardio- and cerebrovascular hospitalisations, with the largest effect observed at lag 0 (IRR: 0.94; 95% CI: 0.89–0.98; p -value: 0.02). In the multi-pollutant model, the effect of NO 2 remained significant at lag 0 and corresponded to a 21% increase in cardio- and cerebrovascular hospitalisation (95% CI: 1–44%; p -value = 0.04). Thus, the study revealed that gaseous air pollutants, specifically NO 2 , were positively related to increased cardio- and cerebrovascular hospitalisations, even at concentrations below the national standards. | Effect of short-term exposure to air pollution on daily cardio- and cerebrovascular hospitalisations in areas with a low level of air pollution | 10.1007/s11356-023-29544-z |
2023-10-01 | Background The aim of the study was to determine the potential of a low-fat diet (LFD) to protect against oxidative and inflammatory damage in the course of asthma and obesity when combined with antioxidants (alpha-lipoic acid–ALA, apocynin–APO) or a probiotic (P) ( Lactobacillus casei ). Methods The experiments were carried out on ten groups of male C57/BL6 mice that were fed standard fat (SFD), low-fat (LFD), or high-fat (HFD) diets. Ovalbumin (OVA, administered subcutaneously and by inhalation) was used to sensitize the animals. IL-1α, IL-10, eotaxin-1, leptin, and TNF-α concentrations were examined in blood, while total glutathione (GSHt), reduced glutathione (GSH), oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and –SH groups were measured in lung homogenates. Results LFD in combination with the analyzed compounds (APO, P, ALA) significantly decreased the concentration of IL-1α compared to the OVA + HFD group ( p < 0.01; p = 0.025; p = 0.002, respectively). Similarly, the treated mice demonstrated lower eotaxin-1 concentrations compared to the HFD group ( p < 0.001). Moreover, supplementation of LFD with probiotics significantly increased the concentration of IL-10 vs. controls ( p < 0.001) and vs. untreated OVA-sensitized and challenged/obese mice ( p < 0.001). Animals administered APO/ALA with LFD displayed a significant decrease in TNF-α concentration compared to OVA + HFD mice ( p = 0.013; p = 0.002 respectively). Those treated with ALA displayed significantly improved GSH levels ( p = 0.035) compared to OVA + HFD mice. Conclusions Supplementation of the tested compounds with LFD appears to have a positive influence on the glutathione redox status of pulmonary tissues and selected inflammatory parameters in mouse blood. | Alpha-lipoic acid, apocynin or probiotics influence glutathione status and selected inflammatory parameters in C57/BL6 mice when combined with a low-fat diet | 10.1007/s43440-023-00527-8 |
2023-10-01 | The cost of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) is one of the most major obstacles to their widespread use. The cost of these alloys with significant amounts of five metals might reach very high levels depending on the type and quantity of metal utilised. Therefore, this study examined the effect of the use of ferro-alloys as part of the charge mixture on the properties of AlCoFeNiMoTi alloy. Ferro-alloys are much less expensive than the pure form of the same metal. To that end, two groups of samples were produced. The AlCoFeNiMoTi alloy was produced using high-purity metals as the metallic charge in the first group of samples. Instead of utilising the pure forms of some expensive metals that make up such alloy, as the metallic charge, lower-cost ferro-alloy forms were employed in the second group of samples. Following the preparation of the appropriate compositions, alloys were produced using the arc-melting method, and the produced alloys were subject to homogenization heat treatment. The obtained samples were characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Then, mechanical and corrosion tests were run. The corrosion resistance of the HEAs was compared with an electrochemical polarisation technique in a 3.5% NaCl electrolyte. It was observed that many intermetallics precipitated through the heat treatment of the samples, and the precipitates negatively affected the mechanical properties of the alloy. Also, in the samples in which ferro-alloy was used instead of pure metal, the mechanical properties were substantially degraded. This is believed to be associated with the presence of inclusions and other residues in ferro-alloys. Graphical Abstract | The Effect of Using Ferro-Alloy on the Properties of AlCoFeNiMoTi High-Entropy Alloy Produced by Arc-Melting Method: Design of Low Cost | 10.1007/s40962-023-00975-1 |
2023-10-01 | The water saving technology for lowland rice cultivation was very crucial because of in the future irrigation water become scarce and competed with other sectors. The lowering of the availability of irrigation water had the impact for sustainability of rice production. The study revealed that treatment I 1 attributed by the highest total water use (1646 mm) and the lowest Water productivity (0.46 kg m −3 ) produced the highest grain yield (7.56 t/ha). Treatment I 5 and I 6 , on the contrary, gave the second highest yield (7.21 and 7.05 t/ha) and consequently the second highest water productivity (0.65 and 0.59 kgm −3 ) indicating quite a large water saving (26.6 and 35%) compared to treatment I 1 . The yields in treatments I 4 (6.0 t/ha) and I 8 (6.30 t/ha) were significantly lower at 5% level of significance compared to that of treatment I 1 . No significant effect was found for the AWD irrigation regimes on the post-harvest soil nutrient status. Reduced plant height, leaf area index, plant nutrient uptake, grain yield, straw yield and harvest index were found with the increasing water stress. The study emphasized that rice crop can be successfully grown by adopting an appropriate AWD irrigation regime without any significant yield decline under sandy clay soils. | Alternate wetting and drying irrigation technology for sustainable rice (Oryza sativa) production | 10.1007/s10333-023-00949-3 |
2023-10-01 | The influence mechanism of trace boron on the corrosion resistance of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel in a simulated marine environment was studied by combining first-principles calculation with experiment. The effect of boron on the corrosion properties and corrosion morphology of the rust layer formed on the surface of HSLA steel was studied by means of corrosion weightlessness method, polarization curve, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. The mass loss measurements and polarization curves revealed that the corrosion resistance of HSLA steel is improved by adding trace boron. XRD and SEM results show that the rust layer is produced by α-FeOOH (the main protective phase), Fe 3 O 4 and γ-FeOOH, and boron contributes to stability of α-FeOOH. Based on the first-principles calculation, the solid solution of B atom in the corrosion product is beneficial to the fixation of Cl atom and to the reduction of the corrosion of Cl atom to the steel matrix. | Effect of trace boron on corrosion resistance of rust layer of high-strength low-alloy steel in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution | 10.1007/s42243-022-00890-5 |
2023-10-01 | Abstract The results of a comprehensive study of the Lower–Upper Ypresian boundary sediments at the Suvlu-Kaya Mountain section (Bakhchisarai region, Southwestern Crimea) are presented. The evolution of formation of the nummulitic bank in the study area is shown based on a detailed microfacies analysis. The sediments were formed on a deep shelf with depths at and below the storm wave base. It has been established that the Ypresian transgression was developed gradually, in three stages, with the maximum at the end of the Early Ypresian, and then was followed by a long-term regression. The data are confirmed by the results of the micropaleontological analysis of the morphogroups. | The Paleogeography of the Formation of the Eocene Nummulitic Bank in Southwestern Crimea According to Lithological and Paleontological Data | 10.3103/S0145875223050083 |
2023-10-01 | On February 6, 2023, an M w 7.8 earthquake hit the south of Kahramanmaras prefecture, Turkey, followed by another M w 7.5 earthquake after nine hours in the middle region of the Kahramanmaras prefecture. More than 84,000 buildings collapsed or were severely damaged, and more than 50,000 lives were lost in Turkey and Syria. Some of the authors, as members of Chinese rescue team, entered Antakya, Hatay prefecture, and investigated the damaged buildings. This paper first summarizes the damage patterns of buildings and provides three reasons for the massive number of collapsed buildings; i.e., the lack of seismic measures for better ductility, site effects such as liquefaction and surface rupture, and pronounced low-frequency components of the ground motions. Next, the seismic responses of two typical buildings are calculated based on the geometric data estimated by visual inspection. The results imply that the resonance of the whole structure and the poorer ductility of key members resulted in the collapse of buildings. Finally, some conclusions are drawn. Note that although a large number of buildings were seriously damaged to collapse, the majority of buildings in the areas of extreme shaking were lightly or moderately damaged, which implies that well designed and constructed buildings were able to survive and protect human lives even in over-design earthquakes. | Preliminary investigation of building damage in Hatay under February 6, 2023 Turkey earthquakes | 10.1007/s11803-023-2201-0 |
2023-10-01 | Objectives To investigate the influence of instrumentation angle during low-abrasive air polishing (LAA) on the oral gingiva using an ex vivo porcine model. Material and methods Six tissue samples from each of 14 porcine mandibles were randomly selected and instrumented. Two different LAA powders (glycine 25 μm, tagatose 15 μm) were investigated. An application angle of either 30–60° or 90° was selected. Gingival specimens from different mandibles served as untreated references. Gingival biopsies were examined by scanning electron microscopy and paraffin histology for tissue destruction using a five-level scale. Results LAA caused significantly less tissue damage at a 90° angle than at a 30–60° angle. This effect was seen in both the glycine-based powder arms ( p = 0.002, p = 0.046) and the tagatose-based powder arms ( p = 0.003, p = 0.011). However, at identical working angles, the two powders did not show significant differences in terms of gingival erosion ( p = 0.79 and p = 0.57; p = 0.91 and p = 0.78, respectively). Conclusions LAA may cause less tissue damage at an application angle of 90°. Consequently, it seems advisable to air-polish the soft tissue as perpendicularly as possible. Additionally, glycine and tagatose LAA powders do not seem to differ in concern of soft tissue damage. Clinical relevance Within the limitations of this ex vivo animal model, this study argues for an application that is as close as possible to the 90° angle intending to minimize soft tissue damage. Manufacturer specifications, however, mainly request applications deviating from the right angle. In order to work in interdental areas using LAA safely, the use of subgingival nozzles might be considered. | The working angle in low-abrasive air polishing has an influence on gingival damage—an ex vivo porcine model | 10.1007/s00784-023-05236-3 |
2023-10-01 | Abstract The structure and texture of the fatigue fracture of a tubing sub made of a ferritic–pearlitic steel are studied. The microstructure is found to be characterized by a small grain size, a high edge-dislocation density, and a developed crystallographic rolling texture with a tension texture superposed on it. The growth of grains with the {112}〈111〉 and {114}〈221〉 orientations and the suppression of the {001}〈110〉, {112}〈110〉, and {110}〈001〉 texture components are shown to accelerate fatigue fracture. | Microstructure and Crystallographic Texture of a Ferritic–Pearlitic Steel Subjected to Fatigue Fracture | 10.1134/S0036029523100191 |
2023-10-01 | Abstract The effect of laser cutting on the microstructure and microhardness of the cutting surface of gears from a gear train made of structural St3 carbon steel is investigated. The structure in the laser-affected zone is found to differ from the initial ferritic–pearlitic structure and to consist of several layers with a total thickness of about 0.35 mm. The microhardness of this zone can be 420–500 HV, which is 2.5–3 times higher than the initial hardness of the steel. The possibility of combining laser cutting of rolled products of a given thickness with surface hardening is confirmed. | Formation of a Hardened Surface Layer in Gears from a Gear Train Made of Structural St3 Carbon Steel during Laser Cutting | 10.1134/S003602952310021X |
2023-10-01 | Abstract The hyperfine structure of the components of the doublet EPR spectrum of atomic hydrogen in silicon dioxide (silica gel, quartz, or molybdenum glass) γ-irradiated at 77 K is due to the overlap of two doublets with α = 50.5 and 50.4 mT, a standard singlet and a resolved multiplet, responsible for the accumulation and stabilization of two types of surface and bulk atomic hydrogen. Surface hydrogen atoms formed upon the dissociation of surface OH groups and water molecules are stabilized in dry traps, and they have a standard doublet with α = 50.5 mT in the EPR spectra. Bulk hydrogen atoms are formed (upon radiolysis) and stabilized in internal water clusters of SiO 2 . In the water medium of clusters, bulk hydrogen atoms are affected by the protons of the water environment and, interacting with protons, they exhibit a multiplet doublet with α = 50.4 mT in the EPR spectra. The contribution of the multiplet doublet to the total spectrum depends on the type of SiO 2 and the radiation dose. The fraction of a multiplet doublet in macroporous glass at a dose of 120 kGy was 40%. When water was completely removed from a SiO 2 matrix, bulk hydrogen atoms disappeared, and a standard doublet of atomic hydrogen was recorded in the EPR spectra after an irradiation dose of 40 kGy or higher. | Atomic Hydrogen in Gamma-Irradiated Silicon Dioxide | 10.1134/S0018143923050053 |
2023-10-01 | To advance evidence-based practice and targeted treatments of low back pain (LBP), a better pathophysiological understanding and reliable outcome measures are required. The processing of nociceptive information from deeper somatic structures (e.g., muscle, fascia) might play an essential role in the pathophysiology of LBP. In this study, we measured the intra- and inter-session reliability of electrical detection and pain thresholds of cutaneous and muscle primary afferents of the lower back. Twenty healthy participants attended two study visits separated by 27.7 ± 1.7 days. To determine the location-specific electrical detection threshold (EDT) and pain threshold (EPT), needle electrodes were inserted in the epidermal layer over, and in the lumbar erector spinae muscle. Additionally, established quantitative sensory testing (QST) parameters were assessed. Reliability was determined by differences between measurements, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC 2,1 ), Bland–Altman plots, and standard error of measurement (SEM). Correspondence between QST parameters and electrical thresholds was assessed using Pearson’s correlation . Except for cutaneous EPT, no significant ( p ≤ 0.05) intra- and inter-session differences were observed. Excellent intra-session reliability was shown for cutaneous and intramuscular electrical stimulations and all QST parameters (ICC: 0.76–0.93). Inter-session reliabilities were good (ICC: 0.74–0.75) except for electrical stimulations (ICC: 0.08–0.36). Limits of agreement and SEM were higher for inter-session than intra-session. A medium to strong relationship was found between electrical and mechanical/pressure pain thresholds. In conclusion, cutaneous and intramuscular electrical stimulation will potentially close an important diagnostic gap regarding the selective examination of deep tissue afferents and provide location-specific information for the excitability of non-nociceptive and nociceptive afferents. | Intra- and inter-session reliability of electrical detection and pain thresholds of cutaneous and muscle primary afferents in the lower back of healthy individuals | 10.1007/s00424-023-02851-7 |
2023-10-01 | The aim of this study is to assess the relationship between somatosensory functional changes and inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) exposure after impacted mandibular third molars (M3M) removal. We recruited 35 patients who underwent impacted M3M extraction near the IAN. The M3Ms were extracted by combined endoscopy, piezosurgery, and contra-angle high-speed turbine handpiece. All IAN canal perforations and exposed regions were recorded and measured by endoscopy after extraction and on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images before extraction. The patients were followed up 1, 7, and 35 days after surgery. A standardized quantitative sensory testing (QST) battery was performed on the lower lip skin. All of 35 cases had exposed IAN on CBCT images, 5 of which had no exposed IAN under endoscopy. For the other 30 cases, the endoscopy-measured IAN length and width were shorter than the CBCT measurements ( P < 0.001). The warm and mechanical detection thresholds (MDT) on the operation side were significantly higher than the contralateral side after surgery ( P < 0.05). Thermal sensory limen, MDT, and cold pain threshold were strongly correlated with the exposed IAN length and MDT also with the exposed IAN width one day after surgery. In conclusion, it was found that not all exposed IAN in CBCT images were real exposure after surgery. The intraoperative exposed IAN endoscopic measurements were smaller than by CBCT and strongly correlated with some QST parameters. | Endoscopic visualization of the inferior alveolar nerve associated with somatosensory changes after impacted mandibular third molar extraction | 10.1007/s10266-023-00788-y |
2023-10-01 | Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a rare immuno-mediated adverse reaction with high thrombotic and mortality risk. To evaluate incidence and outcomes of HIT cases diagnosed at a tertiary care hospital from 2007 to 2018. A retrospective study was conducted. Patients with suspected HIT underwent 4Ts score assessment and anti-heparin PF4 IgG antibodies ELISA screening test. If the latter was positive, platelet aggregation test (PAT) was performed. If the latter was positive, any form of heparin was stopped, alternative anticoagulants were started and then overlapped with warfarin. HIT incidence was calculated by dividing HIT cases by the mean yearly number of admitted patients over 11 years. Follow-up was 90 days. Among 2125 screening tests, 96 (4.5%) were positive with confirmatory PAT in 82/90 (3.8% for missing data in 6). Median age was 75; 39 patients were surgical and 51 medical. The median 4Ts score was 5. Unfractionated heparin was employed in 34 (37%). HIT incidence was 0.16/1000/patient/years (95% CI: 0.12–0.23) in surgical and 0.15/1000/patient/years (95%: 0.12–0.20) in medical patients. HIT with thrombosis (HIT-T) was observed in 31 patients (0.05/1000/patient/years 95% CI: 0.04–0.1), with venous thromboses in 25 (80%). HIT without thrombosis was observed in 59 patients (0.1/1000 patient/years; 95% CI: 0.08–0.13, twofold vs HIT-T). All cause mortality was 25.5% (95% CI: 17.6–35.4), major bleeding 7.7% (95% CI:3.2–15.3), and thromboembolic complications 3.3% (95% CI:1.1–9.3). HIT is a rare event with high mortality, despite the use of non heparin anticoagulants. | Incidence and clinical outcomes of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia: 11 year experience in a tertiary care university hospital | 10.1007/s11739-023-03379-5 |
2023-10-01 | The initial pitting corrosion behavior triggered by inclusions in S420 low alloy steel in acidic artificial seawater (ASW) and weak-alkaline ASW was characterized. The geometric data of the corrosion pits formed in the ASW with different pH were calculated. The pH of the ASW has an obvious influence on the pit shape. The pits in acidic ASW exhibit a funnel shape, while those in weak-alkaline ASW present a cone shape with a larger pit volume. The reason for the difference in the morphology and size of the corrosion pits induced by inclusion is that it is easier to trigger micro-galvanic corrosion in different structures and different areas of the pits in the acidic environment. | pH-dependent corrosion initiation behavior induced by inclusions of low alloy steel in simulated marine environments | 10.1007/s42243-022-00878-1 |
2023-10-01 | Background The plethysmography variability index (PVI) is a non-invasive, real-time, and automated parameter for evaluating fluid responsiveness, but it does not reliably predict fluid responsiveness during low tidal volume (V T ) ventilation. We hypothesized that in a ‘tidal volume challenge’ with a transient increase in tidal volume from 6 to 8 ml Kg − 1 , the changes in PVI could predict fluid responsiveness reliably. Method We performed a prospective interventional study in adult patients undergoing hepatobiliary or pancreatic tumor resections and receiving controlled low V T ventilation. The values for PVI, perfusion index, stroke volume variation, and stroke volume index (SVI) were recorded at baseline V T of 6 ml Kg − 1 , 1 min after the V T challenge (8 ml Kg − 1 ), 1 min after V T 6 ml Kg − 1 reduced back again, and then 5 min after crystalloid fluid bolus 6 ml kg − 1 (actual body weight) administered over 10 min. The fluid responders were identified by SVI rise ≥ 10% after the fluid bolus. Results The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for PVI value change (ΔPVI 6–8 ) after increasing V T from 6 to 8 ml Kg − 1 was 0.86 (95% confidence interval, 0.76–0.96), P < 0.001, 95% sensitivity, 68% specificity, and with best cut-off value of absolute change (ΔPVI 6–8 ) = 2.5%. Conclusion In hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeries, tidal volume challenge improves the reliability of PVI for predicting fluid responsiveness and changes in PVI values obtained after tidal volume challenge are comparable to the changes in SVI. | Effects of tidal volume challenge on the reliability of plethysmography variability index in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgeries: a prospective interventional study | 10.1007/s10877-023-00977-8 |
2023-10-01 | It is controversial as to whether soft tissue reinforcement mesh should be used for immediate prosthetic breast reconstruction after nipple-sparing mastectomy for low-volume breast early breast cancer (LVBEBC) in Chinese adult women. We collected data on 89 patients with LVBEBC who underwent such a surgery and divided them into two groups: 39 patients in the totally subpectoral prosthesis-only breast reconstruction group (simple group) and 50 patients in the prosthesis-combined titanium-coated polypropylene mesh (TCPM) group (or the so-called "dual plane" or "mesh-assisted partially subpectoral breast reconstruction group") (combined group). The results demonstrated no difference in operative time, intraoperative bleeding, and postoperative complications between the two groups; however, total drainage volume and extubation time were less and shorter, respectively, in the combined group. The median follow-up time was 18.6 months without local recurrence or distant metastasis in both groups. At 24 months after surgery, the excellent and good rates of breast reconstruction were higher in the combined group. However, patients' BMI, breast morphology, and breast volume of 300 mL or more had an effect on the shape of the reconstructed breast; in addition, in patients with higher BMI, conical breast morphology, and breast volume over 300 mL, the shape of the breast was more perfect with the prosthesis combined with TCPM reconstruction. Trial registration : This retrospective study was "retrospectively registered" in the Sixth Affiliated Hospital of South China University of Technology of China on March 15, 2022 (No. 2022018) and in the National Medical Research Registry filing system of China ( https://www.medicalresearch.org.cn ) (No. MR-44-22-003618). Graphical Abstract | Is a soft tissue reinforcing mesh necessary in immediate prosthetic breast reconstruction for early breast cancer in patients with low-volume breast? A single-center, retrospective Chinese clinical study | 10.1007/s13304-023-01585-6 |
2023-10-01 | Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell derived exosomes (BMSC-exos) are a crucial means of intercellular communication and can regulate a range of biological processes by reducing inflammation, decreasing apoptosis and promoting tissue repair. The process of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is accompanied by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) because of a decrease in the expression of Nrf2, a critical transcription factor that resists excessive ROS. Our study demonstrated that BMSC-exos decreased ROS production by inhibiting Keap1 and promoting Nrf2 expression, attenuating the apoptosis, inflammation, and degeneration of nucelus pulposus (NP) cells. BMSC-exos promoted an increase in Nrf2 and nuclear translocation, while NF-κB expression was downregulated during this process. Additionally, the expression of antioxidative proteins was elevated after treatment with BMSC-exos. In vivo, we found more NP tissue retention in the BMSC-exos-treated group, along with more expression of Nrf2 and antioxidant-related proteins. Our findings demonstrated for the first time that BMSC-exos could restore the down-regulated antioxidant response system in degenerating NP cells by modulating the Keap1/Nrf2 axis. BMSC-exos could be used as an immediate ROS modulator in the treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration. Graphical Abstract When BMSC-exos were uptaken by NPCs, the expression of Keap1 decreased and this led to increased expression of Nrf2. Nuclear translocation of Nrf2 then promoted the synthesis of antioxidants against ROS and inhibited NF-kB signalling. Cellular inflammation, apoptosis, and ECM-related indicators were further reduced. Together, the process of IVDD was alleviated | MSC-Derived Exosomes Ameliorate Intervertebral Disc Degeneration By Regulating the Keap1/Nrf2 Axis | 10.1007/s12015-023-10570-w |
2023-10-01 | Troctolites, olivine and picrite gabbrodolerites account for up to 75% of the Lower Talnakh type intrusions in areas of their elevated thickness, whereas reduced sections consist of olivine-free and olivine-bearing gabbrodolerites. The high-Mg cumulates show no clear differentiation, although the contents of TiO 2 and alkalis increase towards the upper inner contacts. The transitions between the rock types are gradational, and the compositions of low-Ni olivine in different rocks ( Fo 70–83 , 0.01–0.2 wt % NiO) overlap significantly. Clinopyroxene ( Fs 7–13 , Mg# 68–89) is characterized by the lowest both contents and variation ranges of Cr 2 O 3 (0.01–0.5 wt %) and TiO 2 (0.05–1.0 wt %) among all types of the intrusions of the Norilsk complex, which is consistent with the Cr-depleted (0.002–0.051 wt % Cr 2 O 3 ) bulk rock compositions. Later orthopyroxene ( Fs 15–30 ) is crystallized by the reaction of the residual melt with early olivine. Plagioclase forms porphyritic phenocrysts and their intergrowths along with ophitic laths, and also predominates in schlierens and fragments of leucocratic rocks in taxitic and picritic gabbrodolerites with a weakly sorted layered texture. In olivine-rich rocks, sulfides are represented by the association of troilite ± hexagonal pyrrhotite + Fe- and Co-rich pentlandite + Fe-enriched chalcopyrite (±putoranite, talnakhite) ± cubanite. The upper and lower parts of the intrusions contain association of hexagonal pyrrhotite + chalcopyrite + pentlandite, while monoclinic pyrrhotite + chalcopyrite + Ni-enriched pentlandite are formed in the inner- and outer contacts. The concentration of base (0.077–0.21 wt % Ni, 0.05–0.38 wt % Cu) and platinum metals (0.03–0.26 to 0.40 ppm total PGE) in mineralized rocks is very low. Upon small amounts of sulfides and extremely low base and platinum metal tenors, the heterogeneous S isotopic composition of the Lower Talnakh type sulfides (δ 34 S mainly 3.8–8.6‰, but reaches up to 11.8‰) most likely reflects the attainment of repeated sulfide saturation during the assimilation of sulfate S by magma that has previously experienced the loss of chalcophile metals into a coexisting sulfide liquid at a depth. The Sr-Nd isotopic compositions of the Lower Talnakh intrusions (Sr i —from 0.7073 to 0.7087 and ε Nd (Т) from –1.8 to –5.9 calculated for 250 Ma) show the predominant contribution of the Proterozoic material, in contrast to the ore-bearing intrusions, which Sr-Nd isotope compositions indicate the contamination with Paleozoic upper crustal sedimentary rocks. | Lower Talnakh Type Intrusions of the Norilsk Ore Region | 10.1134/S0869591123050065 |
2023-10-01 | This study considers the implementation of the “Broadband China” strategy as an exogenous policy shock and examines the impact of network infrastructure construction (NIC) on the low-carbon innovation (LCI) of enterprises and its underlying mechanisms by using a progressive difference-in-difference model based on the data of Chinese listed enterprises from 2009 to 2020. This study finds that NIC can improve the LCI of enterprises. After the elimination of the sample selection bias and selection of the urban slope as the exogenous instrumental variable, the conclusions remained robust. The results of the mechanism test show that upgrading the human capital level, reducing transaction costs, and alleviating financing constraints are the three important paths through which NIC can help enterprises improve their LCI level. The heterogeneity analysis determines that NIC has considerable comparative advantages for enterprises with executives who have a financial background and enterprises with high knowledge stock. In addition, LCI improvement can further enhance enterprise value. The research conclusions can broaden the microscopic research perspective of enterprise transformation and upgrading theory and provide reliable empirical evidence for China’s low-carbon economic transformation. | Can network infrastructure construction improve the low-carbon innovation of Chinese enterprises? | 10.1007/s11356-023-29916-5 |
2023-10-01 | Previous studies have shown that calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and Ca/Mg ratio are associated with inflammation and metabolic disorders, but their relationship with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is unclear. Thus, we aimed to explore the association between Ca, Mg, Ca/Mg ratio, and NAFLD in Chinese adults. We conducted a case-control study based on the Kailuan Cohort in China, including 1816 cases and 1111 gender- and age-matched controls. Dose-response relationships between blood Ca, Mg, Ca/Mg ratio, and NAFLD were evaluated using restricted cubic splines. Odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated by logistic regression models. A negative association between blood Ca (overall association P < 0.001 and linear association P < 0.001) and NAFLD as well as Ca/Mg ratio (overall association P = 0.002 and linear association P = 0.024) and NAFLD was observed. Compared with the highest quartile, the adjusted OR (95% CI) for the lowest quartile of Ca and Ca/Mg ratio was 2.116 (1.679–2.667) and 1.358 (1.076–1.713), respectively. A U-shaped relationship was found for blood Mg and NAFLD, with the highest OR of 1.685 in the lowest quartile group when using the second quartile as a reference. Additionally, we observed the interaction between alanine aminotransferase and blood Ca ( P = 0.024), total cholesterol ( P = 0.017), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ( P = 0.013), and blood Mg, as well as total cholesterol and Ca/Mg ratio ( P = 0.014). Lower blood Ca and Ca/Mg ratio were significantly associated with the risk of NAFLD. Liver function or lipid metabolism parameters may modify their association, suggesting an individualized prevention strategy for NAFLD. | Association Between Blood Calcium, Magnesium, and Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Adults: a Cohort-Based Case-Control Study | 10.1007/s12011-022-03543-6 |
2023-10-01 | In situ mixing of injection low-salinity (LS) and resident high-salinity (HS) brines negatively affects the performance of low-salinity waterflooding (LSWF), particularly in tertiary injection mode. Our preceding research on the core-scale demonstrated that viscosifying the injection LS brine by adding a small amount of partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) polymer can efficiently mitigate this challenge. Adding polymer to LS brine modifies the mobility ratio at the miscible front and increases the displacement front integrity. This study focuses on gaining direct pore-scale insights into polymer-enhanced low-salinity waterflooding (PELS) using microfluidic technique in granular porous media. In this manner, a series of single-phase, rate-controlled micromodel experiments was performed, and the impact of polymer concentration, injection rate and degree of porous medium heterogeneity on salt dispersion was studied. These experiments were run in the absence of an oleic phase and involved only aqueous phases. The pore-scale images clearly show the two mechanisms of dispersive transport and miscible viscous fingering of LS brine into HS brine. Suppression of viscous fingering, reduction in mixing zone length and delay of LS breakthrough were observed during PELS injection, supported by the reduction in dispersivity values by four–sevenfold. Although increase in heterogeneity and injection rate intensified in-situ mixing, it can be still managed by slightly increasing the concentration of the polymer. The results reveal that the HS displacement can be improved by PELS, thus a lower pore volume of LS would be required to establish low-salinity condition in the porous medium. | Pore-Scale Insights into In-Situ Mixing Control by Polymer-Enhanced Low-Salinity Waterflooding (PELS) | 10.1007/s11242-023-01991-9 |
2023-10-01 | Objectives To evaluate urodynamic examination results and treatment methods of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD) in patients with traumatic thoracic spinal cord injury (SCI). Methods Ninety-one patients with traumatic thoracic SCI were included in the study. The urodynamic analyses of the patients were conducted retrospectively using their laboratory outcomes. The patients were divided into subgroups according to the sensory innervation of the bladder (T1–10/T11–12), the preservation of sensory functions in the sacral segment (complete lesion/incomplete lesion), and the duration of injury (< 6 months/ ≥ 6 months) and evaluations in subgroups were carried out. Results A total of 91 patients (69 males, 22 females) were included in the study. When comparing between the subgroups, the sense of bladder fullness was preserved more in the T11–T12 group with a statistically significant difference ( p < 0.001). While storage disorder, the rate of indwelling catheter use during hospitalization, bacterial growth of 10 5 CFU/ml in the urine culture, and anticholinergic drug recommendation after urodynamic examination were higher in the complete lesion group, the rate of spontaneous/catheter-free voiding, the number of patients in which sense of bladder fullness was preserved-partially preserved, and alpha-blocker drug recommendation after urodynamic examination was higher in the incomplete lesion group, with a statistically significant difference in all parameters (all p values < 0.05). Conclusion Our results demonstrate that there are differences in neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction features in subgroups of traumatic thoracic SCI patients. Regular urinary system evaluation and necessary changes in treatment should be carried out in this patient group. | Urodynamic findings and therapeutic approaches for neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with thoracic spinal cord injury | 10.1007/s11845-022-03239-9 |
2023-09-30 | The development of multifunctional materials and synergistic applications of various functions are important conditions for integrated and miniaturized equipment. Here, we developed asymmetric MXene/aramid nanofibers/polyimides (AMAP) aerogels with different modules using an integrated molding process. Cleverly asymmetric modules (layered MXene/aramid nanofibers section and porous MXene/aramid nanofibers/polyimides section) interactions are beneficial for enhanced performances, resulting in low reflection electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding (specific shielding effectiveness of 2483 (dB·cm 3 )/g and a low R -value of 0.0138), high-efficiency infrared radiation (IR) stealth (ultra-low thermal conductivity of 0.045 W/(m·K) and IR emissivity of 0.32 at 3–5 µm and 0.28 at 8–14 µm), and excellent thermal management performances of insulated Joule heating. Furthermore, these multifunctional AMAP aerogels are suitable for various application scenarios such as personal and building protection against electromagnetic pollution and cold, as well as military equipment protection against infrared detection and EMI. | Multi-functional and multi-scenario applications for MXene aerogels with synergistically enhanced asymmetric modules | 10.1007/s12274-023-6154-4 |
2023-09-29 | Climate change, through extreme weather events and slow onset climatic changes, disrupts the operation of transport networks, and those in low-income countries (LICs) across Africa and South Asia are particularly vulnerable to climate change. This paper explores the barriers that LICs face across Africa and South Asia regarding preparedness of transport infrastructure to climate change, with the intent of addressing the knowledge gaps and consequential needs of LICs to support the delivery of more climate-resilient transport. Literature on climate change adaptation and transport resilience among LICs is reviewed to identify the broad challenges and barriers regarding climate change adaptation. Semi-structured interviews with 13 transport stakeholders across Africa and South Asia were also conducted to understand the challenges specific to the transport sector in the regions. Several barriers were identified, including a lack of data and knowledge on climate change impacts, design and prioritisation of remedial actions, budgeting and planning for climate change, and identifying and engaging with stakeholders. Findings from this paper and the wider research project it comprises inform policy guidance that calls for greater national and international coordination to develop practical, relevant and usable data, tools, advice and support for some of the most at-risk transport networks to climate change in the world. | Are transport networks in low-income countries prepared for climate change? Barriers to preparing for climate change in Africa and South Asia | 10.1007/s11027-023-10078-1 |
2023-09-29 | Microbial skin infections, antibiotic resistance, and poor wound healing are major problems, and new treatments are needed. Our study targeted solving this problem with Nigella sativa (NS) oil and photodynamic therapy based on methylene blue (MB-PDT). Antibacterial activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) were determined via agar well diffusion assay and broth microdilution, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) proved deformations in Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry identified useful compounds that were suggested to be responsible for the potency of the oil. NS oil was tested as an antivirus against low pathogenic coronavirus (229E). Therapies examined, MB-PDT, NS, and MB-PDT + NS oil, to accelerate wound healing. The antibacterial efficacy against S. aureus was promising, with a MIC of 12.5% and TEM showing injured cells treated with NS oil. This oil inhibited 229E virus up to 42.85% and 32.14%. All tested therapies were successful in accelerating wound healing. The most successful was combined therapy (MB-PDT + NS oil), with a faster healing time. The combined therapy (MB-PDT + NS oil) reduced bacterial counts, which may be a key factor in accelerating wound healing. Skin wound histology was investigated; blood hematology and biochemical analysis did not change significantly after the safe combination treatment. A combination treatment could facilitate healing in a simple and inexpensive way in the future. Based on the results of the in vitro and in vivo studies, it was determined that NS oil had antibacterial and anti-corona virus activity when used in conjunction with photodynamic treatment based on methylene blue to treat wound infections. | Antibacterial and anti-corona virus (229E) activity of Nigella sativa oil combined with photodynamic therapy based on methylene blue in wound infection: in vitro and in vivo study | 10.1186/s12866-023-03018-1 |
2023-09-29 | The abundant and sustainable energy provided by the sun has the potential to revolutionize energy consumption. However, modern construction practices often overlook harnessing this valuable resource, focusing instead on decorative lighting. This research proposes a novel solution in the form of light transmitting concrete, which utilizes waste L.D.P.E. pipe filled with statue grade casting resin as a medium to transmit sunlight through ordinary M20 grade concrete. The resin moulds, created using waste LDPE pipes and an in situ prepared resin mixture (resin: hardener ratio of 1:1–1:3), offer an economical and environmentally friendly approach to light transmission. Experimental results demonstrate that light transmitting concrete maintains high compressive strength, ensuring its structural integrity. Additionally, standard sized light transmitting concrete blocks are prepared for laboratory tests following the guidelines of IS-456 and IS-3370, with the concrete ingredient ratios designed to achieve a target strength of 20 MPa, adhering to the standard code of practice. | Optimizing solar energy utilization through light transmitting concrete: incorporating waste L.D.P.E. pipe and statue grade casting resin | 10.1007/s41062-023-01243-1 |
2023-09-29 | Allophycocyanins are phycobiliproteins that absorb red light and transfer the energy to the reaction centers of oxygenic photosynthesis in cyanobacteria and red algae. Recently, it was shown that some allophycocyanins absorb far-red light and that one subset of these allophycocyanins, comprising subunits from the ApcD4 and ApcB3 subfamilies (FRL-AP), form helical nanotubes. The lowest energy absorbance maximum of the oligomeric ApcD4-ApcB3 complexes occurs at 709 nm, which is unlike allophycocyanin (AP; ApcA-ApcB) and allophycocyanin B (AP-B; ApcD-ApcB) trimers that absorb maximally at ~ 650 nm and ~ 670 nm, respectively. The molecular bases of the different spectra of AP variants are presently unclear. To address this, we structurally compared FRL-AP with AP and AP-B, performed spectroscopic analyses on FRL-AP, and leveraged computational approaches. We show that among AP variants, the α-subunit constrains pyrrole ring A of its phycocyanobilin chromophore to different extents, and the coplanarity of ring A with rings B and C sets a baseline for the absorbance maximum of the chromophore. Upon oligomerization, the α-chromophores of all AP variants exhibit a red shift of the absorbance maximum of ~ 25 to 30 nm and band narrowing. We exclude excitonic coupling in FRL-AP as the basis for this red shift and extend the results to discuss AP and AP-B. Instead, we attribute these spectral changes to a conformational alteration of pyrrole ring D, which becomes more coplanar with rings B and C upon oligomerization. This study expands the molecular understanding of light-harvesting attributes of phycobiliproteins and will aid in designing phycobiliproteins for biotechnological applications. | Structural comparison of allophycocyanin variants reveals the molecular basis for their spectral differences | 10.1007/s11120-023-01048-4 |
2023-09-29 | In this paper, we present a new novel simple iTFET with overlapping gate on source-contact (SGO), Drain Schottky Contact, and intrinsic SiGe pocket (Pocket-SGO iTFET). The aim is to achieve steep subthreshold swing ( S.S ) and high I ON current. By optimizing the gate and source-contact overlap, the tunneling efficiency is significantly enhanced, while the ambipolar effect is suppressed. Additionally, using a Schottky contact at the drain/source, instead of ion implantation drain/source, reduces leakage current and thermal budget. Moreover, the tunneling region is replaced by an intrinsic SiGe pocket posing a narrower bandgap, which increases the probability of band-to-band tunneling and enhances the I ON current. Our simulations are based on the feasibility of the actual process, thorough Sentaurus TCAD simulations demonstrate that the Pocket-SGO iTFET exhibits an average and minimum subthreshold swing of S.S avg = 16.2 mV/Dec and S.S min = 4.62 mV/Dec, respectively. At V D = 0.2 V, the I ON current is 1.81 $$\times$$ × 10 –6 A/μm, and the I ON / I OFF ratio is 1.34 $$\times$$ × 10 9 . The Pocket-SGO iTFET design shows great potential for ultra-low-power devices that are required for the Internet of Things (IoT) and AI applications. | Enhancing subthreshold slope and ON-current in a simple iTFET with overlapping gate on source-contact, drain Schottky contact, and intrinsic SiGe-pocket | 10.1186/s11671-023-03904-7 |
2023-09-27 | Ethylene is polymerised by free radicals under extreme conditions of high pressure and temperature to produce low-density polyethylene LDPE. Considering the requirement for high compression power and heating–cooling elements, combined with depleting fossil fuel and climate change issues, an approach is needed to trade-off these issues. As such, an effective approach of multi-objective optimisation study to obtain the optimum production of the LDPE with minimum energy consumption is proposed in this work. The multi-objective artificial hummingbird algorithm with dynamic elimination-based crowding distance (MOAHA-DECD) executes within ASPEN Plus–MATLAB environment for energy saving of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) production. Three problems are addressed: minimise energy cost and maximise productivity for problem 1 (P1); minimising energy cost and maximising conversion for problem 2 (P2); and minimising energy cost, maximising productivity, and maximising conversion for problem 3 (P3). The inlet pressure, the mass flow rate of Initiator 1 (tert-butyl peroxypivalate, TBPPI), and the mass flow rate of Initiator 2 (tert-butyl 3,5,5trimethyl-peroxyhexaonate (TBPIN)) of the reacting zones (zone 3 and zone 5) are considered as decision variables. Pareto solutions obtained are arrayed across the entire Pareto front (PF) with an even sweep and diverse points. Based on the results, the highest productivity, lowest energy cost, and highest conversion are 554.958 Mil. RM/year, 61.388 Mil. RM/year, and 0.320. The decision variable plots show that the mass flow rate of the initiator at the end zone of the reactor highly impacts the optimal option. For the next study, the generated Pareto allows decision-makers to select the most acceptable solution based on their preferences to trade-off economic, energy, and environmental issues. | Artificial Hummingbird-Based Optimisation with Advanced Crowding Distance of Energy Reduction in the Polyethylene Reactors | 10.1007/s41660-023-00369-0 |
2023-09-26 | The supernatant fluid and sludge produced by traditional polyacrylamide flocculant (PAM) flocculation of municipal sewage emit a strong odor, and the dewatering performance of flocculant flocculating sludge based on acrylamide as the main synthetic raw material remains undesirable. In this study, we investigated a new green bioflocculant called SDF. This bioflocculant was made using 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl-modified starch as the raw material, acrylamide as the monomer, cerium nitrate as the initiator, and dextrin and bone gum as fillers. The results of the study indicated that the SDF-flocculated sludge exhibited a larger pore structure, superior dewatering performance, and a lower intensity of malodorous substances in the supernatant compared to PAM. Furthermore, it was found that the component with the strongest odor in the supernatant detected through purge and trap-gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was ethanethiol, and it was observed that the signal intensity released from the SDF supernatant was 30.62% lower on the first day and 7.91% lower cumulatively over the course of 7 days when compared to PAM. As a consequence, the SDF materials offer promising potential for treating odorous gas and reducing sludge in sewage treatment plants due to their easy fabrication, low cost, and superior dewatering performance. | Preparation of a Novel Cationic Starch Bioflocculant and Its Application Performance in Municipal Sewage Odor Mitigation and Sludge Dewatering | 10.1007/s11270-023-06631-y |
2023-09-26 | This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of meteorological and hydrological droughts in the lower Tigris-Euphrates basin, Türkiye over 12-month time scale using the standardized precipitation index (SPI) and the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and the standardized streamflow index (SDI). To evaluate monthly trends of the SPI, SPEI, and SDI series, Mann–Kendall (MK), Spearman Rho (SR), and innovative trend analysis (ITA) tests are employed. The intrinsic relationships between the hydrological and meteorological drought in the study area as well as the specifics of how the oscillation period changes over time can also be obtained via wavelet transform coherence (WTC), which can reveal essential information. The results of all trend tests performed a decreasing trend consistently at stations 17275, 17810, 17948, 17950, and 17968 for all months in terms of SPI. SPEI is more sensitive to trend detection than SPI when taking into account all trend testing. In addition, the three trend tests are found to be more consistent with each other when SPEI is compared to SPI. According to SDI, the ITA method is clearly superior to the other two methods for identifying hidden trends. The ITA method, for example, captures a considerably increasing/decreasing trend at stations E26A038 (January and February), E26A012 (January, February, and from May to December), and E26A033 (from June to December) despite MK and SR tests finding no significant trends at any of the stations. When considering the WTC, positive month signals are strongly correlated with 12-month periods, according to the majority of stations. | Long-term meteorological and hydrological drought characteristics on the lower Tigris-Euphrates basin, Türkiye: relation, impact and trend | 10.1007/s12665-023-11182-w |
2023-09-25 | A low-temperature solid-state bonding technology using palladium-coated Co micro-nano cones array (MCA) and Sn-3.0Ag-0.5Cu (wt%) solder was investigated. The Pd modification layer on the surface of Co MCA reduced the growth of oxide film. Low-temperature solid-state bonding was achieved using Co/Pd MCA under the bonding condition of 750 gf, 175 °C and 150 s with the shear strength of 49.55 MPa, and there was no void found along the bonding interface. Microscopic observation revealed that Co/Pd MCA was fully embedded in the soft solder. The average shear strength of the bonding joint was measured and demonstrate that Co/Pd MCA has higher reliability than Co MCA. This work highlights the advantages of bonding based on Co/Pd MCA, which has great potential for extensive practical applications. Graphical Abstract | Electrodeposited Palladium Coating on Co Micro-Nano Cones Array for Low-Temperature Solid-State Bonding | 10.1007/s13391-023-00462-z |
2023-09-25 | There is a dramatic rise in the use of non-renewable fuels, including gasoline, diesel, kerosene oil, and coal, all of which contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases and, ultimately, global warming. To mitigate these problems, biodiesel manufacturing might use renewable fuels derived from microalgae. The economic and ecological advantages of biodiesel generation from microalgae have prompted its development in various sizes. Over 50,000 known microalgae species can thrive in water, soil, and sunlight conditions. By absorbing solar energy, microalgae may produce bio-oil. Microalgae biodiesel production is becoming popular due to its potential to mitigate climate change. Because of its potential application as a renewable car fuel, microalgae gravitate toward its direction. This study aims to supplement traditional energy sources with the energy produced by algae. Blends of algae methyl ester (AME) and diesel at 10%, 20%, and 30% volume are produced by a chemical process known as acid-catalytic transesterification. Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) is activated in the engine used in this research to moderate NO emissions from oxygen-rich fuel mixtures. The AME/diesel mixes performed similarly to diesel in performance testing. Using a mixture of AME and diesel increased fuel consumption by 2.2% and 0.3% power reductions. Smoke, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbon emissions from the tailpipe were reduced by 2.2%, 0.013%, and 17 ppm, respectively. In contrast, nitrogen oxide emissions were enhanced by 92 ppm for the AME/diesel mixes compared to diesel. Interestingly, 10 and 30% EGR significantly reduced NO emissions from all test fuels. At a 30% EGR rate, NO emissions decreased by 78 ppm, but other regulated emissions increased to an extent. This study concludes that AME biodiesel should be used as a possible partial replacement for diesel fuel because of its positive effects on the environment and enhanced fuel combustion pattern. | Application of potential green algal for power generation as a likely and fractional alternative | 10.1007/s13399-023-04870-x |
2023-09-25 | Introduction Nowadays, a lot of body contouring devices and methods are introduced all over the world. The object of the present narrative review was to update and classify existing evidence on these methods and devices. Methods We searched databases including PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar for 11 essential keywords, including cryolipolysis, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), shock wave, low-level laser therapy (LLLT), radiofrequency (RF), capacitive resistive electrical transfer (TECAR), high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM), electromyostimulation (EMS), carboxytherapy, mesotherapy, and acupuncture and their abbreviations, in addition to obesity, overweight, cellulite, subcutaneous fat, and body contouring. Results Totally 193 references were used in 11 main topics. Conclusion In order to help physicians with finding the best evidence in different methods, the data were summarised in 11 topics. Furthermore, FDA-approved devices, side effects and common protocols were described in each section. Level of Evidence I This journal requires that authors 39 assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full 40 description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, 41 please refer to the Table of Contents or the online 42 Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 . | Non-invasive Body Contouring Technologies: An Updated Narrative Review | 10.1007/s00266-023-03647-x |
2023-09-22 | We study various aspects of the Carroll limit in which the speed of light is sent to zero. A large part of this paper is devoted to the quantization of Carroll field theories. We show that these exhibit infinite degeneracies in the spectrum and may suffer from non-normalizable ground states. As a consequence, partition functions of Carroll systems are ill-defined and do not lead to sensible thermodynamics. These seemingly pathological properties might actually be a virtue in the context of flat space holography. Better defined is the Carroll regime , in which we consider the leading order term in an expansion around vanishing speed of light without taking the strict Carroll limit. Such an expansion may lead to sensible notions of Carroll thermodynamics. An interesting example is a gas of massless particles with an imaginary chemical potential conjugate to the momentum. In the Carroll regime we show that the partition function of such a gas leads to an equation of state with w = −1. As a separate story, we study aspects of Carroll gravity and couplings to Carrollian energy-momentum tensors. We discuss many examples of solutions to Carroll gravity, including wormholes, Maxwell fields, solutions with a cosmological constant, and discuss the structure of geodesics in a Carroll geometry. The coupling of matter to Carroll gravity also allows us to derive energy-momentum tensors for hypothetical Carroll fluids from expanding relativistic fluids as well as directly from hydrostatic partition functions. | Carroll stories | 10.1007/JHEP09(2023)148 |
2023-09-21 | Unraveling the structure-activity relationship of CeO 2 catalysts in the low-temperature combustion is beneficial to the clean incineration of polymer wastes. Herein, the physicochemical properties of CeO 2 catalysts were tailored by adjusting the calcination temperature at 250–750 °C. According to the systematic characterization results, a decrease in the calcination temperature reduced the crystalline size and increased the surface area of CeO 2 catalysts, accompanied by the improvement of surface Ce 3+ and oxygen vacancies and the enhancement of the oxygen activation. Simultaneously, CeO 2 catalysts prepared at low calcination temperature significantly enhanced polymer wastes (LDPE, HDPE, PS and PP) combustion at 250 °C, promoting CO and CO 2 formation and the heat release. It was concluded that the decreased crystalline size, increased surface area, and enhanced oxygen activation promoted the formation and accessibility of active oxygen species on CeO 2 catalysts, which was crucial to the low-temperature combustion of polymer wastes. Graphical Abstract | Unraveling the Structure-Activity Relationship of CeO2 Catalysts in the Low-Temperature Combustion of Polymer Wastes | 10.1007/s10562-023-04456-2 |
2023-09-21 | The benefits of Low Impact Development (LID) structures in mitigating urban floods and improving water quality have been widely recognized. In the previous chapter, a multicriteria decision analysis was conducted to determine suitable LID options for the study site, by integrating AHP and SWMM. It was found that bioretention cells were among the best choices based on the analyzed criteria, a conclusion supported by other studies. This thesis aimed to achieve flood mitigation and urban water governance goals through a sustainable approach, focusing on LIDs, their selection, and their placements. To further advance this sustainable approach, a comprehensive investigation was conducted on the environmental impact of LIDs throughout their entire life cycle. Given the suitability of bioretention cells for the study site and their general performance-based attributes that make them ideal choices for treating various pollutants under different spatial conditions, this paper extensively examined their environmental footprints. The life cycle of bioretention cells, comprising eight configurations with varying media amendments, was analyzed using the standard life cycle impact assessment procedure (IS 14,040). This study holds significance as the selection of media type, availability, transportation, and pollutant removal efficiencies directly impact on-site implementation, and each configuration incurs varying levels of environmental impacts that need quantification to meet sustainable and low-impact LID selection requirements. The primary data source for this study was the Ecoinvent database, supplemented by locally sourced data from practitioners. The TRACI 2.1 impact assessment method was employed in OpenLCA software. The results indicated that pumice had the highest environmental impacts, primarily stemming from ozone depletion, smog, and fossil fuel consumption categories due to transportation distance requirements. This Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study of bioretention cells will be instrumental for practitioners in making environmentally sustainable design choices without compromising system efficiency. Additionally, government agencies can utilize these findings to devise incentives for optimized design providers as it addresses emerging trends in the field of catalysis related to environmental impact evaluation and sustainable design choices for bioretention cell systems. | Life Cycle Assessment of Bioretention Cell Designs and Evaluation of Environmental Impact of Media Amendments for Catalysis in Urban Flood Mitigation | 10.1007/s11244-023-01868-7 |
2023-09-19 | Background To decipher the capability of Methyl Jasmonate (MeJA) in resisting cold stress in Solanum lycopersicum assessment regarding various physiological parameters in response to diverse doses of MeJA was done. Low temperature (LT) were given to the plants with MeJA (J1C, J2C, J3C) or without MeJA (LT) application. MeJA in the form of foliar spray was given before stress, during stress and after stress. Three concentrations of MeJA were used under normal and LT stress conditions that includes of J1 (0.5 µM), J2 (10 µM), and J3 (15 µM). Results Oxidative stress, growth characteristics, stress tolerance parameters, antioxidant response and photosynthetic parameters were investigated. In our current study we observed that oxidative stress markers declined by MeJA supplementation under cold stress conditions. MeJA boosted antioxidant enzyme activity along with photosynthetic parameters. The best concentration of MeJA was J2 based on results obtained. This is the first study related to MeJA best dose screening in Solanum lycopersicum under LT stress conditions. Conclusion The LT stress in the Solanum lycopersicum plant was reduced by MeJA. The adverse consequences of LT stress can be significantly attenuated by the J2 concentration of MeJA. So, the optimal concentration of MeJA supplied exogenously to LT stressed Solanum lycopersicum can be a smart strategy to mitigate harmful impact of LT stress on detox system and overall growth of plant. | Study on the impact of exogenously applied methyl jasmonate concentrations on Solanum lycopersicum under low temperature stress | 10.1186/s12870-023-04449-8 |
2023-09-19 | This study presents an experimental investigation into the condensation heat transfer of R1234yf in a 4.8-mm horizontal tube at various mass flux rates of 150 kg/(m 2 s), 200 kg/(m 2 s), 250 kg/(m 2 s), and 300 kg/(m 2 s) and saturation temperatures of 30 °C and 35 °C, covering a vapor quality range of 10–90%. In addition to analyzing the experimental results, comparisons were made with other correlations in the literature. The results showed that the heat transfer coefficient increases with vapor quality, and for the tested temperatures, the average heat transfer coefficient of R1234yf was found to be lower than that of R134a by 28% and 9% for average mass fluxes of 175 kg/(m 2 s) and 275 kg/(m 2 s), respectively. The study also investigated the influence of mass flux on the heat transfer coefficient. The heat transfer coefficient decreased with an increase in the condensation temperature, being 7% lower for 35 °C than for 30 °C. Additionally, the experimental values of the condensation heat transfer coefficient were compared to those predicted by ten correlations in the literature and a neural network model. The Haraguchi (Trans Jpn Soc Mech Eng 60:2117e2124, 1994b) correlation was found to be the most appropriate for estimating the heat transfer coefficient, despite having lower precision than the neural network model, which provides all necessary details for implementation by potential users. | Experimental study of the heat transfer coefficient during condensation of refrigerant R1234yf in a 4.8-mm internal diameter smooth horizontal tube | 10.1007/s40430-023-04435-z |
2023-09-19 | Flexible printed cables and circuitry based on copper-polyimide materials are widely used in experiments looking for rare events due to their unique electrical and mechanical characteristics. However, past studies have found copper-polyimide flexible cables to contain 400-4700 pg 238 U/g, 16-3700 pg 232 Th/g, and 170-2100 ng nat K/g, which can be a significant source of radioactive background for many current and next-generation ultralow background detectors. This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the fabrication process of copper-polyimide flexible cables and the development of custom low radioactivity cables for use in rare-event physics applications. A methodical step-by-step approach was developed and informed by ultrasensitive assay to determine the radiopurity in the starting materials and identify the contaminating production steps in the cable fabrication process. Radiopure material alternatives were identified, and cleaner production processes and treatments were developed to significantly reduce the imparted contamination. Through the newly developed radiopure fabrication process, fully-functioning cables were produced with radiocontaminant concentrations of 20-31 pg 238 U/g, 12-13 pg 232 Th/g, and 40-550 ng nat K/g, which is significantly cleaner than cables from previous work and sufficiently radiopure for current and next-generation detectors. This approach, employing witness samples to investigate each step of the fabrication process, can hopefully serve as a template for investigating radiocontaminants in other material production processes. | Ultra-low radioactivity flexible printed cables | 10.1140/epjti/s40485-023-00104-6 |
2023-09-18 | Untreated swine wastewater (SW) discharge leads to serious consequences such as water quality decreasing related to eutrophication and proliferation of harmful algae containing cyanotoxins, which can cause acute intoxication in humans. The use of untreated pig farming effluent as fertilizer can lead to the accumulation of polluting compounds. Biological treatments can degrade organic matter but have the disadvantage of requiring large areas and high retention times and demonstrating low efficiencies in the degradation of refractory compounds such as pharmaceutical compounds. In this ambit, the performance of four low-cost materials was evaluated for treatment of a swine wastewater using physical–chemical processes such as adsorption and Fenton’s process. The tested materials are two natural resources, red volcanic rock from Canary (RVR) Islands and black volcanic rock (BVR) from Azores, and two industry residues, red mud (RM) and iron filings (IF). Among the tested materials, only IFs are catalytically active for Fenton’s peroxidation. Still, RVR, BVR, and RM were efficient adsorbents removing up to 67% of COD. The combination between adsorption followed by Fenton’s process using IF as catalyst showed interesting results. When RM is applied as adsorbent in the diluted effluent, it was able to remove 67% and 90% of COD for adsorption and adsorption followed by IF Fenton, respectively. At those conditions, the resultant treated effluent accomplishes the requirements for direct discharge in the natural water courses as well as the parameters for water reusing. | Low-cost materials for swine wastewater treatment using adsorption and Fenton’s process | 10.1007/s11356-023-29677-1 |
2023-09-16 | Life expectancy has been improving over the years. Nevertheless, changes in lifestyle e.g. , overworking and consumption of processed food, have led to overweight and related health problems. In addition, despite many circumstances explaining these points, many points are not fully understood, and the consequences for the human body are evident. Considering that, many innovative materials based on carbohydrate hydrogels were performed in literature for diverse of health problems, as these biomaterials have great potential for the biomedical area. This review exposes the research on carbohydrate hydrogels for biomedical applications. This unique type of hydrogels presents various properties and characteristics, enabling their use in tissue regeneration/repair, wound dressing/healing, antibacterial activity, biosensors, theragnostic, drug delivery, and protein delivery. The proposal of this overview is to discuss the different characteristics, properties and physicochemical character of carbohydrate hydrogels, and their subsequent modulation of their behaviour on biological media. Although, there have been various publications in the last years on this topic, there is a significant gap in biomedical areas, such as theragnostic, biosensors, and antibacterial activity. | Carbohydrate polymer hydrogels: an environmental and eco-friendly choice for biomedical applications? | 10.1007/s10965-023-03764-w |
2023-09-16 | Nonlinear triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is an emerging type of energy harvester capable of converting low-frequency ambient energies into electricity. Due to the large-amplitude dynamic behaviors of the nonlinear triboelectric nanogenerator system and the intrinsic relationship between the electrical output and the dynamic response, the electrical output of the TENG can be effectively improved and the energy harvesting band can be effectively broadened. To better understand the fundamental principle of harvesting low-frequency energy based on the nonlinear TENG, a general overview on the existing literature related to the nonlinear TENG is proposed. The first part of this review is a detailed explanation about the theory of TENG. It then categorizes and details a number of methods for harvesting mechanical energy from low-frequency vibration. Furthermore, several strategies for improving the performance of the nonlinear TENG are summarized. Finally, a brief list of the potential applications of the nonlinear TENG is given. By summarizing the relevant literature, this review aims to provide some inspiration for the realization of low-frequency vibration energy harvesting and the improvement of energy conversion efficiency. | A brief review of nonlinear triboelectric nanogenerator | 10.1007/s40435-023-01292-5 |
2023-09-15 | The pore structure of coal plays a key role in controlling the storage and migration of CH 4 /N 2 . The pore structure of coal is an important indicator to measure the gas extraction capability and the gas displacement effect of N 2 injection. The deformation characteristic of coal during adsorption–desorption of CH 4 /N 2 is an important factor affecting CH 4 pumpability and N 2 injectability. The pore structure characteristics of low-permeability coal were obtained by fluid intrusion method and photoelectric radiation technology. The multistage and connectivity of coal pores were analyzed. Subsequently, a simultaneous test experiment of CH 4 /N 2 adsorption–desorption and coal deformation was carried out. The deformation characteristics of coal were clarified and a coal strain model was constructed. Finally, the applicability of low-permeability coal to N 2 injection for CH 4 displacement technology was investigated. The results show that the micropores and transition pores of coal samples are relatively developed. The pore morphology of coal is dominated by semi-open pores. The pore structure of coal is highly complex and heterogeneous. Transition pores, mesopores and macropores of coal have good connectivity, while micropores have poor connectivity. Under constant triaxial stress, the adsorption capacity of the coal for CH 4 is greater than that for N 2 , and the deformation capacity of the coal for CH 4 adsorption is greater than that for N 2 adsorption. The axial strain, circumferential strain, and volumetric strain during the entire process of CH 4 and N 2 adsorption/desorption in the coal can be divided into three stages. Coal adsorption–desorption deformation has the characteristics of anisotropy and gas-difference. A strain model for the adsorption–desorption of CH 4 /N 2 from coal was established by considering the expansion stress of adsorbed gas on the coal matrix, the compression stress of free gas on the coal matrix, and the expansion stress of free gas on micropore fractures. N 2 has good injectability in low-permeability coal seams and has the dual functions of improving coal seam permeability and enhancing gas flow, which can significantly improve the effectiveness of low-permeability coal seam gas control and promote the efficient utilization of gas resources. The pore structure characteristics of low-permeability coal were obtained by fluid intrusion method and photoelectric radiation technology. The multistage and connectivity of coal pores were analyzed. A simultaneous test experiment of CH 4 /N 2 adsorption–desorption and coal deformation was carried out. The deformation characteristics of coal were clarified and a coal strain model was constructed. The applicability of low-permeability coal to N 2 injection for CH 4 displacement technology was investigated. | Pore structure of low-permeability coal and its deformation characteristics during the adsorption–desorption of CH4/N2 | 10.1007/s40789-023-00613-5 |
2023-09-15 | This paper investigates the undrained stress relaxation behavior of an expansive clay under low confining pressure. Clay specimens were compacted at both the natural dry density and natural water content. A number of triaxial undrained stress relaxation experiments under single-stage loading were conducted on saturated specimens. The stress relaxation behavior was characterized and analyzed considering the influence of pre-loading strain ( ε a $\varepsilon _{\mathrm{a}}$ ) and confining pressure ( σ c $\sigma _{\mathrm{c}}$ ). Mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) was conducted to determine the microstructural evolution of a specimen during relaxation. Experimental results showed that (i) the distribution of small pores and large pores remains constant, and within the medium pore range, the diameter of the dominant pores increases with time, (ii) all stress relaxation curves ( σ d $\sigma _{\mathrm{d}}$ - t $t$ relationships) consist of instantaneous relaxation, decelerating relaxation, and steady relaxation. The steady relaxation curves are nearly parallel under the same confining pressure, (iii) the initial relaxation rate, residual stress ratio, and relaxed deviator stress increase with pre-loading strain and the confining pressure. The relationships between the relaxed deviator stress and ε a $\varepsilon _{\mathrm{a}}$ , σ c $\sigma _{\mathrm{c}}$ , and deformation energy are established to predict the reduced amplitude of deviator stress during relaxation. Three different approaches are proposed to predict the relaxation curves within the low confining pressure range. The predicted results are in an excellent agreement with the experimental data. | Stress relaxation behavior of an expansive clay under low confining pressure: experimental characterization and predictive modeling | 10.1007/s11043-023-09635-7 |
2023-09-14 | In recent years, extremophilic microorganisms have been employed as producers of the microbial bioplastics polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), which are of great biotechnological value. Nevertheless, cold-loving or psychrophilic (cryophilic) bacteria have been neglected in this regard. Here, we present an investigation of the Arctic glacier-derived PHA producer Acidovorax sp. A1169. Biolog GEN III Microplates were used as a screening tool to identify the most suitable carbon substrate concerning PHA synthesis. The strain produced homopolymer poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) most efficiently (2 g/L) at a temperature of 15 °C when supplied with fructose or mannitol as carbon sources with a substantial decrease of PHB biosynthesis at 17.5 °C. The PHB yield did not increase considerably or even decreased when carbon source concentration exceeded 10 g/L hinting that the strain is oligotrophic in nature. The strain was also capable of introducing 3-hydroxyvalerate (3HV) into the polymer structure, which is known to improve PHA thermoplastic properties. This is the first investigation providing insight into a PHA biosynthesis process by means of a true psychrophile, offering guidelines on polar-region bacteria cultivation, production of PHA and also on the methodology for genetic engineering of psychrophiles. | Genetic engineering of low-temperature polyhydroxyalkanoate production by Acidovorax sp. A1169, a psychrophile isolated from a subglacial outflow | 10.1007/s00792-023-01311-5 |
2023-09-14 | Volcano S3 is a young seamount located ~ 5 km east of the Valu Fa Ridge (VFR) in the Lau Basin, which has erupted boninitic lavas. We present new data for whole-rock compositions, minerals and olivine‐hosted melt inclusions, and propose a new model for low-Si boninite (LSB) petrogenesis in a subduction-related setting. The whole-rock compositions reflect mixing of less primitive melt with variable amounts (~ 30%) of minerals, whereas quenched glass compositions result from (~ 60%) crystal fractionation of a primitive boninitic magma which is preserved as melt inclusions hosted in olivine crystals. The compositions of primitive olivine and spinel from S3 are more refractory than those from MORB and back-arc basin (BAB) lavas. Lower Fe8 and Na8 values of S3 than those of BAB lavas reflect melting of relatively depleted mantle at high temperature and low pressure. The mantle beneath S3, and the adjacent VFR and Ata is more depleted than those of BAB located further from the arc, and S3 and Ata lavas have similar slab input (~ 1%). The geochemical differences between S3 and BAB lavas imply that the boundary between dry and wet mantle is located beneath VFR. We suggest that a vertical mantle flow beneath VFR brings depleted mantle containing slab components from deeper within the wedge. This depleted and wet mantle probably experienced a high degree of partial melting at low pressure to form LSB magmas beneath S3. The LSB lavas can be formed at back-arc spreading centers which are located close enough to an active arc. | Melts from hydrous depleted back-arc mantle at a young boninitic volcano on the flank of Valu Fa Ridge (Lau basin, SW Pacific) | 10.1007/s00410-023-02053-5 |
2023-09-14 | Objective To introduce a new type of simple adjustable bilateral bidirectional polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tube traction device and discuss the value of using this device before surgery in patients with lower limb fractures. Methods To introduce the manufacturing process of an adjustable bilateral traction device made of PVC pipes. From August 2018 to November 2019, the data of 36 patients with lower limb fractures who were treated with this traction device were retrospectively analysed. The treatment outcomes were analysed, including length of both lower limbs, fracture reduction, lower limb mobility, visual analogue scale (VAS) score, incidence of complications, and patient satisfaction. Results All patients were able to move the affected limb immediately after using the device. The patient's pain was significantly reduced, they were able to turn over freely during bed rest, and the length of the affected limb was restored to that of the healthy limb. Thirty-four (94.5%) patients were satisfied with the reduction of the fracture end, 2 (5.5%) patients with tibiofibular fractures showed angular displacement of the fractured end and satisfactory reduction after the position of the bone traction needle was adjusted; 7 (19.5%) patients developed deep vein thrombosis of the affected lower limb during traction; there was no decubitus or vascular nerve injury, and the overall complication rate was 25% (9/36). All the patients and their families were satisfied with the results of this treatment. Conclusion The aim of this study is to introduce a new type of traction device. It is advantageous in that it is light weight, low cost, easy to assemble, promotes immediate movement of the affected limb after assembly, improves patient comfort and can be used with a titanium steel needle for MRI examination under traction. In the clinical setting, it has been shown to be suitable for the temporary treatment of patients with lower leg fractures prior to surgery, particularly patients who, for various reasons, require nonsurgical treatment in the short term. In this work, we evaluated a new type of bilateral traction device with PVC tubes, it is suitable for patients with lower leg fractures before operation temporary treatment, especially patients with lower limb fractures who are in intensive care and neurosurgery units MRI examination is required while receiving treatment. This device is lightweight, inexpensive and easy to assemble. Its greatest advantage is that the affected limb can be moved immediately after installation, so the limb is no longer limited to the traction bed. It is also convenient for nursing and improves the comfort of patients. In addition, the device can be used with titanium steel needle for MRI inspection under traction. | Application of PVC pipes as an adjustable bilateral traction device in lower limb fractures | 10.1186/s12891-023-06847-3 |
2023-09-13 | Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors have emerged as powerful tools for detecting and analyzing changes in the refractive index (RI) of surrounding media. In this paper, we present a highly sensitive SPR sensor implemented on a graphene metasurface for the detection of low RI variations. We have incorporated glass structure as the substrate in the sensor design. Glass provides a stable and rigid substrate for the creation of the graphene metasurface. It ensures the mechanical support of the sensor and serves as a solid foundation for the subsequent fabrication steps. The results demonstrate remarkable performance characteristics of the proposed graphene metasurface sensor. The maximum sensitivity and detection limit achieved by the sensor are 1100 GHz/RIU and 0.391 RIU −1 , respectively. Furthermore, the corresponding sensor resolutions and FOM are determined to be 0.453 and 3.832 RIU −1 , respectively. Such high resolutions ensure accurate and precise measurement of even subtle changes in the refractive index. | Development of surface plasmon resonance sensor with enhanced sensitivity for low refractive index detection | 10.1007/s11082-023-05265-y |
2023-09-13 | Abstract Nitrogen is one of the most imperative elements in enhancing yield and improving food quality by playing key roles in biochemical and physiological functions of plants. Developing cultivars with high nitrogen consumption efficiency can be obtained by examining the response of plant growth and nitrogen absorption under low nitrogen (N) content. In the current study, five potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars were subjected to Hoagland culture with low N supply, and morphological, physiological traits, and expression levels of the potential genes involved in nitrate uptake were measured at seedling stage. The findings showed that plant growth and physiological traits were differentially influenced by N deficiency in all tested potato cultivars. The seedlings that had high dry weight shoot also maintained high level of stem chlorophyll content under N deficiency. Further, the modification in the stem dry weight revealed close positive correlations with the chlorophyll a / b stem, total chlorophyll stem, carotenoid stem, and anthocyanin root content alterations in response to N-deficient condition. These results demonstrated that beside the stem chlorophyll content, the leaf chlorophyll content may also contribute to N-deficiency adaptation, thus could be considered as an efficient indicator for assessment of diverse response in potato seedlings under N-deficient condition. In addition, our finding showed that under low-N condition, the ‘Sante’ cultivar had higher plant growth indices, chlorophyll content, and anthocyanin root than the other four cultivars (‘Agria’, ‘Balaton’, ‘Javid’, and ‘Jelly’). Among the five cultivars, ‘Sante’ showed higher expression of StNRT1.2 gene than StNRT1.1, StNRT1-.5, and StNRT1.11 genes in leaves, root, and stem under low-N stress. Taken together, our results suggested that the larger chlorophyll content and the up-regulation of nitrate transporter in stem and assimilation genes may contribute to stronger N uptake capacity for plant growth and N accumulation in response to long-term low-N stress. These findings may aid in better understanding of the mechanism of low N tolerance and as a result lead to developing potato cultivars with high-NUE. | Morphological and Physiological Alteration of Five Potato Cultivars in Response to Nitrogen Deficiency | 10.1134/S1021443723601416 |
2023-09-12 | In cold regions, the freezing of pore water in rock affects the mechanical behavior of the rock. This paper studied the ice content of frozen sandstone at different temperatures and its effects on the mechanical properties of sandstone. First, the progressive freezing treatment (from 25.0 to − 30.0 °C) and in-situ nuclear magnetic resonance test were conducted to study the evolution of the ice content of sandstone with temperature. This evolution was quantitatively described by the frozen ratio defined as the percentage of the mass of ice and the total mass of water. Then, the mechanical properties of frozen sandstone at different temperatures (25.0 °C, 0.0 °C, − 5.0 °C, − 10.0 °C, − 20.0 °C and − 30.0 °C, respectively) were tested, such as P-wave velocity, uniaxial compressive strength (UCS), peak strain and elastic modulus. Finally, the effects of the frozen ratio on these properties were discussed. The results show that the pore water in sandstone shows three stages as the temperature decreases: stable liquid (from 25.0 to 0.0 °C), sharp phase transition (from 0.0 to − 2.5 °C) and slow phase transition (from − 2.5 to − 30.0 °C). Especially, the capillary and bulk water in sandstone is almost completely frozen in the sharp phase transition stage. As the temperature decreases, the frozen ratio first remains constant, then increases rapidly and finally increases slowly. Moreover, as the frozen ratio increases, the P-wave velocity, UCS and peak strain increase while the elastic modulus decreases. Interestingly, the compressive failure mode of sandstone changes from brittle to ductile as the frozen ratio increases. 1. In-situ NMR tests were performed on sandstone under low temperatures. 2. Evaluate of ice content of sandstone with temperature was studied. 3. Effects of ice content on mechanical properties of sandstone were discussed. | Effects of ice content on compression characteristics of frozen sandstone by in-situ NMR technology | 10.1007/s40948-023-00655-8 |
2023-09-12 | The paper presents the low temperature expansion of the 2D Ising model in the presence of the magnetic field in powers of $$x=\exp (-J/(kT))$$ x = exp ( - J / ( k T ) ) and $$z=\exp (B/(kT))$$ z = exp ( B / ( k T ) ) with full polynomials in z up to $$x^{88}$$ x 88 and full polynomials in $$x^4$$ x 4 up to $$z^{-60}$$ z - 60 , in the latter case the polynomials are explicitly given. The new result presented in the paper is an expansion not in inverse powers of z but in $$(z^2+x^8)^{-k}$$ ( z 2 + x 8 ) - k where the subsequent coefficients (polynomials in $$x^4$$ x 4 ) turn out to be divisible by increasing powers of $$(1-x^4)$$ ( 1 - x 4 ) . This result gives a hint about the intriguing ‘off-diagonal’ correlations in the Ising model mixing the $$B\ne 0$$ B ≠ 0 contributions with the usual low temperature $$B=0$$ B = 0 expansion what may be useful on the road to find the full analytic expression for the partition function of the Ising model with non-vanishing magnetic field. The paper describes both the analytic expansions of the partition function and the efficient combinatorial methods to get the coefficients of the expansion. | Ising Model with a Magnetic Field | 10.1007/s10955-023-03161-z |
2023-09-12 | An experimental visualization is undertaken to investigate the impact dynamic behaviors of water, absolute ethanol, and low surface energy droplets with different viscosities impacting on hydrophobic surfaces. Droplets’ impacting behaviors, including spreading, rebounding, and oscillation retraction, are observed and quantitatively characterized by transient spreading factor and maximum spreading diameter. Effects of droplet impact velocity, surface wettability, and droplet viscosity on the impact dynamics are explored and analyzed. As the droplet impact velocity increases, the droplet kinetic energy increases, resulting in an increase in the spreading factor and spreading velocity simultaneously. Hydrophobic surfaces are not easy to be wetted by water droplets due to their low surface energy, leading to the partial rebound of water droplets when impacting on the hydrophobic surfaces. However, this phenomenon does not occur when low surface energy droplets, such as absolute ethanol and simethicone, impact on hydrophobic surfaces at the same velocity. The increasing droplet viscosity enhances the viscous dissipation, slowing down the impact process and inhibiting the droplet spreading, oscillation, and retraction behaviors. Based on the energy conservation method, a universal model for the maximum spreading factor of low surface energy droplets with different viscosities impacting on hydrophobic surface was established. According to the experimental results, a new spreading time model t m = 2 D 0 / U 0 was proposed to enhance applicability of the model for low surface energy droplets with high viscosity, reducing the calculation error to less than 10%. | Experimental study on the dynamics of droplet impacting on solid surface | 10.1007/s10404-023-02680-1 |
2023-09-11 | Sludge as the by-product of wastewater treatment usually accumulates toxic substances that require specific treatment before disposal. With the increase of sludge production, the safe and economic treatment of sludge has become a global issue. Construction filed provides a solution for consuming huge volumes of sludge and sludge ash owing to the similar chemical composition with cementitious materials. This paper critically reviewed the current status of recycling sludge and sludge ash into low-carbon construction materials and highlighted the future perspectives of sludge-derived construction materials. Furthermore, the immobilization mechanisms of heavy metals in sludge-derived construction materials were elaborated to promote the actualization of sustainable management of sludge and sludge ash. Graphical Abstract • Reviewed the valorization of different sludge and sludge ash in construction materials. • Sludge can be recycled as alternative fuels and raw materials to produce eco-cement clinkers. • Aluminosilicates in sludge/sludge ash improved the properties of construction materials. • Sludge/sludge ash-derived function concrete, bricks and ceramic exhibit good qualities. • Potential toxic elements in sludge/sludge ash could be effectively immobilized. 污泥作为水处理的副产物含有大量的有毒有害物质，因此需进行特殊处理以实现其无害化处置与资源化利用。由于工业化与城市化的快速发展，污泥产量逐年增加，污泥的安全、经济、高效处理已成为全球性的挑战。基于污泥与水泥基材料相似的化学组分，建筑材料领域为污泥和污泥灰的大规模处置提供了出路。本文系统地综述了利用污泥和污泥灰开发低碳建筑材料的研究现状，并对污泥与污泥灰衍生建筑材料的发展前景进行了展望。此外，本文详细阐述了污泥中内源重金属在污泥衍生建筑材料中的固化稳定化机制，以实现污泥与污泥灰的可持续化管理。 | Value-added recycling of sludge and sludge ash into low-carbon construction materials: current status and perspectives | 10.1007/s44242-023-00023-5 |
2023-09-11 | Currently, the district heating (DH) in Poland is facing many challenges. The business model used hitherto was very simple—in most cities, heating plants produced heat, and centralized heating systems supplied the "product" at a price approved annually by the president of the Energy Regulatory Office (URE). However, recent years have brought significant changes on the market. EU regulations force the elimination of old coal-fired plants that were still built in the Polish People's Republic (PRL), moreover, high prices of CO 2 emission allowances aggravate the financial situation of companies. In addition, in the heating sector, the trend observed in the power sector is becoming increasingly visible—limiting the role of large sources in favor of energy generated locally, closer to the customer. One of the biggest challenges is achieving the targets set by the EU for the share of renewable energy sources (RES) in the heating sector. The present conflicts and problems with the supply of coal and gas are an additional impulse to turn to RES. Thus, the development of sustainable and innovative solutions for energy production and supply at the level of urban networks is currently one of the main technical challenges. The purpose of the paper is to present the current situation and perspectives of development of district heating systems in Poland with a view to the status of district heating in the world, and some deeper insight into European conditions. The review presents energy sources with particular emphasis on renewable energy sources (RES) and their cogeneration for heat production. The examples of existing heating network solutions using renewable energy sources, based on the selected published case studies, are also discussed. | Challenges for district heating in Poland | 10.1007/s43937-023-00019-z |
2023-09-11 | Background Environmental low frequency noise (LFN < 125 Hz), ubiquitous in urban areas, is an understudied area of exposure science and an overlooked threat to population health. Environmental noise has historically been measured and regulated by A-weighted decibel (dBA) metrics, which more heavily weight frequencies between 2000 and 5000 Hz. Limited research has been conducted to measure and characterize the LFN components of urban environmental noise. Objectives We characterized LFN noise at two urban sites in Greater Boston, Massachusetts (USA) using dBA and full spectrum noise measurements with aims to (1.) analyze spatio-temporal differences in the two datasets; (2.) compare and contrast LFN metrics with dBA noise metrics in the two sites; and (3.) assess meteorological covariate contributions to LFN in the dataset. Methods We measured A- and C-weighted, and flat, unweighted noise levels and 1/3-octave band continuously for 5 months using sound level meters sampling at f = 1 Hz and we recorded sound samples at 44.1 kHz. Our measurement sites were located in two urban, densely populated communities, burdened by close proximity to bus, rail, and aircraft routes. Results We found that (1.) LFN does not follow the same seasonal trends as A-weighted dBA loudness; there are spatial differences in LFN and its very low frequency noise components (VLFN) between two urban sites; (2.) VLFN and LFN are statistically significant drivers of LCeq (nearly independent of frequency) minus LAeq, (LCeq-LAeq) >10 dB, an accepted LFN metric; and (3.) LFN was minimally affected by high wind speeds at either Site. Impact Statement Environmental low-frequency noise (LFN < 125 Hz), ubiquitous in urban areas, is an understudied area of exposure science and an overlooked risk to population health. We measured environmental noise across the full spectrum of frequencies continuously for five months at two urban sites located in Environmental Justice communities. We found that LFN did not follow the same seasonal trends as A-weighted (dBA) loudness, and we observed spatial differences in LFN and very low frequency noise (VLFN < 20 Hz) at the two sites. Not characterizing LFN and basing noise regulations only on A-weightings, a poor predictor of LFN, may expose populations to LFN levels of concern. | Long-term measurement study of urban environmental low frequency noise | 10.1038/s41370-023-00599-x |
2023-09-11 | Cities are highly dense areas with significant energy consumption and waste generation. Therefore, developing buildings with low energy consumption and reduced pollutant emissions is an important approach for China to achieve its goals of carbon neutrality, peak carbon emissions, and sustainable development. In this context, the concept and practice of green buildings have emerged. This research is based on the whole life cycle assessment method of the whole life cycle theory, integrating relevant indicators for calculating carbon emissions in buildings. It conducts a multidimensional evaluation and analysis of the low-carbon level of green buildings. Quantitative analysis is carried out based on five stages and five dimensions of the entire construction process. A conceptual model for the low-carbon evaluation of green buildings is established, and grey relational analysis and analytic hierarchy process are employed to rank and evaluate projects. The study aims to identify the key factors in the low-carbon evaluation of green buildings and discusses the focus and suggestions for future low-carbon management throughout the whole life cycle of green buildings. Based on LCA theory and carbon-emission index to evaluation the green buildings. Quantitative analysis on the green buildings based on the five stages and dimensions. Four green building cases are evaluated and ranked by Ahp and grey correlation method. | Research on low-carbon evaluation of green buildings based on the whole life cycle theory | 10.1007/s42452-023-05488-4 |
2023-09-09 | The layer-structured composites were built by the dielectric and insulating layers composed of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites containing barium titanate (BT) to modulate the dielectric and energy storage properties of the composites. The simulations on the interface models for molecular dynamics and the geometric models for finite element analysis were performed together with the experimental characterization of the morphology, dielectric, and energy storage properties of the composites. The results revealed that polyethylene as an insulating layer played a successful role in modulating dielectric permittivity and breakdown strength while BT particles exerted positive effects in improving the miscibility between the composed layers and redistributing the electric field. The strong interface binding energy and the similar dielectric permittivity between the PVDF layer and the BT20/LDPE layer made for the layer-structured composites with a characteristic breakdown strength ( E b ) of 188.9 kV·mm −1 , a discharge energy density ( U d ) of 1.42 J·cm −3 , and a dielectric loss factor (tan δ ) of 0.017, which were increased by 94%, 141%, and decreased by 54% in comparison with those of the BT20/PVDF composite, respectively. | Co-modulated interface binding energy and electric field distribution of layer-structured PVDF-LDPE dielectric composites with BaTiO3: experiment and multiscale simulations | 10.1007/s11706-023-0657-5 |
2023-09-08 | Background Non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) play critical roles in tumor progression and hold great promise as therapeutic agents for multiple cancers. MicroRNA 29a (miR-29a) is a tumor suppressor miRNA that inhibits cancer cell growth and tumor progression in non-small cell lung cancer. Carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 6 (CEACAM6), which plays an important role in lung cancer progression, has been identified as a target of miR-29a. Here, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of a peptide vector capable of delivering miR-29a intracellularly using the acidic tumor microenvironment in a lung adenocarcinoma xenograft mouse model. Methods A miRNA delivery vector was constructed by tethering the peptide nucleic acid form of miR-29a to a peptide with a low pH-induced transmembrane structure (pHLIP) to enable transport of the miRNAs across the plasma membrane. Tumor suppressive effects of pHLIP-miR29a on lung adenocarcinoma development in vivo were assessed using a BALB/c xenograft model injected with A549 cells. Results Incubation of A549 cells with pHLIP-miR-29a at an acidic pH downregulated endogenous CEACAM6 expression and reduced cell viability. Intravenous injection of the mice with pHLIP-miR-29a inhibited tumor growth by up to 18.1%. Intraperitoneal injection of cisplatin reduced tumor volume by 29.9%. Combined pHLIP-miR-29a + cisplatin treatment had an additive effect, reducing tumor volume up to 39.7%. Conclusions Delivery of miR-29a to lung adenocarcinoma cells using a pHLIP-mediated method has therapeutic potential as a unique cancer treatment approach. | MicroRNA 29a therapy for CEACAM6-expressing lung adenocarcinoma | 10.1186/s12885-023-11352-w |
2023-09-07 | Background and purpose The low-grade inflammation (LGI) score, a novel indicator of chronic LGI, combines C-reactive protein (CRP), leukocyte counts, the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and the platelet (PLT) count to predict outcomes of patients with various conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases. However, few studies have examined the role of the LGI score in predicting functional outcomes of patients with ischemic stroke. The present study aimed to evaluate the association between the LGI score and functional outcomes of patients with ischemic stroke. Methods A total of 1,215 patients were screened in the present study, and 876 patients were finally included in this retrospective observational study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Blood tests were conducted within 24 h of admission. Severity of ischemic stroke was assessed using the NIHSS score with severe stroke denoted by NIHSS > 5. Early neurological deterioration (END) was defined as an increment in the total NIHSS score of ≥ 2 points within 7 days after admission. Patient outcomes were assessed on day 90 after stroke onset using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Results The LGI score was positively correlated with baseline and the day 7 NIHSS scores (R2 = 0.119, p < 0.001;R2 = 0.123, p < 0.001). Multivariate regression analysis showed that the LGI score was an independent predictor of stroke severity and END. In the crude model, the LGI score in the fourth quartile was associated with a higher risk of poor outcomes on day 90 compared with the LGI score in the first quartile (OR = 5.02, 95% CI: 3.09–8.14, p for trend < 0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders, the LGI score in the fourth quartile was independently associated with poor outcomes on day 90 (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.47–4.76, p for trend = 0.001). Finally, the ROC curve analysis showed an AUC of 0.682 for poor outcomes on day 90 after stroke onset. Conclusion The LGI score is strongly correlated with the severity of acute ischemic stroke and that the LGI score might be a good predictor for poor outcomes on day 90 in patients with acute ischemic stroke. | Applicability of the low-grade inflammation score in predicting 90-day functional outcomes after acute ischemic stroke | 10.1186/s12883-023-03365-6 |
2023-09-06 | With the developing technologies of artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, intelligent IoT (iIoT) is prevailing currently. Design and implementation of integrated IoT nodes with continuous perception capability are indispensable to realize various smart terminal devices, which would also be vital to reduce the power consumption, improve the real-time performance, and enhance the security/privacy of the IoT system. In this paper, we present the architecture of “Sensing with Computing” and its chip design for smart sensing applications, which would support multi-modal perception signal processing with multi-dimension extension ability. Specially, we explore the analog/mixed-signal circuit designs and algorithm-hardware co-design methodologies for perception signal processing, and we also study the multi-modal integration of novel sensors and their interface technologies. Additionally, some multi-modal smart sensing systems with “Sensing + Computing in Memory” mixed-signal chips would be fabricated, which would support typical always-on smart sensing tasks. | Breaking the energy-efficiency barriers for smart sensing applications with “Sensing with Computing” architectures | 10.1007/s11432-023-3760-8 |
2023-09-05 | Advanced ceramics are widely used in various industries like medical, automotive, and aerospace. Production of ceramic components has been constrained due to challenging machining procedures and the difficulty of forming complicated parts. Powder injection molding is one of the suitable methods to produce complex ceramics and overcome the difficulties of producing these parts. This paper investigates the effect of micro and nano powder addition on the rheological properties, segregation, and imbalance filling. For this purpose, different amounts of nano and micro SiC powder (5 wt%, 10 wt%, 15 wt%, and 20 wt% of micro SiC and 1-3 wt% of nano alumina) were added to alumina powder and the prepared feedstocks were injected at various flow rates. Rheological properties of feedstocks and segregation phenomenon in the green parts were investigated by rotational rheometer and thermogravimetric analyzer, respectively. As well as, mold filing, segregation and distribution of temperature during filling were simulated using Moldflow Synergy (Autodesk) 2019 software and compared to the experimental results. It was found that feedstocks containing 15 wt% micro SiC and 2 wt% nano SiC showed the best rheological behavior. The segregation phenomenon was observed in samples injected at flow rate of 15 cm3/s. No imbalance filling was observed in none of the samples, but by increasing the flow rate the segregation was intensified. | Investigation of Mold Filling Simulation, Segregation, and Rheological Properties in Low Pressure Injection Molding of Alumina Parts | 10.1007/s11665-023-08500-5 |
2023-09-05 | Herein, the interaction between hydrogen, microstructure, and mechanical properties in low-alloy high-strength marine steel was elucidated via microstructural characterization, internal friction analysis, hydrogen diffusion, and hydrogen-embrittlement sensitivity evaluation. Results indicated that the bainite structure of hot-rolled steel transformed into a coarse ferrite–pearlite structure after normalizing, and the hydrogen trap density decreased with decreasing grain boundary and dislocation densities. Therefore, the effective diffusion coefficient of hydrogen in the normalized steel plates increased with decreasing hydrogen permeation time. Owing to the coarsening of the microstructure, the normalized steel plates exhibited higher sensitivity to hydrogen embrittlement. The diffusion of a large amount of hydrogen into the steel considerably deteriorated its plasticity, resulting in a transition of its fracture mode from microvoid coalescence fracture to cleavage fracture. The internal friction behavior indicated that hydrogen in the microstructure generated a hydrogen-induced Snoek peak, as well as reduced the activation energy of Snoek–Kê–Köster and Kê peaks. Finally, the internal friction spectra revealed that the interaction between hydrogen and point defects, dislocations, grain boundaries, and precipitates was sequentially enhanced due to the increase in activation energy. | Mechanism of the Interaction Between Hydrogen, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties in Low-Alloy High-Strength Marine Steel | 10.1007/s11665-023-08637-3 |
2023-09-05 | A key aspect of space application technology is the generation and control of multi–phase flows. The efficiency of mass and heat transfer can be significantly improved by adding bubbles or droplets into continuous phases. The effects of the ratio of amplitude to bubble diameter ( A/D ), Bond number ( Bo ), and different gravity levels ( G/g ) on bubble centroid motion and shape oscillation are fully analyzed using the VOF method to understand the bubble–centroid trajectory and shape–oscillation mechanism under low–frequency vibrations. The present studies show that A/D , Bo , and G/g have important effects on bubble trajectory and shape oscillation. There are two types of oscillations for bubble shape: regular oscillation and chaotic oscillation. As Bo and A/D increase, bubble oscillation in a gravity–free environment changes from regular to chaotic oscillation. For the present results, bubble oscillations at different gravity levels (except zero–gravity level) are chaotic oscillations. Three types are recognized for the bubble–centroid motion: levitation, rising and sinking. When both A/D and Bo are tiny, a bubble is hung in its initial position in a gravity–free environment. Bubble–centroid motion changes from sinking to rising with an increase in A/D and Bo . The higher the gravity level is, the shorter the time taken for the bubble to rise is. The change in the flow field seems to be mainly caused by the vibration of fluid particles, almost independent of the level of gravity. The flow field becomes more chaotic as A/D and Bo increase. | Effect of Low–Frequency Vibrations on the Hydrodynamic Properties of Single Bubbles at Different Gravity Levels | 10.1007/s12217-023-10073-w |
2023-09-05 | Water resources are key to economic development of the Mekong River Basin, but are threatened by climate change and affected by hydropower development. Knowledge of these drivers’ integrated impact on future hydrological alterations is limited, especially with respect to flood inundation in the lower basin. This study assesses streamflow and flood extent alterations by reservoir operations and climate change using the latest climate projections. A distributed hydrologic model is used to generate discharge and flood extent. Our findings indicate substantial changes in seasonal and annual peak discharge due to reservoir operations. Under the future hydropower scenario, the discharge at Kratie will change by + 28% ( − 10%) during the dry (wet) season. While the effects of hydropower operations vary by season, climate change tends to increase river discharge overall. Under the high-emission scenario, the wet seasonal flow at Kratie will increase by + 7% in the near-future (2026–2050), but change by -5% under integrated impact of climate change and reservoir operations. In the far-future, the wet seasonal flow at Kratie under climate change only (integrated impact) will increase by + 33% (+ 19%). Although climate change is the dominant driver of flow alterations, hydropower development is critical for reducing discharge and flood magnitude. Nonparametric statistical testing shows significant changes in the inundated area by up to + 37% during the projected periods. | Integrated impact assessment of climate change and hydropower operation on streamflow and inundation in the lower Mekong Basin | 10.1186/s40645-023-00586-8 |
2023-09-04 | Four panels with a semicircular arch structure comprised of glass-fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) laminates are subjected to low-velocity impact, compression-after-impact (CAI), and quasi-static compression tests. Mechanical response and the failure mechanism of the complex structure are investigated with the assistance of a three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) system and numerical simulation based on Hashin’s failure criteria in Abaqus software. The results show that the addition of a semicircular arch can absorb more incident energy during the impact process. The failure modes of the panels are depended on the semicircular arch dimension, and excellent anti-impact performance is found in the semicircular arch with a diameter close to the impactor. Meanwhile, the CAI strength is increased with the semicircular arch size. 本研究对四种带有半圆拱状结构的玻璃纤维增强复合材料层合板进行了低速冲击、冲击后压缩以及准静态压缩试验. 利用三 维数字图像相关系统和基于Hashin破坏准则的Abaqus软件数值模拟, 研究了复杂结构的力学响应和失效机理. 结果表明, 半圆拱的加 入, 使得试件在冲击过程中, 可以吸收更多的入射能量; 板的破坏模式与半圆拱尺寸有关, 直径与冲击头相近的半圆拱具有较好的抗冲 击性能; 同时, 随着半圆拱尺寸的增大, 试件的冲击后压缩强度提高. | The failure mechanism of curved composite laminates subjected to low-velocity impact | 10.1007/s10409-023-23113-x |
2023-09-01 | Thermomechanical fatigue tests are performed on SA387Gr11CL2 (1.25Cr-0.5Mo) low alloy steel, which is widely used in the manufacture of coke drum. Thermomechanical fatigue mechanical behavior and life are investigated under different mechanical strain amplitudes. A prediction model of thermomechanical fatigue life is developed according to mechanical strain range, and thermomechanical fatigue life of coke drum with SA387Gr11CL2 low alloy steel in service is estimated based on the proposed prediction model and numerical analysis method. Thermomechanical fatigue life of coke drum with SA387Gr11CL2 low alloy steel in service are discussed under different operating parameters. The results indicate that the mechanical strain amplitude has effect on cyclic response of maximum tensile stress, but it has a limited effect on cyclic response of maximum compressive stress. Thermomechanical fatigue life of SA387Gr11CL2 low alloy steel decreases significantly with the increase of mechanical strain amplitude. The stress–strain hysteresis loops are obviously asymmetric. The thermomechanical fatigue prediction life of this studied coke drum with SA387Gr11CL2 low alloy steel is more than 20 years. Considering the safety of coke drum during operation, the time of vapor heating and steam quenching should be prolonged, and the velocity of oil filling and water quenching should be reduced. | Thermomechanical Fatigue Mechanical Behavior and Life Prediction of Coke Drum with Cr-Mo Steel | 10.1007/s11665-022-07675-7 |
2023-09-01 | New types of bio-composite phase change materials (BCPCM) with improved thermal properties were made from spent ground coffee powder (C), beeswax (W) and low density polyethylene (LDPE). Beeswax is a relatively accessible phase change material of organic origin, with a significantly lower unit price compared to conventional phase change materials (PCM). The observations by SEM and FTIR spectroscopy showed that the BCPCMs were physically combined. Through these techniques, it was discovered that ground coffee was effectively impregnated with natural wax and LDPE. According to the thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), the thermal stability of BCPCM was improved, due to the use of waste coffee grounds, in the working temperature range. The biocomposite possesses excellent performance as characterized by 136.9 J/g (W70C10PE20)>, 127.31 J/g (W70C20PE10)>, 126.95 J/g (W70C30)>, 121.08 J/g (W70PE30) of latent heat storage and tends to decrease the supercooling degree as compared with pure beeswax during melting/solidification process. By adding LDPE to the PCM, the melting time is reduced, demonstrating an improvement in thermal energy storage (TES) reaction time to the demand. The experimental results showed that the fraction of oils (12%) in spent ground coffee powder can participate in the improvement of the thermal properties of BCPMC. The use of biocompatible PCM by-products is suitable for applications in the field of heat storage because it is affordable and environmentally beneficial. | Bio-based composite as phase change material including spent coffee grounds and beeswax paraffin | 10.1007/s11814-023-1448-5 |
2023-09-01 | Carbon fiber–reinforced polymer (CFRP) and titanium alloy stacks play a significant role in the aerospace field to improve the mechanical properties of assembly components. Low-frequency vibration-assisted drilling (LFVAD) can realize the periodic contact and separation characteristic between tool and workpiece, thus pose a high potential for manipulating the machinability of CFRP/Ti stacks. In the present study, two types of drilling tools (polycrystalline diamond (PCD) tool and diamond-coated tool) are adopted, and tool wear behaviors are deeply evaluated during drilling CFRP/Ti stacks. Meanwhile, the specific influences of tool wear on the drilling performances are comprehensively analyzed under the LFVAD with minimum quantity lubrication (MQL). The results show that Ti-adhesion is observed for both drilling tools. Meanwhile, edge fracture is the key wear mode dominating for the PCD tool, and coating peeling is the main wear mode for the diamond-coated tool, with less Ti-adhesion. In addition, with the increasing number of drilled holes, the diamond-coated tool demonstrates better drilling performances with lower cutting force, better hole quality, and more hole-making number. The findings of this paper can contribute to providing a guidance for tool optimal selection in low-frequency vibration-assisted drilling of CFRP/Ti stacks with MQL. | Wear behaviors of PCD and diamond-coated tools during low-frequency vibration-assisted drilling CFRP/Ti stacks | 10.1007/s00170-023-11899-9 |
2023-09-01 | The inerting of a detonable mixture through thermal pretreatment or parasitic combustion is critical to understand for advanced detonation-based combustor design and safety. This work addresses the inerting effects of low temperature chemistry (LTC) on detonations. LTC was induced in both ozoneless DME/O $$_{\textrm{2}}$$ 2 and 1.0 mol% O $$_{{3}}$$ 3 -enhanced DME/O $$_{2}$$ 2 mixtures over a range of detonation tube temperatures ( $$T_{\textrm{o}}$$ T o ) from 423 to 648 K for reactant mixture equivalence ratios ( $$\phi $$ ϕ ) of 0.6–1.8. Upon filling the detonation tube, reactant gas temperatures increased by over 100 K in some cases but never exceeded a maximum gas temperature of 700 K, suggesting a limiting behavior such as the RO $$_{2}$$ 2 ceiling temperature. Zero-dimensional constant-volume simulations were conducted to identify chemical composition changes and heat releasing reactions with LTC pretreatment, and ZND simulations were conducted to show the evolution of thermicity with LTC pretreatment. Prolonged pretreatment at $$T_{\textrm{o}}$$ T o greater than 573 K prior to spark ignition of detonation was observed to inert DME/O $$_{2}$$ 2 mixtures and inhibit detonation transition for all tested $$\phi $$ ϕ . Additionally, detonation cell sizes were measured, and increased DDT distances and detonation cellular instability at near-limit conditions due to LTC pretreatments were observed using soot foils. Numerical cell sizes were estimated using a correlation model based on center-of-exothermic-length from ZND thermicity simulations, and results showed good agreement with experimental cell sizes. Stability parameter and DDT distance analyses based on correlation models supported the observed reduction in mixture detonability and increase in DDT distances with LTC pretreatment progression. | Effects of thermal pretreatment and equivalence ratio on DME/
$${\hbox {O}}_2$$
O
2
/
$${\hbox {O}}_3$$
O
3
detonations | 10.1007/s00193-023-01147-0 |
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