Composite Technique Research Articles

Restoring with flowables: An injection moulding technique – A report of two cases

This case report showcases the conservative management of aesthetic anterior restorations for patients seeking to enhance their smiles using the highly filled flowable composite resin injectable moulding technique. This efficient method resulted in optimal, aesthetically pleasing outcomes, leading to high patient and dentist satisfaction. Direct veneers made from injectable flowable resin composites provide a minimally invasive treatment option, given that the case selection criteria are appropriately followed. Furthermore, this approach can be viewed as a more cost-effective alternative. However, additional follow-ups are essential to thoroughly assess the clinical longevity of both the restorations and the materials utilised.

History and Evolution of the Folk Tale Genre Through the Prism of Reflection of the World of the People

A fairy tale, as one of the folklore genres, is a traditionally orally transmitted work of an artistic nature. She is influenced by a general oral-poetic character, which will determine the collectiv of the author's beginning, the traditionality of the artistic components of the narrative, the typification of all the characters represented in the dynamics of action, and not the dynamics of the psychological development of the image. The «setting on fiction», which is realized in the fantastic elements of the narrative and the displacement of the image plan to the unreal, became specific to the genre itself; the individual inclusion of the author-creator in the selection of those compositional and artistic techniques and methods that are personally sympathetic to him. The amount of fiction in fairy tales depends on the degree of remoteness from reality, which leads to genre differentiation into fairy tales, household and tales of animals. The article proceeds from the fact that the problem of reflecting the popular understanding of the surrounding world in a folk tale still exists in literary studies, and also requires a comprehensive interpretation of textual material. The aspect of social life is reflected in household tales, demonstrating the views of the people on class stratification. The plots are based on the extreme sharpening of conflict situations, exposing the parasitism of the clergy, the exploitative attitude of the nobility in generalized images. In the second type, there are intersperses of household traditions, wedding customs, as well as relationships within the patriarchal family and contradictions in it. Based on the fact that the history of the appearance of fairy tales as a folklore genre originates from mythological views of the world, it becomes possible to create tales of animals. They bear historical evidence of the prevailing totemic and the further decline of mythological consciousness, which reduces the sacred image to an allegorical representation of human character. The fairy tale captures the reinterpretation of rituals unnatural to the folk worldview, reveals the idea of dividing reality into the afterlife and the world of the living.

Microgreens: A Comprehensive Review Emphasizing Urban Agriculture

In this comprehensive review, we delve into the multifaceted world of nutrient-rich microgreens, with a particular emphasis on their significance in urban agriculture. By exploring their nutritional composition, culinary applications and cultivation techniques, we aim to shed light on the transformative potential of microgreens in promoting sustainable urban food systems. Through an interdisciplinary lens encompassing agronomy, nutrition and urban planning, we uncover the myriad benefits of microgreens cultivation and highlight the critical role they play in shaping the future of urban agriculture.

Recycling Through Comminution: Characterization, Separation and Recycling Barriers of Metal Coated Polymers and Metallized Polymer Foams

The increasing global demand for raw materials underscores the importance of lightweight construction and sustainable material use, drawing attention to composite techniques like galvanic coating of plastics. To support recycling efforts, the development of efficient separation and material recovery processes is critical, particularly for end-of-life products containing metal-plated polymers. This study investigates the recyclability of metallized polymer foams and coated polymers through comminution, focusing on the potential for effective separation of metal and polymer components. Cu-ABS samples showed 27% of the products in the 8–10 mm fraction and 48% in the 10–16 mm fraction during primary comminution, while Cu-PUR achieved a more even distribution. Microscopic analyses revealed decoating rates of up to 95% for Cu-ABS compared to 19% for Cu-PUR. The comminution energy required for Cu-PUR was three times higher, with a fivefold lower decoating rate than solid materials. Particles larger than 200 µm exhibited interlocking, complicating the separation process. These findings highlight the need for optimized recycling processes to enable efficient raw material recovery and support a circular economy.

Analyzing AI composition techniques and their influence on human musical aesthetics using bi-GRU and self-attention models

With the continuous development of artificial intelligence technology, this study aims to explore the application of artificial intelligence in human aesthetics. By processing the signal in sub frames and using short-time Fourier transform to analyze the position information of beat points, the start and key musical features of notes can be accurately detected. Based on the extracted music features, a Bi GRU network and self-attention mechanism automatic composition model are established to process important information between longer sequence predictions and prominent notes, and to evaluate the accuracy and vividness of AI composed music works. The results showed that the model achieved an accuracy of 94.28% in processing melody and rhythm data. Excellent performance in terms of music fluency and coordination, with high scores in human music aesthetics indicators, reaching a pitch score of 92, and classical style scores of 90 and 92 in melody and integrity. Artificial intelligence has to some extent influenced and shaped human music aesthetics, providing important evidence for understanding its impact on music creation.

A Novel Methodology for Blockchain Traceable Food Supply Chain Based on the Composite Control Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System Technique

A Novel Methodology for Blockchain Traceable Food Supply Chain Based on the Composite Control Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System Technique

Closing the Loop in the Carbon Cycle: Enzymatic Reactions Housed in Metal-Organic Frameworks for CO2 Conversion to Methanol.

The preparation of value-added chemicals from carbon dioxide (CO2) can act as a way of reducing the greenhouse gas from the atmosphere. Industrially significant C1 chemicals like methanol (CH3OH), formic acid (HCOOH), and formaldehyde (HCHO) can be formed from CO2. One sustainable way of achieving this is by connecting the reactions catalyzed by the enzymes formate dehydrogenase (FDH), formaldehyde dehydrogenase (FALDH), and alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) into a single cascade reaction where CO2 is hydrogenated to CH3OH. For this to be adaptable for industrial use, the enzymes should be immobilized in materials that are extraordinarily protective of the enzymes, inexpensive, stable, and of ultra-large surface area. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) meet these criteria and are expected to usher in the much-awaited dispensation of industrial biocatalysis. Unfortunately, little is known about the molecular behaviour of MOF-immobilized FDH, FALDH, and ADH. It is also yet not known which MOFs are most promising for industrial enzyme-immobilization since the field of reticular chemistry is growing exponentially with millions of hypothetical and synthesized MOF structures reported at present. This review initially discusses the properties of the key enzymes required for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol including available cofactor regeneration strategies. Later, the characterization techniques of enzyme-MOF composites and the successes or lack thereof of enzyme-MOF-mediated CO2 conversion to CH3OH and intermediate products are discussed. We also discuss reported multi-enzyme-MOF systems for CO2 conversion cognizant of the fact that at present, these systems are the only chance of housing cascade-type biochemical reactions where strict substrate channelling and operational conditions are required. Finally, we delve into future perspectives.

Evaluation of Clear Aligner Attachments Bonded to Lithium Disilicate Ceramic Prepared with Different Surface Roughening Methods: An In Vitro Study.

This study aims to assess the effects of surface conditioning and different composite types on the surface roughness (SR) and shear bond strength (SBS) between lithium disilicate and clear aligner composite attachments. Eighty ivoclar vivadent pressable (IPS) e.max press specimens were randomly allocated into four groups (n = 20) based on the surface treatment method employed. Group I: Used sandblasting with 50 μm Al2O3 slurry particles; group II: Used 9.5% hydrofluoric acid (HFA); group III: Used 37% phosphoric acid (PhA); and group IV: Used an Er,Cr:YSGG laser. Surface roughness was measured using a stylus profilometer. For SBS, each group was split into two subgroups based on the composite type (n = 10): FiltekTM Z350 supreme ultra flowable and FiltekTM Z350. The evaluation of SBS was conducted using Instron universal testing equipment. The results indicated that the sandblasting group gave the highest mean surface roughness, while the 37% PhA group showed the lowest recorded value. In addition, the HFA group had the highest mean SBS, while the 37% PhA group demonstrated the lowest SBS. The interaction of HFA and FiltekTM Z350 demonstrated the highest SBS, followed by sandblasting and FiltekTM Z350. The current study may guide orthodontists to choose the appropriate composite material and conditioning technique to achieve a strong SBS between clear aligner composite attachments and lithium disilicate ceramic. How to cite this article: Fayyadh AM, Elbialy MA, Tawfik MA. Evaluation of Clear Aligner Attachments Bonded to Lithium Disilicate Ceramic Prepared with Different Surface Roughening Methods: An In Vitro Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(8):766-771.

Simplified Composite Restorations for Fractured Young Incisors: A Clinical Review.

Tooth fractures are a common consequence of dental trauma in young patients, requiring prompt and effective restorative interventions that ensure both functional integrity and esthetic appeal. Although resin stratification (layering) is the gold standard for achieving life-like restoration of fractured teeth, many clinicians find it technically challenging due to the time and effort required for precise shade matching, concealing the fracture line, and accurate placement of resin composite layers with different levels of opacity. The more recent generation of monoshade composites, with their ability to adapt to various tooth shades, reduce the complexity of multi-layer restorations, and improve chairside efficiency. Additionally, the composite cutback technique has gained attention as an effective method for restoring fractured teeth in young patients. This method combines the benefits of monoshade composites and the precision of simple additional layering to enhance both the esthetic and functional outcomes of the restorations. This mini-review provides a comprehensive analysis of the composite cutback technique, the role of monoshade composites, and their clinical application in the restoration of fractured young teeth.

Subsurface Weave Pattern Influences on Polymer Cold Spray Deposits onto Woven Fiber-Reinforced Composites

AbstractThe polymer cold spray (CS) process has recently been demonstrated as a promising coating and repair technique for fiber-reinforced polymer composites (FRPs). However, a noticeable variation in coating thickness (herein referred to as checkerboard pattern) often occurs in the initial pass of low-pressure CS deposition. The checkerboard pattern occurs due to the periodic variations in matrix thickness and volume above the subsurface fiber weave pattern. When the initial pass exhibits the so-called checkerboard pattern, the CS deposition for subsequent passes may be negatively affected in terms of deposition efficiency, porosity, adhesion, surface roughness, and thickness consistency. The present work compares results of both numerical simulations and experimental studies performed to reveal the governing mechanisms for and elimination of checkerboarding. Single particle impact numerical simulations are conducted to observe thermomechanical behavior of particles during CS impact on the FRP surface at different regions of the composite material. Complementary experimental CS studies of exemplar powders onto FRPs with various surface interlayer thicknesses are also presented and discussed. Experimental analyses of deposits include microstructural observations to compare against the simulations while also providing practical strategies for the elimination of checkerboarding effects. It is demonstrated that the thickness and volume of the matrix region underneath the impact area are the main contributing factors that govern the CS deposition variations on CFRP substrates. As such, increasing the surface epoxy layer thickness beyond a critical value can reduce the effect of substrate stiffness effects imposed by the subsurface fiber tows, thereby effectively eliminating the checkerboard patterns.

Study on the Effect of SBS/HVA/CRM Composite-Modified Asphalt on the Performance of Recycled Asphalt Mixtures.

To investigate the feasibility of composite modification techniques in improving the performance of recycled asphalt mixtures, in this study, the high-viscosity agent (HVA) and crumb-rubber materials (CRM) were used to modify asphalt with a styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer (SBS), in order to prepare SBS-HVA and SBS-CRM composite-modified asphalts. The virgin asphalt mixtures, as well as three asphalt types of recycled asphalt mixtures with 50% reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) content, were designed. The optimal asphalt content of the four types of asphalt mixtures was analyzed, and the rutting test, the asphalt bond strength test, the moisture-induced sensitivity test, and the low-temperature cracking resistance test were conducted to investigate the performance of the four types of asphalt mixtures. The results showed that the higher the asphalt kinematic viscosity, the higher the optimum asphalt content of the asphalt mixtures under the same air voids. HVA significantly improves the adhesion between SBS-modified asphalt and aggregate under dry conditions, while SBS-CRM composite-modified asphalt performs similarly to SBS-modified asphalt. Before and after water immersion, the degree of pull-out strength decay between the asphalts and aggregates follows the sequence of SBS-CRM- > SBS- > SBS-HVA-modified asphalts. Additionally, the residual pull-out work follows the sequence of SBS-HVA- > SBS-CRM- > SBS-modified asphalt. SBS-CRM composite-modified asphalt can significantly improve the moisture sensitivity of recycled asphalt mixtures, as well as low-temperature cracking resistance, while SBS-CRM composite-modified asphalt only improves the low-temperature cracking resistance of recycled asphalt mixtures, and does not improve the moisture sensitivity. Based on the results, it is recommended to select the appropriate composite modification method based on the climate and loading conditions, to maximize the value of asphalt, and to achieve sustainable and durable pavement.

Architecture of new generation research institutions under reconstruction conditions

In the article, the authors focus on key methods and approaches that ensure optimal organization of space for scientific and research work. This contributes to achieving versatility, flexibility and the ability to transform the internal environment. Modern compositional techniques for the architectural transformation of objects of the type under consideration and methods of their application at various levels of architectural formation and development have been studied. The main criteria for the architectural and spatial formation of new generation research institutions have been identified, thanks to which an architectural ensemble is formed, the concept of spatial organization, the creation of a unified compositional structure, the organization of recognizable architecture. The basic principles and features that form the nature of sustainability, visual perception, and create a spatial structure of perception have been identified.

Analysis of Football Pitch Performances Based on Different Cutting Systems: From Visual Evaluation to YOLOv8

The quality of sports facilities, especially football pitches, has gained significant attention due to the growing importance of sports globally. This study examines the effect of two different cutting systems, a traditional ride-on mower and an autonomous mower, on the quality and functional parameters of a municipal football field. The analysis includes visual assessments, measurements of grass height, and evaluations of surface hardness, comparing the performance of the two cutting systems. Additionally, studies of turfgrass composition and machine learning techniques, particularly with YOLOv8s and YOLOv8n, are conducted to test the capability of assessing weed and turfgrass species distribution. The results indicate significant differences in grass color based on the position (5.36 in the corners and 3.69 in the central area) and surface hardness between areas managed with a traditional ride-on mower (15.25 Gmax) and an autonomous mower (10.15 Gmax) in the central region. Higher height values are recorded in the area managed with the ride-on mower (2.94 cm) than with the autonomous mower (2.61 cm). Weed presence varies significantly between the two cutting systems, with the autonomous mower demonstrating higher weed coverage in the corners (17.5%). Higher overall performance metrics were obtained through YOLOv8s. This study underscores the importance of innovative management practices and monitoring techniques in optimizing the quality and playability of a football field while minimizing environmental impact and management efforts.

In Situ Synthesis of NPC-Cu2O/CuO/rGO Composite via Dealloying and Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Technique

The nanoporous copper (NPC)-copper oxides (Cu2O/CuO)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite structure was synthesized by combining the dealloying process of Cu48Zr47Al5 amorphous ribbons with a microwave-assisted hydrothermal technique at a temperature of 200 °C. The main advantage of the microwave-assisted hydrothermal process is the oxidation of nanoporous copper together with the in situ reduction of graphene oxide to form rGO. The integration of rGO with NPC improves electrical conductivity and streamlines the process of electron transfer. This composite exhibit considerable potential in electrochemical catalysis application, due to the combined catalytic activity of NPC and the chemical reactivity of rGO. Our study relates the transition to n-type rGO in microwave-assisted hydrothermal reactions, and also the development of an electrode material suitable for electrochemical applications based on the p-p-n junction NPC-Cu2O/CuO/rGO heterostructure. To confirm the formation of the composite structure, structural, morphological, and optical techniques as XRD, SEM/EDX, UV-Vis and Raman spectroscopy were used. The composite’s electrochemical properties were measured by EIS and Mott-Schottky analyses, showing a charge transfer resistance (Rp) of 250 Ω and indicating the type of the semiconductor properties. The calculated carrier densities of 4.2 × 1018 cm−3 confirms n-type semiconductor characteristic for rGO, and 7.22 × 1018 cm−3 for Cu2O/CuO indicating p-type characteristic.

Structure-preserving exponential time differencing methods for modeling Josephson Junctions

Explicit, conformal symplectic, exponential time differencing (ETD) methods have numerous advantages over other well-known and commonly used methods, including structure-preservation, high stability, ease of implementation, and computational efficiency. Such methods are constructed with second and fourth order accuracy through composition techniques using a simple first order scheme. For modeling Josephson Junctions, these ETD schemes regularly exhibit the best balance of efficiency and accuracy when compared to other commonly used methods.

Failure modes and non-destructive testing techniques for fiber-reinforced polymer composites

Prognostics and health management (PHM) is an enabling technology essential for the safe operation and conditional maintenance of any engineering system. Over the past two decades, the use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites has increased to develop high-strength, lightweight, and durable composite structures. PHM technology has been widely adopted in the composites industry to address challenges such as damage detection, localization, remaining useful life (RUL) prediction, and maintenance scheduling. However, implementing PHM technologies for FRPs necessitates a thorough understanding of their failure modes and the non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques commonly used to assess their health condition. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive discussion on the failure modes of FRP composites based on practical loading conditions, examines several NDT techniques employed on FRP composites, detailing their advantages and limitations, and highlights the current challenges while providing future directions for the use of NDT techniques in PHM of composite structures. Thus, the review aids practitioners, the scientific community, and new researchers in understanding the failure modes of FRP composites and exploring recent advancements in NDT techniques to address the current challenges and limitations in PHM of composite structures.

Residual stress release and corresponding microstructural changes in high-energy impact-modified GH4169 after aging at 425 °C and 650 °C

The nickel-based superalloy is a critical material in aero-engines, where enhanced durability and resistance to stress relaxation are essential. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a high-energy composite modification technique, applied through dual surface friction methods, to induce residual stress and examines the stability of this stress under medium-temperature aging conditions. GH4169 was selected and a foundational study was conducted to quantify residual stress relaxation under medium-temperature aging treatment. The surface strengthening method used was a high-energy composite modification known for its significant post-treatment effects. The specific temperatures for medium-temperature aging treatment were 425 °C and 650 °C. The test results of the residual stress field confirmed the phenomenon of residual stress relaxation under the influence of temperature. Correspondingly, the different degrees of stress relaxation caused by varying aging treatment conditions are closely related to the microstructural changes within the material. Areas with a higher number of annealing twins exhibited a more pronounced degree of residual stress relaxation. By elucidating the link between stress relaxation and microstructural changes, this research offers a theoretical foundation for optimizing surface-strengthening processes and setting optimal operational temperatures for advanced structural materials.

DECORATIVE PAINTING AS A MEANS OF TRANSLATING CULTURAL SEMANTIC NARRATIVE

Purpose. The research involves analyzing folk decorative painting and transferring its most typical compositional techniques and characteristics into souvenir items. Methodology. To achieve the research goal, a comprehensive approach was employed, utilizing general scientific methods of literature analysis and visual examination of historical materials and contemporary souvenir products. Results. During the research, the features of decorative painting, its techniques, and methods were studied; the morphological components of decorative painting and the ways of interpreting its elements were analyzed. Scientific novelty. The study highlights the cultural and historical significance of decorative painting in the design of souvenir products. A comparative analysis of various types of decorative painting has been conducted and systematized; the compositional elements employed in the creation of souvenir product designs have been analyzed. Practical significance. The research focuses on assessing the feasibility of incorporating elements of decorative painting into souvenir product design and highlights the issue of transmitting semantic narratives that contribute to enhancing the cultural value and aesthetic appeal of contemporary souvenir items.

The Composition and Performance Analysis of Spring Nostalgia by Huang Tzu

“Spring Nostalgia” is a classic piece among Huang Tzu’s art songs. The refined lyrics and beautiful melody demonstrate Huang Tzu’s skillful integration of Western compositional techniques with elements of traditional Chinese music. This paper analyzes the song’s lyrical imagery, musical form structure, and piano accompaniment. Additionally, it compares the live performance by Liao Changyong, baritone singer, with the studio recording by Dilber Yunus, soprano singer, offering insights for singers to perform the piece better.

Longitudinal latent overall toxicity (LOTox) profiles in osteosarcoma: a new taxonomy based on latent Markov models

Due to the presence of multiple types of adverse events (AEs) with different levels of severity, the analysis of longitudinal toxicity data is a difficult task in cancer research. The current literature primarily relies on descriptive-based methods and lacks models that can effectively quantify the overall toxic burden experienced by patients over treatment without losing details of the impact of each AE. In this work, a novel taxonomy based on latent Markov models and compositional data techniques is proposed to model the Latent Overall Toxicity (LOTox) condition of each patient over cycles of treatment. Starting from observed categories of severity of multiple toxicities, the goal is to delineate distinct LOTox conditions and retrieve patients’ probabilities of being in a specific condition at a given cycle, as well as their risk of experiencing “worse" overall toxicity statuses compared to a reference “good" toxic condition. The proposed approach is applied to longitudinal toxicity data from the MRC BO06/EORTC 80931 randomized controlled trial for patients with osteosarcoma. The population of interest includes 377 patients who had successfully completed the six-cycle treatment. Personal characteristics and observed information on six toxicities are used to infer the unobserved LOTox status over the six cycles of chemotherapy. Provided that longitudinal toxicity data are available, the developed procedure is a flexible approach that can be adapted and applied to other cancer studies.