Round Shape Research Articles

Antioxidant and anticancer activities of hesperetin and its novel formulations in KB cells.

This study aimed to formulate the hesperetin nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) containing oro-mucosal gel for its activity assessment on the KB cell line. NLCs were prepared with glyceryl monostearate, oleic acid, and lecithin using a modified constant-temperature emulsification technique. The particle size analysis, in vitro drug release studies, etc., of prepared NLCs were evaluated. The formulated gels were analyzed with respect to spreadability, extrudability, swelling index, texture analysis, etc. The particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, and drug entrapment of nanocarriers were recorded to be 221.733 ± 61.536nm, 0.381 ± 0.091, - 51.433 ± 4.143mV, and 89.29%, respectively. The optimized NLCs in 24h released 87.14 ± 6.62% of the drug. The round shape of NLCs was noticed with scanning electron microscopy. The pH, spreadability, extrudability, swelling index, content uniformity, and drug release studies of hesperetin NLCs-containing gel (HNG) were found to be 6.81 ± 0.04, 2.49 ± 0.04cm.mg/s, 539.04 ± 32.88g/cm2, 4.27 ± 0.47, 107.98 ± 1.93%, and 90.17 ± 6.67% (in 48h), respectively. The developed formulations showed promising in vitro anticancer and antioxidant activities. HNP results authorize that the formulation may be beneficial for the treatment of oral cancer.

Gender-Based Differences in the Biomechanical Behavior of the Thorax During CPR Maneuvers.

In this study, 18 rib cages (8 males and 10 females) were segmented from computer tomography (CT) images. In order to analyze the potential differences in thoracic biomechanics during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a set of numerical experiments was conducted using finite elements (FE). Compression forces were applied at different points on the rib cage. Results indicated that the optimal compression area for both sexes is the sternum at the 5th rib level, requiring the least force to achieve the desired compression depth. Males required greater force than females. Among females, those with lower width/depth ratios (more rounded thoracic shape) required less force compared to those with higher ratios (more oval-shaped thorax).

Catiknifap, new native variety of Xcat ik pepper (Capsicum annuum L.)

O Objective: To describe the morphological and agronomic characteristics of Catiknifap, a native variety of the Xcat ik pepper. Design/Methodology/Approach: Catiknifap was formed by mass selection method from a P108 accession collected in 2013 in Muna, Yucatan. Characterization and yield trails were carried out in greenhouse during three cycles from 2021 to 2022. Forty-five characteristics were evaluated based on UPOV guidelines. Results: Catiknifap is an early-ripening variety. Its fruits ripen between 77 and 81 days after transplanting. Its main morphological characteristic is the rounded shape at the junction with the peduncle. The yield depends on the growing season and ranges from 32.3 to 42.3 t ha-1. Study Limitations/Implications: Assays were carried out in greenhouses. Pests and diseases may cause differences in open field yield. Findings/Conclusions: Catiknifap is the first morphologically characterized variety of Xcat ik pepper. The fruits of this homogenous and stable variety have a high yield potential in Yucatan.

Low thickness effect on the properties of Mn-doped ZnO thin films synthesized by sol-gel spin coating technique

In this study, 7% manganese-doped zinc oxide (MZO) thin films with varying low thicknesses were synthesized using the spin coating method. The structural, optical, and morphological properties of MZO films with different film thickness, were systematically investigated. The crystallite structure, superficial morphology, and optical characteristics were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis). Structural analysis confirmed that all films exhibit a hexagonal wurtzite phase with a pronounced peak along the c-axis, and slight variation in low thickness significantly affected the structural parameters. The surface morphology demonstrated good uniformity, characterized by rounded grain shapes in the plane, while surface roughness was found to be increased with increasing film thickness. Optical analysis revealed that as the number of coatings increased, both transmittance and band gap energy decreased, accompanied by a redshift in the absorption edge across all samples. This behavior is attributed to light scattering, as well as an increase in the refractive index and dielectric function with visible light energy, influenced by the number of layers and corresponding crystallite size.

Cancer immunogenic cell death via pyroptosis with CXCR4-targeted nanotoxins in hepatocellular carcinoma

IntroductionCytotoxic agents have shown limited benefits in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), mediated in part by the lack of targeting. As cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) are capable of delivering various biologically active molecules into cells, including protein, peptides, small chemo-drugs, and nucleic acid with or without targeting, we developed T22-PE24, a CXCR4-targeted self-assembling cytotoxic nanotoxin, to effectively induce HCC pyroptosis.MethodsT22 incorporating enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) or PE24 was purified from DE3 bacterial cells and characterized using transmission electron microscopy, the Zetasizer Nano®, and SEC-HPLC. The internalization effect of T22-EGFP was detected by flow cytometry system (FCS) in CXCR4+/LM3(CXCR4−) HCC cells. The CCK8, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, Western blot, and nude mice HCC models were used to estimate the cell viability of T22-PE24. The complete-immunity HCC tumor-bearing mice model was used to assess the immune response of T22-PE24.ResultsThe round shape under transmission electron microscopy, 49.4 nm hydrodynamic diameter, and −33.33 mV zeta potential indicated that T22-PE24 self-assembled into nanoparticles. T22 incorporating EGFP selectively internalized in CXCR4+ HCC cells and showed no accumulation in CXCR4-knockout HCC cells. The T22-PE24 nanotoxin induced HCC pyroptosis via the caspase-3/GSDME signaling pathway and suppressed tumor growth in the absence of histological alterations in normal organs. Using the complete-immunity HCC tumor-bearing mice model, we found that T22-PE24 nanotoxin effectively induces the global reprogramming of cell components of the immune tumor microenvironment, leading to enhanced antitumor effects compared to those observed in immunodeficient mice.ConclusionOur findings demonstrate the activation of the innate immune response in HCC by inducing pyroptosis with T22-PE24 nanotoxin treatment and support an implementation of this strategy for HCC treatment.

Antibacterial and anti-biofilm efficacy of selenium nanoparticles against Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Characterization and in vitro analysis

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa), a Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen, poses significant treatment challenges due to its antibiotic resistance and biofilm formation. This study investigates the anti-bacterial and anti-biofilm activities of chemically synthesized selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) against P. aeruginosa. SeNPs were synthesized using ascorbic acid as a reducing agent and characterized. Biofilm formation was quantified using a modified microtiter plate method, and the anti-biofilm efficacy of SeNPs was evaluated using confocal microscopy and SEM. The P.aeruginosa isolates exhibited high resistance to piperacillin-tazobactam (60%) and ceftazidime (59%). SeNPs demonstrated a round shape with a diameter of 15-18 nm. UV-Vis spectra showed a peak at 275 nm, and XRD analysis revealed crystalline peaks corresponding to selenium. The FTIR spectra confirmed the presence of various functional groups. SeNPs significantly reduced biofilm formation in a dose-dependent manner, with MIC50 and MIC90 values of 60 μg/mL and 80 μg/mL, respectively. Confocal microscopy and SEM analysis showed a notable decrease in biofilm thickness and bacterial adherence post-SeNPs treatment. These findings suggest that SeNPs could be a promising alternative or adjunctive treatment option for combating antibiotic-resistant P. aeruginosa infections. Further research is warranted to explore the clinical applications of SeNPs in treating biofilm-associated infections.

Status of production and use of Artocarpus altilis and Artocarpus camansi in Benin Republic

The fruits of Artocarpus altilis and Artocarpus camans are non-timber forest products with a great nutritional and medicinal potential but still underused in Benin. This study was initiated to take stock of the production and use of the two species. A survey was carried out among 300 people who owned trees of the species in South Benin. The study was conducted using a cluster sampling technique. At the end of the study, two varieties were distinguished; these are the round shape and the oval/oblong shape for A. camansi species whereas A altilis presented a round, oval/oblong shape with yellow pulp and round, oval/oblong shape with white pulp. The number of trees or plantation per house varies between 1 to 1000 for A. altilis and 1 to 8 for A camansi. The median number of fruits/tree peryear is 260 for A. altilis and 205 for A. camansi. Both fruits are available all year round and abundant in the rainy season. Among the people surveyed, 78.3% are owners of Artocarpus altilis trees, 15.0% of Artocarpus camansi and 6.7% of both species. The organs of the two trees are used in several fields, namely food, traditional medicine, energy and crafts. However, conservation problems are noted in the study area and the work on fruit valorization of the fruit of the two species can contribute to the food and nutritional security of local populations.

Predictors of Benignity for Small Endophytic Echogenic Renal Masses.

To evaluate for distinguishing demographic and sonographic features of small (<3 cm) endophytic angiomyolipomas (AMLs) that differentiate them from endophytic renal cell carcinomas (RCCs). This is a Health Insurance Portablitiy and Accountablity Act (HIPAA)-compliant retrospective review of the demographics and ultrasound features of endophytic renal AMLs compared to a group of endophytic RCCs. AMLs were confirmed by identifying macroscopic fat on computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), while RCCs were pathologically proven. Statistical analysis was used to compare findings in the 2 groups. There were a total of 66 patients with 66 AMLs, and 28 patients with 28 RCCs. Of the AMLs, 57 of 66 were in females, while 10 of the 28 RCC cases were in females (P < .0001). The mean AML long and short diameters were 11.0 × 9.3 mm and were statistically significantly smaller (P < .0001) than the diameters of the RCCs (23.4 × 22.1 mm). Likewise, the ratio of the long axis to the short axis measurement was statistically significantly different between the 2 groups (P < .0001). Of the studied sonographic features, statistically different features between AMLs and RCCs included an oval versus a round shape (P < .001), respectively, and the presence versus absence of an echogenic margin, respectively. Location of the mass, mass homogeneity, mass lobulation, and presence of cystic components were not distinguishing features using P < .01 levels. For an endophytic echogenic mass in a female patient, a small size with an oval shape and an echogenic margin is statistically more likely to be an AML than an RCC, which may be helpful with management decisions.

The impact of point symbol similarity on visual search on maps

ABSTRACT The study presented in this paper investigates the impact of the similarity level of cartographic point symbols on visual search performance. Specifically, we explore the application of an algorithm for quantitatively assessing symbols’ shape similarity, and apply the results of such automated analysis in a simple target search task on a map with distractors of varying similarity levels. Our primary hypothesis posits that the more similar the target symbol and distractors, the more challenging the visual search becomes in terms of search efficiency and eye metric performance. In a controlled laboratory experiment utilizing eye-tracking device, 33 participants were recruited, and 60 map stimuli were tested with each participant. The results confirmed the hypothesis assumptions. However, symbols based on a round shape were consistently the easiest to find at every similarity level. Eye movement analysis revealed differences in absolute pupil size between male and female participants, possibly associated with cognitive load, although without affecting search time performance. Interestingly, scan-path speed decreased with an increasing level of similarity between the target symbol and distractors. The practical implication of this study lies in the potential development of tools to assist map designers in selecting symbols with low similarity, thereby ensuring improved map readability.

Analytical insight into caffeine extraction from typica coffee leaves based on crystallinity enhancement, optical phonon vibration upshift, and morphological evolution.

Caffeine extracted from callus cultures by in vitro technique induced from typica coffee (Coffea arabica L. var. typica) leaves was successfully carried out by a simple Soxhlet method. Analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns showed an increase in crystallinity fraction from leaves (13.56%) to callus (14.46%) and then to caffeine (39.18%). Crystallite size also varied, with average sizes of 18±6, 69±51, and 32.5±17 nm for leaves, callus, and caffeine, respectively. Fourier transmission infrared absorption data confirmed the presence of hydroxyl (OH) groups bound to carbon (C─COH), indicating caffeine content. The high stability of the C─COH is indicated by the broad optical phonon vibrations of the leaves: 247cm-1 to caffeine: 963cm-1. Quantitative analysis of dielectric function and electron loss function intensity peaks of each sample showed that leaves efficiently capture and store light energy while caffeine has less potency. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed irregular shapes of leaves, oval round shapes for callus, and rectangular crystals for caffeine due to crystal orientation during transformation and had a strong correlation with crystallinity fraction. Finally, the structure-based identification, chemistry, optical-dielectric function, and micro-surface properties have been fully studied, thus unmasking the phenomenon of slow transformation from leaves to caffeine form. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The result of this study can be applied to uncover new methodologies related to the classification, and biotechnological utilization of callus culture based on structural properties, optical-dielectric function, and micro-surface analysis. Methodologically, the resulting callus culture provides a sustainable and controllable supply of plant material for caffeine extraction, thereby reducing traditional methods involving field-grown plants and avoiding the use of pesticides.

Early Generation Selection of Potato Breeding Lines

Potato is the third most important food crop in the world in terms of adaptability, yield potential, and nutritional advantages. This study aimed to conduct potato breeding work for cultivation in Kazakhstan; potato breeding for further processing into chips with cultivation in the northern regions; and the selection of potatoes for processing into frozen French fries with cultivation in the southern and south-eastern regions. Potato varieties (Fontane, Santana, and Punchy) were used as reference varieties to check molecular markers linked to maturity, tuber shape, and flesh color. A total of 42 potato breeding lines crossed from Yagodnyi 19 and CIP clone 397079-6 were used in this study to identify prospective breeding lines. The research was carried out between 2023 and 2024 and under greenhouse conditions. According to the results of molecular analysis and phenotypic data, 21 breeding lines were identified as prospective potato breeding lines. The majority of these potato breeding lines had a round tuber shape and were recommended for chip processing. Three breeding lines had a long oval tuber shape, making them suitable for French fries. Six breeding lines with short-oval and oval tuber shapes were found for consumer potato processing. It is recommended that the breeding process and studies of biochemical properties are continued in all of these identified potato breeding lines.

First Report of Alternaria alternata Causing Leaf Spot of Magnolia delavayi in China

Magnolia delavayi, known as Delavay's magnolia or Chinese evergreen magnolia, is an enchanting deciduous tree native to southwestern China (Xu et al. 2020). In March 2024, leaf spots were observed on M. delavayi plants at Qujing Normal University (25.527°N, 103.744°E), Qujing, Yunnan, China. About 80% of the trees (n=92) on campus were infected, with infected leaves accounting for about 10 to 30% of all leaves. The leaf spots exhibited a round or oval shape, with a yellowish-brown center and a brown outer ring. As the spots expanded, the leaves gradually dried up and fell off. Five symptomatic leaves were collected from the middle sections of five diseased plants. Tissue samples (5 × 5 mm) were excised from the lesion margins and subjected to surface sterilization in 75% ethanol for 30 seconds and 1% sodium hypochlorite for 60 seconds. They were then rinsed three times with sterile water and dried on sterilized paper. The samples were plated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) and incubated at 28 °C for 3 days. Developing colonies were retransferred to new PDA and purified by the hyphal tip technique (Senanayake et al. 2020). Two representative isolates (SYL1 and SYL2) were selected and confirmed to be the same species based on morphological characteristics and molecular identification. On PDA, the fungal colonies initially appeared grayish-white and turned dark gray over time with cotton-like aerial hyphae on the surface. The conidia are light brown, pear-shaped or rod-shaped, with 1 to 4 transverse septa and 0 to 1 oblique septa, and measured 5.4 to 12.7 × 10.4 to 25.7 μm (n = 50). Molecular identification was performed by partial sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS: ITS4/ITS5) region, glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH:gpd1/gpd2), translation elongation factor 1-alpha (TEF1:EF1/EF2), and Alternaria major allergen (Alt a 1:Alt-for/Alt-rev) (Woudenberg et al. 2015). The resulting sequences of ITS (PP951882, PP951883), GAPDH (PP968942, PP968943), Alt a 1(PP968940, PP968941) and TEF1 (PP968938, PP968939) were deposited in GenBank. BLAST analyses revealed that the sequences from these two isolates showed 100% identity with those from Alternaria alternata strains for each gene. Additionally, a multigene phylogenetic analysis revealed a distinct group containing SYL1, SYL2 and other A. alternata strains with a posterior probability of 100%. The morphological and phylogenetic evidence collectively suggested that the two isolates belonged to A. alternata. Strain SYL1 was used for the pathogenicity test on three 5-year-old M. delavayi plants on campus. Three healthy leaves of each plant were punctured with a sterile needle and sprayed with 20 μl of spore suspension (1 × 106 conidia/ml). Similarly, another nine wounded leaves were sprayed with 20 μl of sterile water. All inoculated leaves were enclosed in plastic bags for 48 hours. Disease symptoms were observed on leaves inoculated with spore suspension after 7 days, while control plants remained healthy. This experiment was repeated three times with same results. To fulfill Koch’s postulates, A. alternata was reisolated from the inoculated leaves and identified based on morphological characteristics and ITS sequencing. To our knowledge, this is the first report of A. alternata causing leaf spot on M. delavayi in China. This research expands the known host range of this pathogen and provides relevant information to the design of disease management strategies.

Geometric morphological variation characteristics of loropetalum chinense leaves (r. Br.) Oliv. (hamamelidiaceae) and their response to intra-specific competition

This study aimed to explore the geometric morphological variation characteristics of the leaves of the understory plant Loropetalum chinense under different competitive pressures. Specifically, the leaf morphological indices were calculated, and multiple comparison analysis and Fisher linear discriminant model were employed to decipher the morphological variability based on contour outlines. The results revealed that the leaf morphological indices exhibited significant differences among various sample plots. The lower stand density and DBH (diameter at breast height) facilitated more water and air exchange and led to a rounded leaf shape. The results provided a theoretical basis for the study of response of leaf morphological evolution to forest competition. Bangladesh J. Bot. 53(3): 681-687, 2024 (September) Special

Clinical and ultrasound features of uterine perivascular epithelioid cell tumors: case series and literature review.

To describe the clinical and ultrasonographic features of uterine perivascular epithelioid cell tumor (PEComa) using standardized terminology. This was a retrospective analysis of patients with uterine PEComa diagnosed and confirmed by pathology and immunohistochemistry at West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, China, between January 2010 and September 2023. The Morphological Uterus Sonographic Assessment (MUSA) consensus and the International Endometrial Tumor Analysis (IETA) consensus were utilized for the standardized description of the sonographic characteristics of uterine PEComa. We summarized the clinical and ultrasound features of uterine PEComa in cases from our center and those found in a review of the literature conducted using PubMed from 1 January 2013 to 30 September 2023 (inclusive). Five patients, aged 33-57 (median, 52) years with a total of six uterine PEComa lesions were included in our cohort. All cases had complete ultrasonographic and pathological images. None of the patients had a history of tuberous sclerosis complex. Two patients had malignant PEComa (one patient had two lesions) and three had benign PEComa, originating from the cervix, myometrium or uterine cavity. Patients presented with symptoms including increased vaginal discharge, vaginal bleeding and pelvic or abdominal pain. The three patients with benign PEComa underwent total hysterectomy and bilateral adnexectomy, tumor excision and conservative management, respectively, while both malignant cases underwent total hysterectomy and bilateral adnexectomy followed by chemotherapy. Regular follow-up (from 6 to 24 months) revealed recurrence in one case. Two lesions were misdiagnosed as uterine fibroids, two as cervical cancer, one as metastatic cervical cancer (with myometrial invasion) and one was indeterminate. Ultrasound examination showed that most lesions displayed regular round or ovoid shapes (66.7%), uniform echoes (66.7%) and hypoechogenicity (66.7%), with one (16.7%) malignant PEComa showing cystic areas and one (16.7%) benign PEComa showing punctate calcifications. All lesions lacked shadowing and the majority showed moderate to abundant vascularity (color score of 3-4, 83.3%). The color score was 2-4 in the periphery in 100% of cases and internally in 83.3% of cases. The three benign PEComas showed similar characteristics in vascular distribution, with scattered internal vessels and peripheral vessels exhibiting a circular pattern. The literature search identified 11 articles describing the ultrasonographic appearance of 18 cases of uterine PEComa, with similar characteristics to those in our cohort. The sonographic features of uterine PEComa include a uniform or non-uniform hypoechogenic mass, typically round or ovoid with regular margins, occasionally containing cystic areas or calcifications, lacking shadowing and often showing moderate to abundant vascularity. Although the preoperative ultrasound diagnosis of uterine PEComa remains challenging, particularly given the non-specific nature of the sonographic characteristics described here, dispersed intratumoral vessels and a peripheral circular vascular distribution may serve as diagnostic clues for uterine PEComa, but more cases are needed for confirmation. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Fragmentation of native forest surrounding protected areas in Brazil: the case of the Mata do Pau-Ferro State Park in Brejo Paraibano

The creation of protected areas is the main mechanism for biodiversity conservation in Brazil. The Mata do Pau-Ferro State Park, located in the Brejo Paraibano region, protects an important fragment of the Atlantic Forest and in its surroundings there are activities that damage ecosystems, such as livestock farming. The aim was therefore to assess forest fragmentation in the park’s buffer zone and analyse its influence on the park. We found 516 fragments, totalling 2102.20 ha, of which 98.64% are smaller than 50 ha. There is a predominance of rounded shapes and expressive areas affected by edge effects. Finally, the Distance to the Nearest Neighbour was an average of 39.43 m. In the context observed integration systems between livestock and forest can reduce impacts on biodiversity. Similar results have been found for arbitrary delimitations, but have not yet been reported for a buffer zone delimited through the Management Plan in Brazil.

Roll force prediction using hybrid genetic algorithm with semi-supervised support vector regression

Roll force prediction plays a significant role in rolling schedule and optimization. For a specific steel grade, the roll force can be determined by the aid of several factors: rolling speed, initial thickness, ratio of thickness reduction, the starting temperature of the strip, and the friction coefficient in the contact region. Roll force prediction mathematical models are sometimes rare and inaccurate. This paper presents a new approach to predict roll separating force using semi-supervised support vector regression (SSSVR). The parameters affecting the sensitivity of the SSSVR were optimized using the genetic algorithm to maximize the r-squared accuracy score. The intelligent system is evaluated using two quality metrics: the root mean square error (RMSE) and the mean absolute error calculated between the measured force from the industrial rolling field and the predicted force using the proposed system from one side, and the measured force and the calculated force from another side. Obtained results show the improvement while using the intelligent predictive system. The reduction in RMSE was achieved by the proposed system by 66.9% and 32.1% for oval and round shape passes, respectively in comparison to the conventional calculation method.

Borehole Stability of Natural Gas Hydrate Reservoirs

Abstract The decomposition of natural gas hydrate (NGH) due to long-term drilling may decrease the strength of reservoirs and increase the borehole failure risk. Meanwhile, the creep properties of NGH reservoirs also may give rise to engineering problems including borehole shrinkage and jamming of drilling tools in the late stage of drilling, which seriously impairs the drilling safety. A thermal-fluid-solid multi-field coupling model considering the decomposition kinetics of NGH and creep properties of reservoirs was established to explore the influence mechanism of NGH decomposition and creep properties of hydrate-bearing sediments on mechanical behaviors of boreholes. In addition, influences of drilling parameters and geomechanical properties of reservoirs on borehole stability in the drilling process of NGH reservoirs were analyzed. Research results show that creep properties of NGH deposits causes homogenization of stress distribution in different directions of NGH reservoirs around boreholes, transition of plastic zones around boreholes to a round shape, and possibly overall borehole collapse. As the horizontal geostress becomes more inhomogeneous, the borehole instability risk increases; the higher the initial pore pressure of formation is, the lower the effective geostress and the lower the borehole instability risk. The research results can provide theoretical support for safe drilling of NGH reservoirs in South China Sea and promote the early commercial exploitation of NGH resources in China.

Enhancing mechanism of mechanical properties of lightweight and high-strength concrete prepared with autoclaved silicate lightweight aggregate

Lightweight aggregate concrete (LAC) possesses the merits of low density, excellent thermal insulation performance and outstanding seismic performance. However, the practical application in structural engineering is limited because its mechanical properties are weaker than those of ordinary aggregate concrete. It was found that the compressive strength of high-strength concrete prepared by autoclaved silicate lightweight aggregate (cloud concrete stone) was higher than that of ordinary aggregate high-strength concrete, and it showed significant lightweight and high-strength characteristics. To reveal the enhancing mechanism of the mechanical properties of high-strength concrete prepared by cloud concrete stone (CCS), this research examines the internal curing effect of CCS and the mechanical performances of the interfacial transition zones (ITZ). The influences of the elastic modulus of CCS, the shape of aggregate and fracture patterns on the mechanical properties of concrete are simulated via the discrete element method. The findings suggest that the internal curing effect of CCS delays the onset of capillary stress and mitigates autogenous shrinkage. The homogeneousness, elastic modulus, and fracture toughness of ITZ around CCS aggregate are superior than that ITZ around ordinary gravel in high-strength concrete. Furthermore, the small difference in elastic modulus between CCS aggregate and cement matrix is advantageous for preventing microcracks during compression tests. The round shape of the aggregate also mitigates the development of microcracks caused by the stress concentration effect. These three reasons contribute to the enhancement of mechanical properties in lightweight and high-strength concrete. The innovation of this research is that the intrinsic relationship between CCS aggregate and concrete’s mechanical properties is thoroughly revealed from the aspects of the characteristics of the interface transition zone, the morphology of the aggregate and the elastic modulus of aggregate. That provides a theoretical basis for the application of light aggregate in high-strength structural concrete.

An Investigation of the Effect of Varied Blade Shapes of the Trim Interceptor on the Resistance Characteristics of a Planing Vessel at Medium Speeds

The use of trim interceptors on fast boats to enhance performance still presents challenges in achieving optimal design across various parameters. The design of interceptor blades with conventional square cross-sections prompts consideration of whether altering the blade shape can affect its effectiveness in minimizing resistance on planing boats. This comprehensive study explores various permutations of interceptor blade shapes and their impact on the characteristics of resistance in planing botas. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) using the Reynolds Averaging Navier-Stokes (RANS) method, verified and validated, is employed to conduct this investigation. The results indicate that the round shape consistently exhibits lower resistance compared to rectangular, ½ V, and full V shapes across a range of speeds (Froude number 0.76 – 0.99).

Zhuang Food Culture: Meaning and Representation in the Process of New Media Communication in China

Designing a qualitative research method using observations, in-depth interviews, group discussions, and literature review data fieldwork survey collection investigated by participants to the meaning and representation of Zhuang food culture in the process of new media communication in China. The Zhuang people are a Tai-speaking ethnic group, mostly living in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in Southern China. Food also plays a critical role in symbolizing happiness in Chinese culture. Zhuang food culture holds seven tiers of meaning for the Zhuang people, manifested in both traditional festivals and daily life. In Chinese culture, verbal communication is most accurately interpreted in the context of nonverbal communication, social hierarchy, and other background information. Social roles and a concern for respect and harmony inevitably have a bearing on communication. Zhuang food culture reveals that amidst the development of new media communication in China. Focuses on the Zhuang Sanyuesan Festival activities: A deeper understanding of the unique cultural characteristics of this ethnic group in new media communication; the Five-Color Sticky Rice; the Zhuang society and the outside world continuously are developing increasingly; the transformation of the Zhuang people through their production and life practices; etc., The representation of Zhuang food culture on new media platforms is primarily conducted through three dimensions: food culture, regional culture, and traditional Zhuang culture. Zhuang Food Culture has the remarkable ability to bring people together and create a sense of connection. For instance, dumplings, with their round shape and plump filling, symbolize wealth and prosperity and are often eaten during the Chinese New Year to usher in a prosperous year ahead.