bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Cu Content on the Corrosion Behavior, Mechanical Properties, Cytocompatibility, and Antibacterial Performance of Zn–1Mg–xCu Alloys
Authors: Sun Jianheng , Chen Junxiu , Shen Ying , Siddiqui Muhammad Ali , Wang Weidan , Kolawole Sharafadeen Kunle , Shi Zewen , Su Xuping
Published: September 2023

This work mainly focuses on the mechanical and anti‐infection deficiencies of zinc alloy‐based bone implant materials. Microstructural analysis, tensile testing, electrochemical investigation, immersion experiments, and antibacterial testing are used to investigate the effects of Cu content on the mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and antibacterial properties of the Zn–1Mg–xCu (x = 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 wt%) alloys. The results show that the addition of Cu to Zn–1Mg alloy produces a high‐strength and high‐hardness intermediate phase of CuZn5, which significantly increases the tensile strength from 115.2 to 210.6 MPa, elongation from 1.9% to 5.72%, the diameter of the inhibition zone increases from 3.3 to 5.1 mm, and the cytotoxicity level of all alloys improves, reaching up to grade 1. Consequently, these findings suggest that the Zn–1Mg–2Cu alloy possesses the best mechanical properties, most uniform degradation rate, impressive antibacterial properties, and an excellent biocompatibility. Therefore, the Zn–1Mg–2Cu alloy is considered a most preferred material candidate in the field of biodegradable Zn alloys.
Spatial Microwave Field Frequency Measurement through Two‐Level Resonance of Nitrogen‐Vacancy Color Center in Diamond
Authors: Gao Yanjie , Liu Yusong , Guo Hao , Wen Huanfei , Li Zhonghao , Ma Zongmin , Tang Jun , Liu Jun
Published: September 2023

This article presents a frequency measurement method for spatial microwave signals with solid‐state atom resonance, performing measurements based on the burnt hole in spectrum with two microwave fields acting on nitrogen vacancies (NVs) simultaneously. The population on |0⟩ of the NV color center in the ground state affected by the resonance of two microwave fields with similar frequencies responds excellently to external microwave frequencies, and a phenomenon named hole burning occurs. The full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the resonant peak at the hole is 18.9 kHz. When microwaves of different frequencies are applied, the resonant peak precisely follows the signal frequency in the experiment. Subsequently, the resonant peak is processed using the differential method to obtain a frequency measurement error on the order of 100 Hz. The spatial resolution of this method is within the millimeter scale. This study can provide technical support for applications in microwave frequency measurement and spatial mapping with quantum precision measurement.
Synthesis and Optical Properties of Potassium‐Based Wide‐Bandgap Mixed–Halide Perovskite KPbF2Cl Nanorods
Authors: Samanta Atanu , Chattaraj Ananya , Santra Bisweswar , Sinha Jaivardhan , Kumar Vijay , Kanjilal Aloke
Published: September 2023

ABX3 halide–perovskites (HPs) have emerged as promising alternatives for optoelectronic devices owing to their excellent properties and low cost. Generally, A is either Cs or an organic molecule while B is Pb, or Sn and X = I, Br, or Cl. Here, ab initio calculations on K‐based new HP with X as a mixture of F and Cl are performed. Solid‐state synthesis leads to a mixed‐KPbF2Cl HP with an orthorhombic structure as determined from X‐ray diffraction and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. The high formation energy (−0.546 eV atom−1) shows excellent stability of this HP. Scanning electron microscopy reveals rodlike structures while X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy is performed for chemical analysis. Diffuse reflectance shows it to have a wide bandgap of ≈4 eV, in good agreement with the band‐structure calculations. Further, a strong photoluminescence peak is found at ≈340 nm for radiative recombination of free excitons along with a broad emission peaking at ≈450 nm owing to the involvement of self‐trapped excitons associated with lattice distortion. The finding of this stable HP can lead to high‐frequency applications, along with other applications such as transparent and low‐loss optical windows, prisms, etc., as well as development of novel optical materials by doping.
Deciphering the Metal–Support Interaction of Au/ZnO Catalyst Induced by H2 and O2 Pretreatment
Authors: Liu Wei , Liu Hongpeng , Cui Ronghua , Cao Zhongliang , Dong Zejian , Luo Langli
Published: September 2023

Metal–support interaction (MSI) provides great possibilities to tune the activity, selectivity, and stability of heterogeneous catalysts. Herein, the Au/ZnO catalyst is prepared by commercial ZnO and chloroauric acid, and the structure evolution of the catalyst pretreated by H2 and O2 gas at varied temperature is investigated to provide mechanistic insights of MSI. It is found that the H2 treatment at 300 °C and above can induce the formation of both the ZnOx overlayer and bulk Au–Zn alloy. In contrast, the O2 treatment can form the ZnOx overlayer at 500 °C and above without the formation of Au–Zn alloy. It is also revealed that the ZnOx overlayer is dynamically stable (permeable), which can provide access for reactant molecules during the reaction process. And, the Au–Zn alloy can recover to Au and ZnO under the CO oxidation reaction condition, which can be deemed as a re‐activation process that endows H2‐treated samples with the superior activity and stability.
The Progress and Outlook of Multivalent‐Ion‐Based Electrochromism
Authors: Xu Bing , Chen Jingwei , Ding Ziyi , Hu Jianwei , Zhang Yingxin , Li Haizeng , Wang Huanlei
Published: September 2023

Electrochromic technology has witnessed numerous achievements in recent years both in research and commercialization. Electrochromic devices (ECD) based on different electrochemical mechanism have been developed for various applications, ranging from smart windows, thermal management, rear views, display, camouflage, etc. Compared to conventional ECDs based on monovalent charge carriers (e.g., H+, Li+), incorporating multivalent ions with rich electrochemistry, high charge density, and small ionic radius has opened new possibilities in novel ECDs. The merits of multivalent ions are harvested in ECDs activated by ion intercalation/deintercalation (e.g., Zn2+, Al3+, Ca2+, Mg2+), reversible metal electrodeposition (e.g., Cu2+, Bi3+, Zn2+), and dynamic metal–ligand interactions (e.g., Cu2+, Fe2+). Herein, the working mechanism, characteristics, and up‐to‐date achievements in multivalent ECDs are summarized and classified accordingly. The applications of multivalent ECDs for smart windows, energy storage, thermal management, multicolor displays, etc., are exemplified. The issues and challenges encountered by multivalent ECDs are emphasized, and the future directions for developing multivalent ECDs are also summarized. The aim of this review is to inspire more efforts in the exploration and the proliferation of multivalent ECDs.
Toward Self‐Supported Bifunctional Air Electrodes for Flexible Solid‐State Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Wang Xixi , Xu Lei , Zhou Chuan , Wong Ngie Hing , Sunarso Jaka , Ran Ran , Zhou Wei , Shao Zongping
Published: September 2023

The demand for flexibility and rechargeability in tandem with high energy density, reliability, and safety in energy‐storage devices to power wearable electronics has translated to significant advances in flexible solid‐state Zn–air batteries (FSZABs) technology. FSZABs using self‐supported bifunctional air electrodes are currently one of the most attractive alternatives to Li‐ion battery technology for next‐generation wearable electronics. Unlike the conventional powder‐based air electrodes, self‐supported bifunctional air electrodes offer higher electron‐transfer rate, larger specific surface area (and catalyst–reactant–product interfacial contact area), mechanical flexibility, and better operational robustness. To realize their potential nonetheless, self‐supported bifunctional air electrodes should have high and stable bifunctional catalytic activity, low cost, and environmental compatibility. This review first summarizes the three typical configurations and working principles of FSZABs. Then, significant development of self‐supported bifunctional air electrodes for FSZABs and efficient synthesis strategies are emphasized. The review concludes by providing perspectives on how to further improve the electrochemical performance of FSZABs and their suitability for next‐generation wearable electronic devices.
Sustainable Porous Scaffolds with Retained Lignin as An Effective Light‐absorbing Material for Efficient Photothermal Energy Conversion
Authors: Yang Ting , Zhang Hua , Huang Caoxing , Cai Chenyang , Gerhard Christoph , Zhang Kai
Published: September 2023

Organic phase change materials (PCMs) are promising to utilize thermal energy from solar radiation for photothermal energy conversion. However, the issues of poor photo absorption and liquid leakage greatly restrict their practical application. Herein, a sustainable porous scaffold comprising periodate oxidized wood (POW) as the supporting material and in situ retains lignin as the light‐absorber dopant are demonstrated. The π–π stacking ability of lignin molecules endows the retained lignin with efficient photonic energy harvesting characteristics for fast thermal conductivity to reach a higher maximal energy storage volume. The inherently porous structure of the POW scaffold enables excellent shape‐stability, which bypasses the liquid leakage problem. The resulting POW/PCM composites exhibit superior comprehensive performance, including enhanced light absorption capacity, high photothermal conversion efficiency (≈86.7%), and high latent heat of 151 J g−1. Furthermore, the POW/PCM composites also possess the ability to maintain a relatively constant indoor temperature when fixed atop the model house roof, showing great potential for their practical applications in the thermal regulation of intelligent buildings. This work not only paves a new way to obtain sustainable and effective porous scaffolds for sufficient photothermal energy conversion but also provides more possibilities for their practical application in the future.
Prospective Techno‐Economic Analysis of 4T and 2T Perovskite on Silicon Tandem Photovoltaic Modules at GW‐Scale Production
Authors: Hull Matthew , Rousset Jean , Nguyen Van Son , Grand Pierre-Philippe , Oberbeck Lars
Published: September 2023

Perovskite on silicon tandem (PST) photovoltaic (PV) modules promise power conversion efficiencies above 30% at low cost and therefore intrigue many in the PV industry. In order to transfer this technology from the lab onto the market, a techno‐economic analysis at an industrialized scale should be conducted on process routes with the potential for low‐cost scale‐up. Herein, such an analysis of four PST architectures by calculating the cost of ownership (COO) for the perovskite production process routes with an annual capacity of 1 GWp on a silicon heterojunction bottom cell in a bifacial module configuration is shown. The first two routes focus on 4‐terminal PSTs produced using vacuum processing, one each in p–i–n and n–i–p configurations. The remaining routes utilize slot‐die deposition as a single step or as the second step conversion of PbI2 for the perovskite deposition of a monolithic 2‐terminal perovskite on silicon cell. The process routes are analyzed in three scenarios taking into consideration the changing PV value chain up to 2030. The COOs are then used to determine the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) for each device. The key parameters in the COO and LCOE calculations for further examination in a sensitivity analysis are identified.
Interfacial Chemical Bond–Enhanced Charge Polarization in CoTCPP/Bi12O17Br2‐Triggering Efficient CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Wei Tiange , Zhang Yi , Wang Keke , Li Lina , Wang Meng , Ji Mengxia , She Yuanbin , Xia Jiexiang , Li Huaming
Published: September 2023

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction is a prospective pathway to solve energy and environmental problems. Slow charge migration and insufficient active sites are pivotal obstacles to inhibit efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction. Herein, cobalt–tetrakis(4‐carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (CoTCPP)/Bi12O17Br2 photocatalysts are successfully assembled by interfacial bridge Bi–O bonds between CoTCPP and Bi12O17Br2. The rearranged strong coupling interface in CoTCPP/Bi12O17Br2 enhances carrier polarization, allowing photoelectrons to directionally transfer and to aggregate at Co atoms. This polarization strategy facilitates rapid charge transportation and efficient CO2 activation, resulting in an improvement in CO2 photoreduction ability. After 5 h irradiation, the 0.2 wt% CoTCPP/Bi12O17Br2 exhibits a significantly enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction with a CO yield of 369.55 μmol g−1 (3.73 times that of Bi12O17Br2), achieving 100% product selectivity. In this work, an insight is provided for constructing efficient charge‐transfer structure through interfacial polarization strategy.
Engineering the Optical Properties of Eco‐Friendly CuGaS2/ZnS and CuGaInS2/ZnS Core/Shell Quantum Dots for High‐Performance Tandem Luminescent Solar Concentrators
Authors: Zhi Huaqian , Tong Xin , You Yimin , Channa Ali Imran , Li Xin , Wu Jiang , Selopal Gurpreet Singh , Wang Zhiming M.
Published: September 2023

Herein, highly luminescent eco‐friendly CuGaS2/ZnS (CGS/ZnS) and CuGaInS2/ZnS (CGIS/ZnS) core/shell quantum dots (QDs) are rationally prepared for luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) application. It is demonstrated that the optical properties of these core/shell QDs can be tailored by engineering the ZnS shell thickness, leading to large Stokes shifts and high‐photoluminescence quantum yields up to 94.6%. As‐synthesized core/shell QDs with optimized optical properties are employed to fabricate LSCs (5 × 5 × 0.5 cm3) using glasses as waveguides, wherein the individual CGS/ZnS and CGIS/ZnS QD‐based LSCs, respectively, exhibit an optical efficiency (η
opt) of ≈3.26% and 6.53% under AM1.5G illumination (100 mW cm−2). Remarkably, a tandem QDs‐LSC integrated via vertical stacking of the top yellow‐emitting CGS/ZnS QDs‐LSC and bottom red‐emitting CGIS/ZnS QDs‐LSC delivers an optical efficiency (η
opt) as high as 9.94%, which is, respectively, ≈3 and 1.5 times higher than the individual QDs‐LSCs and is comparable to various best‐reported QDs‐LSCs. The results indicate that environment‐benign I–III–VI2 core/shell QDs with engineered optical properties and LSC architectural design are promising to develop future cost‐effective and high‐performing building‐integrated photovoltaics.
2D Molybdenum Carbide MXene Cocatalyst: Synthesis, Modification, and Photocatalysis
Authors: Ke Xiaochun , Pan Miaomiao , Liu Ruiyun , Wang Ping , Wang Xuefei , Yu Huogen
Published: September 2023

Photocatalytic technology is considered as one of effective approaches to address increasingly serious problems of environment and energy. To boost the photocatalytic efficiency, the innovative cocatalysts have been extensively explored and investigated in recent years. Mo2C MXene as a new two‐dimensional layer cocatalyst is gained increasing attentions for promoting photocatalytic performance owing to high specific surface area, excellent hydrophilic surface, outstanding metallic conductivity, and flexible adjustability of Mo sites. However, compared with the traditional Ti3C2 MXene cocatalyst, Mo2C MXene has not been fully investigated and systematically summarized in the published articles in the photocatalytic field. In this review, the recent advances about synthesis, modification, photocatalytic applications, and our outlook of the Mo2C MXene cocatalyst are comprehensively summarized. First, the synthetic methods of Mo2C MXene are introduced, including top‐down route and down‐top route. Moreover, four modification strategies (constructing heterojunction, doping heteroatom, controlling morphology, and modifying termination) of Mo2C MXene are illustrated. Subsequently, the photocatalytic applications of Mo2C MXene cocatalyst in H2 production, CO2 reduction, and pollutants degradation are thoroughly discussed. Finally, the crucial challenges and important outlooks of Mo2C MXene cocatalysts for photocatalytic solar‐to‐fuel conversion are proposed to deliver novel insights and design high‐efficiency Mo2C MXene cocatalyst‐modified photocatalysts.
Magnesium Ions Storage in Molybdenum Oxide Structures Examined as a Promising Cathode Material for Rechargeable Magnesium Batteries
Authors: Setiawan Dedy , Lee Hyungjin , Bu Hyeri , Aurbach Doron , Hong Seung-Tae , Chae Munseok S.
Published: September 2023

Magnesium batteries have attracted considerable attention as a promising technology for future energy storage because of their capability to undergo multiple charging reactions. However, most oxide materials utilized as hosts for magnesium batteries do not perform well at room temperature or in nonaqueous electrolytes. Herein, a host material, Na0.04MoO3·(H2O)0.49 is successfully developed through the chemical reduction of alpha‐MoO3, which enables magnesium storage reaction in a 0.5 m Mg(ClO4)2/acetonitrile electrolyte at 25 °C. Electrochemical analysis reveals that the cathode material possesses a discharge capacity of 157.4 mAh g−1 at a 0.2 C rate. The Na0.04MoO3·(H2O)0.49 cathode material also exhibits a capacity retention of 93.4% after 100 cycles compared to the first cycle at a 2 C rate, with an average discharge voltage of −0.474 V versus activated carbon (≈2.16 V estimated discharge voltage vs Mg/Mg2+). The study findings demonstrate, for the first time, the potential of this material as a cathode for magnesium batteries at ambient temperatures and in nonaqueous electrolytes.
Movement of Paddlefish once past a lock-and-dam structure on the Alabama River
Authors: Thomas Byron D. , DeVries Dennis R. , Wright Russell A. , Catalano Matthew J.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Movement of fish past dams can be facilitated by dedicated fish passage structures, navigational locks, and crested spillways, with the efficacy of a passage structure depending strongly on the nature of the system (height of the dam, flow rate, etc.) and the fish's behavior and swimming capability. However, once the fish have passed a dam, whether by using a mitigation structure or due to active translocation, they encounter a different habitat upstream versus in the tailrace, potentially affecting their ability to continue their upstream migration.

Methods

Here, we had two objectives. First, we determined whether Paddlefish Polyodon spathula that successfully passed a structure continued their upstream migration in the Alabama River. Because assuring passage by tagged fish required that we move the fish past the dam, our second objective was to determine whether translocated fish exhibited fallback behavior (downstream drift or movement postrelease that would compromise their continued migration). We used both active and passive telemetry methods to quantify the postpassage movements of tagged and translocated Paddlefish.

Result

Fish that were translocated above Claiborne Lock and Dam (CLD) exhibited upriver movements once translocated, and they exhibited no fallback (i.e., downstream movement with delayed or no continuation upstream). Timing of movement relative to spawning periods did not influence initial fish movement or the likelihood of reaching the next upstream dam (Millers Ferry Lock and Dam [MFLD]; ~100 river kilometers upstream) within the first 30 days of observation, but more fish that were tagged and released during the early prespawn period made it to within 4.83 km of MFLD (the location of our closest receiver below MFLD) relative to fish from the prespawn or spawning period. Fish that were released above CLD had a lower probability of being subsequently detected downstream of their release sites compared to fish that were released below CLD.

Conclusion

Our findings support that Paddlefish will continue their upstream migration once they have passed a structure, despite changes in habitat.
Entropy generation in MHD Darcy–Forchheimer flow of hybrid nanomaterial: A numerical study of local similar solution
Authors: Hayat Tasawar , Yazman Muhammad , Muhammad Khursheed , Alsaedi Ahmed
Published: September 2023

The presented article aims to analyze the three‐dimensional electrically conducting flow induced by a rotating stretchable disk. A hybrid nanomaterial is generated by adding copper and graphene oxide nanoparticles to kerosene oil, which saturates through a Darcy–Forchheimer porous medium. The article also reports on entropy generation and the Bejan number. To solve the associated partial differential equations, appropriate transformations are applied to convert them into ordinary differential equations. These equations are then solved numerically to obtain the desired solutions. The significance of these nanoparticles in kerosene oil is due to their ability to enhance heat transfer and thermal conductivity, thereby optimizing the performance of the rotating stretchable disk system. The synergistic effects of these components lead to improved energy efficiency and overall system effectiveness. The results for various quantities of interest, such as velocity, entropy, temperature, and the Bejan number, are presented graphically and analyzed considering the influence of relevant parameters. Moreover, the comparative analysis indicated that hybrid nanofluid have dominating effect than base liquid (kerosene oil).
Exploring the functional connectivity between the Kis-Balaton Water Protection System and Lake Balaton using satellite data
Authors: Tóth Viktor R.
Published: September 2023

Lake Balaton, a shallow polymictic freshwater lake in Central Europe, became eutrophic in the 1970s. To retain the inorganic nutrients from the main tributary River Zala, a semi-artificial system called the Kis-Balaton Water Protection System (KBWPS) was constructed in the early 1980s. In 2015, the system was reconstructed and modernised, thus offering the opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of the functional connection between the KBWPS and Lake Balaton over the past 20 years and to compare its impact before and after the reconstruction. To this end, time series data of algal biomass in Lake Balaton between 1999 and 2019 based on Landsat 7 satellite data were analysed. Over the last 20 years, the algal biomass in Lake Balaton showed an increasing trend (0.009 ± 0.011% increase per year), with territorial specificities also observed. No change was noted in the western part, while an increase was recorded in the eastern part of the lake. A significant difference in the rate of algal biomass accumulation was noticed before (annual increase of 0.008 ± 0.019%) and after (0.240 ± 0.306% per year) the KBWPS reconstruction. Given that the largest increase in algal biomass after reconstruction was observed in the outermost KBWPS basin of Lake Balaton, it appears that mesoscale environmental, water balance, or other factors affecting the lake are playing a role in this increase, rather than the KBWPS reconstruction. This research highlights the potential to study aquatic ecosystems using Earth observation techniques, and how mesoscale factors such as changes in the local climate regime or shifts in lake management can greatly impact the trophic state of a large shallow lake. Effectively identifying these factors is crucial in maintaining the proper status of aquatic ecosystems.
Protein intake and type 2 diabetes mellitus: an umbrella review of systematic reviews for the evidence-based guideline for protein intake of the German Nutrition Society
Authors: Schulze Matthias B. , Haardt Julia , Amini Anna M. , Kalotai Nicole , Lehmann Andreas , Schmidt Annemarie , Buyken Anette E. , Egert Sarah , Ellinger Sabine , Kroke Anja , Kühn Tilman , Louis Sandrine , Nimptsch Katharina , Schwingshackl Lukas , Siener Roswitha , Zittermann Armin , Watzl Bernhard , Lorkowski Stefan ,   on behalf of the German Nutrition Society
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Protein-rich foods show heterogeneous associations with the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and it remains unclear whether habitual protein intake is related to T2D risk. We carried out an umbrella review of systematic reviews (SR) of randomised trials and/or cohort studies on protein intake in relation to risks of T2D.

Methods

Following a pre-specified protocol (PROSPERO: CRD42018082395), we retrieved SRs on protein intake and T2D risk published between July 1st 2009 and May 22nd 2022, and assessed the methodological quality and outcome-specific certainty of the evidence using a modified version of AMSTAR 2 and NutriGrade, respectively. The overall certainty of evidence was rated according to predefined criteria.

Results

Eight SRs were identified of which six contained meta-analyses. The majority of SRs on total protein intake had moderate or high methodological quality and moderate outcome-specific certainty of evidence according to NutriGrade, however, the latter was low for the majority of SRs on animal and plant protein. Six of the eight SRs reported risk increases with both total and animal protein. According to one SR, total protein intake in studies was ~ 21 energy percentage (%E) in the highest intake category and 15%E in the lowest intake category. Relative Risks comparing high versus low intake in most recent SRs ranged from 1.09 (two SRs, 95% CIs 1.02–1.15 and 1.06–1.13) to 1.11 (1.05–1.16) for total protein (between 8 and 12 cohort studies included) and from 1.13 (1.08–1.19) to 1.19 (two SRs, 1.11–1.28 and 1.11–1.28) (8–9 cohort studies) for animal protein. However, SRs on RCTs examining major glycaemic traits (HbA1c, fasting glucose, fasting insulin) do not support a clear biological link with T2D risk. For plant protein, some recent SRs pointed towards risk decreases and non-linear associations, however, the majority did not support an association with T2D risk.

Conclusion

Higher total protein intake was possibly associated with higher T2D risk, while there is insufficient evidence for a risk increase with higher intakes of animal protein and a risk decrease with plant protein intake. Given that most SRs on plant protein did not indicate an association, there is possibly a lack of an effect.
Multimodal MRI study on the relation between WM integrity and connected GM atrophy and its effect on disability in early multiple sclerosis
Authors: Weeda Merlin M. , van Nederpelt D. R. , Twisk J. W. R. , Brouwer I. , Kuijer J. P. A. , van Dam M. , Hulst H. E. , Killestein J. , Barkhof F. , Vrenken H. , Pouwels P. J. W.
Published: September 2023

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by pathology in white matter (WM) and atrophy of grey matter (GM), but it remains unclear how these processes are related, or how they influence clinical progression.

Objective

To study the spatial and temporal relationship between GM atrophy and damage in connected WM in relapsing–remitting (RR) MS in relation to clinical progression.

Methods

Healthy control (HC) and early RRMS subjects visited our center twice with a 1-year interval for MRI and clinical examinations, including the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and Multiple Sclerosis Functional Composite (MSFC) scores. RRMS subjects were categorized as MSFC decliners or non-decliners based on ΔMSFC over time. Ten deep (D)GM and 62 cortical (C) GM structures were segmented and probabilistic tractography was performed to identify the connected WM. WM integrity was determined per tract with, amongst others, fractional anisotropy (FA), mean diffusivity (MD), neurite density index (NDI), and myelin water fraction (MWF). Linear mixed models (LMMs) were used to investigate GM and WM differences between HC and RRMS, and between MSFC decliners and non-decliners. LMM was also used to test associations between baseline WM z-scores and changes in connected GM z-scores, and between baseline GM z-scores and changes in connected WM z-scores, in HC/RRMS subjects and in MSFC decliners/non-decliners.

Results

We included 13 HCs and 31 RRMS subjects with an average disease duration of 3.5 years and a median EDSS of 3.0. Fifteen RRMS subjects showed declining MSFC scores over time, and they showed higher atrophy rates and greater WM integrity loss compared to non-decliners. Lower baseline WM integrity was associated with increased CGM atrophy over time in RRMS, but not in HC subjects. This effect was only seen in MSFC decliners, especially when an extended WM z-score was used, which included FA, MD, NDI and MWF. Baseline GM measures were not significantly related to WM integrity changes over time in any of the groups.

Discussion

Lower baseline WM integrity was related to more cortical atrophy in RRMS subjects that showed clinical progression over a 1-year follow-up, while baseline GM did not affect WM integrity changes over time. WM damage, therefore, seems to drive atrophy more than conversely.
The Finnish spine register (FinSpine): development, design, validation and utility
Authors: Marjamaa Johan , Huttunen Jukka , Kankare Jyrki , Malmivaara Antti , Pernaa Katri , Salmenkivi Jyrki , Pekkanen Liisa
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Our aim was to develop a nationwide, computer-based, Spine Register (FinSpine) for monitoring surgical activity, quality of surgery, long-term outcomes, and effectiveness of treatment. In this paper, we describe our experiences in the development and implementation of the register.

Methods

The register was developed by a steering group, consisting of orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons from the whole country. We strived to develop a register which would be in active use by spine surgeons and enable collection of Patient Reported Outcome and Experience Measures (PROMs and PREMs) automatically and prospectively. We are actively promoting the use of the register in order to gain a nationwide coverage and achieve high response-rates from both surgeons and patients.

Results

The use of FinSpine started in 2016 and it has been granted continuous funding from the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare from the 1st of January 2023 onwards. Currently the register is used by 19/23 (83%) public hospitals and the use is expanding to private hospitals as well. The response-rate of surgeons is currently 80%. The response-rate of patients is on average 56% but reaches up to 90% in hospitals using register-coordinators.

Conclusion

The use of FinSpine is increasing. By gaining a larger coverage and completeness, the data can be used for research purposes which we believe will influence decision making and ultimately improve the outcomes and quality of life of the patients. Comparison with other national spine registers is possible, since FinSpine includes similar baseline characteristics and outcome measures (e.g., ODI, EQ-5D, VAS).
The Norwegian registry for spine surgery (NORspine): cohort profile
Authors: Mikkelsen Eirik , Ingebrigtsen Tor , Thyrhaug Anette M. , Olsen Lena Ringstad , Nygaard Øystein P. , Austevoll Ivar , Brox Jens Ivar , Hellum Christian , Kolstad Frode , Lønne Greger , Solberg Tore K.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

To review and describe the development, methods and cohort of the lumbosacral part of the Norwegian registry for spine surgery (NORspine).

Methods

NORspine was established in 2007. It is government funded, covers all providers and captures consecutive cases undergoing operations for degenerative disorders. Patients’ participation is voluntary and requires informed consent. A set of baseline-, process- and outcome-variables (3 and 12 months) recommended by the International Consortium for Health Outcome Measurement is reported by surgeons and patients. The main outcome is the Oswestry disability index (ODI) at 12 months.

Results

We show satisfactory data quality assessed by completeness, timeliness, accuracy, relevance and comparability. The coverage rate has been 100% since 2016 and the capture rate has increased to 74% in 2021. The cohort consists of 60,647 (47.6% women) cases with mean age 55.7 years, registered during the years 2007 through 2021. The proportions > 70 years and with an American Society of Anaesthesiologists’ Physical Classification System (ASA) score > II has increased gradually to 26.1% and 19.3%, respectively. Mean ODI at baseline was 43.0 (standard deviation 17.3). Most cases were operated with decompression for disc herniation (n = 26,557, 43.8%) or spinal stenosis (n = 26,545, 43.8%), and 7417 (12.2%) with additional or primary fusion. The response rate at 12 months follow-up was 71.6%.

Conclusion

NORspine is a well-designed population-based comprehensive national clinical quality registry. The register’s methods ensure appropriate data for quality surveillance and improvement, and research.
Testing re-optimisation strategies in international kidney exchange programmes by the ENCKEP simulator
Authors: Matyasi Lilla , Biró Péter
Published: September 2023

We tested re-optimisation strategies for international kidney exchange programmes using the simulator developed by the ENCKEP COST Action. Kidney exchange programmes (KEPs) are operating in most of the European countries to facilitate the exchange of kidney donors for the recipients with incompatible living donors. The optimal solutions for national and international KEPs are typically selected in every three months based on the compatibilities estimated on the individual immunological data. However, these estimations are not always accurate, and if a positive crossmatch is found in the laboratory crossmatch tests then the corresponding exchange cycle (or chain) must be cancelled. Depending on the matching process, the coordinators may use different re-optimisation strategies to repair the failed solutions. We examine the effects of using multiple rounds of re-optimisation with different optimisation strategies, such as fixing good cycles in the intermediate solutions or prioritising transplants with negative crossmatch tests in previous rounds. In the context of international KEPs we also consider the possibility of testing and prioritising national transplants in the solutions. We measure the performance of these policies regarding the number of transplants and the number of compatibility tests conducted in a time period. By extending our results presented in [16], we performed simulations for a large number of instances to measure the effects of various re-optimisation policies. Our main findings show a clear trade-off in the number of transplants versus the number of tests and re-optimisation rounds.
Planar Slope Failure in Heavily Jointed Rock: Tension Cracks and Nonlinear Strength
Authors: Úcar Roberto , Belandria Norly , Corredor Alfredo , Arlegui Luis
Published: September 2023

This work proposes the calculation of the factor of safety for a strongly jointed rock mass in the case of plane failure with a tensile crack whose exact position or depth is not known but is expected to exist. This calculation is performed by applying the non-linear failure criteria of the Focus Procedure of Úcar and Hoek–Brown’s and implementing the necessary formulae in a spreadsheet. The aim is to provide a simple, cost-effective, and easy-to-use procedure that is useful in the early stages of a project or as a starting point for more detailed investigations. Besides slope geometry and strength parameters, the required parameters are the RMR of the rock mass or its mi, depending on the criterion used. The proposed procedure allows for the estimation of the factor of safety, the position and depth of the tensile crack, and the inclination of the failure plane in the most unfavorable case, with reasonable accuracy, using an iterative process with the conventional tools available in common spreadsheet programs. An example is provided in which an accuracy of 86–96% for the factor of safety is obtained.
Review of Segmentation Methods for Coastline Detection in SAR Images
Authors: Ciecholewski Marcin
Published: September 2023

Synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images acquired by airborne sensors or remote sensing satellites contain the necessary information that can be used to investigate various objects of interest on the surface of the Earth, including coastlines. The coastal zone is of great economic importance and is also very densely populated. The intensive and increasing use of coasts and changes of coastlines motivate researchers to try to assess the pace of these changes. As remote sensing develops, coastlines are detected using various image processing and analysis methods, including segmentation methods. Segmentation is to allow separating water and land areas in order to obtain contours representing the shorelines of coasts. Its result has direct impact on the accuracy of the obtained contours and is one of the most important steps in image processing. This article presents an overview of state-of-the-art segmentation methods used for detecting and extracting coastlines from SAR images, taking into account the evaluation metrics used in them. Segmentation methods can be divided into three main groups: thresholding methods, active contours, and machine learning approaches. This article presents the theoretical and practical properties of individual groups of segmentation methods, their advantages and disadvantages, and also promising research directions. This article is intended to give researchers insight into existing approaches and to help them propose new, better solutions.
Influence of the chemical kinetics on the prediction of turbulent non-premixed jet CH$$_4$$ flames
Authors: Yu Chunkan , Cai Liming , Chopra Lovish , Minuzzi Felipe , Maas Ulrich
Published: September 2023

The present work focuses on the five different chemical mechanisms coupled with probability density function (PDF) model to represent the local extinction and re-ignition flame characteristics of the well-known Sandia Flames D–F. These five mechanisms span from the Foundational Fuel Chemistry Model (FFCM) mechanism involving 38 species to the Glarborg mechanism involving 150 species. The coupled computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and transported-PDF method are used for the turbulence modeling, and the reaction–diffusion manifolds (REDIMs) are used as an advanced technique for the simplification of chemical kinetics and to speed up the numerical computation. It is demonstrated that these chemical mechanisms have an ability to represent the degree of local extinction and re-ignition accurately. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis shows that the degree of local extinction is very sensitive to only several key elementary reactions, and an analysis on the turbulence–chemistry interaction investigates the influence of these elementary reactions.
Analysis of MHD Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer Inside an Inclined Deformable Filter Chamber: Lie Group Method
Authors: Lekoko Modisawatsona Lucas , Magalakwe Gabriel , Khalique Chaudry Masood
Published: September 2023

This paper investigates MHD fluid flow and distribution of heat inside a filter chamber during a process of filtering particles from the fluid. A flow model of MHD viscous incompressible fluid inside a filter is studied to seek semi-analytical solutions which are analysed to find flow and heat dynamics that lead to optimal outflow (maximum filtrates) during filtration. Lie group method is used to reduce a system of four partial differential equations describing fluid flow and temperature distribution inside the filter chamber to a system of two ordinary differential equations. The reduced system is then solved by perturbation process to obtain semi-analytical solutions for flow velocity and temperature variation inside the chamber. To understand the flow dynamics and heat distribution of the underlying case study better, the influence of different parameters during filtration resulting from the filter design, flow dynamics and heat effects are graphically presented and analysed in order to identify a combination of flow parameters that yields the best filtration process. The findings show that to maximise filtrates production, more fluid injection is required during filtration. Moreover, from the findings, it is evident that the temperature increase inside the chamber arising from the Joule heating effect is ideal since it increases internal work done and hence increases filtrates production.
Characterization analyzes in the geomechanical behavior of travertine rock
Authors: Luza Huillca Carlos Alberto , Jiménez Pacheco Hugo Guillermo , Miranda Ramos Lilia Mary , Delgado Sarmiento Pavel Kewin , Alvarez Tohalino Victor Ludgardo , Terrones Diaz Héctor Enrique , Vargas Euripedes do Amaral
Published: September 2023

There is a fundamental interest in studying travertine rocks, and this is to understand their structure, their geomechanical behavior and other particularities in order to guarantee their proper use in different engineering and architectural applications, and thus, evaluate the sustainability of the travertines, natural resources, the stability of slopes, the preservation of cultural heritage and the mitigation of possible anthropic risks. Travertine has petrological and mechanical properties similar to carbonates from oil fields such as those found in El Presal-Brazil, which currently contain the largest hydrocarbon reserves in the world. Given the impossibility of obtaining rock samples from this deposit to carry out the study, rocks similar to these were used. The present study specifically used samples of Lapis tiburtinus rocks, coming from the west of the city of Tivoli in Italy and these showed resistance to uniaxial and triaxial compression, and showed mechanical resistance due to increased porosity and brittleness. The investigation carried out an analysis of the geomechanical behavior travertine through an experimental program, which includes a petrological, structural, and mechanical characterization. It was determined the travertine is mainly composed of micrite and spastic calcite without the presence of grains or allochemical cements and presents high porosity of the fenetral and vulgar type. Macro and micropores were found to be chaotically distributed in the rock and have low connectivity, which demonstrates the complexity and heterogeneity of the porous structure of Roman travertine. Uniaxial and triaxial compressive strength tests were also carried out, observing a decrease in its mechanical strength due to the increase in porosity, presenting a property of brittleness in its behavior. The results were consistent and valid for this type of rock compared to other studies; determining that there is a correct and adequate operation of the triaxial cell used in the mechanical resistance tests.
A CFD-Based Collaborative Approach for Box-Wing Aircraft Aerodynamic Assessment: The PARSIFAL Study Case
Authors: Abu Salem Karim , Palaia Giuseppe , Carini Marco , Méheut Michaël , Maganzi Marco , Falcone Carmine
Published: September 2023

This article presents a detailed aerodynamic investigation on a transport aircraft with a box-wing lifting system. The aerodynamic development of this configuration is presented through the description of the collaborative and multi-fidelity design approach that took place within PARSIFAL, an European project aiming to develop the box-wing configuration for a civil transonic aircraft. The article starts from an accurate description of the collaborative methodological framework employed and offers an overview of the development of the box-wing aerodynamics together with the highlight on its most significant characteristics and aerodynamic features identified. The design development is detailed step by step, with specific focus on the challenges faced, starting from the conceptual investigations up to the most advanced evaluations. Significant focus is given to the assessment of the aerodynamic performance in transonic flight for the box-wing lifting system, and to the design solutions provided to overcome issues related to this flight regime, such as drag rise and flow separation. In addition, the high-fidelity shape optimisation techniques employed in the advanced stage of the design process are detailed; these allow to define a final configuration with improved aerodynamic performance.
Groups versus individuals, partial lying, and social image concern in a dice-rolling experiment
Authors: Okano Yoshitaka , Goto Eiji
Published: September 2023

This study compares the lying behavior of groups that consist of paired friends to that of individuals in a dice-rolling experiment. Both groups and individuals exhibit strong evidence of lying, but partial lying (not lying to the maximum extent possible) is more pronounced under group decisions. Furthermore, we estimate the preference parameter(s) of existing models for lying aversion. Groups are more sensitive than individuals to social image concerns of not being perceived as liars, and have a lower cost of lying than do individuals.
Spatial analysis of urban expansion, land-use dynamics and its effects on land surface temperature in Oyo town, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Salam Rofiat Dolapo , Oluwatimilehin Isaac Ayo , Ayanlade Ayansina
Published: September 2023

This paper assessed the expansion of land use and land cover that occurred in Oyo State, Southwestern Nigeria, over a period of thirty-year. This was to assess urban expansion, landuse dynamics and their effects on land surface temperature in the area. The study used four multi-date imageries of the area. Landsat 7 ETM + , 1990, 2000, 2012, and Landsat 8 OLI/TIR, 2021 were collected from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) website were used. The ArcGIS 10.1 environment was utilised to clip the area of interest, and ERDAS Imagine remote sensing software was employed to efficiently improve and categorise the images. The images were then divided into five major: cultivation, built-up area, vegetation, water body, and bare soil using a maximum likelihood supervised classification algorithm. These categories were then utilised to conduct time series analysis or change detection analysis.

Results of this study revealed that the built-up area has changed over the preceding three decades because of urban expansion. The built-up area increased from 19.83 km2 to 35.67 km2 in 2012 and 44.84 km2 in 2021, indicating increases of 14.93% to 79.87% and 25.71%, respectively, whereas the vegetative land cover decreased from -0.11% to -3.01 48% and 12.75% during the study period. Findings revealed that anthropogenic factors including urbanisation and agricultural expansion, have significantly altered the surface and atmospheric characteristics of the study area, causing a variety of heat patterns within the area. The built-up area had average temperatures between 35.05 °C and 36.16 °C between 1990 and 2021, which indicated a higher temperature with evidence of an urban heat island.

This study concludes that the city’s land surface temperature is rising and that the expanding built-up area’s density and a corresponding decline in vegetation over time significantly impact it. Therefore, the study suggests cultivating and maintaining trees, promoting green environment,, public awareness, campaigns and education on actions that aggravate high temperatures are also required.