Prestressed tensioning method and its application to testing anchor stress of anchor cables for side-slope stabilization

The anchor stress extent of a prestress anchor cable project has a direct relation with the project safety and performance. Prestressed tensioning method is a kind of nondestructive testing method, by which a reverse stretching load is applied on the external exposure section of anchor cable under construction or in service, and then the elongation variation of stress bars is measured to determine the anchor stress. We elaborated the theory and testing mechanism of prestressed tensioning method, and systematically studied key issues during the prestressed tensioning process of anchor cable by using physical model test, including the composition of tension stress-elongation curve, the variation of anchor stress, the compensation of locked anchor stress, and the judgment of anchor stress, and verified the theory feasibility of prestressed tensioning method. A case study on slope anchor cable of one highway project was conducted to further discuss on the test method, operation procedures and judgment of prestressed tensioning method on obtaining anchor stress, and then the test data of three situations were analyzed. The result provides a theoretical basis and technical base for the application of prestressed tensioning method to the evaluation of construction quality and operation conditions of anchor cable project.

Influences of Installment Tensioning Technology on Bearing Capacity of Rectangular Prestressed Concrete Beam

To obtain the relationship between use of installment tensioning technology and the bearing capacity of prestressed concrete beams, tensile and cyclic loading tests are conducted on five rectangular prestressed concreted specimens. Two types of prestressed tensioning methods are adopted in the tests, one uses installment tensioning technology to tension beams on days 4, 12, and 8, 12, respectively, and the other adopts the conventional method to tension the beam on day 28 only. The age of concrete, number of times tensioned, and the prestress value of early tensioning are considered in tests. Results show that use of installment tensioning technology has no effect on the bending failure pattern of prestressed concrete beams, but it reduces prestress loss and increases crack and yield loads.

Research on Anti-Fluctuation Control of Winding Tension System Based on Feedforward Compensation

In the fiber winding process,strong disturbance,uncertainty,strong coupling,and fiber friction complicate the winding constant tension control.In order to effectively reduce the influence of these problems on the tension output,this paper proposed a tension fluctuation rejection strategy based on feedforward compensation.In addition to the bias harmonic curve of the unknown state,the tension fluctuation also contains the influence of bounded noise.A tension fluctuation observer(TFO)is designed to cancel the uncertain periodic signal,in which the frequency generator is used to estimate the critical parameter information.Then,the fluctuation signal is reconstructed by a third-order auxiliary filter.The estimated signal feedforward compensates for the actual tension fluctuation.Furthermore,a time-varying parameters fractional-order PID controller(TPFOPID)is realized to attenuate the bounded noise in the fluctuation.Finally,TPFOPID is enhanced by TFO and applied to control a tension control system considering multi-source disturbances.The stability of the method is analyzed by using the Lyapunov theorem.Finally,numerical simulations verify that the proposed scheme improves the tracking ability and robustness of the system in response to tension fluctuations.

Neurophysiological, histological, and behavioral characterization of animal models of distraction spinal cord injury: a systematic review

Distraction spinal cord injury is caused by some degree of distraction or longitudinal tension on the spinal cord and commonly occurs in patients who undergo corrective operation for severe spinal deformity.With the increased degree and duration of distraction,spinal cord injuries become more serious in terms of their neurophysiology,histology,and behavior.Very few studies have been published on the specific characteristics of distraction spinal cord injury.In this study,we systematically review 22 related studies involving animal models of distraction spinal cord injury,focusing particularly on the neurophysiological,histological,and behavioral characteristics of this disease.In addition,we summarize the mechanisms underlying primary and secondary injuries caused by distraction spinal cord injury and clarify the effects of different degrees and durations of distraction on the primary injuries associated with spinal cord injury.We provide new concepts for the establishment of a model of distraction spinal cord injury and related basic research,and provide reference guidelines for the clinical diagnosis and treatment of this disease.

Atomistic evaluation of tension–compression asymmetry in nanoscale body-centered-cubic AlCrFeCoNi high-entropy alloy

The tension and compression of face-centered-cubic high-entropy alloy(HEA) nanowires are significantly asymmetric, but the tension–compression asymmetry in nanoscale body-centered-cubic(BCC) HEAs is still unclear. In this study,the tension–compression asymmetry of the BCC Al Cr Fe Co Ni HEA nanowire is investigated using molecular dynamics simulations. The results show a significant asymmetry in both the yield and flow stresses, with BCC HEA nanowire stronger under compression than under tension. The strength asymmetry originates from the completely different deformation mechanisms in tension and compression. In compression, atomic amorphization dominates plastic deformation and contributes to the strengthening, while in tension, deformation twinning prevails and weakens the HEA nanowire.The tension–compression asymmetry exhibits a clear trend of increasing with the increasing nanowire cross-sectional edge length and decreasing temperature. In particular, the compressive strengths along the [001] and [111] crystallographic orientations are stronger than the tensile counterparts, while the [110] crystallographic orientation shows the exactly opposite trend. The dependences of tension–compression asymmetry on the cross-sectional edge length, crystallographic orientation,and temperature are explained in terms of the deformation behavior of HEA nanowire as well as its variations caused by the change in these influential factors. These findings may deepen our understanding of the tension–compression asymmetry of the BCC HEA nanowires.

Geometry and formation mechanism of tension gashes and their implication on the hydrocarbon accumulation in the deep-seated strata of sedimentary basin:A case from Shunnan area of Tarim Basin

With the theoretical and technological developments related to cratonic strike-slip faults,the Shuntuoguole Low Uplift in the Tarim Basin has attracted considerable attention recently.Affected by multi-stage tectonic movements,the strike-slip faults have controlled the distribution of hydrocarbon resources owing to the special fault characteristics and fault-related structures.In contrast,the kinematics and formation mechanism of strike-slip faults in buried sedimentary basins are difficult to investigate,limiting the discussion of these faults and hydrocarbon accumulation.In this study,we identified the characteristics of massive sigmoidal tension gashes(STGs)that formed in the Shunnan area of the Tarim Basin.High-resolution three-dimensional seismic data and attribute analyses were used to investigate their geometric and kinematic characteristics.Then,the stress state of each point of the STGs was calculated using seismic curvature attributes.Finally,the formation mechanism of the STGs and their roles in controlling hydrocarbon migration and accumulation were discussed.The results suggest that:(1)the STGs developed in the Shunnan area have a wide distribution,with a tensile fault arranged in an enéchelon pattern,showing an S-shaped bending.These STGs formed in multiple stages,and differential rotation occurred along the direction of strike-slip stress during formation.(2)Near the principal displacement zone of the strike-slip faults,the stress value of the STGs was higher,gradually decreasing at both ends.The shallow layer deformation was greater than the deep layer deformation.(3)STGs are critical for connecting source rocks,migrating oil and gas,sealing horizontally,and developing efficient reservoirs.This study not only provides seismic evidence for the formation and evolution of super large STGs,but also provides certain guidance for oil and gas exploration in this area.

聚酯缆动力学行为计算方法研究

The dynamic stiffness of polyester rope presents a complex mechanical performance,and the search for an appropriate calculation method to simulate this property is important.Distorted simulation results eventually yield inaccurate line tension and vessel offset predictions,with the inaccuracy of vessel offset being particularly large.This paper proposes a flexible calculation method for the dynamic behavior of polyester rope based on the dynamic stiffness model.A real-time varying stiffness model of polyester rope is employed to simulate tension response through rope strain monitoring.Consequently,a simulation program is developed,and related case studies are conducted to explore the differences between the proposed method and analytical procedure of the DNV standard.Orcaflex is used to simulate the results of the latter procedure for comparison.Results show the convenience and straightforwardness of the procedure in the selection of an approximate dynamic stiffness model for polyester rope,which leads to an engineering-oriented approach.However,the proposed method is related to line property,which can directly reflect the dynamic behavior of polyester rope.Thus,a flexible calculation method may provide a reference for the simulation of the dynamic response of polyester mooring systems.

Static-to-kinematic modeling and experimental validation of tendon-driven quasi continuum manipulators with nonconstant subsegment stiffness

Continuum robots with high flexibility and compliance have the capability to operate in confined and cluttered environments. To enhance the load capacity while maintaining robot dexterity, we propose a novel non-constant subsegment stiffness structure for tendon-driven quasi continuum robots(TDQCRs) comprising rigid-flexible coupling subsegments.Aiming at real-time control applications, we present a novel static-to-kinematic modeling approach to gain a comprehensive understanding of the TDQCR model. The analytical subsegment-based kinematics for the multisection manipulator is derived based on screw theory and product of exponentials formula, and the static model considering gravity loading,actuation loading, and robot constitutive laws is established. Additionally, the effect of tension attenuation caused by routing channel friction is considered in the robot statics, resulting in improved model accuracy. The root-mean-square error between the outputs of the static model and the experimental system is less than 1.63% of the arm length(0.5 m). By employing the proposed static model, a mapping of bending angles between the configuration space and the subsegment space is established. Furthermore, motion control experiments are conducted on our TDQCR system, and the results demonstrate the effectiveness of the static-to-kinematic model.

Effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses and capsular tension rings implantation for cataract patients with axial high myopia

●AIM:To assess effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses(IOLs)and capsular tension rings in treating cataract patients with axial high myopia.●METHODS:A prospective nonrandomized controlled clinical trial was conducted.Totally 98 eyes(74 patients)who underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery(FLACS)with trifocal IOLs were enrolled in the study and followed up for 2y after surgery:46 eyes(33 patients)with capsular tension ring implantation in the long axial lengths(AL)group(26<AL<29 mm)and 52 eyes(41 patients)in the normal AL group(22<AL<24.5 mm).Postoperative outcomes about effectivity and safety,including the subjective and objective visual quality,and postoperative complications were assessed.●RESULTS:Uncorrected distance visual acuity at 5 m and uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at 60 and 80 cm in the long AL group were significantly worse than those in the normal AL group at 3mo postoperatively(P<0.05).The differences in reading speed,spectacle independence and potential visual complaints between the two groups were not statistically significant(P>0.05).The dysfunctional lens index and total modulation transfer function(MTF)average height were similar between the two groups.The postoperative internal coma aberrations in the axial high myopia eyes were significantly higher than that in the normal AL group(P<0.05).The total satisfaction score in the long AL group(91.32±2.76)was slightly higher than that in the normal AL group(90.36±3.47),but there was no difference(P=0.136).A statistically negative correlation was found between corrected distance visual acuity(CDVA)and dysfunctional lens index(r=-0.382,P=0.009),and between CDVA and the total MTF average height(r=-0.374,P=0.01).But there was no significant correlation between CDVA and total satisfaction score(r=0.059,P=0.696).Postoperative complications mainly presented as posterior capsular opacity(PCO),retinal detachment and cystoid macular edema.There was no difference in the incidence of fundus disease(6.5%vs 3.8%,P=0.663)or PCO(17.4%vs 7.7%,P=0.217)between the two groups at two years.●CONCLUSION:The utilization of trifocal IOL and capsular tension ring implantation is beneficial for cataract patients with axial high myopia undergoing FLACS.This approach not only ensures excellent subjective feelings and objective visual quality,but also does not increase the incidence of postoperative complications.

Neuroimaging in atypical normal tension glaucoma:debating routine implementation in the absence of classic neurological findings

●AIM:To assess the necessity of neuroimaging in patients with neurological or atypical findings of normal tension glaucoma(NTG)who do not exhibit typical glaucoma manifestations.●METHODS:A retrospective analysis was conducted on 90 atypical NTG patients who underwent cranial magnetic resonance imaging(MRI)due to atypical symptoms.The demographic characteristics,clinical parameters,and radiological findings were recorded.●RESULTS:Among the patients,66.7%had abnormal radiology results,with the most common findings being gliosis(34.4%),sequelae of cerebrovascular events and vascular malformations(14.4%),and benign intracranial mass lesions(11%).Non-glaucomatous visual field defects were more frequently observed in patients with abnormal neuroimaging results.However,there were no significant differences in intraocular pressure,optic disc parameters,retinal nerve fiber layer thickness,and visual field indices between patients with normal and abnormal radiological results.The mean age of the patients was 58.74y.Interestingly,there was a significant age difference,with the abnormal radiology group having a higher median age(P=0.021).●CONCLUSION:The study highlights the importance of cranial imaging in older NTG patients to detect underlying pathologies and prevent misdiagnosis.It suggests that neuroimaging may be warranted in NTG patients with atypical visual field defects incompatible with glaucoma.However,routine neuroimaging in all NTG patients without classic neurological signs may not be necessary.

Unveiling the silent link:Normal-tension glaucoma's enigmatic bond with cardiac blood flow

This comprehensive review embarks on a captivating journey into the complex relationship between cardiology and normal-tension glaucoma(NTG),a condition that continues to baffle clinicians and researchers alike.NTG,characterized by optic nerve damage and visual field loss despite normal intraocular pressure,has long puzzled clinicians.One emerging perspective suggests that alterations in ocular blood flow,particularly within the optic nerve head,may play a pivotal role in its pathogenesis.While NTG shares commonalities with its high-tension counterpart,its unique pathogenesis and potential ties to cardiovascular health make it a fascinating subject of exploration.It navigates through the complex web of vascular dysregulation,blood pressure and perfusion pressure,neurovascular coupling,and oxidative stress,seeking to uncover the hidden threads that tie the heart and eyes together in NTG.This review explores into the intricate mechanisms connecting cardiovascular factors to NTG,shedding light on how cardiac dynamics can influence ocular health,particularly in cases where intraocular pressure remains within the normal range.NTG's enigmatic nature,often characterized by seemingly contradictory risk factors and clinical profiles,underscores the need for a holistic approach to patient care.Drawing parallels to cardiac health,we examine into the shared vascular terrain connecting the heart and the eyes.Cardiovascular factors,including systemic blood flow,endothelial dysfunction,and microcirculatory anomalies,may exert a profound influence on ocular perfusion,impacting the delicate balance within the optic nerve head.By elucidating the subtle clues and potential associations between cardiology and NTG,this review invites clinicians to consider a broader perspective in their evaluation and management of this elusive condition.As the understanding of these connections evolves,so too may the prospects for early diagnosis and tailored interventions,ultimately enhancing the quality of life for those living with NTG.

Understanding wound healing in obesity

Obesity has become more prevalent in the global population.It is associated with the development of several diseases including diabetes mellitus,coronary heart disease,and metabolic syndrome.There are a multitude of factors impacted by obesity that may contribute to poor wound healing outcomes.With millions worldwide classified as obese,it is imperative to understand wound healing in these patients.Despite advances in the understanding of wound healing in both healthy and diabetic populations,much is unknown about wound healing in obese patients.This review examines the impact of obesity on wound healing and several animal models that may be used to broaden our understanding in this area.As a growing portion of the population identifies as obese,understanding the underlying mechanisms and how to overcome poor wound healing is of the utmost importance.

Eudragit®-PEG Nanoparticles: Physicochemical Characterization and Interfacial Tension Measurements

The objectives of this study are to understand the mechanisms involved in the stabilization of water/oil interfaces by polymeric nanoparticles (NPs) (Eudragit®). Eudragit L100 NPs of various sizes and Zeta potentials were studied and compared at a water/cyclohexane model interface using a droplet tensiometer (Tracker Teclis, Longessaigne, France). The progressive interfacial adsorption of the NPs in the aqueous phase was monitored by tensiometry. The model interface was maintained and observed in a drop tensiometer, analyzed via axisymmetric drop shape analysis (ADSA), to determine the interfacial properties. Given the direct relationship between the stability of Pickering emulsions (emulsions stabilized by solid nanoparticles) and the interfacial properties of these layers, different nanoparticle systems were compared. Specifically, Eudragit NPs of different sizes were examined. Moreover, the reduction of the Zeta potential with PEG-6000 induces partial aggregation of the NPs (referred to as NP flocs), significantly impacting the stability of the interfacial layer. Dynamic surface tension measurements indicate a significant decrease in interfacial tension with Eudragit® nanoparticles (NPs). This reduction correlates with the size of the NPs, highlighting that this parameter does not operate in isolation. Other factors, such as the contact angle and wettability of the nanoparticles, also play a critical role. Notably, larger NPs further diminished the interfacial tension. This study enhances our understanding of the stability of Pickering emulsions stabilized by Eudragit® L100 polymeric nanoparticles.

Hubble Tension Explanation from This Cosmological Model AΛΩ (Slow Bang Model, SB)

In this article we present a model of Hubble-Lemaître law using the notions of a transmitter (galaxy) and a receiver (MW) coupled to a model of the universe (Slow Bang Model, SB), based on a quantum approach of the evolution of space-time as well as an equation of state that retains all the infinitesimal terms. We find an explanation of the Hubble tension H0. Indeed, we have seen that this constant depends on the transceiver pair which can vary from the lowest observable value, from photons of the CMB (theoretical [km/s/Mpc]) to increasingly higher values depending on the earlier origin of the formation of the observed galaxy or cluster (ETG ~0.3 [Gy], ~74 [km/s/Mpc]). We have produced a theoretical table of the values of the constant according to the possible pairs of transmitter/receiver in the case where these galaxies follow the Hubble flow without large disturbance. The calculated theoretical values of the constant are in the order of magnitude of all values mentioned in past studies. Subsequently, we applied the models to 9 galaxies and COMA cluster and found that the models predict acceptable values of their distances and Hubble constant since these galaxies mainly follow the Hubble flow rather than the effects of a galaxy cluster or a group of clusters. In conclusion, we affirm that this Hubble tension does not really exist and it is rather the understanding of the meaning of this constant that is questioned.

Crealet presents its innovative warp tension solutions at Techtextil 2024

Crealet is the world leader in sophisticated warp feeding technology and tailored solutions.Controlled warp tension stands also for controlled fabric quality.The Swiss firm presents its latest developments for technical textile applications at Techtextil 2024 in Frankfurt,Germany.

Introducing a 2nd Universal Space-Time Constant Can Explain the Observed Age of the Universe and Dark Energy

The purpose of this paper is to introduce new theoretical concepts as opposed to accepting the existence of dark entities, such as dark energy. This research sought to introduce a 2nd universal space-time constant, besides having a finite speed constant (speed of light in vacuum c). A finite universal age constant b is introduced. Namely, this paper shows that the changes in the Earth’s anomalistic year duration over time support the hypothesis of the age of the universe correlating with a maximum number of orbital revolutions constant. Neglecting the gravitational influence of other cosmological entities in the proximity of the Earth, the constant maximum number of revolutions is herewith determined solely by the Earth’s orbital revolutions around the Sun. The value of the universal age constant b is calculated to be around 13.8 billion orbital revolutions, derived out of an equation related to the changes in the Earth’s anomalistic year duration over time and the so-called Hubble tension. The above-mentioned calculated value b correlates well with the best fit to measured data of the cosmic microwave background radiation (CMBR) by the Planck spacecraft, the age of the observed universe is measured to be approximately 13.787 ± 0.020 billion years (2018 final data release). Developing a theory with this 2nd universal space-time constant b, being covariant with respect to the Lorentz transformations when time spans are large, gives results such as: A confirmation of the measured CMBR value of 13.787 ± 0.020 billion years. Correlating well with the observed expansion rate of the universe (dark energy). The universe’s expansion accelerating over the last four to five billion years.

A Comment on the Hubble Expansion Parameter Tension

We point out that the recent baryon acoustic oscillation measurement by the Dark Energy Survey collaboration relieves the Hubble expansion parameter tension.

Regulatory mechanisms of retinal ganglion cell death in normal tension glaucoma and potential therapies

Normal tension glaucoma(NTG)is a multifactorial optic neuropathy characterized by normal intraocular pressure,progressive retinal ganglion cell(RGC)death,and glaucomatous visual field loss.Recent studies have described the mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of NTG.In addition to controlling intraocular pressure,neuroprotection and reduction of RGC degeneration may be beneficial therapies for NTG.In this review,we summarized the main regulatory mechanisms of RGC death in NTG,including autophagy,glutamate neurotoxicity,oxidative stress,neuroinflammation,immunity,and vasoconstriction.Autophagy can be induced by retinal hypoxia and axonal damage.In this process,ischemia can cause mutations of optineurin and activate the nuclear factor-kappa B pathway.Glutamate neurotoxicity is induced by the over-stimulation of N-methyl-D-aspartate membrane receptors by glutamate,which occurs in RGCs and induces progressive glaucomatous optic neuropathy.Oxidative stress also participates in NTG-related glaucomatous optic neuropathy.It impairs the mitochondrial and DNA function of RGCs through the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-JUN N-terminal kinase pathway.Moreover,it increases inflammation and the immune response of RGCs.Endothelin 1 causes endothelial dysfunction and impairment of ocular blood flow,promoting vasospasm and glaucomatous optic neuropathy,as a result of NTG.In conclusion,we discussed research progress on potential options for the protection of RGCs,including TANK binding kinase 1 inhibitors regulating autophagy,N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists inhibiting glutamate toxicity,ASK1 inhibitors regulating mitochondrial function,and antioxidants inhibiting oxidative stress.In NTG,RGC death is regulated by a network of mechanisms,while various potential targets protect RGCs.Collectively,these findings provide insight into the pathogenesis of NTG and potential therapeutic strategies.

An ADRC Parameters Self-Tuning Control Strategy of Tension System Based on RBF Neural Network

High precision control of substrate tension is the premise and guarantee for producing high-quality products in roll-to-roll precision coating machine.However,the complex relationships in tension system make the problems of decoupling control difficult to be solved,which has limited the improvement of tension control accuracy for the coating machine.Therefore,an ADRC parameters self-tuning decoupling strategy based on RBF neural network is proposed to improve the control accuracy of tension system in this paper.Firstly,a global coupling nonlinear model of the tension system is established according to the composition of the coating machine,and the global coupling model is linearized based on the first-order Taylor formula.Secondly,according to the linear model of the tension system,a parameters self-tuning decoupling algorithm of the tension system is proposed by integrating feedforward control,ADRC and RBF.Finally,the simulation results show that the proposed tension control strategy has good decoupling control performance and effectively improves the tension control accuracy for the coating machine.

Evaluation of the coupled impact of silicon oxide nanoparticles and low-salinity water on the wettability alteration of Berea sandstones

This study investigated experimentally the coupled effects of hydrophilic SiO_(2) nanoparticles(NPs)and low-salinity water(LSW)on the wettability of synthetic clay-free Berea sandstone.Capillary pressure,interfacial tension(IFT),contact angle,Zeta potential,and dynamic displacement measurements were performed at various NP mass fractions and brine salinities.The U.S.Bureau of Mines(USBM)index was used to quantify the wettability alteration.Furthermore,the NP stability and retention and the effect of enhanced oil recovery by nanofluid were examined.The results showed that LSW immiscible displacement with NPs altered the wettability toward more water wet.With the decreasing brine salinity and increasing NP mass fraction,the IFT and contact angle decreased.The wettability alteration intensified most as the brine salinity decreased to 4000 mg/L and the NP mass fraction increased to 0.075%.Under these conditions,the resulting incremental oil recovery factor was approximately 13 percentage points.When the brine salinity was 4000 mg/L and the NP mass fraction was 0.025%,the retention of NPs caused the minimum damage to permeability.