Solid-liquid interfacial phenomena play an essential role in our everyday lives and are often regarded as the outcome of interactions at the solid-liquid interface. However, the intricately intrinsic mechanism underlying interfacial interactions renders in-situ simulations and direct measurements challenging. As an effective analytic method for studying solid-liquid interfacial interactions, Microcalorimetry can provide the most basic thermodynamic information (including changes in enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs free energy during solid-liquid binding/separation processes), which is extremely crucial for understanding interaction directionality and limitation. This review is dedicated to highlighting the pivotal role of microcalorimetry in studying solid-liquid immersion and adsorption processes. Specifically, we provide an overview of the commonly employed microcalorimetric methods, delve into the influence factors of enthalpy change, and finally discuss the specific applications of microcalorimetry in studying various solid-liquid binding processes. There remains a vast expanse of thermodynamic information regarding solid-liquid interactions that await exploration via calorimetry.

Electric heating and solid thermal storage system (EHSTSS) is widely used in district clean heating and the flexibility adjustment of combined heat and power (CHP) unit. It has been an effective way to absorb renewable energy. Aiming at the thermal design calculation and experimental verification of EHSTSS, the thermal calculation and the heat transfer characteristics of the EHSTSS are investigated in this paper. Firstly, a thermal calculation method for the EHSTSS is proposed in the paper. The calculation flow and calculation method for key parameters of heating system, heat storage system, heat exchange system and fan-circulating system in the EHSTSS are studied. Then, the instantaneous heat transfer characteristics of the thermal storage system (TSS) in the EHSTSS are analyzed, and the heat transfer process of ESS is simulated by FLUENT software. The uniform temperature distribution in the heat storage and release process of the TSS verifies the good heat transfer characteristics of the EHSTSS. Finally, EHSTSS test verification platform is built, and the historical operation data of the EHSTSS is analyzed. During the heating and release thermal process, the maximum temperature standard deviation of each temperature measurement point is 28.3℃ and 59℃respectively. The correctness of the thermal calculation of the EHSTSS is verified.

Solid asperity interactions are common and inevitable under severe loading conditions for any lubricated contact. Heavy-duty machine components (gear, bearings etc.) generally operate under Mixed Lubrication, where uneven surface features contact each other when generated fluid pressure is not enough to support the external load. The Reynolds equation is commonly used to simulate smooth lubricated contacts numerically. In rough lubricated interfaces where opposite surface asperities make contact, the Reynolds equation alone cannot accurately predict pressure using the traditional numerical simulation method. In this paper, Lubrication-Contact interface conditions (LCICs) have been implemented and extended to solve the multiple asperity contact problem using the full-multigrid approach. The developed novel algorithm has significantly accelerated the solution process and improved the accuracy and efficiency of pressure calculation for fluid-solid sub-interactions that can occur under ML regions. The Finite Difference Method (FDM) results have been compared with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation to validate the newly developed model. Hence, the proposed optimized solution method will provide valuable insight to researchers and industry engineers interested in simulating the ML problem where the effect of the fluid-solid interface can be captured effectively to improve reliability in the calculation of the life expectancy of the lubricated parts.

If a lubricant contains structures capable of conducting energy, reactions involving zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) may take place both very close to and away from the solid surfaces, with this indicating that ZDDP can be a highly effective anti-wear (AW) additive. The central thesis of this article is that the tribocatalytic effect is observed only when the energy emitted by the solids is transmitted by ordered molecular structures present in the lubricant, e.g., graphene. The friction tests were carried out for 100Cr6 steel balls in a sliding contact with uncoated or a:C-H-coated HS6-5-2C steel discs in the presence of polyalphaolefin 8 (PAO 8) as the lubricant, which was enhanced with graphene and/or ZDDP. There is sufficient evidence of the interactions occurring between ZDDP and graphene and their effects on the tribological performance of the system. It was also found that the higher the concentration of zinc in the wear area, the lower the wear. This was probably due to the energy transfer resulting from the catalytic decomposition of ZDDP molecules. Graphene, playing the role of the catalyst, contributed to that energy transfer.

Motivated by the PEACOC project on metal recovery from solid wastes, an innovative magnetic density separation (MDS) process has been developed for granular material sorting. It has intrinsic advantages over the existing industrialized MDS by eliminating fluid turbulence and particle jamming problems. The new MDS applies an inclined planar magnet and a horizontal basin containing a static magnetic fluid as the separation medium. A particle sliding phenomenon is identified as a feature of the process which could help the separation. The MDS successfully sorted shredded PCBAs to concentrate valuable metals and sorted shredded wires to reduce metallic contaminants in the plastic fractions. A pilot scale facility is introduced to show the design to achieve continuous production and to reduce the consumption of ferrofluid.

This paper proposed three-dimensional numerical simulation method by coupling of electrostatic and fluid fields to evaluating the performance of electrical sensor in the concentration measurement of gas/solid two-phase flow. Compared with the static numerical simulation, this real-time dynamic 3-D simulation method can research on a designed capacitance sensor combining the dynamic characteristics of the two-phase flows for concentration measurement. Several fluid-electrostatic models of transmission pipes with different sensor structures are built. Under different test positions and different particle concentrations, the flow characteristics and the corresponding electric signals can be obtained, and the correlation coefficient between the concentration values and the capacitance values are used for performance evaluation of the sensors. The effects of flow regimes on concentration measurement are also been investigated in this paper. To validate the results of simulation, an experimental platform with horizontal straight pipe for phase volume concentration measurement of solid/air two-phase flow is built, and the experimental results agree well with simulation conclusions. The simulation and test results show that the coupling models can give constructive reference opinions for the sensor design and collection of installation position in different transmission pipelines, which are very important for the practical process of pneumatic conveying system.

The primary goal of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in solid-state batteries (SSBs), with a focus on recent advancements in solid electrolytes and anodes. The paper begins with a background on the evolution from liquid electrolyte lithium-ion batteries to advanced SSBs, highlighting their enhanced safety and energy density. It addresses the increasing demand for efficient, safe energy storage in applications like electric vehicles and portable electronics. A major part of the paper analyzes solid electrolytes, key to SSB technology. It classifies solid electrolytes as polymer-based, oxide-based, and sulfide-based, discussing their distinct properties and application suitability. The review also covers advancements in anode materials for SSBs, exploring materials like lithium metal, silicon, and intermetallic compounds, focusing on their capacity, durability, and compatibility with solid electrolytes. It addresses challenges in integrating these anode materials, like interface stability and lithium dendrite growth. This review includes a discussion on the latest analytical techniques, experimental studies, and computational models to understand and improve the anode-solid electrolyte interface. These are crucial for tackling interfacial resistance and ensuring SSBs' long-term stability and efficiency. Concluding, the paper suggests future research and development directions, highlighting SSBs' potential in revolutionizing energy storage technologies. This review serves as a vital resource for academics, researchers, and industry professionals in advanced battery technology development. It offers a detailed overview of materials and technologies shaping SSBs' future, providing insights into current challenges and potential solutions in this rapidly evolving field.

This article objectively assesses, the hypothesis of the streamline's shape theory and its formulated equation. The deduction of proof uses algebra rather than first-order partial differential equations to address the specific hypothesis of "Streamline's shape theory" from the fundamental perspective of applied mathematics and scientifically derives mathematical relations of the axioms and corollaries in the field of fluid dynamics. The algebraic methods employed provide progressively more distinct and precise solutions compared to first-order partial differential equations. The foremost objective of this work is to evaluate if the formulations of the streamline's shape theory can have solutions for inviscid-incompressible and viscid-compressible flows of Newtonian fluids and to identify their nature. Secondly, to understand how the topology of the body and the free-stream conditions affect these solutions with due regards to the shape and size of the body interacting with the fluid flow. Finally, to explore the possibility of this theory to develop a CFD solver for streamline simulation to reduce the experimentation in the analysis of flow-structure interactions of Newtonian fluids and also to identify its scope of applications and limitations.

Effective solid waste management is crucial for protecting public health and the environment. Global concentration on finding sustainable methods of handling waste continue to top the list of most governmental-related project checklists. This paper provides a case study on the management of municipal solid waste in the cities of Karlsruhe, Germany and Navrongo, Ghana as developed and developing countries respectively. This study aimed at comparing and drawing lessons from how these two different cities manage their solid waste. The waste management system in Karlsruhe prioritizes waste separation, recycling, and a pay-as-you-throw system has led to an efficient and sustainable waste management system that minimizes waste and protects the environment. Karlshrue's adoption of a continual developmental plan structure focused on integrated WM concepts is credited with safeguarding the long-term viability of waste management in the city. In contrast, Navrongo's waste management system faces several challenges, including inadequate resources and infrastructure, traditional waste disposal practices, and the lack of well-planned waste management strategies. To improve effective solid waste management systems in Ghana, a collaborative approach involving the government, local organizations, and the community is necessary. This can include investing in infrastructure, implementing waste separation and recycling programs, and educating the public on the benefits of sustainable waste management practices. Learning from successful models like Karlsruhe can help accelerate the development of sustainable waste management practices in Ghana, and ultimately protect public health and the environment.

The center of gravity of a three-dimensional object found through an experimental method can be made easier and faster than when calculating the movement manually in order to make the movement in computer graphic images look more natural. In addition, in various sports such as skating, the score can be increased by appropriately moving the position of the center of gravity. Lastly, it is expected that it can be used even when the performance is high in the manufacturing process to increase the stability and speed of various means of transportation (eg, automobiles, airplanes, etc.).

An inorganic solid electrolyte is the most favorable candidate for replacing flammable liquid electrolytes in lithium batteries. Lithium Lanthanum Zirconium Oxide (LLZO) is considered as a promising solid electrolyte due to its safe operating potential window (0-5V) combined with its good electrochemical stability. In this work, 250 g batches of pre-sintered Tadoped (Li7La3Zr1.6Ta0.4O12, TaLLZO) were synthesized for bulk production of dense LLZO electrolyte. A simple two-step thermal treatment process was developed. The first thermal step at 950 °C initiates nucleation of LLZO carefully controlling process parameters such as heating atmosphere, temperature and dopant concentration. In the second thermal step at 1150 °C, sintered discs were obtained as solid electrolytes, with relative densities of 96%. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the phase purity of the sintered TaLLZO disc, and refined data was used to calculate the lattice parameter (12.944 Å). Furthermore, the presence of the Ta dopant in the disc was confirmed through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The ionic and electronic conductivity values of TaLLZO disc were 104 S cm-1 and 10-10 S cm-1, respectively. These values confirm that the prepared (Ta-LLZO) discs exhibit ionic conductivity while being electronically insulating, being suitable for use as solid electrolytes with the requisite electrical properties.

The purpose of this study is to assess the solid waste management status and practice in Sendafa town, Oromia regional state residents. In order to achieve this goal, the researcher intends to employ both primary and secondary data from the Sendafa town municipality. With the aid of multi-cluster sampling and a purposive sampling method, the researchers chose a sample size of 398 people and 10 interview responders. To utilize a systematic sampling technique at intervals of residences, individual samples were chosen. Quantitative data was cleaned and analysed using STATA software. A multiple linear regression model and logistic regression other descriptive statistics methods were then used to change the results. The qualitative data were imported, coded, and thematised using ATLAS.ti.9 in order to prepare respondents' interviews for analysis. The findings indicate that residents' poor solid waste management practices are a result of a lack of awareness, low family income transportation issues, issues with waste collectors, a lack of a sense of responsibility and belonging, and a failure to enforce current solid waste management laws. Solid waste accumulates near roads, bridges, and residential areas that are close to landfills, contaminating the area and leading to diseases like TB and Asthma (and other related health issues in children and adults who live there). Thus, researcher recommends that to have sustainable solid waste management the town administrators should have plan to develop awareness creation symposium or panel of discussion, resolve transportation issues, monitor and guide the routine activities of waste collectors, develop sense of belongingness for themselves and for the community, develop integrated solid waste land fill projects and working with all stakeholders like NGO and health institution will minimize the adverse effect of improper solid waste management. Keywords: Solid Waste, Status of Solid Waste Management, Land fill site suitability

Garnet-type Ta-doped Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) ceramic solid electrolytes with Ga2O3 additive were synthesized via a conventional solid-state reaction process. When the amounts of Ga2O3 additive were below 2 mol %, the sintered sample has a dense structure composed of grains with the averaged size of 5 to 10 μm, while 3 mol % or more Ga2O3 addition causes the significant increase in grain size above several 10 to 100 μm, due to the sintering with large amount of liquid Li-Ga-O phase at high temperature. The highest total (bulk + grain-boundary) ionic conductivity of 1.1 mS cm1 at room temperature was obtained in the sample with 5 mol % Ga2O3 addition. However, in galvanostatic testing of the symmetric cell with Li metal electrodes, this sample was shorted by Li dendrite growth into solid electrolyte at current density below 0.2 mA cm2. The tolerance for Li dendrite growth is maximized in sample sintered with 2 mol % Ga2O3 addition, which was shorted at 0.8 mA cm2 in the symmetric cell. Since the interfacial resistance between Li metal and solid electrolyte was nearly identical among the all samples, the difference in tolerance for Li dendrite growth is mainly attributed to the difference in microstructure of sintered samples depending on the amounts of Ga2O3.

Thin films of BiFeO3 (BFO), VO2 and BFO/VO2 were grown on SrTiO3(100) and Al2O3(0001) monocrystalline substrates using the RF and DC sputtering techniques. The surface of the films was characterized by profilometry, AFM, and XPS. The heterostructures have roughnesses between 0.2 and 16 nm and a grain size between 20 nm and 67 nm. XPS measurements show a higher proportion of the V4+ and Bi3+ oxides. In the Fe region, a higher proportion of Fe3+ is shown in the films. The homogeneous ordering, low roughnesses, and the oxidation states on the obtained surface show a good coupling in these films. The I-V curves show ohmic behavior at room temperature and change with increasing temperature. The effect of coupling these materials in a thin film shows the appearance of hysteresis cycles I-V and R-T, typical of materials with high potential in applications such as resistive memories and solar cells.

A positive fluid balance may evolve to fluid overload and associate with organ dysfunctions, weaning difficulties, and increased mortality in ICU patients. We explored whether individualized fluid management, assessing fluid-responsiveness via passive leg-raising maneuver (PLR) before spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) associated with less extubation failure in ventilated patients with high fluid balance, admitted to the ICU after liver transplantation (LT). We recruited 15 LT patients in 2023. Postoperative fluid balance was +4476 [3697,5722] mL. PLRs were conducted at ICU admission (T1) and pre-SBT (T2). Cardiac index (CI) changes were recorded before and after SBT (T3). Seven patients were fluid responsive at T1, and 12 at T2. No significant differences occurred in hemodynamic, respiratory, and perfusion parameters between fluid-responsive and fluid-unresponsive patients at any time. Fluid-responsive patients at T1 and T2 increased their CI during SBT from 3.1 [2.8,3.7] to 3.7 [3.4,4.1] mL/min/m2 (p= 0.045). All fluid-responsive patients at T2 were extubated after SBT and consolidated extubation. Two out of three of fluid-unresponsive patients experienced weaning difficulties. We concluded that fluid-responsive patients post-LT may start weaning earlier and achieve successful extubation despite high postoperative fluid balance. This highlights the profound impact of personalized assessment of cardiovascular state on critical surgical patients.

While the underwater submersible encounters internal solitary wave (ISW), its loadings and motions would be seriously disturbed. To investigate the interaction effect between the suspended submersible and ISW, a three dimensional ISW-submersible interaction numerical model was established based on the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method. The generation and propagation of ISW was simulated in a two-layer fluid numerical wave tank according to the eKdV theory. The standard operation equation of submersible was introduced to simulate the six degree of freedom (6DoF) motions of submersible combined with the overset dynamic mesh method. The motion simulation method of submersible was effectively validated by comparing with published experimental results on the motion responses of the slender body under the ISW. Based on the constructed numerical model, the dynamic mechanism between the suspended submersible and ISW were studied, and the effects of the initial submerged depths and the ISW amplitudes on the dynamic responses of the submersible were revealed. According to the numerical results, the motions of the submersible have been significantly determined by its initial submerged depths. The submersible located above the ISW interface has a significant motion along the propagation direction of ISW and its motion trajectory resembles a counterclockwise semi ellipse. The motions of the submersible located below the ISW interface follows with the trace of the lower layer fluid which presented as an unclosed clockwise ellipse. The corresponding motions of the submersible would be increased as the increase of the ISW amplitudes.

Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) refers to the various techniques used to increase the amount of crude oil that can be extracted from an oil field. These techniques are used after the primary and secondary recovery methods have been depleted. There are three main types of EOR: thermal, gas injection, and chemical. EOR techniques can be expensive and complex, but they can help to recover additional oil that would otherwise be left in the reservoir. EOR can also extend the life of an oil field and increase the overall production from a given field. The parameters affecting oil recovery are a major concern in EOR systems, and these parameters need more consideration with the factors affecting them. In this study, the influence of permeability variations on fluid flow in a sandstone reservoir was explored, as well as an up-to-date description of three states of EOR with thorough explanations of the methods utilized and the mechanisms driving their oil recovery application. The difficulties encountered in the use of the different standard EOR Mechanisms were noted, and solutions to these difficulties were proposed. Furthermore, the contemporary trend of adding nanotechnology and its synergistic effects on the stability and efficiency of traditional chemicals for EOR were examined and analysed. Finally, laboratory findings and field initiatives were discussed. The review went into detail about the transport of nanoparticles across reservoirs, as well as the evaluation of EOR, mobility ratio, and fluid displacement efficiency. This review provides thorough information on the uses of improved oil recovery mechanisms for sustainable energy production.

The concept of smart morphing blades, which can control themselves to reduce or eliminate the need for active control systems, is a highly attractive solution in blade technology. In this paper an innovative passive control system based on Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) is proposed. On the basis of previous thermal and shape characterization of a single morphing blade for a heavy-duty automotive cooling axial fan, this study deals with the numerical analysis of the aerodynamic loads acting on the fan. By coupling CFD and FEM approaches it is possible to analyze the actual blade shape resulting from both the aerodynamic and centrifugal loads. The numerical results indicate that the polymeric blade structure ensures proper resistance and enables shape variation due to the action of the SMA strips.

Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂Solid-state reaction was used for Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ material synthesis from Li₂CO₃, La₂O₃ and ZrO₂ powders. Phase investigation by XRD, SEM and EDS methods of Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ were carried out. The molar heat capacity of Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ at constant pressure in the temperature range 298-800 K should be calculated as Cp,m = 518.135+0.599 × T - 8.339 × T−2, where T is absolute temperature, . Thermodynamic characteristics of Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ were determined as next: entropy S0298 = 362.3 J mol-1 K-1, molar enthalpy of dissolution ΔdHLlZO = ˗ 1471.73 ± 29.39 kJ mol−1, the standard enthalpy of formation from elements ΔfH0 = ˗ 9327.65 ± 7.9 kJ mol−1, the standard Gibbs free energy of formation ∆f G0298 = ˗9435.6 kJ mol-1.

The garnet Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ (LLZO) has been widely investigated because of its high conductivity, wide electrochemical window and chemical stability to lithium metal. However, the usual preparation process of LLZO requires a long time of high-temperature sintering and a lot of mother powders against the lithium evaporation. The submicron Li₆.6La₃Zr₁.6Nb₀.4O₁₂ (LLZNO) powders are prepared by conventional solid-state reaction method and attrition milling process, which are stable cubic phase and have high sintering activity, and Li stoichiometric LLZNO ceramics are obtained by sintering at a relative lower temperature or for a short time by using these powders which are difficult to control under high sintering temperature and long sintering time. The particle size distribution, phase structure, microstructure, distribution of element, total ionic conductivity, relative density and activation energy of submicron LLZNO powders and LLZNO ceramics are tested and analyzed by laser diffraction particle size analyzer, XRD, SEM, EIS and Archimedean method. The total ionic conductivity of sample sintered at 1200 °C for 30 min is 5.09 × 10-4 S·cm-1, the activation energy is 0.311 eV, and the relative density is 87.3%, and sintered at 1150 °C for 60 min total ionic conductivity is 3.49 × 10-4 S·cm-1, the activation energy is 0.316 eV, and the relative density is 90.4%. At the same time, all-solid-state batteries are assembled with LiMn₂O₄ as positive electrode and submicron LLZNO powders as solid state electrolyte. After 50 cycles, the discharge specific capacity is 105.5 mAh/g and the columbic efficiency is above 95%.

Accurate measurement of solid precipitation (S) has a critical importance for proper understanding of the Earth’s hydrological cycle, validation of emerging technologies and weather prediction models, and developing parameterizations of severe weather elements such as visibility (Vis). However, measuring S is still a challenging problem mainly because of wind effects. The wind effects are normally mitigated by using a Double-Fence Automated Reference (DFAR) system to reduce the wind speed (Ug). To contribute towards addressing some of these issues we have analyzed data sets collected at a site located in Southern Ontario, Canada using several instruments. The instruments include two Geonor gauges, one placed inside a DFAR (SDFAR) and the other inside a double Alter shield (DASG), a Pluvio2 gauge inside a single Alter shield (SASP), a HotPlate, a PARSIVEL2 Disdrometer that measures S and fall velocity (V), and a FD12P senor that measures S and type and Vis. The results show that for the Ug observed in this study (Ug < 6 ms-1), both DASG and SASP have similar collection efficiency (CE) of near 70%. The transfer functions (TF) for DASG and SASP as a function of Ug and also Ug, and V have been derived. The TF for the DASG that includes both Ug and V showed better agreement with observation than just Ug alone. The S measured using all the other instruments were correlated well with SDFAR, but the PARSIVEL2 and FD12P overestimated and underestimated the snow amount respectively as compared the SDFAR. However, the HotPlate captured similar amount of S as the SDFAR. According to this study, the SDFAR showed good correlation with Vis.

A tumbler screen type residual film–impurity mixture wind separator as a key equipment for secondary utilization of farmland residual film. During the working process, the proportion of impurities in the separated waste mulch film intermittently increases, resulting in poor working stability of the device, which may hamper long-term operation. In this study, the material inside the separation unit was continuously monitored, and the main factor affecting separator per-formance was determined to be the challenges in the effective depolymerization of some residual film–impurity mixtures. The principles of agglomeration and depolymerization of the residual film–impurity mixtures were analyzed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and discrete element method (DEM) flow-solid coupling simulation methods. The key factor affecting the disaggregation of the mixture was the collision force between the residual film–impurity mixture and the trommel screen. The collision force was maximum when the residual film–impurity mixture first collided with the trommel screen when it was fed into the separation device. As determined by force analyses, the key factors affecting the collision force of the process were the material feeding amount and the structure of the inlet. Furthermore, simulations were carried out for different inlet structure forms; the evaluation index was the maximum collision force of the residual film–impurity mixture agglomerate on the trommel screen. The best disaggregation effect was obtained with a square feed inlet and at a feeding rate of 202 kg/h. A prototype was built using these specifications for verification. The average value of the ratio of impurities in the re-sidual film was 6.966%, the coefficient of variation was 7.38%, and the dispersion of statistical results was small. The ratio of impurities in the residual film was kept constant during the con-tinuous operation of the wind separator. Thus, this study analyzed the agglomerate disaggregation process and provided theoretical insights for deter-mining the optimal structures of the inlets of various cleaning devices and the feeding volumes.

In this paper we develop from first principles a unique law pertaining to the flow of fluids through closed conduits. This law, which we call “Quinn’s Law”, may be described as follows: When fluids are forced to flow through closed conduits under the driving force of a pressure gradient, there is a linear relationship between the normalized dimensionless pressure gradient, P_Q, and the normalized dimensionless fluid current, C_Q. The relationship is expressed mathematically as: P_Q = k₁ +k₂C_Q. This linear relationship remains the same whether the conduit is filled with or devoid of solid obstacles. The law differentiates, however, between a packed and an empty conduit by virtue of the tortuosity of the fluid path, which is seamlessly accommodated within the normalization framework of the law itself. When movement of the fluid is very close to being at rest, i.e., very slow, this relationship has the unique minimum constant value of k₁, and as the fluid acceleration increases, it varies with a slope of k₂ as a function of normalized fluid current. Quinn’s Law is validated herein by applying it to the data from published classical studies of measured permeability in both packed and empty conduits, as well as to the data generated by home grown experiments performed in the author’s own laboratory.

Current Li battery technology employs graphite anode and flammable organic liquid electrolytes. Thus, current Li battery is always facing the problems of low energy density and safety. Additionally, sustainable supply of Li due to scarce abundance of Li sources is another problem. All-solid-state Mg battery is expected to solve the problems owing to non-flammable solid-state electrolytes, high capacity/safety of divalent Mg metal anode and high abundance of Mg sources. Therefore, solid-state electrolytes and all-solid-state Mg battery have been researched intensively last two decades. However, realization of all-solid-state Mg battery is still far. In this article, we review recent research progress on all-solid-state Mg battery so that researchers can pursue recent research trend of all-solid-state Mg battery. At first, solid-state electrolyte research is described briefly in the categories of inorganic, organic and inorganic/organic composite electrolytes. After that, the recent research progress of all-solid-state Mg battery is summarized and analyzed. To help readers, we tabulate electrode materials, experimental conditions and performances of all-solid-state Mg battery so that the readers can find necessary information at a glance. In the last, challenges to realize the all-solid-state Mg batteries are visited.

We develop an action principle to construct the field equations for dissipative/resistive general relativistic two-temperature plasmas, including a neutrally charged component. The total action is a combination of four pieces: an action for a multi-fluid/plasma system with dissipation/resistivity and entrainment; the Maxwell action for the electromagnetic field; the Coulomb action with a minimal coupling of the four-potential to the charged fluxes; and the Einstein-Hilbert action for gravity (with the metric being minimally coupled to the other action pieces). We use a pull-back formalism from spacetime to abstract matter spaces to build unconstrained variations for the neutral, positively, and negatively charged fluid species and for three associated entropy flows. The full suite of field equations is recast in the so-called ``$3 + 1$'' form (suitable for numerical simulations), where spacetime is broken up into a foliation of spacelike hypersurfaces and a prescribed ``flow-of-time''. A previously constructed phenomenological model for the resistivity is updated to include the modified heat flow and the presence of a neutrally charged species. We impose baryon number and charge conservation as well as the Second Law of Thermodynamics in order to constrain the number of free parameters in the resistivity. Finally, we take the Newtonian limit of the ``$3 + 1$'' form of the field equations which can be compared to existing non-relativistic formulations. Applications include main sequence stars, neutron star interiors, accretion disks, and the early universe.

The emission of carbon compounds (in the form of soot) to the atmosphere has a significant impact on the environment and human health. Air pollution with combustion products, having a unique combination of physical and chemical properties, is an important component of very fine suspended dust, which is emitted from various sources related to combustion processes. The carbon compounds in the aerosol and deposited in the substrate are found all over the Earth. The paper presents results of comparative research on the content of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soot samples obtained as a result of combustion of solid fuels such as hard coal with granulation above 60 mm, coal with a grain size of 25-80 mm, coal with a grain size of 8-25 mm, pellets and dry wood. On the basis of the conducted tests, it was found that the soot obtained in the combustion of coal in different granulation contains more cytotoxic PAHs in comparison to the combustion of wood pellets or dry firewood.

This article attempts to formulate a mathematical model for a potential explanation regarding the unavoidable impact of a rigid body's peculiar shape on the seamless flow over it. The solid body completely immersed in a Newtonian fluid and respectively has a relative open circuit flow on it will typically experience various observable phenomena like flow separation, flow transition, down-wash, stalling at the higher angle of attack, stalling velocity and how cambered airfoil can typically generate lift at a zero incidence angle. This article respectively represents an understanding of the laminar flow over a rigid body's external surface with due respect to its distinctive shape and size. This working paper formulates a more realistic and simplified mathematical model for open circuit laminar flow over a body, based on the historical data of aerodynamics and theoretical mechanics. This is intended to properly estimate forces on the continuous surface of the body in a laminar flow, to properly explain, understand and predict mentioned phenomena. Most of all the mechanism of streamline formation and its deformation with due regards to flow, shape and size of the body in an open-circuit laminar are formulated mathematically to enhance better design theory which can reduce experimentation while designing a streamlined body.

Hydraulic fracturing is the most effective method of stimulation for hydrocarbon reservoirs. However the use of water-based fracturing fluids, can be a problem in water-sensitive formations due to the permeability damage hazard caused by clay minerals swelling. For this reason, the foamed fracturing fluids with addition of natural, fast hydrating guar gum were examined. The rheology and filtration coefficients of foamed fracturing fluids were examined and compared to the properties of conventional water-based fracturing fluid. Laboratory results provided the input for numerical simulation of the fractures geometry for water-based fracturing fluids and 50% N₂ foamed fluids. The results show, that the foamed fluids were able to create shorter and thinner fractures compared to the fractures induced by the non-foamed fluid. The simulation proved that the concentration of proppant in the fracture and its conductivity are similar or slightly higher when using the foamed fluid. Moreover such fluids are able to significantly reduce the amount of water necessary for fracturing treatments, limiting clay minerals swelling, and reducing the reservoir permeability damage. The foamed fluids, when injected to the reservoir, provide additional energy, that allow for more effective flowback, and maintain the proper fracture geometry and proppant placing. The results of laboratory work in combination with the 3D simulation showed, that the foamed fluids have suitable viscosity which allows opening the fracture, and transport the proppant into the fracture, providing successful fracturing operation.

This article presents a review of resources for batteries with a specific focus on sustainability aspects related to raw materials, electrode and electrolyte chemistries suitable for the automobile industry. We emphasize the importance of prioritizing sustainability in battery technology evolution, which is expected to shift towards earth-abundant materials. One notable advancement in this direction is the utilization of glass solid-state electrolytes, known for their high ionic conductivity, low electronic conductivity, and high dielectric constant. However, our review suggests that further research should explore synthesis methods to modify anisotropic properties, enhancing the performance of solid-state electrolytes, particularly in facilitating the flow of ions.

Contacting bodies in extreme environments are prone to severe wear and failure due to friction and seizure, which are associated with significant thermal and mechanical loads. This phenomenon greatly impacts the economy since most essential components encounter these challenges during machining, an unavoidable step in most manufacturing processes. In machining, stress can reach 4 GPa, and temperatures can exceed 1000 °C at the cutting zone. Severe seizure and friction are the primary causes of tool and workpiece failures. Liquid lubricants are popular in machining for combatting heat and friction; however, concerns about their environmental impact are growing, as two-thirds of the 40 million tons used annually are discarded and they produce other environmental and safety issues. Despite their overall efficacy, these lubricants also have limitations, including ineffectiveness in reducing seizure at the tool/chip interface and susceptibility to degradation at high temperatures. There is therefore a push towards solid lubricants, which promise a reduced environmental footprint, better friction management, and improved machining outcomes but also face challenges under extreme machining conditions. This research aims to provide a thorough insight into solid lubricant use in machining, discussing their mechanisms, effectiveness, constraints, and potential to boost productivity and environmental sustainability.

This scoping review examines global strategies and enterprises for sustainable solid waste management, with a focus on alternative landfilling approaches. The study collected and analyzed a significant number of documents from different regions, revealing Asia as the major contributor (for the collected documents) (48.7%), followed by North America (24.3%) and Europe (15.8%). Recycling emerged as the most effective alternative waste treatment method, representing 52.3% of the documented approaches, with industrial recycling (22.6%) and residential/non-residential recycling (20.2%) as prominent categories. Food waste was a significant concern across regions, constituting 21.4% of the collected documents. Composting was widely adopted (15.4%) due to its simplicity and benefits for gardening and soil improvement. Other methods like biogas extraction, reusing, raising awareness, incinerating, redistributing, reducing, and fermentation accounted for 13.1% cumulatively. The study highlights the need for tailored waste management solutions based on regional challenges and successful practices. Promoting recycling infrastructure, composting, and waste reduction approaches are crucial to achieving sustainable waste management aligned with SDGs. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing between regions are essential to improve inefficient waste management mechanisms. Integrating the findings into policymaking and industry practices can lead to a more sustainable future with reduced environmental impact.

This study evaluated various solid-liquid separation (SLS) processes used in pig farms for wastewater and livestock manure. SLS is crucial for recycling and purifying pig manure. Seven SLS processes were tested on 11 farms: centrifuge, centrifuge with coagulation agent, belt press with coagulation agent, drum screen, inclined screen, vibration screen, and screw press. Samples collected included raw manure, separated liquid, and solid manure after SLS processing, analyzed for pH, EC, moisture, COD_Mn, BOD₅, TN, TP, K, TS, SS, NaCl, and heavy metals. Belt press with coagulation agent showed highest TS and SS reduction (78.8% and 96.9%). For TN and TP removal, belt press and centrifuge with coagulation agents achieved 41.0% and 94.2%, respectively. Belt press with coagulation agent removed 59.4% BOD₅ and 66.0% COD_Mn. Centrifuge with coagulation agent removed 100% Zn and 98.6% Cu. Drum screen, inclined screen, vibration screen, screw press, and centrifuge without coagulation showed lower removal efficiency for nutrients, solids, Zn, and Cu compared to centrifugal and belt press with coagulation. Centrifugal and belt press with coagulation showed higher efficiency in removing nutrients, solids, and metals. Further studies are needed to understand its impact on linked biological or chemical processes.

Deposition/printing of materials with sub-1 μm precision and size (cross sections) is required for optical and electrical micro-devices. Crystalline c-ITO (Indium tin oxide) nanostructures were patterned on glass with a precision that formed gaps of 20-50 nm between individual disks or lines of ∼ 250 nm diameter or width. The absorbed energy density [J/cm3] followed the second order dependence on pulse energy. This facilitated high resolution and precision for nanoscale laser writing at the 515 nm laser wavelength. Patterns for optical elements such as circular gratings and micro-disks were laser printed using ITO as a resist. Unexposed amorphous a-ITO was chemically removed in aqueous 1% vol. HF solution. This use of a-ITO as solid-resist is promising for metamaterial and micro-optical applications.

Many centers worldwide raised the concern that immunocompromised patients for solid organ transplantation may be at high risk of developing a severe respiratory disease by COVID-19. Currently, there are no specific data on the COVID-19 in patients with generalized immunosuppression and transplantation.In this narrative review, we reported the main data of COVID-19 in patients with solid organ transplantation presented in the literature. The aim is to elaborate a strategy for tailored management, from diagnosis to therapy.The management of adult patients with solid organ transplantation and COVID-19 is a challenge for the clinicians. There is a lack of data in the literature, but three key-points are crucial: in the “pandemic era,” consider the symptomatic patient as positive for COVID-19 until proven otherwise; adjust/stop immunosuppressive agents; protect graft function with adequate route and dose administration of glucocorticoid and supportive measures. For pediatric patients, data are scarce. It is unclear if immunosuppression in patients with solid organ transplantation alters the predisposition to acquiring COVID-19 or if the disease implications are modified for better or for worse. Further studies are needed.

Solid waste management in Accra is a major challenge to the Metropolitan Authorities and inhabitants. The rapidly increasing population coupled with poor capacity of the municipal and private waste management companies to management waste effectively has created issues of environmental concern. Due to poor waste managements systems, most household dispose waste indiscriminately leading to floods and health issues. The study showed that about 60% of household waste is organic materials which has the potential to be converted to compost for agriculture purpose. Meanwhile plastics and rubbers which litters the environment as well as blocking major storm drains and gutters hence creating huge environmental hazard is made of 11% of the total component of most household waste generated daily. The study also revealed that among the methods of disposing waste, dumping waste in skip containers located at authorized places was the preferred means of disposing waste by household though others also dispose waste by other means such as burying and burning. Inadequate skip containers per population of household in an area coupled with irregularity of tracks picking these containers makes skip containers dumping site ugly scene, hence creating health issues. Among the constraints that impact negatively on sustainable waste management in Accra Metropolis, economic constraints was perceived as the main challenge which affect efficient waste management. Currently the country is going through serious economic challenges so government does not release money timely to fund projects which waste management is key. Most donor partners that use to support the government with funds have either reduced or redrawn their services as they have no confidence in the state of Ghana economy. Aside the constrains, the study also indicated that factors such as poor public attitude towards waste management, poor enforcement of sanitation by-laws, inadequate and untimely release of government funds were also seen as the main factors affecting waste management.

In previous papers we have shown how Schrödinger’s equation which includes an electromagnetic field interaction can be deduced from a fluid dynamical Lagrangian of a charged potential flow that interacts with an electromagnetic field. The quantum behaviour was derived from Fisher information terms which were added to the classical Lagrangian. It was thus shown that a quantum mechanical system is driven by information and not only electromagnetic fields. This program was applied also to Pauli’s equations by removing the restriction of potential flow and using the Clebsch formalism. Although the analysis was quite successful there were still terms that did not admit interpretation, some of them can be easily traced to the relativistic Dirac theory. Here we repeat the analysis for a relativistic flow, pointing to a new approach for deriving relativistic quantum mechanics.

Analyzing synovial fluid from joints affected by the pathological process of psoriatic arthritis is part of the overall patient examination, since it may have differential diagnostic significance. The purpose of this study was to assess the presence of crystals in the synovial fluid of psoriatic arthritis patients as biomarkers for disease activity. Materials and methods: The synovial fluid of 156 patients with proven PSA diagnosis (patients covered CASPAR criteria) was analyzed over 24 months and compared to 50 patients with activated gonarthrosis. The Leica DM4500P polarization microscope (Leica Microsystems, Germany) was used for crystal detection. Pain and disease activity measures were also evaluated (PSA VAS for pain, DAPSA, PASDAI, mCPDAI, and HAQ-DI). The statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS version 26 with a significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The macroscopic appearance of synovial fluid from patients with psoriatic arthritis was clear in 84.6% of the patients. Synovial fluid crystals were found in 23.71% of patients with psoriatic arthritis - predominantly monosodium urate (67.58%) but also calcium pyrophosphate (21.62%) and lipid drops (5.4%). The presence of monosodium urate crystals significantly correlates with all pain and disease activity measures – VAS for pain, DAPSA, PASDAI, mCPDAI, and HAQ-DI. In 67.56% of patients with established crystals treatment with an anti-TNF blocker was started at the discretion of the treating rheumatologist due to high levels of disease activity. Conclusion: Examining the synovial fluid in PSA patients is a necessary minimally invasive procedure in cases of joint effusion, since the presence of synovial fluid crystals is a significant indicator of disease severity. The current analyses demonstrate that the presence of synovial fluid crystals in PSA patients can be used as a biomarker for disease severity and the necessity to commence biological treatment (most often TNF-a-blocker).

Gold, present as electrum, in the Battle Gap, Ridge North-West, HW, and Price deposits at the Myra Falls mine, occurs in late veinlets cutting the earlier VMS lithologies. The ore mineral assemblage containing the electrum comprises dominantly galena, tennantite, bornite, sphalerite, chalcopyrite, pyrite and rare stromeyerite is defined as an Au-Zn-Pb-As-Sb association. The gangue is comprised of barite, quartz, and minor feldspathic volcanogenic sedimentary rocks and clay. Deposition of gold as electrum in the baritic upper portions of the sulphide lenses occurs at relatively shallow water depths beneath the sea floor. Primary, pseudosecondary, and secondary fluid inclusions, petrographically related to gold, show boiling fluid inclusion assemblages in the range of 123 to 173 °C, with compositions and eutectic melt temperatures consistent with seawater at approximately 3.2 wt% NaCl equivalent. The fluid inclusion homogenization temperatures are consistent with boiling seawater corresponding to water depths ranging from 15 to 125 metres. Slightly more dilute brines corresponding to salinities of approximately 1 wt% NaCl indicate that there is input from very low-salinity brines, which could represent a transition from subaqueous VMS to epithermal-like conditions for precious metal enrichment, mixing with re‑condensed vapour, or very low-salinity igneous fluids.

One of the biggest problems that the Dominican Republic has had in recent decades is the efficient management of solid waste produced by the population. This problem has worsened in recent years due to the decrease in available areas for the construction of sanitary landfills, the lack of recycling culture in the population, the deficiency in waste collection, and the scarce legal controls aimed at preserving water and air and soil, among other factors. The objective of this study was to explore the management of solid waste by the population and the municipality of Puñal, province of Santiago, to evaluate and analyze the situation and generation of solid waste, municipal solid waste management services, and the attitudes of the population regarding recycling projects and waste management, to evaluate the viability and sustainability of the use organic waste for energy generation. A total of 275 households from 29 localities in the municipality of Puñal were surveyed, which allowed for a significant population sample. According to the results obtained, the most significant type of waste produced by families is organic waste, followed by plastic waste and paper. Of the total organic waste produced in the municipality, 53% of solid waste is disregarded through the municipal waste collection system, while 47% is used as plant fertilizers or animal feed. On the other hand, most households receive the municipal waste collection service and pay for this service. The results of our research show that the implementation of an energy production system based on organic waste would be viable in the municipality of Puñal. However, a more efficient waste collection system would be necessary and the development of programs and projects that allow all households to participate in the system.

Based on acoustic fluid elements, dynamic analysis was performed on liquid sloshing modes and liquid-filled containers considering the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) effect. The liquid sloshing modes in two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) containers were analyzed, and the results were compared with liquid sloshing modes measured in tests and theoretically calculated modes. This thus verifies correctness of the simulation method based on acoustic fluid elements. Cylindrical liquid-filled containers with different water levels were subjected to modal analysis and dynamic and time-historical analysis. Results show that the finite element analysis (FEA) based on acoustic fluid elements can accurately simulate liquid sloshing modes in liquid-filled containers and vibration characteristics of these containers with different liquid levels. The vibration frequency of liquid-filled containers declines obviously with rising liquid level. The liquid level significantly affects distributions of the maximum displacement, maximum acceleration, and maximum von Mises stress on the sidewall of liquid-filled containers. Numerical simulations based on acoustic fluid elements provides an effective and reliable method for dynamic analysis of liquid-filled containers considering the FSI effect.

In this short review paper we have assembled the main characteristics of partial oxidation reactions (oxidative dehydrogenation and selective oxidation to olefins or oxygenates, as aldehydes and carboxylic acids and nitriles), as well as total oxidation, particularly for depollution, environmental issues and wastewater treatments. Both gas-solid and liquid-solid media have been considered with recent and representative examples within these fields. We have also discussed about their potential and prospective industrial applications. Particular attention has been brought to new raw materials stemming from biomass and to liquid-solid catalysts cases. This review paper also summarizes the progresses made in the use of unconventional activation methods for performing oxidation reactions, highlighting the synergy of these technologies with heterogeneous catalysis. Focus has been centered on usual catalysts activation methods but also on less usual ones, such as the use of ultrasounds, microwaves, grinding (mechanochemistry) and photo-activated processes, as well as their combined use.

Considering the safety issues of Li ion batteries, all-solid-state polymer electrolyte has been one of the promising solutions. In this point, achieving a Li ion conductivity in the solid state electrolytes comparable to liquid electrolytes (>1 mS/cm) is particularly challenging. Employment of polyethylene oxide (PEO) solid electrolyte has not been not enough in this point due to high crystallinity. In this study, hybrid solid electrolyte (HSE) systems are designed with Li_1.3Al_0.3Ti_0.7(PO₄)₃(LATP), PEO and Lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆) or Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI). Hybrid solid cathode (HSC) is also designed using LATP, PEO and lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO₂, LCO)—lithium manganese oxide (LiMn₂O₄, LMO). The designed HSE system displays 3.0 × 10⁻⁴ S/cm (55 ℃) and 1.8 × 10⁻³ S/cm (23 ℃) with an electrochemical stability as of 6.0 V without any separation layer introduction. Li metal (anode)/HSE/HSC cell in this study displays initial charge capacity as of 123.4/102.7 mAh/g (55 ℃) and 73/57 mAh/g (25 °C). To these systems, Succinonitrile (SN) has been incorporated as a plasticizer for practical secondary Li ion battery system development to enhance ionic conductivity. The incorporated SN effectively increases the ionic conductivity without any leakage and short-circuits even under broken cell condition. The developed system also overcomes the typical disadvantages of internal resistance induced by Ti ion reduction. In this study, optimized ionic conductivity and low internal resistance inside the Li ion battery cell have been obtained, which suggests a new possibility in the secondary Li ion battery development.

In recent times, there has been significant enthusiasm for the development of all solid state batteries. This interest stems from a dual focus on safety—addressing concerns related to toxic and flammable organic liquid electrolytes—and the pursuit of high energy density. \cite{SCHNELL2018160,Zheng2018}. While liquid electrolyte batteries constitute for now the vast majority of commercial cells, solid electrolyte batteries show great promise. In parallel with experimental research, computational models \cite{GrazioliEtAlCM2016} clarify the several fundamental physics \cite{LiMonroeARCBM2020} that take place throughout battery operations. We review some classical models, emphasizing the conceptual advancements documented in the most recent works.

This review provides an extensive overview of the developments in the field of polymer science, focusing on the solid-state modification (SSM) of thermoplastic materials. The background of the study places thermoplastics within the context of their increased use over the past century, highlighting their versatility in various applications and the associated environmental and health concerns due to certain additives. The methods section delves into the specifics of SSM, a technique that involves the incorporation of monomers or oligomers into the amorphous phase of polymers through multiple exchange reactions, distinguishing it from traditional melt polymer modification methods. The results section outlines the unique aspects of SSM and its increasing recognition for its potential to enhance material performance in areas such as catalysts and composites. It also discusses the application of SSM in modifying different thermoplastic polymers, highlighting various studies demonstrating the method's effectiveness in altering polymer properties. Finally, this work emphasizes SSM's importance in environmental sustainability and its potential in the recycling and upcycling of plastic materials. It acknowledges the challenges and future perspectives in the field, particularly regarding the scalability of SSM techniques for industrial applications and their role in advancing a circular economy in the polymer industry.

As the global community shifts away from fossil fuels towards more environmentally friendly energy alternatives, there is an escalating demand for sophisticated energy storage solutions. Solid-State Batteries (SSBs) have emerged as a promising advancement, presenting a superior substitute to conventional lithium-ion batteries. This review provides an in-depth examination of SSBs, emphasizing their enhanced energy density, safety, and longevity. We evaluate conventional cathode materials, including lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4), and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4). Additionally, we introduce emerging materials such as sulfides, oxides, and air-based cathodes, discussing their benefits, limitations, and their congruence with solid electrolytes. Special attention is devoted to the structural fine-tuning of cathode ma-terials, investigating approaches like nanostructuring, surface coatings, and composite strategies to counteract issues such as restricted conductivity and structural volatility. The review critically analyzes the electrical and thermal properties of these materials, which are essential for battery safety and efficacy. Moreover, we present a comparative assessment of cathode materials based on performance indicators and identify prevailing research voids and hurdles in the commerciali-zation of SSB cathodes. Concluding, we suggest prospective research directions and innovations, underscoring the revolutionary potential of SSB technologies in paving the way for a sustainable energy horizon.

Environmental perception is a powerful tool for identifying community needs and potential within their surroundings. This study assessed tourists' environmental perception regarding solid waste and its impact on the Hurtado balneary, located in Valledupar, Colombia. From May to July 2023, the investigation delved into the environmental attitudes and behaviors of 769 balneary users by employing a combination of observation, photographic documentation, and a comprehensive 21-question online survey. The findings unveiled compelling insights: an overwhelming 98.8% of participants acknowledged the adverse effects of solid waste on the environment, with an impressive 98% demonstrating a willingness to participate in waste management efforts. Alarmingly, 42.13% exhibited limited awareness of waste management practices, reflecting a lack of public interest and commitment (41.61%). Statistically significant disparities emerged: 59% of waste items were not appropriately disposed of in designated receptacles. Reasons for this included a lack of a sense of belonging (50.2%) and inadequate environmental education (45.6%). 96% expressed the need for river conservation signage, while 59.8% had not engaged in environmental training. The implications of these results extend beyond the Hurtado balneary, potentially informing solid waste management strategies in other aquatic environments. Furthermore, this investigation aligns with three critical Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 12, emphasizing responsible consumption and production; SDG 13, addressing climate action; and SDG 15, advocating for life on land and below water. Keywords: Tourism; solid waste; surface water; environmental management.

Solid waste has become a tenacious issue worldwide. It has been increasing exponentially due to urbanization and the increase in the population. Since the twentieth-century technological revolution, there have been significant changes in the composition of solid waste. It poses significant challenges for waste management systems worldwide. Waste management is the process of handling waste right from its creation to its final disposal, including transport, collection, treatment, and monitoring. The present solid waste management (SWM) system is affected by unfavorable institutional, economic, technical, legislative, and operational constraints. Poor waste management is affecting ecosystems and human health, damaging our finite natural resources, impeding human economic progress, and harming people's quality of life. Now, researchers are concerned about the environment's degradation, a decline in quality of life, and risks related to waste management grow as the volume of solid waste. So, they are focusing on sustainable waste management practices which will be crucial for creating a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations. This chapter focuses on the concept of solid waste, its types, management, and its effect on the health of humans and the environment.

CSZM compounds were synthesized by dry chemistry route with 5, 10, and 15% dopant of Mg dopants in the Ce 0.8-2x Sm 0.2 Zrx Mgx O2-d, {x = 0.05, 0.1 &amp;0.15}. The newly investigated materials were physically, chemically, and electrochemically studied and have shown promising results. The CSZM was crystalized in a fluorite structure with a pure cubic phase in a space group Fm3m and cell parameter a = 5.401742 °A and theoretical density from 7.6 to 8.9 after firing in the air with a final temperature of 1400 °C. characterization of the structure and indexing of electrolyte materials were made after X-ray diffraction (XRD) testing. A Scanning electron microscope (SEM) morphological analysis was used to examine the microstructure details. Electronic impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements were achieved from 400 °C to 700 °C showing the highest value of conductivity of 1.0461 x 10+1 S/cm at 700 °C while the minimum value was 2.7329 x 10-2 S/cm at 400 °C and the total activation energy was found (Ea) 0.6865 eV under 5% H2/Ar.

Bending of solid wood from European oak is one of the most demanding technological processes due to its specific structural and physical properties and variability. We investigated the influence of wood moisture content (MC) and stiffness, determined by NDT, as well as previous drying methods on the bending ability of the wood. The best quality was obtained with bending specimens bent at a moisture content of at least 16 % and quarter or semi-quartersawn. The number of rejected specimens increased slightly when HF bending was used. Single-stage predrying of oak to a final MC of 8 % resulted in a high rejection rate (&gt; 70 %) regardless of drying technique. The acceptance rate was higher for less stiff specimens where the ratio of ultrasonic velocity in the straight (vS) and bent region (vB) was less than 0.5 (vB/vS).

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common complication of non-kidney solid organ transplant (NKSOT). Identifying predisposing factors is crucial for an early approach and correct referral to nephrology. Methods: This is a single-center retrospective observational study of a cohort of CKD patients under follow-up in Nephrology Department between 2010 to 2020. Statistical analysis was performed between all the risk factors and four dependent variables: end-stage renal disease (ESKD), increased serum creatinine ≥50%, renal replacement therapy (RRT), and death in pre-transplant, peri-transplant and post-transplant period. Results: 74 patients were studied (7 heart transplant, 34 liver transplants, and 33 lung transplant). Patients who were not followed-up by nephrology in the pre-transplant (p&lt;0.027), peri-transplant (p&lt;0.046), and the longest time until outpatient clinic follow-up (HR 1,032) were associated with a higher risk of creatinine increase ≥50%. Receiving a lung transplant conferred higher risk than liver or hear transplant for developing a creatinine increase ≥50% and ESKD. Peri-transplant mechanical ventilation, peri-transplant and post-transplant anticalcineurin overdose, nephrotoxic and the number of hospital admissions were significantly associated to present a creatinine increase ≥50% and develop ESKD. Conclusion: An early follow-up by the nephrology department was associated with a decrease in the worsening of renal function.

Here, we report the synthesis and experimental characterization of three drug-drug eutectic mixtures of drug aminoglutethimide (AMG) with caffeine (CAF), nicotinamide (NIC) and ethenzamide (ZMD). The eutectic mixtures (AMG-CAF, AMG-NIC and AMG-ZMD) demonstrate significant melting point depressions ranging from 99.2 to 127.2 °C compared to the melting point of the drug AMG (151°C) and also show significantly higher aqueous solubilities than that of the AMG. The results presented include the determination of the binary melt phase diagrams and accompanying analytical characterization via X-ray powder diffraction, FT-IR spectroscopy and Scanning electron microscopy.

In this paper, an incremental eqivalent contact model is developed for elastic-perfectly plastic solids with rough surfaces. The contact of rough surface is modeled by the accumulation of circular contacts with varying radius, which is estimated from the geometrical contact area and the number of contact patches. For three typical rough surfaces with various mechanical properties, the present model gives accurate predictions of the load-area relation, which are verified by direct finite element simulations. An approximately linear load-area relation is observed for elastic-plastic contact up to a large contact fraction of 15%, and the influence of yield stress is addressed.

Fructose in beverages has adverse effects on lipids, glucose and insulin sensitivity after acute and chronic ingestion. There is limited data showing that chronic consumption of fructose in solid foods has harmful effects. We hypothesized that a moderate amount of fructose compared with sucrose in solid food consumed for a month would not adversely influence fasting or postprandial lipids and glucose after an acute fat and carbohydrate load. Twenty-five men and women with prediabetes and/or obesity and overweight consumed in random order two acute test meals of muffins sweetened with either fructose or sucrose, followed by 4-week chronic consumption of 42g/day of either fructose or sucrose in low fat muffins after which the 2 meal tests were repeated. Subjects were randomised to sugar type in the chronic feeding period. Sugar type had no effect on the incremental area under the curve for triglyceride or uric acid at either time point (P=0.4 and P=0.9). There was no overall difference between meal tests at baseline and after 1 month and no effect of consuming sucrose or fructose muffins for 1 month. Fasting triglyceride increased after chronic consumption of fructose by 0.31±0.37 mmol/L compared with sucrose in people with IFG/IGT only (P=0.004). Fructose at a moderate intake of <10% of energy in solid food has no different effects on postprandial triglyceride and uric acid compared with sucrose although fasting triglyceride was increased in people with IFG/IGT after 1 month of fructose muffins suggesting the need for caution.

Solid state fermentation (SSF) is considered more sustainable than traditional fermentation because it uses low amounts of water and transforms agro-industrial residues into value added products. Enzymes, biofuels, nanoparticles and bioactive compounds can be obtained from SSF. The key factor in SSF processes is the choice of microorganisms and their substrates. Many fungal species can be used and are mainly used due their lower requirements of water, O2 and light. Residues rich in soluble and insoluble fiber are utilized by lignocellulolytic fungi because they have the enzymes that break fiber hard structure (lignases, celullases or hemicelullases). During the hydrolysis of lignin, some phenolic compounds are released but fungi also synthetize compounds such as mycophenolic acid, dicerandrol C, phenylacetates, anthraquinones, benzofurans and alkenyl phenols that have health beneficial effects such as antitumoral, antimicrobial, antioxidant and antiviral activities. Another important group of compounds synthetized by fungi during fermentation are polysaccharides that also have important health promoting properties. Fungal biofermentation has also proved to be a process which can release high contents of phenolics and it also increases the bioactivity of these compounds.

Abrasive Water Jet Machining (AWJM) is a non-conventional machining process that, unlike other methods, is deemed superior because of its applicability, versatility, and no heat-affected zones in the target material. The main objective of this paper was to develop a cheap, practical model for a low-pressure water jet cutting machine and provide some empirical test data for cutting delicate materials. Proper design calculations were performed and are included for both the water jet machine and the two-axis numerical control. Finite Element Analysis results validate the structural integrity of beams and columns in AWJM. Computational Fluid Dynamic analysis of the nozzle shows good agreement with the theoretical calculations regarding the pressure and velocity of the water-abrasive mixture exiting the nozzle. Modal analysis in ANSYS was done to mitigate potential failure due to resonance induced by vibrations. Limited testing on various thicknesses of polystyrene foam ranging from 1-5 mm thickness and rubber sheet of 1 mm thickness showed that even low pressure of 25-30 bar was sufficient to produce a kerf without any burr. However, extensive testing to report optimized parameters like nozzle transverse speed, standoff distance, abrasive flow rate, etc for working at low-pressure ranges is still a consideration for future investigation.

A semi–numerical approach proposed many years ago for describing gravitational collapse in the post–quasi–static approximation , , , , is modified in order to avoid the numerical integration of the basic differential equations the approach is based upon. For doing that we have to impose some restrictions on the fluid distribution. More specifically, we shall assume the vanishing complexity factor condition, which allows for analytical integration of the pertinent differential equations and leads to physically interesting models. Instead, we show that neither the homologous nor the quasi–homologous evolution are acceptable since they lead to geodesic fluids, which are unsuitable for being described in the post–quasi–static approximation. Also, we prove that, within this approximation, adiabatic evolution also leads to geodesic fluids and therefore we shall consider exclusively dissipative systems. Besides the vanishing complexity factor condition, additional information is required for a full description of models. We shall propose different strategies for obtaining such an information, which are based on observables quantities (e.g. luminosity and redshift), and/or heuristic mathematical ansatz. To illustrate the method, we present two models. One model is inspired in the well known Schwarzschild interior solution, and another one is inspired in Tolman VI solution.

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a leading gastrointestinal disease that cause hospitalization. Initial management in the first 72 h after the diagnosis of AP is pivotal, which can influence the clinical outcomes of the disease. Initial management, including fluid resuscitation, pain control, nutritional support, antibiotic use, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) in gallstone pancreatitis, plays a fundamental role in AP treatment. Recent updates for fluid resuscitation, including treatment goals, the type, rate, volume, and duration, have triggered a paradigm shift from aggressive hydration with normal saline to goal-directed and non-aggressive hydration with lactated Ringer’s solution. Evidence of the clinical benefit of early enteral feeding is becoming definitive. Routine use of prophylactic antibiotics is generally limited, and the procalcitonin based algorithm of antibiotic use has recently been investigated to distinguish between inflammation and infection in patients with AP. Although urgent ERCP (within 24 h) should be performed for patients with gallstone pancreatitis and cholangitis, urgent ERCP is not indicated in patients without cholangitis. Furthermore, convalescent treatment, including cholecystectomy in gallstone pancreatitis and alcohol intervention in alcoholic pancreatitis, is also important for improving the prognosis and prevent recurrence in patients with AP. This review focuses on recent updates on the initial and convalescent management strategies for AP.

Microfluidic devices or microdevices refer to systems with a characteristic length in the micrometer range. Systems in this size allow handling small quantities of reagents and samples, with reduced residence time, better control of chemical species concentration, high heat and mass transfers, and high surface/volume ratio. These characteristics led to the application of these microdevices in several areas, such as biological systems, energy, liquid-liquid extraction, food, agricultural sectors, pharmaceuticals, flow chemistry, microreactors, and biodiesel synthesis. Microreactors are devices that have interconnected microchannels, in which small amounts of reagents are manipulated and react for a certain period of time. The traditional characteristics of microreactors are less quantities of reagents and samples, high surface area in relation to volume (10000 m² m^-3), reduction of resistance to heat and mass transfer, reduced reaction times, and narrower residence time distributions. In recent years, several studies have been carried out on biodiesel production in microreactors that explore the influence of operating conditions, mixing and reaction yield, numbering, and especially the microdevices design. Despite all the advantages of microreactors, the literature shows that there are only a few applications on an industrial scale. Two main reasons that hinder the adoption of this technology are the scale-up to a large enough volume to deliver the necessary production capacity and the costs related to industrial manufacturing microreactors. It is often stated that large-scale production of microreactors can be easily achieved by numbering-up. However, researches show that an incredibly high number of microdevices would be needed, which results in a technical unfeasibility and a strong impact on the construction costs of the industrial system. The present review aims to show whether microreactors can replace conventional biodiesel production processes and how this replacement technology could be carried out. The current chapter was divided into the following sections: Introduction, Synthesis and Purification of Biodiesel in Microreactors, Fundamentals of CFD, and Fundamentals of Scale-up. Finally, conclusions and future perspectives are exposed.

Despite the fact that strong routine separation methodologies can give reliable specificity and validity at usual working pharmaceuticals concentrations, they may fail at very low concentration levels. This poses considerable challenges for researchers inves-tigating product purity and therapeutic drug monitoring. Sensitivity enhancement pro-cedures are thus required to maximize the performance of separation techniques. Large volume injection, solid phase extraction/solid phase enrichment (SPE/SPEn), pre-, post-, and in-column derivatization, as well as the use of sensitive detection devices are the simplest strategies for improving sensitivity of the separation-based analytical techniques. Large volume injection of samples with online SPE/SPEn coupled with separation techniques increased sensitivity and improved detection as well as quantification limits without affecting peak shape and system performance. Although the primary purpose of derivatization is to improve sensitivity and selectivity, greener derivatization is growing in popularity and should be considered in analytical chemistry. In general, two strategies are essential for accomplishing greener derivatization goals. The first is the search for and use of ecologically acceptable derivatizing reagents, solvents, and reaction conditions. The second is miniaturization and automation of analytical methods. This review discusses significant advances in separation-based analytical techniques, specifically enrichment approaches and detector signal improvement for pharmaceutical quantification in various matrices at very low concentration levels. As a result of improved analytical systems setup in drug assays, the possibility of high-throughput analyses was also highlighted.

Vehicle routing is a critical factor in municipal solid waste (MSW) collection planning and operations. Poor routing can introduce inefficiencies and cause targeted levels of services or performance to be missed irrespective of the level of resource application. Trial and error approaches have been proven to be not the best in the planning and prediction of expected performance. This study explores various Geographic Information System (GIS) tools and analysis techniques, and how they can be applied to optimizing vehicle routes in light of challenging site conditions. Using Adentan West residential area, suburb of Accra Ghana as a case study, current performance of the trial and error method was measured and a GIS computer model was used to evaluate various optimization scenarios to determine the level of savings that can be made. Field measurements were taking with Global Positioning System (GPS) devices for waste collection activities in areas with varying characteristics and conditions, and data analysed for one selected vehicle operating four days per week. It was found that, for a scenario where only the bin collection order was optimized while route selection was restricted by the ArcGIS Network Analyst, 2.6% of travel distance and 2.21% of travel time were saved. For the second scenario where only the route selection was optimized while order of bin collection was restricted, 4.1% and 1.5% of travel distance and time respectively were saved. For a third scenario where both the order of collection and route selection were together optimized, 10.9% and 3.7% of travel distance and time respectively were saved. Lastly, by regrouping all the bins for daily collection, 4.5% and 1.2% of travel distance and time respectively were saved. The results demonstrated that there is always room for optimization of solid waste collection routing irrespective of site constraints and other challenges that the nature of bin distribution pose to drivers. In developing countries like Ghana, where there is high demand for services in the face of limited road network access, application of GIS in optimization of routes will guide providers in planning and subsequently make more savings in fuel consumption, vehicle maintenance and cost of man-hours.

We live in the world that is completely entangled on energy and thus, Humankind can no longer do without it, power. With electricity being the main form of energy today, this has increased the complexity of our life today. In Uganda, electricity generation is mainly through hydropower which put the country in the bottleneck of over dependence on one source of energy. Yet, there are many energy systems out there that country can diversify its electricity generation. Therefore, the need to understand, the level of development and utilization of various energy systems has been the underlying question for this present study. Comprehensive literature survey was conducted from the electronic databases including ScienceDirect, Wiley, Sage, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, and Google Scholar. The publications in form of reports, conference papers, working papers, discussion papers, journal articles, book sections and textbooks were considered in this study. In total, 11 energy systems including human and animal energy, solid biomass (firewood), hydropower, wind, geothermal, solar, nuclear, peat, coal, petroleum, and non-solid biomass (methanol, hydrogen, ethanol, biodiesel, and biogas) are described. The current and the future development and utilization of these energy systems has been described. The challenges with their development and utilization were elaborated and the solution the challenges were presented. The hydropower with River Nile being the main river for large hydropower plant construction is the dominance energy system in Uganda. Nuclear energy will be the salvation for the country’s electric energy supply in the near future. Therefore, Uganda needs to bet big on nuclear energy.

The paper presents a new type of hydraulic clutch operating with magnetorheological (MR) fluids and the results achieved from both theoretical analysis and experimental measurement. The hy-draulic clutch system of its own design with MR working fluid and a rotating magnetic field lo-cated is designed. The principle of this clutch is to use a rotating magnetic field created by an al-ternating current electromagnet to set the MR fluid in motion. In the tests of the hydraulic clutch with a rotating magnetic field, MR fluid produced on their own, consisting of solid iron particles of various diameters mixed with a silicone oil, are used as working fluids. The rheological properties of MR fluids are assessed on the basis of tests carried out with a Brookfield DV2T rheometer equipped with a magnetic device for generating the magnetic field of its own design. The char-acteristics of the hydraulic clutch with MR working fluid and the rotating magnetic field are tested on a specially built test stand. As a result of the research, it has been found that the torque transmitted by the clutch is the greater, the higher the rotational speed of the magnetic field and the lower the rotational speed of the beaker in which the working fluid is placed, and that the greatest torque occurs for the working fluid with the highest iron content. Based on the analysis of the structure and characteristics of the clutch in which the magnetic field is used, it has been shown that the design of the developed clutch is similar to that of an induction clutch, and its characteristics correspond to the characteristics of the eddy current clutch. Therefore, the proposed new clutch working with MR fluid and the rotating magnetic field can be applied to stationary power transmission system similarly to an eddy current clutch.

Background: Kidney transplantation is considered the first-choice therapy in ESRD patients. Despite recent improvements in terms of outcomes and graft survival in recipients, postoperative complications still concern health-care providers involved in the management of those patients. Particularly challenging are cardiovascular complications. Perioperative goal-directed fluid-therapy (PGDT) and hemodynamic optimization are widely used in high-risk surgical patients, and are associated with a significant reduction in postoperative complication rates and length of stay (LOS). The aim of this work is to compare the effects of perioperative goal-directed therapy (PGDT) with conventional fluid therapy (CFT), and to determine whether there are any differences in major postoperative complications rates and delayed graft function (DGF) outcomes. Methods: Prospective study with historical controls. Two groups, a PGDT- and a CFT- group were used: the stroke volume (SV) optimization protocol was applied in PGDT group throughout the procedure. Conventional fluid therapy with fluids titration at a central venous pressure (CVP) 8-12 mmHg and mean arterial pressure (MAP) >80mmHg was applied to the control-group. Postoperative data collection including vital signs, weight, urinary output, serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, serum potassium, and assessement of volemic status and the signs and symptoms of major postoperative complications occurred at 24h, 72h, 7 days and 30 days after transplantation. Results: Among the 66 patients enrolled, 33 were in each group and both groups had similar physical characteristics. Good fuctional recovery was evident in the 94% of patients. The statistical analysis has showed a difference in postoperative complications as follows: significant reduction of cardiovascular complications, DGF episodes (p<0.05) and surgical complications (p<0.01). There were no significant differences in pulmonary or other complication. Conclusions: PGDT and SV optimization effectively influenced the rate of major postoperative complications, reducing the overall morbidity and thus the mortality in patients receiving kidney transplantation.

From their discovery in 2002, BRAF mutations have been identified as clear drivers of oncogenesis in several cancer types. Currently, their incidence rate is nearly 7% of all solid tumors with BRAF V600E constituting approximately 90% of these diagnoses [1]. In melanoma, thyroid cancer, and histiocytic neoplasms, BRAF hotspot mutations are found at a rate of about 50%, while in lung and colorectal cancers they range from 3 to 10% of reported cases [2-5]. Though present in other malignancies such as breast and ovarian cancers, they constitute a small portion of diagnoses (<1%). Given their frequency along with advancements in screening technologies, various methods are used for the detection of BRAF-mutant cancers. Among these are targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) on tumor tissue or circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) and immunohistochemistry (IHC)-based assays. With advancements in detection technologies, several approaches have been taken for the treatment of BRAF mutant cancers. In this review we retrace the milestones that led to the clinical development of targeted therapies currently available for these tumors.

This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization and study of a new perovskite-type materials as cathode in SOFC. The synthesized doped perovskites have been successfully synthesized with high purity. The electrochemical performance of these materials was extensively examined through the characterization of I-V-P and EIS curves at the three temperatures: 750, 800 and 850 °C. Where it is revealing a substantial reduction of total resistances by approximately 50% and 70%, accom-panied by an impressive increase in power densities by around 200% and 300%, respectively. The cell featuring Sm0.01Sr0.99Fe0.5Co0.5O3 exhibited the most commendable electrochemical properties at each temperature, following closely were Pr0.01Sr0.99Fe0.5Co0.5O3 and La0.01Sr0.99Fe0.5Co0.5O3.

Background: The liver has emerged as a frequent transplanted organ which can transmit T. gondii between seropositive donors and seronegative recipients. Associated with the immunosuppressive therapy of recipients, the presence of cysts in donor livers elevate the risk of severe toxoplasmosis in recipients. Objectives: The objective of the study was to verify the frequencies of positive serology in liver graft donors and their respective recipients, as well as to verify whether their clinical signs presented post-transplant are associated with the serological status of recipients. Patients and methods: All data on liver transplant recipients from 2008 to 2018 were obtained from the MVPeP electronic medical records of the Liver Transplant Service of FUNFARME/FAMERP. IgM and IgG anti-T. gondii antibody serology was investigated by chemiluminescence. According to the serological profile, four groups of recipients were assessed (G1: IgG-/IgM-; G2: IgG+/IgM-; G3: IgG+/IgM+, G4: IgG-/IgM+). Results: The numbers of recipients according to the serological profile groups were: G1: 20 (41.7%), G2: 26 (54.1%; G3: 2 (4.2%). No cases were found for G4. Post-transplant clinical manifestations such as fever without defined cause, lung nodules, headache, hepatosplenomegaly, encephalopathy and hepatitis (A, B and C) were reported in all groups. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that there is a high prevalence of T. gondii infection in liver recipients and, therefore, screening should be intensified. Furthermore, a high incidence of co-infection with hepatitis A was identified especially in patients who died in the post-transplant period.

Speciation analysis is a relevant topic since the (eco)toxicity, bioavailability, bio (geo)chemical cycles, and mobility of a given element depend on its chemical forms (oxidation state, organic ligands, etc.). Reliability of analytical results for chemical species of elements depends mostly on the maintaining of their stability during sample pretreatment step and on the selectivity of further separation step. Solid phase extraction (SPE) is a matter of choice as most suitable and widely used procedure for both enrichment of chemical species of elements and their separation. Features of sorbent material are of great importance to ensure extraction efficiency from one side and selectivity from other side of SPE procedure. This review presents an update on the application of polymeric materials in solid-phase extraction used in non-chromatographic methods for speciation analysis.

The circular economy (CE) has emerged as a viable alternative for tackling the problems caused by rising consumption, including solid waste (SW). The present study conducted a meta-analysis of research published between 2012 and 2022 on CE and solid waste management (SWM). A bibliometric analysis was used from the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases. By studying the articles, we briefly discussed the connections between them and how one contributes to the evolution of the other. Some findings point to greater collaboration between Italy and Bolivia, followed by China and Malaysia. However, they move away from the traditional axes as the United States and Canada. In addition, it was found that the adoption of reuse and selective collection, in fact, allow the reduction of the volume of discarded materials. In this way, it was possible to conclude that a greater connection between CE and GRS makes it possible to optimize the useful life of landfills through the treatment of organic waste and recycling, to encourage waste picker cooperatives and selective collection programs, and to reduce the financial costs of the system as a whole, making it more durable and sustainable.

To reduce environmental impacts from sodium silicate synthesis it was suggested the use of sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) as a source of silicon dioxide and sodium carbonate using the ceramic method. Although the production of sodium silicate is carried out on a large scale, it should be noted that its process requires temperatures above 1000 °C or the use of highly corrosive agents such as sodium hydroxide and chlorine gas used to neutralize the remaining sodium hydroxide. In the present work, the synthesis temperatures were reduced to 800 °C with a reaction time of 3 hours by pressing equimolar mixtures of previously purified SCBA and sodium carbonate, then heat treatment was carried out under the indicated conditions. The resulting materials were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Among the crystalline phases, calcium disodium silicate was identified, in addition to sodium silicate, so it was inferred that the other components of the ash can interfere with the synthesis of silicate. Therefore, to obtain the highest composition of sodium silicate, a leaching treatment of the SCBA is required.

Transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) are of enormous significance to the emergence of flexible and wearable electronics and continued growth of modern devices. Versatile and tunable TCEs, featuring with not only high optical transmittance but also intriguing features of electrochemical energy-storage capability, remain a significant challenge. Here we develop capacitive active films comprised of graphene-conjugated V2O5@poly (3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene) ternary composite (V2O5@PEDOT/rGO) on silver nanowire coated substrates as solid-state super/pseudocapacitors. The constructed electrodes exhibit improved electrolyte ions interaction with effective graphene layer, achieving high areal capacitance 0.6-1.2 mF.cm−2 with 0.5M LiCl electrolytes at optical transparency >60% with record durability. As demonstrated, the kinetic blocking of PEDOT layer and anchoring capability of graphene upon amphoteric soluble vanadium ions from layered V2O5 nanoribbons/nanobelts contribute synergistically to the unusual electrochemical stability, also shown using scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) providing electroactivity sites and ion transportation rates. As-fabricated symmetric solid-state supercapacitors delivered broad potential window >1.4 V under two different electrolyte environments (aqueous LiCl and LiCl/PVA gel) and demonstrated higher power and energy density (0.27 μWh.cm−2) outperforming previously reported devices at <0.1 μWh.cm−2. The electrochemical properties are also discussed in terms of solvation in polymer gel electrolyte ions.

SAMHD1 is a deoxynucleotide triphosphate (dNTP) triphosphohydrolase with important roles in the control of cell proliferation and apoptosis, either through the regulation of intracellular dNTPs levels or the modulation of the DNA damage response. However, SAMHD1 role in cancer evolution is still unknown. We performed the first in-depth study of SAMHD1 role in advanced solid tumors, by analyzing samples of 128 patients treated with chemotherapy agents based on platinum derivatives and/or antimetabolites and developing novel in vitro knock-out models to explore the mechanisms driving SAMHD1 function in cancer. Low or no expression of SAMHD1 was associated with a positive prognosis in breast, ovarian and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cancer patients. A predictive value was associated to low-SAMHD1 expression in NSCLC and ovarian patients treated with antimetabolites in combination with platinum derivatives. In vitro, SAMHD1 knock-out cells showed increased γ-H2AX and apoptosis suggesting that SAMHD1 depletion induces DNA damage leading to cell death. In vitro treatment with platinum-derived drugs significantly enhanced γ-H2AX and apoptotic markers expression in knock-out cells, indicating a synergic effect of SAMHD1 depletion and platinum-based treatment. SAMHD1 expression represents a new strong prognostic and predictive biomarker in solid tumors and thus, modulation of SAMHD1 function may constitute a promising target for the improvement of cancer therapy.

Tumor microenvironment (TME) represents a complex network between tumor cells and a variety of components including immune, stromal and vascular endothelial cells as well as extracellular matrix. A wide panel of signals and interactions here take place, resulting in a bi-directional modulation of cellular functions. Many stimuli, on one hand, induce tumor growth and spread of metastatic cells and, on the other hand, contribute to the establishment of an immunosuppressive environment. The latter feature is achieved by soothing immune effector cells, mainly cytotoxic T lymphocytes, B and NK cells, and/or through expansion of regulatory cell populations, including regulatory T and B cells, tumor-associated macrophages and myeloid-derived suppressor cells. In this context, immune checkpoints (IC) are key players in the control of T cell activation and anti-cancer activities, leading to the inhibition of tumor cell lysis and of pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Thus, these pathways represent promising targets for the development of effective and innovative therapies both in adults and childhood. Here we address the role of different cell populations homing the TME and of well-known and recently characterized IC in the context of pediatric solid tumors. We also discuss preclinical and clinical data available using IC inhibitors alone, in combination each other or administered with standard therapies.

Ammonia produced using renewable hydrogen is being viewed as a promising media for the export of energy from locations rich in renewable energy sources. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are efficient devices for converting such exported ammonia back into electricity at the point of use, however investigations on materials and operating regime for direct ammonia fuelled SOFCs are limited. The studies on fuel electrodes tailored specifically for ammonia fuel are limited. In this work, we evaluated the direct ammonia SOFC performance with Silver-Lanthanum Strontium Cobalt Ferrite (Ag-LSCF) composite anode and a novel Palladium (Pd) nanoparticle decorated Silver-Lanthanum Strontium Cobalt Ferrite (Pd-Ag-LSCF) composite anode in the temperature range of 500 °C to 800 °C. It is hypothesized that Palladium nanoparticles in the anode provide hydrogen dissolution and shift the ammonia decomposition reaction towards the right. The cell performance was evaluated with both hydrogen and ammonia as fuels and a clear-cut improvement in the performance was observed with the addition of Pd for both the fuels. The results showed a performance enhancement by 20% and 43% with hydrogen and ammonia fuels respectively from the Pd addition of Ag-LSCF anode. Open circuit voltage (OCV) values of the cells with hydrogen and ammonia fuel recorded over the temperature range of 500 °C to 800 °C indicated the possibility of direct electro-oxidation of ammonia in SOFCs.

Growing population leads to industrialisation and urbanization which in turn generate huge amount of waste that represents a big problem for many developed and developing countries. Emerging solution for this problem can be use of wastes as a sustainable source of energy in the form of heat, electricity, fertilizer and biofuel like bioethanol. Type of technology employed is mainly based on the composition of waste whether it is rich in organic matter like MSW or not. WTE technologies reduce the volume of waste as well as decrease the dependence on fossil fuels for energy generation.This study focuses on overview of various available waste to energy conversion technologies like pyrolysis, gasification, incineration, biochemical treatments like landfill gas, aerobic and anaerobic digestion of wastes.

We developed an amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) of the poorly water-soluble molecule niclosamide that achieved more than a 2-fold increase in bioavailability. Notably, this niclosamide ASD formulation increased the apparent drug solubility about 60-fold relative to the crystalline material due to the generation of nanoparticles. Niclosamide is a weakly acidic drug, BCS class II, and a poor glass former with low bioavailability in vivo. Hot-melt extrusion is a high-throughput manufacturing method commonly used in the development of ASDs for increasing the apparent solubility and bioavailability of poorly water-soluble compounds. We utilized the polymer polyvinylpyrrolidone–vinyl acetate (PVP–VA) to manufacture niclosamide ASDs by extrusion. Samples were analyzed based on their microscopic and macroscopic behavior and their intermolecular interactions, using DSC, XRD, NMR, FTIR, and DLS. The niclosamide ASD generated nanoparticles with a mean particle size of about 100 nm in FaSSIF media. In a side-by-side diffusion test, these nanoparticles produced a 4-fold increase in niclosamide diffusion. We successfully manufactured amorphous extrudates of the poor glass former niclosamide that showed remarkable in vitro dissolution and diffusion performance. These in vitro tests were translated to a rat model that also showed an increase in oral bioavailability.

Nanoparticles offer available tools for MDD research. In this assay, we applied CBR1 (cannabinoid receptor 1) knockout (CB1-/-) mice to study whether functionalized solid lipid nanoparticles loading with curcumin and dexanabinol (Cur/SLNs-HU-211) exhibited anti-depressant outcomes through CBR1. Wild-type (CB1+/+) animals together with CBR1 knockout (CB1-/-) animals received daily injections of Corticosterone (CORT) for 3 weeks to obtain MDD mice model, and then the therapeutic action of Cur/SLNs-HU-211 were evaluated, respectively. Our work show that Cur/SLNs-HU-211 nanoparticles in the existence of CBR1 facilitate an efficient motor function improvement in CORT-induced MDD mice model. Cur/SLNs-HU-211 nanoparticles alleviated symptoms on CB1+/+ MDD mice and resulted in dopamine and norepinephrine recovery following CORT-induced neurotoxicity. In conclusion, the possible mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effect of Cur/SLNs-HU-211 might be the induction of CB1 expression and downstream RASGEF1C and Egr1 expression, together with a significantly upregulation of neuron-specific genes in CB1+/+ mice only. In conclusion, CBR1 is necessary during the process of antidepressant activities of Cur/SLNs-HU-211 nanoparticles. This study confirms that Cur/SLNs-HU-211 nanoparticles based CBR1 in vivo targeting would be a potentially feasible and safe way to motivate future therapeutic strategies of Major Depressive Disorder.

Modeling the flow of polymer solutions requires knowledge at various length and time scales. The macroscopic behavior is described by the overall velocity, pressure and stress. The polymeric contribution to the stress requires knowledge of the evolution of polymer chains. In this work, we use a microscopic model, the finitely extensible nonlinear elastic (FENE) model, to capture the polymer behavior. The benefit of microscopic models is they remain faithful to the polymer dynamics without information loss via averaging. The downside is the computational cost needed to solve the thousands to millions of differential equations describing the microstructure. We thus describe a multiscale flow solver that utilizes GPUs for massively parallel, efficient simulations. We compare and contrast the microscopic model with its macroscopic counterpart under various flow conditions. In particular, significant differences are observed under nonlinear flow conditions, where the polymers become highly stretched and oriented.

Demand for nutmeg essential oil in Indonesia and the world is increasing. Nutmeg essential oil is obtained from young nutmeg seeds extracted by water steam distillation (WSD). The weakness of the extraction process with WSD is the long distillation time (24 hours), wasteful of fuel, wasteful of manpower, produces polluting gases which damage the environment and requires a lot of water as a coolant. The purpose of this study was to compare the WSD and SCFE methods for extracting nutmeg essential oil. The research was conducted by extracting nutmeg essential oil using two methods are WSD and SCFE. The results showed that the chemical composition of the nutmeg essential oil produced by the two methods was almost similar. Nutmeg essential oil produced by both methods shows the same characterization. The yield between the two methods is almost the same, in the range of 10-12% using extraction time 15-60 minutes. The SCFE method has advantages over WSD are a faster extraction time, does not require heating materials and CO2 gas can be reused. In conclusion, SCFE is an alternative method to increase the production of nutmeg oil.

An inducer is one of the most important components of centrifugal pumps, whose presence will result in a significant increase in hydraulic performance and pump efficiency. The primary function of the inducer, however, is to delay the destructive phenomenon of cavitation, which has presented a considerable design challenge. Nevertheless, the amount of improvement and increase in inducer performance in both cavitation and non-cavitation modes depends critically on the radial laxity of the blade tip. As part of this study, the performance of the inducer in the cavitation state has been simulated and compared with the experimental data, which are in good agreement. This paper examines the effect of blade tip lagging on cavitation, and the results indicate that this will improve cavitation ­and delay this destructive phenomenon ­but will negatively affect the non-cavitation performance. With the increase in clearance, the range of the return current will increase at the tip of the inducer blade as well.

The perturbation in water balance rather than any change in salt content is the main cause of hyponatremia, the most frequent electrolyte abnormality defined as serum sodium concentration <135 mEq/L. Hyponatremia may be divided as mild (Na>120 mEq/L) or severe (Na<120 mEq/L) hyponatremia, most frequently observed in elderly ICU hospitalized patients. Based on tonicity hyponatremia may be hypotonic (decreased concentration of solute), isotonic, and hypertonic (falsely low sodium). According to the volume of the extracellular fluid (ECF) hyponatremia is further divided as hypovolemic, euvolemic, or hypervolemic hyponatremia. Finally, hyponatremia may develop rapidly as acute (<48 h) with usually severe symptoms, or slowly as chronic hyponatremia, being usually asymptomatic or with mild symptoms. Patient’s medical history and clinical symptoms and signs could point to a certain diagnostic direction. Acute severe hyponatremia is presented with headaches, vomiting, nausea, fatigue, impaired cognition, gait with increased falls symptoms etc., while the severe symptomatology due to hyponatremic encephalopathy is presented as confusion, agitation, seizures, or even coma and death. Nevertheless, an urgent evaluation of the volume and neurological status is essential for prevention of neurological damages. The treatment of hyponatremia should of course be based on the underlying cause, the duration and degree of hyponatremia, the observed symptoms, and volume status of patient.

Despite the immense application of combustion in reactive materials, one of the challenges people are facing globally is the auto-ignition of such materials, resulting in fire and explosion hazards if proper measures are not considered. To avoid this unfortunate occurrence, a mathematical model describing the thermal decomposition of combustible polymer material in a rectangular stockpile is formulated. A nonlinear momentum equation is provided with the assumption that the combustible polymer follows Carreau constitutive relation. The chemical reaction of the polymer material is assumed exothermic; therefore, Arrhenius’s kinetic theory is considered in the energy balance equation. The bivariate spectral local linearization Scheme (BSLLS) is utilized to provide a numerical solution for the dimensionless equations governing the problem. The obtained results are validated by the collocation weighted residual method (CWRM) and a good agreement is achieved. Dimensionless velocity, temperature, and thermal stability results are presented and explained comprehensively with suitable applications.

Catamaran hulls have always been associated with smaller vessels in naval engineering and construction. However, recent research results have shown that by considering specific criteria based on materiality, structure and functionality, they can be designed for a more complex industry, such as hydrofoil design. Among the challenges in this type of vessel, one of the most difficult variables is estimating the resistance to the advance in the function of the degree of uncertainty generated. This research focuses on optimising the drag of a sport sailing catamaran by implementing hydrofoils, through the application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), at different speeds to demonstrate that it is possible to modify and improve the current appendages of this vessel.

The Tesla valve (TV), a valvular conduit invented by Nicola Tesla over a decade ago, has recently gained significant attention and application in various fields due to the growing interest in microfluidics and nanofluidics. The unique architecture of TV characterized by an asymmetrical design and an arc-shaped channel, has long been an intriguing yet underrated design for building a passive component in a microfluidic system. While previously regarded as a technology without significant use, TV structures have been implemented in wearable devices, thermal manipulation fluidics, micromixers, micropumps, and fuel cell devices. This article presents the first comprehensive review of TV structures in the literature, which has seen significant growth in the last two years. The review discusses typical TV structures, including single-stage TV (STV), multistage TV (MSTV), and TV derivatives (TVD), along with their characteristics and potential applications. The designs of these structures vary based on their intended applications, but all are constructed based on the fundamental principle of the TV structure. Finally, future trends and potential applications of TV structures are summarized and discussed. This review provides a valuable reference for students, early-career scientists, and practitioners in the field of fluidic devices, particularly those interested in using TV structures as passive components.

The nature of fluid mechanics makes experimentation an important part of a course taught in the subject. Presented here is the application of a novel, large scale multidisciplinary model of practical education in a fluids engineering laboratory. Advantages of this approach include efficiencies through economy of scale leading to better pedagogy for students. The scale justifies dedicated academic resources to focus on developing laboratory classes and giving specific attention to designing activities that meet learning outcomes. Four examples of applying this approach to fluids mechanics experiments are discussed, illustrating tactics that have been developed and honed through many repeated instances of delivery. “The measurement lab” uses a flow measurement context to teach identifying and managing general experimental uncertainty. New students, unfamiliar with fluid mechanics are guided through a process to gain understanding that can be applied to all future experimental activities. The “pressure loss in pipes” lab discusses the advantage and process for sharing equipment and teaching resources between multiple cohorts. The provision for students is adapted for context, such as the degree program or year of study. The “weirs big and small” lab provides a methodology to teach the power of dimensional analysis to mechanical engineers using a field of fluid mechanics that is outside their usual theoretical studies. Finally, the “spillway design” lab discusses mechanisms to deliver student independent, open ended experiments at scale, without excessive staff resource requirement.

New proposals for the equation of state of four- and five-dimensional hard-hypersphere mixtures in terms of the equation of state of the corresponding monocomponent hard-hypersphere fluid are introduced. Such proposals (which are constructed in such a way so as to yield the exact third virial coefficient) extend, on the one hand, recent similar formulations for hard-disk and (three-dimensional) hard-sphere mixtures and, on the other hand, two of our previous proposals also linking the mixture equation of state and the one of the monocomponent fluid but unable to reproduce the exact third virial coefficient. The old and new proposals are tested by comparison with published molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulation results and their relative merit is evaluated.

This paper is to summarize the involvement of the stress energy tensor in the study of fluid mechanics. In the first part we will see the implication that carries the stress energy tensor in the framework of general relativity. In the second part, we will study the stress energy tensor under the mechanics of perfect fluids, allowing us to lead third party in the case of Newtonian fluids, and in the last part we will see that it is possible to define space-time as a no-Newtonian fluids.

Accurate evaluation of thermo-fluid dynamic characteristics in tank are critically important for designing liquid hydrogen tank of small-scale hydrogen liquefier to minimize heat in-leak into the liquid and ullage. Due to the huge cost, most future liquid hydrogen storage tank designs will have to rely on predictive computational models for storage tank pressurization and heat-leak minimization. Thus, reliable on predictive numerical models to aid design process of tank design have been required. Therefore, in this study, in order to improve the storage efficiency of the small-scale hydrogen liquefier, a three-dimensional CFD model that can predict the boil-off rate and the thermo-fluid characteristics due to heat penetration has been developed. The prediction performance and accuracy of the CFD model is validated on the basis of the comparisons between its results and previous experimental data and a good agreement is obtained. To evaluate insulation performance of polyurethane foam according to thickness, the pressure change and thermo-fluid characteristics in a partially liquid hydrogen tank, subject to fixed ambient temperature and wind velocity, has been investigated numerically. Three different insulation thickness were considered to investigate not only interfacial characteristics between liquid and ullage but thermo-fluid dynamics in hydrogen storage tank for various heat-leak situation. The results indicate that as the insulation thickness becomes thinner and more heat penetration exists, natural convection by buoyancy develops stronger, so strong vortices are created near the interfacial zone by upward flow driven by buoyancy. In particular, as the amount of heat in-leak increased, wider and stronger heat accumulation was found in the top dished head area of the ullage area. In addition, it was confirmed that the CFD model developed in this study could well describe the phenomenon in which the temperature of the tank wall and the insulation mat increased at a faster rate due to faster heat transfer from the vapor and interface. In the future, the numerical model developed in this study will be used for optimizing insulation system of storage tank for small-scale hydrogen which is cost-effective and highly efficient.

Prolonged ethanol (EtOH) consumption is associated with male infertility with a decreased spermatogenesis rate as one cause. Defective maturation and development of sperm during their storage in the cauda epididymis and transit in the seminal vesicle can be another cause, possibly occurring before the drastic spermatogenesis disruption. Herein, we demonstrated that the cauda epididymis and seminal vesicle of rats, orally fed with EtOH under a regimen that spermatogenesis was still ongoing, showed histological damage, including lesion and decreased height of the epithelial cells, and increased collagen fibers in the muscle layer, which implicated fibrosis. Lipid peroxidation (shown by malondialdehyde (MDA) levels) was observed, indicating that reactive oxygen species (ROS) was produced along with acetaldehyde during EtOH metabolism by CYP2E1. MDA, acetaldehyde and other lipid peroxidation products could further damage cellular components of the cauda epididymis and seminal vesicle and this was supported by increased apoptosis (shown by TUNEL assay and caspase 9/caspase 3 expression) in these two tissues of EtOH-treated rats. Consequently, functionality of the cauda epididymis and seminal vesicle in EtOH-treated rats was impaired, as demonstrated by decreases in 1H NMR-analyzed metabolites (e.g., carnitine, fructose), which were important for sperm development, metabolism and survival in their lumen.

The proximal part of the colon offers opportunities to prolong the absorption window following oral administration of a drug. In this work, we used computer simulations to understand how the hydrodynamics in the proximal colon might affect the release from dosage forms designed to target the colon. For this purpose, we developed and compared three different models: a completely-filled colon, a partially-filled colon and a partially-filled colon with a gaseous phase present (gas-liquid model).The highest velocities of the liquid were found in the completely-filled model, which also shows the best mixing profile, defined by the distribution of tracking particles over time. No significant differences with regard to the mixing and velocity profiles were found between the partially-filled model and the gas-liquid model. The fastest transit time of an undissolved tablet was found in the completely-filled model. The velocities of the liquid in the gas-liquid model are slightly higher along the colon than in the partially-filled model. The filling level has an impact on the exsisting shear forces and shear rates, which are decisive factors in the development of new drugs and formulations.

The combination of artificial intelligence algorithms and numerical methods has recently become popular in the prediction of macroscopic and microscopic hydrodynamics parameters of bubble column reactors. The multi inputs and outputs machine learning can cover small phase interactions or large fluid behavior in industrial domains. This numerical combination can develop the smart multiphase bubble column reactor with the ability of low-cost computational time. It can also decrease case studies for the optimization process when big data is appropriately used during learning. There are still many model parameters that need to be optimized for a very accurate artificial algorithm, including data processing and initialization, the combination of inputs and outputs, number of inputs and model tuning parameters. For this study, we aim to train four inputs big data during learning process by an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system or adaptive-network-based fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) method, and we consider the superficial gas velocity as one of the input variables, while for the first time, one of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) outputs named gas velocity is used as an output of the artificial algorithm. The results show that the increasing number of input variables improves the intelligence of the ANFIS method up to , and the number of rules during learning process has a significant effect on the accuracy of this type of modeling. The results also show that propper selection of model parameters results in more accuracy in prediction of the flow characteristics in the column structure.

This article aimed to evaluate, using statistical tools, the generation and composition of urban solid waste (MSW) in the city of Belém, Pará, from nine urban collection sectors in the municipality, and the average nominal income of the population. Approximately 900kg of urban solid waste were col-lected from the municipality in the period from 2021 to 2022. Statistical tests were carried out on hypotheses with 5% significance in comparative evaluations, and their respective average nominal incomes. The results indicated that the organic fraction corresponds to 55.57% of the waste generated in the municipality, 14.26% is inert waste (potentially contaminating) and 0.67% is miscellaneous waste. It was observed that the waste generated by families with high purchasing power tends to contain higher percentages of recyclables, while in families with lower purchasing power the highest percentages tend to be organic. Knowledge of the generation of MSW is fundamental for the choice and dimensioning of operations and processes involved in the management chain at the municipal level. The decentralization of services offered based on solid waste management would enable greater success in serving the population.

Sr4Al6O12SO4 samples were obtained from the compound mixture formed by a solid–state reaction of Al2O3, SrSO4, and SrCO3. Samples were compacted at 100MPa to form pellets of 1 and 4cm in diameter and were sintered at 1400°C for 4 hours. The compound was analyzed by X–ray diffraction. Static immersion and wettability tests were performed to evaluate corrosion resistance in contact with Al–Si. Corrosion tests were carried out by immersion at 800, 900, and 1000°C for 24, 50, and 100 hours, while wettability was carried out at 900, 1000, and 1100°C for 2 hours. Subsequently, the samples were prepared metallographically. Samples were analyzed by optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and image analysis. In general, reaction products consisting of alumina, spinel, oxides, and sulfates were found. The contact angles obtained were 124° to 135°. It is concluded that ceramic substrate Sr4Al6O12SO4 is resistant to corrosion by Al–Si alloy, since the slight thickness of the reaction products found in the samples (100μm) considering the severe conditions of the experiment: 1000°C and 100 hours of isothermal temperature. Furthermore, it can be said that Sr4Al6O12SO4 is not wettable by Al–Si alloys.

Since there are no morphological clues capable of making a pathologist suspect a possible mammary origin of a metastatic lesion without adequate clinical information, the histologic diagnosis of brain metastasis from BC is still based on the immunohistochemical expression of mammary gland markers such as GATA-3, ERs, PgRs and HER-2. The present retrospective study aimed to select purely morphological features capable to suggest the mammary origin of a metastatic carcinoma to the brain. The following histological features were collected on a series of 30 cases of brain metastases from breast cancer:(i) solid growth pattern; (ii) presence of comedonecrosis; (iii) glandular differentiation. Our results showed that most cases histologically exhibited solid growth pattern with at least focal comedonecrosis, producing an overall morphology closely reminiscent of mammary high-grade ductal carcinoma in situ. Although the above-mentioned morphological parameters are not strictly specific to a mammary origin, they may have an important diagnostic utility in leading pathologists to suspect a possible breast primary tumor and to include GATA-3, ERs, PgRs and HER-2 to the immunohistochemical panel.

In this study, we presented a simple highly sensitive sensor based on commercially available solid core photonic crystal fiber (PCF) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR) for measuring the refractive index (RI) of analytes. The numerical simulation based on the finite element method (FEM) has been examined to compute the optical properties such as confinement loss, power spectrum, and transmission intensity of the sensor. The most sensitive and inert plasmonic materials (gold and silver) have been assumed to be coated inside the fiber with the range of analytes RI from 1.32 to 1.40. The performance of the proposed sensor has been evaluated by tracing the several optical features like wavelength sensitivity, amplitude sensitivity, resolution of the sensor, and figure of merit. As a result, the comparative study between silver and gold elements has been carried out in which the maximum sensitivity received as 1.15 μm/RIU and 1.10 μm/RIU respectively. Whereas, on the base of power spectrum the obtained sensitivity was 513 μm/RIU for the gold layer. Moreover, the effect of other structural parameters (air holes and plasmonic layers thickness) on the sensing performance has been taken into an account. According to the simulation analysis and results, this sensor would have a great potential in various sensing applications of biomedical and liquid refractive index.

We demonstrate the use of a nanotechnology-based approach for the investigation of enzymatic activity of a single molecule of horseradish peroxidase with a solid-state nanopore. The artificial 5 nm solid-state nanopore has been formed in a 40-nm-thick silicon nitride structure. Single molecule of HRP has been entrapped into the nanopore. The activity of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme molecule inserted in the nanopore has been monitored by recording the time dependence of the ion current through the nanopore in the course of the reaction of 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) oxidation reaction. We have found that in the process of ABTS oxidation in the presence of 2.5 mM hydrogen peroxide, individual HRP enzyme molecules are able to retain activity for approximately 700 seconds before a decrease in the ion current through the nanopore, which can be explained by structural changes of the enzyme.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the citric acid on the properties of solid pine wood, which were submitted to thermomechanical treatment. A preliminary test was performed in a previous study to evaluate the influence of different temperatures of pressing and concentrations of citric acid over the physical properties of wood. After choosing the best treatments (170°C and 5% and 10% of citric acid) it was evaluated the effect of these on the chemical properties (SEM, FTIR and pH), on the density profile using an X-ray microtomography, and on the resistance to ageing through abrasion test. The result of the chemical analysis allowed to observe an increase of the presence of ester functional groups, as well as a better coverage and higher acidity of the surface. The density profile technique allowed to observe the formation of peaks of density on the surface where the acid was applied. Lastly, it was also possible to verify an increase in the resistance to abrasion because of the application of the citric acid.

The present study was designed to develop a self-micellizing solid dispersion (SMSD) containing Thymoquinone (TQM), a phytonutrient obtained from Nigella sativa seeds, aiming to improve its biopharmaceutical and nephroprotective functions. The apparent solubility of TQM in polymer solutions was used to choose an appropriate amphiphilic polymer that could be used to make an SMSD system. Based on the apparent solubility, Soluplus® was chosen as an appropriate carrier, and mixing with TQM, SMSD-TQM with different loadings of TQM (5–15%) was made by solvent evaporation and freeze-drying techniques, respectively, and the formulations were optimized. The optimized SMSD-TQM was evaluated in terms of particle size distribution, morphology, release characteristics, pharmacokinetic behavior, and nephroprotective effects in a rat model of acute kidney injury. SMSD-TQM significantly improved the dissolution characteristics (97.8%) of TQM in water within 60 min. Oral administration of SMSD-TQM in rats exhibited a 4.9-fold higher systemic exposure than crystalline TQM. In a cisplatin-induced (6 mg/kg, i.p.) acute kidney-damaged rat model, oral SMSD-TQM (10 mg/kg) improved the nephroprotective effects of TQM based on the results of kidney biomarkers and histological abnormalities. These findings suggest that SMSD-TQM might be efficacious in enhancing the nephroprotective effect of TQM by overcoming biopharmaceutical limitations.

Nigella sativa's thymoquinone (TQM), a water-insoluble phytonutrient exhibits nephroprotective effects. This study intends to develop a self-micellizing solid dispersion (SMSD) of TQM for better biopharmaceutical and nephroprotective performance. Soluplus®-based SMSD of TQM was created and tested for physicochemical properties, solubility, and pharmacokinetics in rats. Plasma creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), nephrotoxic indicators, and oxidative stress biomarkers were also tested. During SMSD preparation, TQM was found amorphous, boosting solubility. Minimal band changes between TQM and Soluplus® indicate insignificant drug-carrier interactions. SMSD-TQM generated fine micelles in water, improving TQM's solubility by 97.8% in 60 min. SMSD-TQM was 4.9 times more bioavailable orally in rats than crystalline TQM. In a rat model of acute renal damage by cisplatin (6 mg/kg, i.p.), SMSD-TQM (10 mg-TQM/kg, p.o.) reduced blood creatinine and BUN by 56% and 63.2%, respectively. These findings imply that SMSD-TQM may be a potent dosage option for enhancing TQM's nutrient value.

Glucocorticoids (GCs) have been the mainstay of immunosuppressive therapy in solid organ transplantation (SOT) for decades due to their potent effects on the innate immunity and tissue protective effects. But, some SOT centers are reluctant to administer GCs for long-time due to the various side effects. This review summarizes advantages and disadvantages of GCs in SOT. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched from 2011 to April 2021 using search syntaxes cover “transplantation” and “glucocorticoids”.GCs are used in transplant recipients, transplant donors, and organ perfusate solution to improve transplant outcomes. In SOT recipients GCs are administered as induction and maintenance immunosuppressive therapy. GCs are also the cornerstone to treat acute anti-body- and T-cell-mediated rejections. Addition of GCs to organ perfusate solution and pretreatment of transplant donors with GCs are recommended by some guidelines and protocols to reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury peri-transplant. GCs with low bioavailability and high potency for GC receptors such as budesonide, nanoparticle-mediated targeted delivery of GCs to specific organs, and combination use of dexamethasone with inducers of immune-regulatory cells are new methods of GC usage in SOT patients to reduce side effects or induce immune-tolerance instead of immunosuppression. Various side effects on different non-targeted organs/tissues such as bone, cardiovascular, neuromuscular, skin, and gastrointestinal tract have been noted for GCs. There are also potential drug-drug interactions for GCs in SOT patients.

Trophoblast cell-surface antigen 2 (Trop 2) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is highly expressed in various cancer types with relatively low or no baseline expression in most of normal tissues. Its overexpression is associated with tumor growth and poor prognosis; Trop 2 is therefore, an ideal therapeutic target for epithelial cancers. Several Trop 2 targeted therapeutics have recently been developed for the treatment of cancers, such as anti-Trop 2 antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), as well as Trop 2-specific cell therapy. In particular, the safety and clinical benefit of Trop 2-based ADCs have been demonstrated in clinical trials across multiple tumor types, including those with limited treatment options, such as triple-negative breast cancer, platinum-resistant urothelial cancer, and heavily pretreated non-small cell lung cancer. In this review, we elaborate on recent advances in Trop 2 targeted modalities and provide an overview of novel insights for future developments in this field.