bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bicalutamide Exhibits Potential to Damage Kidney via Destroying Complex I and Affecting Mitochondrial Dynamics
Authors: Chen Kuan-Chou , Chen Chang-Rong , Chen Chang-Yu , Peng Chiung-Chi , Peng Robert Y.
Published: December 2021

Bicalutamide (Bic) is an androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for treating prostate cancer, while ADT is potentially associated with acute kidney injury. Previously, we recognized Bic induced renal mitochondria dysfunction in vitro and in vivo via the ROS -HIF1α pathway. Whether OXPHOS complex, as well as mitochondrial dynamics, can be influenced by Bic via modulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator 1α (PGC1α), NADPH oxidase 4 (Nox4), mitofusins 1/2 (MFN 1/2), optic atrophy 1 (OPA1), and sirtuins (SIRTs) has not been documented. Renal mesangial cell line was treated with Bic (30~60 μM) for the indicated time. SIRTs, complex I, mitochondrial dynamics- and oxidative stress-related proteins were analyzed. Bic dose-dependently reduced mitochondrial potential, but dose- and time-dependently suppressed translocase of the outer mitochondrial membrane member 20 (Tomm 20), complex I activity. Nox4 and glutathione lead to decreased NAD+/NADH ratio, with upregulated superoxide dismutase 2. SIRT1 was initially stimulated and then suppressed, while SIRT3 was time- and dose-dependently downregulated. PGC1α, MFN2, and OPA1 were all upregulated, with MFN1 and pro-fission dynamin-related protein I downregulated. Bic exhibits potential to damage mitochondria via destroying complex I, complex I activity, and mitochondrial dynamics. Long-term treatment with Bic should be carefully followed up.
Plasma Radiofrequency Ablation for Scar Treatment
Authors: Baroni Adone , Verolino Pasquale
Published: December 2021

Scars are a common disfiguring sequela of various events such as acne, hidradenitis suppurativa, surgery, trauma, and burns, which can lead to serious psychosocial problems with a negative effect on the quality of life. Many conventional approaches have been proposed for the treatment of scars, including surgical techniques, dermabrasion, chemical peels, topical silicone gel, 5-fluorouracile and dermal fillers injection or autologous fat transfer for atrophic scars, and corticosteroids injection for hypertrophic and keloid scars; however, they have sporadic effects. Ablative lasers, such as carbon dioxide laser or Erbium Yag laser, are associated with many collateral effects limiting their application. Non-ablative laser treatments have been shown to be safer and to have fewer side effects, but they have a reduction of clinical efficacy compared to ablative lasers and a minimal improvement of scars. The demand for minimal invasive and safe technology for the treatment of a scars has stimulated the search for more effective novel therapy with fewer collateral effects. Plasma radiofrequency ablation is a new technique consisting of the generation of plasma energy through the production of ionized energy, which thermally heats tissue in a uniform and controlled manner, through a plasma radiofrequency device, inducing a sublimation of the tissue. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of P-RF ablation in the treatment of scars performed with D.A.S. Medical device (Technolux, Italia), which is a tool working with the long-wave plasma radiofrequency principle.
Perioperative Predictive Factors for Positive Outcomes in Spine Fusion for Adult Deformity Correction
Authors: Baroncini Alice , Migliorini Filippo , Langella Francesco , Barletta Paolo , Trobisch Per , Cecchinato Riccardo , Damilano Marco , Quarto Emanuele , Lamartina Claudio , Berjano Pedro
Published: December 2021

Purpose: Identifying perioperative factors that may influence the outcomes of long spine fusion for the treatment of adult deformity is key for tailored surgical planning and targeted informed consent. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between demographic or perioperative factors and clinical outcomes 2 years after long spine fusion for the treatment of adult deformity. Methods: This study is a multivariate analysis of retrospectively collected data. All patients who underwent long fusion of the lumbar spine for adult spinal deformity (January 2016–June 2019) were included. The outcomes of interest were the Oswestry disability index (ODI), visual analogic scale (VAS) preoperatively and at 1 and 2 years’ follow up, age, body mass index, American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) score, upper and lowest instrumented vertebrae (UIV and LIV, respectively), length of surgery, estimated blood loss, and length of hospital stay. Results: Data from 192 patients were available. The ODI at 2 years correlated weakly to moderately with age (r = 0.4), BMI (r = 0.2), ASA (r = 0.3), and LIV (r = 0.2), and strongly with preoperative ODI (r = 0.6). The leg VAS at 2 years moderately correlated with age (r = 0.3) and BMI (r = 0.3). Conclusion: ODI and VAS at 2 years’ follow-up had no to little association to preoperative age, health status, LIV, or other peroperative data, but showed a strong correlation with preoperative ODI and pain level.
Influence of Surface Preparation on Cracking Phenomena in TIG-Welded High and Medium Entropy Alloys
Authors: Richter Tim , Giese Marcel , Rhode Michael , Schroepfer Dirk , Michael Thomas , Fritsch Tobias
Published: December 2021

Multi-element systems with defined entropy (HEA—high entropy alloy or MEA—medium entropy alloy) are rather new material concepts that are becoming increasingly important in materials research and development. Some HEA systems show significantly improved properties or combinations of properties, e.g., the overcoming of the trade-off between high strength and ductility. Thus, the synthesis, the resulting microstructures, and properties of HEA have been primarily investigated so far. In addition, processing is crucial to achieve a transfer of potential HEA/MEA materials to real applications, e.g., highly stressed components. Since fusion welding is the most important joining process for metals, it is of vital importance to investigate the weldability of these materials. However, this has rarely been the subject of research to date. For that reason, in this work, the weldability depending on the surface preparation of a CoCrFeMnNi HEA and a CoCrNi MEA for TIG welding is investigated. The fusion welding of longer plates is described here for the first time for the CoCrNi alloy. The welds of both materials showed distinct formation of cracks in the heat affected zone (HAZ). Optical and scanning electron microscopy analysis clearly confirmed an intergranular fracture topography. However, based on the results, the crack mechanism cannot be conclusively identified as either a liquid metal embrittlement (LME) or hot cracking-like liquid film separation.
Strategic Sustainability of Offshore Arctic Oil and Gas Projects: Definition, Principles, and Conceptual Framework
Authors: Dmitrieva Diana , Cherepovitsyna Alina , Stroykov Gennady , Solovyova Victoria
Published: December 2021

Exploitation of oil and gas resources in the Arctic offshore is one of Russia’s key priorities in such areas as science, economy, and technology. Global trends, harsh climate conditions, fragile ecosystems, conditions of the pandemic and post-pandemic periods, price volatility, and the growing importance of the environmental factor require that the process of developing the Arctic’s hydrocarbon resources should become strategically sustainable. The paper provides a deep literature review on sustainability issues, sustainable development, strategic sustainability, and project efficiency in the Arctic offshore oil and gas sector. The paper analyzes the trends and conditions that substantiate the need to transform the traditional sustainability concept to meet new challenges and comply with new policies. Based on the analysis, the authors propose a definition of and a conceptual framework for strategic sustainability of oil and gas offshore projects in the Arctic.
Precision Therapy for Invasive Fungal Diseases
Authors: Märtson Anne-Grete , Alffenaar Jan-Willem C. , Brüggemann Roger J. , Hope William
Published: December 2021

Invasive fungal infections (IFI) are a common infection-related cause of death in immunocompromised patients. Approximately 10 million people are at risk of developing invasive aspergillosis annually. Detailed study of the pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of antifungal drugs has resulted in a better understanding of optimal regimens for populations, drug exposure targets for therapeutic drug monitoring, and establishing in vitro susceptibility breakpoints. Importantly, however, each is an example of a “one size fits all strategy”, where complex systems are reduced to a singularity that ensures antifungal therapy is administered safely and effectively at the level of a population. Clearly, such a notion serves most patients adequately but is completely counter to the covenant at the centre of the clinician–patient relationship, where each patient should know whether they are well-positioned to maximally benefit from an antifungal drug. This review discusses the current therapy of fungal infections and areas of future research to maximise the effectiveness of antifungal therapy at an individual level.
Candida albicans Modulates Murine and Human Beta Defensin-1 during Vaginitis
Authors: Miró María Soledad , Caeiro Juan Pablo , Rodriguez Emilse , Vargas Lara , Vigezzi Cecilia , Icely Paula A. , Castillo Graciela D. V. , Azcurra Ana I. , Abiega Claudio D. , Riera Fernando O. , Sotomayor Claudia E.
Published: December 2021

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) and recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) are two forms of a disease caused by Candida spp. β-defensin (BD) is one of the most important families of antimicrobial peptides in the female genital tract and includes molecules that exert essential local functions as antimicrobial and PMN chemoattractant peptides. However, the information on their role during murine and human VVC and RVVC is limited. Thus, we analyzed the behavior and contribution of BD1 to the local response in a VVC mice model and the local cytokine profile and human BD1 and BD3 expression in cervicovaginal lavage from patients with VVC and RVVC. We demonstrated that, in patients with RVVC BD1, mRNA and protein expression were severely diminished and that the aspartate proteinase and lipase secreted by C. albicans are involved in that decrease. This study provides novel information about the pathogenesis of VVC and describes a highly efficient C. albicans escape strategy for perpetuating the infection; these results may contribute to the development of new or combined treatment approaches.
Assessment of the Development of the Stock Market in the Russian Federation in a Crisis
Authors: Burkaltseva Diana , Niyazbekova Shakizada , Blazhevich Oleg , Jallal Mir Abdul Kayum , Reutov Viktor , Yanova Svetlana , Dyatel Vitaly , Mihaylova Dugma , Klochkova Elena , Brovkina Natalya , Nurpeisova Ardak , Yessymhanova Zeinegul
Published: December 2021

The article analyzes the literature and provides an assessment of the development of the stock market in the Russian Federation between 2016–2020. Today, the process of improving electronic technologies for carrying out operations in the stock market is also a continuing segment of the financial market. A methodology for assessing the development of the stock market in the example of the Russian Federation is proposed, with a description of the essence of the assessment indicator, the calculation formula and the threshold value. According to the results of the assessment and to the author’s proposed methodology, measures are proposed to improve the work of the stock market.
A Dynamic Light-Weight Symmetric Encryption Algorithm for Secure Data Transmission via BLE Beacons
Authors: Banani Sam , Thiemjarus Surapa , Wongthavarawat Kitti , Ounanong Nattapong
Published: December 2021

Pervasive sensing with Body Sensor Networks (BSNs) is a promising technology for continuous health monitoring. Since the sensor nodes are resource-limited, on-node processing and advertisement of digested information via BLE beacon is a promising technique that can enable a node gateway to communicate with more sensor nodes and extend the sensor node’s lifetime before requiring recharging. This study proposes a Dynamic Light-weight Symmetric (DLS) encryption algorithm designed and developed to address the challenges in data protection and real-time secure data transmission via message advertisement. The algorithm uses a unique temporal encryption key to encrypt each transmitting packet with a simple function such as XOR. With small additional overhead on computational resources, DLS can significantly enhance security over existing baseline encryption algorithms. To evaluate its performance, the algorithm was utilized on beacon data encryption over advertising channels. The experiments demonstrated the use of the DLS encryption algorithm on top of various light-weight symmetric encryption algorithms (i.e., TEA, XTEA, PRESENT) and a MD5 hash function. The experimental results show that DLS can achieve acceptable results for avalanche effect, key sensitivity, and randomness in ciphertexts with a marginal increase in the resource usage. The proposed DLS encryption algorithm is suitable for implementation at the application layer, is light and energy efficient, reduces/removes the need for secret key exchange between sensor nodes and the server, is applicable to dynamic message size, and also protects against attacks such as known plaintext attack, brute-force attack, replaying attack, and differential attack.
Socio-Cultural Appropriateness of the Use of Historic Persian Gardens for Modern Urban Edible Gardens
Authors: Amani-Beni Majid , Xie Gaodi , Yang Qingjuan , Russo Alessio , Khalilnezhad Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2021

Historic gardens have the ability to provide several ecosystem services in cities, including provisioning services (i.e., food production). The historic gardens in Iran (known as “Persian Gardens”) have never been considered as places that could be used for food production. As a result, the purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the Iranian historic gardens’ spatial and structural layout is suitable for modern urban food gardening. We conducted field studies in six recognized Persian gardens in four provinces of Iran via qualitative analysis according to socio-cultural guidelines drawn from a literature review. The results suggested that combining the elements of formal landscape design, non-edible decorative plants, and traditional artwork would increase the Persian gardens’ attractiveness. Regarding encouraging users to become involved in urban gardening, we found that separating productive units containing edible plants from public units using a central meeting spot populated by aesthetic plants and items may attract ordinary visitors who are interested in gardening without disturbing anyone’s activities. Furthermore, the Persian gardens’ multifunctionality, aesthetic value, and health-promoting qualities constitute a considerable historic achievement in garden design, making the gardens a suitable model for edible urban gardening. The results of this study can enhance our understanding of the Persian gardens’ spatial and structural design and provide practical implications for sustainable urban planning and landscape architecture.
Occurrence and Abundance of an Apex Predator and a Sympatric Mesopredator in Rural Areas of the Coastal Range of Southern Chile
Authors: García-Solís Fernando , Rau Jaime R. , Niklitschek Edwin J.
Published: December 2021

The two mammalian carnivores, puma (Puma concolor) and South American grey fox (Lycalopex griseus) were studied, in a remote area located in the humid temperate forest of the coastal range of southern Chile. A total of six locations were selected in three landscapes: pre-mountain range, mountain range, and coast. The chosen study locations are relevant because they correspond to threatened areas with different levels of human intervention., so they offer the ideal setting for studying how different species of carnivores respond to both human presence and activities. A dataset was collected for 24 months during 2016–2018 through photo-trapping (13 camera traps placed along 50 photo-trap stations). Wes estimated the apparent occurrence and relative abundance index (RAI) of the fauna registered, by means of generalized linear models to contrast those of an apex predator, such as the puma and a sympatric mesopredator, the South American grey fox, across the three landscapes. The ecological variables assessed were the RAI of the other carnivore considered, exotic carnivores such as dogs and cats, human intervention, farmland effect, prey availability, and habitat quality. The primary hypothesis was that the apparent occurrence and RAI of puma and fox would be positively associated with the RAI of prey and livestock and negatively with human intervention. On the other hand, the secondary hypothesis dealt with the interactions between puma and fox faced with different degrees of human intervention. The results showed that the apparent occurrence of the puma was statistically explained by location only, and it was highest at the mountain range. The apparent occurrence of foxes was explained by both puma apparent occurrence and relative integrated anthropization index (INRA), being highest in the pre-mountain range. Concerning the RAI of pumas, high values were yielded by location and fox RAI. For the RAI of foxes, they were location, puma RAI, and INRA. It can be suggested that eucalyptus plantations from the pre-mountain range could offer an adequate habitat for the puma and the fox, but not the coastal range, as the mountain range could be acting as a biological barrier. Due to the nature of the data, it was not possible to detect any relevant effect between the two carnivores’ considered, between their respective preys, or the very abundant presence of dogs.
The Possible Association of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Acute Cholangitis: A Retrospective Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Sbeit Wisam , Sbeit Moeen , Kalisky Itay , Katz Lior , Mari Amir , Khoury Tawfik
Published: December 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly encountered. It is associated with several comorbid diseases. However, its association with infectious biliary diseases is still unknown. Aims: We aimed to assess whether NAFLD is a risk factor for the development of acute cholangitis among patients with common bile duct (CBD) stones. Methods: We performed a retrospective study, including all patients with a documented diagnosis of CBD stone that had available data on the presence or absence of NAFLD. Descriptive analysis using univariate and multivariate models was used to assess whether an association existed between NAFLD and acute cholangitis. Results: We included 811 patients. Of them, 161 patients presented with acute cholangitis, vs. 650 patients who presented with symptomatic CBD stone without cholangitis. NAFLD was significantly more common in the cholangitis group compared to the non-cholangitis group (15.5% vs. 8.3%, p = 0.01). In univariate analysis, age (Odds ratio (OR) 1.04, p < 0.0001), male gender (OR 1.47, p = 0.03), hypertension (OR 1.81, p = 0.0008), hyperlipidemia (OR 1.59, p = 0.01), and NAFLD (OR 2.04, p = 0.006) were significantly associated with acute cholangitis. In multivariate analysis, NAFLD kept its association with acute cholangitis irrespective of age (OR 2.15, p = 0.005). Conclusions: NALFD showed a significant association with acute cholangitis among patients with a CBD stone. Clinicians should encourage treatment of NAFLD in general, and especially in the setting of gallstone disease.
Fast and Clean Synthesis of Nylon-6/Synthetic Saponite Nanocomposites
Authors: Madrid Alejandro , Pérez Elena , Vicente Miguel Ángel , Rives Vicente , Trujillano Raquel
Published: December 2021

Nylon/saponite nanocomposites were synthesized and characterized. The nanocomposites were prepared by means of a fast, efficient, low cost, and environmentally friendly method. All of the tested preparations resulted in the pre-designed nanocomposites. To this end, delaminated saponites were directly synthesized to be used as a filler in a polymer matrix formed by nylon-6 by the in situ intercalation polymerisation of an ε-caprolactam monomer without the use of surfactants or other organic reagents to organophilise the clay, thus avoiding the drawbacks of contamination. The efficiency of the preparation method increased, and significant savings were achieved in terms of both energy reaction time, savings of 60% and 70%, respectively, by using microwave radiation as an energy source during the synthesis of the nanocomposites. In addition, given that the method that was followed avoids the use of contaminating organophilic agents, it is important to highlight the savings in reagents and the fact that there was zero environmental contamination.
Laser Remelting Process Simulation and Optimization for Additive Manufacturing of Nickel-Based Super Alloys
Authors: Soffel Fabian , Lin Yunong , Keller Dominik , Egorov Sergei , Wegener Konrad
Published: December 2021

Nickel-based super alloys are popular for applications in the energy and aerospace industries due to their excellent corrosion and high-temperature resistance. Direct metal deposition (DMD) of nickel alloys has reached technology readiness for several applications, especially for the repair of turbomachinery components. However, issues related to part quality and defect formation during the DMD process still persist. Laser remelting can effectively prevent and repair defects during metal additive manufacturing (AM); however, very few studies have focused on numerical modeling and experimental process parameter optimization in this context. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of determining the remelting process parameters via numerical simulation and experimental analyses in order to optimize an industrial process chain for part repair by DMD. A heat conduction model analyzed 360 different process conditions, and the predicted melt geometry was compared with observations from a fluid flow model and experimental single tracks for selected reference conditions. Subsequently, the remelting process was applied to a demonstrator repair case. The results show that the models can well predict the melt pool shape and that the optimized remelting process increases the bonding quality between base and DMD materials. Therefore, DMD part fabrication and repair processes can benefit from the remelting step developed here.
Polyethyleneimine-Based Lipopolyplexes as Carriers in Anticancer Gene Therapies
Authors: Jerzykiewicz Julia , Czogalla Aleksander
Published: December 2021

Recent years have witnessed rapidly growing interest in application of gene therapies for cancer treatment. However, this strategy requires nucleic acid carriers that are both effective and safe. In this context, non-viral vectors have advantages over their viral counterparts. In particular, lipopolyplexes—nanocomplexes consisting of nucleic acids condensed with polyvalent molecules and enclosed in lipid vesicles—currently offer great promise. In this article, we briefly review the major aspects of developing such non-viral vectors based on polyethyleneimine and outline their properties in light of anticancer therapeutic strategies. Finally, examples of current in vivo studies involving such lipopolyplexes and possibilities for their future development are presented.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Inverse Nanocomposite Made from Polylactide and Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles
Authors: Pietrzykowska Elżbieta , Romelczyk-Baishya Barbara , Chodara Agnieszka , Koltsov Iwona , Smogór Hilary , Mizeracki Jan , Pakieła Zbigniew , Łojkowski Witold
Published: December 2021

Polymer nanocomposites have been extensively researched for a variety of applications, including medical osteoregenerative implants. However, no satisfactory solution has yet been found for regeneration of big, and so-called critical, bone losses. The requirement is to create a resorbable material which is characterised by optimum porosity, sufficient strength, and elastic modulus matching that of the bone, thus stimulating tissue regrowth. Inverse nanocomposites, where the ceramic content is larger than the polymer content, are a recent development. Due to their high ceramic content, they may offer the required properties for bone implants, currently not met by polymer nanocomposites with a small number of nanoparticles. This paper presents inverse nanocomposites composed of bioresorbable nano crystalline hydroxyapatite (HAP NPs) and polylactide (PLLA), produced by cryomilling and a warm isostatic pressing method. The following compositions were studied: 25%, 50%, and 75% of HAP NPs by volume. The mechanical properties and structure of these composites were examined. It was discovered that 50% volume content was optimal as far as compressive strength and porosity are concerned. The inverse nanocomposite with 50% nanoceramics volume displayed a compressive strength of 99 ± 4 MPa, a contact angle of 50°, and 25% porosity, which make this material a candidate for further studies as a bioresorbable bone implant.
Alcohol Sensor Based on Surface Plasmon Resonance of ZnO Nanoflowers/Au Structure
Authors: Xu Haowen , Song Yutong , Zhu Panpan , Zhao Wanli , Liu Tongyu , Wang Qi , Zhao Tianming
Published: December 2021

Alcohol detection plays a key role in food processing and monitoring. Therefore, we present a fast, high reproducibility and label-free characteristics alcohol photochemical sensor based on the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect. By growing ZnO nanoflowers on Au film, the SPR signal red-shifted in the visible region as the alcohol concentration increased. More interestingly, the sensitivity improved to 127 nm/%, which is attributed to the ZnO nanoflowers/Au structure. The goodness of the linear fit was more than 0.99 at a range from 0 vol% to 95 vol% which ensures detection resolution. Finally, a practical application for distinguishing five kinds of alcoholic drinks has been demonstrated. The excellent sensing characteristics also indicate the potential of the device for applications in the direction of food processing and monitoring, and the simple structure fabrication and economic environmental protection make it more attractive.
Electrophoresis-Aided Biomimetic Mineralization System Using Graphene Oxide for Regeneration of Hydroxyapatite on Dentin
Authors: Khosalim Ingrid Patricia , Zhang Yu Yuan , Yiu Cynthia Kar Yung , Wong Hai Ming
Published: December 2021

Graphene oxide (GO) is an emerging luminescent carbon nanomaterial with the ability to foster hydroxyapatite (HA). A specially designed electrophoresis system can be used to accelerate the mineralization process. The aim of this study was to promote HA crystal growth on demineralized dentin using a GO incorporated electrophoresis system. GO was successfully synthesized by carbonization of citric acid and its presence was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared and UV-visible spectrophotometry evaluation. Dentin slices were placed in demineralized solution and divided into control (without the electrophoresis system) and experimental group. Demineralized dentin slices in the experimental group were remineralized using the electrophoresis system for 8 h/1.0 mA, with one subgroup treated without GO and the other with GO. Energy dispersive spectroscopy evaluation showed that the calcium/phosphate ratio of the crystal formed in control and experimental group with addition of GO was close to natural hydroxyapatite. However, scanning electron microscopy evaluation showed that the exposed dentinal tubules were occluded with rod-like crystals, which is similar to native enamel morphology, in the experimental group with addition of GO compared to the flake-like crystal in the control group. Mechanical evaluation revealed that the nanohardness and modulus of remineralized dentin were significantly higher in the experimental group. In conclusion, GO is a promising material to remineralize dentin and the introduction of an electrophoresis system can accelerate its process.
Cohesive Strength and Structural Stability of the Ni-Based Superalloys
Authors: Razumovskii Igor , Bokstein Boris , Logacheva Alla , Logachev Ivan , Razumovsky Mikhail
Published: December 2021

The influence of alloying elements on the cohesive strength of metal heat-resistant alloys (HRAs) is analyzed. Special parameters are introduced to characterize the individual contribution of each alloying element. These are the partial molar cohesion energy of the matrix (χ) and the cohesive strength of the grain boundaries (η) and can be calculated by computer modeling based on the density functional theory. The calculating results of the parameters χ and η in nickel HRAs with mono– and polycrystalline structures alloyed with refractory metals are presented. The calculated data are used to select the chemical composition and develop new nickel (Ni) HRAs with superior creep-rupture properties. It is assumed that a similar approach can be used to search for alloying elements that will contribute to increasing the cohesive strength of additive objects. The resistance of coherent γ-γ′ and lamellar (raft) structures in nickel HRAs to the process of diffusion coarsening during operation is analyzed.
Tailoring Magnetic and Transport Anisotropies in Co100−x–Cux Thin Films through Obliquely Grown Nano-Sheets
Authors: Favieres Cristina , Vergara José , Madurga Vicente
Published: December 2021

The magnetic and transport properties of pulsed laser-deposited Co100−x–Cux thin films were tailored through their nano-morphology and composition by controlling for the deposition geometry, namely normal or oblique deposition, and their Cu content. All films were composed of an amorphous Co matrix and a textured growth of Cu nanocrystals, whose presence and size d increased as x increased. For x = 50, all films were superparamagnetic, regardless of deposition geometry. The normally deposited films showed no in-plane magnetic anisotropy. On the contrary, controllable in-plane uniaxial magnetic anisotropy in both direction and magnitude was generated in the obliquely deposited films. The magnetic anisotropy field Hk remained constant for x = 0, 5 and 10, Hk ≈ 35 kAm−1, and decreased to 28 and 26 kAm−1 for x = 20 and 30, respectively. This anisotropy had a magnetostatic origin due to a tilted nano-sheet morphology. In the normally deposited films, the coercive field Hc increased when x increased, from 200 (x = 0) to 1100 Am−1 (x = 30). In contrast, in obliquely deposited films, Hc decreased from 1500 (x = 0) to 100 Am−1 (x = 30) as x increased. Activation energy spectra corresponding to structural relaxation phenomena in obliquely deposited films were obtained from transport property measurements. They revealed two peaks, which also depended on their nano-morphology and composition.
Public Provision of Goods and Services under Cost Uncertainty: The Government’s Bureaucratic Organization
Authors: Di Bartolomeo Giovanni , Fedeli Silvia , Santoni Michele
Published: December 2021

The digital transition is a challenge that developed countries are currently facing. The transition process is associated with different degrees of uncertainty, which are particularly relevant for changes that have to do with the provision of goods and services produced by public administrations. Our paper uses a partial equilibrium model to study the effects of uncertainty on the public provision of goods and services produced by bureaucratic agencies, including the incentive of the government to consolidate production. We assume that bureaucratic agencies may play either a cooperative game with each other and a non-cooperative game against the government (i.e., a consolidated bureaucracy) or a non-cooperative game with each other and against the government (i.e., competing bureaus). Both the government and the bureaus face tradeoffs between maximizing the electorate preferences and extracting some political and/or bureaucratic rents. We find that a cooperative (competitive) bureaucratic solution depends on the nature of the goods produced. We find that costs’ uncertainty affects the level of public production and the way the policymakers extract their rents.
Process Modeling, Optimization and Cost Analysis of a Sulfur Recovery Unit by Applying Pinch Analysis on the Claus Process in a Gas Processing Plant
Authors: Zahid Muhammad Arslan , Ahsan Muhammad , Ahmad Iftikhar , Khan Muhammad Nouman Aslam
Published: December 2021

The Claus process is one of the promising technologies for acid gas processing and sulfur recovery. Hydrogen sulfide primarily exists as a byproduct in the gas processing unit. It must be removed from natural gas. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notices that increasing SO2 and CO2 in the air harms the environment. Sulfur generally has an elemental content of 0.1–6 wt % in crude oil, but the value could be higher than 14% for some crude oils and asphalts. It produces SO2 and CO2 gases, which damage the environment and atmosphere of the earth, called primary pollutants. When SO2 gas is reacted with water in the atmosphere, it causes sulphur and nitric acid, called a secondary pollutant. The world countries started desulphurization in 1962 to reduce the amount of sulfur in petroleum products. In this research, the Claus process was modeled in Aspen Plus software (AspenTech, Bedford, MA, USA) and industrial data validated it. The Peng–Robinson method is used for the simulation of hydrocarbon components. The influence of oxygen gas concentration, furnace temperature, the temperature of the first catalytic reactor, and temperature of the second catalytic reactor on the Claus process were studied. The first objective of the research is process modeling and simulation of a chemical process. The second objective is optimizing the process. The optimization tool in the Aspen Plus is used to obtain the best operating parameters. The optimization results show that sulfur recovery increased to 18%. Parametric analysis is studied regarding operating parameters and design parameters for increased production of sulfur. Due to pinch analysis on the Claus process, the operating cost of the heat exchangers is reduced to 40%. The third objective is the cost analysis of the process. Before optimization, it is shown that the production of sulfur recovery increased. In addition, the recovery of sulfur from hydrogen sulfide gas also increased. After optimizing the process, it is shown that the cost of heating and cooling utilities is reduced. In addition, the size of equipment is reduced. The optimization causes 2.5% of the profit on cost analysis.
Dynamic Modeling and Simulation of Urban Domestic Water Supply Inputs Based on VES Production Function
Authors: Li Kebai , Ding Zhilei
Published: December 2021

The Gompertz growth curve is used to describe the urban water population, the linear function is used to represent the per capita disposable income, and the domestic water demand is described combined with the factors of population, income, and the water-saving consciousness. The VES production function is used to describe the production function of the domestic water supply. Combined with system dynamics, the supply and demand management model of urban domestic water in Jiangsu province, China, is developed. The process of water supply investment and labor input in the urban domestic water system is studied with two depreciation methods: the straight-line depreciation method and the sum of years digits method. In the case that the water consumption population is expected to decline, four water demand scenarios composed of different per capita disposable income and the growth rate of water-saving consciousness are investigated. Investment and labor input are taken as control variables to conduct water supply and demand simulations for the four scenarios. The results show that the control schemes in all four scenarios reach a balance between water supply and demand. Moreover, the investment of the sum of years digits method is larger than that of the straight-line depreciation method in 2005–2019 but less than that of the straight-line depreciation method in 2020–2034. The sum of years digits method has the characteristics of more depreciation in the early stage and less depreciation in the later stage, which is conducive to timely compensation for the large loss of fixed assets in the early stage.
Algebraization Levels in the Study of Probability
Authors: Burgos María , Batanero Carmen , Godino Juan D.
Published: December 2021

The paper aims to analyze how the different degrees of mathematical formalization can be worked in the study of probability at non-university educational levels. The model of algebraization levels for mathematical practices based on the onto-semiotic approach is applied to identify the different objects and processes involved in the resolution of a selection of probabilistic problems. As a result, we describe the possible progression from arithmetic and proto-algebraic levels of mathematical activity to higher levels of algebraization and formalization in the study of probability. The method of analysis developed can help to establish connections between intuitive/informal and progressively more formal approaches in the study of mathematics.
A Rare Case of Prostatic Utricle with Crossover Vas Deferens in Children
Authors: Wu Tsung-Heng , Hsu Yao-Jen , Chin Tai-Wai , Fu Yu-Wei
Published: December 2021

Background: A prostatic utricle (PU) is an unusual pathology with most patients being asymptomatic. However, approximately 29% of patients may show lower urinary tract symptoms, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI), postvoid dribbling, urethral discharge, epididymo-orchitis, stones, and secondary incontinence caused by urine trapping in the pouch and urinary retention. The standard treatment is through surgical resection, but it is only offered to patients with symptoms. Case summary: We report a case involving a six-year-old boy with congenital hypothyroidism and penoscrotal hypospadias who had previously undergone onlay urethroplasty for the proximal shaft, chordee release, orchidopexy for bilateral undescended testis, and laparoscopic herniorrhaphy for left inguinal hernia. However, the patient later evolved the repetition of UTI and right epididymo-orchitis. Cyclic voiding cystourethrography confirmed the presence of a cystic lesion communicating with the prostatic urethra from the utricle. The PU was then excised laparoscopically. The utricle was identified posterior to the bladder, and insertions of the vas deferens crossover into the utricle were detected by laparoscopy. The post-procedure course was uneventful. Conclusions: Laparoscopic resection of PUs offers a better exposure field, improved wound appearance, complete resection, and reduces the incidence of complications. During laparoscopy, the PU was clearly distinguished from the bladder or other pelvic organs. An incidental finding of vas deferens crossover has rarely been reported. A combined cystoscopy and laparoscopy for PU resection is executable, safe, and valid in this patient population.
Transparent Flexible IGZO Thin Film Transistors Fabricated at Room Temperature
Authors: Ning Honglong , Zeng Xuan , Zhang Hongke , Zhang Xu , Yao Rihui , Liu Xianzhe , Luo Dongxiang , Xu Zhuohui , Ye Qiannan , Peng Junbiao
Published: December 2021

Flexible and fully transparent thin film transistors (TFT) were fabricated via room temperature processes. The fabricated TFT on the PEN exhibited excellent performance, including a saturation mobility (μsat) of 7.9 cm2/V·s, an Ion/Ioff ratio of 4.58 × 106, a subthreshold swing (SS) of 0.248 V/dec, a transparency of 87.8% at 550 nm, as well as relatively good stability under negative bias stress (NBS) and bending stress, which shows great potential in smart, portable flexible display, and wearable device applications.
Novel Bovine Plasma Protein Film Reinforced with Nanofibrillated Cellulose Fiber as Edible Food Packaging Material
Authors: Weng Shihan , Sáez-Orviz Sara , Marcet Ismael , Rendueles Manuel , Díaz Mario
Published: December 2021

Proteins, such as those in blood from slaughterhouses, are a good option for developing edible films. However, films made exclusively from proteins have low strength and high water solubility, which makes them difficult to use in the food industry. The use of cellulosic material, such as nanofibrillated cellulose (NFC), can improve the properties of these films. In the present work, bovine plasma was acidified and treated with ethanol to precipitate its proteins, and these proteins were used to prepare films reinforced with several concentrations of NFC. In addition, control films prepared with untreated bovine plasma and reinforced with NFC were prepared as well. These new edible films were characterized according to their mechanical properties, water vapor permeability, light transmittance, and microstructure. Furthermore, the film with the best properties was selected to be additivated with nisin to test its antimicrobial properties by wrapping meat previously contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus. In this sense, films prepared with the extracted proteins showed better properties than the films prepared with untreated plasma. In addition, the results showed that the reinforcement of the films with a 10% (w/w) of NFC decreased their water solubility and improved their puncture strength and water vapor barrier properties. Finally, the addition of nisin to the films prepared with extracted protein from bovine plasma and NFC gave them antimicrobial properties against S. aureus.
Optimization of Aquaporin Loading for Performance Enhancement of Aquaporin-Based Biomimetic Thin-Film Composite Membranes
Authors: Zhao Yang , Li Xuesong , Wei Jing , Torres Jaume , Fane Anthony G. , Wang Rong , Tang Chuyang Y.
Published: December 2021

The aquaporin-based biomimetic thin-film composite membrane (ABM-TFC) has demonstrated superior separation performance and achieved successful commercialization. The larger-scale production of the ABM membrane requires an appropriate balance between the performance and manufacturing cost. This study has systematically investigated the effects of proteoliposome concentration, protein-to-lipid ratio, as well as the additive on the separation performance of ABM for the purpose of finding the optimal preparation conditions for the ABM from the perspective of industrial production. Although increasing the proteoliposome concentration or protein-to-lipid ratio within a certain range could significantly enhance the water permeability of ABMs by increasing the loading of aquaporins in the selective layer, the enhancement effect was marginal or even compromised beyond an optimal point. Alternatively, adding cholesterol in the proteoliposome could further enhance the water flux of the ABM membrane, with minor effects on the salt rejection. The optimized ABM not only achieved a nearly doubled water flux with unchanged salt rejection compared to the control, but also demonstrated satisfactory filtration stability within a wide range of operation temperatures. This study provides a practical strategy for the optimization of ABM-TFC membranes to fit within the scheme of industrial-scale production.
Three-Stage Membrane Treatment of Wastewater from Biodiesel Production-Preliminary Research
Authors: Lech Magdalena , Klimek Agnieszka , Porzybót Damian , Trusek Anna
Published: December 2021

As biodiesel production as renewable fuel increases, so does the amount of wastewater resulting from this technology. Wastewater is generated during the so-called biodiesel washing, i.e., washing out glycerol and methanol with water. The purified biodiesel must meet international standards, such as EN 14214 or the American ASTM D6751 standard. To fully say that biodiesel technology is environmentally friendly, the amount of wastewater should be minimized. It is also desirable that the purified water can be recycled to the technology. For this purpose, wastewater pre-treated by flotation, during which mainly oils are removed, was subjected to three-stage membrane separation. For each of the stages, the membrane was selected and characterized in terms of its separation capacity and stream stability. Starting with microfiltration, which was mainly aimed at reducing turbidity, affects the permeate flux in the following steps. Then, ultrafiltration and nanofiltration membranes were selected. These membranes were aimed at reducing the concentration of inorganic and organic substances. Consequently the cascade was composed of: MF-0.45 µm, UF-150 kDa, and NF-characterized by an 80% degree of desalination. The final permeate has a salt concentration of less than 0.15 g/L and can be reused in biodiesel technology.
Method for Controlling Edge Wave Defects of Parts during Roll Forming of High-Strength Steel
Authors: Liang Ce , Li Sinan , Liang Jicai , Li Jiandong
Published: December 2021

Cold roll forming is suitable for sheet metal processing and can provide a new method for the production and processing of anti-collision beams for commercial vehicles. In order to accurately control the edge wave defects of the parts in the roll forming process, we used the professional roll design software COPRA to design the roll pattern and used the professional finite element analysis software ABAQUS to establish a three-dimensional finite element analysis model of the “b”-shaped cross-section. We analyzed the factors affecting the edge wave by controlling different process parameters (the thickness of the sheet, the height of the flange, and the forming speed), and the best process parameter combination was determined. The results showed that the thickness of the sheet, the height of the flange, and the forming speed all had an effect on the edge wave defects of the “b”-shaped cross-section. The influence of sheet thickness was the greatest, followed by flange height and then forming speed. The final selected parameter combination was a sheet thickness of 3 mm, a flange height of 100 mm, and a forming speed of 150 mm/s. This work provides a theoretical basis for actual production.
Study on MnS Inclusion Aggregation along Continuous Casting Slab Thickness of Medium Carbon Structural Steel
Authors: Yu Qiuyang , Yang Xiaogang , Lai Chaobin , Tong Zhifang
Published: December 2021

Precipitation of MnS inclusions in steel affects the mechanical properties of the material significantly. The evolution of MnS inclusions along the continuous casting slab thickness and its influencing factors has not been clearly established and comprehensively studied. In this paper, solidification macrostructure, sulfur segregation and MnS inclusions in the continuous casting slab of medium carbon structural steel 45# were studied by various methods, including the metallographic observations, elemental analysis, scanning electron microscope (SEM) with Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) observation, automatic particle analysis, and thermodynamic calculations. The 2D/3D morphologies of MnS inclusions suggest that the sulfides turn from globular to rodlike, and further to dendritic shape along the slab thickness progressively. Furthermore, it was found that MnS inclusions are remarkably aggregated in the columnar crystals and the equiaxed crystals mixed zone, where the sulfides have the largest average diameter of 6.35 μm and the second maximum area fraction of 0.025% along the slab thickness. In order to reveal the mechanism of this phenomenon, the precipitation temperature of MnS inclusion in the 45# steel was clarified by thermodynamic calculation and experimental observation, and the quantitative relationships among the distribution of sulfur content, secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS), and precipitation area fraction of MnS inclusions were discussed. Moreover, the inclusion size was numerically predicted to compare with the measured value. The results indicate that the large SDAS, high sulfur content and low cooling rate accounting for the large-size aggregated MnS inclusions in the mixed zone. Unfortunately, the dendritic MnS inclusions, even if the average diameter exceeds 52 μm, can act as the nucleation sites for ferrites, and the distribution of the sulfides promotes uneven microstructure in the steel.