bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Electrical Stimulation on Articular Cartilage Regeneration with a Focus on Piezoelectric Biomaterials for Articular Cartilage Tissue Repair and Engineering
Authors: Zhou Zhengjie , Zheng Jingtong , Meng Xiaoting , Wang Fang
Published: January 2023

There is increasing evidence that chondrocytes within articular cartilage are affected by endogenous force-related electrical potentials. Furthermore, electrical stimulation (ES) promotes the proliferation of chondrocytes and the synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules, which accelerate the healing of cartilage defects. These findings suggest the potential application of ES in cartilage repair. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis of articular cartilage injuries and the current clinical strategies for the treatment of articular cartilage injuries. We then focus on the application of ES in the repair of articular cartilage in vivo. The ES-induced chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and its potential regulatory mechanism are discussed in detail. In addition, we discuss the potential of applying piezoelectric materials in the process of constructing engineering articular cartilage, highlighting the important advances in the unique field of tissue engineering.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Institutional Readiness towards Social Accountability as Perceived by Medical Students at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad
Authors: Sa Bidyadhar , Patrick Christal , Pascall Onella , Patrick Jalisa , Pierre Sade , Pillai Diana , Persad Kion , Patterson Allan , Peterson Nicholas , Rafeek Reisha
Published: January 2023

Background: Social accountability is defined as “the obligation of medical schools to direct their education, research and service activities toward addressing the priority health concerns of the community, region, and/or nation that they have a mandate to serve”. It is becoming increasingly critical in evaluating medical school performance and education quality. Medical students must have an appropriate understanding of social accountability. This study explores knowledge, attitudes and institutional readiness as perceived by medical students towards social accountability. Method: An independent online cross-sectional survey was conducted, which included 121 medical students recruited through a convenience sampling technique. The survey instruments were validated through a pilot study and the responses were analyzed using chi-squared (χ2) tests. Frequencies and percentages were computed. Results: A total of 69% of students understood SA, 61.2% believed they demonstrated SA, and 82.6% believed it has a positive impact on their attitudes and behaviors. About 52.1% believed that their school has a positive impact on the community with a curriculum that includes (52.9%) and reflects the needs of the population that they will serve (49.6%). Conclusion: Based on the findings, a significant number of students have knowledge about social accountability, have a positive attitude towards the concept, and believe that their institution demonstrates readiness.
Predatory Abilities of Two Mediterranean Ants on the Eggs and Larvae of the Codling Moth Cydia pomonella
Authors: Schifani Enrico , Giannetti Daniele , Grasso Donato A.
Published: January 2023

The predatory ability of ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) against insect pests can offer an important service to agricultural activities and may sometimes be directly exploited in biological control strategies. The codling moth Cydia pomonella (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) is a major agricultural pest of fruit orchards, whose biological control is complicated by the fact that the larvae spend most of their life protected within the fruits they damage. In a recent experiment in Europe, pear trees in which ant activity was artificially increased by the addition of sugary liquid dispensers (artificial nectaries) suffered less damage caused by the larvae to their fruits. While some ants were already known to prey upon the mature larvae or pupae of C. pomonella in the soil, prevention of fruit damage would require predation upon eggs or newly hatched larvae, which have not yet excavated into the fruits. We verified whether two different Mediterranean ants frequently observed in fruit orchards, Crematogaster scutellaris and Tapinoma magnum, were able to prey upon C. pomonella eggs and larvae in laboratory conditions. Our experiments demonstrated that both species similarly attacked and killed young C. pomonella larvae. On the other hand, the eggs mostly attracted the attention of T. magnum but were never damaged. Further field assessments are required to understand whether ants may also interfere with oviposition by adults or whether larger ant species, although generally rarer in orchards, may also prey upon eggs.
Identification of S100A9 as a Potential Inflammation-Related Biomarker for Radiation-Induced Lung Injury
Authors: Liu Youyi , Wu Mengdi , Guo Jingrou , Tang Yifei , Jiang Hongliang , Yang Bo , Wu Minchen , Huang Jianfeng
Published: January 2023

Radiation-induced lung injury (RILI), a potentially fatal and dose-limiting complication of radiotherapy for thoracic tumors, is divided into early reversible pneumonitis and irreversible advanced-stage fibrosis. Early detection and intervention contribute to improving clinical outcomes of patients. However, there is still a lack of reliable biomarkers for early prediction and clinical diagnosis of RILI. Given the central role of inflammation in the initiation and progression of RILI, we explored specific inflammation-related biomarkers during the development of RILI in this study. Two expression profiles from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were downloaded, in which 75 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out. Combining Gene Oncology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, we identified four inflammation-related hub genes in the progression of RILI—MMP9, IL-1β, CCR1 and S100A9. The expression levels of the hub genes were verified in RILI mouse models, with S100A9 showing the highest level of overexpression. The level of S100A9 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and the expression of S100A9 in lung tissues were positively correlated with the degree of inflammation in RILI. The results above indicate that S100A9 is a potential biomarker for the early prediction and diagnosis of the development of RILI.
Left Ventricular “Longitudinal Rotation” and Conduction Abnormalities—A New Outlook on Dyssynchrony
Authors: Marai Ibrahim , Haddad Rabea , Andria Nizar , Kinany Wadi , Hazanov Yevgeni , Kleinberg Bruce M. , Birati Edo , Carasso Shemy
Published: January 2023

Background: The complete left bundle branch block (CLBBB) results in ventricular dyssynchrony and a reduction in systolic and diastolic efficiency. We noticed a distinct clockwise rotation of the left ventricle (LV) in patients with CLBBB (“longitudinal rotation”). Aim: The aim of this study was to quantify the “longitudinal rotation” of the LV in patients with CLBBB in comparison to patients with normal conduction or complete right bundle branch block (CRBBB). Methods: Sixty consecutive patients with normal QRS, CRBBB, or CLBBB were included. Stored raw data DICOM 2D apical-4 chambers view images cine clips were analyzed using EchoPac plugin version 203 (GE Vingmed Ultrasound AS, Horten, Norway). In EchoPac–Q-Analysis, 2D strain application was selected. Instead of apical view algorithms, the SAX-MV (short axis—mitral valve level) algorithm was selected for analysis. A closed loop endocardial contour was drawn to initiate the analysis. The “posterior” segment (representing the mitral valve) was excluded before finalizing the analysis. Longitudinal rotation direction, peak angle, and time-to-peak rotation were recorded. Results: All patients with CLBBB (n = 21) had clockwise longitudinal rotation with mean four chamber peak rotation angle of −3.9 ± 2.4°. This rotation is significantly larger than in patients with normal QRS (−1.4 ± 3°, p = 0.005) and CRBBB (0.1 ± 2.2°, p = 0.00001). Clockwise rotation was found to be correlated to QRS duration in patients with the non-RBBB pattern. The angle of rotation was not associated with a lower ejection fraction or the presence of regional wall abnormalities. Conclusions: Significant clockwise longitudinal rotation was found in CLBBB patients compared to normal QRS or CRBBB patients using speckle-tracking echocardiography.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Journal of Developmental Biology in 2022
Authors: JDB Editorial Office JDB Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Verification, Evaluation, and Validation: Which, How & Why, in Medical Augmented Reality System Design
Authors: Eagleson Roy , Joskowicz Leo
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a discussion about the fundamental principles of Analysis of Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Systems for Medical Imaging and Computer-Assisted Interventions. The three key concepts of Analysis (Verification, Evaluation, and Validation) are introduced, illustrated with examples of systems using AR/VR, and defined. The concepts of system specifications, measurement accuracy, uncertainty, and observer variability are defined and related to the analysis principles. The concepts are illustrated with examples of AR/VR working systems.
A Psychometric Network Analysis of CHC Intelligence Measures: Implications for Research, Theory, and Interpretation of Broad CHC Scores “Beyond g”
Authors: McGrew Kevin S. , Schneider W. Joel , Decker Scott L. , Bulut Okan
Published: January 2023

For over a century, the structure of intelligence has been dominated by factor analytic methods that presume tests are indicators of latent entities (e.g., general intelligence or g). Recently, psychometric network methods and theories (e.g., process overlap theory; dynamic mutualism) have provided alternatives to g-centric factor models. However, few studies have investigated contemporary cognitive measures using network methods. We apply a Gaussian graphical network model to the age 9–19 standardization sample of the Woodcock–Johnson Tests of Cognitive Ability—Fourth Edition. Results support the primary broad abilities from the Cattell–Horn–Carroll (CHC) theory and suggest that the working memory–attentional control complex may be central to understanding a CHC network model of intelligence. Supplementary multidimensional scaling analyses indicate the existence of possible higher-order dimensions (PPIK; triadic theory; System I-II cognitive processing) as well as separate learning and retrieval aspects of long-term memory. Overall, the network approach offers a viable alternative to factor models with a g-centric bias (i.e., bifactor models) that have led to erroneous conclusions regarding the utility of broad CHC scores in test interpretation beyond the full-scale IQ, g.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Journal of Low Power Electronics and Applications in 2022
Authors:   JLPEA Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Material and Production Optimization of the Ship Design Process by Introducing CADs from Early Design Stages
Authors: Perez-Martinez Jaime , Perez Fernandez Rodrigo
Published: January 2023

Since the introduction of scientific disciplines into the shipbuilding process, there has been a search for optimisation of human and material resources. The current environmental crisis is putting additional pressure on global resource management and special attention to materials sourcing and utilisation. This paper discusses the potential solution for the current lack of effectiveness at early design stages, which are still based on 2D drawings. The industry is demanding a new 3D approach, which implies, first, a change in the procedures, and second, having a suitable CAD/CAM tool for the early generation of a digital mock-up, from which the project is developed throughout all design and production phases, from conceptual design to operation. The proposed solution shown in this paper would improve the general arrangement definition, with the use of CAD for the 3D definition of the compartments and the main equipment positioning; improve the naval architecture calculation; and finally improve the basic/class design stage, with better reuse of data already developed in the general arrangement model and in the definition of a 3D model of structure, with the main equipment positioning, pipes, and electrical equipment already into the model. Intelligent P&I diagrams and single-wire electric diagrams would be used at this stage and connected to the 3D model. Additionally, it will allow for early estimating of materials, weights, and associated processes. This will be further supported by the use of topology to consider design alternatives and produce early information on materials for procurement and production. The cost reduction associated with the definition of the early design stages in 3D has been estimated at around 15% of the overall design and production stages.
Benthic Foraminifera and Productivity Regimes in the Kveithola Trough (Barents Sea)—Ecological Implications in a Changing Arctic and Actuopaleontological Meaning
Authors: Sabbatini Anna , Bazzaro Matteo , Caridi Francesca , De Vittor Cinzia , Esposito Valentina , Lucchi Renata Giulia , Negri Alessandra , Morigi Caterina
Published: January 2023

The rapid response of benthic foraminifera to organic carbon flux to the seafloor makes them promising bioindicators for evaluating the organic carbon stored in marine sediments. Fjords have been described as hotspots for carbon burial, potentially playing a key role within the carbon cycle as climate regulators over multiple timescales. Nevertheless, little is known about organic carbon-rich sediments in Arctic open shelves and their role in global carbon sequestration. To this aim, four sites have been sampled along a W-E transect across the Kveithola Trough located in the NW Barents Sea. Living (stained) benthic foraminiferal density, biodiversity and vertical distribution in the sediment were analysed together with the biogeochemical and sedimentological data. We identified two main depositional environments based on the relationship between benthic foraminiferal assemblages and carbon content in the sediments: (1) an oligotrophic land-derived organic matter region located in the outer part of the trough influenced by the warm and saline Atlantic Water; and (2) a stressed eutrophic environment, with high-content of metabolizable organic matter in the inner part of the trough, which comprises the main drift and the Northern flank of the trough. The freshness and good nutritional quality of the organic matter detected in the inner region could be the result of the better preservation of the organic matter itself, basically driven by the rapid burial of fine-grained organic-rich sediments enhanced by the cold and less saline Arctic Water coming from the Barents Sea. We conclude that foraminifera provide a tool to describe the Kveithola depositional environment as a carbon burial hotspot in a changing Arctic area subjected to a pulse of fresh food intended as biopolymeric carbon.
A Comparison of Negative Pressure and Conventional Therapy in Spine Infections: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Xing Wenqiang , Yang Yang , Bai Yun , Yu Xiuchun , Chang Zhengqi
Published: January 2023

Purpose: To investigate the effectiveness and safety of negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in treating primary spinal infections. Methods: Patients who underwent surgical treatment for primary spinal infection between January 2018 and June 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. They were divided into two groups based on the type of surgery: one that underwent negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) and another that underwent conventional surgery (CVSG-Posterior debridement, bone grafting, fusion, and internal fixation in one stage). The two groups were compared in terms of the total operation time, total blood loss, total postoperative drainage, postoperative pain score, time for the postoperative erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) to return to normal, postoperative complications, treatment time, and recurrence rate. Results: A total of 43 cases of spinal infection were evaluated, with 19 in the NPWT group and 24 in the CVSG group. The NPWT group had a superior postoperative drainage volume, antibiotic use time, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and CRP recovery times, VAS score at 3 months after the operation, and cure rate at 3 months after operation compared with the CVSG group. There were no significant variations in the total hospital stay and intraoperative blood loss between the two groups. Conclusions: This study supports the use of negative pressure in the treatment of a primary spinal infection and indicates that it has a notably better short-term clinical effect than conventional surgery. Additionally, its mid-term cure rate and recurrence rate are more desirable than those of conventional treatments.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of JPM in 2022
Authors:   JPM Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Impact of Female Gender in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Narrative Review
Authors: Lungaro Lisa , Costanzini Anna , Manza Francesca , Barbalinardo Marianna , Gentili Denis , Guarino Matteo , Caputo Fabio , Zoli Giorgio , De Giorgio Roberto , Caio Giacomo
Published: January 2023

Inflammatory bowel diseases show a gender bias, as reported for several other immune-mediated diseases. Female-specific differences influence disease presentation and activity, leading to a different progression between males and females. Women show a genetic predisposition to develop inflammatory bowel disease related to the X chromosome. Female hormone fluctuation influences gastrointestinal symptoms, pain perception, and the state of active disease at the time of conception could negatively affect the pregnancy. Women with inflammatory bowel disease report a worse quality of life, higher psychological distress, and reduced sexual activity than male patients. This narrative review aims to resume the current knowledge of female-related features in clinical manifestations, development, and therapy, as well as sexual and psychological implications related to inflammatory bowel disease. The final attempt is to provide gastroenterologists with a roadmap of female-specific differences, to improve patients’ diagnosis, management, and treatment.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Kidney and Dialysis in 2022
Authors:   Kidney and Dialysis Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Languages in 2022
Authors:   Languages Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
The Neurohormonal Overactivity Syndrome in Heart Failure
Authors: Xanthopoulos Andrew , Skoularigis John , Triposkiadis Filippos
Published: January 2023

Heart failure (HF) is categorized arbitrarily based on the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in HF with reduced (HFrEF; LVEF < 40%), mildly reduced (HFmrEF; LVEF 40–49%), or preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF; LVEF ≥ 50%). In this opinion paper, based on (patho)physiological considerations, we contend that the neurohormonal overactivity syndrome (NOHS), which is present in all symptomatic HF patients irrespective of their LVEF, not only contributes to the development of signs and symptoms but it is also a major determinant of patients’ outcomes. In this regard, NHOS is the only currently available treatment target in HF and should be combatted in most patients with the combined use of diuretics and neurohormonal inhibitors (β-blockers, angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor/angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, mineralocorticoid antagonists, and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors). Unfortunately, despite the advances in therapeutics, HF mortality remains high. Probably machine learning approaches could better assess the multiple and higher-dimension interactions leading to the HF syndrome and define clusters of HF treatment efficacy.
Synergic Effect of Robot-Assisted Rehabilitation and Antispasticity Therapy: A Narrative Review
Authors: Wang Wei-Cheng , Yeh Chia-Yi , Huang Jian-Jia , Chang Shih-Chieh , Pei Yu-Cheng
Published: January 2023

Background: Stroke and spinal cord injury are neurological disorders that cause disability and exert tremendous social and economic effects. Robot-assisted training (RAT), which may reduce spasticity, is widely applied in neurorehabilitation. The combined effects of RAT and antispasticity therapies, such as botulinum toxin A injection therapy, on functional recovery remain unclear. This review evaluated the effects of combined therapy on functional recovery and spasticity reduction. Materials and Methods: Studies evaluating the efficacy of RAT and antispasticity therapy in promoting functional recovery and reducing spasticity were systemically reviewed. Five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. The modified Jadad scale was applied for quality assessment. Functional assessments, such as the Berg Balance Scale, were used to measure the primary outcome. Spasticity assessments, such as the modified Ashworth Scale, were used to measure the secondary outcome. Results: Combined therapy improves functional recovery in the lower limbs but does not reduce spasticity in the upper or lower limbs. Conclusions: The evidence supports that combined therapy improves lower limb function but does not reduce spasticity. The considerable risk of bias among the included studies and the enrolled patients who did not receive interventions within the golden period of intervention are two major factors that should be considered when interpreting these results. Additional high-quality RCTs are required.
IGFBP-6 Alters Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Phenotype Driving Dasatinib Resistance in Chronic Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Cambria Daniela , Longhitano Lucia , La Spina Enrico , Giallongo Sebastiano , Orlando Laura , Giuffrida Rosario , Tibullo Daniele , Fontana Paolo , Barbagallo Ignazio , Nicoletti Vincenzo Giuseppe , Volti Giovanni Li , Fabro Vittorio Del , Coda Anna Rita Daniela , Liso Arcangelo , Palumbo Giuseppe Alberto
Published: January 2023

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), BCR-ABL1-positive, is classified as a myeloproliferative characterized by Philadelphia chromosome/translocation t(9;22) and proliferating granulocytes. Despite the clinical success of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKi) agents in the treatment of CML, most patients have minimal residual disease contained in the bone marrow microenvironment, within which stromal cells assume a pro-inflammatory phenotype that determines their transformation in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) which, in turn can play a fundamental role in resistance to therapy. Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein-6 (IGFBP-6) is expressed during tumor development, and is involved in immune-escape and inflammation as well, providing a potential additional target for CML therapy. Here, we aimed at investigating the role of IGFBP-6/SHH/TLR4 axis in TKi response. We used a CML cell line, LAMA84-s, and healthy bone marrow stromal cells, HS-5, in mono- or co-culture. The two cell lines were treated with Dasatinib and/or IGFBP-6, and the expression of inflammatory markers was tested by qRT-PCR; furthermore, expression of IGFBP-6, TLR4 and Gli1 were evaluated by Western blot analysis and immumocytochemistry. The results showed that both co-culture and Dasatinib exposure induce inflammation in stromal and cancer cells so that they modulate the expression of TLR4, and these effects were more marked following IGFBP-6 pre-treatment suggesting that this molecule may confer resistance through the inflammatory processes. This phenomenon was coupled with sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling. Indeed, our data also demonstrate that HS-5 treatment with PMO (an inducer of SHH) induces significant modulation of TLR4 and overexpression of IGFPB-6 suggesting that the two pathways are interconnected with each other and with the TLR-4 pathway. Finally, we demonstrated that pretreatment with IGFBP-6 and/or PMO restored LAMA-84 cell viability after treatment with Dasatinib, suggesting that both IGFBP-6 and SHH are involved in the resistance mechanisms induced by the modulation of TLR-4, thus indicating that the two pathways may be considered as potential therapeutic targets.
Local Corrosion Behaviors in the Coarse-Grained Heat-Affected Zone in a Newly Developed Zr–Ti–Al–RE Deoxidized High-Strength Low-Alloy Steel
Authors: Yin Chao-Chao , Cheng Lin , Wang Zhi-Hui , Zhao Tian-Liang , Cheng Shi , Hu Shu-E , Liu Zi-Cheng , Luo Deng , Xiao Da-Heng , Jin Xing , Liu Han-Kun , Wu Kai-Ming
Published: January 2023

Oxide metallurgy technology can improve the microstructure of a coarse-grained heat-affected zone (CGHAZ) but introduces extra inclusions. Local corrosion behavior of the CGHAZ of a Zr–Ti–Al–RE deoxidized steel was investigated in this work using theoretical calculations and experimental verification. The modified inclusions have a (Zr–Mg–Al–Ca–RE)Ox core claded by a CaS and TiN shell. CaS dissolves first, followed by the oxide core, leaving TiN parts. This confirms that the addition of rare earth can reduce lattice distortion and prevent a galvanic couple between the inclusions and the matrix, while the chemical dissolution of CaS causes localized acidification, resulting in the pitting corrosion initiation.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigation on the Flexural Behaviour of Prestressed NC-UHPC Composite Beams
Authors: Lin Pengzhen , Yan Weiyi , Zhao Hongwei , Ma Junjun
Published: January 2023

To investigate the normal section strength and cracking bending moment of normal concrete–ultra-high-performance concrete (NC-UHPC) composite beams, calculation formulas were established considering the tensile strength of UHPC based on the current railway bridge design code. Using the railway T-beam as a template, prestressed NC-UHPC composite beams with different NC layer heights were built. A static bending test was performed, the pressure of the steel strand and the deflection and strain of the beam were measured, and the evolution of cracks in each beam was observed. The calculation formulas of the normal section strength and cracking bending moment of NC-UHPC composite beam were verified by the test. The results showed that the type of strain was similar to load-deflection curves with increasing load; the bending failure process of the NC-UHPC composite beam showed four obvious stages: elasticity, uniform cracking, crack development, and yield. Cracks in the beam started to appear at stage II, developed rapidly at stage III, and stopped emerging at stage IV. The calculation formulas for the normal section strength and the cracking bending moment of the NC-UHPC composite beam were in good agreement with the test values. Normal concrete with a compressive strength of 80 MPa can replace UHPC for the design of NC-UHPC composite beams.
Additive Manufacturing of 3D Anatomical Models—Review of Processes, Materials and Applications
Authors: Żukowska Magdalena , Rad Maryam Alsadat , Górski Filip
Published: January 2023

The methods of additive manufacturing of anatomical models are widely used in medical practice, including physician support, education and planning of treatment procedures. The aim of the review was to identify the area of additive manufacturing and the application of anatomical models, imitating both soft and hard tissue. The paper outlines the most commonly used methodologies, from medical imaging to obtaining a functional physical model. The materials used to imitate specific organs and tissues, and the related technologies used to produce, them are included. The study covers publications in English, published by the end of 2022 and included in the Scopus. The obtained results emphasise the growing popularity of the issue, especially in the areas related to the attempt to imitate soft tissues with the use of low-cost 3D printing and plastic casting techniques.
Improvement of Mechanical Properties of Composites with Surface Modified B4C for Precision Machining
Authors: Ding Jun , Wang Jintao , Yang Hao , Liu Zhenglong , Yu Chao , Li Xiangcheng , Deng Chengji , Zhu Hongxi
Published: January 2023

In order to solve the problem of difficult sintering and high brittleness of B4C-based ceramics, B4C@ZrB2-TiB2 composite powder was synthesized by molten salt method, and B4C–(Zr, Ti)B2 composite ceramics were successfully prepared by spark plasma sintering. The effects of different raw material ratios on the composition, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the prepared composite ceramics were characterized by XRD, XPS, SEM, and TEM. The results show that ZrB2 and TiB2 were grown on the surface of B4C by template mechanism to form a dense nanocrystalline coating, and the original surface of B4C was exposed gradually with the decrease of the ratio of metal powder. When the composite powders were sintered at 1700 °C, ZrB2 and TiB2 formed a solid solution, which can refine grains and improve strength. When the raw material ratio is n(B4C): n(Zr): n(Ti) = 12:1:1, the composite ceramics have excellent comprehensive properties, the Vickers hardness reaches 41.2 GPa.
Indirect Induction Sintering of Metal Parts Produced through Material Extrusion Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Ortega Varela de Seijas Manuel , Bardenhagen Andreas , Rohr Thomas , Stoll Enrico
Published: January 2023

Avoiding loose powders and resins, material extrusion additive manufacturing is a powerful technique to produce near-net shape parts, being a cheap and safe alternative for developing complex industrial-grade products. Filaments embedded with a high packing density of metallic or ceramic granules are being increasingly used, resulting in almost fully dense parts, whereby geometries are shaped, debinded and sintered sequentially until the completion of the part. Traditionally, “brown” debinded geometries are transported to conventional furnaces to densify the powder compacts, requiring careful tailoring of the heating profiles and sintering environment. This approach is decoupled and often involves time-consuming post-processing, whereby after the completion of the shaping and debinding steps, the parts need to be transported to a sintering furnace. Here, it is shown that sintering via indirect induction heating of a highly filled commercially available filament embedded with stainless steel 316L powder can be an effective route to densify Fused Filament Fabricated (FFF) parts. The results show that densities of 99.8% can be reached with very short soaking times, representing a significant improvement compared to prior methods. A hybrid machine is proposed, whereby a custom-built machine is integrated with an induction heater to combine FFF with local indirect induction sintering. Sintering in situ, without the need for part transportation, simplifies the processing of metal parts produced through material extrusion additive manufacturing.
Ab Initio Simulation of Structure and Properties in Ni-Based Superalloys: Haynes282 and Inconel740
Authors: Ching Wai-Yim , San Saro , Zhou Caizhi , Sakidja Ridwan
Published: January 2023

The electronic structure, interatomic bonding, and mechanical properties of two supercell models of Ni-based superalloys are calculated using ab initio density functional theory methods. The alloys, Haynes282 and Inconel740, are face-centered cubic lattices with 864 atoms and eleven elements. These multi-component alloys have very complex electronic structure, bonding and partial-charge distributions depending on the composition and strength of the local bonding environment. We employ the novel concept of total bond order density (TBOD) and its partial components (PBOD) to ascertain the internal cohesion that controls the intricate balance between the propensity of metallic bonding between Ni, Cr and Co, and the strong bonds with C and Al. We find Inconel740 has slightly stronger mechanical properties than Haynes282. Both Inconel740 and Haynes282 show ductile natures based on Poisson’s ratio. Poisson’s ratio shows marginal correlation with the TBOD. Comparison with more conventional high entropy alloys with equal components are discussed.
Towards Environment Friendly Hydrothermally Synthesized Li+, Rb+, In3+ Intercalated Phosphotungstate (PW12O40) Thin Films
Authors: Nadaf Sameer N. , Patil Satish S. , Kalantre Vilasrao A. , Mali Sawanta S. , Patil Jyoti V. , Hong Chang Kook , Patil Sharadchandra S. , Bhosale Popatrao N. , Mane Sambhaji R.
Published: January 2023

In the present investigation, a one-step hydrothermal approach is proposed to synthesize Li+, Rb+, and In3+intercalated PW12O40 (PTA) thin films. The photoelectrochemical performance of the deposited Li3PW12O40 (Li−PTA), Rb3PW12O40 (Rb−PTA), and In3PW12O40 (In−PTA) photocathodes were investigated using a two-electrode cell configuration of FTO/Li3PW12O40/(0.1 M I−/I3−)aq./Graphite. The energy band gaps of 2.24, 2.11, and 2.13 eV were observed for the Li−PTA, Rb−PTA, and In−PTA films, respectively, as a function of Li+, Rb+, and In3+. The evolution of the spinal cubic crystal structure with increased crystallite size was observed for Rb+ intercalation within the PTA Keggin structure, which was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a modification in the surface morphology from a rod-like structure to a densely packed, uniform, and interconnected microsphere to small and large-sized microspheres for Li−PTA, Rb−PTA, and In−PTA, respectively. Compositional studies confirmed that the composing elements of Li, Rb, In, P, W, and O ions are well in accordance with their arrangement for Li+, Rb+, In3+, P5+, W6+, and O2− valence states. Furthermore, the J-V performance of the deposited photocathode shows power conversion efficiencies (PCE) of 1.25%, 3.03%, and 1.62%, as a function of the incorporation of Li+, Rb+, and In3+ ions. This work offers a one-step hydrothermal approach that is a prominent way to develop Li+, Rb+, and In3+ ions intercalated PTA, i.e., Li3PW12O40, Rb3PW12O40, and In3PW12O40 photocathodes for competent solar energy harvesting.
A Novel Method to Describe Large-Range Stress-Strain Relations of Elastic-Plastic Materials Based on Energy Equivalence Principle
Authors: Yu Simiao , Cai Lixun , Wang Ling , Lang Lin
Published: January 2023

Due to the unique structure of tensile sheet specimens with a circular hole (CHS specimen), a novel method is proposed to predict the large-range uniaxial stress-strain relations of elastic-plastic materials analytically. Based on the energy equivalence principle, a load-displacement semi-analytical model of the CHS specimen is proposed. Subsequently, a semi-analytical model of constitutive parameters of elastic-plastic materials is developed by virtue of the load-displacement relation of the CHS specimen, and the prediction of the material’s stress-strain relations is obtained. To examine the validity of the models, numerical simulations with a series of materials were performed. The results demonstrated that the dimensionless load-displacement curves and stress-strain relations obtained using the proposed models correspond well with those obtained using finite element analysis. In addition, tensile tests were performed on the CHS specimen for four elastic-plastic materials (T225 titanium alloy, 6061 aluminum alloy, Q345 steel, and 3Cr13 steel), and the validity of the models is also verified by the experimental results. Compared with the conventional uniaxial tensile tests, the stress-strain relation of elastic-plastic material captured by the novel method corresponds to a larger strain, which is of great importance for engineering design and safety assessment.
Studies on Numerical Buckling Analysis of Cellulose Microfibrils Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Gopalan Venkatachalam , Vardhan Mugatha Surya , Thakur Vishal , Krishnamoorthy Annamalai , Pragasam Vignesh , Degalahal Mallikarjuna Reddy , Velu Pitchumani Shenbaga , Raja Annamalai A. , Jen Chun-Ping
Published: January 2023

Scientists are drawn to the new green composites because they may demonstrate qualities that are comparable to those of composites made of synthetic fibers due to concerns about environmental contamination. In this work, the potential for using the produced green composite in different buckling load-bearing structural applications is explored. The work on composite buckling characteristics is vital because one needs to know the composite’s structural stability since buckling leads to structural instability. The buckling properties of composite specimens with epoxy as the matrix and chemically treated cellulose microfibrils as reinforcements are examined numerically in this study when exposed to axial compressive stress. The numerical model is first created based on the finite element method model. Its validity is checked using ANSYS software by contrasting the critical buckling loads determined through research for three samples. The numerical findings acquired using the finite element method are then contrasted with those produced using the regression equation derived from the ANOVA. The utilization of the created green composite in different buckling load-bearing structural applications is investigated in this study. As a result of the green composite’s unaltered buckling properties compared to synthetic composites, it has the potential to replace numerous synthetic composites, improving environmental sustainability.
Design, Synthesis, Spectroscopic Inspection, DFT and Molecular Docking Study of Metal Chelates Incorporating Azo Dye Ligand for Biological Evaluation
Authors: Al-Gaber Mohamed Ali Ibrahim , Abd El-Lateef Hany M. , Khalaf Mai M. , Shaaban Saad , Shawky Mohamed , Mohamed Gehad G. , Abdou Aly , Gouda Mohamed , Abu-Dief Ahmed M.
Published: January 2023

A new heterocyclic azo dye ligand (L) was synthesized by the combination of 4-amino antipyrine with 4-aminophenol. The new Cr(III), Mn(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Cd(II) complexes were synthesized in excellent yields. The metal chelate structures were elucidated using elemental analyses, FT-IR, 1H-NMR, mass, magnetic moment, diffused reflectance spectral and thermal analysis (TG-DTG), and molar conductivity measurement. According to the FT-IR study, the azo dye ligand exhibited neutral tri-dentate behavior, binding to the metal ions with the azo N, carbonyl O, and protonated phenolic OH. The 1H-NMR spectral study of the Zn(II) complex supported the coordination of the zo dye ligand without proton displacement of the phenolic OH. Diffused reflectance and magnetic moment studies revealed the octahedral geometry of the complexes, as well as their good electrolytic nature, excepting the Zn(II) and Cd(II) complexes, which were nonelectrolytes, as deduced from the molar conductivity study. The theoretical calculations of optimized HOMO–LUMO energies, geometrical parameters, electronic spectra, natural atomic charges, 3D-plots of MEP, and vibrational wavenumbers were computed and elucidated using LANL2DZ and 6-311G (d, p) basis sets of density functional theory (DFT) with the approach of B3LYP DFT and TD-DFT methods. The ligand and complexes have been assayed for their antimicrobial activity and compared with the standard drugs. Most of the complexes have manifested excellent antimicrobial activity against various microbial strains. A molecular docking investigation was also performed, to acquire more information about the binding mode and energy of the ligand and its metal complexes to the Escherichia coli receptor using molecular docking. Altogether, the newly created ligand and complexes showed positive antibacterial effects and are worth future study.
A Surface Defect Inspection Model via Rich Feature Extraction and Residual-Based Progressive Integration CNN
Authors: Fu Guizhong , Le Wenwu , Zhang Zengguang , Li Jinbin , Zhu Qixin , Niu Fuzhou , Chen Hao , Sun Fangyuan , Shen Yehu
Published: January 2023

Surface defect inspection is vital for the quality control of products and the fault diagnosis of equipment. Defect inspection remains challenging due to the low level of automation in some manufacturing plants and the difficulty in identifying defects. To improve the automation and intelligence levels of defect inspection, a CNN model is proposed for the high-precision defect inspection of USB components in the actual demands of factories. First, the defect inspection system was built, and a dataset named USB-SG, which contained five types of defects—dents, scratches, spots, stains, and normal—was established. The pixel-level defect ground-truth annotations were manually marked. This paper puts forward a CNN model for solving the problem of defect inspection tasks, and three strategies are proposed to improve the model’s performance. The proposed model is built based on the lightweight SqueezeNet network, and a rich feature extraction block is designed to capture semantic and detailed information. Residual-based progressive feature integration is proposed to fuse the extracted features, which can reduce the difficulty of model fine-tuning and improve the generalization ability. Finally, a multi-step deep supervision scheme is proposed to supervise the feature integration process. The experiments on the USB-SG dataset prove that the model proposed in this paper has better performance than that of other methods, and the running speed can meet the real-time demand, which has broad application prospects in the industrial inspection scene.
CNN Model with Multilayer ASPP and Two-Step Cross-Stage for Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Park Min-Hong , Cho Jae-Hoon , Kim Yong-Tae
Published: January 2023

Currently, interest in deep learning-based semantic segmentation is increasing in various fields such as the medical field, automatic operation, and object division. For example, UNet, a deep learning network with an encoder–decoder structure, is used for image segmentation in the biomedical area, and an attempt to segment various objects is made using ASPP such as Deeplab. A recent study improves the accuracy of object segmentation through structures that extend in various receptive fields. Semantic segmentation has evolved to divide objects of various sizes more accurately and in detail, and various methods have been presented for this. In this paper, we propose a model structure that reduces the overall parameters of the deep learning model in this development and improves accuracy. The proposed model is an encoder–decoder structure, and an encoder half scale provides a feature map with few encoder parameters. A decoder integrates feature maps of various scales with high area details and forward features of low areas. An integrated feature map learns a feature map of each encoder hierarchy over an area of previous data in the form of a continuous coupling structure. To verify the performance of the model, we learned and compared the KITTI-360 dataset with the Cityscapes dataset, and experimentally confirmed that the proposed method was superior to the existing model.
Acknowledgment to the Reviewers of Magnetism in 2022
Authors:   Magnetism Editorial Office
Published: January 2023

High-quality academic publishing is built on rigorous peer review [...]
Optimal Power Dispatch of PV Generators in AC Distribution Networks by Considering Solar, Environmental, and Power Demand Conditions from Colombia
Authors: Grisales-Noreña Luis Fernando , Montoya Oscar Danilo , Cortés-Caicedo Brandon , Zishan Farhad , Rosero-García Javier
Published: January 2023

This paper deals with the problem regarding the optimal operation of photovoltaic (PV) generation sources in AC distribution networks with a single-phase structure, taking into consideration different objective functions. The problem is formulated as a multi-period optimal power flow applied to AC distribution grids, which generates a nonlinear programming (NLP) model with a non-convex structure. Three different objective functions are considered in the optimization model, each optimized using a single-objective function approach. These objective functions are (i) an operating costs function composed of the energy purchasing costs at the substation bus, added with the PV maintenance costs; (ii) the costs of energy losses; and (iii) the total CO2 emissions at the substation bus. All these functions are minimized while considering a frame of operation of 24 h, i.e., in a day-ahead operation environment. To solve the NLP model representing the studied problem, the General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS) and its SNOPT solver are used. Two different test feeders are used for all the numerical validations, one of them adapted to the urban operation characteristics in the Metropolitan Area of Medellín, which is composed of 33 nodes, and the other one adapted to isolated rural operating conditions, which has 27 nodes and is located in the department of Chocó, Colombia (municipality of Capurganá). Numerical comparisons with multiple combinatorial optimization methods (particle swarm optimization, the continuous genetic algorithm, the Vortex Search algorithm, and the Ant Lion Optimizer) demonstrate the effectiveness of the GAMS software to reach the optimal day-ahead dispatch of all the PV sources in both distribution grids.
A Collapse Strength Model for a 7” Crescent-Worn Casing Connection Considering Sealing Integrity
Authors: Zhou Xing , Di Qinfeng , Wang Xiaoliang , Luo Dakun , Chen Feng , Wang Wenchang
Published: January 2023

Collapse failure under external pressure is one of the common failure forms of casing. Much research has been performed on the casing body, but few on the threaded connection, in view of the general belief that the threaded connection has a thicker wall and larger collapse strength than the casing body. However, under external pressure, the sealing capacity of a worn casing connection will decrease due to deformation of the sealing structure, so the influence of sealing ability should be considered to determine the collapse strength of casing. In this paper, we established a three-dimensional finite element model of a 7” crescent-worn casing connection and calculated the collapse strength of the connection under different wear depths. Meanwhile, the stress distribution characteristics on the sealing surface were obtained and the influence of wear on the sealing performance of the casing connection under external pressure was analyzed. The results showed that when the wear rate exceeds a certain value, the collapse strength of the connection based on sealing integrity was lower than that of the casing body. Based on these, a collapse strength model for a 7” crescent-worn casing connection considering sealing integrity was developed and a safety evaluation method of the collapse strength of the worn casing string was proposed.