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Thermoplastic fiberglass was compression molded in the form of thick panels with a nominal thickness of 10 mm and a size of 300 × 300 mm2. A simplified procedure was adopted to speed up the lamination procedure and adapt it to the aim of recycling waste, glass fibers, fabrics, and thermoplastic films. Low density polyethylene was used as a matrix to simplify the laboratory process, but the same procedure can be extended to other thermoplastic film, such as polyamide. The final thermoplastic composite shows unique properties in terms of its repairability, and its performance was improved by increasing the number of repairing repetitions. For this aim, a repairability test was designed in the bending configuration, and three consecutive cycles of bending/repairing/bending were carried out. The static mechanical properties of the final thermoplastic composite were, conversely, low in comparison with traditional fiberglass because of the choice of a polyethylene matrix. The bending tests showed that the maximum strength was lower than 10 MPa and the elastic modulus was less than 1 GPa. Nevertheless, the toughness of the thermoplastic composite was high, and the samples continued to deform under bending without splitting into two halves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban drainage culverts, suffering from years of disrepair and constrained by the conditions above them, are often repaired using in situ methods. The selection of the timing for diversion is a key issue concerning the safety of in situ culvert repair construction. This paper considers risk factors such as construction technology and duration, diversion methods, and construction periods, and establishes a risk measurement model for the diversion process. By analyzing the uncertainty of diversion risk factors and comparing the construction periods with the risk change process, a risk analysis model for diversion during in situ culvert repair construction is established, providing a reference for the timing of urban culvert repairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper proposes a maintenance policy for a k-out-of-n: F system operating to fulfil several jobs without interruptions. The system is replaced when the Nth job completes or at the kth failure, whichever occurs first. So, there are some non-failed components when a replacement is done. These components can be sold as second-hand products to continue working in other systems for a while. The price of them is also considered in the proposed maintenance policy. An optimal maintenance policy is studied to minimise long-run average cost under the constraint of relative mean operating time. Comprehensive numerical studies are done to assess the effect of the model parameters on the optimal solutions. Also, to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed plan, a data set related to wind turbine generator failures is considered as a case study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A work zone is an area of roadway with construction, maintenance, or utility work activities. A work zone is typically marked by signs, channelizing devices, barriers, pavement markings, and/or work vehicles. It extends from the first warning sign or rotating/strobe lights on a vehicle to the end road work sign or the last temporary traffic control device. As road reconstructions are an opportunity to eliminate or mitigate the risk of unsafe situations with relatively small and short-term investments, it is necessary to enable the preparation of road works in the most efficient way possible, with maximum safety for all road users in road work zones, both drivers and workers. For users who are not familiar with the network, the work zone can be a potential place for accidents. The marking of the work zone on the road is carried out with the help of vertical, horizontal and light traffic signals, and its provision is carried out with appropriate equipment. Managing traffic during construction is necessary to minimize traffic delays, maintain motorist and worker safety, complete roadwork in a timely manner, and maintain access for businesses and residents. Effective work zone traffic management includes assessing work zone impacts and documenting strategies for mitigating the impacts in a transportation management plan. Work zone traffic management strategies should be identified based on the project constraints, construction phasing/staging plan, type of work zone, and anticipated work zone impacts. Once these strategies are implemented, they need to be monitored to ensure they effectively manage work zone impacts. The aim of this paper is to define the traffic regime, i.e. the traffic signaling and equipment during the rehabilitation and repair of state road R1301, section Ohrid - Sveti Naum, subdivision Konjsko - BC Sveti Naum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights Compression molded hybrid laminates have been manufactured by stacking 10 recycled epoxy‐based carbon fiber plies with interlaminar polyamide film of 50 μm thickness. At first, carbon fiber (CF) reinforced composites underwent thermo‐mechanical disassembly to obtain single composite CF plies. These plies, still impregnated with the waste cured resin, have been re‐assembled by interposing one or two sheets of the thermoplastic film in the lamination sequence. Neat laminates have been used for comparison. Samples of size 85 × 30 mm2 have been tested under bending load, and materials repairability has been evaluated under 2 consecutive repairing cycles that have been carried out by applying pressure and heat along the composite failure line. Even though the neat composite showed the best mechanical properties, after the first repairing cycle a drastic drop has been recorded with a reduction of the elastic modulus of 92.4%. On the other hand, the elastic modulus of the hybrid composites has been reduced of only 24% on average. Thermo‐mechanical disassembly is used to recycle epoxy carbon fiber composite. Hybrid laminates are obtained by placing polyamide film between recycled plies. Pressure and heat are applied along the composite failure line for repairing. Hybrid composites repairing is carried out in comparison with neat materials. Repaired hybrid laminates have a higher elastic modulus than neat once. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tissue engineering has demonstrated its efficacy in promoting tissue regeneration, and extensive research has explored its application in rotator cuff (RC) tears. However, there remains a paucity of research translating from bench to clinic. A key challenge in RC repair is the healing of tendon–bone interface (TBI), for which bioactive materials suitable for interface repair are still lacking. The umbilical cord (UC), which serves as a vital repository of bioactive components in nature, is emerging as an important source of tissue engineering materials. A minimally manipulated approach is used to fabricate UC scaffolds that retain a wealth of bioactive components and cytokines. The scaffold demonstrates the ability to modulate the TBI healing microenvironment by facilitating cell proliferation, migration, suppressing inflammation, and inducing chondrogenic differentiation. This foundation sets the stage for in vivo validation and clinical translation. Following implantation of UC scaffolds in the canine model, comprehensive assessments, including MRI and histological analysis confirm their efficacy in inducing TBI reconstruction. Encouraging short‐term clinical results further suggest the ability of UC scaffolds to effectively enhance RC repair. This investigation explores the mechanisms underlying the promotion of TBI repair by UC scaffolds, providing key insights for clinical application and translational research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Work to evaluate the effectiveness of innovative geotechnical slope repair techniques used on UK national highways is summarised. The techniques assessed were the planting of live willow poles, electrokinetic geosynthetics (EKG) and fibre-reinforced soil (FRS). These were used instead of conventional approaches to reduce the overall impacts of various challenges, including environmental constraints (habitat and visual) and access and utility constraints, and to reduce the scale and/or cost of traffic management and traffic delays. Trials have been undertaken over the last 20 years or so, but monitoring was generally limited to just a few years post-construction; longer term evaluation was not generally undertaken. The evaluated success – or otherwise – of the techniques led directly to recommendations for future use, ranging from the development of live willow pole design guidance and specification information, guidance on further EKG trials and cessation of the use of FRS, primarily on environmental grounds but also acknowledging the construction difficulties encountered. Life cycle analysis revealed that each technique provides significant carbon dioxide savings compared with rock fill replacement. More generic lessons learnt from the trials and the practical applications reported were used to produce guidance for future trials of innovative geotechnical repair techniques, including those for slopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various factors and agents cause mutations and damage to DNA, such as UV radiations, alkylating agents, toxins, aromatic compounds, environmental stress and other ways, including spontaneous base DNA damage. These DNA damages could prove deleterious if left un-repaired, leading to cancer and many other unhealthy conditions. As DNA is the genomic material, repairing the damage is more critically important. However, cells have various mechanisms to cope with the damaged DNA, including DNA polymerase self-correction and proofreading, direct reversal of the chemical changes, readily repairing of double helix, base and nucleotide excision repair and mismatch repairs. This review briefly explains DNA damage and repair mechanisms and the disease states associated with them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article deals with a repairable k-out-of-n: G system with retrial feature and two maintenance policies. All components in the system have two failure modes, mode a failure and mode b failure. When a component fails, the failed component will be repaired instantly if the repair equipment is idle. Otherwise, it enters into a retrial orbit and tries again after some time until it is repaired. The single repair equipment may be subject to breakdown in a busy period, and in order to improve system reliability, the idle repair equipment will be performed preventive maintenance. The Markov process theory and Laplace transform method are adopted to compute the reliability indexes of the system. Also, four optimization design models are constructed to determine the optimal repair rates of the components with two failure modes, and the minimization problems of the total expected cost function per unit time and the cost-effectiveness ratio are solved. To verify the correctness of the model, numerical analysis is executed to demonstrate the impact of each parameter on system reliability indexes, the optimal solutions of different optimization design models are obtained by using differential evolution algorithm and genetic algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The regenerative capacity of the peripheral nervous system is limited, and peripheral nerve injuries often result in incomplete healing and poor outcomes even after repair. Transection injuries that induce a nerve gap necessitate microsurgical intervention; however, even the current gold standard of repair, autologous nerve graft, frequently results in poor functional recovery. Several interventions have been developed to augment the surgical repair of peripheral nerves, and the application of functional biomaterials, local delivery of bioactive substances, electrical stimulation, and allografts are among the most promising approaches to enhance innate healing across a nerve gap. Biocompatible polymers with optimized degradation rates, topographic features, and other functions provided by their composition have been incorporated into novel nerve conduits (NCs). Many of these allow for the delivery of drugs, neurotrophic factors, and whole cells locally to nerve repair sites, mitigating adverse effects that limit their systemic use. The electrical stimulation of repaired nerves in the perioperative period has shown benefits to healing and recovery in human trials, and novel biomaterials to enhance these effects show promise in preclinical models. The use of acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) circumvents the morbidity of donor nerve harvest necessitated by the use of autografts, and improvements in tissue-processing techniques may allow for more readily available and cost-effective options. Each of these interventions aid in neural regeneration after repair when applied independently, and their differing forms, benefits, and methods of application present ample opportunity for synergistic effects when applied in combination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximizing the net economic benefits of leak management programs provides the most value to water utilities and their customers. Leak management programs with alternative objectives (e.g., to "break even" or to maximize leak reduction) are not necessarily the most efficient use of resources. Combining hydraulic modeling with principles of economics and using a real distribution system to provide a case study, we present a methodology for maximizing the net economic benefits of a leak management program consisting of leak detection and repair activities and pressure management interventions. The optimization results include recommended leak detection and repair intervals for individual district metered areas, optimal siting of both pressure reducing valves and pumps-as-turbines (PATs), and modifications to the distribution system's connectivity to isolate high-pressure areas. The case study results indicate that 10% to 11% of the system's current energy use can be recovered by PATs and that the avoided leakage over the study period is equivalent to 13% to 23% of the system's current customer demand. While leak detection and repair and pressure management are more commonly considered independently, this analysis demonstrates the feasibility of including their interdependencies when optimizing a leak management program, resulting in more useful recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extreme radiation environment in nuclear power plant leads to leakage of nuclear pipe equipment. It is important to repair the pipe equipment timely for nuclear safety. Manual repair on field incurs a health risk to worker. The use of robot for remote repair shows an excellent prospect. Therefore, the multirobot system (MRS) was developed and designed for field remote repair of nuclear reprocessing pipe equipment. The sensor modules and composite control strategy were developed for remote repair in the radiation environment. The remote repair of nuclear pipe equipment including both overall and partial repair has been achieved. The remote repair of the MRS is successfully performed on a full‐size stainless steel pipe model. The experimental results show that the MRS performed 63 processes with an overall time of 12,798 s, while the manual repair requires multiple people to spend many days to complete the repair. Moreover, the MRS achieves great repair quality and appearance. The MRS achieves excellent performance in remote repair of nuclear pipe equipment under extreme radiation conditions, demonstrating its capability for effective and safe operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is of great significance in the field of engineering to repair the surface defects of ZM6 cast magnesium alloy by an arc welding method. Compared with the traditional tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding repair technology, cold metal transfer (CMT) welding repair has the advantages of low heat input, small repair deformation, and high efficiency. It is of great research value to repair the surface defects of ZM6 cast magnesium alloy by CMT welding. In this paper, the effect of CMT welding repair parameters on defect repair forming is systematically studied, and a repair process window free of unfused defects is obtained. The effects of preheating temperature of base material, wire-feeding speed, welding speed, stick-out length of welding wire and shielding gas flow on the spread of magnesium alloy melt and weld formation were investigated by a surface surfacing method. During the welding process, a camera was used to capture images of the arc and droplet features. A pit defect with a depth of 11.5 mm was machined on the surface of the casting, and the effect of five different repair paths on the formation of the repair area was studied. In order to make the repair area have better fusion, reasonable repair parameters are as follows: The preheating temperature range is 310–450 °C, the wire-feeding speed range is 5–7 m/min, the welding speed range is 8–10 mm/s, the stick-out length of the welding wire is 12 mm, the shielding gas flow rate is 20 L/min, and the repair path adopts a continuous linear reciprocating welding path. This study has important significance for guiding the development of CMT repair technology of cast magnesium alloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the process of using composite materials, crack damage is unavoidable. These cracks may cause a decrease in the structural performance of the material and may even pose a threat to the safety of the entire structure. In this paper, the shape memory alloy (SMA) is embedded into the composite material, and the strain transfer effect of the interface layer is considered. The crack monitoring and repair model of SMA composite material based on strain transfer are established using SMA resistance-sensing characteristics and SMA constitutive model. Based on this monitoring and repair model, the crack monitoring behavior of SMA under different initial states and temperature conditions is discussed, and the crack repair behavior of SMA under specific initial states and temperature conditions is also discussed. The research results show that the change in SMA resistance and the strain of the composite material crack are linearly segmented, and as the temperature increases, the composite material crack is gradually repaired. This study can provide theoretical guidance for the further engineering application of SMA composite material crack monitoring and repair theory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nerve injuries significantly impact the quality of life for patients, with severe cases posing life-threatening risks. A comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying nerve injury is crucial to the development of effective strategies to promote nerve regeneration. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a recently characterized class of RNAs distinguished by their covalently closed-loop structures, have been shown to play an important role in various biological processes. Numerous studies have highlighted the pivotal role of circRNAs in nerve regeneration, identifying them as potential therapeutic targets. This review aims to succinctly outline the latest advances in the role of circRNAs related to nerve injury repair and the underlying mechanisms, including peripheral nerve injury, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, and neuropathic pain. Finally, we discuss the potential applications of circRNAs in drug development and consider the potential directions for future research in this field to provide insights into circRNAs in nerve injury repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epicardial epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role in both heart development and injury response and involves dynamic cellular changes that are essential for cardiogenesis and myocardial repair. Specifically, epicardial EMT is a crucial process in which epicardial cells lose polarity, migrate into the myocardium, and differentiate into various cardiac cell types during development and repair. Importantly, following EMT, the epicardium becomes a source of paracrine factors that support cardiac growth at the last stages of cardiogenesis and contribute to cardiac remodeling after injury. As such, EMT seems to represent a fundamental step in cardiac repair. Nevertheless, endogenous EMT alone is insufficient to stimulate adequate repair. Redirecting and amplifying epicardial EMT pathways offers promising avenues for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies and treatment approaches for heart disease. In this review, we present a synthesis of recent literature highlighting the significance of epicardial EMT reactivation in adult heart disease patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Childbirth-related mortality and morbidity affect many women globally, especially in low-income countries like Ethiopia. Obstetric fistula–a preventable condition mainly caused by prolonged and obstructed labor–can lead to physical, psychological, and social challenges, affecting women's social participation and inclusion. Objective: This study aims to understand women's social participation and inclusion experiences post-obstetric fistula surgery. Methods: This study is part of a larger research project investigating the social inclusion process of women who have had obstetric fistula surgery in Ethiopia. For this study, we conducted a qualitative exploration of women's experiences, guided by a constructivist grounded theory approach. Twenty-one women discharged from fistula treatment facilities following obstetric fistula surgery were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Data was analyzed using Charmaz's inductive analysis approach, which involves an initial line-by-line coding followed by focused coding to identify the most significant codes. Subsequently, sub-themes and themes were developed from the focused codes. Result: The data analysis revealed four themes reflecting the women's experiences of social participation and inclusion. These are the experience of recovery and the journey toward social participation, participating in expected and meaningful activities, the continued challenge with a romantic relationship, and formal and informal support. Overall, the women who received fistula surgery reported positive life changes, especially regarding their physical well-being. However, they continued to face social challenges such as financial hardship, reproductive health problems, and issues with marriage and family life, which negatively impacted their social participation and inclusion experiences. Conclusion: While more research is needed, the findings of this study suggest that the social aspects of obstetric fistula are crucial for healthcare professionals to consider. Providing appropriate care and support to address unmet social relationship, employment, and childcare needs could enable women to lead fulfilling lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In the double-blind, phase III, placebo-controlled RUBY randomized clinical trial, dostarlimab plus carboplatin-paclitaxel significantly increased survival among patients with primary advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer (EC). We conducted a cost-effectiveness analysis of dostarlimab in combination with chemotherapy in these patients stratified by mismatch repair-deficient (dMMR) and mismatch repair-proficient (pMMR) subgroups from the perspective of a United States payer. Materials and methods: A Markov model with three states was employed to simulate patients who were administered either dostarlimab in combination with chemotherapy or chemotherapy based on the RUBY trial. Quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), lifetime costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) were calculated with a willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold of $150,000 per QALY. Both univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were carried out to explore the robustness of the model. Results: In dMMR EC, the combination of dostarlimab and chemotherapy achieved an additional 5.48 QALYs at an incremental cost of $330,747 compared to chemotherapy alone, resulting in an ICER of $60,349.30 per QALY. In pMMR EC, there were 1.51 additional QALYs gained at an extra cost of $265,148, yielding an ICER of $175,788.47 per QALY. With a 15.2% discount on dostarlimab, the ICER decreased to $150,000 per QALY in the pMMR EC. The univariate sensitivity analysis revealed that the cost of dostarlimab, utility of progression-free survival (PFS), and progressive disease (PD) had the most significant impacts on the outcomes. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis revealed that dostarlimab had a 100% likelihood of being considered cost-effective for patients at a WTP threshold of $150,000 per QALY for dMMR EC, whereas this likelihood was only 0.5% for pMMR EC. Conclusion: Dostarlimab in combination with chemotherapy was cost-effective for primary advanced or recurrent dMMR EC from the perspective of a United States payer at a WTP threshold of $150,000 per QALY, but not for pMMR EC. Lowering the prices of dostarlimab could potentially enhance the cost-effectiveness of treatment for pMMR EC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clinical study was conducted in six clinical cases of dogs of either sex, presented to the department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Veterinary College, Hassan with a history of limping and non-weight bearing lameness. Clinical and orthopaedic examination revealed swelling and crepitation along with pain in coxofemoral joint. Radiography confirmed craniodorsal coxofemoral luxation in all six dogs. Coxofemoral luxation was stabilised with handmade toggle pin technique using toggle pins via craniodorsal approach under general anaesthesia. Intra-operative and postoperative complications were not observed in handmade toggle pin technique. A statistically significant difference (P>0.05) was not observed in haematobiochemical parameters and they fluctuated within normal physiological range except for neutrophils and lymphocytes increased significantly (p<0.05) in the initial pre-operative, immediate post-operative, 15th day and returned to normal values on 30th postoperative day onwards. Reluxation and toggle pin breakage were not observed in any of the dogs. All dogs showed excellent recovery in the post-operative period. In conclusion, clinical outcomes were excellent in dogs treated with handmade toggle pin for the repair of coxofemoral luxation along with non-significant variation in the haemato-biochemical parameters. Handmade toggle pin technique found to be easy, economical and practical method for the correction of coxofemoral luxation in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reaching sustainability targets requires a holistic understanding of the different dimensions of residential building stock development. This paper aims to provide a solid and transparent approach for modelling residential building stock development with a focus on the long-term need for repairs and renovations. The modelling approach is based on Dynamic Material Flow Analysis (MFA) and the model is constructed using comprehensive Finnish statistics. Still, it is widely applicable to different geographical locations and modifiable for various purposes. The main contributions to the previous literature are the incorporation of empirical building mortality analysis and rehabilitation degree model in the MFA modelling framework. The model is demonstrated by modelling the development of Finnish residential building stock from 2020 to 2050. The annual average need for renovation from 2020 to 2050 is 4.1 million residential square metres (1.8% percent of the entire housing stock), equalling to annual investments of some 7.8 billion euros. However, the results revealed notable geographical differences between municipality categories. The results also suggest that the proportion of renovations in the total construction market is increasing while the volume of new housing construction is decreasing. The modelled results are in line with the Finnish Long-Term Renovation Strategy 2020–2050. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study delves into quantifying the adverse effects of road damage on users, particularly focusing on the increased travel time and consequent financial burdens stemming from delayed repairs. Utilizing a comparative method, the research underscores notable reductions in speed and prolonged travel times due to damaged roads, leading to substantial economic losses for road users. To streamline the estimation of road user costs (RUC), the study proposes a simulation model that incorporates varying traffic volumes and repair delays. This model demonstrates a high level of accuracy in estimating RUC, revealing heightened sensitivity to fluctuations in traffic volume and repair delays compared to agency costs. Consequently, the research underscores the imperative of implementing effective repair strategies to alleviate these impacts efficiently, thereby emphasizing the significance of timely infrastructure maintenance in mitigating financial burdens on road users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fault localization (FL) and automated program repair (APR) are two main tasks of automatic software debugging. Compared with traditional methods, deep learning-based approaches have been demonstrated to achieve better performance in FL and APR tasks. However, the existing deep learning-based FL methods ignore the deep semantic features or only consider simple code representations. And for APR tasks, existing template-based APR methods are weak in selecting the correct fix templates for more effective program repair, which are also not able to synthesize patches via the embedded end-to-end code modification knowledge obtained by training models on large-scale bug-fix code pairs. Moreover, in most of FL and APR methods, the model designs and training phases are performed separately, leading to ineffective sharing of updated parameters and extracted knowledge during the training process. This limitation hinders the further improvement in the performance of FL and APR tasks. To solve the above problems, we propose a novel approach called MTL-TRANSFER, which leverages a multi-task learning strategy to extract deep semantic features and transferred knowledge from different perspectives. First, we construct a large-scale open-source bug datasets and implement 11 multi-task learning models for bug detection and patch generation sub-tasks on 11 commonly used bug types, as well as one multi-classifier to learn the relevant semantics for the subsequent fix template selection task. Second, an MLP-based ranking model is leveraged to fuse spectrum-based, mutation-based and semantic-based features to generate a sorted list of suspicious statements. Third, we combine the patches generated by the neural patch generation sub-task from the multi-task learning strategy with the optimized fix template selecting order gained from the multi-classifier mentioned above. Finally, the more accurate FL results, the optimized fix template selecting order, and the expanded patch candidates are combined together to further enhance the overall performance of APR tasks. Our extensive experiments on widely-used benchmark Defects4J show that MTL-TRANSFER outperforms all baselines in FL and APR tasks, proving the effectiveness of our approach. Compared with our previously proposed FL method TRANSFER-FL (which is also the state-of-the-art statement-level FL method), MTL-TRANSFER increases the faults hit by 8/11/12 on Top-1/3/5 metrics (92/159/183 in total). And on APR tasks, the number of successfully repaired bugs of MTL-TRANSFER under the perfect localization setting reaches 75, which is 8 more than our previous APR method TRANSFER-PR. Furthermore, another experiment to simulate the actual repair scenarios shows that MTL-TRANSFER can successfully repair 15 and 9 more bugs (56 in total) compared with TBar and TRANSFER, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the combination of our optimized FL and APR components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wire-based laser directed energy deposition process was developed to repair Q690D steel. The microstructure evolution, phase transformation and mechanical properties of the repaired specimens were investigated in detail. Excellent metallurgical bonding was achieved between the repaired zone and the substrate free of macroscopic defects. Typical columnar dendrites with grains grew perpendicularly from the fusion line to the deposition zone (DZ) centre. Microstructure in the DZ and heat-affected zone (HAZ) of the repaired specimen was predominated by lath martensite. The tensile properties of the repaired specimens were comparable to those of the substrate. The repaired specimens presented ∼200 MPa higher flexural strength than that of the substrates, while they have inferior ductility compared to the substrates under the three-point bend test. The average impact absorbed energy value for the repaired specimens achieved ∼85–90% of the substrates. This study introduces a novel restoration technique for offshore engineering platform maintenance.

In this paper, we consider an equipment leased with a warranty contract with the possibility to extend the warranty at a given price that depends on its duration. During the warranty period, the lessor (who possesses the equipment) performs and pays for repairs at failure and for preventive maintenance (PM) actions whenever the equipment reliability reaches a specific limit. After the warranty ends, repairs and PM actions are still performed by the lessor, but they are billed to the lessee (who rents the equipment). Furthermore, in case the total average equipment downtime due to repair and PM actions during the lease period surpasses a certain pre-specified limit agreed on in the lease contract, a penalty is supported by the lessor. A mathematical model and numerical procedure are proposed to determine the PM intervals durations that maximise the lessor's expected total profit during the lease period. The optimal solution is obtained by determining the combination between the optimal equipment reliability threshold that triggers a PM action and the optimal extended warranty period. A numerical example is given to illustrate the use of the proposed model and a sensitivity analysis is performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of experimental research involving nine one-way slabs are detailed in this report. The objective was to investigate the impact of different parameters on the structural performance of these slabs in their absence and with strengthening. Externally bonded CFRP sheets strengthened six of the nine slabs; the three remaining slabs served as control specimens. Before subjecting the specimens to monotonic loading, pre-fatigue damage of 50% and 70% repeated loading was induced. An exhaustive assessment was conducted on each slab, in which it was compared to its control slab. Several crucial elements were incorporated into the evaluation, including the ultimate load capacity, the reason for failure, crack patterns, and load-deflection curves. Examining these metrics was intended to provide insight into the efficacy and structural performance of the employed fortification technology. Compared to unenhanced reinforced concrete slabs (control slab), the highest stresses on slabs supported with bonded CFRP sheets are between 20 and 44% better. Compared to the control slab, an almost 70% reduction in deflection was observed. The flexural performance of compromised reinforced concrete slabs repaired with this technology can be brought up to date and enhanced.

Maintenance activities are crucial for all manufacturing industries. To ensure availability and lifetime of production equipment, operations management and logistics support for maintenance need to evolve year after year. Besides, Centralised Maintenance Workshops are one of the most interesting approaches to reduce the cost and time required to repair faulty equipment. Generally known in the research community as 'repair shops', they aim to pool all the resources needed to repair defective equipment provided by different production sites. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of repair shops and to present opportunities for future research with a focus on the circular economy context. The most relevant papers have been rigorously selected and analyzed, providing interesting reference materials on the subject. Repair shops are a set of workstations, operators, and spare parts inventories required to restore a group of failed production equipment. After detecting the origin of the failures, there are two options: either repair the equipment by restoring its defective components or replace the defective components with others in good working order. In the case of non-repairable components/equipment, circular strategies allow identification of components/equipment that could be restored and used to supply the spare parts warehouse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The formation of vascular niche is pivotal during the early stage of peripheral nerve regeneration. Nevertheless, the mechanisms of vascular niche in the regulation of peripheral nerve repair remain unclear. Netrin-1 (NTN1) was found up-regulated in nerve stump after peripheral nerve injury (PNI). Herein, we demonstrated that NTN1-high endothelial cells (NTN1+ECs) were the critical component of vascular niche, fostering angiogenesis, axon regeneration, and repair-related phenotypes. We also found that NTN1+EC-derived exosomes (NTN1 EC-EXO) were involved in the formation of vascular niche as a critical role. Multi-omics analysis further verified that NTN1 EC-EXO carried a low-level expression of let7a-5p and activated key pathways associated with niche formation including focal adhesion, axon guidance, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase- AKT, and mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway. Together, our study suggested that the construction of a pre-regenerative niche induced by NTN1 EC-EXO could establish a beneficial microenvironment for nerve repair and facilitate functional recovery after PNI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone implant biomaterials are among the most used materials for clinical application. Despite significant advances in biocompatibility and osteoconductivity, conventional biomaterials lack the ability to cope with the pathological microenvironment (inflammation, infection, residual tumors, etc.) during bone repair. Semiconductor implant materials have unique electrical, optical, ultrasound, and thermal response properties, which facilitate non‐invasively and controllably dynamic repair of pathological bone defects. In this review, the design and synthesis of a new generation of semiconductor‐driven bone implant materials are summarized, the mechanism of action of semiconductive biomaterials' functional interfaces and the dynamic repair process of bone tissues are discussed, and new strategies for the problems encountered during clinical osseointegration is provided. Finally, the review outlooks the future of functional semiconductive implants for bone defect repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the fabrication of fuel tanks by adopting friction stir welding (FSW), welding defects were almost unavoidable. The multi-pass repair FSW is the preferred repair welding technique for fuel tanks. However, the effect of muti-pass repair FSW on the microstructure and mechanical properties of dissimilar FSW 2219Al/2195Al joints lacks of investigation. In the present study, 2219Al-T8/2195Al-T8 plates were subjected to 1 ~ 3 passes repair FSW under 600 rpm–200 mm min−1 based on the initial joint 800 rpm–200 mm min−1 with placing 2219Al-T8 plates on the advancing side (AS). The results showed that, sound 1–3 passes repair FSW joints were obtained. The low hardness zone (LHZ) on the 2219Al-T8 side, characterized by the dissolution/coarsening of θ′ (Al2Cu) precipitates, showed the minimum hardness in the initial joint. Compared to the initial joint, the 1–3 passes repair FSW resulted in the moving of the location of LHZs far away from the weld center and coarser θ precipitates with higher density, and the hardness of the LHZ therefore decreased on the 2219Al-T8 side. The joint strength at − 196 °C was much higher than that at room temperature for both the initial and repair FSW joints. The 1 pass repair FSW weakened the joint strength at both the room temperature and − 196 °C. When increasing the repair pass from 1 to 2 and 3, the joint strength further decreased at room temperature but was unchanged at − 196 °C. The enlarged hardness gap between the nugget zone (NZ) and LHZ caused the narrowing of the necking zone at the LHZ on the 2219Al-T8 side for the multi-pass repair FSW joints. The material flow uniformity at the top of the NZ was improved by the 1 ~ 3 passes repair FSW, making the up bending failure location changing from the "S" line for the initial joint to the HAZ on the 2195Al-T8 side for the repair FSW joints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CRISPR/Cas9 is widely used for precise mutagenesis through targeted DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) induction followed by error-prone repair. A better understanding of this process requires measuring the rates of cutting, error-prone, and precise repair, which have remained elusive so far. Here, we present a molecular and computational toolkit for multiplexed quantification of DSB intermediates and repair products by single-molecule sequencing. Using this approach, we characterize the dynamics of DSB induction, processing and repair at endogenous loci along a 72 h time-course in tomato protoplasts. Combining this data with kinetic modeling reveals that indel accumulation is determined by the combined effect of the rates of DSB induction processing of broken ends, and precise versus error repair. In this study, 64–88% of the molecules were cleaved in the three targets analyzed, while indels ranged between 15–41%. Precise repair accounts for most of the gap between cleavage and error repair, representing up to 70% of all repair events. Altogether, this system exposes flux in the DSB repair process, decoupling induction and repair dynamics, and suggesting an essential role of high-fidelity repair in limiting the efficiency of CRISPR-mediated mutagenesis. The authors report a toolkit for multiplexed quantification of CRISPR/Cas9-mediated DSBs intermediates and repair products by single-molecule sequencing: they characterise the dynamics of DSB induction, processing, and repair in tomato protoplasts, showing that precise repair is a prominent feature of the repair process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of generic knowledge extraction methods in industrial manufacturing is of great significance for real- izing the automated construction of industrial knowledge bases. Aiming at the problem that industrial ontology definition requires a large amount of labour cost and expert experience for guidance, a semi-automatic ontology construction method is designed based on the sememe analysis, and finally the definition of ontology, ontology class, cascade and relationship is completed, using automobile manufacturing fault repair data as an example. Subsequently, in order to solve the problems of relationship nesting and cascade model error propagation that exist in relationship extraction in the industrial domain, a semantic- aware relationship extraction model is designed. In the three links of potential relationship mining, subject extraction and object extraction in this model, different leading interrogatives are spliced based on reading comprehension methods to obtain sentence codes applicable to different links.In order to make use of the a priori knowledge of the subject, the attention mechanism is incorporated into the object extraction module to improve the expressiveness of the codes in this module. Three sessions of joint optimised training to improve extraction results. Experiments are conducted on the automotive manufacturing fault repair dataset, the automotive industry fault pattern extraction evaluation dataset, and the equipment manufacturing dataset, and the model in this paper achieves better results than other relational extraction baseline models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the post‐repair behavior of a quasi‐isotropic laminate was studied in a high‐velocity impact environment. The composite laminates were repaired using an external bonded patch repair procedure. Impact tests were performed to understand the effect of patch size and the result of filling the damaged region with a neat epoxy and hardener mixture. Two different size square patches, such as 30 and 50 mm, were used to analyze the effect of patch size. A continuum damage mechanics‐based model was developed and incorporated into a finite element model interface to estimate the optimum patch size and patch stacking sequence for the impact environment. In the finite element model, the intralaminar failure criteria were implemented using the ABAQUS‐VUMAT user subroutine, and the interlaminar failure criteria were implemented using the inbuilt cohesive contact properties. The 30 mm patch with resin filled in the damaged region performed better than the other combination patches. Also, placing 45° plies toward the outer layer of the patches showed lower damage compared to the patches in which 45° plies were placed at the inner surfaces. Highlights: Post‐repair impact behavior of repaired laminates was examined.Impact of patch dimension and resin filling in the damaged area was analyzed.A 3‐D finite element model was developed to optimize patch parameters.Continuum damage mechanics model has been incorporated with VUMAT subroutine.Interface between lamina has been modeled using cohesive contact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past two decades, there has been extensive research into surveillance methods for the post-endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms, highlighting the importance of these technologies in supplementing or even replacing conventional image-screening modalities. This review aims to provide an overview of the current status of alternative surveillance solutions for endovascular aneurysm repair, while also identifying potential aneurysm features that could be used to develop novel monitoring technologies. It offers a comprehensive review of these recent clinical advances, comparing new and standard clinical practices. After introducing the clinical understanding of abdominal aortic aneurysms and exploring current treatment procedures, the paper discusses the current surveillance methods for endovascular repair, contrasting them with recent pressure-sensing technologies. The literature on three commercial pressure-sensing devices for post-endovascular repair surveillance is analyzed. Various pre-clinical and clinical studies assessing the safety and efficacy of these devices are reviewed, providing a comparative summary of their outcomes. The review of the results from pre-clinical and clinical studies suggests a consistent trend of decreased blood pressure in the excluded aneurysm sac post-repair. However, despite successful pressure readings from the aneurysm sac, no strong link has been established to translate these measurements into the presence or absence of endoleaks. Furthermore, the results do not allow for a conclusive determination of ongoing aneurysm sac growth. Consequently, a strong clinical need persists for monitoring endoleaks and aneurysm growth following endovascular repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone repair is intricately correlated with vascular regeneration, especially of type H vessels. Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) expression is closely associated with endothelial function and vascular regeneration; however, the role of SIRT1 in enhancing the coupling of type H vessel formation with osteogenesis to promote bone repair needs to be investigated. A co‐culture system combining human umbilical vein endothelial cells and osteoblasts was constructed, and a SIRT1 agonist was used to evaluate the effects of SIRT1 activity. The angiogenic and osteogenic capacities of the co‐culture system were examined using short interfering RNA. Mouse models with bone defects in the femur or mandible were established to explore changes in type H vessel formation and bone repair following modulated SIRT1 activity. SIRT1 activation augmented the angiogenic and osteogenic capacities of the co‐culture system by activating the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 signalling pathway and did not significantly regulate osteoblast differentiation. Inhibition of the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway attenuated SIRT1‐mediated effects. The SIRT1 activity in bone defects was positively correlated with the formation of type H vessels and bone repair in vivo, whereas SIRT1 inhibition substantially weakened vascular and bone formation. Thus, SIRT1 is crucial to the coupling of type H vessels with osteogenesis during bone repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composite materials are very attracting in both aerospace and automotive applications because of their exceptional strength, stiffness-to-density ratio, and superior physical properties. However, these materials are susceptible to damage, necessitating effective repair techniques to maintain their structural integrity and extend their operational life. Due to the high production costs for every single component in carbo-resin, further repair techniques have been developed to repair damaged components of a complex structure on site without having to disassemble any element. In this scenario, the scope of this research paper is to implement an innovative repair procedure to be carried out on-site. The hot bonding process was used for the scope, and two different technologies involving both the prepreg and the dry patches impregned on site (infused) were proposed. Firstly, the composite panels were manufactured, and then they were analysed through non destroying evaluation techniques. The mechanical behaviour of the samples (under both the pristine and the repaired conditions) was evaluated through open hole tensile and compression tests aiming to assess their properties under maximum stress conditions. Impact tests at penetration and at indentation were conducted to study the performances under dynamic loading. Despite an increase of voids percentage was proved for the dry patches impregned panels (+ 33%), better mechanical properties were found for the infused specimens compared to prepregs (+ 8% and + 10% under compression and tensile loads, respectively), proving the effectiveness of the developed process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examines the road corvée, a practice of using unpaid labour for road maintenance, in the nineteenth and twentieth century. I focus on the case of Estonia, where the road corvée, originating in the feudal economic system, persisted surprisingly long, being abolished only in 1959. Earlier studies on the road corvée have focused mainly on road construction and have therefore failed to recognise the use of the practice beyond absolutist Europe and colonial Africa. Focusing on maintenance reveals that the corvée was also widespread in twentieth-century Europe. I examine how the road corvée was organised and debated to reveal what inhibited and what accelerated its abolition. The study shows how maintenance practices can be deeply embedded in social and economic structures – like the agricultural system in this case – and ultimately be highly inert and resistant to change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This article uses ultra‐high performance concrete (UHPC) to repair damaged concrete and analyzes the durability performance of the repaired concrete. Among them, three erosion solutions with a mass concentration of 2.8% NaCl + 0.29% Na2SO4, 5% NaCl, and 5% NaCl + 10% Na2SO4 were designed to soak the concrete specimens for 1 to 3 months. Taking the SWC test group as an example, when the concrete test block undergoes 30 dry wet cycles and the erosion depth is 20 mm, the difference in chloride ion concentration under different diffusion dimensions is not significant. After 90 dry wet cycles, at a depth of 20 mm, the chloride ion concentration inside the concrete in the three‐dimensional diffusion state reached 3 times that of one‐dimensional diffusion, and the chloride ion concentration in the two‐dimensional diffusion state also reached 2 times that of one‐dimensional diffusion. At a depth of 30 mm, a small amount of chloride ion content was also found in the two‐dimensional diffusion and three‐dimensional diffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart contracts are becoming appealing targets for hackers because of the vast amount of cryptocurrencies under their control. Asset loss due to the exploitation of smart contract codes has increased significantly in recent years. To guarantee that smart contracts are vulnerability-free, there are many works to detect the vulnerabilities of smart contracts, but only a few vulnerability repair works have been proposed. Repairing smart contract vulnerabilities at the source code level is attractive as it is transparent to users, whereas existing repair tools, such as SCRepair and sGuard, suffer from many limitations: (1) ignoring the code of vulnerability prevention; (2) possibly applying the repair to the wrong statements and changing the original business logic of smart contracts; and (3) showing poor performance in terms of time and gas overhead. In this work, we propose machine learning guided rule-based automated vulnerability repair on smart contracts to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of sGuard. To address the limitations mentioned above, we design the features that characterize both the symptoms of vulnerabilities and the methods of vulnerability prevention to learn various vulnerability patterns and reduce false positives. Additionally, a fine-grained localization algorithm is designed by traversing the nodes of the abstract syntax tree, and we refine and extend the repair rules of sGuard to preserve the original business logic of smart contracts and support new vulnerability types. Our tool, named sGuard+, reduces time overhead based on machine learning models, and reduces gas overhead by fewer code changes and precise patching. In our experiment, we collect a publicly available vulnerability dataset from CVE, SWC, and SmartBugs Curated as a ground truth for evaluations. Overall, sGuard+ repairs more vulnerabilities with less time and gas overhead than state-of-the-art tools. Furthermore, we reproduce about 9,000 historical transactions for regression testing. It is shown that sGuard+ has no impact on the original business logic of smart contracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concrete is widely used in infrastructure projects worldwide, including Timor-Leste, a newly independent country struggling to advance its social and economic development. Concrete repair and rehabilitation are critical for extending its service life. The effectiveness of the repair depends on the strength of the bond between the repair material and the concrete substrate. This experimental study focused on the bond properties of ordinary performance cement mortar (OPCM) and polymer-modified cement (PMC) mortar and also examined the interfacial bond strength under tension, shear, and a combination of both. Slant shear and double shear tests were conducted to investigate the bond strength. The test results showed that the epoxy resin used as an interfacial bonder exhibited a lower bond strength than the other test parameters. The results obtained from the tests indicated that the expected interfacial bond strength was achieved between the repair material and concrete substrate using the proposed method. The use of OPCM in repairs is considered sustainable and applicable in countries where access to repair materials is difficult, as experiments have shown satisfactory results with existing repair materials and combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser-directed energy deposition (DED), a metal additive manufacturing method, is renowned for its role in repairing parts, particularly when replacement costs are prohibitive. Ensuring that repaired parts avoid residual stresses and deformation is crucial for maintaining functional integrity. This study conducts experimental and numerical analyses on trapezoidal shape repairs, validating both the thermal and mechanical models with experimental results. Additionally, the study presents a methodology for creating a toolpath applicable to both the DED process and Abaqus CAE software. The findings indicate that employing a pre-heating strategy can reduce residual stresses by over 70% compared to no pre-heating. However, pre-heating may not substantially reduce final distortion. Notably, final distortion can be significantly mitigated by pre-heating and subsequently cooling to higher temperatures, thereby reducing the cooling rate. These insights contribute to optimizing DED repair processes for enhanced part functionality and longevity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-thermal atmospheric-pressure plasma (NTAPP) has been widely studied for clinical applications, e.g., disinfection, wound healing, cancer therapy, hemostasis, and bone regeneration. It is being revealed that the physical and chemical actions of plasma have enabled these clinical applications. Based on our previous report regarding plasma-stimulated bone regeneration, this study focused on Achilles tendon repair by NTAPP. This is the first study to reveal that exposure to NTAPP can accelerate Achilles tendon repair using a well-established Achilles tendon injury rat model. Histological evaluation using the Stoll's and histological scores showed a significant improvement at 2 and 4 weeks, with type I collagen content being substantial at the early time point of 2 weeks post-surgery. Notably, the replacement of type III collagen with type I collagen occurred more frequently in the plasma-treated groups at the early stage of repair. Tensile strength test results showed that the maximum breaking strength in the plasma-treated group at two weeks was significantly higher than that in the untreated group. Overall, our results indicate that a single event of NTAPP treatment during the surgery can contribute to an early recovery of an injured tendon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]