bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Analysis of the Factors Influencing Land Use Change for Emerging Industry and Traditional Industry: A Case Study of Shenzhen City, China
Authors: Peng Yunfei , Yang Fangling , Zhu Lingwei , Li Ruru , Wu Chao , Chen Deng
Published: May 2021

Analyzing the factors influencing emerging industry land use change is important for promoting industrial transformation and for upgrading and improving the level of intensive use of emerging industry land. In recent years, to solve the problem of land resource shortage and expansion space, Shenzhen has implemented a strategy of promoting urban development through technological innovation and has actively promoted the transformation of inefficient industrial land to emerging industry. This article introduces the development, land use types, and spatial distribution of Shenzhen’s emerging industries. Based on the logistic regression model, we analyze the differences between the factors influencing changes in land use for both emerging and traditional industry. The research results show that the distance from public roads, the distance from highways, the distance from railway freight stations, the proportion of secondary industry, and the proportion of tertiary industry are important explanatory variables for the two types of land use change. Traditional industrial land use is also affected by the land slope, the distance from ports, the population, and fixed asset investment. Emerging industry land use is also affected by the distance from the airport, the number of railway stations, the quality of the population, and innovation-driving forces. These results provide a reference for government to rationally plan emerging industry land and differentiated management of this, in order to fill the current research gap in the field of land use change, and to contribute to research revealing the mechanisms driving changes in emerging industrial land.
The Letters of Marshall McLuhan and Pierre Elliott Trudeau: Privacy/Private Matters
Authors: Kahn Elaine
Published: May 2021

There has been a paradigm shift in global communications since the death many years ago of prominent Canadians Marshall McLuhan and Pierre Elliott Trudeau. The correspondence between the two friends, from 1968 to 1980, presciently touched on our contemporary wired global village and the challenges it presents to personal privacy and to freedom of expression. I examine the relationship between the two men, as laid out in their letters and, to a lesser extent, in secondary sources, highlighting matters of privacy and media. Privacy hovers over the correspondence, even when it is not the stated topic. McLuhan, who is credited with the term “global village”, discussed with Trudeau the effect of new media on people’s notions of tribe and identity and privacy. Proving a direct influence from one man to the other, in either direction, is not possible, but there is much to play with. The gap is, as McLuhan often said, “where the action is”.
Use and Misuse of Cq in qPCR Data Analysis and Reporting
Authors: Ruiz-Villalba Adrián , Ruijter Jan M. , van den Hoff Maurice J. B.
Published: May 2021

In the analysis of quantitative PCR (qPCR) data, the quantification cycle (Cq) indicates the position of the amplification curve with respect to the cycle axis. Because Cq is directly related to the starting concentration of the target, and the difference in Cq values is related to the starting concentration ratio, the only results of qPCR analysis reported are often Cq, ΔCq or ΔΔCq values. However, reporting of Cq values ignores the fact that Cq values may differ between runs and machines, and, therefore, cannot be compared between laboratories. Moreover, Cq values are highly dependent on the PCR efficiency, which differs between assays and may differ between samples. Interpreting reported Cq values, assuming a 100% efficient PCR, may lead to assumed gene expression ratios that are 100-fold off. This review describes how differences in quantification threshold setting, PCR efficiency, starting material, PCR artefacts, pipetting errors and sampling variation are at the origin of differences and variability in Cq values and discusses the limits to the interpretation of observed Cq values. These issues can be avoided by calculating efficiency-corrected starting concentrations per reaction. The reporting of gene expression ratios and fold difference between treatments can then easily be based on these starting concentrations.
Heart Rate Variability, Time Estimation and Internet-Dependent Behaviour in 16–17-Year-Old Adolescents: A Study in Russian Arctic
Authors: Krivonogova Olga , Krivonogova Elena , Poskotinova Liliya
Published: May 2021

Internet-dependent behaviour in adolescents can contribute to a change in the function of the nervous system, which is reflected in the violation of time perception and autonomic regulation of the heart rate. The aim of the study was to determine groups of individuals with different risks of Internet addiction (IA) in relation to heart rate variability (HRV) parameters and the efficiency of time estimation in adolescents aged 16–17 years living in the Russian Arctic. Adolescents aged 16–17 years (n = 49–32 females, 17 males) living in Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug (Russia) were observed. Chen Scale Internet Addiction (CIAS) was used. The duration of an individual 1 min was determined. HRV parameters were determined using the "Varicard" equipment (Russia). In 16–17-year-old adolescents with different levels of risk of developing IA, including signs of IA, we revealed a high severity of symptoms of withdrawal from Internet use, difficulty in time estimation against the background of sympathicotonia and a decrease in vagal regulation of heart rate. In individuals with minimal symptoms of withdrawal from Internet use, the total HRV and vagal activity remain higher than in those with severe withdrawal symptoms, and their time estimation remains effective.
Electroretinography and Gene Expression Measures Implicate Phototransduction and Metabolic Shifts in Chick Myopia and Hyperopia Models
Authors: Riddell Nina , Murphy Melanie J. , Crewther Sheila G.
Published: May 2021

The Retinal Ion-Driven Fluid Efflux (RIDE) model theorizes that phototransduction-driven changes in trans-retinal ion and fluid transport underlie the development of myopia (short-sightedness). In support of this model, previous functional studies have identified the attenuation of outer retinal contributions to the global flash electroretinogram (gfERG) following weeks of myopia induction in chicks, while discovery-driven transcriptome studies have identified changes to the expression of ATP-driven ion transport and mitochondrial metabolism genes in the retina/RPE/choroid at the mid- to late-induction time-points. Less is known about the early time-points despite biometric analyses demonstrating changes in eye growth by 3 h in the chick lens defocus model. Thus, the present study compared gfERG and transcriptome profiles between 3 h and 3 days of negative lens-induced myopia and positive lens-induced hyperopia in chicks. Photoreceptor (a-wave and d-wave) and bipolar (b-wave and late-stage d-wave) cell responses were suppressed following negative lens-wear, particularly at the 3–4 h and 3-day time-points when active shifts in the rate of ocular growth were expected. Transcriptome measures revealed the up-regulation of oxidative phosphorylation genes following 6 h of negative lens-wear, concordant with previous reports at 2 days in this model. Signal transduction pathways, with core genes involved in glutamate and G-protein coupled receptor signalling, were down-regulated at 6 h. These findings contribute to a growing body of evidence for the dysregulation of phototransduction and mitochondrial metabolism in animal models of myopia.
GLUT-1 Enhances Glycolysis, Oxidative Stress, and Fibroblast Proliferation in Keloid
Authors: Lu Ying-Yi , Wu Chieh-Hsin , Hong Chien-Hui , Chang Kee-Lung , Lee Chih-Hung
Published: May 2021

A keloid is a fibroproliferative skin tumor. Proliferating keloid fibroblasts (KFs) demand active metabolic utilization. The contributing roles of glycolysis and glucose metabolism in keloid fibroproliferation remain unclear. This study aims to determine the regulation of glycolysis and glucose metabolism by glucose transporter-1 (GLUT-1), an essential protein to initiate cellular glucose uptake, in keloids and in KFs. Tissues of keloids and healthy skin were explanted for KFs and normal fibroblasts (NFs), respectively. GLUT-1 expression was measured by immunofluorescence, RT-PCR, and immunoblotting. The oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) were measured with or without WZB117, a GLUT-1 inhibitor. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were assayed by MitoSOX immunostaining. The result showed that glycolysis (ECAR) was enhanced in KFs, whereas OCR was not. GLUT-1 expression was selectively increased in KFs. Consistently, GLUT-1 expression was increased in keloid tissue. Treatment with WZB117 abolished the enhanced ECAR, including glycolysis and glycolytic capacity, in KFs. ROS levels were increased in KFs compared to those in NFs. GLUT-1 inhibition suppressed not only the ROS levels but also the cell proliferation in KFs. In summary, the GLUT-1-dependent glycolysis and ROS production mediated fibroblast proliferation in keloids. GLUT1 might be a potential target for metabolic reprogramming to treat keloids.
Effect of External Charging on Nanoparticle Formation in a Flame
Authors: Fomenko Elena , Altman Igor , Agranovski Igor E.
Published: May 2021

This paper attempts to demonstrate the importance of the nanoparticle charge in the synthesis flame, for the mechanism of their evolution during formation processes. An investigation was made of MgO nanoparticles formed during combustion of magnesium particles. The cubic shape of nanoparticles in an unaffected flame allows for direct interpretation of results on the external flame charging, using a continuous unipolar emission of ions. It was found that the emission of negative ions applied to the flame strongly affects the nanoparticle shape, while the positive ions do not lead to any noticeable change. The demonstrated effect emphasizes the need to take into account all of the phenomena responsible for the particle charge when modeling the nanoparticle formation in flames.
Multi Ceramic Particles Inclusion in the Aluminium Matrix and Wear Characterization through Experimental and Response Surface-Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Sharath Ballupete Nagaraju , Venkatesh Channarayapattana Venkataramaiah , Afzal Asif , Aslfattahi Navid , Aabid Abdul , Baig Muneer , Saleh Bahaa
Published: May 2021

Lightweight composite materials have recently been recognized as appropriate materials have been adopted in many industrial applications because of their versatility. The present research recognizes the inclusion of ceramics such as Gr and B4C in manufacturing AMMCs through stir casting. Prepared composites were tested for hardness and wear behaviour. The tests’ findings revealed that the reinforced matrix was harder (60%) than the un-reinforced alloy because of the increased ceramic phase. The rising content of B4C and Gr particles led to continuous improvements in wear resistance. The microstructure and worn surface were observed through SEM (Scanning electron microscope) and revealed the formation of mechanically mixed layers of both B4C and Gr, which served as the effective insulation surface and protected the test sample surface from the steel disc. With the rise in the content of B4C and Gr, the weight loss declined, and significant wear resistance was achieved at 15 wt.% B4C and 10 wt.% Gr. A response surface analysis for the weight loss was carried out to obtain the optimal objective function. Artificial neural network methodology was adopted to identify the significance of the experimental results and the importance of the wear parameters. The error between the experimental and ANN results was found to be within 1%.
Magnetite/Poly(ortho-anisidine) Composite Particles and Their Electrorheological Response
Authors: Lu Qi , Lee Jin-Hee , Lee Jin Hyun , Choi Hyoung Jin
Published: May 2021

Magnetic and semiconducting Fe3O4/poly(o-anisidine) (POA) core/shell composite particles were fabricated by an oxidation process using Fe3O4 synthesized separately. The dispersion stability in a liquid medium and the electrical conductivity of synthesized particles were improved because of the conductive POA polymeric shell. The morphological, microstructural, compositional/elemental, and thermal behaviors of the particles were characterized using SEM with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, TEM, XRD, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. A smart electro-magneto-rheological suspension containing Fe3O4/POA particles with two functionalities, magnetism and conductivity, was prepared. Its electrorheological properties were investigated at different electric field strengths using a rotational rheometer. Without an electric field, the sample demonstrated typical Newtonian fluid behavior, as expected. However, while under the electric field, it exhibited a solid-like behavior, and the dynamic (or elastic) yield stress of the ER fluid increased linearly as a function of the electric field strength in a power-law function with an index of 2.0, following the polarization mechanism.
Broadband Near-Infrared Luminescence in Lead Germanate Glass Triply Doped with Yb3+/Er3+/Tm3+
Authors: Pisarski Wojciech A. , Pisarska Joanna , Lisiecki Radosław , Ryba-Romanowski Witold
Published: May 2021

This paper deals with broadband near-infrared luminescence properties of lead germanate glass triply doped with Yb3+/Er3+/Tm3+. Samples were excited at 800 nm and 975 nm. Their emission intensities and lifetimes depend significantly on Er3+ and Tm3+ concentrations. For samples excited at 800 nm, broadband emissions corresponding to the overlapped 3H4 → 3F4 (Tm3+) and 4I13/2 → 4I15/2 (Er3+) transitions centered at 1.45 µm and 1.5 µm was identified. Measurements of decay curves confirm reduction of 3H4 (Tm3+), 2F5/2 (Yb3+) and 4I13/2 (Er3+) luminescence lifetimes and the presence of energy-transfer processes. The maximal spectral bandwidth equal to 269 nm for the 3F4 → 3H6 transition of Tm3+ suggests that our glass co-doped with Yb3+/Er3+/Tm3+ is a good candidate for broadband near-infrared emission. The energy transfer from 4I13/2 (Er3+) to 3F4 (Tm3+) and cross-relaxation processes are responsible for the enhancement of broadband luminescence near 1.8 µm attributed to the 3F4 → 3H6 transition of thulium ions in lead germanate glass under excitation of Yb3+ ions at 975 nm.
Microstructural Improvement of Eutectic Al + Mg2Si Phases on Al–Zn–Si–Mg Cast Alloy with TiB2 Particles Additions
Authors: Kim Byungjoo , Hwang Jihoon , Park Yongho , Lee Youngcheol
Published: May 2021

In this study, the effects of adding TiB2 particles to eutectic Al + Mg2Si phases in aluminum alloys were analyzed. The eutectic Al + Mg2Si phases were modified effectively when a large amount of TiB2 was added, and changes in the shape, size, and distribution of the eutectic Al + Mg2Si phases were confirmed using a polarizing microscope and FE-SEM. The crystal structure of the TiB2 particles and Mg2Si phases were analyzed using HR-TEM, and the analysis confirmed that the TiB2 particles can act as heterogeneous nucleation sites. This paper intends to clarify the principle of phase modification of the eutectic Al + Mg2Si phases by TiB2 particles and proposes a new mechanism to improve Mg2Si phase modification when TiB2 particles are added.
Analysis of the Possibility of Plastic Deformation Characterisation in X2CrNi18-9 Steel Using Measurements of Electromagnetic Parameters
Authors: Roskosz Maciej , Fryczowski Krzysztof , Tuz Lechosław , Wu Jianbo , Schabowicz Krzysztof , Logoń Dominik
Published: May 2021

An analysis was conducted on the possibility of making an assessment of the degree of plastic deformation ε in X2CrNi18-9 steel by measuring three electromagnetic diagnostic signals: the Barkhausen noise features, the impedance components in in-series LCR circuits, and the residual magnetic field components. The impact of ε on a series of different extracted features of diagnostic signals was investigated. The occurrence of two regions of sensitivity was found for all the features of the analysed signals. The two regions were separated by the following critical deformation value: ε ~ 10% for the components of the residual magnetic field and ε ~ 15% for the normalised components of impedance. As for the Barkhausen noise signal, the values were as follows: ε ~ 20% for the mean value, ε ~ 20% for the peak value of the signal envelope, and ε ~ 5% for the total number of the signal events. Metallographic tests were performed, which revealed essential changes in the microstructure of the tested material for the established critical values. The martensite transformation occurring during the plastic deformation process of X2CrNi18-9 austenitic steel process generated a magnetic phase. This magnetic phase was strong enough to relate the strain state to the values of diagnostic signals. The changes in the material electromagnetic properties due to martensitic transformation (γ → α’) began much earlier than indicated by the metallographic testing results.
Fungal Based Biopolymer Composites for Construction Materials
Authors: Răut Iuliana , Călin Mariana , Vuluga Zina , Oancea Florin , Paceagiu Jenica , Radu Nicoleta , Doni Mihaela , Alexandrescu Elvira , Purcar Violeta , Gurban Ana-Maria , Petre Ionela , Jecu Luiza
Published: May 2021

Environmental contamination, extensive exploitation of fuel sources and accessibility of natural renewable resources represent the premises for the development of composite biomaterials. These materials have controlled properties, being obtained through processes operated in mild conditions with low costs, and contributing to the valorization of byproducts from agriculture and industry fields. A novel board composite including lignocelullosic substrate as wheat straws, fungal mycelium and polypropylene embedded with bacterial spores was developed and investigated in the present study. The bacterial spores embedded in polymer were found to be viable even after heat exposure, helping to increase the compatibility of polymer with hydrophilic microorganisms. Fungal based biopolymer composite was obtained after cultivation of Ganoderma lucidum macromycetes on a mixture including wheat straws and polypropylene embedded with spores from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy images showed the fungal mycelium covering the substrates with a dense network of filaments. The resulted biomaterial is safe, inert, renewable, natural, biodegradable and it can be molded in the desired shape. The fungal biocomposite presented similar compressive strength and improved thermal insulation capacity compared to polystyrene with high potential to be used as thermal insulation material for applications in construction sector.
The Effect of Annealing on Additive Manufactured ULTEM™ 9085 Mechanical Properties
Authors: Zhang Yongjie , Moon Seung Ki
Published: May 2021

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) is increasingly adopted for direct manufacturing of end use parts in an aviation industry. However, the application of FFF technique is still restricted to manufacturing low criticality lightly loaded parts, due to poor mechanical performance. To alleviate the mechanical performance issue, thermal annealing process is frequently utilized. However, problems such as distortion issues and the need for jigs and fixtures limit the effectiveness of the thermal annealing process, especially for low volume complex FFF parts. In this research, a novel low temperature thermal annealing is proposed to address the limitations in conventional annealing. A modified orthogonal array design is applied to investigate the performance of ULTEM™ 9085 FFF coupons. Further, the coupons are annealed with specialized support structures, which are co-printed with the coupons during the manufacturing process. Once the annealing process is completed, multiscale characterizations are performed to identify the mechanical properties of the specimens. Geometrical measurement of post annealed specimens indicates an expansion in the layering direction, which indicates relief of thermal stresses. Moreover, annealed coupons show an improvement in tensile strength and reduction in strain concentration. Mesostructure and fracture surface analysis indicate an increase in ductility and enhanced coalescence. This research shows that the proposed annealing methodology can be applied to enhance the mechanical performance of FFF parts without significant distortion.
Experimental and Numerical Studies on the Direct Shear Behavior of Sand–RCA (Recycled Concrete Aggregates) Mixtures with Different Contents of RCA
Authors: Liu Yiming , Huang Shiqiang , Li Lihua , Xiao Henglin , Chen Zhi , Mao Haijun
Published: May 2021

Recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) is a typical construction and demolition (C&D) material generated in civil engineering activities and has been widely used as the coarse-grained filler added to sand for roadbed fillings. The effect of RCA content on the mechanical behavior of sand–RCA mixtures is complicated and still not fully understood. To explore the effect of RCA content on the macroscale and microscopic behavior of the sand–RCA mixtures with various RCA contents, laboratory direct shear tests and numerical simulations using the 3D discrete element method were performed. Experimental direct shear tests on sand–RCA mixtures with different contents of RCA were first carried out. Numerical direct shear models were then established to represent the experimental results. The particle shape effect was also considered using a new realistic shape modeling method to model the RCA particles. Good agreement was observed between the DEM simulation and experimental results, verifying the ability of the numerical direct shear models to represent the direct shear behavior of sand–RCA mixtures. The macroscopic responses of both experimental and numerical tests showed that all samples presented an initial hardening followed by a post-peak strain softening. The peak-state friction angles increased with the RCA content for samples under the same vertical stress. The effect of RCA content on the microscopic behavior based on DEM simulation was also found. The microscopic properties of RCA–sand mixtures, such as coordination numbers, PDFs and contact force transformation features, were analyzed and related to the macroscopic results.
Design of Low-Cost and High-Strength Titanium Alloys Using Pseudo-Spinodal Mechanism through Diffusion Couple Technology and CALPHAD
Authors: Ding Chaoyi , Liu Chun , Zhang Ligang , Wu Di , Liu Libin
Published: May 2021

The high cost of development and raw materials have been obstacles to the widespread use of titanium alloys. In the present study, the high-throughput experimental method of diffusion couple combined with CALPHAD calculation was used to design and prepare the low-cost and high-strength Ti-Al-Cr system titanium alloy. The results showed that ultra-fine α phase was obtained in Ti-6Al-10.9Cr alloy designed through the pseudo-spinodal mechanism, and it has a high yield strength of 1437 ± 7 MPa. Furthermore, application of the 3D strength model of Ti-6Al-xCr alloy showed that the strength of the alloy depended on the volume fraction and thickness of the α phase. The large number of α/β interfaces produced by ultra-fine α phase greatly improved the strength of the alloy but limited its ductility. Thus, we have demonstrated that the pseudo-spinodal mechanism combined with high-throughput diffusion couple technology and CALPHAD was an efficient method to design low-cost and high-strength titanium alloys.
Indentation Modulus, Indentation Work and Creep of Metals and Alloys at the Macro-Scale Level: Experimental Insights into the Use of a Primary Vickers Hardness Standard Machine
Authors: Schiavi Alessandro , Origlia Claudio , Germak Alessandro , Prato Andrea , Genta Gianfranco
Published: May 2021

In this work, the experimental method and the calculation model for the determination of indentation moduli, indentation work, and indentation creep of metallic materials, by means of macroscale-level forces provided by a primary hardness standard machine at the National Institute of Metrological Research (INRIM) at the at room temperature were described. Indentation moduli were accurately determined from measurements of indentation load, displacement, contact stiffness and hardness indentation imaging and from the slope of the indentation unloading curve by applying the Doerner-Nix linear model; indentation work, representing the mechanical work spent during the force application of the indentation procedure, was determined by calculating the areas under the loading–unloading indentation curve, through fitting experimental data with a polynomial law. Measurements were performed with a pyramidal indenter (Vickers test). The applied force was provided by a deadweight machine, and the related displacement was measured by a laser interferometric system. Applied forces and the occurring indentation depths were simultaneously measured: the resulting loading–unloading indentation curve was achieved. Illustrative tests were performed on metals and alloy samples. Discussion and comments on the suitability of the proposed method and analysis were reported.
Nano-TiO2 Coating Layers with Improved Anticorrosive Properties by Aerosol Flame Synthesis and Thermophoretic Deposition on Aluminium Surfaces
Authors: De Falco Gianluigi , De Filippis Giuseppe , Scudieri Carmela , Vitale Luca , Commodo Mario , Minutolo Patrizia , D’Anna Andrea , Ciambelli Paolo
Published: May 2021

TiO2 in the form of nanoparticles is characterized by high photocatalytic activity and high resistance to oxidation, making it an excellent candidate to realize coatings for improving the corrosion resistance of aluminium surfaces. Different coating technologies have been proposed over the years, which often involve the use of toxic compounds and very high temperatures. In this work, an alternative and novel one-step method for the coating of aluminium alloy surfaces with titania nanoparticles is presented. The method is based on the combination of aerosol flame synthesis and direct thermophoretic deposition and allows to produce nanostructured thin coating layers of titania with different features. Specifically, 3.5 nm anatase nanoparticles were synthesized and deposited onto aluminium alloy AA2024 samples. The thickness of the coating was changed by modifying the total deposition time. A thermal annealing treatment was developed to improve the adhesion of nano-titania on the substrates, and the morphology and structures of the coatings were characterized using (ultra violet) UV-vis absorption, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The corrosion resistance behavior of the coatings was evaluated by means of electrochemical polarization measurements, coupled with a numerical analysis using COMSOL software. Both the experimental and numerical electrochemical polarization curves showed a significant increase in the corrosion potential of coated substrates with respect to the bare aluminium and a decrease in the current density. The coatings obtained with higher deposition time and greater thickness showed the best performances in terms of the resistance of the aluminium surfaces to corrosion.
Nucleation Behavior of a Single Al-20Si Particle Rapidly Solidified in a Fast Scanning Calorimeter
Authors: Peng Qin , Yang Bin , Milkereit Benjamin , Liu Dongmei , Springer Armin , Rettenmayr Markus , Schick Christoph , Keßler Olaf
Published: May 2021

Understanding the rapid solidification behavior characteristics, nucleation undercooling, and nucleation mechanism is important for modifying the microstructures and properties of metal alloys. In order to investigate the rapid solidification behavior in-situ, accurate measurements of nucleation undercooling and cooling rate are required in most rapid solidification processes, e.g., in additive manufacturing (AM). In this study, differential fast scanning calorimetry (DFSC) was applied to investigate the nucleation kinetics in a single micro-sized Al-20Si (mass%) particle under a controlled cooling rate of 5000 K/s. The nucleation rates of primary Si and secondary α-Al phases were calculated by a statistical analysis of 300 identical melting/solidification experiments. Applying a model based on the classical nucleation theory (CNT) together with available thermodynamic data, two different heterogeneous nucleation mechanisms of primary Si and secondary α-Al were proposed, i.e., surface heterogeneous nucleation for primary Si and interface heterogenous nucleation for secondary α-Al. The present study introduces a practical method for a detailed investigation of rapid solidification behavior of metal particles to distinguish surface and interface nucleation.
Effect of Cathodic Polarisation Switch-Off on the Passivity and Stability to Crevice Corrosion of AISI 304L Stainless Steel
Authors: Shubina Helbert Varvara , Nazarov Andrei , Vucko Flavien , Larché Nicolas , Thierry Dominique
Published: May 2021

The effects of cathodic polarisation switch-off on the passivation of AISI 304L stainless steel in air and its crevice corrosion susceptibility in 3.5 wt.% NaCl aqueous electrolyte were investigated. Scanning Kelvin probe (SKP) data showed that the oxide film is significantly destabilised and the rate of steel passivation in air is slowed down. Thermal desorption analysis (TDA) highlighted that hydrogen absorption is proportional to the applied cathodic current density. A special crevice corrosion set-up was designed to realise simultaneous reproducible monitoring of potential and galvanic current to study the impact of prior cathodic polarisation on crevice corrosion onset.
Analysis of the Statistical Comparability of the Hardness and Wear of Polymeric Materials for Orthodontic Applications
Authors: Domagała Ivo , Przystupa Krzysztof , Firlej Marcel , Pieniak Daniel , Gil Leszek , Borucka Anna , Naworol Ireneusz , Biedziak Barbara , Levkiv Mariana
Published: May 2021

Background: Clinical success depends on the contact strength and wear resistance of medical devices made of polymer materials. The scientific goal resulted from the problem of using different methods of surface evaluation of materials used in the production of orthodontic appliances. The purpose of the work was an experimental comparative assessment of indentation hardness and scratch hardness and the sliding wear of four selected polymeric materials used in the manufacture of orthodontic appliances. Methods: Four commercial materials were compared. Shore hardness tests and a scratch test with a Rockwell indenter were performed. A sliding wear test was performed using the ball-on-disc method. Statistical PCA and correlation analyses were performed. Results: The results of scratch hardness measurements using a contact profilometer correlated with the Shore hardness to a greater extent than measurements made using an optical microscope. PCA showed that Shore hardness explains 45% of the total variance in all the results across the materials. Conclusions: The scratch hardness method allows for a more explicit ranking of orthodontic polymeric materials when measurements are made with a profilometer. The ranking of sliding wear resistance should be made separately.
What Is Driving the Growth of Inorganic Glass in Smart Materials and Opto-Electronic Devices?
Authors: Barcelos Daniel Alves , Leitao Diana C. , Pereira Laura C. J. , Gonçalves Maria Clara
Published: May 2021

Inorganic glass is a transparent functional material and one of the few materials that keeps leading innovation. In the last decades, inorganic glass was integrated into opto-electronic devices such as optical fibers, semiconductors, solar cells, transparent photovoltaic devices, or photonic crystals and in smart materials applications such as environmental, pharmaceutical, and medical sensors, reinforcing its influence as an essential material and providing potential growth opportunities for the market. Moreover, inorganic glass is the only material that is 100% recyclable and can incorporate other industrial offscourings and/or residues to be used as raw materials. Over time, inorganic glass experienced an extensive range of fabrication techniques, from traditional melting-quenching (with an immense diversity of protocols) to chemical vapor deposition (CVD), physical vapor deposition (PVD), and wet chemistry routes as sol-gel and solvothermal processes. Additive manufacturing (AM) was recently added to the list. Bulks (3D), thin/thick films (2D), flexible glass (2D), powders (2D), fibers (1D), and nanoparticles (NPs) (0D) are examples of possible inorganic glass architectures able to integrate smart materials and opto-electronic devices, leading to added-value products in a wide range of markets. In this review, selected examples of inorganic glasses in areas such as: (i) magnetic glass materials, (ii) solar cells and transparent photovoltaic devices, (iii) photonic crystal, and (iv) smart materials are presented and discussed.
Heating and Compression at Elevated Temperature of Thin-Walled Titanium Channel Section Columns
Authors: Gliszczyński Adrian , Czechowski Leszek , Wiącek Nina
Published: May 2021

The paper deals with numerical and experimental investigations of the channel section column subjected to heating and compression at elevated temperature. The analyzed columns were made of titanium alloy (Grade 2) and simply supported on both ends. The research procedure involved initial compression of the column (i), heating the preloaded column (ii) and compression of the column at elevated temperature to failure (iii). The tests were performed at temperatures from 23 °C to 300 °C. Numerical calculations were carried out in the Ansys® software and involved the application of bilinear and multilinear isotropic hardening. It has been revealed that the temperature increase in a statically indeterminate system causes a decrease in the load-carrying capacity of the profile. An increase in temperature by 27 °C causes a reduction of the load-carrying capacity by 10%, while compression at temperature 300 °C reduces the nominal load-carrying capacity of the profile by half. Most of the proposed numerical procedures allowed for accurate estimation of reaction forces during heating and maximum compressive forces recorded during compression at elevated temperatures. The correctness of the determined material characteristics and the suitability of shell models for estimation of the response of a thin-walled structure subjected to thermomechanical loading was confirmed.
Phase Diagram of Binary Alloy Nanoparticles under High Pressure
Authors: Kim Han Gyeol , Lee Joonho , Makov Guy
Published: May 2021

CALPHAD (CALculation of PHAse Diagram) is a useful tool to construct phase diagrams of various materials under different thermodynamic conditions. Researchers have extended the use of the CALPHAD method to nanophase diagrams and pressure phase diagrams. In this study, the phase diagram of an arbitrary A–B nanoparticle system under pressure was investigated. The effects of the interaction parameter and excess volume were investigated with increasing pressure. The eutectic temperature was found to decrease in most cases, except when the interaction parameter in the liquid was zero and that in the solid was positive, while the excess volume parameter of the liquid was positive. Under these conditions, the eutectic temperature increased with increasing pressure.
Influence of Tooth-Brushing on Early Healing after Access Flap Surgery: A Randomized Controlled Preliminary Study
Authors: Bertoldi Carlo , Generali Luigi , Cortellini Pierpaolo , Lalla Michele , Luppi Sofia , Tomasi Aldo , Zaffe Davide , Salvatori Roberta , Bergamini Stefania
Published: May 2021

In the present study, the clinical outcomes obtained using three different protocols of post-operative plaque control for the 4 weeks after surgery were compared. Thirty healthy subjects, presenting at least one periodontal pocket requiring resective surgery, were selected and randomly distributed to three different groups corresponding to respective post-surgical protocols: (A) toothbrushes + chlorhexidine + anti-discoloration system (ADS + CHX); (B) toothbrushes + chlorhexidine (CHX); (C) only toothbrushes. The full-mouth plaque score (FMPS), full-mouth bleeding score (FMBS), probing pocket depth (PPD), recession depth (REC), clinical attachment level (CAL), and bleeding on probing (BoP) were measured in six aspects per tooth (mesio-buccal (MB), buccal (B), disto-buccal (DB), disto-lingual (DL), lingual (L), and mesio-lingual (ML)) at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months after surgery. FMPS and FMBS did not significantly change (p > 0.05), whereas PPD and CAL significantly decreased, and REC significantly increased in all groups during the study (p < 0.05). Clinical results were satisfactory in all cases, with no significant differences between groups 3 months after surgery. Six months after surgery, only PPD-MB was significantly different in the three groups (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, this value was not clinically relevant because the value of PPD-B (about 2 mm) in group C was physiologic. The mechanical plaque control was proven to be fundamental and sufficient in all the six aspects per tooth to guarantee an excellent clinical outcome without the need of chemical plaque control.
Tooth Movement Efficacy of Retraction Spring Made of a New Low Elastic Modulus Material, Gum Metal, Evaluated by the Finite Element Method
Authors: Tamaya Naohiko , Kawamura Jun , Yanagi Yoshinobu
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the tooth movement efficacy of retraction springs made of a new β-titanium alloy, “gum metal”, which has a low Young’s modulus and nonlinear super elasticity. Using double loop springs incorporated into an archwire made of gum metal (GUM) and titanium molybdenum alloy (TMA), the maxillary anterior teeth were moved distally to close an extraction space. The long-term movements were simulated by the finite element method. Its procedure was constructed of two steps, with the first step being the calculation of the initial tooth movement produced by elastic deformation of the periodontal ligament, and in the second step, the alveolar socket was moved by the initial tooth movement. By repeating these steps, the tooth moved by accumulating the initial tooth movement. The number of repeating calculations was equivalent to an elapsed time. In the GUM and TMA springs, the anterior teeth firstly tipped lingually, and then became upright. As a result of these movements, the canine could move bodily. The amount of space closure in GUM spring was 1.5 times that in TMA spring. The initial tipping angle of the canine in the GUM spring was larger than that in the TMA spring. The number of repeating calculations required for the bodily movement in the GUM spring was about two times that in the TMA spring. It was predicted that the speed of space closure in the GUM spring was smaller than that in the TMA spring.
Process Development of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymer Mortars in View of the Mechanical Characteristics
Authors: Öz Hatice Öznur , Doğan-Sağlamtimur Neslihan , Bilgil Ahmet , Tamer Aykut , Günaydin Kadir
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to determine the effects of design parameters, including the liquid/solid ratio (L/S), Na2SiO3/NaOH weight ratio, and curing temperature, on class F fly ash-based geopolymer composites. For this purpose, two disparate sources of fly ash were supplied from Çatalağzı (FA) and İsken Sugözü (FB) Thermal Power Plants in Turkey. Two different L/S ratios of 0.2 and 0.4 were used. The Na2SiO3/NaOH ratios in the alkaline solutions were 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, and 3 by weight for each type of geopolymer mixture. Then, 40 different mixes were cured at two specific temperatures (70 °C and 100 °C) for 24 h and then preserved at room temperature until testing. Thereafter, the physical water absorption properties, apparent porosity, and bulk density were examined at 28 days on the hardened mortars. Additionally, compressive and flexural tests were applied to the geopolymers at 7, 28, and 90 days. It was found that the highest compressive strength was 60.1 MPa for the geopolymer manufactured with an L/S of 0.2 and Na2SiO3/NaOH ratio of 2. Moreover, the best thermal curing temperature for obtaining optimal strength characteristics was 100 °C for the FB.
In-Situ Characterization of Pore Formation Dynamics in Pulsed Wave Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Hojjatzadeh S. Mohammad H. , Guo Qilin , Parab Niranjan D. , Qu Minglei , Escano Luis I. , Fezzaa Kamel , Everhart Wes , Sun Tao , Chen Lianyi
Published: May 2021

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is an additive manufacturing technology with the capability of printing complex metal parts directly from digital models. Between two available emission modes employed in LPBF printing systems, pulsed wave (PW) emission provides more control over the heat input compared to continuous wave (CW) emission, which is highly beneficial for printing parts with intricate features. However, parts printed with pulsed wave LPBF (PW-LPBF) commonly contain pores, which degrade their mechanical properties. In this study, we reveal pore formation mechanisms during PW-LPBF in real time by using an in-situ high-speed synchrotron x-ray imaging technique. We found that vapor depression collapse proceeds when the laser irradiation stops within one pulse, resulting in occasional pore formation during PW-LPBF. We also revealed that the melt ejection and rapid melt pool solidification during pulsed-wave laser melting resulted in cavity formation and subsequent formation of a pore pattern in the melted track. The pore formation dynamics revealed here may provide guidance on developing pore elimination approaches.
Application of Advanced Nanomaterials for Kidney Failure Treatment and Regeneration
Authors: Eftekhari Aziz , Maleki Dizaj Solmaz , Ahmadian Elham , Przekora Agata , Hosseiniyan Khatibi Seyed Mahdi , Ardalan Mohammadreza , Zununi Vahed Sepideh , Valiyeva Mahbuba , Mehraliyeva Sevil , Khalilov Rovshan , Hasanzadeh Mohammad
Published: May 2021

The implementation of nanomedicine not only provides enhanced drug solubility and reduced off-target adverse effects, but also offers novel theranostic approaches in clinical practice. The increasing number of studies on the application of nanomaterials in kidney therapies has provided hope in a more efficient strategy for the treatment of renal diseases. The combination of biotechnology, material science and nanotechnology has rapidly gained momentum in the realm of therapeutic medicine. The establishment of the bedrock of this emerging field has been initiated and an exponential progress is observed which might significantly improve the quality of human life. In this context, several approaches based on nanomaterials have been applied in the treatment and regeneration of renal tissue. The presented review article in detail describes novel strategies for renal failure treatment with the use of various nanomaterials (including carbon nanotubes, nanofibrous membranes), mesenchymal stem cells-derived nanovesicles, and nanomaterial-based adsorbents and membranes that are used in wearable blood purification systems and synthetic kidneys.
Quantitative Comparison of Binary Mix of Agro-Industrial Pozzolanic Additions for Elaborating Ternary Cements: Kinetic Parameters
Authors: Villar-Cociña Ernesto , Frías Moisés , Savastano Holmer , Rodier Loic , Sánchez de Rojas María Isabel , Sáez del Bosque Isabel Fuencisla , Medina César
Published: May 2021

In this research work, the quantitative characterization of a binary blend comprised of two pozzolans (sugar cane straw (SCSA)–sugar cane bagasse ashes (SCBA), bamboo leaf ash (BLAsh)–SCBA and paper sludge (PS)–fly ash (FA)) taking into account the calculated values of the kinetic parameters of the reaction in the pozzolan/calcium hydroxide system is shown. The paper shows the most significant and important results obtained by the authors in the quantitative assessment (calculation of kinetic parameters) of the pozzolanic reaction of different mixtures of pozzolanic materials that are residues from agriculture or industrial processes. This allows a direct and rigorous comparison of the pozzolanic activity of the binary combinations of materials. The values of the kinetic parameters (reaction rate constant or activation free energy) constitute a very precise quantitative index of the pozzolanic activity of the binary combinations of materials, which is very useful for its employment in the elaboration of ternary cements. This paper shows that the binary blends 1SCBA60Blash40, 1SCBA50Blash50, 1SCBA70Blash30 have a very high pozzolanic reactivity followed by PSLSFA, 2SCBA50SCSA50, PSISFA and SCWI.
Durability of Blended Cements Made with Reactive Aggregates
Authors: Menéndez Esperanza , Sanjuán Miguel Ángel , García-Roves Ricardo , Argiz Cristina , Recino Hairon
Published: May 2021

Alkali–silica reaction (ASR) is a swelling reaction that occurs in concrete structures over time between the reactive amorphous siliceous aggregate particles and the hydroxyl ions of the hardened concrete pore solution. The aim of this paper is to assess the effect of pozzolanic Portland cements on the alkali–silica reaction (ASR) evaluated from two different points of view: (i) alkali-silica reaction (ASR) abatement and (ii) climatic change mitigation by clinker reduction, i.e., by depleting its emissions. Open porosity, SEM microscopy, compressive strength and ASR-expansion measurements were performed in mortars made with silica fume, siliceous coal fly ash, natural pozzolan and blast-furnace slag. The main contributions are as follows: (i) the higher the content of reactive silica in the pozzolanic material, the greater the ASR inhibition level; (ii) silica fume and coal fly ash are the best Portland cement constituents for ASR mitigation.