bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergence Analysis of Picard Thakur Hybrid Iterative Scheme for α-Nonexpansive Mappings in Uniformly Convex Banach Spaces
Authors: Zhao Cangmei , Ahmad Khushdil , Nazar Nazia , Shabbir Khurram
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we investigate the convergence behavior of fixed points for generalized α-nonexpansive mappings through Picard-Thakur hybrid iterative scheme. We establish both weak and strong convergence results for generalized α-nonexpansive mappings in uniformly convex Banach space. Through a numerical example, we demonstrate that the Picard-Thakur hybrid iterative scheme converges faster than other well-known schemes. Moreover, we present a data dependence result and provide a numerical example for the data dependence. The results obtained are extend and generalized the corresponding results in the existing literature.
2010 Mathematics Subject Classification. 47H09, 47H10, 24H25.
Curcumin synergistically improves mitochondrial dynamics and myocardial cell bioenergy after sepsis through the SIRT1-Drp1/PGC-1α pathway
Authors: Liu Ruixue , Hao Shuai , Hou Dongyao , Tian Hongni , Hong Weilong , Huang He , Duan Chenyang
Published: August 2023

Septic cardiomyopathy (SCM) is associated with an imbalance in mitochondrial quality and high mortality rates, and an effective treatment has not been developed to date. Curcumin provides antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular, and mitochondrial protection. However, it has not been confirmed to improve cardiac dysfunction in sepsis and reduce abnormal inflammatory responses by improving mitochondrial function. Herein, we explore novel mechanisms by which curcumin improves SCM using an in vivo male C57BL/6 mice sepsis model and in vitro HL-1 cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. Curcumin’s effects on sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction, inflammatory responses, and mitochondrial quality of cardiac cells were observed using qPCR, western blotting, echocardiography, and transmission electron microscopy. Curcumin-activated sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) increased the expression of mitochondrial biogenesis-related genes PGC-1α, TFAM, and Nrf2, reduced dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) translocation from the cytoplasm to mitochondria, and restored the mitochondrial morphology and function in cardiac cells, thus protecting heart function after septic shock and alleviating the effects of SCM. SIRT1 knockdown reversed the protective effects of curcumin on mitochondria. Curcumin promotes mitochondrial biogenesis and inhibits mitochondrial fragmentation by activating SIRT1, thereby improving the mitochondrial quality and reducing oxidative stress in cardiomyocytes and sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction. These findings provide new evidence supporting the use of curcumin to treat SCM.
Associations Between Physical Activity, Mental Health Concerns, Eating Disorder Symptoms, and Emotional Intelligence in Adolescent Athletes in the Post COVID-19 Pandemic Era
Authors: Firouzjah Morteza Homayounnia , Hower Heather , Shahrbanian Shahnaz
Published: August 2023

Background: COVID-19 significantly disrupted the routines of school sports for adolescent athletes. In the post-pandemic era, athletes’ levels of physical activity (PA) may remain low, with ongoing mental health (MH) concerns, and exacerbated eating disorder (ED) symptoms.
However, factors such as emotional intelligence (EI; the ability to understand and regulate emotions in oneself and others), may serve as a coping mechanism for altered PA, MH, and ED.
Methods: Participants of the study included 315 Iranian adolescent athletes residing in Mazandaran province (one of the most affected areas of Iran during COVID-19), who played in 1 of 10 sports post quarantine restrictions (January 2022-January 2023). PA was assessed by the Physical Activity Stages of Change Questionnaire (PASCQ), MH concerns were assessed by the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28), ED symptoms were assessed by the Eating Attitudes Test-26 (EAT-26), and EI was assessed by the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Test (SSEIT).
Results: There was a significant positive relationship between PASCQ and GHQ-28 (p = .038; as PA increased, MH increased), and a negative relationship between EAT-26 and GHQ-28 (p = -.041; as ED increased, MH decreased). Nevertheless, there was a positive relationship between SSEIT and GHQ-28 (p= .028; as EI increased, MH increased), and a negative relationship between SSEIT and EAT-26 (p = -.038; as EI increased, ED decreased).
Conclusions: The study has limitations which future research should address. However, the findings highlight the need for sports professionals working with adolescent athletes in the post COVID-19 era to monitor the status of PA, MH, and ED, and promote EI coping skills, to provide early intervention, and mitigate long-term consequences.
Older adult drug overdose: An application of latent class analysis to identify prevention opportunities
Authors: Mason Maryann , Pandya Kaveet , Lundberg Alexander
Published: August 2023

Background
Older adult overdose death rates have increased significantly in recent years. However, research for prevention of drug overdose death specific to older adults is limited. Our objective is to identify profiles based on missed intervention points (touchpoints) to inform prevention of future older adult unintentional overdose deaths.
Methods
We used latent class analysis methods to identify profiles of decedents aged 55 + years in the Illinois Statewide Unintentional Drug Overdose Reporting System. This system collects data on 88% of all unintentional overdose deaths in Illinois and includes data from death certificates, coroner/medical examiner, toxicology and autopsy reports. Data include decedent demographics, circumstances leading up to and surrounding the fatal overdose and details regarding the overdose. Variables in the latent class analysis model included sex, race, alcohol test result, social isolation, recent emergency department (ED) visit, chronic pain, and pain treatment.
Results
We identified three distinct decent profiles. Class 1 (13% of decedents) included female decedents who were in pain treatment, had physical health problems, and with greater likelihood of a recent ED visit before their death. Class 2 (35% of decedents) decedents were most likely to be socially connected (live with others, employed, had social or family relationships) but less likely to have recent healthcare visits. Class 3 (52% of decedents) decedents had higher social isolation (lived alone, unemployed, unpartnered), were mostly male, had fewer known physical health conditions and more alcohol positivity at time of death.
Conclusions
These profiles link to potential touchpoint opportunities for substance use disorder screening harm reduction and treatment. Class 1 members were most likely to be reachable in healthcare settings. However, most decedents were members of Classes 2 and 3 with less engagement in the healthcare system, suggesting a need for screening and intervention in different contexts. For class 2, intervention touchpoints might include screening in social settings such as senior centers given the higher degree of social connectivity. For class 3, the most isolated group, touchpoints may occur in the context of harm reduction outreach and social service delivery.
How do Psychological distress and social support associate with health-related quality of life in pregnant women? The mediating role of self-compassion, resilience and emotion regulation
Authors: Afrashteh Majid Yousefi , Masoumi Samin
Published: August 2023

Background Although there are the plenty of clinical data available during COVID-19 pandemic, rare researches on the health-related quality of life of pregnant women have been published. We therefore investigate the extent to which self-compassion, resilience and emotion regulation mediate the association between psychological distress and social support with health-related quality of life in pregnant women during Covid-19 pandemic.Method A cross-sectional study design was engaged. Participants were recruited from health service centers of Hamadan, Iran. Data was collected from 370 pregnant women. Participants completed self-report measures. SPSS-26 software was used for descriptive statistics and correlation matrix, and LISREL-10.20 software was used to path analysis and determine the relationships between variables within the model.Results Correlational analyses revealed that the correlation coefficient of quality of life with psychological distress was − 0.45, with social support was 0.36, with self-compassion was 0.50, with resilience was 0.47 and with emotion regulation was − 0.50. All these coefficients are significant at the level of 0.001. Psychological distress has an indirect effect (β = -0.20) on women's quality of life through the three mediating variables of resilience, self-compassion and emotion regulation. Social support also has an indirect effect (β = 0.14) on women's quality of life through three mediators.Conclusion These findings help a better understanding of the psychological impact of the pandemic on the studied group as a crucial step in guiding policies and interventions to maintain their health-related quality of life.
Synthesis of PANI@α-Fe2O3 /Al2O3 photo-Fenton composite for the enhanced efficient methylene blue removal
Authors: Yan Su , Liang Xiaoping , Liu Shiwei , Zhang Yinan , Zeng Jing , Bai Jinshuo , Zhu Xueli , Li Jianxin
Published: August 2023

In this work, β-FeOOH precursors were grown on flat Al2O3 ceramic matrix by a hydrothermal-assisted sol-gel composite method, followed by heat treatment to obtain α-Fe2O3/Al2O3 photo-Fenton catalysts. The effect of heat treatment temperature on the microstructure and photo-Fenton performance of α-Fe2O3/Al2O3 photo-Fenton catalysts was studied emphatically. The PANI@α-Fe2O3/Al2O3 photo-Fenton composite (PFA-550) were obtained by coating polyaniline (PANI) on the optimized α-Fe2O3/Al2O3 (FA-550) surface via in-situ polymerization, and subsequently used as an anode to assemble a photo-Fenton reactor for the removal of methylene blue (MB). The effect of pH value and applied electric field on MB removal of the photo-Fenton reactor was investigated. It was shown that α-Fe2O3 nanotubes was uniformly distributed over the surface of the flat Al2O3 ceramic in the FA-550 heated at 550°C, which exhibited high photo-Fenton activity. Compared to FA-550, PFA-550 exhibit superior photo-Fenton activity. In addition, PFA-550 have excellent photo-Fenton activity in a wide pH range (pH=3.92~9.21) rather than narrow range (pH=2.0~3.5) in conventional Fenton reaction. The migration of photogenerated electrons(e-) were promoted by external electric field from the surface of PFA-550 to the counter electrode. The removal rate of MB was substantially increased with the effective improvement of the separation of photogenerated e--h+.
Fabrication of MOF(Fe)/FeS x composite as efficient photocatalyst for degradation of rhodamine B
Authors: Pan Junjie , Chen Zhengdao , Zhou Junmei , Luo Qing
Published: August 2023

With the development of science and technology, the living standards of human beings have been greatly improved. However, the rapid development of society caused serious environmental pollution issues, especially coming from the organic materials. In this paper, MOF(Fe)/FeSx composite were successfully fabricated via solvothermal method by adopting MOF(Fe) as template and thioacetamide as sulfur source, and its photocatalytic activity was evaluated by degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) under UV light irradiation. The influence of thioacetamide on the photocatalytic activity of MOF(Fe)/FeSx composite was explored. The results shown that MOF(Fe)/FeSx(2) exhibited the optimal photocatalytic degradation performance. After 35 min UV irradiation, MOF(Fe)/FeSx(2) could degrade 97.19% of rhodamine B (RhB). The excellent photocatalytic degradation performance of MOF(Fe)/FeSx(2) made it potential to be used for the degradation of organic pollutants produced in factories and daily life.
Study on significant role of Ru on MWCNT supported PtRu electrocatalysts for Ethanol Electro-Oxidation
Authors: Singh Susmita , Ghosh Moupiya , Bose Mainak , Saha Sinthia , Dutta Anushna
Published: August 2023

The composition and atomic structure of nanoalloy catalysts in the Ethanol Oxidation Reaction (EOR) play an important role. To study this and develop an electrochemically active catalyst towards ethanol electro-oxidation, a second oxophilic metal has generally been initiated as an alloy, capable of enhancing the electrocatalytic activity of Platinum. In view of the above, the present investigation deals with nano particles of PtRu with different bimetallic compositions supported on Multiwalled Carbon Nano Tube (MWCNT) for their activity on the Ethanol electro-oxidation. The structure, morphology and bonding of the catalysts were studied by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) and Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Electrochemical methods like Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV) and Chronoamperometry (CA) were used to explore the catalytic activity towards Ethanol electro-oxidation. This study focused on establishing the relationship between the catalysts’ composition, atomic structure and catalytic activity for the EOR. All the results of physical and electrochemical studies revealed an intriguing composition-structure-activity relationship for the PtRu electrocatalysts under EOR experimental conditions. In particular, the alloy with a Pt/Ru ratio of ∼84:16 was found to exhibit a maximum EOR activity as a function of the bimetallic composition. Notably, the catalytic activities of the C/PtRu electrocatalysts showed a significant improvement during the EOR. The results show some new light on the composition of C/PtRu catalysts regarding ethanol oxidation reaction which is important for the rational design and synthesis of active nanoalloy catalysts for Direct Ethanol Fuel Cell (DEFC).
Improving fusion call confidence and reliability through an optimized process in low quality RNA from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded samples
Authors: Liang Qingchun , Zhou Peng , Li Namei , Tan Hong , Lu Junmi , Ni Yang , Ling Yuan , Lin Lin , Su Chunxue , Zhang Chao , Deng Wanglong , Xu Qing , Sun Yi
Published: August 2023

Identifying fusion genes in solid tumors is crucial for precision diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients. However, poor RNA quality may pose a major challenge to the reliability of fusion detection. In this study, an optimized RNA fusion detection method using targeted next-generation sequencing was developed and validated to detect gene fusions in solid tumors using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples, where the RNA quality standard DV200 was as low as 20%. Uniquely designed probes that target the fusion junction sequences enhances the detection and realism of classical fusions. Gene fusions in five low-quality RNA samples could only be detected using the designed probe. Archived 104 tumor samples harboring gene fusion were divided into four groups according to RNA quality (DV200) and fusion detection methods. Based on the optimized library construction process, specific probe and bioinformatics analysis process, the RNA fusion panel identified the same gene fusions compared with the DNA level in 14 (100%, group A, DV200 ≥ 40%), 34 (82.9%, group B, DV200 ≥ 40%), 22 (81.5%, group C, 20% ≤DV200 < 40%) and 5 (71.4%, group D, DV200 < 20%) samples, respectively. Taken together, the optimization of the experimental procedure improves the detection of gene fusion in low-quality RNA samples and also contributes to accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Comparative Study of Posaconazole and Voriconazole for Primary Antifungal Prophylaxis in Patients with Pediatric Acute Leukemia
Authors: Tu Songji , zhangkunlong 张坤龙 , Wang Ningling , Chu Jinhua , Yang Linhai , Xie Zhiwei
Published: August 2023

Background
Posaconazole and voriconazole are commonly used for preventing invasive fungal disease (IFD), but few studies compared posaconazole with voriconazole for primary antifungal prophylaxis (PAP) in pediatric acute leukemia.
Objective
To compare posaconazole with voriconazole for PAP in pediatric acute leukemia.
Methods
This retrospective observational study enrolled pediatric patients with non-M3 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) between December 2017 and November 2019 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University. The patients received voriconazole or posaconazole for PAP. The primary outcome was the breakthrough of IFD. The secondary outcome was the overall survival (OS) and IFD-free survival of patients.
Results
A total of the 275 patients were enrolled, of which 120 patients taking voriconazole (43.6%) and 155 patients taking posaconazole (56.4%). The breakthrough of IFD occurred in 19 (15.8%) patients taking voriconazole and in 12 (7.7%) patients taking posaconazole (P = 0.035). There was no significant differences in IFD-free survival (P = 0.336) or OS (P = 0.069) between the patients taking voriconazole and posaconazole. In the subgroup of AML patients, the OS of patients taking posaconazole was better than those receiving voriconazole (P = 0.017).
Conclusions
Posaconazole and voriconazole were comparable for PAP in patients with paediatric acute leukemia regarding the OS and IFD-free survival, but posaconazole might achieve a lower IFD breakthrough rate.
WITHDRAWN: CCL19, not CCL21 induces CCR7-mediated stimulation of leukemia apoptosis by targeting endosomal signaling signaling
Authors: Sun Sylvia Y.
Published: August 2023

The chemokine system has emerged as a relevant target for anticancer therapy, with roles in most hallmarks of cancer. Here, the potential usefulness of CCR7 (Chemokine Receptor 7) specific agonists CCL19 (Chemokine ligand 19) and CCL21 (Chemokine ligand 21) as anti-leukemic drugs was investigated. We found that CCL19, not CCL21 was able to time-dependently decrease the proliferation and viability of Jurkat leukemic cells. This CCL19-induced cell death of leukemia is biased to CCR7 endosomal signaling but not CCR7 plasma signaling, even though the efficacy of Go/i signalling is the same. The cell death of Jurkat was accompanied by increased recycled CCR7 protein on the cell membrane; The apoptosis family members but also the MAPK system are uniquely involved, as evidenced by decreased transcription of proto-oncogene B-Raf and v-Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B BRAF, Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 4 MAP4K4, Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 8 MAPK8 supported by RNA-Seq from Hek293_CCR7 and Jurkat leukemia. CCL19 down-regulated MAPK, suggesting CCL19 is an upstream regulator of MAPK family, which might be a mechanism of the cell death induced by CCL19. Altogether, the CCL19/CCR7 can kill leukemic cells through distinct pathways which are different from CCL21/CCR7 signalings implicating MAPK signaling events, and represent a new target of bioactive molecules with potential applications in anticancer therapy.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological Evaluation of Gabapentinoid Hybrids with Isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione Moiety as Potential Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anticancer Agents
Authors: Jabbour Mirna , Al-Khayat Mohammad Ammar , Ktaifani Mahmoud Al
Published: August 2023

Purpose:To synthesize new isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione derivatives by molecular hybridization of gabapentin, and pregabalin with phthalic anhydride derivatives, and to evaluate their biological activity as promising antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer agents.Method:Molecular hybridization was successfully achieved by two procedures; synthesized compounds were characterized using analytical and spectral methods. The free radical scavenging properties of synthesized compounds were evaluated using the DPPH method. The antibacterial activity of synthesized compounds, and parent compounds was evaluated against two microbial gram-positive and gram-negative strains by the well diffusion method. Furthermore, we have studied the effect of compounds on proliferation, cell cycle, and cell death in two human cancer cell lines (Caco-2 and HCT-116).Results:Compounds1,3, and4exhibited a good free radical scavenging effect, compound3is the most effective with IC50value 2.525 µmol/mL. All Compounds showed antibacterial activity against E. coli and Staphylococcus Aureus related to concentration, while parent drugs did not exhibit any antibacterial effect. Compounds1and2showed a good zone of inhibition against Escherichia Coli at micromolar concentrations, and they are more effective than gentamycin sulfate. Treatment with the studied compounds suppresses proliferation, arrests progress throughout the cell cycle, and induces apoptosis in Caco-2 and HCT-116 cancer cells. Compound2is highly effective against Caco-2 cells and more effective than Thalidomide, with IC50value less than 1 µmol/L.Conclusion:Our results showed that molecular hybridization of gabapentin and Pregabalin in the isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione moiety results in promising anti-cancer and antimicrobial molecules. Results of this preliminary study show that halogenation of the isoindole-1,3(2H)-dione moiety improves antimicrobial and anticancer activity and that tetra-brominated derivatives are comparable to or more effective than related tetra-chlorinated derivatives.
Review: Friedrich, Patricia (Ed.) (2023).The anti-racism linguist, a book of readings. Multilingual Matters.
Authors: Gracia Emilia
Published: August 2023

This text is a review of The Anti-Racism Linguist: A Book of Readings, edited by Patricia Friedrich and published in 2023 by Multilingual Matters. The volume features nine distinct chapters written by authors from Brazil, Thailand, Japan, and the United States who, via personal narratives, share their experiences with (anti)racism in teaching, research, and publishing in applied linguistics and other related fields. The authors explain key terminology, concepts, and theories needed to understand and discuss anti-racism in language use. Authors also provide recommendations for change in editorial, research, and pedagogical practices that readers could implement to help counter racism in their contexts.
SKRINING PESTISIDA, PARASIT PADA BUAH DAN SAYUR PADA IBU-IBU PKK GUJI BARU KEPA DURI, KEBUN JERUK, JAKARTA BARAT
Authors: Monica Puspa Sari  , Susilowati Rina Priastini
Published: August 2023

Buah dan Sayur merupakan makanan yang kaya akan kandungan zat gizi seperti vitamin dan mineral, yang baik dikonsumsi tubuh untuk meningkatkan kesehatan. Namun yang harus menjadi perhatian dari konsumsi buah dan sayur tersebut adalah adanya kontaminan seperti residu pestisida serta adanya parasite pada buah dan sayur.  Tujuan pengabdian masyarakat ini adalah memberikan penyuluhan dan demonstrasi bagaimana melakukan skrining terhadap sayur dan buah dari pestisida dan parasit kepada ibu-ibu PKK Guji Baru dengan pendekatan community based research. Sebanyak 49 ibu-ibu berpartisipasi dalam kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini. Sebanyak 16 (55,17%) peserta penyuluhan berusia antara 41-50 tahun, sedangkan berdasarkan pendidikan, rata-rata pendidikan tamat SMA sebanyak 20 orang (40,81%) dan berdasarkan pekerjaan sebanyak 42 (85,71%)  orang peserta merupakan ibu rumah tangga. Berdasarkan tingkat pengetahuan dari 7 pertanyaan maka rata-rata tingkat pengetahuan ibu-ibu PKK adalah 79% sedangkan dari tingkat perilaku adalah sebesar 68,18%. Diharapkan adanya perubahan perilaku dari ibu-ibu PKK dalam mengolah sayur dan buah dengan benar sehingga menghasilkan makanan yang sehat bagi keluarga.
IMPROVING LOGICAL THINKING COMPETENCE USING GAMES FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Authors: Sebastian Danny , Nugraha Kristian Adi
Published: August 2023

Online learning makes students bored and lazy. This condition requires teachers to think of other ways of teaching and learning activities. Gamification is a learning method using games as a teaching and learning tool. This service uses games on the code.org website application to increase high school-level students' interest in learning. In addition to gamification, several methods are applied to increase students' interest in learning, one of which is by providing personal assistance. The method applied was considered successful in increasing the interest and focus of the participants.
Espacio, tiempo y fantasmagoría. La Modernidad enajenada en Walter Benjamin
Authors: Martínez Matías Paloma
Published: August 2023

Este artículo parte de una interpretación del concepto de “fantasmagoría” en el Trabajo de los pasajes de Walter Benjamin según la cual su sentido supone una ampliación de la comprensión marxiana de la ideología que lo lleva a englobar tanto el terreno de las ideas de la sociedad moderna como la materialidad de sus producciones culturales y sus formas de experiencia en su interacción recíproca. Sobre esta base, y atendiendo al componente onírico que Benjamin atribuye a lo fantasmagórico, el artículo analiza en qué consisten lo que llama las fantasmagorías del espacio, vinculadas a la figura del flâneur, y las fantasmagorías del tiempo, que asocia al personaje del jugador. Dada la correspondencia que además establece entre estas dos clases de fantasmagorías, se propone una hipótesis hermenéutica que explica su correlación, así como el significado que esta adquiere en el proyecto de los pasajes.
Flood hazard assessment in the Yesil River basin
Authors: Makhmudova Lyazzat , Moldakhmetov Marat , Mussina Ainur , Sambetbayev Dauren , Zharylkassyn Adilet
Published: August 2023

Due to population growth and densification, and expanding construction, disaster risk in the world and its specific parts of the world is steadily increasing. Earthquakes cause the most damage, followed by floods. Floods are characterized by the highest frequency of events. In this research, annual data on 25 hydrological gauging stations of the considered territory were used to study the characteristics of maximum discharges and maximum levels of rivers in the Yesil water management basin. Data on maximum water levels and discharges are generalized because they are most important in the study of floods and the organization of flood control. It is the maximum level that determines the area and depth of flooding of territories. This study assessed the provided values of maximum levels and maximum water discharges by several methods (method of moments, the graph-analytical method for the full distribution, truncated distribution). For assessing flood damage, a map of the distribution of the maximum floodplain inundation depth over the basin area was constructed, taking into account the flood hazard classification by floodplain inundation layer. Quantitative assessment of hydrological extremes characterizing the danger of flooding has been carried out for gauging stations of Yesil water management basin during this research.
Effect of magnetic fields on simultaneous nitrification and denitrification microbial systems
Authors: Song Xintong , Zhang Guanglu , Luan Jiajia , Liu Guicai , Wang Jiabin
Published: August 2023

Magnetic fields positively influence the nitrogen removal efficiency in activated sludge systems. However, the structural succession pattern of microorganisms by magnetic fields still remains further explored. In this paper, a magnetic simultaneous nitrification and denitrification (MSND) reactor was constructed, and the influence of optimized magnetic field intensity (0, 10, 20 and 30 mT) on the nitrogen removal efficiency was investigated at HRT 6 h, 28.0–30.0 °C, and pH 7.0–8.0. Molecular biology was used to investigate the succession process of the dominant microbial flora and the functional gene structure of MSND systems. The results showed that the denitrification effects of the MSND system were significantly enhanced, which contributed to the lower concentration of total nitrogen in the effluent of the magnetic reactor than that of the nonmagnetic group reactor. The magnetic fields induced the succession of microbial community structure and improved the stability of microbial communities, thereby the relative abundances of nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria, and the functional genes were improved. In particular, the abundance of functional genes related to gene proliferation and transmembrane transport was increased. Therefore, the efficient nitrogen removal was achieved, which gives inspiration in the enhanced wastewater treatment by magnetic fields.
DIVERSIDAD Y COMPOSICIÓN FLORÍSTICA EN UN BOSQUE CON ABUNDANCIA DE NOGAL (Juglans neotropica DIELS) EN CHANCHAMAYO / JUNÍN / PERÚ
Authors: Woll Juan Carlos , Reynel Carlos , Palacios Ramos Sonia , Hermoza Rosa María , Chavez Jorge Mario
Published: August 2023

La comprensión de la dinámica de los bosques es fundamental para su restauración ecológica. Esto es particularmente importante en aquellos bosques con abundancia de especies de valor comercial, como es el caso de los del género Juglans, cuyo conocido efecto alelopático podría tener incidencia en la diversidad de las localizaciones en las que existe. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la composición florística y diversidad arbórea de un bosque dominado por Juglans neotropica Diels, estableciendo una parcela permanente de 100 x 100 m, en el valle de Chanchamayo. En la parcela evaluamos todos los árboles con DAP ≥ 10 cm. La parcela presentó 300 individuos, correspondientes a 47 especies en 20 familias. El valor de diversidad alfa de Fisher fue de 15.62 y el del índice Shannon-Wiener de 1.65. Estos valores son notoriamente bajos en comparación con sitios similares, ubicados en bosques premontanos tropicales referidos en el presente trabajo. Debido a la naturaleza alelopática de J. neotropica, es posible que esta condición sea determinante para la gran abundancia de esta especie en la parcela y la baja diversidad arbórea identificada. Dado que esta especie se encuentra bajo la categoría casi amenazada (NT), el sitio de estudio es una localización importante para su conservación y la de su acervo genético.
Performance of self-compacting concrete based on fine recycled concrete aggregate incorporating polyethylene terephtalate fibers
Authors: Meriem B.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. This experimental research aims to investigate the effect of adding polyethylene terephthalate plastic fibers (PETF) on the behavior of recycled self-compacting concrete (RSCC) based on recycled fine concrete aggregates (RFCA). Twenty RSCC mixes were made for this study. RFCA was obtained from the laboratory demolition of a moderate concrete slab and substituted by natural fine aggregates (NFA) at various mass fractions (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%). Furthermore, four volumetric fractions (Vf) of plastic fibers (0.3%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.2%) were added and sorted from plastic bottle recycling. The properties of the fresh and hardened new composite (RSCC made with PETF and RFCA contents) are analyzed and compared. The results showed that the mechanical performances of RSCC in terms of flexural strength and elasticity modulus were improved, where the compressive strength decreased with an increase in the Vf content of PETF and RFCA. The incorporation of 100% RFCA combined with 1.2% of PETF can enhance both flexural strength and modulus of elasticity of concrete up to 9% and 24%. This type of concrete can be recommended for structural repair applications.
Isogeometric topology optimization of auxetic materials based on moving morphable components method
Authors: Zhai X.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. Auxetic materials are a class of materials that exhibit a negative Poisson’s ratio. They have held a major interest in academics and engineering focusing on finding the material distribution and examining the mechanisms, properties, and applications. Inverse homogenization theory is taken as an effective material design tool and has been applied to optimize various metamaterials. In this paper, we derive and implement the energy-based isogeometric homogenization to generate auxetic materials. Numerical examples show that the homogenized elasticity matrix obtained by the energy-based isogeometric homogenization method is almost the same as that obtained by the finite element homogenization method within a tolerated error. On this basis, we applied the isogeometric Moving Morphable Components (MMC) method to the optimization design of auxetic materials which is named the TOP-IGA-MMC method. We further make a comparison of the Solid Isotropic Material with the Penalization (SIMP) method and the TOP-IGA-MMC method in the geometries and properties of the final optimal auxetic materials. Parameter tests and physical tests are also introduced to verify the robustness and effectiveness of the proposed method.
A comparative study on the use of laser beam and abrasive water jet in hole making process of woven laminated GFRP
Authors: Ali H.M.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. In the manufacturing process, the designed part will be presented in a drawing with all dimensions normally given within a certain range of tolerances. The tolerance defines the limits of induced deviation for which allowance should be made in the design, and within which actual size is acceptable. In laser and abrasive water jet cutting, dimensional accuracy is one of the important parameters to define the quality of produced part. The aim of the present work is to compare experimentally the influence of cutting parameters on dimensional accuracy and strength of hole making in GFRP by using (LBM) and (AWJM) cutting technologies. Full factorial design was used as a statistical method to study the effects of control parameters on the response variables. The results show that abrasive water jet cutting gives a less out of roundness in cutting hole diameter, less reduction in strength and large difference between upper and lower diameter compared to the laser cutting technology of hole making in the type of the GFRP composite material used in the present work.
Influence of canard geometrical configuration on the radar cross section
Authors: Patki G.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. The Radar Cross Section (RCS) of fighter jet hold a lot of importance in determining its air superiority. Electromagnetic simulations can be performed by employing numerical methods such as MoM, ray tracing methods or Physical Optics. Configuration of the wing is an important factor in determining the overall RCS of the aircraft. The current study explores the RCS of canard as placed in Chengdu J-20. The parameters are varied, the models are created and the simulations are conducted for monostatic RCS using far field approximation over a continuous frequency range using Physical Optics in FEKO simulator. The trends in results are analyzed and promising configurations are identified.
Investigating the fluid-structure interaction of L-shaped pipe bends using machine learning
Authors: Punj P.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. The fluid Structure interface is an important area of research for its challenges in fluid structure dynamics in understanding the effect of fluid on motion and deformation of structures. In the current study, we used the L-Shaped pipe bent and did a CFD simulation at the velocity inlet condition of the range 1-3 m/s with keeping adiabatic wall condition and environmental pressure at the outlet. The reason for choosing L-Shaped bent is that it creates a sharp change in the flow direction, which leads to complex vortices, turbulence and pressure distribution. It also puts a significant mechanical load on the structure due to this change in flow, resulting in a large structural deformation. The result of CFD simulation is used to do the structural simulations at different material types, lengths of both arms, keeping the diameter, angle and fillet radius of the bent at a constant value. The database created is then used as an input to the machine learning (ML) model to predict for an arbitrary material and at any length of the bent without doing all the simulations. The simulation results also help to co-relate the impact of variation in length with the bent's stress, strain and displacement.
Stone dust as replacement for fine aggregate in cellular lightweight concrete (CLC): Volume weight and compressive strength
Authors: RANGAN P.R.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. A type of lightweight concrete called cellular lightweight concrete (CLC) has a lower volume weight than ordinary concrete and is made of cement, sand, water, and a foaming agent. In this investigation, CLC lightweight concrete was utilized as a lightweight brick. The purpose of this study was to ascertain how the compressive strength and volume weight of CLC lightweight bricks would change if stone dust were used in place of fine aggregate. Making lightweight bricks with stone dust substitutions of 0%, 50%, and 100% of the weight of the fine aggregate was the experimental process used in this study. The compressive strength and volume weight of the light-weight bricks that had been cured for 3, 7, 14, and 28 days were then measured. Because stone dust has a good binding capacity, the results showed that using it as a fine aggregate replacement in a mixture of lightweight bricks increased the compressive strength; the highest compressive strength value was obtained at a substitution of 100% stone dust at 28 days, which was 24.62 kg/cm2. The volume weight of a mixture of lightweight bricks increased by 0.66 gr/cm3 when stone dust was used in place of fine aggregate. In place of 50% stone dust, the volume weight value increased by 2% to 0.67 gr/cm3, and by 4% to 0.68 gr/cm3 for 100% stone dust. Due to its volume weight range of 0.6-1.8 gr/cm3, this lightweight brick can still be designated as lightweight concrete.
Contemporary conceptual models for predicting carrying capacity of multi helices screw piles
Authors: Ayadat T.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. Contemporary civil constructions are based on foundation systems consisting mainly of shallow, semi deep and deep foundations. The screw pile resembles essentially to a large screw that is inserted into the ground by a special machine. Basically, it acts as a foundation or an anchor. In general, it is composed of a central shaft and one or more graded steel helices. Screw piles have made great progress in recent decades, particularly when it comes to their axial capabilities and installation processes. Using screw piles for anchoring and supporting structures is advancing rapidly. Despite this, screw piles are still lacking design methods that require further research. This study consists on developing three conceptual models to predict the carrying capacity of a screw pile of multi helices. The first analytical model takes into account shaft friction, grooves’ geometry, and configuration of helices’ assembly. The second analytical model is based on the observed failure surface of screw piles proclaimed in literature. Whereas, the third empirical model considers the existing correlation between the torsional resistance generated during screw pile installation and its carrying capacity. The three models were validated against some actual testing results and some experimental data reported in literature. It was noted that the first analytical model underestimate the compressive carrying capacity of screw piles by about 5 to 15%. For the second model, a reasonable agreement was noted between the calculated and the measured results when the ratio L/B ≥ 10. However, in the opposite, the model overestimates the ultimate capacity of screw piles by about 15.3%. Likewise, the empirical model (third model) overestimates the tensile carrying capacity of screw piles by 10 to 20% with an average of 12.4%.
Size-effects due to Burgers tensor in classical deformation of isotropic thermoplastic materials
Authors: Borokinni A.S.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. This work considers size-effects phenomena associated with Burgers tensor and heat transfer in isotropic plastic materials under thermal loading. The virtual power principle, the first and second laws of thermodynamics are used to obtain the balance of forces, the balance of energy, and the free-energy imbalance in local forms. Also, the constitutive relations for microscopic stresses associated with the Burgers tensor are obtained. The balance of microscopic forces is supplemented with the constitutive relations for the stresses to form the plastic flow rule. The presence of material length scale in the flow rule shows that it is possible to study size effects through the Burgers tensor.
Energy harvesting and energy conversion in an electromechanical coupling acoustic black hole beam
Authors: Zhang L.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. Acoustic black hole (ABH) shows unique and attractive features of energy focusing when the flexural wave propagates along a structure with a variable power-law thickness profile, which are found to be conducive to effective energy harvesting. In this paper, an improved electromechanical ABH model is established based on Timoshenko beam theory, which considers the high-frequency shear and rotational effects of the beam, as well as its coupling with PZT coating and other additional elements like damping layers. External electrical modules including both linear and nonlinear circuits can also be easily integrated into the system to form a fully coupled electromechanical model. The proposed model is then used to analyze typical ABH-specific features such as energy focusing and energy harvesting. Numerical results demonstrate the excellent energy harvesting performance and confirm that installing PZT on the ABH beam warrants higher electrical power than the uniform beam. Moreover, studies explore the relationship between the electromechanical coupling and the energy harvesting efficiency, and different methods to enhance the electromechanical coupling are also investigated. Finally, experimental results are presented to demonstrate the feasibility of ABH beam in energy harvesting.
Stabilization of a swelling soil using three different chemical additives
Authors: Ayadat T.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. An expansive soil expands when water is added, and shrinks when it dries out. On construction sites, expansive soils can pose geotechnical engineering challenges. More financial loss is caused by expansive soil damage than by floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes combined. The aim of this study is to analyze the effect of stabilization of an expansive soil using three different chemical additives, in this case: white cement and nano-silica as admixture, waste granite dust, and a new liquid polymer soil stabilizer (i.e. liquid granite). This study investigated the effect of these stabilizing agents on the variation of soil consistency, linear shrinkage, and soil swelling behaviour. Three groups of tests were carried out as part of the experimental program. As part of the first group, tests were performed on expansive soil reinforced with 2%, 4%, 8%, and 10% of white cement combined with 2% of nano-silica. Another group of tests consisted of samples mixed with different percentages of granite powder (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%). In the third group, liquid granite as a soil stabilizer was blended with soil specimens at various concentrations (1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%). For all admixtures, the results showed a marked improvement in soil consistency, an important decrease in linear shrinkage, and a considerable reduction on the expansion index. Compared with the original bentonite clay, the swelling behaviour (expansion index) was reduced considerably by adding these three different chemical additives. Moreover, a correlation between the expansion index and the dosage of the different stabilizers was proposed.
Magnetoelastic deformation of conductive semilinear hyperelastic solids
Authors: Fadodun O.O.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. This work investigates the radial deformation of conductive magneto-hyperelastic solid cylinder subject to azimuthal magnetic field. It shows effect of the current density on the radial deformation of the solid. A simple magnetoelastic energy function is proposed for the cylinder under consideration such that its purely elastic part corresponds to the strain energy of the well-known semilienar hyperelastic materials. The consequent magnetoelasticity field equations, in conjunction with the accompanying boundary conditions, are specialized for application to the problem of radial deformation of solid cylinder. The obtained magnetoelastic constitutive model shows that the stress distribution in the solids is sensitive to the magnetic induction while the associated magnetic field at point within the cylinder is deformation-dependent. Furthermore, it is revealed that the azimuthal magnetic induction produced by steady current within the solid cylinder increases along its radius. Finally, and among other things, the graphical illustration shows that the effect of steady axial current density on the magnitude of the displacement function at points within the cylinder is significantly pronounced.
Static response of functionally graded porous spherical shells using trigonometric shear deformation theory
Authors: Tamnar R.B.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. In this study, a static response of FGM shells containing even distribution of porosity is investigated using a trigonometric shear deformation theory accounts for effects of transverse shear and normal strains. The principal of virtual work is used for obtaining governing equations and boundary conditions of the current theory. The theory satisfies zero transverse shear stress conditions at the top and the bottom surfaces of the shell. The simply-supported FGM shell is analyzed in the present study using the Navier method. The present results of displacements and stresses in FGM shells are obtained and compared with other higher order theories available in the literature to verify the current theory.
Lignocellulosic resources: A Key Player in the Transition to a Circular Bioeconomy
Authors: Espinosa E.
Published: August 2023

The trend towards sustainable development and the twin goals of reducing the carbon footprint using natural resources have put lignocellulosic residues in the spotlight as a feedstock for the development of biorefinery systems. These facts are compounded by the massive increase in the production of waste derived from the food supply chain, both agricultural and agri-food residues. Biorefineries are sustainable processing systems, encompassing a network of different processes and equipment, for the fractionation of biomass main components. These main fractions are then used to obtain new materials and high-added value products such as fuels and chemicals. This chapter presents the main industrial uses of agricultural and agri-food residues as part of the biorefinery. These industrial applications range from the most classical and widely studied, such as the papermaking industry and the production of fine chemicals, to the most novel applications in the food industry, the development of composite materials, clinical applications and for energy production, etc.
Technologies for Plasma Renovation of the Phase Structure of Substandard Turbine Blades of CHP
Authors: Ratushnaya T.Y.
Published: August 2023

The book contains a comprehensive and interdisciplinary study in the field of plasma recovery of substandard CHP (Combined Heat and Power) turbine blades. The advantages and disadvantages of recovery methods are presented, as well as the traditional methods that are used in production, and the latest technical advances.