To reduce the cost of small wind turbines, a prototype of a butterfly wind turbine (6.92 m in diameter), a small vertical-axis type, was developed with many parts made of extruded aluminum suitable for mass production. An over-speed control system with movable arms that operated using centrifugal and aerodynamic forces was installed for further cost reduction. Introducing this mechanism eliminates the need for large active brakes and expands the operating wind speed range of the wind turbine. However, although the mechanism involving the use of only bearings is simple, the violent movement of the movable arms can be a challenge. To address this in the present study, dampers were introduced on the movable arm rotation axes to improve the movement of the movable arms. To predict the behavior of a movable arm and the performance of the wind turbine with the mechanism, a simulation method was developed based on the blade element momentum theory and the equation of motion of the movable arm system. Comparison of experiments and predictions with and without dampers demonstrated qualitative agreement. In the case with dampers, measurements confirmed the predicted increase in the rotor rotational speed when the shorter ailerons installed perpendicularly to the movable arms were used to achieve the inclination. The movable arm system with dampers is expected to be a useful device for vertical-axis wind turbines that are difficult to control.

The radiation-induced optical absorption at 1.5-5.5 eV (up to the beginning of fundamental absorption) has been analyzed in CVD diamond disks exposed to 231-MeV 132Xe ions with four fluences from 1012 to 3.81013 cm-2. The 5-mm diameter samples (thickness 0.4 mm) were prepared by Diamond Materials, Freiburg (Germany), average grain size at growth site was around 80 m, the range of xenon ions was R= 11.5 m. The intensity of several bands grows with ion fluence thus confirming radiation-induced origin of the defects responsible for these bands. The recovery of radiation damage has been investigated via isochronal (stepwise) thermal annealing procedure up to 650°C, while all spectra were measured at room temperature. Based on these spectra, the annealing kinetics of several defects, in particular carbon vacancies (GR1 centers with a broad band 2 eV) and complementary C-interstitial-related defects ( 4 eV), as well as vacancies located nearby nitrogen substitutional atoms (narrow bands around 2.5 eV) have been constructed. The experimental kinetics have also been analyzed in terms of the diffusion-controlled bimolecular reactions. The migration energies of tentatively interstitial atoms (mobile components in recombination process) are obtained, their dependence on the irradiation fluences is discussed.

Heavy metals constitute pollutants particularly common in air, water, and soil. They are present in both urban and rural environments, on land and in marine ecosystems, causing serious environmental problems since they do not degrade easily, remain almost unchanged for long periods, and bioaccumulate. Detection, though especially quantification, is a systematic process as monitoring of their levels needs to be carried out at regular intervals since there is often seasonal variation. The need for rapid and low-cost determination of metals is therefore considerable. In the present study atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), using a flame or graphite furnace, and square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV), using a bismuth thin film electrode, a sensitive voltammetric method is being compared and analytically validated. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) represents a well-established analytical technique while anodic stripping voltammetry is being criticized for its applicability in complicated sample matrices such as soil samples. This sample-handling challenge is being investigated in the present study. The results show that both methods AAS and ASV were satisfactorily correlated and showed that the concentration of metals is lower than the limit values, but with increasing trend. Therefore, continuous monitoring of metal levels in the urban complex of the city is necessary and a matter of great importance. Regarding Cd, the detection limits of Cd are lower compared to those of AAS when using the graphite furnace, while an overestimation was noted when using flame-AAS in comparison with those found with SWASV. The SWASV method has the advantage of being cheaper and faster, enabling the simultaneous determination of heavy elements across the range of concentrations that these elements can occur in Mediterranean soils. Additionally, we applied a dsDNA-modified electrode which can be used in the speciation analysis of Cu(I) and Cu(II). The changes in the characteristic peaks of guanine and adenine can be applied in the redox speciation analysis of copper in soil which represents an issue of great importance.

CuAl8Fe5Ni4Zn4Sn1 (OF 2238) is a new lead-free copper alloy for plain bearing applications that was first officially presented in a scientific journal in 2020. Soon after its invention, the use of the alloy for connecting rod bushings in heavy duty internal combustion engines was promoted and validated with customers. The aim of this article is to describe the material properties of the new alloy in more detail than previously and explain how the advantageous properties of CuAl8Fe5Ni4Zn4Sn1 are generated. At the beginning of the article, the general development trends in the field of copper alloys for sliding applications are presented. This is followed by a presentation of the latest research results about CuAl8Fe5Ni4Zn4Sn, before concluding with a brief summary and future outlook, emphasizing on the fact that recent trends in copper-based sliding applications show great additional potential for further material developments.

Whole cell biosensors could serve as eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives for detecting potentially toxic bioavailable heavy metals in aquatic environments. However, they often fail to meet practical requirements due to an insufficient limit of detection (LOD) and high background noise. In this study, we designed a synthetic genetic circuit specifically tailored for detecting ionic mercury, which we applied to environmental samples collected from artisanal gold mining sites in Peru. We developed two distinct versions of the biosensor, each utilizing a different reporter protein: a fluorescent biosensor (Mer-RFP) and a colorimetric biosensor (Mer-Blue). Mer-RFP enabled real-time monitoring of the culture’s response to mercury samples using a plate reader, whereas Mer-Blue was analysed for colour accumulation at the endpoint using a specially designed, low-cost camera set up for harvested cell pellets. Both biosensors exhibited negligible baseline expression of their respective reporter proteins and responded specifically to HgBr2 in pure water. Mer-RFP demonstrated a linear detection range from 1 nM to 1 μM, whereas Mer-Blue showed a linear range from 2 nM to 125 nM. Our biosensors successfully detected a high concentration of ionic mercury in the reaction bucket where artisanal miners produce a mercury-gold amalgam. However, they did not detect ionic mercury in the water from active mining ponds, indicating a concentration lower than 3.2 nM Hg2+ -a result consistent with chemical analysis quantitation. Furthermore, we discuss the potential of Mer-Blue as a practical and affordable monitoring tool, highlighting its stability, reliance on simple visual colorimetry, and the possibility of sensitivity expansion to organic mercury.

This paper investigates the randomly stopped sums, minima and maxima of heavy- and light-tailed random variables. The conditions on the primary random variables, which are independent but generally not identically distributed, and counting random variable are given in order that the randomly stopped sum, random minimum and maximum is heavy/light tailed. The results generalize some existing ones in the literature. The examples illustrating the results are provided.

Nonlocal theories are gaining prominence because they can solve problems which lead to unphysical conclusions in standard models. This study presents a novel fractional boundary element method (BEM) solution for nonlinear nonlocal thermoelastic problems of anisotropic fibrous polymer nanomaterials. This broad BEM solution combines two solutions: anisotropic fibrous polymer nanomaterials problem solution and nonlinear nonlocal thermoelasticity problem solution. The nonlinear nonlocal thermoelasticity problem solution divides the displacement field into complementary component and particular component. The overall displacement is generated using the boundary element technique, which is the solution to a Navier type problem, while the particular displacement is derived using local radial point. The New Modified Shift-Splitting (NMSS) approach, which reduces memory and processing time requirements, was used to solve linear systems created by BEM. Figures demonstrate the numerical findings, which show the effects of fractional and graded parameters on the thermal stresses of nonlinear nonlocal thermoelastic problems of anisotropic fibrous polymer nanomaterials. The numerical results indicate the consistency and efficiency of the proposed methodology.

Total ankle replacement (TAR) implants are an effective option to restore the range of motion of the ankle joint for arthritic patients. An effective tool for analyzing these implants’ mechanical performance and longevity in-silico is finite element analysis (FEA). ABAQUS FEA was used to statically analyze the von Mises stress and contact pressure on the articulating surface of the bearing component in two newly installed fixed-bearing total ankle replacement implants (the Wright Medical INBONE II and the Exactech Vantage). This ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) bearing commonly fails and is the cause for surgeon revisions. Six different FEA models for various gait percentages during stance (10%-60%) were created. They varied in magnitude of the compressive load and the ankle dorsiflexion/plantarflexion angle. The results indicated that the von Mises stress and contact pressure distributions increased as compressive load increased, and the largest magnitudes occurred at high dorsiflexion angles (15-30°). High magnitudes occurred in regions where the thickness of the bearing was the least. Additionally, high contact pressures were examined in areas near the talar component's edge or at the bearing's edges. To the author’s knowledge, this is the first study available to the research community that analyzes the Vantage implant with FEA. This study lays an essential foundation for future researchers in presenting a thorough literature review of TAR and methods for a simple FEA model setup. This study provides valuable information that can be beneficial to medical company designers and orthopedic surgeons in understanding the stress response and contact pressure of TAR implants during use.

In this paper, a multi-patch weakly singular isogeometric boundary element method (WSIGABEM) for two-dimensional elastostatics is proposed. Since the method based on the weakly singular boundary integral equation, the quadrature techniques, dedicated for the weakly singular and regular integrals, are applied in the method. A new formula for the generation of collocation points is suggested to take the full advantage of the multi-patch technique. The generated collo-cation points are essentially inside the patches without any correction. If the boundary conditions are assumed to be continuous in every patch, no collocation point lies on the discontinuous boundaries, thus simplifying the implementation. The multi-patch WSIGABEM is verified by the simple examples with analytical solutions. The feature of the present multi-patch WSIGABEM is investigated by the comparison with the traditional IGABEM. Furthermore, the combination of the present multi-patch WSIGABEM and the particle swarm optimization algorithm results in a shape optimization method in two-dimensional elastostatics. By changing some specific control points and their weights, the shape optimizations of the fillet corner, the spanner and the arch bridge are verified to be effective.

The seismic events of 2015 in Nepal exposed the challenges associated with constructing earthquake-resistant 2-story self-built stone masonry structures in high-elevation rural regions, especially post-disaster. The Department of Urban Development and Building Construction (DUDBC) provided designs that failed to preserve the local architectural landscape and craftsmanship while adding unfamiliar knowledge and technology. To address the challenges related to architecture, structure, and socio-economic concerns in designing and implementing post-earthquake houses, a need-based building development framework is required for standardized practice. This study presents a novel framework to assess, design, and implement a self-built house after a disaster, consisting of five stages: 1) post-disaster problem assessment, 2) need identification, 3) material selection, 4) design development, and 5) validation and implementation. Based on this framework, we proposed a novel gabions building construction technology for two-story stone masonry structures that effectively mitigate post-disaster challenges such as logistic, resilience, and socioeconomic aspects while improving disaster resiliency specifically in the high-elevation rural areas of Nepal. The proposed two-story gabion building preserves architectural values, enhances structural integrity, and provides cost-effectiveness when compared with its DUDBC peer models while providing much-needed relief to the vulnerable community. The proposed resilient house, G- 2.1, utilizes locally sourced materials and craftsmanship, and innovative gabion technology that ensures affordability and facilitates knowledge transfer. The contribution of this study includes a development framework and a two-story gabions house that is most suitable for self-built post-disaster reconstruction and resilient to local architecture and socio-economic conditions while providing structural integrity and safety.

The fitting and modeling of skewed, complex, symmetric, and asymmetric datasets is an exciting research topic in many fields of applied sciences, notably lifetime, medical, and financial sciences. The Heavy tailed Nadarajah Haghighi model is introduced by compounding the heavy tailed family and Nadarajah Haghighi distribution in this paper. The so obtained model has three parameters accounting for the scale and shape of the distribution. The proposed distribution's fundamental characteristics such as probability density, cumulative distribution, hazard rate, and survival functions are provided, and several key statistical properties are established, and several entropy information measures are proposed. The estimation of model parameter is performed via the ML procedure. Further, different simulation experiments are conducted to demonstrate the performance of proposed estimator’s using some measure, like the average estimate, the average bias, and associated mean square error. Finally, we are applied our proposed model to analyze three different real datasets. In our illustration, we are compared the practicality of the recommended model with several well-known competing models.

This paper studies the flexural behavior of the bridge deck link slabs made with the Polyvinyl Alcohol-Strain Hardening Cementitious Composites (PVA-SHCC). Tensile and flexural properties of the PVA-SHCC with four volume fractions, i.e., 0%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%, were evaluated first. Next, using the similarity theory, composite models with a geometric similarity ratio of 1: 5 were designed to represent the bridge deck with the link slabs. The models considered three materials for link slabs, including concrete, cement mortar and self-compacting PVA-SHCC; and two different curing ages at 7 and 56 days. Bending tests were performed to investigate the flexural behavior of the models. Based on the fractal theory, cracking characteristics of the models with different types of link slabs were compared, and the relationship between Df and the flexural behavior of the models were studied. Numerical models were built to correlate with the results from the bending tests. It is illustrated that the flexural behavior of the self-compacting PVA-SHCC link slab is better than that of concrete and cement mortar link slabs, where the crack initiation and propagation can be postponed.

The article features the structure and functions of plant synthetic promoters frequently exercised to precisely regulate complex regulatory routes. The composition of plant native promoters together with interacting proteins is presented to provide a better understanding of tasks associated with synthetic promoter development. The production of synthetic promoters is conferred on relatively small libraries produced generally by basic molecular or genetic engineering methods such as cis-element shuffling or domain swapping. Moreover, the preparation of large-scale libraries supported by synthetic DNA fragments, directed evolution, and machine or deep learning methodologies is presented. A particularly interesting group of synthetic promoters are bidirectional forms that enable the putative expression of up to 6–8 genes by one regulatory element. The introduction and controlled expression of several genes after one transgenic event strongly decreases the frequency of such problems as complex segregation patterns and random integration of multiple transgenes. These complications are commonly observed during transgenic crop development through traditional, multistep transformation by genetic constructs containing a single gene. Another path to solving problems associated with the low complexity and homology of already tested DNA fragments is through orthogonal expression systems composed of synthetic promoters and trans-factors that do not occur in nature or arise from different species. Their structure, functions, and applications are rendered in the article.

Accurate cloud quantification is essential in climate change research. In this work, we construct an automated computer vision framework by synergistically incorporating deep neural networks and finite sector clustering to achieve robust whole sky image-based cloud classification, adaptive segmentation, and recognition under intricate illumination dynamics. A bespoke YOLOv8 architecture attains over 95% categorical precision across four archetypal cloud varieties curated from extensive annual observations (2020) at a Tibetan highland station. Tailor-made segmentation strategies adapted to distinct cloud configurations, allied with illumination-invariant image enhancement algorithms, effectively eliminate solar interference and substantially boost quantitative performance even in illumination-adverse analysis scenarios. Compared with the traditional threshold analysis method, the cloud quantification accuracy calculated within the framework of this paper is significantly improved. Collectively, the methodological innovations provide an advanced solution to markedly escalate cloud quantification precision levels imperative for climate change research, while offering a paradigm for cloud analytics transferable to various meteorological stations.

Intense rainfall events frequently occur in Brazil, often leading to rapid flooding. Despite their recurrence, there is a notable lack of sub-daily studies in the country. This research aims to assess patterns related to the structure and microphysics of clouds driving intense rainfall in Brazil, resulting in high accumulations within 1 hour. Employing a 40 mm/h threshold and validation criteria, 83 events were selected for study, observed by both single and dual-polarization radars. Contoured Frequency by Altitude Diagrams (CFADs) of reflectivity, Vertical Integrated Liquid (VIL), and Vertical Integrated Ice (VII) are employed to scrutinize the vertical cloud characteristics in each region. To address limitations arising from the absence of polarimetric coverage in some events, three case studies focusing on polarimetric variables are included. A fourth case study enhances the overall understanding of these events, emphasizing the underexplored nature of short-term intense rainfall studies in Brazil. Results reveal that the generating system significantly influences the rainfall pattern, especially in the Southern, Southeastern, and Central-Western regions. Regional CFADs unveil primary convective columns with 40-50 dBZ reflectivity, extending to approximately 6 km. The microphysical analysis highlights the rapid structural intensification, challenging the event predictability and the issuance of timely specific warnings.

Automated charging technologies are becoming increasingly important in the electrification of heavy road freight transport, especially in combination with autonomous driving. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of automated charging technologies for electric heavy-duty vehicles (HDVs). It encompasses the entire spectrum of feasible technologies, including static and dynamic approaches, with each charging technology evaluated for its advantages, potentials, challenges, and technology readiness level (TRL). Static conductive charging methods such as charging robots, underbody-couplers or pantographs show good potential, with pantographs being the most mature option. These technologies are progressing towards higher TRLs, with a focus on standardization and adaptability. While static wireless charging is operational for some prototype solutions, it encounters challenges related to implementation and efficiency. Dynamic conductive charging through an overhead contact line or contact rails holds promise for high-traffic HDV routes with the overhead contact line being the most developed option. Dynamic wireless charging, although facing efficiency challenges, offers potential for seamless integration into roads and minimal wear and tear. Battery swapping is emerging as a practical solution to reduce downtime for charging, with varying levels of readiness across different implementations. To facilitate large-scale deployment further standardization efforts are required. The study emphasizes the necessity for continued research and development to enhance efficiency, decrease costs, and ensure seamless integration into existing infrastructures. Technologies that achieve this best will have the highest potential to significantly contribute to the creation of an efficiently automated and environmentally friendly transport sector.

Abstract—The static and fatigue analysis of plates with holes, made of 2D woven roving composites, is conducted. The parametrization of convex holes is proposed. Experimental results of specimens without holes and with different shapes of notches are discussed. The fatigue behaviour is considered with the use of the low cycle fatigue method. The analysis is supplemented by the numerical finite element modeling. The present work is an extension of the results discussed in the literature. The finite element modeling of plates with holes is presented in details in Ref [1-3] including also the problems of the accuracy. The experimental results and the form of specimens are shown in Ref [4]. Two parametrical description of static and fatigue behaviour of plates with holes characterizes the goal and the novelty of the paper. The fuzzy approach is employed to reduce the number of experimental data [5].

In the recent years, tubular nanostructures have been related with immense advances in various fields of science and technology. Considerable research efforts have been centered on the theoretical prediction and manufacturing of non-carbon nanotubes (NTs), which meet modern requirements for the developing of novel devices and systems. In this context, diatomic inorganic nanotubes formed by atoms of elements from the 13th group of the periodic table (B, Al, Ga, In, Tl) and nitrogen (N), have received much research attention. In the present work, the elastic properties of single-walled boron nitride, aluminium nitride, gallium nitride, indium nitride and thallium nitride nanotubes were numerically evaluated using the nanoscale continuum modelling approach (also called molecular structural mechanics). The elastic properties (rigidities, surface Young´s and shear moduli, and Poisson´s ratio) of nitride nanotubes are discussed with respect to the bond length of the corresponding diatomic hexagonal lattice. The results obtained contribute to a better understanding of the mechanical response of nitride compound-based nanotubes, covering a broad range from the well-studied boron nitride NTs to the hypothetical thallium nitride NTs.

Tanning, crucial for leather production, relies heavily on chromium yet poses risks due to chromium's oxidative conversion, leading to significant wastewater and solid waste generation. Physico-chemical methods are typically used for heavy metal removal, but they have drawbacks, prompting interest in eco-friendly biological remediation techniques like biosorption, bioaccumulation, and biotransformation. The EU Directive (2018/850) mandates alternatives to landfilling or incineration for industrial textile waste management, highlighting the importance of environmentally conscious practices for leather products' end-of-life management, with com-posting being the most researched and viable option. This study aimed to isolate microorganisms from tannery wastewater and identify those responsible for different types of tanned leather biodegradation. Using a leather biodegradation assay (ISO 20136) with tannery and municipal wastewaters as inoculum, bacterial shifts during leather biodegradation were observed. Over 10,000 bacterial species were identified in all analyzed samples, with 8 bacterial strains isolated from tannery wastewater. Identification of bacterial genera like Acinetobacter, Brevundimo-nas, and Mycolicibacterium provides insights into potential microbial candidates for enhancing leather biodegradability, wastewater treatment, and heavy metal bioremediation in industrial applications.

The rehabilitation of the road embankments alongside the irrigation canal, which is constructed on a Bangkok soft clay foundation, has resulted from land use growth for several decades. As a result, the embankment is always confronted with the problem of instability. Numerous articles have demonstrated that rapid drawdown of the water level in the canal could be one of the most significant reasons, whereas vehicle cyclic loading may potentially contribute to some effect of the embankment failure. To explore and assess the effects of the influence factors, the finite element method (FEM) and conventional and dynamic triaxial approaches were employed. The study also investigated the consequences of varying thicknesses of soft clay and cyclic loading with different magnitudes and frequencies. Consequently, cyclic loading can lead to an augmentation in strain distribution and excess pore water pressure. Likewise, more significant deformation and excess pore water pressure were induced by a lower frequency and deeper thickness of soft clay compared to a higher frequency and thinner thickness. In brief, vehicle repetitive loading is one of the primary factors contributing to embankment failure, with the threshold stress being approximately three-fourths of the undrained shear strength. In contrast, threshold strain is approximately one to two-fold of the monotonic strain condition.

Wind turbines (WTs) are clean a renewable energy source that has been growing in popularity in recent years. Gearboxes are complex, expensive, and critical components of WT, which are subject to high maintenance costs and several stresses including high loads and harsh environments that can lead to failure with significant downtime and financial losses. This paper focuses on the development of a digital twin-based approach for the modelling and simulation of WT gearboxes with the aim to improve their design, diagnosis, operation, and maintenance by providing insights into their behavior under different operating conditions. Pow-erful commercial computer-aided design tools (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) software are embedded into a computationally efficient multi-objective optimization framework (modeFrontier) with the aim of maximizing the power density, compactness, performance, and reliability of the WT gearbox. This entails minimizing its weight, volume, and maximum stresses and strains achieved without compromising efficiency. The 3D CAD model of the WT gearbox is carried out using SolidWorks, the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to obtain the stresses and strains fields are modelled using Ansys Workbench, while the multibody kinematic and dynamic system is analyzed using MSC Adams. The method has been successfully applied to different case studies to find the optimal design and analyze the performance of the WT gearboxes. Simulation results can be used to identify potential failure modes and optimize gearbox design to improve performance, extend service life and relia-bility, thereby ensuring proper operation over its lifetime and reducing maintenance costs.

In genetic conflicts, driver and killer elements achieve biased survival, replication, or transmission over sensitive and targeted elements through a wide range of molecular mechanisms, including mimicry. Driving mechanisms manifest at all organismal levels, from the biased propagation of individual genes, as demonstrated by transposable elements, to the biased transmission of genomes, as illustrated by viruses, to the biased transmission of cell lineages, as in cancer. Targeted genomes are vulnerable to molecular mimicry through the conserved motifs they use for their own signaling and regulation. Mimicking these motifs enables a selfish element to control core target processes, and can occur at the sequence, structure, or functional level. Molecular mimicry was first appreciated as an important phenomenon more than twenty years ago. Modern genomics technologies, databases, and machine learning approaches offer tremendous potential to study the distribution of molecular mimicry across genetic conflicts in nature. Here, we explore the theoretical expectations for molecular mimicry between conflicting genomes, the trends in molecular mimicry mechanisms across known genetic conflicts, and outline how new examples can be gleaned from population genomic datasets. We discuss how mimics involving short sequence-based motifs or gene duplications can evolve convergently from new mutations. Whereas, processes that involve divergent domains or fully-folded structures occur among genomes by horizontal gene transfer. These trends are largely based on a small number of organisms and should be reevaluated in a general, phylogenetically independent framework. Currently, publicly available databases can be mined for genotypes driving non-mendelian inheritance patterns, epistatic interactions, and convergent protein structures. A subset of these conflicting elements may be molecular mimics. We propose approaches for detecting genetic conflict and molecular mimicry from these datasets.

This paper introduces a low-tech capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) designed with low environmental footprint materials. The fabrication process involves a copper plate as the fixed bottom electrode, a polymer-based adhesive as a dielectric material, and an aluminum foil as the top electrode.Finite element simulations include studies of displacement, mechanical stresses, and eigenfrequency. Experimental measurements validate the device's electromechanical behavior, showing an eigenfrequency of 88.6 kHz and a displacement of 22 pm. The low-tech CMUT demonstrates potential for applications such as ultrasonic actuation and energy harvesting, offering simplicity, biocompatibility, and low environmental impact. While not directly ready for applications, these transducers provide hands-on experience with technology similar to high-performance silicon-based implementations. These low-tech MUTs are perfect practical case studies for teaching purposes, combining simulation and experimental validation.

The magnetic properties of 0.10 mm ultra-thin grain-oriented (UTGO) silicon steel and Fe-based amorphous (FBA) alloy under sinusoidal excitation were measured experimentally, and the magnetic field strength and iron loss of the two materials under different frequencies and magnetic densities were obtained. Based on the measured data, the magnetization and loss characteristics of the two materials were analyzed and compared. Furthermore, two Epstein square ring models of the same specification and different materials were designed, and the reliability of the models was verified. Then, the electromagnetic characteristics of the two Epstein square ring models at higher and lower frequencies were calculated by using the finite element method, and the iron loss was obtained and compared. The results show that the FBA alloy has good application characteristics at low frequency and low power, and the 0.10 mm UTGO silicon steel has good application characteristics at high frequency and high power. This research can provide important data basis to promote the application of these two materials in new energy equipment.

Pollutants accumulate in aquatic habitats as a result of mining activities. Lemna gibba and Lemna minor were used in this study to examine the accumulation capacities of Mo+, Pb+, and Cu++ in the acid fluids of the copper mining. Duckweed family includes water plants like L. minor and L. gibba. These are tiny, delicate, free-floating aquatic plants. Two reactors were assigned to L. gibba and L. minor, respectively. Throughout the course of eight days, these plants and reactor water were gathered every day. The acid mine water's pH, temperature, and electric conductivity were also tested every day. The L. gibba and L. minor were cleaned, dehydrated, and burned in a drying oven for a whole day at 300 oC. ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy) was used to determine the Mo+, Pb+, and Cu++ content of the plant and water samples. The concentrations of Mo, Pb, and Cu in the acid mine fluids of the copper mining were 30±4, 260±12, and 15535±322 μg L−1, respectively.in that order. When it came to extracting Mo, Pb, and Cu from the acidic fluids of the copper mining, L. gibba and L. minor performed well and efficiently compared to control samples; they did so 29 and 177 times for Mo, 30 and 109 times for Pb, and 495 and 1150 times for Cu. Considering all these findings, it has been shown that L. gibba and L. minor have the ability to efficiently remove Mo, Pb and Cu in acid mine fluids and can be good rehabilitation plants for polluted waters.

The paper delves into the critical issue of damage detection within the guy cable of a truss steel mast, a pivotal component in structural integrity. It introduces a model wherein damage manifests as a localized cross-section reduction in a single element of the cable. Employing Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT), a pioneering methodology, the study scrutinizes the behavior of the affected elements through static structural analyses. Signal decomposition via the Mallat pyramid algorithm facilitates comprehensive examination. Static displacements at the connection point between the cable and the truss mast serve as the measured variables. Through systematic investigation, the paper evaluates the impact of damage size and location, external loading force, and cable tension force on the efficacy of the proposed approach. Utilizing data derived from Finite Element Method (FEM) computations for wavelet analysis the authors substantiate the findings with numerical examples, thus offering valuable insights into damage detection strategies for structural health monitoring and engineering applications.

Microplastics (MPs) are a critical environmental issue, with impacts ranging from ecosystem contamination to health risks through bioaccumulation. This review addresses the inefficacy of traditional water treatments in removing MPs and proposes photodegradation, particularly via nanomaterial-enhanced photocatalysts, as a solution. Utilizing their unique properties like large surface area and tunable bandgap, nanomaterials significantly improve degradation efficiency. Different strategies for photocatalysts modification to improve photocatalytic performance are thoroughly summarized, with the particular emphasis on element doping and heterojunction construction. Furthermore, this review thoroughly summarizes the possible fundamental mechanisms driving photodegradation of microplastics facilitated by nanomaterials, with a focus on processes like free radical formation and singlet oxygen oxidation. By clearly elucidating these strategies and mechanisms, this review aims to provide valuable insights and inspire further progress in microplastic photodegradation.

This study explores the significance of active suspension systems for vehicles with lower chassis compared to conventional ones, aiming at the development of future automobiles. Conventional linear MR (Magneto-Rheological) dampers were found inadequate in ensuring sufficient vibration control because the vehicle's chassis becomes lowered in the unmanned vehicles or purposed based vehicles. As an alternative, a rotary type of MR damper is proposed in this work. The proposed damper is designed based on pre-specified design parameters through mathematical modeling and magnetic field analyses. Subsequently, a prototype of the rotary MR damper identical to the design is fabricated, and effectiveness is shown through experimental investigations. In configuring the experiments, a proportional-integral (PI) controller is employed for current control to reduce the response time of the damper. The results presented in this work provides useful guidelines to develop a new type of MR damper applicable to various types of future vehicles’ suspension systems with low distance from the tire to the body floor.

Bio-inspired gyroid triply periodic minimum surface (TPMS) lattice structures have been the focus of research in automotive engineering because they can absorb a lot of energy and have wider plateau ranges. The main challenge is determining the optimal energy absorption capacity and accurately capturing plastic plateau areas using finite element analysis (FEA). Using nTop's Boolean subtraction method, this study combined walled TPMS gyroid structures with normal TPMS gyroid lattice. This made a composite TPMS-gyroid lattice with relative densities ranging from 14% to 54%. Using the ideaMaker software and the fused deposition modeling (FDM) Raise3D Pro 2 3D printer to print polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastics in 1.75 mm filament made it possible to slice computer aided design (CAD) models and fabricate 36 lattices samples precisely layer by layer technique. Shimadzu 100kN testing equipment was utilized for the mechanical compression experiments. And the validation using finite element analysis (FEA). Further, CTG was examined using a field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) before and after compression testing. The composite TPMS gyroid lattice showed potential as shock absorbers for vehicles with relative densities of 33%, 38%, and 54%. The Gibson-Ashby model showed that the composite TPMS gyroid lattice deformed mainly by bending, and the size effect was seen when the relative densities were less than 15%. The lattice's relative density had a significant impact on its ability to absorb energy. The research also explored the use of these innovative foam-like composite TPMS-gyroid lattices in high-speed crash box scenarios, potentially enhancing vehicle safety and performance.

Leaf springs are suspension components constituted of several structural and assembly components. Once the leaves are assembled, a stress state due to the assembly process is developed. Thus, the quantification of the assembly stress level should be known in order to be accounted for in the structural design. The aim of this article is precisely to quantify the assembly stress level in parabolic leaf springs for railway freight wagons. An experimental method with the aid of extensometry is considered to evaluate elastic assembly stresses. Next, a numerical model of the leaf spring assembly process with the required boundary conditions is developed to support the experimental results and allow obtaining a distribution of surface stresses along the master leaf length. The development of this work resulted in a surface stress profile along the length of the master leaf generated by the assembly process, where the deviations of the numerical outcomes regarding the analysed spots with strain gauges are mostly of little relevance.

Implant-supported-screw-retained prostheses are really popular. Some of the most frequent complications have been mechanical complications. These include abutment screw loosening or even screw fracture. Using an intermediate abutment can offer several advantages. However, little literature has been found regarding how this affects the mechanical behavior of dental restorations. This study focuses on understanding the mechanical behavior of implant-supported restorations with a transepithelial component compared to those with a direct implant-supported restoration. It was carried out by using the Finite Element Method (FEM) and was experi-mentally validated. The results showed that in the case of transepithelial-supported restoration, the prosthetic screw mounted over the transepithelial component suffers higher stress than the one screwed directly to the implant. After applying a cyclic fatigue load, it is experimentally proven that, in the transepithelial-supported restorations, the fuse changes from being the screw that goes to the implant, to being the upper one. As a conclusion we can say that the use of an intermediate abutment in dental restoration not only provides better protection to the rest of the dental restoration but also allows easier repair in the event of a fracture. This can potentially lead to more efficient procedures and improved patient outcomes.

The accompanying mechanical behavior during the flow of ore-rock dispersion is an important factor leading to the instability and failure of the orepass in the ore storage section. It is of great significance to accurately understand the instability characteristics of the well wall in the ore section, during the ore drawing process by understanding the flow characteristics and internal mechanical transfer mechanism of ore-rock dispersion. Using the discrete element method to analyze the flow characteristics, contact compactness, stress distribution characteristics and contact force probability distribution of the ore-rock dispersion, it realizes the quantitative characterization of the damage degree of ore-rock flow, and reveals the damage mechanism of mine storage wall. The results show that: (1) The friction between ore-rock particles, between ore-rock and well wall is an important reason for the change of the macroscopic flow form of ore-rock from “one” to “V” type. (2) The compactness and stress concentration of ores are increasing with the increase of storage depth, which is shown that with the increase of storage depth, the greater the probability of well wall instability. (3) The probability distribution of contact force strength between particles decreases exponentially in the whole process of ore drawing, in which the strong chain plays a major role in the stability of the dispersion system. (4) The number of overpressure and the overpressure coefficient can be used to quantitatively characterize the wall damage degree under the action of ore-rock flow. The dynamic side pressure decreases periodically in the form of exponential fluctuations, and the dynamic load formed by the ore-rock flow mainly played a role in the lower area of the ore storage section.

This investigation introduces an efficient method for assessing the reliability of semi-rigid steel frame connections in existing buildings, explicitly targeting the Top Angle and Seat Pad (TA-SP) semi-rigid connection commonly used in Australian cities' high-rise buildings. The moment capacity of these connections was examined through parameter power model testing, meticulously considering the bending, shear, and prying forces actions to determine the weakest elements in the connection system. A plastic hinge model was applied to ensure computational efficiency and accuracy in assessing the connections' ultimate strength. Comparatively, the finite element (F.E) method M−θ curves were introduced to scrutinise the nonlinear behaviour of the connection, providing validation for the predicted analytical approach. Further emphasis was placed on identifying the reliability of the weakest elements in the connection system, employing the First-Order and Second-Order Reliability Methods models to estimate their reliability index. The correlation between the model's failure probability and a percentile error was also explored, utilising Monte Carlo simulation reference for refined validation. Novel formulas and methodologies were introduced to compute the locked-chain-series system reliability, which accounts for the inherent material and geometric variability. The findings highlight the critical significance of the weakest element in determining the overall reliability of the existing TA-SP connection.

Brushless Direct Current Motors are significantly improved for using many electrical applications. The design investigation is increased year by year and most of the motor design researchers find out the superior efficiency of the BLDC motor. The traditional motor consumed more electrical power than BLDC motor. The design of BLDC motors that are compact, small, easy to control, save energy and light weight. Due to this fact, the design of BLDC motor should be analyzed to improve the motor characteristics performance. The research focuses on the design of BLDC motor performance using Taguchi Method and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) for Finite Element Method (FEM). Firstly, the Taguchi Method is applied to identify the optimization point of design parameters and consider using the reference model of actual BLDC electric fan motor with a rated power of 26Watts design. Based on the Taguchi Method to create the RSM is used to two-step optimization design performance using in FEM analysis. The performances of motor design proposed approach to provide the effeteness for motor design investigator. In this investigation aims the better structural performances in output power, torque, efficiency and torque ripple. The final design of proposed model achieved an energy efficiency is 10% higher than the reference design of prototype modes, the output power result is 10W higher this reference design. We can reduce the loss of the proposed motor design. Furthermore, the maximum torque can also increase the 0.032Nm of that design. The design simulation results were produced and studied by the FEM analysis of JMAG software. From the evaluation results, the configurations of reference model design are compared with the proposed design by using the three methods of motor design optimization showed the best characteristics for performance of motor investigation design.

The ANSYS 2024R1 student edition was used to create a finite element model of a basketball rim and backboard. This finite element model included the use of steel for the rim and its mount, a tempered glass backboard, and an aluminum frame behind the backboard. After a mesh was created, fixed support boundary conditions were applied to the four corners of the aluminum frame. The subsequently calculated mode shapes and frequencies were compared to empirical modal analysis previously done at the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. Four mode shapes and frequencies agreed rather well between the theoretical finite element analysis and previously published empirical modal analysis, specifically where the rim was vibrating in the vertical direction, which was the direction that the accelerometer was aligned for modal analysis. However, three mode shapes missed by the empirical modal analysis were found where the vibration of the rim was confined to the horizontal plane, which was orthogonal to the orientation of our accelerometer.

Very heavy stratiform precipitation (> 200 mm/per day) occurred in the Hokitika region on the west coast of the South Island of New Zealand on 18 June 2015, under north-westerlies with small CAPE (< 25 J/kg). Analyses of model simulations and observations showed that this heavy rainfall was due to cold front lifting enhanced by orographic lifting over the Southern Alps. At 1.5 km grid-length, the model terrain underestimated the average height of the 103 tallest mountains over the South Island by ~ 800 m. This leads to weaker orographic lifting and mountain blocking, and a faster-moving and stronger cold front in the Hokitika region. As a result, large errors in the heavy rainfall prediction occur. By increasing either the resolved or the sub-grid mountain heights, the simulated rainfall errors were largely reduced through stronger orographic lifting and mountain blocking, and a better simulation of the cold front movement and strength. All the experiments have the same “flow-over” regime with mountain waves and/or wave breaking (Fm ranges 0.61 – 1.21). However, the rainfall amount and distribution on the windward side of mountains altered significantly. Our new findings were that the Southern Alps can have significant indirect effects on heavy rainfall by altering the speed and strength of the cold front, in addition to the well-known direct dynamical effects (i.e., orographic lifting and mountain blocking). A combination of these direct and indirect effects makes the heavy rainfall simulation sensitive to mountain heights even under the same “flow-over” regime.

Rare earth elements (REEs) are a type of new material resources, which have attracted significant attention in recent years. REEs have emerged as essential metals in modern-day technology due to their unique functions. Long-term large-scale mining and utilization of rare earths have caused serious environmental pollution and constitutes a global health issue, which raised concerns about human health safety. However, the toxicity profile of suspended particulate matter of REEs in the environment interacts with the human body in remain largely unknown. Studies have shown that REEs can enter the human body through a variety of pathways, leading to a variety of organ and system dysfunctions through changes in genetics, epigenetics, and signaling pathways. Through an extensive literature search and critical analysis, we provide a comprehensive overview of the available evidence, identify knowledge gaps, and make recommendations for future research directions.

This review deals with the developmental origins of extraocular, jaw and laryngeal muscles, the expression, regulation and functional significance of myosin heavy chains (MyHCs) they express and changes in MyHC expression during phylogeny. Myogenic progenitors from mesoderm in the prechordal plate and branchial arches specify craniofacial muscle allotypes with different repertoires for MyHC expression. To cope with very complex eye movements, extraocular muscles express 11 MyHCs, ranging from the superfast extraocular MyHC to the slowest, non-muscle MyHC IIB. They have distinct global and orbital layers, singly- and multiply-innervated fibres, longitudinal MyHC variations, and palisade endings that mediate axon reflexes. Jaw-closing muscles express the high-force masticatory MyHC, cardiac or limb MyHCs depending on the appropriateness for the acquisition and mastication of their food. Laryngeal muscles express extraocular and limb muscle MyHCs but shift towards slower MyHCs in large animals. During postnatal development, MyHC expression of craniofacial muscles is subject to neural and hormonal modulation. The primary and secondary myotubes of developing EOMs are postulated to induce, via different retrogradely transported neurotrophins, the rich diversity of neural impulse patterns that regulate the specific MyHCs they express. Thyroid hormone shifts 2A MyHC towards 2B in jaw, laryngeal muscles and possibly extraocular muscles.

During the thinning process, in the semiconductor industry, residual stress from thin films can cause severe warpage in wafers, which can compromise their processability and packaging. This warpage can lead to bifurcation or buckling, making it important to understand this phenomenon for the manufacturing of large semiconductor wafers. We conducted a finite element analysis of the thinning process using ANSYS mechanical enterprise 2023/R2 to investigate the asymmetric curvatures resulting from bifurcation in a standard 300 mm Si (001) wafer. We induced an asymmetry in the system by applying a slight force on a point of the circumferential region perpendicularly to the substrate. We also simulated the compressive stress from the damaged layer formed during the thinning process and considered its influence on warpage and bifurcation in both linear and non-linear cases. We also included the influence of Earth's gravity induced deflection (GID) and investigated the influence of the compressive stress damaged layer on the grinding process of the whole wafer by adding a metal front layer to the ground back damaged wafer.

Modal testing is a common step in aerostructure design, serving to validate the predicted natural frequencies and mode shapes obtained through computational methods. The strategic placement of sensors during testing is crucial to accurately measuring the intended natural frequencies. However, conventional methodologies for sensor placement are often time-consuming and involve iterative processes. This study explores the potential of machine learning techniques to enhance sensor selection methodologies. Three machine learning-based approaches are introduced and assessed, comparing their efficiency with established techniques. The evaluation of these methodologies is conducted using a numerical model of a beam to simulate real-world scenarios. The results offer insights into the efficacy of machine learning in optimizing sensor placement, presenting an innovative perspective on enhancing the efficiency and precision of modal testing procedures in aerostructure design.

The emergence of electric vehicles has brought new issues such as the problem of rolling element bearings (REBs) operating at high speeds. Losses due to these components in mechanical transmissions are a key issue and must therefore be taken into account right from the design stage of these systems. Among these losses, the one induced by the motion of rolling elements , known as drag loss, becomes predominant in high-speed REBs. Although an experimental approach is still possible, it is difficult to isolate this loss in order to study it properly. A numerical approach based on CFD is therefore a possible way forward, even if other issues arise. The aim of this article is to study the ability of such an approach to correctly estimate the drag coefficient associated with the motion of rolling elements. The influence of the numerical domain extension, the mesh refinement, the simplification of the ring shape and the presence of the cage, on the values of the drag coefficient is presented. While it seems possible to compromise on the calculation domain and mesh size, it appears that the other parameters must be taken into account as much as possible to obtain realistic results.

Traumatic Brain Injury represents a significant public health concern due to its role in traumatic death and disability, often caused by head impacts or rapid accelerations. Despite advancements in Finite Element Head Models, existing models primarily represent adult males, neglecting anatomical and physiological differences between genders and age groups. Additionally, the mechanistic roles of specific intracranial tissues, such as the dura mater, have conventionally been overlooked. To better understand the mechanical behavior of the brain and its injured regions in the context of TBI, including the dura mater, this study proposes the development of a Female Finite Element Head Model. This model, representative of a middle-aged female subject, was developed using medical image-derived geometry and finite element modeling techniques. The validation results demonstrate a similarity between the numerical displacement curves and those obtained experimentally. In the model with dura mater, the numerical results show analogous behavior to the experimental results, despite minimal variations in the amplitude of the curves. These advancements highlight the significance of including the dura mater in biomechanical brain modeling. Incorporating the dura mater in Finite Element Head Models produces more realistic results than models without it. This emphasizes the importance of enhancing biomechanical models to better represent anatomical complexity.

Currently, in some domestic and foreign mines, the backfill drilling pipeline experience a rupture phenomenon even when the wear degree is low. This results in a delay in production due to the filling becoming 'sick'. This paper presents, for the first time, the damage mechanism from a mechanical perspective and re-derives the anti-extrusion strength model of the backfill drilling pipeline. We investigate the influence of law on the anti-extrusion strength of pipelines from the perspective of stratum and cement ring. We then verify the theoretical and simulation results through engineering examples. The results demonstrate that the Mises stress criterion is a suitable modification principle for the anti-extrusion strength model of the backfill drilling pipeline. The anti-extrusion strength of the pipeline is related to the elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio of the stratum, and the thickness of the cement ring. It is negatively affected by the depth of the stratum. For hard strata, a cement ring with a smaller elastic modulus is suitable, while for soft stratum, a cement ring with a larger elastic modulus is recommended. When the missing angle of the cement ring is less than 60°, the stress concentration factor increases up to 2.2. The stress unloading capacity of the cement ring ranges from 32.7% to 37.8%, and optimal performance of the cement ring is achieved when it has high strength and low rigidity. The backfill filling pipeline of a copper mine abroad was destroyed due to external extrusion force exceeding its anti-extrusion strength value. The modified pipeline anti-extrusion strength model is 18.2% higher than the casing API strength value. This finding can inform the design of the backfill filling pipeline for China's kilometer-deep wells in the future.

A two-year field experiment (2022–2023) was carried out to investigate the impact of different sowing periods (spring and winter) and nitrogen levels (0, 30, 60 kg/ha) on the phytoextraction potential of flax. The study site is characterized by high concentrations of heavy metals (Cd, Ni, Cu, Pb, Zn) and belongs to the Mediterranean climate type. Flax (var. Calista) was sown in the spring of 2022 and in the winter of 2023, following a split plot experimental design with three rep-lications, and applying low-input practices. Results showed that spring-sown flax produced short-er but thicker plants with significantly higher biomass (5.27 tn ha-1) when treated with 30 kg ha-1 N compared to winter-sown (2.30 tn ha-1) when treated with 60 kg ha-1 N. The concentration of contaminants in the aerial biomass varied according to metal type and sowing period. The higher biomass production in spring resulted in a higher quantity of heavy metals being removed from the soil, making flax a promising crop for phytoextraction purposes, especially in soils contami-nated with multiple heavy metals.

Drosophila melanogaster serves as a important research model both for genetic investigations and for the study of metal toxicity, facilitating the elucidation of physiological mechanisms comparable to those of human organisms. In our research, we evaluated the toxicity effect resulting from exposure to various concentrations of lead and copper on the prolificity rates throughout the life cycle (egg-adult) of four genotypes of Drosophila melanogaster: wild-type (control), white, brown, and white-vestigial. During our study, the prolificity rates were examined across three repetitions under the impact of exposure to concentrations of 0.50, 1.00, 2.00, and 4.00 mM of copper (CuSO₄) and lead (Pb(C₂H₃O₂₎₂). Prolificity rates throughout the life cycle exhibited variations as a direct consequence of genetic factors, the concentration of exposure, and the specific type of metal, either copper or lead. The mutant white-vestigial genotype revealed an IC₅₀ concentration for prolificity inhibition at lower doses of 2.00 mM for copper and 4.00 mM for lead, in contrast to the control genotype (wild-type), which exhibited an inhibition concentration rate >IC₅₀ of 4.00 mM only in the case of copper. Our results concluded that the (i) dose influences the prolificity rate in a directly proportional manner, (ii) comparative analyses between copper and lead revealed that copper displayed toxicity across all genotypes within the concentration range of 0.50 mM to 2.00 mM. In contrast, lead exhibited toxicity within the concentration range of 1.00 mM to 4.00 mM, highlighting a (iii) more acute toxicity characteristic in the case of copper. Thus, the results of this research reflect the importance of using Drosophila melanogaster as a genetic model in the comparative study of the interaction between genetic factors and the toxicity of metals, offering significant insights into monitoring their impact and defining the maximum permissible doses on organisms.

Heavy metal accumulation in soils used for agricultural purposes is a major issue as it can affect the growth of plants and contain health risks as plants containing heavy metals are taken as food. This study provided the potential of three Bacillus pumilus strains (C-2PMW-8, C-1 SSK-8, and C-1PWK-7) for mitigation of the health factors related to heavy metals on lettuce (Lactuca sativa) grown in chromium contaminated soil from activities related to mining. Lettuce seeds inoculated with B. pumilus strains were grown in pots with garden soil amended with varying amount of chromite mine soil (2.27%, 4.65%, 7.14%). Growth indicators like days to germination, percentage of germination, leaf weight, leaf area and rate of survival decreased with incremental soil chromium levels but improved highly with inoculation of B. pumilus compared to uninoculated controls. When B. pumilus strains were provided, there was also a decreased level in the buildup of chromium in soil as well as lettuce shoots. The results explains that plant growth-promoting B. pumilus strains may be able to lower down the detrimental effects of chromium on lettuce development, hence increment in the effectiveness of phytoremediation.

Evaluation of structural behaviour of a masonry Venetian Church with pointed vault, is presented in this paper through an analysis following the neccessary steps of a monument study. Having a detailed geometric model and the material estimation, the finite element method was used in order the influence of specific structural parts of the structure like masonry butresses and walls connections to the structural behaviour are examined. The comparison of the eigenfrequencies which are estimated by in situ measurements and finite element modal analysis is used to model identification. The response spectrum analysis, the static analysis for subsidence of some parts and the transient analysis of a specific seismic excitation are used to evaluation of the church strength. Comparison of modal analysis results with the structural pathology is helpful to this research about the structural behaviour of the church.

The human mandible's cancellous bone, which is characterized by its unique porosity and directional sensitivity to external forces, is crucial for sustaining biting stress. Traditional CAD models fail to fully represent bone's anisotropic structure and thus depend on simple isotropic assumptions. For our research, we use the latest versions of nTopology and Creo Parametric software to make biomimetic Voronoi lattice models that accurately reflect the complex geometry and mechanical properties of trabecular bone. The porosity of human cancellous bone is accurately modeled in this work using biomimetic Voronoi lattice models. The porosities range from 70% to 95%, which can be achieved by changing the pore sizes to 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, and 2.5 mm. Finite element analysis (FEA) was used to examine the displacements, stresses, and strains acting on dental implants with a buttress thread, abutment, retaining screw, and biting load surface. The results show that the Voronoi model accurately depicts the complex anatomy of the trabecular bone in the human jaw, compared to standard solid block models. The ideal pore size for biomimetic Voronoi lattice trabecular bone models is 2 mm, taking into account both the von Mises stress distribution over the dental implant, screw retention, cortical bone, cancellous bone, and micromotions. This pore size displayed balanced performance by successfully matching natural bone's mechanical characteristics. Advanced finite element analysis (FEA) improves biomechanical understanding of how bones and implants interact by creating more accurate models of biological problems and dynamic loading situations. This makes biomechanical engineering better.

This study investigates the impact of specimen size on the mechanical properties of wood, specifically focusing on compression strength, elastic modulus, and Poisson's ratio. Compression tests were conducted using three different specimen sizes (20mm×20mm×30mm, 40mm×40mm×60mm, 60mm×90mm×90mm) in the longitudinal, radial, and tangential directions. Mechanical parameters, failure mechanisms, load-displacement curves, and stress-strain relationships were systematically analyzed for each size. The study also evaluated the influence of specimen size on the accuracy of finite element numerical simulations by utilizing the obtained mechanical parameters. The results reveal a significant correlation between compressive strength and specimen size, indicating a decrease in compressive strength with increasing specimen size. Conversely, elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio exhibit less sensitivity to variations in specimen size. Notably, parameters derived from small-sized specimens (20mm×20mm×30mm) exhibited substantial errors, while those obtained from medium-sized (40mm×40mm×60mm) and large-sized specimens (60mm×90mm×90mm) demonstrated greater reliability, providing precise results in finite element numerical simulations.

A set of polymer composite bolted T-joints with novel configuration consisting of internal skeleton and external skin was fabricated using a prepreg-RTM co-curing molding process. Experiments were conducted to study their mechanical properties under bending load. A finite element model with a polymer resin area between the skin and skeleton was established and verified by the experimental results. Then, the damage propagation process and failure mechanism of the joint and the influence of three factors related to the layer characteristics of the skin and skeleton were investigated by the validated models. The results show that the bending stiffness and the yield limit load of the novel composite T-joint are 0.81 times and 1.65 times that of the 2A12 aluminum T-joint respectively, while at only 55.4% of its weight. The damage of the joint initiates within the resin area and leads to a degradation of the joint bending performances. The preferred stacking sequence of the skeleton is [0/+45/90/-45]ns when primarily subjected to bending loads. The decrease in bending performances is within 5% with the inclining angle of the skeleton less than 12 degrees. The more layers of 90° in the skin, the better bending performances of the joints, while the more layer of 0°, the poorer bending performances.

Maintaining sufficient levels of plant nutrients in the soil and controlling certain heavy metals, which can be toxic to the environment, are critical to ensure sustainable agricultural production. The study aimed to assess the linkage of crop-specific agricultural practices established by farmers in the Kvemo Kartli region (Georgia) with metal accumulation in soils of agricultural lands being subject to influence from polluted irrigation water in the past. In particular, we tried to identify the primary sources of micronutrients, including iron (Fe), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn), and toxic elements such as cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), and share of the contaminated irrigation water and other factors related to agricultural practices under different land uses, such as intensive and extensive arable farming, vineyards, orchards, and permanent pastures having the least disturbed soil. Based on principal component analysis, five primary sources were identified and categorized according to farmers' interviews and previous studies conducted in the region. The results showed that increased concertation of plant-available Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb were mainly associated with irrigation water and intensive use of fungicides; Fe, Mn, and Ni were closely linked to several factors, such as the mineralogical composition of soils, mineral and organic fertilizers inputs, and atmospheric deposition from diffuse sources, where exhausts from transport are probably the primary source. During our study, we attempted to differentiate irrigation water inputs from fungicides using simulation based on irrigation pattern and irrigation water quality on the one hand and fungicide application rate and their metal content on the other. The simulation revealed that the intensive application of fungicides, especially in vineyards, is more significant in enriching soils with Cu and Zn than irrigation water. Identification of factorial dependences was supported by statistical analysis and application of a number of contamination assessment methods: Contamination Factor (CF), Pollution Load Index (PLI), single-factor Pollution Index (PI), Nemerow’s comprehensive pollution index (PIN), Enrichment Factor (EF), and Geo-Accumulation Index (Igeo). Applied environmental indices indicate that the soils under the former and existing vineyards are the most enriched with Cu and Zn, highlighting the significance of agricultural practices on heavy metals accumulation in soils of agricultural lands.

This comprehensive review explores recent advancements in heavy metal remediation techniques, focusing on the utilization of cellulose-silica composites and tailored surface modification techniques. We examine the synthesis strategies and properties of cellulose-silica adsorbents, highlighting their enhanced adsorption capacities and structural robustness for removing heavy metal pollutants from aqueous environments. The review investigates various surface modification approaches, including thiol-functionalization, amino acid grafting, and silane coupling agents, for optimizing the surface chemistry and morphology of cellulose-silica composites. Mechanistic insights into the adsorption processes and kinetics of modified adsorbents are discussed, along with considerations for optimizing adsorption performance under different environmental conditions. This review provides valuable perspectives on the development of effective adsorbent materials for sustainable heavy metal remediation applications.

Scaling up the production of power devices involves, in the semiconductor industry, the use of large semiconductor 8” and 12” wafers of Si or SiC. Their use implicates a successful an effective monitoring and control of wafer warpage, as the geometrical size of the substrate increases, as well as a command control on the degeneration of non-linear warpage into critical phenomena known as bifurcation or buckling.To mitigate the warpage, the use of taiko wafers, which consists of wafers having a thicker region on the rim region of the wafer, has been generally adopted in the production lines. In a previous work [1] we investigated the warpage of taiko wafers by introducing the concept of equivalent thickness, in the linear approximation, for the case of a front side metalized taiko wafer. However, as the thickness of the central semiconductor substrate region decreases the possibility that also the taiko wafer bifurcates emerges. For this reason, in this work we have investigated the occurrence of bifurcation or buckling in a taiko wafer. In particular, we implemented a finite element analysis method by using ANSYS Mechanical Enterprise 2023/R2 to investigate the phenomenon of bifurcation in a taiko wafer. The investigated system consisted of a 200 mm Si (001) front side metalized (FSM) taiko wafer, having a substrate thickness ranging from 100 µm to 400 µm, with a step height fixed to 450 µm. The FSM layer consisted of an Al layer of 4.5 µm thin. The system was subjected to a thermal load such that, getting cooled from a nominal temperature T to 25°C, the metal layer can develop a residual stress. To investigate the bifurcation, an asymmetry was induced in the system by applying a slight force on a point of the circumferential region perpendicularly to the substrate. The temperature investigated ranged from 30 °C to 170 °C. From this investigation, it results that also the bifurcation is mitigated by the taiko structure. Indeed, the bifurcation emerges at higher values of the stresses with respect to the case of flat wafers having the same size and thickness of the substrate. Moreover, the concept of equivalent thickness needs to be reformulated by taking into account of the bifurcation phenomenon. Indeed, from the warpage at the bifurcation point of the taiko wafer, we can determine an overall equivalent thickness of the taiko wafer.

Magnetic levitation vibration isolation platform are essential for testing space telescopes. This paper presents the design of a Large Air-Gap Voice Coil Motor (LAG-VCM) specifically for use in such platforms. The electromagnetic design of the voice coil motor begins with the Equivalent Magnetic Circuit Method, followed by the analysis and optimization of the motor design using Finite Element Analysis (FEA). Subsequently, a prototype was constructed and tested. The test results confirm that the prototype meets the design specifications and requirements.

Heavy metal pollution poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health worldwide. In response to this pressing issue, bioremediation has emerged as a promising approach for mitigating contamination. This paper adopts a bibliographic method to explore the key techniques and applications of bioremediation. Furthermore, we delve into the most prominent threats to human environmental health and the corresponding remediation methods. Additionally, we discuss the future trajectory of bioremediation research, with a particular focus on the integration of big data and machine learning technologies. These advanced methodologies hold great potential for enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of environmental remediation efforts in the face of escalating pollution challenges.

Batch and transport experiments were used to investigate the remediation of a loamy sand soil contaminated with Cr(VI) using zero valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) stabilized by the carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC-nZVI). The effect of pH, ionic strength (IS), and flow rate on the removal efficiency of Cr(VI) were investigated under equilibrium (uniform transport) and non-equilibrium (Two-site sorption) transport using the Hydrus-1D model. The overall removal efficiency ranged from 70 to over 90% based on the chemical characteristics of the CMC-nZVI suspension and the transport conditions. The concentration and pH of the CMC-nZVI suspension had the most significant effect on the removal efficiency and transport of Cr(VI) in the soil. The average removal efficiency of Cr(VI) was increased from 24.1 to 75.5% when the concentration of CMC-nZVI nanoparticles was increased from 10 to 250 mg L-1, mainly because of the increased total surface area at larger particle concentration. Batch experiments showed that removal efficiency of Cr(VI) was much larger under acidic conditions. The average removal efficiency of Cr(VI) reached 90.1 and 60.5 % at pH 5 and 7, respectively. The Two-site sorption model described quite well (r2 = 0.96-0.98) the transport of Cr(VI) in soil as compared to the uniform transport model (r2 = 0.81-0.98). The average retardation of Cr(VI) was 3.51 and 1.61 at pH 5 and 7, respectively, indicating earlier arrival for the breakthrough curves and shorter time to reach maximum relative concentration at lower pH. The Hydrus-1D model has proven to be an efficient tool for assessing the removal of Cr(VI) pollutants, offering innovative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly remediation methodologies.

Rebar cages form the skeletal framework of reinforced concrete structural members. They comprise longitudinal and transverse reinforcing bars, usually connected by tie wires. Past studies have identified tie-wire connections as the "weak links" in large, prefabricated rebar cages, leading to their failure during site handling and construction stages. Recent research has explored the use of mechanical U-bolt connectors to bolster stability and safety of rebar cages while reducing their vulnerability and risk of failure. This paper presents a comprehensive experimental and numerical investigation of a new type of mechanical connector, referred to as "Cage Clamp", to enhance rebar cage stability and safety. Component-level experimental tests are conducted to determine the force-displacement response of Cage Clamp connectors for crossbar connections in different degrees of freedom. The results highlight the remarkable strength and stiffness of Cage Clamp connectors, significantly outperforming traditional tie-wire connections. Furthermore, full-scale experimental tests are performed on a circular underground pile-shaft rebar cage with Cage Clamp connectors to assess its behavior under various site handling conditions. The data obtained from these experiments are used to construct and refine detailed 3D finite element models of the rebar cages, capable of capturing the complex behavior of rebar cages with Cage Clamp connectors. Using the numerical model, a sensitivity analysis is performed to assess the effect of the number of Cage Clamps on the deflection and stability of the rebar cage. The findings show that using cage clamps to connect pick-up rebar with lateral reinforcement at every 8 to 10 feet is sufficient to ensure the stability of the cage during typical site handling conditions. The results of this study serve as a basis for establishing analysis, design, fabrication, and handling guidelines for rebar cages, contributing to safe and efficient construction practices.

Bat feces were reported in ancient Chinese medicine books to have the effect of reducing heat and improving eyesight, but the mechanism of vision improvement still needs further research. To this end, we used 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) to analyze the antioxidant capacity of and the types of vitamins in bat feces. We hoped to screen the pharmacological components of bat feces, and to explain the role that these components may play in the treatment of visual deterioration. Our results found that bat feces had a good antioxidant capacity and mainly contain vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (nicotinamide), B3 (nicotinic acid), and B5 (pantothenic acid). Although these vitamins may help maintain the health of the optic nerve and cornea, the vitamin content of bat feces is low, but the heavy metal content is high, as shown using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) analysis. Therefore, we suggest that the use of bat feces as traditional Chinese medicine to improve vision should be strictly restricted.

Time and space are fundamental concepts for characterizing and understanding our world. Despite of continuous curiosity and extensive studies, the nature of time and space remains elusive, and the underlying quantum structure is unclear. Here we propose a molecular model based on energy space decomposition to incorporate time and space synthetically in a unified framework. In the proposed model, the multipole expansion of action mapped to energy modules in scalar, vector, and matrix forms, results in the generators of time, space, and a material framework, cloud. And the invariance of time, space and cloud transformation corresponds to the conservation of energy, momentum, and mass, respectively. The classification of energy modules reveals a periodicity of energy elements, which constructs a hierarchical world in a molecular framework with dynamics represented by energy transformations. Here the role of time and space could switch from each other, and motion is attributed to the coupling of particle with intermediate bosons, corresponding to energy transformations among different energy modules. The application on Bohr model demonstrates that this picture provides a consistent classical interpretation to the foundation of quantum mechanics, and suggests an atomic model for gravitation.

The article presents comparative results from 5 categories of animals (4 samples originating from pigs, 2 from cows, 1 from chicken, 1 from ostriches, 1 from horses, samples quantified with A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I). These samples were collected from large, medium and small (family) farms. The results were validated by the biogas production generated by the respective samples, using the Automatic Methane Potential Test System (AMPTS II) bio-processor. The largest amounts of biogas (2,464.5 Nml, 2,262.0 Nml) were recorded for the samples from pig farms (Sample B and Sample D), whereas the lowest values were obtained in the case of Sample A (414.1 Nml) and Sample C (558.3 Nml). The heavy metals analyzed in the article are Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ca, K, As. The results corroborate that the C/N ratio can also vary to values lower than 20-30, without affecting the biogas production process, and the heavy metal content must be known especially for the full management of the wastes. All final data presented in the article are based on repeated, triplicate experiments, with less as 2% deviation between data.

Background: Perinatal exposure to pollutants could lead to side-effects in mothers and children, since this is a period of high vulnerability. Sparse and contradictory data are available on the impact of pollutants on breast milk. Objective: The present study consists of a scoping to review the recent research on the persistent presence of organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals in breast milk. Design: We performed a scoping review using two online databases to identify articles published from 1995 to 2023 on pollutants in breast milk, using the PRISMA Checklist. Results: A total of 54 articles were found relevant. POPs were present in breast milk in higher concentrations the longer the lactation period. In 3-year-old children, the presence of POPs correlated with the duration of breastfeeding. Estimated dietary exposure to Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) during pregnancy was positively associated with plasma concentrations in 3-year-old children, but not in pregnant women, suggesting transplacental transfer of these substances. Indeed, plasma concentrations were approximately 40% higher in children compared to pregnant women. In China, a clinical study assessed the risks of POPs in breastfed infants under 6 months of age. POPs decreased over time. Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane (DDT) was present in infants living in coastal areas. Hexachlorobenzene (HCB) was the pollutant of greatest concern. Parity is a major determinant of POP levels in breast milk, as are heavy metals. Carcinogenic PAHs were found to a greater extent in obese mothers than in mothers with a normal body mass index. Discussion: POPs and heavy metals could be found in infant formula as well as maternal milk. furthers studies are needed to compare the concentrations between the two milks. Conclusions: Breastfeeding is the only food recommended by the WHO for optimal infant growth. It would seem advisable to pursue risk reduction policies to protect mothers and infants from contaminants in breast milk.

This study determines the equivalent stress intensity factor (SIF) model that best fits the experimental behavior of low-carbon steel under mixed mode (I and II). The study assessed Tanaka, Richard, and Pook's equivalent SIF models. The theoretical values used for comparison correspond to experimental results in a modified C(T) geometry by machining a hole ahead of the crack tip subjected to fatigue loads with a load ratio of R = 0.1. The comparison involved the SIF for six experimental points and the values computed through the numerical simulation. The Paris, Klesnil, and modified Forman-Newman crack growth models were used with each equivalent SIF to analyze the prediction in the estimated number of cycles. The Klesnil model showed the closest prediction since the error between the calculated and experimentally recorded number of cycles is the lowest. However, the material behavior reflects a reduced crack propagation rate attributed to plasticity in the crack tip. Results suggest that Asaro equivalent SIF conservatively estimates the element lifespan with increasing errors from 2.3% at the start of growth to 27 % at the end of the calculation.

Since the discovery of transposable elements (TEs) in Maize in the 1940s by Barbara McClintock [1] transposable elements have been described as junk, as selfish elements with no benefit to the host, and more recently as major determinants of genome structure and genome evolution. TEs are DNA sequences that are capable of moving to new sites in the genome and make additional copies while doing so. To limit the propagation of TEs, host silencing mechanisms are directed at transposon-encoded genes that are required for mobilization. The mutagenic properties of TEs, the potential of TEs to form new genes and affect gene expression, together with the host silencing mechanisms shape eukaryotic genomes and drive genome evolution. While TEs constitute more than half of the genome in many higher eukaryotes, transposable elements in the nematode C. ele-gans form a relatively small proportion of genome, about 15% [2]. Genetic studies of transposon silencing and the discovery of RNAi in C. elegans, propelled C. elegans to the forefront of studies of RNA-based mechanisms that silence TEs. Here, I will review the transposable elements that are present and active in the C. elegans genome, and the host defense mechanisms that silence these elements.

In order to study the feasibility of copper-nickel smelting slag（CNSS） and palygorskite for large-scale consumption and utilization in the field of mine filling, gellable composite materials were prepared from copper-nickel smelting slag ,cement and palygorskite. The effects of palygorskite addition and curing time on the mechanical properties and microstructure of copper-nickel smelting slag-based cementitious materials were studied in detail. The results showed that the addition of palygorskite had a positive effect on the curing of the cemented filler of the non-ferrous smelting slag by promoting the early hydration reaction. palygorskite also affected the mechanical properties of the cementitious materials with different maintenance times and the ability to cure heavy metals. The strength of gellable composite materials reaches 23.05MPa when 1% palygorskite, 50% of copper-nickel smelting slag and 48% cement were used, which meet the standards requirements of filling materials for mine goaf. The addition of 1% palygorskite can improve the ability of cementitious materials to solidify heavy metals to realize the economic utilization of solid waste in mining areas.

One of the most concerning global environmental issues is the pollution of agricultural soils by heavy metals (HMs), especially cadmium (Cd), which not only affects human health by taking Cd-containing foods but also impacts the quality of rice. The soil's nitrification and denitrification processes, coupled with the release of volatile organic compounds by plants, raise substantial concerns. The understanding of three aspects of paddy soil under conditions of heavy-metal pollution and water management is currently limited. In this review, we summarized recent literature related to the deleterious effects of Cd on both soil processes related to the N cycle and rice quality, particularly aroma, in different water management practices. Under both continuous flooding (CF) and alternate wetting and drying (AWD) conditions, cadmium (Cd) has been observed to reduce both nitrification and denitrification processes. The adverse effects are more pronounced in continuous flooding (CF) compared to alternate wetting and drying (AWD). Similarly, the alteration in rice aroma is more significant in AWD than in CF. The precise modulation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by Cd, remains unclear based on the available literature. Nevertheless, HM accumulation is higher in AWD conditions compared to CF, leading to a detrimental impact on volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The literature concluded that AWD practices should be avoided in Cd contaminated fields to decrease accumulation and maintain the quality of rice. In the future, rhizospheric engineering and plant biotechnology can be used to decrease the transport of HMs from the soil to the plant’s edible parts.

In the paper, a study of the performance of unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), establishes numerical simulation model of the chassis system by three-dimensional software and finite element analysis software. Based on the numerical modelling and analysis, the work focuses on study of the strength and stiffness of the vehicle's chassis and researched the distribution of stress and deformation under the extremal condition. The paper also presents an autopilot design with new cascade control system for an autonomous motion of an unmanned ground vehicle based on Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) and Feed-Forward (FF) control. The PID-FF controller is a part of dedicated for presented UGV used in a hybrid control system for precise control and stabilization, necessary to increase the vehicle motion stability and maneuvers precision. The hybrid PID-FF control system proposed for the ground vehicle model gives a satisfactory quality of control, while maintaining the simplicity of the control system. Presented tests performed in area of mechanical design and control analysis gives good results and proves usefulness of designed unmanned device.

In the process of use and manufacture, carbon fiber foam sandwich structures were often damaged by low-energy impact, resulting in performance degradation. Therefore, it was necessary to study the damage caused by low-speed impact of composite sandwich structures. In this paper, based on Hashin failure criterion, an equivalent finite element model of carbon fiber foam sandwich panel under low velocity impact was established. The model was used to simulate the damage of foam sandwich panel with [±45°/±45°/ (core) /±45°/±45°] ply structure under the impact energy of 10.58J, 21.17J, 31.75J and 42.34J. The simulation results of impact damage depth were compared with the experimental results. The error was less than 10%, which proved the rationality of the impact equivalent model. The model was used to predict and analyze the damage of foam sandwich panels with [±45°/ (core) /±45°], [±45°/ (0°, 90°) / (core) /±45°] and [±45°/ (0°, 90°) (core) / (0°, 90°) /±45°] ply structures under 21.17J impact energy. By comparing and analyzing the damage situation, impact force response time and impact velocity response time, the low energy impact resistance was analyzed. The results showed that increasing the number of ply structure of [±45°] can reduce the impact damage degree and improve the bearing capacity of sandwich panels.

This paper introduces an innovative approach to numerically model Structure-Soil-Structure Interaction (SSSI) by integrating the Boundary Element Method (BEM) and the Finite Element Method (FEM) in a coupled manner. To assess the accuracy of the proposed method, a comparative study is undertaken, comparing its outcomes with those generated by the conventional FEM technique. Alongside accuracy, the computational efficiency aspect is crucial for the analysis of large-scale SSSI problems. Hence, the computational performance of the coupled BEM-FEM method undergoes a thorough examination and is compared with that of the standalone FEM method. The results from these comparisons illustrate the superior capabilities of the proposed method in comparison to the FEM method. The novel approach provides more reliable results compared to traditional FEM methods, serving as a valuable tool for engineers and researchers involved in structural analysis and design.

It is commonly recognized that a ship’s ability to maintain stability is dependent upon the way its loads are distributed. This means making sure the center of gravity is sufficiently low and evenly distributed. Yet when a ship encounters turbulent water with extremely large wave amplitudes, load distribution is a critical factor in determining how stressed the ship becomes. In particular, this article examines several methods for increasing the ship's longitudinal strength to prevent ship structural damage during hogging and sagging. This research presents a number of proposed techniques to enhance the longitudinal strength of cargo ships in order to guarantee minimal stress and deformation during sagging and hogging. The first method is the stern-to-bow use of curved support structures to increase the longitudinal strength of a cargo ship. And another way to stiffen the lateral plate is the proposed use of different designs of the side plate, such as wavy curves, stars, etc. To further boost the strength, the lateral plate upper part is suggested to curve upward. A numerical simulation using ANSYS of the stiffened plate when subjected to uniform load distribution and fixed support on either end shows that there is a decrease in deformation of the plate when we use wavy curved plates compared with those of the other plate stiffening methods used, and furthermore, curving the plate on top increases its strength during sagging as well as hogging. Finally, the use of a curved support structure further enhanced the overall longitudinal strength of the vessel.

Abstract Background Context Pelvic ring fractures are becoming more common in the aging population and can prove to be fatal, having mortality rates between 10% and 16%. Stabilization of these fractures is challenging and often require immediate internal fixation. Therefore, it is necessary to have a biomechanical understanding of the different fixation techniques for pelvic ring fractures. Methods A previously validated three-dimensional finite element model of the lumbar spine, pelvis, and femur was used for this study. A unilateral pelvic ring fracture was simulated by resecting the left side of the sacrum and pelvis. Five different fixation techniques were used to stabilize the fracture. A compressive follower load and pure moment was applied to compare different biomechanical parameters including range of motion (contralateral sacroiliac joint, L1-S1 segment, L5-S1 segment), and stresses (L5-S1 nucleus stresses, instrument stresses) between different fixation techniques. Results Transiliac -trans sacral screw fixation at S1 and S2 showed the highest stabilization for horizontal and vertical displacement at the sacral fracture site and reduction of contralateral sacroiliac joint for bending and flexion range of motion by 165% and 121%, respectively. DTSF (Double transiliac rod and screw fixation) model showed highest stabilization in horizontal displacement at the pubic rami fracture site, while the L5_PF_W_CC (L5-Ilium posterior screw fixation with cross connectors) and L5_PF_WO_CC ( L5-Ilium posterior screw fixation without cross connectors) showed higher rod stresses, reduced L1-S1 (approximately 28%), and L5-S1 (approximately 90%) range of motion. Conclusions Longer sacral screw fixations were superior in stabilizing sacral and contralateral sacroiliac joint range of motion. Lumbopelvic fixations displayed a higher degree of stabilization in the horizontal displacement compared to vertical displacement of pubic rami fracture, while also indicating the highest rod stresses. When determining the surgical approach for pelvic ring fractures, patient-specific factors should be accounted for to weigh the advantages and disadvantages for each technique.

In this study, a new structure is proposed based on the body-centered cubic (BCC) lattice structure: adding a cubic truss in the center of the BCC structure, which is denoted by TLC (Truss-lattice-cube). The different dimensions of the central cube can affect the mechanical properties of the lattice structure notably. With a fixed length (15mm) of a unit cell, the optimal size for the central cube is determined to be 5 mm. Quasi-static compressive tests are performed on specimens made of Polylactic Acid (PLA) using additive manufacturing technology. The deformation characteristics of the new structure is analyzed in detail by experiments and numerical simulations. Compared to the BCC structure, the mechanical properties of the TLC structure are significantly improved. The initial flow stress of the TLC has been increased by 122% at a strain of 0.1; the specific strength has been enhanced by 293% at a strain of 0.5; and the specific energy absorption has been improved by 312% at the strain of 0.6. Printing defects in the lattice structure could deteriorate the mechanical property remarkably. In this work, incorporation of microcracks into the finite element model makes the simulation capture the influence of printing defects and improve the predictive accuracy of simulation significantly.

High temperature (HT) geothermal wells can provide green power 24h a day 7 days a week. Harsh environmental and operational conditions, long-term durability requirements of such wells require special cementitious composites for well construction. This paper reports a comprehensive assessment of geothermal cement composites in cyclic pressure function laboratory tests, field exposures in an HT geothermal well (300-350oC) as well as a numerical model to complement the experimental results. Performances of calcium-aluminate-cement (CAC)-based composites and calcium free cement were compared against reference Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)/silica blend. The stability and degradation of the tested materials was characterized by crystalline composition, thermo-gravimetric, and elemental analyses, morphological studies, water-fillable porosity, and mechanical properties measurements. All CAC-based formulations outperformed the reference blend both in the function and exposure tests. The reference OPC/silica lost its mechanical properties during the 9-month well exposure through extensive HT carbonation, while properties of the CAC-based blends improved over that period. The Modified Cam-Clay (MCC) plasticity parameters of several HT cement formulations were extracted from triaxial and Brazilian tests and verified against the experimental results of function cyclic tests. These parameters can be used in well integrity models to predict field-scale behavior of the cement sheath under geothermal well conditions.

The fifth Industrial revolution (I5.0) prioritizes resilience and sustainability, integrating cognitive cyber-physical systems and advanced technologies to enhance machining processes. Numerous research studies have been conducted to optimize machining operations by identifying and reducing the sources of uncertainty and estimating the optimal cutting parameters. Virtual modeling and Tool Condition Monitoring (TCM) methodologies have been developed to assess the cutting states during machining processes. With a precise estimation of cutting states, the safety margin necessary to deal with the uncertainties can be reduced, resulting in improved process productivity. This paper reviews the recent advances in high-performance machining systems with a focus on the cyber-physical models developed for the cutting operation of difficult-to-cut materials using cemented carbide tools. An overview of the literature and background on the advances in the offline and online process optimization approaches have been presented. Process optimization objectives such as tool life utilization, dynamic stability, enhanced productivity, improved machined part quality, and reduced energy consumption and carbon emissions are independently investigated for the offline and online optimization methods. Addressing the critical objectives and constraints prevalent in industrial applications, the paper explores the challenges and opportunities inherent in developing a robust cyber-physical optimization system

Due to the ongoing global warming on the Earth, permafrost degradation has been extensively taking place, which poses a substantial threat to civil and industrial facilities and infrastructure elements, as well as to the utilization of natural resources in the Arctic and high-latitude regions. In order to prevent the negative consequences of permafrost thawing under the foundations of constructions, various geophysical techniques for monitoring permafrost have been proposed and applied so far: temperature, electrical, seismic and many others. At the same time, non-stationary electromagnetic methods seem to have significant potential and a number of important practical advantages. We propose a cross-borehole exploration system for the highest localization of target objects in the cryolithozone. A novel mathematical apparatus for three-dimensional modeling of transient electromagnetic (TEM) signals by the vector finite element method has been developed. The original combination of the latter, the Sumudu integral transform and artificial neural networks makes it possible to examine spatially heterogeneous objects of the cryolithozone with a high contrast of geoelectric parameters, significantly reducing computational costs. We have studied the sensitivity of the TEM signals to the boundary between thawed and frozen rocks depending on the inter-borehole distance and spatial orientations of the transmitters and receivers. Numerical simulation results of the TEM monitoring of industrial facilities located on permafrost are considered. The formation of a talik has been shown to significantly manifest itself in the measured electromagnetic responses, which enables timely prevention of industrial disasters and environmental catastrophes.

There are different ways to analyse energy absorbance (EA) in the human auditory system. In previous research, we developed a complete finite element model (FEM) of the human auditory system. In this mentioned work, the external auditory canal (EAC), middle ear, and inner ear (spiral cochlea, vestibule, and semi-circular canals) were modelled based on human temporal bone histological sections. Multiple acoustic, structure and fluid-coupled analyses were conducted using the FEM to perform harmonic analyses in the 0.1–10 kHz range. Once the FEM had been validated with published experimental data, the FEM numerical results were used to calculate the EA or energy reflected (ER) by the tympanic membrane. This EA was also measured in clinical audiology tests which were used as a diagnostic parameter. A mathematical approach was developed to calculate the EA and ER, with numerical and experimental results showing adequate correlation up to 1 kHz. Another published FEM had adapted its boundary conditions to replicate experimental results. Here, we recalculated those numerical results by applying the natural boundary conditions of human hearing and found that the results almost totally agreed with our FEM. This boundary problem is frequent and problematic in experimental hearing test protocols: the more invasive they are, the more the results are affected. One of the main objectives of using FEMs is to explore how the experimental test conditions influence the results. Further work will still be required to uncover the relationship between the middle ear structure and EA to clarify how to best use FEMs. Moreover, the FEM boundary conditions must be more representative in future work to ensure their adequate interpretation.

The predominant management approach for municipal solid waste (MSW) remains disposal, given significant increases in generation and disposal rates of MSW in recent decades. In addition to the well-documented carbon emissions from disposal sites, these sites accumulate numerous elements, the masses of which are substantial globally yet inadequately quantified. The unique combinations of waste constituents, elements, diverse environments, and confined spaces in disposal sites create distinct biogeochemical conditions, setting them apart from any other infrastructure or geological feature on Earth. This review first presents a global summary of the cumulative masses and disposal rates of MSW constituents and associated elements. The five dominant transformation and transport processes influencing disposed elements are examined: biochemical degradation, physicochemical transformation, gas migration, leachate migration, and solid spillage. The magnitudes and rates of the processes corresponding to major disposed elements, including carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, chlorine, and several metals, are systematically summarized. We examine and quantify the potential environmental impacts and health risks associated with element transformation and transport. We also explore the existing knowledge and techniques for resource recovery and site remediation of disposal sites. The distilled compilation of measurements and insights herein serves as a valuable primer for researchers, practitioners, and decision-makers involved in MSW management.

The sPHENIX experiment is a state-of-the-art jet and heavy flavor physics detector which successfully recorded its first Au + Au collision data at 200 GeV at RHIC. sPHENIX will provide heavy flavor physics measurements covering an unexplored kinematic region and unprecedented precision at RHIC to probe the parton energy loss mechanism, parton transport coefficients in quark-gluon plasma, and the hadronization process under various medium conditions. At the center of sPHENIX, the Monolithic-Active-Pixel-Sensor (MAPS) based VerTeX detector (MVTX) is a high-precision silicon pixel detector. The MVTX provides excellent position resolution and the capability of operating in continuous streaming readout mode, allowing precise vertex determination and recording a large data sample, both of which are particularly crucial for heavy flavor physics measurements. In this work, we will show the general performance of heavy-flavor hadron reconstruction. In addition, we will discuss the commissioning experience with sPHENIX. Finally, we will provide the projection of b-hadron and jet observables and discuss the estimated constraints on theoretical models.

The concentration of heavy metals in sediment is an important factor for assessing the quality of the nearshore environment. Geochemical background values are the normal concentrations of heavy metals in the natural environment. The use of different background values results in different evaluation results. Heavy metal (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, Cd, As, and Hg) concentration profiles along a sediment core were investigated to obtain background values and assess the depositional processes and contamination levels in Laizhou Bay. Apart from As and Hg, all other metals had similar distribution patterns and could be divided into four stages since marine isotope stage (MIS) 2. The results of the enrichment factor, geoaccumulation index, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, Nemerow pollution index, principal component analysis, and potential ecological risk index showed that element enrichment or contamination in the core sediments was absent and that all heavy metals were mainly naturally sourced. The changes in heavy metals since MIS 2 in the core sediments were predominantly related to the sedimentary environment, sediment sources, and mean grain size. The average values of the heavy metals in the U2 unit formed during the Middle Holocene can be used as reference values for background values.

In Korea, the underground silo structure for low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste disposal facilities has been constructed and operated since 2014. Large-scale earthquakes occurred in 2016 and 2017, respectively, in Gyeongju and Pohang areas near the underground silo structures, and interest in the stability of the underground silo increased significantly. In this paper, one-dimensional free field analyses have been carried out before the three-dimensional silo dynamic analyses subjected to earthquake loadings. As an additional study, a new form of finite element equilibrium equation is derived in terms of relative motions, which is essentially the same equation as that expressed in terms of total motions where the base shear force is applied for earthquake load. The accuracy of conventional finite element solutions is evaluated by directly comparing them with closed-form solutions by frequency domain analysis such as SHAKE91.

Transcutaneous nerve stimulation has several neuromodulatory applications, including pain management, sensory restoration, and motor recovery. Transcutaneous stimulation delivered via electrode arrays offers ease of use and reconfigurability through non-invasive means. Also, employing electrode arrays allows regulation of the permeated electric fields for greater control over the stimulation performance. Field shaping involves the regulation of permeated electric fields and is a well-established practice for deep brain stimulation; however, its applicability to peripheral nerve stimulation still needs exploration. Adopting such techniques can help to overcome current limitations with transcutaneous stimulation, like poor targetability, early onset of fatigue, and perceived discomfort. This article provides a perspective on the applicability of field-shaping techniques in improving the overall stimulation outcome.

The study of angular correlations of heavy-flavor particles in hadronic collisions can provide crucial insight into the heavy-quark production, showering and hadronization processes. The comparison with model predictions allows us to discriminate among different approaches for heavy-quark production and hadronization, as well as different treatments of the underlying event employed by the models to reproduce correlation observables. In ultra-relativistic heavy-ion collisions, where a deconfined state of matter, the quark-gluon plasma (QGP), is created, heavy-flavor correlations can shed light on the modification of the heavy-quark fragmentation due to interaction of charm and beauty quarks with the QGP constituents, as well as characterize their energy loss processes while traversing the medium. Insight into possible emergence of collective-like mechanisms in smaller systems, resembling those observed in heavy-ion collisions, can also be obtained by performing correlation studies in high-multiplicity proton-proton and proton-nucleus collisions. In this review, the most recent and relevant measurements of heavy-flavor correlations performed in all collision systems at the LHC and RHIC will be presented, and the new understandings that they provide will be discussed.

The current economic development paradigm, which is based on steadily rising resource consumption and pollution emissions, is no longer viable in a world with limited resources and ecological capacity. The "green economy" idea has presented this context with a chance to alter how society handles the interplay between the environmental and economic spheres. The related concept of "green nanotechnology" aims to use nano-innovations within the fields of materials science and engineering to generate products and processes that are economically and ecologically sustainable, enabling society to establish and preserve a green economy. Many different economic sectors are anticipated to be impacted by these applications, including those related to corrosion inhibitor nano fertilizers, nano remediation, biodegradation, heavy metal detection, biofuel, insecticides & pesticides, and catalytic CO2 reduction. These innovations might make it possible to use non-traditional water sources safely and to create construction materials that are enabled by nanotechnology, improving living and ecological conditions. Therefore, our aim is to highlight how nanotechnology is being used in the green economy and to present promises for nano applications in this domain. Additionally, we want to critically examine the practical difficulties these applications raise, especially in consideration of any possible implications for the health and safety of those employed within this innovative sector. In the end, it emphasizes how critical it is to attain a really sustainable advancement in nanotechnology.

Skeletal muscles are crucial for voluntary movements, and impairments in their function significantly impact our activity. Dysferlin, a protein predominantly present in skeletal muscle, is a focal point of extensive research due to its vital role in muscle repair and maintenance. This study investigates Dysferlin's levels and function in skeletal muscles, emphasizing its significance and the potential effects of its dysregulation on fast and slow muscle fibers. We employed Western blotting on two different rat muscles. The results revealed distinct expressions of Dysferlin in fast and slow fibers, as demonstrated by Western blotting. We propose that Dysferlin may have a metabolic role in addition to its involvement in the repair mechanism.

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a global disease. However, there is a lack of research specifically focused on the AfrAbia population. Climate change, driven mainly by global warming, is linked to detrimental health impacts, including an increased frequency and intensity of heat waves. Neurological diseases, including neurodegenerative syndromes like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and motor neuron illnesses, have been increasingly seen and recorded in scientific literature. Although there is much literature demonstrating the growth in neurodegenerative disorders, the relationship between environmental variables such as global warming, air pollution, heavy metals, and pesticides and the higher occurrence of these illnesses is still unknown. Objective: The current article primarily aims to examine the relationship between climatic changes, air pollution, pesticides, heavy metals, and the occurrence of PD. Initially, we evaluate the influence of exposure to these variables on the cause or origin of Parkinson's disease. In addition, we will investigate how these variables disrupt processes such as excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation, all of which are strongly linked to Parkinson's disease (PD). Conclusions: This research presents a plausible rationale for the adverse effects of environmental influences on the brain, which are pivotal in the progression or onset of Parkinson's disease from an AfrAbian standpoint.

Floor mats are commonly used to improve the impact sound performance of existing homes, but the actual reduction does not consistently appear depending on the test-bed conditions used to determine it. Therefore, this study evaluated the effects of the environmental conditions of the test-bed on the impact sound reduction performance of different floor mats. The Korean Industrial Standard, KS F 2865, specifies the measurement method in the test room and sets the thickness range of the available target floor structure from bare slab 120 mm to 210 mm. The evaluation method is ∆?, which is the difference in standardized impact sound levels before and after the installation of the floor finishing material. In this study, a total of eight types of floor mats were tested in four different test-beds according to KS F 2865. The impact sources used were tapping, bang machines and a rubber ball to consider both light-weight and heavy-weight impact sounds. The results were derived as impact sound reduction performance for each frequency band and a single number quantity. The results showed that light impact sound had a similar minimum reduction characteristic of at least 38 dB, regardless of the floor structure on which the mat was installed. However, the heavy-weight impact sound showed different tendencies depending on the floor mat and the characteristics of the floor structure of the test-bed when a bang machine and a rubber ball were used. In particular, the reduction by the bang machine showed less than half the tendency of the reduction by the rubber ball, and the tendency of the heavy-weight impact sound to be reduced depending on the floor mat was maintained, but the reduction differed depending on the test bed. The reduction was larger in the box-type test room than in the real-life type test room, and among the box-type test rooms, the one with a thicker bare slab showed a relatively larger reduction. In addition, the reliability of the measurement results was discussed through the correlation analysis between the single number quantities depending on the thickness of the bare slab of the test-beds.

Novel Ca3(BTC)2 metal-organic frameworks with different sizes and shapes constructed by Ca2+ and trimesic acid as metal center and ligands respectively were synthesized by a surfactant-assisted method. The relationship between the quantity of surfactant and the particle morphology of the product have been further studied. The samples were characterized by scanning electron microscope, powder X-ray diffraction and Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The results indicated that the size and shape of Ca3(BTC)2 could be regulated by changing the quantity of surfactant. Rod- and sheet-like Ca3(BTC)2 MOFs have been readily availabled. The removal kinetics of heavy metals of Pb(II) were also studied by rod-like Ca3(BTC)2. The results showed that as-synthesized Ca3(BTC)2 could effectively remove heavy metals of Pb(II) from the sewage.

During deep-sea mining, the heavy metals pollutants can cause contamination in the marine environment. In this paper, the multiphasic coupling model is established to describe the heavy metal migration process during deep-sea mining, which takes the effects of convection-diffusion, adsorption-desorption and sedimentation-resuspension of heavy metals in the aquatic environment into full consideration. Due to the advantages of Lattice Boltzmann method, it is adopted to numerically solve the multiphasic coupling model and achieve the simulation for heavy metal migration process during deep-sea mining. In addition, taking Cadmium as an example, the concentration variations are discussed and analyzed in detail. Based on the established model and Lattice Boltzmann method, the concentration distribution of heavy metals can be accurately described to provide the reasonable bases for the evaluation of marine environmental protection.

The influence of applied loads on free vibrations analysis of plates and shells panels made of functionally graded materials is analyzed in the present work. Formulations for the static analysis considering geometrically nonlinear behavior, as well as linear buckling and free vibrations analyses are considered. The calculation of the through-thickness stress distribution is also performed. A finite element model based on a higher order shear deformation theory and using a non-conforming triangular flat plate/shell element with 3 nodes, and 8 degrees of freedom per node is used in the numerical implementation. The results obtained with this numerical model are presented, discussed, and compared with alternative solutions published by other authors in some benchmark applications.

This study identifies the facies and degrees of hydrothermal alteration related to the low sulphida-tion epithermal Kestanelik Au deposit in the Biga Peninsula metallogenic province through petro-graphic studies and analysis of geochemical characteristics, such as mass changes, molar element ratios, and alteration indices. The gold mineralization is located in silicified zones containing veins and stockwork veinlets of quartz. These zones are found within the Permian-Upper Cretaceous aged Çamlıca basement metamorphics and Eocene aged Kestanelik granodiorite of the Karabiga Massif on the Biga Peninsula. The mineralization is influenced by tectonic structures such as quartz veins and faults. In the Kestanelik Au deposit, common hydrothermal alteration occurs mainly in the metamorphics and granodiorite, and less often in volcanic rocks. Based on miner-alogical and geochemical studies conducted on altered samples, four different alteration facies were defined as silicic, sericitic, argillic and propylitic, which show remarkable differences in the behaviour of REE, Si, K, Al, Na and Ca elements. The characterization of rocks subjected to hy-drothermal alteration that are most influenced by diverse K metasomatism with the largest K gains and losses of Na-Ca, is illustrated by molar element ratio plots. Depending on the severity of K-metasomatism, gold mineralization rises with increasing K trends towards gold ore veins. In the Kestanelik Au field, the alteration types of argillic, sericitic, propylitic and adularia from the alter-ation zones enclosing the Au ore veins, were revealed by the alteration index and chlo-rite-carbonate-pyrite index. Mass changes in the altered rocks indicate that there are gains in Si, K, Al, and losses in Na and Ca with the increasing intensity of alteration towards the Kestanelik ore veins. The results confirm the presence of silicic and K-metasomatic (sericite and argillic) propylit-ic (Fe-rich chloride) alteration zoning extending from the inner regions to the outer regions, which characterize the epithermal ore systems. It has been revealed from the data obtained in this study that the intensity of potassium metasomatism that occurs in acidic rocks is greater than that found in intermediate and mafic rocks. The hydrothermal fluids that cause alteration in Kestanelik Au mineralization and host rocks had low contents of REE due to REE mobilization, and the kaolini-zation of feldspars and micas, and the chloritization of biotite and feldspars, may cause negative Eu anomalies.

Urban dust samples were taken from the playgrounds of 27 schools located in the urban area of the city of Murcia (S.E. Spain). Their color and degree of magnetism were determined, as well as their heavy metal content (Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb and Zn) to evaluate contamination by environmental and health indexes. The highest concentration of contaminants is found in dusts of dark color and medium and high magnetism. The concentrations of heavy metals in the dust were, in this order, Zn (453.74 mg kg-1)> Cu (77.44 mg kg-1)> Cr (67.93 mg kg-1)> Pb (55.72 mg kg-1)> Ni (18.56 mg kg-1)> Cd (0.42 mg kg-1). The analysis of the magnetic and non-magnetic fraction indicates that there is a concentration of all heavy metals in the magnetic fraction. According to the geoenvironmental indices used, the ecological risk presented by school playgrounds is moderate. As for the health indices, ingestion was the main route of exposure and entry of dust particles into the body, being the main health risk for adults and children for all metals. The Hazard Index (HI) values for all elements for both adults and children were less than 1, indicating that there is no risk of developing adverse health effects. As for the Cancer Risk (CR), the values of this index indicate that there is no risk. The objective of this study was to evaluate pollution in the playgrounds of schools in the city of Murcia.

Heavy metal pollution poses a significant threat to global populations, particularly impacting human health. Developing countries, characterized by chemical engineering and mining industrial activities, often contribute to diverse heavy metal contaminants. Consumption of water contaminated with heavy metals, prevalent in such regions, can lead to severe health risks, including gastric cancer. Addressing the urgent issue of heavy metal pollution, this paper employs a bibliographic approach to explore the latest literature on heavy metal pollution. The study discusses recent research findings and potential methods for the treatment and mitigation of heavy metal pollution, emphasizing the pressing need for effective solutions to safeguard public health.

This paper presents a numerical study on the laser shock wave propagation in a 3D woven CFRP material by means of detailed and homogenized FE models. The aim of the study is to numerically characterize the shock wave response of the 3D woven CFRP in terms of back face velocity profiles and the induced damage and to investigate whether the detailed FE models could be replaced by homogenized FE models. The 3D woven geometry was designed using the TexGen software, while the numerical analyses were executed using the LS-Dyna explicit FE software. A high-strain rate behavior was considered for the matrix. The fiber bundles in the detailed models were modeled as a high fiber content unidirectional composite laminate, with its mechanical properties calculated by micromechanical equations. Both for the fiber bundles of the detailed model and the homogenized models a progressive damage material model was applied. The results of the detailed model reveal a considerable effect of material’s architecture on the shock wave propagation and the sensitivity of the back face velocity profile to the spot location. Consequently, the homogenized model is not capable of accurately simulating the shock wave response of the 3D woven composite. Moreover, the detailed predicts with high accuracy matrix cracking in the resin-rich areas and in the bundles as well as fiber failure. On the contrary, the homogenized model predicts matrix cracking at the same areas and no fiber failure.

Microvascular self-healing composite materials have significant potential for application and their mechanical properties need in-depth investigation. In this paper, tensile and compressive properties of woven fabric carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP) laminates containing three-dimensional microvascular channels were investigated experimentally. Several detailed finite element (FE) models were established to simulate the mechanical behavior of the laminate and the effectiveness of different models were examined. The damage propagation process of the microvascular laminates and the influence of microvascular parameters were studied by the validated models. The results show that microvascular channels arranged along the thickness direction (z-direction) of the laminates are critical locations under the loads. The channels have minimal effect on the stiffness of the laminates but causing a certain reduction in strength, which varies approximately linearly with the z-direction channel diameter within its common design range of 0.1~1mm. It is necessary to consider the resin-rich region formed around microvascular channels in the warp and weft fiber yarns of the woven fabric composite when establishing the FE model. And the layers in model should be assigned with equivalent unidirectional ply material in order to calculate the mechanical properties of laminates correctly.

This study investigates the elastic buckling behaviour of skew Functionally Graded Material (FGM) thin plates featuring a circular opening. FGM materials, known for their unique property gradients, have gained prominence in structural engineering due to their mechanical performance and durability. Including a circular opening introduces a critical geometric consideration, influencing the structural stability and load-carrying capacity of FGM plates. The study examines the effects of the skew angle, plate’s aspect ratio, opening position, and size on the critical buckling load, normalized buckling load, and various buckling failure modes through computer modelling and finite element analysis. The results offer valuable insights into the interplay between material heterogeneity, geometric configuration, and structural stability. For instance, the critical buckling load increases by 29%, 82%, and 194% with the increment of skew angle from 0° to 30°, 45°, and 60°, respectively. Moreover, as the opening shifts from the plate’s edge closer to the center, the critical buckling load decreases by 26%. This research contributes to the advancement of understanding FGM thin plates’ behaviour under skew loading conditions, with implications for the design and optimization of innovative structures. The findings presented provide a foundation for further exploration of advanced composite materials and their applications in structural engineering.

Saline-alkaline aquaculture has become important breakthrough to expand available space for aquaculture in China. However, the biochemical composition and quality of Eriocheir sinensis reared in carbonate alkalinity water are still unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the edible yield, coloration, nutritional and flavor quality of Eriocheir sinensis. Significantly lower gona-dosomatic index (GSI) and meat yield (MY) were detected in intensive pond (IP) than those in semi intensive reed wetland (SIWR) (P< 0.05). Six color parameters differed between IP and SIRW in the hepatopancreas (P< 0.05). The contents of crude protein and fat in the female hepatopan-creas of IP were significantly higher than those in SIRW(P< 0.05). The higher concentrations of ∑MUFA, ∑EFA, h/H in the female edible tissues were checked in IP than those in SIRW, with significant difference including ∑MUFA in the hepatopancreas and ovary, ∑EFA in the muscle, and h/H in the ovary (P<0.05). Better total free amino acid (∑FAA) contents of muscle were de-tected in SIRW than that in IP. Significantly increasing tendency was detected in K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn of ovary from SIRW to IP (P< 0.05). Overall, the Eriocheir sinensis reared in carbonate alkalinity water is an important source of nutrient.

Digital twin, an innovative technology propelled by data and models, plays a seminal role in the digital transformation and intelligent upgrade of ships. This study introduces a digital twin methodology for real-time monitoring of ship structure deformation fields, based on finite discrete strain data, and a visualization tool framework is developed using virtual reality technology. First, the inverse Finite Element Method (iFEM) is employed to derive the deformation field of the ship structure in real time via sensor strain data. Secondly, the deformation field data obtained based on the iFEM algorithm is converted into general visualization data conducive to interpretation within VR applications. Lastly, a digital twin software tool is built to enable synchronous response and interaction between the virtual scene and the physical scene, directly superposing particular virtual objects (data acquired by sensors, CAD virtual models, and deformation field cloud images) onto the physical scene in real-time. The digital twin tool embodies a virtual reality visualization system framework integrating physical data measurement, reconstruction, analysis, expression, storage, rendering and interaction of deformation field data. Through practical application, the flexibility, effectiveness and compatibility of the developed prototype tool are verified. According to the results, the system can enhance the efficiency of scientific communication, model validation, and interdisciplinary sharing during the analysis and evaluation of mechanical properties of ship structures.

Entamoeba histolytica, the causative agent of amebiasis, is the third leading cause of death among parasitic diseases globally. Its life cycle includes encystation, which has been mostly studied in Entamoeba invadens, responsible of reptilian amebiasis. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this process are not fully understood. Therefore, we focused on the identification and characterization of Myb proteins, that regulate the expression of encystation-related genes in various protozoan parasites. Through bioinformatic analysis, we identified 47 genes in E. invadens encoding MYB-domain-containing proteins. These were classified into single-repeat 1R (19), 2R-MYB proteins (27), and one 4R-MYB protein. The in silico analysis suggests that these proteins are multifunctional, participating in transcriptional regulation, chromatin remodeling, telomere maintenance, and splicing. Transcriptomic data analysis revealed expression signatures of eimyb genes, suggesting a potential orchestration in the regulation of early and late encystation-excystation genes. Furthermore, we identified 3135 probable target genes associated with reproduction, meiotic cell cycle, ubiquitin-dependent protein catabolism, and endosomal transport. In conclusion, our findings suggest that E. invadens Myb proteins regulate stage-specific proteins and a wide array of cellular processes. This study provides a foundation for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms governing encystation and unveils potential targets for therapeutic intervention in amebiasis.

Biofilm serves as the residence for bacteria, wherein bacteria attach to surfaces and produce extracellular polymeric substances, including proteins, polysaccharides, and extracellular DNA. In recent years, biofilm reactors have gained increasing significance, playing a crucial role, for instance, in immobilizing heavy metals from waterways. This paper employs a bibliographic study to analyze the most important keywords and organizations in the field of biofilm reactors, identifying recent significant papers. Additionally, the paper discusses the opportunities for the future development of biofilm reactors. Through this study, a better understanding of key factors in biofilm reactor research is achieved, providing valuable guidance for future studies and applications in this field.

In this work, a ZIF-67/MWCNTs/Nafion sensor platform was constructed based on the good adsorption capacity of ZIF-67, the electrical conductivity of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and the excellent chemical stability of Nafion for the detection of Cu2+ in water. Meanwhile, the modified materials were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), BET specific surface area test, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR). Cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance (EIS), and square wave solvation voltammetry (SWSV) electrochemical methods were used to perform applied test studies on ZIF-67/MWCNTs/Nafion/GCE. The results show that ZIF-67/MWCNTs/Nafion/GCE has high sensitivity (57.5 μA/μM) and a low limit of detection (15.0 nM) for the electrochemical detection of Cu2+ ions in an electrochemical sensing system. It has high adsorption selectivity for Cu2+, and the recovery of Cu2+ in real water reached 98.6%-103%. The modified electrode has good repeatability, reproducibility, anti-interference, and stability, which makes this sensing platform can be practically applied to the detection of domestic water.

This investigation aimed to knowledge of the presence of Brucella spp .in the samples from Babylon province and the relationship with environmental factors. The seasonal collection of animal soil samples for various villages in the middle, south, and north of Babylon province, Hilla City, Iraq, with physicochemical parameters (air and soil temperature, pH, EC, TDS, salinity, TOC), as well as heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Cd, and Pb). The results showed the presence of Brucella species in some of soil samples and its percentage varies according to the four seasons, where the highest percentage of Brucella spp. was in summer season and the lowest in winter season and these percentages were related to seasonal environmental indicators. After sending the positive bacterial samples isolated from the soil for sequencing analysis, it was found that the bacterial samples isolated from the soil have new strains recorded in Genbank as following: five strains for Brucella intermedia and one strain for Brucella rhizosphaerae, Also, phylogenetic analysis was for the drawing of phylogenetic tree and the determination of phylogenetic relationship for Knowledge the degree of convergence between species and their source. Through our research, we concluded that proportion of Brucella spp. presence in summer was high and also environmental factors which included (Air and Soil temperature, pH, EC, TDS and Salinity) were high, except TOC was lower in summer season whereas heavy metals for Cu, Fe, Cd were lower in summer except Pb was high. This indicated that differences of seasons affect to Brucella ratio in soil. The findings of sequencing for the bacterial samples from soil demonstrated that B. intermedia was found in both the spring and fall seasons while B.rhizosphaerae found in the spring season , These types of Brucella had genetic variations. Also concluded that during phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA sequences indicated that B.intermedia was nearest to Pakistan and other strain of B.intermedia was nearest to Russia while B.rhizosphaerae was nearest to Ukraine and Pakistan.