Search Results (2,372)

Return-type cable suspension bridges transfer the main-cable force to the anchorage predominantly in the horizontal direction, which may induce coupled sliding–overturning instability of the anchorage–foundation system. This study examines the stability of return-type cable gravity anchorage using the composite anchorage of the Jixin Expressway Yellow River Three Gorges Bridge as the prototype. A 1:100 laboratory specimen was designed based on similarity theory and tested under incremental loading until failure. Four configurations were considered by combining two embedment ratios (1/4 and 1/2) with two base types (flat-base and shear-keyed). Horizontal displacement, overturning angle, interface contact stress, and foundation strain were monitored throughout loading. Because the return-type cable transmits a predominantly horizontal force, the anchorage–foundation contact stress exhibits pronounced asymmetry between the toe and heel regions, and this stress asymmetry governs the coupled sliding–overturning instability mode. The shallow flat-base case exhibited a distinct displacement and contact stress jump at high load levels, followed by rapid rotation, indicating slip–tilt coupled instability. Increasing embedment improved confinement and delayed the onset of nonlinear deformation, but the flat-base configuration still showed pronounced toe stress concentration. By contrast, the shear-keyed base mobilized cooperative bearing of the surrounding foundation, producing smoother stress–strain evolution and higher ultimate capacity. Moreover, the shear-keyed base mitigates the stress asymmetry at the anchorage–foundation interface, leading to a more symmetric distribution of contact pressure and improved overall stability. Three-dimensional finite-element simulations reproduced the measured trends in displacement, stress concentration near the toe, and strain development, providing independent verification. The results clarify the dominant instability mechanism of return-type cable gravity anchors and offer design implications for embedment depth and shear-keyed base detailing. Full article

Rapid sterility testing of radiopharmaceuticals is essential due to their short half-lives and strict safety requirements. Conventional culture-based methods require several days and are not compatible with clinical workflows. In this work, we present a proof-of-concept droplet-based microfluidic platform for rapid optical detection of bacterial contamination through optical extinction analysis of microdroplets. Monodisperse water-in-oil microdroplets were generated and optically interrogated using a fiber-based detection system. Calibration was first performed using 500 nm polystyrene nanoparticles to establish the relationship between particle concentration and optical extinction. Subsequently, Staphylococcus aureus suspensions were analyzed under aerobic and anaerobic conditions at concentrations ranging from 0 to 230 CFU/mL. The system demonstrated reliable detection of bacterial contamination with estimated limits of detection of ~15 CFU/mL (aerobic) and ~7.5 CFU/mL (anaerobic). The platform enables real-time, high-throughput analysis with minimal sample handling and reduced analysis time compared to conventional sterility tests. This study validates the feasibility of microdroplet-based optical detection as a rapid quality control strategy specifically suited for radiopharmaceutical production, where the short half-lives of common radiotracers impose strict time constraints incompatible with conventional 14-day culture-based sterility tests. The results provide a proof-of-concept foundation for future integration into automated sterility testing workflows, with further validation on real radiopharmaceutical matrices planned as the next step. Full article

Over the past decades, global plastic demand has steadily increased due to the favorable physicochemical properties of these materials, including low weight, durability, versatility, and low production cost. Among synthetic polymers, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is one of the most widely produced, accounting for approximately 10% of global polymer production. Suspension polymerization is commonly used for its manufacture because of its high productivity and suitable operational control; however, this process is associated with considerable energy consumption and emissions with potential environmental impacts. In this work, the Waste Reduction (WAR) Algorithm was applied to evaluate the environmental performance of a PVC production process with mass integration and direct water recycling. The Potential Environmental Impact (PEI) was quantified under four scenarios, considering both generation and output rates, as well as different fuel sources. The results showed that the environmental performance of the system strongly depends on the selected system boundaries and on the incorporation of energy-related effects. Under the gate-to-gate scope considered, some scenarios exhibited negative net PEI generation values, indicating that the PEI associated with the outlet streams was lower than that of the inlet streams within the modeled system. However, when energy consumption was included, it became the main contributor to total PEI, reaching 2560 and 3070 PEI/day in Cases 3 and 4, respectively. The toxicological assessment showed that ATP was the only category with positive PEI generation, while natural gas presented the lowest potential environmental impact among the energy sources evaluated. Overall, the process showed comparatively favorable environmental performance within the assumptions and methodological boundaries of the WAR analysis. Full article

Graphene possesses exceptional mechanical strength, high electrical conductivity, and a stable lattice structure, making it an ideal material for sensors in advanced manufacturing. However, these sensors face stability challenges due to complex electromagnetic interference (EMI) environments generated by electrical equipment. Therefore, investigating the influence of EMI on sensor performance is of significant importance. In this study, simulations were performed to analyze electrical parameter perturbations of intrinsic graphene films under EMI conditions. The Magnetic Fields, Solid Mechanics, and Electrostatics modules in COMSOL Multiphysics were employed to construct a coupled model of a three-phase power transformer and a graphene-based pressure sensor. The results indicate that EMI can induce baseline drift on the order of ~5% full scale (FS) in the graphene current density, accompanied by degradation in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) exceeding ~15 dB under typical simulation conditions. Graphene in direct contact with metal electrodes shows enhanced sensitivity to EMI, with more pronounced noise amplification due to interfacial coupling effects. In contrast, cavity-suspended graphene configurations exhibit relatively improved robustness, suggesting that suspended membrane architectures can mitigate EMI by reducing parasitic coupling and enhancing mechanical isolation. Compared with previous studies, this work highlights the role of multiphysics coupling and membrane suspension in influencing EMI-induced perturbations, providing theoretical guidance for the design of graphene-based sensors in power system and industrial Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Full article

The dynamic performance of medium- and low-speed maglev vehicle–track coupling systems, as well as the dynamic response of the vehicle body and suspension frame under suspension electromagnet failure, is of great significance for the safe operation of maglev tracks. Based on vehicle–track coupling dynamics theory, and considering the spatial dynamic magnetic rail relationship in combination with the suspension control system, a dynamic vehicle–track model incorporating suspension electromagnet failure is established. The effect of such failures on electromagnet suspension force and overall vehicle performance are analyzed. The results indicate that the theoretically calculated electromagnetic force differs significantly from the actual force. Under four electromagnet operating conditions, lateral displacement has the greatest influence on suspension force. By considering the magnetic saturation of ferromagnetic materials and the leakage effect of suspension gaps, a spatial dynamic magnetic orbit relationship is established. A single-pole suspension electromagnet fault has little effect on overall vehicle performance. When the suspension electromagnet on one side fails, the suspension frame tilts toward that side and is supported and operated by a sled. When three suspension points fail, the entire suspension frame loses its suspension state and operates fully under sled support. When a suspension frame electromagnet becomes stuck, severe fluctuations in suspension force and vehicle vibration acceleration occur. These fluctuations increase with vehicle operating speed, seriously endangering operational performance. The findings provide a fundamental theoretical basis for the safe operation and maintenance of medium- and low-speed maglev vehicles under fault conditions. Full article

Soil salinity is a major abiotic stressor that constrains plant growth and development, yet the coordinated regulatory mechanisms underlying salt stress impacts on plant cell mechanical properties and the cytoskeleton remain elusive. In this study, tobacco suspension cells were employed as a model system. Combining mechanical measurements, fluorescence microscopy imaging, and bright-field morphological observation, we systematically characterized the dynamic response patterns of cell-generated surface stress (ΔS), cell viscoelastic index (CVI), microfilament cytoskeleton structure, as well as cell morphology and plasmolysis under NaCl stress ranging from 50 to 150 mmol/L. The results revealed three distinct response thresholds: 50 mmol/L NaCl treatment induced only transient ΔS fluctuations and mild plasmolysis, with no significant changes in CVI or microfilament fluorescence intensity, suggesting a safe tolerance threshold. The 75–100 mmol/L NaCl treatments triggered reversible “rise–recovery” mechanical responses in ΔS and CVI. The microfilament cytoskeleton showed minor structural adjustments, and plasmolysis increased gradually but remained reversible, defining this range as a reversible acclimation phase. The 125–150 mmol/L NaCl treatment caused an irreversible decline in ΔS (with a sharp instantaneous drop at 150 mmol/L). CVI variations diminished and stabilized after 6 h. The microfilament cytoskeleton suffered progressive disruption, as fluorescence intensity dropped to 1% of the control group at 150 mmol/L, accompanied by severe plasmolysis and protoplast shrinkage, indicating irreversible cellular damage. These findings demonstrate a concentration-dependent gradient effect of NaCl stress, highlighting tight coordination between mechanical properties, cytoskeletal integrity, and morphological adaptation. This work provides critical cytological insights into the molecular regulation of plant salt stress responses. Full article

This work presents a comparative study of micro- and nano-scale fillers in liquid composite molding processes, focusing on how particle size and morphology affect resin rheology, flow behavior, and filler filtration within fiber preforms. Glass microspheres and organo-modified montmorillonite were dispersed in epoxy resin and injected through glass-mat preforms at different fiber volume fractions (ranging from 0.27 to 0.47). Our study integrates rheological characterization, in situ flow-front tracking, unsaturated permeability analysis, thermogravimetric quantification of retained particles, and microstructural observations by SEM. Despite their smaller loading, nanoclay suspensions showed a markedly higher viscosity increase than microsphere systems, yet their permeability remained nearly unchanged. In contrast, microsphere-filled resins exhibited strong filtration at the flow inlet, density-driven settling near the lower tool face, and significant permeability loss. The results demonstrate that nano-fillers, although more viscous, maintain homogeneous distribution and flow continuity, whereas micro-fillers promote cake formation and local compaction. This controlled side-by-side comparison clarifies how filler size and shape govern filtration mechanisms in liquid composite molding (LCM), providing design guidelines for processing filled resin systems without compromising part quality. Full article

Bacillus and Paenibacillus species are common and widely distributed microorganisms in food systems, often implicated in food spoilage and quality issues. Bacillus subtilis, in particular, has been associated with gas production and package bulging in seasoned foods. In this study, we developed a rapid and visual detection method for Bacillus subtilis by integrating (Recombinase Polymerase Amplification) RPA with (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) CRISPR/Cas12a technology (designated as RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a). Specific RPA primers and probes were designed based on the conserved gyrB gene of Bacillus subtilis. Two sets of crRNA were designed according to the number of T-rich PAM sites on the RPA-amplified target sequence, and the reaction conditions were optimized in combination with the CRISPR/Cas12a trans-cleavage detection technology. Under optimized conditions, the crRNA3 guide (with a TT-rich PAM site) demonstrated superior cleavage efficiency compared to crRNA2 (TTT-rich PAM), while crRNA1 (TTTT-rich PAM) showed no activity. The assay achieved a detection limit of 150 pg/μL for genomic DNA and 5.5 CFU/mL for bacterial suspensions within 10 min at 37 °C. The method exhibited high specificity and sensitivity, providing a robust tool for early and on-site detection of Bacillus subtilis in food products. Full article

This paper presents an iterative graph-analytical procedure for determining the roll center height, one of the most critical design parameters influencing vehicle dynamic behavior during cornering. The conventional approaches generally determine roll center locations from suspension kinematics and then evaluate vehicle behavior using multibody or numerical vehicle dynamics models. By contrast, the proposed method is intended for the preliminary design stage and provides a direct correlation between front and rear target roll center heights using tire test data, load transfer and axle-level equilibrium conditions. The main advantage of the method is that it helps define a feasible design space before detailed geometry optimization or MBD validation is performed. The objective is to achieve stable and neutral handling (avoiding intrinsic understeer or oversteer tendencies) during steady-state cornering at a predefined target lateral acceleration. The methodology integrates (i) lateral force equilibrium at the axle level, (ii) a dynamic load transfer model based on axle roll stiffness and roll center heights, and (iii) experimental tire grip characteristics (lateral force–slip angle curves under varying vertical loads), processed through numerical interpolation. The procedure is demonstrated using a vehicle model with specific geometric and mass parameters. The results indicate that the methodology does not yield a single unique solution, but rather a set of correlated roll center heights, allowing the designer to select the most feasible geometric configuration while maintaining neutral handling. As an example, the paper presents a convergent solution for the front and rear roll center heights that satisfy neutrality conditions at a slip angle of approximately 4°. This study provides a fundamental framework for the geometric design of suspension systems and serves as a basis for subsequent numerical and experimental validation. Full article

High-intensity conditioning (HIC) is a common pretreatment process for enhancing the flotation of fine-grained minerals. This study introduces fractal theory into the structural design of pulp conditioning impellers. A fractal blade with multi-scale fractal edge features was proposed, and its separation performance was evaluated in a fine-grained malachite (−20 μm) and quartz flotation system. Computational fluid dynamics simulation revealed that the fractal blade altered the energy dissipation pattern. Compared with conventional rectangular blades, it induced stronger fluid compression and collision effects in localized regions. These hydrodynamic changes improved the suspension homogeneity and dispersion efficiency of fine-grained malachite. Furthermore, the fractal blade reduced the scale of turbulent vortices while increasing local turbulent kinetic energy and shear rates. This optimized turbulent flow field effectively reduced mass-transfer resistance and promoted interfacial interactions between flotation reagents and mineral particles. Adsorption experiments and optical microscopy indicated that after conditioning at 1500 rpm for 3 min, the fractal blade increased sodium oleate adsorption on malachite compared to the conventional blade. This enhanced adsorption promoted the aggregation of fine-grained malachite, increasing its aggregate size by 15.52%, while no significant aggregation was observed for quartz particles. Consequently, the single mineral flotation recovery of fine-grained malachite increased by 4.13%. For artificial mixed minerals, the copper concentrate grade and recovery were improved by 2.28% and 1.04%, respectively. This study provides a theoretical basis for equipment optimization and structural innovation design in HIC processes. Full article

Liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PH) is critically influenced by redox balance, which may be severely disrupted under drug-induced liver injury. This study evaluated oxidative stress parameters and inflammatory markers in rats subjected to 70% PH following acetaminophen (APAP)-induced toxicity and assessed the preventive effect of the microalga Desmodesmus armatus. Reactive oxygen species (superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical, and hydrogen peroxide), antioxidant enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase), serum aminotransferases, bilirubin, and C-reactive protein were analyzed 0–168 h post-hepatectomy. APAP intoxication markedly increased mitochondrial ROS production, suppressed mitochondrial antioxidant enzyme activity, and prolonged elevations of ALT, AST, bilirubin, and CRP, accompanied by severe histological damage. Preventive administration of D. armatus suspension (10 mL/kg body weight at 1.5 × 10⁶ and 1.5 × 10⁷ cells/mL) attenuated oxidative stress in a dose-dependent manner. It significantly reduced ROS levels, restored mitochondrial antioxidant defenses, decreased cytolytic and cholestatic markers, and mitigated systemic inflammation. Overall, D. armatus exhibited hepatoprotective and redox-modulating properties, which may contribute to a more favorable microenvironment for liver recovery under toxic conditions. These findings highlight the potential of microalgae-based interventions as supportive strategies for reducing liver injury and improving recovery following acute liver injury. Full article

To address the pronounced self-aggregation of highly loaded silica in the aqueous phase and the substantial filler loss occurring during the flocculation stage of latex compounding, this study introduces disaggregated and activated sepiolite possessing a spatial confinement effect as both a suspension stabilizer and a synergistic reinforcing component. On this basis, a multiscale natural rubber (NR)/silica/sepiolite composite system was constructed via a latex compounding route. Rheological characterization combined with static sedimentation observations revealed that the percolation threshold of the sepiolite is approximately 0.8 wt%. When the sepiolite content exceeds 1.0 wt%, its fibrous morphology enables the formation of a continuous three-dimensional network, which physically constrains silica particles and effectively suppresses their sedimentation and self-aggregation in the aqueous medium. Guided by this percolation behavior, a stable silica/sepiolite hybrid slurry was subsequently wet-mixed with natural rubber latex, and the influence of sepiolite loading on silica retention during flocculation, as well as on the resulting composite properties, was systematically examined. The results demonstrate that incorporation of sepiolite reduces filler loss during flocculation, with the loss rate decreasing from 4.7% to 1.1%. The Payne effect, SEM, dynamic and static mechanical analyses indicate that an appropriate sepiolite dosage promotes dispersion of silica within the rubber matrix while simultaneously strengthening filler–rubber interfacial interactions. Accordingly, tensile and tear strengths are increased from 32.1 to 35.5 MPa and from 92.3 to 133.4 N·mm⁻¹, respectively, while wet skid resistance is preserved and both rolling resistance and wear resistance are further improved. The findings of this work establish a practical and efficient strategy for the wet preparation of high-performance NR/silica composites. Full article

Surface-modified waste scallop shells were investigated as a solid flocculant for removing suspended particles, and a light transmission method was examined as a simple approach for evaluating flocculation behavior. Kaolin suspensions (3, 5, 10 g/L, pH 6.95–7.05) were used as model wastewater. Temporal changes in transmitted light intensity were monitored using a white LED–sensor optical system after agitation of the suspension was stopped. The transmitted light intensity, I, was normalized by the intensity measured for particle-free water (I₀), and an optical extinction index, A = −log₁₀(I/I₀), was used to describe the attenuation of light in the suspension. An apparent clarification rate (rate of change in optical extinction), v, was defined from the initial decrease in the optical extinction index and used as an operational kinetic parameter for comparing flocculation behavior under identical conditions. The results showed that the surface-modified scallop shell particles exhibited measurable flocculation activity toward kaolin suspensions, although the performance was lower than that of commercial polymer flocculants. The optical transmission method enabled continuous monitoring of the flocculation process and provided a practical index for comparing the flocculation performance of different materials. Full article

This paper presents a simulation-based methodology for automated tuning of a triple-loop controller (steering, throttle, and braking) for a Dallara single-seater race car. The approach targets on-track driving at handling limits, where strong nonlinearities and coupled dynamics dominate, treating the vehicle as a black box. Five controller gains are optimized via derivative-free pattern search, using reference trajectories from a professional driver in a Driver-in-the-Loop (DiL) simulator. Human-likeness is promoted by penalty terms on state and control trajectories while maximizing distance over a fixed horizon as a proxy for lap-time reduction. The application uses a high-fidelity multibody vehicle model with realistic tire, suspension, and actuator dynamics in the DiL environment, rather than simplified single-track representations. Contributions are: (i) effective application of derivative-free optimization to complex, high-dimensional, black-box vehicle systems; and (ii) a systematic, reproducible procedure for automatic tuning of controller parameters with a predetermined architecture to reproduce a professional driver’s performance and embed human-likeness. Optimization required approximately 2.4 h. Results show that the optimized controller improves track coverage by 63.6 m (1.1% increase) compared to manual tuning while maintaining a realistic driving style, offering a more systematic and reliable solution than manual, trial-and-error calibration. Full article

Ground-vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers must shorten development cycles to remain competitive. This paper presents a novel design framework that accelerates the traditional V-model development lifecycle by enabling digital twins and hardware-in-the-loop testing. As a case study, the design of active suspension actuators to address comfort shortfalls that hinder automated driving has been selected. A hybrid suspension architecture combining a continuously controlled hydraulic damper with an auxiliary electromechanical actuator has been proposed. The hybrid system achieves lower energy consumption than purely electromechanical suspensions while overcoming the bandwidth limitations of conventional hydraulic active suspensions. Control is implemented using the Triple Skyhook algorithm and benchmarked against a baseline strategy. Results demonstrate that the proposed framework accelerates actuator design iteration and that the proposed suspension delivers superior performance with improved efficiency and bandwidth. Full article