bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) connectivity and settlement capacity in mid-latitude fjord regions
Authors: Corrochano-Fraile Ana , Carboni Stefano , Green Darren M. , Taggart John B. , Adams Thomas P. , Aleynik Dmitry , Bekaert Michaël
Published: February 2024

The mussel industry faces challenges such as low and inconsistent levels of larvae settlement and poor-quality spat, leading to variable production. However, mussel farming remains a vital sustainable and environmentally responsible method for producing protein, fostering ecological responsibility in the aquaculture sector. We investigate the population connectivity and larval dispersion of blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) in Scottish waters, as a case study, using a multidisciplinary approach that combined genetic data and particle modelling. This research allows us to develop a thorough understanding of blue mussel population dynamics in mid-latitude fjord regions, to infer gene-flow patterns, and to estimate population divergence. Our findings reveal a primary south-to-north particle transport direction and the presence of five genetic clusters. We discover a significant and continuous genetic material exchange among populations within the study area, with our biophysical model’s outcomes aligning with our genetic observations. Additionally, our model reveals a robust connection between the southwest coast and the rest of the west coast. This study will guide the preservation of mussel farming regions, ensuring sustainable populations that contribute to marine ecosystem health and resilience.
Quantity and quality of minichromosome maintenance protein complexes couple replication licensing to genome integrity
Authors: Yadav Anoop Kumar , Polasek-Sedlackova Hana
Published: February 2024

Accurate and complete replication of genetic information is a fundamental process of every cell division. The replication licensing is the first essential step that lays the foundation for error-free genome duplication. During licensing, minichromosome maintenance protein complexes, the molecular motors of DNA replication, are loaded to genomic sites called replication origins. The correct quantity and functioning of licensed origins are necessary to prevent genome instability associated with severe diseases, including cancer. Here, we delve into recent discoveries that shed light on the novel functions of licensed origins, the pathways necessary for their proper maintenance, and their implications for cancer therapies.
Full seismic waveform analysis combined with transformer neural networks improves coseismic landslide prediction
Authors: Dahal Ashok , Tanyaş Hakan , Lombardo Luigi
Published: February 2024

Seismic waves can shake mountainous landscapes, triggering thousands of landslides. Regional-scale landslide models primarily rely on shaking intensity parameters obtained by simplifying ground motion time-series into peak scalar values. Such an approach neglects the contribution of ground motion phase and amplitude and their variations over space and time. Here, we address this problem by developing an explainable deep-learning model able to treat the entire wavefield and benchmark it against a model equipped with scalar intensity parameters. The experiments run on the area affected by the 2015 Mw7.8 Gorkha, Nepal earthquake reveal a 16% improvement in predictive capacity when incorporating full waveforms. This improvement is achieved mainly on gentle (~25°) hillslopes exposed to low ground shaking (~0.2 m/s). Moreover, we can largely attribute this improvement to the ground motion before and much after the peak velocity arrival. This underscores the limits of single-intensity measures and the untapped potential of full waveform information.
Combinatorial effect of calcium chloride and polyethylene glycol on efficient isolation of small extracellular vesicles
Authors: Asfiya Rahmat , McCully Grace , Paramanantham Anjugam , Das Siddharth , Srivastava Akhil
Published: February 2024

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are cargo-carrying cellular nano-vesicles that have been explored for developing organic drug delivery modalities (DVMs), an alternative to synthetic liposomes.
Pd-catalysed C–H alkynylation of benzophospholes
Authors: Tokura Yu , Xu Shibo , Yasui Kosuke , Nishii Yuji , Hirano Koji
Published: February 2024

A palladium-catalysed C2–H alkynylation of benzophospholes with alkynyl bromides has been developed to afford the corresponding phosphole-alkyne conjugations in good yields.
Dissolution of K-silicate rocks with Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans biogenic acid: characterization and agronomic performance of the end-products
Authors: Matias Patrícia Cardoso , Mattiello Edson Marcio , Santos Wedisson Oliveira , Pogorzelski Denison , Ballotin Fabiane Carvalho , Espósito Carolyne Henrique de Carvalho , Badel Jorge Luis
Published: February 2024

Solubilization of plant nutrients from silicate rocks, using acids produced by microorganisms has emerged as both an environmentally friendly and an economically viable process for sustainable fertilizer production.
Evidence for non-Arrhenius behavior of EPDM rubber by combining Arrhenius and time–temperature superposition (TTS) extrapolations
Authors: Cui Zhiguo , Liu Wensong , Tan Lei , Sun Guodong , Hu Xiaoling
Published: February 2024

Combine the Arrhenius extrapolation with the time–temperature superposition (TTS) extrapolation, a method to prove the non-Arrhenius behavior of rubber material is provided.
Characterization of activated carbon produced from the green algae Spirogyra used as a cost-effective adsorbent for enhanced removal of copper(ii): application in industrial wastewater treatment
Authors: Djezzar Zohra , Aidi Amel , Rehali Hanane , Ziad Sbarina , Othmane Tarik
Published: February 2024

We prepare porous carbon derived from the green algae Spirogyra, which was activated using natural lemon through pyrolysis at 600 °C for 3 h, and investigated its adsorption ability and performance towards copper ions in an aqueous solution.
Rotational diffusion of colloidal microspheres near flat walls
Authors: Carrasco-Fadanelli Virginia , Mao Yushan , Nakakomi Tomoki , Xu Haonan , Yamamoto Jun , Yanagishima Taiki , Buttinoni Ivo
Published: February 2024

We quantify the rotational diffusivity of spherical microspheres with an off-center fluorescent core. Fluorescence alone can give an effective rotational diffusivity; axis-dependent diffusivities can be found when bright-field illumination is added.
Unraveling the photocatalytic potential of transition metal sulfide and selenide monolayers for overall water splitting and photo-corrosion inhibition
Authors: Rehman Shafiq Ur , Wang Junwei , Wu Guixuan , Ali Sajjad , Xian Jian , Mahmood Nasir
Published: February 2024

A systematic study was carried out to identify transition metal sulfide and selenide (TMSS) monolayers, which resist both photo-degradation and photo-corrosion in a single electrolyte towards overall water splitting (OWS).
Controllable and facile one-pot synthesis of high surface area amorphous, crystalline, and triphasic TiO2: catalytic and photocatalytic applications
Authors: Ariaeinezhad Fatemeh , Mohammadnezhad Gholamhossein , Zare Maryam , Akintola Oluseun , Plass Winfried
Published: February 2024

A simple and controllable synthesis led to both amorphous and crystalline porous TiO2with remarkably high surface area and pore volume. Their distinctive characteristics influenced their effectiveness in photocatalytic and catalytic processes.
Synthesis of new DOPO derivatives and investigation of their synergistic effect with APP–PEI on the flame retardancy of epoxy composite
Authors: Duc Cong Trinh , Nguyen Linh Chi , Van Phuc Ban , Nguyen Ha Thanh , Dang Thi Tuyet Anh , Le-Nhat-Thuy Giang , Nguyen Thi Quynh Giang , Thi Phuong Hoang , Nguyen Tuan Anh , Tran Quang Vinh , Quang Hung Tran , Hoang Mai Ha , Van Tuyen Nguyen
Published: February 2024

Sixteen DOPO derivatives FR1–FR16 were successfully synthesized. The DOPO derivatives and APP-PEI showed a synergistic effect on the flame retardancy of epoxy. The epoxy composites displayed high fire resistance and good mechanical property.
Four-arm star-shaped high-performance poly(aryl piperidine) anion exchange membranes for fuel cells
Authors: Han Long , Gong Shoutao , Zhang Xinli , Yang Min , Yan Xiaoming , He Gaohong , Zhang Fengxiang
Published: February 2024

Anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) are a new generation of energy conversion technology that excels proton exchange membrane fuel cells in terms of oxygen reduction kinetics.
Recent advances on metal–organic frameworks for deep purification of olefins
Authors: Jiang Yunjia , Yang Wenlei , Zhang Yuanbin , Wang Lingyao , Chen Banglin
Published: February 2024

The efficient removal of trace impurities is significant for the production of high-purity olefins. This review summarizes the latest advancements in the deep purification of ethylene and propylene using MOF materials.
Fluorine-free “solvent-in-salt” sodium battery electrolytes: solvation structure and dynamics
Authors: Xu Yanqi , Filippov Andrei , Bhowmick Sourav , Johansson Patrik , Shah Faiz Ullah
Published: February 2024

Most “solvent-in-salt” (SIS) electrolytes are based on heavily fluorinated anions. Here we create fluorine-free SIS electrolytes with many promising basic characteristics for future sodium battery application.
Joint resource allocation and security redundancy for autonomous driving based on deep reinforcement learning algorithm
Authors: Zhang Han , Liang Hongbin , Wang Lei , Yao Yiting , Lin Bin , Zhao Dongmei
Published: February 2024

Autonomous vehicles navigating urban roads require technology that combines low latency with high computing power. The limited resources of the vehicle itself compel it to offload task requirements to edge server (ES) for processing assistance. However, as the number of vehicles continues to increase, how edge servers reasonably allocate limited resources to autonomous vehicles becomes critical to the success of urban intelligent transportation services. This paper establishes an urban road scenario with multiple autonomous vehicles and an edge computing server and considers two main driving behaviour transition resource requests, namely car‐following behaviour requests and lane‐changing behaviour requests. Simultaneously, acknowledging that vehicles may encounter unforeseen traffic hazards when switching driving behaviours, a safety redundancy setting strategy is employed to allocate additional resources to the vehicle to ensure safety and model the vehicle resource allocation problem in the autonomous driving system. Double‐deep Q‐network (DDQN) is then used to solve this model and maximize the total system utility by comprehensively considering resource costs, system revenue, and autonomous vehicle safety. Finally, results from the simulation experiment indicate that the proposed dynamic resource allocation scheme, based on deep reinforcement learning for autonomous vehicles under edge computing, not only greatly improves the system's benefits and reduces processing delays compared to traditional greedy algorithms and value iteration, but also effectively ensures security.
Performance analyses of basic cogeneration basic cogeneration plants in agriculture and food production
Authors: Karaali Rabi , Keven Arzu
Published: February 2024

Energy in agriculture and in food production have vital importance that affect directly the cost and the quality of the products. Micro cogeneration plants are widely used in the World to produce heat and electricity at the same time in a same plant. The aim of this study, to analyze the performance of the production of power and heat for the food production process and the agricultural needs. For that reason, a basic cogeneration plant is taken to analyze the performance by using 1st and 2nd laws of thermodynamics and exergy analysis method. The electric-heat exergy rates, the energy and exergy efficiencies, the combustion chamber and the gas turbine outlet temperatures, the total electric and heat energies and exergies, and the specific works were calculated for various ambient temperatures and for various excess air rates of the basic cogeneration plants fueled with methane. The effects of the various ambient temperatures and the various excess air rates on the performance of the basic cogeneration plants were obtained, discussed and analyzed. For the best performance and for the best working conditions of the basic cogeneration plants in agriculture and food production process and food industry recommendations were done. It was found that, lower ambient temperatures give higher electric efficiency, but lower heat efficiency. However, an optimum excess air rates for the best performance was found at the value 2.3 of the excess air rates of the basic cogeneration plants fueled with methane.
Enhancing Precipitation Prediction in the Ziz Basin: A Comprehensive Review of Traditional and Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Bouziane Sara , Aghoutane Badraddine , Moumen Aniss , Sahlaoui Ali , El Ouali Anas
Published: February 2024

Accurate precipitation forecasting is paramount for various sectors. Traditional methods for rainfall prediction involve understanding physical processes, historical weather data, and statistical models. These methods utilize observations from ground-based weather stations, satellites, and weather radars to assess current conditions and predict future precipitation. However, accurate precipitation prediction remains challenging due to the intricate and non-linear characteristics of rainfall. Over the past few years, machine learning (ML) algorithms have shown promise in improving precipitation prediction accuracy. This research provides an overview of both traditional methods and advanced ML models applicable to rainfall prediction, including regression, classification, and time series models. We conducted a comprehensive review of related works that explore the impact of using ML algorithms for rainfall estimation. Through this analysis, we identified the strengths and limitations of ML models in this context and highlighted advancements in rainfall prediction using these algorithms. We possess a comprehensive dataset, spanning data from 1996 to 2015, comprising historical weather data from the Ziz basin, our designated study area. This dataset contains five key meteorological features: precipitation, humidity, wind, temperature, and evaporation. In terms of perspective, we plan to utilize this dataset and conduct a comprehensive comparative study to evaluate the performance of different ML models. Our objective is to demonstrate the effectiveness and potential of these algorithms in improving weather forecasting capabilities and enhancing the accuracy of rainfall estimation methods in the specific study area.
Data process and water resources management in Morocco: Issues and challenges
Authors: Jamil Hicham , Jamal Elhassan , Rissouni Youssef , El Mansouri Bouabid , Moumen Aniss , Chao Jamal
Published: February 2024

This article will examine the data collection process, management flow, and decision-making process through interviews with public sector representatives responsible for water management.

Natural resources have always been at the heart of the world’s most important government strategies. The development of economies is contingent upon the effective management of a country’s water resources, which in turn requires good water governance that depends on the collection of sufficient data and an effective data management system (1), especially with climate change continuing to impact this resource around the world.

The management of natural resources, in general, necessitates collecting data and raw measurements, resulting in storing a large volume of data. Therefore, Big Data Analytics (BDA) technology is considered a primary means of processing such data. However, while Big Data technologies offer a suitable solution for ensuring optimal and rapid use of data, the success of functional and technical designs can only be guaranteed by maintaining complete control over the processing and decision-making processes.
Assessment of drinking water quality based on trace elements concentrations in the semi-arid region, Morocco
Authors: Alitane Abdennabi , Essahlaoui Ali , Van Griensven Ann , Eisenreich Steven , Essahlaoui Narjisse , Elaaraj Abdallah , Kassou Amina , Essaied Abdelouahed
Published: February 2024

Human health and sustainable socio-economic growth are closely linked to water quality. Due to increasingly intense human activity, pollutants, and in particular trace elements, are entering the aquatic system and harming humans. The main objective of this study is to analyse and compare the impact of the trace elements on the water quality of natural springs. The concentrations of ten trace elements in 12 spring water samples collected in 2022 were analyzed using ICP-MS to determine the spatial variability of natural water quality in the Ouislane watershed. Nine major trace elements (boron, cobalt, chromium, copper, manganese, nickel, lead, zinc, and vanadium) were measured using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) technique. The average values of these elements followed the descending trend: B > Ni > Cr > Co > Zn > Mn > V > Cu > Pb in spring water samples. Some trace elements measured in certain water samples exceed the upper limits set by Moroccan drinking water quality standards (NM) and the World Health Organization (WHO). From the principal components analysis (PCA), 83% of the variation is explained by the first three main components. B, Co, Cr and Ni have a strongly impact on water quality explain by their strong correlation with CP1 (R2 > 0.70). The calculated water quality index (WQI) values ranged from 61.18 to 95.11, with an average of 78.47. Approximately 17% of the water samples were categorized as excellent quality water (WQI < 50), with the remaining 83% classified as good quality water (50 < WQI < 100). According to the WQI index, all the natural spring waters investigated are deemed suitable for human consumption.
Assessment of the effect of drought and anthropogenic liquid pollution on the physicochemical quality of the waters of Oued Inaouene using the Water Quality Index (Taza, Morocco)
Authors: Sghiouer Fatima Ezzehra , Nahli Abdelmottalib , Bouka Hassan , Chlaida Mohamed
Published: February 2024

The Inaouene river, a tributary of the Oued Sebou, is subject to the effects of drought in the Mediterranean climate and pollution from raw wastewater. Assessment of water quality in this hydrosystem using the water quality index (WQI) calculated from 19 physico-chemical parameters (pH, T°, EC, DO, MES, NH4+, NTK, NO3-,SO4--, PO4-- ,PT, COD, BOD5, Cl-, Cr, Zn, Pb, Cu and Fe) over 3 hydrological cycles (May 2019 to June 2022) showed that upstream, water quality remains very poor, with no significant inter-annual variations, except for stations located on Oued Lahdar (WQI=35.11) and those downstream of Inaouène (WQI=43.71), where quality is good during the 2nd hydrological cycle. During the 1st and 3rd hydrological cycles, water quality deteriorated in the Inaouene (WQI>100), reflecting water quality unfit for consumption. Overall, the WQI values recorded are very high during the 3rd dry hydrological cycle. Moreover, the WQI varied significantly between the 3 cycles (p = 0.0006).
Analytical Review of Microplastics Occurrence in Bottled Water, Tap Water, and Wastewater Treatment Plants
Authors: Mejjad Nezha , Laissaoui Abdelmourhit , Ait Bouh Hasna , El Aouidi Samira , Moumen Aniss , Azidane Hind , El Bouhaddioui Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Currently, water availability and accessibility have become more challenging due to population growth, development of industrial and agricultural activities, and the effects of climate change. Various types of pollutants released by human activities threaten water quality and availability. Microplastics and emerging contaminants are currently affecting water resources and posing a risk to human health. The present study reviews the available studies that analyzed the abundance, shape, and size of microplastics in water, including glass, plastic, reusable, recyclable, and beverage bottled water, tap water, and wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) influent and effluent. Analysis of the collected data allowed comparison of microplastic abundance in different packaging water bottles, tap water, and raw and treated water from WWTPs. The analysis results suggest that microplastics in drinking water are mainly associated with water sources. Therefore, more attention should be paid to water treatment and purification processes and technologies. The type of packaging is also a crucial parameter to consider when quantifying microplastics in drinking water, although the use of glass bottles is recommended to minimize the potential associated risk to humans and ensure safe consumption. Increasing public awareness and knowledge about waste separation, the potential risks of microplastics to human health, and the urgent need for behavioral change in the management of waste, mainly plastic objects, remain the main keys to reducing the number of plastics entering our environment and our bodies.
Radiation dose fractionation and its potential hormetic effects on male Glossina palpalis gambiensis (Diptera: Glossinidae): a comparative study of reproductive and flight quality parameters
Authors: Kaboré Bénéwendé Aristide , Taqi Syeda Dua , Mkinga Athumani , Morales Zambrana Anibal E , Mach Robert L , Vreysen Marc JB , de Beer Chantel J
Published: February 2024

One of the most critical factors for implementing the sterile insect technique for the management of tsetse is the production of large quantities of highly competitive sterile males in the field. Several factors may influence the biological quality of sterile males, but optimizing the irradiation protocols to limit unwanted somatic cell damage could improve male performance. This study evaluated the effect of fractionation of gamma radiation doses on the fertility and flight quality of male Glossina palpalis gambiensis. Induced sterility was assessed by mating irradiated males with virgin fertile females. Flight quality was assessed using a standard protocol. The male flies were irradiated as pupae on day 23–27 post larviposition with 110 Gy, either in a single dose or in fractionations of 10 + 100 Gy and 50 + 60 Gy separated by 1-, 2- and 3-day intervals or 55 + 55 Gy separated by 4-, 8-, and 24-hour intervals. All treatments induced more than 90% sterility in females mated with irradiated males, as compared with untreated males. No significant differences were found in emergence rate or flight propensity between fractionated and single radiation doses, nor between the types of fractionations. Overall, the 50(D0) + 60(D1) Gy dose showed slightly higher induced sterility, flight propensity, and survival of males under feeding regime. Dose fractionation resulted in only small improvements with respect to flight propensity and survival, and this should be traded off with the required increase in labor that dose fractionation entails, especially in larger control programs.
Chewing lice of Bearded Reedling (Panurus biarmicus) and diversity of louse-host associations of birds in reed beds in Slovakia
Authors: Sychra Oldřich , Sušilová Lucie , Najer Tomáš , Literák Ivan , Papoušek Ivo , Martinů Jana , Trnka Alfréd , Capek Miroslav
Published: February 2024

A total of 1,621 wild birds representing 34 species were examined for chewing lice in reed beds in southwestern Slovakia during the pre-breeding migration 2008–2009 and 2016–2019. A total of 377 (23.3%) birds representing 15 species were parasitized by 26 species of chewing lice of 12 genera. Dominant genera were Penenirmus (with dominance 32.6%) and Menacanthus (29.4%), followed by Brueelia (12.6%), Acronirmus (10.8%), Philopterus (7.7%), and Myrsidea (4.2%). We evaluated 33 host-louse associations including both 1) host-generalist, parasitizing more than one host species and host-specific lice, occurring only on a single host species, and 2) lice species with large range geographic distribution, reported across the range of the distribution of their hosts and lice species with only occasional records from a limited area within the range of their hosts. The Bearded Reedling, Panurus biarmicus (Linnaeus, 1758), was parasitized by two species of chewing lice, Menacanthus brelihi Balát, 1981 and Penenirmus visendus (Złotorzycka, 1964), with conspicuously different prevalences (5.6% vs. 58.2%, respectively; n = 251). New material enabled us to redescribe both species of lice: the first one is resurrected from previous synonymy as a valid species. A fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I gene was sequenced from these two species in order to assess their relative phylogenetic position within their genera. Our study demonstrates the importance of an adequate identification of parasites, especially on rarely examined and endangered hosts.
A Study of Efficacy and Outcomes of Two Techniques of Mechanical Thrombectomy in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Shavi Tejesh , Pandey Paritosh , Acharya Ullas V
Published: February 2024

Background Endovascular mechanical thrombectomy (A Direct Aspiration First Pass Technique [ADAPT] and Solitaire stent retrieval techniques) as an emergency reperfusion therapy in acute ischemic stroke patients avoids secondary brain insult and thereby prevents permanent neurological deficits. As studies comparing the two thrombectomy procedures are scarce, we evaluated their efficacy.

Methods In this prospective observational study done at Manipal Hospitals Bangalore, 75 patients were separated into two groups based on the final reperfusion technique employed: ADAPT group with 39 patients who underwent contact aspiration technique and Solitaire group with 36 patients who underwent stent retrieval thrombectomy. The rate of successful reperfusion (modified treatment in cerebral infarction scores [mTICI]); functional outcomes (modified Rankin scale [mRS] and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS]) at 24 hours, 1 month and 3 months postintervention; and the adverse events were compared between the two groups.

Results Successful reperfusion was significantly higher in the ADAPT group. Mean NIHSS and mRS scores reduced significantly postintervention for both groups, but was greater for the ADAPT group, while mortality and other adverse events were significantly greater in the solitaire group.

Conclusion Mechanical thrombectomy is an effective reperfusion therapy for acute ischemic stroke patients. Comparing the two techniques revealed better outcomes for ADAPT, than stent retrieval technique.
Conversion to Autologous Breast Reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi and Immediate Fat Grafting in Patients with Previous Implant Failure: An Efficient, Reproducible, and Safe Technique
Authors: Couto-González Ivan , Brea-García Beatriz , Fernández-Marcos Adrián Ángel , Taboada-Suárez Antonio
Published: February 2024

Introduction Implant-based breast reconstructions (IBBRs) increased last years despite the growing indications for radiotherapy in the treatment of breast cancer. As a result, complications and reconstructive failures associated to IBBR have increased. Autologous breast reconstruction (ABR) using fat-augmented latissimus dorsi (FALD) has become popular in recent years.

Methods We aimed to evaluate conversion to ABR using latissimus dorsi and immediate fat grafting in 61 cases with IBBR failure.

Results Immediate reconstruction was found significatively related with an increased number of surgeries resulting from IBBR complications (p < 0.001). Note that 41% of the cases presented a grade III/IV Baker and Palmer capsular contracture, 29% implant extrusion, and 21% implant infection. Mean survival of the first implant was 16.95 months. ABR process was completed in 47% of cases with a single surgery. Statistically significant differences were observed between this fact and previous IBBR failure due to infection (p = 0.03) or extrusion (p = 0.01). Mean volume of fat graft was 429.61 mL, mean length of the surgical procedure was 3.17 hours, and the average length of hospital stay after surgery was 2.67 days. Only 3.3% of the cases developed some major complication. None of the cases presented reconstructive failure.

Conclusion FALD is a very safe total ABR technique, an important fact in patients with previous reconstructive failures. The large volume of fat that can be grafted in a single surgery allows the reconstruction of breast in a reasonable size. The reduced length of surgery and hospital stay make the FALD technique an option to consider when an autologous but efficient and safe reconstruction is desired.
Effect of an Orthogonal Locking Plate and Primary Plate Working Length on Construct Stiffness and Plate Strain in an In vitro Fracture-Gap Model
Authors: de Bruyn Brett Walter , Glyde Mark , Day Robert , Hosgood Giselle
Published: February 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to compare stiffness and strain of an in vitro fracture-gap model secured with a primary 3.5-mm locking compression plate (LCP) at three primary plate working lengths without and with an orthogonal 2.7-mm LCP.

Study Design Primary plate screw configurations modeled short working length (SWL), medium working length (MWL), and long working length (LWL) constructs. Construct stiffness with and without an orthogonal plate during nondestructive four-point bending and torsion, and plate surface strain measured during bending, was analyzed.

Results Single plate construct stiffness was significantly, incrementally, lower in four-point bending and torsion as working length was extended. Addition of an orthogonal plate resulted in significantly higher bending stiffness for SWL, MWL, and LWL (p < 0.05) and torsional stiffness for MWL and LWL (p < 0.05). Single plate construct strain was significantly, incrementally, higher as working length was extended. Addition of an orthogonal plate significantly lowered strain for SWL, MWL, and LWL constructs (p < 0.01).

Conclusion Orthogonal plate application resulted in higher bending and torsional construct stiffness and lower strain over the primary plate in bending in this in vitro model. Working length had an inverse relationship with construct stiffness in bending and torsion and a direct relationship with strain. The inverse effect of working length on construct stiffness was completely mitigated by the application of an orthogonal plate in bending and modified in torsion.
Transnasal Endoscopic Repair of Posttraumatic Meningoencephalocele: A Rare Presentation
Authors: Kaushik Eshaan , Nayyar Ankush , Charaya Kshitij , Jugpal Tejeshwar Singh
Published: February 2024

Meningoencephalocele is a rare condition that results due to defect in skull base causing brain tissue to herniate along with meninges. We present a case of posttraumatic meningoencephalocele in an 11-year-old child, who presented with nasal mass and cerebrospinal fluid leak. A cribriform plate defect was detected on magnetic resonance imaging along with herniation of brain tissue. The big defect was successfully repaired endoscopically in multiple layers and without placement of a lumbar drain, thereby reducing the complications of an open transcranial surgery.
Self-replication of A
β
42
aggregates occurs on small and isolated fibril sites
Authors: Curk Samo , Krausser Johannes , Meisl Georg , Frenkel Daan , Linse Sara , Michaels Thomas C. T. , Knowles Tuomas P. J. , Šarić Anđela
Published: February 2024

Self-replication of amyloid fibrils via secondary nucleation is an intriguing physicochemical phenomenon in which existing fibrils catalyze the formation of their own copies. The molecular events behind this fibril surface-mediated process remain largely inaccessible to current structural and imaging techniques. Using statistical mechanics, computer modeling, and chemical kinetics, we show that the catalytic structure of the fibril surface can be inferred from the aggregation behavior in the presence and absence of a fibril-binding inhibitor. We apply our approach to the case of Alzheimer’s A

β
42

amyloid fibrils formed in the presence of proSP-C Brichos inhibitors. We find that self-replication of A

β
42

fibrils occurs on small catalytic sites on the fibril surface, which are far apart from each other, and each of which can be covered by a single Brichos inhibitor.
A genre-oriented analysis of TikTok instructional discourse
Authors: Tommaso Laura
Published: February 2024

This study intends to contribute to the analysis of digital instructional discourse in order to gain an insight
into how the EFL classroom has in some sense shifted online in the hands of amateur experts (Tolson 2010; Bhatia 2018), who create an
informal learning environment by drawing on their discursive competence, disciplinary knowledge and professional practice. By
incorporating quantitative, qualitative, and case study data, this article considers the value of genre analysis in educational
social media research. It focuses, particularly, on the rhetorical and lexico-grammatical features of a selection of
TikTok video mini-lessons targeting Italian speakers of English as a foreign language. Analysis of the data
reveals that digital language teaching discourse on TikTok is a structured event with recurrent rhetorical
patterns and linguistic features for achieving both pedagogical and promotional communicative purposes. The research bears
considerable relevance given the need for the analysis of transformation processes in instructional discourse amid the widespread
use of information and communication technologies and the advance of online learning.
The presence of source viewership in fansub paratexts
Authors: Qiu Juerong
Published: February 2024

Online viewers’ paratextual activities when watching video content include rating, commenting and reviewing. These have received greater attention in audiovisual translation studies, since viewers’ paratexts can provide clues as to how the subtitled product is understood and what elements capture viewers’ attention. This paper examines the English fansubs of a Chinese period drama, to explore Chinese viewers’ motives for watching the show with English subtitles. Special attention is paid to the roles they play in the meaning-making processes of the online community. The paratextual elements include selected timed comments (comments synchronised to the video timeline), forum comments and reviews. The results show that although Chinese viewers are critical of the subtitles, they are highly aware of the fansubbers’ efforts and are enthusiastic about promoting Chinese culture to the wider world. Further, Chinese viewers participate in conversations with non-Chinese online viewers, bringing novel interpretations and circulating creative pleasure.
Prethermalization in an open quantum system coupled to a spatially correlated bosonic bath
Authors: Saha Saptarshi , Bhattacharyya Rangeet
Published: February 2024

A nearly-integrable isolated quantum many-body system reaches a quasi-stationary prethermal state before a late thermalization. Here, we revisit a particular example in the settings of an open quantum system (OQS). We consider a collection of non-interacting atoms coupled to a spatially correlated bosonic bath characterized by a bath correlation length. Our result implies that the integrability of the system depends on such a correlation length. If this length is much larger than the distance between the atoms, such a system behaves as a nearly-integrable OQS. We study the properties of the emerging prethermal state for this case, i.e. the state’s lifetime, the extensive number of existing quasi-conserved quantities, the emergence of the generalized Gibbs state, and the scaling of von Neumann entropy, etc. We find that for the prethermal state, the maximum growth of entropy is logarithmic with the number of atoms, whereas such growth is linear for the final steady state, which is the Gibbs state in this case. Finally, we discuss how such prethermal states can have significant applications in quantum entanglement storage devices.
Optimization approach of DED process to fulfil the requirements on material properties and component performance of waterjet impeller
Authors: Saai A , Arbo S M , Sørli S H , Dybdahl C , Nedreberg M L
Published: February 2024

Directed energy deposition (DED) processes have a great potential for ship building industry to reduce the lead time of ship part supply. However, ship parts such as propellers and impellers have critical requirements on material’s properties and component’s performance. To ensure the exploitation of DED manufacturing for critical parts, an optimization approach of DED process was developed and demonstrated on waterjet impeller made of duplex stainless steel. The developed approach is based on the understanding of the effects of DED process and heat treatment on the material microstructure, and the effects of the microstructure on the material properties, all optimized to fulfil the requirements on the component. The manufacturing and qualification testing were planned based on the requirements in accordance with the current standard guidance. The assessments by standard testing methods, including tensile, Charpy impact, and bending tests demonstrates that the DED material with an optimized heat treatment fulfil the standard requirements. Corrosion and cavitation tests were also performed and demonstrates the high resistances of DED material to cavitation erosion.
Wear Behavior of SBR/BR Compounds Including Different ZnO Types
Authors: Börüban Bingöl C , Polat Ş , Atapek Ş H
Published: February 2024

Zinc complexes have considerable impact on human health and environment especially on aquatic wildlife. One of the main sources of zinc release to the environment is worn rubber particles from tires. Environmental footprint of zinc oxide during production, ecological and economical concerns have prompted the researchers to reduce its use in rubber formulations. Rubber compounds used in the tread, which is the part of the tire in contact with road, must have high wear resistance. In order to determine the wear performance, laboratory wear tests need to be carried out prior to road tests. In the present study, a tread compound recipe based on SBR/BR blend is designed using conventional and composite ZnO materials having CaCO3 as core. Wear behavior of the control and trial compounds prepared with these ZnO materials are tested at room temperature by using Lambourn test instrument. Wear rates and wear energies are calculated using the weight loss data at different slip rates. Based on the wear performance of the trial compounds as well as their cure and mechanical properties, it can be concluded that composite ZnO materials are good candidates to replace the conventional activators in rubber compounds to provide environmental and economic gains.
Mechanical Characterizations on biobased Sheet Molding Compound (SMC) developed for battery boxes.
Authors: Minini Alberto , Becagli Federico , Nieri Jacopo , Armillei Simone , Mingazzini Claudio
Published: February 2024

In this work, performed within FENICE project (www.fenice-composites.com), semifinished materials for the mass production of fire-resistant battery box in the automotive. SMC were developed using PFA (polyfurfuryl alcohol) resin as the matrix and both long and short basalt fibers as reinforcement in a SMC and impregnation pilot line. Mechanical characterization is used to compare prepreg based on fabric impregnation and SMC and measure basic data needed for modelling. Short fiber reinforced composites are cheaper and more isotropic than those reinforced with fabrics, making them more interesting for mass market application in the automotive, such as electrical cars. The semifinished material production must be optimised, and basic mechanical data must be measured, to be used as input into FEM of the components to be produced.
Investigation of the influence of design parameters onto the cracked lap shear specimen
Authors: Rose P , Linke M , Busquets D
Published: February 2024

The Cracked Lap Shear (CLS) specimen allows a mixed-mode loading condition to be generated without a special test fixture using a simple tensile test. The mixed-mode ratio generated is nearly constant over a wide range of crack growth and is representative of the loading conditions in many structural applications of bonded joints. However, this specimen is not standardised, leading to very dissimilar specimen designs in the literature. In this study, the primary design parameter is the sample width in terms of its application for adhesive characterisation, with a typical layup having a 0° layer in contact with the bond line. The results of quasi-static and fatigue tests using varying specimen widths between 5 mm and 40 mm emphasise the specimen width’s influence. Moreover, CLS specimens with the same layup but without an adhesive layer between the adherends are investigated to study the effects of width scaling without a toughened adhesive bond. While the static tests show a linear relationship between specimen width and joint strength, it is different in fatigue tests, where the crack growth rate increases with decreasing specimen width, both for specimens with and without adhesive bond between the joining partners.
Low-frequency air-coupled transducer based damage detection in composite materials
Authors: Wandowski T. , Kudela P. , Radzienski M.
Published: February 2024

In this paper results of simulations of non-contact elastic wave generation in the composite panel based on acoustic to elastic wave transformation are presented. For this purpose simulations of acoustic wave generation and processing are based on the FEM method in COMSOL. Elastic wave generation and propagation are based on the spectral element method (SEM) in the time domain. The SEM model utilises time-varying acoustic pressure distributions calculated in the FEM. The SEM allows to simulate the interactions of elastic waves with the delamination. Damage localization is based on RMS elastic wave energy maps. In this research a panel made of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer composite is investigated. Research related to low-frequency air-coupled transducer (ACT) is presented. The utilisation of low-frequency waves allows for the reduction of the effects of the wave attenuation in composite material. The proposed combination of FEM and SEM gives an efficient tool for the simulation of non-contact wave generation for non-destructive testing analysis.
Probabilistic buckling assessment and reliability of fiber-metal laminate, composite and aluminum cylindrical panels under compression with load and fabrication uncertainties
Authors: Kalfountzos Costas D , Bikakis George S E , Theotokoglou Efstathios E
Published: February 2024

The objective of this article is to study the buckling behavior and reliability of fiber metal laminated (FML), composite and aluminum cylindrical panels under uniaxial compression taking into account fabrication and loading uncertainties. A 3D finite element modeling with ANSYS software has been implemented for this purpose. The panels are discretized using shell elements and the eigenvalue buckling analysis is conducted for the prediction of elastic buckling. The influences of load and fabrication uncertainties on the buckling load factor are studied with probabilistic analyses and the reliability of the panels is calculated. It is found that the thickness of aluminum layers is the most significant uncertain variable for the critical buckling load factor of FML panels, whereas the fiber misalignment angle of their composite layers is insignificant. As the metal volume fraction decreases, the sensitivity of the elastic buckling load factor to variations of the axial load distribution is reduced whereas its sensitivity to variations of the thickness of composite layers is increased. Consequently, the metal volume fraction is an important design parameter for the uncertain buckling behavior of the panels.
Crystal plasticity based modelling and high cycle fatigue life prediction for bi-lamellar Ti-6Al-4V
Authors: Zhao Yindun , Li Yan , Tang Keke , Ferro Paolo , Berto Filippo
Published: February 2024

Microstructural defects and inhomogeneity of titanium alloys fabricated by additive manufacturing technology make their fatigue performance much more complicated, especially reflected in the dispersion of fatigue life. This work employs crystal plasticity finite element method (CPFEM) to predict high cycle fatigue (HCF) life of bi-lamellar Ti-6Al-4V alloy. We first propose a modified VT technique to build representative volume element (RVE) models highlighting lamellar microstructure and micro-defects. Subsequently, fatigue indicator parameter (FIP) is adopted to analyse fatigue deformation under cyclic loading. Finally, HCF life determined by critical fatigue indicator parameter is compared with experimental data collected from published literatures. The results demonstrate that our approach is able to reflect the dispersion of fatigue life and to predict HCF life of bi-lamellar Ti-6Al-4V in a satisfactory manner.
Using the Point Method to estimate failure loads in 3D printed graphene-reinforced PLA notched plates
Authors: Cicero S , Arrieta S , Sánchez M , Castanon-Jano L
Published: February 2024

This work estimates failure loads in Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) printed graphene-reinforced PLA (polylactic acid) plates containing different types of stress risers. With this aim, firstly, several notched plates are tested and conducted to fracture. Then, linear elastic Finite Element (FE) analyses are completed to define the corresponding stress profiles and, finally, the Point Method (PM) is applied to establish the failure criterion. This approach asserts that fracture conditions are achieved when the stress level equates the inherent strength (σ0) at a distance from the notch tip equal to L/2, so both parameters (related to each other through the material fracture toughness, Kmat) have been defined beforehand. The estimations of fracture loads obtained following this approach agree with the experimental results. Thus, the present work demonstrates the accuracy of the PM to estimate failure loads in this 3D printed material.
Snapping of a viscoelastic cylindrical panel under loading with small volume compressed gas
Authors: Usmonov Botir , Karimov Isroil , Almuratov Shavkat , Hikmatov Farruxbek , Eshonov B
Published: February 2024

The paper considers the dynamics of the process of a flat rectangular elastic panel having an initial deflection equal to the critical deflection of the static problem of panel stability. The panel is loaded with compressed gas enclosed in a small volume container. Using this value, the load acting on the panel during the snapping process will depend on the deflection of the panel as a result of the adiabatic expansion of the compressed gas. The main goal of the work is to investigate the stability region of a cylindrical panel when loaded with compressed gas. The problem is solved using a developed methodology based on the method of separating variable equations of mathematical physics. Based on calculations, it was found that when the panel is loaded with compressed gas enclosed in a small-volume container, a stabilizing effect appears, i.e. a certain deflection interval appears where the panel does not lose stability. The presence of external pressure makes it possible to expand this area, i.e. the external environment increases the “stabilizing” effect. Also, taking into account the viscoelastic properties of the material expands this area to 10%.