bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional 20S Proteasomes in Retroviruses: Evidence in Favor
Authors: Morozov Vladimir , Morozov Alexey , Karpov Vadim L.
Published: October 2024

Proteasomes are barrel-like cellular protein complexes responsible for the degradation of most intracellular proteins. Earlier, it has been shown that during assembly, hundreds of different cellular proteins are incorporated into retro-and herpes viruses. Among detected cellular proteins, there were different proteasome subunits (PS). Previous reports postulated the incorporation of 20S proteasome subunits and subunits of proteasome regulator complexes inside retroviruses. Here, we demonstrated the association of functional 20S proteasome with gammaretroviruses, betaretroviruses, and lentiviruses. Cleaved proteasome subunits β1, β2 and β5 were detected in tested viruses. Using fluorescent peptides and a cell-permeable proteasome activity probe, proteasome activity was detected in endogenous and exogenous retroviruses, including recombinant HIV-1. Taken together, our data favors the insertion of functional proteasomes into the retroviruses during assembly. The possible role of proteasomes in retroviruses is discussed.
From Plaques to Pathways in Alzheimer’s Disease: The Mitochondrial-Neurovascular-Metabolic Hypothesis
Authors: Kazemeini Sarah , Nadeem-Tariq Ahmed , Shih Ryan , Rafanan John , Ghani Nabih , Vida Thomas A.
Published: October 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) presents a public health challenge due to its progressive neurodegeneration, cognitive decline, and memory loss. The amyloid cascade hypothesis, which postulates that the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptides initiates a cascade leading to AD, has dominated research and therapeutic strategies. The failure of recent Aβ-targeted therapies to yield conclusive benefits necessitates further exploration of AD pathology. This review proposes the Mitochondrial–Neurovascular–Metabolic (MNM) hypothesis, which integrates mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired neurovascular regulation, and systemic metabolic disturbances as interrelated contributors to AD pathogenesis. Mitochondrial dysfunction, a hallmark of AD, leads to oxidative stress and bioenergetic failure. Concurrently, the breakdown of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) and impaired cerebral blood flow, which characterize neurovascular dysregulation, accelerate neurodegeneration. Metabolic disturbances such as glucose hypometabolism and insulin resistance further impair neuronal function and survival. This hypothesis highlights the interconnectedness of these pathways and suggests that therapeutic strategies targeting mitochondrial health, neurovascular integrity, and metabolic regulation may offer more effective interventions. The MNM hypothesis addresses these multifaceted aspects of AD, providing a comprehensive framework for understanding disease progression and developing novel therapeutic approaches. This approach paves the way for developing innovative therapeutic strategies that could significantly improve outcomes for millions affected worldwide.
Concordance Between Biochemical and Molecular Diagnosis Obtained by WES in Mexican Patients with Inborn Errors of Intermediary Metabolism: Utility for Therapeutic Management
Authors: Vela-Amieva Marcela , Alcántara-Ortigoza Miguel Angel , González-del Angel Ariadna , Fernández-Hernández Liliana , Reyna-Fabián Miriam Erandi , Estandía-Ortega Bernardette , Guillén-López Sara , López-Mejía Lizbeth , Belmont-Martínez Leticia , Carrillo-Nieto Rosa Itzel , Ibarra-González Isabel , Ryu Seung-Woo , Lee Hane , Fernández-Lainez Cynthia
Published: October 2024

Biochemical phenotyping has been the milestone for diagnosing and managing patients affected by inborn errors of intermediary metabolism (IEiM); however, identifying the genotype responsible for these monogenic disorders greatly contributes to achieving these goals. Herein, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was used to determine the genotypes of 95 unrelated Mexican pediatric patients suspected of having IEiM. They were classified into those bearing specific biochemical abnormalities (Group 1), and those presenting unspecific biochemical profiles (Group 2). The overall concordance between the initial biochemical diagnosis and final genotypic diagnoses was 72.6% (N = 69/95 patients), with the highest concordance achieved in Group 1 (91.3%, N = 63/69), whereas the concordance was limited in Group 2 (23.07%). This finding suggests that previous biochemical phenotyping correlated with the high WES diagnostic success. Concordance was high for urea cycle disorders (94.1%) and organic acid disorders (77.4%). The identified mutational spectrum comprised 83 IEiM-relevant variants (pathogenic, likely pathogenic, and variants of uncertain significance or VUS), including three novel ones, distributed among 29 different genes responsible for amino acid, organic acid, urea cycle, carbohydrate, and lipid disorders. Inconclusive WES results (7.3%, N = 7/95) relied on monoallelic pathogenic genotypes or those involving two VUS for autosomal-recessive IEiMs. A second monogenic disease was observed in 10.5% (N = 10/95) of the patients. According to the WES results, modifications in treatment had to be made in 33.6% (N = 32/95) of patients, mainly attributed to the presence of a second monogenic disease, or to an actionable trait. This study includes the largest cohort of Mexican patients to date with biochemically suspected IEiM who were genetically diagnosed through WES, underscoring its importance in medical management.
Systematic Review on Working Mechanisms of Signaling Pathways in Fibrosis During Shockwave Therapy
Authors: Demuynck Lot , Moonen Sarah , Thiessen Filip , Vrints Ina , Moortgat Peter , Meirte Jill , van Breda Eric , Van Daele Ulrike
Published: October 2024

Fibrosis is characterized by scarring and hardening of tissues and organs. It can affect every organ system, and so could result in organ failure due to the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins. Previous studies suggest that mechanical forces (such as shockwave therapy, SWT) initiate a process of mechanotransduction and thus could regulate fibrosis. Nevertheless, it is largely unexamined which pathways are exactly involved in the application of SWT and can regulate fibrosis. The present article seeks to elucidate the underlying effect of SWT on fibrosis. Evidence shows that SWT activates macrophage activity, fibroblast activity, collagen amount and orientation and apoptosis, which ultimately lead to an adaptation of inflammation, proliferation, angiogenesis and apoptosis. The included articles reveal that other proteins and pathways can be activated depending on the energy levels and frequency of SWT. These findings demonstrate that SWT has beneficial effects on fibrosis by influencing the proteins and pathways. Based on these data, which highlights the underlying mechanisms, we can make preliminary conclusions about the treatment modalities of SWT in scar formation, such as the energy levels and frequencies that are necessary to prevent or treat fibrotic tissue.
Honey Enriched with Additives Alleviates Behavioral, Oxidative Stress, and Brain Alterations Induced by Heavy Metals and Imidacloprid in Zebrafish
Authors: Paduraru Emanuela , Jijie Roxana , Simionov Ira-Adeline , Gavrilescu Cristina-Maria , Ilie Tudor , Iacob Diana , Lupitu Andreea , Moisa Cristian , Muresan Claudia , Copolovici Lucian , Copolovici Dana M. , Mihalache Gabriela , Lipsa Florin Daniel , Solcan Gheorghe , Danelet Gabriela-Alexandra , Nicoara Mircea , Ciobica Alin , Solcan Carmen
Published: October 2024

Environmental concerns have consistently been a focal point for the scientific community. Pollution is a critical ecological issue that poses significant threats to human health and agricultural production. Contamination with heavy metals and pesticides is a considerable concern, a threat to the environment, and warrants special attention. In this study, we investigated the significant issues arising from sub-chronic exposure to imidacloprid (IMI), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd), either alone or in combination, using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an animal model. Additionally, we assessed the potential protective effects of polyfloral honey enriched with natural ingredients, also called honey formulation (HF), against the combined sub-chronic toxic effects of the three contaminants. The effects of IMI (0.5 mg·L−1), Hg (15 μg·L−1), and Cd (5 μg·L−1), both individually and in combination with HF (500 mg·L−1), on zebrafish were evaluated by quantifying acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, lipid peroxidation (MDA), various antioxidant enzyme activities like superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase (SOD and GPx), 2D locomotor activity, social behavior, histological and immunohistochemical factors, and changes in body element concentrations. Our findings revealed that all concentrations of pollutants may disrupt social behavior, diminish swimming performances (measured by total distance traveled, inactivity, and swimming speed), and elevate oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers of SOD, GPx, and MDA in zebrafish over the 21-day administration period. Fish exposed to IMI and Hg + Cd + IMI displayed severe lesions and increased GFAP (Glial fibrillary acidic protein) and S100B (S100 calcium-binding protein B) protein expression in the optic tectum and cerebellum, conclusively indicating astrocyte activation and neurotoxic effects. Furthermore, PCNA (Proliferating cell nuclear antigen) staining revealed reduced cell proliferation in the IMI-exposed group, contrasting with intensified proliferation in the Hg + Cd group. The nervous system exhibited significant damage across all studied concentrations, confirming the observed behavioral changes. Moreover, HF supplementation significantly mitigated the toxicity induced by contaminants and reduced OS. Therefore, the exposure to chemical mixtures offers a more complete picture of adverse impacts on aquatic ecosystems and the supplementation with bioactive compounds can help to reduce the toxicity induced by exposure to environmental pollutants.
Molecular Mechanism for Malignant Progression of Gastric Cancer Within the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Matsuoka Tasuku , Yashiro Masakazu
Published: October 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Most patients are diagnosed at the progressive stage of GC, and progress in the development of effective anti-GC drugs has been insufficient. The tumor microenvironment (TME) regulates various functions of tumor cells, and interactions between the cellular and molecular components of the TME—e.g., inflammatory cells, fibroblasts, vasculature cells, and innate and adaptive immune cells—promote the aggressiveness of cancer cells and dissemination to distant organs. This review summarizes the roles of various TME cells and molecules in regulating the malignant progression and metastasis of GC. We also address the important roles of signaling pathways in mediating the interaction between cancer cells and the different components of the GC TME. Finally, we discuss the implications of these molecular mechanisms for developing novel and effective therapies targeting molecular and cellular components of the GC TME to control the malignant progression of GC.
Water as a Structural Marker in Gelatin Hydrogels with Different Cross-Linking Nature
Authors: Zuev Yuriy F. , Derkach Svetlana R. , Lunev Ivan V. , Nikiforova Alena A. , Klimovitskaya Mariya A. , Bogdanova Liliya R. , Skvortsova Polina V. , Kurbanov Rauf Kh. , Kazantseva Mariia A. , Zueva Olga S.
Published: October 2024

We have studied the molecular properties of water in physically and chemically cross-linked gelatin hydrogels by FTIR-spectroscopy, NMR relaxation, and diffusivity and broadband dielectric spectroscopy, which are sensitive to dynamical properties of water, being a structural marker of polymer network. All experiments demonstrated definite reinforcement of the hydrogel net structure and an increase in the amount of hydrate water. FTIR experiments have shown that the chemical cross-linking of gelatin molecules initiates an increase in the collagen-like triple helices “strength”, as a result of infused restriction on protein molecular mobility. The “strengthening” of protein chains hinders the mobility of protein fragments, introducing complex modifications into the structural properties of water which are remained practically unchanged up to up to 30–40 °C.
Comparison of n-3 PUFA-Enriched vs. Olive-Oil-Based Lipid Emulsion on Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Response in Critically Ill Post-Surgery Adults: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Cuartero-Corbalán Nerea , Martínez-Lozano Aranaga Fátima , Gómez-Ramos Maria Jesús , Gómez-Sánchez María B. , Avilés-Plaza Francisco V. , Núñez-Sánchez María A. , Morillas-Ruiz Juana M.
Published: October 2024

Malnutrition in critically ill patients represents a major concern as it can lead to adverse outcomes including increased morbidity and mortality. These patients exhibit an impaired immune response accompanied by increased oxidative stress. Nutritional support, including parenteral nutrition (PN), is critical in these patients. Intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs), a key component of PN, provide energy and intervene in the modulation of inflammation. This was a secondary study of a randomized clinical trial at the Reina Sofia University Hospital (Murcia, Spain) for critically ill patients following major abdominal surgery that were administered PN supplemented with olive-oil-based ILE (OO-ILE, n = 29) or a mixed-lipid ILE (soybean oil, medium chain triglycerides, OO and fish oil, SMOF-ILE, n = 25). The effects on clinical outcomes, metabolic markers, oxidative stress, and inflammation were evaluated. No significant differences were observed between groups in the clinical parameters and outcomes, oxidative stress, or inflammatory markers. The within-group evaluation demonstrated an increase in total antioxidant capacity in both groups, while OO-ILE increased the levels of 15-F2t-isoprostane. In addition, the results showed that both mixtures reduced the release of IL-1β and IL-6. These findings suggest that both treatments had similar effects on oxidative stress and inflammatory response in this type of patient.
Physiopathological Roles of White Adiposity and Gut Functions in Neuroinflammation
Authors: Spinedi Eduardo , Docena Guillermo Horacio
Published: October 2024

White adipose tissue (WAT) and the gut are involved in the development of neuroinflammation when an organism detects any kind of injury, thereby triggering metainflammation. In fact, the autonomous nervous system innervates both tissues, although the complex role played by the integrated sympathetic, parasympathetic, and enteric nervous system functions have not been fully elucidated. Our aims were to investigate the participation of inflamed WAT and the gut in neuroinflammation. Firstly, we conducted an analysis into how inflamed peripheral WAT plays a key role in the triggering of metainflammation. Indeed, this included the impact of the development of local insulin resistance and its metabolic consequences, a serious hypothalamic dysfunction that promotes neurodegeneration. Then, we analyzed the gut–brain axis dysfunction involved in neuroinflammation by examining cell interactions, soluble factors, the sensing of microbes, and the role of dysbiosis-related mechanisms (intestinal microbiota and mucosal barriers) affecting brain functions. Finally, we targeted the physiological crosstalk between cells of the brain–WAT–gut axis that restores normal tissue homeostasis after injury. We concluded the following: because any injury can result not only in overall insulin resistance and dysbiosis, which in turn can impact upon the brain, but that a high-risk of the development of neuroinflammation-induced neurodegenerative disorder can also be triggered. Thus, it is imperative to avoid early metainflammation by applying appropriate preventive (e.g., lifestyle and diet) or pharmacological treatments to cope with allostasis and thus promote health homeostasis.
A New Bromo-Mn(II) Complex with 1,3,5-Triazine Derivative: Synthesis, Crystal Structure, DFT and Biological Studies
Authors: Khattab Sara M. , Altowyan Mezna Saleh , El-Faham Ayman , Barakat Assem , Haukka Matti , Abu-Youssef Morsy A. M. , Soliman Saied M.
Published: October 2024

The crystal structure and topology analyses of a new bromo-Mn(II) complex with 2,4-bis(3,5dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-6-methoxy-1,3,5-triazine (MBPT) were reported. Its structure was confirmed using single-crystal X-ray diffraction to create the formula [Mn(MBPT)Br(H2O)2]ClO4. Its crystal system was monoclinic and its space group was p21. The Mn(II) was coordinated with MBPT as a NNN-pincer ligand, with one bromide ion in the equatorial plane. The two axial terminals were occupied by two trans water molecules. H…H, N…H, Br…H, C…H and O…H were the predominant intermolecular contacts, while Br…H, O…H and C…O were the significant contacts based on Hirshfeld analysis. Moreover, anion–ᴨ interaction was found between C(s-triazine) and O(perchlorate). This complex had better antioxidant activity than the free ligand (MBPT). In addition, the cytotoxicity of the [Mn(MBPT)Br(H2O)2]ClO4 complex showed better results against HepG-2 and MCF-7 cells, recording IC50 values of 31.11 ± 2.04 and 50.05 ± 2.16 µM, respectively, compared to the free ligand (IC50 = 671.44 ± 21.41 and 1113.55 ± 29.77 µM). In comparison to cis-platin as a reference drug, the IC50 values were 63 and 80 μM, respectively, which indicated the promising anticancer activity of the studied compound against both cell lines. In terms of the safety of normal cells, the Mn(II) complex recorded a high IC50 value of 359.10 ± 8.72 µM against the WI-38 non-cancerous cell line. The complex showed better activity towards Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and Proteus vulgaris relative to the free MBPT, but had low to moderate activity compared to Gentamycin as an antibacterial positive control.
A Structure and Magnetism Study of {MnII3MnIVLnIII3} Coordination Complexes with Ln = Dy, Yb
Authors: Mazalova Victoria , Asanova Tatiana , Asanov Igor , Fromme Petra
Published: October 2024

We report the research results of polynuclear complexes consisting of 3d-4f mixed-metal cores that are maintained by acetate ligands and multidentate Schiff base ligands with structurally exposed thioether groups. The presence of the latter at the periphery of these neutral compounds enables their anchoring onto substrate surfaces. Specifically, we investigated the electronic and magnetic properties as well as the structural arrangement in {MnII3MnIVLnIII3} with Ln = Dy, Yb coordination complexes using various complementary methods. We studied the electronic and atomic structure of the target compounds using the XAS and XES techniques. The molecular structures of the compounds were determined using density functional theory, and the magnetic data were obtained as a function of the magnetic field. Using the XMCD method, we followed the changes in the electronic and magnetic properties of adsorbed magnetic compounds induced by the reaction of ligands through interaction with the substrate. The complexes show antiferromagnetic exchange interactions between Mn and Ln ions. The spectroscopic analyses confirmed the structural and electronic integrity of complexes in organic solution. This study provides important input for a full understanding of the dependence of the magnetic properties and the molecule–substrate interaction of single adsorbed molecules on the type of ligands. It highlights the importance of chemical synthesis for controlling and tailoring the magnetic properties of metalorganic molecules for their use as optimized building blocks of future molecular spin electronics.
Effects of Finishing on Surface Roughness of Four Different Glass-Ionomer Cements and One Alkasite: In Vitro Investigation over Time Using Aging Simulation
Authors: Behlau Alexander , Behlau Isabelle , Payer Michael , Leitinger Gerd , Hanscho Katharina , Kqiku Lumnije , Glockner Karl
Published: October 2024

In 2017, Europe implemented a ban on amalgam restorations for children aged <15 years and for pregnant/breastfeeding women, highlighting the need for alternative filling materials exhibiting less surface roughness and enhanced longevity. This in vitro study aimed to examine the surface roughness variations of five amalgam-replacement materials across three time points and using six finishing methods: (1) no finishing (control), (2) Arkansas burs, (3) diamond burs, (4) tungsten carbide burs, (5) SofLex discs in descending grit size, and (6) coarse SofLex discs combined with silicone polishing. We prepared 960 samples. Each material group, i.e., Cention Forte (CNF), DeltaFil (DLF), Ketac Universal (KTU), IonoStar Molar (ISM), and Equia Forte HT (EQF), comprised 60 samples (n = 10 per finishing method) created using standardized 3D-printed metal molds. Surface roughness (Sa) was measured immediately after finishing, after 30 days of storage in distilled water, and after thermocycling (5000 cycles) using a non-contact profilometer. The results indicate that conventional and hybrid glass-ionomer cements have smoother surfaces than high-viscosity GICs. The DLF and CNF groups exhibited stable outcomes. These findings underscore the importance of selecting appropriate finishing methods based on the restorative material to minimize surface roughness.
Adaptive Pitch-Tracking Control with Dynamic and Static Gains for Remotely Operated Towed Vehicles
Authors: Tian Cong , Xu Hang , Ren Songkai , Guo Longchuan , Tian Xiaoqing , Wang Jiyong
Published: October 2024

The pitch angle regulation in Remotely Operated Towed Vehicles (ROTVs) is essential to ensure the robustness of emitted signals within the maritime surveillance domain. Characterized by inherent nonlinear dynamics and stochastic uncertainties, the pitch angle model poses significant challenges to conventional tracking controls relying on linearization. This study introduces an adaptive pitch-control algorithm designed for ROTVs, which adeptly manages nonlinear dynamics as well as unmeasurable states through a synergistic integration of dynamic and static gains. A key feature of our approach is the incorporation of a high-order observer that adeptly estimates the system’s unmeasurable states, thereby enhancing control precision. Our proposed algorithm greatly exceeds traditional PID and fuzzy PID methods in both settling time and steady-state error, particularly in high-order nonlinear and unmeasurable state scenarios. Compared to sliding mode control, the proposed control strategy improved the settling time by 74% and the steady-state error was enhanced from 10−6 to 10−8, as confirmed by numerical simulations. The efficacy of the algorithm in achieving the desired tracking trajectories highlights its potential for deep-water operations and fine-tuned attitude adjustments for ROTVs.
Journal of Parks: An International Journal Synthesizing Multi-Disciplinary Knowledge About Parks
Authors: Wei Hongxu , Hauer Richard J.
Published: October 2024

Journal of Parks (JOP, ISSN: 3042-5689) is an international journal developed to enhance our knowledge of how people use and perceive parks [...]
The Impact of Financial Development, Foreign Direct Investment, and Trade Openness on Carbon Dioxide Emissions in Jordan: An ARDL and VECM Analysis Approach
Authors: Alnsour Jamal , Arabeyyat Abdullah Radwan , Alnsour Ahmad Jamal , Almasria Nashat Ali
Published: October 2024

Jordan has made substantial strides in enhancing its economy by focusing on economic growth stimulants, which include financial development, foreign direct investment (FDI), and trade openness. However, these economic activities often lead to significant environmental risks. Despite their relevance, the existing literature has rarely examined the influence of these dynamics on environmental quality in the Middle East, particularly in Jordan. This study aims to investigate the influence of financial development, FDI, and trade openness on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in Jordan. To achieve this, the study employs the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) technique and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) Granger causality approach, utilizing data sourced from the World Bank for the period from 1990 to 2022. The findings indicate that financial development, FDI, and trade openness positively impact CO2 emissions, thereby increasing environmental risks in both the short and long term. Additionally, there exists a bidirectional causal relationship between financial development and both FDI and trade openness, as well as between FDI and trade openness. It is imperative for Jordan to design strategies that balance economic growth with sustainable environmental practices.
Anti-Competition and Anti-Corruption Controversies in the European Financial Sector: Examining the Anti-ESG Factors with Entropy Weight and TOPSIS Methods
Authors: Zournatzidou Georgia , Sklavos George , Ragazou Konstantina , Sariannidis Nikolaos
Published: October 2024

(1) Background: This research aims to investigate the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors on European banking corruption. Thus, its novelty is based on considering anti-competitive concerns as a major component that may considerably impact fraud and bribery in corruption investigations. (2) Methods: To approach the research question, we conducted an examination of anti-competitive practices at 344 financial institutions headquartered in Europe throughout the period 2018 to 2022 using the entropy weight and TOPSIS methods. (3) Results: This study reveals that anti-competitive actions are typified by environmental debate and genuine policy competition. Analysing the results prompted us to reach this conclusion. The present study’s findings reveal that financial institutions in Scandinavian nations demonstrate the most significant anti-competitive activity. (4) Conclusions: This research is the first study to underscore the concept of anti-competition disputes and their impact on the emergence of corruption, extortion, and fraud in the European banking sector. Although anti-competitive and corrupt practices may appear to be distinct concepts, they both lead to the financial sector acquiring disproportionate control over the market.
Acute Effects of Myofascial Release on Foot Mobility and Performance in Basketball Players with Hypomobile Feet—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sarıalioğlu Nihat
Published: October 2024

Hypomobility in the foot structure causes functional limitations. These functional limitations affect sportive performance negatively, especially in basketball, where dynamic movements such as jumping and sudden changes in direction are very intense. In this context, reducing hypomobility is important in terms of eliminating performance disorders caused by hypomobility. The purpose of this study was to investigate the acute effects of myofascial release on foot mobility and sportive performance in basketball players with hypomobile feet. This study was designed as randomized controlled experimental research. Twenty-four male basketball players (23.46 ± 2.81 years) participated in this study. The athletes were first subjected to foot mobility, balance and vertical jump tests. Then, the participants were divided into two groups: myofascial release (MR) and placebo myofascial release (PMR). Myofascial release (Graston technique) was applied to the MR group, and placebo myofascial release was applied to the PMR group. After application, foot mobility and performance measurements were performed again, and the results were analyzed. It was observed that there was a significant difference in right foot mobility (d = 4), left foot mobility (d = 6), vertical jump (d = 1.13) and dynamic balance (d = 1.03) parameters after application in the MR group. It was also determined that the acute effects of the intervention on foot mobility lasted for at least two hours (p < 0.001). There was no change in any parameter after application in the PMR group (p > 0.05). The results of this study show that a single session of myofascial release applied to the plantar sole temporarily increased foot mobility and improved vertical jump and dynamic balance performance in basketball players with chronic hypomobility.
On the Influence of Welding Parameters and Their Interdependence During Robotic Continuous Ultrasonic Welding of Carbon Fibre Reinforced Thermoplastics
Authors: Köhler Filipp , Fernandez Villegas Irene , Dransfeld Clemens , Herrmann Axel
Published: October 2024

Ultrasonic welding of fibre-reinforced thermoplastics is a joining technology with high potential for short welding times and low energy consumption. While the majority of the current studies on continuous ultrasonic welding have so far focused on woven reinforcements, unidirectional materials are preferred for highly loaded aerospace components due to their better mechanical performance. Therefore, this paper investigates the influence and interdependence of the welding speed, amplitude, and energy director thickness on the weld quality of adherends made of unidirectional composites. The quality of the welded joints is assessed by a single-lap shear strength and fracture surface analysis complemented by the microscopic analysis of cross-sections and comparison to a co-consolidated reference. The results showed that the welding process is highly affected by changing welding speeds for a given amplitude. Furthermore, while lower amplitudes lead to significant scatter in the welding quality, higher amplitudes result in increased heating rates and a fully molten energy director even for high welding speeds. Nevertheless, insufficient consolidation at high welding speeds results in porosity in the weld line. Finally, it was observed that thicker, and therefore more compliant, energy directors lead to more uniform melting of the energy director and less deviation in the weld quality for a wider range of welding speeds.
Numerical Study on the Development of Adiabatic Shear Bands During High Strain-Rate Compression of AISI 1045 Steel: A Comparative Analysis Between Plane-Strain and Axisymmetric Problems
Authors: Karantza Konstantina D. , Manolakos Dimitrios E.
Published: October 2024

This work studies numerically the development of adiabatic shear banding (ASB) during high strain-rate compression of AISI 1045 steel. Plane strain and cylindrical axisymmetric compressions are simulated in LS-DYNA, considering rectangular and cylindrical steel samples, respectively. Also, a parametric analysis in height-to-base ratio is conducted in order to evaluate the effect of geometry and dimensional ratio of the sample on ASB formation. Doubly structural-thermal-damage coupled finite element models are developed for the numerical simulations, implementing the thermo-viscoplastic Modified Johnson–Cook constitutive relation and damage criterion, while further damage-equivalent stress and strain fields are introduced for the damage coupling. The simulations revealed that plane strain compression promotes more ASB formation, providing lower critical strain for ASB initiation and wider and stronger ASBs compared with axisymmetric compression. Further, X-shaped ASBs initially form during plane strain compression, while as deformation increases, they transform into S-shaped ASBs in contrast to axisymmetric compression, where parabolic ASBs are developed. Also, a lower height-to-base ratio leads to greater ASB propensity, reducing critical strain in axisymmetric compression. Finally, thermal softening is found to precede damage softening and dominate the ASB genesis and its early evolution, while in contrast damage softening drives later ASB evolution and its transition to fracture.
Effect of Mg on Plasticity and Microstructure of Al-Mg-Ga-Sn-In Soluble Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Ma Ning , Zhu Jianfeng , Chang Ke , Qin Yuxing
Published: October 2024

Soluble aluminum alloy materials used in underground operational tools are synthesized via a high-temperature smelting process. The microstructure and composition distribution of the alloy were analyzed using X-ray diffraction, metallographic microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray and electron backscatter diffraction techniques. The mechanical properties were evaluated using a universal testing machine and hardness tester, while solubility assessments were conducted in a constant-temperature water bath. This study focuses on the plasticity and dissolution characteristics of Al-Mg-Ga-Sn-In alloys with varying Mg contents. The tensile strength (σb) of the alloy was 181.99 MPa, with an elongation (δ) of 27.49% and cross-sectional shrinkage (φ) of 11.67% at a magnesium content of 3.0 wt.%. Additionally, in the compressive test, the compressive yield strength (σsc) was recorded at 188.32 MPa, while the compression rate (δ) was 27.06% and the section expansion rate (φ) was 138.66%. Furthermore, the alloy demonstrated the ability to dissolve spontaneously in water at 90 °C, exhibiting an average dissolution rate of 1.0 g·h−1cm−2 and a maximum dissolution rate of 3.25 g·h−1cm−2 after 12.0 h. Consequently, this alloy composition not only satisfies the requirements for rapid solubility but also exhibits favorable plasticity, providing a novel reference for the selection of soluble aluminum alloy materials.
The Impact of Selected Eutectic Solvents on the Volatile Composition of Citrus lemon Essential Oil
Authors: Petretto Giacomo Luigi , Mele Andrea , Pintore Giorgio , Mannu Alberto
Published: October 2024

The development of new materials for the controlled release of molecules represents a topic of primary importance in medicine, as well as in food science. In recent years, eutectic solvents have been applied as releasing media due to their improved capacity to interact with specific molecules, offering a broad range of tunability. Nevertheless, their application in essential oil dissolution are rare and more data are needed to develop new generations of effective systems. Herein, three eutectic systems, respectively, composed of choline chloride and ethylene glycol (1:2 molar ratio), methyltriphenylphosphonium bromide and ethylene glycol (molar ratio 1:5), and choline chloride and glycerol (molar ratio 1:1.5) were tested as materials for the controlled release of an essential oil derived from Citrus lemon leaves. Through static headspace fractionation, followed by gas chromatographic analysis, the performances of the three systems were assessed. The specific composition of DESs was pivotal in determining the releasing polar molecules as aldehydes and alcohols. A sustainability ranking based on the EcoScale tool highlighted the superior characteristics of the choline chloride–glycerol DES.
Study of the Dispersion Compensation Double-Layer Diffractive Optical Components Based on Metasurface and Grating, and Their Application in Augmented Reality Displays
Authors: Zhang Jiahang , Liu Siqi , Zhang Wei , Jiang Sijia , Ma Ding , Xu Liang , Yang Mingyu , Jiao Qingbin , Tan Xin
Published: October 2024

We employed a double-layer coupled diffractive optical element, based on metasurfaces and diffraction gratings, which exhibits wavefront modulation and chromatic dispersion compensation. Utilizing this double-layer coupled diffractive optical element in the optical information transmission process of a diffractive waveguide allows for the transmission of color image information using a single-layer waveguide structure. Our results demonstrate that, under the conditions of a field of view of 47° × 47°, an entrance pupil size of 2.9 × 2.9 mm2, and an exit pupil extension size of 8.9 mm, the uniformity of the brightness for each monochromatic field reached 85%, while the uniformity of color transmission efficiency exceeded 95%.
Adsorption Performance for Chromium(VI) of a UiO-66-Ce Metal–Organic Framework Built by DL-Aspartic Acid
Authors: Lin Xiaoyi , Jiang Sabrina Yanan , Li Gang
Published: October 2024

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have recently received a lot of interest for their use in adsorbing and eliminating hexavalent chromium from water. Obtaining low-cost, biocompatible, and environmentally friendly MOFs for research in this field is vital. One very stable three-dimensional UiO-66-Ce(IV) MOF, Ce-asp, was synthesized with a high yield using an amino acid ligand, DL-aspartic acid. As a result, the adsorption characteristics of the MOF against hexavalent chromium ions in aqueous solution were examined. The effects of time, solution pH, MOF dose, and beginning chromium(VI) content in aqueous solution were investigated on adsorption. More crucially, the adsorption mechanism of this MOF for chromium(VI) was proposed, setting the groundwork for its future use in chromium(VI) removal in real-world waters.
Fabrication, Microstructural Evolution, and Mechanical Properties of SiC/(Hf0.25Ta0.25Zr0.25Nb0.25)C/C Nanocomposites
Authors: Wang Zhenyue , Zhou Tianci , Yang Xiantao , Liu Yuenong , Wen Qingbo , Yu Zhaoju
Published: October 2024

A dense monolithic SiC/(Hf0.25Ta0.25Zr0.25Nb0.25)C/C high-entropy ceramic nanocomposite was prepared using a polymer-derived ceramic (PDC) method combined with spark plasma sintering (SPS). The microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of the obtained nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning-electron microscope (SEM), and nanoindentation. The results indicate that the phase composition of SiC/(Hf0.25Ta0.25Zr0.25Nb0.25)C/C can be adjusted by modifying the metal content of the single-source precursor (SSP) through molecular design. The resulting precursor exhibits an exceptionally high ceramic yield, with mass retention of over 90% at 1100 °C, which guarantees the densification of the final SiC/(Hf0.25Ta0.25Zr0.25Nb0.25)C/C composites. The PDC route facilitates the in situ formation of a high-entropy phase within the ceramic matrix under low temperature pyrolysis conditions. Combined with SPS, a dense monolithic SiC/(Hf0.25Ta0.25Zr0.25Nb0.25)C/C nanocomposite was obtained, exhibiting an open porosity of 0.41 vol%, nano-hardness of 27.47 ± 0.46 GPa, elastic modulus of 324.00 ± 13.60 GPa, and fracture toughness of 3.59 ± 0.24 MPa·m0.5, demonstrating excellent mechanical properties.
In Situ Multiphysical Metrology for Photonic Wire Bonding by Two-Photon Polymerization
Authors: Lei Yu , Sun Wentao , Huang Xiaolong , Wang Yan , Gao Jinling , Li Xiaopei , Xiao Rulei , Deng Biwei
Published: October 2024

Femtosecond laser two-photon polymerization (TPP) technology, known for its high precision and its ability to fabricate arbitrary 3D structures, has been widely applied in the production of various micro/nano optical devices, achieving significant advancements, particularly in the field of photonic wire bonding (PWB) for optical interconnects. Currently, research on optimizing both the optical loss and production reliability of polymeric photonic wires is still in its early stages. One of the key challenges is that inadequate metrology methods cannot meet the demand for multiphysical measurements in practical scenarios. This study utilizes novel in situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to monitor the working PWBs fabricated by TPP technology at the microscale. Optical and mechanical measurements are made simultaneously to evaluate the production qualities and to study the multiphysical coupling effects of PWBs. The results reveal that photonic wires with larger local curvature radii are more prone to plastic failure, while those with smaller local curvature radii recover elastically. Furthermore, larger cross-sectional dimensions contribute dominantly to the improved mechanical robustness. The optical-loss deterioration of the elastically deformed photonic wire is only temporary, and can be fully recovered when the load is removed. After further optimization based on the results of multiphysical metrology, the PWBs fabricated in this work achieve a minimum insertion loss of 0.6 dB. In this study, the multiphysical analysis of PWBs carried out by in situ SEM metrology offers a novel perspective for optimizing the design and performance of microscale polymeric waveguides, which could potentially promote the mass production reliability of TPP technology in the field of chip-level optical interconnection.
In-Plane Cyclic Mechanical Properties of CF/PEEK/TPU Flexible Composite with Zero Poisson Ratio
Authors: Gao Junpeng , Wang Tingting , Xu Hu , Han Laisheng , Zhang Baoyan , Han Niudong , Zhang Diantang
Published: October 2024

This paper presents the in-plane deformation and cyclic mechanical properties of CF/PEEK (Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Polyetheretherketone)-reinforced TPU (thermoplastic polyurethanes) flexible composites with a zero Poisson ratio. A novel CF/PEEK honeycomb reinforcement with a zero Poisson ratio was fabricated by using 3D-printing technology. Then, TPU was bonded in the two sides of the CF/PEEK honeycomb reinforcement. The in-plane deformation ability and cyclic mechanical properties were evaluated. The results show that the zero Poisson ratio flexible composite can achieve a large in-plane plastic deformation of more than 50% and can better maintain the zero Poisson ratio superstructure. By collecting and comparing the mechanical characteristic values of the CF/PEEK flexible composite under a cyclic load, the CF/PEEK flexible composite MH22-t0.6-CT has the best structural stability. The length of the structure was increased by about 12.53%. By studying the deformation mechanism and failure mechanisms of the flexible composites, the in-plane recyclability of the flexible composites was evaluated, which provides the basic research basis for large-scale in-plane deformation composites.
Models for the Design and Optimization of the Multi-Stage Wiredrawing Process of ZnAl15% Wires for Spray Metallization
Authors: del Rey Juan Carlos , Guerrero-Vacas Guillermo , Comino Francisco , Rodríguez-Alabanda Oscar
Published: October 2024

Metallization, a process for applying anti-corrosion coatings, has advantages over hot-dip galvanizing, such as reduced thermal stress and the ability to work “in situ”. This process consists of the projection of a protective metal as coating from a wire as application material, and this wire is obtained by multi-stage wiredrawing. For the metallization process, a zinc–aluminum alloy wire obtained by this process is used. This industrial process requires multiple stages/dies of diameter reduction, and determining the optimal sequence is complex. Thus, this work focuses on developing models with the aim of designing and optimizing the wiredrawing process of zinc–aluminum (ZnAl) alloys, specifically ZnAl15%, used for anti-corrosion applications. Both analytical models and numerical models based on the finite element method (FEM) and implemented by computer-aided engineering (CAE) software Deform 2D/3D v.12, enabled the prediction of the drawing stress and drawing force in each drawing stage, producing values consistent with experimental measurements. Key findings include the modeling of the material behavior when ZnAl15% wires were subjected to the tensile test at different speeds, with strain rate sensitivity coefficient m = 0.0128, demonstrating that this type of alloy is especially sensitive to the strain rate. In addition, the optimal friction coefficient (µ) for the drawing process of this material was experimentally identified as µ = 0.28, the ideal drawing die angle was determined to be 2α = 10°, and the alloy’s deformability limit has been established by a reduction ratio r ≤ 22.5%, which indicates good plastic deformation capacity. The experimental results confirmed that the development of the proposed models can be feasible to facilitate the design and optimization of industrial processes, improving the efficiency and quality of ZnAl15% alloy wire production.
Experimental Study on the Effect of Calcium Aluminate Cement Addition on the Drying and Physical Properties of Refractory Castables Containing Colloidal Silica
Authors: Piippo Antti , Ruotanen Kyösti , Visuri Ville-Valtteri , Poutiainen Niko , Heikkinen Eetu-Pekka
Published: October 2024

Colloidal silica-bonded castables offer several advantages compared to traditional calcium aluminate cement (CAC)-bonded castables, including lower torque values during mixing, superior drying properties, and a lower CaO content. Nevertheless, information on the combination of CAC and colloidal silica is limited, and the effect of CAC additions on the drying properties of colloidal silica-bonded castables remains unknown. In this study, these drying properties were measured by rapidly heating 400 kg samples to 500 °C and assessing the resulting damage to each sample. Additionally, the physical and chemical properties of small-scale samples were analyzed to evaluate the impact of CAC addition. The analyzed properties included cold crushing strength (CCS), density, permanent linear change (PLC) and weight loss. The microstructure of the samples was investigated by FESEM and EDS. The results indicate that adding 1.5 wt.% increased the cold crushing strength at 20 °C, while lower CAC amounts had no noticeable effect. A mullite phase was observed in the sample without CAC, and correspondingly, anorthite was found in those with CAC additions. The samples exhibited significant differences in the drying tests, with the degrees of damage increasing with the CAC addition.
Boronize Coatings Studied with a New Mass Transfer Model
Authors: Morales-Robles Ángel Jesús , Ortiz-Domínguez Martín , Gómez-Vargas Oscar Armando , Moreno-González María de la Luz
Published: October 2024

This study examined the development of Fe2B (diiron boronize) coatings on the surface of 35NiCrMo4 steel through the thermochemical surface hardening process called boronizing. The morphology and thickness of the boronize coatings were assessed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy (OM). A novel mathematical mass transfer model was developed to estimate the diffusion coefficients of boron in hard coating. The presence of uniformly distributed boronize coatings with a typical sawtooth pattern on the surface of the substrate was confirmed. The boronize coating’s chemical composition and phase constituents were analyzed utilizing X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). The study confirmed the presence of a single-phase boronize coating (Fe2B). Furthermore, microhardness tests indicated that the boronized specimen’s surface demonstrated an average hardness of approximately 1953 HV. The wear study were conducted using the pin-on-disk method under dry debonding conditions at room temperature to estimate the coefficient of friction (COF) of the boronized (average ≈ 0.35) and untreated (0.725) specimens. The results revealed approximately 200% improvement in wear resistance due to the boronized coating. The empirical validation of the mathematical model was carried out for two additional boronizing conditions at 1223 K for 3 h and 1273 K for 1.5 h, resulting in an estimated percentage error of around 2.5% for both conditions. Additionally, an ANOVA analysis was performed, taking into account the temperature and time factors. The findings indicate that both factors exert a substantial influence on the dependent variable (u), with temperature (T) contributing 64.68%, time (t) contributing 27.37%, and the interaction of both factors (T × t) contributing 5.13%.