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The importance of cyanobacteria and algae cells in water is attributed to the diverse effects they have on an aquatic environment. The decomposition of certain compounds from live and dead algae gives water a taste and smell. It is proposed in this study that ultrasonic waves may provide on environmentally friendly method to inhibit the growth rate of cyanobacteria and algae in water. The aim of this study was to review ultrasonication for the removal of cyanobacterial and algal cells and cyanotoxins from water. In this article, effects of the operational parameters of exposure time, frequency, intensity, power level and these parameters influence on cyanobacterial and algal bloom (removal percentage, content of chlorophyll a etc.) are reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Certain alkyl ammonium salts are called ionic liquids They can be used as green solvents without toxicity, effects on the ozone layer depletion, effects on climate change, and any other significant environmental impacts; in this regard knowledge about their thermo-physical properties are really important. In this work activity coefficients of aqueous solutions of alkyl ammonium salts at 298.15 and 293.15 K are modelled using the Extended UNIQUAC (Universal Quasi Chemical) thermodynamic model. Adjustable parameters of the Extended UNIQUAC thermodynamic model were obtained by non-linear regression between experimental data and the results calculated from the model. The results of the model are in good agreement with the experimental values in most cases, the average absolute deviation of the model being less than 2 %, which is acceptable considering the uncertainty of the experimental data. Additionally, the results gained from the Extended UNIQUAC model are also compared with the results obtained from Electrolyte NRTL and Pitzer thermodynamic methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, nano pumice (NP) and a cationic surfactant (hexadecyltrimethylammonium-chloride (HDTMA.Cl)) treated nano pumice (HMNP) were used for humic acid (HA) adsorption from an aqueous solution. The adsorption process was modeled and optimized using Response surface methodology-central composite design (RSM-CCD) and Artificial neural networks- Genetic algorithm (ANN-GA). The results show that the ANN model outperforms the RSM-CCD model in terms of response prediction. Optimization results based on the RSM-CCD approach proposed pH 3, adsorbent dose 3 g L−1, reaction time 60 min, and initial HA concentration 5 mg L−1 as optimal points of the variables, to reach the maximum adsorption efficiency of 100% and 65.4% by HMNP and NP adsorbents. The maximal adsorption capacity of NP was 1.21 mg g−1, while that of HMNP was 27.34 mg g−1. The optimal points of process parameters by the ANN-GA method are in accordance with the values suggested by the RSM-CCD method. In isotherm studies, Langmuir model was found to be the best-fitted model for both adsorbent with R2 = 0.97 for NP and 0.992 for HMNP, and also among three different kinetic models which were assessed, Pseudo-second-order model with R2 = 0.9989 for HMNP and R2 = 0.9957 for NP were the best-fitted models for HA removal. Thermodynamic studies indicated that the HA adsorption process by both of the adsorbents is endothermic and the nature of HMNP was found spontaneous while for NP was non-spontaneous. The value of ΔH for both adsorbents was in the range of 34–36.8 kJ mol−1 so the process is clarified as chemical–physical adsorption. The reusability test revealed that the adsorption effectiveness of HMNP drops from 100% to 82.4% after 10 consecutive recycles. The influence of interfacing anions indicated that the adsorption efficiency drops from 100% to 95.4% when the anions were added to the reaction solution. [Display omitted] • NP and a cationic surfactant (HDTMA.Cl))-treated Nano pumice (HMNP). • The adsorption process was modeled and optimized by RSM-CCD and ANN-GA. • The maximum adsorption efficiency of 100% by HMNP adsorbent. • Co-existing anions drop the adsorption efficiency from 100% to 95.4%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Diffusionless transformations allow access to metastable phases and enrich the materials design portfolio. They are well suited for atomistic modeling; nonetheless, they are challenging when involving disordered systems or alloys with complex compositions. This work presents a comprehensive study of transformation energetics between bcc and hcp ordered and disordered phases in the TiAl+Mo model alloy system. By employing two complementary techniques I. VASP-SQS, and II. EMTO-CPA, we can show that chemical disorder flattens the energy landscape but may introduce a small barrier. Unlike that, the energetics of ordered phases are barrier-less and hence would suggest a spontaneous transformation. Finally, we show that Mo stabilizes the bcc phases, leading to a barrier-less transformation hcp → bcc for both ordered and disordered states when Mo content exceeds ≈ 12 at.%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Congenital Leptin receptor (LEPR) deficiency is a rare genetic cause of early-onset morbid obesity characterised by severe early onset obesity, major hyperphagia, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and immune and neuroendocrine/metabolic dysfunction. We identified a homozygous loss-of-function mutation, NM_002303.5:c.464 T > G; p.(Tyr155*), in the LEPR in an extended consanguineous family with multiple individuals affected by early-onset severe obesity and hyperphagia. Interestingly, the LEPR-deficient adult females have extremely high body mass index (BMI) with hypogonadal infertility, the BMI of the affected males began to decline around the onset of puberty (13–15 years) with fertility being preserved. These findings lead to the speculation that LEPR deficiency may have a gender-specific effect on the regulation of body weight. In order to elucidate gender-specific effects of LEPR deficiency on reproduction further investigations are needed. The limitations of this study are that our conclusion is based on observations of two males and two females. Further LEPR deficient males and females are required for comparison in order to support this finding more confidently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endotoxins as the outer membrane of most Gram-Negative Bacteria (GNB) and typical toxic biochemical produced by microorganisms are identified as one of the emerging pollutants. These microbial by-products are harmful compounds that can be present in various environments including air, water, soil, and other ecosystems which were discussed in detail in this review. Environmental and occupational exposure caused by endotoxin occurs in water and wastewater treatment plants, industrial plants, farming, waste recovery, and composting facilities. Even though the health risk related to endotoxin injection in intravenous and dialysis are well identified, the harmful effects of ingestion, inhalation, and other way of exposure are not well quantified and there is insufficient information on the potential health risks of endotoxins exposure in water environments, and another exposure. Because of limited studies, the outbreaks of diseases related to endotoxins in the various source of exposure not been well documented. Endotoxin removal from different environments are investigated in this review. The results of various studies have shown that conventional treatment methods have been unable to remove endotoxins from water and wastewater, therefore, monitoring the effectiveness of these processes in controlling this contaminant and also using the appropriate removal method is essential. However, management of water and wastewater treatment processes and the use of advanced processes such as Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs) can be effective in monitoring and reducing endotoxin levels during water and wastewater treatment. One of the limitations of endotoxin monitoring is the lack of sufficient information to develop monitoring levels. In addition, the lack of guidelines and methods of controlling them at high levels may cause irreparable disaster. [Display omitted] • Endotoxins produced by bacteria are identified as one of the emerging pollutants in environment. • The exposure route, environmental and health risks in different environments are reviewed. • The concentration of endotoxin in bio-aerosols and processes of water and wastewater treatment are reviewed. • The removal and inactivation of endotoxins by different treatment processes were compared. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, liquid–liquid equilibrium measurements were performed for the ternary (water/non-ionic surfactant/decane) systems at T = 298.15 K and atmospheric pressure. Propylene glycol mono propyl ether and ethylene glycol monobutyl ether were selected as surfactant; the first one is propylene glycol ether, while the second one is ethylene glycol ether. New experimental liquid–liquid equilibrium data were presented for the corresponding systems. Effect of salinity and surfactant structure (EO or PO functional group) on the phase behavior of such systems has been studied by both experimental measurements and thermodynamic modeling. The experimental phase behavior data were predicted by the perturbed hard sphere chain (PHSC) equation of state. In the presence of electrolyte, mean spherical approximation (MSA) term has been coupled with the PHSC EoS to account the contribution of long-range interactions. The calculated results indicate acceptable qualitative agreement of PHSC results with the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluation of yield performance and its stability is essential for yield trials conducted in different environments. We determined the forage yield stability of 24 tall fescue ( Festuca arundinacea Schreb.) genotypes using different parametric and non-parametric stability measures and compared those stability statistics across 14 test environments (combination of year, location and moisture conditions) during 2008-2013 growing seasons. The results of parametric measures totally indicated that genotypes G21 and G3 were the most stable ones. However, the non-parametric measures identified G15 followed by G11, G3 and G13 as the most stable genotypes. These genotypes may be recommended for genetic improvement of tall fescue with high degree of adaptation. Principal component analysis based on the rank correlation matrix indicated that most of the non-parametric measures were significantly inter-correlated with parametric measures and therefore seem to be useful alternatives to complement parametric measures. Based on the static and dynamic concepts, the results revealed that stability measures can be classified into three groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, defluoridation study of liquid phase with the help of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were well investigated and elucidated. The impact of different experimental conditions such as solution pH, initial fluoride concentration, adsorbent dose, and contact time was well studied and optimized for the maximum fluoride removal from water. The experimental data were fitted by the Freundlich, Langmuir and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) isotherm models and the related equilibrium constants were calculated. The results of the isotherm studies showed that fluoride removal by both adsorbents followed the Freundlich isotherm model. Kinetic studies were conducted and the results demonstrated that the experimental data were fitted well with the pseudo-second order kinetic model. Furthermore, two multiple regression-based equations were also derived to model the removal of fluoride from aqueous solutions by the carbon nanotubes. This study demonstrated that the polynomial equations satisfactorily described the behavior of the present defluoridation process for both MWCNTs ( R 2 = 0.913) and SWCNTs ( R 2 = 0.941). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic Liquids (IL's) are now considered as useful alternative solvent for the desulfurization of gasoline and diesel oils by liquid–liquid extraction. In this work, 1-hexyl-3-methylimidazolium thiocyanate([Hmim][SCN]) and 1-octyl-3-methylimidazolium thiocyanate([Omim][SCN]) as ionic liquids were investigated as model solvents for removal of thiophene from some aliphatic hydrocarbons ( n -hexane, n -octane and n -decane) as fuel model. Liquid–liquid phase equilibrium data were measured for ternary systems containing one ionic liquid as solvent, thiophene as sulfur component and one aliphatic hydrocarbon as fuel model at 298.15 K under ambient pressure. It was found that the IL with lower molecular weight of cation has higher selectivity but lower solute distribution coefficients. Besides, the experimental data demonstrates that the selectivity increases as alkane chain length of fuel model increases while the solubility of ionic liquids decreases, hence the costs of desulfurization process will be decreased. Our results show that for the case of [Hmim][SCN](1) + n -decane(2) + thiophene(3) the highest selectivity and lowest alkane solubility were obtained. In other words [Hmim][SCN] is a more suitable solvent than [Omim][SCN] for desulfurization of higher alkane. Finally in order to find the model parameters, the nonrandom two liquid (NRTL) was used to correlate the experimental data. The results show the model can successfully correlate the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, treated waste newspaper (TWNP) was used to remove chromium(VI) from aqueous solution using batch experiments. The adsorption parameters optimized were: initial Cr(VI) concentration (5, 20, 50 mg/l), contact time (60 min.), adsorbent dose (3.0 g/L), and solution pH (3.0). The experimental data fitted well to Langmuir isotherm (R 2 = 0. 98; maximum adsorption capacity 59.88 mg/g.) and pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The rate constant k 2 varied from 0.0019 to 0.0068 at initial Cr (VI) concentration from 5 to 20 mg/L. It was observed that adsorption of Cr(VI) was pH dependent. The percentage removal of Cr(VI) was 59.88 mg/g (64% at pH 3). The results of the present study suggest that TWNP may be used as a low-cost adsorbent for the removal of chromium (VI) from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adsorption capacity of two efficient adsorbents namely MWCNTs and SWCNTs for the rapid removal of noxious Cr (VI) ion from the polluted aqueous source was well studied and investigated. The impact of several influential parameters such as contact time, initial pH, initial Cr (VI) ion concentrations and the adsorption capacity of the adsorbent in the presence of competing anion was well elucidated and optimized. It was observed that the removal of efficiency of Cr (VI) ion depends on the pH of solution and the maximum efficiency was noticed at pH 2.5. Furthermore, the uptake of Cr (VI) ion was hindered in the presence of the competing anion, SO 4 2− . Experimental equilibrium data were fitted to four different isotherm models by linear regression method, however, the adsorption equilibrium data were well interpreted by the Langmuir model. The maximum adsorption capacity of Cr (VI) ion by MWCNTs and SWCNTs was 1.26 and 2.35 mg/g respectively, which is calculated by the Langmuir isotherm model. Kinetic studies are well suited and found in good agreement with pseudo-second order. The results evidently indicated that MWCNTs and SWCNTs would be suitable adsorbents for Cr (VI) ion in wastewater under specific conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Duplications in the ~2 Mb desert region upstream of SOX9 at 17q24.3 may result in familial 46,XX disorders of sex development (DSD) without any effects on the XY background. A balanced translocation with its breakpoint falling within the same region has also been described in one XX DSD subject. We analyzed, by conventional and molecular cytogenetics, 19 novel SRY-negative unrelated 46,XX subjects both familial and sporadic, with isolated DSD. One of them had a de novo reciprocal t(11;17) translocation. Two cases carried partially overlapping 17q24.3 duplications ~500 kb upstream of SOX9, both inherited from their normal fathers. Breakpoints cloning showed that both duplications were in tandem, whereas the 17q in the reciprocal translocation was broken at ~800 kb upstream of SOX9, which is not only close to a previously described 46,XX DSD translocation, but also to translocations without any effects on the gonadal development. A further XX male, ascertained because of intellectual disability, carried a de novo cryptic duplication at Xq27.1, involving SOX3. CNVs involving SOX3 or its flanking regions have been reported in four XX DSD subjects. Collectively in our cohort of 19 novel cases of SRY-negative 46,XX DSD, the duplications upstream of SOX9 account for ~10.5% of the cases, and are responsible for the disease phenotype, even when inherited from a normal father. Translocations interrupting this region may also affect the gonadal development, possibly depending on the chromatin context of the recipient chromosome. SOX3 duplications may substitute SRY in some XX subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article's innovation and novelty are introducing a new metaheuristic method called mother optimization algorithm (MOA) that mimics the human interaction between a mother and her children. The real inspiration of MOA is to simulate the mother's care of children in three phases education, advice, and upbringing. The mathematical model of MOA used in the search process and exploration is presented. The performance of MOA is assessed on a set of 52 benchmark functions, including unimodal and high-dimensional multimodal functions, fixed-dimensional multimodal functions, and the CEC 2017 test suite. The findings of optimizing unimodal functions indicate MOA's high ability in local search and exploitation. The findings of optimization of high-dimensional multimodal functions indicate the high ability of MOA in global search and exploration. The findings of optimization of fixed-dimension multi-model functions and the CEC 2017 test suite show that MOA with a high ability to balance exploration and exploitation effectively supports the search process and can generate appropriate solutions for optimization problems. The outcomes quality obtained from MOA has been compared with the performance of 12 often-used metaheuristic algorithms. Upon analysis and comparison of the simulation results, it was found that the proposed MOA outperforms competing algorithms with superior and significantly more competitive performance. Precisely, the proposed MOA delivers better results in most objective functions. Furthermore, the application of MOA on four engineering design problems demonstrates the efficacy of the proposed approach in solving real-world optimization problems. The findings of the statistical analysis from the Wilcoxon signed-rank test show that MOA has a significant statistical superiority compared to the twelve well-known metaheuristic algorithms in managing the optimization problems studied in this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meat, poultry, and seafood such as fish are a valuable source of protein, vitamins and minerals. Considering their high consumption in the human diet, it is necessary to study pollutants (such as PAHs) in them. This present study has focused on the PAHs level and probabilistic risk of health in meat, poultry, fish and related product samples by MSPE-GC/MS technique (magnetic solid-phase extraction with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry). The maximum mean of 16 PAH was detected in smoked fish samples (222.7 ± 13.2 μg/kg) and the minimum mean of 16 PAH was detected in chicken (juje) kebab (112.9 ± 7.2 µg/kg μg/kg). The maximum mean of 4PAHs was detected in tuna fish (23.7 ± 2.4 µg/kg) and the minimum mean of 4PAHs was seen in grilled chicken and sausage samples (non-detected). Our results showed the 4PAHs and B[a]P were lower than the EU (European Union) standard levels (these standard levels were 30 and 5 μg/kg, respectively). Furthermore, the correlation among the type and concentrations of PAHs congeners was investigated through cluster analysis by heat map and principal component analysis. The 90th percentile ILCR (incremental lifetime cancer risk) of PAH compounds in fish, poultry, meat and related products samples was 3.39E-06, which was lower than the maximum acceptable level of risk (10–4). Finally, the highest ILCR was related to hamburger (4.45E-06). Therefore, there is no risk in consuming these foods in Iran, but it is necessary to monitor PAHs concentration in different types of foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, liquid–liquid equilibriums are reported for different ternary systems of aqueous solutions with decane as oil and mono-ethylene glycol butyl ether (C 4 E 1 ) as surfactant. The appearing Winsor phases and their evolution are shown by drawing temperature versus surfactant weight fraction for a given ratio of aqueous solution to oil. The obtained diagrams have the well-known fishlike shape. Four parameters are used to discuss the influence of the additives: the perpendicular and horizontal asymptotes to the realms-of-existence of the Winsor III phase. The two horizontal asymptotes, i.e., the LCST (lower critical solution temperature) and UCST (upper critical solution temperature) show no significant changes upon adding chloride salts, except for the triethylphenylammonium cation as counter-ion. By contrast, significant changes of the values of these two parameters are found when the nature of the anion of sodium salts changes. The two perpendicular parameters γ 0 (minimum concentration of surfactant needed to form a Winsor III) and γ ˜ (minimum surfactant concentration needed to reach the Winsor IV phase from a Winsor III one) are only little affected by the nature of the additive. Two other parameters in relation with Winsor III area are also studied: δ reflects the vertical extent of the realms-of-existence of Winsor III versus temperature ( δ = UCST − LCST), while ξ = γ ˜ − γ 0 reflects its horizontal extension. The value of δ is affected by the nature of the anion of sodium salts and strongly increases in presence of Na 2 SO 4 , but also with sucrose as additive. The effect of additives has in general a more pronounced influence on the values of the LCST and UCST than on ξ . The results are discussed in terms of Hofmeister effects, of salting-in and salting-out and of the resulting depletion and adsorption on the interfacial film of the Winsor III middle microemulsion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, liquid–liquid equilibrium measurements were performed for different ternary, water (or brine)/decane or dodecane/mono-propylene glycol ether (C 3 P 1 ) or di-propylene glycol ether (C 3 P 2 ) systems in order to build the so-called fish phase diagrams (temperature as a function of surfactant for a given polar-apolar solvent mixture) and to compare them to the well-known water (or brine)/decane or dodecane/ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether (C 4 E 1 ) phase diagrams. The study is motivated by the lower toxicity of the C x P y compared to the corresponding C x E y . Toxicity is of particular importance for any use of such molecules in the environment. Like in the presence of C 4 E 1 , the formation of Winsor type I → III → II phase transitions with increasing temperature was observed for the C x P y systems. The LCST (Lower Critical Solution Temperature) and UCST (Upper Critical Solution Temperature) of the newly studied systems were determined. The values of the γ 0 parameter (in mole fraction), the minimum value of surfactant needed to form Winsor III, increased in comparison to the C 4 E 1 systems. The value of γ ˜ (in mole fraction), minimum value of surfactant needed to reach Winsor IV from Winsor III, was comparable using C 4 E 1 and C 3 P 1 , and lower in the presence of C 3 P 2 . The substitution of decane by dodecane led to a stronger water affinity of C 4 E 1 and C 3 P 2 as greater values of the LCST and UCST have been observed in the presence of dodecane. By contrast, a lower hydration of C 4 E 1 and C 3 P 1 was found when increasing the NaCl content in brine. It can be concluded that less toxic C 3 P 1 and C 3 P 2 can be envisaged as a substitute of the contested C 4 E 1 to formulate microemulsions and particularly Winsor III systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Humic substances belong to a group of micro molecular of organic substance with different molecular weight produced by reaction of biological and geochemical process. They are known as one of the main prefabrications of disinfection byproducts. This study aimed at investigating the efficacy of (ZnO) nanoparticle under UV/ZnO radiation in removing humic acid. Materials and methods: This study was conducted under laboratory condition. An interval reactor was used to eliminate humic acid by (ZnO) nanoparticle and UV lamp (125 W Philips HPLN). The humic acid was considered in 2, 5, 7 and 10 mg/lit concentrations. To measure the residue of humic acid after radiation of photo Photocatalytic, Spectrophotometer model (UV/VIS Lambda 25 Perkin Elmer, Shelton) was used. Results: The results showed a decrease in efficiency rate when humic acid concentration and pH increased. By increasing the time of photocatalytic activity the removal effect increased. Also, we observed that single-step process and two-step process with higher removal efficiency at Zno concentration of 0.2 mg/l and 0.5 mg/l, respectively. The two-step process was found more capable of removing humic acid with 98.95% efficiency at the concentration of 0.5 mg/l ZnO, detention time of 30min, and at pH 4. Conclusion: This study suggests the use of UV/ZnO process as a suitable method in removing humic acid from aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Perturbed Hard Sphere Chain (PHSC) equation of state (EoS) has been utilized for thermodynamic modeling of aqueous amino acid and peptide solutions. For this purpose, the parameters of amino acids and peptides have been adjusted to activity coefficient, liquid density and solubility of amino acids and peptides in water. Furthermore, water activity, osmotic coefficient and vapor pressure of aqueous amino acid solution have been predicted. Finally the solubility of amino acid mixtures in water has been calculated using additional adjustable parameters. The results of PHSC EoS were in good agreement with experimental data. Average deviations in estimation of activity coefficients, liquid densities, water activity and osmotic coefficient are 1.44%, 0.38%, 0.067% and 2.6%, respectively. In addition the solubility of mixed aqueous amino acids has been calculated to show the ability of mentioned model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, vapor-liquid and liquid-liquid equilibrium in mixtures containing glycol ether surfactant, non-polar and polar compounds are calculated using Perturbed Hard Sphere Chain (PHSC) equation of state (EoS). Pure liquid density and vapor pressure of surfactants are used for parameter estimation of glycol ether surfactants. The PHSC parameters are calculated for both ethylene glycol ether and propylene glycol ether surfactants. Glycol ether surfactant molecules are modeled as associating components by considering two association sites for each molecule. The results show that the PHSC model is capable of correlating thermodynamic behavior of binary (polar + surfactant) and (non-polar + surfactant) systems. Upper critical solution temperature (UCST) for hydrocarbon + surfactant and lower critical solution temperature (LCST) for water + surfactant systems are accurately calculated. The critical temperatures and the extent of immiscibility are in good agreement with the available experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atomic ordering in bcc and hcp TiAl+Mo alloys near equiatomic TiAl composition is investigated by different ab initio tools. We show that small addition of Mo, about 5 at. %, is enough to make bcc alloys with more than 50 at. % of Ti stable with respect to the hcp alloys. Moreover, such alloying also leads to stabilizing the B2 ordered structure with respect to its B2 2 modification, which is the bcc-based ground state structure of binary TiAl. The site preference of Mo in the B2 and B19 ordered alloys is investigated by different methods: in the dilute limit, using the transfer energy formalism; in concentrated alloys, from the total energies of disordered and partially ordered alloys in the mean-field coherent potential approximation; and from Monte Carlo simulations. These methods produce consistent results for the B2 phase predicting a strong preference of Mo to Al sublattice. The site preference of Mo in the B19 phases varies from a weak preference for Al sites in the single impurity calculations to a quite strong preference for Ti sites in the mean-field approximation and finally to a strong Al preference in Monte Carlo simulations. Mo alloying dramatically increases the order–disorder transition temperatures in bcc and hcp Al-deficient Ti 0.5 Al 0. 5 − x Mo x alloys. • The system shows long-ranged and strong composition-dependent effective interactions. • Mo shows a strong preference for the Al site in the B2 structure. • Adding a small amount of Mo in bcc Ti-rich compositions stabilizes the B2 phase. • The ordered phase of hcp binary TiAl is the B19 structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advancement of science and technology, new complex optimization problems have emerged, and the achievement of optimal solutions has become increasingly important. Many of these problems have features and difficulties such as non-convex, nonlinear, discrete search space, and a non-differentiable objective function. Achieving the optimal solution to such problems has become a major challenge. To address this challenge and provide a solution to deal with the complexities and difficulties of optimization applications, a new stochastic-based optimization algorithm is proposed in this study. Optimization algorithms are a type of stochastic approach for addressing optimization issues that use random scanning of the search space to produce quasi-optimal answers. The Selecting Some Variables to Update-Based Algorithm (SSVUBA) is a new optimization algorithm developed in this study to handle optimization issues in various fields. The suggested algorithm's key principles are to make better use of the information provided by different members of the population and to adjust the number of variables used to update the algorithm population during the iterations of the algorithm. The theory of the proposed SSVUBA is described, and then its mathematical model is offered for use in solving optimization issues. Fifty-three objective functions, including unimodal, multimodal, and CEC 2017 test functions, are utilized to assess the ability and usefulness of the proposed SSVUBA in addressing optimization issues. SSVUBA's performance in optimizing real-world applications is evaluated on four engineering design issues. Furthermore, the performance of SSVUBA in optimization was compared to the performance of eight well-known algorithms to further evaluate its quality. The simulation results reveal that the proposed SSVUBA has a significant ability to handle various optimization issues and that it outperforms other competitor algorithms by giving appropriate quasi-optimal solutions that are closer to the global optima. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimization is an important and fundamental challenge to solve optimization problems in different scientific disciplines. In this paper, a new stochastic nature-inspired optimization algorithm called Pelican Optimization Algorithm (POA) is introduced. The main idea in designing the proposed POA is simulation of the natural behavior of pelicans during hunting. In POA, search agents are pelicans that search for food sources. The mathematical model of the POA is presented for use in solving optimization issues. The performance of POA is evaluated on twenty-three objective functions of different unimodal and multimodal types. The optimization results of unimodal functions show the high exploitation ability of POA to approach the optimal solution while the optimization results of multimodal functions indicate the high ability of POA exploration to find the main optimal area of the search space. Moreover, four engineering design issues are employed for estimating the efficacy of the POA in optimizing real-world applications. The findings of POA are compared with eight well-known metaheuristic algorithms to assess its competence in optimization. The simulation results and their analysis show that POA has a better and more competitive performance via striking a proportional balance between exploration and exploitation compared to eight competitor algorithms in providing optimal solutions for optimization problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study by Y. Altas and colleagues on the relationship between the eosinophil count and coronary slow-flow phenomenon (CSFP). Topics covered include the use of biomarkers as diagnostic tools for risk stratification of cardiovascular diseases, inconsistencies in the relationship between leukocyte subtypes and the CSFP in previous studies, and main pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in the development of CSFP.

Application of the MPTA model has been extended to associative liquid adsorption. The MPTA model describes fluid-fluid interactions using an equation of state (EoS) term, and fluid-solid interactions using a potential equation. In order to extend the application to associative liquid adsorption, an association term has been considered for fluid-fluid interactions. Sixteen binary mixtures containing associating and non-associating components in equilibrium with various adsorbents have been studied; fluid-fluid interactions have been modeled using the Peng-Robinson, Soave-Redlich-Kwong, volume-translated SRK and CPA equations of state, while the effects of fluid-solid interactions have been taken into account using Dubinin-Radushkevich-Astakhov (DRA) and Steele potential functions. The model parameters have been obtained by fitting the model to experimental data on surface excess. For the studied systems, the accuracy of fitted isotherms has been found to be more dependent on the fluid-solid potential equation rather than the applied EoS. Calculations show that the SRK equation is a suitable choice for non-associating systems, while the CPA equation is found to be more appropriate for associating systems, as would be expected. The results also show that the Steele potential function is in better agreement with experimental data than the DRA potential function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition in which the median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel is compressed. Then, gradual paralysis occurs. This study aimed to compare patient outcomes after surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome in both groups with and without splint.. Methods: This study was conducted in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran, in Kashani hospital during 2011. 64 patients underwent surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome were selected and randomly divided into two groups of 32. For the first group, splints were considered after the surgery and for the second group, as the control group, splint was not given. Patients within 3, 6 and 12 weeks after surgery were followed and healing in the sense of motion and pain based on the visual analogue scale (VAS) measures were examined. Findings: Sensory conflict scores at the 3rd and 6th weeks in the group with splint were higher than the group without it; but, 12 weeks after the treatment, the results were identical. In any cases, motor involvement was not seen. At the 3rd week after the treatment, the mean pain score in the group without splint was higher than with splint group. The results of the 6th week after the treatment in both groups were almost identical; but, at the 12th week after the treatment, changes in pain intensity was not significantly different between the two groups (P = 0.97). Conclusion: Splinting after the surgical release of the median nerve probably causes a delay in the recovery of sensory, motor and pain; but due to the effect of material of used splint, the result is still uncertain and further broader interventions needs to be done in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare two surgery methods including radial shortening and radial shortening combined with vascularized bone graft for treatment of stage II or IIIa of Kienb¨ock's disease. It is a randomized, controlled clinical trial, which was carried out in 2011-2013. Twenty-four patients were assigned equally to radial shortening group (A) or radial shortening combined with vascularized bone graft group (B). The outcome was assessed by Mayo Wrist score before and 9months after surgery. The mean Mayo Wrist score (SD) was 27.1 (15.4) and 32.5 (18.3) before surgery and 74.6 (5.4) and 85.8 (5.1) after surgery for groups A and B, respectively. Themean score increased in both groups, and it was higher in group B significantly. Radial shortening combined with vascularized bone graft is a valuable method which can be more effective than radial shortening alone, in early stages of Kienb¨ock's disease. This trial is registered with IRCT201404127841N5. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current iris recognition systems, noise removing step is only used to detect noisy parts of the iris region and features extracted from there will be excluded in matching step. Whereas depending on the filter structure used in feature extraction, the noisy parts may influence relevant features. To the best of our knowledge, the effect of noise factors on feature extraction has not been considered in the previous works. This paper investigates the effect of shape adaptive wavelet transform and shape adaptive Gabor-wavelet for feature extraction on the iris recognition performance. In addition, an effective noise-removing approach is proposed in this paper. The contribution is to detect eyelashes and reflections by calculating appropriate thresholds by a procedure called statistical decision making. The eyelids are segmented by parabolic Hough transform in normalized iris image to decrease computational burden through omitting rotation term. The iris is localized by an accurate and fast algorithm based on coarse-to-fine strategy. The principle of mask code generation is to assign the noisy bits in an iris code in order to exclude them in matching step is presented in details. An experimental result shows that by using the shape adaptive Gabor-wavelet technique there is an improvement on the accuracy of recognition rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The adsorption of Cr (VI) on MOF-5 functionalized with amino groups. • Linear and nonlinear isotherms, kinetic models, and thermodynamic analysis. • Influence of coexisting ion species on the adsorption efficiency. • Thermodynamic studies revealed that adsorption nature is spontaneous and endothermic. • Maximum adsorption capacity of 78.6 mg/g was achieved. In the past decades, an extensive effort has been devoted to remove Hexavalent chromium H(Cr (VI)) from industrial effluents, owning to its great health concerns to humans and the environment. Recently, Metal organic framework (MOFs) adsorbents draws more attention of researchers to remove contaminants from aqueous environments in the recent years. In the present study, solvothermal method was employed to fabricate MOF-5 that was examined for Cr (VI) adsorption from water matrices. XRD, FESEM, EDS, FTIR and BET analyses were utilized to characterize MOF-5. The influence of some independent parameters on MOF-5 performance in Cr (VI) adsorption was explored in a batch mode system. It was found that the uptake rate of Cr (VI) is significantly affected by initial pH of solution; the maximum adsorption rate is favored by acidic pH. Also, the adsorption efficiency shows a direct relationship with contact time and adsorbent dose, and an indirect relation with initial Cr (VI) concentration. The adoption process was modeled and optimized successfully by two approach of response surface methodology and artificial neutral network approaches; both models indicated an accuracy of predictions by determining error distribution and statistical significance and a good fit to experimental data. The experimental data showed a superior agreement with linear and nonlinear Langmuir isotherm, as compared with the other isotherm models, and pseudo-second-order kinetic better described Cr (VI) adsorption data by MOF-5, compared to the other kinetic models. The maximum absorption capacity was 78.12 mg/g. Thermodynamic studies revealed that adsorption is spontaneous and endothermic process. The findings claimed the great reusability and high stability of MOF-5; adsorption efficiency decreased only by 92.4% after ten recycles. The interfering anions affected negatively on the adsorption efficiency in the order of phosphate > sulfate > chloride > nitrate. The present study provides valuable and good information for Cr (VI) adsorption on MOF-5 in water matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Titanium aluminides are technologically important intermetallic alloys with also many curious properties interesting from a basic research point of view. When alloyed with Mo, several (meta)stable phases have been reported; their properties are, however, largely unknown due to the alloy processing (e.g. fast cooling) and/or non-existence as a single-phase material. Here we employ first principles calculations to study compositional trends in structural and mechanical properties. We could show that Mo increases the density of all studied phases, leads to their chemical destabilization with the exception of the ordered bcc β o phase, increases their ductility, and enhances the elastic anisotropy. Discrepancies between two employed ab initio methods (special quasi-random structures vs. coherent potential approximation) in the case of the β o and B19 phases are rationalized with significant local distortions which may eventually facilitate a spontaneous phase transformation. Predictions of ordering temperatures solely based on the configurational entropy do not yield values in the experimentally expected ranges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The modified perturbed hard sphere chain (e-PHSC) equation of state (EoS) has been used for correlation and prediction of thermo-physical properties of single and mixed aqueous electrolyte solutions. In order to take electrostatic contribution into account, the primitive mean spherical approximation (MSA) term has been utilized. The proposed electrolyte equation of state (e-EOS) has two ion-based parameters per each ion. Ion specific parameters were obtained by simultaneous adjustment using mean ionic activity coefficient (MIAC) and solution liquid density experimental data of single electrolyte solutions. In order to check the accuracy of the model, water activity, osmotic coefficient and vapor pressure of single electrolyte solutions have been calculated using adjusted parameters. Finally water activities, MIACs, solution liquid densities, osmotic coefficients and vapor pressures of various mixed electrolyte solutions were predicted. The results showed that using e-PHSC model, MIACs, osmotic coefficient, water activity and vapor pressure and liquid density of mixed electrolyte solutions up to 6.5, 10, 10, 10 and 5 of ionic strength can be well predicted without any additional adjustable parameters. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work, the capability of the Perturbed Hard Sphere Chain (PHSC) equation of state (EOS) in liquid–liquid equilibrium calculations of salt–polyethylene glycol (PEG)–water systems is investigated. In order to present a comprehensive model, association as well as electrostatic contributions have been added to the original PHSC EOS. In this work 47 systems including PEG (with different molecular weights) and various salts have been modeled at different temperatures. Only two adjustable parameters between salt and PEG and between water and PEG have been employed. Good agreement between experimental data and calculation results is observed. Overall average deviation for all of the systems considered is 6.81%. This study shows that the PHSC EOS can be employed for correlation of phase behavior in aqueous two phase systems. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work the modified perturbed hard sphere chain equation of state (PHSC), coupled with Van der waals Platteuw model, has been used for prediction of gas hydrate formation (dissociation) conditions. The PHSC EOS has been modified using association and electrostatic contributions. In order to evaluate the capability of the PHSC EOS, the hydrate formation conditions of various pure as well as mixed gases in the presence and absence of the thermodynamic inhibitors such as methanol, ethanol, mono ethylene glycol(MEG), NaCl, KCl and CaCl2 have been studied. In the absence of inhibitors, the pure gas hydrate formation conditions have been predicted within 3.4% absolute average relative deviation. The hydrate formation condition of gas mixtures have been predicted within AARD 4.6%. In the presence of organic inhibitors and single electrolyte 6.1% and 5.8% AARD has been observed respectively. A total of 102 systems have been studied; our results showed that the PHSC EOS is capable of prediction of hydrate formation condition with reasonable absolute average relative deviation (AARD) from experimental data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work, the phase behavior of mixed solvent electrolyte systems containing 1-butanol+water+ammonium chloride at temperatures of 298.15, 308.15 and 318.15K and at atmospheric pressure have been studied experimentally and theoretically. For the studied systems, liquid–liquid equilibrium has been observed throughout the studied temperature range. Ammonium chloride shows a salting out effect in the two phase region, while temperature has a minor effect on the liquid–liquid equilibria in the studied temperature range. The measured experimental data have been modeled using a modified version of the extended UNIQUAC model. The model has been found to give a satisfactory description of LLE data obtained in this work, with an average absolute deviation of less than 1.5% in calculated mass fractions compared to experimental data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In this work, the Dehghani–Modarress mean spherical approximation model has been modified and extended for prediction of the mean ionic activity coefficient in mixed aqueous electrolyte solutions at different temperatures. In the DM-MSA model the cationic diameter as well as the dielectric constant of water are considered to be concentration dependent. In order to make the DM-MSA model applicable in engineering applications, a binary interaction parameter has been introduced. Using these parameters, the mean ionic activity coefficient of electrolytes can be predicted applying a linear mixing rule. To calculate the activity coefficient of single electrolytes at different temperatures, a temperature dependency has been considered for cationic size as well as dielectric constant. Utilizing the obtained parameters for single electrolytes at different temperatures, the mean ionic activity coefficients of mixed electrolytes have been predicted. The accuracy of the model is also compared with those results produced by extended UNIQUAC model. In order to have a fair judgment, the same experimental data and minimization algorithm have been used for comparison. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The best treatment for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is still controversial. The main aim of our study was to determine whether corticosteroid injection would result in a better outcome. Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 88 individuals with mild to moderate CTS were selected from patients who referred to Kashani Hospital in Isfahan, Iran. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups. Splinting in neutral position of wrist was the only therapeutic method utilized in first group. However, splinting accompanied with corticosteroid injection was performed in the second group. Then the patients were evaluated in terms of pain intensity, and the relative prevalence of Phalen's and Tinel tests. Findings: Pain intensity and prevalence of Phalen's and Tinel tests were significantly lower in patients treated with splinting accompanied with corticosteroid injection. Conclusion: It seemed that splinting accompanied with corticosteroid injection is a more effective method in treatment of mild to moderate CTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this work, a modified perturbed hard sphere chain (PHSC) equation of state has been applied to the calculation of acid gas (CO2, H2S) solubility in ionic liquids. The proposed equation of state is a combination of the PHSC equation of state and a polar term. The polar contribution is based on the segment approach which is expected to give accurate results for long chain molecules such as ionic liquids. By using polar and association terms, the specific interactions between molecules have been taken into account. The calculated results for ionic liquid densities are in good agreement with the experimental data, and average deviation between calculated and experimental data is less than 0.14%. The solubility of CO2 and H2S in various ionic liquids has been correlated using just one temperature-dependent binary interaction parameter over wide ranges of temperature and at pressures ranging from 0.1 to 100MPa. For binary systems, absolute average deviations of calculated gas solubilities are less than 2.4%. The capability of the proposed model has then been assessed by prediction of solubility behavior for the ternary H2S/CO2/[C4mim][PF6] system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Injuries in hands and forearms may cause significant discomfort and disability. Aim: To evaluate the accuracy of preoperative clinical examination in depicting lesions caused by penetrating wounds of hands or forearms. Setting and Design: This prospective study was conducted from August 2006 to September 2009 at Kashani University Hospital, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and fifty patients with clean penetrating injury to the hand/forearm were enrolled in this study. After patient's data registration, a careful clinical examination and routine exploration without expansion of wound were done by an orthopedic resident. Each tendon was tested at each joint level. Nerves were evaluated with a two-point discrimination test, and arteries were tested with palpable pulses. Surgical exploration was done by a single hand surgeon in operation room. Accuracy of clinical examination was compared to surgical examination. Results: During the study period, 180 (72%) males and 70 (28%) females with mean age of 28±4 years participated. The preoperative examination showed a predominance of the volar zone IV injuries followed by volar zone II, III, thumb zone II, volar zone V and thumb zone III. Despite the enough accuracy of preoperative examinations in dorsal side injuries of hands and forearms (error rate = 8.3%), the preoperative examinations significantly underestimated the amount of damage to soft tissues on the volar side of hands and forearms (error rate = 14%). Conclusions: The precise surgical evaluations should be considered in patients with penetrating injury to the hand or forearm, especially in those with volar side injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this work liquid–liquid equilibria (LLE) in the system containing 1-butanol–water–sodium nitrate at temperatures of 25 and 35°C has been investigated experimentally and theoretically. The extended UNIQUAC model has previously been used for correlation of liquid–liquid equilibrium in aqueous salt systems containing alcohols. In that model the excess Gibbs energy consists of two terms, the original UNIQUAC term and Debye–Hückel term which considers the alcohol as a non-electrolyte solute. In this work, a modified extended UNIQUAC model is used by taking into account mixed solvent theories. The model consists of three terms, the original UNIQUAC term, a Pitzer–Debye–Hückel term and a Born term. The model has been found to give a satisfactory description of LLE data obtained in this work, with an average absolute deviation of less than 0.5 in calculated mass percent compared to experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ventriculoatrial (VA) conduction has an important role in the initiation and maintenance of some arrhythmias. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether clinical and electrophysiological parameters of atrioventricular (AV) conduction can predict VA conduction. Methods: Detailed demographic, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic data were recorded in 54 consecutive patients undergoing electrophysiological study for the evaluation of ventricular tachyarrhythmia. The basic parameters including atrial-His (AH) and His-ventricular (HV) intervals, atrioventricular Wenckebach point (AVWP), ventriculoatrial Wenckebach point (VAWP), anterograde effective refractory period of atrioventricular node(AERP-AVN), retrograde effective refractory period of atrioventricular node (RERP-AVN) and effective refractory period of ventricle (VERP) were measured based on standard protocol. Results: Mean age of the patients was 59.4 (± 13.9) years. Forty-three (79.6%) patients were male and 39 (72.2%) had a history of ischemic heart disease. Ventriculoatrial (VA) conduction was recorded in 21 (38.9%) patients; it was slightly more prevalent in the men (44.2% vs. 18.2%; p value = 0.114). In the patients without VA conduction, the means of AVWP, AERP-AVN, and PR intervals were significantly more prolonged (p value = 0.007, 0.030, and 0.045, respectively), and a trend toward more prolonged AH, HV, and QRS interval was seen in them (p value = 0.078, 0.124, and 0.159, respectively). AVWP was the best predictor for the absence of Ventriculoatrial (VA) conduction. Fifty (92.5%) patients had a better AV than VA conduction. Age, presence of ischemic heart disease, left ventricular ejection fraction, and diastolic function could not predict VA conduction. A significant direct relationship was found between left ventricular ejection fraction and VAWP (p value = 0.036, r = 0.4; the Pearson correlation test). Conclusion: Prediction of VA conduction based on clinical and echocardiographic characteristics is not possible. Impairment of AV conduction was the best predictor for the impairment of VA conduction, and most patients had a better AV than VA conduction. In this study, the men had a slightly higher prevalence of VA conduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A glass injury to the wrist and forearm is a common condition in adults and children that may cause significant discomfort and disability. This study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of preoperative examination of this injury. Methods: In this prospective study, among patients referred to Kashani hospital in Isfahan, Iran from August 2006 to March 2008, 150 patients with glass injury to the wrist and forearm were enrolled. In this case, the first, careful clinical examination and routine exploration without expansion of wound was done by an orthopedic specialist and then surgical exploration in the operative room was done for the same patient by the same physician. The evaluated information was obtained and compared before and after treatment. Findings: Despite the enough accuracy of preoperative examination in glass injury of dorsal side of wrist and forearm, the preoperative examination significantly underestimated the amount of damage to tendons, nerves and arteries on the volar side of forearm and wrist. The most frequent injury pattern was the flexor digitorum superficialis (60%), median nerve (18%), and Flexor carpi ulnaris (16%). The most injured structure on dorsal side of forearm was Extensor digitorum tendons. Conclusion: It seemed that the preoperative examination, even when specifically evaluating for deficiencies is done, significantly underestimates the extent of glass injury to the volar side of wrist and forearm. If glass is implicated as a causative agent, careful orthopedic evaluation and surgical management should be considered even in sight of a normal preoperative examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The scaphoid fractures are of the most prevalent fractures of the wrist and there are different ways for the treatment of these fractures. The aim of this study was to compare results and complications of three of these methods. Methods: In this randomized clinical-trial study, among patients referred to Kashani hospital in Isfahan, Iran, from September 2006 to September 2008, 39 with scaphoid fracture, with more than 1 mm displacement, were enrolled. They were randomly assigned into three groups (13 patients in each). In the first group, close reduction and immobilization (cast) was used. In the second group, percutaneous fixation with pin and in the third group, one percutaneous screw was used. The patients were evaluated monthly with X-Ray, and by Mayo Wrist Scoring. The evaluated information was obtained and compared. Findings: The mean time of union was significantly shorter in the third group and there was no malunion, nonunion or any other complication in this group. Results of Mayo Wrist Scoring was better in third group, too. Conclusion: The percutaneous screw fixation in scaphoid fractures causes better fixation and results in shortening of union period and, if technically possible, can be suggested as a good method of treatment for these types of fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite the advances in techniques and the improvements in surgical implants, treatment of distal femoral fractures remains a challenge in many situations. Long-term disability can still occur if inappropriate treatment is done. This study was conducted to evaluate the results of distal femoral nailing in treatment of the distal femur fractures. Methods: In this cohort study, among patients referred to Kashani hospital in Isfahan, Iran from December 2005 to December 2007, 36 patients with distal femoral fracture were enrolled in our study. Patients were treated with retrograde femoral nailing. The patients' demographic information, Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tearing, duration of surgery, volume of hemorrhage, and after-surgery complications such as stiffness, infection and rate of union was obtained and reported. Findings: The mean of time of surgery was 97.4 ± 11.6 minutes. There were not any ACL tearing in studied patients. In first two weeks, infection was seen in 4 patients that recovered. The rate of union was 100% after 6 month. Regard to results, retrograde nailling has very good results in treatment of distal femoral fractures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The adsorption mechanisms of endotoxin on MOF functionalized with the amine groups. • Experimental and theoretical studies was studied. • Linear and nonlinear isotherms, kinetic models and thermodynamic studies. • Influence of interfering anions on the adsorption efficiency. Endotoxin is well-known as one of the emerging pollutants secreted from bacteria; cyanobacteria has drawn much attention over the years due to imposing health problems such as impairment of the immune system and toxic shock. A novel modified amino MOF (NH 2 -Cu(MOF)) was synthesized and its application for endotoxin (lipopolysaccharides) removal from aqueous solution was investigated. Physicochemical properties of NH 2 -Cu(MOF) structure were characterized by XRD, SEM, BET and FTIR analyses. In this study, the effects of different operational parameters: Initial pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage and endotoxin concentration on removal efficacy by MOF were surveyed by central composition design (CCD) approach under response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN). The experimental data for pollutant removal were well fitted with quadratic polynomial model (based on RSM approach) and mathematical model (based on ANN approach) with a good prediction capability. Statistical ANOVA results indicated that the dosage of NH 2 -Cu-MOF and endotoxin concentration had high contribution on response prediction compared with other variables. Under optimum conditions, over 90% of endotoxin degradation was observed by the adsorbent. Adsorption kinetic was well designated by the pseudo second order kinetic model, especially its nonlinear form, while the adsorption isotherm was better fitted by Langmuir model in both linear and nonlinear forms with the maximum single-layer adsorption capacity of above 2500 Eu/mg. The possible mechanisms for endotoxin removal by NH 2 -Cu(MOF) were electrostatic interaction, hydrogen-bonding and π-π stacking. Recycling test showed a good reusability and stability result of NH 2 -Cu(MOF) during five subsequent recycles; the influence of interfering anions on the adsorption efficiency exhibited the following order: PO 4 3− > HCO 3 − > SO 4 2− > Cl− >NO 3 −. Our finding revealed that the NH 2 -Cu(MOF) structure could be suggested as a feasible and potential promising adsorbent for removal of toxic material from the aqueous solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous optimization problems designed in different branches of science and the real world must be solved using appropriate techniques. Population-based optimization algorithms are some of the most important and practical techniques for solving optimization problems. In this paper, a new optimization algorithm called the Cat and Mouse-Based Optimizer (CMBO) is presented that mimics the natural behavior between cats and mice. In the proposed CMBO, the movement of cats towards mice as well as the escape of mice towards havens is simulated. Mathematical modeling and formulation of the proposed CMBO for implementation on optimization problems are presented. The performance of the CMBO is evaluated on a standard set of objective functions of three different types including unimodal, high-dimensional multimodal, and fixed-dimensional multimodal. The results of optimization of objective functions show that the proposed CMBO has a good ability to solve various optimization problems. Moreover, the optimization results obtained from the CMBO are compared with the performance of nine other well-known algorithms including Genetic Algorithm (GA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA), Teaching-Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO), Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), Marine Predators Algorithm (MPA), Tunicate Swarm Algorithm (TSA), and Teamwork Optimization Algorithm (TOA). The performance analysis of the proposed CMBO against the compared algorithms shows that CMBO is much more competitive than other algorithms by providing more suitable quasi-optimal solutions that are closer to the global optimal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population-based optimization algorithms are one of the most widely used and popular methods in solving optimization problems. In this paper, a new population-based optimization algorithm called the Teamwork Optimization Algorithm (TOA) is presented to solve various optimization problems. The main idea in designing the TOA is to simulate the teamwork behaviors of the members of a team in order to achieve their desired goal. The TOA is mathematically modeled for usability in solving optimization problems. The capability of the TOA in solving optimization problems is evaluated on a set of twenty-three standard objective functions. Additionally, the performance of the proposed TOA is compared with eight well-known optimization algorithms in providing a suitable quasi-optimal solution. The results of optimization of objective functions indicate the ability of the TOA to solve various optimization problems. Analysis and comparison of the simulation results of the optimization algorithms show that the proposed TOA is superior and far more competitive than the eight compared algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many optimization problems in the different disciplines of science that must be solved using the appropriate method. Population-based optimization algorithms are one of the most efficient ways to solve various optimization problems. Population-based optimization algorithms are able to provide appropriate solutions to optimization problems based on a random search of the problem-solving space without the need for gradient and derivative information. In this paper, a new optimization algorithm called the Group Mean-Based Optimizer (GMBO) is presented; it can be applied to solve optimization problems in various fields of science. The main idea in designing the GMBO is to use more effectively the information of different members of the algorithm population based on two selected groups, with the titles of the good group and the bad group. Two new composite members are obtained by averaging each of these groups, which are used to update the population members. The various stages of the GMBO are described and mathematically modeled with the aim of being used to solve optimization problems. The performance of the GMBO in providing a suitable quasi-optimal solution on a set of 23 standard objective functions of different types of unimodal, high-dimensional multimodal, and fixed-dimensional multimodal is evaluated. In addition, the optimization results obtained from the proposed GMBO were compared with eight other widely used optimization algorithms, including the Marine Predators Algorithm (MPA), the Tunicate Swarm Algorithm (TSA), the Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO), Teaching–Learning-Based Optimization (TLBO), the Gravitational Search Algorithm (GSA), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), and the Genetic Algorithm (GA). The optimization results indicated the acceptable performance of the proposed GMBO, and, based on the analysis and comparison of the results, it was determined that the GMBO is superior and much more competitive than the other eight algorithms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, fluoride removal from polluted potable water using magnetic carbon-based adsorbents derived from agricultural biomass was thoroughly investigated. An experimental matrix is designed considering the interactive effects of independent process variables (pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, and initial fluoride concentration) on the removal efficiency. Isotherms and kinetics studies, as well as anions interactions, were also investigated to understand the adsorption mechanisms further. The model parameters of isotherms and kinetics are estimated using nonlinear differential evolution optimization (DEO). Approaches like adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) and response surface methodology (RSM) are implemented to predict the fluoride removal and identify the optimal process values. The optimum removal efficiency of GAC-Fe 3 O 4 (89.34%) was found to be higher than that of PAC-Fe 3 O 4 (85.14%). Kinetics experiments indicated that they follow the intraparticle diffusion model, and adsorption isotherms indicated that they follow Langmuir and Freundlich models. Both PAC-Fe 3 O 4 and GAC-Fe 3 O 4 adsorbents have shown an adsorption capacity of 1.20 and 2.74 mg/g, respectively. The model predictions from ANFIS have a strong correlation with experimental results and superior to RSM predictions. The shape of the contours depicts the nonlinearity of the interactive effects and the mechanisms in the adsorption process. • Adsorptive removal of fluoride from water by magnetic carbon adsorbents. • Differential evolution optimization-based isotherm and kinetic model parameters. • Response surface methodology-based design of experiments. • Adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system for predicting optimal process variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) is considered an innovative and promising tool for estimating community exposure to a wide range of chemical and biological compounds by analyzing wastewater. Despite scholars' interest in WBE studies, there are uncertainties and limitations associated with this approach. This current review focuses on the feasibility of the WBE approach in assessing environmental pollutants, including pesticides, heavy metals, phthalates, bisphenols, and personal care products (PCPs). Limitations and challenges of WBE studies are initially discussed, and then future perspectives, gaps, and recommendations are presented in this review. One of the key limitations of this approach is the selection and identification of appropriate biomarkers in studies. Selecting biomarkers considering the basic requirements of a human exposure biomarker is the most important criterion for validating this new approach. Assessing the stability of biomarkers in wastewater is crucial for reliable comparisons of substance consumption in the population. However, directly analyzing wastewater does not provide a clear picture of biomarker stability. This uncertainty affects the reliability of temporal and spatial comparisons. Various uncertainties also arise from different steps involved in WBE. These uncertainties include sewage sampling, exogenous sources, analytical measurements, back-calculation, and estimation of the population under investigation. Further research is necessary to ensure that measured pollutant levels accurately reflect human excretion. Utilizing data from WBE can support healthcare policy in assessing exposure to environmental pollutants in the general population. Moreover, WBE seems to be a valuable tool for biomarkers that indicate healthy conditions, lifestyle, disease identification, and exposure to pollutants. Although this approach has the potential to serve as a biomonitoring tool in large communities, it is necessary to monitor more metabolites from wastewater to enhance future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]