bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flat polymerized membranes at three-loop order
Authors: Metayer S. , Mouhanna D. , Teber S.
Published: February 2023

In this conference report, we present a recent field theoretic renormalization group analysis of flat polymerized membranes at three-loop order by the present authors [Phys. Rev. E 105, L012603 (2022)].
Towards Sustainable Stabilization: Utilizing Waste Material as Binder
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Sharma Abhishek , Singh Kanwarpeet
Published: February 2023

The expansion and contraction of black cotton soil makes it difficult to build structures on it. The expansion and contraction behavior of black cotton soil must be adapted to make it suitable for construction purposes. This research is an attempt to evaluate the geotechnical characteristics of black cotton soil by performing laboratory testing incorporating ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) (10, 20, 30 and 40%) and polypropylene fiber (0.5, 1 and 1.5%) so as to use the combination as subgrade material. Various laboratory testing’s such as consistency limits, compaction and California bearing ratio (CBR) tests were conducted on varying amount of both the materials. The laboratory tests revealed that adding the right amount of GGBFS and polypropylene fiber alone or in combination improved the geotechnical features of black cotton soil (BCS). The mix obtained does not only solve the problems associated with BCS but also provides a cost effective solution for soil stabilization.
Phytochemical screening of Datura using GC-MS in Shivalik and mid- Himalayan regions of Himachal Pradesh
Authors: Thakur Priya , Sharma Priya , Arora Sanjana
Published: February 2023

Datura stramonium is a poisonous plant species reported in almost every corner of India which belongs to the family Solanaceae with a well-known history of ethno medicinal applications. The present study has attempted phytochemical screening of Datura in Himachal Pradesh based on altitude differences. In the present study, methanol extracts of D. stramonium were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to identify the important phytochemical constituents. In the present investigation, we have also attempted to provide proof of differences in the concentrations of phytochemicals within the same species as stated in previous literature. In the study, Datura stramonium was taken into consideration as an important toxic plant encountered in poisoning and abuse cases in Himachal Pradesh. Datura specimens were collected from selective regions of Himachal and were grouped according to altitude. The samples were carefully dried and subjected to microscopic examination and phytochemical screening. The GC–MS analysis of methanol extracts from seeds detected the presence of 15 phytochemical compounds. The GC-MS reports revealed variability in alkaloid concentrations with altitude. The area percentage occupied by the alkaloid peak was considered an indication of concentration. Scopolamine peak area percentage was between 21.46-27.06 in the mid – Himalayan region, while in the Shivalik region it was between 9.86-16.10. The samples from lower altitude regions had a lower content of Scopolamine in comparison to that of the higher altitude. This data can help in better forensic profiling of Datura. This may prove helpful in studying the origin of forensic evidence obtained at the scene of the crime.
A pragmatic Analysis of adaptation strategies of apple farmers of Himachal Pradesh: A survey
Authors: Arundhati  , Bhagat R.M
Published: February 2023

The present study was conducted with the objective of assessing the adaptation strategies of farmers toward climate change in the apple growing district of Himachal Pradesh. A sample of twenty farmers each from four districts (Kullu, Kinnaur, Chamba & Shimla) were selected because these areas have significant contribution with respect to area and production of apple in the state. Data was collected through personal interview and focused group discussion. Suitable mitigation and adaptation strategies were developed based upon the vulnerability analysis, farmer’s perceptions and available options in the region to minimize the crop vulnerability to climate change. During the study farmers told about some local coping and adaptation strategies adopted by them in response to observed risks and hazards related to climate and non- climatic factors. Therefore this study aimed at understanding the impact of Climate change and variability and the resulting socio- economic responses which take into account farmer’s awareness of weather fluctuations.
Impact of curing regime on modified interlocking paver blocks
Authors: Garg Varundeep , Kumar Vijay
Published: February 2023

This research illustrated the variations in strength by substituting copper slag and fly ash to the paver block and it was treated under the curing regime that is normal curing, immersion curing and gunny bag curing. Zig-zag shape paver blocks were constructed for this research. 35% of copper slag was substituted with sand and 25% fly ash with cement. Abrasion test, water absorption test, compression test, flexural test and split-tensile test were carried out to compare the strengths in between both the mixes such as conventional mix and substitution mix. In comparison the values of all the test performed depicts the more strength was acquired by substitutional mix.
Environmentally Friendly Beeswax: Properties, Composition, Adulteration, and its Therapeutic Benefits
Authors: Gupta Garima , Anjali Kumari
Published: February 2023

Bees produce beeswax, which is used to make honeycombs is biodegradable, sustainable, compostable, eco-friendly. In addition to honey and pollen, honey bees use comb to store nectar and rear their young. More than 300 things are made with beeswax, such as candles, shoe polish and vehicle and floor polishes. Beeswax can also be used in the food processing and packaging, wax crayons, metal casting and modelling, food processing, and cosmetics industries. In addition to these, embalming, papyrus preservation, and artwork conservation are all possible uses for honey beeswax. Beeswax has numerous industrial, pharmacological, and medical uses that demand an understanding of its chemical makeup. Similar to honey, beeswax is considered effective in the treatment of bruising, inflammation and burns. Beeswax’s antibacterial properties have recently been the subject of inquiry, despite the fact that there are currently few studies on the subject. For example, beeswax has been proven to significantly reduce affectivity of disease casing bacteria like: Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans and Salmonella enterica. This study discusses the characteristics, composition, and adulteration of beeswax, as well as its medicinal effects as an antibiotic and in skin therapy.
A Review on Utilizing Municipal Solid Waste Incineration (MSWIA) in Construction Activates
Authors: Singh Preetpal , Boora Amardeep , Kumar Gupta Ashok
Published: February 2023

In the previous decades there has been substantial study on implementation of municipal solid waste incineration ash in constructional operations. This has led in the development of waste recycling and management solutions. Regardless of the massive investigations and the subsequent modifications to MSWI ashes, the reuse plans for MSWI ashes are constrained. Incineration of municipal solid waste permits the burning of organic materials at a very high temperature, which results in the development of energy in the form of gases and ashes. The ashes so collected from the procedure are classed as bottom ash or fly ash. These ashes are now-a-days been employed in numerous constructional operations as a substitute or alternative for different constructional materials. The basic purpose of the study is to emphasize the review of MSWI ash in constructional activities taking into consideration its qualities and performance in different materials. The article also addresses the existing state of MSWI ash utilization, its technical features and performance.
Experimental Investigation of Coconut Shell Charcoal Ash in Bituminous Concrete
Authors: Towheed Molvi Ahmed , Singh Sandeep
Published: February 2023

For upgradation of roads and to reduce the cost of bituminous road numerous materials are used one among them is coconut shell charcoal ash which is used in flexible pavements as a filler. The primary impartial of this study is to match the results produced by using filler such as fly ash with coconut shell charcoal ash in bituminous concrete. Coconut shell charcoal ash contain the properties like absorption, light weight, low cost, resistance to freezing, resistance to crushing which is the most significant factor for the road pavements.in this study test was performed like Marshall stability test stability, flow value, VMA and void ratio. In this research the Marshall stability increases with the increase of filler in the Marshall cake. The flow value increases with the increase of coconut shell charcoal as a filler and decreases the void ratio and VMA with the increase of filler. The different percentage of coconut shell charcoal ash are 1%, 1.5%, 2%, 2.5% and 3% are used in test with 5.5% bitumen.
Geo-polymer concrete- a concrete for sustainable environment
Authors: Yombi Anne Matutu , Chand Jagdish
Published: February 2023

The production of the cement concrete industry has grown in this modern world and is considered one of the major contributors to global pollution. The production of cement used as a binder in cement concrete requires a high-temperature combustion process which contributes to the increase of the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere leading to major threats to the planet such as climate change and depletion of natural resources. Many countries begin to impose carbon taxes as raw materials deplete over time. To reduce and eliminate greenhouse gas emissions, numerous studies have been conducted to develop an innovative and environmentally beneficial building material names Geo-polymer concrete (GC). It is vital to substitute cement with a by-product substance abundant in silicon and aluminium like red mud, fly ash (FA), rice husk ash (RHA), silica fume (SF), ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), etc. activated by a high alkaline solution (AS) to connect coarse aggregates (CA), fine aggregates (FA), and other substance in GC for the purpose of making a progress in qualities of concrete and reduce natural resource uses. The current study focused on the impact of various factors such as the effect of superplasticizer, Na-OH molarity (8, 10, 12, 14 and 16M), and curing temperature (30-900C) on different mechanical characteristics such as workability, tensile and compressive strength of GC. Results obtained show that the higher strength is obtained with a molarity of 14M after both 7 and 28 days as with 16M excess Na+ ions lower the strength and affect the process of polymerisation. The curing temperature at 900C for all mixtures gives higher strength as compared to 600C which in return gives higher strength than 300C at 28 days of testing. The results also show that the addition of superplasticizer (1, 1.5, 2 and 3 % of mass of fly ash) improves the workability of geopolymer fresh concrete. In current research work, Naphthalene superplasticizer was used and its addition beyond 1.5% of the mass of fly ash improved workability but slightly decreased the strength of concrete. Its optimum value was found as 68.05KN/m2 at 900C curing temperature when 14M NaOH and 1.5% superplasticizer were added.
A Comparative Study of Mechanical Characteristics of Normal Concrete with Human Hair Fiber Fabricated Concrete
Authors: Shakti Srivastava Kumar , Verma Nitin , Singh Khushpreet
Published: February 2023

For a long period, materials like steel, jute, wood, etc. are been taken into practice for concrete fabrication. The reinforcement of concrete structures provides good stability and improves the mechanical properties of the material. The overgrowing population results in demand for infrastructures, which in proportion increases the production of concrete. To reduce the after effect of concrete production and prevent the use of raw materials, the utilization of waste elements as a substitution for concrete constituents is exercised by researchers to decrease the chance of degradation by construction pollution and landfilling of waste. The use of waste Human Hair Fiber (HHF) as concrete fabrication is a step forward toward sustainable construction. The current study has been performed to examine the effect of HHF reinforcement on concrete by determining the strength features of the concrete with human hair of lengths 20, 50, and 80 mm at 1%, 1.5%, and 2% addition of HHF by the weight of cement on. However, it was found that a 1.5% addition of human hair of lengths 50 mm and 80 mm shows the maximum compressive and flexural quality whereas, a 1% addition of human hair with 50 mm length as given the maximum 28 days tensile strength.
4-E (Energy-Emission-Environment-Economic) Dispatch Problem in Solar PV Energy Using Hybrid PSOTLBO Search Algorithm
Authors: Kumar Kaushal Rajanish , Kaur Harpreet
Published: February 2023

Renewable energy sources have evolved into a technologically and economically feasible choice for use by electrical utilities. Furthermore, the widespread usage of renewable energy sources is driving policymakers and utilities to increase green energy’s role to ensure long-term economic growth. The most influential non-conventional energy source for generating power is solar energy. Electric power systems must be designed, built, and run in such a way that the majority of energy demand for loads is supplied reliably, cost-effectively, and in an environmentally responsible manner. In 4-E dispatch, the term “energy” refers to generated power in the scheduled period, the term “emission” refers to the amount of emission released in the scheduled period, and the term “environment” refers to health and environmental damage costs in the scheduled period and the term “economic” refers to power generating cost in the scheduled period. In this paper a hybrid of particle swarm optimization (PSO) and teaching learning-based optimization (TLBO), named as PSOTLBO is proposed, developed, and effectively applied to attain the best or optimum solutions for the 4-E (Energy-Emission-Environment-Economic) dispatch problem for scenarios involving ten thermal power plants and thirteen solar photovoltaic (PV) plants.
Use of Low-density polyethylene in flexible pavement
Authors: kumar Akhil , Irshad Malik Er. Mohd
Published: February 2023

Plastic is found in abundance on earth due to its cheap capital cost and large-scale availability. Plastic waste is a mean to degrade our environment as it is also a source of many toxic gasses and is non-biodegradable. There must be some way to eliminate such a threat to our surroundings. The use of Low-density polyethylene such as bottles, polythene bags, and much more as a replacement in bitumen blend provides various benefits like an increase in resistance to deformation, increase in durability, strength, reduction in seepage, mitigating of pollution, and gainful for waste disposal.
Use of Response Surface Methodology to Optimize the crystalline size of rice husk derived graphene produced by microwave process
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Singh Farwaha Harnam , Ranjan Nishant
Published: February 2023

In this work, the microwave process is optimized for graphene preparation from rice husk using RSM (Response Surface Methodology) as the graphene has exceptional qualities and is highly used in many industrial applications. The experiments are designed by using Box-Behnken Design (BBD) approach. The characterization of prepared graphene is done by FESEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope), UV–Visible spectroscopy, and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared Spectroscopy). The best route to finding good-quality graphene is the objective of this research. The higher value R2 describes the satisfactory correlation between experimental and predicted data. The obtained optimized minimum crystallite size of graphene is 28.39 nm. The characterization, prediction, and process optimization are done, and the validation of the developed model confirms the model can be used for the preparation of graphene from rice husk. The prediction and optimization of the process parameters are done for the synthesis of graphene from rice husk. RSM is used as a statistical technique to obtain a quadratic model for the response. As the properties of graphene mostly depend upon the size of the particle, so the prediction of the crystalline size is done by this RSM technique.
Use of wood sawdust ash as effective raw material for clay bricks
Authors: Mehta Vikas , Mondal Sandip , Kumar Naresh , Kumar Sushil
Published: February 2023

The world is gradually looking for waste material properties and finding a way out of using it as secondary raw materials for other industrial purposes because of increasing environmental understanding and guidelines on controlling industrial waste. In the present world, the researcher’s primary aim is to enhance the usage of environmentally friendly materials and protect the environment. This research proves the possibility of using wood sawdust ash (WSDA) partially replace clay and sand manufacturing bricks. This paper used WSDA obtained from controlled combustion to replace other construction materials for bricks. The feasibility study used WSDA as an admixture with five distinct replacement levels, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%, for non-modular bricks (230×110×70) mm. The brick was evaluated for various strength parameters to authenticate clay bricks’ compressive strength, efflorescence, and water absorption properties. The findings revealed that the compressive strength of WSDA bricks (11.01 N/mm2) is higher than fly ash-cement-based and burnt clay bricks, which are 6.93 N/mm2 and 9.56 N/mm2. Also, the water absorption is (31%) lower than clay burnt bricks.
Implementation of an anti-windup control under partial shading for a photovoltaic grid interfaced system
Authors: Singh Harvinder , Gupta Surbhi , Gupta Akhil
Published: February 2023

Owing to the growing technological advancements in control startgies for addressing the various power quality issues in distributed generation systems, an anti-windup control strategy for reducing the impact of partial shading is proposed in this present work. The performance of a Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) grid interfaced system is evaluated during the presence of a single phase to ground fault. Majorly, the SPV array is also operated under partial shading conditions by changing levels of solar radiation and ambient temperature conditions. The performance of a Proportional Integral (PI) anti-windup controller is justified by demonstrating the flow of active-reactive power with minimum levels of harmonics. This controller has ably demonstrates its effectiveness in mitigating the impact of partial shading. The validated data sheet SPR-305-WHT is used to validate the obtained results. Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) levels are estimated at various coipling points. It is revelaed that the THD levels of grid current at Point of Common Coupling (PCC) are less than 5%. According to IEEE-519 standard, the level of harmonics must be less than 5%. Overall, the proposed scheme can be helpful for future research engineers and professionals working on improving various power quality aspects.
A critical review on jet grouting used in ground improvement techniques
Authors: Hasan Murtaza , Qazi Areeba , Sharma Aastha , Raj Aditya , Dogra Shailaja
Published: February 2023

The ground improvement by jet grouting has been critically reviewed in the present paper. Using different keywords, the organized study was conducted on Web of Science and Scopus, yielding 579 results. The methodology followed PRISMA 2009 guidelines, which included identifying, screening, and analysing a large number of results. A total of 36 papers are eligible for analysis after the screening process. In this study, we look at various concepts such as the type of grouting, the methods used, the type of soil, and the tests that have been conducted by numerous researchers. These techniques are used to improve subsoil characteristics such as bearing capacity, shear strength, settlement characteristics, and drainage. Jet grouting is a technique for reducing soil permeability while increasing shear strength. Jet grouting is primarily used in recent technologies to construct new metro stations, and tunnels, control water discharge, and improve the quality of deep excavation. This paper provides an overview and concept of recent and traditional major ground improvements using jet grouting, as well as their properties and cost considerations.
Thermal investigation on high temperature treatment of cement mortars with high content of marble powder
Authors: Stoyanov V , Petkova V , Kostova B , Kaljuvee T
Published: February 2023

The object of the study is cement compositions based on white Portland cement, characterized by a high content of marble powder and a low water-to-cement ratio. The samples were prepared with different concentrations of the components, affecting their densities and strengths determined at 28 days or 120 days of curing. The IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy supplement the thermal analysis (heating rate of 10°C/min in the temperature range of 20-1200°C). This work aimed to characterize cement mortars by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and thermal (TG-DTG-DSC) analysis up to 1200°C. The study obtained data on phase composition, binder-to-aggregate and water-to-cement ratio, and spectroscopic and thermal properties of cement mortars. As a result of the study, an increase in the decomposition temperatures of composites with marble powder was found. Substitution of a part of the Portland cement clinker with a marble powder leads to the formation of carbo-sulpho-aluminates.
Influence of the concrete strength class and the span/depth ratio on the sustainability of reinforced concrete beam slabs
Authors: Chardakova T , Traykova M
Published: February 2023

Slabs form a significant part of the mass of reinforced concrete structures in buildings. Therefore, their sustainable design is crucial for the overall sustainability of the structure. A critical factor for the sustainability of slabs is their depth. The initial choice is usually based on conservative span/depth ratios or span/effective depth ratios, found in literature. However, thinner slabs may often be designed at the expense of greater reinforcement ratios and/or greater concrete strength class. This paper seeks to find the most effective choice of span/depth ratio of beam slabs for different concrete strength classes in terms of their sustainability. Quantitative assessment of the slab’s embodied energy per m2 and embodied CO2 per m2 is made for slabs with different static schemes and with different variable loads. Only the cradle-to-gate embodied energy and CO2 of the concrete and the reinforcement steel of the slab itself are considered. Other aspects of the sustainability of slabs, such as their influence on other structural elements, insulation properties, etc., are shortly discussed. Based on the analysis of the obtained results, some general conclusions are made and recommendations for the optimal choice in terms of sustainability of concrete strength class and span/depth ratio are given.
Numerical modeling of mechanical behavior of a reinf orced concrete column-short corbel assembly strengthened by bonding a CFRF
Authors: Stankov V , Ivanova I , Assih J , Dontchev D
Published: February 2023

In this study a numerical simulation is developed using finite element (FE) software Abaqus, to assess and simulate the structural behavior of reinforced concrete column - short corbel assembly strengthened by bonding composite materials The objective of the presented simulation is to reproduce the behavior of the considered structure as the displacements, strain, the mode of damages, the cracks propagation, the ultimate force, and the behavior of the main reinforcements, obtained from the experimental study. “Concrete Damage Plasticity” (CDP) has been used for modeling concrete. It combines the damage and the plasticity models and it reproduces failure modes that are based on tensile cracking and compression crushing. The perfectly plastic elastic behavior of steel was introduced in this study. Carbon Fibre Reinforced Fabrics (CFRF) was assumed as a linear elastic orthotropic material. The mechanical behavior of the composite material, in the elastic stage, was defined as “Lamina” and the properties were obtained by the “Rule of mixture”. The “Hashin Damage” failure criteria were also used for composite materials. The surface contact between the concrete and the composite material was developed through the cohesive zone model. The loading of the structure was done by displacement control for all developed models. This allows us to go further and study the influence of various parameters on the behavior such as the number of layers of bonding reinforcement, and the type of composite material. The optimal reinforcement is obtained by the wrapping of three layers of unidirectional carbon fiber fabrics.
Review of ultrafast laser ablation for sensing and photonic applications
Authors: Byram Chandu , Moram Sree Satya Bharati , Banerjee Dipanjan , Beeram Reshma , Rathod Jagannath , Soma Venugopal Rao
Published: February 2023

Since its discovery, the laser ablation in liquid (LAL) technique has engrossed significant attention from the research community. It is gradually becoming a fascinating fabrication technique to synthesize nanostructures (NSs) of diverse morphologies on solid targets as well as nanoparticles (NPs) with distinct shapes/sizes in a single attempt. Moreover, this technique has a plethora of advantages over the chemical routes, such as simplicity, robustness, and purity of the produced NPs/NSs, as well as the circumvention of stabilizing reagents and/or chemical precursors during the synthesis procedure. The present review focuses on our research group’s significant contributions and achievements over the past 10 years on laser-synthesized nanomaterials and their applications in sensing using the technique of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and third-order nonlinear optics/photonics. We highlight in the first section the governing mechanisms involved in the LAL technique with laser pulses of different duration such as nanosecond, picosecond, and femtosecond. The subsequent section discusses the effect of input laser pulse parameters (wavelength, fluence, pulse duration, reputation rate, and the number of pulses) as well as surrounding ambience (air and liquid) on the morphological changes of the substrate’s surfaces used in the production of NPs and surface NSs. The later section of this review describes the overview of LAL applications with particular emphasis on surface-enhanced Raman scattering-based hazardous materials sensing and nonlinear optics/photonics.
Jacobi-type algorithms for homogeneous polynomial optimization on Stiefel manifolds with applications to tensor approximations
Authors: Sheng Zhou , Li Jianze , Ni Qin
Published: February 2023

This paper mainly studies the gradient-based Jacobi-type algorithms to maximize two classes of homogeneous polynomials with orthogonality constraints, and establish their convergence properties. For the first class of homogeneous polynomials subject to a constraint on a Stiefel manifold, we reformulate it as an optimization problem on a unitary group, which makes it possible to apply the gradient-based Jacobi-type (Jacobi-G) algorithm. Then, if the subproblem can always be represented as a quadratic form, we establish the global convergence of Jacobi-G under any one of three conditions. The convergence result for the first condition is an easy extension of the result by Usevich, Li, and Comon [SIAM J. Optim. 30 (2020), pp. 2998–3028], while other two conditions are new ones. This algorithm and the convergence properties apply to the well-known joint approximate symmetric tensor diagonalization. For the second class of homogeneous polynomials subject to constraints on the product of Stiefel manifolds, we reformulate it as an optimization problem on the product of unitary groups, and then develop a new gradient-based multiblock Jacobi-type (Jacobi-MG) algorithm to solve it. We establish the global convergence of Jacobi-MG under any one of the above three conditions, if the subproblem can always be represented as a quadratic form. This algorithm and the convergence properties are suitable to the well-known joint approximate tensor diagonalization. As the proximal variants of Jacobi-G and Jacobi-MG, we also propose the Jacobi-GP and Jacobi-MGP algorithms, and establish their global convergence without any further condition. Some numerical results are provided indicating the efficiency of the proposed algorithms.
Initial traces and solvability for a semilinear heat equation on a half space of ℝ^{ℕ}
Authors: Hisa Kotaro , Ishige Kazuhiro , Takahashi Jin
Published: February 2023

We show the existence and the uniqueness of initial traces of nonnegative solutions to a semilinear heat equation on a half space of

R

N

\mathbb {R}^N

under the zero Dirichlet boundary condition. Furthermore, we obtain necessary conditions and sufficient conditions on the initial data for the solvability of the corresponding Cauchy–Dirichlet problem. Our necessary conditions and sufficient conditions are sharp and enable us to find optimal singularities of initial data for the solvability of the Cauchy–Dirichlet problem.
ECETOC TRAv3: An In-depth Comparison of Publicly Available Measurement Data Sets With Modelled Estimates of Occupational Inhalation Exposure to Chemicals
Authors: Savic Nenad , Urbanus Jan , Henschel Oliver , Li Qiang , Marsh Dave , Money Chris , Noij Dook , van de Sandt Paul , van Rooij Joost , Wormuth Matthias
Published: February 2023

In this study, 129 exposure situations (ESs) with six or more measured inhalation exposures to dust from solids or vapour from liquids in occupational settings were compared with modelled European Centre of Ecotoxicology and Toxicology of Chemicals (ECETOC) targeted risk assessment tool, version 3 (TRAv3) estimates. The measurement data were extracted from previously published studies examining TRAv3 performance and pooled into a curated database. The comparison exercise focussed on the vapour exposure scenarios, as there were too few dust scenarios for a meaningful analysis of any required model corrections. A group of experts in the exposure modelling field retrieved and reviewed the input parameters used in these ESs. Where considered appropriate, modifications were applied to better match the input parameter definitions and the scope of applicability of the TRAv3. Differences and mean absolute error (MAE) were calculated between the log-transformed modelled exposure value and the 75th percentile of each measured data set and regression analysis was performed. The results indicated that the TRAv3 overestimated 80% of the measured data sets. Both over- and underestimations were mostly by factors 1–5. The calculated MAE for liquids was 0.7, indicating that on average the difference between the 75th percentile and the TRAv3 estimate was less than one order of magnitude. A multiple linear regression showed that some input parameters such as medium volatility, certain process categories (PROC), industrial setting, and the presence of local exhaust ventilation are associated with underestimations. The results of the regression analysis can be used by TRAv3 users to review the degree of over- or underestimation in their current exposure assessments, compared to the curated database. Although multiple linear regression is an appropriate methodology to characterize the TRAv3’s performance, more data sets are still needed in view of some remaining data gaps. Nevertheless, the results of the current analysis are being used by ECETOC to further develop the tool as a suitably conservative screening tool for use in REACH chemical safety assessment of occupational exposure to chemicals.
Bilateral deafness, diabetes, and different types of cardiomyopathy in family members with m.3243A > g mutation: a case report
Authors: Seiler Florian , Ruile Philipp , Moser Martin , Helbing Thomas
Published: February 2023

Background

The point mutation at position 3243 in the mitochondrial MT-TL1 gene (m.3243A > G) is a rare cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Information about HCM progression over time and occurrence of different cardiomyopathies in m.3243A > G carriers of the same family is still lacking.

Case summary

A 48-year-old male patient was admitted to a tertiary care hospital with chest pain and dyspnoea. Bilateral hearing loss required hearing aids at the age of 40. A short PQ interval, narrow QRS complex, and inverted T-waves in lateral leads were present on the electrocardiogram. HbA1c of 7.3 mmol/L indicated prediabetes. Echocardiography excluded valvular heart disease and detected non-obstructive HCM with slightly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (48%). Coronary artery disease was ruled out by coronary angiography. Myocardial fibrosis determined by repeated cardiac MRI progressed over time. Endomyocardial biopsy excluded storage disease, Fabry disease, and infiltrative and inflammatory cardiac disease. Genetic testing revealed m.3243A > G mutation in the MT-TL1 gene associated with mitochondrial disease. Clinical evaluation and genetic testing of the patients’ family revealed five genotype-positive relatives with heterogeneous clinical phenotypes including deafness, diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, and both hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathy.

Discussion

In patients with unexplained symmetric HCM with heterogenic clinical phenotypes at the organ levels, mitochondrial disease should be taken into consideration, particularly in the context of matrilinear transmission. m.3243A > G mutation is associated with mitochondrial disease in the index patient and five family members and leads to the diagnosis of maternally inherited diabetes and deafness with intra-familial variability of different cardiomyopathy forms.
Taxonomically Restricted Genes inBacillusmay Form Clusters of Homologs and Can be Traced to a Large Reservoir of Noncoding Sequences
Authors: Karlowski Wojciech M , Varshney Deepti , Zielezinski Andrzej
Published: February 2023

Taxonomically restricted genes (TRGs) are unique for a defined group of organisms and may act as potential genetic determinants of lineage-specific, biological properties. Here, we explore the TRGs of highly diverse and economically important Bacillus bacteria by examining commonly used TRG identification parameters and data sources. We show the significant effects of sequence similarity thresholds, composition, and the size of the reference database in the identification process. Subsequently, we applied stringent TRG search parameters and expanded the identification procedure by incorporating an analysis of noncoding and non-syntenic regions of non-Bacillus genomes. A multiplex annotation procedure minimized the number of false-positive TRG predictions and showed nearly one-third of the alleged TRGs could be mapped to genes missed in genome annotations. We traced the putative origin of TRGs by identifying homologous, noncoding genomic regions in non-Bacillus species and detected sequence changes that could transform these regions into protein-coding genes. In addition, our analysis indicated that Bacillus TRGs represent a specific group of genes mostly showing intermediate sequence properties between genes that are conserved across multiple taxa and nonannotated peptides encoded by open reading frames.
Modeling the genetic footprint of fluctuating balancing selection: from the local to the genomic scale
Authors: Wittmann Meike J , Mousset Sylvain , Hermisson Joachim
Published: February 2023

Natural selection not only affects the actual loci under selection but also leaves “footprints” in patterns of genetic variation in linked genetic regions. This offers exciting opportunities for inferring selection and for understanding the processes shaping levels of genetic variation in natural populations. Here, we develop analytical approximations based on coalescent theory to characterize the genetic footprint of a complex, but potentially common type of natural selection: balancing selection with seasonally fluctuating allele frequencies. As we show analytically and confirm with stochastic simulations, seasonal allele frequency fluctuations can have important (and partly unexpected) consequences for the genetic footprint of balancing selection. Fluctuating balancing selection generally leads to an increase in genetic diversity close to the selected site, the effect of balancing selection, but reduces diversity further away from the selected site, which is a consequence of the allele-frequency fluctuations effectively producing recurrent bottlenecks of allelic backgrounds. This medium- and long-range reduction usually outweighs the short-range increase when averaging diversity levels across the entire chromosome. Strong fluctuating balancing selection even induces a loss of genetic variation in unlinked regions, e.g. on different chromosomes. If many loci in the genome are simultaneously under fluctuating balancing selection this can lead to substantial genome-wide reductions in genetic diversity, even when allele-frequency fluctuations are small and local footprints are difficult to detect. Thus, together with genetic drift, selective sweeps and background selection, fluctuating selection could be a major force shaping levels of genetic diversity in natural populations.
Artificial intelligence and civil liability—do we need a new regime?
Authors: Soyer Baris , Tettenborn Andrew
Published: February 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is almost ubiquitous, featuring innumerable facets of daily life. For all its advantages, however, it carries risks of harm. In this article, we discuss how the law of tort should deal with these risks. We take account of the need for any proposed scheme of liability to protect the existing values of tort law without acting as a barrier to innovation. To this end, we propose a strict liability regime in respect of personal injury and death, and a bespoke fault-based regime for dignitary or reputational injuries. For other losses, we take the view that there is no justification for introducing any new regime, on the basis that AI applications do not introduce substantial added degrees of risk that would justify departing from the existing scheme of liability arising under the current law of tort.
Xenos vesparum(Strepsiptera: Xenidae)—A New Insect Model and Its Endoparasitic Secondary Larva
Authors: Weingardt Michael , Beutel Rolf Georg , Pohl Hans
Published: February 2023

Xenos vesparum of the highly specialized Strepsiptera is a new insect model in the context of host-parasite relationships. The endoparasitic female and male secondary larvae were studied using µCT, 3D-reconstructions, histology, and photomicrography. The infectious primary larva is followed by a trophic and endoparasitic secondary larval stage. In contrast to immature stages of other holometabolous groups, the second instar increases dramatically in size. Compound eyes and external wing anlagen are present in male larvae before the pupal stage. In contrast to the females, the brain of males bears well-developed optic neuropils and retinula cells are present. The cephalothorax is comparatively simple in the female larvae, yet distinctly more complex than in the adult, where most muscles are reduced. Large testes are present in male larvae and numerous oocytes in the females, but they are still immature. The larval features are discussed in the context of holome­tabolous development and heterochronic processes. Unique features of Strepsiptera are the early differentiation of the sexes and the occurrence of compound eyes and external wing anlagen in male secondary larvae. The phylogenetic position of Strepsiptera suggests that this is a secondary feature and thus an autapomorphy. To address mature females of Stylopidia as neotenic adults is an oversimplification. They display a mosaic pattern of paedomorphic characters such as features of the nervous system and the presence of stemmata, but also non-paedomorphic structures, such as the spiracles.
Divergent Effects of Budgeting for Gifts versus Personal Purchases
Authors: Choe Yuna , Kan Christina , Polman Evan
Published: February 2023

Consumers often set budgets with the goal to minimize their spending. Contrary to this traditional interpretation, our research suggests that budgets can take on a different psychological meaning depending on whether the budget is for a personal or gift purchase. Across 11 studies, we find that consumers aim to spend below their budgets for personal purchases (budget minimizing) but aim to spend the entirety of their budgets for gift purchases (budget maximizing). We differentiate budget maximizing from spending maximizing, showing that gift purchasers are more likely to prefer “at-budget” than “above-budget” purchases. We also show that gift purchasers have weaker savings goals than personal purchasers—a difference that mediates the effect on their budget-minimizing and -maximizing tendencies. We explore multiple reasons that could explain why savings goals are less prevalent among gift purchasers and find an upstream role for price consciousness, guilt, and perceived specialness. Finally, we find that consumers’ preference for spending the entirety of their budgets on gifts was moderated by two separate factors: consumers’ budget slack and salience. Our research adds to the literatures on mental budgeting, gift giving, and self-other decisions.
Assessment of quality of life, school performance, and physical activity in adolescents with Familial Mediterranean fever
Authors: Sezer Müge , Çelikel Elif , Ekici Tekin Zahide , Güngörer Vildan , Tekgöz Nilüfer , Karagöl Cüneyt , Coşkun Serkan , Kaplan Melike Mehveş , Öner Nimet , Polat Merve Cansu , Sezer Serdar , Acar Banu
Published: February 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study is to evaluate differences in school performance, school attendance, quality of life, and physical activity in adolescents with Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) compared to healthy controls.

Methods

One hundred and twenty-nine patients with FMF and 154 healthy controls between 13 and 18 years were included in the study. Demographic, school performance (according to grade point average), school absenteeism, and type and frequency of exercise were recorded. Quality of life was evaluated with the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0.

Results

The mean age of FMF patients was 15.1 ± 2.7 years, and 69 patients (53.5%) were female. School performance was significantly higher in the control group compared to FMF patients (P < 0.001). In the control group, there were significantly higher participants who engaged in professional sports (P < 0.001). Patients with FMF had significantly lower self-reported PedsQL scores in school functioning, physical, and psychosocial health domains compared to those in the control group (P = 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.028, respectively).

Conclusions

FMF patients demonstrated lower school performance and quality-of-life scores compared to healthy controls. In addition to improving symptoms in chronic diseases, it is important to evaluate and improve the quality of life of patients in routine practice and to ensure psychosocial well-being.
A Threatening Tone: Homicide, Racial Threat Narratives, and the Historical Growth of Incarceration in the United States, 1926–2016
Authors: Duxbury Scott W
Published: February 2023

This study evaluates how homicide, racial threat, and media discourse interacted to shape the timing and persistence of prison growth in the United States. Drawing on Blumer’s classic work, I argue that media discourse circulates threat narratives that portray racial minorities as either economically, politically, or criminally threatening. Criminal threat narratives increase in response to highly salient crimes, like homicide, and exert institutionally specific pressures that increase incarceration. To evaluate these claims, I use machine learning to classify 1,026,862 news articles in accordance with economic, political, and criminal threat themes in a time series analysis of the national incarceration rate between 1926 and 2016. Results reveal that the period of prison growth is characterized by an influx of criminal threat narratives that coincides with increases in the homicide rate. Criminal threat narratives and the homicide rate both have sizable long-term effects on the incarceration rate, whereas economic and political threat narratives have little explanatory power. Further analyses show that criminal threat narratives account for roughly half of the effect of the homicide rate on incarceration, and that the homicide rate has an indirect effect on racial disparity in prison admissions by acting through criminal threat narratives. These findings support core theoretical claims and expand our understanding of the complex interaction between racial threat and homicide in the historical rise of incarceration.
Investigation of Frequency-Specific Loudness Discomfort Levels in Listeners With Migraine: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Mourgela Angeliki , Vikelis Michail , Reiss Joshua D.
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

Hypersensitivity to auditory stimuli is a commonly reported symptom in listeners with migraine, yet it remains relatively unexplored in research. This study aims to investigate loudness discomfort levels in listeners with migraine, while identifying the frequencies most affected by the phenomenon.

Design:

To achieve this, the study compared just audible level and loudness discomfort level ranges between participants with and without migraine from the United Kingdom, Greece as well as the participant recruitment platform Prolific, across 13 frequencies from 100 to 12,000 Hz, through an online listening test.

Results:

Fifty-five participants with migraine and 49 participants without migraine from both countries and Prolific were included in the analysis, where threshold ranges between just audible and mildly uncomfortable levels were compared in 13 frequencies. Migraineur group participants presented significantly smaller ranges between just audible and mildly uncomfortable level, due to lower thresholds of mild discomfort in 12 of the 13 frequencies when compared with the nonmigraineur group participants. Participants taking the test during their migraine attack or aura presented a tendency for smaller ranges. In addition, participants with self-reported higher severity migraine exhibited bigger ranges compared with participants with low severity migraine within the migraineur group. No relationship between ranges and medication or migraine attack frequency within the migraineur group was observed.

Conclusions:

Results from the study demonstrate a tendency for the migraineur group to present lower thresholds of mild discomfort compared with the nonmigraineur group, aligning with previous studies while extending the phenomenon to more frequencies than those previously examined. Though the present study presented no relationship between ranges and medication or attack frequency, further research is required to investigate a potential link between these factors.