bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Experience Matter? Unraveling the Drivers of Expert and Non-Expert Mobile Consumers
Authors: Vinerean Simona , Dabija Dan-Cristian , Dominici Gandolfo
Published: April 2024

The surge in mobile shopping faces a challenge as not all potential consumers are comfortable with this mode. Retailers need a deeper understanding of factors influencing user experience to enhance marketing strategies. Despite extensive research, a gap remains in comprehending this aspect. Using a statistical PLS-SEM-ANN approach, this research aims to explore the psychological dimensions of expert and non-expert mobile shoppers for establishing better targeted marketing strategies in m-commerce settings. Analyzing experience levels in mobile commerce (m-commerce), key drivers like enjoyment, usefulness, subjective norms, and trust were scrutinized as interaction settings for consumers using mobile technologies. The findings reveal that, for less experienced m-shoppers, trust is the most significant driver of attitude and satisfaction, while, for experienced users, trust and usefulness are the primary antecedents. This research provides novel insights, aiding mobile marketers in refining targeting strategies based on consumer experience levels, emphasizing the importance of usefulness and trustworthiness for a seamless m-shopping experience.
Reconciling International Climate Law and the Energy Charter Treaty through the Use of Integrative Interpretation in Arbitration
Authors: Hinrichsen Eike
Published: April 2024

The conflicting objectives of the Energy Charter Treaty’s (ECT) protection of fossil fuel investments and climate change mitigation can reveal themselves in investor state dispute settlement (ISDS). As neither the modernization nor the termination of the ECT is likely, ECT arbitration will continue to exist. This article, therefore, examines the reconciling potential of integrative interpretation in climate relevant ECT arbitrations. An integrative interpretation is not only prescribed by the international rules of treaty interpretation, but can also be found in the practice of international dispute settlement. However, international climate law has not yet been taken into account by a single ECT tribunal. Although some hurdles and uncertainties remain in practice, examples of extraneous treaty use, as well as the reasoning of the judgments of recent climate litigation, show that ECT ISDS has the potential to reconcile climate change and energy investment interests in the future.
Characterization of Interfacial Corrosion Behavior of Hybrid Laminate EN AW-6082 ∪ CFRP
Authors: Delp Alexander , Wu Shuang , Freund Jonathan , Scholz Ronja , Löbbecke Miriam , Tröster Thomas , Haubrich Jan , Walther Frank
Published: April 2024

The corrosion behavior of a hybrid laminate consisting of laser-structured aluminum EN AW-6082 ∪ carbon fiber-reinforced polymer was investigated. Specimens were corroded in aqueous NaCl electrolyte (0.1 mol/L) over a period of up to 31 days and characterized continuously by means of scanning electron and light microscopy, supplemented by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Comparative linear sweep voltammetry was employed on the first and seventh day of the corrosion experiment. The influence of different laser morphologies and production process parameters on corrosion behavior was compared. The corrosion reaction mainly arises from the aluminum component and shows distinct differences in long-term corrosion morphology between pure EN AW-6082 and the hybrid laminate. Compared to short-term investigations, a strong influence of galvanic corrosion on the interface is assumed. No distinct influences of different laser structuring and process parameters on the corrosion behavior were detected. Weight measurements suggest a continuous loss of mass attributed to the detachment of corrosion products.
4H-SiC MOSFET Threshold Voltage Instability Evaluated via Pulsed High-Temperature Reverse Bias and Negative Gate Bias Stresses
Authors: Anoldo Laura , Zanetti Edoardo , Coco Walter , Russo Alfio , Fiorenza Patrick , Roccaforte Fabrizio
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a reliability study of a conventional 650 V SiC planar MOSFET subjected to pulsed HTRB (High-Temperature Reverse Bias) stress and negative HTGB (High-Temperature Gate Bias) stress defined by a TCAD static simulation showing the electric field distribution across the SiC/SiO2 interface. The instability of several electrical parameters was monitored and their drift analyses were investigated. Moreover, the shift of the onset of the Fowler–Nordheim gate injection current under stress conditions provided a reliable method to quantify the trapped charge inside the gate oxide bulk, and it allowed us to determine the real stress conditions. Moreover, it has been demonstrated from the cross-correlation, the TCAD simulation, and the experimental ΔVth and ΔVFN variation that HTGB stress is more severe compared to HTRB. In fact, HTGB showed a 15% variation in both ΔVth and ΔVFN, while HTRB showed only a 4% variation in both ΔVth and ΔVFN. The physical explanation was attributed to the accelerated degradation of the gate insulator in proximity to the source region under HTGB configuration.
Air-Stable and Eco-Friendly Symmetrical Imine with Thiadiazole Moieties in Neutral and Protonated form for Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Bogdanowicz Krzysztof Artur , Iwan Agnieszka , Dysz Karolina , Przybyl Wojciech , Marzec Monika , Cichy Kacper , Świerczek Konrad
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes molecular and supramolecular concepts for potential application in perovskite solar cells. New air-stable symmetrical imine, with thiadiazole moieties PPL2: (5E,6E)-N2,N5-bis(4-(diphenylamino)benzylidene)-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2,5-diamine), as a hole-transporting material was synthesised in a single-step reaction, starting with commercially available and relatively inexpensive reagents, resulting in a reduction in the cost of the final product compared to Spiro-OMeTAD. Moreover, camphorsulfonic acid (CSA) in both enantiomeric forms was used to change the HOMO-LUMO levels and electric properties of the investigated imine-forming complexes. Electric, optical, thermal, and structural studies of the imine and its complexes with CSA were carried out to characterise the new material. Imine and imine/CSA complexes were also characterised in depth by the proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance 1H NMR method. The position of nitrogen in the thidiazole ring influences the basicity of donor centres, which results in protonation in the imine bond. Simple devices of ITO/imine (with or without CSA(−) or CSA(+))/Ag/ITO architecture were constructed, and a thermographic camera was used to find the defects in the created devices. Electric behaviour was also studied to demonstrate conductivity properties under the forward current. Finally, the electrical properties of imine and its protonated form with CSA were compared with Spiro-OMeTAD. In general, the analysis of thermal images showed a very similar response of the samples to the applied potential in terms of the homogeneity of the formed organic layer. The TGA analysis showed that the investigated imine exhibits good thermal stability in air and argon atmospheres.
Study on the Damage of Fiber-Reinforced Seawater Sea Sand Concrete by Freezing and Thawing of Seawater
Authors: Sun Chuanwu , Wang Xuezhi , Xin Ming , He Jingjing
Published: April 2024

The use of seawater and sea sand as replacements for fresh water and river sand in the preparation of seawater and sea sand concrete can effectively address issues such as high transportation costs, extended construction periods, and resource wastage. Nevertheless, in northern coastal areas, the problem of concrete durability in the complex and changing marine environment is more prominent. Research on the durability of seawater sea sand concrete is beneficial to the widening of its application range. To investigate the impact of glass fiber (GF) and polyvinyl alcohol fiber (PVA) with different blending methods on the seawater freeze–thaw resistance of seawater sea sand concrete (SSC), corresponding specimens were prepared, and seawater freeze–thaw cycling tests were conducted. By adopting the slow-freezing method and combining macro-structure and micro-morphology, the damage mechanism and the deterioration law of fiber-reinforced SSC under seawater freezing and thawing were investigated. The results indicate that, macroscopically, the incorporation of GF and PVA can effectively mitigate the damage to the matrix and reduce the effects of external erosive substances on the rate of strength loss, the rate of mass loss, and the relative dynamic elastic modulus. After 75 cycles, the SSC with a total volume doping of 0.3% and a blending ratio of 1:1 showed a 41.23% and 27.55% reduction in mass loss and strength loss, respectively, and a 29.9% improvement in relative dynamic elastic modulus compared with the basic group. Microscopic analysis reveals that the combined effect of freezing and expansion forces, the expansive substances generated by seawater intrusion into the interior of the matrix, and salt crystallization all weaken the bond between aggregate and mortar, leading to accelerated deterioration of the concrete. The incorporation of fibers enables the matrix to become denser and improves its crack-resistant properties, resulting in a better durability than that of the basic group. The damage prediction model established by the NSGM(1,N) model of gray system theory exhibits high accuracy and is suitable for long-term prediction, accurately predicting the damage of seawater sea sand concrete under seawater freeze–thaw coupling.
High-Pressure-Assisted Large-Area (>2400 mm2) Sintered-Silver Substrate Bonding for SiC Power Module Packaging
Authors: Xue Jiafeng , Li Xin
Published: April 2024

The emergence of new semiconductor devices puts forward higher requirements for packaging technology. Sintered silver technology has gradually developed into critical packaging technology in silicon carbide power module packaging due to its good heat dissipation performance and reliability. However, high sintering drive requirements, low sintering densification, and high thermal–mechanical stresses limit the application of sintered silver technology for large-area bonding. In this study, the high-pressure-assisted (≥10 MPa) large-area sintered-silver interconnection process between a substrate and baseplate was discussed. C-scan acoustic microscopy, warpage testing, and microanalysis were used to analyze the effects of drying methods, sintering pressure, and holding time on the sintered joints, and thermal fatigue reliability tests were conducted on large-area sintered silver joints. The results demonstrated that the quality of large-area sintered joints obtained via open-face convective drying is higher than that via close-face convective drying. Combining the performance of sintered joints and productivity, the recommended process condition is determined as follows: open-face convective drying, sintering temperature of 250 °C, sintering pressure of 15 MPa, and holding time of 5 min. Large-area sintered joints have outstanding reliability, with slight delamination of the sintered layer at the corners and no cracking after 1000 cycles of temperature cycling.
Additive Manufacturing of Composite Polymers: Thermomechanical FEA and Experimental Study
Authors: Behseresht Saeed , Park Young Ho
Published: April 2024

This study presents a comprehensive approach for simulating the additive manufacturing process of semi-crystalline composite polymers using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM). By combining thermomechanical Finite Element Analysis (FEA) with experimental validation, our main objective is to comprehend and model the complex behaviors of 50 wt.% carbon fiber-reinforced Polyphenylene Sulfide (CF PPS) during FDM printing. The simulations of the FDM process encompass various theoretical aspects, including heat transfer, orthotropic thermal properties, thermal dissipation mechanisms, polymer crystallization, anisotropic viscoelasticity, and material shrinkage. We utilize Abaqus user subroutines such as UMATHT for thermal orthotropic constitutive behavior, UEPACTIVATIONVOL for progressive activation of elements, and ORIENT for material orientation. Mechanical behavior is characterized using a Maxwell model for viscoelastic materials, incorporating a dual non-isothermal crystallization kinetics model within the UMAT subroutine. Our approach is validated by comparing nodal temperature distributions obtained from both the Abaqus built-in AM Modeler and our user subroutines, showing close agreement and demonstrating the effectiveness of our simulation methods. Experimental verification further confirms the accuracy of our simulation techniques. The mechanical analysis investigates residual stresses and distortions, with particular emphasis on the critical transverse in-plane stress component. This study offers valuable insights into accurately simulating thermomechanical behaviors in additive manufacturing of composite polymers.
Wear Behaviors of the Surface of Duplex Cast Steel after the Burnishing Process
Authors: Stradomski Grzegorz , Fik Joanna , Lis Zbigniew , Rydz Dariusz , Szarek Arkadiusz
Published: April 2024

Duplex steel and cast steels have a wide range of applications in many industrial sectors, for example, oil extraction, printing, petrochemical industry, energy—exhaust gases desulphurization systems, seawater desalination plants, and the shipbuilding industry. The machine elements can be produced with different techniques, which determine the operational properties. A material with the same chemical composition made as a casting will have worse mechanical properties than, for example, a forged element. This depends on the microstructure, its fragmentation and its morphology. However, the costs of casting are lower than, for example, forging, and, in addition, not all shapes obtainable in the casting process can be made using metal–plastic working methods. This article presents research results concerning the influence of the burnishing process on the properties of the duplex cast steel surface layer. The purpose of the research was to verify the impact of static pressure roller burnishing (SPRB) parameters on the wear of the surface layer of duplex cast steel. The subject of the research was cast steel in the GX2CrNiMoN22-5-3 grade—according to PN-EN 10283:2019—that was burnished using 15 variants of technological parameters. Then, the samples were subjected to surface wear tests using the INSTRON 8874 device. On the basis of the observed wear appearances, the acting wear mechanisms are defined and evaluated according their contribution to the wear behavior. Detailed information about the wear phenomena will help industries to minimize their maintenance losses related to surface wear. The possibility of shaping surface properties by mechanical burnishing is part of the current direction of surface engineering development. This technology, combined with a high-potential material such as duplex cast steel, makes it possible to increase wear resistance.
E-Band InAs Quantum Dot Micro-Disk Laser with Metamorphic InGaAs Layers Grown on GaAs/Si (001) Substrate
Authors: Liang Wenqian , Wei Wenqi , Han Dong , Ming Ming , Zhang Jieyin , Wang Zihao , Zhang Xinding , Wang Ting , Zhang Jianjun
Published: April 2024

The direct growth of III-V quantum dot (QD) lasers on silicon substrate has been rapidly developing over the past decade and has been recognized as a promising method for achieving on-chip light sources in photonic integrated circuits (PICs). Up to date, O- and C/L-bands InAs QD lasers on Si have been extensively investigated, but as an extended telecommunication wavelength, the E-band QD lasers directly grown on Si substrates are not available yet. Here, we demonstrate the first E-band (1365 nm) InAs QD micro-disk lasers epitaxially grown on Si (001) substrates by using a III-V/IV hybrid dual-chamber molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) system. The micro-disk laser device on Si was characterized with an optical threshold power of 0.424 mW and quality factor (Q) of 1727.2 at 200 K. The results presented here indicate a path to on-chip silicon photonic telecom-transmitters.
Study on Preparation and Humidity-Control Capabilities of Vermiculite/Poly(sodium Acrylate-acrylamide) Humidity Controlling Composite
Authors: Xue Zhichang , Wang Jihui , Diao Yaqi , Hu Wenbin
Published: April 2024

This paper focuses on the preparation and evaluation of a novel humidity-control material, vermiculite/(sodium polyacrylate(AA)–acrylamide(AM)), using inverse suspension polymerization. Acrylic acid and acrylamide were introduced into the interlayer of modified vermiculite during the polymerization process, leading to the formation of a strong association with the modified vermiculite. The addition of vermiculite increased the specific surface area and pore volume of the composites. To investigate the moisture absorption and desorption properties of the composites, an orthogonal experiment and single-factor experiment were conducted to analyze the impacts of vermiculite content, neutralization degree, and the mass ratio of AA to AM. According to the control experiment, the addition of vermiculite was found to enhance the pore structure and surface morphology of the composite material, surpassing both vermiculite and PAA-AM copolymer in terms of humidity control capacity and rate. The optimal preparation conditions were identified as follows: vermiculite mass fraction of 4 wt%, a neutralization degree of 90%, and mAA:mAM = 4:1. The moisture absorption rate and moisture release rate of the composite material prepared under these conditions are 1.285 g/g and 1.172 g/g. The humidity control process of the composite material is governed by pseudo second-order kinetics, which encompasses the complete adsorption process. These results indicate that the vermiculite/PAA-AM composite humidity control material has excellent humidity control performance and is a simple and efficient humidity control method.
Sol-Gel Multilayered Niobium (Vanadium)-Doped TiO2 for CO Sensing and Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue
Authors: Simeonov Simeon , Szekeres Anna , Covei Maria , Stroescu Hermine , Nicolescu Madalina , Chesler Paul , Hornoiu Cristian , Gartner Mariuca
Published: April 2024

Multilayered TiO2 films doped either with Niobium or Vanadium (1.2 at. %) were deposited by the sol-gel dip coating method on c-Si and glass substrates. The films on glass substrates were tested for CO sensing and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue. X-ray diffraction data analysis showed that all the TiO2:Nb(V) films were nanocrystalline in the anatase phase, with a uniform and compact microstructure and a homogeneous superficial structure of small grains with diameters in the range of 13–19 nm. For the electrical characterization, the TiO2:Nb(V) films were incorporated in Metal-Insulator-Semiconductor (MIS) structures. The specific resistivity is of the order of 104 Ωcm and its value decreases with increasing the electrical field, which testifies to the injection of electrons into these layers. From the analysis of the current–voltage curves taken at different temperature- and frequency—dependent capacitance–voltage and conductance–voltage characteristics, the density and parameters of deep levels in these TiO2 films are evaluated and the electron charge transport mechanism is established. It was shown that the current in these TiO2:Nb(V)-Si MIS structures is mainly carried out by inter-trap tunneling via deep levels energetically distributed in the TiO2 bandgap. Testing these sol-gel TiO2:Nb(V) layers for gas sensing and photocatalytic capabilities proved that they could serve such purposes. In particular, the results of the V-doped sol-gel TiO2 film confirm its CO detection capability, which is rarely reported in the literature. For the photodegradation of methylene blue, the Nb-doped TiO2 samples were superior, with nearly double the photocatalytic efficiency of undoped TiO2.
Preparation of a (Ca,Sr,Ba)ZrO3 Crucible by Slip Casting for the Vacuum Induction Melting of NiTi Alloy
Authors: Ding Shijia , Li Mingliang , Wang Hailong , Zhu Jinpeng , Shao Gang , Xu Hongliang , Lu Hongxia , Zhang Rui
Published: April 2024

Vacuum induction melting is a more energy-efficient process for the preparation of a titanium alloy with good homogeneity and low cost. But the crucial problem for this technology is in developing a crucible refractory with high stability. In the present work, a novel (Ca,Sr,Ba)ZrO3 crucible was prepared by slip casting and its performance in melting NiTi alloy was studied. The results showed that a single solid solution was formed with a homogeneous distribution of metal elements after sintering at 1500 °C. It was found that the total content of oxygen and nitrogen remaining in the TiNi alloy after melting in the (Ca,Sr,Ba)ZrO3 crucible was 0.0173 wt.%, which fulfills the ASTM standard on biomedical TiNi alloys. The good resistance of the (Ca,Sr,Ba)ZrO3 crucible to molten NiTi has a relationship with the sluggish diffusion effect of high-entropy ceramics. This study provides insights into the process of designing highly suitable crucible material for melting a NiTi alloy.
Pilot Study Investigating Effects of Changing Process Variables on Elastic and Energy-Absorbing Characteristics in Polyurethane/Agglomerated Cork Mix for Use in Micro-Transport Helmet
Authors: White David E. , Kim Hyun Chan , Al-Rawi Mohammad , Yuan Xiaowen , Sojan Tony
Published: April 2024

This pilot investigation identifies the influence that changing the process variables of curing pressure, curing temperature, and mix ratio of a polyurethane/agglomerated cork matrix has on the mechanical properties of energy absorption, Young’s modulus of elasticity, and spring stiffness in safety helmets intended for micro-transport riders. The results are compared to expanded polystyrene, a material commonly used in micro-transport helmets. Mechanical testing of the various samples found that, over the range tested, curing pressure had no effect on any of the mechanical properties, while increasing amounts of resin caused a stiffer structure, and increasing curing temperature led to increased energy absorption. Consistent with the elastic modulus findings, all polyurethane/agglomerated cork test samples demonstrated higher median levels of spring stiffness, ranging from 7.1% to 61.9% greater than those found for expanded polystyrene. The sample mixed at a 1.5:1 binder/cork ratio and cured at 40 °C displayed the closest spring stiffness to EPS. While the mechanical properties of the eco-friendly polyurethane/agglomerated cork matrix did not match those of expanded polystyrene, the difference in performance found in this study is promising. Further investigation into process variables could characterise this more ecologically based matrix with equivalent energy-absorbing and structural characteristics, making it equivalent to currently used expanded polystyrene and suitable for use in micro-transport helmets.
Diffusivities and Atomic Mobilities in BCC Ti-Fe-Cr Alloys
Authors: Huang Yi , Nie Jingjing , Bai Weimin , Hu Songsong , Wang Xinming , Zhang Ligang , Liu Libin
Published: April 2024

In this research, the diffusion behaviors within the Ti-Fe-Cr ternary system were examined at the temperatures of 1273 K and 1373 K through the diffusion couple technique. This study led to the determination of both ternary inter-diffusion and impurity diffusion coefficients in the body-centered cubic (bcc) phase for the Ti-Fe-Cr alloy, utilizing the Whittle–Green and Hall methods. The statistics show that the average diffusion coefficients D˜FeFeTi and D˜CrCrTi measured at 1273 K were 1.34 × 10−12 and 3.66 × 10−13, respectively. At 1373 K, the average values of D˜FeFeTi and D˜CrCrTi were 4.89 × 10−12 and 1.43 × 10−12. By adopting the CALPHAD method, a self-consistent database for atomic mobility in the bcc phase of the Ti-Fe-Cr system was established. This database underwent refinement by comparing the newly acquired diffusion coefficients with data from the existing literature. Diffusion simulations for the diffusion couples were performed, drawing on the established database. The error between the simulated diffusion coefficient and the experimental measurement data is within 15%, and the simulated data of the component distance distribution and diffusion path are in good agreement with the experimental data. The simulations generated results that aligned well with the observed experimental diffusion characteristics, thereby affirming the reliability and accuracy of the database.
Performance Study of High-Speed Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor with Amorphous Alloy Considering Temperature Effect
Authors: Yan Changhao , Hu Haiyang , Li Zhiye , Zeng Lubin , Pei Ruilin
Published: April 2024

Because the magnetic properties of an amorphous alloy (AA) obviously change with the change of temperature, a finite element simulation method for a motor, considering the effect of temperature, is proposed in this paper. In the early design stage of the high-speed permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), the simulation of motor performance is mainly based on the magnetic performance test data at room temperature provided by the material’s manufacturer. However, the influence of the temperature rise during the actual operation of the motor will lead to large errors between the simulation results and the measured results. Therefore, it is of great practical significance to measure the magnetic properties of the AA at different temperatures and use them for simulation purposes. In this paper, the magnetization characteristics and iron loss characteristics of the AA and silicon steel (ST100) used for comparison are measured at different temperatures, and the iron loss separation of the two materials at different temperatures is completed, and the hysteresis loss coefficient and eddy current loss coefficient at different temperatures are obtained. On this basis, the performance simulation of a motor model is carried out. The more accurate simulation method proposed in this paper can provide a reference for the design of AA motors in industry.
In Situ Microstructure Modification Using a Layerwise Surface-Preheating Laser Scan of Ti-6Al-4V during Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Tanrikulu Ahmet Alptug , Farhang Behzad , Ganesh-Ram Aditya , Hekmatjou Hamidreza , Durlov Sadman Hafiz , Amerinatanzi Amirhesam
Published: April 2024

An innovative in situ thermal approach in the domain of LPBF for Ti-6Al-4V fabrication has been carried out with results directing towards an improved fatigue life without the need for post-processing. The thermal process involves an additional laser scan with different process parameters to preheat the selected regions of each layer of the powder bed prior to their full melting. This preheating step influences the cooling rate, which in turn affects surface characteristics and subsurface microstructure, both of which are directly correlated with fatigue properties. A thorough analysis has been conducted by comparing the preheated samples with reference samples with no preheating. Without any additional thermal processing, the preheated samples showed a significant improvement over their reference counterparts. The optimized preheated sample showed an improved prior β-grain distribution with a circular morphology and thicker α laths within the even finer prior β-grain boundaries. Also, an overall increment of the c/a ratio of the HCP α has been observed, which yielded lattice strain relaxation in the localized grain structure. Furthermore, a less-profound surface roughness was observed in the preheated sample. The obtained microstructure with all these factors delivered a 10% improvement in its fatigue life with better mechanical strength overall.
Flexural Response of Functionally Graded Rubberized Concrete Beams
Authors: Albidah Abdulrahman S. , Alsaif Abdulaziz S.
Published: April 2024

Recycling rubber and/or steel fiber components of waste tires in construction applications is a venue for maximizing the recycling rate of these items. Additionally, it supports the move towards producing sustainable construction materials and conserving natural resources. Previous research explored the viability of employing recycled waste rubber particles as an alternative for natural aggregate. Despite the adverse effect of rubber on the mechanical properties of concrete (e.g., lower compressive strength), it produces several advantages, including excellent dynamic and ductility properties, which can be utilized in structural members critical to dynamic loads, e.g., blasts, earthquakes, and impacts. In an effort to expand the adoption of waste rubber in concrete beams and to eliminate key concerns associated with the degradation of their flexural behavior, the functionally graded (FG) beams concept was utilized. The present investigation comprised the testing of five beams using a four-point bending configuration. Plain concrete, rubberized concrete (RuC), and steel-fiber reinforced rubberized concrete (SFRRuC) beams were cast along with FG beams arranged in two layers. The top layer of the FG beams comprised plain concrete, while the bottom layer consisted of RuC or SFRRuC. Experimental findings indicated that the flexural behavior of the FG beam with layers of SFRRuC and plain concrete exceeded the flexural strength, displacement ductility ratio, and toughness performances of the plain concrete beam by 9.9%, 12.9%, and 24.4%, respectively. The moment–curvature relationship was also predicted for the tested beam and showed an excellent match with the experimentally measured relationship.
Modeling of Metal Powder Densification under Hot Isostatic Pressing
Authors: Wang Jingzhe , Srivatsa Shesh , Wu Zhanfang , Huang Zaiwang
Published: April 2024

The consolidation of metal powders is a complex thermomechanical process, and the temperature has a significant effect on the density distribution in the compact. The consolidation process of metal powders with an average particle size of 10 μm, 25 μm, and 50 μm under hot isostatic pressure was simulated by finite element modeling. The distribution and evolution of the relative density after being hot isostatic pressing (HIP) under 1050 °C/130 MPa/4 h, 1150 °C/130 MPa/4 h, and 1250 °C/130 MPa/4 h conditions were simulated, respectively. The experimental data of HIP at 1050 °C/130 MPa/4 h were used to verify the modeling results via the geometric change in the container. The relative density difference between the simulated results and the experimental results at different positions was less than 2%. This methodology called “modeling prediction, experimental validation” can accelerate experimental discovery in an economic manner.
Predicting Compressive Strength of High-Performance Concrete Using Hybridization of Nature-Inspired Metaheuristic and Gradient Boosting Machine
Authors: Hoang Nhat-Duc , Tran Van-Duc , Tran Xuan-Linh
Published: April 2024

This study proposes a novel integration of the Extreme Gradient Boosting Machine (XGBoost) and Differential Flower Pollination (DFP) for constructing an intelligent method to predict the compressive strength (CS) of high-performance concrete (HPC) mixes. The former is employed to generalize a mapping function between the mechanical property of concrete and its influencing factors. DFP, as a metaheuristic algorithm, is employed to optimize the learning phase of XGBoost and reach a fine balance between the two goals of model building: reducing the prediction error and maximizing the generalization capability. To construct the proposed method, a historical dataset consisting of 400 samples was collected from previous studies. The model’s performance is reliably assessed via multiple experiments and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. The hybrid DFP-XGBoost is able to achieve good predictive outcomes with a root mean square error of 5.27, a mean absolute percentage error of 6.74%, and a coefficient of determination of 0.94. Additionally, quantile regression based on XGBoost is performed to construct interval predictions of the CS of HPC. Notably, an asymmetric error loss is used to diminish overestimations committed by the model. It was found that this loss function successfully reduced the percentage of overestimated CS values from 47.1% to 27.5%. Hence, DFP-XGBoost can be a promising approach for accurately and reliably estimating the CS of untested HPC mixes.
The Discovery of Weddellamycin, a Tricyclic Polyene Macrolactam Antibiotic from an Antarctic Deep-Sea-Derived Streptomyces sp. DSS69, by Heterologous Expression
Authors: Chen Lu , Liu Kai , Hong Jiali , Cui Zhanzhao , He Weijun , Wang Yemin , Deng Zixin , Tao Meifeng
Published: April 2024

Polyene macrolactams are a special group of natural products with great diversity, unique structural features, and a wide range of biological activities. Herein, a cryptic gene cluster for the biosynthesis of putative macrolactams was disclosed from a sponge-associated bacterium, Streptomyces sp. DSS69, by genome mining. Cloning and heterologous expression of the whole biosynthetic gene cluster led to the discovery of weddellamycin, a polyene macrolactam bearing a 23/5/6 ring skeleton. A negative regulator, WdlO, and two positive regulators, WdlA and WdlB, involved in the regulation of weddellamycin production were unraveled. The fermentation titer of weddellamycin was significantly improved by overexpression of wdlA and wdlB and deletion of wdlO. Notably, weddellamycin showed remarkable antibacterial activity against various Gram-positive bacteria including MRSA, with MIC values of 0.10–0.83 μg/mL, and antifungal activity against Candida albicans, with an MIC value of 3.33 μg/mL. Weddellamycin also displayed cytotoxicity against several cancer cell lines, with IC50 values ranging from 2.07 to 11.50 µM.
Enhancing Thickness Uniformity of Nb2O5/SiO2 Multilayers Using Shadow Masks for Flexible Color-Filtering Applications
Authors: Li Tzu-Chien , Li Dong-Lin , Ho Jiashow , Yu Chih-Chiang , Wang Sheng-Shih , Ho Jyh-Jier
Published: April 2024

Using a stainless shadow mask combined with a magnetron-ion-assisted deposition (IAD) sputtering system, we investigate the surface morphologies and optical properties of microfilms. Optimal color-filter (CF) coating microfilms with niobium pent-oxide (Nb2O5)/silicon dioxide (SiO2) multilayers on a hard polycarbonate (HPC) substrate, grown at 85 °C and 50 SCCM oxygen flow, can obtain a fairly uniform thickness (with an average roughness of 0.083 and 0.106 nm respectively for Nb2O5 and SiO2 films) through all positions. On a flexible HPC substrate with the Nb2O5/SiO2 microfilms, meanwhile, the peak transmittances measured in the visible range are 95.70% and 91.47%, respectively, for coatings with and without a shadow mask for this new-tech system. For the optimal CF application with a shadow mask, transmittance on each 100 nm band-pass wavelength is enhanced by 4.04% absolute (blue), 2.96% absolute (green), and 2.12% absolute (red). Moreover, the developed new-tech system not only enhances the quality of the films by achieving smoother and uniform surfaces but also reduces deposition time, thereby improving overall process efficiency. For the with-shadow-mask condition, there is little shift at 50% transmittance (T50%), and high transmittance (~97%) is maintained after high-temperature (200 °C) baking for 12 h. These results are well above the commercial CF standard (larger than 90%) and demonstrate reliability and good durability for flexible optical applications.
Carbon Dots Anchoring Single-Atom Pt on C3N4 Boosting Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wang Jing , Song Jiayu , Kang Xin , Wang Dongxu , Tian Chungui , Zhang Qin , Zhao Hui , Liu Jiancong
Published: April 2024

Carbon nitride (C3N4) has gained considerable attention and has been regarded as an ideal candidate for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. However, its photocatalytic efficiency is still unsatisfactory due to the rapid recombination rate of photo-generated carriers and restricted surface area with few active sites. Herein, we successfully synthesized a single-atom Pt cocatalyst-loaded photocatalyst by utilizing the anchoring effect of carbon dots (CDs) on C3N4. The introduction of CDs onto the porous C3N4 matrix can greatly enhance the specific surface area of C3N4 to provide more surface-active sites, increase light absorption capabilities, as well as improve the charge separation efficiency. Notably, the functional groups of CDs can efficiently anchor the single-atom Pt, thus improving the atomic utilization efficiency of Pt cocatalysts. A strong interaction is formed via the connection of Pt-N bonds, which enhances the efficiency of photogenerated electron separation. This unique structure remarkably improves its H2 evolution performance under visible light irradiation with a rate of 15.09 mmol h−1 g−1. This work provides a new approach to constructing efficient photocatalysts by using CDs for sustainable hydrogen generation, offering a practical approach to utilizing solar energy for clean fuel production.
Onion Polyphenols as Multi-Target-Directed Ligands in MASLD: A Preliminary Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Paravati Maria Rosaria , Procopio Anna Caterina , Milanović Maja , Scarlata Giuseppe Guido Maria , Milošević Nataša , Ružić Maja , Milić Nataša , Abenavoli Ludovico
Published: April 2024

A sedentary lifestyle associated with unregulated diets rich in high-calorie foods have contributed to the great prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) latterly, with up to 60% in the high-risk population and 25% in the general population. The absence of specific pharmacological strategies for this syndrome represents one of the major problems in the management of MASLD patients. Lifestyle interventions and adherence to a healthy diet are the main cornerstones of current therapies. The identification of nutraceuticals useful in the treatment of MASLD appears to be one of the most promising strategies for the development of new effective and safe treatments for this disease. The onion, one of the most widely studied foods in the field of nutraceuticals, serves as an inexhaustible reservoir of potent compounds with various beneficial effects. The following preliminary study analyzes, mediating in silico studies, the iteration of a library of typical onion compounds with 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, liver receptors X α and β, as well as peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors α and γ. In this study, for the first time promising smart molecules from the onion that could have a beneficial action in MASLD patients were identified.
The Association between Circulating Cytokines and Body Composition in Frail Patients with Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Korzonek-Szlacheta Ilona , Hudzik Bartosz , Zubelewicz-Szkodzińska Barbara , Czuba Zenon P. , Szlacheta Patryk , Tomasik Andrzej
Published: April 2024

The burden of cardiovascular disease and the percentage of frail patients in the aging population will increase. This study aims to assess the circulating levels of several cytokines in frail patients. This is an ancillary analysis of the FRAPICA trial. The ratio of men/women changed from robust through frail groups from 3:1 to 1:2. The groups are comparable in terms of age and body measurements analysis (weight, height, and BMI), yet the frail patients have significantly reduced fat-free mass, and more often have been diagnosed with diabetes. Frail patients have higher fibroblast growth factor basic (FGF basic) and follistatin levels (borderline significance). In multiple linear regression modeling of fat-free mass, we identified FGF basic, osteopontin, stem cell factor, soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2, soluble epidermal growth factor receptor, soluble human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, follistatin, prolactin, soluble interleukin 6 receptor alfa, platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1, soluble vascular endothelial cell growth factor receptor 1, leptin, soluble angiopoietin/tyrosine kinase 2, and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. We have identified a few cytokines that correlate with fat-free mass, a hallmark of frailty. They comprise the kinins implicated in bone and muscle metabolism, fibrosis, vascular wall function, inflammation, endocrine function, or regulation of bone marrow integrity.
Mechanism of Action of Melatonin as a Potential Adjuvant Therapy in Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Jurjus Abdo , El Masri Jad , Ghazi Maya , El Ayoubi Lemir Majed , Soueid Lara , Gerges Geagea Alice , Jurjus Rosalyn
Published: April 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a continuum of chronic inflammatory diseases, is tightly associated with immune system dysregulation and dysbiosis, leading to inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and multiple extraintestinal manifestations. The pathogenesis of IBD is not completely elucidated. However, it is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), which is one of the most common gastrointestinal malignancies. In both IBD and CRC, a complex interplay occurs between the immune system and gut microbiota (GM), leading to the alteration in GM composition. Melatonin, a neuroendocrine hormone, was found to be involved with this interplay, especially since it is present in high amounts in the gut, leading to some protective effects. Actually, melatonin enhances the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier, regulates the immune response, alleviates inflammation, and attenuates oxidative stress. Thereby, the authors summarize the multifactorial interaction of melatonin with IBD and with CRC, focusing on new findings related to the mechanisms of action of this hormone, in addition to its documented positive outcomes on the treatment of these two pathologies and possible future perspectives to use melatonin as an adjuvant therapy.
From Restriction to Intuition: Evaluating Intuitive Eating in a Sample of the General Population
Authors: Lucherini Angeletti Lorenzo , Spinelli Maria Chiara , Cassioli Emanuele , Rossi Eleonora , Castellini Giovanni , Brogioni Giulietta , Ricca Valdo , Rotella Francesco
Published: April 2024

Intuitive eating (IE) is a non-dieting approach that promotes listening to internal cues of hunger and satiety, rather than adhering to external dietary restrictions aimed at weight loss. However, the role of IE in dieting behaviors related to weight-loss approaches is still unclear. To address this issue, the aim of this study was to compare IE levels between dieting and non-dieting individuals, exploring the relationship between IE and dieting-related psychological and physical factors. A sample of 2059 females was recruited via social media and self-reported questionnaires were administered to measure IE, eating psychopathology, self-efficacy, and quality of life. Individuals with a history of dieting exhibited lower IE levels, a higher BMI, and a greater eating psychopathology, as well as a reduced self-efficacy and quality of life, compared to non-dieters. IE showed a protective effect against dieting behaviors, with higher IE levels being associated with a lower likelihood of dieting. Additionally, higher BMI and eating psychopathology were predictors of dieting. Promoting IE could represent a relevant clinical target strategy to address disordered eating and enhance overall well-being, underscoring the need for interventions that foster a healthier relationship with food and bodily internal sensations.
Osteogenic Effects of the Diospyros lotus L. Leaf Extract on MC3T3-E1 Pre-Osteoblasts and Ovariectomized Mice via BMP2/4 and TGF β Pathways
Authors: Hong Soyeon , Lazerka Nadzeya , Jeon Byeong Jun , Kim Jeong Do , Erdenebileg Saruul , Nho Chu Won , Yoo Gyhye
Published: April 2024

Osteoporosis, a disease defined by the primary bone strength due to a low bone mineral density, is a bone disorder associated with increased mortality in the older adult population. Osteoporosis is mainly treated via hormone replacement therapy, bisphosphates, and anti-bone resorption agents. However, these agents exert severe side effects, necessitating the development of novel therapeutic agents. Many studies are focusing on osteogenic agents as they increase the bone density, which is essential for osteoporosis treatment. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of Diospyros lotus L. leaf extract (DLE) and its components on osteoporosis in MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts and ovariectomized mice and to elucidate the underlying related pathways. DLE enhanced the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 pre-osteoblasts, with a 1.5-fold elevation in ALP activity, and increased the levels of osteogenic molecules, RUNX family transcription factor 2, and osterix. This alteration resulted from the activation of bone morphogenic protein 2/4 (BMP2/4) and transformation of growth factor β (TGF β) pathways. In ovariectomized mice, DLE suppressed the decrease in bone mineral density by 50% and improved the expression of other bone markers, which was confirmed by the 3~40-fold increase in osteogenic proteins and mRNA expression levels in bone marrow cells. The three major compounds identified in DLE exhibited osteogenic and estrogenic activities with their aglycones, as previously reported. Among the major compounds, myricitrin alone was not as strong as whole DLE with all its constituents. The osteogenic activity of DLE was partially suppressed by the inhibitor of estrogen signaling, indicating that the estrogenic activity of DLE participated in its osteogenic activity. Overall, DLE suppresses osteoporosis by inducing osteoblast differentiation.
Association between Diet Quality and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Patients with Coronary Heart Disease: Findings from the CORDIOPREV Study
Authors: Rivas-Garcia Lorenzo , Quintana-Navarro Gracia M. , Alcala-Díaz Juan F. , Torres-Peña Jose D. , Arenas-de Larriva Antonio P. , Rangel-Zuñiga Oriol Alberto , López-Moreno Alejandro , Malagon Maria M. , Katsiki Niki , Perez-Martinez Pablo , Lopez-Miranda Jose , Delgado-Lista Javier
Published: April 2024

The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is growing in Western countries. Nutritional interventions that promote high-quality dietary patterns could help reverse this trend. We aimed to evaluate whether changes in Nutrient-Rich Food Index 9.3 (NRF9.3) were related to the risk of developing T2DM in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The study was carried out in the context of two healthy dietary interventions (a Mediterranean and a low-fat diet). For this purpose, we evaluated all the patients in the CORDIOPREV study without T2DM at baseline. Data were obtained during the first 5 years of dietary intervention. The score was calculated using the Food Frequency Questionnaires at baseline and after 1 year of intervention. After 5 years of follow-up, 106 patients developed T2DM (incident-T2DM), while 316 subjects did not (non-T2DM). Total NRF9.3 score and changes during the first year of intervention were compared between incident-T2DM and non-T2DM. Incident-T2DM showed less improvement in NRF9.3 than non-T2DM (p = 0.010). In the multi-adjusted Cox proportional hazard study, patients with greater improvement in NRF9.3 had over 50% less risk of developing T2DM compared with the lowest tertile (HR 2.10, 95%, CI = 1.12–3.56). In conclusion, improved diet quality in terms of nutrient density after the dietary intervention was associated with a lower risk of T2DM in patients with CHD.