bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-Carbohydrate Diet Consumption Poses a More Severe Liver Cholesterol Deposition than a High-Fat and High-Calorie Diet in Mice
Authors: Zhang Linyu , Li Xin , Liu Xiangyan , Wu Xiaoran , Xu Qiurong , Qu Jianyu , Li Xiaowen , Zhu Yuanyuan , Wen Lixin , Wang Ji
Published: September 2023

In the past few decades, many researchers believed that a high-fat and high-calorie diet is the most critical factor leading to metabolic diseases. However, increasing evidence shows a high-carbohydrate and low-fat diet may also be a significant risk factor. It needs a comprehensive evaluation to prove which viewpoint is more persuasive. We systematically compared the effects of high-fat and high-calorie diets and high-carbohydrate and low-fat ones on glycolipid metabolism in mice to evaluate and compare the effects of different dietary patterns on metabolic changes in mice. Sixty 8-week-old male C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups after acclimatization and 15% (F-15), 25% (F-25), 35% (F-35), and 45% (F-45) of their dietary energy was derived from fat for 24 weeks. The body weight, body-fat percentage, fasting blood glucose, lipid content in the serum, and triglyceride content in the livers of mice showed a significantly positive correlation with dietary oil supplementation. Interestingly, the total cholesterol content in the livers of mice in the F-15 group was significantly higher than that in other groups (p < 0.05). Compared with the F-45 group, the mRNA expression of sterol synthesis and absorption-related genes (e.g., Asgr1, mTorc1, Ucp20, Srebp2, Hmgcr, and Ldlr), liver fibrosis-related genes (e.g., Col4a1 and Adamts1) and inflammation-related genes (e.g., Il-1β and Il-6) were significantly higher in the F-15 group. Compared with the F-45 group, the relative abundance of unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae and Akkermansia was decreased in the F-15 group. While unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae and Akkermansia are potentially beneficial bacteria, they have the ability to produce short-chain fatty acids and modulate cholesterol metabolism. In addition, the relative abundance of unclassified_f_Lachnospiraceae and Akkermansia was significantly positively correlated with fatty acid transporters expression and negatively correlated with that of cholesteryl acyltransferase 1 and cholesterol synthesis-related genes. In conclusion, our study delineated how a high-fat and high-calorie diet (fat supplied higher than or equal to 35%) induced obesity and hepatic lipid deposition in mice. Although the high-carbohydrate and low-fat diet did not cause weight gain in mice, it induced cholesterol deposition in the liver. The mechanism is mainly through the induction of endogenous synthesis of cholesterol in mice liver through the ASGR1-mTORC1-USP20-HMGCR signaling pathway. The appropriate oil and carbon water ratio (dietary energy supply from fat of 25%) showed the best gluco-lipid metabolic homeostasis in mice.
Time-Resolved Fluorescence Spectroscopy of Blood, Plasma and Albumin as a Potential Diagnostic Tool for Acute Inflammation in COVID-19 Pneumonia Patients
Authors: Wybranowski Tomasz , Ziomkowska Blanka , Cyrankiewicz Michał , Pyskir Jerzy , Bosek Maciej , Napiórkowska Marta , Pilaczyńska-Cemel Marta , Przybylski Grzegorz , Kruszewski Stefan
Published: September 2023

Fluorescence lifetime measurements of blood or plasma offer valuable insights into the microenvironment and molecular interactions of fluorophores, particularly concerning albumin. Neutrophil- and hypoxia-induced oxidative stress in COVID-19 pneumonia patients leads to hyperinflammation, various oxidative modifications of blood proteins, and potential alterations in the fluorescence lifetime of tryptophan-containing proteins, especially albumin. The objective of this study was to investigate the efficacy of time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy of blood and plasma as a prompt diagnostic tool for the early diagnosis and severity assessment of COVID-19-associated pneumonia. This study examined a cohort of sixty COVID-19 patients with respiratory symptoms. To investigate whether oxidative stress is the underlying cause of the change in fluorescence lifetime, human serum albumin was treated with chloramine T. The time-resolved spectrometer Life Spec II (Edinburgh Instruments Ltd., Livingston, UK), equipped with a sub-nanosecond pulsed 280 nm diode, was used to measure the fluorescence lifetime of blood and plasma. The findings revealed a significant reduction in the fluorescence lifetime of blood (diluted 200 times) and plasma (diluted 20 times) at 360 nm in COVID-19 pneumonia patients compared with their respective values recorded six months post-infection and those of healthy individuals. Significant negative correlations were observed between the mean fluorescence lifetime of blood and plasma at 360 nm and several severity biomarkers and advanced oxidation protein products, while a positive correlation was found with albumin and the albumin–globulin ratio. The time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy method demonstrates the potential to be used as a preliminary screening technique for identifying patients who are at risk of developing severe complications. Furthermore, the small amount of blood required for the measurements has the potential to enable a rapid fingerstick blood test.
Automatic Construction of Educational Knowledge Graphs: A Word Embedding-Based Approach
Authors: Ain Qurat Ul , Chatti Mohamed Amine , Bakar Komlan Gluck Charles , Joarder Shoeb , Alatrash Rawaa
Published: September 2023

Knowledge graphs (KGs) are widely used in the education domain to offer learners a semantic representation of domain concepts from educational content and their relations, termed as educational knowledge graphs (EduKGs). Previous studies on EduKGs have incorporated concept extraction and weighting modules. However, these studies face limitations in terms of accuracy and performance. To address these challenges, this work aims to improve the concept extraction and weighting mechanisms by leveraging state-of-the-art word and sentence embedding techniques. Concretely, we enhance the SIFRank keyphrase extraction method by using SqueezeBERT and we propose a concept-weighting strategy based on SBERT. Furthermore, we conduct extensive experiments on different datasets, demonstrating significant improvements over several state-of-the-art keyphrase extraction and concept-weighting techniques.
Enriching a Traditional Learning Activity in Preschool through Augmented Reality: Children’s and Teachers’ Views
Authors: Rapti Sophia , Sapounidis Theodosios , Tselegkaridis Sokratis
Published: September 2023

Nowadays, Augmented Reality flourishes in educational settings. Yet, little is known about teachers’ and children’s views of Augmented Reality applications in Preschool. This paper explores 71 preschoolers’ opinions of Augmented Reality teaching integrated into a traditional learning activity. Additionally, five educators’ views of Augmented Reality applications in Preschool are captured. Mixed methods with questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used. The questionnaires record children’s preferences regarding their favorite learning activity between traditional and the Augmented Reality one. Additionally, they explore the activity preschoolers would like to repeat and found most enjoyable: playful. Regarding quantitative data analysis, independent/paired samples t-tests and chi-square test along with bootstrapping with 1000 samples were used. As for the qualitative data collection, educators’ semi-structured interviews focused on three axes: (a) children’s motivation and engagement in Augmented Reality activities, (b) Augmented Reality’s potential to promote skills, and (c) Augmented Reality as a teaching tool in preschool. The emerging results are: Preschoolers prefer more Augmented Reality activities than traditional ones. There are no statistically significant gender differences in preferences for Augmented Reality activities. Educators regard Augmented Reality technology as an innovative, beneficial teaching approach in preschool. However, they express concern regarding the promotion of collaboration among preschoolers via Augmented Reality.
A Systematic Review of Varying Definitions and the Clinical Significance of Fredet’s Fascia in the Era of Complete Mesocolic Excision
Authors: Brachini Gioia , Cirillo Bruno , Matteucci Matteo , Cirocchi Roberto , Tebala Giovanni Domenico , Cavaliere Davide , Giacobbi Lorenza , Papa Veronica , Solaini Leonardo , Avenia Stefano , D’Andrea Vito , Davies Justin , Fedeli Piergiorgio , De Santis Elena
Published: September 2023

Background: Fredet’s fascia represents a crucial landmark for vascular surgical anatomy, especially in minimally invasive complete mesocolic excision (CME) for right-sided colon adenocarcinoma. Fredet’s fascia allows access to the gastrocolic trunk of Henle (GCTH), the most critical step in both open and minimally invasive right-sided CME techniques. Despite this, a recent workshop of expert surgeons on the standardization of the laparoscopic right hemicolectomy with CME did not recognize or include the term of Fredet’s fascia or area. Hence, we undertook a systematic review of articles that include the terms “Fredet’s fascia or area”, or synonyms thereof, with special emphasis on the types of articles published, the nationality, and the relevance of this area to surgical treatments. Methods: We conducted a systematic review up to 15 July 2022 on PubMed, WOS, SCOPUS, and Google Scholar. Results: The results of the study revealed that the term “Fredet’s fascia” is poorly used in the English language medical literature. In addition, the study found controversial and conflicting data among authors regarding the definition of “Fredet’s fascia” and its topographical limits. Conclusions: Knowledge of Fredet’s fascia’s surgical relevance is essential for colorectal surgeons to avoid accidental injuries to the superior mesenteric vascular pedicle during minimally invasive right hemicolectomies with CME. In order to avoid confusion and clarify this fascia for future use, we suggest moving beyond the use of the eponymous term by using a “descriptive term” instead, based on the fascia’s anatomic structure. Fredet’s fascia could, therefore, be more appropriately renamed “sub-mesocolic pre-duodenopancreatic fascia”.
Conjunctival Limbal Autograft Combined with Amnion-Assisted Conjunctival Epithelial Redirection for Unilateral Total Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency after Severe Chemical Burn
Authors: Yao Tian-Yu , Wang Jia-Song , Geng Wen , Xie Hua-Tao , Zhang Ming-Chang
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: To evaluate the efficacy of conjunctival limbal autograft (CLAU) combined with the amnion-assisted conjunctival epithelial redirection (ACER) procedure for patients with unilateral total limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) caused by severe chemical burn. (2) Methods: A retrospective interventional case series of unilateral total LSCD after chemical burn who underwent CLAU combined with ACER surgery between September 2021 and July 2023 was collected. Outcome measures included epithelialization of the cornea with donor limbus-derived epithelium, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and complications. (3) Results: Nine males and one female were included in this study. The mean age was 40.9 ± 9.63 (range, 26 to 55) years. The average duration between injury and CLAU combined with the ACER procedure was 7.67 ± 3.97 (range, 4 to 18) months. All patients achieved corneal epithelialization and improved BCVA. Postoperative complications occurred in four cases, including delayed corneal epithelial healing in one case, delayed amniotic membrane dissolution and detachment in two cases, and recurrence of symblepharon in one case. No complications were noted in the healthy donor eyes. (4) Conclusions: CLAU combined with ACER is a safe and effective treatment for unilateral total LSCD caused by severe chemical burn. This combined surgery restores visual function for patients with corneal blindness caused by chemical burn, reducing the burden on the families and society.
The Long-Term Benefit of Sacubitril/Valsartan in Patients with HFrEF: A 5-Year Follow-Up Study in a Real World Population
Authors: Dattilo Giuseppe , Laterra Giulia , Licordari Roberto , Parisi Francesca , Pistelli Lorenzo , Colarusso Luigi , Zappia Luca , Vaccaro Vittoria , Demurtas Elisabetta , Allegra Marta , Crea Pasquale , Di Bella Gianluca , Signorelli Salvatore Santo , Aspromonte Nadia , Imbalzano Egidio , Correale Michele
Published: September 2023

Heart failure (HF) is a progressive condition with an increasing prevalence, and the scientific evidence of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) reports a 6% rate of 1-year mortality in stable patients, whereas, in recently hospitalized patients, the 1-year mortality rates exceed 20%. The Sacubitril/Valsartan (S/V), the first angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), significantly reduced both HF hospitalization and cardiovascular mortality. Aim of the study: to evaluate the effect of S/V in a follow-up period of 5 years from the beginning of the therapy. We compared the one-year outcomes of S/V use with those obtained after 5 years of therapy, monitoring the long-term effects in a real-world population with HFrEF. Methods: Seventy consecutive patients with HFrEF and eligible for ARNI, according to PARADIGM-HF criteria, were enrolled. All patients had an overall follow-up of 60 months, during which time they underwent standard transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) with Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS) evaluation, the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ), the Six Minutes Walking Test (6MWT), and blood tests (NT-pro-BNP and BNP, renal function tests). Results: NTproBNP values were reduced significantly among the three time-points (p < 0.001). Among echocardiographic parameters, left ventricle end-diastolic volume (LV EDV) and E/e’ significantly were reduced at the first evaluation (12 months), while left ventricle end-systolic volume (LV ESV) decreased during all follow-ups (p < 0.001). LV EF (p < 0.001) and GLS (p < 0.001) significantly increased at both evaluations. The 6MWT (p < 0.001) and KCCQ scores (p < 0.001) increased significantly in the first 12 months and remained stable along the other time-points. NYHA class showed an increase in class 1 subjects and a decrease in class 3 subjects during follow-up. NTproBNP, BNP, 6MWT, and KCCQ scores showed a significant change in the first 12 months, while LVEF, GLS, and ESV changed during all evaluations. Conclusions: We verified that the improvements obtained after one year of therapy had not reached a plateau phase but continued to improve and were statistically significant at 5 years. Although our data should be confirmed in larger and multicentre studies, we can state that the utilization of Sacubitril/Valsartan has catalysed substantial transformations in the prognostic landscape of chronic HFrEF, yielding profound clinical implications.
The Role of Sclerostin in Rheumatic Diseases: A Review
Authors: Jaśkiewicz Łukasz , Chmielewski Grzegorz , Kuna Jakub , Stompór Tomasz , Krajewska-Włodarczyk Magdalena
Published: September 2023

Systemic connective tissue disorders constitute a heterogenous group of autoimmune diseases with the potential to affect a range of organs. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, progressive, autoimmune inflammatory disease affecting the joints. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) may manifest with multiple system involvement as a result of inflammatory response to autoantibodies. Spondyloarthropathies (SpAs) such as ankylosing spondylitis (AS) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are diseases characterised by the inflammation of spinal joints, paraspinal tissues, peripheral joints and enthesitis as well as inflammatory changes in many other systems and organs. Physiologically, sclerostin helps to maintain balance in bone tissue metabolism through the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which represents a major intracellular signalling pathway. This review article aims to present the current knowledge on the role of sclerostin in the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and its correlation with clinical data from RA, SLE, AS and PsA patients.
Impact of Scoring Balloon Angioplasty on Lesion Preparation for DCB Treatment of Coronary Lesions
Authors: Shin Eun-Seok , Ann Soe Hee , Jang Mi Hee , Kim Bitna , Kim Tae-Hyun , Sohn Chang-Bae , Choi Byung Joo
Published: September 2023

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of scoring balloon angioplasty for drug-coated balloon (DCB) treatment in percutaneous coronary intervention. Background: The scoring balloon angioplasty may play a pivotal role in enhancing the outcomes of DCB treatment. Methods: A total of 259 patients (278 lesions) with coronary artery disease successfully treated with DCB were retrospectively enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 62.2 ± 11.1 years, and the majority of patients were men (68.7%). The study’s endpoint was defined as achieving an optimal angiographic result, which consisted of Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) flow grade 3, residual diameter stenosis ≤ 30%, and dissection less than type C after the procedure. Results: Angioplasty was performed for 61 lesions with a scoring balloon and 217 lesions with a non-scoring balloon. All lesions were TIMI flow grade 3 except two lesions in the non-scoring balloon group. The scoring balloon group had a higher prevalence of residual diameter stenosis ≤ 30% (68.9% vs. 39.6%, p < 0.001), while severe dissection, defined as type C or greater, was observed less frequently (9.8% vs. 31.8%, p = 0.001). Moreover, the scoring balloon group achieved a superior rate of optimal angiographic results (60.7% vs. 28.6%, p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, scoring balloon (OR: 3.08 [95% confidence interval, 1.47–6.58], p = 0.003) and DCB balloon-to-artery ratios (OR: 5.46 [95% confidence interval, 1.43–21.93], p = 0.014) were independent factors in the increasing rate of optimal angiographic result. Conclusions: The application of a scoring balloon catheter for lesion preparation, aiming to make them suitable for DCB treatment, was associated with a decreased risk of severe dissection and a greater occurrence of optimal angiographic outcomes compared with non-scoring balloon angioplasty.
Safety of the Radiofrequency Balloon for Pulmonary Vein Isolation: A Focus on Lesion Metric Analysis of Posterior Electrodes
Authors: Almorad Alexandre , Del Monte Alvise , Teumer Yannick , El Haddad Milad , Pannone Luigi , Della Rocca Domenico Giovanni , Audiat Charles , Cespón-Fernández María , Mouram Sahar , Ramak Robbert , Overeinder Ingrid , Bala Gezim , Sorgente Antonio , Ströker Erwin , Sieira Juan , Brugada Pedro , La Meir Mark , de Asmundis Carlo , Chierchia Gian-Battista
Published: September 2023

Previous clinical studies on pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with radiofrequency balloons (RFB) reported safe and effective procedures for a 20 s RF delivery via posterior electrodes. Recent recommendations from the manufacturer suggest reducing the application time to 15 s on the posterior wall (PW) when facing the esophagus region. Here, we retrospectively assess whether 15 s of RF delivery time on posterior electrodes is safe while still ensuring lesion metrics of sufficient quality. This retrospective study included 133 patients with paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation who underwent PVI using an RFB (Heliostar, Biosense Webster, Inc., Irvine, CA, USA) at two European centers. The ablation protocol was set for an RF duration of 20 s/60 s for the posterior/anterior electrodes. A multielectrode temperature probe was systematically used. In the case of an esophageal temperature rise (ETR) above 42 °C (ETR+), an endoscopic evaluation was performed. All posterior electrode lesion metric dynamics (temperature (T) and impedance (Z)) were collected from the RFB generator and analyzed offline. In total, 2435 posterior electrode applications were analyzed. With an RF delivery of 19.8 (19.7–19.8) s, the median impedance drop was 18.4 (12.2–25.2) Ω, while the temperature rise was 11.1 (7.1–14.9) °C. Accordingly, impedance (84.6 (79.3–90.2) Ω) and temperature plateaus (38 (35.3–41.1) °C) were reached at 13.9 (10.6–16) s and 16.4 (12.6–18.5) s, respectively. Overall, 99.6% and 95.8% of electrodes reached 90% (16.6 Ω) and 95% (17.5 Ω) of their impedance drops within 15 s of RF delivery, while 97.2% and 92.8% achieved 90% (34.2 °C) and 95% (36.1 °C) of their temperature rise to reach the plateaus within 15 s of RF delivery. An ETR >42 °C occurred in 37 (30.1%) patients after 17.7 ± 2.3 s of RF delivery. In the ETR+ group, the impedance drop and temperature rise on the posterior electrodes were higher compared to patients where ETR was <42 °C. Two asymptomatic thermal esophageal injuries were observed. In conclusion, 15 s of RF delivery on the posterior electrodes provides a good balance between safety, with no esophageal temperature rise, and efficacy with high-profile lesion metrics.
Diminished Physical Activity in Older Hospitalised Patients with and without COVID-19
Authors: Piotrowicz Karolina , Perera Ian , Ryś Monika , Skalska Anna , Hope Suzy V. , Gryglewska Barbara , Michel Jean-Pierre , Grodzicki Tomasz , Gąsowski Jerzy
Published: September 2023

Acute viral respiratory infections have proven to be a major health threat, even after the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We aimed to check whether the presence or absence of an acute respiratory infection such as COVID-19 can influence the physical activity of older hospitalised patients. We cross-sectionally studied patients aged ≥60 years, hospitalized during the pandemic in the non-COVID-19 and COVID-19 ward at the University Hospital, Kraków, Poland. Using activPAL3® technology, we assessed physical activity for 24 h upon admission and discharge. In addition, we applied the sarcopenia screening tool (SARC-F); measured the hand grip strength and calf circumference; and assessed the Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS), age-adjusted Charlson Index, SpO2%, and length of stay (LoS). Data were analysed using SAS 9.4. The mean (min, max) age of the 31 (58% women, eight with COVID-19) consecutive patients was 79.0 (62, 101, respectively) years. The daily time (activPAL3®, median [p5, p95], in hours) spent sitting or reclining was 23.7 [17.2, 24] upon admission and 23.5 [17.8, 24] at discharge. The time spent standing was 0.23 [0.0, 5.0] upon admission and 0.4 [0.0, 4.6] at discharge. The corresponding values for walking were 0.0 [0.0, 0.4] and 0.1 [0.0, 0.5]. SARC-F, admission hand grip strength, calf circumference, and LoS were correlated with physical activity upon admission and discharge (all p < 0.04). For every unit increase in SARC-F, there was a 0.07 h shorter walking time upon discharge. None of the above results differed between patients with and without COVID-19. The level of physical activity in older patients hospitalised during the pandemic was low, and was dependent on muscular function upon admission but not on COVID-19 status. This has ramifications for scenarios other than pandemic clinical scenarios.
Analysis of Cumulative Antibiogram Reports in Search for Optimal Empirical Urinary Tract Infection Treatment at the Central Teaching Hospital of the Medical University of Lodz, Poland: Results of a 3-Year Surveillance
Authors: Bielec Filip , Wenecka Monika , Brauncajs Małgorzata , Pastuszak-Lewandoska Dorota
Published: September 2023

Urinary tract infections are among the most common bacterial infections, accounting for about two-fifths of all healthcare-associated infections. Appropriate antimicrobial therapy is crucial, e.g., to avoid prolonged hospitalization and limit antimicrobial resistance spread. This study was performed to analyze the microbiological profiles of urinary tract infections in the Central Teaching Hospital in Lodz, Poland, and develop local empirical therapy guidelines. This study was a 3-year retrospective surveillance of the cumulative antibiograms from urine cultures. The procedures were based on the current EUCAST and CLSI guidelines. In 2020–2022, a total of 4656 urine cultures were performed, of which 1134 were positive. The most common bacterial isolates were Escherichia coli, followed by Klebsiella spp. and Enterococcus spp. High levels of susceptibility (>90%) have been observed for carbapenems, piperacillin/tazobactam, amikacin, and nitrofurantoin. Development of the appropriate empirical antimicrobial is a challenging task with persistently high levels of resistance to commonly used antimicrobials. Eventually, we separated the uncomplicated and complicated urinary tract infections in local guidelines and recommended nitrofurantoin and amikacin, respectively, in empiric therapy. The clinicians should make a decision based on the presented symptoms and then—with the urine culture result—correct or continue the therapy.
Effects of Leading-Edge Tubercles on Three-Dimensional Flapping Foils
Authors: He Ruixuan , Wang Xinjing , Li Jian , Liu Xiaodong , Song Baowei
Published: September 2023

Recently, inspired by the flippers of humpback whales, researchers have been widely studying leading-edge tubercles for use as passive flow control devices. In this research, we numerically investigated the effects of leading-edge tubercles on a three-dimensional flapping foil coupled with rolling and pitching motions. Appropriate spanwise flexibility is considered to mimic the real flapping motion of humpback whales, and the profile of the angle of attack was analyzed in a representative section under the effects of spanwise flexibility. The motion of flexible foils was decomposed into rigid motion and flexible deflection by using the sliding mesh and dynamic mesh methods, respectively. Then, the hydrodynamic performance of the flexible flapping foils was estimated by solving the unsteady Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes equations. The effects of the shape and kinematic parameters on thrust, power consumption, and propulsive efficiency were studied and the mechanism behind these effects was investigated. A maximum efficiency loss of 19.4% was observed for the sharpest tubercle shape. Although the hydrodynamic advantages of leading-edge tubercles were not observed in the present study, the tendency of flow separation over peaking sections was suppressed under low angles of attacks. The results suggest that leading-edge tubercles are more suitable for foils with steady or quasi-steady motions, such as propellers or turbines.
Analysis of Water Hammer and Pipeline Vibration Characteristics of Submarine Local Hydraulic System
Authors: Quan Lingxiao , Gao Jing , Guo Changhong , Fu Chen
Published: September 2023

The hydraulic pipeline vibration noise is one of the main noise sources in submarine stealth conditions. Taking the local hydraulic system of a certain type of submarine as the research object, a model is first developed to simulate water hammer pressures and to study the influence of component parameters on the generation and transmission of water hammers. Then, using the maximum water hammer as the excitation, fluid–structure interaction (FSI) vibration characteristics analysis of the pipeline is carried out. Additionally, the simulation method of clamp bolt pre-tightening is discussed. Finally, the modal test of various specifications of the pipeline is carried out. The results show that the error between the simulation and the test results is within 10%, which verifies the correctness of the model settings. On this basis, with the position of the clamp as the independent variable and the maximum stress of pipelines as the dependent variable, the optimization of pipeline passive vibration control is carried out by genetic algorithm, and the finite element verification shows that the pipeline vibration stress is effectively reduced.
Numerical Simulations of Scour around Vertical Wall Abutments with Varying Aspect Ratios under Combined Waves and Current Flows
Authors: Kumar Lalit , Afzal Mohammad Saud
Published: September 2023

The present study employs numerical simulations to investigate vertical wall abutment scour with different aspect ratios (B/L, where B is the abutment length in the flow direction, and L is the abutment length transverse to the flow direction) under the combined effect of waves and current. The numerical model solves the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations and incorporates the Exner formulation to account for bed-level changes. The utilization of the Level Set Method (LSM) in the present numerical model enhances the accurate tracking of free surface and sediment bed. The numerical model validation was performed using a truncated numerical wave tank. The validated model was utilized to examine scour around vertical wall abutments with varying aspect ratios under different wave-current flows. The highest and lowest abutment scour depths were observed for aspect ratios of 0.5 and 2, respectively, in both steady current and the combined effects of waves and current. The vertical wall abutment of aspect ratio 0.5 had a maximum normalized equilibrium scour depth (S/B, where S is equilibrium scour depth), primarily attributed to a sharp edge, leading to increased turbulence and forming a strong primary vortex. The results suggest that the increase in the aspect ratio of the vertical wall abutment decreases the normalized equilibrium scour depth (S/B). According to the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first of its kind that utilizes a three-dimensional, semi-coupled model to examine combined wave- and current-flow-induced scour at vertical wall abutments with varying aspect ratios.
Ultrasonic Evaluation of Diaphragm in Patients with Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Ljilja Posavec Anja , Hrkač Stela , Tečer Josip , Huzjan Korunić Renata , Karanović Boris , Ježić Ivana , Škopljanac Ivan , Piskač Živković Nevenka , Mitrović Joško
Published: September 2023

The diaphragm is the most important muscle in respiration. Nevertheless, its function is rarely evaluated. Patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) could be at risk of diaphragmatic dysfunction because of multiple factors. These patients often develop interstitial lung disease (SSc-ILD) and earlier studies have indicated that patients with different ILDs have decreased diaphragmatic mobility on ultrasound (US). This study aimed to evaluate diaphragmatic function in SSc patients using US with regard to the ILD, evaluated with the Warrick score on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), and to investigate associations between ultrasonic parameters and dyspnea, lung function, and other important clinical parameters. In this cross-sectional study, we analyzed diaphragm mobility, thickness, lung function, HRCT findings, Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale, modified Rodnan skin score (mRSS), autoantibodies, and esophageal diameters on HRCT in patients with SSc. Fifty patients were enrolled in the study. Patients with SSc-ILD had lower diaphragmatic mobility in deep breathing than patients without ILD. The results demonstrated negative correlations between diaphragmatic mobility and mMRC, mRSS, anti-Scl-70 antibodies, esophageal diameters on HRCT, and a positive correlation with lung function. Patients with SSc who experience dyspnea should be evaluated for diaphragmatic dysfunction for accurate symptom phenotyping and personalized pulmonary rehabilitation treatment.
Bioactive Compounds of Dietary Origin and Their Influence on Colorectal Cancer as Chemoprevention
Authors: Delgado-Gonzalez Paulina , Garza-Treviño Elsa N. , de la Garza Kalife David A. , Quiroz Reyes Adriana , Hernández-Tobías Esther Alhelí
Published: September 2023

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common causes of death and the third most diagnosed cancer worldwide. The tumor microenvironment and cancer stem cells participate in colorectal tumor progression and can dictate malignancy. Nutrition status affects treatment response and the progression or recurrence of the tumor. This review summarizes the main bioactive compounds against the molecular pathways related to colorectal carcinogenesis. Moreover, we focus on the compounds with chemopreventive properties, mainly polyphenols and carotenoids, which are highly studied dietary bioactive compounds present in major types of food, like vegetables, fruits, and seeds. Their proprieties are antioxidant and gut microbiota modulation, important in the intestine because they decrease reactive oxygen species and inflammation, both principal causes of cancer. These compounds can promote apoptosis and inhibit cell growth, proliferation, and migration. Combined with oncologic treatment, a sensitization to first-line colorectal chemotherapy schemes, such as FOLFOX and FOLFIRI, is observed, making them an attractive and natural support in the oncologic treatment of CRC.
Effects of Zn, Mg, and Cu Content on the Properties and Microstructure of Extrusion-Welded Al–Zn–Mg–Cu Alloys
Authors: Remsak Krzysztof , Boczkal Sonia , Limanówka Kamila , Płonka Bartłomiej , Żyłka Konrad , Węgrzyn Mateusz , Leśniak Dariusz
Published: September 2023

The study presents the results of research on the influence of different contents of main alloying additions, such as Mg (2 ÷ 2.5 wt.%), Cu (1.2 ÷ 1.9 wt.%), and Zn (5.5 ÷ 8 wt.%), on the strength properties and plasticity of selected Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloys extruded on a bridge die. The test material variants were based on the EN AW-7075 alloy. The research specimens, in the form of 100 mm extrusion billets obtained with the DC casting method, were homogenized and extrusion welded during direct extrusion on a 5 MN horizontal press. A 60 × 6 mm die cross-section was used, with one bridge arranged in a way to extrude a flat bar with a weld along its entire length. The obtained materials in the F and T6 tempers were characterized in terms of their strength properties, hardness, and microstructure, using EBSD and SEM. The extrusion welding process did not significantly affect the properties of the tested materials; the measured differences in the yield strength and tensile strength between the materials, with and without the welding seam, were up to ±5%, regardless of chemical composition. A decrease in plasticity was observed with an increase in the content of the alloying elements. The highest strength properties in the T6 temper were achieved for the alloy with the highest content of alloying elements (10.47 wt.%), both welded and solid. Significant differences in the microstructure between the welded and solid material in the T6 temper were observed.
Advanced Heat Treatment of Pearlitic Rail Steel
Authors: Jabłońska Magdalena , Lewandowski Filip , Chmiela Bartosz , Gronostajski Zbigniew
Published: September 2023

The aim of this research is a systematic investigation of heat treatments of 60E1 profile rails made of steel R350HT, which would ensure the properties required by the standard EN 16273. Additionally, it presents a concept of cooling rails on a semi-industrial station, which will make it possible to obtain the desired properties. The dilatometric tests have demonstrated that the optimal cooling rate is within the scope of 3 °C/s to 6 °C/s, when both the EN 16273 standard’s hardness distribution and microstructure requirements are fulfilled. The tests on the designed and built station showed that the optimal pressure with respect to the microstructure and properties of the rail equals 6.5 bar. For these parameters, measurements of the interlamellar distance were also performed—the cooling rate obtained at the surface was 3.68 °C/s, with an interlamellar distance of about 80 nm, whereas inside the rail the rate was 2.63 °C/s and the distance 110 nm. The achieved results confirm that the designed station can be used for controlled cooling of rail steels from R350HT steel.
Motion of Air Bubbles in a Cement Slurry
Authors: Konan N’dri Arthur , Rosenbaum Eilis , Massoudi Mehrdad
Published: September 2023

The dynamics of air (gas) bubbles in a column of cement slurry is examined numerically. The air injected at the bottom of a laboratory-scale column through a porous distributor plate spatially distributes and migrates as a swarm of bubbles throughout the slurry toward the freeboard. The two-phase system of the cement slurry and the air bubbles is modeled using the conservation equations of mass and linear momentum in the framework of the volume-of-fluid (VOF) approach. The cement slurry is modeled using the Herschel–Bulkley and Bingham fluid models. Results show that the mean Sauter diameter and the mean rise velocity of the bubbles decrease with the gas flow rate. Meanwhile, it is found that the rising of the bubbles is controlled by breakup events, along with relatively weak path instabilities of the bubbles resulting in relatively straight trajectories, independent of the gas flow rate. The extent of the yielded region appears larger for the Herschel–Bulkley model compared to the Bingham fluid model (by approximately 10%).
Multi-Criteria Optimization of Cost-Effective and Environmentally Friendly Reactive Powder Concrete Incorporating Waste Glass and Micro Calcium Carbonate
Authors: Abellán-García Joaquín , Daza Nemesio , Molinares Marielena , Abbas Yassir M. , Khan Mohammad Iqbal
Published: September 2023

In pursuit of developing an eco-friendly and cost-effective reactive powder concrete (RPC), we utilized a multi-objective optimization technique. This approach pivoted on the incorporation of byproducts, with a spotlight on ground glass powder (GP) as a pivotal supplementary cementitious material (SCM). Our goal was twofold: engineering cost-efficient concrete while maintaining environmental integrity. The derived RPC showcased robust mechanical strength and impressive workability. Rigorous evaluations, containing attributes like compressive strength, resistance to chloride ion penetration, ultrasonic pulse speed, and drying shrinkage, highlighted its merits. Notably, the optimized RPC, despite an insignificant decrease in compressive strength at 90 days compared to its traditional counterpart, maintained steady strength augmentation over time. The refinement process culminated in a notable 29% reduction in ordinary Portland cement (OPC) usage and a significant 64% decrease in silica fume (SF), with the optimized mix composition being 590 for cement, 100 for SF, 335 for GP, and 257 kg/m3 for calcium carbonate. Additionally, the optimized RPC stood out due to the enhanced rheological behavior, influenced by the lubricative properties of calcium carbonate and the water conservation features of the glass powder. The reactive properties of SF, combined with GP, brought distinct performance variations, most evident at 28 days. Yet, both mixtures exhibited superior resistance to chloride, deeming them ideal for rigorous settings like coastal regions. Significantly, the RPC iteration, enriched with selective mineral admixtures, displayed a reduced tendency for drying-induced shrinkage, mitigating potential crack emergence.
Flowability and Strength Characteristics of Binary Cementitious Systems Containing Silica Fume, Fly Ash, Metakaolin, and Glass Cullet Powder
Authors: Khan Mohammad Iqbal , Abbas Yassir M. , Fares Galal , Alqahtani Fahad K.
Published: September 2023

The present study examines the effects of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) on the flowability and strength development of binary mixes. This study was primarily motivated by the need to bridge the knowledge gap regarding paste and mortar mixes containing binary cement from a variety of performance perspectives. This study examined the flowability and strength development of binary mixes in their pastes and mortars when they contain various doses of silica fume (SF), fly ash (FA), metakaolin (MK), and glass cullet powder (GP) compared with the control mix. While the presence of SF and MK reduced workability because of the nature of their particles, the addition of FA and GP improved it to a certain extent because of the spherical and glassy nature of their particles, respectively. In addition, GP was used to compare its performance against SF, MK, and FA as an alternative cementitious material. In this study, the GP performed comparably to the other SCMs investigated and was found to be satisfactory. An investigation of the rheological properties, heat of hydration, thermal analysis, and pore systems of these mixes was conducted. Compared to the control mix, the presence of 5% GP improved the rheological properties and reduced the heat of hydration by 10%. The reduced workability in SF and MK mixes resulted in a lower content of pore water, while GP and FA incorporation enhanced it, owing to improved workability. The pore area is related to the pore water, which is directly related to improved workability. According to the following order, SF > MK > GP > FA, the strength was highest for mixes containing SF and MK, whereas, with GP and FA, there was a gradual reduction in the strength proportional to replacement level and improved workability. SF, GP, and FA can be identified as performance enhancers when formulating ternary and quaternary cementitious systems for low-carbon cement.
Recycled Fine and Coarse Aggregates’ Contributions to the Fracture Energy and Mechanical Properties of Concrete
Authors: Sadagopan Madumita , Rivera Alexander Oliva , Malaga Katarina , Nagy Agnes
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates the fracture mechanical properties of concrete, using crushed concrete aggregates (CCA) and granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) for partial cement replacement. CCAs made from prefabricated concrete replace 100% of the fine and coarse fractions in concrete recipes with w/c ratios of 0.42 and 0.48. Two pre-treatment methods, mechanical pre-processing (MPCCA) and accelerated carbonation (CO2CCA), are investigated for quality improvements in CCA. The resulting aggregates show an increased density, contributing to an increase in the concrete’s compressive strength. The novelty of this paper is the superposition of the effects of the composite parts of concrete, the aggregate and the cement mortar, and their contributions to concrete fracture. Investigations are directed toward the influence of fine aggregates on mortar samples and the influence of the combination of coarse and fine aggregates on concrete samples. The physical and mechanical properties of the aggregates are correlated with mortar and concrete fracture properties. The results show that CCA concrete achieves 70% of the fracture energy values of concrete containing natural aggregates, and this value increases to 80% for GGBS mixes. At lower w/c ratios, MPCCA and CO2CCA concretes show similar fracture energies. CO2CCA fine aggregates are the most effective at strengthening the mortar phase, showing ductile concrete behavior at a w/c ratio of 0.48. MPCCA aggregates contribute to higher compressive strengths for w/c ratios of 0.42 and 0.48. Thus, mechanical pre-processing can be improved to produce CCA, which contributes to more ductile concrete behavior.
Combined Effect of Poly(lactic acid)-Grafted Maleic Anhydride Compatibilizer and Halloysite Nanotubes on Morphology and Properties of Polylactide/Poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) Blends
Authors: Mokrane Nawel , Kaci Mustapha , Lopez-Cuesta José-Marie , Dehouche Nadjet
Published: September 2023

Given the global challenge of plastic pollution, the development of new bioplastics to replace conventional polymers has become a priority. It is therefore essential to achieve a balance in the performances of biopolymers in order to improve their commercial availability. In this topic, this study aims to investigate the morphology and properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/ poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx) (at a ratio of 75/25 (w/w)) blends reinforced with halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) and compatibilized with poly(lactic acid)-grafted maleic anhydride (PLA-g-MA). HNTs and PLA-g-MA were added to the polymer blend at 5 and 10 wt.%, respectively, and everything was processed via melt compounding. A scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis shows that HNTs are preferentially localized in PHBHHx nodules rather than in the PLA matrix due to its higher wettability. When HNTs are combined with PLA-g-MA, a finer and a more homogeneous morphology is observed, resulting in a reduction in the size of PHBHHx nodules. The presence of HNTs in the polymer blend improves the impact strength from 12.7 to 20.9 kJ/mm2. Further, with the addition of PLA-g-MA to PLA/PHBHHX/HNT nanocomposites, the tensile strength, elongation at break, and impact strength all improve significantly, rising from roughly 42 MPa, 14.5%, and 20.9 kJ/mm2 to nearly 46 MPa, 18.2%, and 31.2 kJ/mm2, respectively. This is consistent with the data obtained via dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA). The thermal stability of the compatibilized blend reinforced with HNTs is also improved compared to the non-compatibilized one. Overall, this study highlights the effectiveness of combining HNTs and PLA-g-AM for the properties enhancement of PLA/PHBHHx blends.
Similar Material Proportioning Tests and Mechanical Properties Based on Orthogonal Design
Authors: Yang Xinglong , Dong Jinyu , Yang Jihong , Han Xiaodong
Published: September 2023

Shaking table tests serve as an effective method to simulate landslides triggered by seismic activities. These laboratory experiments necessitate the use of materials that mimic those encountered in real-world scenarios. For this investigation, materials analogous to field conditions for the shaking table tests were formulated using quartz sand, barite powder, iron powder, gypsum, rosin, and alcohol. Within the model test compositions, iron powder, barite powder, and quartz sand acted as aggregates; gypsum functioned as an additive, and a solution of rosin and alcohol was employed as a binder. Employing the orthogonal design method, the physical and mechanical parameters of these analogous materials were ascertained through double-sided shear tests, as well as uniaxial compression and splitting tests. Subsequent analyses included extreme difference and regression assessments targeting the determinants influencing the physical and mechanical characteristics of these materials. The ultimate goal was to determine the optimal mixing ratios for the model test materials. The findings revealed that the physical and mechanical properties of analogous materials at varying ratios span a broad spectrum, fulfilling the criteria for distinct rock model experiments. A thorough examination of the factors impacting the physical and mechanical properties of these materials was undertaken, elucidating their respective influences. Based on the relative significance of each determinant on the mechanical attributes of the analogous materials, dominant factors were identified for a multiple regression analysis, from which the regression equations corresponding to the test ratios were derived.
A New Composite Material with Environmental Implications for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Ghisman Viorica , Georgescu Puiu Lucian , Ghisman Georgiana , Buruiana Daniela Laura
Published: September 2023

Sewage sludge, also referred to as biosolids, consists of the by-products of wastewater treatment, which are a mixture of the water and organic and inorganic materials eliminated from wastewater sourced from domestic sewage industries during physical, biological, and/or chemical treatments. Biosolids are nutrient-rich organic materials resulting from the treatment of domestic wastewater in treatment plants. Sewage sludge can be considered a significant biological resource for sustainable agriculture. A new composite has been made consisting of soil, sewage sludge collected from the Galati Wastewater Treatment Plant, and slag from the Galati Steel Plant. This study aimed to investigate the structural, morphological, and chemical parameters of this composite through FTIR, SEM-EDX analysis, and XRF analysis. The samples had values of potential toxic elements that were within normal limits according to Directive 86/278/CEE, and, in terms of the iron-to-calcium ratio (I/C), all samples were of a low grade. This is the first time that slag has been added in a sewage sludge–soil combination, which can be an effective fertilizer replacement. Sewage sludge contains substantial amounts of organic matter, and slag reduces the contents of potentially toxic elements. In addition to these attributes, they may provide an opportunity for the beneficial re-use of sewage sludge and slag as resources in agriculture.