bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hydrodynamic and mass transfer characterization of an internally illuminated airlift photobioreactor for growing Spirulina platensis
Authors: Bataller Butch G. , Capareda Sergio C. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The dimensions of the of a photobioreactor play a major role in its hydrodynamic and mass transfer characteristics that also affect its growth performance. In this study, a bench-scale airlift photobioreactor (PBR) was designed and fabricated to have a riser-to-diameter ratio (Ar/Ad) equal to 0.42 and an aspect ratio (H/D) equal to 1.53. These dimension ratios are different from typical values wherein most airlift photobioreactors are designed to have Ar/Ad of at least 1.0 and H/D of at least 2.0. It was hypothesized, based on the results of Hwang and Cheng [1], the fabricated PBR in this study will have better hydrodynamic and mass transfer characteristics such as lesser mixing time, better liquid circulation and lesser gas entrainment that may lead to better growth performance. Due to the different dimension ratios from other studies, characterization of the PBR and testing of its performance are required. The hydrodynamic and mass transfer characteristics of the fabricated airlift photobioreactor in this study were measured at varying superficial gas velocities (UGR) from 0.0017 ms−1 to 0.0124 ms−1. The growth parameters of the Spirulina platensis were then tested at different aeration rates to relate the hydrodynamic and mass transfer characteristics to the photobioreactor performance. This study has proven that a photobioreactor that is designed and operated to have the best hydrodynamic and mass transfer characteristics will have the best growth performance at the same light intensity and initial optical density.
Rare earth elements enrichment and extraction potential of bauxite deposits in Samar, Philippines
Authors: Gabo-Ratio J A , Arenque L A , Payot B , Balela M D , Vegafria M C , Guzman J , Manalo P C , Tungpalan D K 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Rare earth elements (REE) play an integral part of modern life, from smartphones to satellites. Dubbed ‘critical metals’, the demand for REE has significantly increased, driven by the growth in global production for green technologies such as e-vehicles, solar panels, wind turbines, and other energy-economic infrastructure. Therefore, there is a need to explore alternative REE sources to ensure continued development of emerging green technologies. A possible alternative REE source is bauxite, which is soil that forms from intense weathering of aluminum oxide-rich rocks exposed to tropical climate. This paper investigates the REE enrichment and extraction potential from bauxite deposits in Paranas, Samar, Philippines. The sampling survey included collection of rock and soil on surface exposures, test pits, and drill cores from accessible portions of the bauxite mineral reservation site. The soil and parent rock samples collected were then subjected to various geochemical and mineralogical analyses. The main ore minerals of aluminum are gibbsite and boehmite; with minor goethite, hematite, and magnetite. Investigation of the geochemical composition of the bauxite reveals a total REE content of up to ~300 ppm, which is one of the highest REE and critical metal content among geological deposits in the country. These results will provide inputs in the design of a green and economical process to recover REE from bauxites. If the bauxite deposits prove to be a valuable REE resource, this study will help maximize the economic potential of the mineral resource in the Philippines and contribute to an economically efficient and environment-friendly way to produce e-tech elements for the country.
Production of Defragmentable Bioplastic using Starch Extracted from Annona Muricata (Soursoup) Seed Reinforced with Bentonite Nanoclay
Authors: Melendres A V , Angles S Q , Gaspar E P G , Saliendra J F , Buenaventura M M S , Sobrepeña G , Olay J G , Rubi R V C 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Seeds of Annona Muricata, often called soursop or guyabano were used as a source of starch for the production of defragmentable bioplastic. The researchers used mixture of water and starch content of 10 and 20 grams respectively from Annona Muricata (soursop) seeds with various concentration (20%, 25%, 30%) of glycerol (plasticizer) and reinforced with three different concentrations (0%, 3%, 6%) of bentonite nanoclay (filler). The characterization of the bioplastic was carried out by determining the effect of variation of the ratio between the quantity of starch from soursop seeds, bentonite nanoclay, and glycerol. The starch-based defragmentable bioplastic was evaluated with its water retention, degradation, and mechanical properties. The result showed that the tensile strength improved significantly with the addition of bentonite nanoclay and the elongation at break with the addition of glycerol. Same way in water retention test, where the presence of the bentonite nanoclay increased the strength of the bioplastic with its water solubility. In soil burial test, a higher level of glycerol concentration increased the rate of the bioplastic degradation. By adding the bentonite nanoclay as a filler, the rate of bioplastic degradation decreased compared to the bioplastic without filler. In shelf-life test, adding glycerol as plasticizer improved the shelf life of bioplastics. A high concentration of glycerol served as an anti-fungal for bioplastics.
Production of few-layer graphene and boron nitride nano onions via lamp ablation
Authors: He J. , Zhang H. , Zhang W. , Gordon J. M. , Chua H. T. 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Few-layer graphene, and separately, boron nitride nano onions have been synthesised by a novel lamp ablation method which is a one-step, high-yield process that is catalyst-free, devoid of toxic reagents, with short reaction times, and potentially scalable. The precursor for the few-layer graphene is graphite flake, while that of boron nitride nano onions is hexagonal boron nitride powder. Product nanostructures are characterised by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). We also report on our commercialisation trajectory to translate promising research findings in the laboratory to the market. For the few-layer graphene product, it is presently on a pre-commercial pilot plant phase.
Application of Dynamic Simulation for the Design of the LNG Inlet Gas Compressor Anti-Surge Protection
Authors: Soriano K M , Muñoz J C 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
An inlet gas compressor system is simulated in Aspen HYSYS Dynamics v12.1. The emphasis of the simulation is to design the system to prevent or mitigate surges during an emergency shutdown (ESD). The dynamic simulation aims to assess the performance of the anti-surge control valve (ASCV), to add and size a cold gas bypass valve (CGBV) or hot gas bypass valve (HGBV) if the ASCV is insufficient, to determine the corresponding bypass valve size, and to select which bypass valve configuration is appropriate. An ASCV accompanied by an 8” HGBV is shown to be the recommended anti-surge protection configuration to mitigate surge due to its faster response and is more appropriate for motor-driven compressors which slow down more quickly during ESD. The ASCV provided by the compressor vendor with the recommended 8” HGBV can mitigate the effects of compressor surges during an emergency shutdown scenario.
Removal of tetracycline from aqueous solution via Fenton process using iron-impregnated bamboo biochar
Authors: Calangi J D , Borres J L , Grande M K P F , Ong D C , Malones J M C 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Tetracycline (TC) is a pharmaceutical that has been used extensively that its presence in water sources causes detriment to both aquatic life and human health. TC is not completely removed in wastewater treatment processes and could enter the environment through effluent and sludge. This study evaluated the potential of iron-impregnated bamboo biochar (Fe-biochar) as catalyst in the removal of tetracycline from aqueous solution via Fenton process. Characterization via Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analyses verified the successful iron impregnation on biochar. TC removal was determined at 357nm absorbance through UV-Visible spectroscopy. Highest TC removal of 63.24% was achieved under conditions of 75 mg Fe-biochar, 0.45 M H2O2, and pH 5. Experimental data were assessed using the three factors Box-Behnken response surface experimental design where Fe-biochar dosage, H2O2 concentration, and solution pH were found to be significant parameters in TC removal. Furthermore, it was determined that the data fitted well in a reduced-cubic model with high coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.9990) which indicates good regression. The optimum conditions were found to be 39.44 mg Fe-biochar dosage, 0.05 M H2O2, and pH 4, with TC removal efficiency of 33.90%. Overall, the results of this study suggested that Fe-impregnated bamboo biochar can be used as an effective catalyst in removing tetracycline from aqueous solution via heterogeneous Fenton process.
Selection of Solar-Based Water-Splitting Hydrogen Production and Hydrogen Storage Technologies Using Neutrosophic Analytic Hierarchy Process and Neutrosophic Complex Proportional Assessment
Authors: Oseña R , Merto J , Tayona S , Rustia G 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The production of hydrogen through water-splitting using solar energy has the potential to meet the world’s future energy demand while also addressing the issue of greenhouse gas emissions. To compare and select the best technology among solar thermochemical cycles, photoelectrochemical, and photocatalytic water-splitting in terms of solar-to-hydrogen efficiency, production cost, safety, life expectancy, maintenance cost, and detrimental impact on the environment, this study used a multi-criteria decision analysis hybrid called Neutrosophic Analytic Hierarchy Process (NAHP) and Neutrosophic Complex Proportional Assessment (NCOPRAS). The same method was used to determine the best technology for automobiles among compressed hydrogen storage, metal hydrides, metal-organic frameworks, and chemical storage in terms of gravimetric system capacity, volumetric system capacity, safety, system cost, cycle life, energy efficiency, detrimental impact on the environment, and refueling time. There were 4 experts each in hydrogen storage and hydrogen, specifically from the Philippines, Australia, India, Romania, and Italy. All experts’ judgments have a consistency ratio (CR) < 0.1. The priority criterion for hydrogen production was life expectancy (weighted value (WV) = 0.189), and gravimetric system capacity for hydrogen storage (WV = 0.137). The result showed that among all alternatives for hydrogen production, the solar thermochemical cycle was the best (relative significance value (RSV) = 0.3432) as for hydrogen storage, the best technology among the alternatives was metal hydrides (RSV = 0.2575). A sensitivity analysis was used to check the variability and robustness of the solution.
Conversion of polypropylene (PP) plastic waste to liquid oil through catalytic pyrolysis using Philippine natural zeolite
Authors: Bautista Angelica S , Rivera Karl Nikolai O , Suratos Trixie Anne Kimberly M , Dimaano Maria Natalia R 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The accumulation of plastic waste compelled the need to develop energy recovery methods, such as pyrolysis, which could convert plastics into valuable energy sources. Pyrolysis requires high operating temperatures; thus, a catalyst is often utilized to speed up the process. In this study, the viability of Philippine Natural Zeolite (PNZ) as a catalyst was investigated through the conversion of polypropylene (PP) waste into liquid oil using catalytic pyrolysis. The PP waste feedstocks were pre-mixed with the PNZ in a 1:10 ratio. Pyrolysis was carried out in a heating mantle for three trials of non-catalytic and catalytic pyrolysis. SEM and XRD were conducted to characterize the PNZ, while FTIR was carried out for the pyrolysis oil. SEM analysis showed the voids formed from the pores of the catalyst that influenced the pyrolysis reaction. Results from the XRD pattern also revealed clinoptilolite, mordenite, and heulandite as the main minerals found in the PNZ. Non-catalytic pyrolysis of PP yielded an average of 75.03% liquid oil, 13.66% residue, and 11.31% uncondensed gas. Meanwhile, catalytic pyrolysis produced higher yields with 86.39% liquid oil, 12.49% residue, and 1.12% uncondensed gas. FTIR results exhibited clear peaks for both processes, with similar components but different intensities.
Integration of bioprinting advances and biomechanical strategies for in vitro lung modelling
Authors: Avery Kathryn , Chen Xiongbiao 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
The recent occurrence of the Covid-19 pandemic and frequent wildfires have worsened pulmonary diseases and raised the urgent need for investigating host-pathogen interactions and advancing drug and vaccine therapies. Historically, research and experimental studies have relied on two-dimensional cell culture dishes and/or animal models, which suffer from physiological differences from the human lung. More recently, there has been investigation into the use of lung-on-a-chip models and organoids, while the use of bioprinting technologies has also emerged to fabricate three-dimensional constructs or lung models with enhanced physiological relevance. Concurrently, achievements have also been made to develop biomimetic strategies for simulating the in vivo biomechanical conditions induced by lung breathing, though challenges remain with incorporating these strategies with bioprinted models. Bioprinted models combined with advanced biomimetic strategies would represent a promising approach to advance disease discovery and therapeutic development. As inspired, this article briefly reviews the recent progress of both bioprinted in vitro lung models and biomechanical strategies, with a focus on native lung tissue microstructure and biomechanical properties, bioprinted constructs, and biomimetic strategies to mimic the native environment. This article also urges that the integration of bioprinting advances and biomimetic strategies would be essential to achieve synergistic effects for in vitro lung modelling. Key issues and challenges are also identified and discussed along with recommendations for future research.
Experimental investigation on high heat flux plasma parameters of HIT-PSI device in argon discharges
Authors: HUANG 黄 Tao 韬 , NIE 聂 Qiuyue 秋月 , CHEN 陈 Cheng 晟 , NIE 聂 Lin 林 , ZHAO 赵 Wei 伟 , JIANG 姜 Tao 涛 , LIU 刘 Yang 洋 , ZHAO 赵 Xu 旭 , LI 李 Feng 丰 , WANG 王 Xiaogang 晓钢 
Published: November 2024

Abstract
Researches on plasma-facing materials/components (PFMs/PFCs) have become a focus in magnetic confinement fusion studies, particularly for advanced tokamak operation scenarios. Similarly, spacecraft surface materials must maintain stable performance under relatively high temperatures and other harsh plasma conditions, making studies of their thermal and ablation resistance critical. Recently, a low-cost, low-energy-storage for superconducting magnets, and compact linear device, HIT-PSI, has been designed and constructed at Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT) to investigate the interaction between stable high heat flux plasma and PFMs/PFCs in scrape-off-layer (SOL) and divertor regions, as well as spacecraft surface materials. The parameters of the argon plasma beam of HIT-PSI are diagnosed using a water-cooled planar Langmuir probe and emission spectroscopy. As magnetic field rises to 2 T, the argon plasma beam generated by a cascaded arc source achieves high density exceeding 1.2×1021 m−3 at a distance of 25 cm from the source with electron temperature surpassing 4 eV, where the particle flux reaches 1024 m−2s−1, and the heat flux loaded on the graphite target measured by infrared camera reaches 4 MW/m2. Combined with probe and emission spectroscopy data, the transport characteristics of the argon plasma beam are analyzed.
A generalized health index: automated thoracic CT-derived biomarkers predict life expectancy
Authors: Beeche Cameron , Yu Tong , Wang Jing , Wilson David , Chen Pengyu , Duman Emrah , Pu Jiantao 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objective
To identify image biomarkers associated with overall life expectancy from low-dose CT and integrate them as an index for assessing an individual’s health.

Methods
Two categories of CT image features, body composition tissues and cardiopulmonary vasculature characteristics, were quantified from LDCT scans in the Pittsburgh Lung Screening Study cohort (n = 3635). Cox proportional-hazards models identified significant image features which were integrated with subject demographics to predict the subject’s overall hazard. Subjects were stratified using composite model predictions and feature-specific risk stratification thresholds. The model’s performance was validated extensively, including 5-fold cross-validation on PLuSS baseline, PLuSS follow-up examinations, and the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST).

Results
The composite model had significantly improved prognostic ability compared to the baseline model (P &lt; .01) with AUCs of 0.774 (95% CI: 0.757-0.792) on PLuSS, 0.723 (95% CI: 0.703-0.744) on PLuSS follow-up, and 0.681 (95% CI: 0.651-0.710) on the NLST cohort. The identified high-risk stratum were several times more likely to die, with mortality rates of 79.34% on PLuSS, 76.47% on PLuSS follow-up, and 46.74% on NLST. Two cardiopulmonary structures (intrapulmonary artery-vein ratio, intrapulmonary vein density) and two body composition tissues (SM density, bone density) identified high-risk patients.

Conclusions
Body composition and pulmonary vasculatures are predictive of an individual’s health risk; their integrations with subject demographics facilitate the assessment of an individual’s overall health status or susceptibility to disease.

Advances in knowledge
CT-computed body composition and vasculature biomarkers provide improved prognostic value. The integration of CT biomarkers and patient demographic information improves subject risk stratification.
Assessing the performance of ChatGPT and Bard/Gemini against radiologists for Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System classification based on prostate multiparametric MRI text reports
Authors: Lee Kang-Lung , Kessler Dimitri A , Caglic Iztok , Kuo Yi-Hsin , Shaida Nadeem , Barrett Tristan 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Objectives
Large language models (LLMs) have shown potential for clinical applications. This study assesses their ability to assign Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) categories based on clinical text reports.

Methods
One hundred consecutive biopsy-naïve patients’ multiparametric prostate MRI reports were independently classified by 2 uroradiologists, ChatGPT-3.5 (GPT-3.5), ChatGPT-4o mini (GPT-4), Bard, and Gemini. Original report classifications were considered definitive.

Results
Out of 100 MRIs, 52 were originally reported as PI-RADS 1-2, 9 PI-RADS 3, 19 PI-RADS 4, and 20 PI-RADS 5. Radiologists demonstrated 95% and 90% accuracy, while GPT-3.5 and Bard both achieved 67%. Accuracy of the updated versions of LLMs increased to 83% (GTP-4) and 79% (Gemini), respectively. In low suspicion studies (PI-RADS 1-2), Bard and Gemini (F1: 0.94, 0.98, respectively) outperformed GPT-3.5 and GTP-4 (F1:0.77, 0.94, respectively), whereas for high probability MRIs (PI-RADS 4-5), GPT-3.5 and GTP-4 (F1: 0.95, 0.98, respectively) outperformed Bard and Gemini (F1: 0.71, 0.87, respectively). Bard assigned a non-existent PI-RADS 6 “hallucination” for 2 patients. Inter-reader agreements (Κ) between the original reports and the senior radiologist, junior radiologist, GPT-3.5, GTP-4, BARD, and Gemini were 0.93, 0.84, 0.65, 0.86, 0.57, and 0.81, respectively.

Conclusions
Radiologists demonstrated high accuracy in PI-RADS classification based on text reports, while GPT-3.5 and Bard exhibited poor performance. GTP-4 and Gemini demonstrated improved performance compared to their predecessors.

Advances in knowledge
This study highlights the limitations of LLMs in accurately classifying PI-RADS categories from clinical text reports. While the performance of LLMs has improved with newer versions, caution is warranted before integrating such technologies into clinical practice.
BS O02 - Impact of Bariatric surgery on Obesity Indices and Reproductive Hormones: A Prospective Study in Morbidly Obese Women
Authors: Bananis Kyriakos , Almoshantaf Mohammad Badr 
Published: November 2024

Abstract

Background
Obesity, defined by a BMI of 30 kg/m² or higher, is influenced by genetics, socio-economic, and cultural factors. Genetic predispositions affect metabolism and energy regulation, while environmental factors like sedentary lifestyles and poor food environments worsen obesity. Obesity disrupts hormonal balances, impacting sex hormone levels and menstrual cycles, leading to infertility in women. This hormonal imbalance affects oocyte quality and ovulation. Bariatric surgery offers significant weight loss and metabolic improvements, enhancing reproductive hormone profiles and insulin sensitivity. Our study explores how sleeve gastrectomy affects BMI and hormone levels, aiming to understand its impact on obesity management and reproductive health.

Method
This prospective observational study examines the effects of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy on reproductive hormones and ovarian function in 32 morbidly obese women, adhering to Helsinki Declaration ethics. Participants, aged 18-50 with no menopause or chronic illness, consented to the study. Exclusions included those with polycystic ovary syndrome, recent reproductive organ surgery, or recent infertility medications. The study assessed changes in BMI, antral follicles, anti-Müllerian hormone, and reproductive hormones before surgery and at 6 and 12 months post-surgery. Blood samples and transvaginal ultrasounds were conducted preoperatively and at 6 and 12 months postoperatively to monitor outcomes.

Results
The study involved participants with an average age of 33 and a mean BMI of 42.12. Significant changes were observed post-sleeve gastrectomy at 6 and 12 months (p &lt; 0.001). At 6 months, BMI decreased by 9.24 units, AMH levels dropped from 3 to 2.5 ng/mL, and antral follicle counts in both ovaries declined. By 12 months, BMI decreased by 16.47 units, AMH levels fell to 2 ng/mL, and antral follicle counts further reduced. Hormonal changes included increases in FSH, LH, and estradiol, while SHBG levels rose, and free testosterone levels decreased significantly.

Conclusion
Individual hormone responses to weight loss and surgery necessitate personalized obesity treatments. Tailoring surgical approaches and care to hormonal profiles can optimize outcomes and reduce complications. Monitoring AMH levels post-surgery can offer insights into reproductive effects, aiding clinical management and counseling for women with obesity-related infertility. We highlight the significant impact of sleeve gastrectomy on physiological parameters in obese individuals, especially regarding reproductive health and metabolic regulation. The findings enhance understanding of the changes associated with bariatric surgery and its potential benefits for metabolic and reproductive health.