Search Results (32,233)

A wavelength-swept laser (WSL) demodulation system offers a unique time-domain analysis solution for high-sensitivity optical fiber sensors, providing a high-resolution and high-speed method compared to optical spectrum analysis. However, most traditional WSL-demodulated sensing systems require a synchronous trigger signal or an additional optical dispersion link for sensing analysis and typically use a fiber Bragg grating (FBG) as the sensing unit, which limits displacement sensitivity and increases fabrication costs. We present a novel displacement sensing system that combines a trigger-free WSL demodulation method with a cascaded balloon-like interferometer, featuring a simple structure, high sensitivity, and low temperature cross-sensitivity. The sensor is implemented by bending a short length of single-mode fiber with an optimal radius of around 4 mm to excite cladding modes, which form an interference spectral response with the core mode. Experimental findings reveal that the system achieves a high sensitivity of 397.6 pm/μm for displacement variation, corresponding to 19.88 ms/μm when demodulated using a WSL with a sweeping speed of 20 nm/s. At the same time, the temperature cross-sensitivity is as low as 5 pm/°C or 0.25 ms/°C, making it a strong candidate for displacement sensing in harsh environments with significant temperature interference. Full article

Ternary lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have the advantages of high energy density and high charging efficiency, and they are the preferred energy source for long-life new energy vehicles. However, when thermal runaway (TR) occurs in the ternary LIB, an open flame is easily produced. The burning phenomenon is intense, and the rapid of TR propagation is high; consequently, vehicle-level fire accidents are easily induced. These accidents have become the biggest obstacle restricting the batteries’ development. Therefore, this study investigates the TR behavior of ternary LIBs at the cell and module levels. The addition of an insulation layer alone, including ceramic nano fibers, glass fiber aerogel, and phase-change composite materials, cannot prevent TR propagation. To completely block the TR propagation, we developed a safety prevention strategy, combining the phase-change composite materials with a commercial liquid cooling plate. This approach provides a three-level TR protection mechanism that includes heat absorption, heat conduction, and heat insulation. The use of a 2 mm thick phase change composite material combined with a liquid cooling plate effectively prevents the TR propagation between60 Ah ternary LIBs with 100%SOCs.. The front surface temperature of the adjacent cell is maintained near 90 °C, with its maximum temperature consistently stays below 100 °C. This study successfully demonstrates the blockage of TR propagation and offers valuable insights for the thermal safety design of high-specific-energy LIBs; the aim is to improve the overall safety of battery packs in practical applications. Full article

The refinement of effective data generation methods has led to a growing interest in using artificial neural networks (ANNs) to solve modeling problems related to mechanical structures. This study investigates the modeling of composite sandwich structures, i.e., structures made up of two laminated composite face sheets sandwiching a lightweight honeycomb core. An ANN was utilized to predict structural deflection and face sheet stress with low computational cost. Initially, a three-point load mode was used to determine the flexural behavior of the composite sandwich structure before subsequently analyzing the sandwich structure using the Monte Carlo sampling tool. Various combinations of face sheet materials, face sheet layer numbers, core types, core thicknesses and load magnitudes were considered as design variables in data generation. The generated data were used to train a neural network. Subsequently, the predictions of the trained ANN were compared with the outcomes of a finite element model (FEM), and the comparison was extended to real structures by conducting experimental tests. A woven carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (WCFRP) with a Nomex honeycomb core was tested to validate the ANN predictions. The predictions from the elaborated ANN model closely matched the FEM and experimental results. Therefore, this method offers a low-computational-cost technique for designing and optimizing sandwich structures in various engineering applications. Full article

This study presents a novel approach to the design and assessment of slender reinforced concrete (RC) columns by integrating Brillouin Optical Time Domain Analysis (BOTDA) for real-time, distributed strain monitoring and introducing a “time-dependent deterioration factor” strain decay (η_decay). Experimental tests on 200 mm × 200 mm RC columns with lengths of 1800 mm and slenderness ratios of 29.4, reinforced with four 12 mm bars, captured strain variations up to 400 microstrain under an axial load of 1200 kN, demonstrate BOTDA’s sensitivity and precision. Unlike conventional strain gauges, BOTDA provided a continuous strain profile along the column height, accurately capturing strain decay with a resolution exceeding 95%, enabling the detection of localized strain reductions often missed by traditional methods. The integration of η_decay into ACI 318 and Eurocode 2 models conservatively improved predictions, particularly for specimens tested with long-term testing (720 days), with experimental-to-predicted (E/P) ratios of 1.42 and 1.29, respectively, compared to higher discrepancies in the original codes. The η_decay factor accounts for strain reduction along the column height caused by time-dependent effects such as creep, shrinkage, and material degradation, significantly improving the accuracy of axial load capacity predictions. Finite element analysis (FEA) validated these improvements, showing good agreement with experimental data up to the yield load. Post-yield, the modified equations effectively addressed underestimations caused by microcracking, highlighting the necessity of η_decay for reliable long-term performance predictions. This research combines advanced BOTDA technology with an innovative η_decay framework, addressing long-term structural deterioration and refining design codes. It establishes a robust foundation for integrating time-dependent effects into predictive models, enhancing the resilience, safety, and sustainability of RC structures under real-world conditions. Full article

Nuts are widely recognized for their exceptional nutritional value, being rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, dietary fiber, and essential minerals. This review focuses on the effects of roasting technologies, specifically of pistachios, hazelnuts, and almonds, evaluating the changes in polyphenol contents, lipid profiles, and the release of volatile organic compounds through the Maillard reaction. Roasting, a common processing technique, enhances the sensory attributes of nuts, including flavor, aroma, and texture, while simultaneously influencing their nutritional and chemical profiles. The Maillard reaction, triggered during roasting, plays a crucial role in developing the characteristic flavors of roasted nuts, but can also lead to the formation of acrylamide under certain conditions. Understanding the balance between enhancing sensory quality and retaining nutritional properties is essential for optimizing roasting conditions. Innovative technologies offer sustainable and efficient alternatives to traditional methods. By focusing on these three major nut varieties, this review provides valuable insights into the changes that occur before and after roasting, highlighting strategies to balance sensory qualities and nutritional preservation. Further research is essential to refine these techniques, enabling the production of high-quality nuts that deliver superior health benefits while meeting consumer expectations. Full article

Emerging evidence supports the beneficial effects of dietary fiber supplementation in alleviating gut dysbiosis, which leads to a reduction in uremic toxins and inflammatory markers in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. However, current evidence-based renal nutrition guidelines do not provide recommendations regarding dietary fiber intake. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate and highlight the effects of dietary fiber supplementation on modulating uremic toxins and inflammatory markers in individuals with CKD, with or without dialysis. The eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified from PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled trials until 27 November 2024. The results were synthesized using a random-effects model and presented as standardized mean differences (SMDs) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). A total of 21 studies with 700 patients were included. When compared with the control group, dietary fiber supplementation ranging from 6 to 50 g/day, for typically more than 4 weeks, could significantly reduce the levels of serum uremic toxins, including p-cresyl sulfate, indoxyl sulfate, and blood urea nitrogen (SMD −0.22, −0.34, −0.25, respectively, with p-values < 0.05), as well as biomarkers of inflammation, including interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (SMD −0.44, −0.34, respectively, with p-values < 0.05). These beneficial effects were consistent across different types of fibers and CKD status (with or without dialysis). However, no significant reduction in serum trimethylamine N-oxide, uric acid, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels was observed with dietary fiber intervention. This study would pave the way for prioritizing dietary quality, particularly a fiber-rich diet, beyond the traditional focus on the quantities of protein, energy, and electrolyte restrictions among individuals with CKD. Full article

Sandy soils are a type of geomaterial that may require improvements due to lack of cohesion. In this study, first, the lack of cohesion of sand was resolved using clay, and the soil was stabilized with cement and lime (4% and 3% of the dry weight of materials, respectively) and finally reinforced with recycled tire fibers of 20 to 30 mm in length for improved strength and ductility. Next, 747 samples with different fiber contents at different curing temperatures and ages were prepared and a unconfined compressive strength (UCS) test was carried out. Next, a novel approach employing multivariate nonlinear regression techniques and obtained empirical data was applied to formulate a mathematical model for predicting the UCS and the modulus of elasticity (E_s) of the reinforced and stabilized soil. This model can serve as a valuable tool for building engineers in designing building foundations. The comparison of the obtained UCS and E_s results and those predicted using the proposed model showed a correlation of >95% (R² ≥ 0.95). The fibers effectively increased the failure strain, thus resulting in the greater ductility of the samples. As an example, in 14-day samples cured at 60 °C with 0%, 0.4%, 1%, 1.7%, and 2.5% fibers, the failure strain showed an incremental trend of 1.47%, 1.87%, 2.08%, 2.20%, and 2.92%, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to study the microstructure of the samples and to explain the strength experimental outcomes. SEM images showed a desirable interaction between the fiber surfaces with the soil mass and the reduction in porosity and the occurrence of pozzolanic reactions through stabilization. The results also showed that the reinforcement effectively improved the ductility, as desired for building foundations; however, it resulted in reduced strength, although a greater strength compared to the untreated soil was achieved. Although soil stabilization has been widely studied, limited research focuses on stabilizing soil with clay, lime, cement, and recycled tire fibers. This study offers design engineers an estimation scheme of the strength properties of stabilized and reinforced foundations. Full article

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare changes in choroidal thickness (ChT) and choroidal vascular index (CVI) between patients with coronary artery ectasia (CAE) and healthy individuals. Methods: This study included 34 patients with CAE and 40 age-matched healthy subjects with normal coronary arteries. Measurements of ChT and CVI were taken using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography, employing the binarization method for CVI calculation. Additional parameters, including central macula thickness (CMT), retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), and ganglion cell layer (GCC) thickness, were also documented. Results: The results indicated no significant differences in either subfoveal ChT or in ChT at 1500 µm both nasal and temporal to the fovea. However, significant differences were noted in ChT at the 500 µm nasal and temporal areas. The CVI was found to be significantly lower in the CAE group compared to the healthy controls. Furthermore, this study noted a significant difference in GCC thickness between the two groups, while no significant differences were observed in CMT and RNFL measurements. Conclusions: The findings suggest that patients with CAE exhibit decreased ChT and CVI in comparison to healthy controls. This highlights the potential role of ChT and CVI as important markers of disease in coronary artery ectasia, offering valuable insights into systemic cardiovascular health. Full article

This study investigates the potential of the diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum (PT) as a sustainable and nutritionally valuable food source, focusing on its ability to produce bioactive compounds such as eicosapentaenoic acid, fucoxanthin, chrysolaminarin (CRY) and proteins. PT was cultivated in a flat-plate airlift photobioreactor (FPA-PBR) illuminated with LEDs from two sides. The study aimed to monitor and minimize β-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) levels to address safety concerns. The data showed that the selected FPA-PBR setup was superior in biomass and EPA productivity, and CRY production was reduced. No BMAA was detected in any biomass sample during cultivation. By adjusting the cultivation conditions, PT biomass with different compositional profiles could be produced, enabling various applications in the food and health industries. Biomass from nutrient-repleted conditions is rich in EPA and Fx, with nutritional and health benefits. Biomass from nutrient-depleted conditions accumulated CRY, which can be used as dietary fiber. These results highlight the potential of PT as a versatile ingredient for human consumption and the effectiveness of FPA-PBRs with artificial lighting in producing high-quality biomass. This study also provides the basis for future research to optimize photobioreactor conditions to increase production efficiency and to tailor the biomass profiles of PT for targeted health-promoting applications. Full article

This study introduces an integrated Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methodology combining the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Entropy Weight Method (EWM), and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to optimize the selection of municipal water supply pipeline materials. A comprehensive evaluation system encompassing thirteen criteria across technical, economic, and safety dimensions was developed to ensure balanced decision-making. The method employs a weight determination model based on Jaynes’ maximum entropy theory to harmonize subjective AHP-derived weights with objective EWM-derived weights, addressing inconsistencies in traditional evaluation approaches. This framework was validated in a case study involving a DN400 pipeline project in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China, where five materials—steel, ductile iron, reinforced concrete, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), and Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (UPVC)—were assessed using quantitative and qualitative criteria. Results identified HDPE as the most suitable material, followed by UPVC and reinforced concrete, with steel ranking lowest. Comparative analysis with alternative MCDM techniques demonstrated the robustness of the proposed method in balancing diverse factors, dynamically adjusting to project-specific priorities. The study highlights the flexibility of this approach, which can extend to other infrastructure applications, such as drainage systems or the adoption of innovative materials like glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP) mortar pipes. By integrating subjective and objective perspectives, the methodology offers a robust tool for designing sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective municipal water supply networks. Full article

The demographic shift towards an aged population calls for targeted nutrition strategies to support healthy aging and bridge the gap between life expectancy and a healthy life span. Older adults face various nutritional deficiencies, particularly in protein, vitamins (B12, D), minerals (calcium, iron), and dietary fiber. This work delves into the EAT4AGE project efforts that strategically aimed to develop age-oriented food products (European Joint Programming Initiative “A Healthy Diet for a Healthy Life” JPI HDHL). Currently, manufacturing of age-tailored food products presents significant complexities, from challenges of commercialization to the generation of acceptable and palatable food choices. As a first step, a literature-based comprehensive checklist has been developed to facilitate product development. This tool provides an integrated approach, ensuring that all critical aspects of product development are addressed systematically. Secondly, we describe the application of the tool in the development of a series of products, such as plant-based protein-rich cereals, reformulated dairy products, processed meat, and enriched spreads; all combining high nutritional values with adaptations to the physiological and sensory needs of seniors. Overall, this work offers insight into the current needs of seniors and a tool for product development that can be utilized for prospective product development, such as the ones detailed herein. Thus, the EAT4AGE hopes to set an example that will stimulate the fabrication of effective, well-received nutritional solutions, ultimately improving health outcomes for older adults. Full article

In the ship industry, developing thermal insulation materials with exceptional high-temperature resistance, structural stability and light weight is essential. Herein, polyimide (PI) composite aerogels were synthesized. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) introduced cross-linking structures within the aerogel matrix, effectively reducing shrinkage and forming micrometer-scale pores. Furthermore, the rigid cage-like structure of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) generated additional nanoscale pores. This multiscale pore structure enhanced both compressive strength and thermal insulation properties. The PI-CNT-POSS composite aerogel with a 2 wt% CNT content (PI-CP2) demonstrated outstanding overall performance, with compressive strength, modulus and thermal conductivity values of 167.7 KPa, 360.3 Kpa and 40.6 mW/(m·K), respectively, possessing remarkable advantages over the neat PI aerogel. Consequently, this PI composite aerogel can be used as a promising material for heat management in complex environments. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, placing an ever-increasing burden on healthcare systems. Dietary factors play a crucial role in the development and progression of CVD. Among them, dietary fiber has emerged as a potential modifiable factor with the potential to impact CVD risk. However, the specific and independent effects of dietary fiber on CVD are still not fully understood, making this area of research both challenging and of great significance. Methods: The publications of human studies involving the impact of dietary fiber on CVD were retrieved from databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, CBM, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). A search was conducted within these databases for studies published between 2014 and 20 March 2024. The included literature was screened and summarized. Results: A total of seven articles were included, and the related studies encompassed various types of dietary fiber, including soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, as well as research from different countries and regions. The outcome indicators involved an important measure known as the hazard ratio (HR). Conclusions: Increasing the intake of dietary fiber could reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases through various mechanisms. To increase the consumption of dietary fiber from multiple sources, it would be beneficial to develop and promote healthcare interventions to enhance people’s awareness of the health benefits of dietary fiber, promote the consumption of fiber-rich foods, and advocate for a healthier diet. Full article

Among plant-based analogs, fish and seafood analogs (PBFSAs) represent a growing sector. This study analyzed the nutritional quality of PBFSAs in Italy and compared it to their animal-based counterparts. Nutritional declarations, ingredient lists, and claims were collected from PBFSA food labeling. Nutri-Scores of PBSFAs and animal-based counterparts were also determined as nutritional quality indicators. Fifty-one products were collected, with most attributed to tuna, salmon, and cod categories (n = 18, 12, and 14, respectively). Results showed large heterogeneity in nutritional quality, with cod products having higher energy (217 (201–257) kcal/100 g), protein (10.5 (7.9–13.0) g/100 g), and carbohydrate (19.4 (14.2–26.0) g/100 g) levels, while tuna and salmon products had a higher fat content (15.0 (10.0–19.7) and 13.5 (5.0–17.0) g/100 g, respectively). Products with fiber or fat nutrition claims did not necessarily indicate higher fiber or lower fat content, while products with a protein claim had a higher protein content. Most animal-based counterparts, except cod and sturgeon caviar, received an “A” Nutri-Score, and often scored better than the PBSFA due to lower salt content. In conclusion, PBFSAs on the market should not be considered animal product analogs regarding nutritional quality, but drawing definitive conclusions is challenging due to the limited number and high variability of the products. However, these findings provide insights that may improve PBFSA nutritional quality, such as decreasing salt and sugar content, for people trying to incorporate such foods into their diet. Full article

Dispersed reinforcement of concrete with various types of plant fibers is currently a fairly popular area in the field of construction materials science. The relevance of this topic is determined by the fact that the issue has not been studied on a large scale in comparison with concrete reinforced with artificial fibers, and the fact that these types of concrete meet the requirements of the Sustainable Development Goals. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of using hemp fiber (HF) and flax fiber (FF) for the dispersed reinforcement of concrete, and to compare their efficiency and practical applicability in the construction industry. Before use, HF and FF were treated with a NaOH solution and stearic acid to increase their resistance to the aggressive alkaline environment of concrete. A total of 15 concrete compositions were made. The percentage of dispersed reinforcement for both types of fibers varied from 0.2% to 1.4%, with a step of 0.2%. The standard methods of mechanical testing and microscopy for investigation the properties of fresh and hardened concrete were applied. The optimum amount of HF in concrete was 0.6%, which provided an increase in compressive and flexural strength of 7.46% and 28.68%, respectively, and a decrease in water absorption of 13.58%. The optimum percentage of FF concrete reinforcement was 0.8%, which allowed an increase in compressive and flexural strength of 4.90% and 15.99%, respectively, and a decrease in water absorption of 10.23%. The results obtained during the experiment prove the possibility and effectiveness of the practical application of hemp and flax fibers in concrete composite technology. Full article