Advances in Research

Research Progress in Numerical Simulation and Temperature Control Strategies for Hydraulic Mass Concrete Structures

Liu Yu Zhao — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Hydraulic mass concrete is prone to developing temperature cracks due to the accumulation of hydration heat. Numerical simulation of temperature control is a key technology for crack prevention. This paper focuses on numerical simulation methods and parameter calibration, systematically reviews the modeling theory in this field, analyzes the research progress of core elements such as hydration heat models and environmental boundary conditions, expounds the current research status in terms of research object expansion, numerical method verification, and scheme parameterization optimization, and dissects existing issues such as insufficient parameter transferability, multi-objective optimization conflicts, and difficulties in implementing multi-field coupling. Finally, it summarises the technical consensus formed and proposes future research directions in cross-engineering parameter calibration, multi-measure collaborative optimisation, and digital closed-loop control.

Foamed Red Mud-based Concrete: A Comprehensive Review of Preparation, Microstructure and Thermo-mechanical Performance

Chaoqun Liu — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This review provides a systematic overview of recent advances in foamed red mud-based concrete (FRMC), a sustainable construction material that combines industrial waste valorization with thermal insulation performance. Current research is discussed from four main perspectives: (1) optimization of foaming technology and its underlying mechanisms, including foaming agent selection, process regulation, and foam stability; (2) red mud incorporation and modification, covering dosage design, mechanical, chemical, and thermal activation methods, and synergistic hydration mechanisms; (3) aggregate combination strategies, involving both conventional aggregate systems and composite lightweight aggregate systems; and (4) performance regulation and microstructural mechanisms, with emphasis on the relationship between pore structure, mechanical strength, and thermal conductivity. Existing studies indicate that, with an appropriate red mud content of 10-30% and suitable modification treatments, FRMC can achieve a 28-day compressive strength of 28.5-33.5 MPa and a thermal conductivity of 0.075-0.086 W/(m·K). These findings demonstrate that FRMC has considerable potential not only for building insulation, but also for lightweight partition walls, non-load-bearing wall panels, and other low-carbon construction applications requiring a balance between thermal insulation and mechanical performance. Future research should prioritize the development of high-red-mud-content systems, clarification of long-term durability mechanisms, expansion of multifunctional application scenarios, and establishment of engineering-oriented material design models.

Allelopathic Effect of Leaf, Stem, and Root Extracts of Parthenium hysterophorus L. on Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Seed Germination and Seedling Growth at Hargeisa, Somaliland

Abdirahman Mohamed Mohamud, S. P. Rao, Mohamed Hassan — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Parthenium hysterophorus L. has a latent allelopathic effect on the germination of bread wheat seeds and the growth of its seedlings. Two experiments (Laboratory and pot experiments) were carried out during Jan.-Mar. 2024, at the Ministry of Agricultural Development Hargeisa, Somaliland, with the objectives of studying the leaf, stem and root extract concentrates (10%, 20% and 30%) of Parthenium hysterophorus allelopathic effect on seed germination and seedling growth of bread wheat. The concentrates were prepared from each root, stem, and leaf part of the weed. To each extract 100 ml of distilled water was added and solutions of 10%, 20%, and 30% were prepared with check (0%) which were laid out using a completely randomized design and a randomized complete block design for laboratory and pot experiment, respectively. The analysis showed that there was a highly significant effect the leaf, stem and root extract of the weed on seed germination and seedling growth of wheat. A low germination percentage of wheat seed (66%, 59%, and 26.5%) was recorded from a 30% concentration of root, stem, and leaf extracts, respectively. Similarly, in pot trials, seedling emergence decreased with a 30% concentration of root (67.71%), stem (60.95%), and leaf (42.3%) extracts. ‍ Shoot length was significantly affected by the P. hysterophorus extract parts and concentration levels, as the minimum shoot length was recorded at a 30% concentration level of leaf, stem and root parts. Root growth was also adversely affected by the leaf, stem and root extract parts and different concentrates, with the longest roots recorded at (0% concentration) and the minimum root length at 30% concentration of all the weed parts.‍ The verdicts of the study concluded that there is a direct relationship between concentration levels and effect magnitude, with higher concentrations leading to greater effects and specifically, the leaf part of P. hysterophorus exhibited a significant effect at a concentration level of 30%. Therefore, further studies are suggested to confirm the allelopathic effect of the weed under field conditions.

Studies on Genetic Variability of Ratoon F1s for Grain Yield, Yield Traits and Quality Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Ratooning, the ability of the rice plant to regenerate new panicle-bearing tillers after harvest, could be a practical way to increase rice production per unit area and per unit time. The present investigation was conducted at Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University – Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Maruteru, Andhra Pradesh, to assess genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for yield, ratoonability, physical and cooking quality traits in rice. The experimental material consisted of 28 ratoons of single cross F₁s developed from eight parents through diallel mating design in kharif season. The 28 F₁ ratoons, along with eight parents (MTU-1001, BPT-3291, MCM-100, MTU-1140, MTU-1121, MTU-1064, MUT-1061 and MTU-1064) were evaluated in a randomised complete block design (RCBD) with three replications during the summer season. The analysis of variance for the ratoon of 28 F1s along with 8 parentsshowed significant differences for all 27 traits in the study (viz., 10 yield-associated traits, 3 traits contributing for ratoonability, 6 physical grain quality traits and 8 cooking quality traits). The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) values are higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) values and the difference between them indicates the little role of environment in the expression of these traits. A wide range of PCV (1.86 - 30.73%) and GCV (1.56– 29.96%) was obtained for 27 traits. The presence of higher GCV and PCV observed in grain yield per plant (g) followed by gel consistency (mm) and alkali spreading value (mm), signifies the additive genetic control in the inheritance of that trait. High heritability along with high genetic advance as percentage of mean was recorded for the characters viz., number of ear bearing tillers per plant, number of grains per panicle, grain yield per plant, water uptake, gel consistency, alkali spreading value and amylose content, indicated the role of additive gene action in governing the inheritance of this traits and improvement of yield related and quality traits through simple selection may be rewarded. The study concludes that 28 ratoon F₁s crosses, along with their 8 parents had adequate amounts of variability for yield-associated traits and physico-chemical quality traits.

In vitro Evaluation of Anti-inflammatory and Anticoagulant Activities of Ethanolic Extract of Tridax procumbens

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: Tridax procumbens, a medicinal plant traditionally used for various ailments, was evaluated for anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulant properties using in vitro models.

Aims: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory as well as anti-coagulant activities of Tridax procumbens by using Egg Albumin Denaturation and Blood Coagulation Assay.

Study Design: Experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pharmacology, Rani Chennamma College of Pharmacy, Karnataka, India, between June 2025 to October 2025.

Methodology: The anti-inflammatory potential of the Tridax procumbens ethanolic extract was evaluated using the egg albumin denaturation assay. Reaction mixtures containing egg albumin, phosphate buffer (pH 7.4), and test samples (100–800 µg/mL) were incubated at 37± 2°C for 30 min, then heated at 70± 2°C for 15 min. Absorbance was measured at 280 nm using a UV spectrophotometer, and the percentage inhibition of protein denaturation was calculated relative to diclofenac sodium as the reference standard.

Anticoagulant activity was determined by assessing prothrombin time in human citrated plasma, using heparin as the reference standard. Samples were incubated at 37°C, and clotting times were recorded.

Results: With a dose-dependent rise in percentage inhibition, the extract demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory efficacy that was comparable to Diclofenac. In a similar vein, the extract showed strong anti-coagulant activity, as shown by a prolonged prothrombin time that was on compare with heparin. These results suggest the existence of bioactive substances that can alter coagulation pathways and inflammatory reactions.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the study offers scientific support for the traditional medical applications of Tridax procumbens. Its promise as a natural medicinal agent for controlling inflammatory illnesses and averting thrombotic consequences is highlighted by the ethanolic extract's anti-inflammatory and anti-coagulant properties. These results prompt more research to identify the precise mechanisms of action of the active phytoconstituents, isolate and describe them, and investigate their possible clinical uses in contemporary medicine.

A Structural Equation Model on the Influence of Employee Empowerment and Organizational Commitment on Ethical Leadership of School Heads through School Culture

Alan D. Limbadan, Jevannel G. Borlio — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study examined the relationships among school culture, employee empowerment, organizational commitment, and ethical leadership in 281 school heads of integrated schools in the Davao Region, Philippines, using structural equation modeling. The proposed causal links among the latent variables were tested using a correlational-predictive approach with structural equation modeling. Data were collected using four sets of survey instruments. Data analysis included mean, standard deviation, Pearson's r, multiple regression, and structural equation modeling analysis tools. Results indicated that levels of school culture, employee empowerment, organizational commitment, and ethical leadership were very high. Positive correlations were found between school culture and ethical leadership, employee empowerment and ethical leadership, and organizational commitment and ethical leadership. Furthermore, the findings revealed that employee empowerment and organizational commitment do not directly influence ethical leadership. Rather, both affect school culture, which directly influences ethical leadership. Moreover, hypothesized model 3 emerged as the best-fitting model in the study. The findings suggest that ethical leadership does not develop on its own. Its contributing factor is the changing of school assignments of school heads, because a positive school culture creates a supportive environment that allows ethical leadership practices to emerge, grow, and be recognized by school staff. Overall, the study underscores the pivotal role of organizational and cultural factors in shaping ethical leadership and contributes empirical evidence to the leadership and educational management literature within the Philippine context.

Tucking Tool: Innovation for Health and Safety of Housekeeping Personnel in Hospitality Industry

Khyati Trivedi, Vashima Veerkumar, Sarjoo Patel, Smita Chandra, Shruti Chaudhari — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background: The physically demanding nature of housekeeping tasks in the hospitality industry, particularly bed-making and mattress tucking, exposes workers to significant ergonomic risks and a high prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). Despite this, there is a lack of targeted, practical ergonomic interventions to specifically address the strain associated with manual mattress lifting and sheet tucking.

Aim: The study aims to design and evaluate a sofa cum mattress tucking tool as an ergonomic solution to reduce physical strain, improve safety, and enhance the efficiency and well-being of housekeeping staff in the hospitality industry.

Study Design: Descriptive and exploratory research design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted among housekeeping employees from various hotels in Vadodara.

Methodology: A total of 120 housekeeping employees were selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and observation sheets. The study focused on identifying physical discomfort, posture-related issues, and challenges faced during routine housekeeping tasks such as bed-making and mattress tucking. Based on the findings, a sofa cum mattress tucking tool was designed and developed as an ergonomic intervention.

Results: Out of 120 participants, a significant proportion reported experiencing physical discomfort, particularly in the fingers, wrists, back, and neck due to repetitive tasks and awkward postures. Tasks involving bending and mattress tucking were identified as major contributors to strain and fatigue. The introduction of the sofa cum mattress tucking tool demonstrated potential in reducing physical effort, minimizing injury risks, and improving task efficiency. (Specific statistical values such as percentages or p-values were not provided in the original data).

Conclusion: The sofa cum mattress tucking tool serves as an effective ergonomic innovation that supports smart housekeeping practices by reducing physical strain, preventing injuries, and enhancing productivity. It contributes to improving workplace conditions and promotes the long-term health and well-being of housekeeping personnel. Further studies are recommended to validate its effectiveness with detailed statistical analysis.

Biomarker Distributions to Constrain the Origin of Organic Matter in Two Crude Oil Samples from the Murzuq Basin, Libya

Eiman Farifr, Salem Aboglila, Alsharef Albaghday — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The aim of this search is to describe the origin of precursors of crude oils collected from Murzuq Basin fileds, based using geochemical method. Two crude oil samples collected from wells B1 and H1 in the NC115 concession of the Murzuq Basin, Libya, were analyzed. An analytical technique Gas chromatography (GC) joined with mass spectrometry (MS) was used to characterize key hydrocarbon biomarkers, including n-alkanes, isoprenoids, tricyclic and tetracyclic terpanes, hopanes, and steranes. The n-alkane distribution (C₁₅–C₂₅ dominance, CPI ≈ 1.0) and the ratios Pr/Ph = 1.21–1.13 and i-C₁₆/n-C₁₅ < 0.5 indicate deposition under sub-oxic to anoxic marine conditions with a minor terrestrial input. Hopane and sterane parameters (H31S/H31R ≈ 1.8; Sterane/Hopane = 0.42–0.58) further support a mixed algal– bacterial source deposited in a marine to fluvio-deltaic environment. Overall, the biomarker evidence suggests that the hydrocarbons of crude oils produced mainly from aquatic algal and bacterial biological precursors with a portion of terrestrial input, generated under reducing conditions within the Silurian age source rocks of the Murzuq Basin.

Structural Damage Identification Method Based on Flexural Difference Curvature Matrix

Wen Jing Gao — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Engineering structures continuously accumulate damage during their service life due to various factors, making effective damage identification and health monitoring a vital necessity. Addressing the inaccurate localization issue of traditional flexibility-based damage identification methods under slight or multiple structural damages, this paper proposes a novel structural damage identification method based on the flexibility difference curvature matrix. Utilizing the modal information of the structure before and after damage, the flexibility difference matrix is first calculated, and then differentiated once by column and by row to obtain the flexibility difference curvature matrix. The main diagonal elements are extracted to form a column vector (δ FCMD) as the damage detection index. Taking an engineering beam as an example, numerical simulations are conducted on simply supported and fixed-ended beams under single and multiple element damage conditions. Comparative analysis with existing flexibility indices, such as flexibility difference (δ F), rate of flexibility diagonal (RFD), and change in uniform load surface curvature (ULSC), shows that the δ FCMD index requires only the first few low-order modes of the structure. It can not only accurately locate single and multiple damages but also effectively evaluate the severity of the damage based on the magnitude of the curve mutation. Its comprehensive performance is significantly superior to other comparative indices.

Numerical Investigation of Internal–External Coupled Free-Surface Flow in a Liquid-Containing Tank

Xianqing Liu, Shibo Yu, Gang Liu — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study numerically investigates the internal–external coupled free-surface flow in a liquid-containing cylindrical tank using STAR-CCM+ and the Volume of Fluid (VOF) method. Three dimensional models were established, including an external wave-field model, an internal sloshing model for a baffled tank under horizontal harmonic excitation, and an internal–external coupled model. The external model was used to simulate the interaction between incident waves and a partially submerged cylindrical tank, while the internal model was employed to analyze the free-surface response of the liquid inside the tank. Based on these two models, the coupled model was further developed to examine the transmission of external wave excitation into the internal liquid domain. The results show that the proposed method can effectively reproduce both the external wave evolution and the internal sloshing behavior within a unified numerical framework. In the internal sloshing model with the elliptical baffle, the maximum free-surface wave height reaches 0.08 m, where as in the coupled case the internal free-surface response is about 0.002 m under the present simulation condition. Although these values correspond to different models and are not directly comparable, they indicate that the internal liquid exhibits distinct response characteristics under imposed excitation and external-wave-induced coupled excitation. These findings demonstrate that the STAR-CCM+–VOF framework is a reliable numerical tool for analyzing coupled wave–sloshing problems and can provide useful support for the hydrodynamic assessment of liquid-containing marine structures under wave excitation.

Impact of Prosthetic Liner Materials on Thermal Comfort and Bacterial Growth at the Residual Limb–Socket Interface: A Systematic Review

Ranjeet Kumar, Ataurrahman Khan, Sthir Pranjyan Biswal — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

As the main point of contact between the residual limb and the prosthetic socket, prosthetic liners are essential for the comfort, suspension, and tissue protection of the residual limb. Lower-limb prosthesis users typically encounter liner-related issues like excessive sweat, thermal discomfort, bacterial growth, unpleasant odor, and skin irritation despite the device's broad clinical use. The enclosed, damp liner-socket environment and the repeated mechanical loading that occurs during daily operations are the main causes of these issues. This systematic review evaluates the effects of prosthetic liner designs and materials on residual limb–socket interface bacterial growth and thermal comfort. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar following PRISMA guidelines. Following screening and eligibility evaluation, 20 studies published between 2005 and 2025 were included from the original pool of 121 records. Laboratory research, clinical trials, and review papers analysing liner material qualities, thermal behaviour, hygiene concerns, and design advances, such as customizable and affordable liners, made up the chosen studies. The results show that the thickness, surface properties, and composition of the liner material have a major impact on heat transfer, bacterial adhesion, and contact biomechanics. While antimicrobial surface changes indicate a temporary decrease in bacterial growth, the majority of prosthetic liners exhibit low thermal conductivity that contributes to heat accumulation. Overall, the strength of the evidence is low to moderate, as the majority of the available data comes from laboratory and small clinical investigations. This review highlights the potential importance of integrated prosthetic liner solutions that address biological safety, thermal control, and mechanical performance to improve residual limb health and long-term prosthesis use.

Effect of Turmeric Powder on Growth Performance and Blood Profile on Broiler: A Review

Nitinkumar A. Barad — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Successful chicken production methods strive to maximize meat, egg, or offspring yield while fulfilling consumer expectations for product quality. Despite being maintained under managed settings, poultry are regularly subjected to a range of stressors, including hatching, transit from hatcheries to farms, vaccination processes, mycotoxin contamination of feed ingredients, and transportation to slaughterhouses. These stressors can adversely affect immune function, productivity, reproductive performance, and the yield and quality of meat and eggs. Curcumin (Cur), a polyphenolic bioactive compound derived from turmeric (Curcuma spp.), has gained considerable attention as a natural feed additive in poultry nutrition. Curcumin's antioxidant capabilities are largely due to its unique chemical structure, which allows it to scavenge free radicals and minimize oxidative stress. Dietary supplementation of curcumin has been reported to improve meat quality traits, including color stability and polyunsaturated fatty acid content, while simultaneously reducing drip loss and malondialdehyde concentration in muscle tissues. In laying poultry, curcumin supplementation has been shown to enhance egg quality parameters such as eggshell strength, yolk color, Haugh unit score, and yolk concentrations of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, along with increased deposition of curcumin in the yolk. Curcumin has also been demonstrated to modulate physiological stress responses in poultry by stimulating serotonin secretion and suppressing the production of heat shock protein 70 and corticosterone under stress conditions. Through these mechanisms, curcumin enhances immune competence, improves vaccine responsiveness, and reduces disease susceptibility. Several studies have reported increased body weight gain in broiler chickens, particularly during the early growth phase (1–14 days of age), following dietary inclusion of turmeric powder.

These findings suggest that curcumin holds significant potential as a phytogenic feed additive and represents a promising natural alternative to conventional growth promoters in poultry production. However, further research is required to determine the most effective form, dosage, and method of supplementation to optimize its benefits. The present manuscript synthesizes existing literature on the role of turmeric and curcumin in improving broiler performance and blood biochemical parameters, elucidates possible mechanisms of action, and highlights turmeric as a valuable phytogenic feed additive for sustainable poultry production.

Agro-Derived Nanomaterials via Green Synthesis for Preventive Health and Disease Control: Mechanistic Insights and Challenges

Olusoji Daniel, Olayinka, Peter Ayobami, Oladokun, Adewale Ola-Iya, Aribisala — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The rising global burden of infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and the need for safer alternatives to synthetic health protective materials have driven intense research into bioactive nanomaterials. Agriculturally based nanomaterials (ABNMs), such as AgNPs, CuNPs, ZnO, nanocellulose, and biochar, are enriched with phytochemical residues or organic functional groups, further enhancing their biological potency. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how agricultural resources can be strategically leveraged to produce nanomaterials that are viable for various health security strategies. The general mechanism of ABNMs preparation includes chelation of metal ions by phytochemicals, redox-driven nucleation of metal atoms, growth and coalescence of nanocrystals, and surface passivation by biomolecular residues. These findings identify the recent multifunctional applications of ABNMs in one health approaches. They have been applied in disease prevention and the protection of plant crops, the environment, animals, and humans, through mechanisms such as antimicrobial activity, immunomodulation, targeted delivery of bioactive compounds, hormetic physiological stimulation, and environmental detoxification. However, critical challenges remain. Reports on in vivo safety, long-term ecotoxicological impacts, and interactions with soil microbiota are limited. Therefore, we underscore the necessity of comprehensive life-cycle assessments, environmental fate studies, and dose-response toxicological evaluations to balance the technological advantages of agro-derived nanomaterials with environmental and health safety considerations. Addressing the identified limitations, especially those related to reproducibility, scalability, and comprehensive toxicity evaluation, will be fundamental to unlocking their full potential in one health approaches.

Carbon Nanotubes as Anticorrosive Coatings: A Review

Jingyuan He — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Corrosion is a major cause of material degradation and economic loss across a wide range of industrial environments. Among emerging nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have attracted considerable attention in anticorrosive coating systems owing to their exceptional mechanical strength, high electrical conductivity, large specific surface area, and excellent chemical stability. This review discusses the role of CNTs in anticorrosive coatings in terms of barrier enhancement, corrosion inhibition, electrochemical protection, composite reinforcement, and bio-related protective functions. Existing studies indicate that the incorporation of CNTs can significantly improve coating compactness, interfacial adhesion, mechanical durability, and overall corrosion resistance, while also imparting multifunctional protective properties. Nevertheless, their practical application remains limited by several challenges, including agglomeration, poor dispersion, insufficient interfacial compatibility, and the lack of standardized protocols for long-term performance evaluation. Overall, CNT-based anticorrosive coatings show considerable promise for advanced corrosion protection. Future research should therefore focus on controllable surface functionalization, environmentally friendly and scalable fabrication strategies, mechanism-driven material design, and systematic evaluation under realistic service conditions.