Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
A pig slurry feast/famine feeding regime strategy to improve mesophilic anaerobic digestion efficiency and digestate hygienisation

The increasing concentration of livestock farms results in large amounts of waste production and the need for their management. The study of anaerobic digestion (AD) technology, under mesophilic conditions, applied to pig slurry is of the upmost importance for biogas recovery and sanitised digestate, contributing to a circular economy. The assessment of the effects of a feast/famine regime on biogas and biomethane (bio-CH4) yield with different feeding frequencies was performed. The evaluation was made in regards to three scenarios: the first is based on daily feeding (FR1); in the second, the feeding occurs once every two days (FR2); and in the third, the feeding happens once every three days (FR3). The results demonstrate that the biogas and methane yield increased by 34% and 37% between FR1 and FR3. The stability inside the reactor was maintained since specific loading energetic rate values did not exceed the recommended limit (0.4 d−1). It was also possible to conclude that the AD technology was efficient to sanitise the pig slurry, with the count of Escherichia coli going from 1 × 105 colony-forming units (CFU) g−1 to less than 100 CFU g−1, meeting the legal requirements for agricultural valorisation. The total anaerobic mesophile plate counts were significantly (p < 0.1) reduced from feeding to digestate, and the plate counts of Clostridia were significantly (p < 0.05) increased, reflecting the changes in the composition of the microbiota. The increasing yield in bio-CH4 in accordance with Clostridium counts suggests this genus as a positive microbiological key indicator of the AD performance.
Luminescence sensitivity changes of quartz by bleaching, annealing and UV exposure

The sensitivities of quartz luminescence signals to dose were studied after ionizing irradiation, ultraviolet (UV) exposure and different annealing conditions. The relationship between the 110 v °C thermoluminescence (TL) and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) were studied on the same aliquot by looking at the ratio of both signals created by a test dose. It is suggested that the sensitivity changes of both signals are closely related, but not identical. Significant differences are observed when annealing to temperatures higher than 500 v °C. A modified model was proposed to interpret the observations. The similarity is interpreted as the same R hole centers are shared by both signals, whereas 110 v °C TL only uses additional R hole centers. Dramatic changes in luminescence sensitivity for quartz relate to the phase changes.
Charge Dynamics and Electronic Structures of Monolayer MoS2 Films Grown by Chemical Vapor Deposition

THz absorption and spectroscopic ellipsometry were used to investigate the charge dynamics and electronic structures of chemical-vapor-deposited monolayer MoS2 films. THz conductivity displays a coherent response of itinerant charge carriers at zero frequency. Drude plasma frequency (∼7 THz) decreases with decreasing temperature while carrier relaxation time (∼26 fs) is almost temperature independent. The absorption spectrum of monolayer MoS2 shows a direct 1.95 eV band gap and charge transfer excitations that are ∼0.2 eV higher than those of the bulk counterpart. The ground-state exciton binding energy is found to be about 0.48 eV.
Symmetries, dynamics and energetics in dissociative electron attachment to selected group IV halides - Velocity Slice Imaging and crossed beam studies

The interaction of low energy electrons with neutral molecules is important in various applications, for example in the plasma industry. The interaction can either lead to direct scattering of the electron or the formation of a Transient Negative Ion (TNI). This TNI is generally formed in a vibrationally excited state and is therefore bound to relax. Relaxation can occur through reemission of the electron or through a dissociative channel leading to formation of a charged moiety and one or more neutral counterparts in a process termed Dissociative Electron Attachment (DEA). This thesis is a part of the comprehensive study by our group, aimed at determining a complete picture of DEA to group IV halides. The work can be divided to two parts. In the first part measurements using the recently developed Velocity Slice Imaging (VSI) technique are presented. The compounds measured were CF4, CF3Cl and CF3I. In all three compounds features were observed that have not been accessible using more conventional experimental techniques. By using the VSI technique we reveal details on the DEA process in CF4, showing that electron interacts with a superposition of the molecules initial geometry and the target state (TNI) geometry. In CF3Cl the F signal was found to consist of two different resonances and not one as was previously thought and in CF3I we saw clearly that the majority of the CF – 3 ions formed with the neutral iodine formed in the ground electronic states, contrary to what has been observed in photoexcitation studies. The latter part of the thesis presents the results of an investigation of DEA to the tetrahalogenated molecules XY4 (X=C, Si, Ge and Y=F and Br). Even though an effort has been put into clarifying the DEA processes of these compounds in the past, the former studies are somewhat incomplete but here a comprehensive DEA study is presented. The anionic yield as a function of incident electron energy was recorded and both the appearance energies and the energy at which maximum yield occurs was determined.
Factors Affecting Quality of Life Among the Elderly in Long-Term Care Hospitals

ABSTRACT Background There are challenges in sustaining person-centered care in aged care settings. Key related issues of concern such as quality of life among the older people in long-term care hospitals and interactions with nursing staff have been described previously. Purpose This study was designed to explore the factors affecting quality of life among older people living in long-term care hospitals in South Korea. Methods Older adult patients (N = 202) in three long-term care hospitals completed measures of cognitive functions, depression, care dependency, and interactions between nurse and patient and a quality-of-life assessment tool. Univariate analyses were used to examine the relationships among these variables, and a multiple linear regression analysis was used to explore the extent to which these variables predicted quality of life in these patients. Results The significant factors associated with quality of life were found to be cognitive functions (r = .373, p < .001), care dependency (r = .350, p < .001), and depression (r = −.504, p < .001). The regression model with depression and care dependency as predictor variables accounted for 25.7% of the variance in quality of life. Conclusions/Implications for Practice The correlation found in this study between quality of life and depression and care dependency provides additional evidentiary support for developing and applying nursing interventions that reduce depression and care dependency in older adult populations.
The Leaf Oils of Coatesia and Geijera (Rutaceae) from Australia

Abstract The leaf oils of the Australian members of the genera Geijera and Coatesia have been examined by GC and GC/MS. Coatesia paniculata gave a consistent oil in which the principal components were α-pinene (27–57%) and β-caryophyllene (4–12%). Geijera linearifolia gave a leaf oil dominated by spathulenol (10–17%), geranyl acetate (4–9%), bicyclogermacrene (3–6%) and (E,E)-farnesol (23–30%). Four chemotypes of Geijera parviflora were detected: (1) in which geijerene/pregeijerene and linalool predominated, (2) in which linalool and α- and β-eudesmol predominated, (3) in which α-pinene and camphene predominated and (4) in which phloroacetophenone dimethyl ether predominated. Geijera salicifolia also existed in several chemotypes, one of which contained large amounts of phloroacetophenone dimethyl ether (> 65%). Also present in this particular chemotype was the geijerene/pregeijerene and attendant C12H18 complex, totaling approximately 5%. In a second sample of this chemotype, this complex was absent. A second chemotype of this species contained α-pinene (38.6%), camphene (22.4%) and limonene (7.5%) as principal components.
The Impact of the Bulk Modulus of Diesel Fuels on Fuel Injection Timing

In this paper, we examine the interaction between the bulk modulus of compressibility of various fuel samples and its effect on fuel injection timing. The fuels considered range from soy oil-derived biodiesel, unrefined soybean oil, and paraffinic solvents to ultralow-sulfur and conventional diesel fuels. Both the impact on injection timing and the variation in the bulk modulus of compressibility are measured. The present work confirms that the higher bulk modulus of compressibility of vegetable oils and their methyl esters leads to advanced injection timing with in-line pump−line−nozzle fuel injection systems. This has been shown in the literature to contribute to the well-documented increase in NOx emissions with the use of biodiesel fuel. An opposite trend, a retarding of injection timing, is observed with paraffinic fuels, because they have a lower bulk modulus of compressibility than conventional diesel fuels. This supports the observation that paraffinic fuels such as Fischer−Tropsch diesel yield lo.
Protocol-driven daily optimisation of venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation blood flows: an alternate paradigm?

Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) is now an established modality of support for patients with the who are failing evidence-based conventional therapies. Minimising ventilator-induced lung injury is the guiding principle behind patient management with VV ECMO. Patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) supported with VV ECMO are liberated from ECMO at a stage when native lungs have recovered sufficiently to support physiologic demands and the risks of iatrogenic lung injuries after discontinuation of ECMO are perceived to be small. However, native lung recovery is a dynamic process and patients rely on varying degrees of contributions from both native lungs and ECMO for gas exchange support. Patients often demonstrate near total ECMO dependence for oxygenation and decarboxylation early in the course of the illness and this may necessitate higher ECMO blood flow rates (EBFRs). Although, reliance on high EBFR for oxygenation support may remain variable over the course of ECMO, blood flow requirements typically diminish over time as native lungs start to recover. Currently, protocol-driven modulation of the EBFR based on changing physiologic needs is not common practice and consequently patients may remain on higher than physiologically necessary EBFR. This exposes the patient to potential risks because maintaining higher blood flows often requires a less restrictive fluid balance and deeper sedation. Both may be harmful in the setting of recovery from ARDS. In this article, we propose a strategy that involves daily assessments of native lung function and a protocol-driven daily optimisation of EBFR. This is followed by optimisation of sweep gas flow rate (SGFR) and the fraction of delivered oxygen in the sweep gas (FdO2). This staged approach to weaning VV ECMO allows us to fully utilise the “decoupling” of oxygenation and decarboxylation that is possible only during extracorporeal support. This approach may benefit patients by allowing for greater fluid restriction, more aggressive fluid removal, expedited weaning of sedation and neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBAs), and early physical rehabilitation. Ultimately, prospective studies are needed to evaluate optimal VV ECMO weaning practices
Carbon monoxide poisoning of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells

The platinum-alloy catalyst used in proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell anodes is highly susceptible to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO reduces the catalyst activity by blocking active catalyst sites normally available for hydrogen chemisorption and dissociation. The reaction kinetics at the anode catalyst surface can be used to estimate the decrease in cell voltage due to various levels of CO contamination in the inlet fuel stream. Literature data on the effects of CO-contaminated fuel streams on PEM fuel cell performance have been reviewed and analysed in an attempt to further understand the electrochemical properties of the CO adsorption process. A fuel cell performance model of a bipolar, Nafion 117 PEM fuel cell stack has been developed which predicts equilibrium cell output voltage as a function of current density and partial pressure of CO. The model contains both empirical and mechanistic parameters and evolved from a steady-state electrochemical model for a PEM fuel cell fed with a CO-free anode gas. Reaction kinetics and equilibrium surface coverage have been incorporated into the electrochemical model to predict the decrease in fuel cell performance at equilibrium. The effects of CO were studied at various concentrations of CO in hydrogen as the anode feed gas. Literature data were used to develop the model parameters and the resulting model is used to compare the model-predicted voltages, with and without CO, to data found in the literature.
Novel links between protein sorting and cytoskeletal dynamics in the secretory pathway

Sorting of proteins and lipids is an essential process for maintaining organelle composition and integrity in eukaryotic cells. In many compartments, proteins are sequestered into membrane subdomains from which vesicle budding and scission occur, thereby allowing transport to other compartments. Protein sorting and vesicle transport are closely coupled to the cytoskeleton, where actin and/or tubulin dynamics are involved in multiple steps of this process. However, links between sorting and the cytoskeleton remain unclear. Within the endocytic pathway, sorting nexins (SNXs) play a role in sorting of internalized receptors for recycling or degradation. In this study, SNX1 and SNX2 are shown to interact with Kalirin-7 (Kal7), a neuronal guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) that activates the actin-modulating GTPases Racl and RhoG. Overexpression of either SNX with Kal7 in epithelial cells potentiated lamellipodia formation in a GEFand RhoG-dependent manner, while SNX depletion inhibited this phenotype. Furthermore, SNX2 enhanced Kal7-dependent neurite extension in nerve growth factor-treated PC 12 cells. Finally, SNX1 and SNX2 interact with inactive RhoG, and could thus recruit the small GTPase to its GEF. In the exocytic pathway, proteins are synthesized at the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), where they are folded prior to transport and maturation in post-ER compartments. ER tubules extend along the microtubule network, and this link is critical for ER structure and function. The VAMP-associated proteins VAPA and VAPB are ER transmembrane proteins that interact with microtubules through a conserved major sperm protein (MSP) domain. This link between ER and microtubules could create immobile obstacles in the
Understanding the Impact of Rainfall on Diarrhea: Testing the Concentration-Dilution Hypothesis Using a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Projected increases in extreme weather may change relationships between rain-related climate exposures and diarrheal disease. Whether rainfall increases or decreases diarrhea rates is unclear based on prior literature. The concentration-dilution hypothesis suggests that these conflicting results are explained by the background level of rain: Rainfall following dry periods can flush pathogens into surface water, increasing diarrhea incidence, whereas rainfall following wet periods can dilute pathogen concentrations in surface water, thereby decreasing diarrhea incidence. Objectives: In this analysis, we explored the extent to which the concentration-dilution hypothesis is supported by published literature. Methods: To this end, we conducted a systematic search for articles assessing the relationship between rain, extreme rain, flood, drought, and season (rainy vs. dry) and diarrheal illness. Results: A total of 111 articles met our inclusion criteria. Overall, the literature largely supports the concentration-dilution hypothesis. In particular, extreme rain was associated with increased diarrhea when it followed a dry period [incidence rate ratio (IRR)=1.26; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05, 1.51], with a tendency toward an inverse association for extreme rain following wet periods, albeit nonsignificant, with one of four relevant studies showing a significant inverse association (IRR=0.911; 95% CI: 0.771, 1.08). Incidences of bacterial and parasitic diarrhea were more common during rainy seasons, providing pathogen-specific support for a concentration mechanism, but rotavirus diarrhea showed the opposite association. Information on timing of cases within the rainy season (e.g., early vs. late) was lacking, limiting further analysis. We did not find a linear association between nonextreme rain exposures and diarrheal disease, but several studies found a nonlinear association with low and high rain both being associated with diarrhea. Discussion: Our meta-analysis suggests that the effect of rainfall depends on the antecedent conditions. Future studies should use standard, clearly defined exposure variables to strengthen understanding of the relationship between rainfall and diarrheal illness. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP6181
Citizen Responses to Government Restrictions in Switzerland During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-Sectional Survey

Background The success of government-recommended mitigation measures during the COVID-19 pandemic depends largely on information uptake and implementation by individual citizens. Objective Our aim was to assess citizens’ knowledge and perceptions about COVID-19 recommendations in the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland. Methods A cross-sectional electronic survey with open and closed questions was disseminated by community-based partners prior to the relaxation of government restrictions. Outcomes included citizen knowledge (9-question measure) and worry about the virus, perception of government measures, and recommendations for improvements. Comparisons used linear regression, controlling for age, sex, education, and health literacy. Free-text answers were analyzed thematically. Results Of 807 people who accessed the survey, 684 (85%) completed all questions and 479 (60%) gave free-text recommendations. Overall, 75% were female, the mean age was 48 years, and 93% had high health literacy. Knowledge scores were high, with a median score of 8 out of 9. Mean levels of worry about the COVID-19 pandemic were higher in women than men (55/100 versus 44/100, P<.001), and in respondents with lower health literacy (57/100 versus 52/100, P=.03). Self-reported adherence to recommendations was high (85%) and increased with age and worry (both P<.001). Respondents rated their own adherence higher than others (85% versus 61%, P<.001). Moreover, 34% of respondents reported having self-quarantined; this rose to 52% for those aged ≥75 years. Those who had self-quarantined reported higher levels of fear. Nearly half (49%) of respondents felt the government response had been adequate, though younger age and higher levels of worry were associated with considering the response to be insufficient (both P<.001). Analysis of open-text answers revealed 4 major themes: access to and use of masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer; government messaging; lockdown and lockdown exit plan communication; and testing for COVID-19. Conclusions Knowledge, adherence, and satisfaction regarding government recommendations and response were high in this sample, but many desired greater access to personal protective equipment. Those with lower health literacy and those who have been in self-isolation reported greater concerns about the pandemic.
Perceived Stakeholder and Stockholder Views: A Comparison Among Accounting Students, Non-Accounting Business Students And Non-Business Students

In this study, I tested the perceived attitudes of students towards Corporate Ethics and Social Responsibility (CESR). I assessed whether students within a particular major are more or less likely to exhibit ethical reasoning compared to students within other majors. Specifically, I tested the perceived differences in stakeholder and stockholder views among accounting, business, and non-business students. I conducted the study utilizing the Perceived Role of Ethics and Social Responsibility Scale (PRESOR) while controlling for gender, age, work experience, and degree of religiosity. Results show that accounting students generally have a higher perception of stakeholder views and a lower perception of stockholder views than other business and non-business students. Other business students identify more with stakeholder views and less with stockholder views than non-business students. Lastly, non-business students associate more with stockholder views than accounting and other business students.
PREDICTING GAC PERFORMANCE WITH RAPID SMALL-SCALE COLUMN TESTS

The rapid small-scale column test (RSSCT) is a scaled-down version of a pilot- or full-scale granular activated carbon (GAC) column. Simple equations for selecting the design and operating parameters of RSSCTs from the full-scale process design variables are presented, and their limitations are discussed. Case studies representing high and low levels of synthetic organic chemicals, in the presence and absence of background dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and weakly and strongly adsorbing organics are reviewed
RT3D Reaction Modules for Natural and Enhanced Attenuation of Chloroethanes, Chloroethenes, Chloromethanes, and Daughter Products

This document describes a suite of MNA/EA reaction modules that were developed for addressing complex chlorinated solvent reactions using RT3D. As an introduction, an overview of these MNA/EA reaction modules is presented, including discussions of similarities between reaction modules, the purpose of key reaction parameters, and important considerations for using the reaction modules. Subsequent sections provide the details of the reaction kinetics (conceptual model and equations), data input requirements, and example (batch reactor) results for each reaction module. This document does not discuss reaction module implementation or validation; such information will accompany the software in the form of release notes or a supplement to the RT3D manual.
Do Economic Globalization and Industry Growth Destabilize Careers? An Analysis of Career Complexity and Career Patterns Over Time

We analyze the impact of economic globalization and industry growth on the complexity of early work careers in Germany. We conceptualize complexity as the absolute number of employer changes, the regularity in the order of job changes, and the variability of the durations spent in different employment states. Results from empirical analyses based on the German Life History Study (N = 5453) show only a small increase in the complexity of work careers over the last decades, but there was a shift in the prevalence of different career patterns. This suggests that effects of globalization might be counteracted or modified by other social changes that affected work careers in Germany during the last 60 years. In particular, we consider the possible impact of educational expansion, labor market restructuring, and women’s increased employment. We find no evidence that industry-specific economic globalization impacts the complexity of work careers, but we find a U-shaped relationship between industry growth and career complexity. Careers are slightly more complex in industries with high or low industry growth. We conclude that, while there has been a shift in career patterns over time, the impact of globalization on career stability is possibly overestimated.