bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antipsychotic Use and Mortality in Persons with Alcohol-Related Dementia or Wernicke–Korsakoff Syndrome: A Nationwide Register Study in Finland
Authors: Palm Anniina , Talaslahti Tiina , Vataja Risto , Ginters Milena , Kautiainen Hannu , Elonheimo Henrik , Suvisaari Jaana , Lindberg Nina , Koponen Hannu
Published: June 2023

Background: Research on the use of psychotropic drugs in people with alcohol-related neurocognitive disorders is virtually nonexistent. We examined the prevalence of antipsychotic drug use and its effect on mortality among patients with Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) or alcohol-related dementia (ARD). Methods: In this nationwide register study, we collected data on the medication use and mortality of all persons aged ≥40 diagnosed with WKS (n = 1149) or ARD (n = 2432) between 1998 and 2015 in Finland. We calculated the prevalence of antipsychotic use within one year of diagnosis and the adjusted cumulative mortality of antipsychotic users versus non-users in relation to the age-, sex-, and calendar year-matched general population. Results: Of the WKS and ARD patients, 35.9% and 38.5%, respectively, purchased one or more antipsychotic drugs in the year following diagnosis. The adjusted cumulative mortality of the antipsychotic users was significantly lower than that of non-users in both the WKS and ARD groups, where the adjusted hazard ratios (95% CI) were 0.85 (0.72–0.99) and 0.73 (0.65–0.81), respectively. WKS and ARD patients using antipsychotics were less likely to die of alcohol-related causes than antipsychotic non-users, but the difference was significant only in the ARD group. Conclusions: This population-based study shows that antipsychotic use is common in patients with WKS or ARD. In contrast to other dementia studies, our results indicate that the mortality of antipsychotic users is significantly lower than that of non-users. The lower mortality could be explained by decreased alcohol use and better healthcare coverage in antipsychotic users.
The Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Human Papillomavirus-Positive Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma in a Single-Institution Cohort
Authors: Awawda Muhammad , Salman Saeed , Billan Salem
Published: June 2023

Background: Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a head and neck cancer more frequent among East Asian populations compared with Western populations. While much is known about human papillomavirus’s (HPV’s) role in oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), little is known about its prevalence and prognostic value in NPC. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of HPV in NPC treated with definitive radiotherapy at a single institution. Methods: A retrospective cohort analysis of patient’s medical records and HPV status treated for NPC in Rambam Health Care Campus (Rambam HCC). Immunohistochemical staining for p16 was used as a surrogate marker of HPV infection in the tumor cells. All specimens were stained and evaluated by pathologists at the referring center independently. Results: In total, 87 patients diagnosed with NPC were treated at Rambam HCC between 2005 and 2018. Seventy-four patients had accessible data on the disease’s clinical parameters and p16 status. In total, 10/74 (13.5%) had p16-positive staining in tumor cells; 75% were men and over 50% were smokers. The average age of diagnosis for the whole cohort was 48 years, being lower for p16-positive patients compared with p16-negative patients at 43 and 49 years old, respectively. A total of 84% of the patients had advanced disease of stage III and IV at presentation. Only 16% were diagnosed with stage I and II. Unlike the p16-negative group, the p16-positive group did not include any stage I or II disease. In univariate and multivariate analysis of overall survival rates, the age at diagnosis and the nodal spread status were the only statistically significant measures. P16 status was not found to be associated with survival. Conclusions: The HPV prevalence in NPC is nontrivial. p16-positive patients had significantly less nodal spread and tended to be younger. Both age and nodal status were significantly correlated with the survival, but P16 status was not prognostic. Further large-scale trials are needed to elucidate the role of HPV in NPC.
Biomaterial Material Applications in Postoperative Surgical Fields of Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty: A Comparative Study
Authors: Yu Tsung-Che , Huang Ting-Chieh , Chen Po-Yueh , Shih Chun-Che , Chang Wei-Wen
Published: June 2023

This retrospective study compared the effectiveness of different materials used in Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) for snoring or obstructive sleep apnea treatment, focusing on the impact on bleeding control, pain control, and healing ability. The study population comprised 213 patients who underwent UPPP at Wan-Fang Hospital between July 2018 and October 2022 divided into four groups based on the postoperative material used: No Material Use Group, Tissue Glue Group, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Group, and Polyglycolic Acid (PGA) Sheet Group. Results showed significant differences in operation time and intraoperative bleeding amount among the groups, with the Tissue Glue Group demonstrating the shortest operation time. While no significant differences in postoperative pain at 24 h were observed, PRP and PGA Sheet groups exhibited lower average pain scores in cases with higher pain levels. Postoperative complications and emergency room visits due to pain or bleeding varied among the groups, with the No Material Use Group having the highest incidence, although no statistical significance was achieved. This study provides insights into the potential benefits of using advanced materials in UPPP, guiding future research and clinical practice to improve patient care and outcomes.
Berth Allocation Considering Multiple Quays: A Practical Approach Using Cuckoo Search Optimization
Authors: Aslam Sheraz , Michaelides Michalis P. , Herodotou Herodotos
Published: June 2023

Maritime container terminals (MCTs) play a fundamental role in international maritime trade, handling inbound, outbound, and transshipped containers. The increasing number of ships and containers creates several challenges to MCTs, such as congestion, long waiting times before ships dock, delayed departures, and high service costs. The berth allocation problem (BAP) concerns allocating berthing positions to arriving ships to reduce total service cost, waiting times, and delays in vessels’ departures. In this work, we extend the study of continuous BAP, which considers a single quay (straight line) for berthing ships, to multiple quays, as found in many ports around the globe. Multi-Quay BAP (MQ-BAP) adds the additional dimension of assigning a preferred quay to each arriving ship, rather than just specifying the berthing position and time. In this study, we address MQ-BAP with the objective of minimizing the total service cost, which includes minimizing the waiting times and delays in the departure of ships. MQ-BAP is first formulated as a mixed-integer linear problem and then solved using the cuckoo search algorithm (CSA), a computational intelligence (CI)-based approach. In addition, the exact mixed-integer linear programming (MILP) method, two other state-of-the-art metaheuristic approaches, namely the genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO), as well as a first come first serve (FCFS) approach, are also implemented for comparison purposes. Several experiments are conducted using both randomly generated and real data from the Port of Limassol, Cyprus, which has five quays serving commercial vessel traffic. The comparative analysis and experimental results show that the CSA-based method achieves the best overall results in affordable time as compared to the other CI-based methods, for all considered scenarios.
Simulation of Oil Spills in Inland Rivers
Authors: Kang Chenyang , Yang Haining , Yu Guyi , Deng Jian , Shu Yaqing
Published: June 2023

The shipping volume in inland waterways has been rapidly increasing in recent years. However, it is still challenging to trace oil spills caused by maritime accidents. In this study, the oil spill dispersion trajectory in inland rivers was obtained by simulating the trajectory of oil particles under different waterway conditions based on a simulated flow field. Firstly, the flow field was simulated using a volume of fluid (VOF) model and the solution of an open-channel equation. Then, an oil particle diffusion and drift model was established using Python to simulate the diffusion of the oil. Finally, eight oil spill simulation scenarios were conducted with different channel shapes and cross-sections. The results showed that oil spills spread more extensively in a curved channel with a trapezoidal cross-section compared to other channel shapes and cross-sections. The findings of this research could be used to guide inland river environmental protection and oil spill trajectory tracking.
ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy with Chemometrics for Analysis of Saliva Samples Obtained in a Lung-Cancer-Screening Programme: Application of Swabs as a Paradigm for High Throughput in a Clinical Setting
Authors: Martin Francis L. , Dickinson Andrew W. , Saba Tarek , Bongers Thomas , Singh Maneesh N. , Bury Danielle
Published: June 2023

There is an increasing need for inexpensive and rapid screening tests in point-of-care clinical oncology settings. Herein, we develop a swab “dip” test in saliva obtained from consenting patients participating in a lung-cancer-screening programme being undertaken in North West England. In a pilot study, a total of 211 saliva samples (n = 170 benign, 41 designated cancer-positive) were randomly taken during the course of this prospective lung-cancer-screening programme. The samples (sterile Copan blue rayon swabs dipped in saliva) were analysed using attenuated total reflection Fourier-transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. An exploratory analysis using principal component analysis (PCA,) with or without linear discriminant analysis (LDA), was then undertaken. Three pairwise comparisons were undertaken including: (1) benign vs. cancer following swab analysis; (2) benign vs. cancer following swab analysis with the subtraction of dry swab spectra; and (3) benign vs. cancer following swab analysis with the subtraction of wet swab spectra. Consistent and remarkably similar patterns of clustering for the benign control vs. cancer categories, irrespective of whether the swab plus saliva sample was analysed or whether there was a subtraction of wet or dry swab spectra, was observed. In each case, MANOVA demonstrated that this segregation of categories is highly significant. A k-NN (using three nearest neighbours) machine-learning algorithm also showed that the specificity (90%) and sensitivity (75%) are consistent for each pairwise comparison. In detailed analyses, the swab as a substrate did not alter the level of spectral discrimination between benign control vs. cancer saliva samples. These results demonstrate a novel swab “dip” test using saliva as a biofluid that is highly applicable to be rolled out into a larger lung-cancer-screening programme.
Custom-Made Metaphyseal Sleeves in “Beyond” AORI III Defects for Revision Knee Arthroplasty—Proof of Concept and Short-Term Results of a New Technique
Authors: Hanusrichter Yannik , Gebert Carsten , Dudda Marcel , Hardes Jendrik , Streitbuerger Arne , Frieler Sven , Jeys Lee M. , Wessling Martin
Published: June 2023

Background: While off-the-shelf cones and sleeves yield good results in AORI type 2 and 3 defects in revision knee surgery, massive longitudinal defects may require a proximal tibia replacement. To achieve the best anatomical as well as biomechanical reconstruction and preserve the tibial tuberosity, we developed custom-made metaphyseal sleeves (CMSs) to reconstruct massive defects with a hinge knee replacement. Methods: Between 2019 and 2022, 10 patients were treated in a single-center study. The indication for revision was aseptic loosening in five cases and periprosthetic joint infection in five cases. The mean number of previous revisions after the index operations was 7 (SD: 2; 4–12). A postoperative analysis was conducted to evaluate the functional outcome as well as the osteointegrative potential. Results: Implantation of the CMS in rTKA was carried out in all cases, with a mean operation time of 155 ± 48 (108–256) min. During the follow-up of 23 ± 7 (7–31) months, no CMS was revised and revisions due to other causes were conducted in five cases. Early radiographic evidence of osseointegration was recorded using a validated method. The postoperative OKS showed a significant increase (p < 0.001), with a mean score of 24 (SD: 4; range: 14–31). Conclusion: Custom-made metaphyseal sleeves show acceptable results in extreme cases. As custom-made components become more and more common, this treatment algorithm presents a viable alternative in complex rTKA.
Nationwide Analysis of Glaucoma Surgeries in Fiscal Years of 2014 and 2020 in Japan
Authors: Tanito Masaki
Published: June 2023

Nationwide trends in glaucoma surgical procedures were assessed by using the NDB Open Data 2014 and 2020. In Japan, 33,340 non-laser, 54,569 laser, and 88,019 total glaucoma surgeries were performed in 2014. In 2020, 60,108 non-laser, 60,547 laser, and 120,655 total glaucoma surgeries were performed. The rates from 2014 to 2020 were 180%, 111%, and 137%, respectively. In each procedure, angle surgery (326%), tube shunt surgery (383%), ciliary coagulation (489%), and gonio-laser (225%) were remarkably increased, while iridectomy (75%) and iris laser (77%) decreased during the same period. An increase in laser surgery was seen in young age groups, namely, 55–59 years old and younger, while non-laser surgery was increased in old age groups, namely, 45–49 years old and older. In 2020, 47.6 non-laser, 48.0 laser, and 95.6 total glaucoma surgeries were performed per 100,000 persons. None of the vital statistics, including prefectural population, mean age, and rate of ≥65-year-old people, were significantly associated with the number of glaucoma surgeries. Glaucoma practice patterns changed each time a new device or procedure was introduced. The results of the current study reflected the use of new procedures, such as minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, tube shunt, selective laser trabeculoplasty, and micropulse cyclophotocoagulation.
Recent Transformations in the Morphology of Spanish Medium-Sized Cities: From the Compact City to the Urban Area
Authors: Andrés López Gonzalo
Published: June 2023

Over the last few decades, within the framework of remarkable urban expansion accompanying a real-estate boom in Spain, it has been medium-sized cities that have registered the most drastic changes in morphology. Currently, about 50% of urbanised land was developed after 1980. Historically compact and dense urban structures have been transformed, with new urbanised spaces expanding into the outskirts. High land consumption has created sprawling, fragmented and scattered urban areas. These are new, more complex and multifunctional urban structures, and there has been a change in the scale of urbanisation, in the forms and in the resulting urban landscape. However, the growth model which has caused these transformations is defined by hardly sustainable land-use patterns. The number of medium-sized cities has increased by around 50%, while the number of houses built has grown by 109% and developed land by 87% between 1981 and 2021. This paper analyses these recent dynamics through the statistical treatment of growth patterns and their cartographic analysis using GIS technology. The significant modification of urban forms at this scale in the Spanish urban system is confirmed. The paper also reflects on the lack of sustainability in the prevailing model with respect to the 2030 city strategy.
Numerical Study on Thin Film Lubrication Performance with Imperfect Coating under the Effect of the Electrical Double Layer in Point Contact
Authors: Fang Yanfei , Xuan Hui , Ren Haoling , Fu Shengjie , Lin Tianliang
Published: June 2023

Revealing the interface effect on lubrication is great significance for designing high performance water-based lubricating friction pairs. In this study, a new thin film lubrication numerical model considering the electrical double layer (EDL) effect with an imperfect coating in point contact is proposed, and the validity and effectiveness of the model is verified. The numerical results show that increasing the zeta potential increases the film thickness, which indicates that the EDL effect can improve the firm lubricated film formation. However, the effect of the zeta potential on the von Mises stress is very small because the liquid film pressure remains constant at different surface potentials. On the other hand, with an increase in coating thickness, the effects of the coating on the film thickness and pressure gradually become evident, but the von Mises stress is affected by the imperfectly bonded interface and coating thickness. Finally, the effect of surface roughness on thin film lubrication was analyzed. The liquid film thickness slightly decreased and the occurrence of stress concentration on the surface coating was evident. The proposed model was expected to provide a calculation basis for solving the thin film lubrication problem of coatings affected by the EDL.
Digital Twin-Driven Remaining Useful Life Prediction for Rolling Element Bearing
Authors: Lu Quanbo , Li Mei
Published: June 2023

Traditional methods for predicting remaining useful life (RUL) ignore the correlation between physical world data and virtual world data, leading to the low prediction accuracy of RUL and affecting the normal working of rolling element bearing (REB). To solve the above problem, we propose a hybrid method based on digital twin (DT) and long short-term memory (LSTM). The hybrid method combines the high simulation capabilities of DT and the strong data processing capabilities of LSTM. Firstly, we develop a DT system for the life characteristics analysis of an REB. When the DT system is implemented, we can obtain the theoretical value of RUL. Then, the experimental data is used to train the LSTM model. The output of LSTM is the actual value of RUL. Finally, the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm fuses the theoretical values of DT with the actual values of LSTM. The case study demonstrates that the prediction accuracy of the hybrid method is greater than 97.5%, which improves the prediction performance and robustness of RUL. Therefore, the hybrid method is an important technology of REB prediction and health management (PHM). It realizes the early intervention and maintenance of mechanical equipment and ensures the safety of enterprises’ production.
An Overview of Applications of Hesitant Fuzzy Linguistic Term Sets in Supply Chain Management: The State of the Art and Future Directions
Authors: Lima-Junior Francisco Rodrigues , Oliveira Mery Ellen Brandt de , Resende Carlos Henrique Lopes
Published: June 2023

Supply chain management (SCM) encompasses a wide variety of decision-making problems that affect business and supply chain performance. Since most of these problems involve uncertainty and hesitation on the part of decision makers (DMs), various studies have emerged recently that present SCM applications of techniques based on Hesitant Fuzzy Linguistic Term Sets (HFLTSs) and HFLTS extensions. Given the relevance of this subject and the lack of literature review studies, this study presents a systematic review of HFLTS and HFLTS extension applications to SCM decision-making problems. In order to answer a set of research questions, the selected papers were classified in accordance with a group of factors that are pertinent to the origins of these studies, SCM, HFLTSs, and decision making. The results demonstrated that the Source and Enable processes have been studied with greater frequency, while the most common problems have to do with supplier selection, failure evaluation, and performance evaluation. The companies of the automotive sector predominated in the analyzed studies. Even though most of the studies used techniques based on HFLTSs, we identified applications of seven distinct HFLTS extensions. The main contribution of this study consists of presenting an overview of the use of HFLTSs and their extensions in practical examples of SCM, highlighting trends and research opportunities. It is the first study to analyze applications of decision-making techniques that deal with hesitation in SCM. Therefore, the results can help researchers and practitioners develop new studies that involve the use of HFLTSs and HFLTS extensions in decision-making problems, given that this study systematizes elements that should be considered in the modeling, application, and validation of these methods.
Enhancing Sustainability in Belize’s Ecotourism Sector: A Fuzzy Delphi and Fuzzy DEMATEL Investigation of Key Indicators
Authors: Ruano Marvin , Huang Chien-Yi , Nguyen Phi-Hung , Nguyen Lan-Anh Thi , Le Hong-Quan , Tran Linh-Chi
Published: June 2023

Sustainable ecotourism has become a strategy to balance tourism growth with environmental and sociocultural considerations. This study aims to propose an integrated approach of the Delphi technique and the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) based on fuzzy set theory to investigate sustainable ecotourism indicators in Belize. The study covers six dimensions: environmental, social, cultural, economic, political, and intrinsic. Firstly, the Fuzzy Delphi technique constructs a comprehensive set of indicators with expert consensus, resulting in 51 relevant and representative indicators out of the initial 63. Secondly, the Fuzzy DEMATEL approach is then applied to analyze the interdependencies among indicators and identify their causal relationships, providing insights into the complex dynamics of sustainable ecotourism in Belize. The results provide a structured decision-making framework to prioritize actions, allocate resources effectively, and promote sustainable practices in the ecotourism sector. Therefore, these findings enhance the understanding of indicator interconnections across dimensions, enabling informed decision making for policymakers, industry practitioners, and researchers. Policymakers can develop policies and regulations that foster sustainable practices, while industry practitioners can enhance visitor experiences, engage with local communities, and ensure the industry’s long-term viability. Researchers can further investigate specific dimensions and indicators to advance the knowledge and implementation of sustainable ecotourism. Finally, this investigation supports the goal of achieving a harmonious and sustainable balance between tourism development and environmental preservation in Belize. By safeguarding the natural and cultural heritage of the region, sustainable ecotourism can benefit present and future generations.
Numerical Analysis of Entropy Generation in a Double Stage Triangular Solar Still Using CNT-Nanofluid under Double-Diffusive Natural Convection
Authors: Maatki Chemseddine
Published: June 2023

The analysis of entropy generation provides valuable information for the design and optimization of thermal systems. Solar stills are used for water desalination and purification. Using renewable energies, they provide a sustainable solution for drinking water supply in remote areas and off-grid situations. This work focuses on the 3D numerical study of entropy generation in a two-stage solar still subjected to the natural double diffusion convection phenomenon in the presence of CNT nanoparticles. The effects of Rayleigh number, buoyancy ratio, and nanofluid concentration on thermal, solutal, and viscous irreversibilities and flow structure were studied. The results show that increasing the buoyancy ratio leads to an increase in thermal and solutal entropy generation. The results of this study also show that total entropy is minimal for positive volume force ratios, N, at a nanoparticle volume fraction of around 3%, and for negative N ratios, at a volume fraction of around 4%.
Hypergraph-Regularized Lp Smooth Nonnegative Matrix Factorization for Data Representation
Authors: Xu Yunxia , Lu Linzhang , Liu Qilong , Chen Zhen
Published: June 2023

Nonnegative matrix factorization (NMF) has been shown to be a strong data representation technique, with applications in text mining, pattern recognition, image processing, clustering and other fields. In this paper, we propose a hypergraph-regularized Lp smooth nonnegative matrix factorization (HGSNMF) by incorporating the hypergraph regularization term and the Lp smoothing constraint term into the standard NMF model. The hypergraph regularization term can capture the intrinsic geometry structure of high dimension space data more comprehensively than simple graphs, and the Lp smoothing constraint term may yield a smooth and more accurate solution to the optimization problem. The updating rules are given using multiplicative update techniques, and the convergence of the proposed method is theoretically investigated. The experimental results on five different data sets show that the proposed method has a better clustering effect than the related state-of-the-art methods in the vast majority of cases.
An Extended-State Observer Based on Smooth Super-Twisting Sliding-Mode Controller for DC-DC Buck Converters
Authors: Jiang Dian , Fang Yunmei , Fei Juntao
Published: June 2023

This paper designs a novel smooth super-twisting extended-state observer (SSTESO)-based smooth super-twisting sliding-mode control (SSTSMC) scheme to promote the robust ability and voltage-tracking performance of DC-DC buck converters. First, an SSTESO is proposed to estimate the unknown lumped disturbance and compensate for the estimation of the voltage controller. The SSTESO is realized by constructing a novel smooth function to replace the nonlinear sign function in STESO, which can provide a faster convergence speed and higher estimation accuracy. The SSTSM controller is designed by adopting a similar smooth function to further suppress chattering and improve dynamic response. Comprehensive simulation results demonstrate that the proposed SSTESO-based SSTSMC scheme can improve the robustness and transient response of a DC-DC buck converter system in the presence of external disturbance and parameter uncertainties.
A Generalized Variable Projection Algorithm for Least Squares Problems in Atmospheric Remote Sensing
Authors: Bärligea Adelina , Hochstaffl Philipp , Schreier Franz
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a solution for efficiently and accurately solving separable least squares problems with multiple datasets. These problems involve determining linear parameters that are specific to each dataset while ensuring that the nonlinear parameters remain consistent across all datasets. A well-established approach for solving such problems is the variable projection algorithm introduced by Golub and LeVeque, which effectively reduces a separable problem to its nonlinear component. However, this algorithm assumes that the datasets have equal sizes and identical auxiliary model parameters. This article is motivated by a real-world remote sensing application where these assumptions do not apply. Consequently, we propose a generalized algorithm that extends the original theory to overcome these limitations. The new algorithm has been implemented and tested using both synthetic and real satellite data for atmospheric carbon dioxide retrievals. It has also been compared to conventional state-of-the-art solvers, and its advantages are thoroughly discussed. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms all other methods in terms of computation time, while maintaining comparable accuracy and stability. Hence, this novel method can have a positive impact on future applications in remote sensing and could be valuable for other scientific fitting problems with similar properties.
Fabrication of Colored Polymeric Membrane Using Clay-Based Nano Pigments of Safranin O (SO) Dye
Authors: Mohan Chandra , Kumari Priyanka , Kumari Neeraj , Negi Arvind
Published: June 2023

In the present work, a novel methodology was developed for the fabrication of clay-based nano pigments with enhanced thermal stability and used further as a colorant to prepare polymeric membranes. Initially, the batch extraction studies were performed to analyze the maximum adsorption of Safranin O (SO) dye onto pristine montmorillonite (Mt) and organo montmorillonite (OMt) by varying different parameters like pH, contact time, and concentration. It was confirmed from batch extraction studies that the adsorption efficacy of pristine Mt for SO was found to be more than OMt due to their negatively charged surface. Clay-based nano pigments were fabricated by considering the optimized condition where the maximum uptake of SO was observed and further characterized by XRD, FTIR, TGA, and SEM techniques. XRD studies confirmed the intercalation of SO dye while FTIR spectra revealed surface interaction of the dye with Mt/OMt. TGA studies showed that the clay-based nano pigments had more thermal stability than pure SO. Nano pigments were used as colorants to prepare thin, transparent, and homogeneously dispersed polymeric membranes through the solvent casting method. XRD studies of the polymeric membrane confirmed that the intercalation of poly methylmethacrylate (PMMA) into the interlayer of clay increases interlayer spacing, which was further confirmed by the TEM analysis. The mechanical properties of the PMMA polymeric membrane were also enhanced after the dispersion of clay-based nano pigments.
Influences and Isotherm Models on Phosphorus Removal from Wastewater by Using Fe3+-Type UBK10 Cation Exchange Resin as Absorbent
Authors: Juntarasakul Onchanok , Rawangphai Monthicha , Phengsaart Theerayut , Maneeintr Kreangkrai
Published: June 2023

Phosphorus is a nutrient that is required for life. Eutrophication, on the other hand, is caused by an overabundance of phosphorus in the hydrosphere. Eutrophication is a form of water pollution that can be solved by removing phosphorus from the environment. Adsorption with cation exchange resin is a more practical method for removing phosphate ions at low concentrations than traditional approaches. The column approach is good for recovering phosphate effectively. As a result, a superior adsorption ability of the column and a practical regeneration process are critical. Accordingly, the goal of this study is to design a phosphate ion recovery system using a Fe-type cation exchange resin (Fe3+-type UBK 10) column. The batch approach was used to investigate the characteristics influencing the adsorption of phosphate ions on Fe-type UBK 10 in order to better comprehend the mechanism of adsorption. The number of phosphate ions adsorbed increased with increasing reaction time, according to the findings. The best results were achieved using 3 g of resin in 0.05 M NaCl at pH 6. The best fit was found in the Langmuir isotherm using equilibrium data.
A Review of Large-Scale Simulations of Microstructural Evolution during Alloy Solidification
Authors: Cusato Nicholas , Nabavizadeh Seyed Amin , Eshraghi Mohsen
Published: June 2023

During the past two decades, researchers have shown interest in large-scale simulations to analyze alloy solidification. Advances in in situ X-ray observations of the microstructural evolution of dendrites have shown defects that can be very costly for manufacturers. These simulations provide the basis for understanding applied meso-/macro-scale phenomena with microscale details using various numerical schemes to simulate the morphology and solve for transport phenomena. Methods for simulating methodologies include cellular automaton, phase field, direct interface tracking, level set, dendritic needle networks, and Monte Carlo while finite element, finite difference, finite volume, and lattice Boltzmann methods are commonly used to solve for transport phenomena. In this paper, these methodologies are explored in detail with respect to simulating the dendritic microstructure evolution and other solidification-related features. The current research, from innovations in algorithms for scaling to parallel processing details, is presented with a focus on understanding complex real-world phenomena. Topics include large-scale simulations of features with and without convection, columnar to equiaxed transition, dendrite interactions, competitive growth, microsegregation, permeability, and applications such as additive manufacturing. This review provides the framework and methodologies for achieving scalability while highlighting the areas of focus that need more attention.
Effect of Main Composition on the Viscosity and Thermal Stability of BaO-Containing Slag
Authors: Fan Xiaoyue , Zhang Jianliang
Published: June 2023

The authors of this study systematically investigate the influence of the main components of BaO-containing slag on its viscosity and thermal stability. The results indicate that the viscosity of slag significantly increases with the mass fraction of the crystalline phase. Increasing the slag basicity from 1.00 to 1.10 and the MgO content from 5.0% to 9.5% is an effective way to weaken the influence of crystallization on slag viscosity and improve the stability of BaO-containing slag. Al2O3 content over 11% is necessary to maintain a higher slag temperature, which enhances the ability of BaO-containing slag to resist the influence of crystallization on relative viscosity. When the heat of BaO slag is greatly reduced, increasing the slag basicity from 1.05 to 1.15 and MgO content to over 6.5% can help maintain the thermal stability of slag. The effect of Al2O3 content on the viscosity of slag under conditions of fixed heat is greater than that under constant temperature conditions. As the heat decreases, the Al2O3 content increase from 9% to 13% has a more significant effect on the viscosity and temperature of slag. A lower Al2O3 content in slag is advantageous for reducing the influence of heat fluctuation on slag viscosity.
Effect of Process Parameters on Friction Stir Welded Joints between Dissimilar Aluminum Alloys: A Review
Authors: Di Bella Guido , Favaloro Federica , Borsellino Chiara
Published: June 2023

Friction Stir Welding is a suitable solid-state joining technology to connect dissimilar materials. To produce an effective joint, a phase of optimization is required which leads to the definition of process parameters such as pin geometry, tool rotational speed, rotation direction, welding speed, thickness of the sheets or tool tilt angle. The aim of this review is to present a complete and detailed frame of the main process parameters and their effect on the final performance of a friction stir welded joint in terms of mechanical properties and microstructure. Attention was focused in particular on the connection between different aluminum alloys. Moreover, the experimental results were correlated to the development and the applications of tools which can be effectively used in the design of the manufacturing process such as finite element analyses, artificial neural networks, and statistical studies. The review also aims to be a point of reference to identify the best combinations of process parameters based on the dissimilar aluminum to be joined.
The Bowel-Associated Arthritis–Dermatosis Syndrome (BADAS): A Systematic Review
Authors: Aromolo Italo Francesco , Simeoli Domenico , Maronese Carlo Alberto , Altomare Andrea , Noviello Daniele , Caprioli Flavio , Marzano Angelo Valerio
Published: June 2023

Bowel-associated arthritis–dermatosis syndrome (BADAS) is a rare neutrophilic dermatosis that was first described in 1971 in patients who underwent bypass surgery for obesity. Over the years, the number of reported cases associated with medical gastroenterological conditions, particularly inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), has progressively increased. To date, there are no systematic reviews in the literature on BADAS. The design of an a priori protocol was based on PRISMA guidelines, and a search of PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted for articles published between 1971 and 2023 related to the topic. Fifty-one articles including 113 patients with BADAS were analyzed in this systematic review. Bariatric surgery and IBD were the most frequently reported causes of BADAS, accounting for 63.7% and 24.7% of all cases, respectively. A total of 85% of cases displayed the typical dermatological presentation, including urticarial maculopapular lesions centered by a vesicopustule, with the majority of lesions located on the upper limbs (73.5%). Polyarthralgia or localized arthritis were always present. Atypical presentations included cellulitis-like, erythema-nodosum-like, Sweet-syndrome-like and pyoderma-gangrenosum-like manifestations. Gastrointestinal symptoms were frequently observed in IBD-related cases (67.9%). The histopathology showed a neutrophilic infiltrate (96.6%). The most commonly used treatment regimens consisted of systemic corticosteroids, metronidazole and tetracyclines, either alone or in combination. A relapsing–remitting course was observed in 52.1% of patients. In conclusion, BADAS is a neutrophilic dermatosis that presents with a wide variety of cutaneous manifestations, both typical and atypical. Gastrointestinal symptoms are frequently observed, particularly in cases related to IBD. The histopathology is clear but not specific compared with other neutrophilic dermatoses. The diagnosis can be challenging, but the relapsing–remitting course and the strong association with polyarthralgia and gastrointestinal disease can aid in the diagnosis.
An Initial Proteomic Analysis of Biogas-Related Metabolism of Euryarchaeota Consortia in Sediments from the Santiago River, México
Authors: Barrera-Rojas Jesús , Gurubel-Tun Kelly Joel , Ríos-Castro Emmanuel , López-Méndez María Cristina , Sulbarán-Rangel Belkis
Published: June 2023

In this paper, sediments from the Santiago River were characterized to look for an alternative source of inoculum for biogas production. A proteomic analysis of methane-processing archaea present in these sediments was carried out. The Euryarchaeota superkingdom of archaea is responsible for methane production and methane assimilation in the environment. The Santiago River is a major river in México with great pollution and exceeded recovery capacity. Its sediments could contain nutrients and the anaerobic conditions for optimal growth of Euryarchaeota consortia. Batch bioreactor experiments were performed, and a proteomic analysis was conducted with current database information. The maximum biogas production was 266 NmL·L−1·g VS−1, with 33.34% of methane, and for proteomics, 3206 proteins were detected from 303 species of 69 genera. Most of them are metabolically versatile members of the genera Methanosarcina and Methanosarcinales, both with 934 and 260 proteins, respectively. These results showed a diverse euryarcheotic species with high potential to methane production. Although related proteins were found and could be feeding this metabolism through the methanol and acetyl-CoA pathways, the quality obtained from the biogas suggests that this metabolism is not the main one in carbon use, possibly the sum of several conditions including growth conditions and the pollution present in these sediments
Listeria monocytogenes Strains Persisting in a Meat Processing Plant in Central Italy: Use of Whole Genome Sequencing and In Vitro Adhesion and Invasion Assays to Decipher Their Virulence Potential
Authors: Schiavano Giuditta Fiorella , Guidi Fabrizia , Pomilio Francesco , Brandi Giorgio , Salini Romolo , Amagliani Giulia , Centorotola Gabriella , Palma Francesco , Felici Martina , Lorenzetti Cinzia , Blasi Giuliana
Published: June 2023

In this study, we used both a WGS and an in vitro approach to study the virulence potential of nine Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) strains belonging to genetic clusters persisting in a meat processing plant in Central Italy. The studied clusters belonged to CC1-ST1, CC9-ST9, and CC218-ST2801. All the CC1 and CC218 strains presented the same accessory virulence genes (LIPI-3, gltA, gltB, and aut_IVb). CC1 and CC9 strains presented a gene profile similarity of 22.6% as well as CC9 and CC218 isolates. CC1 and CC218 showed a similarity of 45.2% of the same virulence profile. The hypervirulent strains of lineage I (CC1 and CC218) presented a greater ability to adhere and invade Caco-2 cells than hypovirulent ones (CC9). CC1 strains were significantly more adhesive and invasive compared with CC9 and CC218 strains, although these last CCs presented the same accessory virulence genes. No statistically significant difference was found comparing CC218 with CC9 strains. This study provided for the first time data on the in vitro adhesiveness and invasiveness of CC218-ST2801 and added more data on the virulence characteristics of CC1 and CC9. What we observed confirmed that the ability of Lm to adhere to and invade human cells in vitro is not always decipherable from its virulence gene profile.
Strength Performance and Microstructures of Alkali-Activated Metakaolin and GGBFS-Based Mortars: Role of Waste Red Brick Powder Incorporation
Authors: Alghamdi Hussam , Abadel Aref A. , Khawaji Mohammad , Alamri Mohammed , Alabdulkarim Abdullah
Published: June 2023

Excessive use of natural resources and environmental concerns are key issues motivating the recycling of waste materials in the construction industry to minimize landfill problems. Free cement binders such alkali-activated binders have emerged as a prospective alternative to ordinary Portland cement, wherein diverse industrial, agriculture, and by-product waste materials have been converted as valuable spin-offs. Annually, tens of millions tons of red brick wastes are generated, which leads to several environmental problems. Thus, waste red brick powder (WRBP) was used as binder or a fine aggregate (silica sand) substitute to prepare some new types of alkali-activated mortars (AAMs). These mortars contained ground blast furnace slag (GGBFS) and metakaolin (MK) with various levels of WRBP (0, 15, 30, and 45%) as a substitute for silica sand. The prepared AAMs were cured at 300 °C, 600 °C, and ambient temperature. All the specimens were tested to determine the effects of various WRBP contents on the workability, strengths, and microstructures of the designed AAMs. The workability of the fresh AAMs was considerably dropped due to the incorporation of WRBP as binary binder or fine aggregate replacement. In addition, AAM containing 15% of WRBP as GGBFS and MK replacement displayed a significant improvement (by 30.7%) in the strength performance. However, the increasing content of WRBP to 30% and 45% significantly led to a decrease in compressive strength from 49.9 MPa to 44.7 and 34.2 MPa, respectively. Overall, the mortars’ strength was increased with the increase in WRBP contents from 0 to 45% as sand substitute. Conversely, the mortars strength was reduced with the increase in curing temperatures. The microstructure analyses of the studied mortars revealed an appreciable enhancement of the geopolymerization process, gels formulation, and surface morphology, leading to an improvement in their compressive and flexural strength characteristics. It was asserted that high-performance mortars with customized engineering properties can be designed via the inclusion of WRBP into alkali-activated MK-GGBFS mixes.
Quantitative Elasticity Mapping of Submicron Silica Hollow Particles by PeakForce QNM AFM Mode
Authors: Streltsov Dmitry R. , Borisov Kirill M. , Kalinina Aleksandra A. , Muzafarov Aziz M.
Published: June 2023

Silica hollow spheres with a diameter of 100–300 nm and a shell thickness of 8±2 nm were synthesized using a self-templating amphiphilic polymeric precursor, i.e., poly(ethylene glycol)-substituted hyperbranched polyethoxysiloxane. Their elastic properties were addressed with a high-frequency AFM indentation method based on the PeakForce QNM (quantitative nanomechanical mapping) mode enabling simultaneous visualization of the surface morphology and high-resolution mapping of the mechanical properties. The factors affecting the accuracy of the mechanical measurements such as a local slope of the particle surface, deformation of the silica hollow particles by a solid substrate, shell thickness variation, and applied force range were analysed. The Young’s modulus of the shell material was evaluated as E=26±7 GPa independent of the applied force in the elastic regime of deformations. Beyond the elastic regime, the buckling instability was observed revealing a non-linear force–deformation response with a hysteresis between the loading and unloading force–distance curves and irreversible deformation of the shell at high applied forces. Thus, it was demonstrated that PeakForce QNM mode can be used for quantitative measurements of the elastic properties of submicon-sized silica hollow particles with nano-size shell thickness, as well as for estimation of the buckling behaviour beyond the elastic regime of shell deformations.
Semiconductor Quantum Wells and Nanostructures
Authors: Kvon Ze Don
Published: June 2023

Semiconductor quantum wells and nanostructures have been the main quantum and classical physical objects in condensed matter physics for over half a century, since the discovery of the two-dimensional electron gas in silicon MOSFETs and size quantization in thin bismuth films [...]
Theoretical Studies on the Quantum Capacitance of Two-Dimensional Electrode Materials for Supercapacitors
Authors: Lin Jianyan , Yuan Yuan , Wang Min , Yang Xinlin , Yang Guangmin
Published: June 2023

In recent years, supercapacitors have been widely used in the fields of energy, transportation, and industry. Among them, electrical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) have attracted attention because of their dramatically high power density. With the rapid development of computational methods, theoretical studies on the physical and chemical properties of electrode materials have provided important support for the preparation of EDLCs with higher performance. Besides the widely studied double-layer capacitance (CD), quantum capacitance (CQ), which has long been ignored, is another important factor to improve the total capacitance (CT) of an electrode. In this paper, we survey the recent theoretical progress on the CQ of two-dimensional (2D) electrode materials in EDLCs and classify the electrode materials mainly into graphene-like 2D main group elements and compounds, transition metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes), and transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). In addition, we summarize the influence of different modification routes (including doping, metal-adsorption, vacancy, and surface functionalization) on the CQ characteristics in the voltage range of ±0.6 V. Finally, we discuss the current difficulties in the theoretical study of supercapacitor electrode materials and provide our outlook on the future development of EDLCs in the field of energy storage.
Enhanced Optical Transmission through a Hybrid Bull’s Eye Structure Integrated with a Silicon Hemisphere
Authors: Liu Yueyang , Fang Jiukai , Lin Yuwen , Shi Shengnan , Di Chengzhe , Zhang Shan , Sun Mingqi , Shi Yanpeng , Zhang Yifei
Published: June 2023

In this work, we demonstrate a novel structure that can generate extraordinary optical transmission with a silicon hemisphere placed on a conventional bull’s eye structure. There is a single subwavelength aperture surrounded by concentric periodic grooves on a substrate. The extraordinary optical transmission in this work is realized by the coupling of the surface plasmon polaritons in the periodic grooves and the localized electromagnetic field generated by the Mie resonance in the silicon hemisphere. The maximum normalized-to-area transmission peak can reach up to 662 with a decreasing device area and size. The electromagnetic field distribution at different geometry parameters is analyzed to clarify the mechanisms of the work in this paper. Additionally, the use of dielectric material in the aperture can avoid ohmic losses of metal material compared with the conventional one, which may suggest that a wider range of bull’s-eye-structure applications is possible.