Balance Strength Research Articles

The information layer: shaping data into meaning with interactive tools

Abstract Valorization and interpretation of health data are contingent upon a robust analytical framework. This framework encompasses essential processes such as data cleaning, validation, and the critical evaluation of bias and missing data. A nuanced understanding of these factors is crucial for contextualizing data through stratification, developing comprehensive analysis plans, and addressing interactions, covariates, and confounders. Such meticulous methodologies guard against ‘data fishing expeditions’ that could otherwise lead to erroneous conclusions. Healthybelgium.be exemplifies our approach for deciding on appropriate levels of data aggregation and stratification. This study serves as a foundation for deriving conclusions and formulating hypotheses regarding the health status of the national and various sub-populations. Our discussion will cover the limitations of the questions that can be answered with the available data, the resulting opportunities for data enhancement, and the subsequent valorization of findings for knowledge advancement. Furthermore, we will present the interactive tools (through the use of R Shiny) developed by Sciensano to disseminate information broadly, making it accessible and comprehensible to diverse audiences. These tools embody a balance of strength and limitation, facilitating an informed dialogue among stakeholders. The ongoing refinement of these tools, influenced by continuous learning and insights, exemplifies our commitment to evolving public health intelligence.

MgO nanofiller reinforced biodegradable, flexible, tunable energy gap HPMC polymer composites for eco-friendly electronic applications

This study explores the development and characterization of eco-friendly Magnesium Oxide (MgO) nanofiller reinforced hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) polymer composites for eco-friendly electronic applications. The prepared nanocomposites are biodegradable and flexible without any additional plasticizer. MgO nanoparticles were synthesized using the solution combustion method and incorporated into HPMC matrix through solution casting method. The structural, mechanical, optical, AC and DC electrical, and degradation properties of the prepared nanocomposites were systematically investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the successful integration of MgO nanoparticles into the HPMC matrix, with noticeable interactions affecting the crystallinity. Mechanical testing revealed an optimal MgO concentration of 0.2 g, which provided the best balance of strength and ductility, while higher concentrations led to increased brittleness. UV–Vis spectroscopy results evident that the energy gap of nanocomposites can be tuneable with MgO incorporation. The photoresponsivity study indicated that higher MgO content reduce the photocurrent due to agglomeration and defect states. Dielectric studies showed a typical frequency-dependent behaviour, with enhanced dielectric constants at lower frequencies attributed to interfacial polarization. However, increasing MgO content decreased the dielectric constant and loss due to reduced polymer chain mobility and increased resistive pathways. Current-Voltage (I-V) characteristics demonstrated a non-ohmic conduction behaviour with Poole-Frenkel emission identified as the predominant conduction mechanism. Degradation tests in both tap water and soil, demonstrated that the MgO incorporation significantly slowed the degradation rate of the composites, enhancing their durability. These findings suggest that MgO-HPMC nanocomposites hold promise for sustainable and flexible eco-friendly electronic applications.

Changes in Motor Strategy and Neuromuscular Control During Balance Tasks in People with a Bimalleolar Ankle Fracture: A Preliminary and Exploratory Study

Ankle fractures can lead to issues such as limited dorsiflexion, strength deficits, swelling, stiffness, balance disorders, and functional limitations, which complicate daily activities. This study aimed to describe neuromuscular adaptations at 6 and 12 months post-surgery during static and dynamic balance tasks, specifically using the Y-Balance Test (YBT). Additionally, the relationship between neuromuscular patterns, balance, and musculoskeletal deficits was evaluated. In 21 participants (14 at 6 months and 21 at 12 months) with bimalleolar fractures, hip strength, ankle dorsiflexion, ankle functionality, and static and dynamic balance were assessed using electromyography of five lower limb muscles (tibialis anterior, peroneus longus, lateral gastrocnemius, biceps femoris, and gluteus medius). A significant interaction effect (limb × proximal [hip]—distal [ankle] muscle) (F = 30.806, p < 0.001) was observed in the anterior direction of the Y-Balance Test (YBTA) at 6 months post-surgery. During the YBTA and YBT posteromedial (YBTPM), it was found that a lower dorsiflexion range of movement was associated specifically at 6 months with greater activation of the lateral gastrocnemius. However, these differences tended to diminish by 12 months. These findings suggest that neuromuscular patterns differ between operated and non-operated limbs during the YBTA at 6 months post-surgery. The Y-Balance Test, particularly its anterior direction, effectively highlighted these neuromuscular changes. This is a preliminary study; further research is needed to explore these findings in depth.

Microstructure development and strengthening behaviour in hot-extruded Ti-Mo alloys with exceptional strength-ductility balance

A series of strong and ductile Ti-Mo alloys containing 2.5, 5, 7.5 and 10 wt% Mo was experimentally investigated by a two-stage blended-elemental powder metallurgy process. This process consisted of a spark plasma sintering stage for powder-consolidation and in-situ-homogenisation, and a hot extrusion stage for densification and microstructure enhancement. Microstructures in the extruded alloys changed from α dominant to β dominant with molybdenum addition. Simultaneously, a grain refinement effect was observed due to suppressed α precipitation and increase β retention. A significant strengthening effect was observed with molybdenum addition. In comparison with similarly processed commercially pure titanium, Ti-10Mo exhibited a yield strength improvement of 290 % to 1382.8 MPa, and an ultimate tensile strength improvement of 239 % to 1496.5 MPa. Meanwhile, Ti-5Mo exhibited a yield strength improvement of 211 % (1007.9 MPa) without any substantial reduction in ductility, resulting in an exceptional tensile toughness of 361.3 MJ.m−3. A quantitative analysis of strengthening mechanisms reveals considerable strengthening effects from solid solution strengthening, dislocation strengthening, and grain refinement effects. These factors arise from the novel multi-modal microstructures formed by thermomechanical processing at super-transus temperatures. The newly achieved balance of strength and ductility appears to be unrivalled amongst all previously reported binary Ti-Mo alloys.

An Investigation of the Effects of Flame Straightening Heating on the High-Strength Structural Steels Microstructure

AbstractIn this research, the effects of heating cycles that are performed correctly and excessively—well above the limitations given by the steel manufacturer—on flame straightening are assessed and analyzed. The paper focuses on the microstructural changes caused by the overheating during the flame straightening process. To create geometrical changes in a metal construction, a tiny section of the element or structure is heated to the straightening temperature during the flame straightening process. Strenx® 960 is typically produced through a combination of thermomechanical rolling and quenching and tempering, resulting in a fine-grained martensitic or bainitic microstructure. These processes are designed to achieve a balance of high strength and good toughness. The microstructural changes associated with different working conditions in the case of welding include HAZ softening and grain growth. The study aimed to highlight the influence of flame hardening on the microstructure of the material.

Silicomanganese fume-based alkali-activated mortar: experimental, statistical, and environmental impact studies.

This paper evaluates the flowability and strength properties of alkali-activated mortar produced using silicomanganese fume (SiMnF) as the sole binder, combined with alkaline activators and sand, cured at room temperature (23 ± 1 °C). A total of 18 mixes were prepared by varying binder content (370, 470, and 570 kg/m3), alkaline activator content (33, 43, and 53% of binder by weight), and NaOH concentration (8 M and 12 M). The SiMnF-based alkali-activated pastes were characterized using SEM, XRD, and FTIR techniques to study morphology, mineral composition, and functional groups, respectively. Statistical modeling, including analysis of variance (ANOVA) and response surface method (RSM), was performed to optimize the mixes, and a life cycle assessment was conducted to evaluate the environmental impact of the developed SiMnF-based alkali-activated mortars (SiMnF-AAM). The experimental results showed that an optimal mix design with 470kg/m3 SiMnF, 43% alkaline activator content, and NaOH concentrations of 8M and 12M achieved the best balance of flow and strength. XRD and FTIR analyses confirmed that Nchwaningite was the primary reaction product, with secondary phases including magnetite, manganese ferrite, and potassium feldspar, influenced by alkali concentration. The SiMnF-based mixtures had a significantly lower CO₂ footprint (0.08kg CO₂/kg) compared to the cement-based mix, with alkali activators being the primary contributors to emissions. The developed SiMnF-AAM mixes, cured at room temperature, exhibited improved workability, mechanical properties, and reduced environmental impact, making them adaptive to real-life applications.

Ti-Ta-Cu Biocompatible Alloy System Development via Selective Laser Melting for Prosthetic Applications

This study investigated the development of Ti-Ta-Cu alloys via selective laser melting (SLM) for potential prosthetic applications. Ti-Ta-Cu alloys with 10, 15, and 20 wt.% Ta were fabricated using in situ alloying of elemental powders. We examined the effects of Ta content and SLM processing parameters on microstructure, phase composition, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed an increase in β-phase content with increasing Ta concentration. Microstructural analysis showed a dendritic structure in Ta-rich areas, with remelting strategies improving chemical homogeneity and Ta dissolution. The Ti-20Ta-5Cu alloy exhibited the best balance of strength and ductility, with an ultimate tensile strength of 1011 MPa and elongation of 5.7%. All compositions demonstrated lower elastic moduli (103–109 GPa) compared to traditional titanium alloys. Microhardness values were highest for Ti-15Ta-5Cu, ranging from 359 to 410 HV0.5 depending on SLM parameters. Corrosion testing in Hank’s solution showed improved pitting resistance for Ti-15Ta-5Cu and Ti-20Ta-5Cu compared to Ti-10Ta-5Cu. The study demonstrates the feasibility of producing Ti-Ta-Cu alloys with tailored properties via SLM, offering potential for customized prosthetic applications with improved biomechanical compatibility and functionality.

Microstructural Evolution and Mechanical Properties of Extruded AZ80 Magnesium Alloy during Room Temperature Multidirectional Forging Based on Twin Deformation Mode.

This study investigates the preparation of ultrahigh-strength AZ80 magnesium alloy bulks using room temperature multidirectional forging (MDF) at different strain rates. The focus is on elucidating the effects of multidirectional loading and strain rates on grain refinement and the subsequent impact on the mechanical properties of the AZ80 alloy. Unlike hot deformation, the alloy subjected to room temperature MDF exhibits a lamellar twinned structure with multi-scale interactions. The key to achieving effective room temperature MDF of the alloy lies in combining multidirectional loading with small forging strains per pass (6%). This approach not only maximizes the activation of twinning to accommodate deformation but ensures sufficient grain refinement. Microstructural analysis reveals that the evolution of the grain structure in the alloy during deformation results from the competition between {101¯2} twinning or twinning variant interactions and detwinning. Increasing the forging rate effectively activates more twin variants, and additional deformation passes significantly enhance twin interaction levels and dislocation density. Furthermore, at a higher strain rate, more pronounced dislocation accumulation facilitates the transformation of twin structures into high-angle grain boundaries, promoting texture dispersion and suppressing detwinning. The primary strengthening mechanisms in room temperature MDF samples are grain refinement and dislocation strengthening. While increased dislocation density raises yield strength, it reduces post-yield work hardening capacity. After two passes of MDF at a higher strain rate, the alloy achieves an optimal balance of strength and ductility, with a tensile strength of 462 MPa and an elongation of 5.1%, significantly outperforming hot-deformed magnesium alloys.

Establishing sex- and age-specific normative values for the Senior Fitness Test among community-dwelling elderly aged 70 and older in Eastern China: a community-based study

BackgroundThe preservation of physical health is of crucial importance for the overall well-being of the ageing population, a concern that is particularly relevant in the context of rapidly ageing societies such as China. The Senior Fitness Test has emerged as an instrument for evaluating and monitoring the physical fitness of elderly individuals. However, there is a lack of data regarding the normative values of physical fitness among community-dwelling elderly people aged 70 years and older in China.ObjectiveThis study aims to propose sex- and age-specific normative values for the components of the Senior Fitness Test in a large-based sample of Chinese aged over 70, thus contributing to the development of more tailored interventions addressing the aging trends.MethodsA total of 21,305 community-dwelling elderly individuals aged over 70 (53.02% female) were evaluated using the Senior Fitness Test in Hangzhou, China. Sex- and age-specific normative values for each component were computed, ranging from the 5th to the 95th percentile, with increments of the 5th percentile.ResultsThe results showed that the normative values vary by gender and age, declining with age in both males and females. Males exhibit superior strength, endurance, and dynamic balance, while females tend to have greater flexibility.ConclusionThis study established sex- and age-specific normative values for selected components of the Senior Fitness Test among elderly individuals in China. The study’s findings provided performance standards for clinically assessing the physical fitness of Chinese seniors and could serve as valuable insights for future research endeavors.

Characterization of PLA/LW-PLA Composite Materials Manufactured by Dual-Nozzle FDM 3D-Printing Processes.

This study investigates the properties of 3D-printed composite structures made from polylactic acid (PLA) and lightweight-polylactic acid (LW-PLA) filaments using dual-nozzle fused-deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. Composite structures were modeled by creating three types of cubes: (i) ST4-built with a total of four alternating layers of the two filaments in the z-axis, (ii) ST8-eight alternating layers of the two filaments, and (iii) CH4-a checkered pattern with four alternating divisions along the x, y, and z axes. Each composite structure was analyzed for printing time and weight, morphology, and compressive properties under varying nozzle temperatures and infill densities. Results indicated that higher nozzle temperatures (230 °C and 240 °C) activate foaming, particularly in ST4 and ST8 at 100% infill density. These structures were 103.5% larger on one side than the modeled dimensions and up to 9.25% lighter. The 100% infill density of ST4-Com-PLA/LW-PLA-240 improved toughness by 246.5% due to better pore compression. The ST4 and ST8 cubes exhibited decreased stiffness with increasing temperatures, while CH4 maintained consistent compressive properties across different conditions. This study confirmed that the characteristics of LW-PLA become more pronounced as the material is printed continuously, with ST4 showing the strongest effect, followed by ST8 and CH4. It highlights the importance of adjusting nozzle temperature and infill density to control foaming, density, and mechanical properties. Overall optimal conditions are 230 °C and 50% infill density, which provide a balance of strength and toughness for applications.

Effects of controlled supramaximal high-intensity interval training on muscle capacities and physical functions for older adults: analysis of secondary outcomes from the Umeå HIT study-a randomised controlled trial.

This study investigated the effectiveness of supramaximal high-intensity interval training (supramaximal HIT) on muscle capacities and physical function compared to moderate-intensity training (MIT) for older adults. Sixty-eight older adults (66-79years, 56% women), not engaged in regular exercise, were randomised to 3months of twice-weekly supramaximal HIT (20minutes including 10 × 6-second intervals) or MIT (40minutes including 3 × 8-minute intervals). Both groups performed the training on stationary bicycles in a group setting. Target intensity was watt-controlled, with standardised cadence and individualised resistance. Outcomes analysed with linear-mixed models included leg power (Nottingham Power Rig), hand grip strength (Jamar dynamometer), static and dynamic balance (One leg stance, 30-second step test), chair stand (30-second chair stand), and anaerobic cycling performance (modified Borg Cycle Strength Test). Baseline values were (supramaximal HIT/MIT, mean ± SD) leg power 198 ± 60/189 ± 53W, hand grip strength 4.2 ± 1.0/4.3 ± 1.1N/kg, static balance 64 ± 41/62 ± 41s, dynamic balance 39 ± 7/38 ± 5 steps, chair stands 22 ± 6/22 ± 6 and anaerobic cycling performance 224 ± 60/217 ± 55W. At 3-month follow-up, a between-group difference in favour of supramaximal HIT [95% CI] was observed in anaerobic cycling performance of 19[3;35] W. Within-group mean changes for supramaximal HIT/MIT were for leg power 8.4[0.9;15.8]/6.0[-1.3;13.3] W, hand grip strength 0.14[0.00;0.27]/0.13[-0.01;0.26] N/kg, static balance 11[3;20]/10[1;18] s, dynamic balance 1.6[0.3;2.8]/2.3[1.1;3.6] steps, 2.1[1.1;3.1]/1.4[0.4;2.3] chair stands and anaerobic cycling performance 31.3[19.6;43.0]/12.0[0.4;23.5] W. Supramaximal HIT showed superior effect on anaerobic cycling performance when compared to MIT. Additionally, the results indicate that supramaximal HIT is comparably beneficial as MIT in terms of effects on muscle capacity and physical function for older adults.

Effect of Ti/Ta ratio on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Hf20Mo15Nb25Ta20-xTi20+x refractory high-entropy alloys

The limited deformation capacity at room temperature remains a significant challenge in refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs). In this study, the fine-grained Hf20Mo15Nb25Ta20-xTi20+x (x = 0, 5, 10, 15) alloys were prepared by mechanical alloying and subsequent spark plasma sintering (SPS), based on precise component regulation. The impact of altering the Ti/Ta ratio (R, R = (20+x)/(20-x)) on the pre-alloyed powders and the as-sintered alloys were investigated. An increase in R-value led to larger powder particle sizes and lower powder yields, which was attributed to the improvement in the plasticity of the pre-alloyed powders. After SPS sintering, the as-sintered alloys were comprised of two BCC solid solution matrices and nanoscale precipitated phases. As the R-value increases, the stability of the microstructure decreases slightly, while the yield strength shows a slight improvement, and the plastic strain experiences a relatively significant enhancement. The as-sintered Hf20Mo15Nb25Ta20-xTi20+x alloys all exhibited an excellent balance of strength and plasticity. Theoretical calculations revealed that the yield strength of the alloys was the result of the combined effect of several strengthening mechanisms, predominantly substitutional solid solution strengthening. Furthermore, a systematic discussion was conducted on the reasons for the improvement in the plasticity of the as-sintered alloys. This study presents an effective approach to enhancing the room temperature deformation capacity of RHEAs, thereby facilitating their broader application.

Grooved TiO2/ZrO2 ceramic fibers with thermal insulation and mechanical properties prepared by coaxial electrospinning

In this study, grooved TiO2/ZrO2 ceramic fibers were prepared via coaxial electrospinning, which exhibit enhanced thermal insulation and superior mechanical properties. The fibers were architected with a distinctive core-shell structure, comprising a TiO2 shell that serves as an effective radiation shield and a ZrO2 core that maintains mechanical robustness. The interdiffusion of Zr and Ti atoms at the interface facilitated a seamless transition between TiO2 and ZrO2, effectively inhibiting TiO2 grain coarsening and substantially enhancing the tensile strength of the fibers, exemplified by the 1.47 ± 0.08 MPa achieved in the TZ-5 sample. Through control of the injection rate during electrospinning, we optimized the fibrous morphology to attain a synergistic balance of strength, flexibility and thermal insulation. The fibers showcased exceptional thermal insulation properties with thermal conductivity values ranging from 0.0294 to 0.0278 W m−1 K−1 and an average infrared reflectance exceeding 87 %. Practical thermal insulation tests confirmed the superior insulation performance of the TiO2/ZrO2 fibrous membranes.

Overview on aluminium alloys as sinks for end-of-life vehicle scrap

Abstract A fundamental principle in metallurgy is that the higher the purity of metals and alloys, the more favourable their properties will be. However, as the recycling of materials in production becomes increasingly significant, the levels of impurities are also on the rise. In the case of aluminium, the consequences can be detrimental due to the low solubility of most elements in this metal, which leads to the formation of brittle intermetallic phases (IMPs). Moreover, once impurities have entered aluminium, it is difficult to remove them. In 2017, almost 100 million cars were produced worldwide. Historically, vehicle design prioritised performance, resulting in a multi-material mix to utilise the best materials for each application. This included over 40 different wrought and cast aluminium alloys, Cu-based materials for electrics, and steels for high-strength applications. In the recycling of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs), high purity wrought Al alloys are today down-cycled to low purity cast engine blocks. However, recent advancements show that the drawback of increase IMP-fractions can be turned into benefits through the strategic design of heterostructured alloys. A first successful alloy example from this approach enables interesting forming properties, previously only found in 5xxx series wrought aluminium alloys, in combination with a matrix composition and age-hardening potential known from 6xxx series wrought aluminium alloys. A second examples reviews compositions directly resulting from ELV scrap. By manipulating IMPs it is feasible to create heterostructures with an interesting balance of strength and ductility. These approaches challenge traditional views, allowing for a greater volume fraction of intermetallic phases. Understanding the formation and role of intermetallic particles is crucial. This work gives an overview to the current problem and the state of the art and addressed the potential of upcycled aluminium alloys that tolerate high impurity levels by using intermetallic phases as impurity sinks.

Interfacial designability of high-entropy oxides reinforced aluminum-matrix composites via deformation-driven metallurgy towards high strength-ductility

Undesirable interfacial relationships cause the “strength-ductility trade-off” issue in conventional ceramic-reinforced aluminum-matrix composites, with interfacial structure mismatch being the key factor. The rock-salt type of High-entropy oxide (HEO), which exhibited a crystal structure and lattice parameters similar to those of aluminum, was exploited to address it. The interfacial mismatch with the pure aluminum matrix was 3.4 % after further optimization. Deformation-driven metallurgy, a solid-state preparation method, was employed to adapt the novel reinforcements. This low-temperature characteristic prevented the decomposition of the high-entropy phase, maintaining the interfacial structure. Severe plastic deformation facilitated the refinement and redistribution of HEOs, providing more interfacial bonding sites. The prepared composites exhibited a superior balance of strength and ductility (ultimate tensile strength of 304 ± 3 MPa and elongation of 33 ± 2.0 %), representing a significant improvement over conventional ceramic-reinforced aluminum-matrix composites due to the optimized interfacial relationship.

Linear jerk variability evaluation in measurements of motor control trainability: Could kinematic variables encompass information about strength and dynamic balance?

As the natural conclusion of talent identification in sports, talent development is the process that involves improving biomechanical capacities and bio-motor abilities. The development progress can be objectively assessed and monitored through measurements of trainability. This study introduces a practical methodology to assess motor control as a trainable factor using kinematic data. The study focused on establishing the relationship between kinematic data and changes in muscle strength and dynamic balance. It illustrates how wearable technology can assess trainability during a functional training programme. Twenty-six female university students were selected and divided into intervention and control groups to investigate motor control trainability. The intervention group performed step aerobics exercises for 24 sessions. A single inertial measurement unit (IMU) mounted on S1 captured the oscillatory motion profiles of the centre of mass during these rhythmic exercises. Analysis revealed that the amplitude of linear jerk variability in different anatomical planes could reflect core and lower limb muscle strengthening caused by training. Furthermore, the results indicated that the dynamic balance adaptation to the changing tempo throughout the training programme was dictated primarily by step width. The mediolateral linear jerk variability reflected this adaptation. The minimum instrumentation approach proposed by this study could prove very practical for the talent development monitoring. The methodology illustrates how the recorded kinematic data from an appropriately placed single IMU could become an information-rich source for the coach to monitor, assess and quantify the trainee's progress during long-term athletic development.

Effect of carbon content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti2AlC/TiAl composites with network architecture

In the present work, using pre-alloyed Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb powders and graphite powders with different contents as raw materials, the Ti2AlC/TiAl composites with network architecture were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The effect of carbon content on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti2AlC/TiAl composites with network architecture was investigated. The results have shown that with the increasing carbon content from 0.5 wt% to 2 wt%, the network continuity of Ti2AlC particles gradually transforms from semi-continuous network into quasi-continuous and nearly-continuous network, and the network thickness transforms from 5 to 10 μm into 10∼15 μm and 20∼30 μm. The Ti2AlC/TiAl composite with 1 wt% C shows a better balance of compressive strength and ductility, which the room-temperature compressive strength is 2051 MPa and compressive strain is 30.9 %. The quasi-continuous network structural Ti2AlC particles in Ti2AlC/TiAl composite with 1 wt% C could effectively deplete the crack propagation energy by deflecting the crack, and passivate the crack to hinder further propagation, which facilitates the improvement of the strength and ductility in the Ti2AlC/TiAl composite.

Ferroptosis and Sarcopenia-Osteoporosis after Menopause: Research Status, Traditional Chinese Medicine Strategies, and Prospects

Ferroptosis, a precisely regulated cell death mechanism, is distinguished by its intimate link to iron overload and lipid peroxidation processes, playing a pivotal role in the pathological progression of a wide range of diseases. In postmenopausal women suffering from osteoporosis, reduced muscle strength and impaired balance lead to a heightened risk of fragility fractures, markedly diminishing their quality of life. Recent groundbreaking research has underscored the crucial role of the ferroptosis mechanism in the initiation and progression of musculoskeletal diseases. This discovery not only enriches our understanding of disease mechanisms but also heralds ferroptosis pathways as novel and promising therapeutic targets for treating these conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has exhibited remarkable efficacy in managing musculoskeletal diseases, with studies validating its ability to modulate ferroptosis mechanisms and profoundly impact disease regulation. This portends vast research potential and significant therapeutic promise for the future. By delving deeper into the interplay between ferroptosis and sarcopenia-osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, and by developing innovative therapeutic strategies and TCM interventions, we aspire to forge new pathways for the treatment of sarcopenia-osteoporosis in this patient population.

Tailoring multi-type nanoprecipitates in high-entropy alloys towards superior tensile properties at cryogenic temperatures

In this work, the quasi-static tensile properties in the face-centered cubic-based Al0.5Cr0.9FeNi2.5V0.2 HEAs containing two types of heterogeneous nanoprecipitates, i.e., dual-lamellar and spherical nanoprecipitates, at ambient (293 K) and liquid nitrogen (77 K) temperatures are thoroughly investigated. The microstructure formed by aging at 873 K comprises L12 and body-centered cubic dual-lamellar (DL) nanoprecipitates. In contrast, aging at 773 K results in solely spherical L12 nanoparticles. Both nanoprecipitates enhance mechanical strength as temperatures drop to 77 K; however, the DL nanoprecipitates additionally boost the work hardening rate, whereas the spherical nanoparticles notably improve ductility. To investigate the underlying deformation mechanisms, we perform interrupted mechanical tests and microstructure characterizations at various strains. The DL nanoprecipitates are observed to go through a multistage work hardening rate response by gradually introducing new boundaries to block dislocation motion, activating the stacking fault (SF) networks, and forming Lomer–Cottrell locks. A combination of interface hardening, dislocation hardening, SF-induced hardening, and precipitation hardening in DL samples leads to stronger hetero-deformation-induced hardening at cryogenic temperatures. In comparison, while samples with only spherical nanoparticles exhibit a monotonous decrease in the work-hardening rate, the spherical nanoparticles can be sheared by dislocations, effectively alleviating strain concentration and thereby enhancing ductility at cryogenic temperatures. Overall, this work provides practical design principles of nanoprecipitates for fine-tuning the balance of strength and ductility in FCC-based HEAs at cryogenic temperatures.

Biomimetic structural aerogel derived from green tide enteromorpha-prolifera: Multi-sided unidirectional freeze casting and solar-driven viscous oil spill remediation

The development of environmental remediation materials from renewable biowaste, especially for the cleanup of viscous oil spills in an eco-friendly manner, marks a substantial advancement in functional materials. This study proposes a biomass aerogel (M−MCEP) transformed from Enteromorpha prolifera (EP) in green tides for solar-driven recovery of high-viscosity oil spills. Inspired by the lamella-bridge architecture of Thalia dealbata stems, a biomimetic structure with multi-domain, long-range aligned lamella-bridge interconnections is constructed by a multi-sided unidirectional freeze-casting technique. Multi-scale interface optimization between rigid photothermal fillers and soft lamellar layers achieves multiple reinforcements, providing aerogel with a perfect balance of elasticity and strength. The multidomain low tortuosity channels and photothermal effects enhance M−MCEP’s photothermal conversion (95.2 %) and thermal conductivity (0.3517 W/m·K), reducing oil flow resistance and achieving high oil retention efficiency (>92 %). Under 1 sun irradiation, M−MCEP rapidly heats to 67.3 °C, effectively reducing the viscosity of crude oil in situ, with a crude oil adsorption rate of 1843 mL/m2 within 30 s. Moreover, M−MCEP captures emulsified oil in oil-in-water emulsions through high-speed repeated oscillations, achieving a separation efficiency of 96.42–99.21 %. Renewable resources and unique structural designs provided by nature drive the development of advanced biomimetic aerogels for efficiently remedying catastrophic oil spills.