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2022-08-01 | Dahi is widely used fermented milk product in India. Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is the most extensively used packaging material for Dahi in India. The present study was conducted to develop the analytical methods for extraction and migration of chemical additives from LDPE into dahi . Characterization of dahi packaging materials collected from five different firms was done by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy. Focused ultrasound solid liquid extraction method was observed to be better as compared to solid liquid extraction method as the former extracted maximum additives from the LDPE. Out of total 76 chemical additives extracted from LDPE, only eight (10.52%) matched with the existing positive list of polyolefins prescribed by Bureau of Indian Standads (BIS). The overall migration of chemical additives from all the LDPE samples was below their maximum limit as given by BIS standards. Chemical additives which migrated into the simulants included the antioxidants, fatty acids and their derivatives, unreacted hydrocarbons, plasticizers, lubricants and surfactant etc. | Migration study of chemical additives from low density polyethylene (LDPE) into dahi | 10.1007/s13197-022-05453-w |
2022-08-01 | Phase equilibria in sections of the potassium formate–glycerol–water system were studied by visual polythermal analysis at temperatures of 0 to –60°C. The potassium formate-to-glycerol ratio in the sections was varied from 3 : 1 to 1 : 3. Mixtures that form low-temperature eutectics were found and were determined to be promising as new anti-icing agents with good ice-melting capacity. | Investigation of Phase Equilibria in the Potassium Formate–Glycerol–Water System at Low Temperatures | 10.1134/S0040579522040108 |
2022-08-01 | Phase equilibria in sections of the urea–ethylene glycol–water system were studied by visual polythermal analysis at temperatures of 0 to –66°C. The urea-to-ethylene glycol ratio in the sections was varied from 3 : 1 to 1 : 3. Mixtures that form low-temperature eutectics were identified and were characterized as promising as new anti-icing agents with good ice-melting capacity. | Phase Equilibria in Sections of the Urea–Ethylene Glycol–Water System at Low Temperatures | 10.1134/S004057952204011X |
2022-08-01 | In this paper, the low-velocity impact deformation behavior of biaxial warp-knitted flexible composite was investigated. A simplified finite element model (FEM) of the flexible composite is presented. The mechanical parameters used in simulation were determined by experimental test and previous studies. The finite element models were established by ABAQUS/Explicit to explore the stress distribution and damage evolution of flexible composite, and compared with the experimental results. The results show that the low-velocity impact resistance of flexible composites is strongly dependent on the shape of punch. The low-velocity impact resistance of flexible composites increases with the number of yarns contact with the punch. The validity of the finite element model is verified by comparison with the experiment. We expect that the research can provide a reference for the structural design of flexible composites in the field of inflatable materials. | Low-Velocity Impact Damage Simulation of Biaxial Warp-Knitted Flexible Composite with Simplified Microstructure Model | 10.1007/s10443-022-10036-1 |
2022-08-01 | A new structure of grooved fixture with a cambered surface is proposed to reduce wear of bar surface caused by a fixture in low-stress cropping. Using the finite element method (FEM) and orthogonal experiment, the optimal contact parameter combination of cambered grooving fixture is obtained. The radial wear degree is proposed to evaluate the surface quality of bars under four contact conditions. Results show that the friction pair under the A 4 B 1 C 2 D 1 E 4 combination of contact parameters has the best wear reduction effect and the lowest radial wear degree, which is 0.0469 mm 2 , and 34.50% lower than ones of line contact, respectively. The cropping platform based on acoustic emission-stress–strain is established to study the influence of roughness Ra on the comprehensive wear state of friction pair. It is pointed out that under the different contact conditions, when Ra = 0.4 μm, the acoustic emission characteristic parameters meet the minimum level and the comprehensive abrasion state of the friction pair is optimal. | Influence of contact parameters on the wear characteristics of fixture-bar friction pair in low-stress cropping | 10.1007/s00170-022-09668-1 |
2022-08-01 | Low-grade saprolite nickel laterite, characterized by complicated minerals composition and fine-grained and complex dissemination, was commonly treated with a low recovery efficiency of Ni and Fe by conventional methods. Hence, an improved direct reduction and magnetic separation process was proposed. Meanwhile, the mechanisms on the enhanced growth of the Ni–Fe particles and the phase transformation in the nickel laterite pellets were explored. The low-nickel concentrates as a nucleating agent can obviously decrease the activation energy for growth of Ni–Fe alloy particles during the improved direct reduction process from 197.10 to 154.81 kJ/mol when the low-nickel concentrates were added from 0 to 20%. Hence, it is able to decrease nucleation barrier, induce the growth of Fe–Ni alloy particles and increase their average size. As a result, the size of Ni–Fe particles in the pellets from less than 10 μm grew to more than 20 μm, which is beneficial for the full liberation and recovery of Ni and Fe in subsequent magnetic separation process. Therefore, the preferable Ni–Fe alloy concentrates with 6.44% Ni and 82.48% Fe can be prepared with corresponding recovery rates of 96.90% and 95.92%, respectively, when adding 20% low-nickel concentrates. | Upgrade of nickel and iron from low-grade nickel laterite by improving direct reduction-magnetic separation process | 10.1007/s42243-021-00646-7 |
2022-08-01 | By using digital image correlation (DIC), low-cycle fatigue (LCF) behavior of CrMoV weld joint taken from a retired gas turbine rotor after 15-year service was investigated at 500 °C and 540 °C. The most remarkable plastic strain was observed in the weld metal (WM), which was up to 6 times of the global strain at mid-life cycle. Due to the cyclic accumulation of local deformation, the stress–strain hysteresis loops relative to tensile or compressive strain concentration area in WM displayed the ratchetting shape. The local deformation accumulation of WM was attributed to the effect of the equiaxed grain zone near the WM center. The accumulated plastic strain was considered as the main fatigue failure mechanism. | In Situ DIC Study on LCF Behavior of Retired Weld Joint Subjected to Prolonged Service at Elevated Temperature | 10.1007/s40195-021-01353-8 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract Characteristics of Russian and foreign wire rope lubricants with synthetic thickeners used by Russian steel rope manufacturers are presented. Comparative wear resistance testing results are given for steel ropes lubricated with rope lubricants. The testing have been carried out in accordance with GOST (State Standard) 2387–80 under the simulation of operating conditions by exposure to corrosive environments and temperatures. It has been shown that in the case of a correctly chosen lubricant, the service life of the steel rope can exhibit a multifold increase, whereas in the case an incorrectly chosen lubricant, the durability of the steel rope can decrease to a sufficient extent even with respect to a steel rope operated with no lubricant. | Comparative Testing Results for Steel Rope Lubricants with Synthetic Thickeners | 10.3103/S0967091222080046 |
2022-08-01 | Polymerizing the narrow bandgap small-molecule architecture with a conjugated linking unit (or called the polymerized small molecule acceptors (PSMAs)) is a promising strategy to design polymer acceptors for efficient all polymer solar cells (all-PSCs). Currently, the fused-ring-based small molecule acceptors (SMAs) are preferred monomers to design efficient PSMAs, leaving the challenge of reducing the materials cost. In this work, we firstly employ nonfused-core SMA with simple synthetic procedures to design PSMAs (namely PBTI-H, PBTI-F and PBTI-Cl) to address this issue. Relative to the fused-ring based counterparts, these three PSMAs exhibit much higher figure-of-merit value. Additionally, a power-conversion efficiency of 8.80% is achieved in the PBTI-Cl-based all-PSC. The results offer an attractive approach to design low-cost PSMAs for efficient all-PSCs. | Nonfused-Core-Small-Molecule-Acceptor-Based Polymer Acceptors for All-Polymer Solar Cells | 10.1007/s10118-022-2769-2 |
2022-08-01 | Low frequency vibration-assisted drilling (LFVAD) of CFRP/Ti stacks is a promising method of one-shot drilling to increase efficiency and extend tool life while adaptive approaches are applied to adjust the cutting parameters in each layer. Thus, the interfacial recognition method is significant to automatically change the cutting parameters. In this paper, two recognition methods are proposed based on the analysis of the features of cutting forces under the LFVAD process in both time and frequency domains. With the recorded thrust force signals at different wear stages, both the proposed methods identify the transition point when the drill bit starts to contact the Ti layer within allowable time delay. Compared with the traditional threshold method, the time domain method and the frequency domain method respectively increase the identifying speed by 19.8% and 46.7%, besides the reduction of implementation cost. In contrast, the time domain method reduces the programming and calculation time, while the frequency domain method improves the average recognition speed. Furthermore, an adaptive drilling system embedded with the established time-domain method is designed and the accuracy of the method is proved of 100% in a drilling test of all 20 CFRP/Ti stack holes. Moreover, the effect of the adaptive LFVAD process in improving tool wear and increasing machining efficiency is verified by reducing the force growth rate by 11.7% and time decrease of 37% in a hole-making cycle compared with the traditional LFVAD process. | Adaptive Approaches to Identify the Interface in Low Frequency Vibration-Assisted Drilling of CFRP/Ti6Al4V Stacks | 10.1007/s12541-022-00659-6 |
2022-08-01 | Nowadays, industries are focussing on reducing the concentration of the volatile organic component in the coatings, also easing the toxicity that comes hand in hand with the usage of petroleum-based solvents to lessen the environmental impact. Numerous ways are presumed to tackle this problem; however, in recent years, tremendous research is carried in the field of reactive diluents. The review paper explores the role of petroleum and biobased reactive diluents in various resin chemistries like epoxy, unsaturated polyester, vinyl ester, alkyd, and polyurethane. The features accorded by the conventional reactive diluents are compared with the novel biobased reactive diluents. Furthermore, this work discusses the development of coatings for flame retardancy, antistatic properties, and coil-coating application. It also reviews the structure and characteristic behaviour offered by reactive diluents on the film obtained. | Developments in reactive diluents: a review | 10.1007/s00289-021-03808-5 |
2022-08-01 | Conducting polymer PolyAniline (PANI) was implanted with 75 keV Au and 30 keV Ag ions. The projectile ranges were calculated from SRIM analysis prior to implantations; it is found to be 65 nm for Au and 32 nm for Ag. The optical absorption behaviors are remarkably different from the pristine samples due to combined effects of the defects and metal fillers. The choices behind Au and Ag are due to their strong SPR effects as well as their charge conducting property. Cross-sectional FESEM revealed buried layers of Au and Ag clusters. The difference in diffusion natures are observed for two different kinds of elements. XRD characteristics reveal evolving peaks in consequence with implantation doses. The difference in the optical absorption behavior corroborates the difference in the nature of defects created due to different elements in the two types of samples. Temperature depended DC conductivity studies carried out to investigate the charge transport properties of the composite material along with the defects. A comprehensive analysis of all the measurements reveals that the defect states created by Au and Ag implantation have different behavior which is combined effects of ion energy, doses, property of the matrix and types of implanted ions. The diffusion behavior of the defects and the implanted ion species, both seem to be responsible for the difference in the observed properties of the implanted samples. The results of this study indicate that it is possible to tailor the optical and electrical properties of the composite material by the choice of ion species, implantation energy and doses and it is a novel approach to implant noble metals into conducting polymer PANI whose optical properties are depend on the oxidation states. The details of this investigation and the plausible explanation of the observed behavior are presented in this paper. | Synthesis of metal-PolyAniline composites by ion implantation | 10.1007/s12648-021-02217-8 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract A possible mechanism is considered for preserving relic hydrates in low-permeable deposits of the Berezovo Formation of the Medvezhye field at a reservoir temperature exceeding the equilibrium dissociation temperature of the hydrates. | The Potential to Preserve Relic Hydrates below the Stability Zone in Low-Permeability Layers of the Berezovo Formation of the North of Western Siberia | 10.3103/S0145875222040056 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract — This paper presents new age estimates and results obtained by the chemostratigraphic study of dolostones of the Billyakh Group, which consists of the Kotuikan and the Yusmastakh formations. The Billyakh Group forms the upper part of the Riphean section of the Anabar uplift in northern Siberia. The stepwise dissolution technique was used for the first time to determine the 87 Sr/ 86 Sr, 206 Pb/ 204 Pb, and 207 Pb/ 204 Pb isotopic ratios in dolostones. The Rb‒Sr systematics was studied by the chemical removal of about a third of the crushed sample (fraction L1) by the preliminary acid leaching in 0.2 N CH 3 COOH and the subsequent partial dissolution (fraction L2) of the remaining part of the sample in CH 3 COOH with the same concentration. The Pb‒Pb isotope systematics of dolostones was studied by the six-step dissolution of crushed samples in 0.5 N HBr. These procedures led to the removal of secondary carbonate material and greatly improved the quality of Sr chemostratigraphic and geochronological information. The initial 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios of the least altered carbonate material (fraction L2) of the Billyakh Group dolostones are 0.70502 ± 0.00029 in the Kotuikan Formation, 0.70519 ± 0.00026 in the lower subformation of the Yusmastakh Formation, and 0.70511 ± 0.00018 in the upper subformation of the Yusmastakh Formation. The Pb‒Pb age of early diagenesis of Kotuikan and Yusmastakh dolostones (1519 ± 18 Ma at MSWD = 1.8) was calculated from the results obtained for carbonate fractions L3–L6. Secondary carbonate fractions L1‒L2 are characterized by a Pb‒Pb age of 1466 ± 54 Ma at MSWD = 0.6. The δ 13 C values vary from ‒1 to ‒0.4‰ in dolostones of the Kotuikan Formation and from ‒0.4 to +0.8‰ in those of the Yusmastakh Formation (from ‒0.1 to +0.4‰ in the lower subformation and from ‒0.4 to +0.8‰ in the upper subformation). Comparison of these variations, as well as variations in the initial 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios in dolostones of the Kotuikan Formation and the Lower and Upper Yusmastakh subformations (0.70460‒0.70499, 0.70450‒0.70525, and 0.70462‒0.70523, respectively), does not make it possible to distinguish these units on the basis of chemostratigraphic characteristics. | Sr and Pb Isotopic Compositions in Dolostones of the Lower Riphean Billyakh Group, Anabar Uplift: Step-Leaching Technique in Chemostratigraphy and Geochronology | 10.1134/S0869593822040049 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract Phase equilibria in sections of the potassium acetate–ethylene glycol–water system at temperatures from 0 to –66°C were studied by the visual-polythermal method. The potassium acetate to ethylene glycol ratio in sections was varied from 3 : 1 to 1 : 3. Some compositions appeared to be candidates for new anti-icing agents having a good ice-melting ability over a wide range of temperatures. | Phase Equilibria in Sections of the Potassium Acetate–Ethylene Glycol–Water System at Temperatures from 0 to –66°C | 10.1134/S0036023622080113 |
2022-08-01 | The unutilized iron ore fines (IOF, − 10 mm, 45% to < 60% Fe(T)) left at various mine sites during blasting and processing are rich in goethetic-hematite associated with high clay and considered a potential iron ore resource. The variation of loss on ignition (LOI) from mines to mines is based on the goethite and clay mineral content. The clay containing below 45 μm is mostly brittle, causing beneficiation problems. The IOF has an LOI of 7.83%, with high silica (5.52%) and alumina (4.57%), and 57.17% of Fe(T) subjected to both conventional deep beneficiation (CDB) and magnetization roasting using high-ash non-coking coal to adopt the suitable upgradation process. The CDB and magnetization roasting concentrate has 62.61% and 67.58% Fe(T) with 64.69% and 85.19% yield, respectively. However, the presence of 6.40% LOI in CDB makes the ore challenging for pelletization. Characterization like X-ray diffraction(XRD), scanning electron microscope(SEM), and chemical analysis was used to assess the concentrate quality and potential industrial application. | Beneficiation of Clay-Rich High-LOI Low-Grade Iron Ore Fines: Assessment of Conventional Deep Beneficiation and Magnetization Roasting Using High-Ash Non-coking Coal | 10.1007/s42461-022-00626-9 |
2022-08-01 | Peptide profiling based on matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is of particular interest as it can provide physiologically and pathologically related information of the bio-samples. Due to the complexity of real biological samples, MALDI-TOF MS-based peptide mapping methods rely strongly on particular enrichment methods to improve the signal intensity. This paper introduces third-generation dendrimer-modified SBA-15 with the surface functionalization of amino and carboxyl group, respectively (denoted as SBA-15/G3-NH 2 and SBA-15/G3-COOH), for the efficient capture of low-abundance peptides. The enrichment ability of the nanocomposites was evaluated by standard peptides digests and real biological samples. The synthesized nanocomposites incorporated the benefit of dendrimers and mesoporous silica nanomaterial SBA-15, showing enhanced peptide enrichment ability. Therefore, this work may provide a new class of nanomaterials for peptide mapping from biological samples. | Dendrimer-Modified Silica Nanoparticles for Efficient Enrichment of Low-Concentration Peptides | 10.1007/s12010-022-03892-x |
2022-08-01 | Recently, increasing power leakage has become a major concern especially in MOSFET based nanoscale devices due to poor gate control. To mitigate these problems, the devices with steep slope, low leakage and power consumption are required. In this context, this work introduced a novel concept of Negative Capacitance (NC) effect with Junctionless Multi Gate FET to investigate various device performance parameters for nanoscale dimensions. The baseline approach of combining LK-equation with Sentaurus TCAD tool, was used to design and optimize a 14nm n-type Negative Capacitance Junctionless FinFET (NC-JL FinFET) with doped HfO 2 as gate ferroelectric material for low power applications. The impact of ferroelectric thickness, spacer and gate dielectric was analyzed using extensive device simulations. The results showed that the designed NC-JL FinFET exhibits enhanced performance with steep SS, Negative DIBL, lower leakage current and also higher drive current performance than JL FinFET. Further, the application of strain-engineering in NC-JL FinFET shows 12 % improvement in I ON /I OFF as compared to unstrained NC-JL FinFET. | Negative Capacitance Junctionless FinFET for Low Power Applications: An Innovative Approach | 10.1007/s12633-021-01392-x |
2022-08-01 | A Fe-9Mn-0.15Si-0.26C steel was prepared via warm rolling, showing the heterogeneous microstructures composed of ultrafine-grained ferrite (~ 330 nm) and nanoscale twins (~ 40 nm) in the lamellar austenite. We aim to improve the strain-hardening rate (SHR) via the transformation-induced-plasticity (TRIP) and twinning-induced-plasticity (TWIP) effects. The steel shows ultrahigh yield strength of 710 ± 10 MPa and ultimate tensile strength of 2410 ± 20 MPa, with the total elongation of 27%. Such an ultrahigh strength is rarely reported for the advanced high strength steels (AHSSs). By controlling the specific strain level, the deformation mechanisms governing the different stages of the warm-rolled steel are explored, suggesting significant differences compared to the typical structural metallic alloys. The uplifted stress-strain curve and continuously increasing hardening curve can be attributed to the continuous martensite transformation and twinning process during the whole strain, and the moderate stability of austenite has played a role. In addition, the geometrical necessary dislocation, $${\rho }_{GND}$$ ρ GND , is 1.04 ×10 15 m −2 in the fractured specimen (ɛ = 27%), leading to a strain hardening of 1753 MPa. | Ultrahigh Strength Induced by Superstorage Capacity of Dislocations in an Ultrafine-Grained Fe-9Mn-0.15Si-0.26C Steel | 10.1007/s11665-022-06735-2 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract In the development of promising ULIS scaling technologies, one of the key roles is played by porous dielectrics with a low permittivity used to isolate interconnects in a metallization system. Condensation of gaseous products in the pores of such films makes it possible to solve the most important problem that prevents the integration of such films, to carry out low-damage plasma etching. However, methods for studying porosity are also based on the study of the adsorption isotherm during condensation in film pores. Therefore, the study of adsorption in pores is one of the most important practical problems arising in the creation of dielectrics with a low permittivity and the study of low-damaging methods for their structuring. The method of ellipsometric porosimetry is an easy-to-implement and accurate approach for obtaining an adsorption isotherm; however, its further analysis and determination of the pore size distribution are reduced to solving an integral equation and is an ill-posed problem. In this paper, we propose to apply Tikhonov’s regularization method to solve it. The method is verified on model data and used to study a low-k dielectric sample with an initial thickness of 202 nm and a permittivity of 2.3 based on organosilicate glass. | Application of the Tikhonov Regularization Method in Problems of Ellipsometic Porometry of Low-K Dielectrics | 10.1134/S1063739722040060 |
2022-08-01 | The mechanical and fatigue properties of SA508-IV steel with martensite and granular bainite, respectively, were studied. The mechanical tests results showed that the ultimate tensile strength and impact toughness of the specimen with martensite were 830 MPa and 158 J, respectively, and those of the specimen with granular bainite were 811 MPa and 115 J, respectively. The former had higher tensile strength and impact toughness than the latter. The impact tests results showed that the former belonged to typical dimple fracture, while the latter belonged to brittle fracture. The fatigue tests results showed that the fatigue life of the specimen with martensite was 2717 cycles, and that of the specimen with granular bainite was 1545 cycles under the strain amplitude of ± 0.45%. The specimen with martensite had fewer crack initiation points, narrower fatigue striations separation, and larger volume fraction of high-angle grain boundaries than the latter. The fewer crack initiation points meant fewer fatigue cracks, the narrower fatigue striations separation meant slower crack propagation rate, and the larger volume fraction of high-angle grain boundaries could more effectively hinder fatigue crack propagation. Based on these facts, the fatigue life of the specimen with martensite was higher than that of the specimen with granular bainite. | Mechanical and fatigue properties of SA508-IV steel used for nuclear reactor pressure vessels | 10.1007/s42243-021-00740-w |
2022-08-01 | Prenatal exposure to ambient air pollution has been associated with adverse perinatal outcomes in previous studies. However, few studies have examined the interaction between air pollution and the season of conception on term low birth weight (TLBW) or macrosomia. Birth registry data of singleton live births in Wenzhou, China, between January 2015 and December 2016 were accessed from the Wenzhou Maternal and Child Health Information Management platform, and data on the ambient air pollutants in Wenzhou were obtained from the Chinese Air Quality Online Monitoring and Analysis Platform. Single-/two-pollutant binary logistic regression models were used to assess the associations between ambient air pollutants (PM 2.5 , PM 10 , NO 2 , SO 2 , and O 3 ) and TLBW/macrosomia, further exploring whether the season of conception interacts with air pollution to impact birth weight. Finally, 213,959 term newborns were selected, including 2452 (1.1%) infants with TLBW and 13,173 (6.1%) infants with macrosomia. In the single-/two-pollutant models, we observed an increased risk of TLBW associated with maternal exposure to PM 2.5 , PM 10 , SO 2 , and NO 2 during the entire pregnancy, especially in the 2nd trimester. Maternal exposure to O 3 during the 1st trimester was associated with increased macrosomia risk, and O 3 exposure during the 3rd trimester was associated with increased TLBW risk. Pregnant women who conceive in the warm season may experience a more adverse ambient air environment that is related to the risks of TLBW. These findings add to the evidence suggesting that air pollution and the season of conception may have synergistic effects on adverse perinatal outcomes, especially TLBW. Further prospective cohort studies are needed to validate our results. | Associations between seasonal ambient air pollution and adverse perinatal outcomes: a retrospective cohort study in Wenzhou, China | 10.1007/s11356-022-20084-6 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract Transmission electron microscopy is used to study the crystalline granular structure of a low-temperature GaAs epitaxial layer grown on a Si(100) substrate. The grain sizes are determined using a series of electron-microscopy images acquired in a small range of tilt angles of a plan-view specimen around the Si[110] and Si[1 $$\bar {1}$$ 0] directions. The grain boundaries can be unambiguously identified by the digital processing of images obtained by bright-field transmission electron microscopy and using electrons scattered at small angles by scanning transmission electron microscopy. The effectiveness of a semi-automated method for detecting grain boundaries is demonstrated; the method is used to plot and analyze a histogram of the grain distribution by their lateral sizes. | Electron-Microscopy Study of the Grain Structure of a Low-Temperature GaAs Epitaxial Layer Grown on Si(100) Substrate | 10.1134/S1027451022040164 |
2022-08-01 | In this study, the correlations between the bending fatigue lives and various surface properties of commercial pure aluminum sheets damaged under different stress levels and cycles were assessed. Particularly, surface roughness, surface Brinell hardness, and stiffness on several top surface regions of the fractured AA1100-H14 aluminum sheets, damaged at different fatigue stages, were examined with straightforward test methods. These tests also revealed contrasting surface properties for the as-such and fatigue-damaged specimens. Specifically, for the fatigued specimens, which were cut along the rolling (RD) and long-transverse (LT) directions, the measured surface roughnesses were 4.53 and 4.92 times higher, the Brinell hardnesses were 10.0 and 20.1% lower, and the stiffnesses were 38.8 and 40.8% lower than the corresponding values obtained for the as-such specimens. The minimum degradation corresponded to the Stage III (HCF) of the stress amplitude versus number of cycles curve (S–N). An increased degradation was observed in Stages I and II (LCF) under high stress amplitude and low cycle fatigue. The degradation rates of surface roughness, surface hardness, and stiffness (elasticity) can be considered as the fatigue damage parameters for aluminum operating under variable loads. | Investigation of Surface Roughness, Hardness, and Stiffness Degradation of Aluminum Sheets Subjected to Flexural Fatigue | 10.1007/s11665-022-06701-y |
2022-08-01 | An EPR spectrometer has been developed that can be tuned to many frequencies in the range of ca 0.1–15 GHz. Applicability has been tested on ferrimyoglobin fluoride (MbF) and ferrimyoglobin cyanide (MbCN). MbF has a high-spin ( S = 5/2) spectrum with 19 F superhyperfine splitting that is only resolved in X-band along the heme normal. Low-frequency EPR also resolves the splitting in the heme plane. Measurement of linewidth as a function of frequency provides the basis for an analysis of inhomogeneous broadening in terms of g -strain, zero-field distribution, unresolved superhyperfine splittings and dipolar interaction. Rhombicity in the g tensor is found to be absent. MbCN ( S = 1/2) has a highly anisotropic low spin (HALS) spectrum for which g x cannot be determined unequivocally in X-band. Low-frequency EPR allows for measurement of the complete spectrum and determination of the g -tensor. Graphical abstract | Low-frequency EPR of ferrimyoglobin fluoride and ferrimyoglobin cyanide: a case study on the applicability of broadband analysis to high-spin hemoproteins and to HALS hemoproteins | 10.1007/s00775-022-01948-1 |
2022-08-01 | The main subject of this study was about the structural behavior of two-side clamped steel plate shear walls, which are appropriate to be implemented into existing structures for seismic retrofit. Full-scale two-side clamped steel plate shear wall specimens made of low-yield point steel and conventional steel grade were tested. Test results showed that the thin plate made of low-yield point steel possesses a deformation capacity without strength degradation three times greater than that of conventional steel. Its cumulative ductility was also increased by up to 3.2 times in comparison to the thin plate made of conventional steel. The premature material yielding and enhanced ductility influence on the development of the tension field action with multi-struts, which has become the main load-carrying mechanism of thin plates. To further investigate their cyclic behaviors at the post-buckling stage, this study constructed analysis models that can capture the test results of two-side clamped thin-plate specimens. The principal stress and angle distribution obtained from the analysis results demonstrated that the thin plate made of low-yield point steel under significantly larger drift ratios was in a pure shear stress state at both its center and the vicinity of the horizontal boundary element. From the test and analysis results, the entire cross section of thin wall made of low-yield point steel was yielded so that a design equation for four-side clamped thin walls prescribed in the current seismic codes was applied to two-side clamped thin walls made of low-yield point steel. | Comparative Investigation on Structural Behaviors of Two-Side Clamped Thin Plates Made of Low-Yield Point Steel | 10.1007/s40999-022-00704-5 |
2022-08-01 | The paper shows that the dynamics of spin pairs observed in a constant weak magnetic field on the microparticle surface of condensed phase in the heterogeneous plasma or on the solid surface, is similar to the dynamics of radical pairs in a liquid. This is because a lengthy interaction between one of the surface atoms of the condensed phase and the atom adsorbed on this surface. Triplet to spin-singlet pair conversion provides the transition of the adsorbed atom to the condensed phase microparticle composition. For the 13 C isotope, the probability of the adsorbed atom transition to the crystal lattice of the condensed phase in the geomagnetic field, is 5 orders of magnitude higher than for the 12 C/ 12 C isotope pair, whereas in 0.2 T field, this probability is higher by 80 times. | Isotope Effect in Sootflake Synthesis in Low-Temperature Plasma and Weak Magnetic Field | 10.1007/s11182-022-02674-6 |
2022-08-01 | In the present work, DLC coating was prepared on GCr15 bearing steel by magnetron sputtering method. The tribological behavior of GCr15 steel and DLC coating was studied at the speed range of 0.4 to 4.0 cm/s under two viscosity grades fully formulated lubricating oils (0W-20, 0W-40). The results show that viscosity of oil and sliding speed have a great effect on the DLC coating tribological properties. Compared to GCr15 steel at the speed of 0.4cm/s, there was a 41.67% reduction in the friction coefficient and 86.35% reduction in the wear rate of DLC coating in 0W-20 oil. The anti-friction and anti-wear advantages of DLC coating gradually disappear in low viscosity lubricating oil with the increase in sliding speed. The oil chain length and slip characteristics on DLC coating are two main factors that affect lubrication performance. The low viscosity lubricating oil, 0W-20, requires less energy to move and penetrate the lubricant molecules on DLC coating. This study will provide an experimental and theoretical basis for the application of low viscosity lubricating oil on DLC coating in the internal combustion engine industry. | Study on the Lubrication Mechanism of Diamond-Like Carbon Coating in Two Formulated Lubricants with Two Viscosity Grades | 10.1007/s11665-022-06708-5 |
2022-08-01 | Depending upon their growth responses to high and low irradiance, respectively, thermophilic Synechococcus sp. isolates from microbial mats associated with the effluent channels of Mushroom Spring, an alkaline siliceous hot spring in Yellowstone National Park, can be described as either high-light (HL) or low-light (LL) ecotypes. Strains isolated from the bottom of the photic zone grow more rapidly at low irradiance compared to strains isolated from the uppermost layer of the mat, which conversely grow better at high irradiance. The LL-ecotypes develop far-red absorbance and fluorescence emission features after growth in LL. These isolates have a unique gene cluster that encodes a putative cyanobacteriochrome denoted LcyA, a putative sensor histidine kinase; an allophycocyanin (FRL-AP; ApcD4-ApcB3) that absorbs far-red light; and a putative chlorophyll a -binding protein, denoted IsiX, which is homologous to IsiA. The emergence of FRL absorbance in LL-adapted cells of Synechococcus sp. strain A1463 was analyzed in cultures responding to differences in light intensity. The far-red absorbance phenotype arises from expression of a novel antenna complex containing the FRL-AP, ApcD4-ApcB3, which is produced when cells were grown at very low irradiance. Additionally, the two GAF domains of LcyA were shown to bind phycocyanobilin and a [4Fe-4S] cluster, respectively. These ligands potentially enable this photoreceptor to respond to a variety of environmental factors including irradiance, redox potential, and/or oxygen concentration. The products of the gene clusters specific to LL-ecotypes likely facilitate growth in low-light environments through a process called Low-Light Photoacclimation. | Acclimation of the photosynthetic apparatus to low light in a thermophilic Synechococcus sp. strain | 10.1007/s11120-022-00918-7 |
2022-08-01 | Intermittent ultrasound with an intensity of 0.2 W/ml was applied during simultaneous nitrification/iron-based autotrophic denitrification to evaluate its impacts on total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiency and microbial characteristics during low carbon/nitrogen ratio (C/N) wastewater treatment. At an optimal dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration of 1.2 mg/L, the TN removal rate was 91 ± 4%, and the TN concentration in the effluent decreased by 31% owing to the ultrasound treatment. In addition, the number of iron-compounds that formed in the sludge and wastewater increased by 55% and 37%, respectively. Low-intensity ultrasound caused a substantial increase in ammonia monooxygenase activity. Moreover, when the DO concentration increased to 1.2 mg/L, the activities of nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase, both of which are associated with denitrification, were effectively maintained. High-throughput sequencing indicated that low-intensity ultrasound enriched ammonium oxidising bacteria ( Nitrosomonas ) and suppressed the growth of heterotrophic denitrifying bacteria ( Zoogloea and Simplicispira ). These changes benefited simultaneous nitrification and autotrophic denitrification. Thus, low-intensity ultrasound promoted the simultaneous nitrification/iron-based autotrophic denitrification process during low C/N wastewater treatment. | Application of low-intensity ultrasound to enhance simultaneous nitrification/iron-based autotrophic denitrification | 10.1007/s10529-022-03273-8 |
2022-08-01 | In this work, the crack growth behaviours of high strength low alloy (HSLA) steel E690 with three crystallographic orientations (the rolling direction, normal direction, and transverse direction) were investigated and compared from the view of the mechano-electrochemical effect at the crack tip. The results show that the crack growth of the HSLA steel is controlled by the corrosion fracture at the crack tip. The variation of crystallographic orientation in E690 steel plate has no influence on the crack tip electrochemical reaction and crack growth mechanism, but changes the crack growth rate. When the stress loading direction is parallel to the rolling direction and the fracture layer is parallel to the transverse-normal plane, the crack growth rate is the slowest with a value of 0.0185 mm·h −1 . When the load direction and the fracture layer are parallel to the normal direction and the rolling-transverse plane, respectively, the crack growth rate is the highest with a value of 0.0309 mm·h −1 . This phenomenon is ascribed to the different microstructural and mechanical properties in the rolling direction, normal direction, and transverse direction of E690 steel plate. | Effect of crystallographic orientation on crack growth behaviour of HSLA steel | 10.1007/s12613-022-2415-6 |
2022-08-01 | Low pH eliminated the jarosite accumulation and improved the interfacial reaction rate during the bioleaching process. However, high acidity tends to make environments less hospitable, even for organisms that live in extreme places, so a great challenge existed for bioleaching at low pH conditions. This study demonstrated that the adaption and bioleaching ability of Leptospirillum ferriphilum could be improved after the long-term adaptive evolution of the community under acidity conditions. It was found that the acidity-adapted strain showed robust ferrous iron oxidation activity in wider pH, high concentration of ferrous iron, and lower temperature. Although the enhancement for heavy metal tolerance was limited, the resistance for MgSO 4 , Na 2 SO 4 , and organic matter was stimulative. More importantly, both pyrite and printed circuit board bioleaching revealed the higher bioleaching ability of the acid-resistant strain. These adaptation and bioleaching details provided an available approach for the improvement of bioleaching techniques. | Growth in ever-increasing acidity condition enhanced the adaptation and bioleaching ability of Leptospirillum ferriphilum | 10.1007/s10123-021-00227-4 |
2022-08-01 | The application of organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells to drive off-grid microelectronic devices under indoor light has attracted broad attention. As organic semiconductors intrinsically have less ordered intermolecular packing than inorganic materials, the relatively larger energetic disorder is one of the main results that limit the photovoltaic efficiency of the OPV cells at low carrier density. Here, we optimize the alkyl chains of non-fullerene acceptors to get suppressed energetic disorder. We find the optimal acceptor DTz-R1 with the shortest alkyl chain has the strongest crystalline property and lowest energetic disorder. As a result, over 26% efficiency is recorded for the 1 cm 2 OPV cells under a light-emitting diode illumination of 500 lux. We also fabricate a 100 cm 2 cell device and get a PCE of 23.0%, which is an outstanding value for large-area OPV cells. These results suggest that modulation of the energetic disorder is of great importance for further improving the efficiency of OPV cells, especially for indoor applications. | 100 cm2 Organic Photovoltaic Cells with 23% Efficiency under Indoor Illumination | 10.1007/s10118-022-2761-x |
2022-08-01 | Abstract The structure, magnetic, and magnetoimpedance properties of Fe 3 Co 67 Cr 3 Si 15 B 12 amorphous ribbons are studied using samples differing in the geometry, which are prepared by rapid quenching of the melt on a rotating wheel. The comparative analysis is performed for the as-quenched ribbons without additional treatments (A) and after relaxation annealing at 350°C (B) or thermomechanical treatment at 350°C under a specific load of 230 MPa (C). The selected treatments A and B correspond to the longitudinal magnetic anisotropy; in the case of annealed samples, the level of residual stresses is lower. Treatment C leads to the formation of transverse uniaxial magnetic anisotropy and record high sensitivity of giant magnetoimpedance effect (~200%/Oe) to the external magnetic field in the range of low fields ~2–3 Oe. | The Magnetic and Magnetoimpedance Properties of Cobalt-Based Amorphous Ribbons with Peculiarities of Effective Magnetic Anisotropy | 10.1134/S0031918X22080051 |
2022-08-01 | How drought affects tree and stand growth is an old question, but is getting unprecedented relevance in view of climate change. Stress effects related to drought have been mostly studied at the individual tree level, mostly investigating dominant trees and using their responses as indicator for the impact at the stand level. However, findings at tree and stand level may differ, as the stand responses include interactions and feedbacks that may buffer or aggravate what is observed at the individual tree level. Here, we trace drought effects on growth and development from tree to the stand scale. Therefore, we analyse annually measured data from long-term experiments in temperate and Mediterranean forests. With this analysis, we aim to disclose how well results of dominant tree growth reflect stand-level behaviour, hypothesizing that drought resistance of dominant trees’ can strongly deviate from the overall sensitivity of the stand. First, we theoretically derive how drought responses at the stand level emerge from the tree-level behaviour, thereby considering that potential drought resistance of individual trees is modulated by acclimation and tree–tree interactions at the stand level and that the overall stress response at the stand level results from species-specific and size-dependent individual tree growth and mortality. Second, reviewing respective peer-reviewed literature (24 papers) and complementing findings by own measurements (22 experiments) from temperate and Mediterranean monospecific and mixed-species forests, we are able to reveal main causes for deviations of tree-level and stand-level findings regarding drought stress responses. Using a long-term experiment in Norway spruce ( Picea abies (L.) KARST.) and European beech ( Fagus sylvatica L.), we provide evidence that the species-dependent and size-dependent reactions matter and how the size–frequency distribution affects the scaling. We show by examples that tree-level derived results may overestimate growth losses by 25%. Third, we investigate the development of the growth dominance coefficient based on measurements gathered at the Bavarian forest climate stations. We show that drought changes stand biomass partitioning in favour of small trees, reduce social differentiation, and homogenize the vertical structure of forests. Finally, we discuss the drought-related consequences of the social class-specific growth reaction patterns for inventory and monitoring and highlight the importance of these findings for understanding site-specific stand dynamics, for forest modelling, and for silvicultural management. | Tracing drought effects from the tree to the stand growth in temperate and Mediterranean forests: insights and consequences for forest ecology and management | 10.1007/s10342-022-01451-x |
2022-08-01 | Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a disease characterized by the production of viscous mucoid secretions in multiple organs, particularly the airways. The pathological increase of proteins, mucin and biological polymers determines their arrangement into a three-dimensional polymeric network, affecting the whole mucus and impairing the muco-ciliary clearance which promotes inflammation and bacterial infection. Thus, to improve the efficacy of the drugs usually applied in CF therapy (e.g., mucolytics, anti-inflammatory and antibiotics), an in-depth understanding of the mucus nanostructure is of utmost importance. Drug diffusivity inside a gel-like system depends on the ratio between the diffusing drug molecule radius and the mesh size of the network. Based on our previous findings, we propose the combined use of rheology and low field NMR to study the mesh size distribution of the sputum from CF patients. Specifically, we herein explore the effects of chest physiotherapy on CF sputum characteristic as evaluated by rheology, low field NMR and the drug penetration through the mucus via mathematical simulation. These data show that chest physiotherapy has beneficial effects on patients, as it favourably modifies sputum and enhances drug penetration through the respiratory mucus. Graphical abstract | Effect of chest physiotherapy on cystic fibrosis sputum nanostructure: an experimental and theoretical approach | 10.1007/s13346-022-01131-8 |
2022-08-01 | We investigated electrochemical sensing of ascorbic acid by Au-MoS 2 /NiO modified glassy carbon electrode. The MoS 2 , NiO, MoS 2 /NiO were prepared by hydrothermal, and Au-MoS 2 /NiO was prepared chemical reduction method. The characterization of Au-MoS 2 /NiO composite was carried out using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy. The electrochemical characteristics of the Au-MoS 2 /NiO composite were examined by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Then, differential pulse voltammetry responses of Au-MoS 2 /NiO modified glassy carbon electrode were detected towards the ascorbic acid in phosphate buffer (0.1 M, pH=7). The ascorbic acid sensor represented low detection limit of 0.13 µM with linear range of 2–50 µM, revealing that this sensor gave satisfactory responses. The practical feasibility of the obtained sensor was assessed for the detection of ascorbic acid in Vitamin C tablet. We believe that this study could help different studies for producing commercially ascorbic acid sensors. | Preparation of gold decorated MoS2/NiO nanocomposite in the production of a new electrochemical sensor for ascorbic acid detection | 10.1007/s11814-021-1039-2 |
2022-08-01 | This study presents high-precision analyses of stable potassium (K) isotope ratio using the recently-developed, collision-cell multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (CC-MC-ICP-MS, Nu Sapphire). The accuracy of our analyses is confirmed by measuring well-characterized geostandards (including rocks and seawater). Our results are consistent with literature values and a precision of 0.04‰ (2SD) has been achieved based on multiple measurements of BCR-2 geostandard over a six-month period. We also evaluate factors that may lead to artificial isotope fractionations, including the mismatches in K concentration and acid molarity between samples and bracketing standards, as well as potential matrices. As the K adsorption capacity of AGW50-X8 (200–400 mesh) is reduced with an increasing amount of matrix elements, less than 150 µg K was loaded during the column chemistry. To evaluate the potential use of K isotopes as an archive of paleo seawater composition, δ 41 K values of an international seawater standard (IAPSO), a Mn-nodule (NOD-P-1), and two iron formation standards (FeR-2 and FeR-4) are reported. The δ 41 K value of IAPSO is consistent with other seawater samples reported previously, further substantiating a homogeneous K isotopic distribution in modern global oceans. The K isotopes in Mn-nodule (NOD-P-1: −0.121±0.013‰) and iron formation samples (FeR-2: −0.538±0.009‰; FeR-4: −0.401±0.008‰) seem to be an effective tracer of their formation genesis and compositional changes of ancient seawater. Our results suggest that high-precision measurements of stable K isotopes can be routinely obtained and open up a large variety of geological applications, such as continental weathering, hydrothermal circulation and alteration of oceanic crust. | High-precision potassium isotope analysis using the Nu Sapphire collision cell (CC)-MC-ICP-MS | 10.1007/s11430-022-9948-6 |
2022-08-01 | CO 2 electroreduction to formate is technically feasible and economically viable, but still suffers from low selectivity and high overpotential at industrial current densities. Here, lattice-distorted metallic nanosheets with disorder-engineered metal sites are designed for industrial-current-density CO 2 -to-formate conversion at low overpotentials. As a prototype, richly lattice-distorted bismuth nanosheets are first constructed, where abundant disorder-engineered Bi sites could be observed by high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy image. In-situ Fourier-transform infrared spectra reveal the CO 2 •−* group is the key intermediate, while theoretical calculations suggest the electron-enriched Bi sites could effectively lower the CO 2 activation energy barrier by stabilizing the CO 2 •−* intermediate, further affirmed by the decreased formation energy from 0.49 to 0.39 eV. As a result, the richly lattice-distorted Bi nanosheets exhibit the ultrahigh current density of 800 mA·cm −2 with 91% Faradaic efficiencies for CO 2 -to-formate electroreduction, and the formate selectivity can reach nearly 100% at the current density of 200 mA·cm −2 with a very low overpotential of ca. 570 mV, outperforming most reported metal-based electrocatalysts. | Industrial-current-density CO2-to-formate conversion with low overpotentials enabled by disorder-engineered metal sites | 10.1007/s12274-022-4335-1 |
2022-08-01 | This paper examines the performance of the proposed low DIBL Gate all around FET (GAAFET) based 6 T and 7 T SRAM cells on enhancing stability for low power applications. GAAFETs are used in cross-coupled inverter circuitry to increase the stability of proposed 6 T and 7 T SRAM cells as these cross-coupled inverters provide the closest ideal voltage transfer characteristics (VTC) due to the earlier saturation effect. The calibration of the simulation setup has also been done in this paper before using GAAFET in SRAM cell design. Moreover, the Look-up table-based Verilog A approach is adopted in the paper for device circuit co-design. Proposed 6 T SRAM cell is analysed for the performance metrics like read static noise margin (RSNM), write margin (WM), read delay, write delay, read power and write power at various supply voltages (V DD ) and further be improved to the proposed 7 T SRAM cell. The proposed 7 T SRAM enhances RSNM and WM by 55.56% and 24.60%, respectively, and also reduces read and write power consumption by 6.50% and 88.76%, respectively, as compared to DP-DGTFET based 7 T SRAM cell at V DD = 0.6 V. Furthermore, proposed 7 T SRAM reduces read and write delay by 62.95% and 74.93% respectively at V DD = 0.6 V as well. The power gating technique is used in the proposed 7 T SRAM to reduce leakage power by 37.18%, and 80.81% compared to the 6 T CMOS SRAM and proposed GAAFET based 6 T SRAM cell, respectively. Therefore, the proposed 7 T SRAM cell could be used for high stability and low power applications. | GAAFET based SRAM Cell to Enhance Stability for Low Power Applications | 10.1007/s12633-021-01580-9 |
2022-08-01 | Very low-pressure reactive plasma spraying (VLP-RPS) was applied to in situ synthesized composite titanium oxide coatings at different spraying distances, with titanium powder and oxygen injected into the high-temperature plasma jet. The resulting coatings contained mixed phases of TiO2, Ti2O3, and Ti2O, and possessed dense and layered microstructures. As the spraying distance increased from 400 to 900 mm, the oxidation of the titanium powder was more complete, and the mass fraction of the TiO2 phase in the coating increased from 12.4 to 38.6%. At the same time, the porosity of the coating correspondingly increased from 0.70 to 2.40%. Meanwhile, the average hardness of the titanium oxide coatings varied from 8.7 to 10.2 GPa, which was higher than that of TiO2 coating (8 GPa or so) prepared by other traditional spraying methods. | A New Method of Preparing In situ Synthesized Titanium Oxide Coatings by Very Low-pressure Reactive Plasma Spraying | 10.1007/s11666-022-01399-9 |
2022-08-01 | As far as miniaturization of devices are being continue in semiconductor market, there are alternative option has been discovered by the researcher. It is well known that Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS) devices have vast applications in various emerging fields from medical to defense. However, there are certain drawbacks of MOSFET such as limited value of Sub-threshold swing (SS) and higher power dissipation. To overcome these limitations, Tunnel FET (TFETs) are being considered appropriate device for the replacement of MOSFET. However, TFETs have small ON current, high ambipolar current, and typically slower device compared to the MOSFET. However, TFETs have some distinctive characteristics like subthreshold swing (SS) less than 60 mV/dec., band to band tunneling (BTBT) mechanism make it more immune to schottky defects and operate at minimum value of threshold voltage. Due to these unique properties, it is realized to replace the MOSFET with TFET. In this review paper, we have made a comparative analysis of electrical parameters among various TFET structures. We also discussed various techniques to mitigate the ambipolar current in TFET through various engineering technique like structural engineering, drain engineering, dielectric engineering etc. The impact of interface trap charges on electrical parameters for various device architecture are studied using Gaussian and Uniform doping profile in this paper. A comparative study of electrical parameters among various TFET architectures are reported. | Methods to Reduce Ambipolar Current of Various TFET Structures: a Review | 10.1007/s12633-021-01458-w |
2022-08-01 | Abstract The paper presents the results of developing and testing a new resource-saving technology of processing low-grade oxide and carbonate manganese ores in a jet-emulsion unit. The basic principles of creating a jet unit and the technology of processing fine manganese ores are considered. A reducing gas, which is a product of implementing the manganese reduction technology in the jet-emulsion unit, is proposed as the means of the preliminary reduction of manganese from higher-grade oxides or decomposition of carbonates as well as for removing moisture from the ore. Thus, it is proposed to close the process, that is, create a consistent flow of matter and energy passing through the main jet-emulsion unit and the preparatory unit of the fluidized bed. The main task of designing the proposed technology is to determine the consumption of crude ore in the fluidized bed unit to obtain a given yield of the intermediate product and, at the same time, ensure the possibility of completely converting higher oxides or crude ore carbonates to low oxides with the help of the reducing gas produced in the main unit. To solve this problem, an optimization task is set and implemented. The first stage is the selection of a composition and consumption of the reducing gas and determination of the consumption of the original manganese ore, which ensures the output of a preset amount of intermediate product. The second stage is the optimization of the output and composition of the gas that should ensure the reduction process in the second unit. The paper presents the results of designing the technology of processing in the jet-emulsion unit for the oxide ore of the Selezen’skoe deposit and the carbonate ore of the Usinskoe deposits. A comparative analysis of the processing of manganese ores by the proposed technology and by the technology without preliminary reduction and roasting is made. The proposed technology of processing manganese ores in a closed-cycle jet-emulsion unit allows significantly reducing the specific costs of materials, increase productivity, and significantly reduces the energy intensity of the process compared to the processing of low-grade manganese ores without preliminary reduction or roasting. | Determination of Optimal Process Modes of Producing Manganese Alloys from Low-Grade Carbonate and Oxide Ores in Jet-Emulsion Unit | 10.3103/S0967091222080113 |
2022-08-01 | Numerous researchers have addressed the complexity of the direct flotation separation of apatite from low-grade phosphate ore. The majority of these studies were limited to the micro-flotation scale. In fact, there is no warranty that a reagent scheme that showed a direct flotation of apatite at a micro-flotation scale on pure minerals would automatically replicate the same expected results on the natural ore in the mechanical flotation cell and so was the case for the phosphate ore studied. The overall trend was concentrating apatite in the non-float product. This study aspired to thoroughly assess the flotation performance of this never-exploited low-grade sedimentary phosphate using design of experiments (DOE). Unveiling new insights on such a strategy twist, various parameters and operating conditions, namely, desliming, type of collector and depressant, reagents dosages, conditioning times, flotation time, and pH, were addressed by multiple-factor screening using asymmetrical fractional factorial design followed by statistical interpretations. The collectors tested were the sodium oleate and a fatty acid mixture (FAM). The depressants tested were sodium alginate (NaAL), corn starch, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), and sodium silicate. The results of the multivariable analysis revealed that desliming, pH, collector dosage, and flotation time significantly influenced the flotation process. Desliming was beneficial for the yield, P 2 O 5 recovery, and SiO 2 removal; however, there was still a compromise between grade and recovery. A strongly alkaline pH value of 12 stood out from the whole range. P 2 O 5 , CO 2 , and SiO 2 grades of the products and flotation recoveries were improved, except for P 2 O 5 recovery, which was negatively affected. A collector dosage between 2000 and 3000 g/t increased the P 2 O 5 grade and reduced CO 2 grade and recovery, enhancing the apatite/carbonates separation. A flotation time of 15 min was significant for P 2 O 5 grade and CO 2 recovery, nevertheless, at the expense of yield and P 2 O 5 recovery. The products having initial concentrates of 28.08% P 2 O 5 with a recovery of 88.96% and 29.41% P 2 O 5 with a recovery of 62.71% were obtained using 25 g/t of NaAL and 2000 g/t of the collector FAM and sodium oleate, respectively, at pH 12. | Flotation Tendency Assessment Through DOE: Case of Low-Grade Moroccan Phosphate Ore | 10.1007/s42461-022-00647-4 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract The recovery of lower aliphatic alcohols from dilute aqueous solutions presents a demanding task for solving a number of problems including the generation of energy from renewable raw materials. One of the promising processes for concentrating alcohols is the membrane vapor separation method using water-selective membranes. In this work, the transport and separation characteristics of the industrial nanofiltration membrane NaRM, manufactured by JSC RM Nanotech, in the separation of vapor mixtures of water and aliphatic C 1 –C 4 alcohols at a temperature of 60°C have been studied. It has been shown that the transport and separation characteristics of the membrane used in the vapor phase process undergo a significant change, which is associated with the gradual removal of glycerol used as a preserving agent. The obtained stable values demonstrate high water vapor permeability, at the level of commercial pervaporation membranes, and the water/alcohol selectivity in the range of 25–45. The results of the study can help to expand the scope of practical application of the domestic membrane in the processes of recovery of alcohols from dilute aqueous solutions using the membrane vapor separation method. | Vapor Phase Separation of Water–Alcohol Mixtures with Industrial Nanofiltration Membrane NaRM | 10.1134/S2517751622040084 |
2022-08-01 | Globally, cocoa is considered an extensively consumed flavor across the food and beverage industry. However, the majority of cocoa products have a large amount of sugar and fat content. Therefore, manufacturers of cocoa-based products are focusing on the commercialization of healthier and innovative cocoa products that contain sugar and fat. High-quality and low-calorie cocoa products can be developed using the right ingredients which can replace fat and sugar without negative impact on the product characteristics. For sugar replacement nutritive sweeteners or sugar alcohols, non-nutritive sweeteners or high potency sweeteners and low digestibility carbohydrates are generally used. For fat substitution cocoa butter equivalents, cocoa butter replacers, cocoa butter substitutes along with vegetable fat and oil replacers are used. This review discusses the effect of sugar and fat substitution on the textural and rheological properties, sensory acceptance, and calorific value of the end cocoa-based products. | Low calorie cocoa-based products: a short review | 10.1007/s13197-021-05223-0 |
2022-08-01 | Phase noise, lock range, lock time, and power consumption are becoming the dominant performance parameters in a charge pump phase locked loop (CP-PLL) especially at high frequencies. Though the PLL is having several blocks, the voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) is the most impactful block considering the above parameters. Hence, it has been a call for better designing using the MOSFETs of a VCO circuit for an efficient PLL for several decades. In this work a VCO circuit is designed which uses the sleepy stack transistors to reduce the leakage current and later the new VCO is incorporated the PLL. With a wide lock range, this novel PLL architecture promises to offer better phase noise lock time and power consumption. This is possible due to the low leakage current that is produced by the stack transistors in the VCO. To support the above claims, the PLL using current starved stack VCO is designed and simulated in 90 nm CMOS technology. The simulation results shows that the VCO exhibits a phase noise of −78.28 dBc/Hz @1 MHz offset frequency while the PLL incorporating the same VCO has a lock range of 1.3GHz–1.5GHz. The power dissipation of the PLL is 46.05 μW, and the figure of merit (FOM) of the PLL is calculated to be −91.75 dBc/Hz. | Impact of Sleepy Stack MOSFETs in CS-VCO on Phase Noise and Lock Performance of PLL | 10.1007/s12633-021-01446-0 |
2022-08-01 | Antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (CIP) remain in aquatic environments, causing environmental and public health disturbances. Furthermore, in traditional wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), those compounds are not removed efficiently; owing to the effluent complexity and the ions present in it. The CIP degradation was assessed in real (RWW) and simulated (SWW) effluents of a WWTP, using the activated persulfate mechanism with the magnetic fraction (MF) of a low-grade titanium ore and simulated sunlight (SSL). All tests were performed in a 1000 mL raceway reactor under SSL. CIP and persulfate concentrations were measured using a high-performance liquid chromatography and UV spectroscopy, respectively. A 100% removal of CIP was achieved for RWW and SWW in 15 and 60 min, respectively without residual persulfate. These results may indicate that the contents of nitrate, chloride and total solids present in these samples of wastewater, did not have a significant negative effect on the CIP degradation efficiency. The final pH average value (~ 8.5) of real and simulated wastewater tests may indicate the presence of both hydroxyl and sulfate radicals without pH modification needed. However, only the sulfate radical was identified in the tests. An increase in toxicity was observed in the CIP degradation test with SWW (11%) and RWW (0.8%), which might be associated with the presence of CIP transformation products. The biodegradability also increased after the treatment. Both data showed that the MF-PS-SSL system produced an effluent that can be discharged or eventually treated using biological processes for indirect potable water reuse. These results highlight the use of the magnetic fraction as a strong alternative Fe 2+ source instead of costly commercial compounds, for wastewater treatment, which allows the valorization of a raw material generally rejected in conventional TiO 2 production. | Enhanced ciprofloxacin degradation via photo-activated persulfate using the effluent of a large wastewater treatment plant | 10.1007/s11244-022-01666-7 |
2022-08-01 | Purpose The pH (low) insertion peptide (pHLIP) family can target the tumor microenvironment (TME). If pHLIP can be labeled with radioiodine, the imaging and treatment of tumors can be considered. However, tyrosine and tryptophan can bind with iodine in the insertion region of pHLIP, and radioiodine labeling may affect the formation of α-helix structures in acidic environments; therefore, it is necessary to adjust the structure of pHLIP. This study aims to develop an 125 I-labeled pH (low) insertion peptide variant 7-like peptide (pHLIP (Var7) LP) for imaging the TME in MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) xenograft tumor models. Procedures Based on pHLIP (Var7), a new peptide sequence, pHLIP (Var7) LP, was obtained by the sequence modification method and then characterized. The binding of pHLIP (Var7) LP to MDA-MB-231 cells was analyzed. pHLIP (Var7) LP was labeled with 125 I by the iodogen iodination method. Serial biodistribution studies and small-animal single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/computed tomography (CT) imaging in subcutaneous MDA-MB-231 TNBC-bearing mice were performed using [ 125 I] I-pHLIP (Var7) LP. Results A novel peptide, pHLIP (Var7) LP, has the characteristics of an α-helix structure, electronegativity, and amphiphilicity. Circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy showed that the peptide presented a typical pH-dependent transition from an unstructured conformation to an α-helix structure when the pH was reduced from 8.0 to 4.0. The relative fluorescence intensities of 5-carboxytetramethylrhodamine (5-TAMRA)-pHLIP(var7) LP at pH = 6.0, 6.6, and 7.4 were 100.00 ± 5.98%, 72.10 ± 4.65%, and 13.72 ± 1.41%, respectively. The distribution of [ 125 I] I-pHLIP (Var7) LP in tumors reached the highest level (8.7 ± 1.6% ID/g) at 2 h after injection, and the tumor-to-muscle ratios and tumor-to-blood ratios increased with time. Of the measured off-target organs, the stomach, kidney, and bladder showed higher uptake levels. SPECT imaging revealed rapid and sustained tumor uptake of [ 125 I] I-pHLIP (Var7) LP in breast cancer-bearing mice. Conclusions This study showed that [ 125 I]I-pHLIP (Var7)LP had rapid and sustained tumor uptake in MDA-MB-231 TNBC and provided a new method for TNBC imaging and further treatment. | Synthesis and Evaluation of Radioiodine-Labeled pH (Low) Insertion Peptide Variant 7-Like Peptide as a Noninvasive Tumor Microenvironment Imaging Agent in a Mouse MDA-MB-231 Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Model | 10.1007/s11307-021-01702-0 |
2022-08-01 | The construction of artificial shelter forests (ASFs) has resulted in substantial ecological, economic, and societal benefits to the Chinese Loess Plateau (CLP). However, the health and benefits of ASFs are being increasingly threatened by the formation of low-efficiency artificial shelter forests (LEASFs). In this study, LEASFs are systematically analyzed in terms of their status, formation mechanisms, and developmental obstacles. The key restoration techniques and schemes were summarized to improve the quality and efficiency of LEASFs. LEASFs are formed by relatively complex mechanisms, but they arise mainly due to poor habitat conditions, improper tree species selections, mismatch between stands and habitat, extensive forest management measures, and human interferences. The restoration and improvement of LEASFs are hindered by water deficits, mismatch between stands and habitat, single management purpose, and low efficiency. LEASFs are becoming more complex due to their wide range, the challenges associated with their restoration, and insufficient technological measures for their restoration. The key techniques of the quality and efficiency improvement of LEASFs include basic forest tending methods, near-natural restoration, multifunction-oriented improvement, and systematic restoration. An understanding on the formation mechanisms of LEASFs and a scientific approach toward their restoration are urgently needed and critical for the ecological protection and high-quality development of LEASFs on the CLP. Based on these analyses, we recommend strengthening the monitoring and supervision of LEASFs, considering the bearing capacity of regional water resources, implementing multiple restoration techniques, promoting multifunction-oriented ecological development, and exploring new management concepts to achieve the sustainable development of ASFs on the CLP. | Formation mechanisms and remediation techniques for low-efficiency artificial shelter forests on the Chinese Loess Plateau | 10.1007/s40333-022-0069-x |
2022-08-01 | Reorganization of cellular proteins into subcellular compartments, such as the concentration of RNA-binding proteins into cytoplasmic stress granules and P-bodies, is a well-recognized, widely studied physiological process currently under intense investigation. One example of this is the induction of the yeast Nab3 transcription termination factor to rearrange from its pan-nucleoplasmic distribution to a granule at the nuclear periphery in response to nutrient limitation. Recent work in many cell types has shown that protein condensation in the nucleus is functionally important for transcription initiation, RNA processing, and termination. However, little is known about how subnuclear compartments form. Here, we have quantitatively analyzed this dynamic process in living yeast using a high-throughput computational tool and fluorescence microscopy. This analysis revealed that Nab3 granule accumulation varies in penetrance across yeast strains. A concentrated single granule is formed from at least a quarter of the nuclear Nab3 drawn from the rest of the nucleus. Levels of granule accumulation were inversely correlated with a growth defect in the absence of glucose. Importantly, the basis for some of the variation in penetrance was attributable to a defect in mitochondrial function. This publicly available computational tool provides a rigorous, reproducible, and unbiased examination of Nab3 granule accumulation that should be widely applicable to a variety of fluorescent images. Thousands of live cells can be readily examined enabling rigorous statistical verification of significance. With it, we describe a new feature of inducible subnuclear compartment formation for RNA-binding transcription factors and an important determinant of granule biogenesis. | Variable penetrance of Nab3 granule accumulation quantified by a new tool for high-throughput single-cell granule analysis | 10.1007/s00294-022-01234-2 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract The aim of this paper is to study the modes and determine the patterns of plasma-chemical processing in a fluoride plasma of a silicon surface locally modified with gallium ions. Experimental and theoretical studies of the interaction of the surface of silicon wafers with focused ion beams (FIB) and fluoride plasma are carried out. The general regularities of the influence of the FIB and plasma-chemical etching (PCE) modes on the etching rate, surface roughness, and the angle of inclination of the structure walls are determined, and the manifestation of activation and masking effects during the PCE of a silicon surface locally modified by FIB is established. It is found that, in the case of the masking effect, the selectivity is 195.26, and the rate of formation of structures by the combination of FIB and PCE methods is 3.23 nm/s. | Formation of Nanosized Structures on the Silicon Surface by a Combination of Focused Ion Beam Methods and Plasma-Chemical Etching | 10.1134/S1063739722030064 |
2022-08-01 | Objective To analyze an intervention that delivered tailored clinic staff training on postpartum depression (PPD) followed by awareness raising and social support aimed at lowering PPD among low-income Bedouin women in southern Israel. Methods We conducted a non-randomized controlled trial at two women’s health clinics. The study included 332 of the 384 eligible women recruited at baseline (intervention = 169, control = 163), who completed two face-to-face interviews, one at 26–38 weeks of pregnancy (Time 1) and one 2–4 months postpartum (Time 2). PPD was measured by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and dichotomized using a ≥ 10 score cutoff. We calculated EPDS change (rate difference of dichotomous EPDS from Time 1 to Time 2) (no change, positive change, or negative change), and compared EPDS changes in a control clinic vs. an intervention clinic. Results The intervention group showed a greater decrease in dichotomous EPDS ≥ 10 between times 1 and 2 (38.5% to 17.2%) than the control group (31.9% to 29.4%, PV = 0.008). Multinomial logistic regression showed that high PPD awareness significantly contributed to positive EPDS change in the intervention group (PV = 0.003) and high social support significantly protected against negative EPDS change in both groups, intervention (PV = 0.001) and control (PV = 0.003). Conclusions In low-income women, an intervention focusing on increasing PPD awareness and social support following staff training was associated with reduced EPDS and positive EPDS change following the intervention. Similar interventions should be implemented in women’s clinics during pregnancy. Clinical Trial Registry ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02862444. | A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial for Reducing Postpartum Depression in Low-Income Minority Women at Community-Based Women’s Health Clinics | 10.1007/s10995-022-03434-1 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract The photoluminescence from the surface of a polymer Nafion membrane upon its swelling in isotonic aqueous solutions and doubly distilled water has been studied. Liquid samples were previously subjected to electrical pulses with widths of 1 µs and amplitudes of 0.1 V, generated by an antenna shaped as parallel-plate capacitor. The photoluminescence spectroscopy experiments were performed 20 min after the treatment. The typical dependence of the luminescence intensity on the swelling time t can be presented by an exponentially decreasing function. The characteristic decay time of these functions and the steady-state level of luminescence intensity depend on the repetition rate of electrical pulses; the experimental dependences are reproduced well. It was found that, at some pulse repetition rates, the time dependence of the luminescence intensity I ( t ) is a random function, and there is no reproducibility. Stochastic effects are related to the random external force of electromagnetic nature, which acts on a polymer membrane upon swelling. In our opinion, this random force is caused by low-frequency pulsations of neutron stars or white dwarfs. | Ultra-Low-Frequency Oscillations of Luminescence Intensity for a Polymer-Membrane in Aqueous Salt Solutions. Dependence on the Isotopic Composition | 10.3103/S1541308X22040021 |
2022-08-01 | Objective The aim of this study was to investigate the biological effects of occupational extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) exposure on the thyroid gland. Methods We conducted a prospective analysis of 85 workers (exposure group) exposed to an ELF-EMF (100 μT, 10–100 Hz) produced by the electromagnetic aircraft launch system and followed up on thyroid function indices, immunological indices, and color Doppler images for 3 years. Additionally, 116 healthy volunteers were randomly selected as controls (control group), the thyroid function of whom was compared to the exposure group. Results No significant difference was observed in thyroid function between the exposure and control groups. During the follow-up of the exposure group, the serum free triiodothyronine (FT3) level was found to slowly decrease and free thyroxine (FT4) level slowly increase with increasing exposure time. However, no significant difference was found in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) over the three years, and no significant difference was observed in the FT3, FT4 and TSH levels between different exposure subgroups. Furthermore, no significant changes were observed in thyroid autoantibody levels and ultrasound images between subgroups or over time. Conclusion Long-term exposure to ELF-EMF may promote thyroid secretion of T4 and inhibit deiodination of T4 to T3. ELF-EMF has no significant effect on thyroid immune function and morphology. | Effect of Occupational Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field Exposure on the Thyroid Gland of Workers: A Prospective Study | 10.1007/s11596-022-2610-8 |
2022-08-01 | Objectives To explore the associations between higher antibiotic use rates (AURs) and adverse outcomes in very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) infants without culture-proven sepsis or necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in a multicenter of China. Methods A prospective cohort study was performed on VLBW infants admitted to 24 neonatal intensive care units from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2018. AUR was calculated as calendar days of antibiotic therapy divided by total hospital days. The composite primary outcome was defined as mortality or severe morbidity, including any of the following: severe neurologic injury, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and stage 3 or higher retinopathy of prematurity. Results A total of 1,034 VLBW infants who received antibiotics without culture-proven sepsis or NEC were included in this study. The overall AUR of eligible VLBW infants was 55%, and the AUR of each eligible VLBW infant ranged from 3 to 100%, with a median of 56% (IQR 33%, 86%). After generalized propensity score and logistic regression analysis of 4 groups of VLBW infants with different AUR range, infants in the higher quartile AUR, (Q3, 0.57~0.86) and (Q4, 0.87~1.00), had higher odds of composite primary outcome (adjusted OR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.23–2.67; adjusted OR 2.37; 95% CI: 1.59–3.54, respectively) and BPD (adjusted OR: 3.09; 95% CI: 1.52–6.57; adjusted OR 3.17; 95% CI: 1.56–6.57, respectively) than those in the lowest AUR (Q1). Conclusions Antibiotic overexposure in VLBW infants without culture-proven sepsis or NEC was associated with increased risk of composite primary outcome and BPD. Rational empirical antibiotic use in VLBW infants is urgently needed in China. | Association Between Antibiotic Overexposure and Adverse Outcomes in Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants Without Culture-Proven Sepsis or Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Multicenter Prospective Study | 10.1007/s12098-021-04023-w |
2022-08-01 | Switched reluctance generator is widely used in the field of wind power generation. The efficiency of generators was usually related to the deviation angle. Compared with the single stator type switched reluctance motor, these dual-stator type switched reluctance motor models have the advantages of high accuracy, fast response and small size. An optimization method based on fuzzy algorithm and parameter scanning is proposed to improve the low speed performance of high efficiency generator. Taking the maximum output power, system efficiency and torque smoothing coefficient of DDSRG as the optimization goals, the effects of the turn-on angle, turn-off angle and reference current on the optimization goal are analyzed. The multi-objective optimization function is constructed, and the optimal combination value is obtained. The experiment proved that the parameter-controlled multi-objective optimization method could effectively improve the comprehensive performance of DDSRG in low-speed operation state. | Multi-objective optimization of control parameters of deflectable dual-stator switched reluctance generator at low speed | 10.1007/s00202-022-01491-x |
2022-08-01 | Purpose Leg cycling exercise acutely augments radial artery low-flow mediated constriction (L-FMC). Herein, we sought to determine whether this is associated with exercise-induced changes in arterial shear rate (SR). Methods Ten healthy and recreationally active young men (23 ± 2 years) participated in 30 min of incremental leg cycling exercise (50, 100, 150 Watts). Trials were repeated with (Exercise + WC) and without (Exercise) the use of a wrist cuff (75 mmHg) placed distal to the radial artery to increase local retrograde SR while reducing mean and anterograde SR. Radial artery characteristics were measured throughout the trial, and L-FMC and flow mediated dilatation (FMD) were assessed before and acutely (~ 10 min) after leg cycling. Results Exercise increased radial artery mean and anterograde SR, along with radial artery diameter, velocity, blood flow and conductance ( P < 0.05). Exercise + WC attenuated the exercise-induced increase in mean and anterograde SR ( P > 0.05) but also increased retrograde SR ( P < 0.05). In addition, increases in radial artery blood flow and diameter were reduced during Exercise + WC (Exercise + WC vs. Exercise, P < 0.05). After Exercise, L-FMC was augmented (− 4.4 ± 1.4 vs. − 13.1 ± 1.6%, P < 0.05), compared to no change in L-FMC after Exercise + WC (− 5.2 ± 2.0 vs. − 3.0 ± 1.6%, P > 0.05). In contrast, no change in FMD was observed in either Exercise or Exercise + WC trials ( P > 0.05). Conclusions These findings indicate that increases in L-FMC following exercise are abolished by the prevention of increases radial artery diameter, mean and anterograde SR, and by elevation of retrograde SR, during exercise in young men. | Impact of acute dynamic exercise and arterial shear rate modification on radial artery low-flow mediated constriction in young men | 10.1007/s00421-022-04963-x |
2022-08-01 | Micro Aerial Vehicles (MAVs) are state of the art in the aerospace industry and are involved in many operations. The reduced dimensions of these vehicles generate very low Reynolds number conditions in which separation-induced transition typically occurs. The extremely large computational cost of scale resolving simulations, which are capable of capturing laminar to turbulent transition, is prohibitive for most engineering and design applications. Therefore, it becomes very interesting to couple transition models with conventional Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) simulations to allow the prediction of transition to turbulence at a reduced computational cost. This paper performs an investigation of the application of the $$\gamma \text{-Re }_{\theta }$$ γ -Re θ transition model analysing different empirical correlations available in literature and studying the influence of the relevant model parameters using the commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code STAR-CCM+. The flow around the Eppler 387, Selig/Donovan 7003 and Ishii airfoils has been studied for different Reynolds numbers and angles of attack comparing the drag and lift forces and separation bubble characteristics with experimental and numerical results reported in literature. | Validation of the
$$\gamma \text{-Re }_{\theta }$$
γ
-Re
θ
Transition Model for Airfoils Operating in the Very Low Reynolds Number Regime | 10.1007/s10494-022-00331-z |
2022-08-01 | To investigate whether low-level laser therapy (LLLT), at different times of application (immediate and late) in the region of the parotid glands, has a distance effect on the microarchitecture of the trabecular bone in mandible of rats irradiated by volumetric modular arc therapy (VMAT). Thirty adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into placebo control groups (CG, n = 2), only radiotherapy (RG, n = 2), only LPLT (LG, n = 2), and two other groups using LLLT in the immediate time (24 h) (ILG, n = 12) and late (120 h) (LLG, n = 12) to radiotherapy by VMAT in a single dose of 12 Gy. LLLT with AsGaAl laser (660 nm, 100 mW), a spot size of 0.0028 cm 2 , was applied in three points in the region of the right parotid gland, with energy of 2 J/cm 2 , 20 s per point, for 10 consecutive days. After euthanasia, the right hemimandibles of each animal were dissected, prepared, and analyzed by computerized microtomography (micro-CT) and histomorphometry. The different groups were analyzed by the Tukey and Bonferroni multiple comparison tests. The micro-CT analysis found statistically significant differences between the groups, especially in the LLG, which had the highest average bone volume compared to the CG ( p = 0.001) and ILG ( p = 0.002) and a greater number of trabeculae than the CG ( p = 0.000) and ILG ( p = 0.031). The ILG also had a higher number of trabeculae than the CG ( p = 0.005). Trabecula separation (Tb.Sp) was lower in the LLG ( p = 0.000) and ILG ( p = 0.002) when compared to the CG. In the histomorphometry, there was no statistical difference between the groups in relation to all the analyzed variables. Micro-CT analysis showed that the LLLT, even applied at a distance, both in the immediate and late VMAT times, has an effect on the mandibular bone microarchitecture by increasing the volume and number of trabeculae and decreasing the spaces between them. | Micro-CT analysis of the mandibular bone microarchitecture of rats after radiotherapy and low-power laser therapy | 10.1007/s10103-022-03532-0 |
2022-08-01 | Background The skin is constantly exposed to various external stimuli including humidity variations. Low humidity affects skin properties such as decreased water content of the stratum corneum, reduced skin elasticity, and itching. However, the effects of humidity on the skin cells are not completely understood. This study aimed to investigate how low humidity affects keratinocytes of the skin. Methods and results In the present study, the effects of dry environment on the gene expression profile of epidermal keratinocytes were demonstrated using a three-dimensional skin model (3D-skin), composed of keratinocytes. Exposure of 3D-skin to low humidity (relative humidity ~ 10%) increased the expression levels of various genes, including those related to signal transduction and immune system. Accordingly, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling in keratinocytes of the 3D-skin was activated in response to low humidity for 30 min. Additionally, several chemokines, such as chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1 (CXCL1) and Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 20 (CCL20), were up regulated after 3 h of exposure to low humidity. Conclusions We hypothesize that increased chemokine production may affect the immune system of the whole skin through chemoattractants. Our findings imply that keratinocytes sense low humidity and resultant activation of some cell-signaling pathways leads to variations in gene expression profiles including various chemokines. We provide evidence that keratinocytes adapt to external humidity variations. | Low humidity altered the gene expression profile of keratinocytes in a three-dimensional skin model | 10.1007/s11033-022-07549-0 |
2022-08-01 | Abstract— The article examines the long-term multiplier effects of the low-carbon development of foreign markets and the energy industry in Russia. Based on a scenario approach, the sensitivity of the forecast dynamics of the Russian economy to perturbations of key FEC parameters is assessed. Calculations on the interindustry model showed that the slowdown of the global demand for energy resources, together with the reduction of investment in the fuel industries and the accelerated rise in the cost of electricity can hinder the development of the economy. This slowdown is not so critical, because it is partly compensated by increased capital investment in the electric power industry and an increase in the energy efficiency of production in the country under conditions of low-carbon development. | Russia’s Long-Term Macroeconomic Losses and Benefits from the Low-Carbon Development of the World and Domestic Energy Industry | 10.1134/S1075700722040050 |
2022-08-01 | Background: Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) have been used to enhance bone healing in distraction osteogenesis (DO). The aim of this study was to assess the synergistic effect of BMP-2 and LIPUS on bone regeneration in DO and to determine the optimal treatment strategy for enhanced bone regeneration. Methods: Rat mesenchymal stromal cells were treated with various application protocols of BMP-2 and LIPUS, and cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and osteogenesis-related marker expression were evaluated. In vivo experiments were performed in a rabbit DO model according to the application protocols with different timings of BMP-2 and LIPUS application. Results: Application of BMP-2 after LIPUS pretreatment (BMP-2 after LIPUS) showed greater cell proliferation than LIPUS treatment alone, and higher ALP activity than all other treatment protocols. BMP-2 after LIPUS also exhibited increased gene expression levels of ALP , Cbfa1 , and Osterix compared with LIPUS treatment alone. In vivo experiments revealed no significant differences in bone healing based on the timing of LIPUS treatment in DO. The combination of BMP-2 and LIPUS resulted in increased bone volume and bone mineral density compared with BMP-2 or LIPUS. Regarding the timing of BMP-2 application, the application of BMP-2 after LIPUS pretreatment led to greater bone volume than the application of BMP-2 before LIPUS. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that the combined treatment of BMP-2 and LIPUS can lead to enhanced bone healing in DO and that effective bone healing can be achieved through the application of LIPUS before BMP-2. | Enhanced Bone Regeneration by Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 after Pretreatment with Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound in Distraction Osteogenesis | 10.1007/s13770-022-00457-1 |
2022-08-01 | As a stenohaline species, the survival of Sepia pharaonis can be affected by salinity significantly. This study aimed to explore the function of decreasing salinity on the survival of Sepia pharaonis , which can provide an advanced production guide on the culture of S. pharaonis in the rainy season. Salinity was gradually decreased from 29 to 22 within 48 h to acclimate S. pharaonis to a low-salinity environment. After ten days of breeding under low-salinity of 22, the death rate was high. In this process, changes in tissue and cell structures in the larval liver, biochemical indicators, and osmoregulation-related gene expression were examined. Interestingly, hepatocytes in the low-salinity group were irregular, had dissolved tissue inclusions, and contained vacuolized cells. Therefore, low salinity caused severe damages at a cellular level that can elevate the mortality rate. A gradual decline in salinity limited the full adaptation of S. pharaonis. Biochemical indicators and osmoregulation-related gene expression changed similarly. For instance, the trend of malondialdehyde (MAD) as a product of lipid peroxidation reflected the degree of damage to the body by free radicals. The antioxidant system of S. pharaonis could cope with oxidative stress caused by the change in salinity to a certain extent. Osmoregulation-related genes’ expression also showed an optimistic result, that is, S. pharaonis responded positively to the change in salinity by adjusting the expression of osmoregulation-related genes. Conversely, the increase in mortality at day 10 also proved the weak adaptation capability of S. pharaonis. This study indicated that S. pharaonis can adapt to a low-salinity environment with a limited extent. | Physiological and Molecular Analyses of Low-Salinity Stress Response in the Cuttlefish (Sepia pharaonis) Juveniles | 10.1007/s11802-022-4880-y |
2022-08-01 | Objective To observe the clinical efficacy of warm needling moxibustion plus lumbar traction for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and its effect on Oswestry disability index (ODI) score, present pain intensity (PPI) score, and the degree of straight leg raising. Methods A total of 146 patients with LDH were randomized into a combination group and a control group by the random number table method, with 73 cases in each group. The control group was treated with lumbar traction, and the combination group was treated with lumbar traction plus warm needling moxibustion. The curative efficacy of the two groups was compared. Also, the lumbar function, pain, straight leg raising degree, and inflammatory factor levels before and after treatment were compared. Results The total effective rate of the combination group was 93.2%, which was higher than 78.1% of the control group ( P <0.05). After treatment, the lumbar ODI score, the PPI scores of lumbar pain and lower-limb pain, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6 levels, and straight leg raising test score in both groups were significantly decreased ( P <0.05). The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score significantly increased ( P <0.05). The improvements of the above items in the combination group were all superior to those in the control group ( P <0.05). Conclusion Warm needling moxibustion plus lumbar traction in the treatment of LDH can improve lumbar function, relieve pain, and reduce inflammatory response of the body. 目的 观察温针灸联合腰椎牵引治疗腰椎间盘突出症(LDH)的疗效及其对Oswestry功能障碍指数(ODI)评分、现时疼痛强度(PPI)评分及直腿抬高程度的影响。 方法 将146例LDH患者按数字表法随机分为联合组和对照组, 每组73例。 对照组接受腰椎牵引治疗, 联合组接受腰椎牵引联合温针灸治疗。 比较两组疗效及治疗前后患者腰椎功能、疼痛、直腿抬高程度及炎症因子水平。 结果 联合组总有效率为93.2%, 高于对照组的78.1%( P <0.05)。 治疗后, 两组患者腰椎ODI评分、腰痛和下肢痛PPI评分、血清肿瘤坏死因子(TNF)-α和白细胞介素(IL)-6水平及直腿抬高试验评分均明显降低( P <0.05), 腰椎日本矫形外科协会(JOA)评分明显升高( P <0.05); 联合组上述各项改善情况均优于对照组( P <0.05)。 结论 温针灸联合腰椎牵引治疗LDH能改善患者腰椎功能, 缓解疼痛, 减轻机体炎症反应。 | Clinical observation of warm needling moxibustion plus lumbar traction for lumbar disc herniation | 10.1007/s11726-022-1326-4 |
2022-07-28 | We evaluate and compare the simulation of the main features (low-level westerlies (LLWs) and the Congo basin (CB) cell) of low-level circulation in Central Equatorial Africa (CEA) with eight climate models from Phase 6 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) and the corresponding eight previous models from CMIP5. Results reveal that, although the main characteristics of the two features are reasonably well depicted by the models, they bear some biases. The strength of LLWs is generally overestimated in CMIP5 models. The overestimation is attributed to both divergent and rotational components of the total wind with the rotational component contributing the most in the overestimation. In CMIP6 models, thanks to a better performance in the simulation of both divergent and rotational circulation, LLWs are slightly less strong compared to the CMIP5 models. The improvement in the simulated divergent component is associated with a better representation of the near-surface pressure and/or temperature difference between the Central Africa landmass and the coastal Atlantic Ocean. Regarding the rotational circulation, and especially for HadGEM3-GC31-LL and BCC-CSM2-MR, a simulated higher 850 hPa pressure is associated with less pronounced negative vorticity and a better representation of the rotational circulation. Most CMIP5 models also overestimate the CB cell intensity and width in association with the simulated strength of LLWs. However, in CMIP6 models, the strength of key cell characteristics (intensity and width) are reduced compared to CMIP5 models. This depicts an improvement in the representation of the cell in CMIP6 models and this is associated with the improvement in the simulated LLWs. | Low-level circulation over Central Equatorial Africa as simulated from CMIP5 to CMIP6 models | 10.1007/s00382-022-06411-0 |
2022-07-26 | We apply a notion of quantum complexity, called “Krylov complexity”, to study the evolution of systems from integrability to chaos. For this purpose we investigate the integrable XXZ spin chain, enriched with an integrability breaking deformation that allows one to interpolate between integrable and chaotic behavior. K-complexity can act as a probe of the integrable or chaotic nature of the underlying system via its late-time saturation value that is suppressed in the integrable phase and increases as the system is driven to the chaotic phase. We furthermore ascribe the (under-)saturation of the late-time bound to the amount of disorder present in the Lanczos sequence, by mapping the complexity evolution to an auxiliary off-diagonal Anderson hopping model. We compare the late-time saturation of K-complexity in the chaotic phase with that of random matrix ensembles and find that the chaotic system indeed approaches the RMT behavior in the appropriate symmetry class. We investigate the dependence of the results on the two key ingredients of K-complexity: the dynamics of the Hamiltonian and the character of the operator whose time dependence is followed. | Krylov complexity from integrability to chaos | 10.1007/JHEP07(2022)151 |
2022-07-25 | Background Hydrogels loaded with antimicrobial agents have been widely used for treating infected wound defects. However, hydrogels derived from a porcine dermal extracellular matrix (PADM), containing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), have not yet been studied. Therefore, we investigated the therapeutic effect of an AgNP-impregnated PADM (AgNP–PADM) hydrogel on the treatment of infected wounds. Methods An AgNP–PADM hydrogel was synthesized by embedding AgNPs into a PADM hydrogel. We examined the porosity, moisture retention, degradation, antibacterial properties, cytotoxicity, antioxidant properties, and ability of the PADM and AgNP–PADM hydrogels to treat infected wounds in animals. Results The PADM and AgNP–PADM hydrogels were pH sensitive, which made them flow dynamically and solidify under acidic and neutral conditions, respectively. The hydrogels also exhibited porous network structures, satisfactory moisture retention, and slow degradation. Additionally, the AgNP–PADM hydrogel showed a slow and sustained release of AgNPs for at least 7 days without the particle size changing. Thus, the AgNPs exhibited adequate antibacterial ability, negligible toxicity, and antioxidant properties in vitro. Moreover, the AgNP–PADM hydrogel promoted angiogenesis and healed infected skin defects in vivo. Conclusions The AgNP–PADM hydrogel is a promising bioderived antibacterial material for clinical application to infected wound dressings. | Construction of antibacterial nano-silver embedded bioactive hydrogel to repair infectious skin defects | 10.1186/s40824-022-00281-7 |
2022-07-20 | Over the last 10 years, as a possible alternative to the conventional approach to air quality monitoring, real-time monitoring systems that use low-cost sensors and sensor platforms have been frequently applied. Generally, the long-term characteristics of low-cost PM sensors and monitoring have not been thoroughly documented except for a few widely used sensors and monitors. This article addresses the laboratory and field validation of three low-cost PM monitors of the same type that use the NOVA SDS011 PM sensor module over a 1-year period. In outdoor environments, we co-located low-cost PM monitors with GRIMM EDM180 monitors at the National Air Quality Monitoring stations. In indoor environments, we co-located them with a Turnkey Osiris PM monitor. Several performance aspects of the PM monitors were examined: operational data coverage, linearity of response, accuracy, precision, and inter-sensor variability. The obtained results show that inter-monitor R values were typically higher than 0.95 regardless of the environment. The tested monitors demonstrate high linearity in comparison with PM 10 and PM 2.5 concentrations measured in outdoor air with reference-equivalent instrumentation with R 2 values ranging from 0.52 up to 0.83. In addition, very good agreement (R 2 values ranging from 0.93 up to 0.97) with the gravimetric PM 10 and PM 2.5 method is obtained in the indoor environment (30 < RH < 70%). High RH (over 70%) negatively affected the PM monitors’ response, especially in the case of PM 10 concentrations (high overestimation). | Performance assessment of NOVA SDS011 low-cost PM sensor in various microenvironments | 10.1007/s10661-022-10290-7 |
2022-07-20 | Suppression of stimulated backward Raman scattering in presence of magnetic field and density rippled plasma is observed. The density perturbation due to the lower hybrid wave combines with the oscillatory velocity of the electron, given by the pump wave, to create a nonlinear current that drives the sideband waves. It was analyzed that for different modes of the growth rate, the SBRS is decreased significantly due to the ripple and local effects. For radial eigenmode number, the magnetized density ripple has a significant localization impact on the Raman process. The growth rate is at its maximum with the magnetic field, peaks at some optimal value, and then suppresses with the increase in the magnetic field. | Suppression of stimulated backward Raman scattering in a magnetized density rippled plasma | 10.1007/s11082-022-03937-9 |
2022-07-19 | We study the entanglement entropies of an interval on the infinite line in the free fermionic spinless Schrödinger field theory at finite density and zero temperature, which is a non-relativistic model with Lifshitz exponent z = 2. We prove that the entanglement entropies are finite functions of one dimensionless parameter proportional to the area of a rectangular region in the phase space determined by the Fermi momentum and the length of the interval. The entanglement entropy is a monotonically increasing function. By employing the properties of the prolate spheroidal wave functions of order zero or the asymptotic expansions of the tau function of the sine kernel, we find analytic expressions for the expansions of the entanglement entropies in the asymptotic regimes of small and large area of the rectangular region in the phase space. These expansions lead to prove that the analogue of the relativistic entropic C function is not monotonous. Extending our analyses to a class of free fermionic Lifshitz models labelled by their integer dynamical exponent z , we find that the parity of this exponent determines the properties of the bipartite entanglement for an interval on the line. | Entanglement entropies of an interval in the free Schrödinger field theory at finite density | 10.1007/JHEP07(2022)120 |
2022-07-19 | This study explored the unknown biodiversity of mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) in Reunion Island, located in the Southwestern Indian Ocean. MCEs are still largely unexplored whereas they are assumed to shelter a rich and unique biodiversity. As they might likely serve as a source for recolonization after disturbances in shallower reefs, their study is urgently needed. This work focused on an understudied large group of structural and functional ecological importance in reef benthic communities, the hydroids. Performing only 8 deep dives with closed-circuit rebreathers, we recorded 74 species between 65 and 93 m among which 11 species and 3 genera are likely new to science. Furthermore, the explorations made in contrasted geographical zones around the island suggest particular eco-physiological traits for some species: specialized vs. widely tolerant. This preliminary report only shows the tip of the iceberg and opens an avenue for exploration and understanding of such extraordinary biodiversity at such depths. | Diving into the lower mesophotic coral ecosystems (65–93 m depth) of Reunion Island (Southwestern Indian Ocean) sheds light on the hidden diversity of hydroids (Cnidaria, Hydrozoa) | 10.1007/s12526-022-01274-4 |
2022-07-18 | Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a low-background polymer that is applied to several applications in rare-event detection and underground low-background experiments. PTFE-based electronic substrates are important for reducing the detection limit of high-purity germanium detectors and scintillator calorimeters, which are widely applied in dark matter and 0υββ detection experiments. The traditional adhesive bonding method between PTFE and copper is not conducive to working in liquid nitrogen and extremely low-temperature environments. To avoid adhesive bonding, PTFE must be processed for surface metallization owing to the mismatch between the PTFE and copper conductive layer. Low-background PTFE matrix composites (m-PTFE) were selected to improve the electrical and mechanical properties of PTFE by introducing SiO 2 /TiO 2 particles. The microstructures, surface elements, and electrical properties of PTFE and m-PTFE were characterized and analyzed following ion implantation. PTFE and m-PTFE surfaces were found to be broken, degraded, and cross-linked by ion implantation, resulting in C=C conjugated double bonds, increased surface energy, and increased surface roughness. Comparably, the surface roughness, bond strength, and conjugated double bonds of m-PTFE were significantly more intense than those of PTFE. Moreover, the interface bonding theory between PTFE and the metal copper foil was analyzed using the direct metallization principle. Therefore, the peel strength of the optimized electronic substrates was higher than that of the industrial standard at extremely low temperatures, while maintaining excellent electrical properties. | Surface metallization of PTFE and PTFE composites by ion implantation for low-background electronic substrates in rare-event detection experiments | 10.1007/s41365-022-01068-0 |
2022-07-14 | This paper reports a low-velocity impact response of the functionally graded carbon nanotubes reinforced composite (FG-CNTRC) laminated plates with negative Poisson’s ratios (NPR) and clamped boundary conditions. The NPR and functionally graded properties are evaluated for the layers in the thickness direction. Reddy’s higher-order shear deformation theory is used to establish the governing equations. The rule of mixture model is used to determine the material properties of FG-CNTRC. The Hertz contact law is used to calculate the contact force. The Newmark’s time integration scheme and Newton–Raphson algorithm are used to obtain the low-velocity impact response. The effects of the gradient forms of FG-CNTRC, temperatures, initial impact velocities, plate thickness, and effective Poisson’s ratios on the low-velocity impact response of laminated plates are carried out and discussed. | Low-velocity impact response of FG-CNTRC laminated plates with negative Poisson’s ratios and clamped boundary conditions | 10.1007/s40430-022-03627-3 |
2022-07-14 | Background Climate change poses severe threats to smallholder farmers' agricultural livelihoods and food security in Sub Saharan Africa. Understanding long-term rainfall trends of variability and extremes at local scales and perceptions regarding long-term changes in climate variables is important in planning appropriate adaptation measures to climate change. This paper examines the perception of farmers in Apac district regarding long-term changes in climate variables and analyzes the trend of occurrence in seasonal and annual rainfall in Apac district, northern Uganda. A cross-sectional survey design was employed to collect data on farmers' perceptions regarding long-term changes in climate from 260 randomly selected smallholder farmers’ households across two sub-counties in Apac district by administering semi-structured questionnaires in February 2018. Monthly rainfall data sets from the Uganda Meteorological Authority (UMA) for the period 1980 to 2019 for Apac district were also used to analyze trends of occurrences in seasonal and annual rainfall in the study area. The non-parametric Sequential Mann–Kendall (SMK) tests were employed at a 5% significance level to detect mean seasonal rainfall trends and abrupt change points. Results The majority of the respondents (87%) perceived a decrease in precipitation over the past 39 years. The plot of forward regression u ( t i ) values and backward regression u’ ( t i ) values showed interactions indicating rainfall trends, rainfall lower and upper limits and abrupt change points in the different cropping seasons. Analysis of historical series of mean monthly and annual rainfall showed an abrupt change in rainfall in March, April, May (MAM) season in 1982. Although the September, October and November (SON) season did not show a significant abrupt change, there was a significant (p < 0.05) increase in rainfall above the upper limit from 1994 to date. Conclusion The mean seasonal rainfall for MAM and SON cropping seasons in Apac district were highly variable from different time points within the past 39 years (1980–2019), while June, July, and August (JJA) did not realize a significant change in rainfall within the same study period that the two cropping seasons (MAM and SON) in the district experienced remarkable variations in rainfall. This, therefore, provides a basis for the government to strengthen the provision of an effective climate tailored agricultural advisory service to aid farmers’ adaptation planning at the local level and to assist smallholder farmers and land-use managers in developing effective adaptation management strategies to the effects of climate change. | Farmers’ perceptions of climate change, long-term variability and trends in rainfall in Apac district, northern Uganda | 10.1186/s43170-022-00116-4 |
2022-07-14 | Background and problem statement Model-free or learning-based control, in particular, reinforcement learning (RL), is expected to be applied for complex robotic tasks. Traditional RL requires that a policy to be optimized is state-dependent, that means, the policy is a kind of feedback (FB) controllers. Due to the necessity of correct state observation in such a FB controller, it is sensitive to sensing failures. To alleviate this drawback of the FB controllers, feedback error learning integrates one of them with a feedforward (FF) controller. RL can be improved by dealing with the FB/FF policies, but to the best of our knowledge, a methodology for learning them in a unified manner has not been developed. Contribution In this paper, we propose a new optimization problem for optimizing both the FB/FF policies simultaneously. Inspired by control as inference , the proposed optimization problem considers minimization/maximization of divergences between trajectories, one is predicted by the composed policy and a stochastic dynamics model, and others are inferred as optimal/non-optimal ones. By approximating the stochastic dynamics model using variational method, we naturally derive a regularization between the FB/FF policies. In numerical simulations and a robot experiment, we verified that the proposed method can stably optimize the composed policy even with the different learning law from the traditional RL. In addition, we demonstrated that the FF policy is robust to the sensing failures and can hold the optimal motion. | Optimization algorithm for feedback and feedforward policies towards robot control robust to sensing failures | 10.1186/s40648-022-00232-w |
2022-07-13 | Background Methionine or lysine has been reported to influence DNA methylation and fat metabolism, but their combined effects in N6-methyl-adenosine (m 6 A) RNA methylation remain unclarified. The combined effects of rumen-protected methionine and lysine (RML) in a low-protein (LP) diet on lipid metabolism, m 6 A RNA methylation, and fatty acid (FA) profiles in the liver and muscle of lambs were investigated. Sixty-three male lambs were divided into three treatment groups, three pens per group and seven lambs per pen. The lambs were fed a 14.5% crude protein (CP) diet (adequate protein [NP]), 12.5% CP diet (LP), and a LP diet plus RML (LP + RML) for 60 d. Results The results showed that the addition of RML in a LP diet tended to lower the concentrations of plasma leptin ( P = 0.07), triglyceride ( P = 0.05), and non-esterified FA ( P = 0.08). Feeding a LP diet increased the enzyme activity or mRNA expression of lipogenic enzymes and decreased lipolytic enzymes compared with the NP diet. This effect was reversed by supplementation of RML with a LP diet. The inclusion of RML in a LP diet affected the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), n-3 PUFA, and n-6 PUFA in the liver but not in the muscle, which might be linked with altered expression of FA desaturase-1 ( FADS1 ) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase ( ACC ). A LP diet supplemented with RML increased ( P < 0.05) total m 6 A levels in the liver and muscle and were accompanied by decreased expression of fat mass and obesity-associated protein ( FTO ) and alkB homologue 5 ( ALKBH5 ). The mRNA expressions of methyltransferase-like 3 ( METTL3 ) and methyltransferase-like 14 ( METTL14 ) in the LP + RML diet group were lower than those in the other two groups. Supplementation of RML with a LP diet affected only liver YTH domain family ( YTHDF2 ) proteins ( P < 0.05) and muscle YTHDF3 ( P = 0.09), which can be explained by limited m 6 A-binding proteins that were mediated in mRNA fate. Conclusions Our findings showed that the inclusion of RML in a LP diet could alter fat deposition through modulations of lipogenesis and lipolysis in the liver and muscle. These changes in fat metabolism may be associated with the modification of m 6 A RNA methylation. Graphical abstract A systematic graph illustrates the mechanism of dietary methionine and lysine influence on lipid metabolism and M 6 A. The green arrow with triangular heads indicates as activation and brown-wine arrows with flat heads indicates as suppression. | Lipid metabolism and m6A RNA methylation are altered in lambs supplemented rumen-protected methionine and lysine in a low-protein diet | 10.1186/s40104-022-00733-z |
2022-07-12 | Purpose To compare the effects of cryotherapy and LLLT in minimizing edema, post-operative pain, trismus and post-operative discomfort after surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars under local anesthesia. Material Method 80 patients between the ages 18–50 years of either gender fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected for the randomized, prospective, single-blind clinical trial. Bilaterally symmetrical mandibular impacted third molars were selected for the study and randomly designated into two groups (Group 1- LLLT, Group 2- CRYOTHERAPY) each. Along with pain, trismus and swelling, POSSe (post-symptom severity scale) was used for assessment of postoperative discomfort throughout the 7 days. Results Pain and swelling scores were generally better in cryotherapy group when compared to LLLT Group, specifically in first 3 postoperative days. However, trismus in first 3 postoperative days was significantly less in LLLT group than in the cryotherapy group. Postoperative mouth opening exhibited a reduction of 3.60% in the laser group, where LLLT irradiation was done, whereas in the cryotherapy group, it was much larger, around 17.96%. On evaluating the POSSe, in LLLT group, mostly patients reported that they were affected in enjoyment of food, approximately 40% more than cryotherapy group. Conclusion The mechanism of action and result outcomes for cryotherapy and LLLT has the potential to improve the quality of patient care provided by vast majority of clinicians in third molar surgery but when compared pain and swelling were better controlled with cryotherapy and trismus was better dealt with LLLT. | Our Experience with Cryotherapy Versus Low-Level Laser Therapy in Managing Postoperative Discomfort of Third Molar Surgery | 10.1007/s12663-022-01759-6 |
2022-07-09 | An interlayer confined strategy to realize the substitution of nitrogen terminals between Ti 3 C 2 MXene layers is proposed. The targeted Ti 3 C 2 -N funct anode exhibits fast-charging ability and great superiority in cycle life at − 25 °C. Ti 3 C 2 -N funct not only possesses a lower Na-ion diffusion energy barrier and charge transfer activation energy, but also exhibits Na + -solvent co-intercalation behavior at low temperature. Sodium-ion batteries stand a chance of enabling fast charging ability and long lifespan while operating at low temperature (low-T). However, sluggish kinetics and aggravated dendrites present two major challenges for anodes to achieve the goal at low-T. Herein, we propose an interlayer confined strategy for tailoring nitrogen terminals on Ti 3 C 2 MXene (Ti 3 C 2 -N funct ) to address these issues. The introduction of nitrogen terminals endows Ti 3 C 2 -N funct with large interlayer space and charge redistribution, improved conductivity and sufficient adsorption sites for Na + , which improves the possibility of Ti 3 C 2 for accommodating more Na atoms, further enhancing the Na + storage capability of Ti 3 C 2 . As revealed, Ti 3 C 2 -N funct not only possesses a lower Na-ion diffusion energy barrier and charge transfer activation energy, but also exhibits Na + -solvent co-intercalation behavior to circumvent a high de-solvation energy barrier at low-T. Besides, the solid electrolyte interface dominated by inorganic compounds is more beneficial for the Na + transfer at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Compared with of the unmodified sample, Ti 3 C 2 -N funct exhibits a twofold capacity (201 mAh g −1 ), fast-charging ability (18 min at 80% capacity retention), and great superiority in cycle life (80.9%@5000 cycles) at − 25 °C. When coupling with Na 3 V 2 (PO 4 ) 2 F 3 cathode, the Ti 3 C 2 -N funct //NVPF exhibits high energy density and cycle stability at − 25 °C. | Tailoring Nitrogen Terminals on MXene Enables Fast Charging and Stable Cycling Na-Ion Batteries at Low Temperature | 10.1007/s40820-022-00885-7 |
2022-07-08 | This review introduces the technique of helium ion microscopy along with some unique applications of this technology in the fields of electronics and biology, as performed at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Japan, over the last several years. Observations of large-scale integrated circuits, analyses of low-dielectric-constant films with minimal damage, and assessments of copper metal in insulating films are discussed. The special characteristics of this technique are explained, including low-energy input to the material and minimal secondary electron energy resulting from helium ion irradiation. Applications to electronic materials, such as tuning the electrical conductivity of graphene films by helium ion beam irradiation and the formation of nanopore arrays on graphene films with nanometer-scale control, are presented. The use of helium ion microscopy to examine cellular tissues based on the low damage imparted by the ion beam is also evaluated. | Helium ion microscopy for low-damage characterization and sub-10 nm nanofabrication | 10.1007/s43673-022-00050-7 |
2022-07-08 | To satisfy the accurate positioning requirement of the calibration source in the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory, a Tonpilz-type hydrophone with low radioactivity and high electroacoustics is developed. The radioactivity of the proposed hydrophone is strictly controlled by selecting pure raw materials, especially active piezoelectric ceramics. The electroacoustic performance of the hydrophone is improved by making structural optimization. High sensitivity and aimed directivity are achieved using 33-mode piezoelectric ceramic rings arranged in series and improvement in the radiating head of the Tonpilz hydrophone, respectively. All electroacoustic performances are studied through finite element analyses. The simulations indicate that the electroacoustic performances of the hydrophones in linear alkylbenzene-based liquid scintillator can be approximately predicted according to the results in water because their differences caused by two types of acoustic media, water and liquid scintillator, are known. The tests show that the hydrophone prototype can achieve a maximum sensitivity of − 209.3 dB and a beamwidth of 132.2° at a frequency of 143 kHz. In addition, eight hydrophones only contributed to a background radioactivity level of 26 ± 4 mHz in the neutrino analysis. | Low-radioactivity ultrasonic hydrophone used in positioning system for Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory | 10.1007/s41365-022-01059-1 |
2022-07-08 | Background Permethrin is one of the pyrethroid insecticides, which is widely used in agriculture and public health. Although acute toxicity of the insecticide has been studied, the chronic toxicity upon the long-term exposure has not been clear yet. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the organ toxicities of permethrin following its long-term low-dose exposure. Methods Male Wistar rats were daily administrated orally with permethrin (75 mg/kg body weight/day, gavage) for 90 days, and then the samples of biofluids (blood and urine) and organs including liver and kidney were collected. The serum and urine samples were measured by biochemical assay and the tissues of kidney and liver were examined and analyzed by histopathological method. Results The results showed that no change was found in serum and urine biochemical parameters for the toxicity; however, significant changes including hyperchromatic nuclei swollen in the hepatic parenchymal cells and the swelling proximal tubules in the kidneys were observed in the tissue structures of liver and kidneys in the histopathological sections. Conclusion These results indicate that low-dose long-term exposure of permethrin can cause chronic toxicity with slight liver and kidney damage. | Long-term low-dose exposure of permethrin induces liver and kidney damage in rats | 10.1186/s40360-022-00586-2 |
2022-07-07 | Introduction Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is an uncommon cerebrovascular disease with diverse predisposing factors. We report a case of CVST caused by a thyroid storm induced by traumatic brain injury. Case presentation A 29-year-old male patient with a history of Graves’ disease with hyperthyroidism presented to our hospital with head trauma of cerebral contusion and laceration in both frontal lobes confirmed by admission CT scan. He received mannitol to lower intracranial pressure, haemostatic therapy, and antiepileptic treatment. Eight days later, he presented with signs of thyroid storms, such as tachycardia, hyperthermia, sweating and irritation, and his thyroid function tests revealed high levels of TPO-Ab, TR-Ab, TG-Ab, FT3 and FT4. Then, he entered a deep coma. His brain CT showed a thrombosis of multiple venous sinuses, along with the opening of peripheral collateral vessels, congestive infarction with haemorrhage and brain swelling. He regained consciousness after treatment with antithyroid drugs, anticoagulants, respiratory support and a regimen of sedation/analgesia. After a half-year follow-up, most of the patient’s blocked cerebral venous sinuses had been recanalized, but there were still some sequelae, such as an impaired fine motor performance of the right hand and verbal expression defects. Conclusions CVST can be induced by thyroid storms, and trauma-related thyroid storms can develop on the basis of hyperthyroidism. The purpose of this case report is to raise clinicians’ awareness and improve their ability to diagnose CVST early in patients with traumatic brain injury complicating thyroid storms to improve the neurological prognosis among similar patients. | Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis caused by traumatic brain injury complicating thyroid storm: a case report and discussion | 10.1186/s12883-022-02777-0 |
2022-07-07 | Background Atherosclerosis (AS) is the primary cause of cardiovascular disease and the incidence is extremely common; however, there are currently few drugs that can effectively treat AS. Although oridonin has been widely used to treat inflammation and cancer for numerous years, to the best of our knowledge, its protective effect against AS has not been reported. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate whether oridonin attenuated AS. Methods By using text mining, chemometric and chemogenomic methods, oridonin was predicted to be a beneficial agent for the treatment of AS. A parallel flow chamber was used to establish a low shear stress (LSS)-induced endothelial cell (EC) dysfunction model. Briefly, ECs were exposed to 3 dyn/cm 2 LSS for 30 min and subsequently treated with oridonin or transfected with a small interfering RNA (siRNA) targeting nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2). Reactive oxygen species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH) and glutathione disulfide (GSSG) in EA.hy926 cells were analyzed to determine the level of oxidative stress. The nitric oxide (NO) levels and mRNA expression levels of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS), endothelin-1 (ET-1) and prostaglandin synthase (PGIS) in EA.hy926 cells were analyzed to determine EC dysfunction. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein expression levels of NRF2 were analyzed using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR and western blot. In addition, zebrafish were fed with a high-cholesterol diet to establish a zebrafish AS model, which was used to observe lipid accumulation and inflammation under a fluorescence microscope. Results We found LSS led to oxidative stress and EC dysfunction; this was primarily indicated through the significantly decreased SOD and GSH content, the significantly increased MDA, GSSG and ROS content, the upregulated mRNA expression levels of ET-1, and the downregulated NO levels and mRNA expression levels of eNOS and PGIS in ECs. Notably, oridonin could improve LSS-induced oxidative stress and EC dysfunction, and the effects of oridonin were reversed by the transfection with NRF2 siRNA. Oridonin also attenuated lipid accumulation and neutrophil recruitment at the LSS regions in the zebrafish AS model. Conclusions In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that oridonin may ameliorate LSS-induced EC dysfunction and oxidative stress by activating NRF2, thereby attenuating AS. | Oridonin attenuates low shear stress-induced endothelial cell dysfunction and oxidative stress by activating the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway | 10.1186/s12906-022-03658-2 |
2022-07-06 | Background Bacterial translocation was observed in critical illness and patients with chronic diseases such as liver cirrhosis and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Hypokalemia is a common complication in these diseases. Whether low potassium diet may increase intestinal permeability and result in bacterial translocation lack of evidence. The present study was aimed to investigate the potential effects of LK on intestinal permeability. Methods Grade 8-week-old male Bal B/C mice were randomly placed either on a normal potassium (NK) mouse chow or a low potassium (LK) diet for 28 days. Intestinal permeability and expression of tight junction proteins were compared between the two groups. Results Compared with the NK group, the mice in LK group had significantly lower serum potassium level, increased levels of plasmas endotoxin and plasma d -lactate. The bacterial translocation was higher and in occurred mainly in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN), liver and spleen. The pathologic change of small intestine was obvious with thinner villus lamina propria, shorter crypt depth and thinner intestinal wall. Slight increases in the expression of proteins and mRNA levels of both claudin-1 and claudin-2 were observed in LK group. Conclusions Low potassium diet could increase intestinal permeability and thereby lead to bacterial translocation, which was suspected to result from impaired intestinal epithelial barrier and biological barrier. | Low potassium disrupt intestinal barrier and result in bacterial translocation | 10.1186/s12967-022-03499-0 |
2022-07-06 | The establishment of a carbon trading market is crucial for China to fulfil its carbon emission commitments through a market mechanism. As a market-based environmental regulation instrument, Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) has been attracted increasing attention worldwide, while the effect of ETS on low-carbon economy efficiency (LEE) has not been fully investigated, thus inspiring us to fulfil this research gap. Using the panel data of China’s 283 selected prefecture-level cities during 2006–2017, we adopted the difference-in-differences (DID) model, propensity-score-matched DID (PSM-DID) model, and the spatial DID model to model the direct and indirect effects of China’s ETS on LEE at national, regional, and local (resource-based cities with different development stages) levels. The robust results yield that ETS directly and significantly improved China’s LEE at the national level. Still, the LEE in ETS pilot region will increase by approximately 4.3% compared with untreated cities, while the spatial heterogeneity of this effect is captured at regional and local levels, which emphasises the necessity of a completed market construction and classified supervision. The results of this paper provide important insights for strengthening the policy design of a nationwide carbon market, and a reference point for other regions and countries, especially developing countries, in refining a carbon trading market. | Quantify the Effect of China’s Emission Trading Scheme on Low-carbon Eco-efficiency: Evidence from China’s 283 Cities | 10.1007/s11027-022-10015-8 |
2022-07-06 | This research paper proposes the design of an active-loaded differential amplifier using the Double-Gate (DG) MOSFET. This differential amplifier employs feedback and simplifies a previously designed topology by reducing it to a single-ended output instead of a differential one. Other topologies have been referred to determine the benchmark of this design work. The DG MOSFET has been utilized for its high-frequency characteristics, Radio Frequency (RF) applications, and possible advantages in scalability. Electronic device simulation determines the technical feasibility of this differential amplifier using DG MOSFET. The designed differential amplifier exhibits a differential gain of 1.7–1.8 V/V and −3 dB cut-off frequency of 42 MHz. The amplifier can be used in various applications using this methodical design process and the circuital information. The Double-Gate (DG) MOSFET has been used to design an active-loaded differential amplifier by building common electronic systems. The design process has been outlined to achieve parameters (avoiding mathematical models) using simulation, and manufacturer’s, resources. An array of methods to improve performance have been deduced, as the physical implementation of the amplifier has been considered. | Design and comparative analysis of active-loaded differential amplifier using double-gate MOSFET | 10.1007/s42452-022-05100-1 |
2022-07-05 | Processing-in-memory (PIM) is emerging as a new computing paradigm to replace the existing von Neumann computer architecture for data-intensive processing. For the higher end-user mobility, low-power operation capability is more increasingly required and components need to be renovated to make a way out of the conventional software-driven artificial intelligence. In this work, we investigate the hardware performances of PIM architecture that can be presumably constructed by resistive-switching random-access memory (ReRAM) synapse fabricated with a relatively larger thermal budget in the full Si processing compatibility. By introducing a medium-temperature oxidation in which the sputtered Ge atoms are oxidized at a relatively higher temperature compared with the ReRAM devices fabricated by physical vapor deposition at room temperature, higher device reliability has been acquired. Based on the empirically obtained device parameters, a PIM architecture has been conceived and a system-level evaluations have been performed in this work. Considerations include the cycle-to-cycle variation in the GeO x ReRAM synapse, analog-to-digital converter resolution, synaptic array size, and interconnect latency for the system-level evaluation with the Canadian Institute for Advance Research-10 dataset. A fully Si processing-compatible and robust ReRAM synapse and its applicability for PIM are demonstrated. Graphical Abstract | Medium-Temperature-Oxidized GeOx Resistive-Switching Random-Access Memory and Its Applicability in Processing-in-Memory Computing | 10.1186/s11671-022-03701-8 |
2022-07-01 | In this paper, we synthesized a triblock oligomer of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly( ε -caprolactone) (PCL) by direct polycondensation of L -lactic acid and then condensation reaction with PCL diol. Then, the triblock oligomer was chain-extended with diisocyanate, and the PLA-based thermoplastic elastomer (PLATPE) with high toughness and high ductility at room temperature was synthesized. The synthesized PLATPE and a partially biodegradable elastomeric poly( ε -caprolactone) polyurethane (PCLTPU) were used to prepare PLA-based shape memory polymer materials by melt blending with PLA resin. The morphologies, thermal properties, and shape memory properties of the two kinds of shape memory polymers were characterized. The results shows that the shape fixation rates of two systems are more than 95%. The shape recovery rate of PLA/PCLTPU can reach to 95%, while that of PLA/PLATPE is slightly higher than 80%. By adding composite plasticizers, the PLA/PCLTPU shape memory polymer system with better thermal stability was further modified to prepare a low-temperature-response shape memory polymer. When 10 wt% compound plasticizer (5 wt% Polysorb, 5 wt% ATBC) were added, the deformation recovery rate of PLA/PCLTPU = 80/20 can reach more than 90%, the shape fixation rate can be close to 100%, and the deformation recovery temperature can be reduced to around 40 °C. The biodegradable and biocompatible PLA-based shape memory polymer with low response temperature may have a potential application prospect in the field of biomedical materials. | Preparation of poly(lactic acid)-based shape memory polymers with low response temperature utilizing composite plasticizers | 10.1007/s00289-021-03739-1 |
2022-07-01 | Background Calliptamus italicus is a dominant species in the desert and semi-desert grassland. It is widely distributed throughout many regions such as Asia, Europe, North Africa and the Mediterranean, and has enormous destructive potential for agriculture and animal husbandry. The C. italicus overwintering as eggs in the soil through diapause, and the cold tolerance of locust eggs is the key to their ability to survive the winter smoothly to maintain the population. Results Transcriptome analysis of C. italicus eggs was carried out in this paper in constant low temperature acclimation, natural low temperature acclimation and room temperature. The differentially expressed genes related to cold tolerance were screened out, the differences in expression patterns under different low temperature acclimation were analyzed, and the genes in the significantly up-regulated pathways may play an important role in cold tolerance. The results show that different domestication modes can induce C. italicus eggs to express a large number of genes to alleviate low temperature damage, but C. italicus eggs are more sensitive to changes in temperature. Compared with the control, there are 8689 DEGs at constant low temperature and 14,994 DEGs at natural low temperature. KEGG analysis showed that DEGs were mainly enriched in pathways related to metabolism and biological systems under constant low temperature, and were mainly enriched in pathways related to biological systems and environmental information processing under natural low temperature. In addition, RNAi technology was used to further verify the regulation of genes in the significantly enriched up-regulated pathways on C. italicus eggs, and it was confirmed that the hatching rate of C. italicus eggs at low temperature was significantly reduced after interference. Conclusions Transcriptome analysis of C. italicus eggs treated at different temperatures provided a theoretical basis for further understanding the adaptation mechanism of C. italicus eggs to low temperature. In addition, four potential RNAi target genes were verified in the eggs of C. italicus for the first time, providing new ideas for effective control of this species. | Transcriptome analysis of the response to low temperature acclimation in Calliptamus italicus eggs | 10.1186/s12864-022-08705-3 |
2022-07-01 | This study investigated the effects of freezing temperature on the failure modes of frozen sandstone under uniaxial compression loading conditions. First, the sandstone specimens were subjected to freezing treatments at different temperatures (e.g., 20, 0, − 5, − 10, − 15 and − 20 °C), and uniaxially compressed to failure in the frozen state. Subsequently, the real-time CT scanning was performed to observe the spatial three-dimensional and planar two-dimensional fracture morphology of the failed specimens. Next, the volumetric porosity and crack area were introduced to quantitatively describe the freezing temperature effects on the damage degree of specimens after compression failure. Finally, the box-counting dimension of cracks calculated by fractal theory and distribution images of crack orientation angle were used to quantitatively evaluate freezing temperature effects on the compression failure complexity of specimens. The results show that the tension-shear failure mode to shear failure mode occurs as temperature decreases, and the failure mode tends to be constant below − 10 °C. The volumetric porosity and crack area of the failed specimen decrease as temperature decreases. After specimen failure, the box-counting dimension of cracks decreases as temperature decreases, and the distribution range of crack orientation angle decreases, which indicates the failure complexity decreases. Uniaxial compressive spatial failure modes of frozen sandstones were investigated. Tension-shear failure mode to shear failure mode occurred as temperature decreased. Failure mode tended to be constant as temperature decreased below − 10 °C. Compression failure complexity of specimens decreased as temperature decreased. | Spatial Failure Mode Analysis of Frozen Sandstone Under Uniaxial Compression Based on CT Technology | 10.1007/s00603-022-02859-y |
2022-07-01 | The effects of low-level partial cation substitution in Cr 2− x M x S 3 with M = Ti, V or Sn and x = 0.05 and 0.1 have been investigated regarding the long- and short-range crystal structures and thermoelectric properties. All substituted compounds crystallized in the equilibrium phase of Cr 2 S 3 , adopting the space group R $${\overline{\text{3}}}$$ 3 ¯ . Electron beam irradiation led to a phase transformation from space group R $${\overline{\text{3}}}$$ 3 ¯ to P $${\overline{\text{3}}}$$ 3 ¯ 1 c with a subsequent appearance of diffuse scattering, indicating short-range ordering of cations in the partially occupied cation layers. Substitution of Cr by V led to a reduction in electrical conductivity and subsequently to a lower thermoelectric performance in comparison to the pristine material. In contrast, substitution with Ti yielded an improvement of the performance due to a higher electrical conductivity and a reasonably high Seebeck coefficient. Both Sn-substituted compounds contained only traces of Sn. Surprisingly, a significant improvement of the electrical conductivities could be observed in comparison to the pristine material as well as the other Cr 2− x M x S 3 materials. | Does a Low Amount of Substituents Improve the Thermoelectric Properties of Cr2−xMxS3 (M = Ti, V, Sn)? | 10.1007/s11664-022-09606-7 |
2022-07-01 | Abstract The results of studying the influence of the chemical composition and processing technology on the structural-phase state and fire resistance of experimental samples of construction rolled products (construction longs) of low-alloyed low-carbon steels microalloyed with carbonitride-forming elements are presented. The mechanical properties were studied and the fire resistance of experimental specimens subjected to controlled rolling and heat treatment (quenching + tempering) was assessed. The microstructure was studied using optical and electron microscopy methods, and the types of dispersed carbonitride particles were identified. The influence of the structural state of the samples on the characteristics of fire resistance was carried out. | Fire Resistance Factors of Low-Alloyed Construction Longs | 10.3103/S0967091222070099 |
2022-07-01 | Abstract Conventional water-based detergents cannot remove radioactive contamination on the surface below 0 °C. In order to solve this problem, a biodegradable antifreeze foam, containing the antifreeze, the chelating agent and the surfactant in the low pH complex system, has been developed with the small molecule lauryl alcohol (LA) as the foam stabilizer. The developed foam being with short decontamination time which is easy to use and collect, can significantly reduce the amount of radioactive waste. The foam has good stability and decontamination efficiency as low as − 10 °C. The stabilization mechanism of LA on foam was studied. At the range of from 0 to − 10 °C, the decontamination rates of simulated radioactive cesium (Cs) and strontium (Sr) pollution are all above 90% on surfaces with different roughness such as glass, stainless steel, ceramic tile, marble and paint. Graphic Abstract | Biodegradable antifreeze foam stabilized by lauryl alcohol for radioactive surface decontamination | 10.1007/s10967-022-08349-3 |
2022-07-01 | A low-cost waste biomass generated from a food industry, apricot shells, was subjected to alkali modification in order to compare morphology, crystalline structure and thermal stability of native and modified biomass, accompanied by their cellulose-rich fractions. The surface morphology and structure of compared samples were analysed by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and mercury porosimetry. Furthermore, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermal analysis (TG/DTA) were applied. The results have shown that after alkaline treatment, inter- and intra-particle porosity in the material rises, resulting in increase of the total surface area. The XRD diffractograms showed that crystallinity index increased together with crystallite size, suggesting that modified sample has more ordered crystalline structure than native sample (also confirmed by the FTIR analysis). Although the cellulose-rich fraction extracted from the alkali-modified sample showed higher thermal stability, the overall thermal analysis revealed that alkali-modified biomass has lower thermal stability than the native sample. This indicates that this type of modification will improve the fuel properties of this lignocellulosic biomass and imply its possible application in energy recovery process. Graphical abstract | Structural changes of waste biomass induced by alkaline treatment: the effect on crystallinity and thermal properties | 10.1007/s13399-020-00766-2 |
2022-07-01 | We investigate the uncertainty (i.e., inter-model spread) in future projections of the boreal winter climate, based on the forced response of ten models from the CMIP5 following the RCP8.5 scenario. The uncertainty in the forced response of sea level pressure (SLP) is large in the North Pacific, the North Atlantic, and the Arctic. A major part of these uncertainties (31%) is marked by a pattern with a center in the northeastern Pacific and a dipole over the northeastern Atlantic that we label as the Pacific–Atlantic SLP uncertainty pattern (PA ∆SLP ). The PA ∆SLP is associated with distinct global sea surface temperature (SST) and Arctic sea ice cover (SIC) perturbation patterns. To better understand the nature of the PA ∆SLP , these SST and SIC perturbation patterns are prescribed in experiments with two atmospheric models (AGCMs): CAM4 and IFS. The AGCM responses suggest that the SST uncertainty contributes to the North Pacific SLP uncertainty in CMIP5 models, through tropical–midlatitude interactions and a forced Rossby wavetrain. The North Atlantic SLP uncertainty in CMIP5 models is better explained by the combined effect of SST and SIC uncertainties, partly related to a Rossby wavetrain from the Pacific and air-sea interaction over the North Atlantic. Major discrepancies between the CMIP5 and AGCM forced responses over northern high-latitudes and continental regions are indicative of uncertainties arising from the AGCMs. We analyze the possible dynamic mechanisms of these responses, and discuss the limitations of this work. | Assessing the influence of sea surface temperature and arctic sea ice cover on the uncertainty in the boreal winter future climate projections | 10.1007/s00382-022-06136-0 |
2022-07-01 | The mechanical properties of an aluminum-manganese alloy and two aluminum-magnesium alloys, namely AMtsS, AMg5, and AMg6, at 4 K in a liquid helium environment were investigated. Their cylindrical specimens with a diameter of 5 mm, which had an annular notch with a depth of 1 mm and a radius of 6 mm, were tested for static tension. The testing machine stiffness was reduced from 14.5 to 8.4 and 3.8 MN/m. The study showed that the effect of hardening of cold-ductile metallic materials at a given temperature and in the presence of blunt notches with low stress concentration is completely neutralized with a decrease in the stiffness of the loading system and a corresponding increase in the stored elastic energy. The decrease in the ultimate strength of the notched specimen and the true rupture strength correlates with the decrease in the number of deformation jumps in the stress concentration zone. The results obtained are discussed, taking into account the conversion of the stored elastic energy in the specimen–machine system into the work of deformation during each act of discontinuous yielding and the reduction of the material’s strain-hardening capacity at a small number of deformation jumps. | Softening and Jump-Like Deformation of Aluminum Alloys Under Stress Concentration Conditions at a Temperature of 4 K with Decreasing the Stiffness of the Loading System | 10.1007/s11223-022-00435-x |
2022-07-01 | Utilization of high temperature cooling sources or natural energy sources can potentially contribute to improving energy efficiency in buildings. In this study, a dual-cavity window with gravity-driven cooling mechanism (GDC window) was proposed to integrate the low-grade cooling sources into the glazing system for improving the thermal performance of the window. The embedded pipes circulated with low-grade cooling water are the key component of GDC window, which can remove the absorbed solar heat and reduce the heat gain through the window. A numerical model based on CFD simulation was developed to analyze the flow characteristic and heat transfer within the GDC window. Model validation was conducted by comparing the simulation results with measurement data obtained from previous study. Numerical simulations were carried out to compare the thermal performance of GDC window with that of conventional blinds window. Sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the influence of some design parameters on the flow characteristic and thermal performance of GDC window. The simulated results show that compared with the blinds window, the GDC window reduces 57.4% and 40.4% of heat gain in summer for the low-grade cooling water of 18 °C and 25 °C, respectively. Reducing the flow resistance within the GDC window is significant for improving the heat removal performance of the embedded pipes. This study provides an alternative solution to integrate the low-grade cooling sources into the glazing system for enhancing the energy-efficiency and decreasing the building energy demand in cooling-dominated buildings. | Simulation study of a dual-cavity window with gravity-driven cooling mechanism | 10.1007/s12273-021-0848-x |
2022-07-01 | Key message The correlation between dormancy release and metabolic metabolic changes in lily bulbs during low temperature storage was investigated. Abstract Low temperature is a major environmental factor required for dormancy release in lily bulbs. Although great advances in plant metabolomics have been achieved, knowledge about the molecular basis of lily bulb metabolomes at different developmental stages in response to low temperature is still limited. In this work, the dormancy release, vegetative growth, flowering, metabolic profile and gene expression in the less dormant cultivar Lilium longiforum × Oriental hybrid ‘Triumphator’ (T) and the more dormant cultivar Lilium Asiatic hybrid ‘Honesty’ (H) were compared. Exposure to low temperature (LT) successfully promoted stem elongation, floral transition and flowering of both T and H bulbs. However, exposure to room temperature (RT) restricted stalk elongation of both T and H bulbs, and prohibited floral transition and flowering of H bulbs. Correspondingly, higher antioxidant enzyme activity and total primary metabolite contents were observed in the apical bud of T bulbs. Gene expression analysis revealed that expressions of LiFT , LiFLK , LiSOC1 and LiCBF were decreased, whereas the expression of LiSVP and LiFLC were increased, in the apical bud of H bulbs under RT storage condition. Our findings reveal that the growth and dormancy breaking of lily bulbs are closely associated with the metabolic changes in the apical buds during postharvest storage. | Comparative metabolome analysis unravels a close association between dormancy release and metabolic alteration induced by low temperature in lily bulbs | 10.1007/s00299-022-02874-x |
2022-07-01 | A series of transition metal Mn, Cu, Ce and Fe were loaded on TiO 2 by sol-gel method with noble metal Pd as promotor for the application of passive NO x absorber. Experiments on adsorption and desorption of NO x were conducted and characterization methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (in situ DRIFTS) were involved. The experimental results show that Mn-contained catalysts, Mn-Ti and Pd-Mn-Ti, performed excellent NO x adsorbing ability and appropriate desorption temperature window. On the other hand, Ce- and Cu-contained samples were not suitable for the purpose of PNA. In addition to the low adsorption capacity, these two series of catalysts released massive amount of NO below 150 °C. Characterization results indicated that Pd was highly dispersed on all catalysts. The loading of Pd lowered not only the valence states of transition metals but surface oxygen percentage as well. From in situ DRIFTS tests, the Pd had little influence on the types of adsorbed substances for Mn, Ce and Cu series. However, the storage forms of NO x were obviously different on Pd-Fe-Ti and Fe-Ti. 本文采用溶胶-凝胶法制备了以TiO 2 为载体,Mn、Cu、Ce、Fe 为主要活性成分,贵金属Pd为促 进组分的一系列催化剂, 并将其用于氮氧化物的吸附(PNA)。采用XRD、XPS、TEM 以及原位 DRIFTS 等手段对催化剂进行表征。NO x 吸脱附试验结果表明,含Mn催化剂(Pd-Mn-Ti 以及Mn-Ti) 有较强的NO x 吸附能力且具有合适的脱附温度窗口。而含Ce、Cu 催化剂不适合作低温NO x 吸附催化 剂,NO x 的吸附量较低,且在随后的程序升温脱附试验中,低于150 °C即有大量NO脱附,不利于在 下游SCR催化剂进行进一步反应。XRD和TEM结果表明,贵金属Pd 在催化剂表面分散较好。XPS结 果显示,负载Pd 以后Mn、Cu、Ce、Fe 这四种金属的价态都有降低,并同时都伴随有表面氧浓度降 低。由此可见,元素价态和表面氧浓度并非是影响NO x 吸附性能的主要因素。从原位DRIFTS 结果可 以看出,Pd对于氮氧化物在含Mn、Cu、Ce催化剂表面吸附形式的影响较小,但对于NO x 在含Fe 催化 剂上的吸附形式和吸附量都有着显著影响,可推测Pd-Fe 之间有着较强的相互作用。 | Pd-M-TiO2 (M=Mn, Cu, Ce and Fe) as passive NOx adsorber (PNA) at low temperature | 10.1007/s11771-022-5083-9 |
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