bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Symmetrical Quartz-Based Magnetoelectric Sensor for Pico-Tesla Magnetic Field Detection
Authors: Sun Changxing , Yang Wenrong , Zhang Yumeng
Published: October 2022

The magnetic sensor should acquire a high detection ability over a wide low-frequency (LF) band of 1–100 Hz for biomagnetic measurements due to the large LF noise. This work presents a magnetic sensor with a modulation coil based on the tri-layer symmetrical Metglas/Quartz/Metglas laminate for LF magnetic fields detection. The Metglas/Quartz/Metglas laminate was fabricated using a rectangle quartz plate with twenty Metglas foils epoxy glued symmetrically. Additionally, the coil can be used to generate modulation voltage. The limit of detection (LOD) of the fabricated symmetrical magnetoelectric (ME) sensor has been measured and optimized without DC bias via frequency modulation technique. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed ME sensor can detect a small magnetic field of 11 pT at 1 Hz. Moreover, the Metglas thickness and the modulation voltage also have been optimized and the detection ability of the fabricated sensor has been enhanced with a lower LOD value of 2.7 pT at 1 Hz. This paper provides a symmetrical magnetoelectric sensor using piezoelectric quartz material for LF pico-Tesla magnetic field signals detection. Additionally, the symmetrical sensor without bias can provide a cost-effective and high-performance approach for LF magnetic field detection.
Deep Q-Learning Network with Bayesian-Based Supervised Expert Learning
Authors: Kim Chayoung
Published: October 2022

Deep reinforcement learning (DRL) algorithms interact with the environment and have achieved considerable success in several decision-making problems. However, DRL requires a significant number of data before it can achieve adequate performance. Moreover, it might have limited applicability when DRL agents are able to learn in a real-world environment. Therefore, some algorithms combine DRL agents with supervised learning and leverage previous additional knowledge. Some have integrated a deep Q-learning network with a behavioral cloning model that can exploit supervised learning as prior learning. The algorithm proposed in this study is also based on these methods and is intended to update the loss function of the existing technique into a Bayesian approach. The supervised loss function used in existing algorithms and the loss function based on the Bayesian method proposed in this study differ in terms of the utilization of prior knowledge. Using prior knowledge and not using prior knowledge, such as the cross entropy being symmetric. As a result of the various OpenAI Gym environments, such as Cart-Pole and MountainCar, the learning convergence performance was improved. In particular, the proposed method can be applied to achieve fairly stable learning during the early stage when learning in a sparse environment is uncertain.
Determination of Optimal Piston Trajectories for High Efficiency 4-Stroke Cycles by Using Predictive Combustion Modeling
Authors: Biet Clemens , Krebs Sören
Published: October 2022

The potential regarding the indicated efficiency of an alternative piston trajectory for a spark ignited methane combustion engine has been investigated in this study. A physics-based cylinder model including a predictive combustion model was used to account for the interaction of the thermodynamics with altered kinematics. Using a genetic optimization algorithm on an adjustable spline, piston trajectories for different piston acceleration limits have been found for both full and part load operating points. All optimization processes led to increased indicated efficiencies up to a maximum of 52%. The increase in efficiency of the optimized piston trajectory is analyzed based on the results of the numeric simulation and can be explained by the following effects: deeper expansion of the working gas, reduced pumping losses, reduced wall heat losses, shorter heat release, and increased trapped air mass.
Contamination and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Soil and Ditch Sediments in Long-Term Mine Wastes Area
Authors: Li Bo , Deng Jiangdi , Li Zuran , Chen Jianjun , Zhan Fangdong , He Yongmei , He Lu , Li Yuan
Published: October 2022

The ecological and health risks posed by wastes discharged from mining areas to the environment and human health has aroused concern. 114 soil samples were collected from nine areas of long-term mine waste land in northwestern Yunnan to assess the pollution characteristics, ecological and health risks of heavy metals. The result revealed that the geo-accumulation indexes were Cd (4.00) > Pb (3.18) > Zn (1.87) > Cu (0.25). Semi-variance analysis revealed that Cd and Cu showed moderate spatial dependency, whereas Pb and Zn showed strong spatial dependency. Cd posed an extreme potential ecological risk. Slopes and ditches were extreme potential ecological risk areas. Non-carcinogenic risk to children from Pb and Carcinogenic risk to adult and children from Cd was non-negligible and direct ingestion was the major source. This study provided a scientific basis for policymakers in management and exposure reduction.
Quantitative Proteomic Analysis of Zearalenone-Induced Intestinal Damage in Weaned Piglets
Authors: Ma Lulu , Jiang Yanping , Lu Fuguang , Wang Shujing , Liu Mei , Liu Faxiao , Huang Libo , Li Yang , Jiao Ning , Jiang Shuzhen , Yuan Xuejun , Yang Weiren
Published: October 2022

Zearalenone (ZEN), also known as the F-2 toxin, is a common contaminant in cereal crops and livestock products. This experiment aimed to reveal the changes in the proteomics of ZEN-induced intestinal damage in weaned piglets by tandem mass spectrometry tags. Sixteen weaned piglets either received a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 3.0 mg/kg ZEN in a 32 d study. The results showed that the serum levels of ZEN, α-zearalenol, and β-zearalenol were increased in weaned piglets exposed to ZEN (p < 0.05). Zearalenone exposure reduced apparent nutrient digestibility, increased intestinal permeability, and caused intestinal damage in weaned piglets. Meanwhile, a total of 174 differential proteins (DEPs) were identified between control and ZEN groups, with 60 up-regulated DEPs and 114 down-regulated DEPs (FC > 1.20 or <0.83, p < 0.05). Gene ontology analysis revealed that DEPs were mainly involved in substance transport and metabolism, gene expression, inflammatory, and oxidative stress. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed that DEPs were significantly enriched in 25 signaling pathways (p < 0.05), most of which were related to inflammation and amino acid metabolism. Our study provides valuable clues to elucidate the possible mechanism of ZEN-induced intestinal injury.
Botulinum Neurotoxins beyond Neurons: Interplay with Glial Cells
Authors: Luvisetto Siro
Published: October 2022

In recent years, numerous studies have highlighted the significant use of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) in the human therapy of various motor and autonomic disorders. The therapeutic action is exerted with the selective cleavage of specific sites of the SNARE’s protein complex, which plays a key role in the vesicular neuroexocytosis which is responsible for neural transmission. The primary target of the BoNTs’ action is the peripheral neuromuscular junction (NMJ), where, by blocking cholinergic neurons releasing acetylcholine (ACh), they interfere with neural transmission. A great deal of experimental evidence has demonstrated that BoNTs are also effective in blocking the release of other neurotransmitters or neuromodulators, such as glutamate, substance-P, and CGRP, and they can interfere with the function of glial cells, both at the peripheral and central level. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the available experimental data from animal models that suggest or confirm the direct interactions between BoNTs and glial cells. From the data collected, it appears evident that, through mechanisms that are not yet fully understood, BoNTs can block the activation of spinal glial cells and their subsequent release of pro-inflammatory factors. BoNTs are also able to promote peripheral regeneration processes after nerve injury by stimulating the proliferation of Schwann cells. The data will be discussed in consideration of the possible therapeutic implications of the use of BoNTs on those pathological conditions where the contribution of glial cell activation is fundamental, such as in peripheral and central neuropathies.
Increased CD4+CD8+ Double Positive T Cells during Hantaan Virus Infection
Authors: Zhang Huiyuan , Wang Yazhen , Ma Ying , Tang Kang , Zhang Chunmei , Wang Meng , Zhang Xiyue , Xue Manling , Jia Xiaozhou , Hu Haifeng , Li Na , Zhuang Ran , Jin Boquan , Chen Lihua , Zhang Yun , Zhang Yusi
Published: October 2022

Hantaan virus (HTNV) infection causes an epidemic of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) mainly in Asia. It is well known that T cells mediated anti-viral immune response. Although previous studies showed that double positive T (DP T) cells, a little portion of T lymphocytes, were involved in adaptive immune response during virus infection, their kinetic changes and roles in HTNV infection have not yet been explored. In this study, we characterized DP T cells from HFRS patients based on flow cytometry data combined with scRNA-seq data. We showed that HTNV infection caused the upregulation of DP T cells in the peripheral blood, which were correlated with disease stage. The scRNA-seq data clustered DP T cells, unraveled their gene expression profile, and estimated the ordering of these cells. The production of granzyme B and CD107a from DP T cells and the abundant TCR distribution indicated the anti-viral property of DP T cells. In conclusion, this study identified, for the first time, an accumulation of DP T cells in the peripheral blood of HFRS patients and suggested these DP T cells belonging to CD8+T cells lineage. The DP T cells shared the similar characteristics with cytotoxic T cells (CTL) and exerted an anti-viral role in HFRS.
Newcastle Disease Genotype VII Prevalence in Poultry and Wild Birds in Egypt
Authors: Eid Amal A. M. , Hussein Ashraf , Hassanin Ola , Elbakrey Reham M. , Daines Rebecca , Sadeyen Jean-Remy , Abdien Hanan M. F. , Chrzastek Klaudia , Iqbal Munir
Published: October 2022

Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) genotype VII is a highly pathogenic Orthoavulavirus that has caused multiple outbreaks among poultry in Egypt since 2011. This study aimed to observe the prevalence and genetic diversity of NDV prevailing in domestic and wild birds in Egyptian governorates. A total of 37 oropharyngeal swabs from wild birds and 101 swabs from domestic bird flocks including chickens, ducks, turkeys, and pelicans, were collected from different geographic regions within 13 governorates during 2019–2020. Virus isolation and propagation via embryonated eggs revealed 91 swab samples produced allantoic fluid containing haemagglutination activity, suggestive of virus presence. The use of RT-PCR targeted to the F gene successfully detected NDV in 85 samples. The geographical prevalence of NDV was isolated in 12 governorates in domestic birds, migratory, and non-migratory wild birds. Following whole genome sequencing, we assembled six NDV genome sequences (70–99% of genome coverage), including five full F gene sequences. All NDV strains carried high virulence, with phylogenetic analysis revealing that the strains belonged to class II within genotype VII.1.1. The genetically similar yet geographically distinct virulent NDV isolates in poultry and a wild bird may allude to an external role contributing to the dissemination of NDV in poultry populations across Egypt. One such contribution may be the migratory behaviour of wild birds; however further investigation must be implemented to support the findings of this study. Additionally, continued genomic surveillance in both wild birds and poultry would be necessary for monitoring NDV dissemination and genetic diversification across Egypt, with the aim of controlling the disease and protecting poultry production.
First Report of the Detection of DENV1 in Human Blood Plasma with Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Goh Brendon , Visendi Paul , Lord Anton R. , Ciocchetta Silvia , Liu Wenjun , Sikulu-Lord Maggy T.
Published: October 2022

Dengue virus (DENV) is the world’s most common arboviral infection, with an estimated 3.9 million people at risk of the infection, 100 million symptomatic cases and 10,000 deaths per year. Current diagnosis for DENV includes the use of molecular methods, such as polymerase chain reaction, which can be costly for routine use. The near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) technique is a high throughput technique that involves shining a beam of infrared light on a biological sample, collecting a reflectance spectrum, and using machine learning algorithms to develop predictive algorithms. Here, we used NIR to detect DENV1 artificially introduced into whole blood, plasma, and serum collected from human donors. Machine learning algorithms were developed using artificial neural networks (ANN) and the resultant models were used to predict independent samples. DENV in plasma samples was detected with an overall accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 90% (N = 56), 88.5% (N = 28) and 92.3% (N = 28), respectively. However, a predictive sensitivity of 33.3% (N = 16) and 80% (N = 10) and specificity of 46.7% (N = 16) and 32% (N = 10) was achieved for detecting DENV1 in whole blood and serum samples, respectively. DENV1 peaks observed at 812 nm and 819 nm represent C-H stretch, peaks at 1130–1142 nm are related to methyl group and peaks at 2127 nm are related to saturated fatty groups. Our findings indicate the potential of NIR as a diagnostic tool for DENV, however, further work is recommended to assess its sensitivity for detecting DENV in people naturally infected with the virus and to determine its capacity to differentiate DENV serotypes and other arboviruses.
Prospective Alternate Hosts of an Emerging Polerovirus in Cotton Landscapes in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Pandey Sudeep , Bag Sudeep , Roberts Phillip , Conner Kassie , Balkcom Kipling S. , Price Andrew J. , Jacobson Alana L. , Srinivasan Rajagopalbabu
Published: October 2022

The identification of alternate hosts that can act as virus inoculum sources and vector reservoirs in the landscape is critical to understanding virus epidemics. Cotton leafroll dwarf virus (CLRDV) is a serious pathogen in cotton production and is transmitted by the cotton/melon aphid, Aphis gossypii, in a persistent, circulative, and non-propagative manner. CLRDV was first reported in the United States in Alabama in 2017, and thereafter in several cotton-producing states. CLRDV has since established itself in the southeastern United States. The role of alternate hosts in CLRDV establishment is not clear. Fourteen common plant species in the landscape, including crops, weeds, and ornamentals (cotton, hollyhock, marshmallow, country mallow, abutilon, arrowleaf sida, okra, hibiscus, squash, chickpea, evening primrose, henbit, Palmer amaranth, and prickly sida) were tested as potential alternate hosts of CLRDV along with an experimental host (Nicotiana benthamiana) via aphid-mediated transmission assays. CLRDV was detected following inoculation in hibiscus, okra, N. benthamiana, Palmer amaranth, and prickly sida by RT-PCR, but not in the others. CLRDV accumulation determined by RT-qPCR was the highest in N. benthamiana compared with cotton and other hosts. However, aphids feeding on CLRDV-infected prickly sida, hibiscus, and okra alone were able to acquire CLRDV and back-transmit it to non-infected cotton seedlings. Additionally, some of the alternate CLRDV hosts supported aphid development on par with cotton. However, in a few instances, aphid fitness was reduced when compared with cotton. Overall, this study demonstrated that plant hosts in the agricultural landscape can serve as CLRDV inoculum sources and as aphid reservoirs and could possibly play a role in the reoccurring epidemics of CLRDV in the southeastern United States.
Peripheral IFN-ɣ Production after Blood Stimulation with Different Mycobacterial Antigens in Goats Vaccinated against Paratuberculosis
Authors: Fernández Miguel , Royo Marcos , Arteche-Villasol Noive , Ferreras M. Carmen , Benavides Julio , Pérez Valentín
Published: October 2022

Vaccination can be an efficient method for the control of paratuberculosis in ruminants. However, the official tuberculosis control tests cross-interfere with the animals vaccinated against paratuberculosis. In order to test and compare new antigens that could solve this problem, the production of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) in peripheral blood at different post-vaccination days in experimental kids and adult goats, in field conditions, using the avian and bovine purified protein derivative (PPD), the johnin, two peptide cocktails of Mycobacterium bovis (PC-EC and PC-HP) and the antigens VK 055 and VK 067 of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (Map) has been analyzed in vitro. The non-specific production of IFN-γ was observed after blood stimulation with the PC-EC and PC-HP cocktail in any sample from vaccinated animals, whereas it was detected when bovine PPD was used. These results support the possible use of these new Mycobacterium bovis antigens in the in the differentiation of animals vaccinated against paratuberculosis or infected with tuberculosis by improving the specificity of bovine PPD. In contrast, the two Map antigens tested in this study did not improve the sensitivity of johnin or avian PPD in the detection of vaccinated or Map-infected goats.
Antibiotic-Free Nanoplasmids as Promising Alternatives for Conventional DNA Vectors
Authors: Seyed Negar , Zahedifard Farnaz , Habibzadeh Sima , Yousefi Roya , Lajevardi Mahya Sadat , Gholami Elham , Rafati Sima
Published: October 2022

DNA vaccines with their extraordinary properties are the best choice as vectors for subunit vaccines but are not in compliance with safety regulations, mainly because of the antibiotic resistance genes on their backbone. New generations of plasmids with minimum bacterial backbones are now developed as promising alternatives to pass the safety rules and be replaced for conventional plasmids. Here we have compared the nanoplasmid (with RNA-out selection system and professional HTLV-1 containing promoter) and the conventionally used pcDNA plasmid, as regards the transfection efficiency. The EGFP gene was cloned in both pcDNA-3.1+ and NTC9385R-MSC and transfected into COS-7 cells for expression evaluation by flow cytometry. Meanwhile, qPCR was used to analyze the EGFP mRNA copy numbers. It was concluded that the nanoplasmid, with its extraordinary properties, can be a tempting alternative to conventional pcDNA in equal or equimolar concentrations for vaccine design. These promising results can put DNA vaccines back into focus, especially regarding diseases controlled by robust cellular immune responses.
Hematology Reference Intervals for Holstein Cows in Southern China: A Study of 786 Subjects
Authors: Chen Hongbo , Yu Bo , Liu Chenhui , Cheng Lei , Yu Jie , Hu Xiuzhong , Xiang Min
Published: October 2022

Hematology RIs help clinicians and researchers determine whether a hematology parameter is abnormal, which plays an important role in animal health surveillance. China is one of the largest dairy producers in the world, with millions of Holstein cows. However, there has been no published data on hematology RIs for dairy cows in China yet. Therefore, the aim of this study is to establish updated and accurate RIs for Holstein cows in southern China. To increase the accuracy of the RIs, we collected blood samples from 786 Holstein cows and analyzed 25 hematologic variables. The RIs for Holstein cows were established using the 95% percentile RIs according to the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology guidelines. The effects of different ages, parities and lactation stages were also checked in this study. The data of 21, 22 and 19 out of 25 hematology parameters were significantly different between different ages, parities and lactation stages, respectively. Furthermore, the hematology RIs of separate subclasses according to different ages, parities and lactation stages were generated. Hematology RIs according to ages and lactation stages, as well as parities and lactation stages, were also assessed. Together, our results confirm that hematology RIs for cows vary by ages, parities and lactation stages. The present study helps to fill the gap in hematology RIs for Holstein cows in southern China, and our data may serve as a very useful tool for monitoring the health and welfare of dairy cattle in China.
Prediction of Voice Fundamental Frequency and Intensity from Surface Electromyographic Signals of the Face and Neck
Authors: Vojtech Jennifer M. , Mitchell Claire L. , Raiff Laura , Kline Joshua C. , De Luca Gianluca
Published: October 2022

Silent speech interfaces (SSIs) enable speech recognition and synthesis in the absence of an acoustic signal. Yet, the archetypal SSI fails to convey the expressive attributes of prosody such as pitch and loudness, leading to lexical ambiguities. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of using surface electromyography (sEMG) as an approach for predicting continuous acoustic estimates of prosody. Ten participants performed a series of vocal tasks including sustained vowels, phrases, and monologues while acoustic data was recorded simultaneously with sEMG activity from muscles of the face and neck. A battery of time-, frequency-, and cepstral-domain features extracted from the sEMG signals were used to train deep regression neural networks to predict fundamental frequency and intensity contours from the acoustic signals. We achieved an average accuracy of 0.01 ST and precision of 0.56 ST for the estimation of fundamental frequency, and an average accuracy of 0.21 dB SPL and precision of 3.25 dB SPL for the estimation of intensity. This work highlights the importance of using sEMG as an alternative means of detecting prosody and shows promise for improving SSIs in future development.
The Quantitative Analysis of Water Mass during Winter on the East China Sea Shelf Using an Extended OMP Analysis
Authors: Li Xiaoshuang , Wallhead Philip , Bellerby Richard Garth James , Liu Jing , Yang Anqiang
Published: October 2022

The distribution and quantification of water masses on the East China Sea (ECS) shelf is important for identifying and understanding historical climate-driven changes in ocean properties and circulation in the region. We applied an extended Optimum Multiparameter (eOMP) analysis to quantify the relative contribution of water masses using wintertime temperature, salinity, nitrate (NO3−), phosphate (PO43−), and silicate (SiO32−) measurements from a five-cruises dataset spanning from 2013 to 2018. Average ratios (NO3−:PO43−:SiO32− = 47:1:35) derived from field observations were used to correct the equations referring to the chemical parameters. Our analysis indicated that wintertime seawater on the ECS shelf consisted mainly of Changjiang Dilute Water (CDW), Yellow Sea Coastal Water (YSCW), Taiwan Warm Current Water (TWCW), and East China Sea Shelf Water (ECSSW). The results from the eOMP analysis demonstrated the natural boundaries of four water masses during winter. The interannual variability of water masses showed that the CDW distribution was relatively stable in winter, and there was strong anticorrelation between the YSCW and TWCW extents, suggesting that these two water masses mostly displace each other in the north-south direction.
Developmental Mechanism of Rainfall-Induced Ground Fissures in the Kenya Rift Valley
Authors: Liu Yang , Peng Jianbing , Wang Feiyong , Zhu Fengji , Jia Zhijie , He Ming
Published: October 2022

Active tectonic movement and frequent ground fissure disasters occur in the Kenya Rift Valley. Ground fissures are often exposed to the ground surface after rainfall, resulting in disasters and huge economic losses. We conducted a field geological survey and exploratory trenching in order to identify the developmental characteristics of ground fissures in the Kenya Rift Valley. The ground fissures were found to be connected with concealed bedrock fissures, which is a typical characteristic of tectonic ground fissures. From the perspective of regional tectonic stress and plate movement, we investigated the causes of hidden bedrock cracks and conducted a finite element numerical simulation to study the rainfall infiltration process in the presence of hidden bedrock fractures. The results showed that the fractures in the concealed bedrock are controlled by regional tectonic stress and a northwest-trending basement tectonic shear zone. The most intense rainfall infiltration erosion occurs in concealed cracks, where the settlement induced by rainfall is also greatest. Therefore, rainfall erosion is an important factor driving the expansion of ground fissures towards surface fractures. The results of this study provide a theoretical scientific basis for disaster reduction and the prevention of ground fissures in the Kenya Rift Valley.
Review of Nonpoint Source Pollution Models: Current Status and Future Direction
Authors: Wang Mingjing , Chen Lei , Wu Lei , Zhang Liang , Xie Hui , Shen Zhenyao
Published: October 2022

Modelling tools are commonly used for predicting non-point source (NPS) pollutants and it is timely to review progress that has been made in terms of the development of NPS models. This paper: (1) proposes a systematic description of model framework and generalizes some commonly used models; (2) identifies the common challenges in model structure and applications; (3) summarizes the future directions of NPS models. Challenges in model construction and application are based on the following: (1) limitations in understanding specific NPS pollution processes; (2) model expansion to different scales; (3) data scarcity and its impacts on model performance; (4) prediction uncertainty due to model input, parameter and model structure; (5) insufficient accuracy for decision-making. Finally, this paper proposes future directions for model development, including: (1) a source–flow–sink framework for model development; (2) standardization for model input and parameter; (3) reliable decision support for environmental management. The findings of this review provide helps in the accurate prediction and management of NPS pollution around the world.
Controls on Groundwater Fluoride Contamination in Eastern Parts of India: Insights from Unsaturated Zone Fluoride Profiles and AI-Based Modeling
Authors: Aind David Anand , Malakar Pragnaditya , Sarkar Soumyajit , Mukherjee Abhijit
Published: October 2022

Groundwater fluoride (F) occurrence and mobilization are controlled by geotectonic, climate, and anthropogenic activities, such as land use and pumping. This study delineates the occurrence and mobilization of F in groundwater in a semi-arid environment using groundwater, and an artificial intelligence model. The model predicts climate, soil type, and geotectonic as major predictors of F occurrence. We also present unsaturated zone F inventory, elemental compositions, and mineralogy from 25 boreholes in agricultural, forest, and grasslands from three different land use terrains in the study area to establish linkages with the occurrence of groundwater F. Normalized unsaturated zone F inventory was the highest in the area underlain by the granitic–gneissic complex (261 kg/ha/m), followed by residual soils (216 kg/ha/m), and Pleistocene alluvial deposits (78 kg/ha/m). The results indicate that the unsaturated zone mineralogy has greater control over F mobilization into the groundwater than unsaturated zone F inventory and land-use patterns. The presence of clay minerals, calcite, and Fe, Al hydroxides beneath the residual soils strongly retain unsaturated zone F compared with the subsurface beneath Pleistocene alluvial deposits, where the absence of these minerals results in enhanced leaching of unsaturated zone F.
Residual-Oriented Optimization of Antecedent Precipitation Index and Its Impact on Flood Prediction Uncertainty
Authors: Liang Jiyu , Hu Zichen , Liu Shuguang , Zhong Guihui , Zhen Yiwei , Makhinov Aleksei Nikolavich , Araruna José Tavares
Published: October 2022

Antecedent moisture conditions are essential in explaining differences in the translation of flood-producing precipitation to floods. This study proposes an empirical residual-oriented antecedent precipitation index (RAPI) to estimate and further link antecedent moisture conditions with flood predictive uncertainty. By developing a fully kernel-based residual error model without functional presumptions, the proposed RAPI is calibrated as the regressor of the deterministic model residual. Furthermore, the MI-LXPM algorithm is applied to search for optimal parameters in mixed-integer constraints. The rationality of the proposed framework is demonstrated by its application to a case study in South-East China. The quality of probabilistic streamflow predictions is then quantified using reliability, precision, and the NSE of the prediction mean. The results show that the RAPI closely connects to the uncertainty of hourly flood prediction as a proxy of antecedent soil moisture. The influence of RAPI is mainly on the precision and unbiasedness of flood prediction. Compared with the deterministic model output, the RAPI provides a better flood prediction of small to median flood events as a regressor. Along with the proposed date-driven residual error model, the framework can be applied to any pre-calibrated hydrological model and help modelers achieve high-quality probability flood prediction.
Strategies for Controlling Filamentous Bulking in Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment Plants: The Old and the New
Authors: Sam Thandokazi , Le Roes-Hill Marilize , Hoosain Nisreen , Welz Pamela J.
Published: October 2022

Filamentous bulking and foaming are the most common settling problems experienced in activated sludge (AS) wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The quality of the final effluent is poor during episodes of bulking and foaming, which is an environmental, human health and economic burden. Remedial measures are often ineffective, and traditional non-specific methods such as chlorination may also negatively impact important functional bacterial species such as nitrifiers. Modifications to older methods as well as new strategies are required for controlling filamentous bulking. Laboratory testing needs to be followed by testing at scale in WWTPs. This review describes the filamentous bacteria responsible for filamentous bulking, with a focus on their global distribution and known factors which are selective for the growth of specific filaments. Traditional and new non-specific and biological control strategies are reviewed and discussed. Research gaps are identified with the aim of promoting continued efforts to establish effective control strategies for filamentous sludge bulking.
Desalination of Irrigation Water Using Metal Polymers
Authors: Antia David D. J.
Published: October 2022

Rain-fed and irrigated agriculture associated with salinized soil and saline water supplies is characterized by low crop yields. Partial desalination of this saline water will increase crop yields. Recent studies have established that supported metal polymers can be used to produce partially desalinated irrigation water without producing a waste reject brine. This study assesses the ability of more than 90 different unsupported metal polymer formulations (containing one or more of Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, and Zn) to remove Na+ ions and Cl− ions from saline water (seawater, brine, brackish water, and flowback water). The polymers were constructed using a simple sol-gel approach at ambient temperatures. The overall ion removal followed a first-order reaction. Removal selectivity between Na+ and Cl− ions was a function of polymer formulation. Mg@Al polymers preferentially remove Cl− ions, while Fe@Ca polymers tend to remove Cl− and Na+ ions in more equal proportions. Ion removal can be rapid, with >50% removed within 1 h. These results were used to develop a process methodology, which will allow most seawater, brackish water, and saline flowback water to be desalinated to form usable irrigation water.
Sulfide Treatment Alters Antioxidant Response and Related Genes Expressions in Rice Field Eel (Monopterus albus)
Authors: Zhong Liqiao , Yao Fan , Zhang He , Xie Huaxiao , Ru Huijun , Wei Nian , Ni Zhaohui , Li Zhong , Li Yunfeng
Published: October 2022

Sulfide is considered as an environmental factor and toxicant with a wide distribution in aquatic environments. At present, the toxic effects of sulfide stress on rice field eel (Monopterus albus) are poorly understood. To ascertain these effects, the juvenile rice field eels were exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of Na2S (0, 0.2154, 2.154, and 21.54 mg/L) for 7, 14, and 28 days. Antioxidant parameters such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as the related gene (including sod, cat) expressions were measured. The expressions of metallothionein (mt) and heat shock protein 90 (hsp90), which are used as physiological stress indices, were also detected. The results showed that exposure to sulfide altered the antioxidant response and related gene expressions in rice field eel. The activities of SOD were inhibited and the MDA contents were increased after exposure to sulfide. The activities of CAT and GPx were increased at 7 days and decreased at 28 days after treatment with sulfide at the highest dose. The expressions of sod, cat, and hsp90 were upregulated at 7 days and downregulated at 14 and 28 days after exposure to high doses of sulfide. The expression of mt was significantly downregulated in all sulfide treated groups. The toxic effects caused by sulfide were in dose-dependent and time-dependent manners. In short, oxidative stress and physiological stress were caused in rice field eel after the exposure to sulfide.
Effect of Water Content on Strength of Alluvial Silt in The Lower Yellow River
Authors: Cheng Yang-Yang , Gao Xu-Guang , Liu Tai-Heng , Li Lian-Xiang , Du Wei , Hamad Abu , Wang Ji-Peng
Published: October 2022

In order to study the strength characteristics of alluvial silt in the lower Yellow River Channel at Luokou, Jinan, by varying the moisture content five times, direct shear tests were conducted and soil–water characteristics curves were obtained to explore the relationships between moisture content and matric suction as well as the bishop coefficient and shear strength. The soil–water characteristics curve test shows that the water retention curve of silt samples in the lower Yellow River can be fitted by the VG (Van Genuchten) model with the appropriate fitting coefficients. The direct shear test reveals that the relationship between shear stress and shear displacement alters from the shear softening type to the hardening type with the increase in moisture content and normal stress. The cohesion has a nonlinear inverse relationship with moisture content while a small variation is reported in the internal friction angle. Finally, a simple shear strength equation for silt in the lower Yellow River is proposed in relation to moisture content, to define the relationship between the effective stress parameter and the matric suction for future engineering purposes.
Perceptions of Intergenerational Inequality in Policymaking and Possible Responses: The Case of Australia
Authors: Coram Veronica
Published: October 2022

Evidence suggests that, on average, younger citizens in advanced industrial democracies tend to have different policy preferences to those aged 65 and over. Population ageing and relatively lower levels of electoral participation among young people amplify the political voice of older citizens and contribute to policymakers being more responsive to their preferences. This paper presents qualitative evidence on whether young adults and older Australians recognise a need to increase young people’s influence on policymaking in the context of intergenerational inequality. The paper considers possible responses to this need, such as voting age reform. Results indicate that there is reasonable support, including from the older participants, to enhance young people’s political voice and influence over policymaking. Growing awareness of intergenerational inequality in ageing democracies may make public opinion more favourable towards voting age reform and other measures to increase the political voice of young people.
Optimization of the activity of sanatorium-resort institutions of the Crimea on the example of the sanatorium "Poltava-Crimea"
Authors:   V. I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University, Gurov S. A. , Kachurovskaya N. L. ,   V. I. Vernadsky Crimean Federal University
Published: October 2022

A significant part of the sanatorium-and-spa institutions of Crimea remain insufficiently attractive for tourists, especially out of season. The article studied the geography of health resorts in the Crimea and analyzed the problems of optimizing the functioning of the sanatorium-resort institutions of the Crimea on the example of the sanatorium "Poltava-Crimea" in Saki. Based on the analysis, it was possible to come to the conclusion that the activity of the sanatorium is not organized effectively enough. The result of the strategy developed by the authors is the introduction of new animation programs based on the interests of various groups of tourists.
Triploid Oysters in Australia, VIII. Sensory Evaluation of Sydney Rock Oysters Saccostrea commercialis
Authors: KORAC S.
Published: October 2022

Sensory evaluations or Sydney rock oysters were undertaken as part of a study of the performance of triploid oysters in New South wales (NSW), Australia. Diploid and triploid oysters, matched for size, were harvested and depurated from intertidal sites at Tilligerry Creek and North Arm Cove in Port Stephens, NSW; and subsequent sensory evaluations were conducted at the Sensory Research Centre of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO), in October 1991 (session l, 20 months), January 1992 (session 2, 23 months) and November 1992 (session 3, 33 months). The sensory evaluation revealed that for sessions 2 and 3, triploid and diploid Sydney rock oysters were equally acceptable. Although the triploid oyster was less acceptable in texture and overall acceptability at session 1, the size (26 g) and meat condition ( condition index < 8) of both oysters were below market acceptability. At session 3, the oysters received a high acceptability score (mean rating > 60), had good meat condition (Cl > 9) and were of market size (oyster weight > 40 g). The faster growth and better meat condition of triploid Sydney rock oysters, as shown by previous studies, coupled with the high sensory scores obtained for marketable oysters in this study, indicate that triploids have excellent farming and marketing potential. They are a suitable alternative to diploids as a winter crop for NSW oyster farmers.
«Un palais dallé de cristal» ? : à propos d'un carreau en verre du musée d’Art islamique de Doha
Authors: Chekhab-Abudaya Mounia
Published: October 2022

A «millefiori» glass tile, probably from Samarra and preserved at the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, is probably the only known example of the use of this technique as a floor decoration and allows to put in context the prominence of the palaces in the Abbasid capital between 836 and 892 AD. This tile was probably part of an ensemble that decorated the floor of al-Jawsaq al-Khaqani Palace, which was built for the Caliph al-Mu‘tasim between 836 and 842.
Pour une «polychromie monumentale» de quelques grands décors de Théodore Deck dans les années 1880
Authors: Quéquet Sébastien
Published: October 2022

When it was inaugurated in 1905, within the walls of Le Louvre palace, the Museum of Decorative Arts bought two sets of architectural ceramics made by Théodore Deck and his collaborators. These works date back to the 1880s and each one, in its own way, illustrates the audacious experimentations carried by Deck throughout his career and reveals the challenges of 19th century ceramics.
How to Evaluate Serious Games Concepts: A Systematic Prototyping and Testing Approach
Authors: Schade Cornelia , Stagge Antonia
Published: October 2022

The challenge in developing a serious game is to find the perfect balance between learning and playing. The development process should include an appropriate involvement of the target group and enable a systematic evaluation of this balance through prototyping and testing. The goal is to create an entertaining and purposeful learning experience and thus enable knowledge growth. This paper presents the evaluation results of the serious game E.F.A. with the target group – managers in the social service sector. The first prototype was tested in an early phase as a paper prototype by experts in media didactics and subject experts. Early stage testing is a decisive factor for the development of serious games. However, the accessibility of the target group is not always given for fast testing and iterative improvement. After collecting expert feedback and incorporating it into the game, the high-fidelity prototype was created and tested by the target group. Those test runs were followed by group interviews. Their results are the focus of this paper which aims at answering the following research questions: How did the target group experience the serious game and their increase in knowledge? To what extent can the evaluation results with the target group be linked to the early tests with the paper prototype? How does the feedback vary and what conclusions can be drawn from this?

The results of the paper show that the serious game was rated very differently among the target group. Some generally praised the playful approach. Others criticized the game as childish and unsuitable for the target group. The feedback obtained from different user groups with the help of different prototypes varied for a set of evaluation criteria such as playing time, remembered knowledge and dialogs. For each evaluation criteria recommendations are given regarding the test group and type of prototype.
Designing a Mobile Game for Introducing Learners to a Soap Making process
Authors: Dominguez Alfaro Jessica Lizeth , Udeozor Chioma , Solmaz Serkan , Cermak-Sassenrath Daniel
Published: October 2022

Bunno's Fabulous Soap-Making Challenge is intended to be both, a game that is played for fun and a game from which subject content can be learned. The game is modeled on and represents authentic, real-world chemical processes. Specifically, it promotes the learning of aspects central to the soap-making process. The game is a resource-managing game in which players plan, organize, and execute the production of soap. Players source the raw materials, acquire the technical equipment, create an efficient lab setup and produce and sell soap in an economically sustainable way. The game is centrally based on the idea of constructivist learning. Players encounter an inspiring and challenging situation and are active, in control, and make their own decisions and experiences. Their actions trigger immediate responses and are consequential. The main contribution of this article is a detailed description, a conceptual explanation, and a critical discussion of the game design. In addition, this article briefly describes the educational theory which informs the project, how the game design is actually realized in the implemented game and how it can be played, and the game's educational content and the projected learning outcomes.
Nursing XR – a VR application to teach decision making to student nurses
Authors: Gilardi Marco , Honnan Stephen , Sheerman Laura , Cund Audrey , Rae Susan
Published: October 2022

This paper validates an approach to the design and development of VR applications that are integrated into the curricula and address fundamental student needs. To accomplish this, a case study describing the process undertaken to create Nursing XR, a wound dressing scenario where the patient is discharged home and requires follow up care and treatment by a nurse. The aim of the VR application is to support nursing students in developing their communication, risk assessment, holistic assessment, and person-centred clinical decision-making skills.

To design Nursing XR, needs and initial requirements were collected via a workshop with student nurses. The workshop, which involved 10 student nurses and two lecturers in nursing from two Universities (Co-Is) and was led by the PI, supported by the learning technologist and the head developer of the company used for development of the software. Results from the workshop identified two major needs for the students: the need to undertake practical applications of the procedures learned in the lectures and the need to build confidence in the skills required of a nursing student. These needs were the foundations for the design process, which followed an artefact-based approach. The artefacts generated during the design were also used to elicit additional interaction and software requirements from the nursing lecturers. An iterative lean development process was followed by the company for the software implementation. Throughout the development, students and lecturers were involved as user testes ensuring that the user experience of the application was satisfactory, and the application fit for purpose.In this paper, we describe the high-level design and development process followed by the multidisciplinary team to develop Nursing XR and report initial qualitative findings from the workshop focus group.
Digital Games in Schools: A Qualitative Study on Teacher's Beliefs
Authors: Spieler Bernadette , Degonda Adrian
Published: October 2022

Games are omnipresent for children and young people. In primary and secondary schools in Switzerland, however, games still eke out a niche existence. Topics such as Game Design, Serious Games, or the Game Culture in general offer enormous potential for teaching, and there are many ways for pupils to experience the world of games together. However, specific training programs for teachers are necessary. For many teachers, these topics are less tangible than they are for children. To develop a new curriculum for in-service teachers, this paper addresses the prerequisites for a transversal games-curriculum for primary and secondary schools in Switzerland. In this endeavour, first, links between games and the Swiss Curriculum 21 are presented. Second, recent literature on games in the school context is reviewed, and finally, interviews with teachers on their beliefs and ideas about digital games are analysed. The results show that although teachers often have a limited idea of games in the classroom, they consider the topic relevant and sometimes already use game-based approaches.