bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Risk Prediction Model for Adverse Skin Events Associated with TNF-α Inhibitors in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients
Authors: Kim Woorim , Oh Soo-Jin , Kim Hyun-Jeong , Kim Jun-Hyeob , Gil Jin-Yeon , Ku Young-Sook , Kim Joo-Hee , Kim Hyoun-Ah , Jung Ju-Yang , Choi In-Ah , Kim Ji-Hyoun , Kim Jinhyun , Han Ji-Min , Lee Kyung-Eun
Published: July 2024

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder primarily targeting joints, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life. The introduction of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) inhibitors has markedly improved RA management by reducing inflammation. However, these medications are associated with adverse skin reactions, which can vary greatly among patients due to genetic differences. Objectives: This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with skin adverse events by TNF-α in RA patients. Methods: A cohort study was conducted, encompassing patients with RA who were prescribed TNF-α inhibitors. This study utilized machine learning algorithms to analyze genetic data and identify markers associated with skin-related adverse events. Various machine learning algorithms were employed to predict skin and subcutaneous tissue-related outcomes, leading to the development of a risk-scoring system. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified independent risk factors for skin and subcutaneous tissue-related complications. Results: After adjusting for covariates, individuals with the TT genotype of rs12551103, A allele carriers of rs13265933, and C allele carriers of rs73210737 exhibited approximately 20-, 14-, and 10-fold higher incidences of skin adverse events, respectively, compared to those with the C allele, GG genotype, and TT genotype. The machine learning algorithms used for risk prediction showed excellent performance. The risk of skin adverse events among patients receiving TNF-α inhibitors varied based on the risk score: 0 points, 0.6%; 2 points, 3.6%; 3 points, 8.5%; 4 points, 18.9%; 5 points, 36.7%; 6 points, 59.2%; 8 points, 90.0%; 9 points, 95.7%; and 10 points, 98.2%. Conclusions: These findings, emerging from this preliminary study, lay the groundwork for personalized intervention strategies to prevent TNF-α inhibitor-associated skin adverse events. This approach has the potential to improve patient outcomes by minimizing the risk of adverse effects while optimizing therapeutic efficacy.
Immunosuppressive Induction Therapy Using the Antithymocyteglobulin Grafalon: A Single-Center Non-Interventional Study
Authors: Becker Nikolaus , Pereyra David , Dingfelder Jule , Tortopis Chiara , Saffarian Zadeh Tina , Riha Moriz , Kacar Sertac , Soliman Thomas , Berlakovich Gabriela A. , Györi Georg
Published: July 2024

Background: Induction therapy with depleting antibodies in the setting of liver transplantation (LT) is discussed controversially to this day. The rabbit antithymocyteglobulin (ATG) Thymoglobulin (rATG) was introduced as early as 1984 and was frequently used as a standard regime for induction therapy after LT. There are no public reports characterizing Grafalon (ATG-F), a novel ATG, as an induction agent after LT. Objectives: The aim of this observational non-interventional study was to investigate the safety and efficacy of Grafalon induction therapy and characterize its clinical effects in the setting of LT. Methods: A cohort of 80 patients undergoing deceased donor LT at the Medical University of Vienna and receiving Grafalon as part of the clinical standard immunosuppressive regimen was prospectively included between March 2021 and November 2022. Patients were monitored closely for leukocytopenia and thrombocytopenia during the first postoperative week and followed up for incidence and severity of biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR), overall survival, and bacterial infections in the first year after LT. Results: The incidences of thrombocytopenia and leukocytopenia following Grafalon treatment peaked on postoperative day four, with 64% and 31%, respectively. However, there were no cases of severe leukocytopenia after the first postoperative week. Induction therapy with Grafalon resulted in a rate of localized bacterial infections and bacteremia of 28% and 21%, respectively. The rate of BPAR was 12.5% in the first year after LT; the one-year survival rate in this cohort was 90%. Conclusions: Overall, this study provides evidence of the safety and efficacy of Grafalon as an induction agent. Further studies investigating the potential long-term effects of Grafalon, as well as comparison studies with different immunosuppressive regimens, are needed in order to draw further conclusions.
Aortic Valve Calcium Score: Applications in Clinical Practice and Scientific Research—A Narrative Review
Authors: Gać Paweł , Jaworski Arkadiusz , Grajnert Filip , Kicman Katarzyna , Trejtowicz-Sutor Agnieszka , Witkowski Konrad , Poręba Małgorzata , Poręba Rafał
Published: July 2024

In this narrative review, we investigate the essential role played by the computed tomography Aortic Valve Calcium Score (AVCS) in the cardiovascular diagnostic landscape, with a special focus on its implications for clinical practice and scientific research. Calcific aortic valve stenosis is the most prevalent type of aortic stenosis (AS) in industrialized countries, and due to the aging population, its prevalence is increasing. While transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) remains the gold standard, AVCS stands out as an essential complementary tool in evaluating patients with AS. The advantage of AVCS is its independence from flow; this allows for a more precise evaluation of patients with discordant findings in TTE. Further clinical applications of AVCS include in the assessment of patients before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), as it helps in predicting outcomes and provides prognostic information post-TAVR. Additionally, we describe different AVCS thresholds regarding gender and the anatomical variations of the aortic valve. Finally, we discuss various scientific studies where AVCS was applied. As AVCS has some limitations, due to the pathophysiologies of AS extending beyond calcification and gender differences, scientists strive to validate contrast-enhanced AVCS. Furthermore, research on developing radiation-free methods of measuring calcium content is ongoing.
Complications and Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Various Etiologies of Early-Onset Scoliosis Treated with Magnetically Controlled Growing Rods—A Multicenter Study
Authors: Glowka Pawel , Grabala Pawel , Gupta Munish C. , Pereira Daniel E. , Latalski Michal , Danielewicz Anna , Grabala Michal , Tomaszewski Marek , Kotwicki Tomasz
Published: July 2024

Background: Early-onset scoliosis (EOS) refers to spinal deformities that develop and are diagnosed before the age of 10. The most important goals of the surgical treatment of EOS are to stop the progression of curvature, achieve the best possible correction, preserve motion, and facilitate spinal growth. The objectives of this multicenter study were to analyze the risk of complications among patients with EOS treated using magnetically controlled growing rods (MCGRs) and assess the patients’ and their parents’ quality of life after diagnosis and treatment with a minimum two-year follow-up. Methods: Patients given an ineffective nonoperative treatment qualified for surgery with MCGRs. This study involved 161 patients (90 females and 71 males) who were classified according to the etiology of curvature. The intraoperative and postoperative complications and those that occurred during the continuation of treatment with MCGRs were recorded and analyzed. The 24-item Early-Onset Scoliosis Questionnaire (EOSQ-24) was used to evaluate the patients’ quality of life and satisfaction with the treatment. Results: Implant-related complications requiring instrumentation revision were recorded in 26% of the patients. Medical complications occurred in 45% of the population. The EOSQ-24 revealed a significant improvement in the average scores during the follow-up. Conclusions: The treatment of early-onset scoliosis with MCGRs carries 66% risks of incurring medical and mechanical complications, the latter 26% of patients requiring revision procedures. Children with neuromuscular scoliosis, females, and with curvature greater than 90 degrees are at a higher risk of developing complications. Limiting the number of elective surgeries necessitated to prolong the instrumentation and treatment process for patients with MCGRs can greatly enhance their quality of life and satisfaction throughout the follow-up period.
Motion Analysis of International Energy Agency Wind 15 MW Floating Offshore Wind Turbine under Extreme Conditions
Authors: Chang Zengliang , Zheng Yueming , Qu Meng , Gao Xingguo , Tian Xiaojie , Liu Guijie
Published: July 2024

In recent years, ultra-large-scale offshore wind turbines have attracted widespread attention. However, accurately evaluating the motion responses of offshore wind turbines under extreme conditions, especially for semisubmersible floating off-shore wind turbines, is often challenging. In order to assess the operational behavior of wind turbines under wind and wave loads, this paper adopted a numerical analysis method to solve the motion responses under extreme conditions. It specifically examines the motion responses of the IEA 15 MW wind turbine in terms of surge, heave, and pitch direction, focusing on environmental loads that occur once every 50 years. The results show that the wind turbine can still operate normally under the Ultimate condition. However, the average amplitude increased by 7% in the pitch direction and decreased by 4% in the heave direction compared to the rated condition. Under extreme conditions (occurring once every 50 years), with the wind turbine parked, the average amplitude in the surge direction reduced by 33%, while the average amplitude in the pitch direction reduced by 106%. Thus, it is essential to pitch the blades and brake the generator in extreme environmental conditions to ensure the safety of the wind turbine.
Catalase Deactivation Increases Dermatophyte Sensitivity to ROS Sources
Authors: Jusuf Sebastian , Mansour Michael K.
Published: July 2024

As the leading cause of fungal skin infections around the globe, dermatophytes are responsible for a multitude of skin ailments, ranging from athlete’s foot to ringworm. Due to the combination of its growing prevalence and antifungal misuse, antifungal-resistant dermatophyte strains like Trichophyton indotineae have begun to emerge, posing a significant global health risk. The emergence of these resistant dermatophytes highlights a critical need to identify alternative methods of treating dermatophyte infections. In our study, we utilized a 405 nm LED to establish that blue light can effectively inactivate catalase within a variety of both susceptible and resistant dermatophytes. Through this catalase inactivation process, light-treated dermatophytes were found to exhibit increased sensitivity to reactive oxygen species (ROS)-producing agents, improving the performance of antimicrobial agents such as H2O2 and amphotericin B. Our findings further demonstrate that light-induced catalase inactivation can inhibit the formation and polarized growth of hyphae from dermatophytes, suppressing biomass formation. Thus, by increasing ROS sensitization and inhibiting hyphal development, catalase-deactivating blue light offers a potential non-invasive and non-drug-reliant method of managing dermatophyte infections, opening new avenues for the potential treatment of these common infections in conjunction with existing treatments.
Recent Studies on Smart Textile-Based Wearable Sweat Sensors for Medical Monitoring: A Systematic Review
Authors: Akter Asma , Apu Md Mehedi Hasan , Veeranki Yedukondala Rao , Baroud Turki Nabieh , Posada-Quintero Hugo F.
Published: July 2024

Smart textile-based wearable sweat sensors have recently received a lot of attention due to their potential for use in personal medical monitoring. They have a variety of desirable qualities, including low cost, easy implementation, stretchability, flexibility, and light weight. Wearable sweat sensors are a potential approach for personalized medical devices because of these features. Moreover, real-time textile-based sweat sensors can easily monitor health by analyzing the sweat produced by the human body. We reviewed the most recent advancements in wearable sweat sensors from the fabrication, materials, and disease detection and monitoring perspectives. To integrate real-time biosensors with electronics and introduce advancements to the field of wearable technology, key chemical constituents of sweat, sweat collection technologies, and concerns of textile substrates are elaborated. Perspectives for building wearable biosensing systems based on sweat are reviewed, as well as the methods and difficulties involved in enhancing wearable sweat-sensing performance.
Is Land Fragmentation Undermining Collective Action in Rural Areas? An Empirical Study Based on Irrigation Systems in China’s Frontier Areas
Authors: Su Yiqing , Xuan Yuan , Zang Liangzhen , Zhang Xiaoyin
Published: July 2024

A comprehensive understanding of the impact of land fragmentation on collective action is essential for rural governance in developing countries. Prior publications have argued that land fragmentation impedes the sustainable development of agricultural economies and rural societies, while the connection between humans and nature has not been considered comprehensively. Therefore, the conclusion that the impact of land fragmentation on collective action is purely negative may be one-sided. To examine this conclusion, this paper re-evaluates the relationship between land fragmentation and rural collective action from a multidisciplinary perspective. Based on a rural field survey using stratified random sampling, Oprobit regression was employed to conduct an econometric analysis on data from 798 rural households across 14 cities in the border region of Guangxi, China. The following research findings were obtained: (1) When the human–nature connection is considered, the relationship between land fragmentation and collective action follows an inverted U-shaped curve. Specifically, moderate initial increases in land fragmentation can lead to improvements in collective action; however, when the degree of land fragmentation exceeds a certain threshold, further increases in land fragmentation will decrease the collective action capacity. (2) This nonlinear relationship between land fragmentation and collective action may be realized through three pathways: agricultural production, land use patterns, and the ecological environment. Under the context of collective action, this study shows that a moderate level of land fragmentation objectively exists in reality. This insight provides a new impetus for developing countries to shift policy perspectives to increase their land use efficiency. Additionally, this paper integrates relevant findings from both social sciences and natural sciences. Thereby, it not only expands the existing understanding of key factors influencing rural household collective action but also emphasizes the potential for cross-disciplinary integration between social sciences and natural sciences.
Calculation of the Optimal Scale of Urban Green Space for Alleviating Surface Urban Heat Islands: A Case Study of Xi’an, China
Authors: Zhang Jianxin , Zhao Jingyuan , Pang Bo , Liu Sisi
Published: July 2024

Research has demonstrated that urban green spaces play a crucial role in mitigating the severe urban heat island (UHI) effect. However, existing studies often suffer from limitations such as the neglect of the cooling effect of water bodies within the green spaces and incomplete considerations of the overall cooling effect. These limitations may lead to inaccuracies in the research findings. Therefore, the present study takes the city of Xi’an as a case study to explore the optimal green space size for achieving efficient cooling. The results indicate that (i) urban green spaces exhibit robust cooling effects, with variations observed among the various types; (ii) for community parks without water, and for street gardens, the optimal areas of these green spaces are 3.44 and 0.83 hectares, respectively; (iii) for community parks with water, the area of internal water bodies should ideally be maintained at around 29.43% of the total green space area in order to achieve an optimal cooling efficiency. In conclusion, this study introduces a new perspective and new optimization methods for urban green space planning, thereby offering scientific guidance to urban planners in formulating effective development and management policies and urban planning schemes.
Non-Institutional Factors That Contribute to the Green Building Premium
Authors: Chau Kwong Wing , Huo Derek D. , Liusman Ervi
Published: July 2024

This study examines the non-institutional factors that affect the green building premium (GBP). Residential properties are chosen for empirical analysis since they are free from institutional factors such as corporate social responsibility (CSR). The study adopts both Mahalanobis Distance Matching (MDM) and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) to identify the treatment observations (buildings with a green building certificate) and the control observations (non-green buildings). The results are robust across the two methods. The study found that residential buildings with green certificates command a premium and that this premium does not decline over time, which suggests that consumers are willing to pay a GPB in the absence of institutional mandatory requirements. Furthermore, the GBP is higher but with a slower growth rate in higher-income areas, which is consistent with the post-materialist value theory and the prosperity or affluence hypothesis.
Analysis of Rigid-Flexible Coupled Collision Force in a Variable Load Offshore Wind Turbine Main Three-Row Cylindrical Roller Bearing
Authors: Pang Xiaoxu , Zhu Dingkang , Zuo Xu , Wang Dongfeng , Hao Wenlu , Qiu Ming , Liu Duo
Published: July 2024

In response to the limitations and one-sidedness of the simulation results of a rigid three-row cylindrical roller bearing for an offshore wind turbine main shaft under constant-load conditions, this paper proposes a simulation analysis method under variable loads. A contact mechanics model and a flexible body model are established, and the rigid-flexible coupled treatment is applied to the bearing’s inner and outer ring and cages. Based on variable load conditions, the theoretical speeds, simulated speeds, and acceleration responses of the pure rigid model and the rigid-flexible coupled model are compared, and the model is validated. Finally, the dynamic and transient responses reveal the time-varying characteristics of bearing loads and stress distribution patterns under different driving speeds and contact friction coefficients in the rigid-flexible coupled model. The conclusions are as follows: the rotational error of the rigid model is 1.67 to 3.76 times greater than that of the rigid-flexible coupled model, and the acceleration trend of the rigid-flexible coupled model is more stable with smaller speed fluctuations. The average forces on the thrust roller and cages increase with the driving speed, while those on the radial roller, cages, and inner ring decrease with the driving speed. The average force on the near-blade end cage is approximately 1.19 to 1.59 times that of the far end. The average force on the roller and cages significantly decreases with decreasing friction coefficient, with a reduction ranging from 50.08% to 76.41%. The maximum stress of the bearing increases with increasing driving speed. The novel simulation method for a rigid-flexible, coupled, three-row cylindrical roller bearing model under variable load conditions proposed in this paper can more accurately simulate the dynamic response of offshore wind turbine main shaft bearings during service. The results obtained in this paper provide highly valuable guidance for the research and design of offshore wind turbine main shaft bearings.
New Technique to Repair Keyhole of 2195 Al-Li Alloy Friction Stir Welding Joints
Authors: Meng Xiangchen , Chen Xi , Han Zhulin , Yuan Jingyu , Xie Yuming , Dong Jihong , Xia Peiyun , Huang Yongxian
Published: July 2024

Aiming at the repairing of keyhole defects after friction stir welding of complex structures, a new method combined with tungsten inert gas welding (TIG) and friction stir processing (FSP) was proposed. The results showed that the pre-filling wire of TIG can completely fill the volumetric keyhole. FSP can refine the coarse grain area into equiaxial grains due to dynamic recrystallization, while some pore defects are eliminated. The interface bonding quality is high. The microhardness of the repairing zone with FSP is significantly stronger than that of the untreated parts. Compared to direct TIG repairing, the introduction of FSP transformed the fracture from brittle fracture to ductile fracture, and the tensile strength of the joint was increased by 131.7%, realizing the high-quality repairing of keyhole defects in 2195 Al-Li alloy.
Degradation Mechanisms of Mortar and Plaster Layers
Authors: Drdácký Miloš , Ševčík Radek , Frankeová Dita , Koudelková Veronika , Buzek Jaroslav , Eisler Marek , Valach Jaroslav
Published: July 2024

This article presents a case of complex investigation of defects of lime mortar and plaster that have been developing over a period of 48 years in a house in Prague and are strongly influenced by thermal and salt crystallization cycles. The aim of this research was to describe the degradation phenomena of mortars and plasters observed on a narrowly limited part of the building, combining structural elements of different types and ages and to explain the mechanisms of their formation and development. The geometric characteristics of the defects were determined by non-destructive methods, especially optical interference moiré, laser profilometry, photogrammetry, and infrared thermography. Material data were determined on samples by electron microscopy, ion exchange chromatography, and direct moisture content measurements. The results supported the hypothesis of the increase in the deformation of large buckles of detached plasters by the mechanism of buckling caused by loading of the edges with compression generated by volume changes. Direct loading of the boundary surfaces causes the formation of bulges in the confined areas. This study shows the importance of failure analysis of real structures to gain knowledge about the behavior of structures and materials under long-term service conditions.
Research on the Corrosion Detection of Rebar in Reinforced Concrete Based on SMFL Technology
Authors: Tian Hongsong , Kong Yujiang , Liu Bin , Ouyang Bin , He Zhenfeng , Liao Leng
Published: July 2024

The corrosion damage of rebars is a leading cause of structural failure in reinforced concrete structures. Timely detection and evaluation of corrosion damage are crucial for ensuring structural safety. The self-magnetic flux leakage (SMFL) technology is often used due to its unique advantages in detecting corrosion damage of rebars. However, challenges persist in theoretically characterizing corrosion damage and exploring influencing factors. Therefore, the magnetic dipole theory model coupled with multiple-shaped defects is proposed and the influence of corrosion expansion force on the detection of corrosion damage is analyzed. The results show that the standard deviation of the magnetic field intensity induced by corrosion varied by up to 833%, while that induced by corrosion expansion force did not exceed 10%. So the changes in the SMFL field induced by corrosion damage play the dominant role and the influence of corrosion expansion force can be ignored. In addition, corrosion damage experiments on reinforced concrete based on the SMFL technology were conducted. The results indicate that the SFML curves of rebars change monotonically with the increasing corrosion degree. Significant variations in the curves correspond well with the locations of severe corrosion on the rebars. There is a positive relationship between the proposed magnetic parameters and the corrosion degree of the rebars. Furthermore, a corrosion damage evaluation model considering multiple parameters is developed to predict the corrosion degree of rebars. The prediction results demonstrate high accuracy, with an average absolute error of only 8.33%, which is within 10%.
Laser Welding of ARMOX 500T Steel
Authors: Lisiecki Aleksander , Kurc-Lisiecka Agnieszka , Pakieła Wojciech , Chrobak Grzegorz , Batalha Gilmar Ferreira , Adamiak Marcin
Published: July 2024

The article describes the results of the study on laser welding of armor plates with a nominal thickness of 3.0 mm. The plates were made of Armox 500T steel characterized by a hardness of up to 540 HB, a minimum yield strength of 1250 MPa, an ultimate strength of up to 1750 MPa, and an elongation A5 minimum of 8%. The laser used for the welding tests was a solid state Yb:YAG laser. The influence of basic parameters such as laser output power, welding speed, and focal plane position on the weld geometry was determined during bead-on-plate welding tests. The optimal conditions for butt joint welding were determined, and the test joints were subjected to mechanical and impact tests, metallographic analysis, and hardness measurements. It has been shown that it is possible to laser weld Armox 500T armor plates, and at the same time it is possible to provide high quality butt joints, but this requires precise selection of welding parameters. A decrease in HAZ hardness of about 22–35% in relation to the hardness of the base material, ranging from 470 to 510 HV0.2, was found. The ultimate tensile strength of the test joints was approx. 20% lower than the Armox 500T steel. The bending tests revealed the low plasticity of the tested joints because the bending angle was just 25–35°. The results of Charpy V–notch test revealed that the impact toughness of the weld metal at −20 °C was approx. 30% lower than at room temperature.
Analysis of Face Milling of Hard Steel 55NiCrMoV7 by Studying Rough and Semi-Finished Machining and the Influence of Cutting Parameters on Macroscopic Chip Dimensions
Authors: Malea Claudiu Ionuţ , Niţu Eduard Laurenţiu , Iordache Daniela Monica , Tabacu Ştefan Lucian , Negrea Aurelian Denis , Bădulescu Claudiu
Published: July 2024

Hard milling is being increasingly used as an alternative to EDM due to its high productivity. The present paper presents the results of theoretical-experimental research on the face milling of hard steel 55NiCrMoV7. A comprehensive analysis of cutting temperatures and forces during single-tooth milling and a morphological examination of the resulting chips are conducted for roughing and semi-finishing operations. The temperature is analyzed in the chip formation area, and the detached chips and the cutting force are analyzed through their tangential, radial, and penetration components, depending on the contact angle of the cutter tooth with the workpiece. The analysis of chip morphology is carried out based on the dimensional and angular parameters of chip segmentation and their degree of segmentation. Based on the central composite design and the response surface method, it is shown that it is possible to mathematically model the dependence of the macroscopic dimensions of the detached chips on the cutting parameters. The determined process functions, the maximum chip curling diameter, and the maximum chip height allow for establishing the influence of the cutting parameters’ values on the chips’ macroscopic dimensions and, thus, guiding the cutting process in the desired direction.
A Comprehensive Study of Aluminum Anodization in Transition Modes
Authors: Rozenblium Ilia , Yuferov Yuliy , Borodianskiy Konstantin
Published: July 2024

Anodization is a method to fabricate a tunable nanoporosity and thickness of alumina coating. This research is devoted to large-area hard anodization (HA), ultrahard anodization (UHA), and transitional modes. The phenomenon and challenges of UHA and the transition from HA are studied on large-area samples using linear-sweep voltammetry. The findings indicate that a uniform large-area thick coating can be achieved by utilizing pre-UHA modes. The study’s results indicate that UHA leads only to coatings with non-uniform thickness in large-area anodization. The peculiarities of pre-UHA are studied using different temperatures (0, 5, 10, and 15 °C) and processing times (1, 2, 4, 6, and 12 h) in a 0.3 M oxalic acid electrolyte. The current study shows the possibility for the fast growth of thick nanoporous alumina up to 235 ± 4 µm for only 12 h.
Coupled Effects of High Temperature and Steel Fiber Content on Energy Absorption Properties of Concrete
Authors: Li Ping , Feng Jie , Gu Jiming , Duan Shiwei
Published: July 2024

The associated effects of temperature and steel fiber content on the energy absorption properties of concrete were examined using quasi-static uniaxial compression tests of concrete materials with varied steel fiber contents (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%) at various temperatures (20 °C, 200 °C, 400 °C, and 520 °C). The experimental findings demonstrate that steel fibers can greatly boost concrete’s ability to absorb energy and that the toughness index rises with steel fiber concentration. The energy absorption capacity of concrete under high-temperature conditions also significantly decreases as temperature rises, and the energy absorption ability of steel fiber concrete under the same temperature is superior to that of plain concrete. The coupled influence factor K of temperature–steel fiber percentage characterizing the energy-absorbing ability of concrete was determined, and the coupled influence law of temperature and steel fiber content on the energy-absorbing capacity of concrete materials was summarized and analyzed on the basis of the experimental data of high-temperature compression. Equivalent equations for steel fiber reinforcing and temperature weakening effects when they are comparable (K = 1) are developed and equivalent parameters for concrete materials are given.
The Role of a Two-Phase Region in Directional Crystallization of Binary Liquids
Authors: Alexandrov Dmitri V. , Alexandrova Irina V. , Ivanov Alexander A. , Toropova Liubov V.
Published: July 2024

Motivated by the widespread occurrence of directional crystallization in nature, laboratory experiments and industrial facilities, we consider how a two-phase (mushy) region filled simultaneously with liquid and solid material influences the process and changes the solute concentration in both the phases. A mushy layer arising as a result of constitutional supercooling in binary liquids drastically changes all process parameters in comparison with the frequently used approximation of a macroscopically planar phase interface. The heat and mass transfer problem with a moving mushy region is replaced by the equivalent model with a discontinuity interface that divides the liquid and solid phases and inherits the properties of a mushy layer. Analytical solutions that describe both crystallization modes with a planar phase interface and discontinuity interface (representing a mushy layer) are constructed for the steady-state and self-similar conditions. The switching time of the crystallization model with a planar phase interface to the model with a two-phase layer is determined. Our calculations, based on analytical solutions, show that the presence of a mushy layer can change the solute concentration in liquid and solid phases to a few tens of percent as compared to the planar interface model. This explains the importance of accounting for the two-phase region when describing the crystallization of supercooled binary liquids.
Local Metric Resolvability of Generalized Petersen Graphs
Authors: Ismail Rashad , Nadeem Asim , Azhar Kamran
Published: July 2024

The local metric basis and local metric generator can play a significant role in deciding optimal locations for many facilities like hospitals, fire stations, medical labs, and grocery stores. The local metric basis generates codes in terms of distance for each node of the graph in such a way that no two adjacent nodes have the same code, which allows for the optimal allocation of resources. In the current manuscript, the local metric basis (LMB) for three families of graphs, P(n,1),P(n,2), and P(n,3), which are generalized Petersen graphs and commonly employed in interconnection networks, are determined. The manuscript also proposes an algorithm to compute the local metric basis and its application in the optimal placement of different facilities in a region.
Automated Magnetic Microrobot Control: From Mathematical Modeling to Machine Learning
Authors: Li Yamei , Huo Yingxin , Chu Xiangyu , Yang Lidong
Published: July 2024

Microscale robotics has emerged as a transformative field, offering unparalleled opportunities for innovation and advancement in various fields. Owing to the distinctive benefits of wireless operation and a heightened level of safety, magnetic actuation has emerged as a widely adopted technique in the field of microrobotics. However, factors such as Brownian motion, fluid dynamic flows, and various nonlinear forces introduce uncertainties in the motion of micro/nanoscale robots, making it challenging to achieve precise navigational control in complex environments. This paper presents an extensive review encompassing the trajectory from theoretical foundations of the generation and modeling of magnetic fields as well as magnetic field-actuation modeling to motion control methods of magnetic microrobots. We introduce traditional control methods and the learning-based control approaches for robotic systems at the micro/nanoscale, and then these methods are compared. Unlike the conventional navigation methods based on precise mathematical models, the learning-based control and navigation approaches can directly learn control signals for the actuation systems from data and without relying on precise models. This endows the micro/nanorobots with high adaptability to dynamic and complex environments whose models are difficult/impossible to obtain. We hope that this review can provide insights and guidance for researchers interested in automated magnetic microrobot control.
Adsorption of Cd2+ by Lactobacillus plantarum Immobilized on Distiller’s Grains Biochar: Mechanism and Action
Authors: Zhu Guangxu , Wang Xingfeng , Du Ronghui , Wen Shuangxi , Du Lifen , Tu Qiang
Published: July 2024

Immobilized microbial technology has recently emerged as a prominent research focus for the remediation of heavy metal pollution because of its superior treatment efficiency, ease of operation, environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness. This study investigated the adsorption characteristics and mechanisms of Cd2+ solutions by Lactobacillus plantarum adsorbed immobilized on distiller’s grains biochar (XIM) and Lactobacillus plantarum–encapsulated immobilized on distiller’s grains biochar (BIM). The findings reveal that the maximum adsorption capacity and efficiency were achieved at a pH solution of 6.0. Specifically, at an adsorption equilibrium concentration of cadmium at 60 mg/L, XIM and BIM had adsorption capacities of 8.40 ± 0.30 mg/g and 12.23 ± 0.05 mg/g, respectively. BIM demonstrated noticeably greater adsorption capacities than XIM at various cadmium solution concentrations. A combination of isothermal adsorption modeling, kinetic modeling, scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometer (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses showed that cadmium adsorption by XIM primarily involved physical adsorption and pore retention. In contrast, the adsorption mechanism of BIM was mainly attributed to the formation of Cd(CN)2 crystals.
Efficient Transformation of Water Vapor into Hydrogen by Dielectric Barrier Discharge Loaded with Bamboo Carbon Bed Structured by Fibrous Material
Authors: Xu Hui , Sun Ran , Tan Yujie , Pei Chenxiao , Shu Ruchen , Song Lijie , Zhang Ruina , Ouyang Chuang , Xia Min , Hou Jianyuan , Zhang Xinzhong , Yuan Yuan , Zhang Renxi
Published: July 2024

A new method of efficiently transforming water vapor into hydrogen was investigated by dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) loaded with bamboo carbon bed structured by fibrous material in an argon medium. Hydrogen productivity was measured in three different reactors: a non-loaded DBD (N-DBD), a bamboo carbon (BC) bed DBD (BC-DBD), and a quartz wool (QW)-loaded BC DBD (QC-DBD). The effects of the quality ratio of BC to QW and relative humidity on hydrogen productivity were also investigated in QC-DBD at various flow rates. The reaction process and mechanism were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, N2 physisorption experiments, infrared spectroscopy, and optical emission spectroscopy. A new reaction pathway was developed by loading BC into the fibrous structured material to activate the reaction molecules and capture the O-containing groups in the DBD reactor. A hydrogen productivity of 17.3 g/kWh was achieved at an applied voltage of 5 kV, flow rate of 4 L/min, and 100% relative humidity (RH) in the QC-DBD with a quality ratio of BC to QW of 3.0.
Synthesis of Mesoporous Tetragonal ZrO2, TiO2 and Solid Solutions and Effect of Colloidal Silica on Porosity
Authors: Kong Linggen , Karatchevtseva Inna , Wei Tao , Veliscek-Carolan Jessica
Published: July 2024

Metal oxides possessing a large surface area, pore volume and desirable pore size provide more varieties and active industrial potentials. Nevertheless, it is very challenging to produce crystal metal oxides while keeping satisfactory porosity features, especially for ternary compositions. High temperature is usually needed to produce crystal metal oxides, which readily leads to the collapse of the pore structure. Herein, by employing a ‘soft’ dispersant agent and a hard silica template, ZrO2, TiO2 and Zr-Ti solid solutions having a tetragonal crystal structure are produced and the silica-leached materials are characterized from macroscopic to atomistic scales. The micron-sized particulate powders are composed of nanoscale ‘building blocks’, with crystallite sizes between ~8 and 21 nm. These polycrystalline ceramic powders exhibit a high specific surface area (up to ~200 m2·g−1) and pore volume (up to 0.5 cm3·g−1), with a pore size range of ~5–20 nm. Importantly, the Zr/Ti–O–Si–OH chemical bonds exist on the particle surface, with about two-thirds of the surface covered by silica. The hydroxyl groups can further post-graft organic ligands or directly associate with species. Synthesized mesoporous metal oxides are highly homogenous and could potentially be used in various applications because of their tetragonal structure and porosity features.
Treatment and Resource Utilization of Gaseous Pollutants in Functionalized Ionic Liquids
Authors: Wang Jiayu , Wang Rui
Published: July 2024

With the rapid development of science, technology, and the economy of human society, the emission problem of gas pollutants is becoming more and more serious, which brings great pressure to the global ecological environment. At the same time, the natural resources that can be exploited and utilized on Earth are also showing a trend of exhaustion. As an innovative and environmentally friendly material, functionalized ionic liquids (FILs) have shown great application potential in the capture, separation, and resource utilization of gaseous pollutants. In this paper, the synthesis and characterization methods of FILs are introduced, and the application of FILs in the treatment and recycling of gaseous pollutants is discussed. The future development of FILs in this field is also anticipated, which will provide new ideas and methods for the treatment and recycling of gaseous pollutants and promote the process of environmental protection and sustainable development.
Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Lonicera similis Flowers at Three Harvest Periods: Comparison of Composition, Characterization, and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Hu Yunyi , Qian Wenzhang , Fan Shaojun , Yang Yao , Liao Hai , Zhuang Guoqing , Gao Shun
Published: July 2024

Lonicera similis Hemsl. (L. similis) is a promising industrial crop with flowers rich in phenolic compounds. In this study, an ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was designed to extract phenolic compounds from L. similis flowers (LSFs). A contrastive analysis on the phenolic compounds’ yield and characterization and the antioxidant activity of the extracts at three harvest stages (PGS I, PGS II, and PGS III) are reported. The results indicate that the optimal conditions are a sonication intensity of 205.9 W, ethanol concentration of 46.4%, SLR of 1 g: 31.7 mL, and sonication time of 20.1 min. Under these optimized conditions, the TPC values at PGS I, PGS II, and PGS III were 117.22 ± 0.55, 112.73 ± 1.68, and 107.33 ± 1.39 mg GAE/g, respectively, whereas the extract of PGS I had the highest TFC (68.48 ± 2.01 mg RE/g). The HPLC analysis showed that chlorogenic acid, rutin, quercetin, isoquercitrin, and ferulic acid are the main components in the phenolic compounds from LSFs, and their contents are closely corrected with the harvest periods. LSF extracts exhibited a better antioxidant activity, and the activity at PGS I was significantly higher than those at PGS II and PGS III. The correlation analysis showed that kaempferol and ferulic acid, among the eight phenolic compounds, have a significant positive correlation with the antioxidant activity, while the remaining compounds have a negative correlation. Minor differences in extracts at the three harvest stages were found through SEM and FTIR. These findings may provide useful references for the optimal extraction method of phenolic compounds from LSFs at three different harvest periods, which will help to achieve a higher phytochemical yield at the optimal harvest stage (PGS I).
Visible-Light-Mediated Ring-Opening Geminal Dibromination of Alkenes via Alkoxy Radicals Enabled by Electron Donor–Acceptor Complex
Authors: Wei Rong , Wang Yuan , Zhang Juantao , Wu Chunsheng , Zhang Zhenhua , Zhang Duo
Published: July 2024

An electron donor–acceptor complex was utilized to generate alkoxy radicals from alcohols under mild conditions using visible light. This approach was combined with a hydroxybromination process to achieve the deconstructive functionalization of alkenes, leading to the production of geminal dibromides. Mechanistic investigations indicated the intermediacy of hypervalent iodine (III) compounds.
Highly Efficient Asymmetric [3+2] Cycloaddition Promoted by Chiral Aziridine-Functionalized Organophosphorus Compounds
Authors: Szymańska Julia , Rachwalski Michał , Pieczonka Adam M.
Published: July 2024

The asymmetric [3+2] cycloaddition of azomethine ylides generated from the corresponding imino ester-to-trans-β-nitrostyrene catalysis by chiral aziridine-containing phosphines and phosphine oxides is described. Of the sixteen stereoisomers that could be formed as a result of the title reaction, three were formed, two of which were obtained in an enantiomerically enriched or pure form, and one in a racemic form. One of the products underwent epimerization under basic reaction conditions.
Hydrochar from Pine Needles as a Green Alternative for Catalytic Electrodes in Energy Applications
Authors: Marrocchi Assunta , Cerza Elisa , Chandrasekaran Suhas , Sgreccia Emanuela , Kaciulis Saulius , Vaccaro Luigi , Syahputra Suanto , Vacandio Florence , Knauth Philippe , Di Vona Maria Luisa
Published: July 2024

Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) serves as a sustainable method to transform pine needle waste into nitrogen-doped (N-doped) hydrochars. The primary focus is on evaluating these hydrochars as catalytic electrodes for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), which are pivotal processes with significant environmental implications. Hydrochars were synthesized by varying the parameters such as nitrogen loading, temperature, and residence time. These materials were then thoroughly characterized using diverse analytical techniques, including elemental analysis, density measurements, BET surface area analysis, and spectroscopies like Raman, FTIR, and XPS, along with optical and scanning electron microscopies. The subsequent electrochemical assessment involved preparing electrocatalytic inks by combining hydrochars with an anion exchange ionomer (AEI) to leverage their synergistic effects. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous reports on catalytic electrodes that simultaneously incorporate both a hydrochar and AEI. Evaluation metrics such as current densities, onset and half-wave potentials, and Koutecky–Levich and Tafel plots provided insights into their electrocatalytic performances. Notably, hydrochars synthesized at 230 °C exhibited an onset potential of 0.92 V vs. RHE, marking the highest reported value for a hydrochar. They also facilitated the exchange of four electrons at 0.26 V vs. RHE in the ORR. Additionally, the CO2RR yielded valuable C2 products like acetaldehyde and acetate. These findings highlight the remarkable electrocatalytic activity of the optimized hydrochars, which could be attributed, at least in part, to their optimal porosity.
Optimizing Systems for Robust Heterologous Production of Biosurfactants Rhamnolipid and Lyso-Ornithine Lipid in Pseudomonas putida KT2440
Authors: Li Xuelian , Yang Zhili , Liu Jianhua
Published: July 2024

Surfactants are amphiphilic molecules that are capable of mixing water and oil. Biosurfactants are eco-friendly, low-toxicity, and stable to a variety of environmental factors. Optimizing conditions for microorganisms to produce biosurfactants can lead to improved production suitable for scaling up. In this study, we compared heterologous expression levels of the luminescence system luxCDABE operon controlled by regulatable promoters araC-PBAD and its strong version araC-PBAD-SD in Escherichia coli K12, Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, and P. putida KT2440. Real-time monitoring of luminescence levels in the three strains indicated that luxCDABE controlled by araC-PBAD-SD promoter with 0.2% arabinose supplementation in P. putida produced the highest level of luminescence. By using the araC-PBAD-SD promoter-controlled rhlAB expression in P. putida, we were able to produce mono-rhamnolipid at a level of 1.5 g L−1 when 0.02% arabinose was supplemented. With the same system to express olsB, lyso-ornithine lipid was produced at a level of 10 mg L−1 when 0.2% arabinose was supplemented. To our knowledge, this is the first report about optimizing conditions for lyso-ornithine lipid production at a level up to 10 mg L−1. Taken together, our results demonstrate that regulatable araC-PBAD-SD promoter in P. putida KT2440 is a useful system for heterologous production of biosurfactants.
Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 3 among Hemodialysis Patients in Mexico: First Identification of Chronic Infection
Authors: Copado-Villagrana Edgar D. , Duarte-López Ilsy X. , Calderón-Flores Arturo , Loera-Robles Isidro , Viera-Segura Oliver , Fierro Nora A.
Published: July 2024

The global distribution of hepatitis E virus (HEV) is attributed to its capacity to spread through several routes of transmission; hemodialysis has gained increased amounts of attention in recent years. Although Mexico is considered a hyperendemic region for hepatitis E, no HEV surveillance is performed in the country. The frequency of HEV in hemodialysis (HD) patients has not been determined. Herein, we conducted a cross-sectional single-center analytical study including 67 serum samples from HD patients. Anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies and the viral genome were determined; partial regions within the HEV genome were sequenced for further phylogenetic analysis. Globally, 14.9% of the tested patients exhibited reactivity for IgG antibodies against HEV, and none showed reactivity to IgM. A total of 5.9% of the samples showed HEV genome amplification, and sequencing confirmed the identity of genotype 3; subsequent analysis of positive cases revealed two acute cases and chronic hepatitis E infection in one patient. Notably, the chronic patient was negative for anti-HEV IgG antibodies. Our findings highlight the importance of viral genome testing in HD patients and the need to establish guidelines for HEV detection in Mexico.