bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PARAMETRIC MODELLING OF AS-BUILT BEAM FRAMED STRUCTURE IN BIM
ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Yang X. , Koehl M. , Grussenmeyer P.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. A complete documentation and conservation of a historic timber roof requires the integration of geometry modelling, attributional and dynamic information management and results of structural analysis. Recently developed as-built Building Information Modelling (BIM) technique has the potential to provide a uniform platform, which provides possibility to integrate the traditional geometry modelling, parametric elements management and structural analysis together. The main objective of the project presented in this paper is to develop a parametric modelling tool for a timber roof structure whose elements are leaning and crossing beam frame. Since Autodesk Revit, as the typical BIM software, provides the platform for parametric modelling and information management, an API plugin, able to automatically create the parametric beam elements and link them together with strict relationship, was developed. The plugin under development is introduced in the paper, which can obtain the parametric beam model via Autodesk Revit API from total station points and terrestrial laser scanning data. The results show the potential of automatizing the parametric modelling by interactive API development in BIM environment. It also integrates the separate data processing and different platforms into the uniform Revit software.
3D MODELLING OF THE LUSATIAN BOROUGH IN BISKUPIN
USING ARCHIVAL DATA
Authors: Zawieska D. , Markiewicz J. S. , Kopiasz J. , Tazbir J. , Tobiasz A.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The paper presents the results of 3D modelling in the Lusatian Borough, Biskupin, using archival data. Pre-war photographs acquired from different heights, e.g., from a captive balloon (maximum height up to 150 m), from a blimp (at a height of 50–110 m) and from an aeroplane (at a height of 200 m, 300 m and up to 3 km). In order to generate 3D models, AgiSoft tools were applied, as they allow for restoring shapes using triangular meshes. Individual photographs were processed using Google SketchUp software and the "shape from shadow" method. The usefulness of these particular models in archaeological research work was also analysed.
Recurrence intervals for the closure of the Dutch Maeslant surge barrier
Authors: van den Brink Henk W. , de Goederen Sacha
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The Dutch Maeslant barrier, a movable surge barrier in the mouth of river Rhine, closes when due to a surge in the North Sea the water level in the river in Rotterdam would exceed 3 m above mean sea level. An important aspect of the failure probability is that the barrier might get damaged during a closure and that, within the time needed for repair, as a second critical storm-surge occurs. With an estimated closure frequency of once in 10 years, the question arises how often the barrier has to be closed twice within a month. Instead of tackling this problem by the application of statistical models on the (short) observational series, we solve the problem by combining the surge model WAQUA/DCSMv5 with the output of all seasonal forecasts of the European Centre of Medium-Range Weather Forecasting (ECMWF) in the period 1981–2015, whose combination cumulates in a pseudo-observational series of more than 6000 years. It is found that two closures occur on average once in 150 years within a month, and once in 330 years within a week. Sea level rise has a significant impact on the recurrence time, both of single and double closures. The recurrence time of single closures reduplicate with every 18 cm mean sea level rise (assuming that other influences remain unchanged), and double closure reduplicate with every 10 cm rise. This implies a 3–14 times larger probability of a double closure for a 15–40 cm sea level rise in 2050 (according to the KNMI climate scenarios) than that is currently dealt with.
EBSD in Antarctic and Greenland Ice
Authors: Weikusat Ilka , Kuiper Ernst-Jan N. , Pennock Gill M. , Kipfstuhl Sepp , Drury Martyn R.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. EBSD provides information for the characterization of subgrain boundary types and dislocation activity during deformation. EBSD microstructure in combination with light microscopy measurements from ice core material from Antarctica (EPICA-DML deep ice core) and Greenland (NEEM deep ice core) are presented and interpreted regarding substructure identification and characterization. Electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD) analyses suggest that a large portion of edge dislocations with slip systems basal  gliding on the basal plane were involved in forming subgrain boundaries. However, an almost equal number of tilt subgrain boundaries developed, involving dislocations gliding on non basal planes (prism  or prism  slip). A few subgrain boundaries involving prism  edge dislocation glide, as well as boundaries involving basal  twist dislocations, were also identified. The finding that subgrain boundaries occur, made up of dislocations gliding on non-basal planes, are as frequent as basal plane slip systems, is surprising. These findings are expected to have an impact on the discussion of rate-controlling processes for the ice flow descriptions of large ice masses with respect to sea-level evolution. For subgrain boundaries not related to the crystallography of the host grain alternative formation processes are discussed.
The Saint and the Cynic: Resentment and Jewishness in Améry, Sloterdijk, and Wyschogrod
Authors: Feuer Menachem
Published: February 2017

The constellation of pain, resentment, the body, and time – as they exist in the wake of the Enlightenment and in the dawn of a new barbarism - is found throughout the work of Jean Améry and Peter Sloterdijk. Both thinkers were especially influenced by Nietzsche’s readings of resentment, his challenge to the Enlightenment, and his turn to the body as the basis of a new kind of thinking which starts with pain, dwells in irreversible time, and ends with the possibility of action and joy. While this new thinking is novel and appeals to all humankind, the most unexpected points of convergence between Améry and Sloterdijk can be found in their particular neo-Nietzschean articulations of Jewishness: using what Harold Bloom would call revision, they both propose a revision of Nietzsche’s reading of Judaism as resentment. Améry associates Jewishness with “revolt” while Sloterdijk associates what he calls “kynicism” (as opposed to cynicism) with Jewishness.1 Intensely aware of the mortal blows that have been dealt to the Enlightenment, philosophy, and modernity as well as to the human body during the Holocaust, Améry and Sloterdijk both address – either directly or indirectly – the meaning of cynicism in relation to Jewishness, in particular, and the modern condition, in general.
On Jewish Being: Notes on Jean Améry
Authors: Benjamin Andrew
Published: February 2017

That the question of identity takes on a sense of urgency, one with its own possibilities and impossibilities, the moment that identity is bound up with death, is hardy surprising. What follows are a series of reflections on the question of identity, Jewish identity, raised by Jean Améry’s remarkable text On the Necessity and Impossibility of Being a Jew (Über Zwang und Unmöglichkeit, Jude zu sein). Améry’s text was of course published in the wake of his own experiences as an active member of the resistance, as having been imprisoned in Auschwitz and as the victim of torture. Philosophically, rather than biographically, if there were a point of comparison, then it is to Levinas’s 1947 text Etre juif. Both pose the problem of how the question of Jewish identity, Jewish being, is to be understood in the wake of the Shoah. The meaning of the formulations - Jude zu sein, Jude sein, Etre juif, Jewish being – delimits the question to be addressed. This will be the case even if its point of address, namely what the question stages, is itself far from straightforward. Moreover, while what is demanded within that question is itself philosophically important, it is equally the case that the question of Jewish being is at work within both communities and synagogues across the Jewish world. As a consequence it is as much a philosophical question as it is one that has a structuring effect on how Jewish survival is conceived (and thus equally on what that survival is taken to be). How survival is understood is an issue that continues to exert its force. Who is the subject of survival? What is the subject of survival? Who or what has been subjected to the issue of survival? Survival is both more nuanced and complex than the brute fact of an afterlife. Jewish being as a present question – a question of the present - continues therefore.
Phenotypic, Genetic and Biochemical Characterization of Five Tunisian Varieties of Chickpea
Authors: Melki Mongi , Gsouri Abir , Bouhadida Mariem , Chograni Hnya , Rezgui Mohsen
Published: February 2017

Five Tunisian varieties of Kabuli chickpea were characterized based on agro morphological, molecular and biochemical parameters to investigate their genetic variability and yield potential. Randomized complete block design field trials were carried out in the upper semi-arid region of Kef in Tunisia during the 2013-2014 seasons. Data analysis showed significant differences between genotypes for several parameters. The results indicated that these genotypes could be set into two different groups. The first group composed of Bochra and Chetoui genotypes. Kasseb, Neyer and Beja1 were in the second group. Genotypes in each group were closely related to each other according to their common morphological characters such as pod number, one hundred seeds weight and yield.  Chetoui and Kasseb varieties are later in comparison to other varieties. Genetic diversity was studied using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Four loci (TA64, TA71, TA96, TA194) were multiallelic. Whereas while two loci (TA72, GAA47) were monomorphic. Polymorphism analysis showed a phylogeny related to genotypes differentiation according to their relatives, origin and several morphological characters. Bochra variety had high amino acids content followed by Chetoui variety. All the varieties were deficient in sulfur amino acids. Chickpeas protein contents were variable and high ranging from 18% to 25%.
Excellent Mid-Term Results of a New Polished Tapered Modular Cemented Stem: A Study of 113 Hip Replacements with Minimum 5-Year Follow-Up
Authors: Vanbiervliet Jens , Somers Jan F.A.
Published: February 2017

Background

This prospective cohort study reports the medium-term clinical and radiographic results of 113 hips treated with a hybrid total hip replacement (THR) with a new cemented tapered cobalt-chrome (Co-Cr) stem with a titanium (Ti) modular neck (ProfemurXm®).

Method

Between October 2008 and December 2010 we performed 115 consecutive hybrid THR with the ProfemurXm® in 105 patients.

Results

Survivorship of the implant (stem and modular neck) at a mean of 6.5 years (min 5-max 8) was 100% with the endpoint revision for any reason. No implant was at risk for revision or showed signs of loosening. The mean Harris Hip Score was 89/100, mean Oxford Hip Score was 43/48, mean WOMAC was 91/100. No patient had thigh pain, no patient reported squeaking. There were no dislocations in this cohort. No implant showed development of radiolucent lines (RLL), either at the stem-cement or cement-bone interface. No hip showed osteolysis or calcar resorption. The mean femoral subsidence of the stem within the cement mantel was 0.31 mm (range 0-0.6 mm) after 6.5 years. With the use of this modular stem, 93% of hips showed no measurable leg length difference after THR, and leg length could be restored within a 5-mm limit in 99% of hips.

Conclusions

The mid-term results of this new polished stem were excellent, without adverse effects from the use of modularity.
Long-Term Vaginal Danazol Treatment in Fertile Age Women with Adenomyosis
Authors: Tosti Claudia , Vannuccini Silvia , Troìa Libera , Luisi Stefano , Centini Gabriele , Lazzeri Lucia , Petraglia Felice
Published: February 2017

Background

The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of long-term vaginal danazol treatment in fertile age women with adenomyosis on pain symptoms and abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB).

Methods

A retrospective study on 66 young women with dysmenorrhea and/or dyspareunia, AUB and 2D-ultrasound diagnosis of adenomyosis was conducted at University Hospital of Siena (Italy). Women included were treated with a daily low-dose vaginal danazol (200 mg) for 6 months, followed by 2 different schedules: group A) continuous treatment for further 18 months (n = 30); group B) cyclic intermittent treatment with 3 months’ therapy followed by 3 months’ interval for further 18 months (n = 36). A visual analog scale (VAS) for pain symptoms, a pictorial blood-loss assessment chart (PBAC) for uterine bleeding, 2D-ultrasound signs of adenomyosis and quality-of-life measures were assessed at baseline and after both vaginal progestin regimens.

Results

The pain symptoms, PBAC score and uterine volume were significantly reduced (p<0.0001) after 6 months, and the reduction persisted in both group of patients until the end. Mental and physical index score values increased (p<0.0001) in both groups at the end of treatment, with significantly higher mental index scores in intermittent than in continuous treatment (p<0.0001), associated with some drop-out (10%).

Conclusions

A long-term treatment with vaginal danazol is effective to control pain and AUB in women with adenomyosis. The 6 months’ treatment followed by a cyclic 3 months’ treatment for further 18 months has the best compliance in symptomatic patients with adenomyosis.
Autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis with progressive fibrosis refractory to treatment with whole lung lavage, inhaled GM-CSF and rituximab
Authors: Díaz Rodrigo , Johannson Kerri A. , Kelly Margaret M. , Van Olm Matthew J. , Lee Andrew G. , Fell Charlene D.
Published: February 2017

Pulmonary fibrosis occurs in up to 30% of patients with pulmonary alveolar proteinosis, and pulmonary hypertension is rarely identified. A previously healthy, highly active, asymptomatic 59-year-old male was diagnosed with autoimmune pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. He was followed clinically for five years until he developed disease progression with dyspnea on exertion. In the interim, he had developed pulmonary fibrosis, and was later found to have pulmonary hypertension. He continued to decline despite aggressive treatment with whole-lung lavage, inhaled granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and rituximab and now has very limited activity, despite use of supplemental oxygen. Pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension are uncommon and unpredictable complications of pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. Current treatment regimens for pulmonary alveolar proteinosis may not benefit patients once fibrosis is established. It is not known whether early aggressive treatment can stabilize or delay disease progression.
Entrepreneurial Orientation and Growth in Mexican Small Business
Authors: Maldonado-Guzman Gonzalo , Martínez-Serna María Del Carmen , Pinzón-Castro Sandra Yesenia
Published: February 2017

In the literature, there are various studies relating positively the entrepreneurial orientation to business performance. In such studies a great deal of variables have been introduced to measure business performance, among the variables most accepted by researchers and academics are profit and business growth. Therefore, it is possible to consider that entrepreneurial orientation plays an essential role in business growth. For that reason, this paper has the objective to analyse the existing relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and growth, by using a random sample of 318 small and medium-sixed enterprises in México. The results obtained show that proactivity, risk taking and innovativeness along with the competitive aggression and autonomy have significant and positive effects on small and medium-sized enterprises’ growth.
Civiel schadeverhaal via het strafproces anno 2016
Authors: Emaus J.M. , Kool R.B.S.
Published: February 2017

Civiel schadeverhaal via het strafproces anno 2016

Dit artikel is een verslag van een onderzoek met als centrale vraag hoe de praktijk van de besluitvorming van de strafrechter ten aanzien van de afdoening van de voeging benadeelde partij in het strafproces er anno 2016 uitziet. Op basis van trendgegevens blijkt dat de afgelopen jaren minder vorderingen niet-ontvankelijk zijn verklaard. Uit de interviews komt naar voren dat er in de rechtspraktijk ook een verandering wordt ervaren, die echter niet wordt toegeschreven aan de wijziging van het ontvankelijkheidscriterium in 2010, maar aan de tijdgeest. Een belangrijke keerzijde daarvan is echter, constateert de strafrechtspleging, dat de toegenomen slachtofferparticipatie in brede zin het strafproces onder (grotere) druk zet.
Inzage in medische gegevens van de patiënt; een illustratie van het belang van een goede medische machtiging
Authors: Wilken A.
Published: February 2017

Inzage in medische gegevens van de patiënt; een illustratie van het belang van een goede medische machtiging

In deze bijdrage worden twee tuchtzaken besproken waarin respectievelijk het RTG Groningen en het HvD hebben geoordeeld dat in civiele medische aansprakelijkheidsprocedures geen toestemming van de patiënt nodig is voor het gebruik van diens medische gegevens voor zover dat noodzakelijk is in het kader van het verweer van de aangesproken hulpverlener. De KNMG-richtlijn Omgaan met medische gegevens gaat er echter van uit dat in civiele zaken – anders dan in tuchtzaken – wél toestemming van de patiënt nodig is voor het gebruik van zijn medische gegevens. Daarbij wordt het overgrote deel van de medische aansprakelijkheidszaken buiten rechte afgewikkeld en ook buiten rechte is niet duidelijk welke regels er precies gelden met betrekking tot inzage in medische gegevens van de patiënt. Om onduidelijkheid en geschillen in dat kader te kunnen voorkomen, is het belangrijk dat partijen direct aan het begin van de schadebehandeling goede afspraken maken over wie wanneer welke medische gegevens mag inzien en onder welke voorwaarden, en dat de patiënt daar ook toestemming voor geeft. Een goede medische machtiging is derhalve van groot belang.
Perfil, formação profissional e noção de política sindical de metalúrgicos de Criciúma e Sul Catarinense
Authors: França Gilvan Felipe Teixeira de , Zanelatto João Henrique
Published: February 2017

O município de Criciúma, situado no Sul Catarinense, teve sua economia centrada por várias décadas na exploração do carvão mineral. Entretanto a partir da década de 1950 o município experimentou um processo de diversificação econômica. Um dos setores desta diversificação foi o metalúrgico que está presente em vários municípios do Sul Catarinense. Com o crescimento deste setor, o número de trabalhadores nesta atividade se eleva. Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar o perfil atual, a formação profissional e a noção de política sindical dos trabalhadores das indústrias metalúrgicas de Criciúma e do Sul Catarinense.
A Razão que (des)Humaniza e o Desafio de Ser Humano no Mundo Neoliberal
Authors: Gonçalves Marcela Vecchione
Published: February 2017

Resenha Critica: DARDOT, P.; LAVAL, C. A Nova Razão do Mundo - Ensaio sobre a Sociedade Neoliberal. São Paulo: Editora Boitempo, 2016. 402 p.
Livro: CASTRO, Edna. CAMPOS, Índio (Orgs.). Formação socioeconômica da Amazônia. Belém: NAEA, 2015. 640 p.
Authors: Cunha Larissa Carreira da , Brigida Fabricio Borges Santa , Silva Tienay Picanço da Costa
Published: February 2017

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The Benefits and Challenges of an Interfaced Electronic Health Record and Laboratory Information System: Effects on Laboratory Processes
Authors: Petrides Athena K. , Bixho Ida , Goonan Ellen M. , Bates David W. , Shaykevich Shimon , Lipsitz Stuart R. , Landman Adam B. , Tanasijevic Milenko J. , Melanson Stacy E. F.
Published: February 2017

Context.—

A recent government regulation incentivizes implementation of an electronic health record (EHR) with computerized order entry and structured results display. Many institutions have also chosen to interface their EHR with their laboratory information system (LIS).

Objective.—

To determine the impact of an interfaced EHR-LIS on laboratory processes.

Design.—

We analyzed several different processes before and after implementation of an interfaced EHR-LIS: the turnaround time, the number of stat specimens received, venipunctures per patient per day, preanalytic errors in phlebotomy, the number of add-on tests using a new electronic process, and the number of wrong test codes ordered. Data were gathered through the LIS and/or EHR.

Results.—

The turnaround time for potassium and hematocrit decreased significantly (P = .047 and P = .004, respectively). The number of stat orders also decreased significantly, from 40% to 7% for potassium and hematocrit, respectively (P < .001 for both). Even though the average number of inpatient venipunctures per day increased from 1.38 to 1.62 (P < .001), the average number of preanalytic errors per month decreased from 2.24 to 0.16 per 1000 specimens (P < .001). Overall there was a 16% increase in add-on tests. The number of wrong test codes ordered was high and it was challenging for providers to correctly order some common tests.

Conclusions.—

An interfaced EHR-LIS significantly improved within-laboratory turnaround time and decreased stat requests and preanalytic phlebotomy errors. Despite increasing the number of add-on requests, an electronic add-on process increased efficiency and improved provider satisfaction. Laboratories implementing an interfaced EHR-LIS should be cautious of its effects on test ordering and patient venipunctures per day.
New Developments in Salivary Gland Pathology: Clinically Useful Ancillary Testing and New Potentially Targetable Molecular Alterations
Authors: Griffith Christopher C. , Schmitt Alessandra C. , Little James L. , Magliocca Kelly R.
Published: February 2017

Accurate diagnosis of salivary gland tumors can be challenging because of the many diagnostic entities, the sometimes extensive morphologic overlap, and the rarity of most tumor types. Ancillary testing is beginning to ameliorate some of these challenges through access to newer immunohistochemical stains and fluorescence in situ hybridization probes, which can limit differential diagnostic considerations in some cases. These ancillary testing strategies are especially useful in small biopsy samples, including aspiration cytology. Molecular techniques are also expanding our understanding of salivary gland tumor pathology and are helping to identify potential targets that may improve treatment for some of these tumors. Here, we summarize the clinical use of new immunohistochemical markers in our practice and review the current understanding of chromosomal rearrangements in salivary gland tumor pathology, emphasizing the prospects for exploiting molecular alterations in salivary gland tumors for diagnosis and targeted therapy. We find that immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization are powerful tools toward the diagnosis of salivary gland tumors, especially when used in a systematic manner based on morphologic differential-diagnostic considerations. As new targeted therapies emerge, it will become increasingly vital to incorporate appropriate molecular testing into the pathologic evaluation of salivary gland cancers.
Introduction
Authors: Pilegaard Morten
Published: February 2017

No abstract.
Measuring Progress in Discourse Production. A genre-based approach
Authors: Neumann Ingrid
Published: February 2017

The aim of this paper is to find criteria for the evaluation of oral business discourse produced in the language laboratory by students of business German. I felt the lack of an instrument that measures more precisely, not only linguistic criteria like lexis and grammar, but also the pragmatic background and the functions that discourse types within ‘language for specific purposes’ (LSP) have to fulfil. By evaluation I mean the asses-sment of individual progress, but indirectly I evaluate a teaching concept. A good teaching programme should facilitate progress.I am going to describe a teaching concept called Übertragung ‘text transfer’, focusing on the project that provided the data material for the present study. I will then present the model I have chosen as a basis for the study. In the study itself I concentrate on ‘text organisation’ and ‘content structure’.
Discourse coherence: a case study of the French connector tandis que
Authors: Jadir Mohammed
Published: February 2017

This paper aims to explore the role of connectors in the degree of discourse coherence. Starting from Dik’s (1997: ch. 18) discourse model, I examine the extent to which connectors can adequately be accounted for in the theory of Functional Grammar through the study of the French particle tandis que. At the semantic level, tandis que is characterized as a circumstantial satellite marker be it locally or in a more global scope. As for pragmatic functions, it is argued that the Parallel Focus function singled out by tandis que can also be assigned to more than one element of a parallel construction when the contrast is not a binary relation. The last part of my paper is devoted to the textual functions of the discourse marker tandis que, which is relevant as a coherence-promoting device in introducing Topics or in signalling discourse discontinuity.
Pseudo-Skolem sequences and graph Skolem labelling
Authors: Pike David A. , Sanaei Asiyeh , Shalaby Nabil
Published: February 2017

Pseudo-Skolem sequences, which are similar to Skolem-type sequences in their structure and applications, are introduced. Constructions of such sequences, either directly or via the use of known Skolem-type sequences, are presented. The applicability of these sequences to Skolem labelled graphs, in particular classes of rail-siding graphs and caterpillars, are also discussed.
On the existence of certain weak Fano threefolds of Picard number two
Authors: Arap Maxim , Cutrone Joseph , Marshburn Nicholas
Published: February 2017

This article settles the question of existence of smooth weak Fano threefolds of Picard number two with small anti-canonical map and previously classified numerical invariants obtained by blowing up certain curves on smooth Fano threefolds of Picard number $1$ with the exception of $12$ numerical cases.
Safety Assessment for an ATM System Change: A Methodology for the ANSPs
Authors: Di Gravio Giulio , Patriarca Riccardo , Costantino Francesco , Sikora Ivan
Published: February 2017

Air Traffic Management (ATM) is a continuously evolving process, where many current system elements derive from a time when ATM characteristics were very different from today. Nowadays, the provision of ATM services has to design new solutions and adapt to new scenarios. Although ESARR 4 and EU Regulation 1035/2011 define the need of evaluating ATM system risks before implementing any change, they do not define a practical tool to support the decision-makers. The aim of this paper is to fill this gap, proposing a systematic methodology; the Preliminary System Safety Assessment Tool (PSSA-T) capable of helping the decision makers in evaluating safety implications due to system changes. PSSA-T relies on the definition of two Indexes, which have been built according to the Aerospace Performance Factor (APF) methodology, and allow safety assessment of any proposed change. In detail, the former Index compares the evolutionary scenario with the current one and the latter evaluates the evolutionary scenario in which there is a failure of intervention, in the hypothesis the system change has been implemented already. A preliminary study about the change from Flight Progress Strip (FPS) to the Electronic-FPS clarifies the outcome of the study.
Challenges of Tagging Goods in Supply Chains and a Cloud Perspective with Focus on Some Transitional Economies
Authors: Bauk Sanja , Draskovic Mimo , Schmeink Anke
Published: February 2017

This paper considers some of the barriers in implementing the RFID (radio frequency identification) technology for identifying, locating, tracking and tracing goods in supply chains, along with a model for adopting cloud services that can mitigate these obstacles in the transitional environment. The analysis is based on the assessments of the implementation impediments, given by the experts in the field of logistics: university professors, assistants and entrepreneurs from three Western Balkan countries (Montenegro, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina). Since the professionals’ assessments are influenced by their experiences from the transitional economies, which are faced with limited abilities to invest in expensive business information systems, the main hypothesis is that moving the logistics into the cloud may resolve or at least alleviate the considered problems. On the basis of the available secondary literature resources on pros and cons of RFID implementation into supply chains, and the statistical analysis of the consciously completed questionnaires in the survey, the model for adopting cloud services for providing RFID-enabled goods and related activities in the considered economies is proposed at a logical level. The paper also gives some directions for further research work in this domain.
Aluminum Oxide
Authors: Evans Ken , Hudson L. Keith , Misra Chanakya , Perrotta Anthony J. , Wefers Karl , Williams Fred S.
Published: October 2024

The article contains sections titled:

1
General Aspects

1.1
Aluminum Hydroxides

1.2
Aluminum Oxide Hydroxides

1.3
Aluminum Oxide, Corundum

1.4

The Al
2
O
3
–H
2
O System

1.5
Thermal Decomposition of Aluminum Hydroxides

1.6
Aluminates and Related Compounds

2
Bauxite, the Principal Raw Material

2.1
Definition and Geology

2.2
Composition and Properties

2.3
Genesis of Bauxites

2.4
Major Bauxite Deposits

2.5
Economic Aspects

3
Bayer Process

3.1
History and Procedure

3.1.1
Bauxite Preparation

3.1.2
Digestion

3.1.3
Equipment

3.1.4
Residue Separation

3.1.5
Precipitation

3.1.6
Impurities

3.1.7
Calcination

3.1.8
Evaporation

3.2
Bauxite Residue

3.2.1
Disposal of Bauxite Residue

3.2.2
Remediation of Bauxite Residue Storage Facilities

3.2.3
Uses of Bauxite Residue

3.3
Energy Aspects

3.4
Economic Aspects

4
Other Processes for Alumina Production

4.1
Raw Materials

4.2
Alkaline Processes

4.3
Acid Processes

5
Metallurgical Alumina

5.1
Alumina Properties Required for Smelting

5.2
Typical Specifications for Metallurgical Alumina

6
Industrial Alumina Chemicals

6.1
Aluminum Hydroxides

6.2
Adsorbent and Catalytic Aluminas

6.2.1
Preparation of Activated Aluminas

6.2.2
Adsorbent Applications

6.2.3
Catalytic Applications

7
Specialty Calcined Alumina

7.1
Ceramic Use of Alumina

7.2
Refractory Uses of Alumina

7.3
Fused Alumina

7.4
Tabular Alumina

8
Toxicology and Industrial Hygiene

List of Abbreviations

References
Dysphagia assessment in patients with multiple sclerosis – an additional piece to disability burden
Authors: Ranucci Davide , Falco Fabrizia , Nicolella Valerio , Di Monaco Cristina , Migliaccio Laura , Lamagna Federica , Caracciolo Federica , Eliano Martina , Petracca Maria , Moccia Marcello , Brescia Morra Vincenzo , Carotenuto Antonio , Lanzillo Roberta
Published: October 2024

Objective

People with multiple sclerosis (MS) might experience symptoms that are usually underestimated. Dysphagia should be evaluated within the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), but clinicians often do not assess it properly. The objectives of this study are as follows: To assess the prevalence of dysphagia in patients with MS utilizing the Swallowing Disturbance Questionnaire (SDQ); to examine the correlation with the EDSS; to investigate the relationship between dysphagia and clinico‐demographic characteristics of MS.

Methods

In total, 177 MS patients underwent evaluations with EDSS, SDQ, cognitive functions, anxiety, depression, fatigue, and sleep quality tests. We compared clinico‐demographic data of patients with and without dysphagia and native‐EDSS to SDQ‐EDSS.

Results

Out of the 177 MS patients, 56% of individuals were identified having dysphagia according to the SDQ with 41 patients exhibiting mild dysphagia, 31 showing moderate dysphagia and 27 patients having severe dysphagia. Only 6 patients had dysphagia recorded in the EDSS. SDQ‐EDSS scores were significantly higher than native scores. Dysphagia was associated with depressive symptoms and sleep quality.

Interpretation

Dysphagia affects up to 56% of MS patients. The SDQ questionnaire is useful for identifying dysphagia, which can help in capturing disease progression and preventing complications like aspiration pneumonia.

The SDQ‐EDSS was higher than the native‐EDSS, reflecting the poor ability of the native‐EDSS to evaluate certain symptoms such as dysphagia. The SDQ correlated with depressive symptoms, which are associated with a greater perception of MS symptoms, and poor sleep quality, which could be associated with the triggering of pathogenic mechanisms responsible for disease progression.
Do Wettability Measurements Define Corrosion Inhibition of Etched Surfaces? A Study on Acid‐Etched 316L Stainless Steel
Authors: Jothi Prakash Chakrapani Gunarasan , Lee Jeong‐Won
Published: October 2024

Special wetting surfaces have attracted attention owing to their potential applications in the automotive, engineering, environmental, and biomedical industries. Specifically, nature‐inspired superhydrophobic surfaces are more effective in blocking moisture, thus limiting corrosion. Hence, surface wettability analysis remains the primary method for demonstrating the corrosion mitigation characteristics of rough‐engineered surfaces. Herein, the influence of wettability measurements on the corrosion inhibition of 316L stainless steel surfaces etched in HCl: HNO3 acid is systematically investigated. Interestingly, etched hydrophobic surfaces with a contact angle of ≈125° significantly improve the corrosion resistance by 50%, resulting in suppressed corrosion rates. Furthermore, the surface chemical states of the etched 316L steel are analyzed and discussed in detail.
Zwitterion Modified Polyacrylonitrile Fiber Separator for Long‐Life Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cheng Lukuan , Li Wenzheng , Li Mengrui , Zhou Shiqiang , Yang Jingyi , Ren Wen , Chen Lina , Huang Yan , Yu Suzhu , Wei Jun
Published: October 2024

The major challenges of aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are the dendrite formation and the passivation of zinc metal anode, which restrict their practical applications. Herein, polyacrylonitrile (PAN) and zwitterionic surfactant (Sulfobetaine methacrylate, SBMA) are combined as a precursor to design a modified PAN nanofiber separator by electrospinning. SBMA with sulfonate group [SO3−] can alter the physical property of the precursor solution and electrostatic field during the electrospinning process. Besides, it can regulate the zinc ions crossing and homogenize the electric field by minimizing the zinc ion concentration polarization on the zinc foil surface due to the polar group. As a result, Zn symmetric cells with PAN@SBMA separators show long‐term stability (up to 1700 h), which outdistances the cell with GF‐D (only up to 50 h) under current density at 1 mA cm−2. Meanwhile, the Zn//PAN@SBMA//NH4V4O10 full cells have high specific capacity (236 mAh g−1) and excellent long‐term durability with 84.2% capacity retention after 2000 cycles at 5 A g−1. This work illustrates an easy and effective way to design a high ion transference number and functional PAN‐based separator for regulating Zn2+ deposition for the development of high‐performance ZIBs.
Ni0.25Cu0.5Sn0.25 Nanometallic Glasses As Highly Efficient Catalyst for Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia
Authors: Liu Yang , Huang Shenglong , Lu Jiajia , Niu Shuyu , Shen Pei Kang , Hu Zhuofeng , Tsiakaras Panagiotis , Gao Shuyan
Published: October 2024

Electrochemical nitrate reduction to ammonia (NRA) is a promising approach for alleviating energy crisis and water pollution. Current NRA catalysts are challenged to simultaneously improve the rate of the adsorption and desorption processes to further increase the total activity due to the Brønsted−Evans−Polanyi (BEP) relationships. Herein, a two‐step Joule heating method is utilized for the preparation of Ni0.25Cu0.5Sn0.25 nanometallic glass containing synergistic catalytic sites to simultaneously enhance the adsorption and desorption processes. Kelvin probe force microscopy reveals a pronounced oscillatory behavior in the surface potential of Ni0.25Cu0.5Sn0.25 nanometallic glass, which is an important feature of the synergistic catalytic site, and an empirical formula is proposed to quantitatively characterize its oscillatory characteristic. In situ electrochemical Raman spectroscopy indicates the promotion of nickel and tin atoms for nitrate adsorption and ammonia desorption processes, respectively. DFT calculations demonstrated that Ni0.25Cu0.5Sn0.25 presents a wide range of adsorption energy distributions to favor the multisite synergistic catalysis. The present work provides new ideas for the design and understanding of highly active NRA catalysts.
Transient Starch‐Based Nanocomposites for Sustainable Electronics and Multifunctional Sensing
Authors: Dong Ming , Soul Aaron , Li Yansong , Bilotti Emiliano , Zhang Han , Cataldi Pietro , Papageorgiou Dimitrios G.
Published: October 2024

Developing materials for electronics and sensing based on abundant and degradable materials is fundamental for transitioning both fields toward a more sustainable future. In the long run, this approach can unleash these fields from using petroleum‐derived and/or scarce resources, possibly facilitating electronic waste (e‐waste) management at the same time. Starch, one of the most abundant and versatile natural polymers, has shown great potential in the fabrication of degradable/transient devices. In this work, electrically conductive and mechanically robust starch‐Ti3C2Tx MXene nanocomposites are successfully engineered, offering a promising advancement in sustainable electronics. The nanocomposite films exhibit remarkable tunability with varying MXene concentrations (from 0.69 to 2.42 vol%), allowing precise control over their properties. This tunability enables modifications in tensile strength (from 6.4 to 11.2 MPa), electrical conductivity (from 2.31 × 10−3 to 3.98 S m−1), and gauge factor. Such characteristics make these films ideal for various applications, including body movement monitoring, tactile sensing, handwriting recognition, and electronic smart skin. Unlike their petroleum‐based counterparts, the starch‐based films demonstrate significant biodegradability, breaking down within a month after being buried in soil. This rapid degradation highlights the potential of these transient composites for various electronics applications, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.
Enhancing Resistance to Corrosion and Fouling Using Epoxy Coatings with Superhydrophobic Cells
Authors: Xia Yage , Gu Wancheng , Zhang Qiang , Yang Zhongtian , Lv Xinyu , Ji Yanzheng , Deng Weilin , Liu Weiwei , Dong Lei , Feng Pan , Ran Qianpin , Yu Xinquan , Zhang Youfa
Published: October 2024

As maritime transport becomes increasingly important, metal corrosion results in significant economic losses. Superhydrophobic materials have significant potential for corrosion prevention. However, poor compatibility between superhydrophobic materials and resin reduces the long‐term corrosion resistance. Interfacial strengthening cells (IS‐Cells) are designed to maintain superhydrophobicity and retain active hydroxyl groups participating in resin‐curing. IS‐Cells also contribute to achieving the maze effect. A novel anti‐corrosion IS coating is fabricated by compatible IS‐Cells and epoxy. IS coatings feature smooth surfaces and vertical compactness, protecting against liquid and gaseous corrosive medium. Strong diffusion resistance and extended diffusion distance ensure long‐term corrosion resistance of IS coatings. Approximately 85 µm of IS coatings remain corrosion‐free after 112 days of immersion in the NaCl solution. The low‐frequency impedance, self‐corrosion potential, and self‐corrosion current density are 1.68 × 109 Ω cm2, −0.0708 V, and 5.38 × 10−11 A cm−2, respectively. IS coatings can also withstand 2400 h of neutral salt spray testing without corrosion in the artificial scratches. Due to the electrostatic repulsion between the hydrophobic C–F chains onto IS‐Cells and protein molecules, IS coatings maintain anti‐fouling properties after dry‐wet immersion tests in the natural marine environment for 90 days. IS coatings show great potential for marine anti‐corrosion applications.
Modular Combinatorial Development of Crystal‐Glass Nano‐Heterostructured Copper Alloys with Ultrahigh Strength and Large Deformability
Authors: Zhou Hongbo , Yuan Fusen , Huang Yao , Wang Yutian , Bo Zhenxing , Cao Jingshan , Xie Weijie , Zhang Qinghua , Liu Yanhui , Jiang Minqiang , Sun Baoan , Wang Weihua
Published: October 2024

Overcoming the strength‐ductility trade‐off in metals and alloys entails the optimization of the compositions and dedicated microstructural design, which remains experimentally laborious and challenging. Here, a combinatorial method is devised to construct a Cu‐Ti alloy library encompassing diverse compositions, microstructures, and mechanical properties, allowing to efficiently identify a copper alloy with an unprecedented yield strength of 3.8 GPa and high deformability. The exceptional properties are attributed to a crystal‐glass nano‐heterostructure (CGNH) consisting of nanograins, nano twins, and glassy phases. Ultrahigh strength stems from the extreme strengthening of structural‐unit refinement and the avoidance of softening caused by grain‐boundary sliding through the inclusion of glassy phases between nanograins. Remarkable deformability is associated with the activation of homogeneous flow in nanosized glassy phases, complemented by coordinated nanocrystal rotation. The CGNH architecture offers a potent route to overcome the trade‐off between alloy strength and deformability.
Synergistic Catalysis of Cobalt Single Atoms and Clusters Loaded on Carbon Film: Enhancing Peroxymonosulfate Activation for Degradation of Norfloxacin
Authors: Hao Chenglin , Li Tinghang , Xie Yanjie , Zhou Jia‐Xi , Chang Fengqin , Luo Liancong , Liu Qian , Abdukayum Abdukader , Hu Guangzhi
Published: October 2024

Many existing research focuses on the differences or performance comparisons between single‐atom or small‐sized nanocluster catalysts, but there is a lack of comprehensive research on the coupling relationship between the structure and activity and the mechanism of synergy. This study investigates the combined catalytic potential of cobalt single atoms (SAs) and nanoclusters (NCs) for enhanced peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation to degrade norfloxacin (NFX). A novel CoSAs‐NCs/CN/TiO2 catalyst is synthesized, featuring cobalt SAs and NCs uniformly dispersed on the carbon film wrapping TiO2, and the degradation efficiency of the NFX solution is almost completely degraded, with a mineralization rate of 76.35%. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that the synergistic interaction between cobalt SAs and NCs promotes more efficient PMS adsorption and activation and significantly reduces the activation energy barrier, which enhances electron transfer and increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. This research highlights the robust and versatile nature of this novel catalyst system in addressing various contaminants. This study elucidates the activation mechanism of catalysts, providing new ideas for advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) in environmental remediation, linking the structure and performance of catalysts, and emphasizes the practicality and importance of the CoSAs‐NCs/CN/TiO2 catalyst in effectively and long‐term remediation of water pollutants.
Topologically Close‐Packed Frank‐Kasper C15 Phase Intermetallic Ir Alloy Electrocatalysts Enables High‐Performance Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzer
Authors: Qin Zhuhuang , Li Jinhui , Wu Qiyan , Sathishkumar Nadaraj , Liu Xuan , Lai Jiaoyang , Mao Jialun , Xie Linfeng , Li Shenzhou , Lu Gang , Cao Rui , Yan Pengfei , Huang Yunhui , Li Qing
Published: October 2024

Chemical synthesis of unconventional topologically close‐packed intermetallic nanocrystals (NCs) remains a considerable challenge due to the limitation of large volume asymmetry between the components. Here, a series of unconventional intermetallic Frank‐Kasper C15 phase Ir2M (M = rare earth metals La, Ce, Gd, Tb, Tm) NCs is successfully prepared via a molten‐salt assisted reduction method as efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Compared to the disordered counterpart (A1‐Ir2Ce), C15‐Ir2Ce features higher Ir‐Ce coordination number that leads to an electron‐rich environment for Ir sites. The C15‐Ir2Ce catalyst exhibits excellent and pH‐universal HER activity and requires only 9, 16, and 27 mV overpotentials to attain 10 mA cm−2 in acidic, alkaline, and neutral electrolytes, respectively, representing one of the best HER electrocatalysts ever reported. In a proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer, the C15‐Ir2Ce cathode achieves an industrial‐scale current density of 1 A cm−2 with a remarkably low cell voltage of 1.7 V at 80 °C and can operate stably for 1000 h with a sluggish voltage decay rate of 50 µV h−1. Theoretical investigations reveal that the electron‐rich Ir sites intensify the polarization of *H2O intermediate on C15‐Ir2Ce, thus lowering the energy barrier of the water dissociation and facilitating the HER kinetics.
Rapid and Scalable Synthesis of In2O3‐Decorated MXene Nanosheets for High‐Performance Flexible Broadband Photodetectors
Authors: Rhyu Hyejin , Shin Jae Hyeok , Kang Myung Hyun , Song Wooseok , Lee Sun Sook , Lim Jongsun , Myung Sung
Published: October 2024

A promising flexible photodetector based on hybrid nanocomposites of 2D MXene and In2O3 nanoparticles (NPs) has been developed, demonstrating excellent ultraviolet (UV) light responsivity. In this work, In2O3‐decorated MXene nanosheets (In2O3MX) are synthesized via a simple one‐step sonochemical method using ultrasonication, rapidly producing the composites in a short time. The synthesized material shows efficacy across broadband wavelengths (UV, Vis, NIR). Notably, the photodetector using In2O3MX exhibits a responsivity (R) of 121.6 A W−1 and a specific detectivity (D*) of 106.4 × 10¹⁰ Jones in the UV range, and confirming enhanced electrical properties and the feasibility of low‐voltage detection with tau plots. Additionally, the electrical and optical characteristics remain unchanged after bending the device up to 10,000 times with a bending radius of 6.0 mm, highlighting its suitability for flexible optoelectronic applications. Overall, this study introduces a novel approach to the simple synthesis of 2D MXene nanocomposites and provides valuable insights into the development of flexible photodetectors using these materials.