bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of China’s Energy-Consuming Right Trading on Urban Land Green Utilization Efficiency
Authors: Zhou Chaobo , Wang Jingchan , Wu Zhiwei
Published: May 2024

China is facing development challenges, such as the red line of arable land, resource shortage, and tightening ecological and environmental constraints. In this context, improving land green utilization efficiency (LGUE) is not only an important undertaking to optimize the spatial layout of the country and improve resource carrying capacity but also an inevitable choice for the comprehensive green transformation of economic and social development. China’s energy-consuming right trading (ECRT) is an important energy transition demonstration policy; however, its effect on LGUE has yet to be scientifically evaluated in academic research. Using panel data of 260 prefecture-level cities in China from 2009 to 2021, this study first uses a difference-in-difference model to test the effect of ECRT on LGUE, analyze its transmission mechanism, and further examine the impact of urban characteristic heterogeneity on policy effects from multiple perspectives. Results show the following: (1) The pilot policy of ECRT significantly improves urban LGUE, as confirmed by robustness tests. (2) The ECRT pilot policy enhances urban technological innovation, promotes the upgrading of industrial structure, and thereby improves LGUE. (3) The ECRT has a more significant enhancement effect on the central and western cities, large-scale cities, and resource-based cities. (4) Government environmental protection assessment can have a positive moderating effect, that is, further amplifying the effect of ECRT on improving urban LGUE. In conclusion, we should solidly promote the construction of a unified national ECRT market, formulate policy implementation plans tailored to local conditions, and steadily improve LGUE. To a certain extent, this paper reveals the inherent logic of how ECRT affects LGUE, which provides opportunities for cities to improve LGUE through ECRT, and provides reference for promoting the comprehensive green transformation of economic and social development.
The Efficacy and Tolerability of Radiosurgery in Treating Benign Meningiomas: A Dose Comparison Study from a Single-Center Analysis
Authors: Cho Hyun-Jeong , Lee Jong-Min , Park Sung-Ho , Park Jun-Bum , Jung Na-Young
Published: May 2024

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the impact of radiation dose on the outcomes of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for benign meningiomas and determine an optimal dosing strategy for balancing tumor control and treatment-related toxicity. Clinical data of 147 patients with 164 lesions treated between 2014 and 2022 were reviewed. Primary outcomes included progression-free survival (PFS), local control rate (LCR), and radiation-induced toxicity, with secondary outcomes focusing on LCR and radiation-induced peritumoral edema (PTE) in two dose groups (≥14 Gy and <14 Gy). The results revealed a median follow-up duration of 47 months, with 1-year, 2-year, and 5-year PFS rates of 99.3%, 96.7%, and 93.8%, respectively, and an overall LCR of 95.1%. Radiation-induced toxicity was observed in 24.5% of patients, primarily presenting mild symptoms. Notably, no significant difference in LCR was found between the two dose groups (p = 0.628), while Group 2 (<14 Gy) exhibited significantly lower PTE (p = 0.039). This study concludes that SRS with a radiation dose < 14 Gy demonstrates comparable tumor control with reduced toxicity, advocating consideration of such dosing to achieve a balance between therapeutic efficacy and safety.
The Clinical Impact of Access Site Selection for Successful Thrombolysis and Intervention in Acute Critical Lower Limb Ischaemia (RAD-ALI Registry)
Authors: Csavajda Adam , Toth Karoly , Kovacs Nandor , Rona Szilard , Vamosi Zoltan , Berta Balazs , Kulcsar Flora Zsofia , Bertrand Olivier F. , Hizoh Istvan , Ruzsa Zoltan
Published: May 2024

Background: Acute limb ischaemia (ALI) is of great clinical importance due to its consequent serious complications and high comorbidity and mortality rates. The purpose of this study was to compare the acute success and complication rates of CDT performed via transradial, transbrachial, and transfemoral access sites in patients with acute lower limb vascular occlusion and to investigate the 1-year outcomes of CDT and MT for ALI. Methods: Between 2008 and 2019, 84 consecutive patients with ALI were treated with CDT in a large community hospital. Data were collected and retrospectively analysed. The primary (“safety”) endpoints encompassed major adverse events (MAEs), major adverse limb events (MALEs), and the occurrence of complications related to the access site. Secondary (“efficacy”) endpoints included both technical and clinical achievements, treatment success, fluoroscopy time, radiation dose, procedure time, and the crossover rate to an alternative puncture site. Results: CDT was started with radial (n = 17), brachial (n = 9), or femoral (n = 58) access. CDT was technically successful in 74/84 patients (88%), but additional MT and angioplasty and/or stent implantation was necessary in 17 (20.2%) and 45 cases (53.6%), respectively. Clinical success was achieved in 74/84 cases (88%). The mortality rate at 1 year was 14.3%. The cumulative incidence of MAEs and MALEs at 12 months was 50% and 40.5%, respectively. After conducting multivariate analysis, history of Rutherford stage IIB (hazard ratio [HR], 3.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.58–8.41; p = 0.0025), occlusion of the external iliac artery (HR, 27.52; 95% CI, 2.83–267.33; p = 0.0043), being a case of clinically unsuccessful thrombolysis (HR, 7.72; 95% CI, 2.48–23.10; p = 0.0004), and the presence of diabetes mellitus (HR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.01–4.71; p = 0.047) were independent predictors of a high MAE mortality rate at 12 months. For MALEs, statistically significant differences were detected with the variables history of Rutherford stage IIB (HR, 4.30; 95% CI, 1.99–9.31; p = 0.0002) and external iliac artery occlusion (HR, 31.27; 95% CI, 3.47–282.23; p = 0.0022). Conclusions: Based on the short-term results of CDT, acute limb ischaemia can be successfully, safely, and effectively treated with catheter-directed thrombolytic therapy with radial, brachial, or femoral access. However, radial access is associated with fewer access site complications. A history of Rutherford stage IIB, occlusion of external iliac artery, unsuccessful thrombolysis, and the presence of diabetes mellitus were independently associated with an increased risk of MAEs. A history of Rutherford stage IIB and external iliac artery occlusion are independent predictors of MALEs.
Exploring the Association between COVID-19 and Femoral Head Necrosis: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Hogea Bogdan , Suba Madalina-Ianca , Abu-Awwad Simona-Alina , Cuntan Paul , Popa Mihai-Valetin , Braescu Ruben David , Abu-Awwad Ahmed
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the correlation between COVID-19 and avascular necrosis of the femoral head, considering the potential contribution of medication-induced effects. This research spans the period from August 2022 to January 2024 and includes 32 patients diagnosed with avascular necrosis. While steroid usage, particularly in high doses, is known to predispose individuals to this condition, this study aims to discern if COVID-19 itself plays a role beyond the influence of medication. Notably, COVID-19 is associated with disturbances in the coagulation system, potentially leading to thromboembolic complications. Of the patients, six did not have COVID-19, while seven had the virus but did not receive steroid treatment. However, 19 patients with COVID-19 exhibited severe pulmonary involvement and were administered both high-dose steroids and antiviral medication. Among the observed patients, 14 were female and 18 were male. Notably, three patients presented bilateral necrosis, all of whom had COVID-19 and significant pulmonary involvement. Diagnostic assessments included frontal and profile X-rays, as well as MRI scans for all patients.
Evaluation of Efficiency of a Finned Corrugation Basin in Inclined Basin-Type Solar Stills in Regulating the Water Supply of the CaspiCement Plant
Authors: Kirvel Ivan , Zhidebayeva Ainur , Taizhanova Lyailim , Aitimova Ainazhan , Syrlybekkyzy Samal , Serikbayeva Akmaral , Jumasheva Kamshat , Koibakova Symbat
Published: May 2024

The need for fresh water production is especially high in hot dry climates without any sources of drinking water but with an abundance of sea and underground water. The solution is water desalination with efficient solar-powered water treatment plants. This article proposes a new modification of a basin made of thin-finned corrugation with 43°-angle-inclined sides, equal to the region’s latitude, which provide strong heating. The experiments were carried out in the hot climate of Aktau city (43°49′ N, 51°1′ E). The study’s outcomes can be useful for regions with drinking water scarcity. To define the level of the corrugated basin’s efficiency, two versions (SS-1, SS-2) of experiments were carried out on a two-slope distiller, complete with two basins. In SS-1, basin-2 was heated by air. By 15:00, basin-2 had heated up to 98.5 °C, and the acrylic cover above had heated up to 101.6 °C, which led to its “deformation”. By 12.00 p.m., the temperature differentials between the glass (40.7 °C), the air–water mixture (57.3 °C), and basin-1 (61.1 °C) were 16.6 °C and 20.4 °C. This resulted from the wind speed increasing up to 5.9 m/s. The large temperature differential contributed to the condensate yield increasing from 0.128 kg at 11 o’clock to 0.293 kg at 12 o’clock. The throughput capability of basin-1 per day was equal to 2.094 kg. Basin-2’s input to the performance in SS-1 was only the thermal effect. In SS-2, basin-2 was used as a regular basin. The plexiglass temperature was lower than the temperatures of the water and basin-2. The temperature differential between the glass and air–water mixture at 10:00 a.m. was 20 °C; at 12:00 p.m. it was 30.6 °C; and a value of 30.6 °C was recorded at 3:00 p.m. The thermal differential between the glass and the air-water mixture provided the highest condensate yield of 1.114 kg at 3.00 p.m. The condensate yield from the basins in SS-2 was 8.72 kg, including 3.5 kg from basin-1, which is 1.7 times more than from basin-1 in SS-1. The experimental results are consistent with the equations coming from the models of Clark J.A. and Dunkle R.V. Tcondensation ≠ Tevaporation is an irreversible process. When the basins are heated, the heat is consumed; when the glass cools down, the heat is given off. Heat losses are minimized due to the “gap” and positive energy is provided. The still’s throughput capability can be made larger by increasing the basin’s area, reducing the water layer thickness, and regulating the flowrate of the desalinated water.
Development of a Digital Model for Predicting the Variation in Bearing Preload and Dynamic Characteristics of a Milling Spindle under Thermal Effects
Authors: Arief Tria Mariz , Lin Wei-Zhu , Royandi Muhamad Aditya , Hung Jui-Pin
Published: May 2024

The spindle tool is an important module of the machine tool. Its dynamic characteristics directly affect the machining performance, but it could also be affected by thermal deformation and bearing preload. However, it is difficult to detect the change in the bearing preload through sensory instruments. Therefore, this study aimed to establish a digital thermal–mechanical model to investigate the thermal-induced effects on the spindle tool system. The technologies involved include the following: Run-in experiments of the milling spindle at different speeds, the establishment of the thermal–mechanical model, identification of the thermal parameters, and prediction of the thermal-induced preload of bearings in the spindle. The speed-dependent thermal parameters were identified from thermal analysis through comparisons with transient temperature history, which were further used to model the thermal effects on the bearing preload and dynamic compliance of the milling spindle under different operating speeds. Current results of thermal–mechanical analysis also indicate that the internal temperature of the bearing can reach 40 °C, and the thermal elongation of the spindle tool is about 27 µm. At the steady state temperature of 15,000 rpm, the bearing preload is reduced by 40%, which yields a decrease in the bearing rigidity by approximately 16%. This, in turn, increases the dynamic compliance of the spindle tool by 22%. Comparisons of the experimental measurements and modeling data show that the variation in bearing preload substantially affects the modal frequency and stiffness of the spindle. These findings demonstrated that the proposed digital spindle model accurately mirrors real spindle characteristics, offering a foundation for monitoring performance changes and refining design, especially in bearing configuration and cooling systems.
Thermal Cavitation Effect on the Hydrodynamic Performance of Spiral Groove Liquid Face Seals
Authors: Song Yuansen , Bai Shaoxian
Published: May 2024

Cavitation in micro-scale lubricating film could be determined by the fluid’s thermal properties, which impacts the hydrodynamic lubrication capacity dramatically. This study aimed to novelly investigate the impact of the thermal cavitation effect on the hydrodynamic performance of liquid face seals, employing the compressible cavitation model, viscosity–temperature effect, and energy equation. The finite difference method was adopted to analyze the thermal cavitation by calculating the pressure and temperature profiles of the lubricating film. The working conditions and geometric configuration of liquid face seals under different thermal cases were further studied to explore their effects on sealing performance. The results showed that thermal cavitation could reduce the temperature difference of liquid film at high speeds, and cavitation would be weakened under temperature gradients, which further dropped off the hydrodynamic performance. Contrary to the leakage rate, the opening forces tended to be lower with the increasing seal pressure and film thickness under high-temperature gradients. Furthermore, apart from the spiral angle of grooves, the hydrodynamic performance exhibited significant variation with increasing groove depth, number, and radius at high-temperature gradients, which meant that the thermal cavitation effect should be considered in the design of geometric grooves to obtain better hydrodynamic performance.
Static Compaction on Coupled Precursors and Optimizing Molarity for Enhanced Strength and Durability of Geopolymer
Authors: Rashid Khuram , Ltifi Mounir , Zafar Idrees , Rafiqi Muhammad Hashim , Raoof Muhammad Naeem
Published: May 2024

The static compaction technique emphasizes the reduced activator dosage required to develop geopolymers. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehend the optimal alkaline activator concentration for blending low-calcium precursor (fly ash) with high-calcium precursor (GGBS) to produce geopolymer blocks. This work was designed to optimize structural blocks’ compressive strength and durability. In experimentation, fly ash (FA) and slag (GGBS) proportions were initially investigated under NaOH solution with varying molarity (8–12) and curing conditions to develop a load-bearing structural block. Subsequently, the durability of the optimized block was evaluated over 56 days through subjection to sulfate and acidic solutions, with efflorescence monitored over the same period. The results reveal that the structural block comprised of 100% FA exhibits the highest compressive strength and lowest bulk density. Conversely, the block incorporating 25% slag that underwent hot curing demonstrates a remarkable 305% strength increase compared to ambient curing. Considering the physico-mechanical performance, the 100% FA block was chosen for durability investigation. The findings indicate a substantial strength loss exceeding 40% after exposure to sulfate and acidic environments over 56 days, coupled with pronounced efflorescence. Catastrophic failure occurs in all cases due to significant strength deterioration. The FTIR spectrum revealed the shifting of the wavenumber to a higher value and verified the depolymerization and leaching of alumina under acidic exposure. However, the developed geopolymer blocks demonstrate superior sustainability and feasibility compared to conventional fired clay bricks and cement-based FA bricks. Despite slightly higher costs, these blocks exhibit greater strength than their counterparts after enduring severe exposures.
Effect of Thermal Activation on the Structure and Electrochemical Properties of Carbon Material Obtained from Walnut Shells
Authors: Ivanichok Nataliia , Kolkovskyi Pavlo , Ivanichok Oleh , Kotsyubynsky Volodymyr , Boychuk Volodymyra , Rachiy Bogdan , Bembenek Michał , Warguła Łukasz , Abaszade Rashad , Ropyak Liubomyr
Published: May 2024

A simple activation method has been used to obtain porous carbon material from walnut shells. The effect of the activation duration at 400 °C in an atmosphere with limited air access on the structural, morphological, and electrochemical properties of the porous carbon material obtained from walnut shells has been studied. Moreover, the structure and morphology of the original and activated carbon samples have been characterized by SAXS, low-temperature adsorption porosimetry, SEM, and Raman spectroscopy. Therefore, the results indicate that increasing the duration of activation at a constant temperature results in a reduction in the thickness values of interplanar spacing (d002) in a range of 0.38–0.36 nm and lateral dimensions of the graphite crystallite from 3.79 to 2.52 nm. It has been demonstrated that thermal activation allows for an approximate doubling of the specific SBET surface area of the original carbon material and contributes to the development of its mesoporous structure, with a relative mesopore content of approximately 75–78% and an average pore diameter of about 5 nm. The fractal dimension of the obtained carbon materials was calculated using the Frenkel–Halsey–Hill method; it shows that its values for thermally activated samples (2.52, 2.69) are significantly higher than for the original sample (2.17). Thus, the porous carbon materials obtained were used to fabricate electrodes for electrochemical capacitors. Electrochemical investigations of these cells in a 6 M KOH aqueous electrolyte were conducted by cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge, and impedance spectroscopy. Consequently, it was established that the carbon material activated at 400 °C for 2 h exhibits a specific capacity of approximately 110–130 F/g at a discharge current density ranging from 4 to 100 mA/g.
Functional Genomics of a Collection of Gammaproteobacteria Isolated from Antarctica
Authors: Giovannini Michele , Vieri Walter , Bosi Emanuele , Riccardi Christopher , Lo Giudice Angelina , Fani Renato , Fondi Marco , Perrin Elena
Published: May 2024

Antarctica, one of the most extreme environments on Earth, hosts diverse microbial communities. These microbes have evolved and adapted to survive in these hostile conditions, but knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying this process remains limited. The Italian Collection of Antarctic Bacteria (Collezione Italiana Batteri Antartici (CIBAN)), managed by the University of Messina, represents a valuable repository of cold-adapted bacterial strains isolated from various Antarctic environments. In this study, we sequenced and analyzed the genomes of 58 marine Gammaproteobacteria strains from the CIBAN collection, which were isolated during Italian expeditions from 1990 to 2005. By employing genome-scale metrics, we taxonomically characterized these strains and assigned them to four distinct genera: Pseudomonas, Pseudoalteromonas, Shewanella, and Psychrobacter. Genome annotation revealed a previously untapped functional potential, including secondary metabolite biosynthetic gene clusters and antibiotic resistance genes. Phylogenomic analyses provided evolutionary insights, while assessment of cold-shock protein presence shed light on adaptation mechanisms. Our study emphasizes the significance of CIBAN as a resource for understanding Antarctic microbial life and its biotechnological potential. The genomic data unveil new horizons for insight into bacterial existence in Antarctica.
Analysis of a New Process for Forming Two Flanges Simultaneously in a Hollow Part by Extrusion with Two Moving Dies
Authors: Winiarski Grzegorz , Gontarz Andrzej , Skrzat Andrzej , Wójcik Marta , Wencel Sylwia
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a new method for forming flanges in hollow parts. The process consists of an extrusion with two dies that move in an opposite direction to that of the punches. This particular kinematics of the tools makes it possible to form two flanges simultaneously in a single tool pass. The proposed method was investigated using a tube made of steel 42CrMo4. It was assumed that the extrusion would be conducted as a cold forming process at ambient temperature. Different diameters and heights of the impression made in the top and bottom dies were used. It was demonstrated that the main failure mode of the proposed technique was an unintended increase in the inside the diameter of the workpiece in the flange zone. The results showed that the above parameters had a key impact on the achievable maximum flange diameters and heights.
Effect of Electrolyte Temperature on Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation of Pure Aluminum
Authors: Cheng Yubing , Shi Xuemei , Lv You , Zhang Xinxin
Published: May 2024

Plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) is normally carried out under conditions with electrolyte cooling. However, the effect of the temperature of the electrolytes on the PEO behavior and properties of the resulting coatings is seldom investigated. In this study, PEO of pure Al was carried out in a dilute aluminate electrolyte with the electrolyte temperature being controlled under low (~10–30 °C), medium (~40–50 °C) and high (~70–80 °C) temperature ranges, respectively. The morphology, microstructure, composition and phase component of the coatings fabricated under the different temperature ranges were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The corrosion resistances of the coatings were evaluated by electrochemical methods. The hardness of the coatings and substrate following the PEO treatment in the different electrolyte temperature ranges were also tested. It was found that a higher electrolyte temperature resulted in a higher growth rate and rougher coatings. Moreover, the α-Al2O3 content was reduced as the electrolyte temperature increased. The highest corrosion resistance was registered for the coating obtained under the lowest temperature range, whereas the corrosion resistance of the coating obtained under the highest temperature range was the worst. The higher growth rate under high electrolyte temperatures was associated with the increased kinetics of the PEO reactions. However, the temperature of the electrolyte should be controlled under a suitable range to ensure reasonable coating properties.
Study and Optimization of the Punching Process of Steel Using the Johnson–Cook Damage Model
Authors: Claver Adrián , Acosta Andrea Hernández , Barba Eneko , Fuertes Juan P. , Torres Alexia , García José A. , Luri Rodrigo , Salcedo Daniel
Published: May 2024

Sheet metal forming processes are widely used in applications such as those in the automotive or aerospace industries. Among them, punching is of great interest due to its high productivity and low operating cost. However, it is necessary to optimize these processes and adjust their parameters, such as clearance, shear force or tool geometry, to obtain the best finishes and minimize crack generation. Thus, the main objective of this research work is to optimize the punching process to achieve parts that do not require subsequent processes, such as deburring, by controlling the properties of the starting materials and with the help of tools such as design of experiments and simulations. In the present study, tensile tests were performed on three steels with different compositions and three sample geometries. The information obtained from these tests has allowed us to determine the parameters of the Johnson–Cook damage criteria. Moreover, punching was performed on real parts and compared with simulations to analyze the percentage of burnish surface. The results obtained show that the methodology used was correct and that it can be extrapolated to other types of die-cutting processes by reducing the percentage of surface fractures and predicting the appearance of cracks. Furthermore, it was observed that clearance has a greater influence than processing speed, while the minimum percentage of the burnish area was observed for the minimum values of clearance.
Application of the Hydrophilic Interaction Liquid Chromatography (HILIC-MS) Novel Protocol to Study the Metabolic Heterogeneity of Glioblastoma Cells
Authors: Šofranko Jakub , Gondáš Eduard , Murín Radovan
Published: May 2024

Glioblastoma is a highly malignant brain tumor consisting of a heterogeneous cellular population. The transformed metabolism of glioblastoma cells supports their growth and division on the background of their milieu. One might hypothesize that the transformed metabolism of a primary glioblastoma could be well adapted to limitations in the variety and number of substrates imported into the brain parenchyma and present it their microenvironment. Additionally, the phenotypic heterogeneity of cancer cells could promote the variations among their metabolic capabilities regarding the utilization of available substrates and release of metabolic intermediates. With the aim to identify the putative metabolic footprint of different types of glioblastoma cells, we exploited the possibility for separation of polar and ionic molecules present in culture media or cell lysates by hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC). The mass spectrometry (MS) was then used to identify and quantify the eluted compounds. The introduced method allows the detection and quantification of more than 150 polar and ionic metabolites in a single run, which may be present either in culture media or cell lysates and provide data for polaromic studies within metabolomics. The method was applied to analyze the culture media and cell lysates derived from two types of glioblastoma cells, T98G and U118. The analysis revealed that even both types of glioblastoma cells share several common metabolic aspects, and they also exhibit differences in their metabolic capability. This finding agrees with the hypothesis about metabolic heterogeneity of glioblastoma cells. Furthermore, the combination of both analytical methods, HILIC-MS, provides a valuable tool for metabolomic studies based on the simultaneous identification and quantification of a wide range of polar and ionic metabolites—polaromics.
Stability of Bioactive Compounds and Antioxidant Activity in Rosehip Juice (Rosa spp.)
Authors: Peña Fabiola , González Felipe , Jiménez-Aspee Felipe , Bustamante Luis , Ruiz Antonieta
Published: May 2024

Rosehip fruits, characterized by their high concentrations of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity (AA), have been traditionally used to make jams, infusions, and juices. Thus, the objective of this research was to evaluate the stability of rosehip juice by determining the concentrations of bioactive compounds and total phenols and the AA using chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. The stability of the juice was evaluated with three treatments and different storage conditions, namely, unpasteurized–refrigerated, pasteurized–room temperature, and pasteurized–refrigerated, and measurements were taken for eight months. Individual and total phenolic compounds, evaluated by chromatographic methods, reported differences until the end of this study. The total phenolic compounds by Folin–Ciocalteu method presented an average decrease of 57% in the three treatments in relation to the initial conditions. On the other hand, the ascorbic acid content decreased considerably, disappearing at week six. Furthermore, for the unpasteurized–refrigerated and pasteurized–refrigerated samples, a correlation was found between flavonols, total phenols, ascorbic acid, and antioxidant activity determined by the TEAC method. For the pasteurized–room temperature samples, correlations were found between the levels of several flavonols, hydroxycinnamic acid, total phenols, and ascorbic acid and the antioxidant activity determined by the CUPRAC method. The stability of the compounds was mainly correlated with the storage conditions of the juice and not with pasteurization. The highest stability was observed for the unpasteurized–refrigerated and pasteurized–refrigerated samples. Although the concentrations of the compounds evaluated decreased during this study, significant levels of AA persisted, providing beneficial characteristics for consumer health.
Facile Recycling of Waste Biomass for Preparation of Hierarchical Porous Carbon with High-Performance Electromagnetic Wave Absorption
Authors: Zhou Yihui , He Jingjing , Hong Jiafu , Xie Haihe , Lin Xuexia
Published: May 2024

Hierarchical-porous-structured materials have been widely used in the field of electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption, playing a critical role in minimizing EMW interference and pollution. High-quality EMW absorbers, characterized by a lower thickness, lighter weight, wider absorption band, and stronger absorption capacity, have been instrumental in reducing damage and preventing malfunctions in the automotive and aviation industries. The utilization of discarded nut shells through recycling can not only alleviate environmental problems but relieve resource constraints. Herein, a facile method for the preparation of hierarchical porous biomass carbon derived from abandoned Xanthoceras Sorbifolium Bunge Shell (XSS) biomass was developed for high-performance EMW absorption. The porous structures of XSS biochar were studied by using different levels of the K2CO3 activator and simple carbonization. The effect of K2CO3 on the EMW parameters, including the complex permittivity, complex permeability, polarization relaxation, and impedance matching, was analyzed. The best EMW absorption performance of the XSS biochar was observed at a mass ratio of activator-to-biomass of 2:1. A minimum reflection loss (RLmin) of −38.9 dB was achieved at 9.12 GHz, and a maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EABmax) of up to 3.28 GHz (14.72~18.0 GHz) could be obtained at a 1.8 mm thickness. These results demonstrated that hierarchical porous XSS carbon was prepared successfully. Simultaneously, the prepared XSS biochar was confirmed as a potential and powerfully attractive EMW-absorbing material. The proposal also provided a simple strategy for the development of a green, low-cost, and sustainable biochar as a lightweight high-performance absorbing material.
Instruments for Evaluating the Nutritional Status of Cancer Patients Undergoing Antineoplastic Treatment: A Scoping Review
Authors: Medina Cruz Erik , Palenzuela Luis Natacha , Rodríguez Novo Natalia , González Suarez Miriam , Casas Hernández Raquel , Novo Muñoz María Mercedes
Published: May 2024

The use of validated tools to evaluate the nutritional status of the cancer patient provides guaranteed precision and reliability in their nutritional evaluation, ensuring that the information is accurate and reflects the patient’s situation. The aim of this study was to identify the valid and reliable instruments in the evaluation of the nutritional status of cancer patients with a diagnosis of solid tumor undergoing antineoplastic treatment (chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy). A scoping review was conducted to search for original articles published in scientific journals in English, Spanish, or Portuguese in the past five years. In order to identify potentially relevant documents, searches were performed in the following databases: SCOPUS, WOS, CINAHL, MEDLINE, BVS, and PUBMED. DECS-MeSH descriptors and Boolean operators were used. In addition, the Arksey and O’Malley protocol, the Joanne Briggs Institute (JBI) method, and the flow chart of the Preferred Information Elements for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, known as PRISMA, were followed. The initial search strategy identified a total of 164 references, which were examined successively, leaving a final selection of ten studies. It was found that the most used instrument for nutritional evaluation was the Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA). Other questionnaires also stood out such as the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST), the Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS 2002), and the Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Therapy (FAACT). The variation in the tools used ranges from subjective assessments to objective measurements, thus underlining the need for a comprehensive and individualized approach.
Plant Extract in the Control of Poultry Omphalitis
Authors: Oliveira Gabriel da Silva , Pires Paula Gabriela da Silva , McManus Concepta , de Jesus Luana Maria , Santos Pedro Henrique Gomes de Sá , dos Santos Vinícius Machado
Published: May 2024

Bacteria continue to disrupt poultry production and can cause resistant and persistent yolk sac infections to prevention efforts, known as omphalitis, resulting in poultry death. This literature review aims to demonstrate how plant extracts can help combat omphalitis in poultry. The Google Scholar database served as a resource for retrieving pertinent literature covering a wide range of search terms relevant to the scope of the research. The search strategy involved a combination of terms such as antimicrobials, chick embryo, omphalitis, plant extracts, poultry nutrition, and sanitization. The potential of plant extracts in preventing or treating infections in poultry, especially omphalitis, is mainly due to their antibacterial and safety properties. Sanitization and direct delivery of plant extracts to the internal contents of eggs, feed, or water are cutting-edge interventions to reduce the bacterial load in eggs and poultry, minimizing infection rates. For example, these interventions may include advanced treatment technologies or precise delivery systems focused on disease prevention in poultry.
Current Progress in the Science of Novel Adjuvant Nano-Vaccine-Induced Protective Immune Responses
Authors: Saleemi Mansab Ali , Zhang Yan , Zhang Guoquan
Published: May 2024

Vaccinations are vital as they protect us from various illness-causing agents. Despite all the advancements in vaccine-related research, developing improved and safer vaccines against devastating infectious diseases including Ebola, tuberculosis and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) remains a significant challenge. In addition, some of the current human vaccines can cause adverse reactions in some individuals, which limits their use for massive vaccination program. Therefore, it is necessary to design optimal vaccine candidates that can elicit appropriate immune responses but do not induce side effects. Subunit vaccines are relatively safe for the vaccination of humans, but they are unable to trigger an optimal protective immune response without an adjuvant. Although different types of adjuvants have been used for the formulation of vaccines to fight pathogens that have high antigenic diversity, due to the toxicity and safety issues associated with human-specific adjuvants, there are only a few adjuvants that have been approved for the formulation of human vaccines. Recently, nanoparticles (NPs) have gain specific attention and are commonly used as adjuvants for vaccine development as well as for drug delivery due to their excellent immune modulation properties. This review will focus on the current state of adjuvants in vaccine development, the mechanisms of human-compatible adjuvants and future research directions. We hope this review will provide valuable information to discovery novel adjuvants and drug delivery systems for developing novel vaccines and treatments.
Optimization of the Parameters Influencing the Antioxidant Activity and Concentration of Carotenoids Extracted from Pumpkin Peel Using a Central Composite Design
Authors: Gavril (Rațu) Roxana Nicoleta , Constantin Oana Emilia , Enachi Elena , Stoica Florina , Lipșa Florin Daniel , Stănciuc Nicoleta , Aprodu Iuliana , Râpeanu Gabriela
Published: May 2024

It has been discovered that the peel of a pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima), regarded as a waste product of pumpkin processing, has significant amounts of carotenoids and other antioxidants. This study aims to identify the most effective extraction parameters for an ultrasonic-assisted extraction method to extract the total carotenoids (TCs) and assess the antioxidant activity (AA) of pumpkin peel. To determine the effects of the extraction time, temperature, and material-to-solvent ratio on the recovery of TCs and AA, a response surface methodology utilizing the central composite design (CCD) was used. The extraction temperature (6.25–98.75 °C), extraction duration (13.98–128.98 min), and solvent ratio (0.23–50.23 mL) were the variables studied in the coded form of the experimental plan. The carotenoid concentration varied from 0.53 to 1.06 mg/g DW, while the AA varied from 0.34 to 7.28 µM TE/g DW. The findings indicated that the optimal extraction parameters were an 80 °C temperature, a 10 mL solvent ratio, and a 100 min extraction time. The study confirmed that the optimum extraction conditions resulted in an experimental TC yield of 0.97 mg/g DW and an AA of 7.25 µM TE/g DW. Overall, it should be emphasized that the extraction process can be enhanced by setting the operating factors to maximize the model responses.
Epoxy/Graphene Nanoplatelet (GNP) Nanocomposites: An Experimental Study on Tensile, Compressive, and Thermal Properties
Authors: Akter Mahmuda , Ozdemir Huseyin , Bilisik Kadir
Published: May 2024

This paper presents an experimental investigation of nanocomposites composed of three ratios of epoxy/graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) by weight. The 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 wt.% specimens were carefully manufactured, and their mechanical and thermal conductivity properties were examined. The tensile strength and modulus of epoxy/GNPs were enhanced by the large surface area of graphene nanoplatelets, causing crack deflection that created new fracture fronts and friction because of the rough fracture surface. However, the compressive strength was gradually reduced as GNP loading percentages increased. This was probably due to severe plastic yielding on the epoxy, leading to catastrophic axial splitting caused by premature fractures. Furthermore, the highest thermal conductivity was 0.1283 W/m-K, representing a 20.92% improvement over neat epoxy (0.1061 W/m-K) when 0.3 wt.% GNPs were added to the epoxy. This was because of efficient heat propagation in the GNPs due to electron movement through percolative paths. The tensile failure mode in epoxy/GNP nanocomposites showed a few deflected and bifurcated rough cracks and brittle, dimple-like fractures. Contrarily, compressive failure mode in GNP-added epoxy showed plastic flexural buckling and brittle large-axial splitting. The epoxy/GNP nanocomposites were considered a damage-tolerant material.
Testing Dynamic Balance in People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Correlational Study between Standard Posturography and Robotic-Assistive Device
Authors: Podda Jessica , Marchesi Giorgia , Bellosta Alice , Squeri Valentina , De Luca Alice , Pedullà Ludovico , Tacchino Andrea , Brichetto Giampaolo
Published: May 2024

Background: Robotic devices are known to provide pivotal parameters to assess motor functions in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) as dynamic balance. However, there is still a lack of validation studies comparing innovative technologies with standard solutions. Thus, this study’s aim was to compare the postural assessment of fifty people with MS (PwMS) during dynamic tasks performed with the gold standard EquiTest® and the robotic platform hunova®, using Center of Pressure (COP)-related parameters and global balance indexes. Methods: Pearson’s ρ correlations were run for each COP-related measure and the global balance index was computed from EquiTest® and hunova® in both open (EO) and closed-eyes (EC) conditions. Results: Considering COP-related parameters, all correlations were significant in both EO (0.337 ≤ ρ ≤ 0.653) and EC (0.344 ≤ ρ ≤ 0.668). Furthermore, Pearson’s analysis of global balance indexes revealed relatively strong for visual and vestibular, and strong for somatosensory system associations (ρ = 0.573; ρ = 0.494; ρ = 0.710, respectively). Conclusions: Findings confirm the use of hunova® as a valid device for dynamic balance assessment in MS, suggesting that such a robotic platform could allow for a more sensitive assessment of balance over time, and thus a better evaluation of the effectiveness of personalized treatment, thereby improving evidence-based clinical practice.
Helical Gearbox Defect Detection with Machine Learning Using Regular Mesh Components and Sidebands
Authors: Lupea Iulian , Lupea Mihaiela , Coroian Adrian
Published: May 2024

The current paper presents helical gearbox defect detection models built from raw vibration signals measured using a triaxial accelerometer. Gear faults, such as localized pitting, localized wear on helical pinion tooth flanks, and low lubricant level, are under observation for three rotating velocities of the actuator and three load levels at the speed reducer output. The emphasis is on the strong connection between the gear faults and the fundamental meshing frequency GMF, its harmonics, and the sidebands found in the vibration spectrum as an effect of the amplitude modulation (AM) and phase modulation (PM). Several sets of features representing powers on selected frequency bands or/and associated peak amplitudes from the vibration spectrum, and also, for comparison, time-domain and frequency-domain statistical feature sets, are proposed as predictors in the defect detection task. The best performing detection model, with a testing accuracy of 99.73%, is based on SVM (Support Vector Machine) with a cubic kernel, and the features used are the band powers associated with six GMF harmonics and two sideband pairs for all three accelerometer axes, regardless of the rotation velocities and the load levels.
Mitigating Measurement Inaccuracies in Digital Twins of Construction Machinery through Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Abebe Misganaw , Cho Yonggeun , Han Seung Chul , Koo Bonyong
Published: May 2024

The advent of digital twins facilitates the generation of high-fidelity replicas of actual systems or assets, thereby enhancing the design’s performance and feasibility. When developing digital twins, precise measurement data is essential to ensure alignment between the actual and digital models. However, inherent uncertainties in sensors and models lead to disparities between observed and predicted (simulated) behaviors. To mitigate these uncertainties, this study originally proposes a multi-objective optimization strategy utilizing a Gaussian process regression surrogate model, which integrates various uncertain parameters, such as load angle, bucket cylinder stroke, arm cylinder stroke, and boom cylinder stroke. This optimization employs a genetic algorithm to indicate the Pareto frontiers regarding the pressure exerted on the boom, arm, and bucket cylinders. Subsequently, TOPSIS is applied to ascertain the optimal candidate among the identified Pareto optima. The findings reveal a substantial congruence between the experimental and numerical outcomes of the devised virtual model, in conjunction with the TOPSIS-derived optimal parameter configuration.
Strain Virtual Sensing Applied to Industrial Presses for Fatigue Monitoring
Authors: Mora Bartomeu , Basurko Jon , Leturiondo Urko , Albizuri Joseba
Published: May 2024

The techniques that allow one to estimate measurements at the unsensed points of a system are known as virtual sensing. These techniques are useful for the implementation of condition monitoring systems in industrial equipment subjected to high cyclic loads that can cause fatigue damage, such as industrial presses. In this article, three different virtual sensing algorithms for strain estimation are tested using real measurement data obtained from a scaled bed press prototype: two deterministic algorithms (Direct Strain Observer and Least-Squares Strain Estimation) and one stochastic algorithm (Static Strain Kalman Filter). The prototype is subjected to cyclic loads using a hydraulic fatigue testing machine and is sensorized with strain gauges. Results show that sufficiently accurate strain estimations can be obtained using virtual sensing algorithms and a reduced number of strain gauges as input sensors when the monitored structure is subjected to static and quasi-static loads. Results also show that is possible to estimate the initiation of fatigue cracks at critical points of a structural component using virtual strain sensors.
Propagation Analysis of an RFID System in the UHF Band in the Honeycomb Frame of a Beehive
Authors: Lorenzo-López José , Juan-Llácer Leandro
Published: May 2024

In recent years, communication systems, including RFID, have been used in intelligent beehives for beekeeping. RFID systems in the UHF frequency band offer reading distances of tens of centimetres, allowing the localisation and identification of the queen bee inside the hive. With this purpose, this work proposes an analysis of an environment of propagation that consists of a honeycomb frame, where the reader is placed within the frame, and the tag is placed in different positions over it. A honeycomb frame consists of a wooden box containing a honey wax panel, supported by metallic wires. The environment is modelled theoretically using its S-parameters and simulated in CST Studio. An analysis of these results and empirical measurements is performed. The results show that a periodicity in the received power of the tag is found with respect to the distance to the reader when the tag is located in a direction parallel to the wire, where local maximum and minimum values are found. Additionally, when the tag is placed over a wire of the frame, a higher received power is obtained compared to the case where the tag is placed between two wires. Furthermore, it has been observed that the reading range has increased with respect to free space, covering the full frame.