bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Design of Building Materials: Development of an AI-Based Method for Cement-Slag Concrete Design
Authors: Zhu Fei , Wu Xiangping , Zhou Mengmeng , Sabri Mohanad Muayad Sabri , Huang Jiandong
Published: May 2022

Cement-slag concrete has become one of the most widely used building materials considering its economical advantage and satisfying uniaxial compressive strength (UCS). In this study, an AI-based method for cement-slag concrete design was developed based on the balance of economic and mechanical properties. Firstly, the hyperparameters of random forest (RF), decision tree (DT), and support vector machine (SVM) were tuned by the beetle antennae search algorithm (BAS). The results of the model evaluation showed the RF with the best prediction effect on the UCS of concrete was selected as the objective function of UCS optimization. Afterward, the objective function of concrete cost optimization was established according to the linear relationship between concrete cost and each mixture. The obtained results showed that the weighted method can be used to construct the multi-objective optimization function of UCS and cost for cement-slag concrete, which is solved by the multi-objective beetle antennae search (MOBAS) algorithm. An optimal concrete mixture ratio can be obtained by Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution. Considering the current global environment trend of “Net Carbon Zero”, the multi-objective optimization design should be proposed based on the objectives of economy-carbon emission-mechanical properties for future studies.
Optimizing Evanescent Efficiency of Chalcogenide Tapered Fiber
Authors: Zhao Xudong , Yao Ni , Zhang Xianghua , Zhang Lei , Tao Guangming , Li Zijian , Liu Quan , Zhao Xiujian , Xu Yinsheng
Published: May 2022

Evanescent wave absorption-based mid-infrared chalcogenide fiber sensors have prominent advantages in multicomponent liquid and gas detection. In this work, a new approach of tapered-fiber geometry optimization was proposed, and the evanescent efficiency was also theoretically calculated to evaluate sensing performance. The influence of fiber geometry (waist radius (Rw), taper length (Lt), waist deformation) on the mode distribution, light transmittance (T), evanescent proportion (TO) and evanescent efficiency (τ) is discussed. Remarkably, the calculated results show that the evanescent efficiency can be over 10% via optimizing the waist radius and taper length. Generally, a better sensing performance based on tapered fiber can be achieved if the proportion of the LP11-like mode becomes higher or Rw becomes smaller. Furthermore, the radius of the waist boundary (RL) was introduced to analyze the waist deformation. Mode proportion is almost unchanged as the RL increases, while τ is halved. In addition, the larger the micro taper is, the easier the taper process is. Herein, a longer waist can be obtained, resulting in larger sensing area which increases sensitivity greatly.
Reactive Flash Sintering of High-Entropy Oxide (Mg, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn)1−xLixO at Room Temperature
Authors: Yan Nianping , Zhu Yuchen , Cai Muliang , Li Bojiang , Xu Bichuan , Li Yueji , Wang Xilin , Jia Zhidong
Published: May 2022

(Mg, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn)1−xLixO is a type of high-entropy oxide that has high ionic conductivity at room temperature and is used as a solid electrolyte. (Mg, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn)1−xLixO was successfully synthesized from precursor powder by applying reactive flash sintering for less than 4 min at room temperature (25 °C). AC and DC electric fields were independently applied to sinter ceramic samples; consequently, AC and DC electric field application resulted in relative densities that exceeded 90% and 80%, respectively. X-ray diffraction spectra of samples revealed the existence of a clear halite structure with an insignificant impurity phase, proving that (Mg, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn)1−xLixO crystals were successfully produced.
Hyaluronic Acid with Bone Substitutes Enhance Angiogenesis In Vivo
Authors: Kyyak Solomiya , Blatt Sebastian , Wiesmann Nadine , Smeets Ralf , Kaemmerer Peer W.
Published: May 2022

Introduction: The effective induction of angiogenesis is directly related to the success of bone-substitute materials (BSM) for maxillofacial osseous regeneration. Therefore, the addition of pro-angiogenic properties to a commercially available bovine bone-substitute material in combination with hyaluronic acid (BSM+) was compared to the same bone-substitute material without hyaluronic acid (BSM) in an in-vivo model. Materials and Methods: BSM+ and BSM were incubated for six days on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of fertilized chicken eggs. Microscopically, the number of vessels and branching points, the vessel area and vessel length were evaluated. Subsequently, the total vessel area and brightness integration were assessed after immunohistochemical staining (H&E, alphaSMA). Results: In the BSM+ group, a significantly higher number of vessels (p < 0.001), branching points (p = 0.001), total vessel area (p < 0.001) as well as vessel length (p = 0.001) were found in comparison to the BSM group without hyaluronic acid. Immunohistochemically, a significantly increased total vessel area (p < 0.001 for H&E, p = 0.037 for alphaSMA) and brightness integration (p = 0.047) for BSM+ in comparison to the native material were seen. Conclusions: The combination of a xenogenic bone-substitute material with hyaluronic acid significantly induced angiogenesis in vivo. This might lead to a faster integration and an improved healing in clinical situations.
Effect of Sheet Vibration on the Theoretical Analysis and Experimentation of Nonwoven Fabric Sheet with Back Air Space
Authors: Sakamoto Shuichi , Iizuka Ryo , Nozawa Takumi
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to improve the accuracy of the theoretical analysis of sound absorption mechanisms when a back air space is used in nonwoven fabrics. In the case of a nonwoven sheet with a back air space, it can be shown that there is a difference between the experimental results and theoretical analysis results obtained using the Miki model when the area of the nonwoven sheet is large. Therefore, in this study, the accuracy of the theoretical values was improved using the plate vibration model in conjunction with the Miki model. The experimental results showed that when the vibration of the nonwoven sheet was suppressed, the sound absorption coefficient was higher than that of the vibration-prone nonwoven sheet alone. The sound absorption coefficient at the peak frequency was increased by >0.2, especially for 3501BD. Using the support frame, the sound absorption coefficient at the peak frequencies of 3A01A and 3701B was increased to 0.99. In the theoretical analysis of a large-area, vibration-prone nonwoven fabric, in which the vibration of the nonwoven fabric was taken into account, the theoretical values were in agreement with the experimental values, and the accuracy of the theoretical values was improved. Comparing the theoretical values for nonwoven fabrics without high ventilation resistance, the sound absorption coefficient was greater when vibration was not considered. Therefore, it was suggested that the vibration of the nonwoven fabric hinders sound absorption.
Pressure-Enhanced Photocurrent in One-Dimensional SbSI via Lone-Pair Electron Reconfiguration
Authors: Liu Tianbiao , Bu Kejun , Zhang Qian , Zhang Peijie , Guo Songhao , Liang Jiayuan , Wang Bihan , Zheng Haiyan , Wang Yonggang , Yang Wenge , Lü Xujie
Published: May 2022

Understanding the relationships between the local structures and physical properties of low-dimensional ferroelectrics is of both fundamental and practical importance. Here, pressure-induced enhancement in the photocurrent of SbSI is observed by using pressure to regulate the lone-pair electrons (LPEs). The reconfiguration of LPEs under pressure leads to the inversion symmetry broken in the crystal structure and an optimum bandgap according to the Shockley–Queisser limit. The increased polarization caused by the stereochemical expression of LPEs results in a significantly enhanced photocurrent at 14 GPa. Our research enriches the foundational understanding of structure–property relationships by regulating the stereochemical role of LPEs and offers a distinctive approach to the design of ferroelectric-photovoltaic materials.
Experimental Study on the High Temperature Impact Torsional Behavior of Ti-1023 Alloy
Authors: Li Lintao , Wang Zhihua , Ma Wei
Published: May 2022

Based on the modified Hopkinson torsion bar, a high-temperature dynamic shear test method was proposed for the Ti-1023 alloy, and the microstructural evolution of the tested material at different temperatures was studied. By using the modified high-temperature Hopkinson torsion bar, high-temperature testing within 1000 °C can be achieved. As the specimen-heating rate was fast, and the temperature gradient of the experimental environment was small, valid experimental data can be ensured during the experiment. The experimental results show that stress-induced martensite can significantly enhance the strength of the Ti-1023 alloy. Dynamically recrystallized grains similar to those in adiabatic shear bands appear in the microstructure of the Ti-1023 alloy after severe plastic deformation. Therefore, it is possible to regulate the content of stress-induced martensite in the microstructure to improve the mechanical properties of other alloys that are similar to β titanium alloys.
Investigation of the Effects of Roller Spreading Parameters on Powder Bed Quality in Selective Laser Sintering
Authors: Xiao Xiangwu , Jin Yufeng , Tan Yuanqiang , Gao Wei , Jiang Shengqiang , Liu Sisi , Chen Meiliang
Published: May 2022

Powder spreading is one of crucial steps in selective laser sintering (SLS), which controls the quality of the powder bed and affects the quality of the printed parts. It is not advisable to use empirical methods or trial-and-error methods that consume lots of manpower and material resources to match the powder property parameters and powder laying process parameters. In this paper, powder spreading in realistic SLS settings was simulated using a discrete element method (DEM) to investigate the effects of the powder’s physical properties and operating conditions on the bed quality, characterized by the density characteristics, density uniformity, and flatness of the powder layer. A regression model of the powdering quality was established based on the response surface methodology (RSM). The relationship between the proposed powdering quality index and the research variables was well expressed. An improved multi-objective optimization algorithm of the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II (NSGA-II) was used to optimize the powder laying quality of nylon powder in the SLS process. We provided different optimization schemes according to the different process requirements. The reliability of the multi-objective optimization results for powdering quality was verified via experiments.
Study on Properties and Optimization of Ternary Auxiliary Cementing Materials for IOTs
Authors: Zhang Yannian , Zhang Xiangkun , Gu Xiaowei , Wang Ting , Liu Bonan
Published: May 2022

In order to control energy consumption and reduce pollution, the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) instead of cement to produce green cementitious materials can save energy, reduce emissions and achieve sustainable development. This study demonstrates the possibility of developing SCMs with iron tailings (IOTs), fly ash (FA) and ceramic powder (CP) ternary system, as well as the optimization and improvement scheme of gelation activation. The effects of activator dosage, mix ratio and substitution rate on mechanical properties of ternary SCMs system were investigated. The formation and evolution of hydration products were analyzed by differential thermogravimetric analysis (DTA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results of the study show that there is synergy in the system. The results show that there is synergy in the system and the hydration reaction is sufficient. At the substitution rate of 30%, the doping ratio of IOTs, CP and FA is 1:2:2 and the Ca(OH)2 is 0.6%, the strength reaches 39.9 MPa and the activity index is 91.5%, which can provide a basis for the application and more in-depth study of IOTs multi SCMs.
Research on Repetition Counting Method Based on Complex Action Label String
Authors: Yang Fanghong , Wang Gao , Li Deping , Liu Ning , Min Feiyan
Published: May 2022

Smart factories have real-time demands for the statistics of productivity to meet the needs of quick reaction capabilities. To solve this problem, a counting method based on our decomposition strategy of actions was proposed for complex actions. Our method needs to decompose complex actions into several essential actions and define a label string for each complex action according to the sequence of the essential actions. While counting, we firstly employ an online action recognition algorithm to transform video frames into label numbers, which will be stored in a result queue. Then, the label strings are searched for their results in queue. If the search succeeds, a complex action will be considered to have occurred. Meanwhile, the corresponding counter should be updated to accomplish counting. The comparison test results in a video dataset of workers’ repetitive movements in package printing production lines and illustrate that our method has a lower counting errors, MAE (mean absolute error) less than 5% as well as an OBOA (off-by-one accuracy) more than 90%. Moreover, to enhance the adaptability of the action recognition model to deal with the change of action duration, we propose an adaptive parameter module based on the Kalman filter, which improves counting performances to a certain extent. The conclusions are that our method can achieve high counting performance, and the adaptive parameter module can further improve performances.
Steering and Speed Control System Design for Autonomous Vehicles by Developing an Optimal Hybrid Controller to Track Reference Trajectory
Authors: Hossain Tagor , Habibullah Habib , Islam Rafiqul
Published: May 2022

In this paper, a longitudinal and lateral control system of an autonomous vehicle is presented by developing a novel hybrid trajectory tracking algorithm. In this proposed method, the longitudinal control system is developed based on the curvature information of the reference path. The autonomous vehicle modifies the desired speed according to the estimated size and types of the reference trajectory curves. This desired speed is integrated into the PID controller to maintain an optimal speed of the vehicle while following the given path. The lateral control system is designed based on feedforward (preview control) and feedback (LQR) controllers to reduce lateral errors between the trajectory and autonomous vehicle. The feedforward and the feedback controllers generate precise steering angles to eliminate orientation and lateral errors caused by the curvature of the trajectory and external disturbances. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated by comparing simulation and experimental results with different trajectory tracking algorithms on simulated and experimented paths. It is proven that the proposed algorithm is capable of significantly minimizing lateral errors on sharp curves compared to other path tracking methods.
Overview of Equipment Health State Estimation and Remaining Life Prediction Methods
Authors: Zhao Jingyi , Gao Chunhai , Tang Tao , Xiao Xiao , Luo Ming , Yuan Binbin
Published: May 2022

Health state estimation can quantitatively evaluate the current degradation state of equipment, and remaining life prediction can quantitatively predict the remaining service time of equipment. These two technologies can provide a basis for condition-based maintenance and predictive maintenance of equipment, respectively. In recent years, a large amount of research has been implemented in these two technologies. However, there is not any systematic review that covers these two technologies, and their engineering applications, comprehensively. To fill the gap, this paper makes a comparative analysis of existing health state estimation and remaining life prediction methods, and details the characteristics and limitations of various methods. The engineering applications of these two methods are summarized, and their applicable objects are briefly given. Finally, these two methods are summarized, and their feasibility for engineering application is discussed. This work provides guidance for the selection of industrial equipment health assessment and remaining life prediction methods.
An Adaptive Fusion Convolutional Denoising Network and Its Application to the Fault Diagnosis of Shore Bridge Lift Gearbox
Authors: Zhao Rongqiang , Hu Xiong
Published: May 2022

Traditional fault diagnosis methods are limited in the condition detection of shore bridge lifting gearboxes due to their limited ability to extract signal features and their sensitivity to noise. In order to solve this problem, an adaptive fusion convolutional denoising network (AF-CDN) was proposed in this paper. First, a novel 1D and 2D adaptive fused convolutional neural network structure is built. The fusion of both 1D and 2D convolutional models can effectively improve the feature extraction capability of the network. Then, a gradient updating method based on the Kalman filter mechanism is designed. The effectiveness of the developed method is evaluated by using the benchmark datasets and the actual data collected for the shore bridge lift gearbox. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is proved through the experimental validation in the paper. The main contributions of this paper are described as follows: the proposed AF-CDN can improve the diagnosis accuracy by 1.5–9.1% when compared with the normal CNN methods. The robustness of the diagnostic network can be significantly improved.
Neural Network Algorithm with Dropout Using Elite Selection
Authors: Wang Yong , Wang Kunzhao , Wang Gaige
Published: May 2022

A neural network algorithm is a meta-heuristic algorithm inspired by an artificial neural network, which has a strong global search ability and can be used to solve global optimization problems. However, a neural network algorithm sometimes shows the disadvantage of slow convergence speed when solving some complex problems. In order to improve the convergence speed, this paper proposes the neural network algorithm with dropout using elite selection. In the neural network algorithm with dropout using elite selection, the neural network algorithm is viewed from the perspective of an evolutionary algorithm. In the crossover phase, the dropout strategy in the neural network is introduced: a certain proportion of the individuals who do not perform well are dropped and they do not participate in the crossover process to ensure the outstanding performance of the population. Additionally, in the selection stage, a certain proportion of the individuals of the previous generation with the best performance are retained and directly enter the next generation. In order to verify the effectiveness of the improved strategy, the neural network algorithm with dropout using elite selection is used on 18 well-known benchmark functions. The experimental results show that the introduced dropout strategy improves the optimization performance of the neural network algorithm. Moreover, the neural network algorithm with dropout using elite selection is compared with other meta-heuristic algorithms to illustrate it is a powerful algorithm in solving optimization problems.
Complete Balancing of the Six-Bar Mechanism Using Fully Cartesian Coordinates and Multiobjective Differential Evolution Optimization
Authors: Orvañanos-Guerrero María T. , Acevedo Mario , Sánchez Claudia N. , Campos-Delgado Daniel U. , Ghavifekr Amir Aminzadeh , Visconti Paolo , Velázquez Ramiro
Published: May 2022

The high-speed operation of unbalanced machines may cause vibrations that lead to noise, wear, and fatigue that will eventually limit their efficiency and operating life. To restrain such vibrations, a complete balancing must be performed. This paper presents the complete balancing optimization of a six-bar mechanism with the use of counterweights. A novel method based on fully Cartesian coordinates (FCC) is proposed to represent such a balanced mechanism. A multiobjective optimization problem was solved using the Differential Evolution (DE) algorithm to minimize the shaking force (ShF) and the shaking moment (ShM) and thus balance the system. The Pareto front is used to determine the best solutions according to three optimization criteria: only the ShF, only the ShM, and both the ShF and ShM. The dimensions of the counterweights are further fine-tuned with an analysis of their partial derivatives, volumes, and area–thickness relations. Numerical results show that the ShF and ShM can be reduced by 76.82% and 77.21%, respectively, when importance is given to either of them and by 45.69% and 46.81%, respectively, when equal importance is given to both. A comparison of these results with others previously reported in the literature shows that the use of FCC in conjunction with DE is a suitable methodology for the complete balancing of mechanisms.
Residuated Lattices with Noetherian Spectrum
Authors: Piciu Dana , Savin Diana
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we characterize residuated lattices for which the topological space of prime ideals is a Noetherian space. The notion of i-Noetherian residuated lattice is introduced and related properties are investigated. We proved that a residuated lattice is i-Noetherian iff every ideal is principal. Moreover, we show that a residuated lattice has the spectrum of a Noetherian space iff it is i-Noetherian.
A Preventive Replacement Policy for a System Subject to Bivariate Generalized Polya Failure Process
Authors: Lee Hyunju , Cha Ji Hwan , Finkelstein Maxim
Published: May 2022

Numerous studies on preventive maintenance of minimally repaired systems with statistically independent components have been reported in reliability literature. However, in practice, the repair can be worse-than-minimal and the components of a system can be statistically dependent. The existing literature does not cover this important in-practice setting. Therefore, our paper is the first to deal with these issues by modeling dependence in the bivariate set up when a system consists of two dependent parts. We employ the bivariate generalized Polya process to model the corresponding failure and repair process. Relevant stochastic properties of this process have been obtained in order to propose and further discuss the new optimal bivariate preventive maintenance policy with two decision parameters: age and operational history. Moreover, introducing these two parameters in the considered context is also a new feature of the study. Under the proposed policy, the long-run average cost rate is derived and the optimal replacement policies are investigated. Detailed numerical examples illustrate our findings and show the potential efficiency of the obtained results in practice.
Identification of Quadratic Volterra Polynomials in the “Input–Output” Models of Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Voscoboynikov Yury , Solodusha Svetlana , Markova Evgeniia , Antipina Ekaterina , Boeva Vasilisa
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we propose a new algorithm for constructing an integral model of a nonlinear dynamic system of the “input–output” type in the form of a quadratic segment of the Volterra integro-power series (polynomial). We consider nonparametric identification of models using physically realizable piecewise linear test signals in the time domain. The advantage of the presented approach is to obtain explicit formulas for calculating the transient responses (Volterra kernels), which determine the unique solution of the Volterra integral equations of the first kind with two variable integration limits. The numerical method proposed in the paper for solving the corresponding equations includes the use of smoothing splines. An important result is that the constructed identification algorithm has a low methodological error.
MST-RNN: A Multi-Dimension Spatiotemporal Recurrent Neural Networks for Recommending the Next Point of Interest
Authors: Li Chunshan , Li Dongmei , Zhang Zhongya , Chu Dianhui
Published: May 2022

With the increasing popularity of location-aware Internet-of-Vehicle services, the next-Point-of-Interest (POI) recommendation has gained significant research interest, predicting where drivers will go next from their sequential movements. Many researchers have focused on this problem and proposed solutions. Machine learning-based methods (matrix factorization, Markov chain, and factorizing personalized Markov chain) focus on a POI sequential transition. However, they do not recommend the user’s position for the next few hours. Neural network-based methods can model user mobility behavior by learning the representations of the sequence data in the high-dimensional space. However, they just consider the influence from the spatiotemporal dimension and ignore many important influences, such as duration time at a POI (Point of Interest) and the semantic tags of the POIs. In this paper, we propose a novel method called multi-dimension spatial–temporal recurrent neural networks (MST-RNN), which extends the ST-RNN and exploits the duration time dimension and semantic tag dimension of POIs in each layer of neural networks. Experiments on real-world vehicle movement data show that the proposed MST-RNN is effective and clearly outperforms the state-of-the-art methods.
Canonical Forms for Reachable Systems over Von Neumann Regular Rings
Authors: Sáez-Schwedt Andrés
Published: May 2022

If (A,B) is a reachable linear system over a commutative von Neumann regular ring R, a finite collection of idempotent elements is defined, constituting a complete set of invariants for the feedback equivalence. This collection allows us to construct explicitly a canonical form. Relations are given among this set of idempotents and various other families of feedback invariants. For systems of fixed sizes, the set of feedback equivalent classes of reachable systems is put into 1-1 correspondence with an appropriate partition of Spec(R) into open and closed sets. Furthermore, it is proved that a commutative ring R is von Neumann regular if and only if every reachable system over R is a finite direct sum of Brunovsky systems, for a suitable decomposition of R.
Using Neural Networks to Uncover the Relationship between Highly Variable Behavior and EEG during a Working Memory Task with Distractors
Authors: Beauchene Christine , Men Silu , Hinault Thomas , Courtney Susan M. , Sarma Sridevi V.
Published: May 2022

Value-driven attention capture (VDAC) occurs when previously rewarded stimuli capture attention and impair goal-directed behavior. In a working memory (WM) task with VDAC-related distractors, we observe behavioral variability both within and across individuals. Individuals differ in their ability to maintain relevant information and ignore distractions. These cognitive components shift over time with changes in motivation and attention, making it difficult to identify underlying neural mechanisms of individual differences. In this study, we develop the first participant-specific feedforward neural network models of reaction time from neural data during a VDAC WM task. We used short epochs of electroencephalography (EEG) data from 16 participants to develop the feedforward neural network (NN) models of RT aimed at understanding both WM and VDAC. Using general linear models (GLM), we identified 20 EEG features to predict RT across participants (r=0.53±0.08). The linear model was compared to the NN model, which improved the predicted trial-by-trial RT for all participants (r=0.87±0.04). We found that right frontal gamma-band activity and fronto-posterior functional connectivity in the alpha, beta, and gamma bands explain individual differences. Our study shows that NN models can link neural activity to highly variable behavior and can identify potential new targets for neuromodulation interventions.
Existence and Uniqueness of Solutions to Four-Point Impulsive Fractional Differential Equations with p-Laplacian Operator
Authors: Chu Limin , Hu Weimin , Su Youhui , Yun Yongzhen
Published: May 2022

In this paper, by using fixed-point theorems, the existence and uniqueness of positive solutions to a class of four-point impulsive fractional differential equations with p-Laplacian operators are studied. In addition, three examples are given to justify the conclusion. The interest of this paper is to study impulsive fractional differential equations with p-Laplacian operators.
Integrated Finite Strip Computation for Modelling and Frequency Analysis of Hybrid Laminated FRP Structures
Authors: Naderian Hamidreza , Cheung Moe M. S. , Dragomirescu Elena , Mohammadian Abdolmajid
Published: May 2022

This paper proposes an efficient numerical technique for simulating hybrid fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bridge systems. An integrated finite strip method (IFSM) is proposed to evaluate the free vibration performance of cable-stayed FRP bridges. The structural performance of the ultra-long span cable-stayed bridge (ULSCSB) is totally different than steel and concrete bridge structures due to the complexity of the mechanical behavior of the FRP deck. Herein, the anisotropic nature of the FRP laminated deck is considered in the analysis by introducing so-called laminate spline strips in the integrated finite strip solution. The structural interactions between all the components of the bridge can be handled using the proposed method. Column strips and cable strips are introduced and used to model the towers and cables, respectively. In addition, a straightforward scheme for modeling boundary conditions is developed. A case study is presented through which the accuracy and efficiency of the IFSM in modeling such structures, as well as in performing natural frequency analysis of long-span cable-stayed FRP bridges, are evaluated. The finite strip results are verified against the finite element analysis, and a significant enhancement in efficiency in terms of reduction in computational cost is demonstrated with the same level of accuracy.
Jellyfish as an Alternative Source of Bioactive Antiproliferative Compounds
Authors: Riccio Gennaro , Martinez Kevin A. , Martín Jesús , Reyes Fernando , D’Ambra Isabella , Lauritano Chiara
Published: May 2022

Jellyfish are commonly considered a nuisance for their negative effects on human activities (e.g., fisheries, power plants and tourism) and human health. However, jellyfish provide several benefits to humans and are commonly eaten in eastern countries. Additionally, recent studies have suggested that jellyfish may become a source of high-value molecules. In this study, we tested the effects of the methanolic extracts and enriched fractions, obtained by solid-phase extraction fractionation, from the scyphomedusae Pelagia noctiluca, Rhizostoma pulmo, Cotylorhiza tuberculata and the cubomedusa Caryddea marsupialis on different human cancer cell lines in order to evaluate a potential antiproliferative activity. Our results indicated that fraction C from Caryddea marsupialis-(CM) and C. tuberculata oral arms (CTOA) were the most active to reduce cell viability in a dose-dependent manner. LC/MS based dereplication analyses highlighted that both bioactive fractions contained mainly fatty acids and derivatives, with CM additionally containing small peptides (0.7–0.8 kDa), which might contribute to its higher biological activity. The mechanism of action behind the most active fraction was investigated using PCR arrays. Results showed that the fraction C of CM can reduce the expression of genes involved in apoptosis inhibition in melanoma-treated cells, which makes jellyfish a potential new source of antiproliferative drugs to be exploited in the future.
Subcritical Water Hydrolysis of Comb Pen Shell (Atrina pectinata) Edible Parts to Produce High-Value Amino Acid Products
Authors: Chun Byung-Soo , Lee Seung-Chan , Ho Truc-Cong , Micomyiza Jean-Bosco , Park Jin-Seok , Nkurunziza David , Lee Hee-Jeong
Published: May 2022

Artina pectinata (Comb pen shell, CPS) is a high-protein source that contains a variety of essential amino acids. Subcritical water hydrolysis (SWH) was used to recover amino acids from the posterior adductor muscle (PAM), anterior adductor muscle (ADM), and mantle. The temperatures ranged from 120 °C to 200 °C, and the pressure and time of hydrolysis were 3 MPa and 30 min, respectively. Further characterization of the hydrolysates was performed to ascertain amino acid profiles and biofunctional properties. The hydrolysates contained more free amino acids than the untreated samples. Antioxidant activity of treated samples increased as SW temperatures increased. At 200 °C, those inhibiting ACE had a maximum antihypertensive activity of 200 °C in 1% PAM, ADM, and mantle with 85.85 ± 0.67, 84.55 ± 0.18, and 82.15 ± 0.85%, respectively, compared to 97.57 ± 0.67% in 1% standard captopril. Perhaps the most significant finding was the predominance of taurine in the three parts following SW treatment at 120 °C. The hydrolysates may be of considerable interest for use in food or energy drinks. SWH demonstrates efficacy in recovering amino acids, particularly taurine, from edible parts of A. pectinata.
The Feasibility of Sentinel Lymph-Node, Mapped with Indocyanine Green, Biopsy in Endometrial Cancer Patients: A Prospective Study
Authors: Gedgaudaite Migle , Sukovas Arturas , Paskauskas Saulius , Bartusevicius Arnoldas , Atstupenaite Vaida , Svedas Eimantas , Celiesiute Joana , Cizauskas Arvydas , Vaitkiene Daiva , Gaurilcikas Adrius
Published: May 2022

Background and objectives. Systematic pelvic lymphadenectomy (LND) is an essential part of lymph-node status evaluation in endometrial cancer (EC) patients to tailor the adjuvant treatment. However, it is associated with the post-operative lymphatic complications and does not improve the outcomes of the disease. Indocyanine green (ICG) mapped sentinel lymph-node biopsy (SLB) has recently been introduced into the clinical practice as an alternative for the surgical lymph-node evaluation in EC patients with the potential to decrease LND related complications. The aim of our study was to evaluate the feasibility of ICG mapped SLB in low, intermediate, and high-risk EC patients in a center with no previous experience on endoscopic SLB procedure. Materials and Methods: The prospective study was performed. 170 patients with histologically confirmed EC were included. Sentinel lymph-nodes (SLs) were mapped with ICG dye and removed ahead of the total laparoscopic hysterectomy. Low-risk patients received only SLB, while SLB and LND were performed for intermediate and high-risk patients. Results: The overall detection rate of SLs was 88.8%. Bilateral mapping was achieved in 68.2% of the patients. The overall detection rate for low-risk patients was 93.7%, 85.0% for the intermediate-risk group, and 100% for high-risk patients (p = 0.232). The most common anatomical sites of SLs were the external iliac (45.8% on the right and 46.6% on the left) and obturator regions (20.9% and 25.6%, respectively). Positive lymph-nodes were found in 8 (4.7%) patients. The sensitivity of SLB was 75.0% and negative predictive value (NPV)—97.2%. Conclusions: Even in the center with no previous experience, sentinel lymph-node biopsy using ICG mapping is feasible. However, the favorable outcomes might be associated with the learning process of newly established method.
MRI Findings of Muscle Damage after Total Hip Arthroplasty Using the Complete Muscle Preserving Anterolateral Supine Approach
Authors: Oda Shuhei , Hisatome Takashi , Cho Eiji , Fujimaki Hirohisa , Nakanishi Kazuyoshi
Published: May 2022

Background and Objectives: We performed anterolateral total hip arthroplasty (ALS THA) with the purpose of complete muscle-tendon preservation without muscle-tendon dissection. This study aimed to evaluate muscle damage in the periprosthetic hip joint muscles of patients undergoing ALS THA at 1-year post-operative hip magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Materials and Methods: We evaluated changes in the muscle cross-sectional area (M-CSA) and fatty atrophy of the periprosthetic muscles. We also assessed the Harris hip score on pre-operative and 12-month post-operative MRI in 66 patients who underwent ALS THA. The grade of M-CSA atrophy was classified into no atrophy, slight atrophy, moderate atrophy, and severe atrophy. Fatty atrophy was classified as improved, no change, and worsened using the Goutallier classification. Results: More than 90% of patients’ M-CSA had no atrophy in the obturator internus (Oi), obturator externus (Oe), gluteus medius (Gmed), and gluteus minimus (Gmin), and some improvement was observed in terms of fatty atrophy. In contrast, M-CSA of the tensor fascia latae (TFL) muscle was clearly decreased, and there was no improvement in the TFL fatty atrophy. However, the presence or absence of TFL atrophy did not affect clinical outcome. Conclusions: We performed the complete muscle preserving procedure, ALS THA, with attention to preserving the Oi and Oe by direct visual confirmation and gentle treatment of the Gmed and Gmin with effective retraction. Post-operative M-CSA atrophy evaluation on MRI showed that the Oi, Oe, Gmed, and Gmin were satisfactorily preserved; however, the TFL was clearly atrophic. In the ALS approach, where entry is made between Gmed and TFL, atrophy of the TFL due to superior gluteal nerve injury must be tolerated to some extent.
Difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) Enhances the Cytotoxicity of PARP Inhibition in Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: El Naggar Olivia , Doyle Brenna , Mariner Kelsey , Gilmour Susan K.
Published: May 2022

Ovarian cancer accounts for 3% of the total cancers in women, yet it is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths among women. The BRCA1/2 germline and somatic mutations confer a deficiency of the homologous recombination (HR) repair pathway. Inhibitors of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), another important component of DNA damage repair, are somewhat effective in BRCA1/2 mutant tumors. However, ovarian cancers often reacquire functional BRCA and develop resistance to PARP inhibitors. Polyamines have been reported to facilitate the DNA damage repair functions of PARP. Given the elevated levels of polyamines in tumors, we hypothesized that treatment with the polyamine synthesis inhibitor, α-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), may enhance ovarian tumor sensitivity to the PARP inhibitor, rucaparib. In HR-competent ovarian cancer cell lines with varying sensitivities to rucaparib, we show that co-treatment with DFMO increases the sensitivity of ovarian cancer cells to rucaparib. Immunofluorescence assays demonstrated that, in the presence of hydrogen peroxide-induced DNA damage, DFMO strongly inhibits PARylation, increases DNA damage accumulation, and reduces cell viability in both HR-competent and deficient cell lines. In vitro viability assays show that DFMO and rucaparib cotreatment significantly enhances the cytotoxicity of the chemotherapeutic agent, cisplatin. These results suggest that DFMO may be a useful adjunct chemotherapeutic to improve the anti-tumor efficacy of PARP inhibitors in treating ovarian cancer.
Mechanical Properties of Cu-W Interpenetrating-Phase Composites with Different W-Skeleton
Authors: Han Ying , Li Sida , Cao Yundong , Li Shujun , Yang Guangyu , Yu Bo , Song Zhaowei , Wang Jian
Published: May 2022

In this work, copper–tungsten (Cu-W) composites with a cubic and rhombic dodecahedron W-skeleton were fabricated by the infiltration of Cu melt into a three-dimensionally printed W scaffold. The effects of the skeleton structure on the mechanical properties and energy-absorbing characteristics of the Cu-W interpenetrating-phase composite were investigated and compared with those of commercial Cu-W composite fabricated by powder metallurgy. The results indicated that the mechanical properties of the studied Cu-W interpenetrating-phase composites were mainly related to the properties of their ordered skeletons. Compared to the dodecahedron W-skeleton Cu-W composites, cubic-W-skeleton Cu-W composites exhibited higher strengths but lower absorbed energy. The Cu-W composites with ordered W-skeletons displayed much higher energy absorption than the commercial Cu-W ones. By adjusting the ordered W-skeleton structure contained in the composite, the strength and deformation behavior of the Cu-W composite can be effectively improved, which provides a guide to optimizing the mechanical properties and energy absorption of Cu-W composites.
Effectiveness of Thermal Annealing in Recovery of Tensile Properties of Compositionally Tailored PWR Model Steels Irradiated in LYRA-10
Authors: Laot Mathilde , Naziris Kiki , Bakker Theo , D’Agata Elio , Martin Oliver , Kolluri Murthy
Published: May 2022

Understanding the mechanical behaviour of reactor pressure vessel (RPV) steels at high fluences has become an important topic in regard to Long-Term Operations (LTO) of existing nuclear power plants (NPP). The effectiveness of thermal annealing treatments to recover the mechanical properties of compositionally tailored pressurised water reactor (PWR) model steels irradiated to high neutron fluences, up to 1.22 × 1020 n·cm−2, is analysed in this study. Tensile testing of four different PWR RPV steels was performed after irradiation and subsequent recovery annealing treatment at 450 °C for 40 h. Irradiation-induced hardening and the effectiveness of recovery thermal annealing have been assessed by comparing the strength and ductility properties of irradiated and irradiated and subsequently annealed samples with unirradiated reference samples for all four model steel. The annealing treatment resulted in a significant recovery of the yield strength (~75–89%) and the ultimate tensile strength (~78–96%) of all four PWR model steels. This study proves that substantial irradiation-induced hardening (up to ~389 MPa) observed in steels containing high Ni and Mn contents can still be recovered using the thermal annealing treatment. No influence of annealing on ductility properties has been observed for all four model steels. Microscopy analyses of these steels to understand the underlying irradiation damage and recovery mechanisms are planned for the near future.
Regional Distribution and Causes of Global Mine Tailings Dam Failures
Authors: Lin Shui-Quan , Wang Guang-Jin , Liu Wen-Lian , Zhao Bing , Shen Ying-Ming , Wang Meng-Lai , Li Xiao-Shuan
Published: May 2022

Tailings ponds are one of the three major production facilities in metal mines. The volume of tailings increases year by year, but the storage capacity of existing tailings ponds is limited. Therefore, tailings dams must become more fine-grained and larger. The potential hazard they represent should not be underestimated. This paper reveals the causes and regional distribution patterns of 342 tailings dam failures globally from 1915 to 2021 through statistical analysis. It was found that tailings pond failures occur almost every year, with an average of 4.4 accidents/year (1947–2021). The frequency has been gradually increasing in recent years, and most tailings pond failures are directly related to heavy rainfall or earthquakes. The frequency of tailings pond failures was significantly higher in Asia (21.3%) and the Americas (57.9%), especially in China (n = 43) and the United States (n = 107). Causes of tailings pond failures differed among regions. Most tailings pond failures in Asia and Europe were related to hydroclimate, while those in South America were mainly triggered by earthquakes. This study will provide theoretical data for the pre-design as well as the safe and stable operation of global tailings ponds, which will help to prevent global tailings pond failures.
Microstructure Evolution of a New Precipitation-Strengthened Fe–Al–Ni–Ti Alloy down to Atomic Scale
Authors: Godor Flora , Palm Martin , Liebscher Christian H. , Stein Frank , Turk Christoph , Leitner Katharina , Rashkova Boryana , Clemens Helmut
Published: May 2022

Ferritic materials consisting of a disordered matrix and a significant volume fraction of ordered intermetallic precipitates have recently gained attention due to their favorable properties regarding high-temperature applicability. Alloys strengthened by Heusler-type precipitates turned out to show promising properties at elevated temperatures, e.g., creep resistance. The present work aims at developing a fundamental understanding of the microstructure of an alloy with a nominal composition of 60Fe–20Al–10Ni–10Ti (in at. %). In order to determine the microstructural evolution, prevailing phases and corresponding phase transformation temperatures are investigated. Differential thermal analysis, high-temperature X-ray diffraction, and special heat treatments were performed. The final microstructures are characterized by means of scanning and transmission electron microscopy along with hardness measurements. Atom probe tomography conducted on alloys of selected heat-treated conditions allows for evaluating the chemical composition and spatial arrangement of the constituent phases. All investigated sample conditions showed microstructures consisting of two phases with crystal structures A2 and L21. The L21 precipitates grew within a continuous A2 matrix. Due to a rather small lattice mismatch, matrix–precipitate interfaces are either coherent or semicoherent depending on the cooling condition after heat treatment.
Residual Stress Reduction with the LTT Effect in Low Carbon Manganese-Steel through Chemical Composition Manipulation Using Dissimilar Filler Material in Laser Beam Welding
Authors: Akyel Fatma , Gamerdinger Maximilian , Olschok Simon , Reisgen Uwe , Schwedt Alexander , Mayer Joachim
Published: May 2022

This paper investigates the manipulation of chemical composition of a laser weld by dissimilar filler material and its effect on residual stress. The aim is to minimize residual stresses in the weld seam. In order to negate residual stresses, dissimilar combinations of low-carbon manganese steel (S235JR) base material with high-alloyed solid filler wires (G19 9 and G25 20), as well as similar combinations with low-alloyed solid filler wire G3Si1 are analyzed. The goal of the paper is to show that the so-called low-transformation-temperature effect can be used to induce residual compressive stresses in a weld without the use of specially manufactured filler wires. Chemical compositions are generated within a laser-beam-welding process by means of dilution, proving that the concept of in situ alloying is usable in order to affect the martensite formation on a weld. Dilatometry measurements show that a varying Cr and Ni content in a weld reduces the phase-transformation temperature and increases dilatation. EBSD analysis indicates that a fully martensitic weld with a negligible amount of retained austenite is created while the base material preserves its ferritic-pearlitic microstructure. Residual stress measurements with the hole-drilling method demonstrate a reduction in longitudinal tensile residual stresses, whereby the magnitude of the induced residual compressive stresses depend on the Ms temperature. As a result of this research, it was proven that a reduction in tensile residual stress by means of targeted alloying with conventional materials in low-carbon manganese steel is possible. Under the experimental conditions, residual stress in the weld seam could be reduced to 0 MPa. In some cases, even compressive residual stress in the weld could be achieved.