Search Results (2,656)

Heated tobacco products (HTPs) frequently induce user discomfort due to high mainstream smoke temperatures. To address this challenge and improve the inhalation experience, this experiment designed and prepared a cage-shaped braided tube as the cooling section of the filter for HTPs. The thermal, cooling, suction resistance, and smoke composition properties of the filter were tested and analyzed. Thermal analysis (DSC/TG) revealed a 116.53 J/g increase in endothermic enthalpy for PEG-impregnated samples, accompanied by maintained thermal stability (decomposition temperature ≈ approximately 350 °C). The 0.8 wt% Carbon Nanotube (CNT) composite achieved exceptional thermal conductivity (0.597 W/m·K), representing a 521% improvement over untreated controls. The braided tube optimal performance (3 mm inner diameter, 30% PEG/0.8% CNT) reduced the highest smoke temperature to 47.8 °C while maintaining acceptable suction resistance (68.5 Pa, 56.4% reduction vs. commercial IQOS filters). GC-MS analysis confirmed negligible alterations in smoke composition (p > 0.05). This innovation offers an effective thermal management solution that does not compromise sensory experiences. Full article

This survey offers a comprehensive overview of advancements in Artificial Intelligence in Graphic Design (AIGD), with a focus on the integration of AI techniques to enhance design interpretation and creative processes. The field is categorized into two primary directions: perception tasks, which involve understanding and analyzing design elements, and generation tasks, which focus on creating new design elements and layouts. The methodology emphasizes the exploration of various subtasks including the perception and generation of visual elements, aesthetic and semantic understanding, and layout analysis and generation. The survey also highlights the role of large language models and multimodal approaches in bridging the gap between localized visual features and global design intent. Despite significant progress, challenges persist in understanding human intent, ensuring interpretability, and maintaining control over multilayered compositions. This survey aims to serve as a guide for researchers, detailing the current state of AIGD and outlining potential future directions. Full article

Despite increasing evidence that cigarette smoke is a significant source of indoor fine particulate matter (PM_2.5), quantitative emission factors (EFs) for PM_2.5 and its toxic chemical composition in mainstream (MS) and sidestream (SS) smoke are still not well defined. In this study, we employed a custom-designed chamber to separately collect MS (intermittent puff) and SS (continuous sampling) smoke from eleven cigarette models, representing six brands and two product types, under controlled conditions. PM_2.5 was collected on quartz-fiber filters and analyzed for carbon fractions (using the thermal–optical IMPROVE-A protocol), nine water-soluble inorganic ions (by ion chromatography), and twelve trace elements (via ICP-MS). SS smoke exhibited significantly higher mass fractions of total analyzed species (84.7% vs. 65.9%), carbon components (50.6% vs. 44.2%), water-soluble ions (17.1% vs. 13.7%), and elements (17.0% vs. 7.0%) compared to MS smoke. MS smoke is characterized by a high proportion of pyrolytic organic carbon fractions (OC₁–OC₃) and specific elements such as vanadium (V) and arsenic (As), while SS smoke shows elevated levels of elemental carbon (EC1), water-soluble ions (NH₄⁺, NO₃⁻), and certain elements like zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd). The toxicity-weighted distribution indicates that MS smoke primarily induces membrane disruption and pulmonary inflammation through semi-volatile organics and elements, whereas SS smoke enhances oxidative stress and cardiopulmonary impairment via EC-mediated reactions and secondary aerosol formation. The mean OC/EC ratio of 132.4 in SS smoke is an order of magnitude higher than values reported for biomass or fossil-fuel combustion, indicative of extensive incomplete combustion unique to cigarettes and suggesting a high potential for oxidative stress generation. Emission factors (µg/g cigarette) revealed marked differences: MS delivered higher absolute EFs for PM_2.5 (422.1), OC (8.8), EC (5.0), Na⁺ (32.6), and V (29.2), while SS emitted greater proportions of NH₄⁺, NO₃⁻, Cl⁻, and carcinogenic metals (As, Cd, Zn). These findings provide quantitative source profiles suitable for receptor-oriented indoor source-apportionment models and offer toxicological evidence to support the prioritization of comprehensive smoke-free regulations. Full article

The construction industry is the biggest consumer of raw materials, and there is growing pressure for this industry to reduce its environmental footprint through the adoption of sustainable solutions. Waste plastic in a recycled form can be used to produce valuable products that can decrease dependence on natural resources. Despite the growing trend of exploring the potential of recycled plastics in construction through composite manufacturing and nonstructural products, to date no scientific data is available about converting waste plastic into recycled plastic to manufacture interlocking hollow blocks (IHBs) for construction. Thus, the current study intended to fill this gap by investigating the dynamic, mechanical, and physicochemical properties of engineered IHBs made out of recycled plastic. Engineered IHBs are able to self-center via controlled tolerance to lateral displacement, which makes their design novel. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) waste was considered due to its anticipated material properties and abundance in daily-use household products. Mechanical recycling coupled with extrusion-based pressurized filling was adopted to manufacture IHBs. Various configurations of IHBs and prism samples were tested for compression and shear strength, and forensic tests were conducted to study the physicochemical changes in the recycled plastic. In addition, to obtain better dynamic properties for energy dissipation, the compressive strength of the IHBs was 30.99 MPa, while the compressive strength of the prisms was 34.23 MPa. These values are far beyond the masonry strength requirements in applicable codes across the globe. In-plane shear strength was greater than out-of-plane shear strength, as anticipated. Microstructure analysis showed fibrous surfaces with good resistance and enclosed unburnt impurities. The extrusion process resulted in the elimination of contaminants and impurities, with limited variation in thermal stability. Overall, the outcomes are favorable for potential use in house construction due to sufficient masonry strength and negligible environmental concerns. Full article

To address concrete cracking in submerged box-shaped hollow thin-walled piers under static ice and hydrostatic pressure, this study proposes a composite strengthening method employing externally bonded steel plates coupled with concrete infill blocks. Based on mechanical theoretical derivation, the strengthened structure is simplified as a cooperative system comprising compression–truss and suspended-cable mechanisms. Key design parameters—including steel plate span, thickness, infill block height, and plate corner configuration—are optimized using a genetic algorithm. The optimization objective minimizes strengthening cost, subject to constraints of concrete crack resistance, steel plate strength, and deformation control, ultimately determining the numerically optimal composite strengthening solution. Validation through planar finite element models demonstrates that: (1) the proposed system effectively suppresses cracking in the original structure; (2) peak stresses in the steel plates remain below the yield strength of Q345 steel; and (3) the theoretical design is reasonable and effective, which can solve the cracking problem of the wading-tank hollow thin-walled pier under the action of surrounding load. Full article

Background: Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), a nutrient-rich leguminous crop high in protein, lipids, and minerals, is extensively cultivated worldwide. The chemical composition of soybean seeds depends not only on the genetic characteristics of the cultivar but also on environmental conditions and agricultural practices. In recent years, biostimulants have gained increasing importance in crop production due to their ability to enhance physiological processes in plants and potentially influence nutrient accumulation. This study aimed to investigate how cultivar and biostimulant type influence the chemical composition of soybean seeds under varying weather conditions in Central Europe. Methods: A three-year field experiment (2017–2019) was conducted in eastern Poland (Central Europe) using a split-plot design. The experimental factors included three non-GMO soybean cultivars (Abelina, Merlin, and SG Anser) and two foliar biostimulants (Asahi SL and Improver). In addition to classical ANOVA, the multivariate analysis of the impact of the investigated factors included principal component analysis (PCA). Results: The applied factors significantly affected seed contents of fat, protein, dry matter, ash, fibre, and macronutrients (N, P, K). Cv. Merlin had the highest fat (22.65%) and fibre content (9.33%), while Abelina showed the highest protein (37.06%) and dry matter content (94.42%). Biostimulant application increased the accumulation of several seed components. Asahi SL significantly enhanced fat content (by 0.69%), protein content (by over 1.5%), and dry matter content (by nearly 0.2%) compared to the control. Improver was more effective in increasing nitrogen (by 0.24%), phosphorus (by 0.5%), and potassium (by 0.15%) contents. Weather conditions throughout the growing seasons significantly altered the impact of the biostimulants. The PCA analysis revealed distinct relationships among the chemical properties of seeds, meteorological factors, and the applied biostimulants. Full article

Moderate electric field (MEF) technology is an electro-heating technology that involves the application of electric fields less than 1000 V cm⁻¹, with or without the effect of heat, to induce heating and enhance mass transfer in food processing operations. The rapid heating capabilities and higher energy efficiency make MEF a viable alternative to traditional processing methods in the food industry. Recent advancements in MEF processing of foods have focused on optimizing equipment design and process parameters and integrating digital tools to broaden their application across a wide range of food processes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments related to the design of MEF systems for various operations, including single and multicomponent food systems. The thermal efficiency and energy saving of MEF treatment in various food processing operations largely depend on the type and arrangement of the electrodes, and operating frequency and composition of the food matrix. A thorough understanding of the electrical properties of single and multicomponent food systems is crucial for analyzing their behavior and interactions with applied electric fields, and for designing an efficient MEF system. In addition, integrating digital tools and physics-based models could play a significant role in real-time monitoring, predictive process control, and process optimization to enhance productivity, reduce energy consumption, and ensure improved product quality and safety. This makes the MEF technology economically viable and sustainable, which also improves the scalability and integration into existing processing lines. Full article

Ultrasound-responsive nanomaterials represent a promising approach for achieving non-invasive and localized drug delivery within tumor microenvironments. In this study, we developed a piezocatalysis-assisted hydrogel system that integrates reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation with stimulus-responsive drug release. The platform combines piezoelectric barium titanate (BTO) nanoparticles with a ROS-sensitive hydrogel matrix, forming an ultrasound-activated dual-function therapeutic system. Upon ultrasound irradiation, the BTO nanoparticles generate ROS—predominantly hydroxyl radicals (^•OH) and singlet oxygen (¹O₂)—through the piezoelectric effect, which triggers hydrogel degradation and facilitates the controlled release of encapsulated therapeutic agents. The composition and kinetics of ROS generation were evaluated using radical scavenging assays and fluorescence probe techniques, while the drug release behavior was validated under simulated oxidative environments and acoustic fields. Structural and compositional characterizations (TEM, XRD, and XPS) confirmed the quality and stability of the nanoparticles, and cytocompatibility was assessed using 3T3 fibroblasts. This synergistic strategy, combining piezocatalytic ROS generation with hydrogel disintegration, demonstrates a feasible approach for designing responsive nanoplatforms in ultrasound-mediated drug delivery systems. Full article

Polymers derived from renewable polysaccharides offer promising avenues for the development of high-temperature, environmentally friendly drilling fluids. However, their industrial application remains limited by inadequate thermal stability and poor colloidal compatibility in complex mud systems. In this study, we report the rational design and synthesis of epichlorohydrin-crosslinked carboxymethyl xylan (ECX), developed through a synergistic strategy combining covalent crosslinking with hydrophilic functionalization. When incorporated into water-based drilling fluid base slurries, ECX facilitates the formation of a robust gel suspension. Comprehensive structural analyses (FT-IR, XRD, TGA/DSC) reveal that dual carboxymethylation and ether crosslinking impart a 10 °C increase in glass transition temperature and a 15% boost in crystallinity, forming a rigid–flexible three-dimensional network. ECX-modified drilling fluids demonstrate excellent colloidal stability, as evidenced by an enhancement in zeta potential from −25 mV to −52 mV, which significantly improves dispersion and interparticle electrostatic repulsion. In practical formulation (1.0 wt%), ECX achieves a 620% rise in yield point and a 71.6% reduction in fluid loss at room temperature, maintaining 70% of rheological performance and 57.5% of filtration control following dynamic aging at 150 °C. Tribological tests show friction reduction up to 68.2%, efficiently retained after thermal treatment. SEM analysis further confirms the formation of dense and uniform polymer–clay composite filter cakes, elucidating the mechanism behind its high-temperature resilience and effective sealing performance. Furthermore, ECX demonstrates high biodegradability (BOD₅/COD = 21.3%) and low aquatic toxicity (EC₅₀ = 14 mg/L), aligning with sustainable development goals. This work elucidates the correlation between molecular engineering, gel microstructure, and macroscopic function, underscoring the great potential of eco-friendly polysaccharide-based crosslinked polymers for industrial gel-based fluid design in harsh environments. Full article

This study focuses on the adaptive tracking control issue for nonlinear multi-agent systems (MASs) under the influence of asymmetric input constraints and external disturbances. Firstly, an auxiliary system is proposed, which can ensure flexible prescribed performance under input saturation conditions. Meanwhile, by introducing a transformation function, the distributed errors are freed from initial constraints. Employing the backstepping method, the adaptive technique, and a neural network approximation technology, a finite-time prescribed performance adaptive tracking control algorithm is designed, enabling the tracking errors to stably converge within the prescribed performance bounds. Secondly, a composite disturbance observer is developed to estimate and mitigate the combined disturbances, which include external perturbations and approximation errors from radial basis function neural networks (RBF NNs). It not only achieves effective disturbance compensation but also further suppresses the approximation errors of RBF NNs. Finally, stability analysis using the Lyapunov function demonstrates that all closed-loop signals remain uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB), with adaptive tracking errors converging to a compact region within a finite time. Simulation results and comparative studies confirm the proposed method’s effectiveness and advantages, providing a basis for its practical use in distributed control applications. Full article

Introduction: Chronic primary low back pain (CPLBP) is a prevalent condition in primary care and a leading cause of disability and absenteeism worldwide. Multidimensional approaches may be necessary to achieve physical and mental health benefits in individuals with CPLBP. Objective: The BACKFIT randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a multidimensional intervention—combining supervised exercise and mindfulness—on pain, physical fitness, mental health, and functional outcomes in individuals with CPLBP. Hypothesis: Both the supervised exercise program focused on motor control and trunk muscle strength (IG1) and the multidimensional intervention combining supervised exercise with mindfulness training (IG2) are expected to produce significant health improvements in individuals with CPLBP. It is further hypothesized that IG2 will yield greater improvements compared to IG1, both immediately post-intervention and at the two-month follow-up. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Setting: Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada (Spain). Participants: 105 individuals. Inclusion criteria: Previously diagnosed with CPLBP, aged ≥18 and ≤65 years, able to read and understand the informed consent, and able to walk, move, and communicate without external assistance. Exclusion criteria: serious lumbar structural disorders, acute or terminal illness, physical injury, mental illness, and medical prescriptions that prevent participation in the study. Intervention: Individuals will be randomly assigned to a supervised physical exercise group (2 days per week, 45 min per session), a multidimensional intervention group (same as supervised physical exercise group, and mindfulness 1 day per week, 2.5 h per session) or an active control group (usual care, 2 days per week, 45 min per session). The intervention will last 8 weeks. Main Outcome Measures: Primary outcome: pain threshold, perceived acute pain, and disability due to pain. Secondary measures: body composition, muscular fitness, gait parameters, device-measured physical activity and sedentary behavior, self-reported sedentary behavior, quality of life, pain catastrophizing, mental health, sleep duration and quality, and central sensitization. The groups will undergo pre-intervention, post-intervention, and a 2-month follow-up after a detraining period. Statistical Analysis: Both per-protocol and intention-to-treat approaches (≥70% attendance) will be used. Program effects will be assessed via one-way ANCOVA for between-group changes in primary and secondary outcomes. Conclusions: Given the complex nature of CPLBP, multidimensional approaches are recommended. If effective, this intervention may provide low-cost alternatives for health professionals. Full article

This study presents a systematic classification of acoustic agglomeration systems, developed on the basis of an extensive review of experimental and numerical studies, specifically addressing fine particles. The classification framework encompasses wave type, geometric orientation, level of functional integration, chamber composition, and auxiliary enhancement mechanisms. By organizing the diverse configurations into consistent categories, this study enables a comparative analysis of system performance and suitability for practical applications. This review highlights typical design features, operational ranges, and implementation contexts, while identifying key advantages and limitations of each system type. Strengths such as scalability, compatibility with filtration units, and enhancement of particle capture are contrasted with challenges including acoustic intensity requirements, resonance sensitivity, and integration constraints. The proposed classification serves as a practical tool for guiding future design, optimization, and application of acoustic agglomeration technologies in air pollution control. Full article

This study investigates the influence of Cu addition on the nanostructural evolution and mechanical performance of a heavily drawn non-equiatomic CoCu_1.71FeMnNi high-entropy alloy (HEA) wire. Through systematic microstructural and compositional analysis, we examine how Cu constituent affects phase separation behavior and promotes deformation-induced nano-twinning in another phase counterpart. The designed HEA wire exhibits an elongated ultrafine dual face-centered cubic (fcc) lamella structure (i.e., Co-Fe-rich and Cu-rich phases) that emerges through compositional segregation by spontaneous phase separation from the as-cast state. High-resolution electron microscopy reveals the dislocation wall boundaries stabilized by nanoscale phase interfaces. The cold-drawn CoCu_1.71FeMnNi wire features an impressive combination of strength and ductility, as well as an ultimate tensile strength of nearly ~2 GPa with an elongation of over ~6%. These findings highlight the critical role of compositional tuning in controlling the ultrafine lamella structure stabilized by spinodal-like phase decomposition, offering a pathway to engineering high-performance HEA wires for advanced structural applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nurses play a vital role in healthcare, yet their demanding working conditions, including long hours, shift work, and stress, can negatively impact health behaviors. In Poland, empirical data on nurses’ eating habits and body composition remain limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate body composition and dietary habits among nurses, and to identify significant relationships and associations between these variables. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 460 Polish nurses. The mean age of the respondents was 45.07 years (SD ± 11.98). Body composition was assessed using the Tanita MC-780 PLUS MA analyzer, and eating behaviors were measured with the standardized My Eating Habits questionnaire (MEH). Advanced statistical analyses including k-means clustering, ANOVA, chi-square tests, Spearman’s correlation, ROC curves, decision tree modeling, and heatmap visualization were used to identify associations. Results: The MEH scores among nurses indicated average eating behavior. However, excess body fat, overweight/obesity, shift work, and holding multiple jobs were significantly associated with emotional overeating, habitual overeating, and restrictive eating. Decision tree analysis identified Body Mass Index (BMI), fat-free mass (FFM) and comorbidities as key predictors of problematic eating patterns. Interaction effects showed that shift work combined with higher BMI further increased the risk of maladaptive behaviors. Heatmaps confirmed the strongest MEH scores in participants with elevated BMI and FFM. Conclusions: The findings underscore the need for targeted workplace interventions promoting healthy eating and weight control among nurses. Recognizing risk factors such as excess weight or multiple job holding can aid in designing effective prevention and health promotion strategies tailored to healthcare professionals. Full article

The progress in biopolymers and their composites as advanced materials for wound healing has revolutionized therapeutic approaches for skin regeneration. These materials can effectively integrate their inherent biocompatibility and biodegradability with the enhanced mechanical strength and customizable properties of polymers and functional additives. This review presents a detailed investigation of the design principles, classifications, and biomedical applications of biopolymeric composites, focusing on their capabilities to promote angiogenesis, exhibit antimicrobial activities, and facilitate controlled drug delivery. By overcoming the challenges of conventional wound dressings, such as inadequate exudate management, mechanical fragility, and cytotoxicity, these composites provide dynamic, stimuli-responsive platforms that can adapt to the wound microenvironment. This study further highlights innovative advances in nanoparticle-assisted reinforcement, fiber-based scaffolds, and multi-stimuli responsive smart delivery systems. Finally, the future perspective illustrates how the challenges related to long-term physiological stability, scalable manufacturing, and clinical implementation can be addressed. Overall, this article delivers a comprehensive framework for understanding the transformative impact of biopolymeric composites in next-generation wound care. Full article