bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory Investigation of Storage Stability and Aging Resistance of Slightly SBS-Modified Bitumen Binders
Authors: Yu Hao , Mo Liantong , Zhang Yonghan , Qi Cong , Wang Yulu , Li Xiang
Published: March 2023

Slightly SBS-modified bitumen binders have been applied for the asphalt concrete impermeable layer of pumped storage power stations (PSPSs) in China. However, the storage stability and aging resistance of slightly SBS-modified bitumen are big concerns. In this study, three different types of slightly SBS-modified bitumen binders were evaluated by using a commonly used virgin bitumen and a normal SBS polymer-modified bitumen as references. All of the bitumen binders were subjected to short-term and long-term aging that were simulated by using a 5 h and 24 h thin film oven test (TFOT), respectively. A Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy test, storage stability test, dynamic shear rheological test, stress relaxation test, and direct tensile (DT) test were carried out to obtain insight into the storage stability and aging resistance. FTIR analysis indicated that slightly SBS modified bitumen exhibited serious aging of base bitumen together with higher polymer degradation. The aging indexes obtained from the carbonyl index and the polybutadiene (PB) index can well rank the aging resistance. Slightly SBS-modified bitumen binders had excellent storage stability, and even after a long-term period of 7 days of storage, the complex modulus and phase angle remained fairly constant. The rheological master curves were constructed to investigate the effects of short-term and long-term aging. Slightly modified bitumen binders were well identified by the plateau of the phase angle master curves. The aging resistance was well distinguished by the deviation of the complex modulus master curve using unaged bitumen as a baseline. It was found that three types of slightly SBS-modified bitumen binders exhibited inconsistent aging resistance in terms of rheological aging index. The relative change of the initial instantaneous modulus and the modulus relaxation rate was able to explain the relaxation properties. With respect to the direct tensile test, the increase in stiffness modulus and the loss of ultimate tensile strain can be used to evaluate the susceptibility of bitumen aging. An attempt was made to establish the relationship of the aging index between FTIR analysis, rheological properties, and low-temperature performance. It was found that the relationship among these aging indexes was weak. In general, slightly SBS modified bitumen should be well designed to obtain good aging resistance and low-temperature performance. Highly modified bitumen is foreseen to be promising in the case of extremely low temperatures and long-term durability.
Residual Stress Evolution in Low-Alloyed Steel at Three Different Length Scales
Authors: Leitner Silvia , Winter Gerald , Klarner Jürgen , Antretter Thomas , Ecker Werner
Published: March 2023

Quantitative and qualitative residual stress evolution in low-alloyed steel during heat treatment is investigated on three different length scales for sourgas resistant seamless steel tubes: on the component level, on the level of interdendritic segregation and on precipitate scale. The macroscopic temperature, phase and stress evolution on the component scale result from a continuum model of the heat treatment process. The strain and temperature evolution is transferred to a mesoscopic submodel, which resolves the locally varying chemistry being a result of interdendritic segregation. Within the segregation area and the surrounding matrix precipitates form. They are categorized with respect to their tendency for formation of microscopic residual stresses. After rapid cooling macroscopic stresses up to 700 MPa may form dependent on the cooling procedure. Mesoscopic stresses up to Δ50 MPa form depending on the extent of segregation. Carbides and inclusions occuring in low-alloyed steel are ranked by their tendency for residual stress formation in the iron matrix. This scale bridging study gives an overview of residual stresses, their magnitude and evolution on three different length scales in low-alloyed steels and the results presented can serve as a input for steel design.
Numerical Designing of Fiber Reinforced Concrete Eco-Constructions
Authors: Rossi Pierre
Published: March 2023

This paper focuses on the use of numerical tools, as a finite elements method, to conceive fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) eco-constructions. It highlights the fact that these are the most suitable tools (much more than the Eurocodes, for example) to predict the cracking process of FRC constructions at their service limit state and, therefore, to predict their durability. Following a critical analysis of the existing finite element models for FRC cracking, it describes in more detail a probabilistic one. This model appears very suitable for providing precise information about crack openings that are inferior or equal to 300 microns. Finally, it presents an example of the use of this numerical model to optimize an FRC track slab in order to reduce its carbon footprint. This study, although partial and incomplete, shows that the best way to reduce the carbon footprint of this type of construction is to reduce its thickness.
Fertilizer-Holding Performance of Graphene on Soil Colloids Based on Double Electric Layer Theory
Authors: Liu Ziyan , Zhou Ming , Liao Wufang , Liu Jiayi , Luo Chaogui , Lu Chunyan , Chen Zhiwen , Zhu Hongwei
Published: March 2023

Soil nutrient loss, which leads to low plant utilization, has become an urgent issue. Graphene can improve soil fertilizer-holding properties given its small size effect, strong adsorption properties, and large specific surface area. Herein, different amounts of graphene were added to soil samples to study its effect on soil nutrient retention and growth of pepper seedlings. The colloidal double electric layer theory forms the basis for an analysis of variations in soil nutrient concentration through measurements of the zeta potential, which is affected by variations in ion concentrations in soil colloids. We measured the zeta potential of graphene and soil mixed colloids and found that graphene could increase the concentration of nutrient ions in soil colloids. In addition, graphene reduced the loss of nutrients; increased the contents of ammonium nitrogen, effective phosphorus, and fast-acting potassium in the soil after leaching; and enhanced the stability of soil aggregates after leaching. In addition, pepper seedlings grown under graphene treatment for 60 days outperformed seedlings grown without graphene treatment, in terms of plant height and nutrient content. This study demonstrates that the addition of graphene to soil can reduce nutrient loss and promote fertility and plant growth.
Energy Transfer in Dy3+ and Tb3+ Double-Doped Barium Borate Glass
Authors: Grüne Michelle , Schweizer Stefan
Published: March 2023

In this work, single- and double-doped Dy3+ and Tb3+ barium borate glasses are investigated for their potential as light converters. The density and the absorption coefficient show linearly increasing trends with an increasing lanthanide content. The external quantum efficiency of the double-doped samples is a combination of the respective single-doped samples. The strong energy transfer from Dy3+ to Tb3+ results in an intense Tb3+-related emission, i.e., an intense green luminescence. Thus, excitation at a Dy3+-related wavelength of 452 nm enables a Tb3+-related emission, at which a single-doped Tb3+ sample barely shows any luminescence. Lifetime measurements show that there is not only an energy transfer from Dy3+ to Tb3+, but also vice versa.
Enhanced Mechanical and Corrosion Properties via Annealing Treatment on the Hot-Rolled Ti-Zr-Mo Alloy
Authors: Yue Yun , Qi Mingxing , Song Tianshuo , Chen Bohan , Tang Yihao , Xia Chaoqun
Published: March 2023

In this work, the Ti-20Zr-15Mo alloy in its hot-rolled state was annealed in different phase zones, and the effects of the annealing treatment on the phase composition, organization, mechanical and corrosion resistance properties of the alloy were systematically investigated. The results showed that the original β grains of the alloy had all recrystallized to form the β equiaxial grains when annealed at 800 °C, and the grains had been significantly refined. This allowed the alloy to reach a tensile strength of 1000 MPa, a maximum of 28% after stretching, and a significant increase in plasticity. Also, due to the single beta phase, there was no galvanic corrosion, making the alloy annealed at 800 °C have the best corrosion resistance.
Plastic-Waste-Derived Char as an Additive for Epoxy Composite
Authors: Lee Seonho , Kim Yong Tae , Lin Kun-Yi Andrew , Lee Jechan
Published: March 2023

Tremendous amounts of plastic waste are generated daily. The indiscriminate disposal of plastic waste can cause serious global environmental issues, such as leakages of microplastics into the ecosystem. Thus, it is necessary to find a more sustainable way to reduce the volume of plastic waste by converting it into usable materials. Pyrolysis provides a sustainable solution for the production of carbonaceous materials (e.g., char). Plastic-waste-derived char can be used as an additive in epoxy composites to improve the properties and performance of neat epoxy resins. This review compiles relevant knowledge on the potential of additives for epoxy composites originating from plastic waste. It also highlights the potential of plastic-waste-derived char materials for use in materials in various industries.
The Effect of Initial Texture on the Plastic Deformation of Gradient Aluminum
Authors: Lyu Hao , Zhang Yaxin , Bao Yuan , Zhang Jiahui
Published: March 2023

The effect of specific processing-induced surface textures in gradient aluminum has not yet been investigated. A dislocation-based multi-scale framework is employed to explore the influence of various initial shearing textures and the depth from the surface of the region featuring each texture on the macroscopic behavior of gradient aluminum. By assigning different textures to the same grain size gradient aluminum sample, the initial texture was found to significantly affect the plastic deformation and macroscopic behavior of gradient aluminum. Specifically, the {111} texture can enhance the strength–ductility synergy, and this effect is dependent on the depth from the surface where the texture is located. This texture can lead to a slow stress/strain gradient in the assigned texture region and a sharp stress/strain gradient in the grain size gradient region connecting this region with the coarse grain region. Particularly, the sharp stress/strain gradient can result in extra strengthening by adjusting the stress/strain localization. These findings provide valuable insights for the design and optimization of surface textures in gradient aluminum.
Efficient Method for Derivatives of Nonlinear Stiffness Matrix
Authors: Bui Tuan Anh , Kim Jun-Sik , Park Junyoung
Published: March 2023

Structural design often includes geometrically nonlinear analysis to reduce structural weight and increase energy efficiency. The full-order finite element model can perform the geometrically nonlinear analysis, but its computational cost is expensive. Therefore, nonlinear reduced-order models (NLROMs) have been developed to reduce costs. The non-intrusive NLROM has a lower cost than the other due to the approximation of the nonlinear internal force by a polynomial of reduced coordinates based on the Taylor expansion. The constants in the polynomial, named reduced stiffnesses, are derived from the derivative of the structure’s tangential stiffness matrix with respect to the reduced coordinates. The precision of the derivative of the tangential stiffness affects the reduced stiffness, which in turn significantly influences the accuracy of the NLROM. Therefore, this study evaluates the accuracy of the derivative of the tangential stiffness calculated by the methods: finite difference, complex step, and hyper-dual step. Analytical derivatives of the nonlinear stiffness are developed to provide references for evaluating the accuracy of the numerical methods. We propose using the central difference method to calculate the stiffness coefficients of NLROM due to its advantages, such as accuracy, low computational cost, and compatibility with commercial finite element software.
Recognition and Implementation of Contact Simple Map Germs from (ℂ2, 0) → (ℂ2, 0)
Authors: Xu Peng , Binyamin Muhammad Ahsan , Aslam Adnan , Shahbaz Muhammad , Aslam Saima , Kanwal Salma
Published: March 2023

The classification of contact simple map germs from (C2,0)→(C2,0) was given by Dimca and Gibson. In this article, we give a useful criteria to recognize this classification of contact simple map germs of holomorphic mappings with finite codimension. The recognition is based on the computation of explicit numerical invariants. By using this characterization, we implement an algorithm to compute the type of the contact simple map germs without computing the normal form and also give its implementation in the computer algebra system Singular.
Motion Synchronization Control for a Large Civil Aircraft’s Hybrid Actuation System Using Fuzzy Logic-Based Control Techniques
Authors: Ur Rehman Waheed , Wang Xingjian , Hameed Zeeshan , Gul Muhammad Yasir
Published: March 2023

The motion synchronization of the hybrid actuation system (composed of a servo-hydraulic actuator and an electro-mechanical actuator) is very important for all applications, especially for civil aircraft. The current research presents a nested-loop control design technique to synchronize motion between two different actuators, such as a servo-hydraulic actuator (SHA) and an electro-mechanical actuator (EMA). The proposed strategy consists of a trajectory, an intelligent position controller (fuzzy logic-based controller), a feed-forward controller, and an intelligent force controller (fuzzy logic-based controller). Position, speed, and acceleration signals are produced by trajectory at a frequency that both SHA and EMA can follow. The SHA/EMA system’s position tracking performance is enhanced by the feed-forward controller and intelligent position controller working together, while the intelligent force tracking controller lowers the issue of force fighting by focusing on the rigid coupling effect. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed strategy, simulations are performed in the Matlab/Simulink environment. The result shows that the proposed intelligent control strategy not only reduces initial force fighting, but also improves load-rejection performance and output-trajectory tracking performance.
A Discrete-Event Simheuristic for Solving a Realistic Storage Location Assignment Problem
Authors: Leon Jonas F. , Li Yuda , Peyman Mohammad , Calvet Laura , Juan Angel A.
Published: March 2023

In the context of increasing complexity in manufacturing and logistic systems, the combination of optimization and simulation can be considered a versatile tool for supporting managerial decision-making. An informed storage location assignment policy is key for improving warehouse operations, which play a vital role in the efficiency of supply chains. Traditional approaches in the literature to solve the storage location assignment problem present some limitations, such as excluding the stochastic variability of processes or the interaction among different warehouse activities. This work addresses those limitations by proposing a discrete-event simheuristic framework that ensures robust solutions in the face of real-life warehouse conditions. The approach followed embraces the complexity of the problem by integrating the order sequence and picking route in the solution construction and uses commercial simulation software to reduce the impact of stochastic events on the quality of the solution. The implementation of this type of novel methodology within a warehouse management system can enhance warehouse efficiency without requiring an increase in automation level. The method developed is tested under a number of computational experiments that show its convenience and point toward future lines of research.
Conics from the Cartan Decomposition of SO(2,1)
Authors: Crasmareanu Mircea
Published: March 2023

The aim of this paper is to introduce and study the class of conics provided by the symmetric matrices of the Cartan decomposition of the Lie group SO(2,1). This class depends on two real parameters as components of the cylinder S1×R and we use a deformation inspired by Finsler indicatrices in order to obtain proper ellipses. A complex approach is also included.
Infeasibility Maps: Application to the Optimization of the Design of Pumping Stations in Water Distribution Networks
Authors: Gutiérrez-Bahamondes Jimmy H. , Mora-Melia Daniel , Valdivia-Muñoz Bastián , Silva-Aravena Fabián , Iglesias-Rey Pedro L.
Published: March 2023

The design of pumping stations in a water distribution network determines the investment costs and affects a large part of the operating costs of the network. In recent years, it was shown that it is possible to use flow distribution to optimize both costs concurrently; however, the methodologies proposed in the literature are not applicable to real-sized networks. In these cases, the space of solutions is huge, a small number of feasible solutions exists, and each evaluation of the objective function implies significant computational effort. To avoid this gap, a new method was proposed to reduce the search space in the problem of pumping station design. This method was based on network preprocessing to determine in advance the maximum and minimum flow that each pump station could provide. According to this purpose, the area of infeasibility is limited by ranges of the decision variable where it is impossible to meet the hydraulic constraints of the model. This area of infeasibility is removed from the search space with which the algorithm works. To demonstrate the benefits of using the new technique, a new real-sized case study was presented, and a pseudo-genetic algorithm (PGA) was implemented to resolve the optimization model. Finally, the results show great improvement in PGA performance, both in terms of the speed of convergence and quality of the solution.
A Pilot Study of Autonomic Function Screening Tests for Differentiating Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type II and Traumatic Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Kim Dayoung , Kim Min Jung , Kim Jae Hun , Oh Jeeyoung , Choi Kyomin
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives: One of the most challenging tasks in a clinical setting is to differentiate between complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) type II and traumatic neuropathic pain (NeP). CRPS is characterized by several dysautonomic manifestations, such as edema, hyper/hypohidrosis, skin color change, and tachycardia. This study compared the outcomes of autonomic function screening tests in patients with CRPS type II and traumatic NeP for diagnostic differentiation. Materials and Methods: CRPS type II was diagnosed according to the Budapest research criteria, while NeP was diagnosed according to the updated grading system suggested by the International Association for the Study of Pain Special Interest Group on Neuropathic Pain in 2016. Twenty patients with CRPS type II and twenty-five with traumatic NeP were investigated. Results: Twelve patients with CRPS type II presented abnormal results for the quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART). Abnormal QSART results were more common in the CRPS type II group. Conclusions: Analysis of QSART combined with other ancillary tests can help in the differential diagnosis of CRPS type II and traumatic NeP if factors influencing abnormal QSART are sufficiently controlled.
Specific Features of Mitochondrial Dysfunction under Conditions of Ferroptosis Induced by t-Butylhydroperoxide and Iron: Protective Role of the Inhibitors of Lipid Peroxidation and Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore Opening
Authors: Fedotcheva Tatiana , Shimanovsky Nikolai , Fedotcheva Nadezhda
Published: March 2023

Recent studies have indicated the critical importance of mitochondria in the induction and progression of ferroptosis. There is evidence indicating that tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBH), a lipid-soluble organic peroxide, is capable of inducing ferroptosis-type cell death. We investigated the effect of TBH on the induction of nonspecific membrane permeability measured by mitochondrial swelling and on oxidative phosphorylation and NADH oxidation assessed by NADH fluo rescence. TBH and iron, as well as their combinations, induced, with a respective decrease in the lag phase, the swelling of mitochondria, inhibited oxidative phosphorylation and stimulated NADH oxidation. The lipid radical scavenger butylhydroxytoluene (BHT), the inhibitor of mitochondrial phospholipase iPLA2γ bromoenol lactone (BEL), and the inhibitor of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (MPTP) opening cyclosporine A (CsA) were equally effective in protecting these mitochondrial functions. The radical-trapping antioxidant ferrostatin-1, a known indicator of ferroptotic alteration, restricted the swelling but was less effective than BHT. ADP and oligomycin significantly decelerated iron- and TBH-induced swelling, confirming the involvement of MPTP opening in mitochondrial dysfunction. Thus, our data showed the participation of phospholipase activation, lipid peroxidation, and the MPTP opening in the mitochondria-dependent ferroptosis. Presumably, their involvement took place at different stages of membrane damage initiated by ferroptotic stimuli.
Separation and Washing of Candida Cells from White Blood Cells Using Viscoelastic Microfluidics
Authors: Lim Hyunjung , Kim Jae Young , Choo Seunghee , Lee Changseok , Han Byoung Joe , Lim Chae Seung , Nam Jeonghun
Published: March 2023

An early and accurate diagnosis of Candida albicans is critical for the rapid antifungal treatment of candidemia, a mortal bloodstream infection. This study demonstrates viscoelastic microfluidic techniques for continuous separation, concentration, and subsequent washing of Candida cells in the blood. The total sample preparation system contains two-step microfluidic devices: a closed-loop separation and concentration device and a co-flow cell-washing device. To determine the flow conditions of the closed-loop device, such as the flow rate factor, a mixture of 4 and 13 μm particles was used. Candida cells were successfully separated from the white blood cells (WBCs) and concentrated by 74.6-fold in the sample reservoir of the closed-loop system at 800 μL/min with a flow rate factor of 3.3. In addition, the collected Candida cells were washed with washing buffer (deionized water) in the microchannels with an aspect ratio of 2 at a total flow rate of 100 μL/min. Finally, Candida cells at extremely low concentrations (Ct > 35) became detectable after the removal of WBCs, the additional buffer solution in the closed-loop system (Ct = 30.3 ± 1.3), and further removal of blood lysate and washing (Ct = 23.3 ± 1.6).
Estimation of Particle Location in Granular Materials Based on Graph Neural Networks
Authors: Zhang Hang , Li Xingqiao , Li Zirui , Huang Duan , Zhang Ling
Published: March 2023

Particle locations determine the whole structure of a granular system, which is crucial to understanding various anomalous behaviors in glasses and amorphous solids. How to accurately determine the coordinates of each particle in such materials within a short time has always been a challenge. In this paper, we use an improved graph convolutional neural network to estimate the particle locations in two-dimensional photoelastic granular materials purely from the knowledge of the distances for each particle, which can be estimated in advance via a distance estimation algorithm. The robustness and effectiveness of our model are verified by testing other granular systems with different disorder degrees, as well as systems with different configurations. In this study, we attempt to provide a new route to the structural information of granular systems irrelevant to dimensionality, compositions, or other material properties.
Electrochemistry in a Two- or Three-Electrode Configuration to Understand Monopolar or Bipolar Configurations of Platinum Bionic Implants
Authors: Harris Alexander R. , Grayden David B. , John Sam E.
Published: March 2023

Electrodes are used in vivo for chemical sensing, electrophysiological recording, and stimulation of tissue. The electrode configuration used in vivo is often optimised for a specific anatomy and biological or clinical outcomes, not electrochemical performance. Electrode materials and geometries are constrained by biostability and biocompatibility issues and may be required to function clinically for decades. We performed benchtop electrochemistry, with changes in reference electrode, smaller counter-electrode sizes, and three- or two-electrode configurations. We detail the effects different electrode configurations have on typical electroanalytical techniques used on implanted electrodes. Changes in reference electrode required correction by application of an offset potential. In a two-electrode configuration with similar working and reference/counter-electrode sizes, the electrochemical response was dictated by the rate-limiting charge transfer step at either electrode. This could invalidate calibration curves, standard analytical methods, and equations, and prevent use of commercial simulation software. We provide methods for determining if an electrode configuration is affecting the in vivo electrochemical response. We recommend sufficient details be provided in experimental sections on electronics, electrode configuration, and their calibration to justify results and discussion. In conclusion, the experimental limitations of performing in vivo electrochemistry may dictate what types of measurements and analyses are possible, such as obtaining relative rather than absolute measurements.
Influencing Factors of the Brittleness of Continental Shales Containing Shell Limestone Interlayer
Authors: Liu Yuejiao , Lai Fuqiang , Wang Ruyue , Wu Zhonghu , Zhang Xiaoshu , Xu Hao , Li Jiao
Published: March 2023

Brittleness is important in the evaluation of the fracturing ability of shale reservoir and has a significant impact on shale gas exploration and development. This paper discusses the characteristics and controlling factors of brittleness of continental shale in the Da’anzhai Member of the Ziliujing Formation of Lower Jurassic age in the northeast Sichuan Basin. Continental shale lithofacies and their associations were grouped into four main rock types: clayey shale, silty shale, shell calcareous clayey shale, and silty clayey shale, characterized by the high clay content and local enrichment of carbonate minerals as a whole. Compared with the marine shale, the continental shale contained a low content of siliceous minerals, a high content of carbonate minerals, and a large number of shell limestone interlayers. Carbonate minerals play an important role in controlling the brittleness of continental shale. The shale interlayers were mainly shell limestone interlayers with a thickness of several centimeters and a large number of shell laminates with thicknesses of several millimeters were also observed. The shell laminates were mainly filled with calcite. Due to the dissolution process, a large number of bedding joints and corrosion joints were formed in the calcite shell layers. In the interlayers with a high shell content, a large number of microfractures developed. The energy consumption required for maintaining fracture expansion was lower after fracturing; the fractures greatly improved the reservoir’s brittleness.
TiO2-Coated Silicon Nanoparticle Core-Shell Structure for High-Capacity Lithium-Ion Battery Anode Materials
Authors: Li Jinbao , Fan Sha , Xiu Huijuan , Wu Haiwei , Huang Shaoyan , Wang Simin , Yin Dingwen , Deng Zili , Xiong Chuanyin
Published: March 2023

Silicon-based anode materials are considered one of the highly promising anode materials due to their high theoretical energy density; however, problems such as volume effects and solid electrolyte interface film (SEI) instability limit the practical applications. Herein, silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) are used as the nucleus and anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) is used as the buffer layer to form a core-shell structure to adapt to the volume change of the silicon-based material and improve the overall interfacial stability of the electrode. In addition, silver nanowires (AgNWs) doping makes it possible to form a conductive network structure to improve the conductivity of the material. We used the core-shell structure SiNPs@TiO2/AgNWs composite as an anode material for high-efficiency Li-ion batteries. Compared with the pure SiNPs electrode, the SiNPs@TiO2/AgNWs electrode exhibits excellent electrochemical performance with a first discharge specific capacity of 3524.2 mAh·g−1 at a current density of 400 mA·g−1, which provides a new idea for the preparation of silicon-based anode materials for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.
Enhanced Water Adsorption of MIL-101(Cr) by Metal-Organic Polyhedral Encapsulation for Adsorption Cooling
Authors: Xia Xiaoxiao , Liu Boyun , Zhao Bo , Xia Zichao , Li Song
Published: March 2023

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are one of the most promising adsorbents in the adsorption cooling system (ACS) for their outstanding water adsorption performance. Notwithstanding that fact, numerous reports pay more attention to the ACS performance improvement through enhancing equilibrium water uptake of MOFs. However, adsorption cooling performance, including specific cooling power (SCP) and coefficient of performance for cooling (COPC) of MOF/water working pairs, always depends on the water adsorption kinetics of MOFs in ACS. In this work, to increase the water adsorption rate, the preparation of MOP/MIL-101(Cr) was achieved by encapsulating hydrophilic metal-organic polyhedral (MOP) into MIL-101(Cr). It was found that the hydrophilicity of MOP/MIL-101(Cr) was enhanced upon hydrophilic MOP3 encapsulation, resulting in a remarkable improvement in water adsorption rates. Furthermore, both SCP and COPC for MOP/MIL-101(Cr)-water working pairs were also improved because of the fast water adsorption of MOP/MIL-101(Cr). In brief, an effective approach to enhance the water adsorption rate and cooling performance of MOF-water working pairs through enhancing the hydrophilicity of MOFs by encapsulating MOP into MOFs was reported in this work, which provides a new strategy for broadening the application of MOF composites in ACS.
Characterization of Large-Energy-Bandgap Methylammonium Lead Tribromide (MAPbBr3) Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Mijoung , Yang Jungyup
Published: March 2023

We have investigated the effects of the methylammonium bromide (MABr) content of the precursor solution on the properties of wide-bandgap methylammonium lead tribromide (MAPbBr3) perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In addition, the anti-solvent process for fabricating MAPbBr3 perovskite thin films was optimized. The MAPbBr3 precursor was prepared by dissolving MABr and lead bromide (PbBr2) in N,N-dimethylformamide and N,N-dimethyl sulfoxide. Chlorobenzene (CB) was used as the anti-solvent. We found that both the morphology of the MAPbBr3 layer and the PSCs performance are significantly affected by the MABr content in perovskite precursor solution and anti-solvent dripping time. The best-performing device was obtained when the molar ratio of MABr:PbBr2 was 1:1 and the CB drip time was 10 s. The best device exhibited a power conversion efficiency of 7.58%, short-circuit current density of 7.32 mA·cm−2, open-circuit voltage of 1.30 V, and fill factor of 79.87%.
Model of Chronoamperometric Response towards Glucose Sensing by Arrays of Gold Nanostructures Obtained by Laser, Thermal and Wet Processes
Authors: Scandurra Antonino , Iacono Valentina , Boscarino Stefano , Scalese Silvia , Grimaldi Maria Grazia , Ruffino Francesco
Published: March 2023

Non-enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors are of great importance in biomedical applications, for the realization of portable diabetic testing kits and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Nanostructured materials show a number of advantages in the applications of analytical electrochemistry, compared to macroscopic electrodes, such as great sensitivity and little dependence on analyte diffusion close to the electrode–solution interface. Obtaining electrodes based on nanomaterials without using expensive lithographic techniques represents a great added value. In this paper, we modeled the chronoamperometric response towards glucose determination by four electrodes consisting of nanostructured gold onto graphene paper (GP). The nanostructures were obtained by electrochemical etch, thermal and laser processes of thin gold layer. We addressed experiments obtaining different size and shape of gold nanostructures. Electrodes have been characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), cyclic voltammetry, and chronoamperometry. We modeled the current-time response at the potential corresponding to two-electrons oxidation process of glucose by the different nanostructured gold systems. The finest nanostructures of 10–200 nm were obtained by laser dewetting of 17 nm thin and 300 °C thermal dewetting of 8 nm thin gold layers, and they show that semi-infinite linear diffusion mechanism predominates over radial diffusion. Electrochemical etching and 17 nm thin gold layer dewetted at 400 °C consist of larger gold islands up to 1 μm. In the latter case, the current-time curves can be fitted by a two-phase exponential decay function that relies on the mixed second-order formation of adsorbed glucose intermediate followed by its first-order decay to gluconolactone.
Elevated C-Reactive Protein Levels Modify the Effect of Magnesium on Depressive Symptoms: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Chou Ming-Hui , Yang Yen Kuang , Wang Jung-Der , Lin Chung-Ying , Lin Sheng-Hsiang
Published: March 2023

Depression is a profound public health concern, yet its etiology remains unclear. A body’s magnesium status and low-grade systemic inflammation are associated with depression. However, the interaction of magnesium status and inflammation on depression/depressive symptoms is unknown. We assessed the association between serum magnesium levels and depressive symptoms by analyzing data from the Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan 2005–2008. In total, 2196 participants aged ≥20 years were included. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 5-item Brief-Symptom Rating Scale. We performed logistic regression and multiple linear regression analyses to examine the association. A dose–response analysis was performed using restricted cubic spline models, and stratification by chronic inflammation was also performed. We found that higher serum magnesium levels were associated with lower depression scores and a lower risk of depression. In the subgroup analysis, serum magnesium levels were inversely associated with depressive symptoms more prominently among people with higher CRP levels, with a threshold at 5 mg/L (≥5 vs. <5) showing a greater difference than at 3 mg/L (≥3 vs. <3). Conclusions: Serum magnesium levels were inversely associated with depressive symptoms. This inverse association was affected by inflammation level. A dose–response relationship was also observed.
The Interplay between Cardiovascular Risk, Cardiovascular Events, and Disease Activity in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome: Is Uric Acid the Missing Link?
Authors: Alunno Alessia , Carubbi Francesco , Mariani Francesco Maria , Martini Cecilia , Campanozzi Elena , Ferri Claudio
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Uric acid is a well-known cardiovascular (CV) risk factor in the general population but its role in the setting of rheumatic diseases other than gout is unclear. (2) Methods: This is a retrospective study investigating a cohort of 105 pSS patients recording clinical, serological, and CV-related variables including adherence to the Mediterranean diet. (3) Results: We observed a strong relationship between disease activity, interstitial lung disease (ILD), and CV events. The association between ILD and CV events was dependent on higher SUA levels but independent of other traditional CV risk factors. All three cases of previous non-fatal stroke were reported by females aged <65 years, with higher SUA levels, and two of them also had pSS-ILD. Forty (38%) patients had a 10-year risk of fatal and non-fatal CV disease events beyond the cut-off recommended for their age, and using the correction factor of 1.5 currently applied only to rheumatoid arthritis, we could better identify patient subsets characterized by different CV risk profiles including different SUA levels. (4) Conclusions: This study is the first to investigate in depth the role of SUA in the CV scenario of pSS. Our findings underpin the importance of assessing SUA levels in pSS in addition to the other traditional CV risk factors and to consider applying the correction factor for CV risk assessment tools to achieve a better stratification of CV risk.
Association between Eating Habits and Sodium Intake among Chinese University Students
Authors: Wu Minchan , Xi Yue , Huo Jiaqi , Xiang Caihong , Yong Cuiting , Liang Jiajing , Zou Hanshuang , Pan Yunfeng , Xie Qingqing , Lin Qian
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: Insufficient evidence exists regarding the dietary habits that may contribute to high sodium intake among college students in China. This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the dietary sodium intake of college students in Hunan and its association with their dietary habits. (2) Methods: In total, 585 university students from Hunan were recruited for this study. The sodium Food Frequency Questionnaire (sodium-FFQ) and dietary habits were assessed. (3) Results: Excluding cooking salt and high-sodium seasonings, the daily dietary sodium intake among college students in Changsha, Hunan Province, was 1183.74 (563.38, 2054.86) mg/day. A vast majority (89%) of college students reported eating outside of school at least once a week, and approximately one-third (34%) ordered takeaways at least once a week. After adjusting for confounding factors, the associations between the frequency of eating out and ordering takeaways with college students’ sodium intake remained significant. (4) Conclusions: The findings indicate that excessive dietary sodium intake among college students in Hunan is a growing concern. College students who frequently eat out and order takeaways tend to have a higher sodium intake. Future research should focus on identifying the main sources of dietary sodium and developing interventions that promote healthy dietary habits among college students.
Food Consumption during Binge Eating Episodes in Binge Eating Spectrum Conditions from a Representative Sample of a Brazilian Metropolitan City
Authors: Moraes Carlos Eduardo Ferreira de , Antunes Marina Maria Leite , Mourilhe Carla , Sichieri Rosely , Hay Phillipa , Appolinario Jose Carlos
Published: March 2023

The prevalence of binge eating spectrum conditions (BESC) are increasing globally. However, there is a lack of data from general population samples in low- and middle-income countries. Thus, this study described the food consumption during objective binge eating episodes (OBE) in people with BESC from a metropolitan city in Brazil. Participants comprised 136 adults (18 years old–60 years old) with Binge Eating Disorder (BED), Bulimia Nervosa (BN), or recurrent binge eating (RBE) from a two-phase epidemiological survey. They were interviewed in their homes by trained lay interviewers using the Questionnaire on Eating and Weight Patterns updated for the DSM-5 to assess BESC diagnosis and food consumption during a typical OBE. Overall, participants consumed a mean of 1067 kcal during the episodes. For the most part, these calories were derived from carbohydrates (58%) and lipids (30%), irrespective of the diagnosis. Regarding food item consumption, individuals with BED and RBE consumed staple foods (mainly rice and beans) more frequently than those with BN. Conversely, participants with BN ingested sugar-sweetened beverages more frequently than the BED group. In conclusion, there were differences in the eating patterns of individuals with BESC in Brazil. BED and RBE participants consumed more typical foods, whereas those with BN preferred foods with a high content of energy during their OBE.
A Low Daily Intake of Simple Sugars in the Diet Is Associated with Improved Liver Function in Cirrhotic Liver Transplant Candidates
Authors: Parisse Simona , Carnevale Sara , Di Bartolomeo Francesca , Poli Edoardo , Miceli Francesca , Ferri Flaminia , Mischitelli Monica , Rocco Bianca , Lai Quirino , Lucatelli Pierleone , Corona Mario , Mennini Gianluca , De Santis Adriano , Rossi Massimo , Muscaritoli Maurizio , Cantafora Alfredo , Ginanni Corradini Stefano
Published: March 2023

(1) Background: We investigated, for the first time, whether dietary simple sugar intake affects MELD score changes over time in a cohort of cirrhotic liver transplant candidates. (2) Methods: the MELD score, dietary habits using a 3-day food diary, and visceral adipose tissue index (VATI) measured with CT scan were assessed in 80 consecutive outpatient cirrhotic patients at baseline, after counseling to follow current nutritional guidelines. The MELD score was reassessed after six months and the DELTA-MELD was calculated as the MELD at the second assessment minus the MELD at baseline. (3) Results: Compared with the baseline, the MELD score of cirrhotic patients at the end of the study was decreased, stable, or increased in 36%, 8% and 56% of patients, respectively. In separate multiple linear regression models, DELTA-MELD was positively and independently correlated with the daily intake of simple sugars expressed in g/kg body weight (p = 0.01) or as a percentage of total caloric intake (p = 0.0004) and with the number of daily portions of fruit, added sugar, jam, and honey (p = 0.003). These associations were present almost exclusively in patients with VATI above the median value. (4) Conclusions: In cirrhotic patients with high amounts of visceral adipose tissue the consumption of simple sugars and fructose should be limited to improve their clinical outcome.
Functional Neuroplasticity of Adults with Partial or Complete Denture Rehabilitation with or without Implants: Evidence from fMRI Studies
Authors: Yeung Andy Wai Kan , Leung Wai Keung
Published: March 2023

Tooth loss may affect food ingestion and, consequently, nutrition intake. The neuroimaging literature using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was reviewed to summarize the changes in brain functions in response to denture rehabilitation in patients with partial or complete edentulous dentition. Overall, this review covered nine fMRI studies on denture rehabilitation. Eight recruited complete edentulous patients, whereas one recruited partially edentulous patients. The risk-of-bias assessment revealed concerns regarding all nine studies. Due to the heterogeneity of the studies and the lack of brain coordinates reported, a meta-analysis could not be conducted, and this review could only summarize the findings without statistical validation. The evidence from jaw-clenching studies suggested that implant-supported fixed dentures could be the best option, as compared to implant-supported overdentures and complete dentures, as it was associated with higher brain activity levels in various brain regions, including those corresponding to the primary sensory (postcentral gyrus) and motor cortices (precentral gyrus). Gum-chewing studies indicated that perhaps the medial and middle frontal gyri were associated with food comminuting and food mixing, which could be improved by the full replacement of the dental arch, instead of only partial replacement. All the fMRI studies described the functional neuroplasticity of the patients undergoing denture rehabilitation and suggested that certain rehabilitation options were more beneficial in restoring masticatory functions, as well as their associated brain activity levels.
Weekly Folic Acid Is a Convenient and Well-Tolerated Alternative to Daily Dosing in Pediatric Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease on Methotrexate
Authors: Temtem Tsega Adera , Vickers Maggie , Whitworth John
Published: March 2023

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the gastrointestinal tract. Methotrexate is a folate analog immunosuppressant used in the management of pediatric IBD. Daily folic acid supplementation is currently recommended to prevent folate deficiency and reduce the side effects of methotrexate such as nausea, stomatitis, and hepatotoxicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and adequacy of once-weekly folic acid supplementation in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease patients taking methotrexate. Methods: In this single-arm observational study, we included subjects aged 2–21 years old with inflammatory bowel disease who were receiving a standard oral methotrexate dose of 10–15 mg/m2 weekly and 800 mcg of folic acid daily. Baseline folate level, blood counts and chemistries, and a symptom questionnaire were completed. Subjects were switched to weekly 800 mcg of folic acid to be taken in conjunction with methotrexate. Monthly phone calls with a standardized questionnaire were used to assess compliance and any change in symptoms. Follow-up blood tests were obtained 6 months after enrollment. Normal folate level was defined as >5.38 ng/mL. Results: Thirty-one subjects were enrolled. Five subjects were withdrawn due to poor compliance or transition to adult gastroenterology. Twenty-one (81%) subjects had Crohn’s disease (17 with ileal involvement) and five (19%) had ulcerative colitis. Twelve (39%) subjects were on methotrexate as a combination therapy with a biologic agent. At the 6-month follow-up visit, all subjects had stable folic acid levels (>5.38 μg/L) without macrocytic anemia. Monthly questionnaires found no increased symptoms, and there were no adverse events. Conclusions: Once weekly folic acid supplementation at a dose commonly found in a multivitamin may be sufficient to maintain normal folate levels without the development of adverse symptoms in pediatric patients with inflammatory bowel disease on methotrexate therapy.
Antioxidants in Traditional Mexican Medicine and Their Applications as Antitumor Treatments
Authors: Soto Karen M. , Pérez Bueno José de Jesús , Mendoza López Maria Luisa , Apátiga-Castro Miguel , López-Romero José M. , Mendoza Sandra , Manzano-Ramírez Alejandro
Published: March 2023

Traditional medicine in Latin America and mainly in Mexico represents an essential alternative for treating different diseases. The use of plants as medicine is the product of a rich cultural tradition of the indigenous peoples, in which a great variety of species are used for the treatment of gastrointestinal, respiratory, and mental diseases and some other sicknesses; the therapeutic efficacy that they possess is due to the properties that derive from the active ingredients of plants principally antioxidants, such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids, terpenes, and tannins. An antioxidant is a substance that, at low concentrations, delays or prevents substrate oxidation through the exchange of electrons. Different methods are used to determine the antioxidant activity and the most commonly used are described in the review. Cancer is a disease in which some cells multiply uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. These cells can lead to the formation of tumors, which are lumps of tissue that can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). Generally, the treatment of this disease consists of surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy, which have side effects that decrease the quality of life of patients, so new treatments, focusing on natural resources such as plants, can be developed. This review aims to gather scientific evidence on the antioxidant compounds present in plants used in traditional Mexican medicine, specifically as antitumor treatment in the most common cancer types worldwide (e.g., breast, liver, and colorectal cancer).