Optimum Percentage Research Articles

Optimizing the Use of Palm Fiber to Increase Stability and Deformation Resistance in Asphalt Concrete Mixes

Modifying asphalt binder materials with fiber reinforcement is one approach to improving the performance of asphalt concrete mixtures. This research aims to evaluate the effect of optimal palm fiber concentration on strengthening and improving the properties of the mixture and rutting resistance. Test specimens were made with four variations in the composition of a mixture of different palm fiber percentages (0%, 0.4%, 0.6%, and 0.85) with lengths (0.4 cm, 0.6 cm, 0.8 cm, and 1.0 cm) using an optimum asphalt content of 6% to evaluate the properties of the asphalt concrete mixture based on the Marshall Test. In comparison, the rutting indicator was evaluated using a wheel tracking tool with four variations in the percentage of palm fiber to an optimal length of 0.8 cm. The results of the Marshall test research showed that palm fiber increased stability by 6%, with the highest stability at a percentage of palm fiber of 0.6% with a length of 0.8 cm 1210.45 kg, higher than the normal mixture with a stability value of 1142.59 kg, VIM value decreased by 14% compared to the normal mixture and increased the flexibility of the mixture at the optimum percentage composition of palm fiber 0.6% length 8 cm by 4%. Fibre wheel tracking test results show that adding fiber fibers increases the groove and rutting resistance of optimum fiber by 53% with a total deformation value of 0.856 mm, dynamic stability of 5727 passes/mm, and a deformation rate of 0.007/mm/minute. Palm fiber is not strong enough to withstand heat due to a mixing temperature of 150oC and a compaction temperature of 140oC, with a higher risk of fiber damage

Cardiac magnetic resonance to predict appropriate therapies in secondary prevention

Abstract Introduction Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) therapy plays a pivotal role in the management of patient’s survivors of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias (secondary prevention). Risk of recurrence may be related to presence of myocardial scar and its components (including core mass, border zone (BZ) mass, and BZ channels) assessed with late gadolinium enhancement cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR). Purpose Our study aims to analyze the role of imaging in predicting the risk of recurrent ventricular arrhythmias and improving the risk stratification for appropriate ICD therapy in patients receiving an ICD for secondary prevention. Methods From 2015 to 2020, a total of 111 patients with LGE-CMR before ICD implantation for secondary prevention. Scar tissue including core, BZ and BZ channels were automatically detected by specialized investigational software in patients with LGE-CMR. Patients were followed until a new event was detected. Results The mean age was 65.4 ± 11.4 years; 87% were men; 55% had ischemic cardiomyopathy. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 37.8 % ± 14.31%. Patients were followed for a median of 3.26 years (IQR 1.4-4.9). Within the first year of follow-up 22% of patients had received an appropriate therapy, 39% within 3 years and 53% within 6 years. Chronic kidney disease and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class were associated with the primary endpoint [HR 1.94(1.06-3.55), P-value 0.032)] and [HR 1.86 (1.19-2.91), P-value 0.006)], respectively. Regarding CMR characteristics, BZ percentage was also associated with appropriate ICD therapy in the follow up [HR 1.04(1-1.08), P-value 0.048)]. Other CMR parameter, such as BZ mass, BZ core %, BZ core mass and core mass showed a trend to predict ICD therapies during follow-up. ROC curve analysis with Youden’s index defined an optimal BZ percentage cutoff value for recurrence prediction of 9.5% [HR 0.49 (0.28-0.85)]. Conclusion In patients receiving an ICD for secondary prevention, chronic kidney disease, NYHA class and BZ percentage analyzed by LGE-CMR were predictors of recurrent ventricular arrhythmia. A cutoff of BZ of 9.5% could be used to select patients with high risk of recurrence.

Effect of Calcium Carbonate as Filler on the Physicomechanical Properties of Polypropylene Random

To minimize the cost of production and enhancement pipe quality, this research aims to gain insights into the physical and mechanical characteristics of high-performance polypropylene random filled with rigid inorganic calcium carbonate particles at various content levels, with a specific focus on how the toughness of PPR changes. Virgin Polypropylene Random PPR, a new material extracted from a homopolymer polypropylene, is used as a matrix with 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 wt. % of CaCO3. The density, melt flow rate, tensile strength, tensile strain, modulus of elasticity, and hardness are used to evaluate the quality of the material. The results showed that the density, the modulus of elasticity, and the hardness increased with increasing the percentage of CaCO3. As the percentage of CaCO3 increased, the melt flow rate decreased. The tensile strength and strain increased to 28.7 MPa and 533.25%, respectively at 20 wt.% of CaCO3, with 14.8% and 6.65% reaching gains compared to the virgin PPR (25 MPa and 500%). The enhancement of the mechanical properties is thanks to the presence of stiffer and rigid particles of CaCO3 that act as a reinforcing agent. Moreover, when CaCO3 is well dispersed, it forms a strong bond with the polypropylene matrix, and facilitates the transfer of stress from the matrix to the fillers, resulting in increased stiffness. The optimum percentage of CaCO3 to add into the inner layer of extruded PPR pipes is at a composition of the filler of 20 wt. %.

Impact of basalt fiber reinforced concrete in protected buildings: a review

This study investigates on the impact of basalt fiber reinforcement concrete in protected building and structures. Basalt fibers, derived from the melting of basalt rock at temperatures ranging from 1,500 to 1700°C, are recognized as sustainable and environmentally friendly fiber materials. Various studies have revealed differing optimal percentages of basalt fibers for enhancing the mechanical and chemical properties of concrete. The objectives of this paper are to investigate the effects of basalt fibre reinforcement on mechanical properties like tensile, compressive, and bending strengths. Additionally, performance indicators like void content, water absorption, chloride ion permeability, alkali and slag resistance, temperature stability, shrinkage characteristics, and abrasion resistance will be evaluated. Basalt fibre is typically utilised to increase the mechanical properties and durability of concrete, which has an impact in the effect on protected buildings and structures. The findings indicate that the most effective percentage range for improving mechanical properties lies between 0.1% and 0.3% of basalt fibers. Notably, concrete reinforced with basalt fibers demonstrates superior mechanical and chemical performance in alkaline environments compared to other fiber types. Moreover, the addition of 0.5% basalt fibers to concrete has been shown to significantly reduce chloride ion penetration, as evidenced by a decrease in RCPT load from 2,500 (C) to 1900 (C), indicative of enhanced chloride resistance. Reinforced concrete containing basalt fibers exhibits remarkable temperature resistance, withstanding temperatures exceeding 800°C due to its high-water absorption capacity. Additionally, basalt fibers exhibit resilience at temperatures up to 200°C. However, it is noted that the introduction of 0.14% basalt fibers leads to a slight increase in water absorption from 4.08 to 4.28. In general, basalt fibres are beneficial to many aspects of concrete; they strengthen resistance to temperature, alkali, acid exposure, and chloride while also improving mechanical qualities such as bending and tensile strength. The development of basalt fibres that extend building lifespans and improve concrete quality for structural engineering applications is making encouraging strides, according to all the results.

Effects of metakaolin and zeolite on the dispersion properties and shear strength of dispersive clay soil

ABSTRACT The current study used metakaolin and zeolite either separately or in combination at 0%, 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% of the soil weight to improve dispersive clay soil at optimal humidity levels. The samples were tested to determine the extent of change in the dispersion potential, as well as improvements in the shear strength of dispersive clay soil. The dispersive soil was obtained near the city of Ardakan in Iran and the extent of change in its soil dispersion potential was evaluated after 7 days of curing. The results of the pinhole test indicated that the addition of 2% zeolite plus 8% metakaolin to the soil considerably decreased the dispersion potential. Uniaxial testing after 7, 14 and 28 days of curing revealed that the UCS of the samples increased. The greatest increase was observed in samples containing 2% zeolite and 8% metakaolin after 28 days of curing. The direct shear test was carried out after 7, 14 and 28 days of curing on the unmodified soil and soil modified with optimal percentages of metakaolin and zeolite. The combined addition of zeolite and metakaolin was found to increase the shear strength parameters of the samples.

The Optimum Percentage of Rice Husk Ash (RHA) as Partial Cement Replacement in Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC)

Rice Husk Ash (RHA) is a potential supplementary cementitious material (SCM) in concrete production due to their capability of pozzolanic reaction. This research study on the fineness, workability and compressive strength of the RHA incorporated into Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC) as a cement replacement alternative hence to determine the optimum percentage of RHA to be use in the ECC mix. The mix proportional of RHA-ECC was designed with RHA as the substitution of Portland cement at various percentages by volume, including 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% respectively. Physical characterization of RHA was determined by particle size distribution test. The workability of hand mixed mortar was determined by the flow table test. A total of 45 cubes of 50×50×50 mm was prepared and cured for 7, 14 and 28 days. These hardened mortars were test with the compressive strength test to study its mechanical property. Findings showed that the workability of RHA-ECC was decreased with increasing of the amount of RHA added. The compressive strength of RHA-ECC was best at 28 days with the 10% of replacement level compared to others. This study will provide both direction and knowledge on the application of RHA as a greener and sustainable cement replacement.

Gallium Nitride Electrodeposition at Indium Tin Oxide and Fluorine Tin Oxide Electrodes in Ammonium Nitrate and Gallium Nitrate Aqueous Solution

Gallium nitride thin films in semiconductor technology have garnered interest. This study aims to develop an effective GaN electrodeposition technique applicable where needed. To determine the optimal conditions, cyclic voltammetry (CV) was done on a boron-doped diamond electrode at 0.01 mV/s potential scan rate and at 0.8 V vs. Ag/AgCl (Saturated KCl) constant applied potential. In the CV study, a well-defined peak formed at -1.75 V vs. Ag/Ag/Cl (Saturated KCl). To start examining thin film features on Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) and Fluorine Tin Oxide (FTO) electrodes, chronoamperometry (CA) measurements were done at time scales ranging from 3600s to 14,000s and at a constant applied potential of -1.7 V vs. Ag/AgCl (Saturated KCl). The characterization methods used to examine the samples included SEM and EDS. The optimal weight electrodeposition percentages of Ga and N on ITO were 10.3% and 27.2% and 47.3% and 12.7% on FTO respectively.

A synergistic combination of 2D MXene and MoO3 nanoparticles for improved gas sensing at room temperature

MXene Ti3C2T x (30% HF-etched, named Ti3C2T x -30) plays a pivotal role in the substantial enhancement of the structural modification of molybdenum trioxide (MoO3). Additionally, as the surface MoO3 molecules come into contact with reducing gas moieties, they actively participate in gas sensing at room temperature. The percentage of Ti3C2T x -30 in the MoO3 matrix was varied at 10%, 20%, and 40%, denoted as MM-10, MM-20, and MM-40, respectively. Structural analysis confirmed the composition of the basic elements and evolution of TiO2 at a higher percentage of Ti3C2T x -30. Spectroscopy analysis showed the interactions between Ti3C2T x -30 and MoO3, showcasing work functions of 6.91 eV, 6.75 eV, and 7.21 eV for MM-10, MM-20, and MM-40, respectively, confirming MM-20 to be an optimum composition. When the samples were exposed to ammonia gas, MM-20 showed a high response (93% for 100 ppm) at room temperature, with a response time of ∼10 s. Compared to bare MoO3, these samples showed ten-fold improvement. The excess electrons on the surface of Ti3C2T x -30 facilitate the formation of O2− species, which also provides stability to the otherwise highly reactive MXene surface. These species actively react with ammonia molecules in the presence of adsorbed MoO3, thereby changing the resistance of the system. This can be a significant step towards imparting high gas sensitivity to metal oxides at room temperature via incorporation of an optimum percentage of optimized Ti3C2T x .

Effectiveness of lime kiln dust on swelling of subgrade expansive soil

BackgroundThe structure of flexible or rigid pavement built on expansive subgrade soil that has a volumetric change is vulnerable to many problems that might cause failure. Pavement and construction became more durable and economical by enhancing the quality of subgrade expansive soil. Solid waste recycling has become very popular recently as a means of attaining sustainable waste management, so using lime kiln dust (LKD), which is a by-product of quick lime production, to treat expansive soil in pavement subgrades. This research describes the effect of LKD on the chemical composition, strength, and swelling of high and low-plastic clay that were extracted from two sites. The minimum LKD required for treating expansive soils was determined by using the Eades and Grim pH test. From tests, it was found that the addition of LKD increased the shrinkage limit by a range (250–500)% and decreased the plasticity and swelling potential by between (50 and 100)% of expansive subgrade soils. The strength according to CBR, increased approximately by 150% for CL soil and 800% for CH soil.ResultsThe optimal percentage of LKD for CH soil is 6%, and for CL soil, it is 2%. The plastic limit increased by 50% for CH soil at 6% LKD. On the other hand, CL soil became non-plastic at 4% LKD. With an increase in the percentage of LKD, it led an the increase in the shrinkage limit by 500% in CH soil and 250% in CL soil. The free swell decreased by 50% in CH soil and 100% in CL soil. The swelling pressure decreased by 50% for two expansive soils. CBR increased by 800% in CH soil and by 150% in CL soil.ConclusionThis work found that the addition of LKD improves the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of expansive subgrade soil.

Study on Structural Behavior of Basalt Fiber Reinforced Concrete

Worldwide, a great deal of research is currently being conducted concerning the use of Fibre Reinforced Concrete, Laminates and Sheets in the strengthening and repairing of reinforced concrete members. There have also been several advances made in the development of fibre reinforced concrete to control cracking and crack propagation in plain concrete, and to increase the overall ductility of the material. Majorly, Synthetic fiber has played a dominant role for a long time in a variety of applications for their high specific strength and modulus. In this project the overall aim is to utilize and evaluate the structural performance of Natural Based Basalt Fiber in the concrete which it has as an properties which it is similar to synthetic fibers. The optimum percentage of Basalt fibre in concrete was found with respect to cube compressive strength at the age of 7 and 28 days. The cube specimen was casted for different percentages such as 0.05%, 0.10%, 0.15%, 0.20%, 0.25%, 0.30%, 0.35%, 0.40%, 0.45% and 0.50%(by volume of fraction) by the mass of concrete. The optimum level of basalt fibre was determined. By keeping the optimum level of dosage of fiber the structural behavior of the concrete was evaluated by casting a Beam. By the Structural Behaviour Test, the Basalt Fiber Reinforced concrete shows effective properties such as it control cracking and increase the properties like Tensile strength, Energy absorption and Stiffness. So, Basalt Fibre Reinforced Concrete has the potential for large scale use in concrete construction.

Influence of Nitrogen Content in Food Waste on Biogas Production

AbstractHigh carbon content and high‐level biodegradability are major constraints of the anaerobic digestion of food waste. In the present study, anaerobic digestion of model food waste was carried out in a fed batch digester. Nitrogen content in model food waste was adjusted by the addition of ammonium chloride at the desired C/N ratio. Biogas production at ammonium chloride percentages of 0, 0.8, 1.5, 2.14, and 3.2 % (weight basis) were carried out under mesophilic conditions in a pilot plant scale floating drum digester. At an ammonium chloride percentage of 1.5 % that balances C/N ratio 25, highest biogas production of 0.42 m3 kg−1 of VS was attained while biogas production from food waste without ammonium chloride of 0.06 m3 kg−1 of VS was obtained. The highest methane yield of 0.323 m3 kg−1 of VS was found at ammonium chloride of 1.5 % while methane yield of 0.042 m3 kg−1 of VS was achieved from food waste without ammonium chloride. The highest percent increase CH4 yield of 669 % was obtained at an ammonium chloride percentage of 1.5 %. Biogas productivity obtained at ammonium chloride percentage of 1.5 % was 0.6 L L−1 d−1. Hence, the optimum ammonium chloride percentage obtained was 1.5 % which balances the C/N ratio at 25.

Evaluating geometric measurement accuracy based on 3D model reconstruction of nursery tomato plants by Agisoft photoscan software

Measuring the vegetation structure of a plant with the help of 3D images is a non-destructive method that can be used to monitor the plant’s status during the growing season. Structure from motion (SfM) is a popular optical distance measurement method that uses 2D images to create 3D models. Identifying factors that influence the precision of SfM is important due to its increasing use in phenotyping. The primary objectives of this study were, i) to scrutinize the impact of imaging parameters—including, color checkerboard location, overlap size of images, and background filtering—on the quality indices of 3D models, and ii) to attain precise measurements of leaf area, stem diameter, and height through the combination of images captured from different camera shooting angles. The three nursery tomato plants were photographed at every five-degree rotation of the turntable, five different locations of color checkerboards, and five camera shooting angles. Results indicated the color checkerboard’s presence and position affect the quality indices of the 3D models. Visually and by the lowest mean keypoint size value, the least noisy 3D model was obtained when the wall of the plant pot was covered with a checkerboard. When the base-to-distance (b/y) ratio as the image overlap index increased from 0.1 to 0.2, the generation time of the 3D models decreased by more than two times. Optimal Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) values of 1.08 %, 1.01 %, and 1.38 % were achieved for the estimation of leaf area, stem diameter, and height, respectively. This was recorded by using images taken at 0°, 30°, and 105° vertical azimuth angles. Constructing a 3D model by integrating images captured from other angles or more azimuth angles represents numerous visual challenges and leads to problems of point mismatch, which affects the accuracy of measurements.

Studies on partial replacement of waste high density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) plastic with fine aggregate (FA) on mechanical, durability and thermal properties of M30 and M40 grade concrete

The aim of the present paper is to incorporate two different waste plastic materials that is High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Poly-Propylene (PP), were replaced with Fine Aggregate (FA) at a 10% by 2.5% increment. The widespread formation of HDPE and PP waste plastics has become a major environmental issue, endangering ecosystems and human health. Traditional disposal techniques, such as landfills and incineration, lead to pollution and resource depletion. Incorporating these polymers into concrete provides a long-term solution that reduces environmental effect while improving material qualities. The Different tests conducted are compressive strength (3, 7, 28 and 60 days) (150 × 150x150 mm), flexural strength (3, 7, 28 and 60 days) (100 × 100x500 mm), acid attack (28, 56 and 90 days) (100 × 100x100 mm), sulphate attack (28, 56 and 90 days) (100 × 100x100 mm), and thermal conductivity (180 mm dia x 20 mm thick). The compressive strengths of 40.52 MPa and 38.41 MPa for PP and HDPE material were observed in M30-grade concrete, respectively. Similarly, for M40-grade concrete, 43.6 MPa and 41.8 MPa are for PP and HDPE material, respectively. The optimum percentages of 5% and 7.5 for PP and HDPE material, respectively, can be replaced in concrete for flexural strength in both M30 and M40 grades. The least percentage loss in acid attack was observed at 28 days for both HDPE and PP material, but for 56 days and 90 days, the percentage loss of weight was significantly less (< 5%). The sulphate attack for both M30 and M40 grade concrete showed less than 10% percentage loss in weight after 90 days. Thermal conductivity (k) was also reduced by 30–35% for both HDPE and PP material, with 10% replacement in concrete for M30 and M40 grades. The use of Waste HDPE and PP material can be used to improve the mechanical, durability & thermal property of M30 and M40 grade concrete under controlled conditions.

Preparation method and applicability evaluation of 3D printing alumina ceramic artificial coarse aggregate

Abstract The particle size and morphology of crushed stones impact their macroscopic mechanical and physical properties, which has become a hot topic in the study of road and geotechnical engineering. However, some reported studies fail to control the particle morphology as the only independent variable. This paper presented a new method to print artificial aggregates based on 3D printing technology of particles. The applicability of the new method was verified with uniaxial compression and dynamic modulus tests of asphalt mixtures formed by the printing aggregates. Results showed that the printing aggregates earned similar physical properties to real coarse when sintered at 1400℃ with alumina ceramic powder and CuO: TiO2 a 1:2 additive in mass. Besides, the gross volume density, compressive strength, and shrinkage of the printing aggregates show a similar trend of increasing and then decreasing with the increase of additives. The optimal mass percentage of additives was obtained to be 5%. Mechanical tests indicated that the mechanical indexes of the asphalt mixtures formed with the two types of coarse aggregates were similar, while the results of the specimens formed with artificial coarse aggregates showed less dispersion. The stability of test results was significantly improved for different asphalt mixture specimens prepared with 3D printed coarse aggregate. This provides a basic method for further research on the multi-scale properties of particle material.

Artificial Neural Network-Based Prediction of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Concrete Containing Glass Aggregates

This comprehensive study analyzes the use of crushed glass as both fine and coarse aggregate in concrete, as well as the prediction accuracy of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN). The primary objectives are to understand the interactions between concrete’s constituents and to assess the accuracy of ANN models in predicting concrete’s mechanical and physical properties. This is achieved using a two-decade experimental results dataset of concrete’s compressive and tensile strengths, slump, density, and the corresponding mix design proportions, including waste glass aggregate. A series of 70 concrete samples were carefully built and tested, with compressive strengths varying from 12 to 71 MPa and glass aggregate percentages ranging from 0-100%. These samples served as the basis for the creation of an input dataset and ANN targets. The ANN model underwent intensive training, validation, testing, and statistical regression analysis. The ANN models are exceptionally accurate, with a continuously low error margin of roughly 2%, highlighting their usefulness in matching experimental and predicted results. Validation techniques highlight the models' dependability, with consistently high coefficients of determination (R-values), including 0.99484, demonstrating their robustness in replicating complicated concrete properties. The data analysis shows a unique pattern, with optimum glass aggregate percentages in the range of 10–20%. Beyond this range, there is a noticeable decline in concrete properties. Finally, the study confirms the efficacy of ANN in predictive modeling while also validating the potential of crushed glass to replace natural aggregates in concrete. Doi: 10.28991/CEJ-2024-010-05-018 Full Text: PDF

Utilization of steel slag as partial replacement for coarse aggregate in concrete

The utilization of steel slag for industrial and construction purposes has gained significant attention in recent years due to its abundant availability and potential environmental benefits. This study explores the feasibility of utilizing steel slag as a coarse aggregate in concrete, aiming to determine the optimal replacement percentages for desired mechanical and structural properties. Experimental investigations were conducted, substituting steel slag for conventional coarse aggregate in varying proportions. The concrete mixtures were tested for compressive strength, flexural strength, workability, and other parameters. The results demonstrate the promising potential of incorporating steel slag as a partial replacement for coarse aggregate. The mixture with 30% steel slag replacement exhibited favorable strength properties and workability. Both compressive and flexural strengths showed significant improvement, highlighting the viability of steel slag as an alternative to conventional coarse aggregate. The findings provide valuable guidance for engineers, researchers, and decision-makers in the construction industry regarding the practical benefits and considerations of using steel slag in concrete mixtures. This utilization promotes resource efficiency, reduces environmental impact, and maintains or enhances the mechanical and workability properties of concrete.

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF THE DURABILITY PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE PRODUCED WITH METAKAOLIN AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENT OF CEMENT

The research investigates the durability properties of concrete produced with metakaolin (MTK) as partial replacement of cement. Cement was partially replaced by metakaolin at 5% to 30% at an interval of 5%. Physical properties of materials were tested. A 100 x 100 x 100mm cube was used for density, compressive strength, water absorption and abrasion resistant test, while, 100mm x 200mm cylinder was used for split tensile strength, at a mix ratio of 1:2:4 with 0.5 w/c ratio, and cured at 7, 14, 28, 56 and 90 days under different curing conditions. Result shows that the density of concrete increase as the curing ages of concrete increases. The highest compressive strength of concrete at 28days was at 0% control which achieved 28.2 N/mm2 and 27.6 N/mm2, while, 10% has the highest strength of 32.1 N/mm2 and 31.1 N/mm2 at 90 days for concrete cured in H2SO4 and MgSO4 respectively. 10% MTK concrete has reduce absorption capacity of 11.34, 11.17% and 6.57% in H2O, H2SO4 and MgSO4 respectively, as compared to that of control concrete, and has improve resistance to abrasion in aggressive environment. Chemicals significantly affect the strength of concrete. MgSO4 is more deleterious to concrete than H2SO4. In conclusion, metakaolin is a suitable pozzolana for use in the production of concrete, at lower volume of replacement will enhance the reduction of cement usage in concretes, thereby reducing the production cost and environmental pollution from exploration and production of cement. 10% MTK is the optimum percentage in concrete, therefore,...

Skin Penetration of Corn Silk (Zea mays L.) Transdermal Patch on Wistar Mice Skin Using Franz Diffusion Cell

Background: Corn silk (Zea mays L.) contains many active compounds, especially the flavonoid quercetin which has pharmacological activity as an antihyperlipidemic agent by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body. Antihyperlipidemic treatment by oral route, such as statin drugs, has the disadvantage of experiencing a first-pass effect in the liver, which reduces the bioavailability of the drug. In addition to avoiding the first-pass effect, transdermal patches can improve patient compliance because they are easy to use. Objective: This study aims to optimize the transdermal patch formula of corn silk extract and test the penetration of the optimum formula by in vitro. Method: Optimization of the formula using the Regular Two-Level Factorial Design method on Design Expert®. This study used 2 factors, namely HPMC with a concentration of 3%-4% and PVP with a concentration of 1%-2%. The optimum formula obtained was subjected to in vitro penetration test using Franz diffusion cell. Results: Based on the results of factorial design analysis, the optimum formula of transdermal patches is at HPMC and PVP concentrations of 3.49% and 1% with moisture content, moisture uptake, percentage of elongation, and folding endurance respectively of 7.79%, 4.19%, 13.26% and 470.58 fold. The optimum formula of corn silk extract transdermal patch preparation also had an optimum percent cumulative amount of penetrated flavonoids of 96.06% and flux of 6.17 µg/cm2.hour at 3 hours. Conclusion: Transdermal patch dosage of corn silk extract with HPMC and PVP concentrations of 3.49% and 1% proved to have good characteristics and penetration rate.

Different Statistical Modeling to Predict Compressive Strength of High-Strength Concrete Modified with Palm Oil Fuel Ash

The present study focuses on proposing various statistical models, such as linear regression (LR), nonlinear regression (NLR), and artificial neural network (ANN), to forecast the compressive strength of environmentally friendly high-strength concrete, incorporating waste agricultural material like palm oil fuel ash (POFA). A dataset of 105 experimental observations was compiled from existing literature to achieve this goal, which was subsequently partitioned into training and testing subsets. Each model was developed based on the training data and evaluated using the testing data. The performance of each proposed model was gauged using diverse statistical metrics like the coefficient of determination, mean absolute error, root mean square error, and scatter index to identify the most effective model. The findings indicate that using POFA with a finer particle size exerts a greater influence on the concrete's properties. The replacement was done using the weight method, and the predicted equation worked with the variation of the used rate of POFA from 0 to 60% of total binder weight. Substituting a portion of cement with POFA leads to a reduction in the heat of hydration and an extension of the setting time. The optimal percentage of POFA is 30%, yielding mechanical properties superior to those of the control mixture, particularly in the later stages of development. Among the models considered, the ANN demonstrates superior efficiency and accuracy in predicting the compressive strength of conventional concrete modified with POFA compared to LR and NLR models. This is evident in the ANN's higher R2 values of 52% and 16%, respectively, and a lower scatter index below 0.1%.

Nutritional diagnosis of soursop according to the Kenworthy balance index and deviation from optimum percentage, Nayarit, Mexico

Soursop is a tropical fruit of economic importance in Mexico, however, there is scarce research on its nutrition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the foliar nutrient concentration in the vegetative state and to compare the nutritional diagnosis between the Kenworthy Balance Index (KBI) and Deviation from Optimum Percentage (DOP) in the soursop crop. The foliar concentration of N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Mn and B presented lower values than the reference standard. It was found concordance between KBI and DOP indices for the diagnosis in 91% of the orchards; the nutrients N, P, K, Ca, Mn and B were deficient in all orchards and excessive Cu (in 33% of the orchards), Fe and Zn (in 8% of the orchards respectively). However, the diagnosis of Mg, Fe, Cu and Zn in some orchards was contradictory due their adequate ranges with the KBI and deficient with the DOP. In general, with the two indices 25% of the orchards coincide with the decreasing order of the nutrients P&lt;K&lt;Ca&lt;N&lt;Mg&lt;Mn&lt;B&lt;Zn&lt;Fe&lt;Cu. Although there were some similarities and differences in the nutritional diagnosis among KBI and DOP, the specific nutritional needs of each soursop orchard must be supply.