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2022-12-01 | The low-cycle fatigue behavior of Sn-0.3Ag-0.7Cu-0.5CeO 2 composite solder alloy was studied. The results show that the fatigue life exponent and material ductility coefficient of the composite solder alloy are dependent on both temperature and frequency. A modified Coffin-Manson model considering the influence of frequency and temperature was put forward, and the relationship between temperature and the frequency exponent, low-cycle fatigue life exponent, and material ductility coefficient was established. The modified model has a good elimination effect on the influence of different frequencies and temperatures on the low-cycle fatigue life of the composite solder alloy. | Low-Cycle Fatigue Behavior of Sn-0.3Ag-0.7Cu-0.5CeO2 Composite Solder Alloy | 10.1007/s11664-022-09958-0 |
2022-12-01 | Piezoelectrics of 0.99Pb(Zr 0.53 Ti 0.47 )O 3 –0.01Bi(Y 1 − x Fe x )O 3 (PZT-BYF x , 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.6) samples were investigated for energy-harvesting devices. In the sintering processes, the pre-synthesized PZT and BYF x powders were used to increase the piezoelectric properties. Compared with the PZT-BY samples, the PZT-BYF x specimens showed the larger grain size. The piezoelectric charge coefficient showed the maximum value at the Fe concentration of 0.3 molar ratio. Therefore, we checked the temperature dependency of the piezoelectric properties with the PZT-BYF03 composition. The ceramics were well sintered at the temperatures of 800–1200 °C and showed the maximum sintering density of 98.3% of the theoretical value. The transduction coefficient showed the maximum value of 2.0⋅10 − 15 m 2 /N in the samples sintered at 1170 °C. And the values were decreased with decreasing the sintering temperature. The large transduction coefficient means that the PZT-BYF03 composition is a suitable material for energy harvesting applications. | Temperature Dependency of Piezoelectric Properties in 0.99Pb(Zr0.53Ti0.47)O3–0.01Bi(Y1 −xFex)O3 Ceramics for Application of Energy-Harvesting Devices | 10.1007/s42341-022-00416-6 |
2022-12-01 | Octyl laurate phase change material (PCM) was microencapsulated by calcium alginate for eco-friendly low temperature energy storage. The PCM microcapsules were prepared by repeated interfacial coacervation followed by crosslinking method. In order to enhance the antibacterial properties of the as prepared capsules, the calcium alginate shell was functionalized by Ag nanoparticles. Calcium alginate-octyl laurate microcapsules possessed high latent heat of fusion values (130.8 and 128.6 J g −1 on melting and cooling, respectively) which did not significantly change when Ag nanoparticles were entrapped in the shell (127.5 and 125.2 J g −1 for melting and freezing enthalpy changes). Based on these values 71.0 and 69.0% maximal PCM content in the microcapsules were determined by the differential scanning calorimetry method. Both of the Ag-loaded and unloaded calcium alginate-octyl laurate PCM capsules maintained the high heat storing capacity after 250 warming and cooling cycles, which proved they did not suffer from leakage after the accelerated thermal test. | Low temperature energy storage by bio-originated calcium alginate-octyl laurate microcapsules | 10.1007/s10973-022-11678-w |
2022-12-01 | Two-stage ignition exists in the low-temperature combustion process of n -heptane and the first-stage ignition also shows a negative temperature coefficient(NTC) phenomenon. To study key reactions and understand chemical principles affecting the first-stage ignition of n -heptane, a lumped skeletal mechanism with 62 species is obtained based on the detailed NUIGMech1.0 mechanism using the directed relation graph method assisted by sensitivity analysis and isomer lumping. The lumped mechanism shows good performance on ignition delay time under wide conditions. The study revealed that the temperature after the first-stage ignition is higher and a larger amount of fuel is consumed at lower initial temperatures. The temperature at the first-stage ignition is relatively insensitive to the initial temperature. Further sensitivity analysis and reaction path analysis carried out based on the lumped mechanism show that the decomposition of RO 2 to produce alkene and HO 2 is the most important reaction to inhibit the first-stage ignitions. The chain branching explosion closely related to the first-stage ignition will be terminated when the rate constant for the RO 2 decomposition is larger than that of the isomerization of RO 2 to produce QOOH. The NTC behavior as well as other characteristics of the first-stage ignition can be rationalized from the competition between these two reactions. | Analysis on First-stage Ignition of n-Heptane at Low Temperatures with a Lumped Skeletal Mechanism | 10.1007/s40242-022-2066-1 |
2022-12-01 | Magnetic skyrmions are vortex-like swirling spin textures that are promising candidates for carrying information bits in future magnetic memories or logic circuits. To build skyrmionic devices, researchers must electrically manipulate magnetic skyrmions to enable easy integration into modern semiconductor technology. This operation generally uses a spin-polarized current, which unavoidably causes high energy dissipation and Joule heating. Thus, the electric-field strategy is a hopeful alternative for electrically manipulating the skyrmions due to the strategy’s negligible Joule heating and low energy cost. In this review, we systematically summarize the theoretical and experimental development of the electrical-field manipulation of magnetic skyrmions over the past decade. We review the following magnetic systems and physical mechanisms: (i) ultra-thin multilayer films with accumulation and release of interfacial charge, (ii) single-phase multiferroic material with magneto-electric coupling, (iii) ferromagnetic/ferroelectric (FM/FE) multiferroic heterostructure with magneto-elastic coupling. Finally, we consider future developmental trends in the electric-field manipulation of magnetic skyrmions and other topological magnetic domain structures. Graphical abstract 磁斯格明子是一种类涡旋的自旋结构, 因其具有拓扑保护性、纳米级尺寸以及优异的磁电特性, 有望成为未来磁性存储器或逻辑器件中的信息载体。为使斯格明子器件易集成于现代半导体技术, 磁性斯格明子需要能通过电学手段操纵。目前主要采用自旋极化的电流操控斯格明子, 这种方法不可避免地会带来高能耗和高焦耳热问题。相比之下, 电场操控方式可以大大降低能耗引起的焦耳热可以忽略不计, 极具应用潜力。本文根据物理机理和材料体系, 从具有界面电荷积累和释放的超薄多层膜、具有磁电耦合的单相多铁材料、具有磁弹性耦合的铁磁/铁电(FM/FE)多铁异质结构三类材料体系系统地总结了近十年来电场操纵磁斯格明子的理论和实验方面的研究进展。最后, 我们对电场操控磁斯格明子和其他拓扑磁畴结构的发展趋势进行了展望。 | Electric field manipulation of magnetic skyrmions | 10.1007/s12598-022-02084-0 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract In this work, the kinetics of the growth of austenite grains upon heating, the features of the processes of dynamic and static recrystallization occurring at various temperature-deformation modes of plastic deformation are investigated. Phase transformations have been studied during continuous cooling of hot-deformed austenite in low-alloy Arc steel with a yield point of at least 420 MPa. The studies carried out made it possible to determine the thermal deformation parameters that ensure the formation of a finely dispersed homogeneous ferrite-bainitic structure, on the basis of which technological recommendations for industrial production were developed and sheet products were manufactured. Presented are the structure and properties of sheet metal from shipbuilding Arc steel of strength category of 420 MPa. | Development of Thermal Rolling Regimes of Low-Alloy Arc Steel with Quasi-Homogeneous Ferrite-Bainitic Structure | 10.1134/S2075113322060247 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract — The scientific foundations for the development of a method for assessing the degree of danger of single crack-like defects found in thin-sheet metal structural elements are being investigated using AE testing using the low-temperature loading method. As a criterion, it is proposed to use the “critical activity” of the AE source, calculated using the equations of fracture mechanics and thermal conductivity. Loading is carried out via cooling the local ring-shaped zone by placing the carbon dioxide with a temperature of –78°C. At the same time, as a result of thermal contraction, tensile stresses arise that load the defect area during AE testing. The resulting temperature field and mechanical stresses are calculated by known theoretical methods using the heat and fracture mechanics equations. The annular appearance of the cooling zone determines the invariance of loading relative to the angle of the crack plane. Fracture mechanics criteria are employed that use the known power-law dependence of the number of acoustic emission acts on the stress intensity factor. Thus, the possibility of using the fracture mechanics criteria to assess the danger of crack-like defects by AE testing using the known power-law dependence of the number of acoustic emission acts on the stress intensity factor is shown. | Assessing Hazard Degree of Crack-Like Defects Based on Acoustic Emission Testing under Local Low-Temperature Loading | 10.1134/S1061830922700103 |
2022-12-01 | We developed a two-stage temperature control system for a long-term stable measurement of AMoRE neutrinoless double beta decay experiment using a dilution refrigerator. The first-stage control was made with a standard PID system using an AC bridge with a ruthenium oxide thermometer as the main thermometer of the mixing chamber plate. The second-stage control was obtained with a magnetic microcalorimeter (MMC) that is configured as a sensitive thermometer for a detector tower, the main experiment. Under single-stage temperature control on the temperature of the mixing chamber plate only with the RuO 2 thermometer, the MMC recorded temperature stability of the detector plate of 9 μK rms over 100 min. Under two-stage temperature control, with the first-stage of the mixing chamber plate at 11 mK via the RuO 2 thermometer and the second-stage of the detector plate at 12 mK via the MMC, the MMC recorded a temperature stability of 0.5 μK rms over 100 min. Moreover, the heat channels of the AMoRE experiment obtained considerable improvement in energy resolutions when switching from single-stage (RuO 2 ) to two-stage (RuO 2 + MMC) control. | An MMC-Based Temperature Control System for a Long-Term Data Collection | 10.1007/s10909-022-02805-w |
2022-12-01 | Metallisation is one of the important factors that affect the production of solar cells with good quality and performance. Front contact made with a high-temperature process can cause shunting of the shallow emitter layer. To be applied as the top electrode in a silicon solar cell, the contacts produced must be thin and semi-transparent with high transmission and low resistance. In this study, the combination of Ag polymer and nickel was chosen as the top electrode. Nickel was fabricated by using a doped silicon wafer coated in electroless solution and annealed using a quartz tube furnace. Ag polymer was fabricated by screen printing and drying in an oven at low fabrication temperature. The contacts were deposited on a phosphoric acid diffused layer on silicon wafer. The contact performance of KOH-based texturing surface as a nickel attachment site and the compatibility with Ag polymer-nickel contact were studied. The thickness of Ag polymer-nickel (12 μm) was comparable with that of the Ag contact (10 μm). Surface morphological analysis showed the absence of an oxygen element in the Ag polymer-nickel contact. Then, the series resistance of Ag polymer-nickel on the textured silicon wafer was compared with that of the high temperature Ag contact. The series resistance value of Ag polymer-nickel contact on KOH textured silicon was 2.06 Ω, whereas that of the Ag contact that formed at 700 °C was 165 Ω. Moreover, the transmission within IR region of Ag polymer-nickel contact was 7.25 a.u., which was higher than that of the Ag contact (6.75 a.u.). This finding showed that Ag polymer-nickel contact can form low resistance ohmic contact with high transmission and can protect against moisture. | Morphological, Optical and Electrical Analysis of Ag Polymer-Nickel Low Temperature Top Electrode in Silicon Solar Cell for Tandem Application | 10.1007/s12633-022-01950-x |
2022-12-01 | A lead-free base glaze suitable for pearlescent pigments was prepared by a low-temperature solid-phase reaction with alkali waste. Tests were performed to evaluate the effects of the sintering conditions and alkali waste composition on the prepared base glaze and pearlescent glaze. The experimental results show that partially replacing SiO 2 with B 2 O 3 effectively reduced the sintering temperature and time to form a glass network, but the network structure becomes disconnected as the B 2 O 3 content increases. An amorphous base glaze was obtained when soda ash was replaced with a small amount of alkali waste, but increasing the addition of NaCl further was adverse to base glaze formation by resulting in crystallization of the base glaze and a decrease in the bridging oxygen content. The pearlescent pigment was thermally stable in the glaze at 750 °C, while higher temperatures caused the crystalline phase of NaAlSiO 4 to appear and adhere to the surface of pigment granules, which degraded the pearlescent effect of the glaze. | Preparation of Lead-free Base Glaze Suitable for Pearlescent Pigments by Low-temperature Solid-phase Reaction with Alkali Waste | 10.1007/s11595-022-2659-z |
2022-12-01 | Track irregularity is strictly controlled in low-speed maglev system. Vertical deflection due to vertical temperature difference is one of the important factors in track irregularity, which should be considered in structural design. In the field of low-speed maglev, few researches have been developed directly about the measurement of temperature and corresponding effect. In this paper, the surface temperature and deflection of a steel box girder in the low-speed maglev experimental line in Shanghai have been measured for several months. Measured surface temperature data are decomposed into temperature trend and fluctuating part with wavelet based MRA and the former is highly relevant with local climatic. In the analysis of probability distribution characteristics of the vertical temperature difference, three weighted probability models are compared, and the weighted sum model of one Weibull distribution and one normal distribution is appropriate, based on which the standard values of the temperature difference with 50-year return period are derived. To determine the correlation between the temperature difference and deflection, scatter plots of equivalent linear temperature difference obtained by deflection and measured temperature difference were fitted, and the results shows an approximate linear relationship. | Analysis of Vertical Temperature Difference of the Low-Speed Maglev Steel Girder Based on Measured Data | 10.1007/s13296-022-00647-6 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract SA508 Gr.1A low-alloy steel is used for main steam line piping in nuclear power plants. The yield strength and J-R fracture resistance of the piping material must be high in order to apply the leak-before-break concept. In this study, intercritical heat treatment (IHT) was applied to two SA508 Gr.1A low-alloy steels having different chemical compositions, namely, samples C and P; the latter containing Mo and V. Their microstructures, tensile properties, impact properties, and J-R fracture resistances were evaluated, and the effects of IHT on the mechanical properties of the steels were analyzed. After IHT, fine grains formed at grain boundaries and coarse cementite decomposed, which greatly improved toughness without reducing the strength. Further, a model to predict the J-R fracture resistance ( J Ic ) of the SA508 Gr.1A low-alloy steel was developed by considering the microstructural and mechanical factors that affect the J-R fracture resistance. According to the J Ic results of 12 kinds of SA508 Gr.1A low alloy steel, subjected to different heat treatments, the J Ic was linearly proportional to the number of effective grains ( N ) contained in the plastic zone, which showed that N is the main factor affecting J Ic . Furthermore, the yield and tensile strengths were considered to compensate for the strength difference owing to the different chemical compositions. The J Ic prediction model was derived considering the effective grain size, plastic zone size, and tensile properties. The predicted J Ic values agreed well with the test J Ic values. Graphical abstract | Effect of Intercritical Heat Treatment on J-R Fracture Resistance of SA508 Gr.1A Low-Alloy Steels | 10.1007/s12540-022-01188-7 |
2022-12-01 | Due to their high strength and corrosion resistance, duplex stainless steels are increasingly used in applications where heavy-wall material is welded under highly restrained conditions. Despite the ferritic solidification and experience shared in most available literature, these alloys are not immune to hot cracking. In this work, different commercial and experimental flux-cored wires of E2209T0 and E2209T1 type were subject to flux-cored arc welding (FCAW) to evaluate the susceptibility to solidification cracking. Impact toughness testing of all-weld metal on restrained plates proved an efficient method to detect and inspect cracks by examining the fracture surfaces. Particles found in cracks and dimples were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). While the start of the observed cracks showed a classic dendritic or dendritic-flat solidification pattern, the end with the last solidified melt was rather smooth. Examination in backscatter mode clearly visualized bismuth to be present in the flat region adhering to manganese sulfide (MnS) particles. Cracks were, however, also detected with bismuth-free wires and wires with low sulfur content. The weld metal chemical composition, source of raw materials, and selected agents for deoxidation could play an important role, while certain formulations with special concepts for slag formation may be less susceptible. The E2209T1 types with more rapidly solidifying slag generally showed higher resistance to solidification cracking than the E2209T0 wires, which also contained substantially higher total amounts of sulfur, phosphorous, boron, oxygen, and bismuth. | Solidification cracking in duplex stainless steel flux-cored arc welds Part 2 — susceptibility of 22Cr all-weld metals under high restraint | 10.1007/s40194-022-01389-z |
2022-12-01 | In the White Paper, submitted in response to the European Space Agency (ESA) Voyage 2050 Call, we present the importance of advancing our knowledge of plasma-neutral gas interactions, and of deepening our understanding of the partially ionized environments that are ubiquitous in the upper atmospheres of planets and moons, and elsewhere in space. In future space missions, the above task requires addressing the following fundamental questions: ( A ) How and by how much do plasma-neutral gas interactions influence the re-distribution of externally provided energy to the composing species? ( B ) How and by how much do plasma-neutral gas interactions contribute toward the growth of heavy complex molecules and biomolecules? Answering these questions is an absolute prerequisite for addressing the long-standing questions of atmospheric escape, the origin of biomolecules, and their role in the evolution of planets, moons, or comets, under the influence of energy sources in the form of electromagnetic and corpuscular radiation, because low-energy ion-neutral cross-sections in space cannot be reproduced quantitatively in laboratories for conditions of satisfying, particularly, (1) low-temperatures, (2) tenuous or strong gradients or layered media, and (3) in low-gravity plasma. Measurements with a minimum core instrument package (< 15 kg) can be used to perform such investigations in many different conditions and should be included in all deep-space missions. These investigations, if specific ranges of background parameters are considered, can also be pursued for Earth, Mars, and Venus. | Plasma-neutral gas interactions in various space environments: Assessment beyond simplified approximations as a Voyage 2050 theme | 10.1007/s10686-022-09846-9 |
2022-12-01 | Hydrogen energy, as clean and efficient energy, is considered significant support for the construction of a sustainable society in the face of global climate change and the looming energy revolution. Hydrogen is one of the most important chemical substances on earth and can be obtained through various techniques using renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. However, the necessity for a gradual transition to renewable energy sources significantly hampers efforts to identify and implement green hydrogen production paths. Therefore, this paper’s objective is to provide a technological review of the systems of hydrogen production from solar and wind energy utilizing several types of water electrolyzers. The current paper starts with a short brief about the different production techniques. A detailed comparison between water electrolyzer types and a complete illustration of hydrogen production techniques using solar and wind are presented with examples, after which an economic assessment of green hydrogen production by comparing the costs of the discussed renewable sources with other production methods. Finally, the challenges that face the mentioned production methods are illuminated in the current review. | A review of water electrolysis–based systems for hydrogen production using hybrid/solar/wind energy systems | 10.1007/s11356-022-23323-y |
2022-12-01 | Abstract A new structure for photoconductive antennas is proposed, which represents a multilayer epitaxial film grown on a GaAs(111)A substrate and consisting of alternating low-temperature grown undoped GaAs (LTG-GaAs) layers and GaAs layers formed in the standard high-temperature mode and doped with silicon (GaAs:Si). The As 4 and Ga flow ratio γ is chosen such that the GaAs:Si layers have p -type conductivity. The LTG-GaAs layers are grown at a high γ value. A similar structure is grown on a (100) substrate as a reference. The structural properties of the samples are investigated: the phase composition is explored by high-resolution X-ray diffractometry; the surface relief, by atomic-force microscopy, and the Si-impurity thickness distribution, by secondary-ion mass spectrometry. | Structural Properties of {LTG-GaAs/GaAs:Si} Superlattices on GaAs(100) and (111)A Substrates | 10.1134/S2635167622070047 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract The dielectric properties of a microporous glassy addition polymer based on 5-methyl-2-norbornene were studied in wide ranges of the electric field frequencies (from 1 × 10 –2 to 1 × 10 6 Hz) and temperatures (from –100 to +100°С). The dielectric permittivity of this polymer is below 2.4, and its minimal values (2.31–2.33) are reached at 40–55°С. The frequency dependence of the dielectric permittivity of addition poly(5-methyl-2-norbornene) is weakly pronounced: the dielectric permittivity decreases by 2–3% with an increase in the electric field frequency from 0.01 Hz to 1 MHz. The polymer combines such properties as high glass transition temperature, low dielectric permittivity, moderate values of the dielectric loss and dielectric loss tangent, and high thermal- and chemical stability. | Dielectric Properties of Addition Poly(5-methylnorbornene) | 10.1134/S1070427222120084 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Reduced-activation ferritic-martensitic steels (RAFMS) are considered not only as structural but also, under certain conditions, as plasma-facing materials for fusion installations. The base material of RAFMS is iron. These steels also contain 8–12 wt % Cr and 1–2 wt % W. In a certain energy range during ion irradiation of RAFMS, there are conditions under which iron and chromium are sputtered, but tungsten is not. This phenomenon is called selective sputtering. In this work, for the first time, the selective sputtering of the domestic RAFMS EK-181 (Rusfer) under irradiation with deuterium plasma with an ion energy of 100 eV has been studied in detail. The sputtering coefficient was determined from the weight loss of the samples. In the course of sputtering, outgrowths are formed on the surface, the height of which increases with increasing irradiation dose and reaches several hundred nanometers. Data were obtained on sputtering and relief formation at a sample temperature of 440 K in the irradiation dose range of 3 × 10 24 –7 × 10 25 ion/m 2 , as well as in the temperature range of 350–700 K at a fixed irradiation dose of 3 × 10 24 ion/m 2 . The distribution of elements over the surface and in the cross section of the sample obtained by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) indicates a significant enrichment of the surface in tungsten, especially pronounced in the protruding parts of the surface. Studies of the elemental composition by Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS) also showed an increase in the concentration of tungsten in the surface layer with an increase in the radiation dose. At the maximum irradiation dose, the concentration of tungsten on the surface, averaged over the area of the analyzing beam of 1.7 mm 2 , increased by about 10 times and reached 4.5 at %. | Selective Sputtering of Steel EK-181 (Rusfer) | 10.1134/S1063778822130063 |
2022-12-01 | The effects of welding heat inputs and reheating processes with various cooling rates were investigated by thermally simulated experiments on the microstructure, tensile strength and impact toughness of high-strength weld metals containing 4% Ni. The microstructure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). As a result, an extended continuous cooling transformation (e-CCT) diagram was established. The change in the microstructures is affected from three perspectives. The coarser grains and the generated martensite-austenite (M-A) constituents lead to the deterioration of impact toughness and ultimate tensile strength with the increase in heat inputs. The reheating processes with various cooling rates can change the microstructure, hardness, impact toughness and large angle boundaries. When the heat input increases from 15.8 to 17.9 kJ/cm, the content of block ferrite decreases from the initial 18.9 to 8.5%, and the content of lath bainite increases accordingly. When the heat input is 20.6 kJ/cm, the content of block ferrite increases is 17.3% and the rest is lath bainite. The hardness first decreases in the lower cooling rate range (0.05~1 °C/s) and then increases at higher cooling rates. The minimum hardness at a cooling rate of 1 °C/s may be related to the decrease in the coarse block M-A constituents. The reheating process decreases the impact toughness at room temperature from 83 to 37.45 J for the specimen with a cooling rate of 30 °C/s and increases the impact toughness from 83 to 99.71 J for the specimen with a cooling rate of 0.5 °C/s. The impact toughness at −50 °C after the reheating processes decreases from 74 to 32 J, and the lowest impact toughness after the reheating processes reaches only 32 J. The proportion of high-angle grain boundaries (HAGBs) first increases from 12.13 to 26. 44% and then decreases to 16.34% with increasing cooling rate. | Effects of Various Heat Inputs and Reheating Processes on the Microstructure and Properties of Low-Carbon Bainite Weld Metals Containing 4% Ni | 10.1007/s11665-022-07061-3 |
2022-12-01 | Duplex stainless steels show fully ferritic solidification and are thus considered generally resistant to hot cracking. The few published cases where welds have been subject to solidification cracking could mostly be correlated to fairly high ferrite contents and an unfavorable weld shape. A recent literature review suggests that all welding methods can to some extent cause hot cracking and the risk increases in applications where heavy-wall material is welded under highly restrained conditions. This paper collects three cases where solidification cracking has occurred with duplex flux-cored wires in 30-mm-thick material welded under full restraint. Sidewall bend testing together with examination of fracture surfaces proved efficient to detect and inspect cracks. The hot cracks were observed in primary ferrite grain boundaries enveloped by austenite, but no clear correlation with the ferrite content could be found. Auger electron spectroscopy, light optical, scanning and transmission electron microscopy were used to characterize cracks. The fracture surface showed a clear transition of solidification mode from dendritic-flat to flat and particles were detected in the crack tip of the last solidified material. The weld metal chemical composition and source of raw materials were identified to affect the cracking susceptibility. The results indicate that the resistance may possibly be improved by optimization of the composition and slag concept. | Solidification cracking in duplex stainless steel flux-cored arc welds Part 1—cracking in 30-mm-thick material welded under high restraint | 10.1007/s40194-022-01370-w |
2022-12-01 | The cold push forming method of 1D bending radius (R/D = 1) with small diameter and small bending radius using low-melting-point alloy as filling medium is studied in this paper. The contact states between the outer surface of the filling medium and the inner surface of the tube are proposed to adjust the material flow of the tube blank. Based on ABAQUS/Explicit, simulation methods were used to investigate the effects of the contact modes on the quality of the elbow in four parameters. Experiments were carried out to verify the reliability of the simulations. The results show that the 5A02 thin-walled aluminum alloy tube, of which the diameter D is 12 mm, the thickness t is 1 mm, and the bending radius R is 12 mm, can be successfully fabricated by push bending using low-melting-point alloy as filling medium. The extended length of straight segment increases with the increase of the friction coefficient in the tube, but decreases with that of the outer surface of the tube. And the friction coefficient on the compression side of the medium affects more on the extended length than that on the tensile side. Differential contact modes used to the inner surface of the tube can improve the thickening and thinning of the elbow than uniform contact. The optimal elbow was obtained under the contact Mode 7, when the friction coefficient on the compression side was 0.06 and that on the tensile side was 0.01. | Effect of contact states in the tube on the push bending with low-melting-point alloy as filling medium | 10.1007/s00170-022-10266-4 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract The operability of structures in complex combined loading modes depends on a significant number of combinations of operational parameters of thermomechanical impacts in terms of loads, temperatures, times, numbers of cycles, and strain rates. The main strain patterns of structural materials under complex conditions are established using combined standard, unified, and special tests under laboratory conditions. With the use of representative substantiations of physicochemical models for strain diagrams in a wide range of loading conditions and with allowance for the scale diversity of models, the material structure, and the responsibility of structures, we propose a step-by-step consideration of the corresponding strain types: elastic, sign-alternating flow, progressive strain accumulation, and their combinations. In this case, structural calculations can be built as a hierarchical system, in which each next level refines the boundaries of permissible impacts toward expansion of the range of acting loads, temperatures, rates, and strain modes, which is associated with an increase in the amount of required initial data and complicates calculations. The proposed methods for schematization of physicomechanical properties and types of state equations for describing strain curves account for the compactness requirements of the initial data and the need to use both standard and unified methods for determining the characteristics of cyclic inelastic deformation and special methods. Both from a theoretical standpoint and from the viewpoint of practical applications, power equations are the most reasonable to describe the kinetics of strain diagrams under the considered conditions. Exponential dependences are suitable to reflect the role of the temperature factor while power dependences are suitable to take into account the time and strain-rate factors and two-frequency loading conditions. Ensuring the maximum possible use of the strain and strength reserves of materials and structures, refined calculations at higher, more complex levels of the considered hierarchy must be based on kinetic dependences describing low-cycle deformation in complex loading modes. | Study of Material Properties under Complex Conditions of Low-Cycle Deformation | 10.1134/S0020168522150067 |
2022-12-01 | The determination of the absolute mass scale of neutrinos is one of the most important challenges in Particle Physics. The shape of the endpoint region of $$\beta ^-$$ β - -decay and electron capture (EC) spectra depends on the phase space factor, which, in turn, is function of the masses of the neutrino mass eigenstates. High energy resolution and high statistics measurements of $$\beta ^-$$ β - and EC spectra are therefore considered a model-independent way for the determination of the neutrino mass scale. Since almost four decades, low temperature microcalorimeters are used for the measurement of low energy $$\beta ^-$$ β - and EC spectra. The first efforts were focused on the development of large arrays for the measurement of the $$^{187}$$ 187 Re $$\beta ^-$$ β - -spectrum. In the last ten years, the attention moved to EC of $$^{163}$$ 163 Ho. This choice was mainly motivated by the very good performance which could be achieved with low temperature microcalorimeters enclosing $$^{163}$$ 163 Ho with respect to microcalorimeters with absorber containing $$^{187}$$ 187 Re. The development of low temperature microcalorimeters for the measurement of the finite neutrino mass is discussed and, in particular, the reasons for moving from $$^{187}$$ 187 Re to $$^{163}$$ 163 Ho. The possibility to reach sub-eV sensitivity on the effective electron neutrino mass with $$^{163}$$ 163 Ho, thanks to the multiplexing of large microcalorimeter arrays is demonstrated. In conclusion, an overview on other nuclides which have been proposed as good candidates, motivated by the excellent performance of low temperature microcalorimeters is presented. | Neutrino Mass Measurements Using Cryogenic Detectors | 10.1007/s10909-022-02780-2 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Currently, fiber Bragg gratings are the main type of sensor structure in fiber optic sensors. However, during their creation the protective-strength coating is removed, which reduces the strength and flexibility of the fiber and limits the field of application of such sensors. A solution to this problem could be the creation of a fiber-optic sensor using a new technology in which the protective-strength coating is not damaged, and the sensor structure is created using a fusion effect. When recording the sensor structure in a given area of the fiber, the conditions for generating a plasma focus are created, after the passage of which a structure of microneedles of various shapes is formed. Sensors created using such technology can operate in a wide temperature range. The aim of the present study is to determine the dependence of changes in the spectral characteristics of the sensor in the temperature range from 4 to 700 K. | Wide Temperature Range Fiber Optic Sensor | 10.3103/S1062873822700472 |
2022-12-01 | AMoRE is an international project to search for the neutrinoless double beta decay of $$^{100}\hbox {Mo}$$ 100 Mo using a detection technology consisting of magnetic microcalorimeters (MMCs) and molybdenum-based scintillating crystals. Data collection has begun for the current AMORE-I phase of the project, an upgrade from the previous pilot phase. AMoRE-I employs thirteen $${}^\mathrm {48depl.}\hbox {Ca}^{100}\hbox {MoO}_4$$ 48 depl . Ca 100 MoO 4 crystals and five $$\hbox {Li}_2^{100}\hbox {MoO}_4$$ Li 2 100 MoO 4 crystals for a total crystal mass of 6.2 kg. Each detector module contains a scintillating crystal with two MMC channels for heat and light detection. We report the present status of the experiment and the performance of the detector modules. | Status and Performance of the AMoRE-I Experiment on Neutrinoless Double Beta Decay | 10.1007/s10909-022-02880-z |
2022-12-01 | Nickel (Ni)-based catalyst is widely adopted for tar removing in the process of biomass gasification. In order to improve low-temperature catalytic activity of Ni-based catalyst, three-dimensional ordered macro/mesoporous (3DOM/m) Ce 0.8 Zr 0.1 M 0.1 (M = Gd, Pr and La) ternary solid solutions were prepared and used as the carriers of Ni/Ce 0.8 Zr 0.1 M 0.1 catalysts. The obtained catalysts were employed to catalyze the steam reforming of toluene (SRT). The results demonstrated that all the Ni/Ce 0.8 Zr 0.1 M 0.1 showed excellent low-temperature catalytic activity and presented higher toluene conversion than Ni/Ce 0.8 Zr 0.2 . Among the catalysts, Ni/Ce 0.8 Zr 0.1 Pr 0.1 exhibited the highest toluene conversion, reaching 96.1% at 550 ℃ (toluene = 185 μmol min −1 , S/C = 3). The characterization results of catalysts showed that all the catalysts presented ordered three-dimensional morphology containing interconnected periodic macropores with abundant mesopores existing on the wall. The rare earth dopants were incorporated into the lattice of cerium-zirconium solid solution. As a result, the thermal stability of the carrier was improved, which made the BET specific surface area of the carrier increase and the dispersion of active component of Ni increase. Moreover, the incorporation of dopants produced more oxygen vacancies, thus improved reactive oxygen mobility. These superior properties of 3DOM/m Ce 0.8 Zr 0.1 M 0.1 led to their excellent catalytic activity in SRT. Graphical Abstract | Rare Earth (Gd, Pr and La) Promoted Three-Dimensional Ordered Macro/Mesoporous Ni/CeZr Catalysts for Low-Temperature Catalytic Steam Reforming of Toluene as Tar Model | 10.1007/s10562-022-03952-1 |
2022-12-01 | The microstructures, mechanical properties and precipitation behavior of a high-Ti low-C weathering steel obtained by thermo-mechanical controlled process were investigated by means of electron backscatter diffraction and transmission electron microscope. The cooling rates have a significant effect on the continuous cooling transformation structure of deformed austenite in the tested steel, and the higher cooling rate is conducive to the formation of bainite. The grain orientation and precipitates of the steel at different cooling rates were discussed in detail. There were some large size precipitates which may lead to negative effect on the mechanical properties at the grain boundaries and within the grains at cooling rate of 0.5 °C/s. However, the higher cooling rate of 30 °C/s was favorable to obtain dispersive nano-scale precipitates. There is a greater degree of plastic deformation and dislocation density in the microstructures at 30 °C/s than 0.5 °C/s. The roles of precipitates, grain boundaries and sub-grain boundaries on the hindrance of dislocations movement were discussed. The precipitation strengthening effect of the precipitates can be brought into full play when the coiling temperature is about 610 than 560 °C. The yield strength of the high-Ti low-C weathering steel plate is 777 MPa at 610 °C. | Effect of Cooling Rate and Coiling Temperature on Microstructure and Precipitation Behavior of a 700 MPa Weathering Steel | 10.1007/s11665-022-07034-6 |
2022-12-01 | Spent cobalt-based macroporous adsorbents are considered to be used for the hydrotreating process. Herein, cobalt-based spent materials from the low-temperature desulfurization process were used as organic sulfur hydrotreating catalysts. Physicochemical properties of waste adsorbents were characterized and the performance for COS conversion was evaluated at different conditions. The spent Co-containing adsorbents exhibit considerable organic sulfur hydrogenation performance at low temperature, the residual cobalt oxide in sulfided samples will absorb part of hydrogen sulfide and generate new active phase Co 9 S 8 . By further characterization, it can be found that the unstable Co-S bond on the surface of the sample played a key role in hydrogenation catalysis. Results indicated that the sulfidation degree of the waste adsorbents played a key role in the hydrotreating process. With the temperature increasing from 150 ~ 250 °C, the conversion rate and H 2 S selectivity were increased. It is hoped that this paper will provide significant suggestions in waste adsorbents treatment for future work. Graphical Abstract | Further Use of Spent Co-Based Macroporous Adsorbent for Low-Temperature Hydrodesulfurization | 10.1007/s10904-022-02437-3 |
2022-12-01 | Low temperature stress in spring is an abiotic stress limiting the growth and productivity of winter wheat. A controlled pot experiment was done to explore the possibility of applying urea to alleviate the low temperature (3 °C/−4 °C, day/night) damage to wheat cultivar Yangmai 16 at jointing stage. Urea at different rates was applied on the 5th day after low temperature stress. Low temperature stress decreased grain yield and plant height. Compared with the unstressed control, the content of soluble sugar, proline, zeatin riboside (ZR), and abscisic acid (ABA) in the leaves was increased under longer low temperature stress. These above parameters in the stressed treatments without urea amendment were higher than those with urea amendment on the 10th day. The change in GA 3 concentration was opposite to the concentrations of ABA and ZR. The decline in the concentrations of osmotic adjustment substances, balanced hormone concentrations, and increased grain number per ear and ear number were the main reasons for the increased grain yield after urea application. Remedial effects was enhanced with the higher urea remedial level under the same low temperature stress duration. Our study suggested that suitable urea remedial rates are recommended based on the freezing index in wheat to alleviate the impacts of low temperature on wheat production at jointing stage. | Urea amendment alleviated morphological and physiological damages and yield loss of winter wheat subjected to low temperature stress at jointing stage | 10.1007/s10725-022-00881-2 |
2022-12-01 | The tarsonemid mite Tarsonemus confusus Ewing has become an economically important pest in orchards in China. This study investigated the temperature-dependent development and reproduction of T. confusus at 15, 20, 25, 30, 33 and 35 °C. Eggs failed to hatch at 35 °C. When temperature increased from 15 to 30 °C, the developmental rate of eggs, larvae and quiescent larvae and that from egg to adulthood of both sexes significantly increased, and the time period required by females to commence oviposition significantly decreased. The lower temperature threshold ( T 0 ) for the development of eggs, larvae and quiescent larvae was between 9.3 and 12.0 °C and both sexes required about 60 degree days ( DD ) to complete a life cycle. Females were expected to start oviposition at 12.9 °C. The number of eggs laid, the number of female offspring produced and the egg hatch rate were significantly higher at 20, 25 and 30 °C than at 15 and 33 °C. Increasing temperature shortened the longevity of both sexes but increased the intrinsic rate of increase ( r m ) and finite capacity for increase ( λ ) with significantly shorter generation time ( T ) and doubling time ( DT ) within a temperature range of 15–30 °C. The net reproductive rate ( R 0 ) was highest at 25 °C. Results of this study may improve our knowledge of fundamental biology and ecology in genus Tarsonemus in general and in T. confusus in particular. Based on the local climate conditions, the applications of these results in predicting the seasonal population dynamics of T. confusus and timing the pest management are discussed. | Temperature-dependent development and reproduction of Tarsonemus confusus (Acari: Tarsonemidae): an important pest mite of horticulture | 10.1007/s10493-022-00761-4 |
2022-12-01 | Human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) has multiple biological functions, such as promoting cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. In addition, it is a very expensive polypeptide with attractive market prospects. However, the production of hEGF needs for high cost to manufacture polypeptide demands reinvestigations of process conditions so as to enhance economic benefits. Improving the expression of soluble hEGF is the fundamental method to reduce the cost. In this study, a non-extracellular engineered strain of expressed hEGF was constructed, using plasmid pET-22b(+) in Escherichia coli . Preliminary fermentation and high cell density cultivation were carried out in shake flasks and in a 5 L bioreactor, respectively. A high yield of 98 ± 10 mg/L of soluble hEGF and a dry cell weight (DCW) of 6.98 ± 0.3 g/L were achieved in shake flasks. Then, fermentation conditions were optimized for large-scale production, while taking into consideration the expensive equipment required for cooling and conforming to industrial standards. A yield of 285 ± 10 mg/L of soluble hEGF, a final cell density of 57.4 ± 2 g/L DCW (OD 600 141.1 ± 4.9), and hEGF productivity of 14.3 mg/L/h were obtained using a bioreactor at 32 °C for 20 h. The production method developed in this study for the biosynthesis of soluble hEGF is efficient and inexpensive. | Economic optimization of expression of soluble human epidermal growth factor in Escherichia coli | 10.1007/s10529-022-03308-0 |
2022-12-01 | The long-clawed vole (LCV) is a poorly studied species endemic to the Caucasus Mountains. It is a rare example of a small subterranean rodent living in a cold climate. Subterranean lifestyle and low ambient temperatures are thought to affect an animal’s “pace-of-life” in opposite directions, and it is currently unknown how LCV solve this trade-off. We report key aspects of reproduction and postnatal development as well as resting metabolic rate (RMR) and low critical temperature ( T lc ) in captive LCV. Mean litter size was 2.9 (± 0.9 SD, range 1–4) and gestation lasted 32–33 days. The embryonic and pre-weaning postnatal growth rate was low when adult weight of 80–90 g was taken into account (0.14 g/day and 0.8 g/day, respectively). Juveniles developed very slowly (eyes opening at 22–25 days) and weaned at about 1 month. Members of breeding pairs exhibited permanent nest cohabitation. Males were present at birth and displayed paternal care of pups. Females may become pregnant by 50 days or even earlier. The T lc was estimated as 18.9 (± 0.9 SE) °C. The mass-independent basal metabolic rate (BMR) was 1.65 (± 0.08 SD) mL O 2 /g × h, which is close to the expected value calculated from the allometric relationship between body mass and BMR determined for other voles adapted to similar climate conditions. The unusual combination of several slow life history traits with relatively early sexual maturation and unreduced BMR apparently constitute elements of the unique adaptive complex of the relatively small, strictly herbivore subterranean rodent living in cold humid habitats. | Reproduction, postnatal development and resting metabolic rate of a poorly studied subterranean rodent, the long-clawed vole (Prometheomys schaposchnikowi) | 10.1007/s42991-022-00302-x |
2022-12-01 | Vibration-assisted drilling is a process in which vibrations with a specific amplitude and frequency are applied to the cutting tool or workpiece during drilling. These vibrations lead to an intermittent contact between the tool and the workpiece, which results in breaking the chips, reduction of temperature, reduction of machining forces, improvement of surface quality, and increase of tool life. In this study, a low-frequency vibration-assisted drilling device is designed and fabricated. This device is then used to perform drilling experiments on high-density polyethylene (HDPE) workpieces. The developed tool is connected to a drilling machine and creates axial vibrations with an amplitude of 0.25 mm and a frequency of 5 oscillations per revolution in the cutting tool. Effects of the process on chip morphology and surface roughness are investigated and compared with conventional drilling. The results show that using the developed tool leads to formation of short broken chips. Machined surface roughness is also shown to be reduced by 29.6 to 52.9% compared to conventional drilling. Regression analysis is performed to model and predict surface roughness based on the input parameters, which include rotational speed and feed rate. Analysis of variance is then performed to find the most significant parameters and the effect of each parameter on surface roughness. Finally, the optimal parameters to achieve the minimum surface roughness are calculated using both response surface and genetic algorithm methods. | Experimental investigation and optimization of low-frequency vibration-assisted drilling | 10.1007/s00170-022-10438-2 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Introducing magnetic property into aerogels will greatly expand their application opportunities. Herein, instead of triethylamine solution, a low-cost and little-toxicity aqueous ammonia is used as the basic solution of polyamide acid (PAA), and tert-butanol is used as the regulator to regulate the pore size of aerogel. Finally, an intelligent polyimide/Fe 3 O 4 (PI/Fe 3 O 4 ) aerogel is proposed via a unique combination of in-situ deposition and freeze–drying–thermal imidization. As-obtained PI/Fe 3 O 4 aerogel has a low density (0.041 − 0.087 g cm − 3 , depending on the doping amount of Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles), a high thermal decomposition temperature (up to 550 °C, N 2 atmosphere), good mechanical properties (even under a compression ratio of 60%), certain recovery performance, and good bending flexibility. Additionally, the PI/Fe 3 O 4 aerogel also shows a saturation magnetization of 84.76 emu g − 3 , enabling it to generate magneto-induced shape memory under the action of small magnetic sheets. This work provides a new idea for the preparation of magnetic polyimide aerogel, and may inspire many application opportunities for polyimide aerogel, such as self-sensing flexible actuators, micro-nano switches, and micro-sensing. | Ultra–light, elastic, magnetic Polyimide/Fe3O4 composite aerogel with magnetic actuation function | 10.1007/s10934-022-01295-1 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract —This paper presents a study of changes in the structure and properties in thickness of rolled sheets up to 100 mm of low-alloy shipbuilding steel with a yield point not less than 420 MPa. The fracture surface of samples after impact bending tests at low temperatures was investigated. It was found that the combination of the parameters of lath morphology bainite (fraction, areas average size and length) and the size of structural elements at given tolerance angles of 5° and 15° (indicating the presence or absence of a developed subgrain structure of deformation origin) determines the level of impact work at testing at low temperatures. | Heterogeneity of Structure and Mechanical Properties Studied in Thickness up to 100 mm of Low-Alloy Shipbuilding Steel Sheets with a Yield Strength Not Less Than 420 MPa | 10.1134/S2075113322060259 |
2022-12-01 | Interfacial reaction between Cu and In has been predicted and analyzed based on computational thermodynamics and diffusion kinetics. The Cu 11 In 9 compound phase is predicted to form first and grow dominantly at the initial stage of the reaction between Cu-rich FCC and In-rich liquid phases during low-temperature soldering. The diffusion coefficient in the Cu 11 In 9 compound is assessed to enable a quantitative prediction of the layer growth during the soldering process. The present work enables a reasonable prediction of the interfacial reaction between Cu and In for a given temperature profile, as well as process optimization through control of intermetallic compound growth kinetics. | Prediction of Interfacial Reaction Between Cu and In During Low-Temperature Soldering | 10.1007/s11669-022-01008-w |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Published data on the effect of low-temperature plasma on polydimethylsiloxane have been analyzed. Changes in the contact properties, chemical structure, and morphology of the modified polymer surface have been revealed using modern research techniques (contact angle measurement, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Fourier-transform IR spectroscopy, atomic force and scanning electron microscopy). It has been shown that modification by plasma results in the formation of a hybrid material that has the surface layer consisting mainly of silicon oxide. Plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition processes of hexamethyldisiloxane polymerization on various substrates are considered and the formation of similar hybrid materials containing a significant amount of silicon oxide is shown. Data on the use of such materials in biology, medicine, membranes, humidity sensors, and other fields of science and technology are presented. | Organosilicon-Based Hybrid Materials Produced Using Low Temperature Plasma | 10.1134/S0018143922060078 |
2022-12-01 | Despite the current demand for shale gas development, there is no means to evaluate nanoscale microfracture plugging technologies for ultra-low permeability formations. In this paper, we expand upon previous research and develop new means to create artificial fractures in model mud cake. By controlling the mud cake quality and strength, we developed mud cake with permeability that approached that of real mud shale. Low-permeability mud cake was prepared from barite powder, calcium carbonate, polyacrylamide, sodium polyacrylate, water, silica, a polycarboxylate comb macromolecule, a double sparse inhibitor, a film-forming agent and a mud cake curing agent. The mud cake permeability reached 5.9 × 10 –4 mD and increased with soaking time to 1.3 × 10 –3 mD (240 h). The equivalent opening of a single fracture did not change greatly and remained in the range from 3.93 × 10 –5 m to 4.93 × 10 –5 m. Plugging performance was evaluated by simulating microfractures and low-permeability environment of the formation. This method provides very important guidelines for the selection and development of nanoscale and microscale plugging agents and the evaluation of the plugging effect. It is also applicable to the evaluation of plugging performance in other fractured formations. | Testing of drilling mud filter cake for low permeability micro-fracture plugging performance in shale rocks | 10.1007/s13202-022-01521-1 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Under the conditions of converter production, a low carbon content (less than 0.002%) was achieved in electrotechnical isotropic steel (EIS) of the 4th alloying group (Si > 2.9% and Al > 1.0%). The results of the analysis of the influence of possible technological factors on the behavior of carbon in the metal during the decarburization stage (the state of the vacuum chamber before processing, the initial carbon content before vacuuming, oxidation, the lift gas flow rate, the treatment time at CVU KTs-1) using multivariate regression analysis mathematical model and theoretical calculations based on literary sources have been presented. The data obtained confirmed the possibility of achieving a carbon content in the metal of less than 0.002% after the decarburization stage at CVU KTs-1 of NLSM PJSC. | Improvement of the Technology of the Converter Production of Electrotechnical Isotropic Steel with Low Carbon Content. Report 2 | 10.3103/S0967091222120099 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract In this study, simulation modeling of the processes of the diffusion of copper ions in a low-k dielectric between two nearby copper lines is performed. It is found that an increase in the diffusion time of an ion in a material with a porosity of 30% and a pore radius of 1 nm (for the input parameters specified in the article) due to the increase in the diffusion path can be estimated at 16%. Moreover, the combined consideration of the effect of the increase in the electric field at the edges of the pores and the decrease in the diffusion activation energy leads to a 26% reduction in the time to the breakdown relative to dense material. | Accounting for the Porosity of the Material in the Simulation of the Time-Dependent Dielectric Breakdown in the Metallization System of Integrated Circuits | 10.1134/S1063739722080042 |
2022-12-01 | Performance evaluation of low-volume road (LVR) at the network level is a daunting task that requires considerable time and resources due to a lack of robust and cost-effective techniques. This study primarily focused on developing an approach for establishing statistical limits in maximum allowable deflections (MADs) for a selected LVR network based on sample size estimation for each test station and estimating the stiffness values at the network level. A series of field and laboratory experimental investigations was performed using light-weight deflectometer (LWD) on selected pavement sections, categorized into four groups based on the multiple contracts with a distinct source of layer materials. Layer-wise LWD responses were captured at field and laboratory on 529 acceptance test stations and 49 calibration strips. The typical range of deflection values obtained from these test sections and calibration strips of all groups varies from 0.040 to 0.359 mm and 0.046 to 0.365 mm. Statistical analysis in terms of ANOVA and descriptive estimates was carried out for the captured deflection values. The sample size for test locations of each test station was calibrated from three to seven to minimize the significant variation among population and sample mean. Further, the computed Z -scores were considered for calculating MAD values of each layer in a group. The MAD values suggested for the selected network can compare with the measured deflection at individual test stations to identify the maintenance requirements. Thus, this study proposes a quick and robust performance evaluation and quality control mechanism to substitute conventional practices. | Stiffness-Based Statistical Limits for Evaluating Low-Volume Road Network Using Light-Weight Deflectometer | 10.1007/s40515-021-00194-3 |
2022-12-01 | This paper presents an investigation on thermo-electro-mechanical nonlinear low-velocity impact behaviors of the geometrically imperfect functionally graded (FG) graphene-reinforced composite (GRC) beam with surface-bonded piezoelectric layers. Both uniformly distributed and FG patterns of graphene nanoplatelets (GPLs) are considered along the thickness of the GRC host beam. The effective Young’s modulus is calculated by the Halpin–Tsai model. The Poisson ratio and mass density are calculated by the rule of mixture. The modified nonlinear Hertz contact law is employed to predict the impact force between the spherical impactor and the geometrically imperfect GRC piezoelectric beam during impacting. By considering the first-order shear deformation theory and von Kármán nonlinear displacement–strain relationship, the nonlinear governing equations are obtained by Hamilton principle and dispersed by differential quadrature (DQ) method. The Newmark- β method associated with Newton–Raphson iterative process is adopted to parametrically identify the impact force and the dynamic response of the system. The effects of geometric imperfection, weight fraction and distribution pattern of GPLs, temperature variation, thickness of piezoelectric layer and impactor’s initial velocity on nonlinear low-velocity impact behaviors of geometrically imperfect GRC beams are discussed in detail. Our results illustrate that the coupling effect of geometric imperfection and thermo-electro-mechanical load has a significant effect on the nonlinear low-velocity impact behavior of GRC beam, and GPLs distributing into the piezoelectric layers is better for reducing the impact response of geometrically imperfect GRC piezoelectric beam. | Nonlinear low-velocity impact response of GRC beam with geometric imperfection under thermo-electro-mechanical loads | 10.1007/s11071-022-07809-5 |
2022-12-01 | Soil nematodes are useful ecological indicators and can be extracted from soil by a variety of techniques. Because the extracted nematode samples (suspensions) can be quite turbid (i.e., they contain soil particles and organic particles in addition to nematodes), quantitative and taxonomic analyses of the nematodes by microscopy can be difficult. In this study, the following three methods for cleaning turbid suspensions obtained from Baermann funnels were assessed: repeated centrifugation at 692.5 × g for 1 min, repeated settling at low-temperature (4°C) for 24 h, and a combination of low-temperature settling and centrifugation. Nematodes were extracted with Baermann funnels from soil samples collected from four land-use types (since land-use type can affect the turbidity of nematode suspensions), and the resulting suspensions were cleaned by the three methods before nematode abundance was assessed. As a control, samples (i.e., suspensions) were simply diluted with water, and nematodes were counted in the entire volume. The results showed that, within each land-use type, nematode abundance did not significantly differ between the control and the three cleaning methods. Averaged across all land-use types, however, the nematode recovery rate was slightly higher with repeated centrifugation than with the other two cleaning methods. Therefore, the proposed methods are sound for cleaning turbid nematode suspensions, and repeated centrifugation is the most efficient method. | Methods for cleaning turbid nematode suspensions collected from different land-use types and soil types | 10.1007/s42832-021-0115-1 |
2022-12-01 | Here, we proposed a strategy of reducing the areal density and thickness of compatible stealth coatings by introducing silicone resin-based infrared stealth (IRS) coatings as the absorption peak modulation layer of a dual-layer absorber. The joint infrared-visual camouflage performance was achieved by employing Al powder and modified Cr 2 O 3 (M-Cr 2 O 3 ) hybrid filler in IRS coating. When the mass ratio of the above two pigments is 2:1, the coating exhibits a low emissivity value of 0.525 with green grass color. The radar wave-transmitting property and dielectric property of the infrared coating can be regulated by the mass ratio of Al powder to M-Cr 2 O 3 . By coating the Al/M-Cr 2 O 3 -filled layer on FeSiAl-based microwave absorption (MA) layer, enhanced MA performance was achieved due to the synergistic effect between the two layers. Outstandingly, introducing the Al/M-Cr 2 O 3 -filled IRS coating suppressed the thermal radiation of the double-layered structure by 41% and reduced the total thickness and areal density by 16% and 18.6%, respectively. The properties promote the service reliability and practicability of compatible stealth coatings on equipment. Graphical abstract | Tailored composition of low emissivity top layer for lightweight visible light-infrared-radar multiband compatible stealth coating | 10.1007/s42114-022-00563-7 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract In a controlled environment, the dynamics of the activity of two key antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (PO), and the expression of its encoding genes ( HvSOD1 and HvPRX07 ) were studied at the temperatures of 22 and 4°C in barley plants growing at the optimal zinc content (2 μM) in the substrate and its deficiency (0 μM). It was found that at 22°C, a zinc deficiency did not lead to an increase in the intensity of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the barley roots and leaves, which correlates with an increase in the number of transcripts of the genes studied and an increase in the SOD and PO activity. Under hypothermia, metal deficiency caused an increase in oxidative processes in the roots of seedlings, which is associated with the absence of an increase in the activity of antioxidant enzymes, despite an increase in gene expression. At the same time, the intensification of oxidative processes did not occur in the leaves. The protection of leaf cells from oxidative stress under combined action of zinc deficiency and low temperature may be associated with an increase in the activity of other (nonenzymatic) components of the antioxidant system. | Effect of Zinc Deficiency on Gene Expression and Antioxidant Enzyme Activity in Barley Plants at Optimal and Low Temperatures | 10.1134/S1062359022010083 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract The ultimate deformation capacity of stainless high-alloy austenitic nitrogen-containing steel and low-alloy chromium–nickel–molybdenum steel up to the moment of failure under single and multiple blast loading in the air has been investigated. The paper presents data on the change in the mechanical properties and structure of these steels as a result of explosive loading to the limit and to the specified level of deformation. | Studying Changes of Limit Deformations and Mechanical Properties of Different Structure under Signal and Multiple Explosive Loading | 10.1134/S2075113322060089 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract This article studies various methods for the formation of dielectric diffusion barriers between open areas of copper and an organosilicate low- k dielectric in the subtractive method of forming a metallization system, in which metal lines are first formed, and then a low- k dielectric is deposited. Films of dense and porous organosilicate glass deposited by chemical deposition from solutions are used as a low- k dielectric. A comparison is made between AlN barrier layers formed by atomic layer deposition and SiCN barriers deposited by plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition. The successful formation of a model structure of copper metallization using AlN barriers is demonstrated. | Dielectric Barrier in the Subtractive Process of Formation of a Copper Metallization System | 10.1134/S106373972270010X |
2022-12-01 | Background In the genome of staphylococci, only the gdpS gene encodes the conserved GGDEF domain, which is the characteristic of diguanylate cyclases. In our previous study, we have demonstrated that the gdpS gene can modulate biofilm formation by positively regulating the expression of ica operon in Staphylococcus epidermidis . Moreover, this regulation seems to be independent of the c-di-GMP signaling pathway and the protein-coding function of this gene. Therefore, the biological function of the gdpS gene remains to be further investigated. Results In the present study, it was observed that mutation of the gdpS gene induced S. epidermidis to enter into a presumed viable but nonculturable state (VBNC) after cryopreservation with glycerol. Similarly, when moved from liquid to solid culture medium, the gdpS mutant strain also exhibited a VBNC state. Compared with the wild-type strain, the gdpS mutant strain autolyzed more quickly during storage at 4℃, indicating its increased susceptibility to low temperature. Transcriptional profiling analysis showed that the gdpS mutation affected the transcription of 188 genes (92 genes were upregulated and 96 genes were downregulated). Specifically, genes responsible for glycerol metabolism were most markedly upregulated and most of the altered genes in the mutant strain are those involved in nitrogen metabolism. In addition, the most significantly downregulated genes included the betB gene, whose product catalyzes the synthesis of glycine betaine and confers tolerance to cold. Conclusion The preliminary results suggest that the gdpS gene may participate in VBNC formation of S. epidermidis in face of adverse environmental factors, which is probably achieved by regulating expression of energy metabolism genes. Besides, the gdpS gene is critical for S. epidermidis to survive low temperature, and the underlying mechanism may be partly explained by its influence on expression of betB gene. | Mutation of gdpS gene induces a viable but non-culturable state in Staphylococcus epidermidis and changes in the global transcriptional profile | 10.1186/s12866-022-02708-6 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract The idea of treating various diseases in human beings and animals with low temperatures has a great deal of support in medicine, including veterinary medicine. The specific mechanisms of resistance of various cell types to cold are still uncertain and require further study. Previously, a cell line with a phenotype similar to that of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) was obtained from human subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) frozen without cryoprotectant (–70°C). It was of interest to compare the response of these cells exposed in vitro to low temperatures (–70 and –196°С) for 15, 30, and 60 s with the response of MSCs obtained from freshly isolated SAT. It was found that MSCs from SAT were resistant to low temperatures. The temperature of –70°C did not have a negative effect on cells of both types in any of the specified time parameters. After exposure to liquid nitrogen and thawing, all cells had a ruptured monolayer and a high proportion of cells with a damaged cytoplasmic membrane. The cells produced monolayers, but at different rates, retained the immunophenotype (CD29 + , CD44+, CD49a + , CD90 + , CD105 + , and HLA ABC + ) and the ability to form adipose tissue cells in vitro upon induction. MSCs isolated from frozen human SAT proved to be the most resistant to low temperatures. The results obtained may be helpful for further study of the processes and mechanisms underlying the adaptation of mammalian cells to cold. | Cryoresistance of Cells Isolated from Human Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue with Phenotype Similar to That of Mesenchymal Stem Cells | 10.1134/S1990519X22060098 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract In this paper, we present the results of computational and experimental studies of changes in patterns of resistance to deformation and damage accumulation under conditions of irregular low-cycle loading, which are compared with similar data of a regular cyclic elastoplastic deformation upon equal loading. An irregular mode of low-cycle loading implemented in research is adopted as a uniform distribution of the change in the stress amplitude between specified maximum and minimum levels at the symmetric shape of the cycle. This mode was reproduced on test equipment by introducing into the control program of the corresponding functional dependence of changes in the stress amplitude in the cycles. Obtained in the irregular loading mode, the data on a cycle-by-cycle kinetics of both cyclic and unilaterally accumulated strains were recorded in a database and then compared with the data for a regular loading. This made possible their analytical description by the corresponding state equations with the correction of the diagram parameters of cyclic elastoplastic deformation, accounting for the irregularity conditions of loading modes. The experimental results are presented as test mode diagrams, curves of a low-cycle fatigue of the studied material in the soft and hard loading modes, diagrams of a cycle-by-cycle kinetics of the cyclic and accumulated strains in the regular and irregular modes, and kinetic diagrams of damage accumulation under these conditions. The summation criteria that include the deformation characteristics of accumulated damage are used. It is shown that, with allowance for change in the nature of the strain development during irregular low-cycle loading, the criterion dependences when accepting the condition of reaching the limiting state can be used to estimate the durability and compare it with the similar data in regular modes. | Study of the Regularities of Resistance to Deformation and Damage Accumulation under Irregular Low Cycle Loading | 10.1134/S002016852215002X |
2022-12-01 | Objective To study the early phases of osseointegration at implants installed in sites prepared with either high rotational speed with irrigation or low rotational speed without irrigation. Material and methods After 3 months from tooth extraction, two implants were installed in one side of the mandible of twelve dogs. The osteotomies were prepared either at 60 rpm without irrigation or at 750 rpm with refrigeration. Biopsies were obtained after 4 and 8 weeks of healing, six animals each period for histological analyses. Results After 4 weeks of healing, new bone percentage in contact with the implant surface (BIC%) was 46.6 ± 7.3% and 43.1 ± 6.8% at the low- and high-speed sites, respectively ( p = 0.345). After 8 weeks of healing, the fractions increased to 60.0 ± 11.1% and 60.2 ± 6.2%, respectively ( p = 0.753). Conclusions Implants installed in sites prepared using either low-rotational drilling without irrigation or high speed with irrigation presented similar amounts of osseointegration. | Effect of low-speed drilling without irrigation on osseointegration: an experimental study in dogs | 10.1007/s10006-021-01023-0 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract As a result of thermochemically initiated polymerization of the compositions, containing polyvinyl butyral dissolved in a mixture of tris(1-methacryloxy-3-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate and glycidyl methacrylate, low-combustible (OI value reaches 28 vol %), and heat-resistant (up to 200°C) materials characterized by values of breaking stress, relative strain, and modulus of elasticity in the static bending up to 69 MPa of 2.5% and 2.9 GPa, respectively. | Binders Based on the Solutions of Polyvinyl Butyral in Tris(1-methacryloxy-3-chloro-2-propyl) Phosphate and Glycidyl Methacrylate for Low-Flammability Polymers | 10.1134/S1995421222040037 |
2022-12-01 | The large energetic disorder has been regarded as a limitation for the further advance of organic solar cells (OSCs). The intramolecular energetic disorder, which originates from the molecular conformational diversity, is quite different for various non-fused-ring materials and of great importance for the corresponding device performance. In this work, the 2-ethylhexyl on A4T-16, an efficient completely non-fused-ring acceptor, is replaced with the 3-ethylheptyl to obtain a novel acceptor of A4T-3. The out-shifted branching position of 3-ethylheptyl reduces the steric hindrance effect, endowing A4T-3 with a more coplanar structure. As a result, A4T-3 exhibits a lower intramolecular energetic disorder than A4T-16, leading to a more uniform surface-electrostatic potential (ESP) distribution. Therefore, A4T-3 exhibits a smaller barrier for intramolecular electron transport and a higher electron mobility. Meanwhile, the lower ESP endows A4T-3 with reduced non-radiative energy loss when blending with the donor. When using PTVT-T as the donor, the A4T-3-based OSC exhibited comprehensively improved photovoltaic properties in comparison with the A4T-16-based one, delivering a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 14.26%. Notably, this is the first report of OSCs where both the donor and the acceptor are completely non-fused-ring materials. According to the material-only cost (MOC) evaluation, the cost of PTVT-T:A4T-3-based device is much lower than that of other high-performance OSCs, revealing the great potential of completely non-fused-ring photoactive materials for application-oriented OSCs. | Reduced energetic disorder enables over 14% efficiency in organic solar cells based on completely non-fused-ring donors and acceptors | 10.1007/s11426-022-1449-4 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Supported mono- and bimetallic catalysts containing 10 wt % Ni(I), 10 wt % Co(II), and 5 wt % Co + 5 wt % Ni(III) on halloysite nanotubes have been synthesized by low-temperature combustion in porous media. The catalyst samples have been studied by XRD analysis, SEM, electron probe microanalysis, and TPR; specific surface area has been determined by the BET method according to the physical adsorption of nitrogen. The activity and selectivity of the synthesized catalysts have been studied using the example of the deep oxidation of CO and propane and the hydrogenation of CO 2 at atmospheric pressure. It has been found that the highest activity in the deep oxidation of CO and propane is exhibited by the Co-containing samples, particularly the bimetallic Co–Ni catalyst. In the case of CO 2 methanation in the presence of the freshly synthesized samples, the activity can be arranged in the following order: I > III > II. The reduction of the catalysts in a hydrogen stream at 400°С for 1 h has led to a significant increase in their activity with a maximum at 350°С, while the order of activity has remained unchanged. In the presence of reduced sample I, a CO 2 conversion of 88.8% at a methane selectivity of 97.7% has been achieved. | Low-Temperature Combustion Synthesis of Halloysite-Based Catalysts for the Deep Oxidation of Hydrocarbons and Carbon Monoxide and the Methanation of Carbon Dioxide | 10.1134/S0023158422060027 |
2022-12-01 | Small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS) are becoming increasingly common in research and commercial operations and hazardous weather impacts, such as icing, are an important and complex problem for expanded operation of these vehicles. The hazards of icing on these smaller aircraft are significant and only beginning to be explored. In particular, greater understanding of accretion physics at low speeds and low altitudes is needed since icing models for manned aircraft are unsuited for small UAS. To improve operational capability and safety, a rapid ice accretion code was developed for this regime. In this study, a low Reynolds number formulation for cylinders is developed suitable for lifting surface leading edges and cylindrical system components in the range R e ∼ 300 , 000 − 800 , 000 $Re\sim 300,000 - 800,000$ . The 2D numerical icing model is designed using analytic methods suited for low Reynolds numbers and empirically derived heat flux relations. Experimental heat transfer tests were done to support the model. The experimental results adjust previously proven heat flux correlations for the current scale. | Ice accretion panel model for cylinders at low Reynolds numbers | 10.1007/s42865-022-00050-3 |
2022-12-01 | Climate change is an important environmental issue that is causing global temperatures to rise. The primary environmental targets are to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The refrigeration system is a major emitter of greenhouse gases because it uses refrigerants with a high global warming potential. Due to its excellent thermophysical properties, the R134a is the most commonly used refrigerant in refrigeration systems; however, its high GWP will need to be disposed of earlier. To achieve global environmental objectives, conventional refrigerants need to be replaced with environmentally friendly and energy-efficient refrigerants. In the present work, a mathematical simulation has been carried out to check the performance of low-GWP refrigerant mixtures as environmentally friendly alternatives for R134a in a low-temperature system. In this study, a 190-L domestic refrigerator has been considered a low-temperature system. This simulation was performed using the MATLAB software, and the REFPROP database was used to obtain thermophysical properties of the refrigerants. The results showed that the COP of HFO mixtures decreased by 4–20% compared to R134a. The exergy efficiency of the R1234ze/R134a mixture improves by 4 to 16% as compared to the other mixtures and its performance is very similar to the R134a. Due to the environmentally friendly properties and flammability aspects, R1234ze/R134a (90/10) could be a good substitute for R134a in lower temperature applications and to satisfy the Montreal and Kyoto Protocol expectations. | Performance studies of low GWP refrigerants as environmental alternatives for R134a in low-temperature applications | 10.1007/s11356-021-15875-2 |
2022-12-01 | In this paper, the Taguchi optimization methodology was utilized for optimizing the production parameters of aluminum foam sandwich panels (AFSP) with different skin layers under low-velocity impact loading. The core material of AFSP was A356 aluminum foam reinforced with SiC particles produced by the CaCO 3 foaming agent with 20, 30, and 40 mm thicknesses. The skin layers of plates were made of glass/epoxy with the quasi-isotropic and cross-ply layout as well as the pure aluminum layer. The drop weight impact device was used for the impact test. Three types of impactors (spherical, parabolic, and cone) were used. The evaluated impact parameters are the skin layer layout, impactor shape and core thickness of AFSP. Also, the measured response factors were the specific absorbed energy (SAE), maximum displacement (MD), and maximum impact force (MIF). The Taguchi method was used to check the effect of the production parameters on the response factors by creating the orthogonal array (OA). The results indicated that the best combination of production parameters can be determined by the application of the Taguchi method. These results can provide the optimal impact responses (the largest SAE, the smallest MD, and the smallest value of MIF). For the best SAE and MIF, A 1 – B 1 – C 1 (pure aluminum/conical/20 mm core) was also investigated. Meanwhile, the optimized combination of levels for all the three production factors was examined to provide the lowest MD ( A 3 – B 2 – C 1 , cross-ply/parabolic/20 mm core). | Applying Taguchi Approach to Design Optimized Effective Parameters of Aluminum Foam Sandwich Panels Under Low-Velocity Impact | 10.1007/s40997-021-00441-5 |
2022-12-01 | The co-firing of various ultra-low volatile coal-based solid wastes (CSWs) under oxy-fuel condition is a promising approach to elevate the energy conversion efficiency in coal chemistry industry. However, the kinetics and thermal transformation mechanisms during oxy-fuel co-combustion of various CSWs blends are still vague, which need to be further elucidated. Here, the physical–chemical features of CSWs were firstly revealed. Moreover, the oxy-fuel co-combustion characteristics and kinetics of various CSWs were investigated. The results illustrate that four chemical forms of fuel nitrogen could be obtained in pyrolyzed semi-coke (PS), while only two occurrence forms of fuel nitrogen were observed in two residual carbons, including fluidized bed gasification residual carbon (FRC) and coal-water-slurry gasification residual carbon (CRC). The reactivities of various samples could be promoted by the increasing temperature during gasification process. The combustion of volatile matter and fixed carbon could be promoted by an increase in oxygen content in oxy-fuel atmosphere. The combustion characteristic index ( S ) of 50% PS/50% CRC is raised by 59.3% and that of 50% PS/50% FRC is increased by only 19.0% with the oxygen concentration elevated from 30 to 40%. The effects of rising residual carbon proportion on PS/CRC blend are more obvious than those on PS/FRC blend. The additive of PS in blend could promote the combustion behaviors of residual carbon, especially on CRC. The mass loss rate of 50% PS/50% CRC blend changes significantly with the heating rate, which is greater than that of 50% PS/50% FRC blend. The average apparent activation energy ( E am ) of 50% PS/50% CRC blend is lower than that of linear calculation result. The E am of CRC could be reduced by blending PS, and the poor combustion behaviors of CRC are improved by addition of PS. Graphic abstract | Oxy-fuel co-combustion characteristics and kinetics of various ultra-low volatile coal-based solid waste blends | 10.1007/s10973-022-11692-y |
2022-12-01 | The clean and low-carbon transition of China's power sector is of great importance to the achievement of dual carbon targets and the control of global warming. This paper first estimates the remaining carbon budget of the power sector under a 1.5 °C temperature control target and on this basis constructs 1.5 °C and 2 °C power transition scenarios, examining key boundary conditions such as economic development and changes in the cost of power generation technologies. Second, the Genetic Algorithm-Extreme Learning Machine (GA-ELM) model is used to forecast the electricity demand for the next forty years. Finally, with the objective of minimising the total planning cost, a pathway optimisation model of the power system is constructed to explore the optimal transition path for the power system using the dual carbon target, carbon budget and electricity demand as the main constraints. The results of the study show that the carbon budget of the Chinese power sector is approximately 7.1 × 10 10 t CO2 for a 1.5 °C temperature control target. The electricity demand tends to saturate after 2050 and reaches 1.58 × 10 13 kWh in 2060. The time of the carbon peak and carbon neutralisation in the power sector is 5 years ahead of the double carbon target. By 2060, the power system will be dominated by new energy sources, with the proportion of installed non-fossil energy capacity at over 90% and the proportion of non-fossil energy generation at over 85%. Compared to that under the 2 °C temperature control target, the power sector under the 1.5 °C temperature control target needs to accelerate the pace of the low-carbon transition of electricity and deal with key issues such as the orderly withdrawal of coal power, the construction of a diversified clean energy system and the application of carbon capture devices. This study recommends that the process of building a zero-emissions power sector requires a good pace of the construction of new power systems at a suitable pace, increased efforts to tackle key technologies and improved relevant market mechanisms. China's carbon–neutral pathway in the power sector also has implications for other countries' clean, low-carbon transitions of their power systems. | A study of carbon peaking and carbon neutral pathways in China's power sector under a 1.5 °C temperature control target | 10.1007/s11356-022-21594-z |
2022-12-01 | Compared with other traditional welding, CO 2 gas shielded arc welding has the advantages of high thermal stability, low heat input, and low melt depth. It is also widely used in manufacturing industry due to its low cost and high productivity, but its development is limited by large welding spatter and poor weld seam formation. In order to adapt to the development of new materials and welding environment, the development of new anti-spatter technology is of great significance. Through the collection, collation, and analysis of domestic and international CO 2 gas shielded arc welding research data, this paper provides a review of the existing, representative and innovative welding processes. On the basis of existing research theories, the future development trend of the field is summarized and predicted. | Research progress of low spatter CO2 welding technology | 10.1007/s00170-022-10504-9 |
2022-12-01 | Behavior of inclusions as particles on liquid Ultra-Low C (ULC) steel was investigated both by an in-situ observation and a theoretical analysis. The behavior was examined in view of Ti content in the steel as an alloying component and of oxygen potential exerted on the surface of the steel melt. A confocal scanning laser microscopy with a gold image furnace was used for the observation, and the force exerted between two particles was extracted. It was found that the inclusions showed attraction each other, and agglomerated. When the oxygen potential was low ( $$P_{\mathrm{O}_2} \simeq 10^{-22}$$ P O 2 ≃ 10 - 22 bar), the presence of Ti ( $$[\%\ \text{Ti}] = 0.0735$$ [ % Ti ] = 0.0735 ) did not influence on the agglomeration force as well as the acceleration. However, increasing $$P_{\mathrm{O}_2}$$ P O 2 ( $$\simeq 10^{-15}$$ ≃ 10 - 15 bar) resulted in slight decrease of the acceleration. When Ti content was very low ( $$[\%\ \text{Ti}] =0.0018$$ [ % Ti ] = 0.0018 ), $$P_{\mathrm{O}_2}$$ P O 2 did not influence the attraction. A post-mortem analysis of the inclusion composition revealed that the inclusions on the Ti-free steel surface were mostly alumina regardless of the $$P_{\mathrm{O}_2}$$ P O 2 employed in the present study, while those on the Ti-added steel were composed of $$\text{Fe}_t\text{O}$$ Fe t O – $$\text{Al}_2\text{O}_3$$ Al 2 O 3 (low $$P_{\mathrm{O}_2}$$ P O 2 ) or $$\text{Fe}_t\text{O}$$ Fe t O – $$\text{TiO}_x$$ TiO x (– $$\text{Al}_2\text{O}_3$$ Al 2 O 3 ) (high $$P_{\mathrm{O}_2}$$ P O 2 ). From the analysis using Kralchevski-Paunov model for lateral capillary force between two spherical particles, it is suggested that the formation of $$\text{Fe}_t\text{O}$$ Fe t O -containing oxidation product lowers the contact angle between the inclusion and the liquid steel, thereby lowering the agglomeration force as well as the acceleration. However, the model generally underestimated the agglomeration force. Graphical abstract | Inclusion Agglomeration on Ultra-Low C Liquid Steel Surface: Roles of Ti in the Steel and the Oxygen Potential | 10.1007/s12540-022-01190-z |
2022-12-01 | Effects of residues produced by agricultural wastes fermentation (AWF) on low grade copper sulfide ores bioleaching, copper recovery, and microbial community were investigated. The results indicated that adding appropriate bulk of AWF made contributions to low grade copper sulfide ores bioleaching, which may be mainly realized through reducing the passivation layer formed by Fe 3+ hydrolysis. Improved copper recovery (78.35%) and bacteria concentration (9.56 × 10 7 cells·mL −1 ) were yielded in the presence of 5 g·L −1 AWF. The result of 16S rDNA analysis demonstrated that microbial community was differentiated by adding AWF. Bacteria proportion, such as Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, Moraxella osloensis , and Lactobacillus acetotolerans changed distinctly. Great difference between samples was showed according to beta diversity index, and the maximum value reached 0.375. Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans accounted for the highest proportion throughout the bioleaching process, and that of sample in the presence of 5 g·L −1 AWF reached 28.63%. The results should show reference to application of agricultural wastes and low grade copper sulfide ores. | Enhanced copper recovery from low grade copper sulfide ores through bioleaching using residues produced by fermentation of agricultural wastes | 10.1007/s12613-021-2392-1 |
2022-12-01 | In this study, square wave voltammetry (SWV) and screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) modified with a composite film of corn starch and cathode active material (CAM) from spent Zn-MnO 2 batteries were used to develop a portable, fast, and sustainable method to determine copper in alcoholic beverages. The composite electrode was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). SWV operational parameters for copper determination were optimized using an experimental design approach. Optimal values were found to be as follows: step potential of 10 mV, modulation amplitude of 80 mV, and frequency of 4 Hz. A 0.1 mol L −1 H 2 SO 4 solution was used as a supporting electrolyte. The method obtained a limit of detection of 0.024 μmol L −1 ( R 2 = 0.997). No matrix effects were detected in recovery tests with cachaça, whisky, vodka, gin, or beer. | Electrochemical sensor prepared with materials from spent Zn-MnO2 batteries for copper(II) determination in alcoholic beverages | 10.1007/s11581-022-04758-2 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract —The operating conditions of welded structures of shipbuilding steels, including operation at northern latitudes, determine high requirements for their quality. Materials used for such structures should guarantee stable mechanical properties, good processability during hull fabrication, and serviceability at subzero temperatures. Strain aging is due to the thermodynamic nonequilibrium of steel structure in its initial state and gradual transition to the equilibrium state provided the diffusion mobility of interstitial atoms is sufficient. In unfavorable conditions, this can lead to the degradation of properties during processing (cold straightening, bending, welding), operation, or long-term storage. The paper studies the probability of natural and artificial aging processes in steels of different chemical compositions due to bulk diffusion and carbon dislocation core diffusion (dislocation pipe diffusion). The effect of strain aging on mechanical properties and the CTOD parameter value has been examined. | Effect of Natural and Artificial Aging on Steel Mechanical Properties and Fracture Toughness | 10.1134/S2075113322060326 |
2022-12-01 | Fiber reinforcement with metallic face sheets is one of the recently implemented materials for distinctive applications in automotive and aerospace sectors. While the reinforcement enhances the sustenance property of the laminate, the face sheets provide resistance to impact force. In most automotive sectors, drop weight analysis at varying velocity ranges is performed to evaluate the damage characteristics of the vehicle body. The present work is aimed at studying the influence of low-velocity impact (LVI) on Glass Laminate Aluminum-Reinforced Epoxy (GLARE) laminate. Three distinct thicknesses of Al-2024 T3 aluminum alloy (0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 mm) were chosen as the face sheet and E-glass fiber was used as intermediate layers. Epoxy resin LY556 with a HY951 hardener was used to fabricate the GLARE structure and the overall thickness was maintained at 2.0 mm for all the cases. Energy absorbed by GLARE laminates for different energy was determined using Drop weight Impact test experimentally and analytically. The laminate and the dart were modeled by ANSYS ACP tool and the simulation was performed using LS Dyna software. It was evident that laminate can sustain impact at a velocity of 3.13 m/s and beyond which leads to surface delamination. The simulation results were in close agreement with the experimental values for the absorbed energy, with less than 10% error. | Comparative Study on the Experimental Results on Low-Velocity Impact Characteristics of GLARE Laminates with Simulation Results from LS Dyna | 10.1007/s40033-022-00355-9 |
2022-12-01 | Maize is one of the most important sources of protein and starch for humans, however, low soil nitrogen may affect important grain quality traits. The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition and pasting properties of 11 quality protein maize (QPM) hybrids with one non-QPM hybrid check, grown under optimal and low nitrogen stress conditions. Maize hybrids grown under low nitrogen compared to optimal environments had higher values of starch (56.71 and 54.50%), amylose (33.41 and 30.99%), β - (1.39 and 1.36%) and γ -zeins (68.53% and 53.78) as well as final (3004.56 and 1465.88 cP), setback (2110.48 and 1035.17 cP), trough (958.32 and 430.71 cP), breakdown (237.23 and 68.19 cP) and peak (1217.0 and 499.0 cP) viscosities. Lower amounts of protein (7.08% and 10.22) and α -zein content (29.94% and 44.96), as well as lower temperatures of pasting (50.89 and 51.21 °C) and peak time (5.89 and 6.91 min) of the pasting curves, were observed under low nitrogen conditions. The environment had a large effect on protein, viscosity and amylose content, while starch, zein and pasting temperature were largely determined by genotype. | The impact of low nitrogen conditions on the chemical composition and flour pasting properties of quality protein maize | 10.1007/s42976-022-00253-6 |
2022-12-01 | To find a high purity flux for low background experiments is one of the most challenging problems. In this work, we report the production process of a highly purified ammonium acetate flux solution for low background experiments. A sub-distilled method has been used to purify initial precursors from contamination for the syntheses of final product. As a result, a high purity ammonium acetate solution was synthesized with a minimum content of elements which collectively represent the main source of background radiation (K < 2.3 × 10 –8 g/g, Th < 2.6 × 10 –11 g/g and U < 1 × 10 –11 g/g). An Estimation of the impurity content of the product has been performed with Instrumental neutron activation analysis, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. | High-purity ammonium acetate solution for low-background electronics | 10.1007/s10967-022-08608-3 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract —The nature of the fatigue failure of metals, microstructural changes, the factors influencing the fatigue strength, and the methods of its studying are considered. Preliminary thermomechanical treatment is found to increase the corrosion-fatigue strength margin, a change of which is dependent on a simultaneous action of alternate stresses and a corrosion factor. | Causes of the Corrosion Cracking in 12Kh18N9 Steel Parts | 10.1134/S0036029522130109 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Agglomeration of fine particles to produce agglomerates with desired properties (e.g., size distribution, internal pores, and stability) is a critically important precursor to heap leaching. In this work, the effect of the properties of agglomerates prepared by geopolymerization on column bioleaching was investigated. The agglomerates were prepared with different metakaolin addition and alkali activator composition. Reducing the metakaolin addition and increasing the sodium silicate content in the alkali activator was beneficial to increasing agglomerate size. With the increase of agglomerate size, size distribution uniformity also improved. NMR analysis showed that agglomerates prepared with minor metakaolin addition and alkali activator composed of fewer Na 2 SiO 3 had more and larger pores. Column bioleaching experiments showed that the agglomerates with more and larger pores had lower permeability and higher copper extraction. For more efficient leaching, the added alkali activator did not need to contain NaOH. This study’s results can guide the agglomeration operation based on geopolymerization to prepare agglomerates that better meet the requirements of heap leaching. | Effect of the Properties of Agglomerates Prepared by Geopolymerization on Column Bioleaching | 10.3103/S1067821222060207 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract The lower Maeotian carbonate encrustation of bryozoan bioherms and local problematic carbonate buildups at Cape Kazantip (Kerch Peninsula) were studied to elucidate their genesis. Analytical (lithological and mineralogical, X-ray diffractometry, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectrometry, and isotopy) studies have shown that hardness of the bryozoan framework is related to the syndepositional, biologically induced cement around bryozoans and carbonate encrustation of bioherms. In addition to fossilized traces of products of the microbiotic vital activity (bacteriomorphic structures, mineralized biofilms, glycocalyx—an exopolymer substance (IPS), and framboidal pyrite), the carbonate crusts on bryozoan bioherms and mollusk–polychaete minibioherms contain abundant bitumen, strontianite, barite, celestine, Mn-rich calcite (kutnohorite), Mg-calcite, aragonite, dolomite are widespread. Mineralized biofilms include trace elements Fe, Si, Mg, Al, K, Na, Cl, Ba, S, Ni, and Co. The isotopic composition of different carbonate rock types is marked by wide variations of carbon (–2.76…7.17‰) and oxygen (24.20–33.01‰) and manifested in fluctuations of water salinity (16.67–39.74‰). The chemical composition and mineral specificity of rocks, confinement of carbonate crusts and minibioherms to saline waters, and local pattern of their formation suggest the manifestation of near-bottom cold gas-fluid seeps, probably, of a complex chloride-sodium-sulfate-magnesium composition or various modifications of these components in a shallow sea basin, whereas the bryozoan biohermal complex is most likely a near-hydrothermal oasis. | Lower Maeotian Bryozoan Bioherms of Cape Kazantip, Crimea: A New Concept of the Paleoecological Environment of Their Origin | 10.1134/S0024490222060025 |
2022-12-01 | Purpose Highly selective fecal diversion after low anterior resection (LAR) for rectal cancer requires a strict postoperative protocol for early detection of anastomotic leakage (AL). The purpose of this study was to evaluate C-reactive protein (CRP)–based CT imaging in diagnosis and subsequent management of AL. Methods All patients that underwent a CT scan for suspicion of AL after transanal total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer in a university center (2015–2020) were included. Outcome parameters were diagnostic yield of CT and timing of CT and subsequent intervention. Results Forty-four out of 125 patients underwent CT (35%) with an overall median interval of 5 h (IQR 3–6) from CRP measurement. The anastomosis was diverted in 7/44 (16%). CT was conclusive or highly suspicious for AL in 23, with confirmed AL in all those patients (yield 52%), and was false-negative in one patient (sensitivity 96%). CT initiated subsequent intervention after median 6 h (IQR 3–25). There was no or minor suspicion of AL on imaging in all 20 patients without definitive diagnosis of AL. After CT imaging on day 2, AL was confirmed in 0/1, and these proportions were 6/6 for day 3, 7/10 for day 4, 2/4 for day 5, and 9/23 beyond day 5. Conclusion In the setting of an institutional policy of highly selective fecal diversion and pro-active leakage management, the yield of selective CT imaging using predefined CRP cut-off values was 52% with a sensitivity of 96%, enabling timely and tailored intervention after a median of 6 h from imaging. | Usefulness of CT scan as part of an institutional protocol for proactive leakage management after low anterior resection for rectal cancer | 10.1007/s00423-022-02652-z |
2022-12-01 | Effective methane extraction in underground coal seams can improve the efficient utilization of fossil energy and reduce the risk of safety accidents in coal mines. Pulsating nitrogen fatigue fracturing technology is proposed as a novel and effective method to enhance gas production in low-permeability coal seams and improve gas extraction efficiency. In this study, a pulsating gas test system was established to apply fatigue fracturing of pulsating nitrogen to low-permeability coal. Mercury intrusion tests, wave velocity tests, and triaxial compression tests were used to reveal the changes in microstructure and mechanical properties of low-permeability coal under fatigue fracturing tests. Results show that the residual deformation of the coal changes considerably under fatigue fracturing. The strain of the coal is characterized by a periodic “expansion–contraction” variation with the intrusion and discharge of the pulsating nitrogen, and the residual strain increases gradually in this process. After fatigue fracturing, facilitates the seepage of gas and the development of micropores and transition pores toward mesopores and macropores enhances the permeability of the coal. The specific surface area of the pores is considerably improved in the transition pores and mesopores. The pore fractal dimension of the coal tends to decrease under fatigue fracturing, resulting in a more uniform distribution of pores and enhanced interpore connectivity within the coal. The fatigue period is negatively correlated with the strength and wave velocity evolution of the coal, and the peak intensity first decreases rapidly and then gradually stabilizes. The fatigue fracturing results in a substantial increase in the spatial complexity and connectivity of the fracture distribution throughout the specimen. On the basis of the evolution characteristics of residual volumetric strain, a fatigue damage model was constructed to analyze the characteristics of fatigue deformation and failure of coal. The pulsating nitrogen fatigue test of low-permeability coal was carried out. The change of residual deformation of coal under pulsating nitrogen fatigue is obtained. The influence mechanism of pulsating nitrogen fatigue on pore structure is analyzed. The macromechanical parameters and damage evolution characteristics under pulsating nitrogen fatigue are evaluated. | Changes in Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Low-Permeability Coal Induced by Pulsating Nitrogen Fatigue Fracturing Tests | 10.1007/s00603-022-03031-2 |
2022-12-01 | As a result of deep burial depth, small pore throat, poor connectivity between pores, different clay mineral contents in reservoirs, and strong reservoir sensitivity, injection wells often have problems such as rapidly increasing water-injection pressure and insufficient water-injection quantity in the process of water-injection development. The main measures used to solve the difficulties of water injection in low-permeability reservoirs include fracturing, acidizing, and surfactant depressurization and injection increase, all of which have some disadvantages of high cost and environmental damage. In recent years, depressurization and injection-increase environment-safe bio-nano-materials have been introduced into low-permeability reservoirs and have achieved good application results in China. On the other hand, although there have been many researches on EOR (enhanced oil recovery) of nano-materials, the numerical simulation field of nano-depressurization and injection-augmenting technology is still a blank that the wettability mechanism of nano-materials and EOR nano-materials used in bio-nano-depressurization and injection-augmenting technology are almost completely opposite, and the influence of adsorption on formation is almost completely opposite. The adsorption of nanoparticles in other EOR studies will reduce the porosity and make the reservoir more hydrophilic. Nanoparticles used in biological nano-technology will produce hydrophobic film near the well, which will reduce the seepage resistance through the slip of water phase. In this study, a set of water flooding model of numerical simulation technology for depressurization and injection-augmenting of biological nano-materials considering adsorption characteristics and reservoir physical properties was established, the sensitivity analysis of key injection parameters was carried out, and the application effect prediction chart of biological nano-technology was drawn, and the model and prediction chart were verified by real oilfield data. As far as we know, this is the first numerical simulation study on biological nano-technology that has been applied in oil fields. | Numerical simulation and field application of biological nano-technology in the low- and medium-permeability reservoirs of an offshore oilfield | 10.1007/s13202-022-01522-0 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract The synthesis process of aluminum-doped zinc-oxide ceramics (ZnO : Al) from an initial mixture of commercial powders of zinc and aluminum oxides with a low specific surface area (no more than 5 m 2 /g) which consists in the preliminary formation of a slip and subsequent high-temperature sintering in an open atmosphere is studied. It is found that the porosity of the slip blank, density of sintered ceramics, and degree of predominant stacking of grains in it depend on both the duration of grinding of the slip and its pH index. It is demonstrated that, by optimizing the conditions of slip casting, obtaining conducting ZnO : Al ceramics with a density of more than 97% relative to the standard density of ZnO is possible, which is acceptable in the synthesis of ceramic targets intended for the formation of energy-saving thermal control coatings. | On the Synthesis of ZnO : Al Ceramics by the Slip Casting Method | 10.1134/S1027451022060040 |
2022-12-01 | Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is associated with brain amyloid‐β (Aβ) peptide accumulation and neuroinflammation. Currants, a low glycemic index dried fruit, and their components display pleiotropic neuroprotective effects in AD. We examined how diet containing 5% Corinthian currant paste (CurD) administered in 1-month-old 5xFAD mice for 1, 3, and 6 months affects Aβ levels and neuroinflammation in comparison to control diet (ConD) or sugar-matched diet containing 3.5% glucose/fructose (GFD). No change in serum glucose or insulin levels was observed among the three groups. CurD administered for 3 months reduced brain Aβ42 levels in male mice as compared to ConD and GFD, but after 6 months, Aβ42 levels were increased in mice both on CurD and GFD compared to ConD. CurD for 3 months also reduced TNFα and IL-1β levels in male and female mouse cortex homogenates compared to ConD and GFD. However, after 6 months, TNFα levels were increased in cortex homogenates of mice both on CurD and GFD as compared to ConD. A similar pattern was observed for TNFα-expressing cells, mostly co-expressing the microglial marker CD11b, in mouse hippocampus. IL-1β levels were similarly increased in the brain of all groups after 6 months. Furthermore, a time dependent decrease of secreted TNFα levels was found in BV2 microglial cells treated with currant phenolic extract as compared to glucose/fructose solution. Overall, our findings suggest that a short-term currant consumption reduces neuroinflammation in 5xFAD mice as compared to sugar-matched or control diet, but longer-term intake of currant or sugar-matched diet enhances neuroinflammation. | Temporal Pattern of Neuroinflammation Associated with a Low Glycemic Index Diet in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease | 10.1007/s12035-022-03047-3 |
2022-12-01 | A commonly identified problem in open-air sites is the poor preservation of bone surfaces because of the multiple agents and processes that act on them. In these assemblages, surface modifications of anthropic origin can be scarce or null, and its activity is mainly inferred through the stone tools and evidence of anthropogenic breakage. Carnivore activity is also frequent. La Mina and El Forn (Barranc de la Boella), Isernia La Pineta, and Torralba are open-air assemblages from the Early and Middle Pleistocene that have contributed to our knowledge of the activities that Lower Paleolithic hominins developed in open spaces. These sites show poorly preserved bone surfaces, evidence of carnivore activity, and few indications of human use on the faunal remains, although stone tools recovered are unequivocal sign of a hominin presence at those sites. Here, we present a synthesis of the taphonomic conducted at these sites with the aim of describing how this kind of work can be conducted at Paleolithic open-air sites using several different proxies, considering the limitations commonly identified in assemblages with poorly preserved bone surfaces. The absence or scarcity of cut marks could be related to the poor preservation of the faunal remains. However, it is impossible to affirm that any such marks were originally present, as hominins may have performed activities not linked to animal carcasses. Anatomical profiles have been presented as a useful tool for reconstructing the paleoecological environments and for allowing inferences to be made about the levels of competition among large predators. The assemblages reflect similarities in the deposition type of the remains and the use of these open spaces by hominins at different times during the Lower Paleolithic. | Beyond the Problem of Bone Surface Preservation in Taphonomic Studies of Early and Middle Pleistocene Open-Air Sites | 10.1007/s10816-022-09550-0 |
2022-12-01 | Purpose The impact of dry coating on reduced API agglomeration remains underexplored. Therefore, this work quantified fine cohesive API agglomeration reduction through dry coating and its impact on enhanced blend uniformity and processability, i.e., flowability and bulk density of multi-component blends API loading as low as 1 wt%. Methods The impact of dry coating with two different types and amounts of silica was assessed on cohesion, agglomeration, flowability, bulk density, wettability, and surface energy of fine milled ibuprofen (~ 10 µm). API agglomeration, measured using Gradis/QicPic employing gentler gravity-based dispersion, resulted in excellent size resolution. Multi-component blends with fine-sized excipients, selected for reduced segregation potential, were tested for bulk density, cohesion, flowability, and blend content uniformity. Tablets formed using these blends were tested for tensile strength and dissolution. Result All dry coated ibuprofen powders exhibited dramatic agglomeration reduction, corroborated by corresponding decreased cohesion, unconfined yield strength, and improved flowability, regardless of the type and amount of silica coating. Their blends exhibited profound enhancement in flowability and bulk density even at low API loadings, as well as the content uniformity for the lowest drug loading. Moreover, hydrophobic silica coating improved drug dissolution rate without appreciably reducing tablet tensile strength. Conclusion The dry coating based reduced agglomeration of fine APIs for all three low drug loadings improved overall blend properties (uniformity, flowability, API release rate) due to the synergistic impact of a minute amount of silica (0.007 wt %), potentially enabling direct compression tableting and aiding manufacturing of other forms of solid dosing. | Reduced Fine API Agglomeration After Dry Coating for Enhanced Blend Uniformity and Processability of Low Drug Loaded Blends | 10.1007/s11095-022-03343-6 |
2022-12-01 | Lime treatment is an important technique for softening of drinking water, treating the municipal-based wastewaters, and treating wastewater discharged from industries and inorganic-based hazardous wastes liquid in nature. Lime treatment is also considered a most applicable technology in terms of economics and efficiency for treating effluents of acidic mine drainage compared to different advanced physical and biological treatment methods. These acidic waste effluents are rich in toxic metals, metalloids, and hazardous/toxic wastes and contaminants (Cu, Cd, Pb, Mn, Zn, Fe, As, Si, SO 4 2− , etc.) due to oxidation and dissolution of pyrite, pyrrhotite, and other sulphidic materials and must undergo suitable eco-friendly treatment(s) before disposing in a landfill or into the impoundment along with tailings. Neutralization is the perquisite for the elimination of these toxic metals and contaminants from wastewater of acidic nature followed by the precipitation and co-precipitation reactions. Lime treatment of acidic wastewaters brings a change in pH (alkalization) resulting in the insolubility of these toxic metals that leads to the formation of minuscule particles due to precipitation reactions. These precipitates are then separated to achieve clear effluents by forming a low-density sludge (LDS) or a high-density sludge (HDS) depending upon the separation methods. The HDS had an advantage over LDS in terms of handling and disposability due to high density, less volume, and better particulate characteristics. The produced sludge as a result of solid/liquid separation should be disposed of by eco-friendly approaches/strategies or recycled or reused for other industrial or manufacturing processes. Nevertheless, diverse lime materials like calcite-enriched powdered oyster shell might have the potential for reducing concentrations of toxicants within permissible limits; however, these are expensive and less efficient for defluoridation from hemihydrated gypsum (CaSO 4 ·0.5H 2 O) produced from recyclable dihydrated gypsum (CaSO 4 ·2H 2 O) by heating at 130–180 °C. Therefore, more cost-effective strategies such as deployment of resultant sludge need to be tested for the defluoridation and stabilization of CaSO 4 ·0.5H 2 O. The present manuscript reviews the science of lime treatment of acidic waste water effluents and defluoridation techniques. | Treatment of Acidic Wastewater Effluents and Defluoridation by Lime Materials | 10.1007/s41101-022-00172-x |
2022-12-01 | Some medium rank coal samples (from Dongshan coal mine with the depth of 840 m) and low-rank coal samples (from Yimin coal mine with the depth of 16.44 m) were measured by the overburden porosity test, mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) and Low-Temperature Nitrogen Gas Adsorption (LT-N 2 GA). The results show that the pores and microcracks contents of Dongshan coal samples are less than Yimin coal sample. The adsorption pores with size less than 100 nm and microcracks with size more than 10 μm are dominated in Dongshan coal, but seepage pores with a diameter from 100 nm to 10 μm in Yimin coal. Compared to Yimin coal, Dongshan coal samples have stronger stress sensitivity, higher fracture compressibility, and higher coal matrix compressibility. Based on the MIP data corrected by LT-N 2 GA, the surface fractal dimensions of adsorption pores, seepage pores, and microcracks in two groups of coal samples were also calculated to investigate pore and microcrack surface roughness. The more the value of fractal dimension is, the higher the roughness is. The results show that the surface roughness of various pores and microcracks are different. The fractal dimensions of adsorption pores, seepage pores, and microcracks in Dongshan coal decrease gradually, while the surface fractal dimension of seepage pores in Yimin coal is highest. | Multiscale pore distribution and evolution characteristic of medium/low-rank coal | 10.1007/s12517-022-11019-z |
2022-12-01 | This article provides a comprehensive analysis of low-profile, frequency-reconfigurable graphene dipole antennas for THz applications. The antenna consists of two graphene patches to form the bow-tie dipole and the wideband artificial magnetic conductor (AMC). Frequency tuning has been introduced by changing the chemical potential of graphene. The AMC has been designed to operate from 2 to 3.4 THz with a ± 90° reflection phase bandwidth of 50.39%. Using AMC surface, the total profile of the antenna has been achieved up to 0.09λ 0 (where λ 0 is free space wavelength) at the 0° operating frequency of 2.5 THz. In another approach, a hybrid surface combination of AMC and PEC has been used instead of AMC surface to enhance the radiation performance by reducing unwanted current distribution. The input impedance of the proposed antennas is almost stable and well-matched to the impedance of the THz source. | Low-Profile Frequency Reconfigurable Graphene-Based Dipole Antennas Loaded with Wideband Metasurface for THz Applications | 10.1007/s11468-022-01720-w |
2022-12-01 | Background Pregnant women have increased susceptibility to Plasmodium falciparum malaria and acquire protective antibodies over successive pregnancies. Most studies that investigated malaria antibody responses in pregnant women are from high transmission areas in sub-Saharan Africa, while reports from Latin America are scarce and inconsistent. The present study sought to explore the development of antibodies against P. falciparum and Plasmodium vivax antigens in pregnant women living in a low transmission area in the Brazilian Amazon. Methods In a prospective cohort study, plasma samples from 408 pregnant women (of whom 111 were infected with P. falciparum , 96 had infections with P. falciparum and P. vivax , and 201 had no Plasmodium infection) were used to measure antibody levels. Levels of IgG and opsonizing antibody to pregnancy-specific variant surface antigens (VSAs) on infected erythrocytes (IEs), 10 recombinant VAR2CSA Duffy binding like (DBL domains), 10 non-pregnancy-specific P. falciparum merozoite antigens, and 10 P. vivax antigens were measured by flow cytometry, ELISA, and multiplex assays. Antibody levels and seropositivity among the groups were compared. Results Antibodies to VSAs on P. falciparum IEs were generally low but were higher in currently infected women and women with multiple P. falciparum episodes over pregnancy. Many women (21%-69%) had antibodies against each individual VAR2CSA DBL domain, and antibodies to DBLs correlated with each other (r ≥ 0.55, p < 0.0001), but not with antibody to VSA or history of infection. Infection with either malaria species was associated with higher seropositivity rate for antibodies against P. vivax proteins, adjusted odds ratios (95% CI) ranged from 5.6 (3.2, 9.7), p < 0.0001 for PVDBPII-Sal1 to 15.7 (8.3, 29.7), p < 0.0001 for PvTRAg_2. Conclusions Pregnant Brazilian women had low levels of antibodies to pregnancy-specific VSAs that increased with exposure. They frequently recognized both VAR2CSA DBL domains and P. vivax antigens, but only the latter varied with infection. Apparent antibody prevalence is highly dependent on the assay platform used. | Acquisition of antibodies to Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax antigens in pregnant women living in a low malaria transmission area of Brazil | 10.1186/s12936-022-04402-4 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Tobacco rhizosphere soils (area of Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture of Hubei Province, China) of high (>1300 m), middle (800–1300 m), and low altitudes (<800 m) were collected to clarify the differences in metabolites in tobacco rhizosphere soil at different altitudes. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to analyze the non-targeted metabolomics of tobacco rhizosphere soil metabolites. A total of 11 different metabolic substances were detected from the collected tobacco rhizosphere soil samples. Most differential metabolites were detected in tobacco rhizosphere soils at low and high altitudes. The levels of L-valine, pipecolic acid, and acetylcholine metabolites in tobacco rhizosphere soil at high altitudes were significantly increased. The levels of 1-aminocyclopropane carboxylic acid, L-proline, pyroglutamic acid, and naringenin metabolites in tobacco rhizosphere soil at low altitudes were significantly increased. At all altitudes, the differential metabolites in tobacco rhizosphere soil were significantly enriched in 10 synthetic pathways, wherein biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and amino acid biosynthesis were the main metabolic pathways. In conclusion, there are some significantly different metabolites in tobacco rhizosphere soil at different altitudes, which are mainly related to the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and amino acids biosynthesis. The effects of these differential metabolites on tobacco growth and quality at different altitudes are worthy of further study. | Effect of Altitude on the Release of Metabolites in the Tobacco Rhizosphere Soil | 10.1134/S106422932260097X |
2022-12-01 | Application of citric acid (CA), Bacillus polymyxa (PB), and lime (CaCO 3 , LI) may enhance P availability to plants by reducing the fixation of applied P and releasing fractions of already fixed P in acid soil. Different P solubilizers were compared in three contrasting acid soils to study the release kinetics of P, Al, and Fe and the change in different P-fractions. Soils were leached in a column with 0.01 M CaCl 2 solution at an interval of 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, and 120 days. The soil samples were analyzed for P-fractions, acid phosphomonoesterase, microbial biomass phosphorus (MBP), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), and readily mineralizable carbon (RMC). Most of the kinetic equations were well fitted in first-order, zero-order, and power function for P, Al, and Fe, respectively. Iron P was the dominant fractions in these soils and had a significant and positive path coefficient with available P. All the treated soils showed a decrease of 3–50%, 3–20%, 1–18%, and 1–23% of saloid P, aluminium P, iron P, and calcium P (except LI and PBLI) compared to control. Individual factor map showed that P-solubilization was influenced more by soil type than by the amounts and distributions of P-fractions. Among the solubilizers, the highest acid phosphomonoesterase, MBP, and RMC were observed in PBLI, while among the soils, the highest MBC and RMC were found in Alfisol. Irrespective of soil type and P solubilizers, the release kinetics of P, Al, and Fe was best fitted in specific kinetic equations. Path analysis showed that difficultly available P fractions had contributed directly to easily available P fractions due to the application of P solubilizers. | Modelling Release Kinetics and Path Analysis of Phosphorus in Acid Soil as Influenced by Phosphorus Solubilizers | 10.1007/s42729-022-00981-y |
2022-12-01 | Reasonable use of different types of low-frequency vibration can better improve the production of coalbed methane (CBM). To understand the gas transport properties under low-frequency vibration in coal, a new permeability model of CBM reservoirs was proposed in this study. This model takes into account the deformation of coal matrix and fractures caused by vibration stress, gas adsorption and effective stress. In addition, an experimental system of low-frequency vibration was built to explore the influences of low-frequency vibration on permeability of coal samples. The experimental results were compared with theoretical permeability values to verify the reliability of proposed permeability model. Finally, a series of sensitivity analyses were conducted to identify key vibration parameters to the permeability of CBM reservoir. The results showed that the vibration time, vibration force and vibration frequency have significant effects on permeability of CBM reservoirs. The longer vibration time and the higher vibration force caused the greater damage of coal, resulting in the increase of permeability. However, with the increase of vibration frequency, coal permeability growth rate of coal first increases and then decreases, and a better permeability enhancement is observed near the resonant frequency. The experimental results indicate that the permeability growth rate of bituminous coal and anthracite coal is the highest at 25 Hz, reaching 371.8% and 268.5%, respectively. These results are expected to provide theoretical guidance for employing the low-frequency vibration to improve the gas extraction rate. | A New Permeability Model Under the Influence of Low-Frequency Vibration on Coal: Development and Verification | 10.1007/s11242-022-01874-5 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract The results of studying the rolled products of structural pipe steels based on the Cr–Nb, Cr–Nb–V–Ti, Nb, Nb–V–Ti, and V–N alloying systems and produced at the foundry and rolling complex of JSC Vyksa Metallurgical Plant are presented. The samples have been subjected to the laboratory corrosion tests in the moving calcium-chloride medium with a different content of aggressive ions, which is typical for the Khanty-Mansiysk Autonomous Region. It has been found that a corrosion product layer formed on the metal surface due to the corrosion reaction, which can be conditionally divided into the following components according to the color palette: “orange”, “mustard”, “brown”, and “dark grey”. Each layer has differences in continuity, density, and chemical composition. It has been established that, depending on the content of chromium in steel and aggressive ions in the oilfield calcium chloride environment, there is a difference in the formation of corrosion products that act as protective films on the surface of samples from structural low-alloy pipe steels, which affects the corrosion resistance of these materials. | Effect of Presence of Chromium in the Composition of Low-Alloy Pipe Steels on the Corrosion Resistance in Oilfield Environments | 10.3103/S0967091222120087 |
2022-12-01 | The pore structures of coal can directly affect the adsorption and seepage capacity of coalbed methane (CBM), which therefore is an important influence on CBM exploration and development. In this study, the pore structures of low-rank coals from the Middle Jurassic Xishanyao Formation in the southern Junggar Basin were analyzed, and the fractal dimensions ( D 1 , D 2 , D 3 and D 4 corresponding to pore sizes of 0–5 nm, 5–100 nm, 100–1000 nm and 1000–20000 nm, respectively) were calculated to quantitatively describe these coal pore structures. The results show that Xishanyao coal is characterized by open pore morphology, good pore connectivity and well-developed seepage pores and microfractures, which is beneficial to CBM seepage. The D 1 and D 2 can be used to characterize the pore surface and structure of adsorption pores respectively. The D 3 and D 4 can be used to represent the pore structure of seepage pores. Compared with adsorption pores, the structure of seepage pores is more affected by the change of coal rank. The D 1 is better than D 2 in characterizing the methane adsorption capacity. When D 1 > 2.2, D 1 is positively correlated with Langmuir volume ( V L ) and negatively correlated with Langmuir pressure ( P L ), while D 2 shows a weak opposite trend. The coals with the higher D 1 and lower D 2 are associated with a higher V L , indicating the coal reservoir with more complex pore surfaces and simpler pore structures has stronger methane adsorption capacity. D 4 is better than D 3 in characterizing the methane seepage capacity. The porosity and permeability of coal reservoirs increase with the increase of D 4 , while D 3 displays an opposite trend, which is mainly related to the well-developed microfractures. The well-developed fracture system enhances the seepage capacity of the Xishanyao coal reservoir. This study reveals the fractal characteristics of pore structure and its significant influence on adsorption and seepage capacity of low-rank coal. | Fractal characterization of pore structure and its influence on CH4 adsorption and seepage capacity of low-rank coals | 10.1007/s11707-022-0969-2 |
2022-12-01 | Conventional reconstruction techniques, such as filtered back projection (FBP) and iterative reconstruction (IR), which have been utilised widely in the image reconstruction process of computed tomography (CT) are not suitable in the case of low-dose CT applications, because of the unsatisfying quality of the reconstructed image and inefficient reconstruction time. Therefore, as the demand for CT radiation dose reduction continues to increase, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in image reconstruction has become a trend that attracts more and more attention. This systematic review examined various deep learning methods to determine their characteristics, availability, intended use and expected outputs concerning low-dose CT image reconstruction. Utilising the methodology of Kitchenham and Charter, we performed a systematic search of the literature from 2016 to 2021 in Springer, Science Direct, arXiv, PubMed, ACM, IEEE, and Scopus. This review showed that algorithms using deep learning technology are superior to traditional IR methods in noise suppression, artifact reduction and structure preservation, in terms of improving the image quality of low-dose reconstructed images. In conclusion, we provided an overview of the use of deep learning approaches in low-dose CT image reconstruction together with their benefits, limitations, and opportunities for improvement. | The use of deep learning methods in low-dose computed tomography image reconstruction: a systematic review | 10.1007/s40747-022-00724-7 |
2022-12-01 | The hazard literature has documented the unsuccessful results of post-disaster transitional housing programs, attributing them to misunderstandings and misconceptions about transitional housing. This implies a mismatch between the ways ‘experts’ and decision-makers conceive and plan transitional housing and the ways people perceive, experience and use them. This paper explores the use of a housing pathways framework to improve our understanding of the multiple ways in which transitional housing is perceived, experienced and used by disaster-affected people in low-income cities. For illustrating this point, we focus on the case of the city of Sarpol-e Zahab in Iran that was struck by an earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter scale in 2017. The paper relies on a fieldwork study conducted in 2017–2018 in the city. This case provides a number of insights, in particular given that the state programs provided two options of cash grant and pre-fabricated units to households for transitional housing. In addition to reporting transitional housing activities in the city, we show that the four identified housing pathways in this city account for pre- and post-earthquake structural forces as well as households’ own choices and strategies for adaptation. Highlighting how households’ post-disaster trajectories were influenced by different aspects of post-disaster policies and interventions, the paper concludes with some recommendations for transitional housing programs in the context of lower-income cities. | Navigating transition: post-disaster housing pathways of households | 10.1007/s10901-021-09918-w |
2022-12-01 | Abstract —The first part of this work [1] substantiates a procedure for estimating the number of cycles before the appearance of a technically detectable fatigue crack in the stress concentrators of weld joints, which are typical places of crack occurrence in the absence of major technological defects. This procedure is based on a physical model of the initial stage of fatigue failure, summarized data on the resistance of high-strength steels and their weld joints to fatigue failure, and finite element calculations. The procedure reduces itself to the use of interpolation formulas summarizing the numerical simulation data. The second part of this study presents information necessary for practical estimation of the fatigue strength in the low-cycle load region, including the choice of reserve coefficients in calculating the life of welded structures. The evaluated data are compared with those obtained in the fatigue tests of large-thickness joints welded in a multi-pass manner. | On the Fatigue Strength Calculation of Welded Shell Structures Made of High-Strength Steels under Low-Cycle Loading: Part 2. Development of the Calculation Procedure | 10.1134/S2075113322060107 |
2022-12-01 | Background SpO 2 is a widely used estimation of oxygen saturation owing to its convenient usage and low cost. However, SpO 2 determination under low perfusion condition is severely affected by noise. Methods In this paper, an autocorrelation modeling method for the oxygen saturation measurement during low perfusion is presented. The proposed method mainly contains two steps: calculating the autocorrelation of the photoplethysmography (PPG) signals and modeling for the parameter calculation. The autocorrelation of the PPG signals can suppress the noise and extract pulse waves from low perfusion signals. The model can realize the calculation of SpO 2 with the autocorrelation signals. Results Experiments showed that the new method had a good accuracy and stability under low perfusion condition (perfusion index (PI) ≤ 0.2%), and it was also motion-tolerant. Meanwhile, the new method showed a good performance for the oxygen saturation measurement under the condition of lower perfusion (PI = 0.1%). Conclusions The new method could realize the calculation of SpO 2 by little computation and high efficiency without extra hardware. It has strong potential in real-time clinical use. | An autocorrelation modeling method for oxygen saturation measurement during low perfusion | 10.1007/s42600-022-00244-w |
2022-12-01 | Abstract Low-protein (LP) feeds are used in the poultry industry to combat the increasing consumption of protein resources and reduce environmental pollution caused by excessive nitrogen excretion. Dietary supplementation of protease or Clostridium butyricum increases the growth performance of broilers; however, it is unclear whether they counteract the negative effects of LP diets. The effects of protease and C. butyricum on growth performance, intestinal morphology, anti-oxidant capacity, anti-inflammatory response, and microbial community of broilers have not been studied extensively. Here, 450 healthy 1-day-old Cobb500 broilers were allocated to five groups, according to different diets: basal diet (Control); LP diet (LP; 2% less crude protein than the control); LP diet + 200 g/t HuPro protease (LPH); LP diet + 1.0 × 10 9 CFU/t C. butyricum (LPC); and basal diet + 200 g/t oxytetracycline (Antibiotic). Supplementing both C. butyricum and protease improved the growth performance of broilers. The supplementation of HuPro protease under low-protein conditions could achieve a breeding effect similar to that of the positive control (Antibiotic). Supplementing C. butyricum could maintain intestinal barrier function, alleviate the inflammatory response, and increase ileal and cecal short-chain fatty acid concentrations. Both C. butyricum and protease altered the bacterial diversity in the cecum, increased Bacteroidetes abundance, and resulted in higher abundance of Rikenellaceae RC9 gut spp. and lower abundance of Alistipes spp. in broilers. This study demonstrates the positive effects of proteases and C. butyricum on broilers and serves as a reference for the selection of appropriate supplementation for broilers in the poultry industry. Key points • Low-protein diet had a negative effect on growth performance of broilers . • Protease significantly reduced feed conversion rate . • Clostridium butyricum had positive effects on broilers . | Protease or Clostridium butyricum addition to a low-protein diet improves broiler growth performance | 10.1007/s00253-022-12264-8 |
2022-12-01 | A large amount of marine noise pollution from coastal industrial construction and the water transportation industry affects the growth and development of marine life, which is a big issue threatening marine organisms. However, most studies have focused on vertebrates, such as marine mammals and fishes, and little is known about the effects of noise on invertebrates. Therefore, the impacts of low-frequency noise (100, 300, and 500 Hz) on behavioral and physiological responsesof the sea slug ( Onchidium reevesii ) were investigated. Under laboratory conditions, sea slugs were stimulated with low-frequency noise at 100, 300, and 500 Hz for 1 h. Then, hemolymph enzyme activities (glucose, albumin, triglycerides, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and malondialdehyde) were measured, and mRNA expression of the hsp70 gene was detected in hemolymph and the nervous system by quantitative realtime polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis, while expression of the hsp70 protein was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The results demonstrated that sea slugs were away from the stimulus source under the influence of low-frequency noise compared to the control group. Enzyme activities, as well as hsp70 gene mRNA and protein expression levels, were significantly higher in the noise-exposed groups than those in the control group. Overall, these changes indicate that low-frequency noise caused oxidative stress in sea slugs in vivo , and the oxidative damage gradually increased when the noise frequency was increased from 100 to 500 Hz. | Behavioral and Physiological Responses of Sea Slug (Onchidium reevesii) to Low-Frequency Noise | 10.1007/s11802-022-5041-z |
2022-12-01 | The potential hazards of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) on fetus development have raised widespread concerns in recent years, although current epidemiological findings are conflicting. The aim of this case–control study was to investigate the relationship between PAH concentrations in maternal serum and low birth weight (LBW). A questionnaire survey was conducted among 144 (72 pairs) neonates with normal or LBW and their mothers at four different hospitals in Shenzhen, China. Peripheral blood from primiparas and umbilical cord blood from neonates were collected. Concentrations of PAHs were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The detection frequencies of PAHs were relatively higher in the peripheral blood samples, while levels of low molecular weight PAHs were greater than high molecular weight PAHs in both peripheral and umbilical cord blood samples. Phenanthrene was frequently detected in blood samples from the case and control groups. Logistic regression analysis showed that acenaphthene in peripheral blood was positively associated with LBW ( p < 0.05). This study found a relationship between exposure to certain PAHs and LBW, although future studies are needed to confirm these results. | Association between fetal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and low birth weight: a case–control study in Shenzhen, China | 10.1007/s11356-022-21965-6 |
2022-12-01 | Nowadays, sponge city reconstruction has become the focus of research because of the increasingly serious urban waterlogging. Carbon emission reduction, waterlogging area reduction, cost, and other indicators were considered to explore the optimal sponge allocation scheme in the study area. The two-dimensional coupled model MIKE FLOOD was established to analyze the causes of waterlogging through numerical simulation. Low-impact development (LID) combination scenarios were set to analyze the control effects of waterlogging water and total runoff. The carbon emission reduction capacity and economic benefit of each scenario were calculated and evaluated. The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was used to comprehensively evaluate the LID combination scenario and explore the optimal cost–benefit LID configuration scheme. The results show that the campus rainwater pipe network is under overload operation, and the number of overflow nodes accounts for up to 58.1% under the 3a rainfall return periods. After setting up LID measures, the runoff control rate can be increased by 26.15–42.84%, and the waterlogging area where the depth exceeds 15 cm can be reduced by 72.87–100%. If the energy conservation and emission reduction benefits and costs are considered at the same time, the layout scenario of 9% bioretention facility + 3% green roof + 3% permeable pavement can achieve the best benefits. The research can provide a reference for planning and reconstruction of sponge campus and residential areas. | Comprehensive analysis of waterlogging control and carbon emission reduction for optimal LID layout: a case study in campus | 10.1007/s11356-022-21877-5 |
2022-12-01 | Purpose Elevated levels of maternal cortisol have been hypothesized as the intermediate process between symptoms of depression and psychosocial stress during pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes. Therefore, we examined associations between cortisol levels in the second trimester of pregnancy and risks of three common birth outcomes in a nested case–control study. Methods This study was embedded in the PRIDE Study ( n = 3,019), from which we selected all cases with preterm birth ( n = 64), low birth weight ( n = 49), and small-for-gestational age (SGA; n = 65), and 260 randomly selected controls, among the participants who provided a single awakening saliva sample in approximately gestational week 19 in 2012–2016. Multivariable linear and logistic regression was performed to assess the associations between continuous and categorized cortisol levels and the selected outcomes. Results We did not observe any associations between maternal cortisol levels and preterm birth and low birth weight. However, high cortisol levels (≥ 90th percentile) seemed to be associated with SGA (adjusted odds ratio 2.1, 95% confidence interval 0.9–4.8), in particular among girls (adjusted odds ratio 3.7, 95% confidence interval 1.1–11.9, based on eight exposed cases) in an exploratory analysis. Conclusion The results of this study showed no suggestions of associations between maternal awakening cortisol levels in mid-pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes, except for an increased risk of SGA. | Associations between maternal awakening salivary cortisol levels in mid-pregnancy and adverse birth outcomes | 10.1007/s00404-022-06513-4 |
2022-12-01 | Abstract A sedimentation model of the formation of the carbonate unit of the Bogdo Formation (Lower Triassic) of the Bolshoe Bogdo II tetrapod locality is proposed. The genesis of analcime microcrystals from limestone bearing the remains of the temnospondyl amphibian Inflectosaurus sp. was established during lithofacies, diffractometric, and crystallographic analyses, as well as the study of thin sections. The formation is associated with the possible transformation of the pyroclastic material of the Siberian trap province. | The Paleogeographic Conditions for the Formation of the Bogdo Formation (Lower Triassic, Caspian Syneclise) | 10.3103/S014587522206014X |
2022-12-01 | Objective The aim of this study is to compare the effect of photobiomodulation with low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and nimesulide on inflammatory parameters, biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation, and quality of life after lower third molar (L3M) surgery. Material and methods A randomized, two-factor, triple-blind, controlled, split-mouth clinical trial was performed with 40 volunteers who required bilateral L3M removal. Patients were allocated depending on the use or not of 100 mg nimesulide 1 hbefore surgery, as well as the use or not of LLLT in the preoperative period. Results Pain peaks occurred after 6 h (nimesulide-placebo [N-P] group) and 8 h (nimesulide group). In the N-P group, LLLT resulted in significantly lower mean pain scores than the subgroup without LLLT after 4 h ( p = 0.009) and 6 h ( p = 0.048). As for edema, a shorter distance between the mandibular angle and the outer canthus of the eyes after 7 days ( p = 0.037) and a smaller cumulative effect ( p = 0.036) were observed in the N-P group associated with LLLT. A direct effect between LLLT ( p = 0.047) and a reduction in the mean scores of overall dissatisfaction with quality of life was detected. Conclusions Preemptive use of nimesulide only delayed peak pain. LLLT reduced edema, trismus, and contributed to a better perception of quality of life. Nimesulide inhibits peroxidation by increasing GSH and stopping neutrophil migration. The benefit of the association of both strategies was not superior to the use of LLLT alone. Clinical relevance Translational study with impact on clinical-surgical protocols involving L3M surgery related to pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. | Effect of preemptive photobiomodulation associated with nimesulide on the postsurgical outcomes, oxidative stress, and quality of life after third molar surgery: a randomized, split-mouth, controlled clinical trial | 10.1007/s00784-022-04649-w |
2022-12-01 | As industry is the world’s leading carbon emitter, promoting industrial carbon reduction is of key significance to carbon peak and carbon neutrality. Using a data-driven method, based on the collection and processing of relevant data from statistical yearbooks and others, we analyze the efficiency and amount of carbon emission of each industrial sector after processing multi-dimensional data by the improved IPCC EF method of calculating carbon emissions. In addition, we adopt the LMDI decomposition method for data modeling to measure the contribution of energy efficiency, industrial structure, GDP per capita, and population size to carbon emission changes, to identify targets for industrial carbon reduction, and to propose a targeted optimization path for carbon emission. We show how the method is implemented by taking the statistics of Anhui Province from 2010 to 2019 as an example and advises on an optimization path for carbon emission in Anhui Province. This study is of both theoretical and practical significance as it provides theoretical and methodological support for the low-carbon development of the regional industry, and provides a reference for other countries and regions to explore the path of low-carbon and environment-friendly green transformation and upgrading. | Research on carbon emission measurement and low-carbon path of regional industry | 10.1007/s11356-022-22006-y |
2022-12-01 | In this study, optimization of the silicon nanopillar arrays and thin films coated on silicon substrate has been investigated in order to minimize the optical reflection loss from the silicon substrate surface. Nanopillars’s filling ratio, pillar height, pillars diameter, sidewall incline angle, and step coverage with dielectric thin film thickness are systematically optimized together for the first time with these type of nanostructures. Full-field Finite Difference Time Domain method is used to simulate electro-magnetic fields and calculate the reflection from the modified nanostructured substrate surfaces in 400-1100 nm spectral range. Optimization recipe is clearly presented and this is not only useful for hexagonal arrays but also for regular arrays of nanopillars in general. We also further decrease the reflection by using step coverage concept which is the result of nonconformal coating on steps and trenches of thin films. We obtained approximately 2% of weighted average reflection in the 400-1100 nm range for perpendicular incident solar radiation which is one of the best results reported for this type of nanostructured surfaces in the literature. | Broadband Low Reflection Surfaces with Silicon Nanopillar Hexagonal Arrays for Energy Harvesting in Photovoltaics | 10.1007/s12633-022-01977-0 |
2022-12-01 | Purpose Acidity can be a useful alternative biomarker for the targeting of metabolically active cells in certain diseased tissues, as in acute inflammation or aggressive tumors. We investigated the targeting of activated macrophages by pH low insertion peptides (pHLIPs), an established technology for targeting cell-surface acidity. Procedures The uptake of fluorescent pHLIPs by activated macrophages was studied in cell cultures, in a mouse model of lung inflammation, and in a mouse tumor model. Fluorescence microscopy, whole-body and organ imaging, immunohistochemistry, and FACS analysis were employed. Results We find that cultured, activated macrophages readily internalize pHLIPs. The uptake is higher in glycolytic macrophages activated by LPS and INF-γ compared to macrophages activated by IL-4/IL-13. Fluorescent pHLIPs target LPS-induced lung inflammation in mice. In addition to marking cancer cells within the tumor microenvironment, fluorescent pHLIPs target CD45 + , CD11b + , F4/80 + , and CD206 + tumor-associated macrophages with no significant targeting of other immune cells. Also, fluorescent pHLIPs target CD206-positive cells found in the inguinal lymph nodes of animals inoculated with breast cancer cells in mammary fat pads. Conclusions pHLIP peptides sense low cell surface pH, which triggers their insertion into the cell membrane. Unlike cancerous cells, activated macrophages do not retain inserted pHLIPs on their surfaces, instead their highly active membrane recycling moves the pHLIPs into endosomes. Targeting activated macrophages in diseased tissues may enable clinical visualization and therapeutic opportunities. | pHLIP Peptides Target Acidity in Activated Macrophages | 10.1007/s11307-022-01737-x |
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