bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Yin-Yang Pharmacomicrobiomics on Treatment Response in Inflammatory Arthritides: A Narrative Review
Authors: Peretti Silvia , Torracchi Sara , Russo Edda , Bonomi Francesco , Fiorentini Elisa , Aoufy Khadija El , Bruni Cosimo , Lepri Gemma , Orlandi Martina , Chimenti Maria Sole , Guiducci Serena , Amedei Amedeo , Matucci-Cerinic Marco , Bellando Randone Silvia
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Gut microbiota (GM) is the set of microorganisms inhabiting the gastroenteric tract that seems to have a role in the pathogenesis of rheumatic diseases. Recently, many authors proved that GM may influence pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of several drugs with complex interactions that are studied by the growing field of pharmacomicrobiomics. The aim of this review is to highlight current evidence on pharmacomicrobiomics applied to the main treatments of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Spondyloarthritis in order to maximize therapeutic success, in the framework of Personalized Medicine. (2) Methods: We performed a narrative review concerning pharmacomicrobiomics in inflammatory arthritides. We evaluated the influence of gut microbiota on treatment response of conventional Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic drugs (cDMARDs) (Methotrexate and Leflunomide) and biological Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) (Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, Interleukin-17 inhibitors, Interleukin 12/23 inhibitors, Abatacept, Janus Kinase inhibitors and Rituximab). (3) Results: We found a great amount of studies concerning Methotrexate and Tumor Necrosis Inhibitors (TNFi). Conversely, fewer data were available about Interleukin-17 inhibitors (IL-17i) and Interleukin 12/23 inhibitors (IL-12/23i), while none was identified for Janus Kinase Inhibitors (JAKi), Tocilizumab, Abatacept and Rituximab. We observed that microbiota and drugs are influenced in a mutual and reciprocal way. Indeed, microbiota seems to influence therapeutic response and efficacy, whereas in the other hand, drugs may restore healthy microbiota. (4) Conclusions: Future improvement in pharmacomicrobiomics could help to detect an effective biomarker able to guide treatment choice and optimize management of inflammatory arthritides.
Monitoring the Ambient Seismic Field to Track Groundwater at a Mountain–Front Recharge Zone
Authors: Buzzard Quinn , Langman Jeff B. , Behrens David , Moberly James G.
Published: December 2022

The heterogeneity of the fractured-basalt and interbedded-sediment aquifer along the eastern margin of the Columbia Plateau Regional Aquifer System has presented challenges to resource managers in quantifying recharge and estimating sustainable withdrawals. Previous studies indicated recharge pathways in alluvial sediments atop a mountain–front interface upgradient of the basalt flows. In this sedimentary zone, six seismic stations were deployed for one year to detect velocity changes in low-frequency seismic waves that could be correlated to changes in groundwater recorded by a well transducer near the center of the seismic station network. Waveforms in the 1−5 Hz range were recorded at each station to determine changes in wave velocities between station pairs and correlate these velocity changes to changes in groundwater levels. The velocity–groundwater relation allowed for estimation of daily groundwater levels beneath the seismic station network. Existing hydrogeologic information was used to estimate hydraulic gradients and hydraulic conductivities, which allowed for the calculation of the daily volume of recharge passing beneath the seismic stations and into the confined aquifer system. The daily recharge volumes across the seismic station network were summed for comparison of the total annual recharge calculated from the change in seismic wave velocities (154,660 m3) to a flow model calculation of recharge based on areal precipitation and infiltration (26,250 m3). The 6× greater recharge estimated from the seismic wave velocity changes for this portion of the recharge zone is attributed to preferential pathways of high hydraulic conductivity and greater depth associated with paleochannels beneath the seismic station network.
Intelligent Safety Ergonomics: A Cleaner Research Direction for Ergonomics in the Era of Big Data
Authors: Dong Longjun , Wang Jiachuang
Published: December 2022

Safety ergonomics is an important branch of safety science and environmental engineering. As humans enter the era of big data, the development of information technology has brought new opportunities and challenges to the innovation, transformation, and upgrading of safety ergonomics, as the traditional safety ergonomics theory has gradually failed to adapt to the need for safe and clean production. Intelligent safety ergonomics (ISE) is regarded as a new direction for the development of safety ergonomics in the era of big data. Unfortunately, since ISE is an emerging concept, there is no research to clarify its basic problems, which leads to a lack of theoretical guidance for the research and practice of ISE. In order to solve the shortcomings of traditional safety ergonomics theories and methods, first of all, this paper answers the basic questions of ISE, including the basic concepts, characteristics, attributes, contents, and research objects. Then, practical application functions of ISE are systematically clarified. Finally, following the life cycle of the design, implementation, operation, and maintenance of the system, it ends with a discussion of the challenges and application prospects of ISE. The conclusion shows that ISE is a cleaner research direction for ergonomics in the era of big data, that it can deepen the understanding of humans, machines, and environment systems, and it can provide a new method for further research on safety and cleaner production. Overall, this paper not only helps safety researchers and practitioners to correctly understand the concept of intelligent safety ergonomics, but it will certainly inject energy and vitality into the development of safety ergonomics and cleaner production.
How Effective Are Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Reducing Stress and Weight? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sosa-Cordobés Elena , Ramos-Pichardo Juan Diego , Sánchez-Ramos José Luis , García-Padilla Francisca María , Fernández-Martínez Elia , Garrido-Fernández Almudena
Published: December 2022

Stress contributes to the development and maintenance of obesity. Mindfulness-based therapies are being used to reduce stress and promote weight reduction and maintenance. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of mindfulness-based interventions for stress and weight reduction in the short, medium, and long term. Searches on PsycINFO, Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, WOS, and Science Direct were conducted until March 2021. Intervention studies with a sample of adults were included; these evaluated a mindfulness-based intervention and used stress and weight or body mass index as outcome variables. These criteria were met by 13 articles. A meta-analysis of 8 of the 13 articles was performed with a random-effects or fixed-effects model, depending on the level of heterogeneity between studies. Mindfulness-based interventions had a small effect on stress reduction over a 3-month period: effect size (standardized mean difference) = −0.29 (95% CI: −0.49, −0.10). However, no significant evidence was found for stress reduction from 3 months onwards, nor for weight or body mass index reduction in any period. Mindfulness-based interventions are effective in reducing stress in the short term, but not in the medium or long term, nor are they effective for weight or body mass index. More robust and longer study designs are needed to determine their effects.
Investigation of Plasma-Derived Lipidome Profiles in Experimental Cerebral Malaria in a Mouse Model Study
Authors: Batarseh Amani M. , Vafaee Fatemeh , Hosseini-Beheshti Elham , Safarchi Azadeh , Chen Alex , Cohen Amy , Juillard Annette , Hunt Nicholas Henry , Mariani Michael , Mitchell Todd , Grau Georges Emile Raymond
Published: December 2022

Cerebral malaria (CM), a fatal complication of Plasmodium infection that affects children, especially under the age of five, in sub-Saharan Africa and adults in South-East Asia, results from incompletely understood pathogenetic mechanisms. Increased release of circulating miRNA, proteins, lipids and extracellular vesicles has been found in CM patients and experimental mouse models. We compared lipid profiles derived from the plasma of CBA mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA), which causes CM, to those from Plasmodium yoelii (Py), which does not. We previously showed that platelet-free plasma (18k fractions enriched from plasma) contains a high number of extracellular vesicles (EVs). Here, we found that this fraction produced at the time of CM differed dramatically from those of non-CM mice, despite identical levels of parasitaemia. Using high-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LCMS), we identified over 300 lipid species within 12 lipid classes. We identified 45 and 75 lipid species, mostly including glycerolipids and phospholipids, with significantly altered concentrations in PbA-infected mice compared to Py-infected and uninfected mice, respectively. Total lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) levels were significantly lower in PbA infection compared to Py infection and controls. These results suggest that experimental CM could be characterised by specific changes in the lipid composition of the 18k fraction containing circulating EVs and can be considered an appropriate model to study the role of lipids in the pathophysiology of CM.
The Impact of Indoles Activating the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor on Androgen Receptor Activity in the 22Rv1 Prostate Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Zgarbová Eliška , Vrzal Radim
Published: December 2022

The activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) by xenobiotic compounds was demonstrated to result in the degradation of the androgen receptor (AR). Since prostate cancer is often dependent on AR, it has become a significant therapeutic target. As a result of the emerging concept of bacterial mimicry, we tested whether compounds with indole scaffolds capable of AhR activation have the potential to restrict AR activity in prostate cancer cells. Altogether, 22 indolic compounds were tested, and all of them activated AhR. However, only eight decreased DHT-induced AR luciferase activity. All indoles, which met the AhR-activating and AR-suppressing criteria, decreased the expression of DHT-inducible AR target genes, specifically KLK3 and FKBP5 mRNAs. The reduced AR binding to the KLK3 promoter was confirmed by a chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay. In addition, some indoles significantly decreased AR protein and mRNA level. By using CRISPR/Cas9 AhR knockout technology, no relationship between AhR and AR, measured as target gene expression, was observed. In conclusion, some indoles that activate AhR possess AR-inhibiting activity, which seems to be related to the downregulation of AR expression rather than to AR degradation alone. Moreover, there does not seem to be a clear relationship that would connect AhR activation with AR activity suppression in 22Rv1 cells.
THREATGET: Towards Automated Attack Tree Analysis for Automotive Cybersecurity
Authors: Chlup Sebastian , Christl Korbinian , Schmittner Christoph , Shaaban Abdelkader Magdy , Schauer Stefan , Latzenhofer Martin
Published: December 2022

The automotive domain is moving away from simple isolated vehicles to interconnected networks of heterogeneous systems forming a complex transportation infrastructure. The additional means of communication result in increased attack surfaces which can be exploited by physical as well as remote attackers if not secured thoroughly. Thus, the automotive sector is exposed to new cyber risk factors. Consequently, joint approaches targeting securing vehicles and infrastructure by identifying and mitigating potential threats for the automotive domain have been developed in several research projects. This paper builds on developments originating from these projects and correlated standards and regulations. Moreover, the extension of an existing threat modeling tool—THREATGET—with a novel automated approach toward attack propagation will be introduced. Therefore, we will conduct an analysis of a real-world example from the automotive domain. Furthermore, we will identify and analyze potential threats and discuss their accumulation to automatically generate an attack tree.
Hybrid Model Feature Selection with the Bee Swarm Optimization Method and Q-Learning on the Diagnosis of Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Fajri Yaumi A. Z. A. , Wiharto Wiharto , Suryani Esti
Published: December 2022

Coronary heart disease is a type of cardiovascular disease characterized by atherosclerotic plaque, which causes myocardial infarction or sudden cardiac death. Since this sudden heart attack has no apparent symptoms, the early detection of the risk factors for coronary heart disease is required. Many studies have been conducted to diagnose heart disease, including studies that tested various classifiers, feature selection and detection models on several coronary heart disease datasets. As a result, this research aims to learn about the effect of the bee swarm optimization algorithm combined with Q-learning for optimizing the feature selection in improving the prediction of heart disease. This detection model was tested against various classification methods and evaluated against multiple performance measures, such as accuracy, precision, recall and the area under curve (AUC), to identify the best model for heart disease prediction and the benefit of the medical community. The test results show that the proposed method outperforms the existing process regarding the feature selection.
Interactive Web-Based Visual Analysis on Network Traffic Data
Authors: Jeong Dong Hyun , Cho Jin-Hee , Chen Feng , Kaplan Lance , Jøsang Audun , Ji Soo-Yeon
Published: December 2022

Network traffic data analysis is important for securing our computing environment and data. However, analyzing network traffic data requires tremendous effort because of the complexity of continuously changing network traffic patterns. To assist the user in better understanding and analyzing the network traffic data, an interactive web-based visualization system is designed using multiple coordinated views, supporting a rich set of user interactions. For advancing the capability of analyzing network traffic data, feature extraction is considered along with uncertainty quantification to help the user make precise analyses. The system allows the user to perform a continuous visual analysis by requesting incrementally new subsets of data with updated visual representation. Case studies have been performed to determine the effectiveness of the system. The results from the case studies support that the system is well designed to understand network traffic data by identifying abnormal network traffic patterns.
A New Perspective of Post-Weld Baking Effect on Al-Steel Resistance Spot Weld Properties through Machine Learning and Finite Element Modeling
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Dali , Chen Jian , Ghassemi-Armaki Hassan , Carlson Blair , Feng Zhili
Published: December 2022

The root cause of post-weld baking on the mechanical performance of Al-steel dissimilar resistance spot welds (RSWs) has been determined by machine learning (ML) and finite element modeling (FEM) in this study. A deep neural network (DNN) model was constructed to associate the spot weld performance with the joint attributes, stacking materials, and other conditions, using a comprehensive experimental dataset. The DNN model positively identified that the post-weld baking reduces the joint performance, and the extent of degradation depends on the thickness of stacking materials. A three-dimensional finite element (FE) model was then used to investigate the root cause and the mechanism of the baking effect. It revealed that the formation of high thermal stresses during baking, from the mismatch of thermal expansion between steel and Al alloy, causes damage and cracking of the brittle intermetallic compound (IMC) formed at the interface of the weld nugget during welding. This in turn reduces the joint performance by promoting undesirable interfacial fracture when the welds were subjected to externally applied loads. The FEM model further revealed that increase in structural stiffness, because of increase in steel sheet thickness, reduces the thermal stresses at the interface caused by the thermal expansion mismatch and consequently lessens the detrimental effect of post-weld baking on the joint performance.
Convexity and Surface Quality Enhanced Curved Slicing for Support-Free Multi-Axis Fabrication
Authors: Jayakody Don Pubudu Vishwana Joseph , Lau Tak Yu , Goonetilleke Ravindra Stephen , Tang Kai
Published: December 2022

In multi-axis fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing systems, support-free curved layer fabrication is realized by continuous transition of the printer nozzle orientation. However, the ability to print 3D models with complex geometric (e.g., high overhang) and topological (e.g., high genus) features is often restricted by various manufacturability constraints inherent to a curved layer design process. The crux in a multi-axis printing process planning pipeline is to design feasible curved layers and their tool paths that will satisfy both the support-free condition and other manufacturability constraints (e.g., collision-free). In this paper, we propose a volumetric curved layer decomposition method that strives to not only minimize (if not prevent) collision-inducing local shape features of layers, but also enable adaptive layer thickness to comply with a new volumetric error-based surface quality criterion. Our method computes an optimal Radial Basis Functions (RBF) field to modify the fabrication sequence field, from which, the iso-surface layers are extracted to design the corresponding multi-axis printing tool paths. A method to fine-tune variable nozzle orientations on each resulting curved layer is then proposed to overcome possible collisions in high-genus geometries. To validate the concept and exhibit its potential, several support-free fabrication experiments and comparisons with the conventional geodesic field-based slicing are presented, and the results give a preliminary confirmation of the feasibility and advantages of the proposed method.
Verification and Validation of the SPL Module of the Deterministic Code AZNHEX through the Neutronics Benchmark of the CEFR Start-Up Tests
Authors: Muñoz-Peña Guillermo , Galicia-Aragon Juan , Lopez-Solis Roberto , Gomez-Torres Armando , del Valle-Gallegos Edmundo
Published: December 2022

A new module for the AZtlan Nodal HEXagonal (AZNHEX) code, which is part of the AZTLAN Platform, was recently developed based on the Simplified Spherical Harmonics (SPL) scheme to deal with the challenges presented in small fast reactor cores, such as the China Experimental Fast Reactor (CEFR), with high leakage and significant scattering effects. For the verification and validation process, we generated nodal homogenized macroscopic cross-sections (XS) through a full heterogeneous core model using the stochastic code SERPENT and subsequently, these XS were employed in AZNHEX. To verify the SPL implementation, several mesh sensitivity exercises were performed demonstrating that the SPL module was implemented successfully. Furthermore, to validate the code with this new implementation, we modeled some exercises contained in the CEFR benchmark with AZNHEX and compared the results with the experimental data available. The final results show a great improvement compared with the original diffusion solver reducing the deviations significantly from experimental data. In conclusion, it is shown and discussed the relevance of improved numerical models (transport approximations instead of diffusion) for the deterministic calculations of small fast reactors.
Astragaloside IV Targets Macrophages to Alleviate Renal Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury via the Crosstalk between Hif-1α and NF-κB (p65)/Smad7 Pathways
Authors: Tang Lumin , Zhu Minyan , Che Xiajing , Yang Xiaoqian , Xu Yao , Ma Qing , Zhang Ming , Ni Zhaohui , Shao Xinghua , Mou Shan
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: Astragaloside IV (AS-IV) is derived from Astragalus membranous (AM), which is used to treat kidney disease. Macrophages significantly affect the whole process of renal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). The regulation of macrophage polarization in kidneys by AS-IV was the focus. (2) Methods: Renal tubular injury and fibrosis in mice were detected by Hematoxylin and Eosin staining and Masson Trichrome Staining, separately. An ELISA and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction were used to explore the cytokine and mRNA expression. Western blot was used to determine protein expression and siRNA technology was used to reveal the crosstalk of signal pathways in RAW 264.7 under hypoxia. (3) Results: In the early stages of I/R injury, AS-IV reduced renal damage and macrophage infiltration. M1-associated markers were decreased, while M2 biomarkers were increased. The NF-κB (p65)/Hif-1α pathway was suppressed by AS-IV in M1. Moreover, p65 dominated the expression of Hif-1α. In the late stages of I/R injury, renal fibrosis was alleviated, and M2 infiltration also decreased after AS-IV treatment. Hif-1α expression was reduced by AS-IV, while Smad7 expression was enhanced. Hif-1α interferes with the expression of Smad7 in M2. (4) Conclusions: AS-IV promoted the differentiation of M1 to M2, relieving the proinflammatory response to alleviate the kidney injury during the early stages. AS-IV attenuated M2 macrophage infiltration to prevent kidney fibrosis during the later stages.
The Impact of Multi-Layer Corporate Governance on Banks’ Performance under the GFC and the COVID-19: A Cross-Country Panel Analysis Approach
Authors: Amrani Oumniya , Najab Amal
Published: December 2022

This paper examines the impact of multi-layer corporate governance (MCG) on banks’ performance under the global financial crisis (GFC) and COVID-19. Using a random and fixed effects method, we regressed the impact of MCG variables on return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), and non-performing loans (NPL) of a panel data of 44 conventional banks (CBs) and 40 Islamic banks (IBs), across 17 countries, and over the period from 2006 to 2020. The results show that board of directors (BoD)’ structure has no association with CBs performance whereas the chief executive officer (CEO) duality is strongly negatively impacting CBs performance, especially during the GFC. In addition, supervision framework proxies have a strong positive influence on CBs performance, especially in the period after the GFC. Furthermore, cross-membership and the size of the Shariah board (SB) have a significant negative influence on IBs’ performance, but SB qualification has a positive non-significant impact overall—with the exception of NPLs, which had a positive significant impact during the GFC. The supervision position has a favorable impact on IBs performance except during crises.
Catalyst Recycling in the Suzuki Coupling Reaction: Toward a Greener Synthesis in the Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Mukai Shoma , Yamada Yusuke
Published: December 2022

The Suzuki coupling is a transition metal-catalyzed, cross-coupling carbon–carbon (C–C) bond forming reaction between organic boron compounds and organic halides. As an operationally simple and versatilely applicable procedure, the Suzuki coupling reaction has found immense applications in drug discovery and development in the pharmaceutical industry. Recently, the topic of catalyst recycling has undergone intensive investigations with ever-growing interest in eco-friendly and sustainable synthesis. To recapitulate the latest progress in catalyst recycling in the Suzuki coupling reaction, this invited paper reviews key principles, benefits, challenges, and cutting-edge applications of recyclable catalysts for green synthesis of industrially valuable bioactive molecules. This review paper also discusses how artificial intelligence (AI) could further advance green synthesis of pharmaceutical products.
Investigation of PbSnTeSe High-Entropy Thermoelectric Alloy: A DFT Approach
Authors: Xia Ming , Record Marie-Christine , Boulet Pascal
Published: December 2022

Thermoelectric materials have attracted extensive attention because they can directly convert waste heat into electric energy. As a brand-new method of alloying, high-entropy alloys (HEAs) have attracted much attention in the fields of materials science and engineering. Recent researches have found that HEAs could be potentially good thermoelectric (TE) materials. In this study, special quasi-random structures (SQS) of PbSnTeSe high-entropy alloys consisting of 64 atoms have been generated. The thermoelectric transport properties of the highest-entropy PbSnTeSe-optimized structure were investigated by combining calculations from first-principles density-functional theory and on-the-fly machine learning with the semiclassical Boltzmann transport theory and Green–Kubo theory. The results demonstrate that PbSnTeSe HEA has a very low lattice thermal conductivity. The electrical conductivity, thermal electronic conductivity and Seebeck coefficient have been evaluated for both n-type and p-type doping. N-type PbSnTeSe exhibits better power factor (PF = S2σ) than p-type PbSnTeSe because of larger electrical conductivity for n-type doping. Despite high electrical thermal conductivities, the calculated ZT are satisfactory. The maximum ZT (about 1.1) is found at 500 K for n-type doping. These results confirm that PbSnTeSe HEA is a promising thermoelectric material.
Common Topological Features in Band Structure of RNiSb and RSb Compounds for R = Tb, Dy, Ho
Authors: Baidak Semyon T. , Lukoyanov Alexey V.
Published: December 2022

The electronic and band structures of ternary RNiSb and binary RSb compounds for R = Tb, Dy, Ho, have been investigated using an ab initio method accounting for strong electron correlations in the 4f shell of the rare-earth metals. These ternary compounds are found to be semiconductors with the indirect gap of 0.21, 0.21, and 0.26 eV for Tb, Dy, and Ho(NiSb), respectively. In contrast, in all binary RSb compounds, bands near the Fermi energy at the Г and X points are shifted relatively to RNiSb and form hole and electron pockets, so the energy gap is closed in RSb. The band structure typical for semimetals is formed in all RSb compounds for R = Tb, Dy, Ho. For the first time, we identify similar features near the Fermi level in the considered binary semimetals, namely, the presence of the hole and electron pockets in the vicinity of the Г and X points, the nonsymmetric electron pocket along Γ–X–W direction and hole pockets along the L–Γ–X direction, which were previously found experimentally in the other compound of this series GdSb. The magnetic moment of all considered compounds is fully determined by magnetic moments of the rare earth elements, the calculated effective magnetic moments of these ions have values close to the experimental values for all ternary compounds.
Recovery of End-of-Life Tyres and Mineral Wool Waste: A Case Study with Gypsum Composite Materials Applying Circular Economy Criteria
Authors: Zaragoza-Benzal Alicia , Ferrández Daniel , Santos Paulo , Morón Carlos
Published: December 2022

The building sector is currently undergoing a process of change due to concerns about the sustainability of the construction industry. The application of circular economy criteria to develop new, more sustainable construction products has become one of the major challenges for the society of the future. This research advances towards the development of new lightened gypsum composites that incorporate waste from end-of-life tyres and recycled fibres from mineral wool thermal insulation in their composition. The results show how it is possible to reduce the consumption of the original raw materials by replacing them with recycled rubber granular particles, developing new construction products that are lighter, with better water resistance and greater thermal resistance. Additionally, it is shown that the incorporation of recycled fibres from rock wool and glass wool insulation is a good solution to improve the mechanical resistance of lightened gypsum composites, giving these construction and demolition wastes a second useful life by reincorporating them in the process of manufacturing new prefabricated housing products.
Study on the Preparation and Properties of Bridge Concrete Using Low Carbon Aggregates
Authors: Jiang Ruishuang , Xing Youjia , Liu Shuai , Guo Yongzhi , Guo Baolin
Published: December 2022

It is an outstanding solution for protecting the environment using manufactured sand instead of natural river sand in concrete. In this paper, tunnel granite muck was processed into low carbon, coarse and fine aggregates, and low carbon aggregates were used to prepare bridge concrete. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties, anti-permeability, and frost resistance of concrete were investigated. The results demonstrated that the concrete prepared using low carbon aggregate had higher mechanical properties than concrete prepared using river sand. The chloride ion penetration resistance of concrete using low carbon aggregate is better than that of concrete using river sand, and frost resistance has been improved.
Adsorptive Pattern Using Drinking Water Treatment Residual for Organic Effluent Abatement from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Nour Manasik M. , Tony Maha A. , Nabwey Hossam A.
Published: December 2022

Zeolite (ZSM-12) is a unique material obtained from the drinking water treatment plants’ residual “alum sludge”, as a result of using aluminum sulphate as a primary coagulant in the plants. Herein, alum sludge (AS) is initially dewatered and subjected for various calcination temperatures 400 °C, 600 °C and 800 °C and the corresponding materials are named as AS400, AS600 and AS800, respectively. Such calcination is provided to attain ZSM-12, which is considered a highly adsorptive material. The material characterization and morphology were investigated using scanning X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron microscope (SEM) that confirm the presence of ZSM-12 and porosity of such prepared materials. Thereafter, such materials are introduced for phenol remediation from aqueous solution. The experimental data reveal that AS400 had the largest adsorption capacity (275 mg-phenol/g), in comparison to the commercial adsorbent materials during 2 h of isotherm time. Such a result confirms the suitability of alum sludge residue to be a good candidate for environmental remediation. Furthermore, adsorption isotherm models were applied, and the data are well-fitted to the Langmuir isotherm model. In addition, thermodynamic parameters are investigated which verify the physisorption adsorption process and exothermic nature with a spontaneous reaction system.
In-Service Delaminations in FRP Structures under Operational Loading Conditions: Are Current Fracture Testing and Analysis on Coupons Sufficient for Capturing the Essential Effects for Reliable Predictions?
Authors: Brunner Andreas J. , Alderliesten René , Pascoe John-Alan
Published: December 2022

Quasi-static or cyclic loading of an artificial starter crack in unidirectionally fibre-reinforced composite test coupons yields fracture mechanics data—the toughness or strain-energy release rate (labelled G)—for characterising delamination initiation and propagation. Thus far, the reproducibility of these tests is typically between 10 and 20%. However, differences in the size and possibly the shape, but also in the fibre lay-up, between test coupons and components or structures raise additional questions: Is G from a coupon test a suitable parameter for describing the behaviour of delaminations in composite structures? Can planar, two-dimensional, delamination propagation in composite plates or shells be properly predicted from essentially one-dimensional propagation in coupons? How does fibre bridging in unidirectionally reinforced test coupons relate to delamination propagation in multidirectional lay-ups of components and structures? How can multiple, localised delaminations—often created by impact in composite structures—and their interaction under service loads with constant or variable amplitudes be accounted for? Does planar delamination propagation depend on laminate thickness, thickness variation or the overall shape of the structure? How does exposure to different, variable service environments affect delamination initiation and propagation? Is the microscopic and mesoscopic morphology of FRP composite structures sufficiently understood for accurate predictive modelling and simulation of delamination behaviour? This contribution will examine selected issues and discuss the consequences for test development and analysis. The discussion indicates that current coupon testing and analysis are unlikely to provide the data for reliable long-term predictions of delamination behaviour in FRP composite structures. The attempts to make the building block design methodology for composite structures more efficient via combinations of experiments and related modelling look promising, but models require input data with low scatter and, even more importantly, insight into the physics of the microscopic damage processes yielding delamination initiation and propagation.
The Microstructure and Pitting Corrosion Behavior of K-TIG Welded Joints of the UNS S32101 Duplex Stainless Steel
Authors: Cui Shuwan , Pang Shuwen , Pang Dangqing , Tian Fuyuan , Yu Yunhe
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the microstructure and pitting corrosion resistance of S32101 duplex stainless steel keyhole tungsten inert gas welded joints with different heat inputs were studied. The electrochemical experiments were conducted in a 1 mol/L NaCl solution at room temperature. The pitting rupture potential of the heat affected zone and the weld metal zone under different heat inputs were tested. The research showed that with the increase of heat inputs, more ferrite was converted to austenite and the number and size of intragranular austenite grains in the weld metal zone increased. The austenite content of the heat affected zone and the weld metal zone increase with the increase of heat inputs, and the CrN and Cr2N in the heat affected zone and the weld metal zone were mainly precipitated in the ferrite, in the austenite and ferrite/austenite interfaces. The pitting rupture potential value of the heat affected zone and the weld metal zone were increased with the increase of heat inputs, and the pitting corrosion resistance of the heat affected zone and weld metal zone were also increased with the increase of heat inputs. The relationship between the position CrN and Cr2N, the austenite content and the pitting corrosion resistance were elucidated, and the initiation mechanism of the pitting was investigated. Additionally, in this work, the heat affected zone and weld metal zone made at 2.46 kJ/mm heat inputs had the best pitting corrosion resistance. The research results provided useful information for improving the pitting corrosion resistance of S32101 duplex stainless steel keyhole tungsten inert gas welded joints.
Reinforcement of Calcareous Sands by Stimulation of Native Microorganisms Induced Mineralization
Authors: Shen Gangqiang , Liu Shiyu , He Yuhan , Pan Muzhi , Yu Jin , Cai Yanyan
Published: December 2022

Calcareous sand is a special soil formed by the accumulation of carbonate fragments. Its compressibility is caused by a high void ratio and breakable particles. Because of its high carbonate content and weak cementation, its load-bearing capacity is limited. In this study, the optimal stimulation solution was obtained with response surface methodology. Then, the effect of reinforcing calcareous sand was analysed with unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests, calcium carbonate content tests, microscopy and microbial community analyses. The components and concentrations of the optimal stimulation solution were as follows: sodium acetate (38.00 mM), ammonium chloride (124.24 mM), yeast extract (0.46 g/L), urea (333 mM), and nickel chloride (0.01 mM), and the pH was 8.75. After the calcareous sand was treated with the optimal stimulation scheme, the urease activity was 6.1891 mM urea/min, the calcium carbonate production was 8.40%, and the UCS was 770 kPa, which constituted increases of 71.41%, 35.40%, and 83.33%, respectively, compared with the initial scheme. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses showed that calcium carbonate crystals were formed between the particles of the calcareous sand after the reaction, and the calcium carbonate crystals were mainly calcite. Urease-producing microorganisms became the dominant species in calcareous sand after treatment. This study showed that biostimulation-induced mineralization is feasible for reinforcing calcareous sand.
Bond Degradation Mechanism and Constitutive Relationship of Ribbed Steel Bars Embedded in Engineered Cementitious Composites under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Pan Jiaojiao , Lu Tingting , Deng Mingke
Published: December 2022

In order to investigate the bond degradation mechanism and constitutive relationship of ribbed steel bars in engineered cementitious composites (ECCs) under cyclic loading, 12 groups of specimens were tested in this paper. The design parameters included ECC compressive strength, ECC flexural toughness, cover thickness, and anchorage length. The results indicated that the degradation of the bond behavior of the ribbed steel bars in the ECCs under cyclic loading was mainly caused by the degradation of the properties of the ECC material itself, concentrating on the development of cracks in the ECC, the extrusion and shear failure of the ECC between the steel bar ribs, and the continuous grinding of the ECC particles on the shear failure surface. The degradation of the bond stress–slip curves under cyclic loading was mainly reflected by the degradation in the ultimate bond strength and unloading stiffness. According to the monotonic loading test results, a monotonic bond stress–slip relationship model was proposed. On this basis, through building the hysteretic rules of the bond stress–slip curves under cyclic loading, a calculation model was proposed to predict the bond stress–slip constitutive relationship between the ribbed steel bars embedded in the ECCs under cyclic loading. Finally, the validity of the proposed model was verified by a comparison between the model curves and the tested curves.
Investigating the Retrofitting Effect of Fiber-Reinforced Plastic and Steel Mesh Casting on Unreinforced Masonry Walls
Authors: Halim Faizan , Ahmad Afnan , Adil Mohammad , Khan Asad , Ghareeb Mohamed , Alzara Majed , Eldin Sayed M. , Alsharari Fahad , Yosri Ahmed M.
Published: December 2022

Unreinforced masonry (URM) is one of the most popular construction materials around the world, but vulnerable during earthquakes. Due to its brittle nature, the URM structures may lead to a possible collapse of the wall of a building during earthquake events causing casualties. In the current research, an attempt is made to enhance the seismic capacity of URM structures by proposing a new innovative composite material that can improve the shear strength and deformation capacity of the URM wall systems. The results revealed that the fiber-reinforced plastic having high tensile and shear stiffness can significantly increase in-plane as well as out-of-plane bending strength of the URM wall. It was recorded that the bending moment of the prism increased up to 549.5% by increasing the bending moment from 490 N*mm to 3183 N*mm per mm deflection of prism upon using glass fibers. Moreover, the ductility ratio amplified up to 5.73 times while the stiffness ratio increased up to 4.16 times with the aid of glass fibers. Since the material used in this research work is low cost, easily available, and no need for any skilled labor, which is economically good. Therefore, the URM walls retrofitted with fiber-reinforced plastic is an economical solution.
On the Formability of Medium Mn Steel Treated with Varied Thermal Processing Routes
Authors: Zhang Baolin , He Binbin
Published: December 2022

In this contribution, we investigate the influence of thermal processing routes on the formability of medium Mn steel by assessing the strain hardening coefficient and anisotropy factor using the uniaxial tensile test. Medium Mn steel processed by intercritical annealing (IA) at 680 °C for 4 h demonstrates better formability than steel treated with a combination of IA at 800 °C for 10 min and quenching and partitioning (Q&P), based on the much higher strain hardening coefficient (n) and comparable anisotropy factor (r, rm, ∆r). The higher strain hardening coefficient of medium Mn steel with single IA treatment is ascribed to the enhanced transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) effect resulting from the large amount of austenite that is transformed into martensite during deformation. In addition, the IA process allows for the production of medium Mn steel with high ductility, which is beneficial for its high formability and good ‘part ductility’ in lightweight automotive applications.
Dry Sliding Wear Studies on Sillimanite and B4C Reinforced Aluminium Hybrid Composites Fabricated by Vacuum Assisted Stir Casting Process
Authors: Pethuraj Manickaraj , Uthayakumar Marimuthu , Rajesh Shanmugavel , Abdul Majid Mohd Shukry , Rajakarunakaran Sivaprakasam , Niemczewska-Wójcik Magdalena
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the results of studies to understand the influence of hybridisation on mechanical and tribological behaviour as well as dry sliding wear of aluminium metal matrix composites. Sillimanite and boron carbide (B4C) were used as primary and secondary reinforcements and pure aluminium was used as the matrix material. The composite was fabricated by using a vacuum assisted stir casting process. Different research instruments were used, including a scanning electron microscope with EDX spectrometer, a surface measurement device, a thermal image analyser, as well as a tribotester. The results show that tensile, impact strength and hardness of the hybridised composites are superior (a step ahead) than unreinforced and primary composites. The wear behaviour of the fabricated specimens was tested for the dry sliding wear behaviour under the load range of 10–50 N with the steps of 20 N for the sliding velocities 0.75, 1.5 and 2.25 m/s over a distance of 1000 m. The wear rate increased with load and decreased as the wt.% of reinforcement increased. The wear rate of the composite with 10 wt.% Al2SiO5 was approximately 44% lower than that of the composite with 5 wt.% Al2SiO5. The same dependence was noted for hybrid composite (5 wt.% Al2SiO5 + 5 wt.% B4C)—the wear rate was approximately 50.8% lower than that of the composite with 5 wt.% Al2SiO5 under the same test condition. The friction coefficient decreased as the weight percentage of the reinforcement (Al2SiO5 and B4C) increased due to the uniform distribution of the reinforcement on the surface of the composites. The main wear mechanism of the studied materials was abrasion wear. The wear mechanism of the composite had tribochemical type. It involved the oxidation and transfer of the material, which formed protective tribolayers ensuring an additional sliding process. The mechanism that played the main role in the wear process of the composites was a combination of abrasive, adhesive and oxidative wear.
Influence of SHS Precursor Composition on the Properties of Yttria Powders and Optical Ceramics
Authors: Permin Dmitry , Postnikova Olga , Balabanov Stanislav , Belyaev Alexander , Koshkin Vitaliy , Timofeev Oleg , Li Jiang
Published: December 2022

This study looked at optimizing the composition of precursors for yttria nanopowder glycine–nitrate self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS). Based on thermodynamic studies, six different precursor compositions were selected, including with excesses of either oxidant or fuel. The powders from the precursors of all selected compositions were highly dispersed and had specific surface areas ranging from 22 to 57 m2/g. They were consolidated by hot pressing (HP) with lithium–fluoride sintering additive and subsequent hot isostatic pressing (HIP). The 1 mm thick HPed ceramics had transmittance in the range of 74.5% to 80.1% @ 1μm, which was limited by optical inhomogeneity due to incomplete evaporation of the sintering additive. Two-stage HIP significantly improves optical homogeneity of the ceramics. It was shown that an excess of oxidizer in the precursor decreases the powders’ agglomeration degree, which forms large pore clusters in the ceramics.
Utilization of Construction and Demolition Mix Waste in the Fired Brick Production: The Impact on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Dubale Mandefrot , Vasić Milica Vidak , Goel Gaurav , Kalamdhad Ajay , Singh Laishram Boeing
Published: December 2022

The European Green Deal, which emphasizes zero-waste economies, and waste recycling in construction and building materials, has arisen due to significant worldwide needs for solid waste recovery and usage. This ambitious study focuses on recycling mixed construction and demolition (C&D) waste into burnt bricks and investigating the influence of firing temperature. While pursuing its objectives, this is dependent on raw material characterization and burnt-brick product quality assessment. The recycling of mixed C&D waste is explored by mixing the waste into two soil types (alluvial and laterite) in ratios ranging from 5% to 45% at three firing temperatures (700 °C, 850 °C and 900 °C). The utilization of mixed C&D waste in amounts of 10% at 700 °C and 25% at 850 °C and 900 °C fulfilled the Indian standard. Although a fire at 700 °C results in less optimal waste utilization, it is beneficial and recommended for reducing the carbon footprint and energy use. Additional mineralogical and microstructural analyzes are performed on the optimal fired samples. The study’s findings are promising for sustainable resource usage, reducing carbon footprint, and reducing waste disposal volume. This research is a big step toward the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations and a circular economy.
Roughness of the Surface of Zirconia Reinforced Lithium Disilicate Ceramic Treated by Different Procedures
Authors: Carek Andreja , Slokar Benić Ljerka , Komar Daniel , Krebelj Ena
Published: December 2022

Lithium disilicate and zirconia are the two most popular materials for aesthetic and dental prosthetic work; however, due to their limitations, a new material is being researched, namely zirconia-reinforced lithium disilicate, the surface of which is treated with different procedures to achieve the best possible surface properties. In this study, the surface of zirconia-reinforced lithium disilicate glass-ceramic was treated using different methods (conventional and laser) to determine the effects of the treatment procedures on the surface properties and surface roughness to achieve a higher strength of adhesion from the self-adhesive resin cement to zirconia-reinforced lithium disilicate. The treated surfaces were investigated using profilometry, X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence. The results obtained were statistically evaluated. The results show that the surface roughness is highest for the samples treated with Er:YAG (erbium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet laser) and silanisation. Furthermore, the surface treatment procedures applied did not change the composition of the surface.