publicationDate stringlengths 10 10 | abstract stringlengths 0 37.3k | title stringlengths 1 5.74k | doi stringlengths 11 47 ⌀ |
|---|---|---|---|
2022-09-01 | Abstract We used low-temperature rapid pyrolysis (LTRP) treatment under CO 2 atmosphere to upgrade the caking and coking properties of Shenmu subbituminous coal (SM). Some physicochemical properties of all samples were studied. The modification mechanism was explored according to elemental, FT-IR, oxygen-containing functional group, and vitrinite reflectance analyses. The treated samples were also used for coal-blending coking. Coking indices (mechanical strength, coke reactivity index (CRI), and coke strength after reaction (CSR)) were also evaluated. The results showed that LTRP treatment greatly improved the caking and coking properties of SM, and the optimum temperature was 450°C. The thermal shock of LTRP treatment weakens the molecular structure of coal, which is conducive to the effusion of small molecules in coal; therefore, the precursors of caking components increase. In addition, a relatively high temperature could remove some oxygen-containing functional groups and reduce their negative effects on caking property; some compounds with suitable molecular structures were therefore formed, increasing the production of metaplast. The crucible coking experiments showed that the changes in CRI and CSR between the cokes prepared from the blends with and without the upgraded SM treated at 450°C were slightly, confirming the feasibility of applying the modified SM in coal-blending coking. | Modification of Caking and Coking Properties of Shenmu Subbituminous Coal by Low-temperature Rapid Pyrolysis Treatment under CO2 Atmosphere | 10.3103/S1068364X22700090 |
2022-09-01 | The design and development of low-cost and efficient photovoltaic materials remain a major challenge for the research and application of polymer solar cells (PSCs). Therefore, developing efficient photovoltaic polymers with simple structure and easy preparation has become an important research topic. Here we report a facilely synthesized electron-donating polymer X1 with a simple chemical structure, which is composed of carboxylated benzo[1,2- b :4,5- b ′]dithiophene (BDT) and thiophene unit. The carboxylate substituents on the BDT unit endowed the polymer with appropriate solubility, low-lying highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) energy level, and superior absorption. The PSCs based on X1 as donor showed a high power conversion efficiency of 16.6%, with a remarkable short-circuit current density of 27.07 mA cm −2 . These results demonstrated that X1 is a highly promising candidate for low-cost and efficient PSCs. Furthermore, this study revealed the potential of carboxylated BDT as an effective building block in the research and development of high-performance photovoltaic materials. | A simple structure copolymer donor based on carboxylated benzodithiophene for polymer solar cells | 10.1007/s11426-022-1316-6 |
2022-09-01 | This work presents a new SOI 14 nm heterojunction FinFET with Si 1-x Ge x fin for low-power digital logic circuits. The channel region of the proposed device consists of Si 1-x Ge x compound semiconductor material. The impact of the Ge-mole percentage (x) on several electrical characteristics has been calculated. In this paper, a single gate material single dielectric material (SGMSD) is used for designing the proposed heterojunction FinFET and its static characteristics are compared with conventional FinFET. For making the heterojunction between the channel region and source/drain region, SiGe is used as a channel (fin) material and silicon is used in drain/source regions. The proposed design shows the higher current ratio (4.51 × 10 12 ) and minimum value of I off Current (1.38 × 10 –18 ) with a minimum value of the subthreshold swing 58.67 mV/dec and minimum value DIBL 52.37 mV/V which is better than the conventional FinFET. In the proposed transistor design, the impact of fin material on the performance parameters of the device is analyzed. The result shows a significant improvement in short channel parameters, device ON/OFF current ratio, noise margin and delay. Also, a heterojunction p-channel FinFET is designed along with corresponding n-channel FinFET to evaluate the transistors for low power CMOS-based logic applications. | Effect of Mole fraction and Fin Material on Performance Parameter of 14 nm Heterojunction Si1-xGex FinFET and Application as an Inverter | 10.1007/s12633-021-01592-5 |
2022-09-01 | A novel reduced power with enhanced speed (RPES) technique for Static Random Access Memory (SRAM) topologies using Carbon Nano Tube Field Effect Transistors (CNTFETs) instead of traditional MOSFETs which is in demand for edge AI devices, energy efficient deep neural networks, smart wearable devices and high-speed era is proposed in this paper. This work reduces propagation delay and sub-threshold leakage current using RPES technique with a power supply of 0.9V. The performance and power delay product (PDP) of 6T, 8T and 10T SRAM cells is analysed for CNTFET based RPES technique at 45nm technology. Simulated results using Stanford CNTFET model shows improvement in PDP of proposed 6T SRAM cell by 66% compared to Conv6T and 27% compared to Ternary 4TSTI 6T SRAM. Conv 8T and Diff 8T are implemented using RPES technique which shows improvement by 40.9% and 74.3% respectively. Among SE10T and Diff 10T topologies, Diff 10T has better PDP when implemented using RPES technique. All SRAM cells mentioned are analyzed for various high-k dielectric materials, oxide thickness and pitch values of CNTFET and best fitting results are proposed for SRAM cells. | Investigation of CNTFET Based Energy Efficient Fast SRAM Cells for Edge AI Devices | 10.1007/s12633-021-01589-0 |
2022-09-01 | By means of the measurement of carbon concentration gradient in the carburized layer, the microstructure observation after heat treatment, and the detection of hardness distribution, the effect of carbon concentration gradient on the multi-level composite microstructure and hardness of M50NiL steel after vacuum isothermal quenching was studied. Results show that from the surface to the core of the steel, the carbon concentration gradually decreased from 1.42 to 0.13%. Referring to the definition of carbon steel, the carburized layer was divided into ultra-high carbon zone, high carbon zone, medium carbon zone, and medium-low carbon zone. As the depth from the surface increased, the morphology of residual austenite after isothermal quenching changed from blocky to film. In the ultra-high carbon zone, the lower bainite carbides did not spheroidize after growing up during tempering at 545 °C and still maintained the parallel arrangement. Due to the influence of carbon concentration, the hardness of the surface layer after isothermal quenching mainly depends on the transformation degree of residual austenite and the amount of pre-formed martensite. Through improving the microstructure of the carburized layer, the impact property of M50NiL steel increased significantly. | Effect of Carbon Concentration Gradient on Multi-Level Composite Microstructure and Performance of M50NiL Steel | 10.1007/s11665-022-06793-6 |
2022-09-01 | The goal of this work is to analyze the boundary layer features and large-scale synoptic conditions affecting fog conditions over two adjacent meteorological sites (Taicang and Xiangcheng near the Yangtze River Delta). These sites had significant differences in moisture advection conditions and inversion layer intensity during this fog episode which occurred during November 24–25, 2018. A cold high pressure center moving eastward was linked to the fog. The surface convergence line moved, resulting in a significant difference in fog formation and maintenance between the two stations. Another is that a surface inversion capped the fog layer. The surface inversion layer at Taicang formed between 17:00 and 08:00 LST (local time) under the influence of moist cold air advection. During inversion formation, its top height reached 200 m, and the maximum inversion gradient was 2.0 °C 100 m −1 . Xiangcheng was under the influence of a weak convergence area before the formation of the dense fog; therefore, inversion failed to occur. Results suggest that during large-scale fog events, the formation and development of fog in different regions can be dominated by the physical processes occurring. It is concluded that large-scale and mesoscale conditions interact extensively with each other, characterizing the fog life cycle. This result is supported by the fog layer thickness (50 m versus 200 m) that occurred at the two nearby locations of Taicang and Xiangcheng stations. | Boundary Layer Features of One Winter Fog in the Yangtze River Delta, China | 10.1007/s00024-022-03119-4 |
2022-09-01 | In this article, literature data on the effect of hydrogen gas and methane-hydrogen mixtures at high pressure on the metal of gas pipelines are reviewed. The properties of low-alloy ferritic steels are known to be affected due to hydrogen embrittlement: ductility and fracture toughness decrease along with the increasing rate of fatigue crack propagation ( da / dN ); metal deformation curve transforms with failure mode changing to quasi-spalling. The conventional mechanical tests for evaluating hydrogen embrittlement are considered. The chemical composition and microstructure of pipe steels having strength grades from X52 (K50) to X100 (K80), characteristic of investigated materials, are shown. On the basis of published data, the effect of the hydrogen content in the methane-hydrogen mixture (from 0 to 100%), the pressure of the gas medium (up to 30 MPa), and durability on the plasticity (RRA, %; δ, displacement) and fracture toughness ( K IH ) of metal was assessed. General influence patterns associated with the structural type and characteristics of pipe metal on its properties when subjected to hydrogen are presented. | Effect of Hydrogen Gas on Mechanical Properties of Pipe Metal of Main Gas Pipelines | 10.1007/s11015-022-01369-0 |
2022-09-01 | As-received (AR) high strength low alloy (HSLA) steel in plate form was subjected to annealing, normalizing, and inter-critical annealing (IA) heat treatments to produce steels with different microstructures having different grain sizes. The AR steel was coated with nanocrystalline (NC) Ni using the pulse current electrodeposition technique. An optical microscope is used to investigate the microstructures of the AR HSLA steel and various heat-treated states. The electrochemical behaviour of the HSLA steels was evaluated by polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) studies in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. Furthermore, hydrogen embrittlement (HE) and stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behaviour of the HSLA steel of various states were evaluated by a slow strain rate tensile test (SSRT) at a strain rate of 2 × $${10}^{-6}$$ 10 - 6 s −1 in 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution. A local electrochemical cell was constructed, and a cathodic overvoltage of 250 mV vs. SCE (saturated calomel electrode) was applied to the tensile specimen by a potentiostat/galvanostat. Potentiodynamic polarization and EIS studies confirmed that NC Ni coating had enhanced the corrosion resistance of the HSLA steel. SSRT results indicated that the AR HSLA steel tends to affect by HE, whereas HSLA steels deposited with NC Ni coating are immune to HE. Scanning electron microscopy fractographic features of the failed samples also exhibited the respective fracture features. Graphical abstract | Effect of Heat Treatment and NC Ni Coating on Electrochemical and Hydrogen Embrittlement Behaviour of a High Strength Low Alloy (HSLA) Steel | 10.1007/s12678-022-00744-4 |
2022-09-01 | Abstract Solid-phase samples with the general formula Ba(La,Gd) 2 WO 7 are synthesized in ternary oxide systems based on barium, lanthanum, gadolinium, and tungsten. Full-profile calculations of X-ray diffractograms are used to refine unit cell parameters and estimate the content of additional phases. Adiabatic calorimetry is used to investigate the temperature dependence of samples’ heat capacity in the helium range (4.25–325 K) and record anomalies caused by the doping element. The experimental heat capacities are corrected for the content of impurity compounds. Experimental data are used to reveal the lattice component of the heat capacity and calculate thermodynamic functions of the compounds in the range of 5–320 K, in order to determine changes in entropy and enthalpy in the domain of anomalies. The standard values of the Ba(La $$_{{1-x}}$$ Gd x ) 2 WO 7 thermodynamic functions are found to be x = 0.01, 0.03, and 0.05: $$C_{{p,298.15}}^{^\circ }$$ = 190.9 ± 1.5, 198.6 ± 1.5, and 207.0 ± 1.5 J/(mol K); $$S_{{298.15}}^{^\circ }$$ = 221.3 ± 12.9, 229.6 ± 13.3, and 229.1 ± 13.4 J/(mol K); and $$H_{{298.15}}^{^\circ }$$ – $$H_{0}^{^\circ }$$ = 34 161 ± 1379, 35 389 ± 1430, and 35 511 ± 1429 J/mol, respectively. | Low-Temperature Heat Capacity and Thermodynamic Properties of Gadolinium-Doped Ba(La,Gd)2WO7 Compounds | 10.1134/S0036024422090102 |
2022-09-01 | Abstract Low-cycle fatigue of monocrystalline heat-resistant nickel-based alloy with crystallographic orientation 〈001〉 in rigorous loading is studied, at operational temperatures. The field asymmetry is expressed as a function of the number of cycles to failure. The fatigue curve is compared with predictions based on the short-term strength. | Low-Cycle Fatigue of Monocrystalline Heat-Resistant Nickel-Based Alloy | 10.3103/S1068798X22090118 |
2022-09-01 | Achieving advanced treatment of phosphorus (P) to prevent water eutrophication and meet increasingly stringent wastewater discharge standard is an important goal of water management. In this study, a low-cost, high-efficiency phosphate adsorbent zirconium-modified biochar (ZrBC) was successfully synthesized through co-precipitation method, in which the biochar was prepared from the pyrolysis of peanut shell powder. ZrBC exhibited strong adsorption ability to low-concentration phosphate (< 1 mg·L −1 ) in water, and the phosphate removal reached 100% at the investigated dosage range (0.1–1.0 mg·L −1 ). The adsorption process could be described well by pseudo-second-order model and Langmuir isotherm model, indicating that the phosphate adsorption by ZrBC was mainly a chemical adsorption and single-layer adsorption process. The calculated static maximum phosphate adsorption capacity was 58.93 mg·g −1 at 25 °C. The ligand exchange between surface hydroxyl groups and phosphate was the main mechanism for the phosphate adsorption on ZrBC. The presence of coexisting anions except for SO 4 2− had little effect on the phosphate removal. At the column experiment, ZrBC showed superior treatment capacities for simulated secondary effluents and the breakthrough time for 0.5 mg·L −1 effluent phosphate concentration reached 190 h. ZrBC highlights the potential as an effective and environment-friendly adsorbent for the removal of low-concentration phosphate from secondary effluents of municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). | Zirconium-modified biochar as the efficient adsorbent for low-concentration phosphate: performance and mechanism | 10.1007/s11356-022-20088-2 |
2022-09-01 | Polyethylene glycol derived carbon quantum dots nanofluids were synthesized via a slow thermal oxidation process. The size of carbon quantum dots was ca. 2 nm and had a decreasing trend with the increase of oxidation time. When used as lubricant in a diamond-like carbon film/bearing steel interface, the nanofluids achieved an ultra-low friction coefficient ( μ ≈ 0.02), much lower than that of original polyethylene glycol ( μ = 0.12). The worn surface analyses revealed that the nanofluids could effectively inhibit the tribo-oxidation of steel counterpart that occurred under original polyethylene glycol lubrication, and hence reduced the abrasion component of friction. Especially, the poly-hydroxyl carbon dots and oxidized polyethylene glycol species in nanofluids induced a hydroxyl-rich sliding interface via their tribochemical reactions with friction surfaces, which promoted the adsorption of polyethylene glycol molecules on sliding surfaces. Along with the mild corrosion wear of steel counterface, this shifted the boundary lubrication to a mixed/film lubrication regime, thereby achieving an ultra-low friction coefficient. The above results suggest that the polyethylene glycol derived carbon quantum dots nanofluids should be a quite excellent candidate lubricant for solid-liquid synergy lubrication based on diamond-like carbon films. | Polyethylene glycol derived carbon quantum dots nanofluids: An excellent lubricant for diamond-like carbon film/bearing steel contact | 10.1007/s40544-021-0549-6 |
2022-09-01 | Temporal variations of net Kuroshio transport are examined for 1972–2018 based on a repeated hydrographic section along 137°E, which is maintained by the Japan Meteorological Agency. The net Kuroshio transport obtained by integration of geostrophic current velocity relative to 1000 dbar depth fluctuates on inter-annual and decadal timescales. The predominant timescale of the net Kuroshio transport changes with time; the inter-annual variation is pronounced in 1972–1990 and 2000–2018, and the decadal variation is detected only before 2000. We find that a winter wind stress curl variation in the central North Pacific which reflects meridional movements of the Aleutian Low and intensity fluctuations of the North Pacific subtropical high on an inter-annual timescale and intensity fluctuations of the Aleutian Low on a decadal timescale, causes the net Kuroshio transport variation. In addition to the inter-annual and decadal variations, we further pointed out a bi-decadal-scale variation of the net Kuroshio transport and its possible link to the Aleutian Low intensity fluctuation. Moreover, our results indicate that during large net Kuroshio transport, sea surface temperature around the Kuroshio and Kuroshio Extension region tends to increase, resulting in vigorous upward sensible and latent heat release. | Temporal variations of net Kuroshio transport based on a repeated hydrographic section along 137°E | 10.1007/s00382-021-06061-8 |
2022-09-01 | In the present work, the microstructural evolution in heavily cold-rolled and annealed Fe-6.8Al low-density steel has been studied. The evolution of texture with a strong component $$\left\{ {001} \right\}\langle 110\rangle$$ 001 ⟨ 110 ⟩ has been observed upon cold rolling. After recrystallisation, the formation of texture with $$\left\{ {111} \right\}110$$ 111 110 component and other γ fiber orientations with weak intensities have been noticed. The mechanism of recrystallisation is discontinuous recrystallisation. The evolution of texture with near $$\left( {04\overline{1}} \right)\left[ {501} \right]$$ 04 1 ¯ 501 and $$\left( {31\overline{8}} \right)\left[ {\overline{4}\overline{3}\overline{2}} \right]$$ 31 8 ¯ 4 ¯ 3 ¯ 2 ¯ components in the partially recrystallised microstructures have been observed. The recrystallised grains nucleate close to the boundaries of the deformed grains and are bounded by high angle grain boundaries which are easily identified from the image quality maps. Analysis of grain size of the annealed samples shows that the presence of Al reduces the grain boundary mobility by solute drag. | Microstructure and Crystallographic Texture Evolution during Isothermal Annealing of Cold-Rolled Fe-6.8Al Low-Density Steel | 10.1007/s11665-022-06792-7 |
2022-09-01 | Advancements in horizontal drilling technologies are utilized to develop unconventional resources, where reservoir temperatures and pressures are very high. However, the flocculation of bentonite in traditional fluids at high temperature and high pressure (HTHP) environments can lower cuttings transportation efficiency and even result in problems such as stuck pipe, decreased rate of penetration (ROP), accelerated bit wear, high torque, and drag on the drill string, and formation damage. The major purpose of the present research is to investigate the performance of low bentonite content water-based fluids for the hole cleaning operation in horizontal drilling processes. Low bentonite content water-based drilling fluids were formulated by replacing a specified quantity of bentonite with a small fraction of cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs), including cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) and cellulose nanofibers (CNFs). The concentration of CNPs was changed from 0.15 wt% up to 0.60 wt% and the bentonite content was reduced from 6 to 0 wt%, which leads to a reduction of solid contents from 13.34 to 6.71 wt%. The flow-loop experiments were accomplished on a sophisticated purpose-built flow rig by circulating the tested fluid samples into the test section in a horizontal position, considering the influence of drill pipe rotation, flow rates, cuttings sizes, and drill pipe eccentricity. The results show that the low solid fluids displayed a considerable enhancement in cuttings removal efficiency, especially with 0.15 wt% of the concentration CNPs and 4.5 wt% of the bentonite contents. The morphology of CNPs played a vital role in improving the rheological properties of the water-based drilling fluids. | Experimental Study of Cuttings Transport Efficiency of Low Solid Bentonite Drilling Fluids Modified by Cellulose Nanoparticles | 10.1007/s13369-022-06685-w |
2022-09-01 | Low salinity waterflooding (LSWF) is a proven enhanced oil recovery technique which has emerged in the last few decades due to its ability to recover more oil at the lowest cost possible. The technique has gained popularity as enormous laboratory experiments, simulation studies and field executions have shown positive results. In LSWF, the salinity of the injection water is significantly less compared to that of formation water, which is used in conventional waterflooding. The increasing number of matured oil fields globally encouraged the effectiveness of LSWF to increase the overall oil recovery factor and decrease the residual oil saturation. Several authors suggested that an increase of 5–40% in oil recovery can be expected due to LSWF compared to the traditional high salinity waterflooding in sandstone reservoirs. In the presented work, a simulation study has been performed to evaluate the effectiveness of LSWF with a detailed sensitivity analysis to understand the effect of various ions present inside the formation brine or injection brine, reservoir temperature, distance between injector and producer, and various other reservoir parameters on oil recovery factor for sandstone reservoirs. Results confirmed the positive effect of LSWF on oil recovery and proved the advantage of sensitivity analysis to find out the optimum values for the injection scheme to obtain the maximum recovery from a given reservoir. | Assessment of low salinity waterflood parameters from a simulation perspective | 10.1007/s40808-021-01340-z |
2022-09-01 | Low-fat spread (LFS) is the product harmonizing with the idea of healthy nutrition. At the same time, it has a good taste and flavor, as well as very good spreadability at refrigerator temperature. The present investigation studied the effect of method of cooling on the properties of cow and buffalo milk ghee, and comparative evaluation of LFS prepared from them. Slowly pre-cooled cow ghee had intense yellow color than rapidly pre-cooled cow ghee, whereas slowly pre-cooled buffalo ghee has creamish white color and rapidly pre-cooled buffalo ghee had white color. Rapidly pre-cooled cow ghee had a very smooth and pasty texture than rapidly pre-cooled buffalo ghee. The LFS of cow ghee had shown maximum sensory scores for color and appearance, body and texture, spreadability, and overall acceptability, as compared to buffalo ghee LFS. Chemically, it was observed that both the LFS differ in FFA content, while they had similar fat, protein, carbohydrate, ash, and total solids content, as well as pH. Oiling off and wheying off were found higher in cow ghee LFS over buffalo ghee LFS. Color, appearance, and flavor scores were found improved by the addition of butter annatto color and diacetyl flavor respectively. Color and appearance, body and texture, spreadability, and overall acceptability scores were higher for cow ghee LFS when subjected to 35 °C for 10, 20, and 30 min. It was found that after 10 min of exposure to 35 °C, the physical qualities of both LFS were unchanged, but the sensory properties diminished as time passed. | Comparative Effect of Cooling on the Physico-chemical-sensory Properties of Ghee from Cow and Buffalo Milk, and Evaluation of the Low-fat Spread Prepared from Cow and Buffalo Milk Ghee | 10.1007/s12161-022-02312-4 |
2022-09-01 | As one of the basic component materials of metamaterials, natural negative dielectric constant (permittivity) materials have attracted more and more attentions; however, the frequency-dispersion mechanism of negative permittivity, especially the preferable low-frequency-dispersion behavior, still needs to be further explored. In this work, we fabricated the carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/epoxy composites by mechanical mixing and pressure forming. By gradually controlling the CNT content, a percolation phenomenon occurred and the conductive mechanism was changed from hopping conductivity to metal-like conductivity. The Debye model was used to describe the dielectric relaxation when the CNT content was below the percolation threshold; the negative permittivity comes from the plasma oscillation of free electrons in CNT networks when the CNT content is exceeding the percolation threshold explained by Drude model; the equivalent circuit analysis was used to analyze a capacitive-inductive transition. Most importantly, a low-frequency-dispersion and weakly negative permittivity occurred in the composites when the CNT content was slightly higher than the percolation threshold, a new Debye-Drude model was put forward to explain the novel frequency dispersion phenomenon of negative permittivity. Our work provides a new method to explain the phenomenon of low-frequency dispersion and will facilitate applications of negative permittivity materials. Graphical abstract The low-frequency-dispersion weakly negative permittivity was achieved in the percolative composites slightly above percolation threshold, a new Debye-Drude model was put forward to explain the novel phenomenon | The weakly negative permittivity with low-frequency-dispersion behavior in percolative carbon nanotubes/epoxy nanocomposites at radio-frequency range | 10.1007/s42114-022-00541-z |
2022-09-01 | A new 1-bit digital comparator named 14T-SR-GDI is presented with gate-diffusion-input (GDI) and single-swing-restoration (SR) techniques to attain internal gates with high driving capability. The comparator has 14 transistors which produce full-swing outputs with low power consumption. In the 14T-SR-GDI, boosted inner signals are used to activate the output gates which result in a high-speed circuit with effective scalability and the enhanced driving capability for multi-bit structures. The comparator has a low power delay product (PDP) due to the small numbers of internal nodes and capacitances and efficient power-ground-free gates. The 14T-SR-GDI comparator, fully SR-GDI-based AND, and OR gates, construct a new tree structure for multi-bit magnitude comparators including 2-bit, 4-bit, 8-bit, and 16-bit comparators. The proposed 1-bit comparator is used in image processing for difference detection, and its efficiency is proved by image quality parameters. The post-layout simulations are performed for the 1-bit to 16-bit structures under TSMC 90 nm technology. The extracted results express a PDP with an average difference of 9.59% between the regular and post-layout modes. Also, the proposed 16-bit comparator is embedded in a pad with a total area of 4331.25 μm 2 . The designed magnitude comparators are key components in digital signal processors (DSPs). | Low-Power and Fast-Swing-Restoration GDI-Based Magnitude Comparator for Digital Images Processing | 10.1007/s00034-022-01997-6 |
2022-09-01 | Wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) is an additive manufacturing (AM) technology that uses a modified robotic welding machine to manufacture parts in a layer-by-layer pattern. Wire-based AM has many major advantages, including good fabrication flexibility and control, as well as easier automated manufacturing. This article compares the tensile proprieties of WAAM low carbon steel cylinders made by pulsed current gas metal arc welding (PGMAW) and pulsed current cold metal transfer (PCMT) arc welding techniques. The microhardness and tensile properties of the WAAM cylindrical parts were evaluated in the bottom and top zones. The PCMT-WAAM cylinder showed higher hardness, yield strength (YS), and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) than the PGMAW-WAAM cylinder. The microstructural characteristics of the produced low carbon steel cylinders varied from one process to another process. The inhomogeneity in tensile properties and hardness is caused by variations in microstructural characteristics. | RETRACTED ARTICLE: Microstructure and Tensile Properties of Wire Arc Additive Manufactured Low Carbon Steel Components Made by Pulsed Current Arc Welding Processes | 10.1007/s11223-022-00467-3 |
2022-09-01 | Developing highly stable and active non-Pt oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts for power generation device raises great concerns and remains a challenge. Here, we report novel truncated Pd tetrahedrons (T−Pd−Ths) enclosed by {111} facets with excellent uniformity, which have both low-coordinated surface sites and distinct lattice distortions that would induce “local strain”. In alkaline electrolyte, the T−Pd−Ths/C achieves remarkable ORR specific/mass activity (SA/MA) of 2.46 mA·cm −2 /1.69 A·mg Pd −1 , which is 12.3/16.9 and 10.7/14.1 times higher than commercial Pd/C and Pt/C, respectively. The T−Pd−Ths/C also exhibits high in-situ carbon monoxide (CO) tolerance and 50,000 cycles durability with an activity loss of 7.69% and morphological stability. The rotating ring-disk electrode (RRDE) measurements show that a 4-electron process occurs on T−Pd−Ths/C. Theoretical calculations demonstrate that the low-coordinated surface sites contribute largely to the enhancement of ORR activity. In actual direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) device, the T−Pd−Ths/C delivers superior open-circuit voltage (OCV) and peak power density (PPD) to commercial Pt/C from 25 to 80 °C, and the maximum PPD can reach up to 163.7 mW·cm −2 . This study demonstrates that the T−Pd−Ths/C holds promise as alternatives to Pt for ORR in DMFC device. | Low-coordinated surface sites make truncated Pd tetrahedrons as robust ORR electrocatalysts outperforming Pt for DMFC devices | 10.1007/s12274-022-4492-2 |
2022-09-01 | Some measurements including tensile test, cyclic immersion corrosion, metallographic microscopy, SEM and XRD were used to clarify the influence of Cu, P addition and cooling conditions on strength and corrosion resistance to explore low-cost, corrosion resistant and high-strength steel bars of Cu–P series. The addition of copper and phosphorus can effectively eliminate sulfide precipitation at grain boundaries and transform the sulfides inclusion in tensile fracture to oxides with higher strength, which is good for the strength of steel bars. Meanwhile, the rust layer of Cu–P series steel bar has better compactness and chemical stability, which favors to delay corrosion rate. Increasing the cooling rate refines the grain size and improves the microstructure, both of which are conducive to enhance the strength of steel bars. Therefore, low-cost Cu–P series HRB500aE steel bar can be developed by controlling composition and cooling rate. Compared with 20MnSi steel bar, Cu–P series steel bar reduces Mn content and avoids the addition of precious alloy elements such as Ni and Cr. | Development of High-Strength and Atmospheric Corrosion Resistant Steel Bars with Low Cost | 10.1007/s11015-022-01382-3 |
2022-09-01 | The article examines the chemical composition and physicochemical properties of heavy naphthenic-aromatic oil and its fractions. In comparison with mixtures of West Siberian and Samara oils, the naphthenic-aromatic heavy oil is distinguished by higher viscosity and density, which is associated with high content of resinous-asphaltenic compounds and absence of gasoline fractions. The diesel fraction is distinguished by good low-temperature characteristics and contains a large quantity of aromatic hydrocarbons represented primarily by monocyclic structures. The lube oil fractions also have good low-temperature characteristics, but are characterized by low viscosity index, which stems from high content of polycyclic naphthenic hydrocarbons with short alkyl chains. The vacuum residue consists primarily of resinous matters and has a high content of metals (nickel, vanadium, etc.). A scheme of heavy oil refining is proposed for getting unique high-quality products, such as low-pour-point fuels, oil-based drilling fluids, naphthenic oils of various viscosities, high-quality asphalt and coke, and nickel and vanadium concentrate. | Distinctive Features of Composition and Properties of Heavy Naphthenic-Aromatic Oil and Options for its Proficient Refining | 10.1007/s10553-022-01422-3 |
2022-09-01 | Understanding the hydrodynamics within the anaerobic digester tank of a wastewater treatment plant is of high importance to ensure sufficient mixing and subsequently a homogeneous distribution of the substrates. In this paper, we demonstrate a two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics simulation of a real-world case study focusing on both, the methodology and the operation of mixing. For this work, DualSPHysics, a Lagrangian solver, has been explored as an alternative to the more commonly used Eulerian solvers in studying the slow-moving dynamics inside a digester tank. This choice of a Lagrangian solver is primarily due to the inherent accounting for advection within the formulation, thus allowing for subsequent modelling of anaerobic digestion processes. A comparison has been made between the simulations from the two methods (Eulerian and Lagrangian), highlighting the benefits and the shortcomings of using smoothed particle hydrodynamics. Concerning operational mixing, the case relies on a draft tube, the effect of which on the velocity profiles has been studied based on the presence of low-velocity zones and Lagrangian coherent structures. Removing the draft tube results in an increase in low-velocity zones by 21.38% while the amount of dead volume increases from 0.52 to 1.2%. | 2D SPH simulation of an anaerobic digester | 10.1007/s40571-022-00474-w |
2022-09-01 | One-third of children globally have blood lead levels (BLLs) exceeding the (former) US CDC reference value of 5 µg/dL; this value may be as high as one-half for children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Lead exposure occurs through a variety of routes (e.g., water, dust, air), and in LMICs specifically, informal economies (e.g., battery recycling) can drive lead exposures due, in part, to absent regulation. Previous work by our team identified a ubiquitous source of lead (Pb), in the form of Pb-containing components used in manually operated pumps, in Toamasina, Madagascar. Characterization of BLLs of children exposed to this drinking water, and identification of additional exposure routes were needed. BLLs were measured for 362 children (aged 6 months to 6 years) in parallel with surveying to assess 14 risk factors related to demographics/socioeconomics, diet, use of pitcher pumps, and parental occupations. BLL data were also compared against a recent meta-review of BLLs for LMICs. Median childhood BLL (7.1 µg/dL) was consistent with those of other Sub-Saharan African LMICs (6.8 µg/dL) and generally higher than LMICs in other continents. Risk factors significantly associated ( p < 0.05, univariate logistic regression) with elevated BLL (at ≥ 5 µg/dL) included male gender, living near a railway or major roadway (owing potentially to legacy lead pollution), having lower-cost flooring, daily consumption of foods (beans, vegetables, rice) commonly cooked in recycled aluminum pots (a previously identified lead source for this community), and a maternal occupation (laundry-person) associated with lower socioeconomic status (SES). Findings were similar at the ≥ 10 µg/dL BLL status. Our methods and findings may be appropriate in identifying and reducing lead exposures for children in other urbanizing cities, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, where lead exposure routes are complex and varied owing to informal economics and substantial legacy pollution. | Childhood blood lead levels and environmental risk factors in Madagascar | 10.1007/s11356-022-20586-3 |
2022-09-01 | The interaction and synergetic effect of soy protein isolate (SPI) and its hydrolysates with different concentrations of monoglycerides were explored at the air-water/oil interfaces in recombined low-fat whipped cream (20%). The creams were made with 20% palm oil, 18% carbohydrate, 0.22% stabilizers, and 0.25–1.00% monoglycerides. The proteins used were native soy protein isolate (NSPI), commercial soy protein isolate (CSPI), soy protein hydrolysates by pepsin (SPHPe), soy protein hydrolysates by papain (SPHPa), and SC (sodium caseinate). Overrun, stability, rheological behavior, and texture of recombined low-fat whipped cream were studied. Results indicated that increasing concentration of monoglycerides was effective in improving the textural, whipping properties, and stability of recombined low-fat whipped cream. Increasing concentration of monoglycerides in the mix prompted the displacement of adsorbed protein from fat globules, built up a firmer structure of fat aggregates, and stabilized the trapped air bubbles in the structure of recombined low-fat whipped cream. At the same level of monoglycerides, SPHPa whipped cream produced a similar overrun, stability, and texture as SC. Due to the high proportion of β-conglycinin in SPHPe, a low degree of fat globule partial coalescence occurred and led to low overrun and weakened structure in recombined low-fat whipped cream. | Effects of Soy Proteins and Hydrolysates on Fat Globule Coalescence and Whipping Properties of Recombined Low-Fat Whipped Cream | 10.1007/s11483-021-09714-7 |
2022-09-01 | Excessive aeration in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) will lead to energy waste. A large number of studies have shown that the control of low dissolved oxygen (DO) operation in WWTPs not only achieves considerable wastewater treatment effects, but also reduces energy waste. In this study, the transfer regulation of substrates and oxygen inside activated sludge flocs was measured under different equipment conditions (particle size of flocs, wastewater quality and sludge retention time of the treatment system) by using a microelectrode. A diffusion–reaction model based on the Monod kinetic model and Fick’s first law of diffusion was established by considering both the internal diffusion resistance and the diffusion rate of oxygen and substrates inside the activated sludge flocs, and the critical DO (DO c ) was calculated by MATLAB software. The results showed that the attenuation of DO concentration in activated sludge flocs increased slightly with the increasing particle size, but it decreased with increasing external DO concentration. A critical DO as low as 0.3 mg/L could be achieved in flocs with low DO concentrations. This study provides strong support to carry out effective and feasible process design and process optimization. In addition, it can further guide WWTPs to achieve energy savings and consumption under stable operation. Graphic abstract | Determination of critical dissolved oxygen for effective mass transfer of activated sludge flocs based on microelectrode detection technology | 10.1007/s13762-021-03669-5 |
2022-09-01 | Lignin isolated from sweet sorghum bagasse after the low moisture anhydrous ammonia (LMAA) pretreatment was characterized by using diffusion-ordered nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in combination with one-dimensional 1 H, multinuclear two-dimensional NMR (HSQC, HMBC, HSQC-TOCSY), and elemental analysis to correlate structural observations with molecular weight. The LMAA lignin was compared with a commercial soda lignin product. The 1 H diffusion-ordered spectra indicate that the aromatic components (6.0–8.5 ppm) in the LMAA lignin cover a wider diffusivity range, and therefore broader molecular weight range, than did the soda lignin, and that its weight average molecular weight was also higher. Fractionation of the LMAA lignin based on solubility in methanol revealed that this property was largely dependent on the molecular weights of the components, as both the soluble and insoluble fractions contained similar structures. Also observed by 1 H NMR was a significant amount of residual ammonium present from the biomass pretreatment. This ammonium was largely fractionated into the methanol soluble fraction. | Application of Diffusion-Ordered NMR Spectroscopy to the Characterization of Sweet Sorghum Bagasse Lignin Isolated After Low Moisture Anhydrous Ammonia (LMAA) Pretreatment | 10.1007/s12155-021-10385-y |
2022-09-01 | Abstract A new series of lubricity improvers for ultra-low sulphur diesel (ULSD) was synthesized starting from methyl oleate through simple chemical reactions. In the first step methyl oleate was epoxidized using formic acid and hydrogen peroxide mixture. Then the epoxide was subjected to esterification using different long chain (C 4 –C 18 alkyl groups) organic acids to get the final diesters. The lubricating property of the newly synthesized diesters was studied by dosing them to ULSD at 300 ppm (wt/vol) concentration. Amongst them, diester LAMOSA derived from stearic acid showed the best lubrication enhancing property at 300 ppm dosage level. The SEM and EDS spectra of the HFRR (high frequency reciprocating rig) specimen also confirms the formation of metal-oxygen interaction supporting the friction reducing properties of LAMOSA. The study reveals that the newly synthesized methyl oleate derived diesters are promising materials as lubricity additives for ULSD. | Efficient Lubricity Improvers Derived from Methyl Oleate for Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD) | 10.1134/S0965544122090146 |
2022-09-01 | Macroinvertebrate community in the intertidal setup plays an important role in coastal ecosystem functions and biogeochemical cycle. However, different land use pattern may influence on their community structure, diversity, and composition in the coastal ecosystems. Using Van-Veen grab sampler, 60 sediment samples were seasonally collected from mangroves-dominated, aquaculture-dominated, and anthropogenically affected area in the lower intertidal zone of the Kohelia channel of Bangladesh, the Northern Bay of Bengal. We have tasted the variation in sediment properties across three land-use types in this intertidal habitat. To understand the patterns of benthic macroinvertebrate distribution, a neutral community model was applied. Our results showed that community composition and biodiversity of the benthic macroinvertebrate communities varied significantly between mangrove-dominated area with anthropogenically affected areas among the four seasons. The neutral community model revealed that community assembly of benthic macroinvertebrates in the lower intertidal habitats is structured by stochastic processes while sediment properties have significant influence on species distribution and interactions. Results suggested that land-use changes altered sediment properties and could change the diversity and distribution of the macroinvertebrate communities in the lower intertidal habitats. | Intertidal macroinvertebrate community structure in a subtropical channel is driven by sediment properties across different land-use types | 10.1007/s11356-022-20471-z |
2022-09-01 | We aimed to determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in indoor and outdoor size-segregated aerosol samples (PM 10-2.5 , PM 2.5 ). Five outdoor daily samples were collected between November and December 2020 in an urban/industrial area with relatively high PM 10 levels (Maliaño, Santander, Spain) by using a PM impactor (air flowrate of 30 L/min). In a non-hospital indoor sampling surveillance context, 8 samples in classrooms and 6 samples in the central library-Paraninfo of the University of Cantabria (UC) were collected between April and June 2021 by using personal PM samplers (air flowrate of 3 L/min). Lastly, 8 samples in the pediatric nasopharyngeal testing room at Liencres Hospital, 6 samples from different single occupancy rooms of positive patients, and 2 samples in clinical areas of the COVID plant of the University Hospital Marqués de Valdecilla (HUMV) were collected between January and May 2021. N1, N2 genes were used to test the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA by RT-qPCR. SARS-CoV-2 positive detection was only obtained from one fine fraction (PM 2.5 ) sample, corresponding to one occupancy room, where a patient with positive PCR and cough was present. Negative results found in other sampling areas such as the pediatric nasopharyngeal testing rooms should be interpreted in terms of air sampling volume limitation and good ventilation. | SARS-CoV-2 surveillance in indoor and outdoor size-segregated aerosol samples | 10.1007/s11356-022-20237-7 |
2022-09-01 | The article presents a comparison of innovative technologies of producing silver nanoparticles directly on fibrous structures using digital printing and screen printing. The research was focused on the antibacterial modification of cotton fabric using an in-situ synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Moreover, for the first time, the evaluation of two techniques of modification, taking into account the antibacterial effect and the consumption of chemicals, water, and energy in both processes were presented. Silver nanoparticles were prepared by direct reduction of the paste/ink containing silver salt on the fibres using screen and ink-jet printing techniques. The deposition of silver nanoparticles was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, Raman dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The durability of the antibacterial effect against washing was estimated by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Both printing techniques allow obtaining cotton fabric with long-lasting antibacterial properties (50 items of washing) against strains of Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis . However, the digital printing method is more environmentally friendly due to lower water and energy usage and four times lower silver concentration in fabric compared to the conventional, screen-printing method. | Comparison of Innovative Silver Nanoparticles Finishing Technologies to Obtain Antibacterial Properties of Cotton Fabric | 10.1007/s12221-022-4327-5 |
2022-09-01 | Polyethene is a global environmental threat, whereas jute ( Corchorus spp.) fiber is biodegradable, eco-friendly and can be used as a substitute for polyethene. Jute is a short-day plant and cultivated in March to July in Indian subcontinent for bast fiber production. This season-bound cultivation nature hampers continuous supply of bast fiber in the industry. In addition, its long cultivation period creates difficulties to accommodate other high-value crops. To address these issues, a short life span (early flowering) jute genotype is extremely felt in jute growing areas of the world. But, unfortunately such variety has not been developed yet through both conventional and biotechnological approach. Accordingly, we adopted chemical mutagenesis by establishing LD 50 (Lethal Dose) of EMS (Ethyl Methane Sulfonate) at 150 mM with 4h’ incubation for Capsularis jute seed. A novel mutant was found named— Komola , which showed a shorter lifespan than its ancestor by flowering at 70 days instead of 120 days. In addition, the mutant's stem and petiole was coppery-red instead of green. Molecular analysis revealed four SNPs in PMIR1 (Plastid Movement Impaired 1 Related 1) and two clade deletions in ELF3 (Early Flowering 3) genes from stable M 4 generation. Histochemical and biochemical analyses explained this genotype’s lower content of lignin. This mutant could be used as future breeding material for the development of year-round cultivable jute genotype along with offer up accommodation of other high-value agricultural crops in cropping pattern with a good source of year-round supply of bast fiber to the industry. | Development of early flowering, short life-spanned jute (Corchorus spp.) mutant via ethyl methane sulfonate mutagenesis | 10.1007/s12892-022-00146-4 |
2022-09-01 | Dermal fibroblasts (DF) constitute one of key cells involved in wound healing. However, the functions they perform in wound conditions remain poorly understood. This study involved exposing DF to low nutrition and to low nutrition + LPS for 5 d as conditions representing the wound. Although DF exhibited increasing metabolic activity in time under all conditions including control, the proliferation did not change in both low nutrition and low nutrition + LPS. Only the low nutrition + LPS was found to potentiate the migration and pro-inflammatory phenotype (IL6 release) of DF. The potential of DF to contract collagen hydrogel declined only under low nutrition as a consequence of low cell number. The expression of α-SMA was reduced under both conditions independently of the cell number. The remodeling capability of DF was affected under both conditions as documented by the enhanced MMP2 activity. Finally, the production of collagen type I was not affected by either condition. The study shows that low nutrition as the single factor is able to delay the healing process. Moreover, the addition of the mild pro-inflammatory stimulus represented by LPS may amplify the cell response in case of decreased α-SMA expression or excite DF to produce IL6 impairing the healing process. | Functional responses of dermal fibroblasts to low nutrition and pro-inflammatory stimuli mimicking a wound environment in vitro | 10.1007/s11626-022-00713-7 |
2022-09-01 | This article presents the results of a comparative analysis of the dispersing effect of Russian and imported deflocculating agents based on polyphosphates and polycarboxylate ethers (PCEs) on the rheological properties of high-alumina matrix systems and their mineral components. As demonstrated, in terms of deflocculating characteristics, Russian PCEs are not inferior to analogous imported products and can be used to control the rheological behavior of low-cement refractory casting masses. | Control of the Fluidity of High-Alumina Matrix Systems with Various Types of Deflocculating Agents | 10.1007/s11148-022-00723-8 |
2022-09-01 | This study aimed to investigate how the combined use of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and exercise, to reduce the possible side effects and/or increase the benefits of exercise, would affect oxidative stress, utrophin, irisin peptide, and skeletal, diaphragmatic, and cardiac muscle pathologies. In our study, 20 mdx mice were divided into four groups. Groups; sedentary and placebo LLLT (SC), sedentary and LLLT (SL), 30-min swimming exercise (Ex), and 30-min swimming exercise and LLLT (ExL). After 8 weeks of swimming exercise, muscle tests, biochemically; oxidative stress index (OSI), utrophin and irisin levels were measured. Skeletal, diaphragmatic and cardiac muscle histopathological scores, skeletal and cardiac muscle myocyte diameters were determined under the light and electron microscope. While only irisin levels were increased in group SL compared to SC, it was determined that OSI, heart muscle histopathological scores decreased and irisin levels increased in both exercise groups ( p < 0.05). In addition, in the ExL group, an increase in rotarod and utrophin levels, and a decrease in muscle and diaphragm muscle histopathological scores were observed ( p < 0.05). It was determined that the application of swimming exercise in the mdx mouse model increased the irisin level in the skeletal muscle, while reducing the OSI, degeneration in the heart muscle, inflammation and cardiopathy. When LLLT was applied in addition to exercise, muscle strength, skeletal muscle utrophin levels increased, and skeletal and diaphragmatic muscle degeneration and inflammation decreased. In addition, it was determined that only LLLT application increased the level of skeletal muscle irisin. | Effects of moderate aerobic exercise, low-level laser therapy, or their combination on muscles pathology, oxidative stress and irisin levels in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy | 10.1007/s10103-022-03562-8 |
2022-09-01 | The objective of this study was to determine meat quality distributions and assess hardness distributions in raw and cooked breast fillets with the woody breast (WB) condition, in addition to evaluating the relationship between water properties and WB severity. A total of 90 breast fillets were collected and categorized as normal (NORM), mild (MILD) and severe (SEV). Breast weight, drip loss, compression measurements, cook loss, shear and texture profile analysis (TPA) values were measured for each sample by fillet location (cranial to caudal) and sampling depth (cranial-superficial, cranial-internal, middle-superficial, and middle-internal) in the raw and cooked meat state. Low-field NMR relaxation measurements were also collected for both the raw and cooked fillets. Results indicate that severe WB expressed increased hardness, a higher water content (bound water and free water) and reduced meat quality attributes in raw and cooked meat. Breast fillet hardness and meat quality distributions were unevenly distributed between fillets, compression measurements were higher mainly in the cranial region, and progressively decreased toward the caudal region for both raw and cooked fillets. Shear force and energy values were higher in the cranial region than in the middle region, and TPA values were higher in superficial regions rather than internal portions. Additionally, low-field NMR could be used to predict WB through variation in water properties as thermal processing reduces water distributing abilities in affected fillets. | Assessment of meat quality distributions of breast fillets with woody breast condition in the raw and cooked state | 10.1007/s13197-022-05353-z |
2022-09-01 | Maize ( Zea mays L.) yield performance is determined by the effects of genotype and environment, and genotype × environment interaction (GEI). A complete diallel crosses of 11 QPM inbred lines were evaluated under both low and optimum soil nitrogen environments to identify high grain yield performance and yield stability of single-cross hybrids in six environments. The results of analysis of variance showed that variations among hybrids attributable to genotypes (G), environments (E), and genotype × environment interactions (GEI) were significant for grain yield. The result of the AMMI analysis showed that grain yield performance of the genotypes was significantly affected by environments, genotypes and GEI across six environments. The GGE biplot showed the sum of the first and second principal component axes explained 61.66% of the total variation. Genotype TL156583 × TL156612 was identified as the best genotype among hybrids across six environments, and less stable than genotype MHQ138 which was the poorest genotype but stable across all environments. AMMI stability value identified TL155976 × TL156583, TL156583 × TL155932, and TL156579 × TL156583 as stable genotypes, and TL156583 × VL05128, TL156583 × TL147078, and TL156579 × TL155976 as unstable ones. GGE-biplot identified genotype TL156583 × VL05128 to be the winner in E 6 (Dire-Dawa optimum N) whereas genotype TL156612 × TL148288 was the winner in E 2 (Raare optimum N) and E 5 (Dire-Dawa low N). Genotype TL156579 × TL155976 won in E 1 (Raare low N) and E 5 (Dire-Dawa low N). | Genotype-by-environment interaction and yield stability for grain yield of quality protein maize hybrids under low and optimum soil nitrogen environments | 10.1007/s12892-022-00143-7 |
2022-09-01 | Low molecular weight proteins (LMWPs) in the bloodstream participate in various biological processes and are closely associated with disease status, whereas identification of serous LMWPs remains a great technical challenge due to the wide dynamic range of protein components. In this study, we constructed an integrated LMWP library by combining the LMWPs obtained by three enrichment methods (50% ACN, 20% ACN + 20 mM ABC, and 30 kDa) and their fractions identified by the data-dependent acquisition method. With this newly constructed library, we comprehensively profiled LMWPs in serum using data-independent acquisition and reliably achieved quantitative results for 75% serous LMWPs. When applying this strategy to quantify LMWPs in human serum samples, we could identify 405 proteins on average per sample, of which 136 proteins were with a MW less than 30 kDa and 293 proteins were with a MW less than 65 kDa. Of note, pre- and post-operative gastric carcinoma (GC) patients showed differentially expressed serous LWMPs, which was also different from the pattern of LWMP expression in healthy controls. In conclusion, our results showed that LMWPs could efficiently distinguish GC patients from healthy controls as well as between pre- and post-operative statuses, and more importantly, our newly developed LMWP profiling platform could be used to discover candidate LMWP biomarkers for disease diagnosis and status monitoring. Graphical abstract | Improved profiling of low molecular weight serum proteome for gastric carcinoma by data-independent acquisition | 10.1007/s00216-022-04196-z |
2022-09-01 | Purpose Preoperative very low-calorie diets (VLCDs) have been shown to reduce liver volume and improve bariatric surgery safety. Here, we compare two VLCD that differ in macronutrient composition. Material/Methods Ninety patients awaiting obesity surgery were included in a prospective, open-label, randomized mono-centre trial comparing the effects of 2-week preoperative VLCDs: BCM Diät™ (diet 1) versus Optifast™ (diet 2). Results Data from 33 patients in diet 1 and 36 in diet 2 could be analysed. There was no significant difference between the two diet intervention arms on outcome parameters. Overall, both VLCD strategies led to a mean weight reduction of 5.24 [4.72–5.76] kg ( p < 0.001), mean excess weight loss was 8.2 [7.4–9.1] % ( p < 0.001). BMI reduction was 1.81 [1.63–1.99] kg/m 2 ( p < 0.001). Over all patients, the liver volume was reduced by 397 [329–466] ml ( p < 0.001), which corresponds to 14.6 [12.4; 16.8] %. Liver fat content was significantly reduced by 18.35 [8.98–27.71] %. Reduction of body weight correlates with liver volume loss. In addition, hip/waist circumferences, body fat and fat-free mass decreased significantly. We found an increase of ALAT/ASAT and a significant decrease of triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol and HbA1c. Parameters of inflammatory were significantly reduced upon VLCD. Conclusion Independently of the macronutrient composition, VLCD leads to a significant decrease of body weight, reduction of liver volume and improved parameters of inflammation, glucose and lipid metabolism. Preoperative diets are widely used in conditioning; however, VLCD should be considered as option for patients with obesity undergoing other abdominal surgeries. Graphical abstract | Effectiveness and Tolerability of a Two-Week Hypocaloric Protein-Rich Diet Prior to Obesity Surgery with Two Different Diet Interventions: a Prospective Randomized Trial | 10.1007/s11695-022-06180-z |
2022-09-01 | The Muli area has dense lithology, high hardness, poor porosity and permeability, and well-developed micro-fractures, which is different from other gas hydrate regions with unconsolidated sediment characteristics. With the gradual deepening of gas hydrate scientific research in the Muli area, some unique low-resistivity gas hydrate phenomena have been discovered. The understanding of the genesis mechanism of low-resistivity gas hydrate is not clear, which makes it difficult to identify gas hydrate layers and adversely affects the evaluation of reservoir parameters and reserves prediction. In this investigation, the well logging response law of pore-filling and fracture-filling gas hydrate reservoirs is systematically combined and the associated reservoir characteristics relationships are evaluated as a function of lithology, physical properties, reservoir space, gas hydrate and fluid distribution characteristics. Then, the correlation between cementation index and pore structure complexity index was fitted. Finally, a new gas hydrate saturation calculation model is proposed. The results show that the new saturation calculation model is in good agreement with the well logging interpretation of gas hydrate, which can identify low-resistivity gas hydrate effectively. The results of this study thus assist in terms of reliable gas hydrate exploration in the Muli area. | A Method for Well Logging Identification and Evaluation of Low-Resistivity Gas Hydrate Layers | 10.1007/s00024-022-03120-x |
2022-09-01 | Axonotmesis causes sensorimotor and neurofunctional deficits, and its regeneration can occur slowly or not occur if not treated appropriately. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) promotes nerve regeneration with the proliferation of myelinating Schwann cells to recover the myelin sheath and the production of glycoproteins for endoneurium reconstruction. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of LLLT on sciatic nerve regeneration after compression injury by means of the sciatic functional index (SFI) and Raman spectroscopy (RS). For this, 64 Wistar rats were divided into two groups according to the length of treatment: 14 days ( n = 32) and 21 days ( n = 32). These two groups were subdivided into four sub-groups of eight animals each (control 1; control 2; laser 660 nm; laser 808 nm). All animals had surgical exposure to the sciatic nerve, and only control 1 did not suffer nerve damage. To cause the lesion in the sciatic nerve, compression was applied with a Kelly clamp for 6 s. The evaluation of sensory deficit was performed by the painful exteroceptive sensitivity (PES) and neuromotor tests by the SFI. Laser 660 nm and laser 808 nm sub-groups were irradiated daily (100 mW, 40 s, energy density of 133 J/cm 2 ). The sciatic nerve segment was removed for RS analysis. The animals showed accentuated sensory and neurofunctional deficit after injury and their rehabilitation occurred more effectively in the sub-groups treated with 660 nm laser. Control 2 sub-group did not obtain functional recovery of gait. The RS identified sphingolipids (718, 1065, and 1440 cm −1 ) and collagen (700, 852, 1004, 1270, and 1660 cm −1 ) as biomolecular characteristics of sciatic nerves. Principal component analysis revealed important differences among sub-groups and a directly proportional correlation with SFI, mainly in the sub-group laser 660 nm treated for 21 days. In the axonotmesis-type lesion model presented herein, the 660 nm laser was more efficient in neurofunctional recovery, and the Raman spectra of lipid and protein properties were attributed to the basic biochemical composition of the sciatic nerve. | Raman spectroscopy and sciatic functional index (SFI) after low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in a rat sciatic nerve crush injury model | 10.1007/s10103-022-03565-5 |
2022-09-01 | Background S100A12, also known as Calgranulin C, is a ligand for the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) and plays key roles in cardiovascular and other inflammatory diseases. Interactions between S100A12 and RAGE initiate downstream signaling activating extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2), mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK), and transcription factor NF-κB. This increases the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines to induce the inflammatory response. S100A12, and RAGE play a critical role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. There is a well-known relationship between the bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the lipid antigens oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in driving the immune response in atherosclerosis. Methods and results Our study aimed to compare the potential of LPS and oxLDL in regulating the expression of S100A12 and RAGE in atherosclerosis. The expression of these proteins was assessed in the harvested carotid arteries from LPS- and oxLDL-treated atherosclerotic Yucatan microswine. Tissues were collected from five different treatment groups: (i) angioplasty alone, (ii) LPS alone, (iii) oxLDL alone, (iv) angioplasty with LPS, and (v) angioplasty with oxLDL. Immunohistochemical findings revealed that angioplasty with LPS induced higher expression of S100A12 and RAGE compared to other treatment groups. The results were further corroborated by testing their gene expression through qPCR in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) isolated from control carotid arteries and LPS- and oxLDL-treated arteries. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that LPS induces the expression of S100A12 and RAGE more than oxLDL in atherosclerotic artery and both S100A12 and RAGE could be therapeutic targets. | LPS and oxLDL-induced S100A12 and RAGE expression in carotid arteries of atherosclerotic Yucatan microswine | 10.1007/s11033-022-07703-8 |
2022-09-01 | Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) is a type of modified cholesterol that promotes apoptosis and inflammation and advances the progression of heart failure. Leucine-zipper and sterile-α motif kinase (ZAK) is a kinase of the MAP3K family which is highly expressed in the heart and encodes two variants, ZAKα and ZAKβ. Our previous study serendipitously found opposite effects of ZAKα and ZAKβ in which ZAKβ antagonizes ZAKα-induced apoptosis and hypertrophy of the heart. This study aims to test the hypothesis of whether ZAKα and ZAKβ are involved in the damaging effects of ox-LDL in the cardiomyoblast. Cardiomyoblast cells H9c2 were treated with different concentrations of ox-LDL. Cell viability and apoptosis were measured by MTT and TUNEL assay, respectively. Western blot was used to detect apoptosis, hypertrophy, and pro-survival signaling proteins. Plasmid transfection, pharmacological inhibition with D2825, and siRNA transfection were utilized to upregulate or downregulate ZAKβ, respectively. Ox-LDL concentration-dependently reduces the viability and expression of several pro-survival proteins, such as phospho-PI3K, phospho-Akt, and Bcl-xL. Furthermore, ox-LDL increases cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9 as indicators of apoptosis and increases B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) as an indicator of hypertrophy. Overexpression of ZAKβ by plasmid transfection attenuates apoptosis and prevents upregulation of BNP. Importantly, these effects were abolished by inhibiting ZAKβ either by D2825 or siZAKβ application. Our results suggest that ZAKβ upregulation in response to ox-LDL treatment confers protective effects on cardiomyoblast. | ZAKβ Alleviates Oxidized Low-density Lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-Induced Apoptosis and B-type Natriuretic Peptide (BNP) Upregulation in Cardiomyoblast | 10.1007/s12013-022-01080-6 |
2022-09-01 | In the face of the rapid increase of carbon emissions, climate warming, and an epidemic situation, low-carbon economy is attracting growing attention. Using bibliometric analysis and machine learning methods, the paper conducts a systematic review in the low-carbon economy. Using the Web of Science Core Collection database, 1433 articles from 1990 to 2021 were selected for review. We find that the trajectories of the low-carbon economy research can be divided into four phases: exploration, fermentation, rising, and flourishing. The low-carbon economy research can be categorized into five clusters: low-carbon energy policy, carbon footprint and carbon trading, energy–economy–environment system, energy efficiency and its decomposition, and carbon emission drivers. The findings of this review study shed light on the role and effects of low-carbon economic policies on energy futures. | Low-carbon economy and policy implications: a systematic review and bibliometric analysis | 10.1007/s11356-022-20381-0 |
2022-09-01 | Purpose To compare diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) parameters in healthy adult human lower leg muscles and to determine the correlation between DTI parameters and muscle power measurements among different types of muscle contraction. Materials and methods DTI measurements of the unilateral lower leg muscles having three different types of contraction (non-contraction state, isometric contraction, and soleus shortening) were obtained from 10 healthy adults using a 3-T MRI scanner. DTI parameters (λ 1 , λ 2 , λ 3 , mean diffusivity, and fractional anisotropy) were calculated. The values of the DTI parameters and correlation between the DTI parameters and muscle power measurements (maximum power and maximum amount of work) obtained from a dynamometer were statistically compared among the different types of contraction. Intra- and inter-class correlation coefficients were calculated for analysis of reproducibility. Results The λ 1 , λ 2 , λ 3, and mean diffusivity of the soleus muscle are significantly lower in the non-contraction state as compared with isometric contraction and soleus shortening ( p < 0.05). A positive correlation of the soleus muscle in the non-contraction state was seen between the maximum power and the λ 1 , λ 2, and mean diffusivity. There was a positive correlation between the maximum amount of work and fractional anisotropy in the non-contraction state for the soleus muscle. A negative correlation for the tibialis anterior muscle in the non-contraction state was seen between the maximum amount of work and fractional anisotropy. Overall reproducibility of the DTI parameters was excellent. Conclusions DTI parameters were significantly changed depending on the ankle joint position and type of muscle contraction. | Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of human lower leg muscles: correlation between DTI parameters and muscle power with different ankle positions | 10.1007/s11604-022-01274-1 |
2022-09-01 | This study aimed to evaluate the separately effects of bioflavonoids proanthocyanidins, from grape seed extract (GSE) and synthetic naringenin (NA), as well as photobiomodulation (PBM) by low-level laser therapy on interleukin (IL)-6 and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) syntheses by human gingival fibroblasts (HGF). For this purpose, a connective tissue exposure (ulceration) model of HGF, stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), was used. Initially, the highest non-cytotoxic and non-genotoxic concentrations of bioflavonoids were determined by cell viability and micronuclei formation assays. Then, HGF were exposed to different stimuli: culture medium (negative control), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), TNF-α, NA, GSE, TNF-α + NA, TNF-α + GSE, PBM (3 J/cm 2 , 0.025 W, 780 nm), and TNF-α + PBM. Next, IL-6, MMP-2, and MMP-9 syntheses were assessed. The concentration of 10 μg/mL of bioflavonoids increased cell viability at 24 and 48 h and did not present cytotoxic or genotoxic effects on HGF after 24, 48, and 72 h of contact. This concentration was selected for the assessment of bioflavonoids potential in modulating inflammatory mediators. TNF-α exposure enhanced IL-6 (170%), MMP-2 (10%), and MMP-9 (20%) syntheses, while a decrease of MMP-2 by 55% after exposure to TNF-α + GSE and 20% after TNF-α + NA and TNF-α + PBM was observed. MMP-9 synthesis was decreased by 35% after TNF-α + NA, 20% after TNF-α + GSE, and 30% after PBM. IL-6 was down-regulated by GSE in the presence of TNF-α (80%). In conclusion, TNF-α up-regulated IL-6 and MMPs, while bioflavonoids and PBM down-regulated MMP-2 and MMP-9 syntheses; GSE also decreased IL-6 synthesis, demonstrating the individual promising potential of these therapies for ulceration management. | Regulation of interleukin-6 and matrix metalloproteinases syntheses by bioflavonoids and photobiomodulation in human gingival fibroblasts | 10.1007/s10103-022-03579-z |
2022-09-01 | In this work, a dual-loop integer PLL is proposed aimed at improving the overall phase noise performance at the PLL output. The main loop is a charge pump based conventional architecture; the auxiliary loop samples and holds the oscillator waveform in every reference cycle and compares the held voltage with a clean dc signal to correct the phase of the oscillator, helping in phase noise reduction. Simulations are carried out in CMOS 180 nm technology which show phase noise reduction at loop bandwidth by 22 dB and out-of-band reduction by 5 dB compared to that in a conventional PLL. The auxiliary loop dissipates only 2.38 mW at 2.4 GHz output frequency. The rms jitter is 130 fs. | Dual-loop integer PLL for phase noise reduction | 10.1007/s10470-022-02072-5 |
2022-09-01 | Background This study assessed the hepatoprotective potential of flavonoid-rich extracts from Gongronema latifolium Benth on diabetes-induced type 2 rats via Fetuin-A and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TnF-α). Methods In a standard procedure, the flavonoid-rich extract was prepared. For experimental rats, streptozotocin was injected intraperitoneally (45 mg/kg body weight) to induce diabetes mellitus. Following this, rats were given 5% of glucose water for 24 h. Hence, the animals were randomly divided into five groups of ten rats each, consisting of non-diabetic rats, diabetic controls, diabetic rats treated with low and high doses of flavonoid rich-extracts from Gongronema latifolium leaf (FREGL) (13 and 26 mg/kg, respectively), and diabetic rats treated with 200 mg/kg of metformin glibenclamide orally for 3 weeks. Afterwards, the animals were sacrificed, blood and liver were harvested to evaluate different biochemical parameters, hepatic gene expressions and histological examinations. Results The results revealed that FREGL (especially at the low dose) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphate (ALP) activities, lipid peroxidation level, as well as relative gene expressions of fetuin-A and TNF-α in diabetic rats. Furthermore, diabetic rats given various doses of FREGL showed an increase in antioxidant enzymes and hexokinase activity, as well as glucose transporters (GLUT 2 and GLUT 4), and glycogen levels. In addition, histoarchitecture of the liver of diabetic rats administered FREGL (especially at the low dose) was also ameliorated. Conclusion Hence, FREGL (particularly at a low dose) may play a substantial role in mitigating the hepatopathy complication associated with diabetes mellitus. | Hepatoprotective potential of flavonoid-rich extracts from Gongronema latifolium benth leaf in type 2 diabetic rats via fetuin-A and tumor necrosis factor-alpha | 10.1007/s11033-022-07657-x |
2022-09-01 | Purpose of Review Maternal conditions and exposures during pregnancy including over- and undernutrition are associated with poor childbirth outcomes, growth, development and chronic childhood diseases. We examined contemporary pregnancy-related determinants of child health. Recent Findings While maternal undernutrition remains a major contributor to low birth weight, maternal obesity affects foetal growth, birth weight, survival and is associated with childhood obesity, asthma and autistic spectrum disorders. Emerging evidence suggests that epigenetic changes, the prenatal microbiome and maternal immune activation (MIA), a neuroinflammatory process induced by diet and other exposures cause foetal programming resulting in these chronic childhood diseases. Summary Maternal diet is potentially a modifiable risk factor for controlling low birth weight, obesity and chronic disease in childhood. Further studies are warranted to refine guidance on dietary restriction and physical activity during pregnancy and determine how MIA and prenatal microbiota can be applied to control childhood diseases arising from programming. | Pregnancy as a Fundamental Determinant of Child Health: a Review | 10.1007/s13668-022-00416-1 |
2022-09-01 | The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of red light emitting diode (LED) photobiomodulation therapy protocol on inflammatory cells during the healing of third-degree skin burns. Fifty Wistar rats were randomly divided into control group (CTRL) ( n = 25) and red group (RED) ( n = 25), with subgroups ( n = 5) for each time of euthanasia (7, 14, 21, 28, and 32 days). Treatment animals were daily irradiated (630 nm ± 10 nm, 300 mW, 9 J/cm 2 per point, 30 s, continuous emission mode) at the 4 angles of the wound (total: 36 J/cm 2 ). After specimen removal, histological sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin for quantitative analysis of the inflammatory infiltrate (neutrophils and lymphocytes) under light microscopy. Greater number of inflammatory cells was observed in irradiated groups when compared to CTRL at 7, 14, 21, and 28 days, but with statistically significant difference only at 14 days ( p = 0.02). At 32 days, higher inflammatory cell value was observed in CTRL when compared to RED, but with no statistically significant difference ( p = 0.91). The results suggest that red LED, according to the protocol used, modulates the number of inflammatory cells in the early stages of the healing of third-degree skin burns. Nevertheless, this low-intensity light therapy may not, be efficient in reducing the number of neutrophils and lymphocytes in advanced stages of the repair process of skin burns. Further studies with other therapy protocols are needed to assess the effects of this type of light on the inflammatory response of skin burns. | Effects of photobiomodulation therapy with red LED on inflammatory cells during the healing of skin burns | 10.1007/s10103-022-03537-9 |
2022-09-01 | In order to investigate the mechanisms of auxin regulation on the stimulation of nitrate uptake rate of Brassica napus L. under low nitrogen stress. Four treatments were applied: (1) 15 M, plants grown in normal nitrogen (N) solution (NO 3 − : 15 mmol/L); (2) 1 M, plants grown in low N stress solution (NO 3 − : 1 mmol/L); (3) 15 M + IAA, the normal N supply solution contain auxin (IAA, 10 −8 mol/L); and (4) 1 M + NPA, plants grown in low N stress solution with 5 μmol/L N-1-naphthylphthalamic acid (NPA, an inhibitor of polar auxin transport) applied to the rootstocks. The contents of auxin, NO 3 − uptake rate, the expression of BnNRT1.1, PM H + -ATPase activity, and the genes expression involved in the auxin synthesis and polar transport were all assayed. The NO 3 − uptake rate, root auxin content, a number of auxin synthesis, and polar transport related genes in 1 M were significantly increased than that of 15 M. The root IAA increment in 1 M compared with 15 M, originated from root synthesis shared with 29.20% and polar transport from shoot shared with 70.80%. The expression of BnNRT1.1 and PM H + -ATPase activity were significantly promoted in 1 M compared with 15 M. In addition, the NO 3 − uptake rate in 15 M + IAA was significantly higher than that of 15 M, and the NO 3 − uptake rate in 1 M + NPA was significantly lower than that of 1 M. Because of low N stress promoted in situ synthesis of auxin in root and its polar transport from shoot, the root auxin content was increased, enhanced the expression of BnNRT1.1 and PM H + -ATPase activity, resulting in higher NO 3 − uptake rate. | Low Nitrogen Stress Stimulated Nitrate Uptake Rate Modulated by Auxin in Brassica napus L. | 10.1007/s42729-022-00904-x |
2022-09-01 | Low-carbon economic development and energy transition are interactively linked. The synergetic development of the two subsystems is important to achieve the “double carbon” goal of sustainable development. First, this study proposes a model to measure the current synergy level of China’s economy–energy low-carbon transition. Second, an optimization model is developed to improve industry and energy synergy levels through structure optimization. The synergy degree ( SD ) level of China’s economy–energy low-carbon transition increased from 0 to 0.98 between 2005 and 2017. Furthermore, 69.2% of the periods are in a state of asynergy ( SD < 0.6). By implementing the industry and energy structure optimization (OPT) scenario, the synergy level by 2035 can be 27.8% higher than the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario. Moreover, light synergy (0.6 ≤ SD < 0.8) could be achieved by 2025, and high-quality synergy (0.9 ≤ SD ≤ 1) by 2033 in the OPT scenario. Conversely, the synergy level can only achieve light synergy until 2035 in the BAU scenario. Compared to energy structure optimization, the low carbonization of the economic structure plays a more significant role in improving the synergy level of the transaction. These findings can provide support for China’s policy-making regarding economic and energy transition. | Synergy evaluation of China’s economy–energy low-carbon transition and its improvement strategy for structure optimization | 10.1007/s11356-022-20248-4 |
2022-09-01 | Purpose NousNav is a complete low-cost neuronavigation system that aims to democratize access to higher-quality healthcare in lower-resource settings. NousNav’s goal is to provide a model for local actors to be able to reproduce, build and operate a fully functional neuronavigation system at an affordable cost. Methods NousNav is entirely open source and relies on low-cost off-the-shelf components, which makes it easy to reproduce and deploy in any region. NousNav’s software is also specifically devised with the low-resource setting in mind. Results It offers means for intuitive intraoperative control. The designed interface is also clean and simple. This allows for easy intraoperative use by either the practicing clinician or a nurse. It thus alleviates the need for a dedicated technician for operation. Conclusion A prototype implementation of the design was built. Hardware and algorithms were designed for robustness, ruggedness, modularity, to be standalone and data-agnostic. The built prototype demonstrates feasibility of the objectives. | NousNav: A low-cost neuronavigation system for deployment in lower-resource settings | 10.1007/s11548-022-02644-w |
2022-09-01 | A spectral analysis of the enamel, the enamel–dentin junction, and the dentin of human teeth with and without dysplasia of the connective tissue was carried out. It was established that in the case of connective tissue dysplasia in the hard tissues of teeth distinct heterogeneity is observed in the spectra. In the group with dysplasia of the connective tissue the largest changes in the IR spectra are observed in the collagen and noncollagen proteins of the organic matrix of the enamel and dentin, and in the group without dysplasia of the connective tissue greater uniformity is observed in the dentin. The biochemical abnormalities in the dentin of the lower “wisdom” teeth are explained by dysplastic-dependent disturbances of collagen formation in the hard tissues of the teeth, which leads to marked shifts in the enamel layer under the aggressive action of the oral fluid. In the group without dysplasia of the connective tissue the imbalance in the structure of the protein matrix of the tooth enamel is due only to the mineralizing effect of the oral fluid on it. | IR-Spectroscopic Analysis of Hard Tissues of Lower “Wisdom” Teeth at the Eruption Stage of Connective Tissue Dysplasia | 10.1007/s10812-022-01410-9 |
2022-08-30 | Plants have to cope with the surrounding changing environmental stimuli to optimize their physiological and developmental response throughout their entire life cycle. Light and temperature are two critical environmental cues that fluctuate greatly during day-night cycles and seasonal changes. These two external signals coordinately control the plant growth and development. Distinct spectrum of light signals are perceived by a group of wavelength-specific photoreceptors in plants. PIFs and COP1-HY5 are two predominant signaling hubs that control the expression of a large number of light-responsive genes and subsequent light-mediated development in plants. In parallel, plants also transmit low or warm temperature signals to these two regulatory modules that precisely modulate the responsiveness of low or warm temperatures. The core component of circadian clock ELF3 integrates signals from light and warm temperatures to regulate physiological and developmental processes in plants. In this review, we summarize and discuss recent advances and progresses on PIFs-, COP1-HY5- and ELF3-mediated light, low or warm temperature signaling, and highlight emerging insights regarding the interactions between light and low or warm temperature signal transduction pathways in the control of plant growth. | PIFs- and COP1-HY5-mediated temperature signaling in higher plants | 10.1007/s44154-022-00059-w |
2022-08-29 | Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is used in the conservation−restoration of waterlogged organic materials to ensure their consolidation. However, PEG baths have corrosive effects when they come into contact with the existing iron in the composite objects. This study aims to develop a better understanding of the corrosion behavior of low-carbon steel in polyethylene glycol-200 (PEG-200) solutions and to study the effect of operating parameters and the presence of corrosion products on the metal surface. The results showed that, on the one hand, the 10% PEG concentration was the most corrosive; on the other hand, the corrosion process accelerated with increasing of the temperature. The protective performance of the adsorbed film on the surface of low-carbon steel varied polynomially with the immersion time. Separately, sulfate ions accelerated the corrosion process more than chloride ions. However, the simultaneous presence of these two ions could lead to a more accentuated increase in the corrosion rate. PEG-200 leads to the protection of stable iron oxides, while it accelerates the degradation of rusty surfaces. | Electrochemical Behavior and Corrosion Resistance of Steel in Waterlogged Archeological Wood Impregnation Solutions: Effect of Operating Parameters and Corrosion Products | 10.1007/s40735-022-00697-7 |
2022-08-29 | We present an excellent design of five layers of decagonal shape in the cladding area and two elliptical shapes of core area based photonic crystal fiber (PCF) for many types of communiqué arenas in the THz wave pulse in this study. The Finite Element Method with perfectly matched layers used the optical parameters of our proposed D-PCF structure numerically to design and analyze. Therefore, D-PCF shows a low effective material loss of 0.0079 cm −1 , an increase in effective area of 3.49 × 10 –8 m 2 , a core power fraction of 85%, a low confinement and scattering loss, of 3.35 × 10 –16 and 1.27 × 10 –10 dB/km respectively at 1 THz of frequency. After analyses all the graphical results, our proposed D-PCF will be highly suitable for communiqué parts in the THz regions. | Reduction of effective material loss (EML) using decagonal photonic crystal fiber (D-PCF) for communication applications in the terahertz wave pulse | 10.1007/s11082-022-04050-7 |
2022-08-26 | The semiconductors based on lanthanum ferrite (LaFeO 3 ) with perovskite structure have received increased attention for gas sensing, due to their stability and high gas-sensing response. However, it remains a challenge to design and fabricate LaFeO 3 -based gas sensors with high electrical conductivity and low prime working temperature. Based on this consideration, porous LaFeO 3 hexagonal nano-sheets were prepared via thermal decomposition of La[Fe(CN) 6 ]·5H 2 O, which was synthesized by a facile co-precipitation method. The LaFeO 3 nano-sheets-based sensor possesses a relatively low resistance, which is 0.5 MΩ under air atmosphere at a low operating temperature of 100 °C, which means a low-power consumption. Moreover, the sensor exhibits an infrequent selectivity to n -propanol. This approach presents an effective way for the control and optimization of the rare earth perovskite nanomaterials for gas sensing. Graphical Abstract Gas sensor based on the fabricated porous LaFeO 3 hexagonal nano-sheets presents a low resistance of 0.5 MΩ and a good sensing performance to n -propanol at a low working temperature of 100 °C. | La[Fe(CN)6]·5H2O-derived LaFeO3 hexagonal nano-sheets as low-power n-propanol sensors | 10.1007/s00339-022-05957-4 |
2022-08-26 | ‘Wise use’ of wetland ecosystem services has implications for achieving sustainable development goals. Globally, almost 87% of wetlands have been lost since 1700’s with losses projected to be much higher by 2050 in developing economies due to urbanisation. Little is known about how this loss might impact people’s wetland dependency at local scales in the peri-urban landscapes. To understand people’s perception about ecosystem services from the peri-urban Dankuni wetland in Eastern India and associated ecosystem changes, we conducted thirty-seven semi-structured interviews in a single village. Wetland-dependent people identified 18 ecosystem services of Dankuni wetland. The ecosystem services included 12 provisioning services and two each of regulatory, cultural and supporting services. Farming and use of wetland products including molluscs, fuelwood, fodder, fibre and fish was found to subsidize living costs and provide diverse livelihood options to local residents. However, encroachment of wetlands by factories and blockage of its riverine connection were reported as the main factors degrading the wetland.. As a result, life and livelihood of people, especially of landless widows and older residents were severely impacted. Respondents believed that it was possible to rejuvenate the wetland by restoring its riverine connections but stressed on vested interests in supporting its degradation. Their perceptions strongly impress upon the need for greater government accountability in wetland protection and integration of local knowledge along with locally suited political action in wetland restoration programmes. In this context, we strongly advocate for the implementation of laws that allow for wetland protection under a socio-ecological framework. El “uso racional” de los servicios ecosistémicos de los humedales tiene implicaciones para el logro de los objetivos de desarrollo sostenible. A nivel mundial, casi el 87% de los humedales se han perdido desde 1700 y se prevé que las pérdidas sean mucho mayores para 2050 en las economías en desarrollo debido a la urbanización. Poco se sabe acerca de cómo esta pérdida podría afectar la dependencia de los humedales de las personas a escala local en los paisajes periurbanos. Para comprender la percepción de las personas sobre los servicios ecosistémicos del humedal periurbano Dankuni en el este de la India y los cambios ecosistémicos asociados, realizamos treinta y siete entrevistas semiestructuradas en una sola aldea. Las personas dependientes de los humedales identificaron 18 servicios ecosistémicos del humedal Dankuni. Los servicios ecosistémicos incluyeron 12 servicios de aprovisionamiento y dos de cada uno de los servicios regulatorios, culturales y de apoyo. Se descubrió que la agricultura y el uso de productos de los humedales, incluidos moluscos, leña, forraje, fibra y pescado, subvencionan los costos de vida y brindan diversas opciones de medios de subsistencia a los residentes locales. Sin embargo, se informó que la invasión de los humedales por parte de las fábricas y el bloqueo de su conexión fluvial son los principales factores que degradan el humedal.. Como resultado, la vida y el sustento de las personas, especialmente de las viudas sin tierra y los residentes mayores, se vieron gravemente afectados. Los encuestados creían que era posible rejuvenecer el humedal mediante la restauración de sus conexiones fluviales, pero hicieron hincapié en los intereses creados para apoyar su degradación. Sus percepciones recalcan fuertemente la necesidad de una mayor rendición de cuentas del gobierno en la protección de los humedales y la integración del conocimiento local junto con una acción política localmente adecuada en los programas de restauración de humedales. En este contexto, abogamos fuertemente por la implementación de leyes que permitan la protección de los humedales bajo un marco socioecológico. | Impact of Wetland Development and Degradation on the Livelihoods of Wetland-dependent Communities: a Case Study from the Lower Gangetic Floodplains | 10.1007/s13157-022-01588-w |
2022-08-26 | The electricity demand for space cooling in the non-residential building (NRB) sector of China is growing significantly and is becoming increasingly critical with rapid economic development and mounting impacts of climate change. The growing demand for space cooling will increase global warming due to emissions of hydrofluorocarbons used in cooling equipment and carbon dioxide emissions from the mostly fossil fuel-based electricity currently powering space cooling. This study uses the Greenhouse Gas and Air Pollution Interaction and Synergies (GAINS) model framework to estimate current and future emissions of hydrofluorocarbons and their abatement potentials for space cooling in the NRB sector of China and assess the co-benefits in the form of savings in electricity and associated reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG), air pollution, and short-lived climate pollutant emissions. Co-benefits of space cooling are assessed by taking into account (a) regional and urban/rural heterogeneities and climatic zones among different provinces; (b) technical/economic energy efficiency improvements of the cooling technologies; and (c) transition towards lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerants under the Kigali Amendment. Under the business-as-usual (BAU) scenario, the total energy consumption for space cooling in the NRB sector will increase from 166 TWh in 2015 to 564 TWh in 2050, primarily due to the rapid increase in the floor space area of non-residential buildings. The total GHG mitigation potential due to the transition towards low-GWP refrigerants and technical energy efficiency improvement of cooling technologies will approximately be equal to 10% of the total carbon emissions from the building sector of China in 2050. | Transitioning to low-GWP alternatives with enhanced energy efficiency in cooling non-residential buildings of China | 10.1007/s11027-022-10021-w |
2022-08-25 | Radioactively contaminated metal components are generated during the operation or decommissioning of a nuclear power plant. These metals can be effectively decontaminated using a foam containing H 2 SO 4 and Ce(IV) with significant reduction of radioactive liquid wastes. However, this decontamination method generates strong acidic wastewater containing a high concentration of a surfactant and ionic materials with radioactive nuclides. Treating this wastewater by using precipitation and filtration is not appropriate considering efficiency and waste generation. In this study, an integrated process of precipitation and low pressure evaporation was evaluated for the treatment of wastewater. It was confirmed that the ionic materials were separated at an efficiency above 99.9% without secondary waste generation, and the surfactant was reduced to 1/35 through this integrated process. | A Study on Treatment of Strong Acidic Wastewater Containing a High Concentration of a Nonionic Surfactant and Ionic Materials with Radioactive Nuclides | 10.1007/s11270-022-05832-1 |
2022-08-24 | Background Acetoin (AC) is a vital platform chemical widely used in food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries. With increasing concern over non-renewable resources and environmental issues, using low-cost biomass for acetoin production by microbial fermentation is undoubtedly a promising strategy. Results This work reduces the disadvantages of Bacillus subtilis during fermentation by regulating genes involved in spore formation and autolysis. Then, optimizing intracellular redox homeostasis through Rex protein mitigated the detrimental effects of NADH produced by the glycolytic metabolic pathway on the process of AC production. Subsequently, multiple pathways that compete with AC production are blocked to optimize carbon flux allocation. Finally, the population cell density-induced promoter was used to enhance the AC synthesis pathway. Fermentation was carried out in a 5-L bioreactor using bagasse lignocellulosic hydrolysate, resulting in a final titer of 64.3 g/L, which was 89.5% of the theoretical yield. Conclusions The recombinant strain BSMAY-4-P srfA provides an economical and efficient strategy for large-scale industrial production of acetoin. | Acetoin production from lignocellulosic biomass hydrolysates with a modular metabolic engineering system in Bacillus subtilis | 10.1186/s13068-022-02185-z |
2022-08-23 | The world today has started facing bigger problems related to the concrete industry, especially with concrete becoming the most extensively used construction material in the world. At a time like this, where more eco-friendly substitutions are stringent, it calls for a more comprehensive approach in producing recycled concrete from recycled concrete aggregates (RCA). This study is an extension to previous studies involving composite utilization of pozzolans in treating RCA. It investigates on the possibility of using rice husk ash (RHA) along with other pozzolans as a cement replacement, in both stages of aggregate treatment and concrete production. It was observed that through this treatment, aggregate specific gravity was increased to a value of 2.37 which was earlier 2.18 for untreated RCA, 26% and 59% reductions were obtained for water absorption and porosity of aggregates, respectively. Further the concrete which contained RHA in both stages, attained a high strength of 55.4 MPa, even surpassing the control mix containing natural aggregates. The same mix resulted a 12% increase in its surface resistivity. Rapid Chloride Permeability Test (RCPT) and water permeability results also showed substantial improvements when compared to the reference RCA mix. Similar to previous studies involving composite use of pozzolans, improvements in the microstructure of both the aggregates and concrete through the use of RHA resulted in the amelioration of both mechanical and durability properties of concrete. This evidently indicates the possibility of achieving high strengths, even with the use of RCA derived from parent concretes of lower grades. | Development of high strength recycled aggregate concrete-composite effects of fly ash, silica fume and rice husk ash as pozzolans | 10.1617/s11527-022-02026-3 |
2022-08-23 | We investigated the sequence stratigraphy and the total petroleum system elements in the Adar oil field, Melut Basin. Also, we used the wireline logs to define the petrophysical parameters for the potential reservoirs and simulate the burial history and thermal maturity. Moreover, we calculated the TOC using the Passey “ΔLogR” technique and got preliminary evaluations of the total organic carbon in the basin. Based on analyzed sequence stratigraphy, three supercycle sets occurred in the Melut Basin; Upper ZUNI A, TEJAS A, and TEJAS B. The log-derived TOC values are 0.02–4.7wt.% (average 2.70 wt.%) for the Cretaceous dark shale of Melut Formation, while it ranges between 0.03 and 5.07 wt.% (average 3.42 wt.%) for the Upper Cretaceous Galhak Formation. The measured TOC for the thick shale interval (~ 3000 m) of the Lower Cretaceous Al-Gayger Formation is 2.08 wt.%. Meanwhile, the thermal model and R o curve indicate that only the Lower Cretaceous Al-Gayger Formation and the Lower part of Galhak entered the oil peak generation. The expelled oil migrated up through the faults and has accumulated in the Paleogene reservoirs. The Paleogene Samma sandstones exhibit a net pay thickness of 31.05 m, characterized by average porosity of 13.5%, average permeability of 2525mD, and hydrocarbon saturation is 55.2%. While the net pay thickness of the Paleogene Yabus sandstones is 30.1 m, characterized by 14.7% average effective porosity, average permeability of 3546.1mD, and hydrocarbon saturation is 63.7%. This study provides a better understanding of the petroleum geology and sequence stratigraphy in Melut Basin. | Investigation of the petroleum geology and sequence stratigraphy in Melut Basin, South Sudan: a case study using well logs and basin modeling | 10.1007/s12517-022-10719-w |
2022-08-22 | Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the significant environmental pollutants as it is resistant to natural degradation. In this study, we reported the LDPE-degrading bacterial strain i.e., Exiguobacterium sp. strain LM-IK2 isolated from plastic dumped soil which shows potential degradation capability. The percent weight loss of LDPE was calculated as − 5.70 ± 0.7 after 90 days of incubation in a carbon-free MSM medium. The Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) analysis shows that LDPE films show slight surface disruption after treatment with bacteria. The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed the chemical changes in LDPE films e.g., formation and reduction of typical carbonyl peaks after incubation with bacteria. The X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis displayed an increase in percent crystallinity, with a slight change in total carbon content. Genetic analysis showed the presence of Laccase (167 bp) and Alkane Hydroxylase (330 bp) genes that are responsible for LDPE degradation. Thus, Exiguobacterium sp. strain LM-IK2 has the potential to degrade LDPE and could be further explored to improve its efficiency in the bioremediation of LDPE. | Microbial degradation of low density polyethylene by Exiguobacterium sp. strain LM-IK2 isolated from plastic dumped soil | 10.1007/s11274-022-03389-z |
2022-08-20 | A novel FeCoNi carbon fiber (FeCoNi/CF) is obtained through an improved electrospinning technology, which greatly endows the fiber with strong magnetic property. The FeCoNi/CF exhibits an enhanced electromagnetic loss capability due to the construction of one-dimensional magnetic FeCoNi alloy. The designed one-dimensional FeCoNi/CF exhibits excellent performance, with a broad effective absorption band of 1.3 GHz in the low-frequency electromagnetic field at an ultrathin thickness of 2 mm, which provides a great potential for practical application in the future. Rational designing of one-dimensional (1D) magnetic alloy to facilitate electromagnetic (EM) wave attenuation capability in low-frequency (2–6 GHz) microwave absorption field is highly desired but remains a significant challenge. In this study, a composite EM wave absorber made of a FeCoNi medium-entropy alloy embedded in a 1D carbon matrix framework is rationally designed through an improved electrospinning method. The 1D-shaped FeCoNi alloy embedded composite demonstrates the high-density and continuous magnetic network using off-axis electronic holography technique, indicating the excellent magnetic loss ability under an external EM field. Then, the in-depth analysis shows that many factors, including 1D anisotropy and intrinsic physical features of the magnetic medium-entropy alloy, primarily contribute to the enhanced EM wave absorption performance. Therefore, the fabricated EM wave absorber shows an increasing effective absorption band of 1.3 GHz in the low-frequency electromagnetic field at an ultrathin thickness of 2 mm. Thus, this study opens up a new method for the design and preparation of high-performance 1D magnetic EM absorbers. | One-Dimensional Magnetic FeCoNi Alloy Toward Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Wave Absorption | 10.1007/s40820-022-00920-7 |
2022-08-18 | High thermal conductivity seriously hinders the application and development of eco-friendly SnTe thermoelectric material. Here, entropy and heterogeneous interface were designed to reduce the thermal conductivity of SnTe thermoelectric material. SnTe and Sn 0.7- x Mn x Pb 0.3 Te 0.7 Se 0.3 ( x = 0, 0.06, 0.09) samples were synthesized via vacuum melting reaction and spark plasma sintering. Pb and Se were introduced into the SnTe, which results in valence band convergence according to density functional theory calculations. To further improve the thermoelectric performance, the Mn elements were also introduced into above system, and the lowest lattice thermal conductivity achieved 0.48 W m −1 K −1 at 773 K via the phonon scattering of the configurational entropy and the heterogeneous interface of MnSe precipitates for Sn 0.61 Mn 0.09 Pb 0.3 Te 0.7 Se 0.3 sample. The maximum ZT value of 0.85 at 773 K accompanied by the ultralow lattice thermal conductivity in Sn 0.61 Mn 0.09 Pb 0.3 Te 0.7 Se 0.3 sample, which increased by ~ 113% than SnTe. The chaotic entropy engineering could be an efficient way to decrease the lattice thermal conductivity, and the strategy can be extended to thermoelectric materials, thermal barrier materials, thermal insulation materials fields, etc. | Entropy and heterogeneous interface engineering promote the low thermal conductivity in SnTe-based thermoelectric materials | 10.1007/s00339-022-05919-w |
2022-08-18 | We investigate the ground state of a (1+1)-dimensional conformal field theory (CFT) built with M species of massless free Dirac fermions coupled at one boundary point via a conformal junction/interface. Each CFT represents a wire of finite length L . We develop a systematic strategy to compute the Rényi entropies for a generic bipartition between the wires and the entanglement negativity between two non-complementary sets of wires. Both these entanglement measures turn out to grow logarithmically with L with an exactly calculated universal prefactor depending on the details of the junction and of the bipartition. These analytic predictions are tested numerically for junctions of free Fermi gases, finding perfect agreement. | Rényi entropy and negativity for massless Dirac fermions at conformal interfaces and junctions | 10.1007/JHEP08(2022)171 |
2022-08-17 | The ultra-low permeability reservoir in the Huaqing oilfield presents characteristics of an obvious non-Darcy seepage, a difficult matrix displacement, the channeling of injected water along water flooding-induced fractures, and the low production of a single horizontal well. Water injection development is difficult to adapt with regard to current economic development. It is urgent to explore effective development mode of horizontal wells in ultra-low permeability reservoirs, that is, to transform the water-flooding development mode. Based on the mechanism of imbibition oil recovery, through indoor numerical simulation and field tests, this paper innovatively presents the large-scale volume fracturing of horizontal wells and establishes a new development model of “make-up pressure tightness production” integrating comprehensive energy supplementation, old fracture plugging, synchronous transformation, and volume fracturing for the first time, which surpasses the traditional water drive characteristics and is successfully applied to the Yuan284 block of the ultra-low permeability reservoirs in the Huaqing oilfield. Through the three-dimensional transformation of the reservoir, this model increases the complexity of fractures, realizes the transformation of seepage from a linear flow to a complex fracture network, establishes the development mode of imbibition displacement + differential pressure mass transfer, changes from well-controlled reserves relying on water drive to fracture-controlled reserves relying on seepage, and finally greatly improves the production and recovery of single wells. It is concluded that changing the water injection development mode provides new ideas and technical support for the development of horizontal wells in other similar ultra-low permeability reservoirs. | Density cutting volume fracturing technology for horizontal wells in the ultra-low permeability reservoirs: a case study of the Yuan284 area in the Huaqing oilfield Ordos Basin, China | 10.1007/s12517-022-10657-7 |
2022-08-16 | A waterproof nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy core with a size of O.D.850 mm × I.D.316 mm × H.25 mm for radio frequency acceleration was successfully developed by winding 18 μm 1k107b MA ribbons. The $$\mu_{\text{p}}^{^{\prime}} Qf$$ μ p ′ Q f products reached 7.5, 10, and 12 GHz at 1, 3, and 5 MHz, respectively. The $$\mu_{\text{p}}^{^{\prime}} Qf$$ μ p ′ Q f products of the MA core (O.D.250 mm × I.D.100 mm × H.25 mm) manufactured using a 13 μm MA ribbon further increased by 30%. Detailed improvements on the MA core manufacture process are discussed herein. Continuous high-power tests on the new MA cores demonstrated its good performance of waterproofness, particularly its stability of high $$\mu_{\text{p}}^{^{\prime}} Qf$$ μ p ′ Q f products. The MA core with high $$\mu_{\text{p}}^{^{\prime}} Qf$$ μ p ′ Q f product and large size can operate under a high average RF power, high electric field, and in deionized water, which will be used in the China Spallation Neutron Source Phase II (CSNS-II). | Development of a large nanocrystalline soft magnetic alloy core with high μ′pQf products for CSNS-II | 10.1007/s41365-022-01087-x |
2022-08-16 | A common issue with many commercial rehabilitative exoskeletons and orthoses are that they can be prohibitively expensive for an average individual to afford without additional financial support. Due to this a user may have limited to the usage of such devices within set rehabilitation sessions as opposed to a continual usage. The purpose of this review is therefore to find which actuator implementations would be most suitable for a simplistic, low-cost powered orthoses capable of assisting those with pathologic gait disorders by collating literature from Web of Science, Scopus, and Grey Literature. In this systematic review paper 127 papers were selected from these databases via the PRISMA guidelines, with the financial costs of 25 actuators discovered with 11 distinct actuator groups identified. The review paper will consider a variety of actuator implementations used in existing lower-limb exoskeletons that are specifically designed for the purpose of rehabilitating or aiding those with conditions inhibiting natural movement abilities, such as electric motors, hydraulics, pneumatics, cable-driven actuators, and compliant actuators. Key attributes such as technical simplicity, financial cost, power efficiency, size limitations, accuracy, and reliability are compared for all actuator groups. Statistical findings show that rotary electric motors (which are the most common actuator type within collated literature) and compliant actuators (such as elastic and springs) would be the most suitable actuators for a low-cost implementation. From these results, a possible actuator design will be proposed making use of both rotary electric motors and compliant actuators. | A Systematic Review of Low-Cost Actuator Implementations for Lower-Limb Exoskeletons: a Technical and Financial Perspective | 10.1007/s10846-022-01695-0 |
2022-08-15 | Background Because the clinical patterns and symptoms that persist after a COVID-19 infection are diverse, a diagnosis of post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS) is difficult to implement. The current research project therefore aims to evaluate the feasibility and the practicability of a comprehensive, interdisciplinary, and cross-sectoral treatment program consisting of a low-threshold online screening and holistic assessment for PACS. Furthermore, it aims to evaluate digital interventions and the use of so-called personal guides that may help to facilitate the recovery of PACS. Methods This German study consists of a low-threshold online screening for PACS where positively screened participants will be supported throughout by personal pilots. The personal pilots are aimed at empowering patients and helping them to navigate through the study and different treatment options. Patients will then be randomly assigned either to an intervention group (IG) or an active control group (ACG). The IG will receive a comprehensive assessment of physiological and psychological functioning to inform future treatment. The ACG does not receive the assessment but both groups will receive a treatment consisting of an individual digital treatment program (digital intervention platform and an intervention via a chatbot). This digital intervention is based on the needs identified during the assessment for participants in the IG. Compared to that, the ACG will receive a more common digital treatment program aiming to reduce PACS symptoms. Importantly, a third comparison group (CompG) will be recruited that does not receive any treatment. A propensity score matching will take place, ensuring comparability between the participants. Primary endpoints of the study are symptom reduction and return to work. Secondary outcomes comprise, for example, social participation and activities in daily life. Furthermore, the feasibility and applicability of the online screening tool, the holistic assessment, digital trainings, and personal pilots will be evaluated. Discussion This is one of the first large-scale studies to improve the diagnosis and the care of patients with PACS by means of empowerment. It is to be evaluated whether the methods utilized can be used for the German and international population. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05238415; date of registration: February 14, 2022 | Screening and assessment for post-acute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS), guidance by personal pilots and support with individual digital trainings within intersectoral care: a study protocol of a randomized controlled trial | 10.1186/s12879-022-07584-z |
2022-08-14 | This study investigates a coupled system combined by a LiBr/H 2 O absorption refrigeration cycle and a Kalina cycle, to recover waste heat from a hydrate-based CO 2 capture process. The optimal system operation has been obtained. Payback time, Return on investment, Net present value and Discounted cash flow rate of return are selected as the evaluation indicators for a comprehensive economic analysis. Cash flow patterns are obtained for different discounted interest rates and electricity prices. Exergy analysis is conducted and the exergy loss of each component is calculated. Results show that in comparison with the individual Kalina cycle, the net electricity generation is increased by around 45%. The highest thermal efficiency of this coupled system is 16.78%. Payment balance can be achieved with a payback time of 6 years. The purchase price of heat exchanger occupies the largest capital investment. Exergy efficiency of this system is obtained as 36.89%. Major system irreversibility occurs in heat transfer processes of heat exchangers and the largest exergy loss is found in generators of both subcycles. Reducing the heat transfer irreversibility and the size of heat exchangers are greatly encouraged in future efforts. | Absorption Chiller/Kalina Cycle Coupled System for Low-Grade Waste Heat Recovery in Hydrate-Based CO2 Capture Process: An Economic and Exergetic Study | 10.1007/s44196-022-00119-z |
2022-08-13 | Background Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has been reported to accelerate fracture healing, but the mechanism is unclear and its efficacy needs to be further optimized. Ultrasound in combination with functionalized microbubbles has been shown to induce local shear forces and controllable mechanical stress in cells, amplifying the mechanical effects of LIPUS. Nanoscale lipid bubbles (nanobubbles) have high stability and good biosafety. However, the effect of LIPUS combined with functionalized nanobubbles on osteogenesis has rarely been studied. Results In this study, we report cyclic arginine-glycine-aspartic acid-modified nanobubbles (cRGD-NBs), with a particle size of ~ 500 nm, able to actively target bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) via integrin receptors. cRGD-NBs can act as nanomechanical force generators on the cell membrane, and further enhance the BMSCs osteogenesis and bone formation promoted by LIPUS. The polymerization of actin microfilaments and the mechanosensitive transient receptor potential melastatin 7 (TRPM7) ion channel play important roles in BMSCs osteogenesis promoted by LIPUS/cRGD-NBs. Moreover, the mutual regulation of TRPM7 and actin microfilaments promote the effect of LIPUS/cRGD-NBs. The extracellular Ca 2 + influx, controlled partly by TRPM7, could participated in the effect of LIPUS/cRGD-NBs on BMSCs. Conclusions The nanomechanical force generators cRGD-NBs could promote osteogenesis of BMSCs and bone formation induced by LIPUS, through regulation TRPM7, actin cytoskeleton, and intracellular calcium oscillations. This study provides new directions for optimizing the efficacy of LIPUS for fracture healing, and a theoretical basis for the further application and development of LIPUS in clinical practice. | Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound/nanomechanical force generators enhance osteogenesis of BMSCs through microfilaments and TRPM7 | 10.1186/s12951-022-01587-3 |
2022-08-12 | Background Regulatory frameworks surrounding medical devices (MDs) and medical locations are of utter importance for safeguarding patients and users, and for granting a universal access to healthcare. Currently, as the main existing regulatory frameworks are drafted by high-income countries, they pretend to be general and applicable globally, but fail to understand particular contexts, specifically those in low-resource settings (LRSs), resulting, therefore, inapplicable. In particular, LRSs present a varied situation, with legal transplants of guidelines from their previous colonial regimes. This apparently theoretical issue, is, effectively, a tangible and rising matter of concern, given the ever-increasing number of MD patent applications per year, as well as the appearance of low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) on the MD market itself. This article will focus on the European Regulation on MDs 745/2017 and its applicability in LRSs, specifically presenting the case of Benin, a Sub-Saharan African country. Methods This work is based on a field study conducted in 2019 in Benin, which is particularly exemplar to show the complexity of the “legal transplantation” concept. A multidisciplinary approach, comprising the standard tools and methods of ethics, law, and biomedical engineering, was used to draft a heuristic hermeneutic framework, and to analyse related bioethical issues concerning Medical Device Regulations (MDRs) in LRSs, the role of Maintenance, and other sociological questions; as well as the rural population’s perception on MDs and health technologies, and the role of ethics in the hospitals of LRSs. Results The definition of these themes helped approach the local perspective and define the research questions. Downstream of the analysis of the Medical Devices Regulations, the Maintenance and other bioethical issues in Benin, the heuristic hermeneutic framework was created to guide a shift in the paradigm of law and regulation making, so as to make them more contextualised and inclusive, globally. Conclusion This article proposes a framework that will help policymakers take into account the particularism of each context, especially those of the most vulnerable countries, when drafting and issuing regulatory frameworks, promoting an ever-evolving model of universalism. | On the universality of medical device regulations: the case of Benin | 10.1186/s12913-022-08396-2 |
2022-08-11 | The enzymes are biological macromolecules that biocatalyze certain biochemical reactions without undergoing any modification or degradation at the end of the reaction. In this work, we constructed a recombinant novel Raoultella sp. NX-TZ-3-15 strain that produces heparinase with a maltose binding tag to enhance its production and activity. Additionally, MBP–heparinase was purified and its enzymatic capabilities are investigated to determine its industrial application. Moreover, the recombinant plasmid encoding the MBP–heparinase fusion protein was effectively generated and purified to a high purity. According to SDS-PAGE analysis, the MBP–heparinase has a molecular weight of around 70 kDa and the majority of it being soluble with a maximum activity of 5386 U/L. It has also been noted that the three ions of Ca2 + , Co2 + , and Mg2 + can have an effect on heparinase activities, with Mg2 + being the most noticeable, increasing by about 85%, while Cu2 + , Fe2 + , Zn2 + having an inhibitory effect on heparinase activities. Further investigations on the mechanistic action, structural features, and genomes of Raoultella sp. NX-TZ-3-15 heparinase synthesis are required for industrial-scale manufacturing. | Expression and characterization of heparinase II with MBP tag from a novel strain, Raoultella NX-TZ-3-15 | 10.1007/s00203-022-03158-4 |
2022-08-09 | In the past decade, nano-magnetomechanical actuation of biochemical systems for control of their properties on molecular level by means of magnetic nanoparticles in non-heating magnetic fields with frequency below 1 kHz has emerged as distinct branch in nanobiomedicine. From the fundamental point of view, nano-magnetomechanical actuation can provide molecular level locality and specificity; however, non-uniformity and instability of magnetic nanoparticle distribution within the living organism can become the source of unexpected side effects. The present work describes an advantageous physical method of nano-magnetomechanical actuation localization inside the macroscopic area with adjustable volume utilizing gradient magnetic field. Important spatial aspects of such method are considered. | Controlled localization of magnetic nanoparticle mechanical activation in suspension exposed to alternating magnetic field using gradient magnetic field | 10.1007/s11051-022-05501-8 |
2022-08-08 | Objectives To investigate the feasibility of the 3D printed scaffold for periapical bone defects. Methods In this study, antimicrobial peptide KSL-W-loaded PLGA sustainable-release microspheres (KSL-W@PLGA) were firstly prepared followed by assessing the drug release behavior and bacteriostatic ability against Enterococcus faecalis and Porphyromonas gingivalis . After that, we demonstrated that KSL-W@PLGA/collagen (COL)/silk fibroin (SF)/nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA) (COL/SF/nHA) scaffold via 3D-printing technique exhibited significantly good biocompatibility and osteoconductive property. The scaffold was characterized as to pore size, porosity, water absorption expansion rate and mechanical properties. Moreover, MC3T3-E1 cells were seeded into sterile scaffold materials and investigated by CCK-8, SEM and HE staining. In the animal experiment section, we constructed bone defect models of the mandible and evaluated its effect on bone formation. The Japanese white rabbits were killed at 1 and 2 months after surgery, the cone beam computerized tomography (CBCT) and micro-CT scanning, as well as HE and Masson staining analysis were performed on the samples of the operation area, respectively. Data analysis was done using ANOVA and LSD tests. (α = 0.05). Results We observed that the KSL-W@PLGA sustainable-release microspheres prepared in the experiment were uniform in morphology and could gradually release the antimicrobial peptide (KSL-W), which had a long-term antibacterial effect for at least up to 10 days. HE staining and SEM showed that the scaffold had good biocompatibility, which was conducive to the adhesion and proliferation of MC3T3-E1 cells. The porosity and water absorption of the scaffold were (81.96 ± 1.83)% and (458.29 ± 29.79)%, respectively. Histological and radiographic studies showed that the bone healing efficacy of the scaffold was satisfactory. Conclusions The KSL-W@PLGA/COL/SF/nHA scaffold possessed good biocompatibility and bone repairing ability, and had potential applications in repairing infected bone defects. Clinical significance The 3D printed scaffold not only has an antibacterial effect, but can also promote bone tissue formation, which provides an alternative therapy option in apical periodontitis. | 3D printed scaffold for repairing bone defects in apical periodontitis | 10.1186/s12903-022-02362-4 |
2022-08-08 | This work is devoted to investigating a compressible fluid system with low stratification, which is driven by fast acoustic waves and internal waves. The approximation using a soundproof model is justified. More precisely, the soundproof model captures the dynamics of both the non-oscillating mean flows and the oscillating internal waves, while filters out the fast acoustic waves, of the compressible system with or without initial acoustic waves. Moreover, the fast-slow oscillation structure is investigated. | The Soundproof Model of an Acoustic–internal Waves System with Low Stratification | 10.1007/s00021-022-00712-4 |
2022-08-04 | Background Ixodes ricinus ticks vector pathogens that cause serious health concerns. Like in other arthropods, the microbiome may affect the tick’s biology, with consequences for pathogen transmission. Here, we explored the bacterial communities of I. ricinus across its developmental stages and six geographic locations by the 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, combined with quantification of the bacterial load. Results A wide range of bacterial loads was found. Accurate quantification of low microbial biomass samples permitted comparisons to high biomass samples, despite the presence of contaminating DNA. The bacterial communities of ticks were associated with geographical location rather than life stage, and differences in Rickettsia abundance determined this association. Subsequently, we explored the geographical distribution of four vertically transmitted symbionts identified in the microbiome analysis. For that, we screened 16,555 nymphs from 19 forest sites for R. helvetica , Rickettsiella spp., Midichloria mitochondrii , and Spiroplasma ixodetis . Also, the infection rates and distributions of these symbionts were compared to the horizontally transmitted pathogens Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, Anaplasma phagocytophilum , and Neoehrlichia mikurensis . The infection rates of all vertically transmitted symbionts differed between the study sites, and none of the symbionts was present in all tested ticks suggesting a facultative association with I. ricinus . The proportions in which symbionts occurred in populations of I. ricinus were highly variable, but geographically close study sites expressed similar proportions. These patterns were in contrast to what we observed for horizontally transmitted pathogens. Lastly, nearly 12% of tested nymphs were free of any targeted microorganisms, which is in line with the microbiome analyses. Conclusions Our results show that the microbiome of I. ricinus is highly variable, but changes gradually and ticks originating from geographically close forest sites express similar bacterial communities. This suggests that geography-related factors affect the infection rates of vertically transmitted symbionts in I. ricinus . Since some symbionts, such as R. helvetica can cause disease in humans, we propose that public health investigations consider geographical differences in its infection rates. | Quantitative microbial population study reveals geographical differences in bacterial symbionts of Ixodes ricinus | 10.1186/s40168-022-01276-1 |
2022-08-04 | Background Vibrio vulnificus infections develop rapidly and are associated with a high mortality rate. The rates of diagnosis and treatment are directly associated with mortality. Case presentation We describe an unusual case of a 61-year-old male patient with chronic liver disease and diabetes who presented with a chief complaint of pain in both lower legs due to V. vulnificus infection in winter. Within 12 h of arrival, typical skin lesions appeared, and the patient rapidly developed primary sepsis. Despite prompt appropriate antibiotic and surgical treatment, the patient died 16 days after admission. Conclusion Our case findings suggest that V. vulnificus infection should be suspected in patients with an unclear infection status experiencing pain of unknown origin in the lower legs, particularly in patients with liver disease or diabetes, immunocompromised status, and alcoholism. | Vibrio vulnificus necrotizing fasciitis with sepsis presenting with pain in the lower legs in winter: a case report | 10.1186/s12879-022-07655-1 |
2022-08-04 | In running waters, the concentration of components that define water quality can be subjected to ample fluctuations quantitatively linked to flow rate. If not properly considered, such variability may hinder assessment of the evolution of water quality, of the effects of management actions, and ultimately the understanding of processes driving water quality. The functional response to flow rate was characterized for multiple biogeochemical variables in a pristine, low order stream. Variability of responses spanned between a factor of 2 and > 34, and in all cases were associated to flow rate according to one of three patterns: positive asymptotic (for variables: seston, suspended particles, total nutrients, dissolved and particulated organic matter, dissolved inorganic nitrogen), negative asymptotic (conductivity and dissolved reactive silicon), and humped (dissolved inorganic phosphorous). Building on those results, a rationale is presented for an unambiguous, cost-effective approach to water quality evaluation in running systems with predominantly diffuse sources. | Biogeochemical functional responses to flow rate in a low order stream: implications for water quality monitoring | 10.1007/s10661-022-10242-1 |
2022-08-03 | As new persistent organic compounds, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have aroused important concern because of their potential bioaccumulation and possible ecological and health risk. To examine the sources and temporal variation of PBDEs in Chaohu Lake in eastern China, the surface sediments from Nanfei River (NFR) and core sediments from four estuaries were measured. It showed that low-brominated congeners were dominant, from MonoBDEs to HeptaBDEs (referred to as Σ 39 PBDE). Concentrations of ∑ 39 PBDE and the ratios of (BDE-47 + BDE-99 + BDE-100)/(BDE-153 + BDE-154) were much greater in surface sediments than in core sediments. The highest concentration was observed in a site close to the outfall of a municipal sewage treatment plant (MSTP), and the ratio was significantly correlated with ∑ 39 PBDE. These results suggested that PentaBDE and OctaBDE commercial mixtures were widely used around Chaohu Lake and the effluent of municipal sewage was a dominant source of PBDEs to surface sediment. Compared to data from other freshwater systems around the world, the concentrations of BDE-47 and BDE-99 in this study were in the middle of the range of global data, but BDE-183 concentrations were at the high end of the range. Due to restrictions on the usage of PentanBDE and OctaBDE commercial mixtures, reductions of PBDE levels from subsurface to superficial layer were observed in all estuaries. Elevated contribution by MonoBDEs to ∑ 39 PBDE in the estuary of the only outflow river suggests significant congener fractionation. TriBDEs, TetraBDEs, and HexaBDEs appeared to pose low risks in all surface sediments, but moderate to high risks may be expected for PentaBDEs. Overall, the results would contribute to a better understanding of the sources and environmental fate of PBDEs in the studied eutrophicated lake. | Pollution level, spatial distribution, and congener fractionation characteristics of low-brominated polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in sediments around Chaohu Lake, China | 10.1007/s10661-022-10246-x |
2022-08-03 | Recent studies based on magnetic field measurements from low altitude orbit satellites (e.g., CHAMP, Swarm) have improved the understanding of the equatorial electrojet (EEJ). With the successful launch of the Low Orbit Pearl Satellite series (LOPS) (Zhu et al. in Geosci. Instrum. Method. Data Syst. Discuss. 2021:1–27, 2021 ), we could study the characteristics of EEJ with low inclination satellites. The main field, crustal field, and the magnetospheric field, calculated from the CHAOS-7 model (Finlay et al. in Earth Planets Space 72(1):156, 2020 ), are subtracted from the original data. The solar quiet daily variation signals are removed by subtracting the spherical harmonic polynomial fitting. We studied four cases where the peak of inverted EEJ current density locates 1 to several degrees northward from the dip equator. The deviation of the peak from the dip equator might depend on longitude or season. Another case including three crossings from one constellation is studied together to reduce noise. Multiple cases study shows that the peak north component of the magnetic field generated by the EEJ is about 24 nT at 600 km altitude. The EEJ current density is inverted by assuming multiple parallel eastward line currents. The current density peaks at 0.12 A/m with a half-width of 5°. It is also found that the EEJ is asymmetric to the dip equator where the peak of the EEJ current density is about 1.5° north of the dip equator. More simultaneous observations from LOPS will be used to investigate the small-scale structure of EEJ in future studies. | Equatorial electrojet observed by low inclination orbit satellites: multiple cases study | 10.1007/s10509-022-04098-7 |
2022-08-01 | Development of miniaturized three-dimensional (3D) fliers with integrated functional components has important implications to a diverse range of engineering areas. Among the various active and passive miniaturized 3D fliers reported previously, a class of 3D electronic fliers inspired by wind-dispersed seeds show promising potentials, owing to the lightweight and noiseless features, aside from the stable rotational fall associated with a low falling velocity. While on-demand shape-morphing capabilities are essential for those 3D electronic fliers, the realization of such miniaturized systems remains very challenging, due to the lack of fast-response 3D actuators that can be seamlessly integrated with 3D electronic fliers. Here we develop a type of morphable 3D mesofliers with shape memory polymer (SMP)-based electrothermal actuators, capable of large degree of actuation deformations, with a fast response (e.g., ∼1 s). Integration of functional components, including sensors, controllers, and chip batteries, enables development of intelligent 3D mesoflier systems that can achieve the on-demand unfolding, triggered by the processing of real-time sensed information (e.g., acceleration and humidity data). Such intelligent electronic mesofliers are capable of both the low-air-drag rising and the low-velocity falling, and thereby, can be used to measure the humidity fields in a wide 3D space by simple hand throwing, according to our demonstrations. The developed electronic mesofliers can also be integrated with other types of physical/chemical sensors for uses in different application scenarios. 集成功能器件的三维(3D)微型飞行器在工程领域多个方面都具有重要意义. 在近期报道的各种主动和被动型三维微型飞行器中, 一类由风传种子启发的三维飞行器因其具备低速自旋稳定下落、 超轻、 静音等特点, 显示出巨大的应用潜力. 具备按需形状重构的能力对于这类三维飞行器至关重要, 然而由于缺乏可与三维飞行器无缝集成的快速响应驱动器, 制造这类智能微型飞行器系统仍然具有挑战. 在这项研究工作中, 我们开发了一种基于形状记忆聚合物(SMP)电热驱动器的可变形三维介观飞行器, 其能够实现较大驱动变形和快速响应(∼1 s). 通过集成传感器、控制器和微型锂电池等功能器件, 我们开发了一种智能三维介观飞行器系统. 该系统通过实时处理感知的信息(如加速度和湿度数据)以实现按需展开. 这种智能电子介观飞行器具备低阻上升和低速下降的能力, 本文演示了通过简单的投掷测量广阔空间的湿度场分布. 此外, 这种智能三维介观飞行器还可以集成其他类型的物理/化学传感器以适应不同的应用场景. | Morphable three-dimensional electronic mesofliers capable of on-demand unfolding | 10.1007/s40843-022-2007-8 |
2022-08-01 | Ionic skin (I-skin) is an emerging skin-inspired sensor that has received increasing interest for the next-generation wearable electronics. However, profound challenges for I-skin remain in achieving multiple signal responses (e.g., strain, pressure, and humidity) and self-healability to fully mimic human skin. Herein, a Fe 3+ ion-coordinated poly(acrylic acid) ionogel (PAIFe) with high stretchability, extreme temperature tolerance, and self-healing capability is prepared by a dynamic ionic cross-linking strategy. The ionic coordination in the PAIFe contributes to the formation of a highly dynamic network, achieving its high-efficient and reliable self-healing performance even at a low temperature of −20°C. Using of 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([BMIm][BF 4 ]) as the solvent achieves a wide-temperature tolerance of the PAIFe under low and high temperatures. More interestingly, a humidity sensing function is realized in the PAIFe by skillfully utilizing the hygroscopic properties of [BMIm][BF 4 ]. The resultant PAIFe is proof-of-concept demonstrated as a deformation-tolerant ionic conductor in a skin-inspired ionic sensor, showing a variety of sensory capabilities towards compression, strain and humidity. 离子皮肤(I-skin)作为一类新兴的类皮肤传感器, 在下一代可穿戴电子领域受到了越来越多的关注. 然而, I-skin在实现多重刺激响应(如应变、 压力和湿度等)和模仿皮肤的自修复功能等方面, 仍然面临着大的挑战. 本文通过动态离子交联策略, 制备了具有高可拉伸、 耐极端温度和可自修复的Fe 3+ 离子配位聚丙烯酸离子凝胶(PAIFe). PAIFe中高度动态的离子配位作用和氢键交联结构, 使离子凝胶即使在−20°C低温条件下仍具有高效的自修复性能. 1-丁基-3-甲基咪唑四氟硼酸盐([BMIm][BF 4 ])作为离子凝胶的分散介质, 赋予了PAIFe良好的抗冻/耐热性能. 更有趣的是, 通过巧妙地利用[BMIm][BF 4 ]的吸湿特性, 实现了PAIFe对环境湿度的传感功能. 作为概念性验证, PAIFe作为可拉伸离子导体可组装成多模式感知的类皮肤传感器, 在湿度、 压缩和应变的不同外界刺激下表现出良好的响应能力. | Highly stretchable and self-healable ionogels with multiple sensitivity towards compression, strain and moisture for skin-inspired ionic sensors | 10.1007/s40843-021-1977-5 |
2022-08-01 | Duplex stainless steels (DSS) have a microstructure consisting of 50% ferrite α and 50% austenite γ. This two-phase microstructure provides the duplex stainless steels with attractive mechanical and corrosion properties. However, the microstructure is very dependent on the heat treatment and chemical composition. During the welding process, the temperature reached in the heat-affected zone (HAZ) retransforms austenite into ferrite. Due to the high cooling rates, only a part of the ferrite is retransformed into austenite. This tends to modify the 50/50 phase equilibrium. The cooling rate is linked not only to heat input but also to the thickness of the welded plates. Most of the standards limit the ferrite content in the range from 30 to 70%. However, the 70% limit for ferrite content in HAZ may be difficult to obtain especially for heavy plate thicknesses. To limit the maximum ferrite content in HAZ, a duplex stainless grade with high nitrogen and nickel within the 2205 composition range, called Arctic 2205, was developed. This paper will provide details on ferrite content measurement by metallographic method and welding results obtained on industrial welds showing very low and stable ferrite content in HAZ. Mechanical properties obtained on these welds at low temperature will also be reported, pushing the limits of use of duplex from − 50 °C (− 58 °F) down to − 100 °C (− 148 °F). | Heat-affected zone ferrite content control of a duplex stainless steel grade to enhance weldability | 10.1007/s40194-022-01326-0 |
2022-08-01 | As common meteorological factors in daily life, there is limited evidence for the effect of ambient temperature and humidity during pregnancy on the risk of term low birth weight. Furthermore, little is known about the interaction of ambient temperature and humidity on TLBW. The objective of the study was to explore the effect of ambient temperature, humidity during pregnancy, and their interaction on the risk of TLBW and, moreover, to identify exposure critical window. We recruited 6640 infants and their mothers to build a birth cohort study in Jinan City, China, from January 2018 to December 2019. The associations between temperature and humidity during pregnancy and TLBW were estimated by generalized additive model, logistic regression model, and interaction analysis, and the critical window was identified by the distributed lag non-linear model. The incidence of TLBW was 1.36% for the infants in the birth cohort. TLBW was related to the low level of temperature and humidity in the whole pregnancy, compared with the moderate level and the adjusted ORs were 4.44 (1.65–11.42) and 6.23 (1.92–21.39), respectively. The indicators of the interaction analysis of temperature and humidity were not statistically significant. For the low level of humidity, the association with TLBW was statistically significant at first to sixth gestational weeks, and the maximum OR in male infants (3.95, 1.70–9.16) was higher than that in females (1.96, 1.06–3.63). For the low level of temperature, we failed to find significant association with TLBW at each gestational week. The low level of temperature and humidity during pregnancy could increase the risk of TLBW. There was no statistical interaction between temperature and humidity on TLBW. Moreover, the early stage of pregnancy was the critical window for humidity exposure, in which the boys had a greater effect. | The effect and its critical window for ambient temperature and humidity in pregnancy on term low birth weight | 10.1007/s11356-022-19512-4 |
2022-08-01 | A fire-new spray method was employed to fabricate hole-conductor-free carbon-based perovskite solar cells. With the use of superfine airbrushes, low-temperature commercial carbon paste, and their ester dispersants, this work proposes a low-cost, time-saving, skillful gas-driven ink spray (GDIS) deposition strategy to stable perovskite solar cells. Under optimized conditions, a champion photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) value of 8.70% and a stabilized PCE value of 7.03% were achieved. More importantly, the hole-conductor-free carbon-based perovskite solar cells exhibit excellent stability after 60 days of storage in the dark with an RH of 30%. | A facile gas-driven ink spray (GDIS) deposition strategy toward hole-conductor-free carbon-based perovskite solar cells | 10.1007/s42247-021-00247-w |
2022-08-01 | With no doubts, bulging in delayed coke drums is one of the most common thermo-mechanical damage to that component linked to their design, fabrication, and normal operation. Coke drums are exposed to several cycles of thermal stresses which will initiate cracks, especially in the welds because of low-cycle fatigue. The bulging is affecting the integrity of the delayed coke drum. If left without repair in the long run, it would subsequently form many cracks on both the internal and external surfaces of the bulges. Therefore, and as recognized by many operators in the last ten years to limit the growth and the progression of bulges, the most common repair method used has been automated, weld overlay using consistent parameters. The first outcome of this paper illustrates the impact of overlay repair on bulge growth during normal cycles. On the other hand, some operators decided to shorten the operation cycle after introducing the repair to exceed the production rate. The second outcome of this paper is discussing the impact of this decision on coke drum integrity and how the overlay weld repair withstands the bulge growing during short cycles. | Impact of Overlay Welding Repair on Bulges during Normal and Short Cycles in Coke Drums | 10.1007/s11668-022-01449-y |
2022-08-01 | Because of the widespread presence of arsenic in various smelting waste slags, it not only hinders the recycling and utilization of waste slag, but also causes serious pollution to the ecological environment. In this study, As 2 O 3 , the main form of arsenic in non-ferrous metal smelting slag, was used as the research object, and FeCl 3 was used as the chlorination agent. As 2 O 3 was selectively chlorinated to low-boiling-point AsCl 3 gas which was easy to be volatilized and removed by chlorination roasting. According to the thermodynamic calculation results, the feasibility of FeCl 3 as the chlorination agent for selective chlorination and low-temperature volatilization of dearsenization was analyzed. The TG–DTA diagram was analyzed by thermogravimetric experiment, and the mass change, endothermic and exothermic behaviors of the As 2 O 3 –FeCl 3 system during the linear heating process were studied. The effects of roasting temperature, roasting time, and molar ratio of reactants on the chlorination–volatilization of the As 2 O 3 –FeCl 3 system were investigated. The optimal chlorination roasting conditions were determined with a roasting temperature of 290–300 ℃, a roasting time of 50 min, and a reactant FeCl 3 /As 2 O 3 molar ratio of 4:1. The results of this study provided a novel idea for the removal of arsenic from smelting slag and dust, but the mechanism and process conditions of chlorination still need to be further studied and optimized. Graphical abstract | A novel method for dearsenization from arsenic-bearing waste slag by selective chlorination and low-temperature volatilization | 10.1007/s11356-021-18231-6 |
2022-08-01 | In the last decades, Green Chemistry has been gaining widespread attention within the pharmaceutical field. It is thus very important to bring more sustainable approaches into the design and manufacture of effective oral drug delivery systems. This review focuses on spray congealing and mechanochemical activation, two technologies endorsing different principles of green chemistry, and at the same time, addressing some of the challenges related to the transformation of poorly water-soluble drugs in highly bioavailable solid dosage forms. We therefore present an overview of the basic principles, equipment, and application of these particle-engineering technologies, with specific attention to case studies carried out by the groups working in Italian Universities. Graphical abstract | Better and greener: sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing technologies for highly bioavailable solid dosage forms | 10.1007/s13346-021-01101-6 |
2022-08-01 | The strength-to-weight ratio is an important property of high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steel in pipeline, whose precipitation strengthening can be improved. The final rolling temperature (FRT) and coiling temperature (CT) are the key process parameters in the control of precipitates and microstructure. Continuous cooling rate was fixed at 10 °C/s, and the effects of deformation and coiling temperatures on precipitates and microstructure of Ti–Nb microalloyed HSLA steel were investigated through thermo-mechanical controlled processing on Gleeble 3500. The microstructure is mainly acicular ferrite with high density dislocation and several microns scale. The size and volume fraction of the precipitates were studied under transmission electron microscopy. The results showed that the diameter of the precipitates was in the range between 4 and 240 nm. The optimized combination of parameters is FRT of 820 °C and CT of 550 °C, and the volume fraction of precipitates obtained under this process is 0.59%. | Effects of final rolling temperature and coiling temperature on precipitates and microstructure of high-strength low-alloy pipeline steel | 10.1007/s42243-021-00659-2 |
2022-08-01 | The inefficient leaching of manganese is the main factor hindering the commercialization of the reduction process during manganese recovery using pyrite as the reducing agent. Hence, a new method for improving recovery efficiency and reducing the cost is required. This study uses microwave heating as a strengthening method to extract Mn 2+ from pyrolusite and the leaching conditions are optimized. It was found that the extraction rate of Mn 2+ could reach 95.07% under microwave heating through the conditions of H 2 SO 4 is 1.2 mol/L, m(pyrolusite)/m(pyrite) equals to 10:2, leaching temperature is 90 ℃, and a liquid–solid (L/S) ratio of 10:1. The achieved extraction rate was higher than that of 75.08% under the conventional heating achieved at the same conditions. Besides, experimental studies have found that microwave heating can change the process and direction of chemical reactions, shorten the reaction time, and reduce sulfuric acid. Finally, the kinetic study indicates that the leaching process under microwave heating is controlled by surface chemical reactions. The equation of leaching kinetics is 1 − (1 − x) 1/3 = 3425.32/r 0 ·[H 2 SO 4 ] 1.316 ·[FeS 2 /MnO 2 ] 0.907 ·exp(− 45.03/(RT)·t. The activation energy is 45.03 kJ/mol. Meanwhile, through a scanning electron microscope and particle size analyzer, microwave heating has a significant influence on reducing the ore diameter and increasing the specific surface area of the sample. This study aims to provide an experimental trial case for studying the mechanism of microwave-enhanced leaching process during manganese recovery using pyrite as the reducing agent. The reported kinetics research may guide the development of the industrial application for Mn recovery. | Microwave-enhanced reduction of manganese from a low-grade pyrolusite ore using pyrite: process optimization and kinetic studies | 10.1007/s11356-022-19988-0 |
2022-08-01 | The attractive bismuth-based cubic pyrochlores possess large dielectric constant, high dielectric tunability, and extremely low dielectric loss. The Bi 1.5 Mg 1- x Co x Nb 1.5 O 7 (Co-BMN, x = 0.0–0.5) cubic pyrochlore ceramics were prepared by solid-state reaction. All the Co-BMN ceramics maintained the cubic pyrochlore phase with a preferential (111) orientation. The forbidden (442) diffraction plane was found in Co-BMN pyrochlores. The crystallization of the Co-BMN ceramics was promoted by Co 2+ doping modification. The Co-BMN at x = 0.3 achieved the maximum of cell volume, force constant of A-O stretching, and binding energy of Co 2+ . The dielectric constant of Co-BMN significantly increased due to the larger polarizability of Co 2+ . The increasing dielectric constant of Co-BMN pyrochlores ( x ≤ 0.3) with increasing Co 2+ doping was attributed to the displacive disorder of A-site and O’ ions. Co-BMN with moderate Co 2+ doping ( x ≤ 0.4) presented a low dielectric loss (< 0.0007). The temperature coefficient of dielectric constant of Co-BMN pyrochlores ( x ≤ 0.4) increased from -382 ppm/ o C to -84 ppm/ o C after Co 2+ doping. However, high concentration of Co 2+ resulted in deterioration of dielectric properties of Co-BMN. | Effect of Co2+ substitutions on microstructure and dielectric properties of Bi1.5MgNb1.5O7 cubic pyrochlore | 10.1007/s10832-022-00287-6 |
2022-08-01 | Exposure to mining-induced particulate matter (PM) including coal dust and diesel particulate matter (DPM) causes severe respiratory diseases such as coal workers’ pneumoconiosis (CWP) and lung cancer. Limited spatiotemporal resolution of current PM monitors causes miners to be exposed to unknown PM concentrations, with increased overexposure risk. Low-cost PM sensors offer a potential solution to this challenge with their capability in characterizing PM concentrations with high spatiotemporal resolution. However, their application in underground mines has not been explored. With the aim of examining the potential application of low-cost sensors in underground mines, a critical review of the present status of PM sensor research is conducted. The working principles of present PM monitors and low-cost sensors are compared. Sensor error sources are identified, and comprehensive calibration processes are presented to correct them. Evaluation protocols are proposed to evaluate sensor performance prior to deployment, and the potential application of low-cost sensors is discussed. | Application of low-cost particulate matter sensors for air quality monitoring and exposure assessment in underground mines: A review | 10.1007/s12613-021-2378-z |
2022-08-01 | Key message Seventeen classical MaAGPs and 9 MbAGPs were identified and analyzed. MaAGP1/2/6/9/16/17, the antigens of JIM13 and LM2 antibodies are likely to be involved in banana chilling tolerance. Classical arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs) belong to glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins, which are proved to be involved in signaling and cell wall metabolism upon stresses. However, rare information is available on the roles of classical AGPs in low temperature (LT) tolerance. Cultivation of banana in tropical and subtropical region is seriously threatened by LT stress. In the present study, 17 classical MaAGPs and nine MbAGPs in banana A and B genome were identified and characterized, respectively. Great diversity was present among different classical MaAGP/MbAGP members while five members (AGP3/6/11/13/14) showed 100% identity between these two gene families. We further investigated different responses of classical AGPs to LT between a chilling sensitive (CS) and tolerant (CT) banana cultivars. In addition, different changes in the temporal and spatial distribution of cell wall AGP components under LTs between these two cultivars were compared using immunofluorescence labeling. Seven classical MbAGPs were upregulated by LT(s) in the CT cultivar. Classical MaAGP4/6 was induced by LT(s) in both cultivars while MaAGP1/2/9/16/17 only in the CT cultivar. Moreover, these genes showed significantly higher transcription abundance in the CT cultivar than the CS one under LT(s) except classical MaAGP4. Similar results were observed with the epitopes of JIM13 and LM2 antibodies. The antigens of these antibodies and classical MaAGP1/2/6/9/16/17 might be related to LT tolerance of banana. These results provide additional information about plant classical AGPs and their involvement in LT tolerance, as well as their potential as candidate genes to be targeted when breeding CT banana. | Different responses of banana classical AGP genes and cell wall AGP components to low-temperature between chilling sensitive and tolerant cultivars | 10.1007/s00299-022-02885-8 |
2022-08-01 | A superior combination of yield strength (1001 MPa) and − 20 °C impact toughness (166 J) was obtained in Nb–V–Ti-microalloyed Ni–Cr–Mo–Cu steel treated by direct quenching and tempering route (DQT). The tested steels treated by DQT route and re-austenitization and tempering route (QT) were compared with each other in terms of mechanical properties and microstructures characterized by optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, electron back-scattered diffraction method and so on. Strength and Vickers hardness of the tested steel treated by the above two routes vary with isothermal aging temperature (400–600 °C), shown as under-aged state, peak-aged state and over-aged state. All DQT specimens show higher strength and Vickers hardness than QT specimens with the same aging condition. Furthermore, the largest difference of yield strength between DQT and QT specimens was shown in DQT 600 and QT 600 specimens. DQT 600 or QT 600 specimens refers to direct quenched (DQ) or quenched (Q) specimens isothermally aged at 600 °C. The main disparities in quenched microstructure between DQ and Q specimens are mainly in morphology of prior austenite grains, dislocation density of martensite matrix and solution amount of Nb and Mo elements dissolving in martensite matrix, which play key roles in affecting microstructure and mechanical properties of DQT and QT specimens. Higher dislocation density of matrix and finer average diameter of both MC (M is any combination of Nb, Mo and V) and Cu-rich particles were shown in DQT 600 specimens than in QT 600 specimens. Strengthening from dislocations and nanosized MC and Cu-rich particles mainly leads to the largest difference of yield strength between DQT 600 and QT 600 specimens. In addition, strong dislocation strengthening and precipitation strengthening in DQT 600 specimen also elevated its ductile-to-brittle-transition-temperature, compared with QT 600 specimen. | Effect of modifying matrix microstructures and nanosized precipitates on strengthening mechanisms and ductile-to-brittle-transition-temperature in a 1000 MPa Ni–Cr–Mo–Cu steel | 10.1007/s42243-021-00658-3 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract The possibility to obtain low-temperature active platinum-based catalysts is investigated. Catalysts of the composition Pt/Ce 1– x Mn x O 2–δ are synthesized in two steps: firstly, Ce 1– x Mn x O 2–δ carriers with different manganese concentrations (10-30 at.%) are obtained by co-precipitation, then final catalysts are prepared by impregnating with platinum nitrate. The introduction of manganese into the carrier composition is found to decrease the platinum load to the required one for anomalous low-temperature СО oxidation at Т < 0 °C. | STUDY OF Pt/Ce-Mn-Ox CATALYSTS FOR THE LOW-TEMPERATURE CO OXIDATION REACTION | 10.1134/S0022476622080017 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.