bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uniaxial tensile behavior and mechanism characterization of multi-scale fiber-reinforced cementitious materials
Authors: Li L. , Cao M. , Li Z. , Zhang W. , Shi D. , Shi K.
Published: February 2022

The uniaxial tensile properties of multi-scale fiber-reinforced cementitious material (MSFRCM) with steel and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers and calcium carbonate whisker (CW) were studied. The results showed that CW improved the uniaxial tensile stiffness, strength, peak strain, and toughness of the steel-PVA hybrid fiber-reinforced cementitious material. The CW not only played a role in the small deformation stage but also improved the load holding capacity and toughness of the hybrid fiber-reinforced cementitious material during the large deformation stage. Computational models to assess the uniaxial tensile strength and toughness of the MSFRCM were established. Microstructure observations showed that the steel and PVA fibers formed a weak interfacial transition zone (ITZ) due to the “wall effect.” The CW effectively optimized the structure of the ITZ of the steel and PVA fibers through physical and chemical effects, such as filling, bridging, improving Ca(OH)2 orientation, and chemical effects. The steel fibers, PVA fibers, and CW in the MSFRCM bridged cracks at the macro, mesoscopic, and microscopic levels, respectively. As a result, we observed a fiber chain effect that improved the positive hybrid effect between the multi-scale fibers.
Genetic diversity in Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) stocks using heterologous primers
Authors: Mantovani Laís Santana Celestino , Souza Felipe Pinheiro de , Campos Eric Costa , Lewandowski Vanessa , Barrero Nelson Maurício Lopera , Ribeiro Ricardo Pereira
Published: February 2022

With the rise of world fish farming, the national scenario is favorable for using native fish for intensive farming. Among the catfish, the Amazonian Jundiá (Leiarius marmoratus) is a robust candidate, easy to grow and with good organoleptic characteristics in its flesh. For productive success in captivity, it is necessary to consider some questions about the species, such as genetic variability, which must have an acceptable level in a breeding stock, in order to maintain a good diversity; this reduces losses due to inbreeding and low diversity. Therefore, the objective of this study was to characterize the genetic variability of commercial stocks of L. marmoratus from the State of Mato Grosso through microsatellite molecular markers. We analyzed 143 individuals from three stocks. The mean heterozygosity and the inbreeding coefficients observed were 0.060; 0.084; 0.141; and 0.539; 0.562; 0.514, respectively, for the stocks of Campo Verde, Juína, and Nova Mutum. The Deviation in the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed in most of the loci in the three populations. Considering the genetic differentiation, it is concluded that the three populations are very close genetically, which requires introduction of new genetic material in the stocks to enrich them genetically for a later reproductive program.
Pantanal’s fish native meatballs has the nutritional values increased with the use of pequi in its recipe
Authors: Pereira Queila Dias , Kwiatkowski Angela , Munhoz Cláudia Leite , Porto Ricardo Santos , Costa Celso Soares , Curvo Lucimar Rodrigues Vieira , Diemer Odair
Published: February 2022

The study aimed to evaluate whether the addition of pequi increases the nutritional value of meatballs made with piranha and pacu fillets. Piranhas were obtained from the colony of fishermen; pacu with the fish farmer and the pequis were collected in nature. Fish were filleted and triturated, and the resulting masses were used to prepare 4 types of meatballs: piranha fillet with 2.0% pequi pulp, piranha fillet without pequi pulp, pacu fillet with with 2.0% pequi pulp, and pacu fillet without pequi pulp. After preparation, acceptance, purchase intention and frequency of consumption were evaluated with untrained tasters. Chemical composition parameters evaluated were crude protein, lipids, ash, moisture, carotenoids and antioxidant activity. Results of acceptability for all formulations were similar. The chemical composition of piranha meatballs presented differences (p < 0.05) for lipids and carotenoids. Pacu meatballs showed no difference (p > 0.05) for moisture, carotenoids, and antioxidant activity. The addition of pequi did not alter the organoleptic characteristics, however increased the nutritional values, therefore, it can add value to the product to be marketed and be more nutritionally attractive to the consumer.
Maintenance of quality of eggs submitted to treatment with propolis extract and sanitizers
Authors: Soares Ana Cristina Baltazar , Brito Daniela Aguiar Penha , Soares Swenia Christina Pinheiro , Gomes Karolynne Sousa , Saldanha Gleycy Kelly Moraes Santos , Soares Vânia da Silva
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the internal and microbiological quality of eggs submitted to different types of shell treatments. One hundred and forty-four fresh red eggs were distributed in a scheme of 4 treatments (no washing; washing and immersion in chlorine; washing and immersion in peracetic acid; and washing and spraying of propolis extract) x 5 storage periods (7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days), stored at 25°C, in each period 6 eggs per treatment were analyzed. The parameters to assess were: weight loss; shell weight; yolk weight; albumen weight, yolk diameter; yolk height; albumen height and Haugh unit (HU). The microbiological quality of eggs was evaluated at 35 days through analysis for aerobic mesophilic bacteria, thermotolerant coliforms, Staphylococcus spp., Salmonella spp. and molds and yeasts. The treatment with propolis extract was the only effective one to maintain the high HU quality of the eggs until 21 days of storage at 25°C and was effective against microbiological contamination of all bacterial groups. The results presented showed greater effectiveness of the propolis extract for maintenance of internal and microbiological quality of eggs, it can be an alternative product to chemical sanitizers.
Chemical composition of forage watermelon fruit at different maturity stage or storage length
Authors: Azeredo Alessandra Bezerra de , Silva Ana Paula Ribeiro da , Matias Alex Gomes da Silva , Silva Valterlina Moreira da , Correia Airton Alves Vieira , Voltolini Tadeu Vinhas
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to assess the chemical responses of forage watermelon fruit at different maturity stages or storage lengths, performing two experimental tests. In the first test, four maturity stages were assessed: 30, 45, 60, and 75 days after anthesis, with four replicates. In the second test, fruits were maintained under three storage lengths: T1D (harvest day), T3M (3 months after harvest), and T6M (6 months after harvest), with eight replicates. Experimental design was completely randomized in both experimental tests. Fruit maturity stage did not affect crude protein, total carbohydrate, neutral detergent fiber, in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), pulp firmness, soluble solids content and total pectin content, but increased acid detergent fiber content from 45 days after anthesis. Storage length up to six months after harvest increased ash, crude protein and IVDMD, and reduced the content of soluble solids. Forage watermelon fruit can be harvested from 30 to 75 days after anthesis equivalent to 75 - 120 days after planting, and they can be stored under tree shade up to 6 months after harvest.
Performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits in sheep finished on diets containing canola (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Carneiro Mayara  Mitiko Yoshiraha , Goes Rafael Henrique de Tonissi e Buschinelli de , Sabedot Mayara  Andressa , Gandra Jefferson Rodrigues , Gabriel Andrea Maria de Araujo , Oliveira Raquel Tenório de , Silva Nayara Gonçalves da , Anschau Douglas  Gabriel
Published: February 2022

The objective of this study was to evaluate performance, gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits in lambs finished on different levels of canola grain in the diet. Twenty-seven Santa Ines lambs with an average initial weight of 19.33 ± 1.39 kg were given different levels of canola grain in the diet: 0, 8, and 16%. Weights and body condition scores were determined at the beginning, every 14 days and at the end of the experimental period. Animals were slaughtered to assess gastrointestinal morphometry, carcass and non-carcass traits. The statistical design used was completely randomized. The inclusion of canola grain showed a linear effect (0.723) for the width and height of ruminal papillae in the ventral region of the rumen. Intestinal villi and crypts showed a quadratic effect, with peaks of 0.62 µm and 0.43 µm, with the inclusion of 8 and 16%, respectively. When evaluating carcass traits, a decreasing linear effect was found for hot and cold carcass yield with 16% inclusion of canola. Canola grain can be used as an alternative in diets for finishing sheep up to 8% inclusion in the diet without affecting performance, ruminal and intestinal histometry, carcass, and non-carcass traits.
Ingestive behavior of lambs fed relocated and inoculated whole-plant corn silage
Authors: Cardoso Marcus Vinicius Santa Brígida , Mendonça Rita de Cássia Almeida de , Queiroz Amanda Caroliny  Marques , Ferreira Cláudia Márcia Serra , Santos Rosana Ingrid Ribeiro dos , Faturi Cristian , Domingues Felipe Nogueira , Rêgo Aníbal Coutinho do
Published: February 2022

We aimed to determine the effect of relocation of whole-plant corn silage (WPCS) with different fermentation profiles on ingestive behavior of lambs. Twenty-four male Santa Inês lambs, were used in a completely randomized block design based on initial body weight (17.5 ± 1.8 kg) for the following treatments: CS: WPCS (not inoculated and not relocated); R-12h: WPCS relocated for 12h; IR-12h: WPCS inoculated with Lactobacillus plantarum and relocated for 12h; and R-24h: WPCS not inoculated and relocated for 24h. Ingestive behavior was observed as continuous (feeding, ruminating, and idling) and specific (urination, defecation, and water and salt access frequency) activities for 48h (3h intervals for a total of eight periods in 24h). The behavioral activities were affected only by periods (p = 0.0001). Feeding peaks was high at 8:00–11:00am (54.2%) and 5:00-8:00pm (54.9%) in compare to ruminating and idling at the same period. Rumination time was intense at night, at 63.7% (2:00–5:00am) and 69.7% (5:00–8:00am). Idling time (49.7%) was long after silage supply. The specific activities were intense during the morning periods. Supply of WPCS relocated up to 24h did not alter the ingestive behavior.
Measurement of wood surface roughness in Dinizia excelsa Ducke using an atomic force microscope
Authors: Conceição Willian Silva da , Matos Robert Saraiva , Melo Ituany da Costa , Ramos Glenda Quaresma , Zayas Fidel Guereiro , Fonseca Filho Henrique Duarte da
Published: February 2022

Measurement techniques of nanoscale parameters have been vastly explored nowadays. In systems such as wood that possess anisotropic surfaces, these techniques provide reliable data on the surface morphology and related parameters. The atomic force microscope (AFM) and optical microscope were used to investigate the roughness and surface morphology of Dinizia excelsa. Cuts were made in different directions generating three distinct surfaces: radial, tangential and transverse. The samples went through a sanding process to reveal the original morphology of the steering. Both techniques show that the surface texture is different according to the analysed surface. The lowest roughness was observed on the transverse plane while the highest occurred on the radial. The comparison of the morphology evaluation by the two techniques allowed us to see that the AFM technique revealed the most sensitive images in smaller scales. These results confirmed that the AFM can provide satisfactory results for the surface parameters of Dinizia excelsa depending on the cut direction. This type of analysis can be useful in laboratory species identification processes and in deforestation inspection processes in the Amazon
Development of Catalysts for Synthesizing Methanol from Syngas
Authors: Zhang Lian Zi , Sun Hao Yuan
Published: February 2022

At present, methanol is one of the most basic organic chemical raw materials and energy storage media. With the development of chemical technology and energy storage technology, its application becomes more and more extensive, and the methanol market prospects are unlimited. Industrial-scale methanol is generally prepared by using synthesis gas containing hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and carbon dioxide as raw materials and reacting under a certain pressure, temperature, and catalyst. Therefore, the development of the methanol industry largely depends on the development of catalysts and the improvement of their performance. Metal catalysts are mainly used in the industry for reaction. This article reviews several metal catalysts used to synthesize methanol from syngas. Copper-based and iron-based catalysts are widely used, and the emerging rhodium and its ligand catalysts exhibit good catalytic performance in low-temperature catalysis. In the future, the scientific research team will focus on in-depth research on preparation methods, active centers, catalytic reaction kinetics, durability, metal ligands, raw material prices, etc., to lay a solid foundation for the industrial application of syngas to methanol in advance.
Assessment on the Potential Application of Salago Fiber Composite as an Alternative Material in Drone Airframe
Authors: Lopena Jerome D. , Millare Jeremiah C.
Published: February 2022

The capabilities of drones to perform dangerous missions have led to their development in various applications in different fields. Aside from the electronic components, an important part to be considered in their design is the airframe. It serves as the main structure that holds and supports the major components of a drone. In this research work, the potential use of salago fiber composite as an alternative airframe material has been assessed. The properties of this natural fiber composite have been compared to glass fiber composite such as density, heat deflection temperature, thermal behavior and mechanical strength. Although, the glass fiber composite remains superior in terms of flexural and impact strengths, the salago fiber composite still obtained a lower density (4.8 %) of 1.19 g/cm3 and a higher heat deflection temperature (7.9 %) of 58.6 °C. Moreover, the drone with an airframe made from salago fiber composite was able to fly successfully. Furthermore, the airframe was able to protect the components from damage after dropping the drone in a 2-meter height five times. Overall, the composite can be considered as an alternative material in drone airframes.
The Study Influence of Sugarcane Leaves Fibers Ratio on Compressive Strength of Fire Clay Bricks
Authors: Poophanchit Auttachoke , Aengchuan Prasert
Published: February 2022

This research aimed to reuse the waste of sugar cane leaves to improve the properties of clay bricks by using Design of Experiment (DOE) full factorial designs. There are 3 factors in this process, i.e., the sugarcane leaf fiber content, firing temperature and the length of sugarcane leaves fibers. The results showed that the addition of sugarcane leaf fiber content and length of sugarcane leaves fibers increased the porosity the clay bricks along with decreasing the density and compressive strength. The different temperatures did not affect the compressive strength of clay bricks. The maximum porosity values were found with the additional 7.5%wt of sugarcane leaf fiber content and 2.5 to 2.8 mm of length sugarcane leaves fibers. By adding 2.5%wt of sugarcane leaf fiber content and 1.0 to 1.3 mm of length sugarcane leaves fibers, the brick samples had the compressive strength of 19.97 MPa, which is required by ASTM C67-11 and Thai industrial standard of clay bricks TIS. 77 – 2545.
Self-Healing of Epoxy-Loaded Halloysite Nanotubes/Polysulfone Nanocomposite Membrane
Authors: Vasquez V.L. Janerikther L. , Dela Rosa Jefte E. , Lim Ian Francis C. , Millare Jeremiah C.
Published: February 2022

Self-healing composites are smart materials that can be fabricated through the dispersion of tubular nanofillers loaded with appropriate healing agents in a polymeric matrix. In this study, polysulfone (PSf) containing epoxy-loaded halloysite nanotubes (e-HNTs) were successfully fabricated via non-induced phase separation (NIPS) method at varying concentrations. Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that epoxy (healing agent) and amine (hardener) were successfully loaded into the lumen of the HNT through the observed functional groups of the epoxy system along the HNT spectrum. The tensile strength of the loaded membranes compared to their unloaded counterpart slightly decreased due to the possible embrittlement of the unreacted epoxy. However, the membranes with epoxy-loaded HNTs garnered lower wettability on average due to the hydrophobic character of the epoxy system, which is a preferable trait for smart coatings. The self-healing capability of the membranes with 5% filler (loaded and unloaded) was investigated by scratch test and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The result revealed a high tendency of healing for the epoxy-infused nanocomposite film.
Microwave-Assisted Conversion of Waste Coffee Grounds to Turbostratic Carbon
Authors: Gammad Hydralyn T. , Marquez Menandro C.
Published: February 2022

The abundance of waste coffee grounds led to an adverse effect in our environment. This study focuses on generating carbon with conventional microwave for energy efficiency. The carbon result of conventional microwave carbonization is being compared to furnace and microwave-furnace processes. Before the conversion, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) was performed to determine the degradation temperature of the waste coffee grounds. In addition, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed to elucidate the presence of organic functional groups in the samples. Absence of significant peaks from the carbonized coffees spectrum confirms degradation. X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis was also performed to monitor the effect of temperature as shifting, and formation of peaks are seen. Identified peaks with Miller indices of (002), (101), and (004) signifies the presence of carbon. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) paired with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), shows the difference in morphology for the dried coffee and the carbonized coffees as well as the strong presence of carbon from the microwave-assisted carbonization which is about 74%.
Enhancing Thermoelectric Properties of Conductive Polymers Using Zr-Metal-Organic Frameworks Composite Materials
Authors: Ebrahim Asma , Ghali Mohsen , El-Moneim Ahmed Abd
Published: February 2022

Controlling the polymerization of polypyrrole (Ppy) in presence of Zr-based metal organic-framework (Zr-MOFs) using sodium dodecyl sulphonate (SDS) as a dopant, leads to the formation of a new class of thermoelectric materials based on conducting polymer and highly porous MOFs with enhanced properties for energy production applications. The polymerization of polypyrrole in the Zr-Fumerate pores leads to the formation of homogenously coated MOF-spheres with high crystalinity and a high degree of improvement in many electrical properties such as conductivity and carrier mobility. The figure shows the movement of the electrons from the hot to the cold side in the aligned polymer inside the MOF pores.
Interference Phenomena on Infrared Thermography during a Mushy Solidification Zone
Authors: Kaewwichit Jesada , Phaoniam Rittichai , Poopat Bovornchok
Published: February 2022

This research aims to investigate the interference phenomena on a mushy zone during weld solidification using infrared thermography. Stationary heating source was carried out on a low carbon steel through GTAW process. The different spot-heating sequences were studied, namely, single and double melting steps. Surface preparation of a specimen was divided into two (2) cases, firstly a non-grinded surface and secondly a grinded surface. Thermocouples of three (3) points were attached nearby liquid-solid state region in order to verify an appropriate emissivity coefficient of a high-temperature mushy zone. As the result, in the case of non-grinded surface specimen with immediately spot-melting double steps exhibited that the infrared images were strongly interfered from an oxide film formation. Such an oxidized surface moved randomly around the molten pool margin. As for the grinded surface specimen with spot-melting double steps, it revealed the first-spot melting step was notably clear infrared images. However, the second-spot melting step exhibited the interference phenomena from the first-melted surface region. Such the surface region affected on the proper heat transfer emissivity coefficient of high temperature. The grinded surface with single melting step was able to attain clear infrared images. Therefore, the corrected temperature of a mushy zone was determined by approximate constant emissivity coefficient of 0.23. Additionally, more accurate temperature measurement of entire region was done with emissivity coefficient depended on temperature.
Impact of Basic Parameters on Heat and Moisture Process Simulation of Bamboo Building Envelope in China (I): Meteorological Parameters
Authors: Huang Zu Jian , Sun Yi Min
Published: February 2022

As a country of rich bamboo forest and large-scale bamboo processing industry, China is promoting the development of modified bamboo building materials and the bamboo construction systems. In the study on bamboo building envelope (BBE), as a hygroscopic construction, particular attention should be paid to the coupled heat and moisture (H&M) process. However, the parameters basis and the thermal design code in China could not yet support such calculation on coupled H&M process of BBE. In order to clarify the impact of meteorological parameters on the H&M process of BBE, the study prepares 24 representative cities in China with climate data exported from the Meteonorm platform and 3 typical bamboos with complete material properties data tested through experiments, and then sets up comparison BBE model groups in the software WUFI Plus for annual H&M process simulation. Statistical analysis clarifies the correlation law between the H&M process of BBE and the meteorological parameters. The study highlights the importance of hygric meteorological data for the application of BBE.
The Damping Effect of Particle-Filled Hollow Sphere Structures and their Application in Machine Tool Components
Authors: Zhou Xin , Penter Lars , Ihlenfeldt Steffen , Jehring Ulrike
Published: February 2022

High speed feed axes are a key for increasing the productivity of machine tools. It requires high acceleration and causes jerk, which excites the machine structure and negatively affects the process quality. One approach to reduce those machine vibrations are passive dampers such as particle-filled hollow spheres (PHS). PHSs dissipate vibration energy through relative motion and friction between particles among themselves and the sphere. Compounds of PHS as core of sandwich materials allow structure-integrated damping of machine tool components and for maintaining a high specific stiffness at the same time. The complex interactions within each sphere lead to nonlinear damping. As of today, precise predictions on how PHSs influence the overall machine behavior are not possible. This prognosis is essential for establishing the material in any machine structure. The paper investigates the damping properties of PHSs in a spindle box of a machine tool. The experimental and numeric analysis demonstrates the nonlinear behavior and shows the reaction of the spindle box under external excitation. The result shows that the damping of the spindle box with PHSs is frequency and amplitude dependent. The damping of PHSs is domain with increased parts of them deformed during vibration.
Visible Light Photocatalytic Degradation of Methylene Blue Using Polypyrrole-Coated Molybdenum-Based Magnetic Photocatalyst
Authors: Barroga Sharona Q. , Perez Jem Valerie D. , Rodrigues Debora F.
Published: February 2022

In this study, Ppy@MoO3@Fe3O4 photocatalyst was used to degrade methylene blue (MB) under visible light irradiation. The optimum catalyst loading, initial MB dye concentration, and solution pH was found to be 500 ppm, 40 ppm, and pH 5, respectively, and resulted to 94.1% MB dye degradation within 90 min irradiation. The mineralization of MB obtained 93% TOC removal. Pseudo-first order kinetic model governed the degradation of MB having a rate constant of 0.027 min-1. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that h+ and O2 species played a critical role in the visible light photocatalytic degradation of MB. The Ppy@MoO3@Fe3O4 photocatalyst also showed better photocatalytic performance on MB dye degradation compared to MoO3@Fe3O4 and controls. Finally, the Ppy@MoO3@Fe3O4 photocatalyst exhibited consistently high performance even after 4 cycles, proving that the as-prepared nanomaterial can be considered as a promising photocatalyst with good photocatalytic activity, stability, and reusability.
Novel Gel-Polymer Electrolytes for Sodium-Ion Secondary Batteries - An Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopic Studies
Authors: Jayamaha J.H.T. Bandara , Jathushan V. , Vignarooban K. , Sashikesh G. , Velauthamurty K. , Dissanayake M.A.K.L.
Published: February 2022

Global lithium deposits have been consumed a lot because of the heavy usage of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in almost all portable electronic devices and in automobiles. Due to the very limited global lithium resources, the so-called ‘batteries beyond lithium-ion’ such as sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) are becoming popular, particularly in the R&D level. One of the common problems in the commercial level production of SIBs is the synthesis of suitable electrolytes with sufficient ambient temperature ionic conductivities. In this work, a set of novel gel-polymer electrolytes (GPEs) based on poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) host polymer have been synthesized and characterized by electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS), DC polarization and cyclic voltammetric (CV) techniques. The optimized PMMA-NaClO4-EC-DMC GPE composition (10:14:38:38 wt.%) showed an ambient temperature ionic conductivity of 8.4 mS cm-1. Ionic conductivity vs inverse temperature showed Arrhenius behavior with almost same activation energies of 0.16 eV for all the compositions studied. DC polarization test on SS/GPE/SS configuration showed that the best conducting composition is dominantly an ionic conductor (tion ~ 0.998) with negligible electronic conductivity, which is highly desirable to avoid short circuits within the cell. The CV test on best conducting composition revealed that the electrochemical stability window (ESW) of these GPEs is about 4 volts (- 2 to + 2 volts). This optimized composition with highest ambient temperature ionic conductivity and negligible electronic conductivity seems to be a promising candidate for practical applications in sodium-ion secondary batteries.
A FEM Analysis on the Influence of Manganese on Carbon and Chromium Macrosegregation in Large Size Steel Ingot
Authors: Loucif Abdelhalim , Zhang Chunping , Morin Jean Benoit , Jahazi Mohammad
Published: February 2022

In this study, 3D numerical simulations were performed to study the effect of Mn on the macrosegregation behaviors of carbon and chromium in a 40 MT steel ingot using Finite Element Modeling (FEM). Two Mn contents of 0 and 5 wt.% were investigated. Thermophysical properties such as specific heat, density and phase fractions were determined using thermodynamic software Thermo-Calc®. Simulation results indicated that higher Mn content increases the carbon macrosegregation while it tends to lower the one of chromium. Moreover, it changes the solute poor band into rich one in the case of chromium and no bands were obtained for carbon. These results are analyzed in terms of the changes of thermophysical properties, interactions between alloying elements and the change in the primary solidification mode from δ-ferrite to austenite resulting from the increase of Mn concentration.
Thermal Conduction: Computational Model and Engineering Applications
Authors: Suleiman Bashir M. , Youssef Heba Y. , Daoudi Kais , Aghbari Zaher , Amani Azar A. , Kaidi Mounir
Published: February 2022

MATLAB was used to compute the effective thermal conduction of different samples of hard isotropic low porosity composites. The computational algorithms intended to use the Effective Medium Theory (EMT) Model to estimate the effective thermal conductivity (keff) of homogeneous composites. It estimates keff of a homogeneous mixture of components with known volume fractions and components’ conductivities. Starting with preliminary indicators to check the homogeneity conditions, we follow two approaches one for the measured samples and the other for a hypothetical sample with a certain specific desired property. One approach is to use preliminary indicators of surface homogeneity of the measured samples either via electron and/or via optical transmission microfilm scanning. The other approach is used for both measured and hypothetical samples by assuming a layered structure of parallel and series of slabs to compute upper and lower bounds of conduction. We used MATLAB to implement a fine precision computing algorithm to investigate the composite samples. The results predicted by the EMT model were examined for validation. The deviation of keff from the experiment for the homogenous samples is between 3 to 28% depending on the uniformity of distribution of phases within the composite matrix.
Preliminary Investigation of Geopolymer Mixture Using GGBFS and Off-ASTM Class F Fly Ash
Authors: Syzdykov Daniyar , Shon Chang Seon , Sandybay Saken , Orynbassarov Islam , Zhang Dichuan , Kim Jong Ryeol
Published: February 2022

Recently developed geopolymer concrete is considered a promising alternative for ordinary Portland cement (OPC) concrete. It accounts for green and durable civil infrastructure because the geopolymer concrete is made of industrial by-products and an alkali activator. This paper presents the investigation of a geopolymer mixture (paste) made of a combination of off-ASTM fly ash (FA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) produced in a steel-making plant, Kazakhstan. The effect of water/binder ratios (w/b=0.32 and 0.35), alkaline activator solution/binder ratios (AAS/b=0.20 and 0.40), and GGBFS/fly ash ratio (S/FA=50/50 and 25/75) on geopolymer concrete’s properties were evaluated. These include workability, compressive strength, and drying shrinkage. The test results showed that increasing water content increases compressive strength and drying shrinkage of the geopolymer specimen. Decreasing alkaline content resulted in a drop in compressive strength and workability but positively minimized drying shrinkage. The mixture containing 50% GGBFS and 50% FA tends to have higher strength than the GGBFS/FA ratio of 25/75.
FEM Simulation of the Effect of Mold Initial Temperature on Carbon Macrosegregation in Large-Size Steel Ingots
Authors: Zhang Chunping , Loucif Abdelhalim , Jahazi Mohammad , Morin Jean Benoit
Published: February 2022

The impact of initial mold temperatures on the formation of macrosegregated zone during the solidification process of large size steel ingots was numerically investigated. Three initial mold temperatures, representing the most commonly encountered industrial conditions, were examined. The flows induced by pouring jet, the thermo-solutal convection, and the thermomechanical deformation of the phases were all taken into consideration. The results indicated that a higher mold temperature increased the macrosegregation intensity in the upper section of the casting, along the centerline and in the mid-radius solute-enriched bands. The increase was associated with the increased temperature gradient in the casting, the advance predominance of thermal convection, and the delayed solidification process.
Fabrication and Mechanical Behavior of Portland Cement Mortars Reinforced with Ichu Fibers
Authors: Huamán-Mamani Fredy Alberto , Cuzziramos-Gutiérrez F.A. , Rodríguez-Guillén G.P. , Benavides-Salinas M.L. , Palomino-Ñaupa C.K.
Published: February 2022

Reinforced Portland cement mortars were manufactured using a mixture of type I cement, fine sand, Ichu (in variable percentages) and water, it was possible to verify the influence of the addition of Ichu fibers on the mechanical response in uniaxial compression of the mortars studied. The mechanical results found revealed a systematic reduction of the maximum mechanical resistance by increasing the volume of Ichu fibers added in the studied mortar mixtures, on the other hand, a greater degree of deformation was evidenced in mortar mixtures with a greater quantity of Ichu fibers added, reaching deformation values of up to 10%. The maximum resistance values found were 0.4 to 3.6 MPa for samples with 16 and 4 Vol.% Of Ichu added, respectively. The microstructure of the mortars studied consisted of a continuous cement binder phase with sand particles and short Ichu fibers dispersed within the binder phase. The real density and average porosity of the mortars reinforced with Ichu was 2.59 g / cm3 and 41%, respectively.
Contributo alla discussione sull’articolo Open Dialogue
Authors: Parrella Carmine
Published: February 2022

Non disponibile
Alcune considerazioni a: Dialogo Aperto - un nuovo approccio psicoterapeutico e orientato ai diritti umani per costruire servizi psichiatrici umanistici
Authors: Riefolo Giuseppe
Published: February 2022

Non disponibile
Commento al film ‘Perfetti sconosciuti’
Authors: Giannoni Ilaria
Published: February 2022

Non disponibile
Dal dialogo all’assunzione della propria condizione
Authors: Vincenti Enrico
Published: February 2022

Non disponibile
Unusual bilateral panuveitis uveitis with brucellosis
Authors: AlMutairi Naif , AlRubaie Khaled , Asharari Khaled S. , Albalawi Hani B.
Published: February 2022

Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease that can be found worldwide. Although it has been eradicated and is under control in most developed countries, it still represents an important health problem in many parts of the world. In this case report, we present a rare unusual findings of a case with panuveitis uveitis secondary to brucellosis.
Intermediate uveitis
Authors: Al-Hujaili Haneen , AlAbduljabbar Khaled , AlAkeely Adel , Al-Dhibi Hassan A.
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE:

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the common causes of intermediate uveitis (IU) and outcomes of this disease in patients presenting to King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (KKESH) in Riyadh, KSA.

METHODS:

This retrospective cohort study evaluated medical files of patients with IU was reviewed. A total of 109 patients were included in the study. The diagnosis followed the Standardization of Uveitis Nomenclature criteria. Data analysis included personal data, etiology of IU, treatment, and complications.

RESULTS:

We identified 109 patients with IU. The mean age at diagnosis was 26.45 ± 15.31 years. Most were female (64.9%), and 86% were bilateral at presentation. The etiology of IU was idiopathic in 63.3%. Multiple sclerosis (MS) (19.3%) and tuberculosis (14.7%) were frequent systemic causes of IU. The pattern of complications included macular edema (42.1%), cataract (48.2%), and secondary glaucoma (30.7%); 28.9% of the patients had none of the complications. Treatment comprised topical, local, and systemic steroids, immunosuppressive agents, and biologics. The best-corrected visual acuity was better than 20/40 in 57.5% of the eyes after more than 10 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSION:

This study demonstrated that at KKESH, most of the IU cases were idiopathic or associated with MS and tuberculosis. Visual prognosis is favorable even with the long duration of IU and numerous complications.
Optic pit-like maculopathy in a patient without any detectable disc anomalies
Authors: Sardarinia Mahsa , Abdi Fatemeh , Sedaghat Ahad , Anvari Pasha , Parvaresh Mohammad M. , Falavarjani Khalil G.
Published: February 2022

Macular schisis is the splitting of the inner retinal layers at macula, with or without associated detachment. The acquired form of macular schisis is frequently associated with optic disc pit maculopathy, although it could be accompanied by several conditions such as tractional maculopathies, cystoid macular edema, veno-occlusive disease, and shaken baby syndrome. However, a small number of cases of retinoschisis without optic disc pit have been reported elsewhere. Here, we present a patient with acquired macular schisis without high myopia and optic disc abnormality in funduscopic examination and imaging. Macular optical coherence tomography of her left eye revealed schisis of the inner and outer retinal layers and subretinal fluid and choroidal thickness of 426 μm (pachychoroid). Although the optic disc of this patient appeared normal, the probable presumption is that small junctions existed between the macular neuroretinal tissue and the vitreous cavity. Further studies are required to survey the other probable mechanisms of retinoschisis without optic pit with more subjects.
Lacrimo-auriculo-dento-digital syndrome
Authors: Alhamadi Reem , Elkhamary Sahar M. , Maktabi Azza , AlSulaiman Hamad M. , Schellini Silvana A.
Published: February 2022

We report a healthy 18-year-old male Saudi with bilateral agenesis of the lacrimal puncta and canaliculi associated with large dacryocystocele on the right side without tearing or inflammation, detected in conjunction with other characteristic features of lacrimo-auriculo-dento-digital dysplasia syndrome. Computed tomography scan indicated that dacryocystoceles were bilateral and asymmetrical, with large dimensions at the right side and associated to a right side maxillary sinus mucocele. The right dacryocystocele was surgically removed, and the histology indicated characteristics of the lacrimal sac. The liquid content of the dacryocystocele was negative for microbes. The atypical mucocele in the maxillary sinus disappeared after dacryocystocele removal probably, due to recovery of sinus drainage.
Regression in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy treated with ziv-aflibercept monotherapy – short term study
Authors: Mishra Sai B. , Singh Sumit R. , Goyal Prakhar , Chakurkar Renuka , Govindhari Vishal , Goud Abhilash , Chhablani Jay
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of intravitreal ziv-aflibercept (IVZ) in the treatment of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and its efficacy in regard to polyp regression using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA).

METHODS:

This was a retrospective study of eight eyes of eight patients with treatment-naïve PCV. Patients received IVZ on pro re nata protocol. OCT and ICGA parameters were assessed at baseline and subsequent visits with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. ICGA was repeated at 3–6 months to determine the disease activity and quantify the changes in branching vascular network (BVN) polyps. Quantifiable OCT parameters included central macular thickness, pigment epithelial detachment (PED) height, and subfoveal choroidal thickness.

RESULTS:

The mean age of the study cohort was 62.3 ± 7.7 years, with a mean follow-up of 7.1 ± 1.2 months. The baseline best-corrected visual acuity improved from 0.70 ± 0.36 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (Snellen's equivalent 20/100) to 0.63 ± 0.34 (20/80) at last follow-up which was statistically insignificant (P = 0.5). Post IVZ injections (mean ± standard deviation: 2.6 ± 0.7), the total number of polyps reduced significantly from 3 ± 3.5 to 1 ± 1.7 (P = 0.03) along with a reduction in BVN size (3.9 ± 4.8 to 2.7 ± 3.8mm2; P = 0.07). OCT analysis revealed a significant reduction in PED height from 462.5 ± 353.8 μ to 169.9 ± 127.2 μ (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION:

IVZ leads to significant morphological changes on ICGA and OCT in terms of polyp regression and reduction of PED height, respectively, with a limited change in visual acuity. IVZ may serve as a cost-effective alternative to treat eyes with PCV.
Safety of tropicamide and phenylephrine in pupillary mydriasis for cataract surgery
Authors: K. Lodhi Sikander A. , Ramsali Manjula V. , Kulkarni Dilip K. , Surender P. , Murty Srinivasa
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE:

A prospective study to evaluate the adverse cardiovascular effects of topical phenylephrine and tropicamide used for pupillary mydriasis before cataract surgery.

METHODS:

A total of 517 consecutive eyes in 517 patients subjected to routine 0.8% tropicamide and 5% phenylephrine eye drops before undergoing cataract surgery (phacoemulsification and manual small-incision surgery) under local or topical anesthesia in a medical college hospital were analyzed.

RESULTS:

No untoward cardiovascular effects were seen. The increase in blood pressure after 0.8% tropicamide and 5% phenylephrine eye drops was statistically significant, but it was not relevant as it was within clinically permissible limits.

CONCLUSION:

The combination of 0.8% tropicamide and 5% phenylephrine eye drops is a safe and effective option for pupillary mydriasis before cataract surgery.
The effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on eye pain and migraine headache caused by trochleitis
Authors: Kamali Ghazal , Nassiri Nariman , Rahmani Khaled
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE:

Trochleitis has been recognized as one of the causes of eye pain and migraine headaches. This study attempts to investigate the effect of ibuprofen on reducing eye pain and migraine headaches caused by trochleitis.

METHODS:

In this before-after clinical trial, out of 1100 clinically examined patients with eye pain and migraine symptoms, 33 patients were diagnosed with having trochleitis and trochleodynia confirmed by orbital magnetic resonance imaging images. Ibuprofen (400 mg/6–8 h) was prescribed to the subjects for 15–30 days. The main outcomes were a reduction in tenderness and pain that were evaluated 2 weeks, a month, and 6 months after the prescription. The data were analyzed by STATA (version 14) and using Wilcoxon and McNemar tests.

RESULTS:

The results revealed that 28 of the subjects (84.8%) experienced a significant reduction in tenderness 2 weeks after undergoing the treatment (P < 0.001). Standard deviation and average of headache scores before and after the treatment were 7.85 ± 1.75 and 0.64 ± 0.61 based on the visual analog scale. The difference between the pain scores before and after the treatment was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Clinical symptoms such as induration (P < 0.001), photophobia (P < 0.001), upward gaze (P < 0.001), and pain after reading (P < 0.001) were reduced significantly. Six months after the treatment, none of the mentioned symptoms was reported by the subjects.

CONCLUSION:

The findings revealed that noninvasive treatment (ibuprofen) has reduced eye pain, tenderness, and migraine headaches caused by trochleitis. What is important to mention is that trochleitis should be diagnosed properly.
One year outcomes of eyes with polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy with ≥20/40 visual acuity treated with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents
Authors: Singh Sumit R. , Goud Nallamasa R. , Goud Abhilash , Sahoo Niroj K. , Narayanan Raja , Chhablani Jay
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE:

To report the 12 months outcomes of treatment naïve polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) in patients with ≥20/40 Snellen's best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA).

METHODS:

This was a retrospective study including eyes treated with monotherapy of anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) agents (bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept, and ziv-aflibercept) on a pro-re-nata (PRN) protocol. Photodynamic therapy using verteporfin (vPDT) was used as rescue therapy. The primary study objective was change in BCVA at 12 months. Secondary objectives included change in optical coherence tomography parameters: central macular thickness (CMT) and pigment epithelial detachment (PED) height, the mean number of injections, and treatment-free interval at 12 months.

RESULTS:

A total of 18 eyes of 18 patients (7 males, 11 females) were included. The mean age was 58.0 ± 12.0 years. BCVA at baseline and 12 months were 0.16 ± 0.08 (Snellen equivalent 20/30) and 0.15 ± 0.15 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (20/30), respectively. Twelve (66.6%) eyes either improved or maintained BCVA. Mean (±standard deviation [SD]) CMT at baseline and 12 months were 188.2 ± 61.1 μ and 161.7 ± 47.4 μ (P = 0.15), respectively. PED height improved to 236.4 ± 208.7 μ at 12 months (P = 0.05). The mean (±SD) number of injections was 3.28 ± 1.96 with a treatment-free period of 6.83 ± 3.63 months. Three eyes required vPDT (4 treatment sessions; mean: 1.33) as a rescue therapy through 12 months.

CONCLUSION:

PRN anti-VEGF monotherapy in real-life situations for the treatment of naïve PCV eyes with good visual acuity (≥20/40) achieves maintenance or improvement of visual acuity through 12 months follow-up.
Optical aberrations in three different intraocular lens designs of a same platform
Authors: A. Bartol-Puyal Francisco d. , Giménez Galadriel , Altemir Irene , Larrosa José M. , Polo Vicente , Pablo Luis
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE:

To compare internal optical aberrations between three different intraocular lenses (IOL) of the same Tecnis platform: monofocal ZCB00, multifocal ZMB00, and enlarged depth-of-focus (EDoF) Symfony ZXR00.

METHODS:

We included in this study 236 eyes of 118 patients who had been bilaterally implanted either with the monofocal, the multifocal, or the EDoF IOL. They were examined with the K1-RW wavefront analyzer (Topcon Medical Systems) 2 months after surgery. Patients with any ocular pathology were excluded from the study. Only high-order aberrations (HOA) of the third and fourth orders of the Zernike polynomials were considered.

RESULTS:

Forty-three patients (86 eyes) were implanted with the monofocal IOL, 45 patients (90 eyes) with the ZMB00 IOL, and 30 patients (60 eyes) with the EDoF Symfony IOL. Mean age was 62.42 ± 7.38, 63.60 ± 6.01, and 64.74 ± 5.84 years, respectively. Mean axial length was 23.37 ± 1.00, 23.49 ± 1.00, and 23.54 ± 0.73 mm, respectively. For a 6-mm pupil, internal total HOA in the monofocal group was 1.01 ± 1.75 μm; in the bifocal group was 1.35 ± 2.12 μm; and in the Symfony group was 0.72 ± 0.63 μm. No optical aberration differences were found among the three groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

There are no differences regarding internal optical aberrations between these three IOLs when analyzing them with optical aberrometry. Patients’ pupil size should be considered for the selection of the most appropriate IOL to be implanted, because despite a same optical platform, every IOL implies a different increase of HOA with larger pupil sizes.