bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A More Intuitive Formula for the PEG Ratio
Authors: Chan Leo H.
Published: March 2023

This paper derives a new formula for the price-earnings growth (PEG) ratio, utilizing the insight from Mario Farina’s original equation and Peter Lynch’s assertion that for a stock to be fairly-valued, the PEG and earnings growth rate has to be the same. After deriving the new formula, I demonstrate how the new formula connects with the existing formulas and P/E Ratio. The new formula allows for more flexibility on growth rate assumptions for both earnings and price, is more intuitive, is easier to implement, and can be used to make predictions about future price and earnings growth with current price and earnings. The new formula addresses some of the concerns regarding the usefulness of the PEG Ratio.
Rheumatic Diseases Development in Patients Treated by Anti-PD1 Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Single-Centre Descriptive Study
Authors: Ceccarelli Fulvia , Natalucci Francesco , Picciariello Licia , Olivieri Giulio , Cirillo Alessio , Gelibter Alain , Picone Vincenzo , Botticelli Andrea , Conti Fabrizio
Published: March 2023

The introduction of the so-called immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) substantially changed the history of cancer therapy. On the other hand, they can induce the development of rheumatic immune-related adverse events (Rh-irAEs). In the scenario of a joint oncology/rheumatology outpatient clinic, we conducted a single-centre descriptive study to define from a laboratory, clinical and therapeutic point of view, rheumatic conditions developed during anti-PD1 treatment. The study included 32 patients (M/F 16/16, median age 69, IQR 16.5). According to the international classification criteria, eight patients could be classified as affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis, one by Psoriatic Arthritis, six by Polymyalgia Rheumatica, five by systemic connective tissue diseases (two systemic lupus erythematosus, two Sjögren’s syndrome, one undifferentiated connective tissue disease). The remaining patients were diagnosed as having undifferentiated arthritis or inflammatory arthralgia. The median interval between ICIs starting and the onset of symptoms was 14 weeks (IQR 19.75). Moving to treatment, the longitudinal observation revealed that all RA, PsA and CTD patients required the introduction of treatment with DMARDs. In conclusion, the growing use of ICIs in a real-life setting confirmed the possible development of different rheumatological conditions, further emphasising the need for shared oncology/rheumatology management.
Bone-Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Attenuate Behavioral and Cognitive Dysfunction after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage via HMGB1–RAGE Axis Mediation
Authors: Jung Harry , Youn Dong Hyuk , Park Jeong Jin , Jeon Jin Pyeong
Published: March 2023

We evaluated the therapeutic effects of bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on behavioral and cognitive function in a mouse model of mild subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and explored the underlying mechanisms in conjunction with the HMGB1–RAGE axis. The SAH models were generated in a total of 126 male C57BL/6J mice via endovascular perforation and evaluated 24 h and 72 h after the intravenous administration of BMSCs (3 × 105 cells). The BMSCs were administered once, at 3 h, or twice, at 3 h and 48 h after the model induction. The therapeutic effects of the BMSCs were compared to those of the saline administration. Compared to saline-treated SAH-model mice, at 3 h, the mice with mild SAH treated with the BMSCs showed significant improvements in their neurological scores and cerebral edema. The administration of the BMSCs decreased the mRNA expression of HMGB1, RAGE, TLR4, and MyD88, as well as the protein expression of HMGB1 and phosphorylated NF-kB p65. Furthermore, the numbers of slips per walking time, impairments in short-term memory, and the recognition of novel objects were improved. There was some improvement in inflammatory-marker levels and cognitive function according to the BMSCs’ administration times, but no large differences were seen. The administration of BMSCs improved behavioral and cognitive dysfunction by ameliorating HMGB1–RAGE axis-mediated neuroinflammation after SAH.
MMP2 rs243866 and rs2285053 Polymorphisms and Alzheimer’s Disease Risk in Slovak Caucasian Population
Authors: Ocenasova Agata , Shawkatova Ivana , Javor Juraj , Parnicka Zuzana , Minarik Gabriel , Kralova Maria , Kiralyova Iliana , Mikolaskova Iveta , Durmanova Vladimira
Published: March 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative disorder characterised by progressive loss of memory. In the AD brain, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in the disruption of the blood-brain barrier resulting in a neuroinflammatory response. The objective of our investigation was to assess the association of MMP2 rs243866 and rs2285053 polymorphisms with susceptibility to AD, to assess the interaction of MMP2 variants with APOE ε4 risk allele, and to evaluate their influence on the age at disease onset and MoCA score. A total of 215 late-onset AD patients and 373 control subjects from Slovakia were genotyped for MMP2 rs243866 and rs2285053 polymorphisms. The MMP2 association with AD risk and clinical parameters was evaluated by logistic and linear regression analyses. No statistically significant differences in either MMP2 rs243866 and rs2285053 allele or genotype frequencies between AD patients and the control group have been observed (p > 0.05). However, the correlation with clinical findings revealed a higher age at disease onset in MMP2 rs243866 GG carriers in the dominant model as compared to other MMP2 genotype carriers (p = 0.024). Our results suggest that MMP2 rs243866 promoter polymorphism may have an impact on the age at AD onset in the patients.
Long-Term Multimodal Imaging Analysis of Selective Retina Therapy Laser Lesions
Authors: Binter Maximilian , Lindziute Migle , Rosenstein Christopher , Framme Carsten , Tode Jan
Published: March 2023

This study evaluates the long-term effects of selective retina therapy (SRT) on the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and neuroretina in patients with central serous chorioretinopathy. SRT was performed on 36 patients using a Nd:YLF-Laser at 527 nm (R:GEN®, Lutronic, Goyang-Si, Republic of Korea). A total of 994 titration spots were examined using up to three years’ multimodal imaging. Leakage in fluorescein angiography (FA) was observed after SRT in 523 lesions and resolved after one month. SRT lesions were not visible clinically, but appeared as brightly reflective areas in infrared and multicolor images. Normal morphology was observed in optical coherence tomography (OCT) immediately after SRT. After one month, thickening of the RPE and interdigitation zone changes were seen and disappeared after 539 ± 308 days. No RPE atrophies occurred during the observation period. Decreased fundus autofluorescence (FAF) was mostly observed directly after SRT followed by increased FAF at one month, which faded over time. A significant decrease in the number of visible lesions in the FA and FAF was observed within the three-year follow-up. OCT findings are consistent with animal studies showing SRT-related defect closure by hypertrophy and migration of neighboring cells without RPE atrophy or photoreceptor damage. This suggests that SRT is a safe treatment option for macular diseases and does not lead to retinal atrophy.
Towards Non-Invasive Intravital Microscopy: Advantages of Using the Ear Lobe Instead of the Cremaster Muscle
Authors: Mota-Silva Iara , Castanho Miguel A. R. B. , Silva-Herdade Ana Santos
Published: March 2023

Inflammation is essential in the protection of the organism and wound repair, but in cases of chronic inflammation can also cause microvasculature deterioration. Thus, inflammation monitorization studies are important to test potential therapeutics. The intravital microscopy (IVM) technique monitors leukocyte trafficking in vivo, being a commonly used procedure to report systemic conditions. Although the cremaster muscle, an established protocol for IVM, may affect the hemodynamics because of its surgical preparation, only male animals are used, and longitudinal studies over time are not feasible. Thinking how this impacts future studies, our aim is to understand if the IVM technique can be successfully performed using the ear lobe instead of the cremaster muscle. Elevated IL-1β plasmatic concentrations confirmed the systemic inflammation developed in a diabetic animal model, while the elevated number of adherent and rolling leukocytes in the ear lobe allowed for the same conclusion. Thus, this study demonstrates that albeit its thickness, the ear lobe protocol for IVM is efficient, non-invasive, more reliable, cost-effective and timesaving.
Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Esophageal Cancer: Current and Future
Authors: Okubo Yuki , Ishihara Ryu
Published: March 2023

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been widely used to treat superficial esophageal cancer. The advantages of esophageal ESD include a high en bloc resection rate and accurate pathological diagnosis. It enables local resection of the primary tumor and accurate identification of the risk factors for lymph node metastasis, including depth, vascular invasion, and types of invasion. Even in cases with clinical T1b-SM cancer, ESD and additional treatment can achieve radical cure, depending on the risk of lymph node metastasis. Esophageal ESD will be increasingly vital in minimally invasive and effective esophageal cancer treatment. This article describes the current status and prospects of esophageal ESD.
Nanoindentation and Structural Analysis of Sintered TiAl(100−x)-xTaN Composites at Room Temperature
Authors: Babalola Bukola Joseph , Ayodele Olusoji Oluremi , Olubambi Peter Apata
Published: March 2023

The nanohardness, elastic modulus, anti-wear, and deformability characteristics of TiAl(100−x)-xTaN composites containing 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 wt.% of TaN were investigated via nanoindentation technique in the present study. The TiAl(100−x)-xTaN composites were successfully fabricated via the spark plasma sintering technique (SPS). The microstructure and phase formation of the TiAl sample constitute a duplex structure of γ and lamellar colonies, and TiAl2, α-Ti, and TiAl phases, respectively. The addition of TaN results in a complex phase formation and pseudo duplex structure. The depth-sensing indentation evaluation of properties was carried out at an ambient temperature through a Berkovich indenter at a prescribed load of 100 mN and a holding time of 10 s. The nanoindentation result showed that the nanohardness and elastic modulus characteristics increased as the TaN addition increased but exhibited a slight drop when the reinforcement was beyond 8 wt.%. At increasing TaN addition, the yield strain (HEr), yield pressure (H3Er2), and elastic recovery index (WeWt) increased, while the plasticity index (WpWt) and the ratio of plastic and elastic work (RPE) reduced. The best mechanical properties were attained at the 8 wt.%TaN addition.
Growth of Hybrid Perovskite Crystals from CH3NH3PbI3–xClx Solutions Subjected to Constant Solvent Evaporation Rates
Authors: Petrovai Ioan , Todor-Boer Otto , David Leontin , Botiz Ioan
Published: March 2023

In this work, we subjected hybrid lead-mixed halide perovskite (CH3NH3PbI3–xClx) precursor inks to different solvent evaporation rates in order to facilitate the nucleation and growth of perovskite crystals. By controlling the temperature of perovskite solutions placed within open-air rings in precise volumes, we established control over the rate of solvent evaporation and, thus, over both the growth rate and the shape of perovskite crystals. Direct utilization of diluted lead-mixed halide perovskites solutions allowed us to control the nucleation and to favor the growth of only a low number of perovskite crystals. Such crystals exhibited a clear sixfold symmetry. While crystals formed at a lower range of temperatures (40–60 °C) exhibited a more compact dendritic shape, the crystals grown at a higher temperature range (80–110 °C) displayed a fractal dendritic morphology.
Plasmonic Perfect Absorber Utilizing Polyhexamethylene Biguanide Polymer for Carbon Dioxide Gas Sensing Application
Authors: Irfan Muhammad , Khan Yousuf , Rehman Atiq Ur , Ullah Naqeeb , Khonina Svetlana N. , Kazanskiy Nikolay L. , Butt Muhammad A.
Published: March 2023

In this paper a perfect absorber with a photonic crystal cavity (PhC-cavity) is numerically investigated for carbon dioxide (CO2) gas sensing application. Metallic structures in the form of silver are introduced for harnessing plasmonic effects to achieve perfect absorption. The sensor comprises a PhC-cavity, silver (Ag) stripes, and a host functional material—Polyhexamethylene biguanide polymer—deposited on the surface of the sensor. The PhC-cavity is implemented within the middle of the cell, helping to penetrate the EM waves into the sublayers of the structure. Therefore, corresponding to the concentration of the CO2 gas, as it increases, the refractive index of the host material decreases, causing a blue shift in the resonant wavelength and vice versa of the device. The sensor is used for the detection of 0–524 parts per million (ppm) concentration of the CO2 gas, with a maximum sensitivity of 17.32 pm (pico meter)/ppm achieved for a concentration of 366 ppm with a figure of merit (FOM) of 2.9 RIU−1. The four-layer device presents a straightforward and compact design that can be adopted in various sensing applications by using suitable host functional materials.
Volume Deformation and Hydration Behavior of Ordinary Portland Cement/Calcium Sulfoaluminate Cement Blends
Authors: Ji Guangxiang , Ali Hafiz Asad , Sun Keke , Xuan Dongxing , Peng Xiaoqin , Li Jingjun
Published: March 2023

Blends of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cement can be used to adjust the properties of cement for specific applications. In this study, CSA cement was used as a shrinkage-compensating admixture to improve the hydration behavior and performance (compressive strength and drying shrinkage) of OPC; the expansion behavior of the blended cement mortar was evaluate based on the saturation index of ettringite. The experimental results showed that incorporating CSA cement resulted in a delayed effect on the hydration of C3S, shortened the induction periods of the blended cement and decreased the setting time. The CSA cement also improved the early compressive strength and drying shrinkage of the OPC due to its compact microstructure. The drying shrinkage of the OPC mortar decreased by 27.8% when 6% CSA cement was used, but the formation of microcracks due to expansion could negatively impact its late compressive strength development and associated pore structures of the blends when the replacement content of CSA cement exceeded 6 wt.%. The results relevant to the expansion behavior of the CSA cements could induce crystallization stress, enhancing its resistance against shrinkage cracking.
Processing Optimization of Shear Thickening Fluid Assisted Micro-Ultrasonic Machining Method for Hemispherical Mold Based on Integrated CatBoost-GA Model
Authors: Yin Jiateng , Zhao Jun , Song Fengqi , Xu Xinqiang , Lan Yeshen
Published: March 2023

Micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) hemispherical resonant gyroscopes are used in a wide range of applications in defense technology, electronics, aerospace, etc. The surface roughness of the silicon micro-hemisphere concave molds (CMs) inside the MEMS hemispherical resonant gyroscope is the main factor affecting the performance of the gyroscope. Therefore, a new method for reducing the surface roughness of the micro-CM needs to be developed. Micro-ultrasonic machining (MUM) has proven to be an excellent method for machining micro-CMs; shear thickening fluids (STFs) have also been used in the ultra-precision polishing field due to their perfect processing performance. Ultimately, an STF-MUM polishing method that combines STF with MUM is proposed to improve the surface roughness of the micro-CM. In order to achieve the excellent processing performance of the new technology, a Categorical Boosting (CatBoost)-genetic algorithm (GA) optimization model was developed to optimize the processing parameters. The results of optimizing the processing parameters via the CatBoost-GA model were verified by five groups of independent repeated experiments. The maximum absolute error of CatBoost-GA is 7.21%, the average absolute error is 4.69%, and the minimum surface roughness is reduced by 28.72% compared to the minimum value of the experimental results without optimization.
Fracturing Behaviors and Mechanism of Serial Coal Pillar Specimens with Different Strength
Authors: Song Cheng , Cao Guangming , Bai Jinwen , Wang Shanyong , Feng Guorui , Shi Xudong , Wang Kai , Zhu Chun
Published: March 2023

The fracturing behaviors of serial coal pillars is significant for understanding their failure mechanism. To reveal this, the bearing stress, acoustic emission, electrical resistivity, local strain, force chain distribution, and cracks evolution of serial coal pillars under uniaxial compression were evaluated by experiment and numerical simulation. The results show that four bearing stages are observed during the fracturing process (i.e., nonlinear growth, linear growth, yielding growth, and weakening stages). The acoustic emission features, electrical resistivity responses, strain develops, force chain distributions, cracks evolutions, and local displacement are highly consistent to illustrate the fracturing behaviors. System fracturing of serial coal pillar specimens is appeared along with the collapse of lower uniaxial compressive strength coal pillar specimen. The limit bearing capacity of serial coal pillar specimens is almost equal to the strength of lower uniaxial compressive strength coal pillar specimen. The unbalanced deformation characteristics of serial coal pillar specimens are presented due to the strength differences. The evolution of the key deformation element is the rooted reason for the overall fracturing mechanism of serial coal pillar specimens. For serial coal pillar specimens with different strengths, the critical condition of system fracturing is that the sum of secant modulus of upper and bottom coal pillars is zero, which is expected to predict the system fracturing of serial pillars in the underground coal mining.
Microbial Recycling of Bioplastics via Mixed-Culture Fermentation of Hydrolyzed Polyhydroxyalkanoates into Carboxylates
Authors: Jin Yong , de Leeuw Kasper D. , Strik David P. B. T. B.
Published: March 2023

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) polymers are emerging within biobased biodegradable plastic products. To build a circular economy, effective recycling routes should be established for these and other end-of-life bioplastics. This study presents the first steps of a potential PHA recycling route by fermenting hydrolyzed PHA-based bioplastics (Tianan ENMATTM Y1000P; PHBV (poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate)) into carboxylates acetate and butyrate. First, three different hydrolysis pretreatment methods under acid, base, and neutral pH conditions were tested. The highest 10% (from 158.8 g COD/L to 16.3 g COD/L) of hydrolysate yield was obtained with the alkaline pretreatment. After filtration to remove the remaining solid materials, 4 g COD/L of the hydrolyzed PHA was used as the substrate with the addition of microbial nutrients for mixed culture fermentation. Due to microbial conversion, 1.71 g/L acetate and 1.20 g/L butyrate were produced. An apparent complete bioconversion from intermediates such as 3-hydroxybutyrate (3-HB) and/or crotonate into carboxylates was found. The overall yields of the combined processes were calculated as 0.07 g acetate/g PHA and 0.049 g butyrate/g PHA. These produced carboxylates can theoretically be used to reproduce PHA or serve many other applications as part of the so-called carboxylate platform.
Effect of Si on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of FeCrNi Medium Entropy Alloys
Authors: Ding Fang , Cao Yuankui , Fu Ao , Wang Jian , Zhang Weidong , Qiu Jingwen , Liu Bin
Published: March 2023

FeCrNi medium entropy alloy (MEA) has been widely regarded for its excellent mechanical properties and corrosion resistance. However, insufficient strength limits its industrial application. Intermetallic particle dispersion strengthening is considered to be an effective method to improve strength, which is expected to solve this problem. In this work, microstructural evolution and mechanical behavior of FeCrNi MEA with different Si content were investigated. We found that the precipitation of fine σ particles can be formed in situ by thermomechanical treatment of Si doping FeCrNi MEAs. The FeCrNiSi0.15 MEA exhibits a good combination of strength and ductility, with yield strength and tensile elongation of 1050 MPa and 7.84%, respectively. The yield strength is almost five times that of the as-cast FeCrNi MEA. The strength enhancement is mainly attributed to the grain-boundary strengthening and precipitation strengthening caused by fine σ particles.
Memristor Cellular Nonlinear Networks
Authors: Slavova Angela , Ignatov Ventsislav
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a review of the theory and applications of memristor cellular nonlinear networks. By mapping the physical processes to the memristive framework, all resistive switching devices can be modeled. The idea is to find a state variable that presents with high accuracy the important features of the system, its dynamics, and time evolution in response to the inputs of the memristor. In order to develop a new design of memristor-based cellular nonlinear networks (MCNN), new circuital and mathematical memristor models need to be introduced. In this way, implementation into new software packages for computer-aided integrated circuit realization can be achieved. Another challenging problem is studying the complex behavior of MCNN models by means of local activity theory and generalizing it for various test cases. An application of the hardware implementation of these models can be found in nanostructures.
Multi-Task Learning Approach Using Dynamic Hyperparameter for Multi-Exposure Fusion
Authors: Im Chan-Gi , Son Dong-Min , Kwon Hyuk-Ju , Lee Sung-Hak
Published: March 2023

High-dynamic-range (HDR) image synthesis is a technology developed to accurately reproduce the actual scene of an image on a display by extending the dynamic range of an image. Multi-exposure fusion (MEF) technology, which synthesizes multiple low-dynamic-range (LDR) images to create an HDR image, has been developed in various ways including pixel-based, patch-based, and deep learning-based methods. Recently, methods to improve the synthesis quality of images using deep-learning-based algorithms have mainly been studied in the field of MEF. Despite the various advantages of deep learning, deep-learning-based methods have a problem in that numerous multi-exposed and ground-truth images are required for training. In this study, we propose a self-supervised learning method that generates and learns reference images based on input images during the training process. In addition, we propose a method to train a deep learning model for an MEF with multiple tasks using dynamic hyperparameters on the loss functions. It enables effective network optimization across multiple tasks and high-quality image synthesis while preserving a simple network architecture. Our learning method applied to the deep learning model shows superior synthesis results compared to other existing deep-learning-based image synthesis algorithms.
Resonance Analysis of Horizontal Nonlinear Vibrations of Roll Systems for Cold Rolling Mills under Double-Frequency Excitations
Authors: Jiang Li , Wang Tao , Huang Qing-Xue
Published: March 2023

In this paper, the fractional order differential terms are introduced into a horizontal nonlinear dynamics model of a cold mill roller system. The resonance characteristics of the roller system under high-frequency and low-frequency excitation signals are investigated. Firstly, the dynamical equation of the roller system with a fractional order is established by replacing the normal damping term with a fractional damping term. Secondly, the fast-slow variable separation method is introduced to solve the dynamical equation. The amplitude frequency response characteristics of the system are analyzed. The study finds that there are three equilibrium points. The characteristics of the three equilibrium points and the critical forces causing the bifurcation are investigated. Due to the different orders of the fractional derivatives, various new resonant phenomena are found in the systems with single-well and double-well potentials. Additionally, the double resonance occurs while p = 0.3 or 1.0, and single resonance occurs while p = 1.8. Unlike integer order systems, the critical resonance amplitude of high-frequency signals in fractional order systems depends on the damping strength and is influenced by the fractional order damping. This study provides a broader picture of the vibration characteristics of the roll system for rolling mills.
Structures of Critical Nontree Graphs with Cutwidth Four
Authors: Zhang Zhenkun , Lai Hongjian
Published: March 2023

The cutwidth of a graph G is the smallest integer k (k≥1) such that the vertices of G are arranged in a linear layout [v1,v2,...,vn], in such a way that for each i=1,2,...,n−1, there are at most k edges with one endpoint in {v1,v2,...,vi} and the other in {vi+1,...,vn}. The cutwidth problem for G is to determine the cutwidth k of G. A graph G with cutwidth k is k-cutwidth critical if every proper subgraph of G has a cutwidth less than k and G is homeomorphically minimal. In this paper, except five irregular graphs, other 4-cutwidth critical graphs were resonably classified into two classes, which are graph class with a central vertex v0, and graph class with a central cycle Cq of length q≤6, respectively, and any member of two graph classes can skillfuly achieve a subgraph decomposition S with cardinality 2, 3 or 4, where each member of S is either a 2-cutwith graph or a 3-cutwidth graph.
Changes in the Global Epidemiology of Type 1 Diabetes in an Evolving Landscape of Environmental Factors: Causes, Challenges, and Opportunities
Authors: Ogrotis Ioannis , Koufakis Theocharis , Kotsa Kalliopi
Published: March 2023

The worldwide incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) has increased in recent decades. The reasons behind this phenomenon are not yet fully understood. Early life infections, prenatal and perinatal factors, and diet composition have been associated with the triggering of autoimmunity and the risk of presentation of T1DM. However, the rapid increase in new cases of the disease raises the hypothesis that lifestyle factors, which have traditionally been associated with type 2 diabetes, such as obesity and unhealthy eating patterns could also play a role in the genesis of autoimmune diabetes. This article aims to highlight the changing epidemiology of T1DM and the importance of properly recognizing the environmental factors behind it, as well as the connections with the pathogenesis of the disorder and the need to prevent or delay T1DM and its long-term complications.
In Situ Incorporation of TiO2@Graphene Oxide (GO) Nanosheets in Polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-Based Membranes Matrix for Ultrafast Protein Separation
Authors: Zhou Wei , Liu Qiao , Xu Nong , Wang Qing , Fan Long , Dong Qiang
Published: March 2023

Organic polymeric ultrafiltration (UF) membranes have been widely used in protein separation due to their advantages of high flux and simple manufacturing process. However, due to the hydrophobic nature of the polymer, pure polymeric UF membranes need to be modified or hybrid to increase their flux and anti-fouling performance. In this work, tetrabutyl titanate (TBT) and graphene oxide (GO) were simultaneously added to the polyacrylonitrile (PAN) casting solution to prepare a TiO2@GO/PAN hybrid ultrafiltration membrane using a non-solvent induced phase separation (NIPS). During the phase separation process, TBT underwent a sol–gel reaction to generate hydrophilic TiO2 nanoparticles in situ. Some of the generated TiO2 nanoparticles reacted with the GO through a chelation interaction to form TiO2@GO nanocomposites. The resulting TiO2@GO nanocomposites had higher hydrophilicity than the GO. They could selectively segregate towards the membrane surface and pore walls through the solvent and non-solvent exchange during the NIPS, significantly improving the membrane’s hydrophilicity. The remaining TiO2 nanoparticles were segregated from the membrane matrix to increase the membrane’s porosity. Furthermore, the interaction between the GO and TiO2 also restricted the excessive segregation of the TiO2 nanoparticles and reduced their losing. The resulting TiO2@GO/PAN membrane had a water flux of 1487.6 L·m−2·h−1 and a bovine serum albumin (BSA) rejection rate of 99.5%, which were much higher than those of the currently available UF membranes. It also exhibited excellent anti-protein fouling performance. Therefore, the prepared TiO2@GO/PAN membrane has important practical applications in the field of protein separation.
Innovative Membrane Technologies for the Treatment of Wastewater Polluted with Heavy Metals: Perspective of the Potential of Electrodialysis, Membrane Distillation, and Forward Osmosis from a Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Carmona Benjamín , Abejón Ricardo
Published: March 2023

A bibliometric analysis, using the Scopus database as a source, was carried out in order to study the scientific documents published up to 2021 regarding the use of electrodialysis, membrane distillation, and forward osmosis for the removal of heavy metals from wastewater. A total of 362 documents that fulfilled the search criteria were found, and the results from the corresponding analysis revealed that the number of documents greatly increased after the year 2010, although the first document was published in 1956. The exponential evolution of the scientific production related to these innovative membrane technologies confirmed an increasing interest from the scientific community. The most prolific country was Denmark, which contributed 19.3% of the published documents, followed by the two main current scientific superpowers: China and the USA (with 17.4% and 7.5% contributions, respectively). Environmental Science was the most common subject (55.0% of contributions), followed by Chemical Engineering (37.3% of contributions) and Chemistry (36.5% of contribution). The prevalence of electrodialysis over the other two technologies was clear in terms of relative frequency of the keywords. An analysis of the main hot topics identified the main advantages and drawbacks of each technology, and revealed that examples of their successful implementation beyond the lab scale are still scarce. Therefore, complete techno-economic evaluation of the treatment of wastewater polluted with heavy metals via these innovative membrane technologies must be encouraged.
Molecular Rearrangements in Protomembrane Models Probed by Laurdan Fluorescence
Authors: Misuraca Loreto , Winter Roland , Demé Bruno , Oger Philippe M. , Peters Judith
Published: March 2023

Lipid membranes are a key component of living systems and have been essential to the origin of life. One hypothesis for the origin of life assumes the existence of protomembranes with ancient lipids formed by Fischer–Tropsch synthesis. We determined the mesophase structure and fluidity of a prototypical decanoic (capric) acid-based system, a fatty acid with a chain length of 10 carbons, and a lipid system consisting of a 1:1 mixture of capric acid with a fatty alcohol of equal chain length (C10 mix). To shed light on the mesophase behavior and fluidity of these prebiotic model membranes, we employed Laurdan fluorescence spectroscopy, which reports on the lipid packing and fluidity of membranes, supplemented by small-angle neutron diffraction data. The data are compared with data of the corresponding phospholipid bilayer systems of the same chain length, 1,2-didecanoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DLPC). We demonstrate that the prebiotic model membranes capric acid and the C10 mix show formation of stable vesicular structures needed for cellular compartmentalization at low temperatures only, typically below 20 °C. They reveal the fluid-like lipid dynamic properties needed for optimal physiological function. High temperatures lead to the destabilization of the lipid vesicles and the formation of micellar structures.
Electrolyte Solvation Structure Manipulation and Synthetic Optimization for Enhanced Potassium Storage of Tin Phosphide/Carbon Alloy-Based Electrode
Authors: Feng Zhen , Chen Ruoxuan , Huang Rui , Zhang Fangli , Liu Weizhen , Liu Sailin
Published: March 2023

Phosphorus-based materials are considered to be reliable anode materials for potassium ion batteries (PIBs) due to their high theoretical capacity but suffer from inferior cycling stability and an unstable Solid Electrolyte Interface (SEI) layer. Herein, optimized ball-milled parameters and concentrated electrolytes are introduced to enhance the electrochemical performance of Sn4P3/C anodes. Consequently, the electrodes synthesized under optimized ball milling parameters could deliver a reversible capacity of 307.8 mA h g−1 in diluted Potassium hexafluorophosphate (KPF6) electrolyte. Moreover, compared with diluted bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (KFSI) electrolyte, a robust inorganic KF-rich SEI layer can be formed on the electrode’s surface by employing concentrated KFSI electrolyte and provides more rapid K ion conduction rates. Meanwhile, a large proportion of the FSI− anions participated in the K+ solvation shell when the KFSI concentration increased. As a result, high specific capacities (225.1 mA h g−1 at 50 mA g−1 after 200 cycles) and excellent Coulombic efficiency (97.24% at 500 mA g−1 after 200 cycles) can be achieved. This work may deepen our understanding of synthetic optimization in electrode material design and the role of concentrated electrolyte in tunning the solvation structure, and also offer an insightful clue to the design of high-capacity phosphorus-based anodes.
Enhancing the Physical, Thermal, and Mechanical Responses of a Mg/2wt.%CeO2 Nanocomposite Using Deep Cryogenic Treatment
Authors: Gupta Shwetabh , Parande Gururaj , Tun Khin Sandar , Gupta Manoj
Published: March 2023

Deep cryogenic treatment has shown promise as a facile method of increasing the characteristics of many materials including alloys of iron, aluminum, and magnesium. However, there have not been any prior studies on its effect on the microstructure and thermal and mechanical properties of magnesium-based nanocomposites. In this study, a Mg/2wt.%CeO2 nanocomposite was processed using disintegrated melt deposition processing coupled with hot extrusion, followed by cryogenic treatment in liquid nitrogen for 24 h. The characterization results show increases in density (reduction in porosity), ignition temperature, compressive yield strength, compressive ductility, and microhardness. This study, for the first time, shows the significant relevance of deep cryogenic treatment in enhancing an array of properties of a magnesium-based nanocomposite that may be catalytic in improving its application spectrum.
Acute Fluid Intake Impacts Assessment of Body Composition via Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis. A Randomized, Controlled Crossover Pilot Trial
Authors: Schierbauer Janis , Günther Svenja , Haupt Sandra , Zimmer Rebecca T. , Herz Daniel , Voit Thomas , Zimmermann Paul , Wachsmuth Nadine B. , Aberer Felix , Moser Othmar
Published: March 2023

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) has proven to be particularly useful due to its inexpensive and rapid assessment of total body water and body density. However, recent fluid intake may confound BIA results since equilibration of fluid between intra- and extracellular spaces may take several hours and furthermore, ingested fluids may not be fully absorbed. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the impact of different fluid compositions on the BIA. A total of eighteen healthy individuals (10 females, mean ± SD age of 23.1 ± 1.8 years) performed a baseline measurement of body composition before they consumed isotonic 0.9% sodium-chloride (ISO), 5% glucose (GLU) or Ringer (RIN) solutions. During the visit of the control arm (CON), no fluid was consumed. Further impedance analyses were conducted every 10 min after the fluid consumption for 120 min. We found statistically significant interactions between the effects of solution ingestion and time for intra- (ICW, p < 0.01) and extracellular water (ECW, p < 0.0001), skeletal muscle mass (SMM, p < 0.001) and body fat mass (FM, p < 0.01), respectively. Simple main effects analysis showed that time had a statistically significant effect on changes in ICW (p < 0.01), ECW (p < 0.01), SMM (p < 0.01) and FM (p < 0.01), while fluid intake did not have a significant effect. Our results highlight the importance of a standardized pre-measurement nutrition, with particular attention to hydration status when using a BIA for the evaluation of body composition.
Enhanced Carotid Plaque Echolucency Is Associated with Reduced Cognitive Performance in Elderly Patients with Atherosclerotic Disease Independently on Metabolic Profile
Authors: Mastroiacovo Daniela , Mengozzi Alessandro , Dentali Francesco , Pomero Fulvio , Virdis Agostino , Camerota Antonio , Muselli Mario , Necozione Stefano , Bocale Raffaella , Ferri Claudio , Desideri Giovambattista
Published: March 2023

Vulnerable carotid atherosclerotic plaques are related to an increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia in advanced age. In this study, we investigated the relationship between the echogenicity of carotid plaques and cognitive performance in patients with asymptomatic carotid atherosclerotic plaques. We enrolled 113 patients aged 65 years or more (72.4 ± 5.9 years) who underwent carotid duplex ultrasound to evaluate plaque echogenicity by grey-scale median (GSM) and neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive function. The GSM values at baseline were inversely correlated with the number of seconds required to complete Trail Makin Test (TMT) A (rho: −0.442; p < 0.0001), TMT B (rho: −0.460; p < 0.0001) and TMT B-A (rho: −0.333; p < 0.0001) and directly correlated with Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Verbal Fluency Test (VFT) score (rho: 0.217; p = 0.021 and rho: 0.375; p < 0.0001, respectively) and the composite cognitive z-score (rho: 0.464; p < 0.0001). After a mean period of 3.5 ± 0.5 years, 55 patients were reevaluated according to the same baseline study protocol. Patients with baseline GSM value higher than the median value of 29 did not show any significant variation in the z-score. Instead, those with GSM ≤ 29 showed a significant worsening of z-score (−1.2; p = 0.0258). In conclusion, this study demonstrates the existence of an inverse relationship between the echolucency of carotid plaques and cognitive function in elderly patients with atherosclerotic carotid disease. These data suggest that the assessment of plaque echogenicity if used appropriately, might aid in identifying subjects at increased risk for cognitive dysfunction.
Application of HR-NMR for the Metabolic Kinetic Assessment of Red Mullet (Mullus barbatus) and Bogue (Boops boops) Samples during Different Temperature Storage
Authors: Ciampa Alessandra , Picone Gianfranco
Published: March 2023

Fish freshness and quality can be measured through several indices that can be both chemical and physical. The storage temperature and the time that elapses following the catching of the fish are fundamental parameters that define and influence both the degree of freshness and nutritional quality. Moreover, they particularly effect the kind of fish we considered. In this research, it was observed how different temperatures of storage and shelf-life (+4 °C and 0 °C) may affect the metabolic profile of red mullet (Mullus barbatus) and bogue (Boops boops) fish samples over time, specifically observing the alteration of freshness and quality. In particular, a High-Resolution Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (HR-NMR)-based metabolomics approach was applied to study the metabolic profile changes that occur in fish spoilage. The HR-NMR spectroscopy data were useful for calculating a kinetic model that was able to predict the evolution of different compounds related to fish freshness, such as trimethylamine (TMA-N) and adenosine-5′-triphosphate (ATP) catabolites for the K-index. Furthermore, NMR in combination with chemometrics allowed us to estimate a further kinetic model able to represent the spoilage evolution by considering the entire metabolome. In this way, it was also possible to detect further biomarkers characterizing the freshness and quality status of both red mullets and bogues.
A Simple Family of Tropical Cyclone Models
Authors: Schubert Wayne , Taft Richard , Slocum Christopher
Published: March 2023

This review discusses a simple family of models capable of simulating tropical cyclone life cycles, including intensification, the formation of the axisymmetric version of boundary layer shocks, and the development of an eyewall. Four models are discussed, all of which are axisymmetric, f-plane, three-layer models. All four models have the same parameterizations of convective mass flux and air–sea interaction, but differ in their formulations of the radial and tangential equations of motion, i.e., they have different dry dynamical cores. The most complete model is the primitive equation (PE) model, which uses the unapproximated momentum equations for each of the three layers. The simplest is the gradient balanced (GB) model, which replaces the three radial momentum equations with gradient balance relations and replaces the boundary layer tangential wind equation with a diagnostic equation that is essentially a high Rossby number version of the local Ekman balance. Numerical integrations of the boundary layer equations confirm that the PE model can produce boundary layer shocks, while the GB model cannot. To better understand these differences in GB and PE dynamics, we also consider two hybrid balanced models (HB1 and HB2), which differ from GB only in their treatment of the boundary layer momentum equations. Because their boundary layer dynamics is more accurate than GB, both HB1 and HB2 can produce results more similar to the PE model, if they are solved in an appropriate manner.
Electrochemical Redox Cycling Behavior of Gold Nanoring Electrodes Microfabricated on a Silicon Micropillar
Authors: Yin Haocheng , Tan Chao , Siddiqui Shabnam , Arumugam Prabhu U.
Published: March 2023

We report the microfabrication and characterization of concentric gold nanoring electrodes (Au NREs), which were fabricated by patterning two gold nanoelectrodes on the same silicon (Si) micropillar tip. Au NREs of 165 ± 10 nm in width were micropatterned on a 6.5 ± 0.2 µm diameter 80 ± 0.5 µm height Si micropillar with an intervening ~ 100 nm thick hafnium oxide insulating layer between the two nanoelectrodes. Excellent cylindricality of the micropillar with vertical sidewalls as well as a completely intact layer of a concentric Au NRE including the entire micropillar perimeter has been achieved as observed via scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy data. The electrochemical behavior of the Au NREs was characterized by steady-state cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The applicability of Au NREs to electrochemical sensing was demonstrated by redox cycling with the ferro/ferricyanide redox couple. The redox cycling amplified the currents by 1.63-fold with a collection efficiency of > 90% on a single collection cycle. The proposed micro-nanofabrication approach with further optimization studies shows great promise for the creation and expansion of concentric 3D NRE arrays with controllable width and nanometer spacing for electroanalytical research and applications such as single-cell analysis and advanced biological and neurochemical sensing.
Wireless High Temperature Sensing Chipless Tag Based on a Diamond Ring Resonator
Authors: Wang Bo , Li Youwei , Gu Tingting , Wang Ke
Published: March 2023

A passive wireless sensor is designed for real-time monitoring of a high temperature environment. The sensor is composed of a double diamond split rings resonant structure and an alumina ceramic substrate with a size of 23 × 23 × 0.5 mm3. The alumina ceramic substrate is selected as the temperature sensing material. The principle is that the permittivity of the alumina ceramic changes with the temperature and the resonant frequency of the sensor shifts accordingly. Its permittivity bridges the relation between the temperature and resonant frequency. Therefore, real time temperatures can be measured by monitoring the resonant frequency. The simulation results show that the designed sensor can monitor temperatures in the range 200~1000 °C corresponding to a resonant frequency of 6.79~6.49 GHz with shifting 300 MHz and a sensitivity of 0.375 MHz/°C, and demonstrate the quasi-linear relation between resonant frequency and temperature. The sensor has the advantages of wide temperature range, good sensitivity, low cost and small size, which gives it superiority in high temperature applications.
Calibrating a Handheld LIBS for Li Exploration in the Barroso–Alvão Aplite-Pegmatite Field, Northern Portugal: Textural Precautions and Procedures When Analyzing Spodumene and Petalite
Authors: Dias Filipa , Ribeiro Ricardo , Gonçalves Filipe , Lima Alexandre , Roda-Robles Encarnación , Martins Tânia
Published: March 2023

In pegmatites containing abundant petalite and spodumene, such as those from the Barroso–Alvão (BA) aplite-pegmatite field, calibrating a portable laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (pLIBS) equipment to identify and analyze these minerals may be challenging. Forty-nine samples of spodumene, petalite and spodumene + quartz were collected from 22 aplite-pegmatites from the BA field and sent for inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy analysis. One calibration for both spodumene and petalite has been proven to be impossible since almost all the LIBS intensity ratios, including for Li, overlapped on both minerals. Thus, three calibrations were developed: one qualitative to distinguish both minerals and two more quantitative, specifically made for each mineral. The first LIBS calibration only has Fe since it is the sole element with intensity ratios different enough to distinguish both minerals. Eleven calibration lines were created: Li, Al, Si, Be, Na, P, K, Mn, Fe, Rb and Cs; however, only the Li, Al, and Si have consistent errors below 20%. Thin sections were produced and observed with optical microscopy and cathodoluminescence (CL) to control the purity and mineral paragenesis of the samples. The petalite pellets were also controlled with cold CL since petalite crystals often present fine spodumene and quartz inclusions.