Experimental Analysis Methods Research Articles

Colorimetric and Textile Properties of Huacaya Alpaca Fibers Dyed With Cochineal: A Sustainable Approach

Objective: To investigate the colorimetric and textile properties of Huacaya alpaca fibers dyed with cochineal, promoting a sustainable approach in the textile industry through the use of natural resources and traditional methods, improving product quality and minimizing environmental impact. Theoretical Framework: The main concepts and theories that support the research on the colorimetric and textile properties of Huacaya alpaca fibers dyed with cochineal dye are presented, focusing on sustainability. Method: The methodology included a randomized experimental design with a factorial arrangement to evaluate the impact of different mordants and concentrations of cochineal dye on the colorimetric and textile properties of alpaca fiber, with data collection through experimental methods. Results and Discussion: The results showed significant differences in colorimetry parameters, textile characteristics, and chemical bands, depending on the type of mordant and dye concentration used. Wash fastness was notably high in the MAL-2 and MCOL-2 samples, indicating the effectiveness of sustainable practices. However, the study's limitations might be related to the experimental design, sample selection, and analysis method employed. Research Implications: The results promote the use of natural dyes in textile production, encouraging sustainable practices, reducing harmful chemicals, and conserving biological resources, which influences conservation policies and supports fair trade and local products. Originality/Value: This study applies innovative methodologies to evaluate Huacaya alpaca fibers dyed with cochineal, promoting sustainability, the use of natural dyes, conservation of biological resources, fair trade, and sustainable management policies.

Research on the chip formation mechanism of orthogonal cutting in particulate reinforced titanium matrix composites

Particle-reinforced titanium matrix composites (PTMCs) have recently become popular in the field of metal matrix composite research because of their outstanding mechanical properties. However, the diffuse distribution of strong reinforcing phases within a material influences chip formation, resulting in tool wear and lower cutting performance during machining. Examining the chip formation mechanism in PTMCs is crucial for enhancing machining performance. This paper explored how particles affect the chip formation process during the orthogonal cutting of PTMCs by utilizing both experimental and numerical methods for analysis. After characterizing the microstructure of PTMCs via image recognition technology, a finite element cutting model was established. Based on the dislocation theory, the effects of reinforcing phase damage and reinforcing phase content on the chip formation of PTMCs were analyzed. The results suggested that the chips exhibited a serrated shape with brittle cracks sprouting and expanding from the free surface. With a higher content of the reinforcing phase, the chip morphology of the PTMCs increases in terms of the degree of serration, and the chip formation process is influenced more by the particles. Furthermore, the chip formation results from a combination of thermoplastic shear instability, periodic fracture, and particle damage. As the cutting speed gradually increases, the PTMCs are more affected by the thermal softening effects, and the main cutting force generated during cutting gradually decreases from 625 to 589 N. Both the values and trends of the experimental results can verify the accuracy of the simulation.

Study of Baclofen Solubility in Supercritical CO2 with and without Cosolvents: Experimental Analysis, Thermodynamic Evaluation, and Machine Learning Methods

Study of Baclofen Solubility in Supercritical CO₂ with and without Cosolvents: Experimental Analysis, Thermodynamic Evaluation, and Machine Learning Methods

The Influence Of The Flipped Classroom Model and Independent Learning on The Critical Thinking Capability Of Science and 5 Class Students in Primary School

The low quality of education in Indonesia can be seen, among other things, at the basic education level. According to the TIMSS & PIRLS International Study Center survey, it shows that the quality of basic education in Indonesia, especially in the field of science, is only ranked 44th out of 47 countries that took part in the assessment with an average science score of 397. Aim: This research aims to determine the extent of the influence of the flipped classroom model and independent learning on scienceas critical thinking skills. Method: This research is a type of quantitative research that discusses The influence of the flipped classroom model and independent learning on the science and science critical thinking abilities of fifth grade elementary school students. The method used in this research is a quasi-experimental method which is a development of the pure experimental method of analysis of variance (ANOVA) with a 2x2 treatment by level design. The techniques for collecting data are questionnaires, tests and documents. The sampling technique uses a stratified random sampling procedure. Results and discussions: Based on the results of the research conducted, there was an interaction between the flipped classroom model and independent learning on critical thinking skills in Science and Technology. The results of the ANOVA test showed that the Fcount value = 19.28 and the Ftable value = 4.11 at the level  = 0.05. These results show that Fh > Ft so that there is an interaction between the use of the flipped classroom model and independent learning in influencing students' science and science critical thinking abilities. Conclusion: Based on the results of data analysis, hypothesis testing and research discussion results, it can be concluded that there is a positive and significant influence of the flipped classroom model and learning independence on the thinking ability of social science students in grade V of elementary school.

Nonlinear dynamic responses of bistable cantilever shell subjected to in-plane foundation excitation

This paper focuses on the nonlinear vibration and snap-through behavior of bistable cantilever shell under in-plane foundation excitation. A combination of experimental and finite element analysis methods are used for an in-depth exploration. The experimental setup is built to accurately simulate the in-plane foundation excitation environment and measure the nonlinear responses of bistable cantilever shell. By adjusting excitation parameters, the dynamic behavior of the structure under different conditions is systematically observed, especially the snap-through process from one stable-state to the other. A corresponding finite element model is established based on ABAQUS software to verify the accuracy of the experimental results and further understand the motion mechanism, which takes into account factors such as material nonlinearity and geometric large deformation. By comparing the experimental results with the simulation data, a high degree of consistency is exhibited. This not only verifies the reliability of the experimental method but also demonstrates the accuracy and applicability of the established FEA model. The nonlinear vibration and snap-through behavior of bistable cantilever shell are quite sensitive to the excitation levers.

Modelling and Analysis of Low and Medium-Temperature Pyrolysis of Plastics in a Fluidized Bed Reactor for Energy Recovery

With the growing demand for plastic production and the importance of plastic recycling, new approaches to plastic waste management are required. Most of the plastic waste is not biodegradable and requires remodeling treatment methods. Chemical recycling has great potential as a method of waste treatment. Plastic pyrolysis allows for the cracking of plastic polymers into monomers with heat in the absence of oxygen, allowing energy recovery from the waste. Fluidized bed reactors are commonly used in plastic pyrolysis; they have excellent heat and mass transfer. This study investigates the influence of low and medium process temperatures of pyrolysis on fluidized bed reactor parameters such as static pressure, fluidizing gas velocity, solid movement, and bubble formation. This set of parameters was analyzed using experimental methods and statistical analysis methods such as experimental correlations of changes in fluidized bed reactor velocities (minimal, terminal) due to temperature increases for different particle sizes; CFD software simulation of temperature impact was not found. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis with Ansys Fluent was conducted for the fluidization regime with heat impact analysis in a fluidized bed reactor (FBR). FBR has excellent heat and mass transfer and can be used with a catalyst with low operating costs. A two-phase Eulerian–Eulerian model with transient analysis was conducted for a no-energy equation and at 100 °C, 500 °C, and 700 °C operating conditions. Fluidizing gas velocity increases the magnitude with an increase of the operating temperature. The point of fluidization could be determined at 1.1–1.2 s flow time at the maximum pressure drop point. With the increase of gas velocity (to 0.5 m/s from 0.25 m/s), fluidizing bed height expands but when the solid diameter is increased from 1.5 mm to 3 mm, the length of the fluidized region decreases. No pressure drop change was observed as the fluidized bed regime was maintained during all analyses. The fluidization regime depends on gas velocity and all the applied fluidization gas velocities were of a value in between the minimal fluidization velocity and the terminal velocity.

Investigating Puerarin's Role in Counteracting Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Synergistic Study of Network Pharmacology and Experimental Analysis

Objective This study aims to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of puerarin in alleviating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by combining network pharmacology and experimental analysis methods. Methods The study identified the active chemical components of puerarin and its potential targets by integrating databases, followed by constructing a target gene database for NAFLD. Through the analysis of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and identification of core genes, the focus was on the inhibitory effects of puerarin on inflammatory mediators such as TNF, IL6, IL1B, and STAT3. Laboratory experiments using the HepG2 cell line further validated the hepatoprotective effects of puerarin, demonstrated by reduced levels of ALT and AST, as well as the regulation of stress responses. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) experiments supported these findings, confirming the impact of puerarin on the expression of key inflammatory genes. Results The active components of puerarin and corresponding targets were identified through ETCM2.0 and HERB databases, resulting in the identification of 189 target genes. A total of 2317 target genes related to NAFLD were integrated from GeneCards, DisGeNET, and OMIM databases. Using Venn diagram tools, 188 intersecting target genes between puerarin and NAFLD were determined, and a PPI network was constructed. Gene Ontology (GO) functional analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis showed that NAFLD is closely related to biological processes such as insulin resistance, inflammatory response, lipid metabolism disorders, and apoptosis. Experimental validation results showed that puerarin treatment significantly reduced ALT and AST levels in the cell culture supernatant (by 47% and 29%, respectively), decreased MDA levels by 71%, and increased SOD levels by 23%. qPCR experiments indicated that the relative expression levels of IL6, TNF, IL1B, and STAT3 genes in the PA + puerarin treatment group were significantly lower than those in the PA-only treatment group, reduced by 2.0-fold, 2.1-fold, 2.9-fold, and 2.5-fold, respectively. Conclusion This study suggests that puerarin may alleviate the progression of NAFLD by targeting inflammatory pathways and regulating oxidative stress. The combined results of network pharmacology analysis and experimental validation indicate that puerarin modulates the inflammatory response by inhibiting the expression of genes such as IL6, TNF, IL1B, and STAT3, thereby reducing the production and release of inflammatory factors, alleviating liver inflammation, reducing liver fat accumulation, and slowing the progression of NAFLD. Our research provides fundamental data for puerarin as a potential drug for the treatment of NAFLD. With further research and development, puerarin can be designed as an oral medication or other forms of administration or combined with other NAFLD treatments to improve liver health in patients.

Experimental Method for Rubber Deformation Analysis Using In Situ X-ray Tomography and Volume Image Correlation with FEM Validation

Experimental Method for Rubber Deformation Analysis Using In Situ X-ray Tomography and Volume Image Correlation with FEM Validation

A037: The Influence of Absolute-Speed Training Under Long-Jump in Take-Off Area on Run-Up Performance and Results

Purpose: Recently, the IAAF put forward the idea of changing the long jump to the starting area, and the implementation of this rule will inevitably change the training strategy of the long jump event. Compared with pedal take-off, the speed of running under the take-off zone rule has a greater impact on performance. Therefore, this study adopted the measurement methods of take-off zone and take-off board. The take-off zone was to take the take-off position in the area as the starting point for measuring the long jump distance. Compared with the traditional pedal take-off, the difference in the run-up performance and results of absolute speed training under these two take-off methods were analyzed. Method: In this study, 16 student-athletes were divided into the area group and the board group by the method of literature, experiment and video analysis. Before and after the intervention, three times a week for eight weeks, the 30-meter run, the 30-meter run between marching, the standing long jump and the long jump were tested. The average speed of the last 5 meters and the last 5-10 meters of the long jump run-up were collected and the differences before and after the experiment were compared. Results: (1) Both the 30-meter run and the 30-meter run between the two groups improved, and the standing long jump performance did not change significantly. (2) There were no significant differences in the speed of the last 5-10 meters of the run-up between the two groups, but the speed of the last 5 meters of the board group decreased significantly along with decreased stride length (p < 0.01). (3) The speed of the last 5 meters and the last 5-10 meters in the zone group did not change and the stride length was average. Discussion: (1) For the starting area long jump, absolute speed training can improve performance. However, the effect is not satisfactory in the springboard long jump, because the stride length and rhythm change with speed. (2) In the starting board long jump in the speed training at the same time with the run-up rhythm of training to achieve the best results. (3) If the IAAF promotes the starting area long jump, athletes with strong speed will have greater advantage, while "technical" athletes who rely on pedal accuracy may face greater challenges.

A comprehensive finite element framework for modeling of PEX-Al-PEX composite pipes

While PEX-Al-PEX composite pipes are widely used in various applications, suitable tools and models for simulating their performance under different working conditions have not been made available. Therefore, the present study aims to develop a comprehensive finite element model to study the behavior of PEX-AL-PEX pipes at different temperatures and strain-rates. To achieve this, the properties of the pipe layers have been obtained for different temperature and strain-rate values through experimental tests. To assess the accuracy of the developed finite element model, the lateral compression and the split-disc tension tests have been performed under different conditions using both experimental and finite element analysis methods, and their results have been compared. The proposed model can be used to study the behavior of PEX-AL-PEX pipes with different materials and geometries in various conditions and applications, as well as for optimizing the design and manufacturing of these pipes.

Research on nonlinear instability of blended-wing-body aircraft based on experimental bifurcation analysis

Focusing on the nonlinear instability problem of the blended-wing-body aircraft, first, numerical bifurcation analysis is adopted to obtain catastrophe points and branches where the elevator is taken as a continuous parameter. Second, based on virtual flight tests and bifurcation theory, an experimental bifurcation analysis method is developed. Open-loop and closed-loop experiments are carried out, and the corresponding experimental bifurcation diagrams are obtained. The comparative analysis shows that the experimental bifurcation analysis enables the aircraft to make a response that is close to reality under the influence of nonlinear and unsteady aerodynamics and has a more intuitive embodiment of instability characteristics, providing an accurate prediction of departure. The open-loop experiment predicts a sudden longitudinal nose-up at an angle of attack of 7.4°. The closed-loop experiment can transform the open-loop unstable branch into a stable branch. However, roll instability still occurs at a critical angle of attack of 16.0°. These research results provide important dynamic information for the stable flight and the design of the controller.

Study of vowel formant data using Gabmap: A pilot analysis of a Lithuanian dialect

Abstract The article reviews the possibilities of applying the web application Gabmap developed by researchers at the University of Groningen to the analysis of vowel formant data based on the results of the study of one Lithuanian dialect. The Western Aukštaitian dialect of Kaunas is traditionally considered the basis of Standard Lithuanian. The study was based on the data of 18 male speakers from six dialectal localities representing distinctive areas. The normalized mean values of the first two vowel formants (F1, F2) were analyzed in certain word positions illustrating distinguishing features, which were processed using Gabmap tools designed for analyzing numeric sequences. Gabmap tools most beneficial for the researchers of experimental phonetics along with the aspects of their application to research were emphasized in the study; it also underlined those tools the use of which requires additional application of other conventional methods of experimental sound analysis, such as sound spectrum analysis, planimetric models, etc. In the study of the Western Aukštaitian of Kaunas, the Gabmap analysis confirmed significant horizontal variation within the dialect area and foregrounded the most tightly related sites sharing the greatest number of common features in their vocalism.

Multidomain Protein-Urea Interactions: Differences in Binding Behavior Lead to Different Destabilization Tendencies for Monoclonal Antibodies.

We study the influence of urea on the stability of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations in combination with differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF). We show that a denaturing cosolute such as urea binds strongly to the protein, which can lead to denaturation and enhanced aggregation behavior at high temperatures. The interaction between protein and urea crucially depends on the surface properties of the individual mAb domains and therefore affects the general binding to the protein differently. The study of these mechanisms for proteins with multiple domains, such as mAbs, encounters significant limitations in experimental analysis methods due to their complexity. Using computational and experimental methods, we are able to separate the protein-urea interaction by domain and show that Lennard-Jones interactions are mainly responsible for significant binding effects. Our results emphasize the potential of MD simulations in combination with Kirkwood-Buff theory to study the interactions between proteins with multiple domains and cosolutes as formulation excipients for drug discovery and development.

Quantitative analysis of transferrin uptake into living cells at single-molecule level

Endocytosis, apart from providing a mechanism for cells to take up nutrients, is the principal route of entry for many nanomedicines. The evaluation of therapeutic delivery efficiency without providing quantitative parameters, like the number of molecules entering the cell and the time of their entry, is very limited. Despite advances in single-molecule methods for in-cell quantitative measurements, they have not become widely used in the study of endocytosis. Their application, however, is challenging owing to the appropriate experimental design and applicable analysis methods. Here, by using an integrated approach based on the multidimensional time-correlated single-photon counting (TCSPC) technique, we demonstrate the quantitative method to measure the time- and concentration-dependent uptake of TRITC-transferrin into living cells with single-molecule sensitivity. The methodology opens possibilities for quantitatively assessing the delivery efficiency of fluorescent molecules into living cells.

Optimization of Operating Parameters for Straw Returning Machine Based on Vibration Characteristic Analysis

For the mechanized technical mode of total wheat straw returning to field, there are problems such as large vibration during the operation of the straw returning machine that, in turn, affect the effect of stubble breaking. This study took the Tongtian 1-JHY-220 straw returning machine as the research object to conduct field experiments, with wheat stubble height, forward velocity, and PTO speed as experimental parameters. And the vibration characteristics at different positions of the machine and the final stubble breaking rate were used as evaluation indicators. Combined with the orthogonal experiment and response surface analysis method, this article analyzes and discusses the influence of various parameters on vibration characteristics and operational effectiveness. The results show that PTO speed and wheat stubble height were the main factors affecting the vibration and operation quality of the straw returning machine. Low PTO speed and high stubble height can improve the stubble breaking rate of the straw returning machine and reduce its operation vibration. Furthermore, the multi-objective optimization results show that when the forward velocity in the range of 8.5–9 km/h, the PTO speed is 540 r/min, and the stubble height is in the range of 200–250 mm, the stubble breaking rate of the straw returning machine is greater than 86%. At this time, the total vibration of the straw returning machine and tractor rear axle is relatively small. This study can lay a foundation for further studying the impact of the vibration of the straw returning machine on the stubble breaking effect and provide a reference for the preparation of high-quality seedbed under conservation tillage.

Ah-Aloud Method to Comprehend Time-Series Emotion Observation During Gameplay: An Initial Investigation with Japanese Speakers

Emotional dimensions significantly impact user experience (UX) and are essential in assessing interactions in entertainment systems. However, relying solely on subjective post-event indicators fails to capture dynamic emotional changes during the system experience. Kawashima and Watanabe introduced the "ah-aloud" method, enabling real-time emotion observation by having participants vocalize "ah" during system experiences. However, this method remains conceptual and preliminary, lacking in specific experimental procedures, analysis methods, and utilization guidelines. Our study delineates the requirements for practical "ah-aloud" application and validates its potential for game experience assessment. Consequently, the "ah-aloud" method demonstrates the potential for observing time-series emotional changes during gameplay. Based on these findings, we deliberated its utility for system evaluation and reliability as an evaluation experiment.

Research on Chip Removal Performance of Rotary Percussive Ultrasonic Drill for Planetary Rock Sampling

The objective of the kinematic model of rock chips is to examine the impact of the driving parameters of drilling tools on the effective chip removal speed, with a view to analyze the chip removal performance of rotary percussion ultrasonic drilling. The discrete element numerical simulation method, EDEM-2022 simulation software, was employed to establish a simulation model, match the simulation parameters, and conduct a simulation study of chip removal under the action of rotary percussion. This was performed to analyze the influence of the driving parameters on the chip conveying process. In order to ascertain the order of parameters affecting the degree of conveyance rate as well as the optimal driving parameters, orthogonal experiments were designed based on Taguchi’s experimental analysis method.

Mechanical and diffusion property and multi-objective optimization of rubber seals exposed to high-pressure hydrogen gas.

As the critical components in hydrogen refueling, storage, and transportation systems, the degradation and failure of rubber O-ring seals under a high-pressure (HP) hydrogen environment (up to 100 MPa) directly affect hydrogen energy safety. Clarifying the interaction mechanism of hydrogen diffusion and the mechanical properties of rubber seals is essential for HP hydrogen infrastructure. A hydrogen diffusion-mechanical sequential numerical model is built to investigate the sealing performance and hydrogen diffusion behaviors of rubber seals using ABAQUS software. The effects of hydrogen swelling environmental pressure (5∼100 MPa) and stress-concentration gradient on mechanical and contact characteristics and hydrogen concentration distribution are analyzed for the rubber seals with/without backup rings, respectively. Furthermore, the orthogonal experimental and comprehensive frequency analysis methods are employed to evaluate the significance of the main structural and assembly parameters and obtain the optimal schemes of the rubber seals under the HP environment. The results show that the stress concentration and rubber extrusion easily occur at the sealing clearance of the O-rings with swelling after pre-compression and pressurization. The hydrogen diffusion of the O-ring is mainly driven by the concentration difference and stress gradient, with the former being the dominant factor. With the increase in the hydrogen pressure, the effective sealing rate along the sealing surface decreases sharply, and the non-uniformity of hydrogen concentration and the possibility of fatigue damage in the rubber O-rings increase. Two multi-objective optimization schemes (Ⅰ and Ⅱ) for the main structural and assembly parameters of rubber seals are obtained by intuitive analysis and comprehensive frequency analysis to improve the extrusion tendency and sealing reliability of rubber seals in the HP hydrogen environment.

Systematization of the application of polymer composite materials in the design of bridge structures

Background. This study systematizes the principles of using polymer composite materials in bridge structure design, outlining the fundamental principles for calculating load-bearing structures of bridge spans featuring these materials. Aim. The goal is to enhance the strength and durability of bridge spans during construction and maintenance, while optimizing costs through the use of polymer composite materials. Materials and Methods. The research employs a modern approach to bridge structure design, utilizing mathematical statistics for experimental data analysis and numerical methods for calculating bridge structures using nonlinear deformation models of anisotropic materials. Results. Developed principles for designing bridge spans with polymer composite elements include methods for strengthening and reinforcing concrete bridge structures. These methods account for operational factors such as long-term constant and temporary loads, low and elevated temperatures, as well as methods for designing all-composite spans pedestrian and road bridges Conclusion. The principles of designing bridge spans with elements made of polymer composite materials have been introduced into the practice of transport construction in the Russian Federation. The technical and economic efficiency of using polymer composite materials in bridge structures of transport infrastructure has been confirmed.

Simulation and Experimental Design of Magnetic Fluid Seal Safety Valve for Pressure Vessel

This article focuses on the safety valve of pressure vessels, and a new ferrofluid sealing device for pressure vessel safety valves is developed based on a special magnetic circuit. A combined method of numerical calculation and experimental analysis is used to study the relationship between seal clearance, number of seals, pole slot width, pole tooth height, pole tooth width, and the sealing pressure of the ferrofluid sealing device. The research results show that seal clearance and pole tooth width have a significant impact on the sealing performance, and as the dimensions increase, the sealing pressure decreases. As the number of seals, pole tooth height, and slot width increase, the sealing performance initially improves and then decreases. This phenomenon is attributed to the increase in magnetic reluctance in the magnetic circuit. In experimental studies, when the excitation current of the electromagnet is 240 mA and the coil turns number 30, the sealing capacity is 61.22 kPa. When the excitation current is 200 mA and the coil turns number 80, the sealing capacity is 168.24 kPa. The experiments demonstrate the compensating ability of magnetic fluid seals in combination with safety valve seals, confirming that combined seals have higher reliability compared to conventional mechanical seals.