bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon emission reduction prediction of integrated light-storage charging station based on electric vehicle charging demand
Authors: Li Yuting , Long Yu , Shu Jiao , Xie Peng , Jang Tao , Zhang Yuanhong , Tian Huanghuang
Published: August 2024

Our country will further promote carbon peak, carbon neutral, build a new type of power system with new energy as the main body, and the development of light storage integration becomes an inevitable trend. Therefore, this paper takes electric vehicle charging load curve and photovoltaic power generation curve as the main indicators to predict carbon emission reduction. Firstly, factors affecting the charging load of electric vehicles are analyzed, and the charging load of electric vehicles is predicted by Monte Carlo method. Then, a distributed photovoltaic sunrise force model is established considering weather factors to study the relationship between photovoltaic output and the supply and demand of electric vehicles, so as to establish a carbon emission reduction model considering the charging demand of electric vehicles, so as to realize the carbon emission reduction prediction of integrated optical storage charging stations. It provides the basis for the future development of renewable energy.
Recent studies on the properties of silver-thiolate nanoclusters
Authors: Wang Lu , Yao Liaoyuan
Published: August 2024

Atom-precise metal nanoclusters have made great progress in the fields of catalysis, medicine and sensing due to their attracting strong photoluminescence, high catalytic performance, and chirality. In the initial stages, technical limitations confined research of silver-thiolate nanoclusters primarily concentrating on structure determination. As technology advanced, scientists have begun to explore the properties of these nanoclusters. There has been significant research focused on studying the photoluminescence properties, chiral properties, and catalytic properties of silver-thiolate nanoclusters. This paper primarily serves to introduce and discuss these properties.
Prediction of in-situ fluid pH in high-acidity environments
Authors: Shen Cong , Yan Jing , Huang Ganghua , Huang Hongbing , Xie Bo , Li Puzhi , Zhang Changhui
Published: August 2024

In response to the difficulty of measuring fluid pH values in high-acidity, high-pressure, hightemperature, and complex ion environments, this paper proposes a predictive model for in-situ pH values in high-acidity environments. The model considers the influences of eleven factors, including ORP potential, temperature, and pressure, and is capable of calculating the pH value of fluids incorporating the following factors: pressure, temperature, Na+ ion concentration, K+ ion concentration, Ca2+ ion concentration, Mg2+ ion concentration, Cl- ion concentration, HCO3- ion concentration, H2S concentration, CO2 concentration, and ORP potential. Furthermore, the model is optimized to possess variable adaptability, allowing compatibility with cases involving fewer than eleven influencing factors. Test results demonstrate that the predictive model for in-situ pH values in high-acidity environments exhibits high precision, with a maximum prediction error of 6.32%, a minimum of 1.19%, and an average prediction error of 4%. Compared to other existing models, it considers a more comprehensive set of factors, providing a mathematical approach to pH prediction that holds significance for corrosion control in oil and gas pipeline industries.
Self-assembly of nanoparticles and surfactant molecules at the gas-liquid interface
Authors: Zhang Lu , Chen Sihang , Zhao Xingze , Zhang Qian , Zhang Minghui , Sun Pengyu , Wu Yining , Ren Hao
Published: August 2024

Gas-liquid interface models consist of SiO2 nanoparticles and typical surfactant molecules were used to investigate the interface properties using molecular dynamics simulations. The surfactant molecules were found being self-assembled to the nanoparticles, and prefer the gas-liquid interface. By comparing the effects of different surfactant molecules on the interface structures and molecular mobility, the adsorption behaviours of nanoparticles onto the interface were revealed, and the corresponding interface properties were quantitatively illustrated.
Application of Plant Materials to the Creation of Contemporary Ceramic Artworks
Authors: Sun Xiaoli , Suhaily S. Siti , Lai Huasheng , Shaaria Salbiyatun Abdul Rashid , Mohamed Noor Mustaqim
Published: August 2024

Contemporary ceramic artworks break through the restrictions of use value; the creation method is more accessible, the use of materials is more diversified, and the application of plant materials is one of these trends. This paper expounds on the design and application types of plant materials, explores the aesthetic characteristics of flowers, fruits, branches, and leaves of plants, and then takes plant materials and ceramic materials as creative carriers for design and practice research and presents them in 2D or 3D ceramic artworks in figurative or abstract forms, using them as a kind of ceramic language to show the artistic expression of plants. The results of modeling, texture, hollowing and repetition, color experiment, and comprehensive material experiment were successfully determined through design and ceramic craft creation.
Thermal properties of a series of liquid crystal epoxy resins modified with PES
Authors: Feng Tiantian , Li Xin
Published: August 2024

Polyether sulfone (PES) was mixed into liquid crystal epoxy resin (LCER) in order to improve the thermal performance and reduce the cost of curing epoxy resin. The thermal effects of the obtained composites during curing were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and their thermal stability was evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The dynamic mechanical properties were measured by dynamic thermodynamics analyzer (DMA). The addition of 10 wt% PES resulted in a significant increase in glass transition temperature (Tg) of approximately 50°C compared to the unmodified liquid crystal epoxy resin. At the same time, the addition of cheap, high-performance commercial resin E-44 to the resin matrix significantly reduces costs at the expense of reducing thermal performance.
Cerebralization of mathematical quantities and physical features in neural science: A critical evaluation
Authors: Goffart Laurent
Published: August 2024

At the turn of the 20th century, Henri Poincaré explained that geometry is a convention and that the properties of space and time are the properties of our measuring instruments. Intriguingly, numerous contemporary authors argue that space, time and even number are “encoded” within the brain, as a consequence of evolution, adaptation and natural selection. In the neuroscientific study of movement generation, the activity of neurons would “encode” kinematic parameters: when they emit action potentials, neurons would “speak” a language carrying notions of classical mechanics. In this article, we shall explain that the movement of a body segment is the ultimate product of a measurement, a filtered numerical outcome of multiple processes taking place in parallel in the central nervous system and converging on the groups of neurons responsible for muscle contractions. The fact that notions of classical mechanics efficiently describe movements does not imply their implementation in the inner workings of the brain. Their relevance to the question how the brain activity enables one to produce accurate movements is questioned within the framework of the neurophysiology of orienting gaze movements toward a visual target.
Anatomical Guidelines and Technical Tips for Neck Aesthetics with Botulinum Toxin
Authors: Hu Hyewon , Kim Soo-Bin , Wan Jovian , Chan Lisa Kwin Wah , Lee Alvin Kar Wai , Sydorchuk Olena , Jalali Arash , Corrêa Mariana César , Kim Jong-Seo , Yi Kyu-Ho
Published: August 2024

Botulinum toxin can be used for various purposes to enhance neck aesthetics, addressing concerns such as platysmal bands, optimizing the cervicomental angle, preventing worsening of horizontal neckline and decolletage lines during aging, submandibular gland hypertrophy, and hypertrophied superior trapezius muscle. Understanding the anatomy of muscles such as the trapezius, platysma, and submandibular gland is crucial for achieving desirable outcomes with botulinum toxin administration. Techniques for injecting botulinum toxin into these muscles are discussed, emphasizing safety and efficacy. Specific injection points and methods are detailed for treating platysmal bands, optimizing the cervicomental angle, addressing submandibular gland hypertrophy, and managing hypertrophied superior trapezius muscle. Careful consideration of anatomical landmarks and potential complications is essential for successful botulinum toxin injections in these areas.
Collaborative enhancement of concrete performance: integrating sugarcane bagasse ash and iron ore tailing using artificial neural networks
Authors: Krishna Yelisetty Murali , Dhevasenaa P R , Srinivasan G , Satish Kumar Ch N
Published: August 2024

The aim of this study is to utilize Artificial Neural Networks to predict the compressive strength of concrete. The cement component is replaced with Sugarcane bagasse ash, the sand component is replaced with Iron Ore tailings, and a combination of both Sugarcane bagasse ash and Iron Ore tailings is used as substitutes for cement and sand. The strength of the concrete is evaluated after curing periods of 7, 14, and 28 days through experimental analysis. The Artificial Neural Networks model is trained using four input parameters and one output parameter based on the collected data. The study incorporates various percentages of Sugarcane bagasse ash (ranging from 0% to 25%) and Iron Ore tailings (ranging from 0% to 50%), as well as combinations of Sugarcane bagasse ash of various percentages with 10% Iron Ore tailings. The predictions generated by the Artificial Neural Networks model demonstrate a strong correlation with the experimentally obtained data. These findings highlight the effectiveness of Artificial Neural Networks as a predictive model for determining the strength of concrete that incorporates industrial by-products as substitutes for cement and sand.
Performance Evaluation of Concrete with Replacement of Pumice and M-Sand: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Sai Kumar K.S. , Greeshma P. , Rambabu K G S V , Pavan Kumar J
Published: August 2024

Since there is a deficit of raw materials available for construction, concrete is essential in designing concrete structures in the modern world. As a result, the construction sector is now familiar with cutting-edge techniques that utilize waste material that is readily available for partial replacement by substituting alternative aggregates for regular aggregates. In this study, pumice stone located in the lowest section of the ocean or the abyss of red clay is utilized in place of concrete, with a replacement in a portion made of pumice mixed with cement. Concrete’s mechanical and physical durability was examined by measuring its Split and compressive strengths of ordinary concrete and substituting it with varying quantities of pumice (10% to 30%). M sand is entirely replaced in fine aggregate. From the previous studies, it shows the 50% of Coarse aggregate replacement and here we investigate how well partial pumice substitutions for coarse aggregate and M sand substitutions of fine aggregate can gain sufficient strength. Based on the experimental results, the current thesis compares the properties of conventional and replaced concrete for the various percentages of pumice stone replacement to coarse aggregate. It concludes that a 25% partial replacement by pumice yields the maximum compressive strength. We also studied the durability parameters in the present paper.
Predicting the Compressive Strength of Concrete by using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Bandaru Mary Devika , Kyle Suseela , Priyadarshini Tallapudi Indira , Prasad Bokka Durga Vara , Sai Ungarala Ganesh
Published: August 2024

Considerable efforts have been made to increase the strength of concrete by substituting some of the cement in the concrete with industrial waste, such as fly ash. Predicting the compressive strength of concrete, however, is a difficult undertaking since it depends on a number of elements, including the water-to-cement ratio and the size and form of the particles. The work on machine learning algorithms for Evaluating the strength of concrete with the inclusion of fly ash is presented in this publication. In order to determine the most accurate estimation technique, the study also compares the accuracy of various machine learning models, including ensemble models and non-ensemble models in predicting CS. For this purpose, a dataset with a diverse set of experimental findings, encompassing a broad spectrum of compressive strength values, was gathered from established literature and verified through statistical scrutiny. The amounts of cement, fine aggregate, coarse aggregates, fly ash, water content, percentage of superplasticizer, and curing days were the main input parameters for the ML models, while the output was the CS of concrete. The assessment of performance involved the utilization of various performance metrics, including MSE & R2 to assess accuracy and reliability. The comparison reveals that XGBoost Regressor, Bagging Regressor, and Random Forest are the most reliable models. Fly ash and other parameters’ effects on CS prediction were also fully understood thanks to the use of sensitivity and parametric analysis, which also helped to shed light on the relationship between input parameters and CS. The efficiency of machine learning methods is demonstrated in the study. It eliminates the need for expensive and time-consuming experimental experiments by providing researchers with a quicker and more economical way to assess how fly ash and other factors affect CS estimation.
Effect of slag on mechanical and microstructural properties of fly ash-based geopolymer concrete containing recycled aggregate
Authors: Singh Rudra Pratap , Mohanty Bijayananda
Published: August 2024

In India, major cities have aged infrastructures that produce significant construction and demolition (C&D) waste. This trash has an adverse impact on the environment and poses challenges for disposal. To address the same, recycled aggregates (RA) are considered in place of natural aggregates (NA), and geopolymer binders, namely fly ash (FA) and slag, are used as sustainable alter to ordinary Portland cement (OPC) for the preparation of geopolymer concrete (GPC) at ambient curing condition. In this study, the engineering and permeability characteristics of GPC were examined using compressive strength, tensile strength, and water permeability. Further, the microstructural properties of the prepared mixes were assessed by adopting X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The test results revealed that the blended mixing of FA and slag enhanced the mechanical and water permeability properties of GPC. The highest compressive and tensile strength is 37.65 MPa and 5.06 MPa at 28 days curing period at an optimum mix of F70S30, 10M NaOH, and Na2SiO3 to NaOH of 2.0. At the same time, the minimum water penetration depth was measured as 11 mm. Thus, adding 30% with FA accelerated the reaction mechanism, densified the GPC matrix, and enhanced strength.
Studies on Performance of the Treated Recycled Concrete Coarse Aggregate in High-Strength Concrete
Authors: Kadarla Nayanasree , Siempu Rakesh , Murali Krishna B.
Published: August 2024

The rapid growth in population and urbanization is resulting in the ever-increasing demand for built infrastructure thereby the concrete across the world. Demolition of the old and deteriorated concrete structures has also been increasing day-by-day resulting in generation of enormous amounts of Construction and Demolition (C & D) waste posing severe threat to the environment urging for immediate action. Hence, there is a need to convert this waste into a useful material in order to reduce environmental impact caused by the C & D waste. Also, the use of this C & D waste in concrete can reduce the dependence on the natural materials like river sand for fine aggregate and crushed granite for coarse aggregate resulting in conservation of natural resources leading to sustainable construction. This present study focuses on effective utilization of the C and D waste in concrete. In order to overcome the deficiency of reduction in mechanical properties of concrete by using recycled aggregates, aggregate treatment techniques have been adopted in this present study focussing on improving the aggregate properties. In the present study, aggregate treatment techniques viz., acid treatment (using HCl), base treatment (using NaOH) and mechanical treatment techniques were employed for coarse aggregate. The aggregate properties like water absorption, specific gravity, bulk density, resistance to abrasion, impact, and crushing values were determined. When compared to the natural aggregates, the deteriorated properties of recycled aggregates were significantly improved upon treatment using the different techniques. The treated recycled coarse aggregates have been used in two different grades of concrete i.e. M30 (standard strength) and M65 (high-strength concrete) with 100% replacement for natural aggregate. With this treated recycled coarse aggregate, the concrete properties (hardened state) were also significantly improved when compared to that of untreated recycled aggregate concrete.
Flood Routing in BVRIT Narsapur campus using Software Applications on Sustainable water resources management
Authors: Supraja Ambati , Rao Samanasa Krishna , Vamsi Thota , Prasanthi Petluru , Parvez Shaik , Jhansi Kothapally
Published: August 2024

Engineers and Hydrologists study flood routing to analyze the channel or cross- section factor if it is flooded with certain event opportunities and also to design and manage water resources effectively, such as in construction of Irrigation systems, flood control methods and water distribution networks. Open channel refers to any pathway through which a fluid (water subsequently) can flow such as rivers, streams, canals etc. The channel is used to supply water from one place to another place. The channel mainly consists of fluid (rain- water) and also includes vegetation on the surface of the channel such as grass and other plantation. The important aspect is to understand the flood behavior by flood hydrographs during the peak monsoon rains and also to predict the maximum discharge(Q). The major and most important aspect or the outcome we can say for which this project is been taken up is proposal of a new underground drain on a new route through which the flood level can be controlled during peak monsoon rains or in other words we can also say to design more efficient water drains in the campus. Using software applications, we can predict the maximum discharge and also analyze the flow using the technology stack or software’s.
Structural Health Monitoring System to A Bridge Using FSR Sensor Interfaced with Arduino UNO
Authors: Shivaraj S J , Teja Alle Bhanu , Chaitahnya Gaddi , Shashipriya Kura , Varsha Laishetty
Published: August 2024

This paper provides an overview of a project involving a Force-Sensitive Resistor (FSR) sensor interfaced with a programmed Arduino Uno microcontroller for a structural health monitoring system of a bridge prototype. Constructing a flat bridge model, installing the FSR sensor to the flat bridge for measuring the forces applied on the bridge. FSR sensors are widely used for applications such as touch detection, pressure sensing, and force measurement. This article demonstrates how to connect and utilize an FSR sensor with an Arduino Uno for real-time data acquisition and analysis to a bridge. The FSR sensor installed to the bridge model, The FSR sensor, responsive to variations in applied force on the bridge, is linked to one of the analog input pins on the Arduino Uno. The Arduino processes the analog voltage received from the FSR sensor and translates it into a corresponding digital value. This data is then processed and can be used for various applications such as, pressure-sensitive controls, weight measurement and impact detection. The combination of an FSR sensor and an Arduino Uno provides an accessible and versatile platform for integrating force and pressure sensing into various projects.
A Comparative Study of the Pre-Engineered Building and Conventional Steel Building
Authors: Varshitha M. , Chandra Mohan Rao B D V
Published: August 2024

Pre-Engineered Buildings (PEBs) are the most preferred choice for construction due to their cost-effectiveness and quick construction process. In comparison to traditional steel buildings, PEBs are optimized steel structures that save material about 20 to 30%. This study focuses on the comparision of PEB and CSB in terms of steel take off. The aim of this study is to give valuable insights into efficiency and cost effectiveness of utilizing steel in these two construction methods. Also, to improve understanding of optimal steel usage practices for multiple construction projects by examining the differences between pre-engineered and conventional steel buildings.

Based on the building’s geometrical characteristics such as roof angle, length, breadth, height, bay spacing, and location of the structure, the need for steel is determined. A typical PEB and CSB have been modelled and analysed based on several factors in this project work using Staad Pro software. Based on IS 875 and IS 1893, different types of loads have been computed. These loads have been applied to the Staad Pro model and examined. For the analysis, more than 70 different load combinations were taken into account.

The various response parameters such as shear force, bending moment, axial force, support reactions are compared. The amount of steel required for a PEB against a CSB has been compared. The structures have been analysed both for wind load and seismic loads and the critical load combination has been determined. The amount of steel required for PEB is lesser by 24.90 % compared to CSB.
Study on Non-Linear Behavior of Unstiffened Steel Plate Shear Walled Building Frames
Authors: Shivani Abboju , Alapati Mallika
Published: August 2024

In recent years, Steel Plate Shear Walls (SPSW) have become popular as effective systems for lateral load resistance for building structures. Due to reduction in the dead load, adequate lateral stiffness, high energy dissipation capacity and good ductility, steel plate shear walls are proven to give economic solutions for building systems. The structural behavior of SPSWs is dependent on various parameters and one of them being thickness.

The present study focuses on investigating the non-linear behavior of SPSW with beam and column-connected infill plates with varied thicknesses and different locations of SPSWs. A 10-storey building frame with a 12m x 12 m plan area is considered for the numerical study. Initially, Nonlinear static analysis, often known as pushover analysis is carried out based on the response spectrum analysis results. Parametric studies are carried out with different thicknesses and different locations of SPSW. Based on the responses like force-deformation relationship results, inter- storey drift feasible SPSW for better nonlinear static performance is presented.
Assessment of Construction Demolition Waste (CDW) with Polypropylene Fibre by Using Mechanical Characteristics and Microscopic Analysis for Sustainable Pavement Material
Authors: Madhu Eishamalla , Harinder D
Published: August 2024

The current study investigated the performance of rubber concrete by fully replacing coarse aggregate with construction-demolished waste (CDW) and fine aggregate with natural sand (NS) and recycled sand (RS) by using polypropylene. The test samples were prepared with CDW, NS, RS, and an addition of polypropylene (PPF) at various percentages, such as 6%, 8%, 10%, and 12%. This study examines the enhancing properties of concrete mix, such as compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, and fracture analysis of concrete mix. Further, the study also focused on the elements in the concrete mix and its microstructure arrangement, which were evaluated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The study concludes that the higher compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength at CDW-100%, RS-90%, and 10% replacement of PPF are 28.76 Mpa, 2.06 Mpa, and 2.5 Mpa, respectively. In the other case, the maximum strength was obtained with the replacement of 8% of PPF along with 92% of RS. The study addressed the higher compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength at 28.92 Mpa, 2.26 Mpa, and 3.1 Mpa, respectively, at 8 percent PPF. The SEM tests were conducted to determine the combination of cementitious paste and the structural arrangement of the concrete mix with polypropylene fibre. The study results show better performance and understanding in making use of CDW and CR in pavement application. The study indicated the effective utilisation of waste material in pavement structures while reducing environmental concerns.
Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil (GRS) Foundation: “A Review of Bearing Capacity and Settlement Behaviour Studies”
Authors: Kommu Suresh , Pranay Cheela , Prashanthi Pandiri , Vamshi Chatamoni , Sravanth Poreddy
Published: August 2024

In regions where the soil conditions exhibit softness, engineering endeavours frequently encounter obstacles such as significant settlement and restricted load-bearing capability of shallow foundations. In order to address these challenges and to have the safety of infrastructure, it is vital to utilize techniques for improving the ground. The emergence of polymer materials has paved the way for the progression of technology for Geosynthetic Reinforced Soil (GRS) foundation treatment, which is extensively applied in the construction of highways, railways, and buildings. Geosynthetic reinforced soil (GRS) involves the incorporation of geosynthetic materials, often reinforced with polymers, into the soil to enhance its mechanical and engineering properties. This reinforcement serves to improve the distribution of loads, reduce settlement, and ultimately amplify the overall bearing capacity.
Experimental Analysis of Composite Paver Block Using Bagasse Ash and Crushed Clay Brick
Authors: Kumar Anant , Shakar Abhigyan , Lonhare Mayush , Verma Balraj , Dhruw Harsh Kumar
Published: August 2024

This study looks at the environmental effects of producing paver blocks using traditional cement, which is resource-intensive and emits greenhouse gases. By using waste materials like bagasse ash and broken clay brick, the study seeks to increase the compressive strength of paver blocks while boosting environmental friendliness. When used in place of cement, bagasse ash, which is known for its pozzolanic qualities, improves mechanical strength and durability while requiring less heat during hydration. Because of their natural resilience, crushed clay bricks are used as fine aggregates. In the experimental testing, up to 15% of the cement was replaced with bagasse ash and up to 35% of the fine aggregate with crushed clay brick. The discoveries help to reduce production expenses as well as the price of the concrete paver block and environmental benefits such as reduced carbon footprint and minimized landfill contributions. The importance of sustainable practices in building materials is emphasized by this study,
Studies on the Mechanical Properties of Ternary Blended Geopolymer Concrete using Fly ash, GGBS and Alccofine
Authors: Reddy Bharath Simha , Siempu Rakesh
Published: August 2024

In the present context of sustainable development, the entire construction sector is focusing on reducing the carbon dioxide emissions. Geopolymer concrete is an alternate to the traditional cement concrete which has no cement thereby reducing the CO2 emissions. Geopolymer concrete attains the requisite strength through the process of polymerization instead of hydration as in case of the traditional cement concrete. In the geopolymer concrete, fly ash is the binder which participates in the process of polymerization along with the alkali’s like NaOH and Na2SiO3. In the current study, the ternary blended geopolymer concrete was made using Ground Granulated Blast furnace Slag (GGBS), Fly Ash (FA) and Alccofine as binder materials. In the first stage geopolymer concrete using fly ash was developed. In the second stage, the binary blend geopolymer concrete was developed using two binders Fly Ash and GGBS. Finally, Alccofine was included as the ternary binder in the geopolymer concrete. Two grades of concrete with different binder contents and alkaline to binder ratio were developed having 28-day compressive strengths of 40 & 65 MPa. The mixes were cast and tested for the mechanical properties like compressive strength, split tensile strength and flexure strength at 7 & 28 days. The results of ternary blended geopolymer were compared with the results of fly ash based geopolymer concrete and binary blend geopolymer concrete. It was observed from experimental results that ternary blend geopolymer concrete has shown better results compared to the binary blend as well as FA based geopolymer concrete.
Synergistic Integration of Mn-Doped ZnO Nanoparticles with Hibiscus Nano-Host Matrix: Synthesis, Characterization, and Potential Applications
Authors: Naga Bhaskararao Y. , Tirumala Rao B. , Rupa Venkateswara Rao B. , Naveen Kumar B.V. , Rajyalakshmi Ch.
Published: August 2024

In the present study delves into the synthesis and characterization of a novel nanocomposite, achieved by integrating manganese doped zinc oxide nanoparticles within the unique nano-host matrix of Hibiscus. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed the crystalline nature of the prepared sample. UV-Vis absorption spectra demonstrated intriguing absorbance bands, with a blue shift attributed to the presence of MnO and smaller particles, enhancing the material’s optical properties. The presence of Mn2+ ions led to broadening of peaks in the FTIR spectra, further confirming the successful integration of Mn-doped ZnO within the Hibiscus nano-host. The eco-friendly nature of the Hibiscus host matrix, coupled with the exceptional properties of Mn-doped ZnO nanoparticles, paves the way for sustainable and environmentally friendly material development.
Comparative Study on Properties of Plastic Bricks with Conventional Bricks
Authors: Biradar Sangmesh V , Srujan Kumar A. , Vijaya Gowri T. , Alisha Shaik Subhan
Published: August 2024

Plastic brick is one of the innovative types of brick which is made up of plastic waste. Plastic bricks reduce pollution problem from garbage plastic. Since plastic bricks don’t require brick kilns, it’s possible to stop the pollution caused by these bricks and create them easily. So, to create a balance between environmental protection and pollution we made plastic bricks possible to suit this environment. This study uses plastic trash from plastic bottles composed of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Poly Propylene (PP) in same proportions (1:1) called as fully plastic brick. After that, tests will be conducted on the bricks to examine compressive strengths, water absorption, thermal shrinkage, fire ignition, efflorescence, impact and to compare these properties with burnt clay bricks. The result found that plastic bricks has more compressive strength than clay bricks and with negligible water absorption. Thermal shrinkage and cost of the plastic brick less than the clay brick. Fire ignition value of plastic brick covered with aluminium sheet more than the normal clay brick.
A study of the effects on human electrostatic discharge current waveform verification
Authors: Niu Wenjuan , Rao Zhangfei , Yin Xuan
Published: August 2024

The electrostatic discharge sensitivity testing of devices and microcircuits is important according to their susceptibility to damage by exposure to a defined human electrostatic discharge (ESD). The human ESD simulator is evaluated to guarantee that it can provide the current waveform required for the standard. It is confirmed that inconsistent human ESD test results are provided from different ESD simulators built in accordance with the standard specifications. It is necessary to study the effects on human ESD current waveform verification to improve the accuracy and consistency of verification results. However, the current waveform verification results are influenced by equipment performance and parasitic parameters. The human ESD simulator equivalent circuit is introduced to analyze how the current waveform is affected by digital oscilloscope performance and parasitic parameters caused by the current probe connection location. The experimental results show that the rise time of human ESD current waveform is influenced by the digital oscilloscope bandwidth and the current probe connected location, but the peak current and decay time are not changed significantly.
A 1.5 V 20 kHz 108.07 dB SNR discrete-time dynamic zoom ADC based on ultra low leakage process
Authors: Liu Hengzhi , Xu Fei , Kit Kwan Hing , Wu Zhaohui , Li Bin
Published: August 2024

This study introduces a hybrid discrete-time (DT) dynamic Zoom ADC based on the CanSemi 110-nm Mixed Signal CMOS process. The two-step conversion process, comprising parallel coarse and fine phases, is executed by a 5-bit asynchronous SAR ADC and a third-order ΣΔ modulator. Non-ideal effects present in Zoom ADC were analysed and quantified through modelling, deriving design specifications of circuits. Under the constraints of low power supply and high threshold voltages, boost circuits were implemented to counteract the MOS switch-on-resistance nonlinearity. The Operational Transconductance Amplifier (OTA) in the integrators adopts a folded cascode structure. Data Weighted Averaging (DWA) and Chopper-Stabilization (CHS) techniques were employed to alleviate the effects of capacitor mismatch and offset. The post-simulation results indicate the proposed Zoom ADC achieved 108.07 dB Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) over a 20 kHz bandwidth while utilizing 3.32 mW of power.
Compact long differential transmission line with ground cavity in 65 nm CMOS
Authors: Li Zezheng , Wang Changwei , Li Yongjie
Published: August 2024

This paper presents a base-band differential transmission line for a phased-array receiver in 65 nm CMOS. It mainly consists of two parallel metal lines as signal carriers with surrounding layers to form a close cavity. The 1000-μm long differential transmission line with a line width of 1 μm achieves a transmittance from -2.99 dB to -2.15 dB and a relative phase from -28.54° to 0 over 0-2 GHz. Based on the passive structure, the power consumption is zero, and the core cross-section occupies a compact area of 10 μm *2.11 μm.
A wideband readout charge amplifier for superconducting nanowire single photon detector
Authors: Wang Wen , Wu Chenjian
Published: August 2024

This paper represents a 2.5 GHz gain-bandwidth product readout amplifier. It employs three folded cascode core units and negative feedback paths. The feedback path includes capacitors and resistors. It can reduce input resistance and isolate the parasitic photodiode capacitance. To reduce the capacitance of the long wire, it is integrated with a superconducting nanowire single photon detector and amplifies signals in a cryogenic working environment. After the measurement of this integrated circuit, it can convert a 1 GHz 1 uA sinusoid signal into a 10 mV voltage signal under a cryogenic condition. The total chip is fabricated in a 180 nm SMIC under a supply voltage of 1.2 V with a power consumption of 60 mW. Its gain is 2.976 uV/e.
Associations of Vitamin D-Related Biomarkers With Hypertension and the Renin–Angiotensin System in Men and Women
Authors: Wang Lu , Cook Nancy R , Manson JoAnn E , Gaziano J Michael , Buring Julie E , Sesso Howard D
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D may prevent the development of hypertension through down-regulation of renin–angiotensin system. However, epidemiologic studies assessing the interrelation of vitamin D-related biomarkers with hypertension are sparse.

METHODS

We examined the prospective associations between vitamin D-related biomarkers and the risk of hypertension in a nested case-control study. In each of the Women’s Health Study (WHS) and Physicians’ Health Study (PHS) II, 500 incident hypertension cases and 500 age and race-matched controls were randomly selected. Baseline plasma 25(OH)-vitamin D [25(OH)D], parathyroid hormone (PTH), and total renin concentrations were measured.

RESULTS

Among controls, 25(OH)D and PTH were inversely correlated, but neither was correlated with total renin. In the crude model, there was a trend of association between increasing quintiles of 25(OH)D and lower risk of hypertension in women, with relative risks and 95% CIs of 1.00, 1.24 (0.84–1.83), 0.82 (0.53–1.25), 0.75 (0.48–1.16), and 0.81 (0.52–1.27) (P, trend: .07). Adjustment for body mass index and other hypertension risk factors eliminated this association (relative risk of 5th quintile: 1.03). No associations were found in men. Baseline PTH and ratio of 25(OH)D to PTH were not associated with the risk of hypertension in women or men. When men and women were included in the same model, vitamin D insufficiency (defined as 25(OH)D <20 ng/mL) also was not associated with an increased risk of hypertension. No interactions were found across subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found no association of baseline plasma 25(OH)D or PTH with the risk of hypertension or total renin concentration in middle-aged and older men and women.
Environmental community transcriptomics: strategies and struggles
Authors: Mante Jeanet , Groover Kyra E , Pullen Randi M
Published: August 2024

Transcriptomics is the study of RNA transcripts, the portion of the genome that is transcribed, in a specific cell, tissue, or organism. Transcriptomics provides insight into gene expression patterns, regulation, and the underlying mechanisms of cellular processes. Community transcriptomics takes this a step further by studying the RNA transcripts from environmental assemblies of organisms, with the intention of better understanding the interactions between members of the community. Community transcriptomics requires successful extraction of RNA from a diverse set of organisms and subsequent analysis via mapping those reads to a reference genome or de novo assembly of the reads. Both, extraction protocols and the analysis steps can pose hurdles for community transcriptomics. This review covers advances in transcriptomic techniques and assesses the viability of applying them to community transcriptomics.
Religious Expression and Exemptions in the Private Sector Workplace: Spotting Bias
Authors: Hunter-Henin Myriam
Published: August 2024

Courts tasked with ruling on religious freedom claims in the private sector workplace have been faced with the following challenge: too weak a protection of religious freedom and it will become meaningless; too strong, and individual freedom will be stifled. Recently, courts on each side of the Atlantic have, respectively, leant towards each of these two extremes. In Europe, courts have afforded minimalist and, as I will argue, too restrictive a protection to religious interests. Whether out of deference to state constitutional traditions or economic interests, they have often undermined the protection of religious freedom. Conversely, in the United States, the Supreme Court has granted a maximalist and, as I will argue, excessive protection to religious interests. The article will demonstrate the flaws of each approach. It will unravel the main three types of bias that underlie these extreme positions, namely the state, the economic and the religious bias.
The transcription factor MYC2 positively regulates terpene trilactone biosynthesis through activating GbGGPPS expression in Ginkgo biloba
Authors: Zheng Jiarui , Liao Yongling , Ye Jiabao , Xu Feng , Zhang Weiwei , Zhou Xian , Wang Lina , He Xiao , Cao Zhengyan , Yi Yuwei , Xue Yansheng , Chen Qiangwen , Sun Jiaxing
Published: August 2024

Terpene trilactones (TTLs) have important medicinal value, but their low content in Ginkgo biloba leaves makes their exploitation extremely costly, thereby limiting the development of TTL related industries. It was found that exogenous methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatment increased the accumulation of TTLs, but the molecular mechanism is still unclear. Here, we identified two bHLH transcription factors in G. biloba, with the protein subcellular localizations in the nucleus. GbMYC2s expression was strongly induced by MeJA treatment, and the interactions between GbJAZs and GbMYC2s were demonstrated by yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation experiments. Overexpression of GbMYC2_4 and GbMYC2_5 enhanced Arabidopsis root sensitivity and significantly increased TTL content. In addition, GbGGPPS was found to be a common target of GbMYC2_4 and GbMYC2_5 by yeast one-hybrid, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, dual-luciferase reporter assay, and DAP-seq, and they achieved regulation of GbGGPPS by binding to G-box. Further findings revealed that GbMYC2_4 and GbMYC2_5 bind G-box not universally but selectively. Our study revealed that jasmonic acid signaling mediates TTL biosynthesis through the GbJAZ-GbMYC2-GbGGPPS module, which enriches the terpenoid biosynthesis regulatory networks and provides a research basis and target genes for enhancing TTL content through genetic engineering.
“Odds of finding evidence of life beyond Earth in my lifetime? I would say it’s 50% plus or minus 50%”: Interview with Shawn Dromagal-Goldman
Authors: Britten Anna
Published: August 2024

Shawn Domagal-Goldman is an exoplanet hunter – his official title is deputy director of the Sciences and Exploration Directorate at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center – who spends his days using data sets to hunt for life on other planets. He talks to Anna Britten about his work and the role of statistics at the biggest space organisation in the world
No girl left behind? Mental health and quality of life
Authors: Abdillah Abdillah , Widianingsih Ida , Buchari Rd Ahmad , Nurasa Heru , Ahmadi Zahra
Published: August 2024

The ban on girls’ education or difficult access to education has significant impacts on their mental health and quality of life (QoL), including: (a) Increased Mental Health Problems; (b) Loss of Educational Opportunities; (c) Limited Social Interaction; (d) Disruption of Aspirations and Routines; and (e) Increased Insecurity. This study extends the investigation into the need for awareness and action on the mental health and well-being of girls due to the ban or difficult access to education. Addressing the adverse impacts of the ban or difficult access to girls’ education requires a multifaceted approach that includes challenging traditional norms, providing alternative education pathways, empowering girls through targeted interventions, and recognizing the critical role of education.
Improving the future of clinical trials and translation of mesenchymal stromal cell therapies for neonatal disorders
Authors: Chang Yun Sil , Yang Misun , Ahn So Yoon , Sung Se In , Park Won Soon
Published: August 2024

Despite recent advances in neonatal intensive care medicine, neonatal disorders such as (bronchopulmonary dysplasia [BPD], intraventricular hemorrhage [IVH], and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy [HIE]) remain major causes of death and morbidity in survivors, with few effective treatments being available. Recent preclinical studies have demonstrated the pleiotropic host injury-responsive paracrine protective effects of cell therapy especially with mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) against BPD, IVH, and HIE. These findings suggest that MSCs therapy might emerge as a novel therapeutic modality for these currently devastating neonatal disorders with complex multifactorial etiologies. Although early-phase clinical trials suggest their safety and feasibility, their clinical therapeutic benefits have not yet been proven. Therefore, based on currently available preclinical research and clinical trial data, we focus on critical issues that need to be addressed for future successful clinical trials and eventual clinical translation such as selecting the right patient and optimal cell type, route, dose, and timing of MSCs therapy for neonatal disorders such as BPD, HIE, and IVH.
Breaking through the eggshell: embryonic development of the premaxillary dentition in Lacerta agilis (Squamata: Unidentata) with special emphasis on the egg tooth
Authors: Kaczmarek Paweł , Metscher Brian , Kowalska Magdalena , Rupik Weronika
Published: August 2024

The egg tooth of squamates is a true tooth that allows them to break, tear, or cut the eggshell during hatching. In this clade there are some uncertainties concerning the egg tooth implantation geometry, the number of germs, and their fates during embryonic development. Here, we used X-ray microtomography and light microscopy, focusing on the egg tooth and remaining premaxillary teeth of the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis, Squamata: Unidentata). The developing egg tooth of this species passes through all the classic stages of tooth development. We did not find any evidence that the large size of the egg tooth is related to the merging of two egg tooth germs, which has recently been suggested to occur in snakes. Instead, this feature can be attributed to the delayed formation of the neighbouring regular premaxillary teeth. This might provide more resources to the developing egg tooth. At the last developmental stage, the egg tooth is a large, midline structure, bent forward as in most oviparous Unidentata. It is characterized by pleurodont implantation, and its base is attached to the pleura and a peculiar ridge of the alveolar bone. The attachment tissue contains periodontal ligament-like tissue, acellular cementum-like tissue, and alveolar bone.
Indocyanine Green Lymphography–guided Lymphatic Vessel Suture Ligation for Superficial Abdominal Flap Donor Site for Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Nakatsuka Kengo , Fuse Yuma , Karakawa Ryo , Yoshimatsu Hidehiko , Yano Tomoyuki
Published: August 2024

Autologous breast reconstruction using the abdominal flap based on the superficial system has the potential to minimize donor-site morbidity. Although efforts to improve its transfer have been focused, there have been scarce attempts to further reduce donor-site complications in the abdomen. Seroma formation is a significant complication after the superficial based abdominal flap harvest. The authors report our novel technique to address this issue. Using indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography, we identified lymphatic leakage sites in the abdominal donor site and repaired them by selective suture: ICG-guided lymphatic vessel suture ligation (ICG-LVSL). We performed ICG-LVSL for 10 patients who underwent breast reconstruction using the superficial abdominal flap and compared the incidence of seroma development between ICG-LVSL and non-LVSL groups. After propensity score matching, nine patients remained in each group. The ICG-LVSL group experienced lower incidence of seroma formation (0 versus 55%, P <0.01). The ICG-LVSL technique may be useful for reducing donor-site morbidity of the superficial abdominal flap.