bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Plugging Performance of Nano-Micron Polymeric Gel Microsphere Plugging Agents for Oil-Based Drilling Fluids
Authors: Liu Kecheng , Wang Ren , Rong Kesheng , Yin Zebin , Lu Tiemei , Yu Yongsheng , Li Yingying , Yang Zexing , Yang Jie , Zhao Zhen
Published: April 2023

As shale gas recovery progresses to deep layers, the wellbore instability during drilling in applications of oil-based drilling fluids (OBFs) becomes increasingly severe. This research developed a plugging agent of nano-micron polymeric microspheres based on inverse emulsion polymerization. Through the single-factor analysis with respect to the permeability plugging apparatus (PPA) fluid loss of drilling fluids, the optimal synthesis conditions of polymeric microspheres (AMN) were determined. Specifically, the optimal synthesis conditions are as follows: the monomer ratio of 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS): Acrylamide (AM): N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) were 2:3:5; the total monomer concentration was 30%; the concentrations and HLB values of emulsifier (Span 80: Tween 60) were 10% and 5.1, respectively; the oil–water ratio of the reaction system was 1:1; the cross-linker concentration was 0.4%. The polymeric microsphere (AMN) produced via the optimal synthesis formula had the corresponding functional groups and good thermal stability. The size distribution of AMN ranged mainly from 0.5 to 10 μm. The introduction of AMND in OBFs can increase the viscosity and yield point of oil-based drilling fluids and slightly decrease the demulsification voltage but significantly reduce high temperature and high pressure (HTHP) fluid loss and permeability plugging apparatus (PPA) fluid loss. The OBFs with 3% polymeric microsphere dispersion (AMND) reduced the HTHP and PPA fluid loss by 42% and 50% at 130 °C, respectively. In addition, The AMND maintained good plugging performance at 180 °C. The AMN particles can block leakoff channels of artificial cores, effectively prevent the invasion of oil-based drilling fluids into formations and suppress pressure transfer. OBFs with 3% AMND enabled the corresponding equilibrium pressure to decrease by 69%, compared with that of the OBFs. The polymeric microspheres had a wide particle size distribution. Thus, they can well match leakage channels at various scales and form plugging layers via compression–deformation and packed accumulation, so as to prevent oil-based drilling fluid from invading formations and improve wellbore stability.
Impacts of Aminopyralid on Tomato Seedlings
Authors: Soukupová Miroslava , Koudela Martin
Published: April 2023

Effective aminopyralid herbicides are commonly used to control broadleaf weeds in cereals or pastures, but their residues in straw or manure may damage cultivated crops and reduce the yield. In our experiments, the response of tomato plants to aminopyralid at doses of 0.6, 1.5, 3, 7.5, and 15 g/ha was evaluated, and extracts from straw treated with the herbicide Mustang Forte were tested. As the concentration of aminopyralid increased, seed germination was delayed by 1 to 3 days, compared to the control, and all the germinating seeds were deformed already at the lowest concentration of 0.6 g/ha. With the increased concentration of aminopyralid, injury to tomato plants also increased, and at the highest applied dose of 15 g/ha, 93.75% of the tomato plants were damaged. The critical level of concentration of aminopyralid in the soil was determined between 3 and 7.5 g/ha. Treatment with aminopyralid influences plant height in the indeterminate cultivar from an aminopyralid concentration of 3 g/ha and in the determinate cultivar from a concentration of 7.5 g/ha, but not as significantly. Thus, this experiment suggests that in the indeterminate cultivar, aminopyralid has a greater effect on height than in the determinate cultivar. This varietal sensitivity should be subjected to further study.
Expression Quantitative Trait Methylation Analysis Identifies Whole Blood Molecular Footprint in Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Authors: Krzyzewska Izabela M. , Lauffer Peter , Mul Adri N. , van der Laan Liselot , Yim Andrew Y. F. Li , Cobben Jan Maarten , Niklinski Jacek , Chomczyk Monika A. , Smigiel Robert , Mannens Marcel M. A. M. , Henneman Peter
Published: April 2023

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) encompasses neurodevelopmental disabilities and physical birth defects associated with prenatal alcohol exposure. Previously, we attempted to identify epigenetic biomarkers for FASD by investigating the genome-wide DNA methylation (DNAm) profiles of individuals with FASD compared to healthy controls. In this study, we generated additional gene expression profiles in a subset of our previous FASD cohort, encompassing the most severely affected individuals, to examine the functional integrative effects of altered DNAm status on gene expression. We identified six differentially methylated regions (annotated to the SEC61G, REEP3, ZNF577, HNRNPF, MSC, and SDHAF1 genes) associated with changes in gene expression (p-value < 0.05). To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to assess whole blood gene expression and DNAm-gene expression associations in FASD. Our results present novel insights into the molecular footprint of FASD in whole blood and opens opportunities for future research into multi-omics biomarkers for the diagnosis of FASD.
Liposomes in Cancer Therapy: How Did We Start and Where Are We Now
Authors: Fulton Melody D. , Najahi-Missaoui Wided
Published: April 2023

Since their first discovery in the 1960s by Alec Bangham, liposomes have been shown to be effective drug delivery systems for treating various cancers. Several liposome-based formulations received approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA), with many others in clinical trials. Liposomes have several advantages, including improved pharmacokinetic properties of the encapsulated drug, reduced systemic toxicity, extended circulation time, and targeted disposition in tumor sites due to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) mechanism. However, it is worth noting that despite their efficacy in treating various cancers, liposomes still have some potential toxicity and lack specific targeting and disposition. This explains, in part, why their translation into the clinic has progressed only incrementally, which poses the need for more research to focus on addressing such translational limitations. This review summarizes the main properties of liposomes, their current status in cancer therapy, and their limitations and challenges to achieving maximal therapeutic efficacy.
Organophosphorus Poisoning: Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and Cardiac Failure as Cause of Death in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Ramadori Giuliano Pasquale
Published: April 2023

Industrial production of food for animals and humans needs increasing amounts of pesticides, especially of organophosphates, which are now easily available worldwide. More than 3 million cases of acute severe poisoning are estimated to occur worldwide every year, and even more cases remain unreported, while 200,000–350,000 incidentally or intentionally poisoned people die every year. Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in organophosphate poisoning have, however, remained unchanged. In addition to several neurologic symptoms (miosis, fasciculations), hypersecretion of salivary, bronchial, and sweat glands, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of urine rapidly induce dehydration, hypovolemia, loss of conscience and respiratory distress. Within hours, signs of acidosis due to systemic hypoxia can be observed at first laboratory investigation after hospitalization. While determination of serum-cholinesterase does not have any diagnostic value, it has been established that hypoalbuminemia alone or accompanied by an increase in creatinine, lactate, or C-reactive protein serum levels has negative prognostic value. Increased serum levels of C-reactive protein are a sign of systemic ischemia. Protective mechanical ventilation should be avoided, if possible. In fact, acute respiratory distress syndrome characterized by congestion and increased weight of the lung, accompanied by heart failure, may become the cause of death. As the excess of acetylcholine at the neuronal level can persist for weeks until enough newly, locally synthesized acetylcholinesterase becomes available (the value of oximes in reducing this time is still under debate), after atropine administration, intravenous albumin and fluid infusion should be the first therapeutic interventions to reestablish normal blood volume and normal tissue oxygenation, avoiding death by cardiac arrest.
Newborn Screening Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices among Obstetrics-Gynecology Residents, Pediatric Residents, and Newborn Screening Nurses in a Tertiary Government Hospital in the Philippines during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Padilla Patrick Jose D. , Manalo Eileen M.
Published: April 2023

Newborn Screening (NBS) saves babies from mental retardation and death. In the Philippines, it was formally established by law in 2004. Program success requires physicians, nurses, and midwives to educate and motivate parents. The COVID-19 pandemic reduced NBS coverage from 91.6% to 80% between December 2019 and December 2020. This study aimed to (1) determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of residents and nurses relative to NBS during the COVID-19 pandemic; and (2) identify possible factors that may have affected NBS services at the Philippine General Hospital during the pandemic. Participants’ demographics were also compared with NBS practices. The study enrolled 189 participants employed during 2020. The results of a self-administered online questionnaire were evaluated. Only 31% of participants scored above a mean passing level for NBS knowledge set by experts. Most participants expressed a favorable attitude towards NBS. Knowledge scores were a significant factor in favorable attitude. Obstetrics-gynecology residents had lower attitude scores than Pediatric residents and NBS Nurses. Prenatal parent education was only practiced by 1/3 of participants. Despite the obstacles of the COVID-19 pandemic, participants appreciated the value of the NBS and were willing to perform specimen collection using safety precautions. Participants identified the need for additional NBS training. The challenges identified provide an avenue for further research with the goal of strengthening NBS, especially during a public health emergency.
Single-Atom Alloy Pd1Ag10/CeO2–ZrO2 as a Promising Catalyst for Selective Alkyne Hydrogenation
Authors: Markov Pavel V. , Bragina Galina O. , Smirnova Nadezhda S. , Baeva Galina N. , Mashkovsky Igor S. , Gerasimov Evgeny Y. , Bukhtiyarov Andrey V. , Zubavichus Yan. V. , Stakheev Alexander Y.
Published: April 2023

The effect of support on the performance of Pd1Ag10/Al2O3 and Pd1Ag10/CeO2–ZrO2 catalysts in the selective hydrogenation of diphenylacetylene (DPA) was studied. Characterization of the catalyst by DRIFTS-CO and HRTEM revealed the formation of a PdAg single-atom alloy (SAA) structure on the surface of PdAg nanoparticles, with Pd1 sites isolated by Ag atoms. It was found that the use of CeO2–ZrO2 as a carrier makes it possible to increase the activity of the Pd1Ag10 catalyst by a factor of three without loss of selectivity compared to the reference Pd1Ag10/Al2O3. According to the HRTEM data, this catalytic behavior can be explained by an increase in the dispersion of Pd1Ag10/CeO2–ZrO2 compared to its Pd1Ag10/Al2O3 counterpart. As evidenced by DRIFTS-CO data, the high selectivity of the Pd1Ag10/CeO2–ZrO2 sample presumably stems from the stability of the structure of isolated Pd1 sites on the surface of SAA Pd1Ag10/CeO2–ZrO2.
Synthesis and Characterization of Green Zinc-Metal-Pillared Bentonite Mediated Curcumin Extract (Zn@CN/BE) as an Enhanced Antioxidant and Anti-Diabetes Agent
Authors: Bellucci Stefano , Rudayni Hassan Ahmed , Shemy Marwa H. , Aladwani Malak , Alneghery Lina M. , Allam Ahmed A. , Abukhadra Mostafa R.
Published: April 2023

Green zinc-metal-pillared bentonite mediated curcumin extract (Zn@CN/BE) was synthesized and characterized as a low-cost and multifunctional (curcumin-based phytochemicals, zinc-capped curcumin, zinc/curcumin complexes, and zinc-pillared bentonite) antioxidant and antidiabetic agent with enhanced activity. The activities of the Zn@CN/BE structure were assessed in comparison with curcumin and ZnO as individual components and in the presence of miglitol and acarbose commercial drugs as controls. The structure validated remarkable antioxidant activities against the common oxidizing radicals (nitric oxide (94.7 ± 1.83%), DPPH (96.4 ± 1.63%), ABTS (92.8 ± 1.33%), and superoxide (62.3 ± 1.63 %)) and inhibition activities against the main oxidizing enzymes (porcine α-amylase (89.3 ± 1.13%), murine α-amylase (70.8 ± 1.54%), pancreatic α-Glucosidase (99.3 ± 1.23%), intestinal α-Glucosidase (97.7 ± 1.24%), and amyloglucosidase (98.4 ± 1.64%)). The reported activities are higher than the activities of individual components and the studied ascorbic acid as well as the commercial drugs. This enhancement effect was assigned to the impact of the zinc pillaring process within the curcumin/bentonite host, which induced the stability, dispersions, and interactive interface of the essential active compounds in addition to the solubility and release rate of the intercalated curcumin extract. This paper recommends the application of the Zn@CN/BE structure as an enhanced, low-cost, biocompatible, safe, and simply produced antioxidant and antidiabetic agent.
Experimental Study on Porpoising of a High-Speed Planing Trimaran
Authors: Zan Liru , Sun Hanbing , Lu Shijie , Zou Jin , Wan Lei
Published: April 2023

Porpoising is defined as unstable coupled heave and pitch motions. In this study, seven test conditions with various longitudinal locations of the center of gravity and the moment of inertia were designed to study the porpoising phenomenon of a tunnel-type planing trimaran. After comparing the lower speed limit for porpoising, this study revealed that moving the center of gravity forward could increase the lower speed limit of porpoising, but it could also increase the amplitude of heave and pitch. Furthermore, the reduction of the moment of inertia of the planing hulls could effectively reduce the oscillation amplitude of planing trimaran porpoising and improve the longitudinal stability of planing trimarans. In this test, condition A5 had a 15% reduction in the inertia moment compared to A3, but the amplitude of the pitch oscillation in porpoising decreased by 60%. Unlike conventional trimaran towing tests, this experiment studied the effect of speed on porpoising after exceeding the lower speed limit for porpoising and found that with an increase in speed, the amplitude of porpoising first increased, then decreased, and then increased again. This study defines the speed at which the amplitude of porpoising increases for the second time as the second critical speed of porpoising. The porpoising generated by a planing trimaran after reaching the second critical speed is defined as the second porpoising. Finally, the limitations of the conventional longitudinal stability limit curve method to predict the porpoising of a planing trimaran are discussed.
Adaptive Diversity Algorithm Based on Block STBC for Massive MIMO Link Misalignment in UWOC Systems
Authors: Li Yanlong , Zhu Kongliang , Jiang Yutong , Mohsan Syed Agha Hassnain , Chen Xiao , Li Shuaixing
Published: April 2023

In the past few years, underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) has become a promising wireless communication technology in the underwater environment. Aiming at the problem formulation of sub-channel correlation enhancement occurring due to the joint impact of underwater link misalignment and turbulence in the process of optical signal transmission in an underwater optical massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system, we propose an adaptive diversity approach depending on partition space time block code (STBC). STBC technology is used to reduce the random fading of optical signals caused by turbulence. At the same time, the channel correlation occurring due to channel misalignment is effectively alleviated by adaptive processing. The adaptive diversity algorithm based on segmented STBC effectively improves the reliability and decrease complexity of underwater optical Massive MIMO communication systems. It determines the particular link misalignment degree by the channel gain matrix obtained from the channel estimation and selects different combinations of detectors according to the degree of misalignment to obtain the maximum gain of the received signal combination. Compared with the chunking scheme, simulation and result shows that the adaptive diversity algorithm improves the tolerance of the system to the link misalignment error from 30 mm to 60 mm under the same condition number of channel gain matrix, and it can still demodulate the source signal directly without requiring detection algorithm in case of a large error in the link misalignment.
In Vitro–In Vivo Correlation of Posaconazole–Amphotericin B Combination against Candida albicans: In Vitro Interacting Concentrations Are Associated with In Vivo Free Drug Levels
Authors: Meletiadis Joseph , Beredaki Maria-Ioanna , Elefanti Antigoni , Pournaras Spyros , Muller Anouk
Published: April 2023

The in vitro/in vivo correlation of antifungal combination testing is necessary in order to assess the efficacy of combination regimens. We, therefore, attempted to correlate in vitro chequerboard testing of posaconazole (POS) and amphotericin B (AMB) with the in vivo outcome of combination therapy against experimental candidiasis in a neutropenic murine model. The AMB + POS combination was tested against a Candida albicans isolate. In vitro, a broth microdilution 8 × 12 chequerboard method with serial two-fold drug dilutions was used. In vivo, CD1 female neutropenic mice with experimental disseminated candidiasis were treated with i.p. AMB and p.o. POS alone and in combination at three effective doses (ED20, ED50 and ED80 corresponding to 20%, 50% and 80% of maximal effect, respectively). CFU/kidneys after 2 days were determined. The pharmacodynamic interactions were assessed based on Bliss independence interaction analysis. In vitro, a Bliss antagonism of −23% (−23% to −22%) was observed at 0.03–0.125 mg/L of AMB with 0.004–0.015 mg/L of POS, while a Bliss synergy of 27% (14%–58%) was observed at 0.008–0.03 mg/L of AMB with 0.000015–0.001 mg/L of POS. In vivo, Bliss synergy (13 ± 4%) was found when an AMB ED20 of 1 mg/kg was combined with all POS ED 0.2–0.9 mg/kg, while Bliss antagonism (35–83%) was found for the combinations of AMB ED50 2 mg/kg and ED80 3.2 mg/kg with POS ED80 of 0.9 mg/kg. Free drug serum levels of POS and AMB in in vivo synergistic and antagonistic combinations were correlated with the in vitro synergistic and antagonistic concentrations, respectively. Both synergistic and antagonistic interactions were found for the AMB + POS combination. POS compromised the efficacy of high effective AMB doses and enhanced low ineffective AMB doses. In vitro concentration-dependent interactions were correlated with in vivo dose-dependent interactions of the AMB + POS combination. In vivo interactions occurred at free drug serum levels close to in vitro interacting concentrations.
The Unusual Dominance of the Yeast Genus Glaciozyma in the Deeper Layer in an Antarctic Permafrost Core (Adélie Cove, Northern Victoria Land) Is Driven by Elemental Composition
Authors: Sannino Ciro , Borruso Luigimaria , Mezzasoma Ambra , Turchetti Benedetta , Ponti Stefano , Buzzini Pietro , Mimmo Tanja , Guglielmin Mauro
Published: April 2023

Rock glaciers are relatively common in Antarctic permafrost areas and could be considered postglacial cryogenic landforms. Although the extensive presence of rock glaciers, their chemical–physical and biotic composition remain scarce. Chemical–physical parameters and fungal community (by sequencing the ITS2 rDNA, Illumina MiSeq) parameters of a permafrost core were studied. The permafrost core, reaching a depth of 6.10 m, was divided into five units based on ice content. The five units (U1–U5) of the permafrost core exhibited several significant (p < 0.05) differences in terms of chemical and physical characteristics, and significant (p < 0.05) higher values of Ca, K, Li, Mg, Mn, S, and Sr were found in U5. Yeasts dominated on filamentous fungi in all the units of the permafrost core; additionally, Ascomycota was the prevalent phylum among filamentous forms, while Basidiomycota was the dominant phylum among yeasts. Surprisingly, in U5 the amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) assigned to the yeast genus Glaciozyma represented about two-thirds of the total reads. This result may be considered extremely rare in Antarctic yeast diversity, especially in permafrost habitats. Based on of the chemical–physical composition of the units, the dominance of Glaciozyma in the deepest unit was correlated with the elemental composition of the core.
Explaining Deep Learning Models for Credit Scoring with SHAP: A Case Study Using Open Banking Data
Authors: Hjelkrem Lars Ole , Lange Petter Eilif de
Published: April 2023

Predicting creditworthiness is an important task in the banking industry, as it allows banks to make informed lending decisions and manage risk. In this paper, we investigate the performance of two different deep learning credit scoring models developed on the textual descriptions of customer transactions available from open banking APIs. The first model is a deep learning model trained from scratch, while the second model uses transfer learning with a multilingual BERT model. We evaluate the predictive performance of these models using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and Brier score. We find that a deep learning model trained from scratch outperforms a BERT transformer model finetuned on the same data. Furthermore, we find that SHAP can be used to explain such models both on a global level and for explaining rejections of actual applications.
Seismic Performance Assessment of a Moment-Resisting Frame Steel Warehouse Provided with Overhead Crane
Authors: Lisperguier Nicolás , López Álvaro , Vielma Juan C.
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study is to analyze the nonlinear behavior of a steel warehouse structured by moment-resistant frames, which utilizes an overhead crane on its interior brackets and as an external load of the weight of the lining panels. The analysis methods used are (i) pushover analysis, which consists of applying an incremental force in the transverse and longitudinal direction to obtain the capacity curve of the structure; (ii) time-history analysis, in which different records of destructive earthquakes that occurred in Chile are used in order to analyze the response of the structure to these loads. The results indicate that the transverse direction is more ductile than the Y direction of the structure within the pushover and time-history methods but not using the N2 method. It is also found that most of the columns are within the life safety and collapse prevention criteria. It is concluded that most of the analyses agree with each other and with what is expected, except for the N2 method, which contradicts the results of the time-history analysis, so the N2 method would not be suitable for this type of structure. In addition, it has been determined that the overhead crane loads do not substantially affect the seismic performance of the warehouse.
Preparation of High-Stability Ceramic Slurry with Gel Behavior for Stereolithography 3D Printing
Authors: Wang Ning , Chang Hai , Zhang Chi , Wu Yingna , Yang Rui , Zhang Xing , Zhai Zirong
Published: April 2023

Maintaining sufficient uniformity and stability of a ceramic slurry throughout the printing cycle is key to ensuring the performance of ceramic parts in ceramic-slurry stereolithography. In this study, a stable three-dimensional network structure was introduced into a slurry to achieve slurry uniformity and stability based on rheology theory. The effects of the particle size, solid loading, dispersant content, and gelling agent content on the stability of the three-dimensional network structure in the slurry were analyzed. Relatively stable three-dimensional network structures were constructed to achieve 4-week stability of micron- and submicron-size particle slurries by adjusting the contents of the dispersant and gelling agent. Stabilization ideas for different particle size ranges are provided. In addition, an empirical stability model was obtained based on the experimental results. When the predicted empirical stability factor of A was less than 0.035, the slurry exhibited good stability.
Algal Extracts for Green Synthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Promising Approach for Algae Bioremediation
Authors: Alprol Ahmed E. , Mansour Abdallah Tageldein , El-Beltagi Hossam S. , Ashour Mohamed
Published: April 2023

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) possess unique properties, making them a popular material across various industries. However, traditional methods of synthesizing ZnO-NPs are associated with environmental and health risks due to the use of harmful chemicals. As a result, the development of eco-friendly manufacturing practices, such as green-synthesis methodologies, has gained momentum. Green synthesis of ZnO-NPs using biological substrates offers several advantages over conventional approaches, such as cost-effectiveness, simplicity of scaling up, and reduced environmental impact. While both dried dead and living biomasses can be used for synthesis, the extracellular mode is more commonly employed. Although several biological substrates have been successfully utilized for the green production of ZnO-NPs, large-scale production remains challenging due to the complexity of biological extracts. In addition, ZnO-NPs have significant potential for photocatalysis and adsorption in the remediation of industrial effluents. The ease of use, efficacy, quick oxidation, cost-effectiveness, and reduced synthesis of harmful byproducts make them a promising tool in this field. This review aims to describe the different biological substrate sources and technologies used in the green synthesis of ZnO-NPs and their impact on properties. Traditional synthesis methods using harmful chemicals limit their clinical field of use. However, the emergence of algae as a promising substrate for creating safe, biocompatible, non-toxic, economic, and ecological synthesis techniques is gaining momentum. Future research is required to explore the potential of other algae species for biogenic synthesis. Moreover, this review focuses on how green synthesis of ZnO-NPs using biological substrates offers a viable alternative to traditional methods. Moreover, the use of these nanoparticles for industrial-effluent remediation is a promising field for future research.
Improvement of Core–Shell Lightweight Aggregate by Modifying the Cement–EPS Interface
Authors: Pang Chaoming , Zhang Chunpeng , Li Peijuan
Published: April 2023

To improve the interfacial compatibility between cement matrix and expanded polystyrene (EPS) in core–shell lightweight aggregates (CSLA), the effects of sodium silicate, polyvinyl acetate (PVA) emulsion, vinyl acetate–ethylene (VAE) emulsion, acrylic acid, and acetic acid on the cement–EPS interface were investigated. The density of the interface was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the effect of interfacial agents on the hydration process of cement was studied by the heat of hydration and induction resistivity. The macroscopic properties of the interface of the CSLA were characterized by the “leak-white” rate, drop resistance, and numerical crushing strength. The results show that the sodium silicate densifies the interface by generating hydration products on the EPS surface. At the same time, organic acid enhances the interfacial properties of EPS and cement by increasing the surface roughness, and allowing hydration products to grow in the surface micropores. In terms of the cement hydration process, both interfacial agents delay the cement hydration. Above all, with comprehensive interface properties, “leak-white” rate, and mechanical properties, VAE emulsion and sodium silicate can achieve the best performance with a final crushing resistance of 5.7 MPa, which had a 46% increase compared with the reference group.
Modelling of the Face-Milling Process by Toroidal Cutter
Authors: Płodzień Marcin , Żyłka Łukasz , Stoić Antun
Published: April 2023

When face milling using a toroidal cutter, with a change in the depth of the cut, the entering angle varies as well. An experimental test of the influence of cutting parameters, such as the depth of the cut and the feed per tooth on the cutting force components and surface roughness parameters, was conducted. The experimental test was carried out using a DMU 100 monoBLOCK CNC machine with registration of cutting force components and surface roughness parameters Ra, Rz, and RSm. FEM analysis of the face-milling process was also carried out and compared with the experimental results. The average deviation of the FEM values for cutting force components does not exceed 12%. Experimental models were established for each force component. It was shown that the depth of the cut has the strongest influence on each force component. The feed per tooth has a little impact on the cutting force. The obtained model of the feed force component is the most complex, and the model of the Fa component is only linear. The influence of the ap parameter on the surface roughness parameters is nonlinear and nonmonotonic. In the range of approx. ap = 2 mm, there is a maximum surface roughness.
Optoelectronic Properties of In0.87Ga0.13As0.25P0.75(001)β2(2×4) Surface: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Wang Yong , Li Jianxin , Zhang Junju , Sha Weiwei
Published: April 2023

InGaAsP photocathode surface affects the absorption, transport and escape of photons, and has a great influence on quantum efficiency. In order to study InGaAsP photocathode surface, the electronic structure, work function, formation energy, Mulliken population and optical properties of In0.87Ga0.13As0.25P0.75(001)β2(2×4) reconstruction surface were calculated from first principles. Results show that stabilized the In0.87Ga0.13As0.25P0.75(001)β2(2×4) surface is conducive to the escape of low-energy photoelectrons. The narrow bandgap and emerging energy levels of the reconstruction surface make the electron transition easier. Under the action of the dipole moment, the electrons transfer from inner layers to the surface during the surface formation process. By contrast to the bulk, the surface absorption coefficient and reflectivity considerably decrease, and the high-reflection range becomes narrower as the falling edge redshifts. On the contrary, the surface transmissivity increases, which is conducive for the photons passing through the surface into the bulk to excite more photoelectrons. Meanwhile, the higher absorption coefficient of surface in low-energy side is favorable for long-wave absorption. The dielectric function peaks of the surface move toward the low-energy side and peak values decrease.
Thermal Stability, Optical and Electrical Properties of Substoichiometric Molybdenum Oxide
Authors: Qing Yubin , Yang Kaijun , Chen Yaofeng , Zhu Jinpeng , Li Yujing , Chen Chong , Li Qingkui , Sun Benshuang , He Jilin
Published: April 2023

Substoichiometric molybdenum oxide ceramics have aroused widespread interest owing to their promising optical and electrical performance. In this work, the thermal stability and decomposition mechanism of Mo9O26 and Mo4O11 at 700–1000 °C and 700–1100 °C were investigated, respectively. Based on this information, MoOx (2 < x < 3) bulk ceramics were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The results show that Mo9O26 is stable up to 790 °C in an argon atmosphere. As the temperature rises, it decomposes into Mo4O11. Mo4O11 can exist stably at 830 °C, beyond which it will convert to MoO2. The MoOx ceramic bulks with four different components (MoO2.9, MoO2.8, MoO2.7 and MoO2.6) were successfully sintered by SPS, and their relative density was greater than 96.4% as measured by the Archimedes principle. The reflectivity of MoOx ceramic bulk is low and only 6.3% when the composition is MoO2.8. The resistivity increases from 10−3 to 10−1 Ωcm with the increase in the O/Mo atomic ratio x. In general, the thermal stability information provides a theoretical basis for the processing of MoOx materials, such as the sintering of the MoOx target. The optical and electrical properties show that MoOx is a low-reflective conductive oxide material with great photoelectric application value.
Portland Cement-Based Grouts Enhanced with Basalt Fibers for Post-Tensioned Concrete Duct Filling
Authors: Zapata-Padilla José R. , Juárez-Alvarado César A. , Durán-Herrera Alejandro , Baltazar-Zamora Miguel A. , Terán-Torres Bernardo. T. , Vázquez-Leal Francisco R. , Mendoza-Rangel José M.
Published: April 2023

In post-tensioned systems, grouts act as a last line of defense to prevent the penetration of harmful compounds such as chlorides, moisture and other substances that cause corrosion in the prestressing steel. For this reason, improving grouts results in the enhancement of the overall durability of the structure. In this study, the physical properties of grouts with basalt microfiber additions in the amounts of 0.03, 0.07 and 0.10% with respect to the mix volume were evaluated. The fresh properties included flowability and unit mass. Specimens were fabricated to evaluate drying shrinkage, compressive strength, air permeability and rapid permeability to chloride ions. The incorporation of basalt microfibers showed a beneficial effect on the physical properties of the grout by increasing the drying shrinkage resistance and decreasing the permeability compared to the reference mix and two commercial dry prepackaged grouts. The optimal grout mix was the one with a percentage of basalt microfibers of 0.10%, which decreased drying shrinkage by 15.98% at 14 days compared to the reference mix, and permeability to chloride ions decreased by 10.82% compared to the control mix.
Photovoltaic Glass Waste Recycling in the Development of Glass Substrates for Photovoltaic Applications
Authors: Treviño Rodríguez Karina , Sánchez Vázquez Astrid Iriana , Ruiz Valdés Juan Jacobo , Ibarra Rodríguez Jorge , Paredes Figueroa María Guadalupe , Porcar García Samuel , Carda Castelló Juan Bautista , Álvarez Méndez Anabel
Published: April 2023

Because of the increasing demand for photovoltaic energy and the generation of end-of-life photovoltaic waste forecast, the feasibility to produce glass substrates for photovoltaic application by recycling photovoltaic glass waste (PVWG) material was analyzed. PVWG was recovered from photovoltaic house roof panels for developing windows glass substrates; PVWG was used as the main material mixed with other industrial waste materials (wSG). The glass was casted by air quenching, annealed, and polished to obtain transparent substrates samples. Fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) was deposited as back contact on the glass substrates by spray pyrolysis. The chemical composition of the glass materials was evaluated by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), the thermal stability was measured by differential thermal analysis (DTA) and the transmittance was determined by UV-VIS spectroscopy. The surface of the glass substrates and the deposited FTO were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the amorphous or crystalline state of the specimens were determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and the sheet resistance was evaluated by the four-point probe method. The sheet resistance of the deposited FTO on the wSG substrate was 7.84 ± 3.11 Ω/□, lower than that deposited on commercial soda-lime glass (8.48 ± 3.67 Ω/□), meaning that this material could present improved conduction of the produced electrons by the photovoltaic effect. This process may represent an alternative to produce glass substrates from waste materials that could be destined for photovoltaic applications, especially the production of ecological photovoltaic windows.
Influence of the Sputtering Temperature on Reflectivity and Electrical Properties of ITO/AgIn/ITO Composite Films for High-Reflectivity Anodes
Authors: Wang Xianqi , Zhao Hongda , Yang Bo , Li Song , Li Zongbin , Yan Haile , Zhang Yudong , Esling Claude , Zhao Xiang , Zuo Liang
Published: April 2023

In this paper, indium tin oxide/silver indium/indium tin oxide (ITO/AgIn/ITO) composite films were deposited on glass substrates by magnetron sputtering. The effects of the sputtering temperature on the optical and electrical properties of the composite films were systematically investigated. The ITO/AgIn/ITO composite films deposited at sputtering temperatures of 25 °C and 100 °C demonstrated a high reflectivity of 95.3% at 550 nm and a resistivity of about 6.8–7.3 μΩ·cm. As the sputtering temperature increased, the reflectivity decreased and the resistivity increased slightly. The close connection between microstructure and surface morphology and the optical and electrical properties of the composite films was further illustrated by scanning electron microscopy imaging and atomic force microscopy imaging. It is shown that the ITO/AgIn/ITO thin films have a promising application for high-reflectivity anodes.
Applying Industrial Internet of Things Analytics to Manufacturing
Authors: Wu Chun-Ho , Ng Stephen Chi-Hung , Kwok Keith Chun-Man , Yung Kai-Leung
Published: April 2023

The proliferation of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies has created a new manufacturing landscape for manufacturing, requiring that companies follow I4.0 trends to stay competitive. However, in this novel digital automated environment, these companies must also ensure that lean manufacturing principles are upheld. This study proposes a data-driven framework for analysing raw data across machines in manufacturing systems that can provide a comprehensive understanding of idle time and facilitate adjustments to reduce defect rates. This framework offers an alternative approach to improving manufacturing processes that involves utilising the power of I4.0 technologies in conjunction with lean manufacturing principles. This study’s examination of unprocessed data also provides guidance on improving legislation. The findings of this study provide direction for future research in the field of manufacturing and offer useful advice to businesses wishing to integrate I4.0 technologies into their operations.
An Effect of Fe3+ Ion Substitution for Cr3+ in the Octahedral Sites of FeCr2O4 Multiferroic Spinel: Mössbauer Spectroscopy Study
Authors: Zinnatullin Almaz L. , Cherosov Mikhail A. , Batulin Ruslan G. , Vagizov Farit G. , Yusupov Roman V.
Published: April 2023

We present the results of a successful synthesis and investigation of polycrystalline Fe2+(Cr3+, Fe3+)2O4 powder, where 1/8 part of the Cr3+ ions in the octahedral sites is substituted by the Fe3+ ones. It is shown that under such doping, the material retains the cubic spinel structure characteristic of the parent FeCr2O4 compound. However, the values of the critical temperatures have changed. Both the orbital and magnetic orderings occur at about 120 K, and magnetic structure rearrangement associated with an onset of spiral modulation takes place at 26 K. Mössbauer studies in a wide temperature range make it possible to accurately control the content of iron ions, their valence and magnetic states, and local environment, therefore, allowing a deeper understanding of the features of the revealed transformations.
Bacterial Production of Recombinant Coagulation Factor VIII Domains
Authors: Bashar Saima , Jeong Hee-Jin
Published: April 2023

Factor VIII (F8) is a blood coagulation protein prearranged in six domains, and its deficiency causes hemophilia A. To fashion functional F8 therapeutics, development of a recombinant F8 (rF8) domain is essential not only for F8 substitution, but also to decipher the F8-related mechanisms. In this study, we generated Glutathione S-transferase (GST)-conjugated recombinant A2 and A3 domains of F8 using Escherichia coli. The high growth rate and economically advantageous protein production system in terms of inexpensive reagents and materials in E. coli cells facilitated the completion of entire process from protein expression to purification in 3–4 days with low production cost. Subsequent assessment of these purified proteins using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and antibodies against F8 revealed enhanced detection of rF8-A2 or rF8-A3 in a concentration dependent manner, indicating the presence of the antibody-binding epitopes in these proteins. Furthermore, these proteins are suitable for generating novel antibodies against the F8 domain and F8 domain-capturing affinity columns by enabling their conjugation to GST-capturing beads. Additionally, the recombinant F8 domains produced herein can be used for various studies, which include investigating the explicit roles of the F8 domain in the coagulation process, with domain-specific binding partners, and antibodies.
Extracting and Analyzing the S-Parameters of Vertical Interconnection Structures in 3D Glass Packaging
Authors: Liu Jinxu , Zhang Jihua , Gao Libin , Chen Hongwei
Published: April 2023

In order to effectively employ through-glass vias (TGVs) for high-frequency software package design, it is crucial to accurately characterize the S-parameters of vertical interconnection structures in 3D glass packaging. A methodology is proposed for the extraction of precise S-parameters using the transmission matrix (T-matrix) to analyze and evaluate the insertion loss (IL) and reliability of TGV interconnections. The method presented herein enables the handling of a diverse range of vertical interconnections, encompassing micro-bumps, bond-wires, and a variety of pads. Additionally, a test structure for coplanar waveguide (CPW) TGVs is constructed, accompanied by a comprehensive description of the equations and measurement procedure employed. The outcomes of the investigation demonstrate a favorable concurrence between the simulated and measured results, with analyses and measurements conducted up to 40 GHz.
A Qualitative Experimental Proof of Principle of Self-Assembly in 3D Printed Microchannels towards Embedded Wiring in Biofuel Cells
Authors: Hornik Terak , Kempa James , Catterlin Jeffrey , Kartalov Emil
Published: April 2023

A range of biotech applications, e.g., microfluidic benthic biofuel cells, require devices with the simultaneous capabilities of embedded electrical wiring, aqueous fluidic access, 3D arrays, biocompatibility, and affordable upscalability. These are very challenging to satisfy simultaneously. As a potential solution, herein we present a qualitative experimental proof of principle of a novel self-assembly technique in 3D printed microfluidics towards embedded wiring combined with fluidic access. Our technique uses surface tension, viscous flow, microchannel geometries, and hydrophobic/hydrophilic interactions to produce self-assembly of two immiscible fluids along the length of the same 3D printed microfluidic channel. The technique demonstrates a major step towards the affordable upscaling of microfluidic biofuel cells through 3D printing. The technique would be of high utility to any application that simultaneously requires distributed wiring and fluidic access inside 3D printed devices.
Computational Study of Drop-on-Demand Coaxial Electrohydrodynamic Jet and Printing Microdroplets
Authors: Abbas Zeshan , Wang Dazhi , Lu Liangkun , Li Yikang , Pu Changchang , Chen Xiangji , Xu Pengfei , Liang Shiwen , Kong Lingjie , Tang Bin
Published: April 2023

Currently, coaxial electrohydrodynamic jet (CE-Jet) printing is used as a promising technique for the alternative fabrication of drop-on-demand micro- and nanoscale structures without using a template. Therefore, this paper presents numerical simulation of the DoD CE-Jet process based on a phase field model. Titanium lead zirconate (PZT) and silicone oil were used to verify the numerical simulation and the experiments. The optimized working parameters (i.e., inner liquid flow velocity 150 m/s, pulse voltage 8.0 kV, external fluid velocity 250 m/s, print height 16 cm) were used to control the stability of the CE-Jet, avoiding the bulging effect during experimental study. Consequently, different sized microdroplets with a minimum diameter of ~5.5 µm were directly printed after the removal of the outer solution. The model is considered the easiest to implement and is powerful for the application of flexible printed electronics in advanced manufacturing technology.
A One Health Perspective on Canine Coronavirus: A Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing?
Authors: Buonavoglia Alessio , Pellegrini Francesco , Decaro Nicola , Galgano Michela , Pratelli Annamaria
Published: April 2023

Canine coronavirus (CCoV) is a positive-strand RNA virus generally responsible for mild-to-severe gastroenteritis in dogs. In recent years, new CCoVs with acquired pathogenic characteristics have emerged, turning the spotlight on the evolutionary potential of CCoVs. To date, two genotypes are known, CCoV type I and CCoV type II, sharing up to 96% nucleotide identity in the genome but highly divergent in the spike gene. In 2009, the detection of a novel CCoV type II, which likely originated from a double recombination event with transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV), led to the proposal of a new classification: CCoV type IIa, including classical CCoVs and CCoV type IIb, including TGEV-like CCoV. Recently, a virus strictly correlated to CCoV was isolated from children with pneumonia in Malaysia. The HuPn-2018 strain, classified as a novel canine–feline-like recombinant virus, is supposed to have jumped from dogs into people. A novel CoV of canine origin, HuCCoV_Z19Haiti, closely related to the Malaysian strain was also detected in a man with fever after travel to Haiti, suggesting that infection with Malaysian-like strains may occur. These data and the emergence of highly pathogenic CoVs in humans underscore the significant threat that CoV spillovers pose to humans and how we should mitigate this hazard.
SYNBIO® Probiotic and Antioxidant Dietary Supplementation: Clinical Trial Evaluation of Potential Effects on Airline Flight Crew Members’ Well-Being
Authors: Coman Maria Magdalena , Micioni Di Bonaventura Maria Vittoria , Cifani Carlo , Silvi Stefania , Verdenelli Maria Cristina
Published: April 2023

The irregular lifestyle of airline crew members, wide/adverse job-related exposures, and the impact of temporary hypoxia on gut microbiota well-being have increased concern about the daily recommended dose of certain nutrients among flight crew. The aim of this study was to determine if daily consumption of a SYNBIO® probiotics–elderberry extract supplement (ACTIVE) may contribute to the well-being of flight attendants. Forty healthy crew members enrolled in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study consumed one ACTIVE capsule/day or placebo for 30 days. Bowel well-being, health-related quality of life, and gastrointestinal tolerance were assessed by validated questionnaires. Saliva and fecal samples were analyzed to determine secretory immunoglobulin-A (sIgA) levels and to characterize gut microbiota composition, respectively. ACTIVE subjects presented a physiological improvement and a statistically significant higher Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI) global score compared to PLACEBO subjects. The ACTIVE subjects showed significantly increased levels of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria compared to the PLACEBO group, while a significant increase in lactobacilli and a significant reduction in Enterobacteriaceae were registered when compared with the beginning of supplementation, confirming the persistence of probiotics in the gastrointestinal tract and the direct antagonism and competitive exclusion effects. Additionally, sIgA levels were significantly higher in the ACTIVE group compared to the baseline and to the PLACEBO group at the end of supplementation. The ACTIVE supplementation might be beneficial to airline crew members, improving their physiological state, their immune defenses, and the strength and efficiency of their gastrointestinal tract when responding to stressful conditions.