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Cardiovascular disease is more prevalent in individuals of Black-African (BA) and South-Asian (SA) descent than White-European (WE) counterparts, with vascular dysfunction identified as contributing to this disparity. Chronic heat therapy can elicit positive vascular adaptations, potentially underpinned by the repeated cardiovascular strain experienced during acute heat exposures. This study examined the cutaneous peripheral microvascular responses following acute hot (HWI) and thermoneutral (CON) water immersion between males of WE, BA, and SA descent. Thirty-one young, healthy WE (n = 10), BA (n = 10), SA (n = 11) males completed 60 minutes of HWI (39°C) and CON (36°C) with thermoregulatory, cardiovascular, and perceptual responses measured throughout. Following 60 minutes of thermoneutral rest, forearm and Great toe cutaneous vascular conductance (CVC) were recorded during cutaneous post-occlusive reactive hyperemia (PORH) and local heating (LH). Baseline CVC was similar between groups (p ≥ 0.08). During PORH, BA had lower peak forearm and Great toe CVC than WE and SA, and a reduced CVC area under the curve compared to WE (p ≤ 0.01). Furthermore, BA Great toe CVC was blunted compared to WE and SA during both 42°C (p ≤ 0.033) and 44°C (p ≤ 0.02) LH, respectively. Great toe CVC was acutely increased following HWI in responses to 44°C LH compared to CON (p ≤ 0.039), with no race × condition interaction effects. In conclusion, despite blunted microvascular responses in BA, acute HWI did not elicit distinct effects between males of WE, BA, and SA descent, although microvascular responses to LH were greater following HWI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underground reservoir technology in coal mines enables the effective storage and utilization of water resources disturbed by mining activities. Owing to the effects of mining operations and water extraction/injection activities, the water head in underground reservoirs fluctuates dynamically. The total bearing capacity of a coal pillar dam is significantly reduced due to the combined effects of overlying rock stress, dynamic and static water pressures, and mining-induced stresses, which are critical for ensuring the safe operation of underground reservoirs. Based on the correlation between different water head heights and the corresponding water pressures on the coal pillar dam, a custom-made coal rock pressure water immersion test device was used to saturate the coal samples under various water pressure conditions. The mechanical deformation and failure characteristics of the samples and fracture propagation patterns under different water pressure conditions were studied using uniaxial compression, acoustic emission (AE), and three-dimensional X-ray microimaging. The results indicated that, compared with the dry state, the peak strain of the water-immersed coal samples increased to varying degrees with increasing water pressure. Additionally, the average porosity and the number of pores with diameters in the range of 0 to 150 μm significantly increased in water-immersed coal samples. Under the combined influence of water immersion pressure and uniaxial stress, loading the water-saturated coal samples to the fracture damage threshold significantly intensified deformation, failure, and fracture propagation within the samples, and the failure mode changed from tension to a composite tensile–shear failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the impregnation of Japanese cedar (Cryptomeria japonica D. Don) with water using ultrasound irradiation, followed by immersion in water containing bulk nanobubbles (NBs). Cavitation bubbles generated during ultrasound irradiation mechanically remove extractives from the wood surface, enhancing the mass transfer of water into the wood. Water containing bulk NBs has a lower surface tension compared to pure water, enabling superior permeability into narrow spaces. However, the application of water containing NBs for wood impregnation post-sonication remains underexplored. In this study, wood was subjected to ultrasound irradiation at 38 kHz, followed by immersion in water containing bulk NBs, to determine the optimal sonication time and NB concentration for efficient impregnation. The results indicate that water uptake by the wood initially increases and then decreases with increasing NB concentration and sonication time. Optimal sonication time and NB concentration resulted in highly efficient impregnation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric vehicle (EV) batteries are reused in low-power demand fields such as energy storage system (ESS), even after their lifespan ends. However, the potential chances of fire may result from dependence on not employing proper thermal management for reuse modules. Therefore, this study proposes applying a water immersion system for pouch-type reuse modules. This system exhibited fire prevention capabilities during emergencies and superior thermal management performance during regular operations owing to the high thermal conductivity and specific heat of water. Particularly for pouch-type batteries, this study aims to provide insights into broadening the selection of immersion fluids, including electrically conductive substances such as water, instead of using dielectric fluids. We examined the impact on the thermal stability of the modules based on various design variables. The results showed the possibility of designing a water immersion module with an energy density of 204.2 WhL-1 by minimizing volume for thermal management purposes alone. However, a minimum 15 mm cell spacing is required to ensure the safety of thermal runaway (TR), allowing for an energy density of 179.7 WhL-1. This study anticipates the effective utilization of liquid immersion systems, prioritizing thermal stability over battery weight and volume. Particularly in ESS applications. [Display omitted] • The liquid immersion cooling method for the safe reuse of spent EV batteries. • Water is particularly suitable immersion coolant for pouch batteries. • Water prevents thermal runaway propagation and demonstrates excellent thermal management performance. • The effects of module design variables are investigated to minimize the inevitable loss of energy density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retrofitting damaged steel structures with iron-based shape memory alloy (Fe-SMA) can significantly enhance their long-term performance by generating substantial prestress upon activation. However, interfacial characteristics between metallic substrates and adhesive layers significantly deteriorate in hot/humid environments. In this study, the impact of elevated temperature and moisture on the mechanical performance of Fe-SMA-steel single-bonded joints (SBJs) is investigated by lap-shear tests. The failure modes, load-displacement curves, and interfacial characteristics of SBJs under the 55 °C tap-water environment are explored. The feasibility of secondary activation of bonded Fe-SMA in harsh service environments is evaluated. Additionally, the impact of lap length, immersion time, and adhesive type (i.e., Type-I and Type-II, representing two different epoxy adhesives) on the failure load of SBJs is assessed. Hot-water immersion predominantly affects the characteristics of critical components, particularly the interfaces and adhesive layers, potentially increasing the occurrence of interfacial debonding. The Fe-SMA stress of SBJs at failure falls remarkably below the nominal yield stress of Fe-SMA, with adhesives undergoing a softening process in hot-water immersion environments. With an immersion time of 90 days, the Fe-SMA stress of Type-I and Type-II SBJs at failure drops to 67 % and 58 % of the recovery stress, respectively, constraining the compensation of prestress loss through multiple activations of bonded Fe-SMA. When the immersion time reaches 60 and 90 days, the failure load of Type-II SBJs is 10 % and 16 % lower than that of Type-I SBJs. The experimental findings contribute to guaranteeing the safety and reliability of bonded Fe-SMA strengthening systems, expanding the application scenarios of Fe-SMA, and providing a foundational dataset for the formulation of relevant guidelines. • Durability of 36 Fe-SMA-steel SBJs under 55 °C tap-water conditions is investigated. • Failure modes, load-displacement curves, and interfacial characteristics of SBJs are explored via tests. • Achievability regarding secondary activation of bonded Fe-SMA in harsh environments is evaluated. • Design recommendations under hot/humid environments are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The influence of water immersion on deflagration of various-rank coal dust differs in mechanism. • Lignite becomes more susceptible to ignition after water immersion, whereas anthracite exhibits minimal changes. • The water immersion process enhances the explosion parameters of coal dust of various ranks. • The water immersion process affects different functional group regions for coal dust of varying degrees of coalification. In order to elucidate the effects and mechanisms of water immersion on the ignition sensitivity and explosion characteristics of coal dust with different degrees of coalification, this study selected three types of coal dust samples with different ranks. The ignition sensitivity and explosion parameters of the coal dust samples before and after water immersion were measured using Godbert-Greenwald furnaces, Hartmann tubes, and a 20-L explosion chamber. The micro mechanisms causing the variations in the combustion and explosion characteristics of different coal dust samples were analyzed through TG/DTG-DSC and FTIR techniques. The results revealed that water immersion led to a more significant increase in the ignition sensitivity of low-rank coal dust and an overall enhancement in the explosion intensity of coal dust with different ranks. Variations in the characteristic temperatures and ranges of characteristic stages among the water-immersed coal samples of different ranks resulted in distinct changes in ignition behavior and explosion intensity. Furthermore, the water immersion process primarily influenced the hydroxyl functional group content in brown coal, while its impact on higher-rank coal dust samples was primarily observed in the oxygen-containing functional group region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the color stability, surface roughness, and hardness of 3D-printed and heat-polymerized denture materials. A total of 90 samples were prepared, with equal numbers of 3D-printed and heat-polymerized disks. The initial hardness, surface roughness, and color values of the samples were measured. After 14 days of immersion in distilled water, natural orange juice, or commercial orange juice, the measurements were repeated. Based on the findings, 3D-printed samples exhibited a greater reduction in Vickers hardness (56.24 ± 15.81%) compared to heat-polymerized samples (18.93 ± 11.41%). Materials immersed in commercial orange juice exhibited a greater reduction in hardness compared to those in other solutions (43.13 ± 23.66). Surface roughness increased by 46.66 ± 26.8% in heat-polymerized samples and by 26.16 ± 20.78% in 3D-printed samples, with the highest increase observed in commercial orange juice (50.73 ± 28.8%) (p < 0.001). The color change (ΔE) was significantly higher in heat-polymerized samples (ΔE = 5.05 ± 0.28) than in 3D-printed samples (ΔE = 3.9 ± 0.26) (p < 0.001). This study demonstrates that the material type and immersion solutions play a critical role in determining the mechanical and optical properties of denture materials, with commercial orange juice having the most pronounced effect on surface roughness and hardness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial effectiveness of different disinfection protocols for dentures by combining methods, varying intervention sequences, sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) concentrations (0.1% and 0.25%), and post-exposure to intraoral temperature. The heat-polymerized poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) was divided into groups (n = 15): control (C, distilled water immersion), B (brushing), I0.1% and I0.25% (isolated NaOCl immersion), B + I0.1% and B + I0.25% (brushing followed by immersion), I + B0.1% and I + B0.25% (immersion followed by brushing), and B + I0.1% + T and B + I0.25% + T (brushing, NaOCl immersion, and overnight exposure to 35 °C ± 2 °C). The post-disinfection exposure to intraoral temperature simulated the denture use during sleeping time. Quantitative evaluation was performed by colony-forming unit (CFU/mL) counting of C. albicans and qualitative analysis by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. Data were processed by one-way ANOVA with Tukey's post-hoc test to compare different protocols at the same concentration and among groups (α ≤ 0.05). Applying 0.25% NaOCl in associated protocols, the intervention sequence was no different (B + I and I + B) and caused the lowest C. albicans counts. The 0.1% NaOCl lost part of its action when the immersion method started the protocols. B + I0.25%, I0.25% + B, and B + I0.1% had similar antimicrobial efficacy, but the intraoral temperature (B + I + T) reduced the efficacy of these protocols, regardless of NaOCl concentration. Residual biofilm recolonization was also detected in SEM images. In conclusion, all the combinations between mechanical and chemical methods using 0.25% NaOCl were the most effective against C. albicans. The antimicrobial efficacy of NaOCl at 0.1% changes depending on the intervention sequence. The intraoral temperature influenced the C. albicans recolonization after the disinfection protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the long term corrosion potential stability of stainless steel (SS) in environmental water, the corrosion potential of SUS304, SUS316, SUS316L, and SUS430 was measured for 1 week in a solution of 0.9 mM NaHCO3 and 0.5 mM CaCl2, referred to as "sub-tap water." The potential of the SSs upon initial immersion in sub-tap water was approximately 10 times less stable than the potentials of Fe and Cu. However, as immersion continued, the stability of the corrosion potential of the SS improved and became equivalent to those of Fe and Cu. The stability could be manipulated by pretreatment (pre-immersion) before samples were immersed in sub-tap water. The stability was increased by pre-immersion in an acidic solution but was reduced by a passivation treatment. The formation of iron oxides on the SS surface stabilized the potential, whereas surface enrichment with Cr led to instability. This behavior can also be inferred from a comparison of the polarization curves, where the passive current after the passivation treatment was the largest. This result is also speculatively attributed to the corrosion potential in sub-tap water decreasing over time after the passivation treatment. The charge transfer resistance likely contributes significantly to the potential stability, as indicated by an equivalent circuit analysis based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The results showed that, when stabilizing the corrosion potential of SS, there is no need to reduce the charge transfer resistance as with existing reference electrodes. Stability is achieved when the surface thickness is such that the pseudo-capacitance in a dilute solution is less than 10 µF sα−1cm−2 and potential stability does not influence a few changes in the CPE1 value after potential stability is achieved. The results of this study show that SS can be used as a quasi-reference electrode material. We expect the findings presented herein to strongly affect the development of electrochemical sensors that can be easily used in long term continuous measurements and in situ applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air exposure stress can induce stress response of Eriocheir sinensis and affect its normal life activities. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of water immersion on the recovery of hepatopancreas immune-related enzyme activity, intestinal microbial diversity and metabolic level of Chinese mitten crabs after exposure to air. The results show that immersion can effectively alleviate the adverse effects of air exposure on the antioxidant capacity and immune capacity of Chinese mitten crabs, and the longer the time of immersion, the more obvious the recovery effect. Among them, the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase significantly increased after exposure to air (P < 0.05), reached a peak at 3 h, began to decline after immersion, and returned to a level close to the initial value at 24 h (P < 0.05). In addition, after exposure to air, the glucose and total cholesterol in haemolymph of Eriocheir sinensis were significantly different from the initial values (P < 0.05), gradually recovered to the initial level after re-immersion. However, changes in intestinal flora and hepatopancreas metabolism caused by air exposure did not fully recover after water exposure, and its negative effects did not completely disappear. The sequencing results showed that the species composition and diversity of intestinal microorganisms of Chinese mitten crab changed after air exposure and immersion treatment. The relative abundance of Actinomycetes increased significantly, while that of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes decreased significantly. Metabolomics analysis showed that air exposure and immersion destroyed the metabolic balance of amino acids and carnitine, reduced the level of carnitine metabolism, hindered the absorption of nutrients, and led to the accumulation of harmful substances. [Display omitted] • Air exposure stress affects the physiologic metabolism in E. sinensis. • Immersion can alleviate the adverse effects of air exposure stress in E. sinensis. • The longer the time of immersion, the more obvious the recovery effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphogypsum is restricted as a building material because of its poor water resistance. In this study, phosphorus building gypsum, cement, and lime were used as the main materials, and water reducer and retarder were used as additives to prepare phosphorus gypsum cementitious materials under low water–cement ratio. Concurrently, the mechanical properties and hydration mechanism of phosphogypsum cementitious materials were investigated during both hydration and soaking processes, alongside a discussion on optimization strategies for enhancing their water resistance. The findings indicate that under low water–cement ratio conditions, rapid hydration of a substantial amount of phosphorus building gypsum occurs, leading to the formation of a spatial skeleton and significant enhancement in compressive strength. Some segments of the phosphorus building gypsum hydration process experience delay or cessation, while certain constituents of cement are densely packed, forming a compact system. Submerging in clear water gradually provides an adequate water environment, allowing for complete hydration of both phosphorus building gypsum and cement components, effectively filling the pores. Water immersion results in a material loss in the phosphogypsum cementitious system, leaving the pores formed after dissolution incompletely filled. In low water–cement ratio phosphogypsum cementitious systems, the secondary hydration process avoids exposure to a flowing solution environment, thereby circumventing material loss and achieving a complete and dense phosphogypsum cementitious system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent times, increasing demand for raw aggregate has emphasized the need for construction industry to adopt sustainable practices by exploring alternative materials, such as agro-waste, to address resource depletion and reduce environmental pollution., This current study investigated the suitability of combining discarded periwinkle shell (PWKS) and palm kernel shell (PMKS) at low-replacement volumes to partially substitute granite in ecofriendly load-bearing cement-based interlocking paver units for use on medium-duty traffic roads. 108 paver samples were produced, targeting a 28-day strength of 30 MPa, using a mix proportion of 1:1:2 (cement: sand: granite) and water-cement ratio of 0.50. Physical and chemical compositions of materials are examined, while the produced paver samples were tested for their water absorption, compressive and split-tensile strengths properties. The influence of curing (immersion and open air) on the strength development was evaluated. Findings showed that the shells recorded low physical properties but increased water intake tendency. A gradual decrease in the strength performances of the pavers was observed as the amount of PWKS and PMKS increases in the mixes. The water absorption tendency increases with increasing PMKS and PWKS levels. Pavers cured by complete immersion in water recorded good strength and achieved the 30 MPa compared to open air cured pavers. This study recommends load-bearing pavers of up to 30 MPa can be made by combining PMKS and PWKS at a low-replacement level of 5% deployed for medium-traffic roads, but with adequate curing technique. Outcomes showed the viability of incorporating periwinkle and palm kernel shells as aggregate in making standard paver units of adequate strength and resistance to water to promote sustainable construction practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In some occasions, outdoor steel structures like wind towers, bridges, winter sports facilities, and so on are subjected to extreme environmental conditions with the presence of ice and/or with below-zero temperatures. Sometimes in these situations, surface protection of the steel structure is usually designed using hot-dip galvanizing to improve its durability. In these special circumstances, the structure's connections are also exposed to adverse climatic agents. International standards and codes such as Eurocode 3 or EN1090-2 do not provide indications for these cases. In this experimental research, 24 specimens of non-slip joints with hot-dip galvanized faying surfaces and HV M16 and M20 bolts have been studied. Twelve specimens were subjected to fourteen twelve-hour freeze-thaw cycles, with temperature oscillation and periodic immersion in water. Next, six of the connections were subjected to a slip test under monotonic load at a temperature of −20 ± 0.5 °C and the other six at room temperature. The results were compared with joints kept at room temperature and not subjected to freeze-thaw cycles for the same period of time. The main conclusion of this piece of research is that the short-term slip resistance behavior of joints with hot-dip galvanized surfaces is not reduced for the cases studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the effect of multicomponent composite encapsulation on the stability of perovskite thin films and perovskite solar cells, as well as lead leakage upon water immersion, is investigated. The encapsulation is simple and low cost since it is entirely deposited by solution processed techniques in the ambient atmosphere. It consists of a spray‐coated composite layer sandwiched between two spin‐coated layers. The composite layer contains hygroscopic nanomaterials, oxygen scavengers, and lead adsorbing nanomaterials, which enables reduced lead leakage and improved stability of encapsulated perovskite during storage in ambient, immersion in water, as well as illumination in dry air. The encapsulation layers show high transmittance and did not have a significant effect on the short‐circuit current density and open‐circuit voltage despite the deposition of encapsulation in ambient air. The encapsulated devices retain 80% of their initial performance after 4 h of immersion in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effects of cadmium on the growth of rice seedlings under different pH conditions, taking Xiangyuezhan as the research materials, solution culture method was used to study the effects of cadmium stress on the growth of rice seedlings. The results showed that there were differences in the height, longest root length and total root number of rice seedlings soaked in different pH water and cadmium ion solutions, with the highest value at pH 9. Compared with water immersion, rice seedlings soaked in cadmium ion solution showed significant decrease in seedling height, longest root length, total number of roots and fresh weight per hundred plants. When the pH was 8 or 9, the photosynthetic pigments of rice seedlings soaked in both water and cadmium ion solution could reach the highest value. Different pH values could significantly affect the content of malondialdehyde in rice seedlings. When the pH value was 9, rice seedlings soaked in water had the highest content of malondialdehyde, while rice seedlings soaked in cadmium ion solution had the lowest content of malondialdehyde. This research revealed the coupling effect of pH and cadmium on the growth characteristics of rice seedlings, providing practical reference for rice production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The degradation of rubber materials under environmental and mechanical stress presents a significant challenge, particularly due to UV (ultraviolet light) exposure, which severely impacts the material's physical properties. This study aims to enhance the UV stability and longevity of rubber by evaluating the performance of modified polyurethane and silicone coatings as protective stabilizers. Natural rubber—styrene–butadiene rubber (NR-SBR), known for its exceptional mechanical properties, was selected as the base material. To ensure strong adhesion, cold atmospheric plasma treatment was applied, increasing the surface energy by 250%, primarily through an enhancement of the polar component. After treatment, supplier-recommended coatings were applied and tested for adhesion using the pull-out method. Aging tests under UV exposure, water immersion, and high temperatures were conducted to assess durability, with tensile tests used to monitor changes over time. Coatings exhibiting cracking after UV exposure were excluded from further analysis. A silicone coating demonstrating superior moisture resistance and durability under extreme conditions was identified as a promising candidate for future UV stabilization applications. These findings provide a foundation for developing advanced coatings to significantly extend the service life of rubber materials in demanding environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wood plastic composites (WPCs) offer a means to reduce the carbon footprint by incorporating natural fibers to enhance the mechanical properties. However, there is limited information on the mechanical properties of these materials under hostile conditions. This study evaluated composites of polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polylactic acid (PLA) processed via extrusion and injection molding. Tests were conducted on tensile and flexural strength and modulus, heat deflection temperature (HDT), and creep analysis under varying relative humidity conditions (10% and 90%) and water immersion, followed by freeze—thaw cycles. The addition of fibers generally improved the mechanical properties but increased water absorption. HDT and creep were dependent on the crystallinity of the composites. PLA and PS demonstrated a superior overall performance, except for their impact properties, where PP was slightly better than PLA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swellable plasma polymer films have been deposited on silicon wafers and hydrogels in a low-pressure PECVD system. Deposition characteristics and physico-chemical characterization data of swellable oxygen-rich plasma polymerised ethylene films were studied. These films were deposited using gas flows consisting of C2H4 (5 sccm) and CO2 (10–40 sccm). Using profilometry, changes in thickness of films over multiple water immersion and drying cycles were recorded. Changes in the structure and morphology of films was also evaluated by using scanning electron microscopy, dye permeation studies and atomic force microscopy. Mechanical properties of the films were studied by using nanoindentation experiments, and intrinsic residual stresses were also calculated for the films. The behaviour of films was dependent on the flexibility and water content of the underlying hydrogel substrates. These findings pave way for creation of stable plasma polymer films on biomedical devices made from hydrogels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to find the thermal and humidity-dependent behavior of EBT3 film. The changes in the film sensitivity as well as the dosimetric region of interest in the small-size film due to its storage and setup condition were evaluated. Three sets of films were kept at three different thermal storage conditions. 15 films from each set were kept at 2 °C, 20 °C, and 40 °C storage conditions for 24 h and 48 h pre- and post-irradiation. The humidity effect (water submersion) on the film in terms of the film's edge diffusion, and change in the optical density at the central region of the film was estimated by keeping the films underwater. The mean relative film sensitivity was found 1.107 ± 0.123 and 0.966 ± 0.028 respectively for the films stored at 40 °C and 2 °C with respect to the sensitivity of the films that were kept at room temperature (20 °C) each for 48 h. The dosimetric result shows that the measured dose in the dose range (2–20 Gy) was overestimated by 7.01 % (percentage mean dose difference (MDD)) in the films stored at 40 °C for 48 h. In contrast, it was underestimated by −4.54 % (MDD) in the films stored at 2 °C for 48 h compared to those kept at an ambient room temperature of 20 °C (MDD = 0.24%). The water-diffusion rate at the border of the EBT3 film used in this study was 0.23 mm/h. An increment of 6.8% in the optical density at the central region of the film was observed for the unexposed control film kept underwater for 24 h. The combined standard uncertainty due to five different sources of uncertainties was 2.91%. The sensitivity of the EBT3 film kept at 40 °C is always higher (overestimate) whereas lower (underestimate) for the films kept at 2 °C as compared to the films at normal room temperature. The correction for the changes in the net optical density due to its storage condition (thermal effect) and the dosimetry condition of water submersion (humidity effect) must be incorporated into the current protocols of film-dosimetry if the facility cannot have temperature-controlled film storage environment and if the film immersion under water is more than 4 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem of poor engineering characteristics of silty clay subgrade of Changshuang Expressway area in Jilin Province, this study proposes an economical and efficient approach by utilizing lime as a stabilizer. The effects of lime content and curing conditions on the durability of lime-stabilized silty clay (LSC) were examined through immersion, freeze-thaw, and wet-dry cycle tests. The strength under freeze-thaw and wet-dry cycles initially increased and then decreased with cycle repetition. The final strength of LSC was significantly affected by the lime content, with 7 % being the optimum for subgrade fill in this area. Subsequently, the reliability of the experimental results was validated through ANOVA. Lime stabilizers can significantly reduce the economic cost of silty clay subgrades in practical applications. Through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), it was found that both water immersion and freeze-thaw cycles caused damage to the cementitious materials in LSC, whereas wet-dry cycles promoted the growth of cementitious materials. The experimental design of the study considered the frost heave and thaw settlement of high-water-content silty clay in Changshuang Expressway area, with an extreme air temperature of −39.8℃ and a subgrade temperature of −15 ℃. The findings provide new references for LSC subgrade construction in similar seasonally frozen regions and offer valuable insights for the experimental design of other soil types. • Conducting immersion, freeze-thaw and dry-wet cycle tests for climatic conditions. • Propose the optimal lime content considering environmental protection and economy. • Analyze the microscopic composition and structure by SEM and XRD. • The performance of lime-stabilized silty clay under environmental cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study highlights a comprehensive investigation into the fabrication and characterization of sustainable membranes for antifouling applications. It utilizes γ-valerolactone as a green solvent to obtain microfiltration polyvinylidene difluoride (PVDF) membranes, and leverages spray-coating technique to modify these membranes. This research aims to enhance the surface and bulk properties of PVDF membranes while promoting sustainable practices. Chemical analyses of the membranes reveal that the surface and bulk of the membranes were successfully modified. Dynamic water contact angle measurements indicated that a 10 mg/mL coating solution (PVDF_10) resulted in the highest hydrophilicity. Different biofouling tests were conducted using proteins and bacteria. In adhesion tests with BSA, and E. coli , the PVDF_10 membrane demonstrated the highest resistance, reducing adhesion by approximately 83 % and 94 %, respectively. Additionally, cyclical water/bacterial filtration tests demonstrated that PVDF_10 membrane achieved a higher flux recovery ratio compared to commercial hydrophilic PVDF membranes. The modification remained stable even after 6 weeks of immersion in water. This study highlights the potential of γ-GVL and the spray-coating technique as environmentally friendly solvents and modification techniques for producing green antifouling PVDF membranes, aligning with sustainable practices and significantly enhancing membrane performance. [Display omitted] • γ-Valerolactone is utilized to fabricate environmentally friendly antifouling PVDF membranes. • Surface and bulk of the membranes are effectively modified using a spray-coating technique. • Coating stability is maintained even after 6 weeks of immersion in water. • Strong resistance to protein and bacterial adhesion is demonstrated by the spray-coated PVDF membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a novel cementitious material, biomimetic mineralized composites (BMC) have received increasing attention due to their green and environmental friendliness. This paper aims to investigate the feasibility and durability of BMC based on the biomimetic chemically induced carbonate precipitation (BCICP) technology using the carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) modifier. The effects of water immersion, dry-wet cycles, freeze-thaw cycles, and sand types on BMC were examined. The mechanical properties of BMC were assessed via unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests, while microstructural characterization was conducted by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results show that the BMC strength is significantly reduced after immersion, dry-wet (DW) cycles, or freeze-thaw (FT) cycles. Among them, immersion has the most pronounced impact on the mechanical properties of BMC. The UCS gradually decreases as the immersion duration, DW, or FT cycles increase. Furthermore, BCICP with CMCS has proven effective across various sands (quartz sand, Toyoura sand, sea sand, river sand, and coral sand). The optimal BMC configuration is achieved by spraying quartz sand 15 times with cementing solution A (1 mol/L Na 2 CO 3 and 6 g/L CMCS) and cementing solution B (1 mol/L CaCl 2). This study elucidates the mechanical and durability performance of BMC modified by CMCS under various environmental conditions, offering valuable insights for its application in practical engineering. • The feasibility of carboxymethyl chitosan modifier using in BCICP was verified. • The mechanical and durability properties and microstructures of BMC were characterized. • The cementing mechanism of BMC with carboxymethyl chitosan modifier was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water collection from mist is a potential solution to water scarcity, which is a critical issue worldwide. In this paper, laser interference ablation assisted with stearic acid immersion has been used to achieve synergistic modulation of dynamic adhesion and static wettability for water collection on fluorine-free aluminum alloy surface. The research demonstrates that there is an optimal balance point between dynamic adhesion and static wettability for water collection. This optimal point shifts toward low dynamic adhesion at the high misting rate due to the flooding on metastable surfaces with high dynamic adhesion. In addition, wetting transition induced by tilting is observed on metastable surfaces. The good stability of the proposed fluorine-free surface has been demonstrated by the long-term water collection and long periods of immersion in water. This work can provide theoretical inspiration and a scalable preparation method for green and stable water collection strategies. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective utilization of phosphogypsum (PG) and industrial waste soil is of paramount importance in the real world. The combination of phosphogypsum and soil in a single mixture can simultaneously utilize both materials. In this study, a novel green road material was developed according to the concept of synergistic utilization of multiple solid wastes, which is based on conventional cement stabilized soil. The GGBS was employed to gradually replace cement to stabilize PG-soil mixtures. The curing effect of GGBS replacing cement and the modification effect of PG on stabilized soil were evaluated in three aspects: mechanical properties, water stability, and environmental performance. This evaluation was conducted using the unconfined compressive strength (UCS), softening coefficient, and ionic concentration of heavy and trace metals. Furthermore, microscopic characterization techniques, including a pH meter, UV–visible spectrophotometer, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and EDS, were used to perform further analyses of the curing mechanism. The objective was to enhance the UCS of stabilized soil by incorporating an optimal amount of PG, avoiding the necessity for a complex and costly pretreatment process for PG. The UCS reached approximately 8 MPa in 7 days without immersion in water curing and 4 MPa in 7 days with 1 day immersion in water curing. Despite the decline in water stability resulting from the incorporation of PG, the stabilized soil exhibits superior mechanical properties compared to the majority of studies on the application of PG to stabilized soils. The monitoring of contaminant ions in the stabilized soil over a period of 28 days demonstrated compliance with EPA requirements, indicating that PG-based stabilized soil does not negatively impact the surrounding environment in the presence of water. Additionally, the optimal ratio of GGBS to cement is 1:1. Meanwhile, excessively high or low cement content has a detrimental impact on the properties of stabilized soil. Lastly, the practical engineering application of this novel green road material was achieved, and its mechanical properties and economic benefit were demonstrated to be superior to those of conventional cement stabilized soil. The study of PG in stabilized soil was transformed into the utilization of real-world projects without the necessity for a complex pretreatment process for PG. Concurrently, the replacement of GGBS for cement results in a reduction in both carbon emissions and economic costs, due to an enhanced utilization of solid waste. Additionally, it offers a more detailed analysis of the curing mechanisms in stabilized soils with respect to strength, water stability, and harmful ions. • A novel green road material was developed using GGBS to gradually replace cement to stabilize PG-soil mixtures. • The impurities in PG elevate the concentration of heavy or trace metal ions in stabilized soil. • A pH meter, UV–visible spectrophotometer, FTIR, XRD, SEM, and EDS, were used to perform further analyses of PG-soil mixtures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composites made of timber and cementitious materials require a rigid connection to exploit their full composite action, which can be achieved by using full-surface adhesive bonding. In this work, we investigated a novel hybrid-adhesive system consisting of a silane-terminated polyurethane (STP) and epoxy resin for the bonding of beech wood timber to fresh mortar for use in timber-mortar composites (TMC). The mechanical performance and the influence of moisture on TMC produced by the wet-in-wet process (fresh mortar) was investigated and compared to the bonding of prefabricated mortar (prefab process). The STP-epoxy hybrid-adhesive showed a suitable bonding performance of beech wood to both, fresh mortar and precured mortar with median compression shear strengths of 4.57 MPa and 6.07 MPa, respectively. The fracture pattern showed the strength of the near-surface layer in the mortar, close to the adhesive, being often decisive for the bond performance. The same failure mode predominated in TMC beams after 3-point bending tests. The stability of the composite upon the influence of moisture is especially challenging when using beech wood due to its low dimensional stability. Thus, the moisture stability of the bond was investigated by compression shear tests after water immersion. It showed an improved water stability compared to composites bonded with an epoxy resin. Nonetheless, a clear reduction in bond strength compared to the dry state was observed, with delamination of 25 % of the wet-in-wet and 17 % of the prefab specimens during water immersion. Furthermore, it was seen that the adhesive open laying time played a decisive role in the wet-in-wet produced specimens influencing both, dry and wet shear strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high-value utilization of landscaping waste to produce wood-plastic composites provides a promising approach to waste management, yet remains a challenge. In this study, wood-plastic composites were prepared using landscaping waste and polylactic acid (PLA) through an extrusion-molding process, with biochar (BC) as the reinforcing material. First, the effects of biochar content (0.5 %, 1 %, 2 %, 3 %, 4 %) and particle size (100mesh, 300mesh, 800mesh, 1200 mesh) on the physico-mechanical and dynamic thermo mechanical properties of the composites were analyzed. A multivariate nonlinear model was employed to fit the flexural properties of the composites. Additionally, the water absorption properties were investigated under immersion conditions at three different temperatures (20°C, 35°C, 50°C). The results demonstrated that biochar significantly improved the interfacial compatibility between landscaping waste and PLA, enhancing the mechanical properties of this composite. When the biochar content was 1 % and particle size was 100 mesh, flexural strength reached 25.16 MPa, respectively, representing increases of 19.20 % over composites without biochar, while the change in impact strength was small. In addition, the water absorption process of composites with 1 % BC were well fitted by Fick's law. SEM morphology observation indicated that interfacial bonding was reduced after water absorption, which was consistent with the test results. Combined with Arrhenius equation and Fick's law, the water absorption model of the composites at each water immersion temperature was obtained, which can predict the water absorption behavior at 60°C. [Display omitted] • The biodegradable composites were prepared from landscaping waste and polylactic acid. • The prediction model of mechanical properties of composites were established. • The dynamic thermo-mechanical properties of the composites were analyzed. • The water molecular diffusion coefficient model of the composites were established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the findings of The POOL cohort study, which aimed to determine if waterbirth was associated with increased rates of obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) or neonatal morbidity compared to giving birth out of water. The study found that the rates of OASI were not significantly different between waterbirths and births out of water, with the highest rate among nulliparous women giving birth out of water. The study also highlighted the implementation of the OASI care bundle in UK maternity units and emphasized the need for further research on OASI outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Developing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with high water resistance is of high significance because it can largely extend their applications, such as catalysis and adsorption in aqueous solutions. Herein, we present a typical MOF, i.e., CuBTC [Cu 3 (BTC) 2 (H 2 O) 3 ] n (BTC = benzene-1,3,5-tricarboxylate) with high water resistance by post-modification reactions with six commercially available silanes at room temperature, resulting in CuBTC@SILANE. Various techniques demonstrated that the modification successfully incorporates organosilicon moieties on the surface of CuBTC without altering its original structure, significantly enhancing its water resistance. In contrast to pristine CuBTC, CuBTC@SILANE maintains its crystallinity, morphology, and pore structure even after prolonged exposure to water. The modified MOF also exhibits superior stability in various solvents and enhances CO 2 adsorption efficiency, retaining high CO 2 adsorption capacity even after exposure to water for 1 day. This simple silane modification approach not only addresses the water sensitivity of CuBTC but also holds promise for extending the aqueous applications of other similar MOFs, thereby broadening their potential uses in catalysis and adsorption. [Display omitted] • Six silane-modified CuBTC were prepared. • Organosilicon units were incorporated with CuBTC by hydrogen bonding and/or electrostatic interactions. • Silane modification of CuBTC improves its water and solvent stability. • High CO 2 adsorption capacity compared to pristine CuBTC after 24 h of immersion in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the utilization of rice straw as a reinforcement material in dredged slurry, focusing on sustainable "waste-to-waste treatment" practices. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests were conducted on slurries with varying straw contents and sizes, including samples pretreated via pure water immersion. The study also analyzed the desiccation behavior of straw-reinforced slurry, examining parameters such as crack initiation time, maximum crack width, surface crack ratio, and failure morphology. Results indicate that straw fiber degradation within the first 72 h of aqueous pretreatment impacts the mechanical properties and structural integrity of the reinforced slurry. The introduction of straw alters the slurry's failure mode from brittle to plastic, enhancing ductility and residual strength. Optimal reinforcement occurred with a 0.5 % straw content, pretreated for 24 h, showing significant improvements in UCS and stiffness. Additionally, straw content between 3 % and 5 % optimally reduces cracking, with straw sizes of 0.6–1.0 mm providing effective crack control without disrupting the soil matrix. These findings suggest that straw can significantly enhance both the strength and dewatering efficiency of dredged slurry, offering practical implications for geotechnical applications in construction and landfill settings. • Straw fiber affects slurry's integrity and improves its strength. • Optimal straw content and size enhance crack resistance. • Analyzes straw degradation and impact on slurry properties. • Promotes sustainable "waste-to-waste" treatment method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antifogging and antibacterial properties are both essential in biomedical examination and diagnostics to ensure clear visibility and prevent potential bacterial infections. However, it is extremely challenging to integrate both functions on one surface. Herein, this study presents a rapidly assembled polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) coating, which can be applied to different transparent substrates through a facile combination of anionic polystyrene sulfonic acid (PSS) and cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). Unlike traditional superhydrophilic anti-fogging mechanisms, this coating leverages the hygroscopic properties of polyelectrolyte complex groups, ensuring effective anti-fogging performances across a wide temperature range. Additionally, the incorporation of quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) within the PEC complex confers strong bactericidal properties to the coating. The resultant coating exhibits excellent surface adhesion and robust resistance to water immersion, and low cytotoxicity. With its dual antifogging and antibacterial properties, this coating shows significant promise for diverse applications in medical diagnostic and detection lens equipment. This study reports swiftly assembled polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) coatings, through a straightforward combination of anionic polystyrene sulfonic acid (PSS) with cationic surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). Unlike traditional superhydrophilic anti-fogging mechanisms, our coating utilizes the hygroscopic properties of the PEC groups, hence ensuring effective anti-fogging performances. Additionally, the incorporation of quaternary ammonium salt (QAS) within the PEC complex confers the surface potent bactericidal activities. [Display omitted] • Antifogging and antibacterial PEC based coating was prepared. • Unique hygroscopic PEC coating ensures efficient antifogging performance. • Antifogging and antibacterial properties can be adjusted by changing PSS/CTAB ratios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoplastic fiber metal laminates (TFMLs) have garnered significant attention due to their excellent impact resistance. However, the influence of practical environmental factors on the impact resistance of TFMLs remains inadequately explored. This study endeavor to investigate the impact behaviors and damage tolerance of TFMLs, employing a novel thermoplastic resin, Elium®188, under two simulated marine environments: a thermal-cycling condition (involving 90 days of exposure to 70℃ for 6 h followed by 18 h at room temperature daily) and a hydrothermal environment (consisting of 90 days of immersion in distilled water at 70℃). The impact response and damage characteristics were analyzed through low-velocity impact (LVI) and compression-after-impact (CAI) tests. The findings indicated that under thermal-cycling, the LVI resistance decreased as a result of resin aging, but the resin hardened during aging led to a 48 % increase in CAI strength over the 90-day period. In the hydrothermal environment, the absorbed energy decreased by 5.6 % and CAI strength decreased by 13.7 % after 90 days, primarily due to resin hydrolysis and erosion of the TFMLs' internal structure by water molecules. This research offers valuable insights into the impact resistance and damage tolerance of TFMLs, serving as a vital reference for practical applications in marine settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano aluminum (nAl) is widely used as fuel in energetic materials owing to its high energy density. However, the highly reactive nAl is vulnerable to humidity and aqueous environment, leading to degradation of energy and limitations in practical application. Herein, the highly stable Al@TAM (M = Cu, Fe, Co, Bi) composites were prepared by coordination of tannic acid (TA) and metal ions on the surface of nAl. SEM and XRD results show that the Al@TAM composites maintain their morphology and phase composition after 14 days of immersion in water. Besides, TG tests also indicate that the Al@TAM can retain over 95 % of its active aluminum content. Molecular dynamics simulation reveals that the stable TAM layers can isolate H 2 O and Al 2 O 3 and the hydrogen bonds between TA and H 2 O molecules can inhibit the diffusion process, thereby enhancing the stability of nano aluminum. In terms of energetic performance of Al@TAM in nanothermites, DSC results and product analyses show that the CuO/Al@TAM nanothermites exhibit higher energy release and reaction extent than that of CuO/Al. In addition, the CuO/Al@TAM composites show higher flame intensity and maximum pressure compared to CuO/Al. Therefore, the facile coating strategy of metal-phenolic network (MPN) can stabilize aluminum in water without sacrificing the energetic performance of aluminum in CuO/Al nanothermite. [Display omitted] • TAM (M = Cu, Fe, Co, Bi) coated nano aluminum powders are first prepared. • The Al@TAM composites exhibit excellent anti-aging performance and high stability. • The anti-aging mechanism of Al@TAM is proposed. • The TAM layers can enhance the energetic performance of Al@TAM in nanothermites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, vacancy-ordered double perovskite phosphors have garnered significant attention due to their high quantum efficiency, elevated carrier mobility, and favorable fluorescence properties. Vacancy ordered double perovskite phosphors has poor fluorescence properties due to the high number of vacancies. The fluorescence characteristics and stability can be enhanced through strategic ion doping. This study synthesized Zr4+ ion-doped Cs 2 SnCl 6 : 5 %Te using hydrochloric acid-assisted precipitation method. The inclusion of Zr4+ ions in proper proportions facilitated Jahn-Teller structural distortion in Te4+, thereby enhancing the generation of bright yellow-green emission. The photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) achieved a peak of 70.9 % at a Zr4+ ion doping level of 15 %. Furthermore, a water stability test was conducted on the phosphors. At 15 % doping with Zr ions, The Cs 2 Zr 0.15 Sn 0.8 Cl 6 : 5 %Te phosphors demonstrated a remarkable stability, which maintained 100 % of its initial fluorescence intensity after immersion in water for 14 h, proving the excellent stability of the phosphors against water exposure. A white light-emitting diode (WLED) with color coordinates of (0.3486, 0.364), a correlated color temperature of 4915 K, and a color-rendering index (Ra) of 86 was prepared using Cs 2 Zr 0.15 Sn 0.8 Cl 6 : 5 %Te phosphor. This development offers a novel and eco-friendly approach to solid state lighting. • Synthesis of target products by simple precipitation. • Appropriate Zr4+ ions can substantially improve the fluorescence properties of Cs 2 SnCl 6 :5 %Te phosphor. • Cs 2 SnCl 6 :5 %Te phosphor with high photoluminescence efficiency and good stability. • Cs 2 SnCl 6 :5 %Te phosphor exhibit wide color gamut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twisted and coiled polymer actuators (TCPA), also known as coiled artificial muscles, are gaining popularity in soft robotics due to their large contractile actuation and work capacity. However, while it has been previously claimed that the stroke of TCPA remains stable after thousands of cycles, their absolute length change has not been rigorously studied. Here, we constructed an isobaric cycling setup that relies on fast heating and cooling by water immersion. This enables testing for 10k cycles in a duration of 56 hours, where the muscle temperature is varied between 15 °C and 75 °C at a rate of 20 seconds per cycle. Surprisingly, while the stroke usually remains unchanged for the entire 10k cycles as previously claimed, the final muscle loaded length exhibits all the geometrical possibilities of creep behavior as it can remain unchanged, elongate (creep), or contract (reverse creep) at the end of the test. Based on a wide range of experiments, we derived an empirical law which captures the observed relationship between the final muscle length change Δ L , the stroke α , and the passive strain ε 0 : ε 0 + α = Δ L. Using this relation, the final length change of the muscle can be predicted from the first 100 cycles only. We show that polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), which does not swell in water, and nylon, which swells, follow this empirical law by testing in water with and without a protective coating, respectively. These results offer practical design guidelines for predictive actuation over thousands of cycles. [Display omitted] • The high cycle life of twisted and coiled polymer actuators is characterized by the stroke change and the final length. • We built a liquid isobaric cycling setup to investigate twisted and coiled polymer actuators for 10k cycles. • While the stroke remains constant, the muscle length elongates (creep), contracts (reverse creep), or remains unchanged. • We derived an empirical relation for the muscle length by the stroke-strain difference observed in the first 100 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article in the BJOG journal evaluates the risks of waterbirth, specifically focusing on the impact of warm water immersion on obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI) and neonatal outcomes. While the study found no increased risk for women without specific risk factors, it did not account for the potential impact of twin or multiple pregnancies, which can significantly affect the stress on the birth canal and increase the risk of OASI. Additionally, the study lacked detailed information on factors like the mode of labour onset, duration of labour, and use of pharmacological analgesia, which are crucial in assessing labour progression and outcomes. Further analysis and resolution of these issues are needed to enhance the credibility and validity of the study's conclusions. [Extracted from the article]

Obtaining mechanical stability and environmental durability is a key but challenging issue in the development of superhydrophobic coatings. Here, a superhydrophobic coating with high mechanical stability and environmental durability was fabricated through layer-by-layer spraying the silicone/epoxy resin composite and micro-nanoparticles. By layer-by-layer spraying, the resins and the micro-nanoparticle could be modulated separately. The use of the silicone/epoxy resin composite not only adjusts the hardness of the coating, but also allows the fabrication of special composite structures consisting of resin framework and particle clusters by adjusting the solubility between the resin material and the solvent of the micro-nano particles' solution. Based on the high hardness and special composite microstructure, the superhydrophobic coatings exhibit high mechanical stability (abrasion 45 m under a load of 200 g) and environmental robustness (boiling water immersion for 24 h). The particle clusters can continuously replenish the micro-nano-particles lost during the surface abrasion, thus prolonging the coating's service life. In addition, the coatings possessed an ultra-high corrosion inhibition efficiency of 99.99 % and drag reduction effect (2–21 % at the velocity of 2–5.75 m/s). The presented work provides valuable insights into the design and fabrication of highly stable superhydrophobic coatings. [Display omitted] • The coating was fabricated with silicone/epoxy composites and micro-nanoparticles. • The coating shows a special composite microstructure with the resin framework and discrete particle clusters. • The coating is resistant to abrasion (sandpaper abrasion45 m, knife scraping) and boiling water immersion (24 h). • The coating has acorrosion inhibition efficiency of 99.998 %) and a drag reduction of 2∼21 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the effect of ultrasound assisted sodium hypochlorite (US-assisted SH) on the physicochemical properties and bacterial communities on the skin surface of chilled chicken leg-quarters. US-assisted SH treatments were applied for 25 min, either as a single combination treatment (US & SH) or repeated twice, denoted as 2 × (US & SH). Meanwhile, the sodium hypochlorite (SH) and the control (immersion in deionized water) was used to compare their efficacy. After each treatment, all chicken leg-quarters were overwrapped and stored at 0–4 °C for 0, 3 and 5 days. The results showed that both US & SH and 2 × (US & SH) treatments reduced the total viable count (TVC), Enterobacteriaceae and Psychrophilic bacteria on the surface at 0 day and maintained better sensory quality, without significant adverse effects on chicken skin color and lipid oxidation during 5 days of chilled storage. The 2 × (US & SH) treatment exhibited a superior efficacy in reducing TVC (4.72 log CFU/g), Enterobacteriaceae (2.83 log CFU/g) and psychrophilic bacteria (4.89 log CFU/g) compared to both US & SH and SH treatments, and diminished the growth potential of Acinetobacter , Aeromonas, Shewanella and Pseudomonas , resulting in an extension of shelf life by more than 2 days. The study showed that US-assisted SH could be a promising method for skin surface decontaminating during poultry slaughtering and fresh chicken preserving. • 2 × (US & SH) treatment reduced initial bacterial load of chicken leg-quarters. • 2 × (US & SH) reduced the TVB-N and improved the sensory quality. • The growth of Acinetobacter , Aeromonas , Shewanella and Pseudomonas was inhibited. • 2 × (US & SH) can re-open the closed feather follicles, enhancing its antibacterial efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the performance of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) as self-healing agents in macrocracked ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) was extensively evaluated, with a focus on compressive strength behavior in different aggressive environments. Three UHPC mixtures were designed: a control mixture, a UHPC with 0.3 % sodium polyacrylate (poly(AA)), and a UHPC with 0.3 % polyacrylate-co-acrylamide (poly(AA-co-AM)). Samples with macrocrack widths of 0.3 mm, 0.5 mm, and 1 mm, as well as uncracked samples, were prepared. The samples underwent immersion in deionized water, chloride saltwater, and compound saltwater. The performance of self-healing was evaluated by measuring crack closure rates, recovered compressive strength, and stereomicroscopic inspections. Further, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) was performed to monitor mineral formation and the healing process. The results indicate that both poly(AA) and poly(AA-co-AM) SAPs significantly enhanced the self-healing capabilities of UHPC, with poly(AA) demonstrating superior performance. Self-healing was more pronounced in samples with cracks width of 0.3 mm, whereas samples with cracks widths of 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm exhibited incomplete and negligible healing, respectively. The healed samples recovered a substantial portion of their compressive strength, regardless of the crack width. However, the presence of chloride and/or sulfate ions was found to impede the self-healing process. As observed from the SEM/EDX results, in addition to CaCO 3 and C-S-H gel, undesirable healing products like Friedel's salt and ettringite were also formed in chloride and compound saltwater environments which significantly affected self-healing durability. [Display omitted] • Exposure conditions and crack widths played a significant role in the healing performance. • Self-healing process is more effective in deionized water than in chloride saltwater or compound saltwater. • 0.3% SAP content insufficient to fill microcracks > 0.3 mm and recover full compressive strength in any environment. • Chloride and compound saltwater form harmful products like Friedel's salt and ettringite, reducing self-healing durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Foamed geopolymer concrete is known for its sustainability and environmentally friendly attributes. However, it typically employs high concentrations of alkaline solution, ranging between 8M and 16M, thereby raising concerns about its high cost and negative impacts on humans and the environment. This study validates the geopolymerisation process of zeolite based foamed geopolymer concrete reinforced with Cellulose Nanofibril, prepared in low concentration of Potassium Hydroxide solution below 2M. This study also evaluates the geopolymer's properties in porosity, compressive strength, and water permeability. The alkaline solution used consists of seawater, Potassium Silicate, Potassium Hydroxide, and Potassium Chloride. Hydrogen Peroxide is used as foaming agents while Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate and Benzalkonium Chloride served as surfactants, with Cellulose Nanofibril as reinforcement for the foamed geopolymer concrete. Following mixing using a high shear stirrer and curing in an ambient temperature of 30 °C for a day, geopolymerization of samples was confirmed through immersion in boiling water, X-ray Diffraction analysis, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis. Response Surface Methodology on porosity revealed that the terms Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate/Benzalkonium Chloride and Hydrogen Peroxide/Cellulose Nanofibril had p-values of 0.000, while terms Seawater/Potassium Silicate and Potassium Hydroxide/Potassium Chloride had p-values of 0.360 and 0.279, respectively. A combination of high Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate and Hydrogen Peroxide yielded samples with porosity >45%. At maximized Hydrogen Peroxide, increasing concentration of Potassium Hydroxide solution increases the porosity up to 35%–40%. Additionally, the presence of Potassium Chloride in geopolymer slurry stabilized by surfactant Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate resulted in higher porosity. Optimization analysis predicted a porosity of 61.460% which was validated experimentally with an acceptable margin of error. Increasing the concentration of Potassium Hydroxide solution was found to result in higher porosity, higher compressive strength, and higher water permeability. Increasing the Cellulose Nanofibril content leads to a decrease in porosity and water permeability but an increase in compressive strength. As a result, this study revealed that optimizing the composition of geopolymer prepared in low concentration alkaline solution is critical for balancing the porosity, compressive strength, and water permeability, offering insights for cleaner production practice for construction materials. [Display omitted] • Foamed Geopolymer Concrete prepared in Potassium Hydroxide solution below 2M. • Geopolymerisation processes were observed among samples produced. • Hydrogen Peroxide and Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate enhances porosity to above 45%. • Potassium Hydroxide enhances porosity, compressive strength, and permeability. • Cellulose Nanofibril lowers porosity, permeability, enhances compressive strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete is vulnerable to cracking due to its low tensile strength and brittle nature. Cracks contribute to accelerate the penetration of aggressive ions such as chlorides into the cementitious matrix potentially leading to steel reinforcement corrosion. Self-healing concrete has been identified as a potential solution to eliminate the effect of cracks, helping to reduce the high costs related to repairing deteriorating structures. Although many studies were conducted using General Purpose cement (GPC) or blended cement-based materials, only a very limited number of studies attempted to assess the self-healing behaviour of cementitious composites incorporating biochar. This study investigates the combined effects of wood biochar, partially replacing GPC, and crystalline admixture (CA) on the self-healing performance of biochar-cement composites. Three-point bending loading was conducted to create cracks. Cracked samples were exposed to either dry condition, permanent water immersion, or wetting/drying cycles in water. Cracks self-healing was evaluated using both optical microscopy and binary image analysis. The self-healing products were analysed using SEM-EDS, XRD, TG, FTIR, and NMR. Wetting/drying cycles in water was the most effective exposure condition allowing to totally heal the cracks of CA and CA-Biochar specimens. The microstructural analysis confirmed the formation of calcite and portlandite in the healing products. FTIR and NMR spectra confirmed the formation of limited amounts of C-S-H gel. Biochar particle provided more nucleation sites for the self-healing process, healing wider crack width than in cementitious composites containing only CA. • Wet/dry cycle (WD) exposure led to complete crack healing in samples with 1 wt% CA at 56 days. • Up to 5 wt% biochar didn't negatively impact mechanical strength, with CB2 showing the best properties. • CB5 group reached 61.6 % crack closure at 28 days and full healing at 56 days under WD. • Biochar particles created more nucleation sites, healing wider cracks compared to CA alone. • CB2 had the highest calcite content in healing products, promoting effective self-healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Function-coupled microcapsules were facilely prepared via Pickering emulsion photopolymerization using modified montmorillonite as the outer shell, divinylbenzene as the inner shell, and isophorone diisocyanate as the core material. The microcapsules formed double-shelled structures with median particle sizes ranging from 60 to 80 μm and successfully encapsulated isophorone diisocyanate. The organic contaminants adsorption and self-healing corrosion resistance functions were coupled to the microcapsules. The microcapsules efficiently removed organic contaminants such as Congo red (98.00%) and Methylene blue (99.84%) through hydrogen bonding (O–H), electrostatic attraction (C=O/O–C=O), and pore filling. The optimal self-healing corrosion resistance of the epoxy coatings was achieved at 9 wt% microcapsule dosage, with the maximum capacitive arc radius, impedance modulus (105.5–106.0 Ω cm2), and inhibition efficiency (98.95%) after 1 day of salt water immersion. This novel function-coupled microcapsule has the potential to protect the environment and extend the service life of materials. This work pioneered the invention of function-coupled microcapsules with high performance, which provides a new idea for the functional coupling of various materials. [Display omitted] • Organic contaminants adsorption and self-healing corrosion resistance functions was coupled into core-shell microcapsules. • Function-coupled microcapsules are facilely prepared via Pickering emulsion photopolymerization method. • Microcapsules adsorb contaminants through hydrogen bonding interactions, electrostatic attraction, and pore filling. • Microcapsules provide self-healing corrosion resistance functions by generating polyurea layers in microcracks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cold water immersions at 10 °C for 10 min, 3 times per week for 4 weeks, have no detrimental impact on cognition. • These short, frequent immersions might improve certain aspects of cognitive function whilst improving subjective measures of sleep and worry. • Positive effects on subjective worry are seen after the first immersion. • Regular therapeutic CWI in a laboratory environment has a neutral impact on mood. It is suggested improvements in mood seen elsewhere may be implicated by access to blue and green space. • Two weeks of regular therapeutic CWI improved sleep, with fewer sleep disturbances reported. • CWI to assist with sleep may be more efficient at times when sleep disturbances are more pronounced. Research regarding the effect cold-water immersion (CWI) has on cognitive performance often uses excessive cooling protocols (>1-hour) to measure the detrimental impact prolonged cold exposure has on cognition. Previous studies have not considered shorter CWI protocols, similar to that used in recovery and wellness practices (∼10 min). To investigate a more ecologically valid CWI protocol on cognition, well-being and sleep in an acute and chronic manner. It was hypothesised that a therapeutic CWI protocol would improve well-being, and sleep and have no detrimental effect on cognition. Thirteen healthy participants (20.85±2.15 years), (169.96±7.77 cm), (72.03±14.92 kg), (27.67±9.55 BF%) volunteered to complete a 4-week CWI protocol. Participants were immersed in cold water (10.42±0.59 °C) 3-times a week for 4-weeks. Cognitive performance (Stroop & TMT), well-being (WEMWBS, PSWQ, GAD-7, SHS) and sleep (PSQI) were measured acutely and chronically over the 4-week protocol along with thermoregulatory measures (Tsk, Tco, thermal comfort). Results show that CWI had no detrimental impact on cognitive performance, with Stroop performance & well-being seeing no differences acutely or chronically. Alternatively, the trail making test showed significant improvement from baseline (TMT-A 15.17±4.81-seconds, TMT-B 39.68±15.12-seconds) to week-3 (TMT-A 11.06±3.29-seconds, TMT-B 26.18±10.23-seconds). A reduction in sleep disturbances was seen from baseline scores of 7.85±3.44 AU to the end of week-3 measures 5.75±3.77 AU. Therapeutic cooling can improve sleep quality when utilised in short frequent doses (3 times per week, for 4-weeks) and is not detrimental to cognitive performance, improving certain aspects of executive function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]