bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A new approach for analysing motion and deformation of left ventricle: Post‐processing 3D echocardiography data with finite element method
Authors: Cansız Barış , Sveric Krunoslav , Linke Axel , Kaliske Michael 
Published: October 2023

AbstractIn the medical community, it is common practice to examine segmental (regional) values. For instance, echocardiography data are analysed by dividing the left ventricle (LV) endocardial surface into 16 or 17 areas (segments), which actually consist of several nodes (vortices) and the nodal values are averaged over the segments. Although, the averaged segment values provide useful information and are widely used, looking at pointwise values might enable a more extensive LV assessment, which has not been attempted so far. For instance, averaging might be ruling out some unusual localized deformations, which can be only detected through a pointwise distribution. Therefore, in this contribution, we introduce a new methodology to analyse 3D echocardiography data from computational modelling perspective which eventually enables a pointwise distribution of deformation related quantities over the LV endocardial surface. To this end, we export the tracked LV endocardial surface from a dedicated software 4D LV‐analysis Tomtec, which enables to export the current coordinates of the nodes on the surface. The coordinates are then integrated into a finite element analysis program and, eventually, one can compute any deformation related quantity and obtain a pointwise distribution over the endocardial surface. To our best knowledge, such an approach has not been introduced before. In order to demonstrate the usability, we compare the pointwise value distribution to traditional averaged segmental values. Additionally, we calculate the stress distribution and the sphericity index in a pointwise manner, which are not provided by commercial LV analysis softwares.
Improving attitudes towards adders (Vipera berus) and nature connectedness in primary‐age group children
Authors: Kelly Sam J. , Kelly John S. , Gardner Emma , Baker John , Monk Chris , Julian Angela 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Adder ( Vipera berus ) populations are experiencing declines in many countries, including the United Kingdom. Perceptions of adders and other venomous snakes are generally negative, making conservation of these species a challenge, and persecution remains within the top five perceived causes for adder declines in the United Kingdom. Improved understanding and attitudes are needed to support current conservation efforts. However, ensuring these positive attitudes continue into the future relies on addressing children's loss of connection to nature, and intervention at this early attitude‐formation stage can be crucial for traditionally ‘unpopular’ species, such as snakes.

An adder‐focussed public engagement project, Adders are Amazing !, was carried out in Pembrokeshire, United Kingdom, in 2018–19 to improve understanding and attitudes towards adders using a blended science‐creative arts approach. The project included half‐day primary school‐based workshops to inform 111 pupils aged 8–11 about adder ecology, alongside creative art experiences. Questionnaires were used to measure the children's attitudes towards adders and their nature connectedness both before and after the workshops and these were compared with equivalent questionnaires carried out at a control school (57 pupils) where no workshops were conducted.

The project demonstrated that engagement that blends both art and science can significantly change attitudes towards adders without any direct contact with the animals themselves; specifically, participants' scores for ‘Wonder’, ‘Learning Interest’ and ‘Conservation Concern’ increased. The workshops also significantly increased measures of the children's general connectedness to nature (specifically, ‘Enjoyment of Nature’ and ‘Responsibility for Nature’).

We recommend conservation bodies focus on, and not shy away from, so‐called ‘unpopular’ species, to promote understanding and acceptance of these species and support their conservation. Blended arts–science initiatives, which can be easily adapted to suit a wide range of species and the artistic practices of local communities, are an effective way to achieve this.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Sarcopenia in long‐term survivors of cancer in childhood and adolescence: A cross‐sectional study of calf muscle mass by peripheral quantitative computed tomography with an examination of the muscle–bone unit
Authors: Guolla Louise , Barr Ronald , Jaworski Maciej , Farncombe Troy , Gordon Christopher 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackgroundSarcopenia, a loss of systemic skeletal muscle mass (SMM), is prevalent in childhood cancer survivors and often accompanied by increased fat mass (sarcopenic obesity [SO]). We examined whether calf muscle cross‐sectional area (CSA), measured by peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), can identify sarcopenia and SO in long‐term survivors of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and explored its relationship with adjacent bone geometry.ProceduresCalf muscle CSA and CSA Z scores at the 38% tibia in 70 subjects (median survival 15 years) were compared between sexes and ALL risk group, and their association with sarcopenia and SO evaluated. Relationships between bone strength and muscle mass were assessed further using linear regression and methods described by Schoenau et al. for evaluation of a functional muscle–bone unit.ResultsA calf muscle CSA Z score of less than or equal to zero is 73.81% sensitive and 84.62% specific for detecting sarcopenia defined by height‐adjusted appendicular lean mass measured by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry. No significant difference in CSA Z scores was noted between sexes or ALL risk groups; however, Z scores were markedly higher in those without SO (adjusted odds ratio 0.529, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.340–0.824). Ratios of calf muscle mass to height and total bone mineral content at the 38% tibia are “sufficient” and consistent with estimated reference ranges for a healthy population.ConclusionsCSA Z scores may represent a useful clinical measure of SMM and are predictive of SO in this population. Our results are supportive of a functional muscle–bone unit in long‐term survivors of pediatric ALL.
Interface engineering of carbon fiber composites using CNT: A review
Authors: Sahu Renuka , Ponnusami Sathiskumar A. , Weimer Christian , Harursampath Dineshkumar 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThis paper aims to explore the potential of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in enhancing the structural capability and multifunctionality of carbon fiber composites in aerospace applications, primarily by focusing on interfacial applications. The conventional method of dispersing CNTs in a matrix is not fully efficient in exploiting the mechanical and multifunctional performance of CNTs. Hence, the use of CNTs at the interface or as a coating on the surface of carbon fibers has been suggested as a means of achieving multifunctionality, in addition to enhanced mechanical performance. The paper presents an overview of the various processes for growing CNTs on carbon fiber surfaces and examines the effects of CNT geometry and growth parameters on the properties of grafted fibers and their composites. Furthermore, it discusses the potential improvements in thermal and electrical conductivity achievable by incorporating CNTs at the interface, as well as the benefits of using CNTs as a sizing layer for carbon fibers, including enhanced fracture toughness and resistance to delamination.Highlights
Comprehensive study of interface engineering in carbon fibers and Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRPs) using carbon nanotubes (CNTs).
Improved transverse mechanical properties and overall thermal and electrical properties.
Multifunctional applications possible with the use of CNT.
Both experimental and numerical studies reviewed.
Characterization of material degradation mechanism of carbon fiber reinforced epoxy resin composites under ultraviolet radiation and salt‐fog synergistic environment
Authors: Deng Kelin , Luo Bin , Suo Haoyuan , Zhang Kaifu , Wang Linxuan , Cheng Hui , Liang Biao 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThe influence of harsh environment conditions on carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites (CFRP) restricts their popularization and usage in outdoor marine applications. Although many studies have been conducted on the service characteristics of CFRP under different conditions, the effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and salt‐fog synergistic aging has not been researched in detail. The primary focus of this work is to understand the aging degradation mechanism and mechanical response of CFRP in this harsh environment. The test samples were exposed to UV and salt‐fog synergistic environment. Then the physicochemical properties, dynamic/static mechanical behavior of all samples were characterized. The results show that the CFRP exposed to UV and salt‐fog environment represent noticeable synergistic aging effects. The matrix plasticization and particle washing caused by UV radiation and water condensation will intensify the erosion effect of chloride ions, thus leading to significant deterioration of the fiber‐matrix interface and interlaminar bonding. After aging, the deformation resistance of the material reduces, the molecular chain movement intensifies, the cross‐linking density of the resin matrix decreases, and the maximum decline of glass transition temperature reaches 32.36%. Compared with the tensile performance, the degradation of interlaminar shear performance is more serious, of which the interlaminar shear performance are mainly determined by the matrix and interlaminar properties. Besides, for the aged samples, more serious irreversible deformation appears during the loading process.Highlights
The CFRP shows noticeable synergistic aging effects under UV and salt‐fog aging, which the matrix plasticization and particle washing caused by ultraviolet radiation and water condensation will intensify the erosion effect of chloride ions.
The decrease of the cross‐linking density of CFRP materials is the primary cause for the deformation resistance reduction and properties degradation.
Compared with the tensile performance, the degradation of interlaminar shear performance is more serious.
High‐velocity impact resistance and energy absorption behavior of Carbon‐Kevlar hybrid composite laminates
Authors: Sun Jianbo , Wang Chao , Zhao Sai , Cao Junchao , Yin Liang , Liu Yongjiao , Yang Zhiyong , Yi Kai , Huang Jia , Zhang Chao 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThis study investigated the high‐velocity impact behavior of composite plates with different hybrid ratios and structural configurations through experimental and numerical simulation studies. The results showed that the critical penetration velocity of the composite plate generally increases with an increase in the volume fraction of aramid fibers. The high‐velocity impact finite element model developed in this study accurately simulated the high‐velocity impact behavior of laminated fiber composite plates with various hybrid ratios and different structures. The impact failure patterns of the plates were analyzed, and it was observed that the carbon fibers on the back face were prone to tensile fracture, followed by the gradual fracture of aramid fibers. The numerical simulation results show significant differences in residual impact velocity and energy absorption when impacted from different sides and the impact from the aramid side resulted in better energy absorption, which is contrary to the findings in many existing research papers. These findings provide valuable insights into the impact resistance of composite materials and can guide the design and development of high‐performance composite structures for aero‐engine case designing.Highlights
The high‐velocity impact behavior of C/K fiber epoxy resin matrix composite laminates are studied.
The critical penetration velocity increases with the increase of aramid fiber volume fraction.
The laminate absorbs most of the impact energy during the instantaneous impact time.
Energy absorption ability is better when the impact surface is aramid fibers.
Carbon fibers on the back side of the laminate are more prone to tensile fracture.
Hydrophilic silica transformed silicone rubber into Superhydrophobic composites
Authors: Han Ruijie , Han Zhijing , Song Xudong , Cui Wei , Peng Jin , Dong Guangshuai , Niu Kangmin 
Published: October 2023

AbstractSilicone rubber is widely used in medical and equipment manufacturing fields due to its excellent sealing and solvent resistance. However, the hydrophobicity of silicone rubber was unsatisfactory for many advanced engineering structures and applications. Generally, the preparation of artificial superhydrophobic materials suffered from either complicated in process or poor in environmental protection. Here, we reported a simple method to prepare silicone rubber composites with excellent superhydrophobic properties (water contact angle [WCA] = 155.2°) from low‐cost hydrophilic silica. Tests showed that the uniform micro‐nano structures were the key to the superhydrophobic properties of silicone rubber composites. The bounce test observed the rebound of water droplets with different initial velocities (0.77, 1, and 2 m/s) impacting silicone rubber surface, and verified the great advantages of silicone rubber modified by silica in hydrophobic. The modification method shown in this work provides a simple way to manufacture non‐fluorinated, robustness superhydrophobic surfaces for a wide range of potential applications.Highlights
Based on the improvement of micro‐nano structure of the matrix surface by industrial silica, the preparation of superhydrophobic silicone rubber composites was realized.
A process method for preparing fluorine‐free superhydrophobic silicone rubber composites from hydrophilic silica was proposed.
Stretchability and robustness were the key factors for successful superhydrophobic modification of silicone rubber elastomers.
Effect of waste toner powder on the performance of microcrystalline cellulose‐talc reinforced polypropylene hybrid composites
Authors: Cavdar Ayfer Donmez , Peşman Emrah , Torun Sevda Boran 
Published: October 2023

AbstractThis study examines reducing the environmental hazards of toner waste and producing low‐cost: high‐performance value‐added hybrid polypropylene‐PP‐composites. The incorporation of microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) and inorganic filler(s) into a polymer matrix leads to superior performance and environmental advantage compared to inorganic‐filled polymer composites. Waste toner (WT) was used up to 2% by weight with increments of 0.5 and the other fillers: MCC/talc/polypropylene carbonate loading ratios were kept constant as 5/10/3 wt% in this study. The production process of hybrid PP composites was carried out with single‐screw extrusion and molding. Chemical and thermal characterization of the filler and the hybrid PP composites were performed by FTIR and it was revealed that the main resin of WT consists of polystyrene co‐acrylate. In DSC analysis, the highest crystallinity value was calculated as 52.36% in the composite containing 1.5% waste toner. SEM micrographs proved the PPC prompts the dispersion quality of MCC and talc in the PP matrix. Mechanical, water absorption and surface properties of the hybrid composites were enhanced by adding WT at 1 and 1.5 wt%. Above this ratio, all properties of the hybrid composites moderately decreased. In light of the results, the WT could be utilized as a filler up to 1.5% in the PP‐matrix.Highlights
TS of the composites increased by increasing the waste toner content to 1.5%.
PP‐based hybrid composites had higher flexural properties than unfilled PP.
The crystallinity increased up to the addition of 1.5% wt.
PPC‐coupling agent promoted the interaction between talc/MCC and PP matrix.
Piezoelectric nanocomposite films based on anionic waterborne polyurethane and barium titanate nanoparticle: Fabrication, microstructure, and property characterization
Authors: Seo Minyoung , Tang Feng , Kim Seok‐Ju , Eom Tae‐Gyeong , Song Young‐Gi , Park Jin‐Hyeok , Jeong Young Gyu 
Published: October 2023

AbstractWe report the fabrication, microstructure, thermal property, and piezoelectric performance of flexible waterborne polyurethane (WPU) nanocomposite films reinforced with barium titanate (BT) nanoparticles with ~50 nm diameter. An anionic segmented WPU was synthesized via bulk polymerization, and its nanocomposite films containing 10–40 wt% BT were fabricated via aqueous dispersion casting and hot pressing. Although the BT nanoparticles interacted with the urethane groups of the WPU hard segment by inducing the separation of the semicrystalline soft segment, they were aggregated in the WPU matrix. Accordingly, the glass transition temperature of the WPU matrix decreased with BT content, but the melting temperature increased. As the BT content increased in the nanocomposite films, the thermal decomposition temperature of the WPU soft segment showed a slight decrease, while the decomposition temperature of the hard segment increased. Additionally, the residue at 600°C increased significantly from 2.0% for neat WPU film to 36.3% for the nanocomposite film containing 40 wt% BT. The piezoelectric outputs attained by the nanocomposite films increased with BT content. Under compressive stress of 23 kPa, the nanocomposite film containing 40 wt% BT was able to achieve the highest piezoelectric voltage of ~0.51 V, a current of ~43.0 nA, and an electric power of ~21.9 nW. For the nanocomposite film, a linear relationship between the piezoelectric out voltage and the applied compressive stress with a slope of ~0.0253 was also observed.Highlights
Anionic waterborne polyurethane (WPU) with hard/soft segments is synthesized.
Barium titanate (BT) nanoparticles are adopted as a piezoelectric nanofiller.
WPU/BT nanocomposites are manufactured by dispersion casting and hot pressing.
Specific interactions between BT nanoparticles and WPU hard segments exist.
Piezoelectric outputs of nanocomposites increase with BT content and stress.
Cycle deformation behavior of 3D‐printed CF/PEEK honeycomb metamaterials with zero Poisson's ratios
Authors: Han Niudong , Wang Xiaoxu , Zhang Diantang 
Published: October 2023

AbstractTo realize the one‐dimensional deformation of morphing wings, zero Poisson's ratio (ZPR) honeycomb metamaterials have become a popular research topic due to their lightweight, low in‐plane modulus, and high out‐of‐plane strength. A ZPR honeycomb metamaterial is designed and prepared from short‐cut carbon fiber‐reinforced polyetheretherketone (CF/PEEK) by a 3D printer. The mechanical properties of ZPR honeycomb metamaterials were tested to determine their tensile and bending stiffness. The results show that the metamaterial can achieve 62.3% ± 3.3% in‐plane elastic deformation after optimized structure design. At the same time, metamaterial has a certain bending resistance to keep the airfoil from normal buckling deformation. Moreover, a new test method for evaluating the cycle deformation behavior of flexible morphing wings is proposed. The high‐speed cyclic tension‐compression test showed that H22‐t0.6‐CT has the best stability, which may be related to its lower porosity (2.15% ± 0.12%). These results indicate that ZPR honeycomb metamaterials have great application prospects in the field of morphing wings.Highlights
The printed CF/PEEK wire is treated as a transversely isotropic material.
ZPR honeycomb metamaterial allows for more than 50% in‐plane deformation.
A new test method to evaluate the cyclic deformation behavior.
Exploration of plant metabolomics variation and absorption characteristics of water‐extracted Rheum tanguticum and ethanol‐extracted Rheum tanguticum by UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS
Authors: Bai Shanshan , Luo Dewei , Zhong Guoyue , Yang Shilin , Ouyang Hui , Rao Xiaoyong , Feng Yulin 
Published: October 2023

AbstractBackground and objectiveThe herb Rheum tanguticum (RT), a member of the Polygonaceae family, is listed in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia and has been widely used to treat cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disease. The research aimed to identify the different substances from two kinds of RT extraction methods and the in vivo biotransformation of RT components.MethodsIn this study, by using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS), we have investigated the metabolomic variation and the in vivo metabolism of RT. A post‐acquisition data processing software, PeakView, was applied to an accurate qualitative analysis of the chemical components in RT.ResultsThrough plant metabolomics analysis, 24 related, differentially expressed metabolites of RT water extract and alcohol extract were obtained. Combined with novel identification strategies and systematic in vivo metabolism analysis, a total of 101 compounds were discovered or tentatively identified in rat serum (including 15 prototype compounds and 86 metabolites).ConclusionIn this study, a combination of extraction methods, liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) technology, and in vivo animal metabolism studies have been established for the screening, identification, and research of chemical active components of natural medicines. LC–MS analysis combined with plant metabolomics was used to study the differential metabolites between different extraction methods of RT. Based on UHPLC‐Q‐TOF‐MS/MS technology, the composition and metabolism of rat plasma before and after RT administration were analysed in vivo, and 15 prototype components and 86 metabolites were detected.
Reducing nitrate and tobacco‐specific nitrosamine level in burley tobacco leaves through grafting on flue‐cured tobacco rootstock
Authors: Feng Yuqing , Zhao Yuanyuan , Li Geng , Shi Hongzhi 
Published: October 2023

AbstractNitrosation of pyridine alkaloids in tobacco generates tobacco‐specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), which are notable toxicants in tobacco products and smoke. Burley tobacco, a chloroplast‐ and nitrogen (N)‐deficient phenotype that accumulates high levels of nitrate‐nitrogen (NO3‐N) in its leaves, is particularly susceptible to TSNAs formation. In this study, reciprocal pot and field grafting experiments were conducted using burley tobacco Eyan No.1 and flue‐cured tobacco K326 to investigate whether grafting burley tobacco scions on flue‐cured tobacco rootstocks could enhance pigment biosynthesis and photosynthesis, while reducing the NO3‐N level in burley tobacco leaves. Grafting burley tobacco scions on flue‐cured tobacco rootstocks significantly increased the total pigment content, photosynthetic rate, biomass, nitrate reductase and glutamine synthetase activities, as well as ammonium‐nitrogen (NH4‐N), total soluble and reducing sugar, and soluble protein levels in burley tobacco leaves compared with burley tobacco self‐rooting, while decreasing the NO3‐N level and nitrate‐N to total N ratio. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that grafting resulted in upregulated expression of genes involved in starch, sucrose, porphyrin, chlorophyll, and N metabolism, as well as carbon fixation and carotenoid biosynthesis. The findings suggest that grafting on high N use efficiency rootstock is an exceptionally promising means of decreasing NO3‐N accumulation by improving photosynthesis and N metabolism in the scion, thereby reducing the levels of harmful TSNAs.