Large Pieces Research Articles

Impact of microplastics pollution on human health and aquatic life: a review

AbstractMicroplastics are recognized as the toxic pollutant of global concern. They enter into the environment from different sources such as plastic pellets, cosmetic exfoliants and opacifiers etc. Large amounts of microplastics are generated in the environment by the disintegration of large pieces of plastic due to abrasion, UV irradiation, photo‐oxidation, hydrolysis and biodegradation. Exposure of plastic to UV light fragments it into micro‐ and nano‐sized (≤0.1 μm) particles. The most common form of microplastics includes films, foams, pellets, beads, fibres, spheres and fragments. Plastic particles larger than 25 mm, less than 5 mm, larger than 1 mm, and smaller than 1 nm to 1 mm respectively are defined as mega, meso, micro and nano plastics. polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropline and polyethylene terephthalate are the basic polymers found as microplastics. Microplastics accumulated in the oceans are mainly from terrestrial human activities such as industrial manufacturing, agriculture and municipal solid waste landfilling etc. Microplastics in the ocean are transferred via trophic transfer from one organism to another and hence can be a major danger to marine ecology. Microplastics enter into the body of aquatic organisms through daily metabolic activities like respiration, eating and drinking water. The exposure of microplastics in fauna causes certain metabolic disintegration such as tissue damage, oxidative stress and changes in the antioxidant properties and immune system in fish. Microplastics in fish result in neurotoxicity, growth retardation and behavioural abnormalities as well. By affecting the nutrient cycles and food webs, the phytoplankton and zooplankton, microplastics are the agents of threat to aquatic ecosystems. Exposure to microplastics presents increasing concerns for bioaccumulation, changes in eating behaviour and for lowering primary production. The abundance of microplastic exposure to the environment occurs via consumption, inhalation and skin contact. Humans may experience oxidative stress, cytotoxicity, neurotoxicity, immune system disruption and transfer of microplastics to other tissues after being exposed. Microplastics are known to generate reactive oxygen species in aquatic organisms which lead to damage to nucleic acids, lipids and proteins in organisms. Due to the complexity of size and composition, the identification of microplastics is still difficult and requires sophisticated detection techniques like Fourier transform IR, Raman spectroscopy and techniques integrated with artificial intelligence. Future studies must concentrate on mitigation techniques, standardised procedures and enhanced monitoring. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.

Influence of manufacturing process in pores, fibre distribution and mechanical properties of ASA-CF for 3D large format additive manufacturing pieces

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to evaluate parts manufactured by fused granular fabrication (FGF) using two different acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) compounds reinforced with carbon fiber (CF) and compared them with those produced by injection molding (IM).Design/methodology/approachThe difference in both ASA_CF composites is the mixing process, achieved using twin-screw extruders with different mixing shear rates. The porosity proportion and distribution, and the CF length and alignment, have been carefully quantified and compared using X-ray computerised tomography (CT). Also, the correlation with mechanical properties has been evaluated for FGF and for IM parts in both materials.FindingsReinforcement of polymeric matrices with different fibres is a common strategy to improve the mechanical properties of 3D printing pieces, especially relevant in FGF. The manufacturing process of these composites needs to be carefully designed to optimise the structural and mechanical characteristics of the material. CT analyses show that the use of higher shear mixing rates increases the amount of pores within the polymeric pellets and produces a smaller fibre size distribution in the composites, which negatively affects the mechanical performance of the final part.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time that a global study of the complete fabrication process has been carried out, providing detailed information of every step of the process.

Abstract 4586: Multi-scale multi-omic assessment of matched synchronous colorectal cancer liver metastases using multiple spatial transcriptomic tools

Abstract Background: Primary colorectal cancer (CRC) is manageable with surgical and non-surgical therapies. However, high affinity for distant spread to the liver (CRLM) and lack of subsequent therapeutic options has maintained CRC as one of the most lethal malignant diseases worldwide. Tumors consist of malignant cells as well as a complex micro-environment (TME) of stromal and immune components, all of which have been implicated in disease severity and treatment resistance. Spatial transcriptomics (ST) is novel technology which allows molecular profiling of tissue while preserving tissue architecture. By studying matched CRC and CRLM with modern ST tools which allow scrutiny of the malignant cells and TME we aim to learn more about mechanisms of metastasis and why CRLM are resistant to treatment. Methods: 41 patients (29 untreated) underwent synchronous resection of CRC and CRLM within our institution between April 2002 and June 2010 (64% 5 year mortality). Paired CRC and CRLM from 4 patients underwent single-cell ST assessment on the Nanostring CosMx Spatial Molecular Imager (23 fields of view (FOV)). Paired CRC and CRLM from 4 patients underwent regional ST assessment (PanCk+, PanCk-, aSMA+ comprtments) on the Nanostring GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler (116 FOV). Paired CRC and CRLM from 2 patients underwent regional ST assessment on the Visium 10X Genomics platform (4 FOV). Results/Conclusions: GeoMx offers entire slide visualization with bespoke and convenient FOV selection with reliable segmentation of TME components with whole transcriptome available. Visium 10X offers high resolution ST assessment of large pieces of tissue but slide preparation is difficult without specific tools. CosMx offers single-cell in-situ allowing the highest resolution with neighborhood and cellular interaction analysis possible but at lower plex and increased complexity. All technologies demonstrated differences between CRLM and their matched CRC. CRLM were generally more collagenous and chemokine rich. Furthermore, transcriptomic and morphological differences exist between CRLM from different patients. Specifically, CosMx demonstrated that epithelial cells and fibroblasts in CRC express MZTA compared to COL9A2, NEAT1 and IGF2 in CRLM. Neutrophils in CRLM under-express CXCL8. Desmoplastic CRLM were chemokine high whereas replacement CRLM over-expressed IGF2, DUSP5 and COL9A2. GeoMx identified MET and IL17 as potential drug targets in CRLM. These data suggest that CRLM evolve once metastasis is established and the immune response of the host to the metastasis is pivotal. Future therapeutic goals should emphasize personalized medicine and molecular staging of CRLM with specific targeted therapies. Citation Forpmat: Colin Wood, Luke McNickle, Andrew Cameron, Ritupam Sarma, Vaidehi Pandya, Joao Da Silva Filho, Colin steele, John Cole, Joanne Edwards, Paul Horgan, Campbell Roxburgh. Multi-scale multi-omic assessment of matched synchronous colorectal cancer liver metastases using multiple spatial transcriptomic tools [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 4586.

Behaviour of High-density Aluminium Briquette During Melting in Laboratory Conditions

The aluminium industry is one of the most energy-intensive industrial fields and is associated with severe environmental impact mainly due to GHG emissions. Aluminium recycling is one of the best ways to eliminate this impact and to achieve better economic viability of aluminium production. Piece size and contamination of aluminium scrap are two of the most important factors that affect recyclability of aluminium and its alloys. Scrap with large piece size is relatively easy to recycle because it is associated with lower metal loss and fewer undesired inclusions introduced into the molten metal during remelting. Unfortunately, a large portion of scrap generated by industrial sector and by end-users is of small piece size. Despite its high importance, recycling of these types of scrap is often overlooked by contemporary literature. The aim of this work is to describe melting behaviour of high-density aluminium briquette prepared from thin aluminium foils and to provide metallographic observation of inclusions introduced into the molten metal during melting of the briquette. Melting is performed in laboratory conditions. The inclusions are analysed using optical microscopy in combination with SEM and EDX analysis. The results indicates that despite fast immersion of aluminium briquette, high portion of oxide films were introduced into the melt. Carbide like particles were also observed in microstructure, probably as a result of burning of organic contamination of the briquette. However, melting process in real industrial conditions differs from laboratory experiment which is a topic for further study.

The Taxation of Virtual Currency and Does Recent Guidance Do Enough?

ABSTRACT This paper examines how virtual currency is taxed and examines whether recent guidance has done enough. Virtual currency taxation has been complex and confusing ever since virtual currency first became used. Limited IRS guidance has been issued over the years leaving taxpayers to figure out the compliance on their own. In 2023, the IRS issued several large pieces of guidance, but this does not seem to be enough to help taxpayers with their compliance efforts. This paper examines whether the current tax law in this area constitutes a “good” tax system and gives suggestions for improvement.

Tailoring the surface and interface structures of carbon nitride for enhanced photocatalytic self-Fenton process in pollutant degradation.

Tailoring the surface and interface structures of carbon nitride for enhanced photocatalytic self-Fenton process in pollutant degradation.

Duplicated Inferior Vena Cava: A Rare Anatomical Variation.

The inferior vena cava is a crucial venous structure that originates during the first trimester of gestation. Anomalies in its development can lead to rare conditions, including duplication of the inferior vena cava (DIVC). This case report describes a 26-year-old male with no significant medical history who presented with acute dysphagia after consuming a large piece of chicken. An esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed food impaction, which was successfully managed. However, an incidental finding during a computed tomography scan revealed a DIVC, a rare anatomical variation. This case highlights the importance of recognizing such vascular anomalies, as they can have significant clinical implications, particularly in surgical and interventional procedures. While the patient remained asymptomatic concerning the DIVC, the condition requires careful monitoring to prevent potential complications, such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and misdiagnosis during imaging studies. This report contributes to the growing body of literature on DIVC, emphasizing the need for awareness of this condition among clinicians to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Hydro-morphodynamic numerical modeling indicates risk zones for riverbed clogging

Riverbed clogging compromises the ecological functioning of gravel-bed rivers. Physical clogging affects aquatic habitats and occurs when fine sediments infiltrate coarser substrates, reducing permeability, porosity, and oxygenation. Clogging analyses mostly rely on methods or models that assess the clogging state from field data without predictive capacity. However, predictive tools are essential to optimize habitat restoration in mountain rivers. This study evaluates a two-dimensional numerical model for simulating fine sediment infiltration and mobilization around two large wood pieces in a fully controlled morphodynamic gravel-bed channel. Field data from the morphodynamic channel, collected before and after an artificial flood, were used to calibrate the model and compare its outputs with measured sediment parameters. The model reproduces fine sediment fractions in the surface and subsurface layers, especially in a shallow, high-velocity zone that underwent substantial declogging. In contrast, fine sediment fractions increased in a deeper, slower-flowing zone. Additionally, simulated suspended sediment concentration and fine sediment fraction maps highlight how a swale saturated with fine sediment on the floodplain contributed to increased fine sediment infiltration and clogging downstream. These findings demonstrate that a robust 2d model capturing fine sediment dynamics can effectively identify clogging-prone areas in gravel-bed rivers.

Design Opportunities for Added Value By-Products in Woodworking Industry

The present work describes several possible options for using waste wood from the woodworking industry as a raw material for manufacturing design products with high value-added. In the production of plywood, as well as engineered wood products (EWP), low final yields are obtained. A large portion of wood waste consists of peeler cores, veneer pieces, large and small pieces with defects, cut pieces, shavings, etc. This study offers the author’s approach to the use of this raw material, as the planning, design and fabrication were carried out in laboratory conditions. The resulting products have the necessary physical and mechanical properties that satisfy the needs of both the furniture and construction industries. The information presented could be a foundation for introducing and implementing the products described in the industry.

Qualitative analysis to explore the barriers and facilitators around the implementation of automated dispensing cabinets at a large NHS Trust in England.

Qualitative analysis to explore the barriers and facilitators around the implementation of automated dispensing cabinets at a large NHS Trust in England.

Transformative Technology

Fyous, designers of the PolyMorphic Forming Machine, claim that large pieces with unusual geometries can be held in place perfectly by harnessing reusable pin tooling

Orbital textiloma: Two case reports and a literature review.

PurposeThis report presents two cases of orbital textiloma resulting from retained surgical gauze.Case descriptionBoth patients presented with postoperative orbital inflammation unresponsive to medical treatment: one eight weeks after excision of an orbital cavernous hemangioma, and the other six months following surgical repair of an orbital floor fracture. CT scans of the orbit revealed well-defined lesions with a heterogeneous center. An exploratory orbitotomy retrieved a large piece of gauze that was firmly adhered to the globe and the adjacent extraocular muscle. Both patients experienced significant postoperative improvement, with no sequelae.ConclusionsOrbital textiloma, though rare, should be considered a potential cause of persistent postoperative orbital inflammation. Prompt imaging and subsequent surgical removal are crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

BHSeP32 management of open abdomen. How to optimize the fascial traction and avoid the fascia retraction

Abstract Often surgeons face complex situations where an abbreviated surgery is required and the definitive managed performed after restoration or improvement of physiological parameters. Leaving the abdomen open temporarily is the best and quickest option but not free of complications. In 1986, a novel therapy using negative pressure with marlex mesh cover by op-site wound dressing, called the ‘sandwich technique’ was described which significantly changed the management of open abdomen. Several trial were performed with different meshes in combination with silicone bags, or not, with high mortality and high rate of massive hernias but promising results. On 90’s the term planned hernia was widely used. Miller in 2004 demonstrate that was possible vacuum-assisted fascial closure (VAFC) which enables late fascial closure in open abdomen patients up to a month after initial laparotomy by substituting the surgical towels with polyurethane sponge and attached a special drain and pump for liquid aspiration. Complication rates did not differ from patients with planned hernia, and the need for future abdominal wall reconstruction was avoided. Following this pre-packed dressing system was introduced. Some authors combined VAC with the Bogotá bag and others with mesh. The system was designed to actively manage the open abdomen by removing fluid and helping reduce visceral oedema. The system evolved to the advanced model when they fenestrated. The author suggest avoiding using a large piece of foam between the fascia which will prevent the closure and instead to put the fenestrated advance system underneath the abdominal wall on top of the protective layer.

Research on the Development and Application of 3D Technology

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a manufacturing technique that creates three-dimensional objects by adding materials layer by layer. Unlike traditional reduction manufacturing such as cutting and grinding, 3D printing does not require the removal of material from large pieces of material to form the desired shape but rather builds the object by adding material. Although the concept of 3D printing dates back to the 19th century, it began to commercialize in the 21st century, though the technology is still evolving. With its advancements, 3D printing technology has become relatively mature and is now used to produce various models and applications, including those in aviation, medicine, and other fields. This paper explores its applications, benefits, and potential challenges in 3 paragraphs. This study adopts the method of literature reading and analysis. 3D printing has revolutionized the medical field by enabling the creation of custom prosthetics implants, and even bio-printed organs. It allows personalized devices that fit patient perfectly, reducing the need for adjustment and increasing comfort. In the aerospace sector, 3D printing is used to create complex and lightweight components for aircraft and spacecraft. This can lead to reduced fuel consumption, lower emissions, and improved performance. Additionally, 3D printing facilitates the production of parts that are challenging to manufacture using conventional methods.

Catastrophic Failure Analysis of a Wind Turbine Gearbox by the Finite Element Method and Fracture Analysis

The wind turbine gearbox, used as a multiplier, is one of the main components directly related to a wind turbine’s efficiency and lifespan. Therefore, strict control of the gearbox and its manufacturing processes and even minor improvements in this component strongly and positively impact energy production/generation over time. Since only some papers in the literature analyze the mechanical aspect of wind turbines, focusing on some parts in depth, this paper fills the gap by offering an analysis of the gearbox component under the highest amount of stress, namely relating to the sun shaft, as well as a more holistic analysis of the main gear drives, its components, and the lubrification system. Thus, this work diagnoses the fracture mechanics of a 1600 kW gearbox to identify the main reason for the fracture and how the chain of events took place, leading to catastrophic failure. The diagnoses involved numerical simulation (finite element analysis—FEA) and further analysis of the lubrication system, bearings, planetary stage gears, helical stage gears, and the high-speed shaft. In conclusion, although the numerical simulation showed high contact stresses on the sun shaft teeth, the region with the unexpectedly nucleated crack was the tip of the tooth. The most likely factors that led to premature failure were the missed lubrication for the planetary bearings, a lack of cleanliness in regard to the raw materials of the gears (voids found), and problems with the sun shaft heat treatment. With the sun gear’s shaft, planet bearings, and planet gears broken into pieces, those small and large pieces dropped into the oil, between the gears, and into the tooth ring, causing the premature and catastrophic gearbox failure.

Microplastic and Nanoplastic: Causation, Issues and Solutions

Plastic has been a pressing subject for discussion ever since its invention. It is extremely convenient to use and produce. However, plastic poses increasingly problematic threats to both the health of the environment and the public. Especially for microplastic and nano plastic, which are the byproducts of the degradation of large pieces of plastic. These smaller pieces can infiltrate the bodies of animals and travel up the food chain, detrimentally affecting the ecosystem. Furthermore, when microplastic enters the bodies of humans through food consumption and respiration, it causes an array of health problems. The endocrine system can malfunction due to the harmful chemicals added into plastic present in microplastic. To solve this issue, more policies should be made regarding the treatment of plastic, the amount of plastic produced, and teaching the population about the issues regarding microplastic. This paper provides in depth research regarding the cause of the microplastic pandemic, issues that it can inflict, and potential solutions to combat these problems.

Autologous DNA mobilization and multiplication expedite natural products discovery from bacteria.

The transmission of antibiotic-resistance genes, comprising mobilization and relocation events, orchestrates the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance. Inspired by this evolutionarily successful paradigm, we developed ACTIMOT, a CRISPR-Cas9-based approach to unlock the vast chemical diversity concealed within bacterial genomes. ACTIMOT enables the efficient mobilization and relocation of large DNA fragments from the chromosome to replicative plasmids within the same bacterial cell. ACTIMOT circumvents the limitations of traditional molecular cloning methods involving handling and replicating large pieces of genomic DNA. Using ACTIMOT, we mobilized and activated four cryptic biosynthetic gene clusters from Streptomyces, leading to the discovery of 39 compounds across four distinct classes. This work highlights the potential of ACTIMOT for accelerating the exploration of biosynthetic pathways and the discovery of natural products.

A PIECE OF MAIL ARMOUR FROM THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL EXCAVATIONS ON VICTOR DELEU STREET, CLUJ-NAPOCA

The present paper analyses a large piece of mail armour found during archaeological excavations in Cluj-Napoca, no. 1 Victor Deleu Street. In the course of this research, important traces of the ancient Roman town of Napoca came to light. The mail shirt may belong to the latest phases of Roman habitation, but, in the absence of an undisturbed find context, a later date cannot be excluded. The artefact was subjected to a series of detailed investigations, including X-ray and CT scan. The poor state of preservation, however, means that many uncertainties still remain. After the technical description, other issues, such as deposition and possible dating, are addressed. Assuming a Roman date for the mail, the presence of a military item in a civilian context is further discussed.

Grinding of high temperature alloy nut tap in low frequency torsional vibration tapping

Abstract During the tapping process of the high temperature alloy GHI698 nut, the tap is easy to fail due to large pieces of damage, and the service life is very low. Combined with the finite element cutting simulation, it is considered that the early damage of the tap in the low frequency torsional vibration tapping is caused by the excessive impact force on the cutter teeth. Grinding the tap into a smaller negative rake angle can effectively improve the stress distribution of the cutter teeth. It is proved by experiments that the failure type of the nut tap after grinding is converted from early damage to normal wear, and the service life is obviously improved. Within a certain parameter range, when low frequency torsional vibration uses a smaller spindle speed and cutting angle, and a larger retraction angle, the tap can achieve a higher service life.

Edge effect-enhanced CO2 adsorption and photo-reduction over g-C3N4 nanosheet

Edge effect-enhanced CO2 adsorption and photo-reduction over g-C3N4 nanosheet