bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Unilateral Hearing Loss on Speech-Evoked Auditory Brainstem Responses and Reading: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Johnstone Patti , Marston Rachel , Bickley Natalie , Rishiq Dania , Harkrider Ashley , Plyler Erin , Hedrick Mark
Published: December 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to determine whether the speech-evoked auditory brainstem responses (sABRs) obtained by stimulating the ear with normal sensitivity in children with unilateral hearing loss (UHL) were different from that of children with normal hearing (NH), and to explore correlations between the sABR findings and measures of reading.

Method:

Eleven children with UHL and 11 children with NH were tested via the BioMARK sABR protocol using the syllable /da/; latency and amplitudes of Waves V, A, C, D, E, F, and O were measured. Participants also were tested on the Phonemic Synthesis Test (PST) and the Woodcock Reading Mastery Test–Revised (WRMT-R), particularly the Reading Readiness, Basic Skills, and Comprehension subtests.

Results:

Multivariate analysis of variance testing showed a significantly higher amplitude for Wave A for the NH group as compared to the UHL group. Separate ANOVAs also found significantly lower scores for the UHL group compared to the NH group on Basic Skills and Comprehension subtests of the Woodcock. Significant positive Spearman rho correlations were found for the UHL group between wave amplitudes for V, A, and O and the Reading Readiness score, and between wave amplitudes for V, A, D, and O and the Reading Comprehension score. A significant correlation also was found between the Total Reading score and wave amplitudes for V and A. No such correlations were found between wave amplitude and Woodcock scores for the NH group. Further testing of the UHL data found significant relationships between the pure-tone average of the hearing loss ear and the Basic Skills, Comprehension, and Total Reading scores from the WRMT-R. There was also a significant correlation between the PST score and Wave C amplitude.

Conclusion:

There may be a connection between speech encoding and measures of reading in children with UHL.
Performance analysis of dual stator six‐phase embedded‐pole permanent magnet synchronous motor for electric vehicle application
Authors: Kumar Raja Ram , Devi Priyanka , Chetri Chandan , Kumari Ankita , Saikia Papu Moni , Saket Ram Khelawan , Kumar Kundan , Khan Baseem
Published: December 2022

The motive of this study is to analyse the characteristics of a novel dual‐stator embedded‐pole six‐phase permanent magnet synchronous motor for the application of electric vehicles. A comparative analysis of two separate motor topologies, namely, dual stator embedded‐pole six‐phase permanent magnet synchronous motor and single stator single rotor surface‐mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, is accomplished to illustrate the performance superiority of the proposed motor. Furthermore, for optimal designing of the proposed motor, a design methodology has also been presented. For the above application, the motor should retain high torque density (HTD) and high reliability. In this regard, a novel H‐Shaped flux barrier is introduced in the rotor portion, which fulfils the requirement of HTD. Moreover, the availability of two sets of the stator winding enhances the performance efficiency and ensures the proposed motor's more significant fault‐tolerating ability of the motor. For performance evaluation, the Finite Element Method analysis is chosen, as it gives appropriate and precise results. From the above analysis, it is concluded that the HTD and the proposed motor's dynamic performance are better than the above‐mentioned conventional motor.
Supervised machine learning on Galactic filaments
Authors: Zavagno A. , Dupé F.-X. , Bensaid S. , Schisano E. , Li Causi G. , Gray M. , Molinari S. , Elia D. , Lambert J.-C. , Brescia M. , Arzoumanian D. , Russeil D. , Riccio G. , Cavuoti S.
Published: December 2022

Context. Filaments are ubiquitous in the Galaxy, and they host star formation. Detecting them in a reliable way is therefore key towards our understanding of the star formation process.

Aims. We explore whether supervised machine learning can identify filamentary structures on the whole Galactic plane.

Methods. We used two versions of UNet-based networks for image segmentation. We used H2 column density images of the Galactic plane obtained with Herschel Hi-GAL data as input data. We trained the UNet-based networks with skeletons (spine plus branches) of filaments that were extracted from these images, together with background and missing data masks that we produced. We tested eight training scenarios to determine the best scenario for our astrophysical purpose of classifying pixels as filaments.

Results. The training of the UNets allows us to create a new image of the Galactic plane by segmentation in which pixels belonging to filamentary structures are identified. With this new method, we classify more pixels (more by a factor of 2 to 7, depending on the classification threshold used) as belonging to filaments than the spine plus branches structures we used as input. New structures are revealed, which are mainly low-contrast filaments that were not detected before. We use standard metrics to evaluate the performances of the different training scenarios. This allows us to demonstrate the robustness of the method and to determine an optimal threshold value that maximizes the recovery of the input labelled pixel classification.

Conclusions. This proof-of-concept study shows that supervised machine learning can reveal filamentary structures that are present throughout the Galactic plane. The detection of these structures, including low-density and low-contrast structures that have never been seen before, offers important perspectives for the study of these filaments.
Archetype EnergyPlus Models for Verifying the Thermal Performance of Danish Office Buildings
Authors: Petersen Steffen , Mortensen Victor Hartvig , Kiholm Eddie
Published: December 2022

This paper presents the research efforts that seek to improve the efficiency of conducting advanced thermal simulations in the detailed design stage of the design process. A prototype for an application that facilitates a quick and inexpensive setup of EnergyPlus (EP) models of Danish office buildings was developed in a co-creation process involving simulation practitioners. The prototype is designed to mitigate barriers to migrating from current tools to EP; however, further research is needed to investigate this aspect.
Stochastic load profile generator for residential EV charging
Authors: Sørensen Åse Lekang , Westad Maria Claire , Delgado Benjamín Manrique , Lindberg Karen Byskov
Published: December 2022

Electric vehicle (EV) charging loads have an impact on the power grid, but also represent a potential for energy flexibility. There is a need for EV data to evaluate effects on the power grid and optimal EV charging strategies. A stochastic bottom-up model is developed for residential EV charging, taking outdoor temperatures into account. The model input is based on real-world data from residential charging in Norway. The load profile generator provides hourly load profiles for any number and combination of small and large EVs, assuming immediate charging after plug-in. It is found that the model generates realistic load profiles for residential EV charging, reflecting today’s charging patterns. Data generated can be used for load and flexibility simulations for residential EV charging.
Thermo-fluid dynamic performance of a ventilated pitched roof: Numerical modelling and experimental validation
Authors: Moschetti Roberta , Nocente Alessandro , Geving Stig , Gullbrekken Lars
Published: December 2022

Wooden ventilated pitched roofs represent a widely spread construction solution in Nordic countries. They have several benefits, including the drainage of excessive moisture from the construction and the reduction of the surface temperature to prevent snow melting and thus icing at the eaves and gutters. Modelling ventilated components is complex and requires a thorough understanding of the phenomena occurring in the air cavity, where convection plays a central role in the heat transfer process. The approach and the assumptions adopted for the roof model are therefore crucial to investigate the thermo-fluid dynamics in the air cavity. A literature review showed the need for comprehensive numerical and experimental research focusing on ventilated roof constructions, especially for Nordic climates. This article presents the thermo-fluid dynamic modelling of a ventilated pitched roof, which belongs to a full-scale experimental building located in Trondheim (Norway), the ZEB Test Cell Laboratory. A model of the roof was created using the finite element method-based software COMSOL Multiphysics. Transient simulations were performed in different climate conditions and the results of temperature and air flow speed along the cross section of the roof were compared with measurement data for validation. The simulation results show a good agreement with measurement data for both air speed and temperature in the air cavity, particularly in the summer day. The deviations in the numerical results will be object of study in future research, where the modelling approach will be further explored by testing different inputs, including boundary conditions and turbulence models.
Solar Heat Pumps and Self-Consumption Can (and should) electricity suppliers encourage thermal storage?
Authors: Beltran Francisco , Sommerfeldt Nelson , Padovani Filippo , Rolando Davide , Madani Hatef
Published: December 2022

Heat pumps and water tanks can be used to increase PV self-consumption in buildings without any additional equipment, but there is sometimes a lack of economic incentives to maximize it that limits economic gains. Therefore, pricing conditions need to change in order to make self-consumption strategies more interesting for prosumers. This study aims at determining what, if any, unsubsidized market conditions could lead to economically motivated self-consumption control strategies with solar heat pumps. A sensitivity analysis is used on multiple pricing models based on current market conditions for a solar PV and ground source heat pump system for a single-family house in Norrköping, Sweden. The results show that control strategies aimed at maximizing self-consumption have very little impact on net costs, regardless of pricing model or variation in price. Feed-in-bonus is the most important aspect when comparing different pricing schemes, and no other sensitivity comes close.
Characterization of view in relation to solar-control systems
Authors: Nielsen Sandia , Laursen Sara Ballegaard , Andersen Rime Korshohn , Khanie Mandana Sarey
Published: December 2022

In this study, we developed a method to identify the affecting parameters that can characterize the view-out in relation to different solar-control systems. We hypothesize that the photometric composition, e.g., contrast, in the visual environment as a result of using solarcontrol systems impacts the subjective assessment of the view out. To test our hypothesis, we conducted user assessment studies where we measured objective photometric measurements and subjective human responses in a real semi-controlled environment. The user-assessment study was done with 51 participants. The participants were randomly allocated to a combination of five views out and six solar shading systems in a work environment where they answered questions related to the indoor environment and view quality. The relation between view and solar-control systems and their impact on the subjective assessment of view out was tested through the development of linear mixed-effects models. The models were developed using forward and backward selection and likelihood ratio test (LRT) to test the effects of adding or removing variables.

Photometric quantities were measured as achromatic contrast and calculated both locally and globally, which are two different algorithms for the calculation of contrast as perceived by humans. Both were found to be significantly associated with respectively view rating and satisfaction and could be used to characterize the view-out quality through commonly used shading devices.
Validation of a new method to estimate energy use for space heating and hot water production from low-resolution heat meter data
Authors: Leiria Daniel , Johra Hicham , Belias Evangelos , Quaggiotto Davide , Zarrella Angelo , Marszal-Pomianowska Anna , Pomianowski Michal
Published: December 2022

One of the initiatives to reach the European decarbonization goal is the roll-out of smart heating meters in the building stock. However, these meters often record the total energy usage with only hourly resolution, without distinguishing between space heating (SH) and domestic hot water (DHW) production. To tackle this limitation, this paper presents the validation of a new methodology to estimate the SH and DHW from total measurements in different building types in three countries (Denmark, Switzerland, and Italy). The method employs a combined smoothing algorithm with a support vector regression (SVR) to estimate the different heating uses. The estimation results are compared with the different countries’ DHW compliance calculations. The comparison showed that the compliance calculations outperformed this method by considering the validation dataset characteristics.
Showcasing the First Steps Towards a Digital Twin for Campus Environments
Authors: Bäcklund Katarina , Molinari Marco , Lundqvist Per , Karlsson Peter
Published: December 2022

This paper presents a path towards the implementation of a Digital Twin for campus environments. The main purpose of the Digital Twin is to accomplish an advanced analytical tool, which supports building owners, building operators and building users to reach an improved performance of the building. Digital Twins is new to the building and the real estate industry, hence research within this field is scarce. This paper contributes to the research by providing a methodology to implement a Digital Twin of an existing building stock of campus areas in Sweden. The main results obtained so far are presented. They indicate that the potential of a Digital Twin expands beyond the aspects of a navigational digital 3D model, including a state-of-the-art app that is developed from the Digital Twin platform.
Evaluation of the spatial aspect of building resilience in classrooms equipped with displacement ventilation
Authors: Al-Assaad Douaa , Sengupta Abantika , Breesch Hilde
Published: December 2022

Throughout their lifetime, buildings might face unpredictable shocks leading to fast deterioration of comfort levels. The ability of buildings and systems to absorb the shock and bring back the indoor conditions to their designed state is termed as “resilience”. Ventilation and thermal resilience have been studied under homogeneous conditions. However, the established airflow indoors and hence resilience is non-homogeneous. In this work, the spatial aspect of ventilation and thermal resilience will be assessed in a classroom equipped with displacement ventilation using 3D CFD modeling. Two sources of pollution were considered in the space: CO2and VOCs. To study resilience, the numerical model was simulated until steady state. Subsequently, a power outage shock of 60 min was induced. The temporal and spatial mappings of temperature, and pollutants’ concentration were recorded in the occupied zone at the breathing height of 1.2 m and compared to that at the exhaust. Building resilience was assessed throughppm.hoursanddegree.hoursand compared at both locations. Results showed that resilience is rather a non-homogeneous field that depends on the location of heat sources and pollution sources in the space. However, results showed that any over or under estimations (~20 − 28%) in assessing the thermal or ventilation resilience are negligible when evaluated at either the breathing plane or the exhaust.
Martensite transformation kinetics and microstructural evolution during quench and partitioning process of high aluminium medium carbon steel
Authors: Kurup Vinod , Siyasiya Charles , Mostert Roelf
Published: December 2022

The quench and partition process was studied in a high aluminium (Al) medium carbon (C) steel by varying the quench temperature which is one of the process parameters The first part of the paper deals with modelling athermal martensite transformation using an empirical approach. This model is an improvement on Koiestein and Marburger's model, and it better represents the martensitic transformation. The second part of the paper deals with microstructure evolution in high Al steel when subjected to the quench and partition process. The maximum retained austenite (RA) obtained was 13% at a quenching temperature of 260°C. The addition of Al promoted the formation of bainite during the partition stage.
Electron backscatter diffraction postprocessing techniques for studying recrystallisation phenomenon of Ferritic Stainless Steel
Authors: Salojee Muhammed Y. , Siyasiya Charles W. , Annan Kofi A. , Moema Joseph
Published: December 2022

The following article looks at using scanning electron microscopy- electron back scatter diffraction techniques to study recrystallisation structures produced through hot rolling of 436 ferritic stainless steel. Characterisation of recrystallisation textures was undertaken through analysis of misorientation angle distribution diagrams, orientation distribution function maps, inverse pole figures and Taylor factor maps. These techniques were applied in a case study where typical industrial hot rolling conditions were simulated through uniaxial compression tests in a Bähr Dilatometer 850D, whereby the effect of strain rate and interpass time on recrystallisation structures was investigated.
In-situ production of WC-Ni using a laser cladding technique
Authors: Skhosane Samuel , Masina Bathusile , Lekoadi Paul , Pityane Sisa
Published: December 2022

Metal Matrix Composite (MMC) coatings of Tungsten Carbide (WC) and Nickel (Ni) powder were produced using laser cladding process. A crack free and good metallurgically bonded WC-Ni coating of about 5mm thick produced from varying both laser energy density and percent mixture of Ni and WC. In this study, the microstructure of WC-Ni coatings were characterised using optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM) with EDS, while mechanical properties of the coating were studied using Vickers hardness tester and abrasion wear resistance tester. It was found that the hardness and wear resistance increase as the percentage of WC increases.
A motion segmentation technique for mobile robots using probabilistic models
Authors: Dorfling Anchal , van Daalen C.E.
Published: December 2022

A dynamic environment can be challenging for a robot to navigate; it should avoid collisions with objects while determining its position in its environment (localisation). Thus, it is necessary for a mobile robot to take measurements of its environment, such as features from camera images, to determine whether objects are static or dynamic (motion segmentation). This is difficult to do as knowledge of static objects is required for localisation which is then used to track the trajectories of dynamic objects. This paper proposes a motion segmentation technique that classifies objects as static or dynamic by measuring the change in distance between them across many time steps; this removes the need for localisation information. The technique is adapted from a probabilistic method for outlier removal and existing motion segmentation techniques. A simple, 1D environment is simulated to show proof of concept. Additionally, a few strategies for PGM model construction are investigated where the results show a clear relationship between accuracy and computational times.
Improving Reinforcement Learning with Ensembles of Different Learners
Authors: Crafford Gerrie , Rosman Benjamin
Published: December 2022

Different reinforcement learning (RL) methods exist to address the problem of combining multiple different learners to generate a superior learner. These existing methods usually assume that each learner uses the same algorithm and/or state representation. We propose an ensemble learner that combines a set of base learners and leverages the strengths of the different base learners online. We demonstrate the proposed ensemble learner’s ability to combine the strengths of multiple base learners and adapt to changes in base learner performance on various domains, including the Atari Breakout domain.
Markerless monocular vision-based localisation for autonomous inspection drones
Authors: Nel Gert , Engelbrecht Jacobus Adriaan Albertus , Engelbrecht Herman Arnold
Published: December 2022

This paper presents a markerless vision-based localisation algorithm to enable an autonomous inspection drone to determine its pose relative to a known inspection target. During an offline mapping phase, a 3D catalogue of the inspection target's persistent image features is created and stored. A neural network is trained on regions of interest of the images for fast segmentation. During the online localisation phase, the images are first segmented and the detected features in the segmented areas are matched with the stored features in the target's 3D catalogue. A pose estimation algorithm is applied to the matched features to determine the pose of the drone relative to the target. Practical experiments show promising results with small position and attitude errors.
Effects of energy density on the microstructure evolution of TiC/Ti6Al4V-ELI metal composite fabricated with laser metal deposition
Authors: Ramasobane Pushetso , Mashinini Madindwa Peter , Masina Bathusile Nelisiwe
Published: December 2022

This study investigated the microstructural evolution of Ti6Al4V-ELI reinforced with TiC, fabricated via in-situ laser metal deposition technique. The 3.85% volume fraction TiC/Ti6Al4V-ELI metal composite samples were fabricated at two different energy densities (ED). It was observed that in-situ reaction resulted in various morphologies (unmelted or partially melted, chain-shaped eutectic, granular eutectic, granular primary eutectic, and dendritic primary) of TiC embedded with the beta grain boundary and the acicular alpha prime matrix. The size of dendritic structures decreases with respect to ED. Additionally, the hardness average of 457.59 ± 39.73 and 455.08 ± 18.03 HV0.3 for 96 and 102 J/mm2 ED respectively.
A comparison of sound transmission of middle ear prostheses manufactured via SLM
Authors: Motibane Londiwe , Tshabalala Lerato , Tshifularo Mashudu , Ramokolo Rocky , van der Westhuizen Waldo , Mabena Chemist , Hart Jaco , Loveday Philip
Published: December 2022

Middle ear surgeries involve Total Ossicular Replacement Prosthesis (TORP) or Partial Ossicular Replacement Prosthesis, where all or some of the three ossicle bones are replaced. Current prostheses are dissimilar to the natural ossicles in geometry, size and only recover up to 75% sound transmission. Additive manufacturing offers complex, near-net shape geometries that allow for patient specific implants. A novel design is used to manufacture a TORP in Ti6Al4V(ELI) via Additive Manufacturing. The sound transmission level of the of the additively manufactured titanium prosthesis was measured by laser doppler vibrometry and compared to that of a Silver additively manufactured prosthesis. The sound transmission level of the additively manufactured prostheses are also compared to that of the international standards and literature using this method.
Corrosion Properties for Roll-Bonded Two-Layer AA4045/AA3003 for Heat Exchanger Application
Authors: Moema J.S. , Ramathe T. , Siyasiya C.W. , Buthelezi T.
Published: December 2022

During their service life, heat-exchangers are subjected to a variety of environments, including heating and cooling cycles, salt water environment on the surface, and mechanical loading. As a result, corrosion performance is critical, as perforation of the material could result in system failure. Corrosion behaviour of brazed roll-bonded aluminium sheet is significant since this is the most common mode of failure for automotive heat exchangers, especially with the trend toward lighter automotive parts. Furthermore, thermal treatments such as solution heat treatment, homogenization, and brazing alter the microstructure and, as a result, vary the corrosion behaviour. The effect of homogenization temperature and duration on the microstructure of AA-3xxx aluminium alloys has been studied, but more research is needed. The goal of this investigation was to see how different holding times during homogenization heat treatments affect corrosion behaviour. Accelerated laboratory corrosion tests are essential for ranking trial materials and ultimately qualifying an alloy for production. The corrosion behaviour of two-layer modified aluminium sheets (AA4045/3003 Modified) was examined in this research before and after brazing. The corrosion propagation was attributed to potential differences between the brazing sheet, creating a galvanically driven perforation of the core material by the diffusion zone after sea water acid accelerated testing (SWAAT) and electrochemical testing of the AA4045/3003 modified brazing sheet. Furthermore, a link between SWAAT and potentiodynamic polarization measurements has been established, suggesting that these electrochemical approaches could be used to replace or reinforce the SWAAT and so reduce the cost.
Psychiatrische und biblische Aspekte zur Mutterrolle
Authors: Mavrogiorgou Paraskevi , Juckel Georg
Published: December 2022

Mütter spielen im Leben eines jeden Menschen, aber auch im Kontext von psychiatrischen Erkrankungen eine besondere Rolle. Das betrifft sowohl jeweils die Entwicklungspsychologie und die Familiendynamik, aber auch Nähe- und Distanzregulation zum betroffenen Kind in der späteren Herausbildung von Erkrankungen wie Schizophrenie, Angst- und affektive Störungen, Sucht und Persönlichkeitsstörungen. Der „Kampf“ der Mutter für und mit ihrem Kind und der Einfluss ihrer eigenen Psychopathologie wird besonders im Infantizid und dem „Münchhausen-by-proxy“-Syndrom deutlich. In der christlichen Religion nimmt bekanntlich Jesus im Neuen Testament, in der viele Rollen von Frauen und Müttern angesprochen werden, eine eher kritische Position zu Verwandtschaftsverhältnissen ein, so auch zu seiner eigenen Mutter. Aber er zollt denjenigen Frauen, wie die Beispiele mit der „kanaanitische Frau“, die sich für ihre von „Dämonen besessene“ Tochter vehement einsetzt, hohen Respekt für ihr starkes Engagement für andere. So macht er deutlich, was die Rolle der Mütter für eine gute und psychisch stabile Entwicklung ihrer Kinder ausmachen könnte: Relativierung von gesellschaftlich determinierten Rollen und Funktionen, Wertschätzung für ein anderes Leben, bedingungslose Zuwendung und religiöse Orientierung.
The everyday work of One Welfare in animal sheltering and protection
Authors: Koralesky Katherine E. , Rankin Janet M. , Fraser David
Published: December 2022

In animal sheltering and protection, One Welfare initiatives include supporting people who have difficulty providing for their animals because of limitations in their physical or mental health, income or housing. However, little research has focused on the actual work that such initiatives involve for animal shelter staff and animal protection officers. We used institutional ethnography to explore how such work activities occur in frontline practices and to better understand how this work is coordinated. Methods included ethnographic observation of animal protection officers and animal shelter staff, document analysis, plus focus groups and interviews with staff, officers and managers. In cases where an animal’s care was deficient but did not meet the standard for legal intervention, officers provided people with supplies for their animals, referred them to low-cost or free veterinary care, and provided emergency animal boarding. This work was time-consuming and was sometimes done repeatedly without lasting effect. It was often constrained by animal owners’ limited housing, cognitive decline, mental health and other factors. Hence, improving the animal’s welfare in these ways was often difficult and uncertain. Although officers and animal shelter staff are increasingly expected to provide and record supports given to vulnerable owners, standard procedures and criteria for intervention have not yet evolved; hence the work is largely left to the judgement and ingenuity of personnel. In addition, the necessary collaboration between animal welfare workers and human social services staff (e.g. social workers, supportive-housing staff) is made difficult by the different expectations and different institutional processes governing such activities. Further work is needed to assess how meeting the needs of both animals and people could be strengthened in challenging situations. This might include sharing best practices among officers and further ethnographic analysis of animal protection services, how they interact with other services, and how One Welfare initiatives actually affect animal care. Institutional ethnography provides a way to study the organisational processes that shape and constrain care for animals, and its explicit focus on actual work processes provides insights that may be missed by other approaches.
Nano-sieve efficiently captures and releases tiny bioparticles
Authors: Green Leigh Ann
Published: December 2022

Controlled pneumatic pressure, along with regulated flow, enables the separation of various sized nanoparticles from solutions.
Experimental study on refrigerant charge amount and optimal high pressure of a CO2 heat pump system for an electric bus
Authors: Guo Yang , Yang Wei , Wu Haimei , Deng Rongbin , Li Tao , Chen Shangmai , Jin Zunlong
Published: December 2022

In order to investigate the influence of refrigerant charge amount and discharge pressure on a CO2 heat pump system of an electric bus, an experiment setup was built. Tests were carried out in an enthalpy difference chamber to obtain the coefficient of performance and heating capacity of the system at each operating condition. The influence of operation parameters—including refrigerant charge amount, ambient temperature, outlet temperature of gas cooler, and compressor speed—was considered in this experiment. The results showed that the system performance was influenced by charge amount, and the minimum charge amount was 6.8 kg. The charge amount was almost independent of the ambient temperature, but the system performance was more sensitive to the charge amount at low temperatures. The optimal high-pressure relationship for this CO2 heat pump is popt = 0.162Tgc.out − 0.016Tamb + 2.668, which was fitted considering both the outlet temperature of the gas cooler and the ambient temperature. Meanwhile, the low-temperature performance test (–22 °C) showed that this CO2 heat pump system can meet the operation requirements of city buses at low temperature.
Chemistry Nobelists developed reactions that are “compatible with almost everything”
Authors: Miller Johanna L.
Published: December 2022

Most chemical reactions require stringent conditions and can interfere with other molecules in their environment. But a few do not—and they’ve proved tremendously useful.
How the blue-ringed octopus flashes its rings
Authors: Mäthger Lydia
Published: December 2022

The animals flex and relax fast-acting muscles to expose light reflectors hidden in specialized skin pouches.
CABI’s 100 years in identifying and combating emerging fungal diseases in response to climate change
Authors: Smith David , Casey Jonathan , Ryan Matthew J. , Offord Lisa , Rendell-Dunn Alexis , Reeder Rob
Published: December 2022

CABI has been involved in identifying and combatting emerging fungal disease of plants for over 100 years and in doing so has built a wealth of resources to support farmers and practitioners in reducing crop loss. CABI does not achieve this alone – being an international, inter-governmental, not-for-profit organisation, its 49 Member Countries guide and influence its work, which a network of global partners helps deliver. This work is becoming more relevant in light of increasing threats from climate change, invasive species and pathogens becoming resistant to biocides. Here, we focus on how climate change is influencing disease occurrence and how CABI’s work and resources can help in the battle to manage emerging and spreading diseases. CABI’s culture collection maintains living and active strains of pathogens and biocontrol agents for use as reference materials, its diagnostic advisory service and network of partners helps identify problems and provide solutions and CABI’s information resources underpin it all.
How broadcasters enhance rapport with viewers in live streaming commerce
Authors: Shi Xingsong , Dou Huanqin
Published: December 2022

Despite the increasing research interest, the existing literature on live streaming commerce as a new e-commerce
mode is still in its infancy. Based on 100 live streaming commerce videos from the top two broadcasters on Taobao Live in China,
this study conducted a genre-based discourse analysis to investigate the move pattern in this new genre. The study draws on
rapport management theory to scrutinize the linguistic functions of the moves, to explore how the broadcasters managed to enhance
broadcaster-viewer relationship. Our findings may further our understanding of live streaming commerce as a new form of digital
genre, and shed light on how successful broadcasters may strategically manage their relationship with viewers through
well-organized discourse forms. Theoretically, the present research may contribute to the literature of employing rapport
management theory in the discourse domain by extending it into a new digital genre analysis. Practically, our findings may provide
implications for relevant practitioners.
Ards and North Down, Northern Ireland: An Emerging Food Destination
Authors: Ibrahim Zainub , Bambrough Ian
Published: December 2022

Ards and North Down is a borough located on the east coast of Northern Ireland. While this region is not well known for its food culture, it produces many quality ingredients, which are increasingly being used locally to produce a variety of artisan foods. This case study is about community, and the value added that comes from local small businesses taking pride in and using local ingredients to produce unique, quality foods and experiences. Local community support initiatives have resulted in this region gaining some traction towards becoming a food destination. While the community has benefitted from this, there remain challenges to be addressed.
Oil Palm Empty Fruit Bunch (OPEFB) Pellets as a Biosorbent for Ni (II) and Cr (VI) removal in an aqueous solution
Authors: Salleh N F Muhamad , Ghafar N A , Shukri N Mohd , Md Hanafiah S F , Hapani M
Published: December 2022

This study was carried out to examine the ability of adsorbent oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) pellet to remove Ni (II) and Cr (VI) in an aqueous solution. Raw OPEFB pellet and acid-treated OPEFB pellet were utilised as adsorbents. The constitution of OPEFB pellets that consisted of functional hydroxyl groups was proven by FT-IR results confirming its ability to adsorb Ni (II) and Cr (VI) ions. For the removal of Ni (II), the percent removal of Ni (II) was found to be better by using raw OPEFB pellets but the removal of Cr (VI) was found to be better by using acid-treated OPEFB pellets. The optimum conditions for Ni (II) removal were at pH 5, 10 mg/L of initial concentration, 2.0 g of pellets had removed 76% of Ni(II) within 90 min. The optimum conditions for Cr (VI) removal were at pH 7, 10 mg/L of initial concentration, 3.0 g of pellets had removed 63% of Cr (VI) within 120 min. Hence it was proved that oil palm empty fruit bunch pellet could successfully adsorb Ni (II) and Cr (VI) in an aqueous solution.
Simultaneous Removal of Lead, Cadmium, and Arsenic Ions from Bivalve Species Using Adsorption Method
Authors: Najamuddin S N I Syed , Shukri N Mohd , Salleh N F Muhamad , Abdullah W N Wan , Shohaimi N A Mohd , Ab Halim A Z , Abdullah N H
Published: December 2022

Bivalve such as blood cockle (Tegillarca granosa) feeds by filtering the suspended particle in water including heavy metals and eventually accumulate in the fleshes. Bivalve contaminated with heavy metals might be consumed by human which later could have been exposed to heavy metals toxicity. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effectiveness of adsorption process towards the removal of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and arsenic (As) ions from T. granosa. The findings found that the initial concentration of Pb and As in T. granosa exceeded the permissible limits set by WHO. To remove heavy metals from T. granosa, an adsorption procedure was carried out using lemon and mango peels as natural waste adsorbents. The presence of hydroxyl and carboxylic functional groups in mango and lemon peels was shown in FTIR spectra, which aided in the enhancement of the adsorption process. A series of tests were performed using various parameters such as dosage adsorbents, contact of time, and temperature of reaction. The highest removal percentages of Pb, Cd, and As in T. granosa using lemon peels were 59.65%, 88.89%, and 67.54% respectively. Meanwhile, the maximum removal from T. granosa using mango peels were 70.18% for Pb, 100% for Cd, and 84.71% for As. In conclusion, the adsorption process was effective in removing Pb, Cd, and As in T. granosa. Whereas both lemon peels and mango peels have ability to become effective naturals waste adsorbent in the adsorption process.
Removal of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) from Water Using Empty Fruit Bunch (EFB) Based Bio-sorbent
Authors: Neemisha G , Amin M F Mohd , Rasat M S Mat , Ahmad M I , Hassan H
Published: December 2022

Naproxen has been found in a variety of water sources, including drinking water and groundwater. The effectiveness of wastewater treatment plants and other modern pharmaceutical removal procedures are investigated, with a particular focus on adsorption. There are several significant findings in this report that the quantity of oil palm wastes particularly oil palm EFB has created disposal problems. Utilizing EFB as a pollutant adsorbent in wastewater is a viable option. The aim of this research is to determine the adsorption capacity and the efficiency of EFB in removal of NSAIDs from water. As a result, EFB must be used to mitigate agricultural waste and water pollution. The highest percentage naproxen sodium removal shows at concentration of 100 ppm after 24 hours in 2.5 g of EFB, which was 98.66%. For 5.0 g of EFB, the highest percentage removal recorded in 1000 ppm concentration of naproxen sodium solution after 24 hours was 45.74 %. Aspects for EFB to achieve maximum adsorption capacity and efficiency are smaller EFB and contact time in 24 hours. In conclusion, EFB can be utilized as a cheap raw material to be a bio-sorbent.
The Effectiveness of Torrefied Agricultural Wastes using Conventional Heating
Authors: Ahmad M I , Amalin N Z , Amin M F M , Elham P , Abas A , Lateh H , Amin M A M , Shafie A
Published: December 2022

The production of wastes volume from agricultural wastes have led to the selection as a renewable energy feedstock, and it has the opportunity into energy market. A comparison is made between two mode of wastes that is treated (rinse and soaking in water for 12 hours) and raw of coconut husk (CH) tap under torrefaction were investigated. This work has utilized of conventional heating method with mild oxygen concentration for the properties and combustion characteristics feedstock output. As such the influenced parameters with size of 750μm, holding temperature at (200, 240, and 280 °C), and residence duration at (20, 40 and 60 minutes) were involved within this torrefaction setup. The combustion behaviour of tested coconut husks marked three discrete zone, whereby the severity setup resulted to increase the fixed carbon (FC) value, thus leading to higher ignition temperature. The changes in mass yield and the increased of honeycomb-like and spongy-like porous structure were recorded for treated coconut husk than of the raw. The functional group results from Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) test showed a valuable interest of treated mode also been discussed.
GIS Based Assessment and Analysis of Terrain Variables in Kampung Baru, Jeli, Kelantan
Authors: Udin W S , Aduini M N , Sulaiman N , Sulaiman N , Shafiee N S , Jamil R M
Published: December 2022

Kampung Baru is one part of Jeli district that has abundant natural resources and contains several geological features of interest.The landscape of this area is divided into three parts which are mountainous, hilly, and plain areas. This research aims to perform terrain analysis and determine the suitability zone for the construction area. To achieve the objective, the mapping aspect is mainly based on field observations such as geomorphological features, elevation, drainage patterns, etc. Besides, elevation data extracted from Digital Elevation Model (DEM) was employed to characterize the physical features of the landscape for terrain mapping and analysis. All this field-related data was then processed in ArcGIS software to generate thematic maps. The terrain classification was carried out based on five terrain variables: slope gradient, terrain code, activity code, erosion & instability. Then, the suitability of the site for development and construction is created using the terrain attributes. There were five types of classes created in the study area: class I (37.9 %), class II (23.3 %), class III (1.7 %), class IV (29.3 %), and class IV cut slope (7.6 %). The study area was dominated by class I, which means it has few geotechnical constraints and is highly suitable for development. Some cutting and filling of slopes are not expected to be difficult due to their low elevation. From the slope terrain analysis, only 4.89 % of the site is covered by a very steep slope (>60°). The site is mainly high slopes (35° - 60°), equal to 32.20% of the total area, with most of it contributed by the cut slopes. Gently sloping (5° - 15°) to moderate slope rate (15° - 25°) covers about 19.93% and 14.19% of the area respectively. The percentage of flat to gently sloping (0° - 15°) area is shown as 15.34 % of the project site. In conclusion, the parameters including the map prepared using the Weighted Overlay Method (WOM) can be beneficial to engineering geology for the planning of site investigations, preliminary design of foundation systems, and the project layout of the research area.
Economic Valuation of Forest Ecosystem for Watershed Services in Kelantan, Malaysia
Authors: Abdullah Mukrimah , Mamat Mohd Parid , Ibrahim Tuan Marina Tuan , Yacob Mohd Rusli , Hussain Faten Naseha Tuan , Hassin Nor Hizami
Published: December 2022

Preserving forest watershed areas has become crucial in capturing and storing water, contributing enough water supply for domestic and non-domestic purposes such as agriculture, recreation, and energy generation. Unlike primary goods such as food and fuel, most ecosystem services like watersheds do not have market values, where the protection of these services is barely considered in economic decisions. The study aims to estimate the value of the economic benefit of the forest ecosystem for watershed services in Kelantan by using the willingness to pay (WTP). The simple random method has been employed to collect the data via face to face to interviews with 1043 households in Kelantan. The finding of this study estimated the economic value of Kelantan’s forest ecosystem for watershed services amounted to RM48 million annually, which could be worthwhile for protection or conservation fees. The public’s interest in contributing to the forest watershed services in Kelantan indicates that relevant stakeholders need more collaborative effort, including non-governmental organisations and federal and state governments, to conserve and preserve the forest ecosystem in Malaysia, specifically for watershed services.
Assessment of the supply and demand function of hydropower energy industry: Fresh empirical evidence from the EU region
Authors: Zubair A O , Abdul-Rahim A S , Sulaiman C
Published: December 2022

The hydropower industry is a crucial catalyst for improving the National Renewable Energy Action Plans (NREAPs) and mitigating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in line with the Renewable Energy Directive of the European Union. Hydropower has been described as one of the most scalable electricity generations, enabling the incorporation of variable production for wind and solar energy systems. Nonetheless, despite ensuring that hydropower production securely matches demand in the real-time market, uncertainty about investment cost and concession rights continue to impede the achievement of the goal. The study used the supply and demand functions to analyse the market hydropower energy industry in the EU from 1990-2018. The research employed two-stage least square (2SLS) and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models for the analyses. The outcomes of the supply side indicated that an increase in input resource (precipitation) and hydropower price are essential factors influencing the growth in hydropower supply in the EU region. By contrast, the result reveals that a rise in input cost discourages more hydropower energy production in the EU. As for the demand side, statistical findings have shown that income is directly associated with the demand for hydropower. Whereas an increase in the price of hydropower energy causes reductions in demand. More importantly, we find solar energy to be a substitute for hydropower in the EU region. The results of the forecasted hydropower market demonstrate that supply would be enough to cater to hydropower consumption in the European Union region until 2030. A typical pumped-hydro for supply-push is needed for managing prices during off and peak load situations. There is also a need to streamline the variable cost of topology and geography when constructing a Dam. This study recommends that the EU expand and make hydropower transmission from the grid a national project to be easily accessible for consumption.
Impact of Manufacturing Value Added on Environmental Degradation: empirical evidence from India
Authors: Sulaiman C , Abdul-Rahim A S , Samad N S A , Muhammad-Jawad I , Abidin N S Zainal , Shaari N F
Published: December 2022

In recent years, the manufacturing sector in India has been witnessing a continuous growth in output production due to increase in investment in the sector and the government’s commitment to reduce reliance on imports and boost exports considering the country’s huge domestic market. However, this development is not environmentally friendly as increase in production entails increase in energy consumption, which result in an increased carbon emission that damage the environment. In view of the foregoing situation, this study is set out to investigate the impact of manufacturing value-added on environmental degradation in India over the 1965-2016 period. The study used autoregressive and distributed lag (ARDL) model to achieve its objective. Carbon dioxide emission was used to proxy environmental degradation in the model. In order to serve as control variables in the model, some selected relevant macroeconomic variables such as energy use, trade openness, and economic growth were employed. The estimated result showed that manufacturing value added has positive impact on environmental degradation in India. It infers that the increasing production in the manufacturing sector is degrading the environment through carbon emission. This suggests that an increase in manufacturing sector value added contributes to reducing the quality of environmental in India. Also, the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis was tested and found to be invalid and non-existent. Since the manufacturing sector consumes a lot of energy in its productive activities, the result does not come as a surprise. Thus, we suggest that policymakers in India should apply appropriate measures to improve the quality of the environment through adoption of new technology that will ensure energy efficiency and reduce carbon emission from the country’s manufacturing sector.