bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Al-Containing Industrial Residues in the ESEE Region Supporting Circular Economy and the EU Green Deal
Authors: Fidanchevski Emilija , Šter Katarina , Mrak Maruša , Rajacic Milica , Koszo Bence David , Ipavec Andrej , Teran Klemen , Žibret Gorazd , Jovanov Vojo , Aluloska Nikolina Stamatovska , Loncnar Mojca , Žibret Lea , Dolenec Sabina
Published: December 2024

The increase in industrial waste generation presents a global problem that is a consequence of the needs of modern society. To achieve the goals of the EU Green Deal and to promote the concept of circular economy (CE), the valorization of industrial residues as secondary raw materials offers a pathway to economic, environmental, energetic, and social sustainability. In this respect, Al-containing industrial residues from alumina processing (red mud), thermal power plants (fly ash and bottom ash), and metallurgy (slag), as well as other industries, present a valuable mineral resource which can be considered as secondary raw materials (SRMs) with the potential to be used in construction, supporting the concept of circular economy. This paper focuses on the characterization of 19 secondary raw materials from the East South-East Europe (ESEE) region regarding their physical, chemical, mineralogical, and radiological characteristics. The goal is to provide a foundation for future innovations based on secondary raw materials, in alignment with the EU Green Deal and the principles of circular economy. The results showed that fly ash has the potential to be the best material among those analyzed to be used in the cement industry, mainly due to its favorable radiological and mineralogical properties. However, it is important to control the amount of free lime in the mixture, ensuring it remains below 10%. After evaluating secondary mineral raw materials for metal recovery, the results indicate that these materials are not viable sources for base metals or other technology-critical metals, such as REEs.
Comparison of Sulfamethoxazole Removal Efficiency Using Polyethersulfone Ultrafiltration Membrane Modified by Various Methods
Authors: Hidalgo Asunción María , Murcia María Dolores , Gómez María , Collado-González M. Mar , Montiel María Claudia , Martínez Marta
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, there is a growing interest in membrane modification processes to improve their characteristics and the effectiveness of their treatments and reduce the possible fouling. In this sense, in this work, a modification of an ultrafiltration membrane with three different materials has been carried out: reduced graphene oxide (rGO), chitosan and MgCl2. For both the native and the modified membranes, a study has been carried out to remove the emerging contaminant sulfamethoxazole (SMX). SEM and SEM-EDX analyses have been performed to confirm membrane surface modifications. In the characterisation of the membranes, it is noteworthy that the values of the permeability coefficient, Aw, have been lower in the modified membranes, which is unexpected. Regarding the pollutant removal tests, the influence of pressure and initial concentration on permeate flux and rejections has been studied. Native membrane shows the highest permeate flux values. Comparing the modified membranes, the highest rejection values are obtained with the rGO-modified membrane, which can be explained by its greater hydrophilic character. Finally, a fouling study was carried out, verifying that in almost all cases, fouling occurs after the passage of the pollutant due to the blockage of the membrane pores.
Study on the Bending and Shear Behavior of a New Type of Wet Joint in Precast Concrete Deck for Composite Bridges
Authors: Wang Yan , Hu Long , Li Wei , Zhang Guangshuai , Han Bin , Di Jin , Fei Peng , Duan Xiaofeng , Dong Jinying , Qin Fengjiang
Published: December 2024

According to the mechanical characteristics of joints in steel–concrete composite bridge decks under the combined bending and shear, improved joint details with simple structure and convenient construction were studied, including lapped U-bars, lapped headed bars, and lapped hook bars. In order to test the mechanical properties of the three joint details and compare them with the existing lapped/welded linear bars, the tests of five specimens were carried out. The cracking load, ultimate load, failure mode, crack pattern, and reinforcement strain were analyzed. The test results showed that the joint with lapped U-bars and hook bars exhibited ductile failure, while the joint with lapped headed and lapped/welded linear bars exhibited brittle failure. The cracking load of the five specimens was basically the same. The crack first occurred at the interface of pre-cast concrete and wet joints. When the ultimate bearing capacity was reached, the vertical main cracks were generated near the interface of the lapped U-bars, lapped hook bars, and welded linear bars specimens. The diagonal cracks were generated at the wet joint of the lapped headed bars specimen and lapped linear bars specimen. The lapped U-bars specimen had the highest bearing capacity, which was 22.8%, 14.2%, 50.4%, and 32.1% higher than the capacities of the lapped headed bars, lapped hook bars, lapped linear bars, and welded linear bars specimens, respectively. The load–deflection curves and crack mode obtained from the FEM of the lapped U-bars joint specimen were consistent with the test results. The bearing capacity of the FEM (351.3 KN) was 1.8% less than the test result (357.6 KN), which indicates that the bearing capacity calculated by the finite element model is reliable. There are 80 models with varying lap lengths and concrete strengths. The self-organizing migrating algorithm was used to fit the coupling effect of lap length and concrete strength. Based on doubly reinforced beam flexural capacity formulas, a bearing capacity calculation for lapped U-bars joint was proposed. The mean value of the formula calculation result and the finite element result ratio is 1.03, and the variance is 0.0004.
Long-Pulse Thermography Application for Detection and Localisation of Embedded Optical Fibres into Glass Fibre Composite
Authors: Majewska Katarzyna , Mieloszyk Magdalena
Published: December 2024

Composites have found applications in critical components and require a high degree of safety and reliability. To ensure this, structural health monitoring systems based on optical fibres embedded within structures are installed for continuous monitoring. Infrared thermography is a non-destructive method that can be applied to inspect the internal structure after manufacturing and during operation. This paper presents an application of pulsed thermography for observing and evaluating the internal structure of glass fibre-reinforced polymer samples with different arrangements of embedded optical fibres. The goal of the paper is to study the feasibility of using pulsed thermography to distinguish optical fibres from glass textile fibre bundles, as well as to track the arrangement of the optical fibres.
Optimisation of Hot-Chamber Die-Casting Process of AM60 Alloy Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Rzychoń Tomasz , Kiełbus Andrzej
Published: December 2024

This paper presents the effect of hot-chamber HPDC (high-pressure die casting) process parameters on the porosity, mechanical properties, and microstructure of AM60 magnesium alloy. To reduce costs, a Taguchi design of the experimental method was used to optimise the HPDC process. Six parameters set at two levels were selected for optimisation, i.e., piston speed in the first phase, piston speed in the second phase, molten metal temperature, piston travel, mould temperature, and die-casting pressure (the pressure under the piston). Signal-to-noise (S/N) ratios were used to quantify the present variations. The significance of the influence of the HPDC parameters was assessed using statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results showed that the die-casting pressure had the most significant influence on the porosity of the AM60 alloy. Moreover, piston speed in the first phase, second phase, and die-casting pressure had the most important effects on tensile strength. It is well known that porosity determines the mechanical properties of die castings; however, in AM60 alloy, changes in the HPDC parameters also contribute to microstructural changes, mainly through the formation of Externally Solidified Crystals.
Preparation and Properties of Sulfur-Modified Alite Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Kang Guodong , Dou Shang , Ma Bing , Tang Jin , Zhou Hao , Zhang Houhu , Wang Jiaqing , Shen Xiaodong
Published: December 2024

Alite calcium sulfoaluminate (ACSA) cement is an innovative and environmentally friendly cement compared to ordinary Portland cement (OPC). The synthesis and hydration of ACSA clinkers doped with gradient sulfur were investigated. The clinker compositions and hydrated pastes were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), isothermal calorimetry, mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze its mineral contents, hydration products, heat release, pore structure, and microstructure. The compressive strength and linear expansion of ACSA mortars were tested for their mechanical properties. Results showed that clinkers doped with 2 wt.% MgO can offset the hurdle that SO3 caused to the formation of C3S (tricalcium silicate). Clinkers with varying ratios of C3S and C4A3$ (calcium sulfoaluminate) were obtained, achieving 58–70% C3S and 2.0–5.6% C4A3$ in ACSA through adjusting the KH (lime saturation factor) values and SO3 dosage. ACSA cement showed better early mechanical properties. The 0.93 KH value with 3% SO3 dosage in the raw meal, which contains 63.9% C3S and 2.98% C4A3$ in the clinker, reached an optimal compressive strength level at 1d (26.35 MPa) and at 3d (39.41 MPa), marking 30.45% and 18.70% increases compared to PII 52.5. The excellent early strength of ACSA cement may offer promising applications t increasing the incorporation of supplementary cementitious materials, thereby reduce pollution and carbon emissions.
Shape Optimization and Experimental Investigation of Glue-Laminated Timber Beams
Authors: Szeptyński Paweł , Jasińska Dorota , Mikulski Leszek
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the optimal shape of glue-laminated timber beams using an analytical model of a slender beam, taking into account the anisotropy of its strength properties as well as boundary conditions at the oblique bottom face of the beam. A control theory problem was formulated in order to optimize the shape of the modeled beam. Two optimization tasks were considered: minimizing material usage (Vmin) for a fixed load-carrying capacity (LCC) of the beam and maximizing load-bearing capacity (Qmax) for a given volume of the beam. The optimal solution was found using Pontryagin’s maximum principle (PMP). Optimal shapes were determined using Dircol v. 2.1 software and then adjusted according to a 3D finite element analysis (FEA) performed in Abaqus. The final shapes obtained through this procedure were used in the CNC-based production of three types of nine beams: three reference rectangular beams, three Vmin beams, and three Qmax beams. All specimens were subjected to a four-point bending test. The experimental results were contrasted with theoretical assumptions. Optimization reduced material usage by ca. 12.9% while preserving approximately the same LCC. The maximization of LCC was found to be rather unsuccessful due to the significant dependence of the beams’ response on the highly variable mechanical properties of GLT.
Influence of Heat Treatment on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Pure Copper Components Fabricated via Micro-Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Qu Shuo , Wang Liqiang , Ding Junhao , Lu Yang , Song Xu
Published: December 2024

Pure copper (Cu) is widely used across numerous industries owing to its exceptional thermal and electrical conductivity. Additive manufacturing has facilitated the rapid and cost-effective prototyping of Cu components. Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) has demonstrated the capability to produce intricate Cu components. However, LPBF-fabricated components exhibit anisotropic features, which stem from their inherent thermal gradients, resulting in properties that depend on the grain orientation. In the present study, pure Cu samples were fabricated via micro-laser powder bed fusion (μLPBF), resulting in improved mechanical properties, specifically, enhanced strength and ductility. The as-printed pure Cu sample exhibited thermal stability owing to its high-density grain boundaries and dislocations, enabling it to maintain relatively high levels of strength and ductility even when exposed to an elevated temperature of 300 °C. Furthermore, the heat treatment resulted in the disappearance of the initial microstructural characteristics, such as molten pool boundaries. As the heat-treatment temperature increased, the anisotropic yield strength decreased. Overall, the anisotropy of the properties of pure Cu components fabricated via μLPBF can be mitigated through heat-treatment-induced microstructural adjustments.
Silanization of Starch and Its Effect on Cross-Linking and Mechanical, Dynamic, Hydrophobic, and Aging Properties of Polymeric Compositions Containing Natural Rubber
Authors: Mrozowski Konrad , Smejda-Krzewicka Aleksandra
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the search for more sustainable fillers for elastomeric composites than silica and carbon black has been underway. In this work, silanized starch was used as an innovative filler for elastomeric composites. Corn starch was chemically modified by silanization (with n-octadecyltrimethoxysilane) via a condensation reaction to produce a hydrophobic starch. Starch/natural rubber composites were prepared by mixing the modified starch with elastomer. The morphology, hydrophobicity, and chemical structure of starch after and before modification were studied. The results showed that starch after silanization becomes hydrophobic (θw = 117.3°) with a smaller particle size. In addition, FT-IR spectrum analysis confirmed the attachment of silane groups to the starch. The modified starch dispersed better in the natural rubber matrix and obtained a more homogeneous morphology. The composite achieved the best dynamic (ΔG′ = 203.8 kPa) and mechanical properties (TSb = 11.4 MPa) for compositions with 15 phr of modified starch. In addition, the incorporation of silanized starch improved the hydrophobicity of the composite (θw = 117.8°). The higher starch content allowed the composites to achieve a higher degree of cross-linking, resulting in better resistance to swelling in organic solvents. This improvement is due to enhanced elastomer–filler interactions and reduced spaces that prevent solvent penetration into the material’s depths. The improved mechanical properties and good dynamic properties, as well as improved hydrophobicity, were mainly due to improved interfacial interactions between rubber and starch. This study highlights the potential and new approach of silane-modified starch as a sustainable filler, demonstrating its ability to enhance the mechanical, dynamic, and hydrophobic properties of elastomeric composites while supporting greener material solutions for the rubber industry.
Crack Sealing in Concrete with Biogrout: Sustainable Approach to Enhancing Mechanical Strength and Water Resistance
Authors: Wang Jian , Ji Shengjie , Huang Shuguang , Jiang Zihang , Wang Siqi , Zhang Huaiqi , Wang Zijian , Zhang Junfei
Published: December 2024

Concrete, as the most widely used construction material globally, is prone to cracking under the influence of external factors such as mechanical loads, temperature fluctuations, chemical corrosion, and freeze–thaw cycles. Traditional concrete crack repair methods, such as epoxy resins and polymer mortars, often suffer from a limited permeability, poor compatibility with substrates, and insufficient long-term durability. Microbial biogrouting technology, leveraging microbial-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (MICP), has emerged as a promising alternative for crack sealing. This study aimed to explore the potential of Bacillus pasteurii for repairing concrete cracks to enhance compressive strength and permeability performance post-repair. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the bacterial growth cycle and urease activity under varying concentrations of Ca2+. The results indicated that the optimal time for crack repair occurred 24–36 h after bacterial cultivation. Additionally, the study revealed an inhibitory effect of high calcium ion concentrations on urease activity, with the optimal concentration identified as 1 mol/L. Compressive strength and water absorption tests were performed on repaired concrete specimens. The compressive strength of specimens with cracks of varying dimensions improved by 4.01–11.4% post-repair, with the highest improvement observed for specimens with 1 mm wide and 10 mm deep cracks, reaching an increase of 11.4%. In the water absorption tests conducted over 24 h, the average mass water absorption rate decreased by 31.36% for specimens with 0.5 mm cracks, 29.06% for 1 mm cracks, 27.9% for 2 mm cracks, and 28.2% for 3 mm cracks. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses confirmed the formation of dense calcium carbonate precipitates, with the SEM–EDS results identifying calcite and vaterite as the predominant self-healing products. This study underscores the potential of MICP-based microbial biogrouting as a sustainable and effective solution for enhancing the mechanical and durability properties of repaired concrete.
Light Absorption-Enhanced Ultra-Thin Perovskite Solar Cell Based on Cylindrical MAPbI3 Microstructure
Authors: Fu Wenfeng , Pan Chong , Zhou Aixuan , Shi Pengcheng , Yi Zao , Zeng Qingdong
Published: December 2024

In order to promote power conversion efficiency and reduce energy loss, we propose a perovskite solar cell based on cylindrical MAPbI3 microstructure composed of a MAPbI3 perovskite layer and a hole transport layer (HTL) composed of PEDOT:PSS. According to the charge transport theory, which effectually increases the contact area of the HTL, promoting the electronic transmission capability, the local field enhancement and scattering effects of the surface plasmon polaritons help to couple the incident light to the solar cell, which can increase the absorption of light in the active layer of the solar cell and improve its light absorption efficiency (LAE). based on simulation results, a cylindrical microstructure of the perovskite layer increases the contact area of the hole transport layer, which could improve light absorption, quantum efficiency (QE), short-circuit current density (JSC), and electric power compared with the perovskite layer of other structures. In the AM 1.5 solar spectrum, the average light absorption efficiency is 93.86%, the QE is 80.7%, the JSC is 24.50 mA/cm2, and the power conversion efficiency (PCE) is 20.19%. By enhancing the efficiency and reducing material usage, this innovative design approach for perovskite solar cells is expected to play a significant role in advancing solar technology and positively impacting the development of renewable energy solutions.
Study on Slipform Paving of Concrete Containing Alkali-Free Accelerators on Roadway Floor
Authors: Deng Yongjing , Ma Guanguo , Sun Zhenjiao , Gao Kang , Ma Hui , Song Tingting , Jia Wenfeng
Published: December 2024

Aiming at the problems of collapse, deformation, and displacement in the concrete paving of roadway floors, this paper adopts the way of adding alkali-free accelerators to the concrete on both sides, through mechanical analysis, single factor experiment, orthogonal experiment, and polynomial fitting method, and determines the relevant parameters of concrete and accelerators in the sliding form paving of roadway floor from two aspects of paving material and size. The results show that the FSA-AF alkali-free liquid accelerator is more suitable for roadway floor paving than the J85 powder accelerator. When the FSA-AF accelerator dosage reaches 8%, the decreasing trend of initial setting time curve tends to be flat. The deformation resistance of concrete containing accelerator is positively correlated with the dosage of the accelerator. Concrete side pressure is positively correlated with pavement paving height. The FSA-AF accelerator can reduce the compressive strength of concrete; the compressive strength and retention rate of concrete at all ages are the highest when the dosage of FSA-AF is 7%. A water–cement ratio of 0.4 and a 9% dosage of accelerator are the optimal combination to meet the four evaluation indexes. According to the width estimation formula, the width of the side concrete should be set to 14 cm.
Unit Load of Abrasive Grains in the Machining Zone During Microfinishing with Abrasive Films
Authors: Tandecka Katarzyna , Kacalak Wojciech , Szafraniec Filip , Mathia Thomas G.
Published: December 2024

This work investigates the contact between abrasive particles and workpieces in microfinishing processes with special consideration given to the determination of unit force, unit pressure, and grain, the forces exerted by individual abrasive grains. A detailed methodology was established for measuring the contact area, penetration depth, and circumferences of grain imprints at depths corresponding to multiples of the total height of the abrasive film, represented by the parameter Sz. The following depths were analyzed: 0.05 Sz, 0.15 Sz, 0.25 Sz, and 0.35 Sz. Results show that the areas closer to the central microfinishing zone bear the highest unit pressures and forces and, thus, contribute dominantly to material removal. It was further found that near the edges of the contact zone, the pressure and force have been reduced to lower material removal efficiency. The non-uniform geometry of abrasive particles was found to significantly affect contact mechanics, more at shallow depths of penetration, whereas the shape of the apex defines the nature of the interaction. A parabolic force and pressure distribution were evident for the irregular load distribution of the microfinishing area. The result brings out the need for further refinement in the design of the abrasive film and pressure distribution in order to achieve improvement in uniformity and efficiency during microfinishing. It would bring out valuable insights on how to improve the effectiveness of an abrasive film and ways of optimizing the process conditions. The results provide a founding stone for further advancement of knowledge in the grain–workpiece interaction, enabling better surface quality and more reliable microfinishing processes.
Comparison of the Effects of Perineural and Intraperitoneal Ozone Therapy on Nerve Healing in an Experimental Sciatic Nerve Injury Model
Authors: Ayık Burcu , Ortadeveci Abdullah , Bakılan Fulya , Dönmez Dilek Burukoğlu , Öz Semih , Bal Cengiz , Özden Hilmi , Armağan Onur
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: The aim was to evaluate nerve healing using immunohistochemical, histological, and functional techniques and to compare the effects of two different therapeutic ozone application methods by perineural and intraperitoneal ozone treatment in rats with a crush injury model of sciatic nerve. Materials and Methods: Forty male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into four subgroups of ten rats each: (1) Control group: The left sciatic nerve incised and closed without crush injury, no treatment; (2) Paralyzed group: Crush injury to the left sciatic nerve, no treatment; (3) Perineural ozone group: Crush injury to the left sciatic nerve, treated with perineural ozone therapy; (4) Intraperitoneal ozone group: Crush injury to the left sciatic nerve, treated with intraperitoneal ozone therapy. The treatments were administered for a 14-day period. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and toluidine blue staining were used for histological examination; TUNEL staining was used for immunohistochemical examination. Pinch test and rotarod performance assessment were utilized for functional evaluation. Results: The pinch test scores showed significant improvement in perineural and intraperitoneal ozone treatment groups after treatment (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). The scores of myelin degeneration, vascular congestion, vascular wall thickness, inflammation, and toluidine blue and TUNEL staining were significantly lower in both ozone treatment groups compared to the paralyzed group (p < 0.001). Vascular wall thickness scores were significantly higher in the perineural ozone group compared to the control and intraperitoneal ozone groups (p = 0.004 and p = 0.013, respectively). The Schwann cell proliferation scores were significantly higher in the perineural ozone group compared to the control group and intraperitoneal ozone groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Both applications of ozone therapy accelerated the healing of nerve regeneration, reduced inflammation and apoptosis based on histopathological results, and enhanced nerve function in rats with sciatic nerve injury. Perineural ozone therapy has been demonstrated to be an efficacious alternative to systemic ozone treatments in the management of sciatic nerve injury. Further studies are needed to determine optimal ozone dosage and administration protocols for the treatment of nerve injury.
Management of Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Caused by Pseudomonas and Acinetobacter Organisms in a Pediatric Center: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: AbdelHalim Mona Moheyeldin , El Sherbini Seham Awad , Ahmed El Shimaa Salah , Gharib Heba Abdullah Abdalbaset , Elgendy Marwa O. , Ibrahim Ahmed R. N. , Abdel Aziz Heba Sherif
Published: December 2024

A dangerous infection contracted in hospitals, ventilator-associated pneumonia is frequently caused by bacteria that are resistant to several drugs. It is one of the main reasons why patients in intensive care units become ill or die. This research aimed to determine the most effective empirical therapy of antibiotics for better ventilator-associated pneumonia control and to improve patient outcomes by using the minimal inhibitory concentration method and the Ameri–Ziaei double antibiotic synergism test and by observing the clinical responses to both single and combination therapies. Patients between the ages of one month and twelve who had been diagnosed with ventilator-associated pneumonia and had been on mechanical ventilation for more than 48 h were included in the study, which was carried out in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Cairo University’s Hospital. When ventilator-associated pneumonia is suspected, it is critical to start appropriate antibiotic therapy as soon as possible. This is especially important in cases where multidrug-resistant Gram-negative infections may develop. Although using Polymyxins alone or in combination is effective, it is important to closely monitor their administration to prevent resistance from increasing. The combination therapy that showed the greatest improvement was a mix of aminoglycosides, quinolones, and β-lactams. A combination of aminoglycosides and dual β-lactams came next. Although the optimal duration of antibiotic treatment for ventilator-associated pneumonia is still unknown, treatments longer than seven days are usually required to eradicate MDR P. aeruginosa or A. baumannii completely.
Impact of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor on the Shape, Survival, and Osteogenic Transformation of Gingiva-Derived Stem Cell Spheroids
Authors: Lee Ji-Eun , Hwa Somyeong , Lee Hee-Ra , Kim Ju-Hwan , Lee Hyun-Jin , Park Jun-Beom
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a protein which stimulates the formation of new blood vessels, playing a crucial role in processes such as wound healing and tumor growth. Methods: This study investigated the effects of VEGF on cell viability and osteogenic differentiation in mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) spheroids. Stem cell spheroids were fabricated using concave microwells and cultured with VEGF at concentrations of 0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, and 10 ng/mL. Morphological assessments were conducted on days 1, 3, 5, and 7, while cell viability was evaluated using the LIVE/DEAD assay and Cell Counting Kit-8. Alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and calcium deposition were measured to assess osteogenic differentiation, and qPCR was used to analyze osteogenic marker expression. Results: The spheroids maintained their shape across all VEGF concentrations, with the largest diameter being at 0.01 ng/mL on day 1, which decreased over time. Cell viability was highest at 0.01 ng/mL VEGF, while calcium deposition peaked at 0.1 ng/mL. Osteogenic markers, including RUNX2, osteocalcin, and COL1A1, showed significant upregulation at 1 ng/mL VEGF. Conclusions: These results suggest that VEGF enhances early osteogenic differentiation in MSC spheroids, indicating its potential for bone repair and tissue regeneration. VEGF could be applied in clinical settings for bone healing, fracture repair, and regenerative dentistry treatments.
Impact of Babaco (Vasoncelea x pentagona (Heilborn) Mabb.) Fruit Ripening Stages on Phytochemical Composition and Biological Properties
Authors: Mihai Raluca A. , Canchignia Guacollantes Mauricio G. , Vivanco Gonzaga Ramiro F. , Cubi-Insuaste Nelson S. , Catana Rodica D.
Published: December 2024

Background: This research article delves into Babaco fruit’s—an Ecuadorian product with immense nutraceutical potential phytochemical composition and biological activity—in different maturation fruit stages. Bridging the gap between food and medicine, nutraceuticals offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Methods: Specifically, this study investigates Babaco’s antioxidant and its phenolic and flavonoid content across different ripening stages: physiological maturity, organoleptic quality immaturity, and commercial maturity. Results: This last stage of maturity exhibits the highest antioxidant activity, making it the optimal phase for marketing Babaco as a nutraceutical product. Further LC-MS analysis reveals the specific secondary metabolites responsible for this potent antioxidant capacity. Conclusions: By introducing Babaco as a nutraceutical fruit, Ecuador can showcase its unique phytochemical profile, which is rich in phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Consumers stand to gain from Babaco’s antioxidant properties, supporting overall health and well-being. Recognizing Babaco’s antioxidant potential aligns perfectly with Ecuador’s diverse biodiversity and offers a promising avenue for health-conscious choices.
Reduced Intra- and Extracellular Circulating Postprandial Lysosomal Acid Lipase Activity in Patients with MASLD
Authors: Mischitelli Monica , Poggiogalle Eleonora , Tozzi Giulia , Ferri Flaminia , Parisse Simona , Meloni Benedetta , Morrone Anna , Sabbadini Alice , Salem Monther , Gangitano Elena , De Santis Adriano , d’Amati Giulia , Gnessi Lucio , Donini Lorenzo Maria , Ginanni Corradini Stefano
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Low fasting blood lysosomal acid lipase (LAL) activity is associated with the pathogenesis of metabolic hepatic steatosis. We measured LAL activity in blood and plasma before and after an oral fat tolerance test (OFTT) in patients with metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Methods: Twenty-six controls and seventeen patients with MASLD but without diabetes were genotyped for the patatin-like phospholipase 3 (PNPLA3) rs738409 variant by RT-PCR and subjected to an OFTT, measuring LAL activity in blood and plasma with a fluorimetric method. Results: LAL activity in blood both under fasting and 4 h after OFTT (0.846 ± 0.309 nmol/spot/h vs. 1.180 ± 0.503 nmol/spot/h p < 0.01) was lower in patients with MASLD compared to controls. These differences were present only in carriers of the PNPLA3 variant. In controls not carrying the PNPLA3 variant, the postprandial increase in blood LAL activity was negatively correlated with that of serum triglycerides (p < 0.05). Extracellular LAL activity in plasma was lower in patients with MASLD (n = 9) compared to controls (n = 8) in the fasting state (p < 0.01) and 4 h post-meal (p < 0.05). The area under the curve up to 6 h of plasma LAL activity was lower in patients with MASLD than in controls (p < 0.05) and correlated negatively with that of triglycerides only in controls (r = −0.841; p < 0.01). Conclusions: Patients with MASLD have reduced LAL activity in blood and plasma both before and 4 h after a meal. In patients with MASLD, the physiological negative correlation between circulating LAL levels and postprandial hypertriglyceridemia is lost.
Simulation and Assessment of Thermal-Stress Analysis of Welding Materials in IGBT
Authors: Yang Yang , Chen Jibing , Liu Bowen , Wu Yiping
Published: December 2024

Insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), as an important power semiconductor device, are susceptible to thermal stress, thermal fatigue, and mechanical stresses under high-voltage, high-current, and high-power conditions. Elevated heat dissipation within the module leads to fluctuating rises in temperature that accelerate its own degradation and failure, ultimately causing damage to the module as a whole and posing a threat to operator safety. Through ANSYS Workbench simulation analysis, it is possible to accurately predict the temperature distribution, equivalent stress, and equivalent strain of solder materials under actual working conditions, thus revealing the changing laws of the heat–mechanical interaction in solder materials. Simulation analysis results show that, under steady-state operating conditions, the highest point of the IGBT module’s overall junction temperature occurs in the center of the chip. Nanogold exhibited the best performance in terms of temperature and equivalent stress-strain among the five solders studied in this paper; defects near the edges caused greater harm to the module compared to those closer to the solder layer’s center. In terms of stress, defects located near the edge corners produced larger strains. Crazing damage in joints allows for a faster transfer of heat sources away from the center; in terms of stress, crazing has fewer detrimental effects on the integrity of the module as compared to through cracks. Simulation analysis can model the interaction of heat and equipment under realistic work conditions, comparing and evaluating different types of solder materials to select the most suitable solder material for product design and material selection. This aids in enhancing design precision and reliability.
Editorial on Optical Tweezers for the 15th Anniversary of Micromachines
Authors: Cronin-Golomb Mark
Published: December 2024

The electric fields of tightly focused laser beams can be strong enough to apply appreciable force to microscopic objects, including biological entities such as cells, bacteria, and even viruses and biomolecules [...]
Design and SAR Analysis of an AMC-Integrated Wearable Cavity-Backed SIW Antenna
Authors: Thangavelu Yathavi , Thangaraju Balakumaran , Maheswar Rajagopal
Published: December 2024

Wearable communication technologies necessitate antenna designs that harmonize ergonomic compatibility, reliable performance, and minimal interaction with human tissues. However, high specific absorption rate (SAR) levels, limited radiation efficiency, and challenges in integration with flexible materials have significantly constrained widespread deployment. To address these limitations, this manuscript introduces a novel wearable cavity-backed substrate-integrated waveguide (SIW) antenna augmented with artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) structures. The proposed architecture is meticulously engineered using diverse textile substrates, including cotton, jeans, and jute, to synergistically integrate SIW and AMC technologies, mitigating body-induced performance degradation while ensuring safety and high radiation efficiency. The proposed design demonstrates significant performance enhancements, achieving SAR reductions to 0.672 W/kg on the spine and 0.341 W/kg on the forelimb for the cotton substrate. Furthermore, the AMC-backed implementation attains ultra-low reflection coefficients, as low as −26.56 dB, alongside a gain improvement of up to 1.37 dB, culminating in a total gain of 7.09 dBi. The impedance bandwidth exceeds the ISM band specifications, spanning 150 MHz (2.3–2.45 GHz). The design maintains remarkable resilience and operational stability under varying conditions, including dynamic bending and proximity to human body models. By substantially suppressing back radiation, enhancing directional gain, and preserving impedance matching, the AMC integration optimally adapts the antenna to body-centric communication scenarios. This study uniquely investigates the dielectric and mechanical properties of textile substrates within the AMC-SIW configuration, emphasizing their practicality for wearable applications. This research sets a precedent for wearable antenna innovation, achieving an unprecedented balance of flexibility, safety, and electromagnetic performance while establishing a foundation for next-generation wearable systems.
Efficient Electrocatalytic Nitrogen Reduction to Ammonia with Electrospun Hierarchical Carbon Nanofiber/TiO2@CoS Heterostructures
Authors: Chang Zhenjun , Jia Fuxing , Ji Xingyu , Li Qian , Cui Jingren , Liao Zhengzheng , Sun Xiaoling
Published: December 2024

As a sustainable alternative technology to the cost- and energy-intensive Haber–Bosch method, electrochemical nitrogen (N2) reduction offers direct conversion of N2 to NH3 under ambient conditions. Direct use of noble metals or non-noble metals as electrocatalytic materials results in unsatisfactory electrocatalytic properties because of their low electrical conductivity and stability. Herein, three-dimensional flexible carbon nanofiber (CNF/TiO2@CoS) nanostructures were prepared on the surface of CNF by using electrospinning, a hydrothermal method, and in situ growth. We investigated the behavior of CNFs/TiO2@CoS as an electrocatalytic material in 0.1 M sodium sulfate. The highest ammonia yield of the material was 4.61 × 10−11 mol s−1 cm−2 at −0.45 V vs. RHE, and the highest Faraday efficiency, as well as superior long-term durability, was 8.3% at −0.45 V vs. RHE. This study demonstrates the potential of firecracker-shaped nanofiber templates for loading varied noble metals or non-noble metals as a novel development of hybrid composites for electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction.
The Use of a Penta-Deuterophenyl Substituent to Improve the Metabolic Stability of a Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor
Authors: Dulsat Júlia , Puig de la Bellacasa Raimon , Borrell José I.
Published: December 2024

In cases in which a rapid metabolism is the cause of an unfavorable pharmacokinetic profile, it is important to determine the Sites of Metabolism (SoMs) of a molecule to introduce the necessary modifications to improve the stability of the compound. The substitution of hydrogen atoms by deuterium atoms has been proposed to ameliorate such properties due to the greater stability of the C-D bonds. IQS016, bearing a 2-phenylamino substituent, is a compound previously described by our group with good biological activity as a discoidin domain receptor (DDR2) inhibitor but suffers from low metabolic stability determined in a test with rat-liver microsomes (less than 50% of the initial compound after 60 min). We have obtained the corresponding 2-(penta-deuterophenyl) analog (IQS016-d5) from aniline-2,3,4,5,6-d5 showing that it has a better metabolic stability than IQS016 and a higher inhibitory effect on isolated tyrosine kinase receptors but not a better 2D in vitro effect.
Lavender Essential Oil and Its Terpenic Components Negatively Affect Tumor Properties in a Cell Model of Glioblastoma
Authors: Russo Miriam , Martella Noemi , Gargano Deborah , Fantasma Francesca , Marcovecchio Chiara , Russo Veronica , Oliva Maria Antonietta , Segatto Marco , Saviano Gabriella , Di Bartolomeo Sabrina , Arcella Antonietta
Published: December 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive form of brain cancer in adults, characterized by extensive growth, a high recurrence rate, and resistance to treatment. Growing research interest is focusing on the biological roles of natural compounds due to their potential beneficial effects on health. Our research aimed to investigate the effects of lavender essential oil (LEO) on a GBM cell model. Chemical characterization using GC-MS analysis indicated that LEO contains several terpenes, compounds that have been found to exhibit anticancer properties by interfering with key cancer-related pathways in several cancer models. By means of cell biology assays, we demonstrated that LEO impairs cell proliferation and migration, and also reduces oxidative stress in U87 cells. We further observed that Terpinen-4-ol, contained in LEO, was capable of reproducing the effects of the oil on GBM cells. Our results suggest that the terpenic molecules present in LEO could be considered valuable allies alongside conventional therapies against GBM.
DFT Approach for Predicting 13C NMR Shifts of Atoms Directly Coordinated to Pt: Scopes and Limitations
Authors: Kondrashova Svetlana A. , Latypov Shamil K.
Published: December 2024

In this study, comparative analysis of calculated and experimental 13C NMR shifts for a wide range of model platinum complexes showed that, on the whole, the theory reproduces the experimental data well. The chemical shifts of carbon atoms directly bonded to Pt can be calculated well only within the framework of the fully relativistic matrix Dirac−Kohn−Sham (mDKS) level (R2 = 0.9973, RMSE = 3.7 ppm); however, for carbon atoms not bonded to metal, a more simple, non-relativistic approach can be used. Effective locally dense basis set schemes were developed for practical applications. The efficiency of the protocol is demonstrated using the example of the isomeric structure determination in case of several possible coordination modes.
Three-Dimensional Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 as Sorbent Integrated with Active Capillary Plasma Mass Spectrometry for Rapid Assessment of Low-Level Wine and Grape Quality-Related Volatiles
Authors: Dumlao Morphy C. , Jiang Liang , Bhattacharyya Saroj Kumar , Donald William A. , Steel Christopher C. , Schmidtke Leigh M.
Published: December 2024

The most commonly used methods to chemically assess grape and wine quality with high sensitivity and selectivity require lengthy analysis time and can be resource intensive. Here, we developed a rapid and non-destructive method that would help in grading and decision support. In this work, we demonstrate that integrating a three-dimensional (3D) material for volatile sampling with mass spectrometry detection can be used to sample grapes for phytosanitary, quality or smoke-taint assessments at low levels of marker compounds. An efficient zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) material was synthesised in situ on nickel foam (NF), taking advantage of its ultrahigh surface area, structural diversity, and functionality as an emerging nanostructured material for preconcentrating low-level wine and grape quality-related volatiles. When used as a sorbent in thermal desorption tubes and coupled directly to active capillary mass spectrometry, the average signal across the selected analytes increased by ~50% as compared to Tenax TA, a commercially available polymer, in a measurement that takes less than two minutes. The first integration of 3D materials into mass spectrometry opens new possibilities for developing new material architecture with enhanced selectivity of next-generation multifunctional instrumentation for volatile analysis and product quality assessment.
Chemical Modification of Acrylonitrile-Divinylbenzene Polymer Supports with Aminophosphonate Groups and Their Antibacterial Activity Testing
Authors: Nichita Ileana , Lupa Lavinia , Visa Aurelia , Dragan Ecaterina-Stela , Dinu Maria Valentina , Popa Adriana
Published: December 2024

Bacterial contamination is a major public health concern on a global scale. Treatment resistance in bacterial infections is becoming a significant problem that requires solutions. We were interested in obtaining new polymeric functionalized compounds with antibacterial properties. Three components (polymeric amine, aldehyde, and phosphite) were used in the paper in a modified “one-pot” Kabachnik–Fields reaction, in tetrahydrofuran at 60 °C, to create the N-C-P skeleton in aminophosphonate groups. Two copolymers were thus prepared starting from an acrylonitriledivinylbenzene (AN-15%DVB) copolymer containing pendant primary amine groups modified by grafting aminophosphonate groups, i.e., aminobenzylphosphonate (Bz-DVB-AN) and aminoethylphosphonate (Et-DVB-AN). The two copolymers were characterized by FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM-EDX, TGA, and antibacterial properties. It was shown that the novel products have antibacterial qualities against S. aureus and E. coli bacteria. The sample with the strongest antibacterial activity was Et-DVB-AN. We assessed how well the Weibull model and the first-order kinetic model represent the inactivation of microbial cells in our samples. The main advantage of the new antibacterial agents developed in this work is their easy recovery, which helps to avoid environmental contamination.
Synergistic Effects Between Mixed Plastics and Their Impact on Pyrolysis Behavior and Pyrolysis Products
Authors: Li Yong , Kang Shengming , Han Wenwen , Yin Fengfu
Published: December 2024

Pyrolysis is recognized as a promising technology for waste plastics management. Although there have been many studies on pyrolysis of waste plastics, there is still a lack of in-depth research on the mechanism of synergistic effect between mixed plastics and the mechanism of product formation. In this paper, based on the pyrolysis characteristics of Polystyrene, Polyethylene, and mixed plastics (Polystyrene/Polyethylene), it is demonstrated that a synergistic effect exists in the co-pyrolysis of Polystyrene/Polyethylene and affects the pyrolysis behavior and pyrolysis products. It was found that polystyrene chain segments containing C=C double bonds, generated from the pyrolysis of polystyrene, initiated the pyrolysis of polyethylene during the polystyrene/polyethylene co-pyrolysis, resulting in the termination pyrolysis temperature of the co-pyrolysis being advanced by 19.8 K. Due to the reduction in the termination pyrolysis temperature by 19.8 K, the average activation energy of the co-pyrolysis was reduced by about 14%. Compared with the weighted values of single-component plastics (Polystyrene and Polyethylene), the actual oil production of co-pyrolysis increased by 9.7% to 89.80%. At the same time, the content of low molecular weight Styrene and Toluene in pyrolysis oil increased by 12.3% and 1.65%, respectively. This study provides a useful and comprehensive reference for realizing the closed cycle of “from plastics to plastics”.