bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Maxillary Retrusion in Skeletal Class III Malocclusion Affect the Perception of Facial Aesthetics? Evaluation of Different Groups
Authors: Barone Selene , Averta Fiorella , Muraca Danila , Diodati Federica , Bennardo Francesco , Antonelli Alessandro , Giudice Amerigo
Published: July 2021

Background: The perception of facial aesthetics is a complex topic due to its subjective nature and it can be influenced by several factors. The purpose of this study was to compare the perception of general dentists, orthodontists, maxillofacial surgeons, and lay people by evaluating facial aesthetics in skeletal class III patients, especially for maxillary sagittal position. Methods: A survey consisting of three sets of pre-treatment photographs of four dysmorphic patients was used. The questionnaire was submitted to a total of 200 participants divided into the following four subgroups: general dentists, orthodontists, maxillofacial surgeons, and lay people. Their opinion on facial disharmony, sagittal position of the jaws, asymmetry of the chin, projection of the cheekbone area, and lip aesthetics was recorded. Results: Significant differences were found between experts and non-experts in the perception of the maxillary position, asymmetry of the chin and zygomatic area (p < 0.01). No statistically significant differences were found among the groups in the perception of mandibular position and lip aesthetics. Conclusion: The respondents with a medical or dental background perceived the presence of maxillary retrusion more than others. Only orthodontists and maxillofacial surgeons have recognized an alteration of the middle facial third as a greater component of skeletal class III malocclusion.
Development of Novel High Li-Ion Conductivity Hybrid Electrolytes of Li10GeP2S12 (LGPS) and Li6.6La3Zr1.6Sb0.4O12 (LLZSO) for Advanced All-Solid-State Batteries
Authors: Wang Linsheng
Published: July 2021

A lithium superionic conductor of Li10GeP2S12 that exhibits the highest lithium ionic conductivity among the sulfide electrolytes and the most promising oxide electrolytes, namely, Li6.6La3Sr0.06Zr1.6Sb0.4O12 and Li6.6La3Zr1.6Sb0.4O12, are successfully synthesized. Novel hybrid electrolytes with a weight ratio of Li6.6La3Zr1.6Sb0.4O12 to Li10GeP2S12 from 1/1 to 1/3 with the higher Li-ion conductivity than that of the pure Li10GeP2S12 electrolyte are developed for the fabrication of the advanced all-solid-state Li batteries.
Variations in the Abortive HIV-1 RNA Hairpin Do Not Impede Viral Sensing and Innate Immune Responses
Authors: Stunnenberg Melissa , van Hamme John L. , Das Atze T. , Berkhout Ben , Geijtenbeek Teunis B. H.
Published: July 2021

The highly conserved trans-acting response element (TAR) present in the RNA genome of human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) is a stably folded hairpin structure involved in viral replication. However, TAR is also sensed by viral sensors, leading to antiviral immunity. While high variation in the TAR RNA structure renders the virus replication-incompetent, effects on viral sensing remain unclear. Here, we investigated the role of TAR RNA structure and stability on viral sensing. TAR mutants with deletions in the TAR hairpin that enhanced thermodynamic stability increased antiviral responses. Strikingly, TAR mutants with lower stability due to destabilization of the TAR hairpin also increased antiviral responses without affecting pro-inflammatory responses. Moreover, mutations that affected the TAR RNA sequence also enhanced specific antiviral responses. Our data suggest that mutations in TAR of replication-incompetent viruses can still induce immune responses via viral sensors, hereby underscoring the robustness of HIV-1 RNA sensing mechanisms.
Detection of Tick-Borne Pathogens of the Genera Rickettsia, Anaplasma and Francisella in Ixodes ricinus Ticks in Pomerania (Poland)
Authors: Kirczuk Lucyna , Piotrowski Mariusz , Rymaszewska Anna
Published: July 2021

Tick-borne pathogens are an important medical and veterinary issue worldwide. Environmental monitoring in relation to not only climate change but also globalization is currently essential. The present study aimed to detect tick-borne pathogens of the genera Anaplasma, Rickettsia and Francisella in Ixodes ricinus ticks collected from the natural environment, i.e., recreational areas and pastures used for livestock grazing. A total of 1619 specimens of I. ricinus were collected, including ticks of all life stages (adults, nymphs and larvae). The study was performed using the PCR technique. Diagnostic gene fragments msp2 for Anaplasma, gltA for Rickettsia and tul4 for Francisella were amplified. No Francisella spp. DNA was detected in I. ricinus. DNA of A. phagocytophilum was detected in 0.54% of ticks and Rickettsia spp. in 3.69%. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed that only one species of Rickettsia, R. helvetica, was present in the studied tick population. The present results are a part of a large-scale analysis aimed at monitoring the level of tick infestation in Northwest Poland.
Use of Monoclonal Antibody to Treat COVID-19 in Children and Adolescents: Risk of Abuse of Prescription and Exacerbation of Health Inequalities
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Zona Stefano , Pession Andrea , Iughetti Lorenzo , Migliori Giovanni Battista , Principi Nicola
Published: July 2021

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that neutralize SARS-CoV-2 in infected patients are a new class of antiviral agents approved as a type of passive immunotherapy. They should be administered to adults and children (≥12 years old, weighing ≥ 40 kg) with SARS-CoV-2 positivity, and who are suffering from a chronic underlying disease and are at risk of severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization. The aim of this manuscript is to discuss the benefit-to-risk of mAb therapy to treat COVID-19 in pediatric age, according to current reports. A problem is that the authorization for mAbs use in children was given without studies previously evaluating the efficacy, safety and tolerability of mAbs in pediatric patients. Moreover, although the total number of children with chronic severe underlying disease is not marginal, the risk of severe COVID-19 in pediatric age is significantly reduced than in adults and the role of chronic underlying disease as a risk factor of severe COVID-19 development in pediatric patients is far from being precisely defined. In addition, criteria presently suggested for use of mAbs in children and adolescents are very broad and may cause individual clinicians or institutions to recommend these agents on a case-by-case basis, with an abuse in mAbs prescriptions and an exacerbation of health inequalities while resources are scarce. Several questions need to be addressed before their routine use in clinical practice, including what is their associated benefit-to-risk ratio in children and adolescents, who are the patients that could really have benefit from their use, and if there is any interference of mAb therapy on recommended vaccines. While we wait for answers to these questions from well-conducted research, an effective and safe COVID-19 vaccine for vulnerable pediatric patients remains the best strategy to prevent COVID-19 and represents the priority for public health policies.
Biopharmaceutical Study of Triamcinolone Acetonide Semisolid Formulations for Sublingual and Buccal Administration
Authors: Márquez Valls Marta , Martínez Labrador Alejandra , Halbaut Bellowa Lyda , Bravo Torres Doménica , Granda Paulo C. , Miñarro Carmona Montserrat , Limón David , Calpena Campmany Ana C.
Published: July 2021

The mouth can be affected by important inflammatory processes resulting from localized or systemic diseases such as diabetes, AIDS and leukemia, among others, and are manifested in various types of buccal sores typically presenting pain. This work focuses on the design, formulation, and characterization of four semisolid formulations for oral mucosa in order to symptomatically treat these painful processes. The formulations have two active pharmaceutical ingredients, triamcinolone acetonide (TA) and lidocaine hydrochloride (LIDO). The formula also contains, as an excipient, Orabase®, which is a protective, hydrophobic, and anhydrous adhesive vehicle, used to retain or facilitate the application of active pharmaceutical ingredients to the oral mucosa. After designing the formulations, an analytical method for TA was validated using HPLC so as to achieve reliable analytical results. Franz-type diffusion cells were used to perform drug release studies using synthetic membrane, and permeation studies using buccal mucosa, estimating the amount and rate of TA permeated across the tissue. Additionally, sublingual permeation studies were carried out to evaluate a scenario of a continuous contact of the tongue with the applied formulation. Permeation fluxes and the amount of TA retained within sublingual mucosa were similar to those in buccal mucosa, also implying anti-inflammatory activity in the part of the tongue that is in direct contact with the formulation. In addition, the dynamic conditions of the mouth were recreated in terms of the presence of phosphate buffered saline, constant movement of the tongue, pH, and temperature, using dissolution equipment. The amount of TA released into the phosphate buffered saline in dynamic conditions (subject to being ingested) is well below the normal oral doses of TA, for which the formulation can be considered safe. The formulations applied to buccal or sublingual mucosas under dynamic conditions permit the successful retention of TA within either tissue, where it exerts anti-inflammatory activity. The four formulations studied show a pseudoplastic and thixotropic behavior, ideal for topical application. These results evidence the potential of these topical formulations in the treatment of inflammatory processes in the buccal mucosa.
The Role of Growth Factors in Bioactive Coatings
Authors: Bjelić Dragana , Finšgar Matjaž
Published: July 2021

With increasing obesity and an ageing population, health complications are also on the rise, such as the need to replace a joint with an artificial one. In both humans and animals, the integration of the implant is crucial, and bioactive coatings play an important role in bone tissue engineering. Since bone tissue engineering is about designing an implant that maximally mimics natural bone and is accepted by the tissue, the search for optimal materials and therapeutic agents and their concentrations is increasing. The incorporation of growth factors (GFs) in a bioactive coating represents a novel approach in bone tissue engineering, in which osteoinduction is enhanced in order to create the optimal conditions for the bone healing process, which crucially affects implant fixation. For the application of GFs in coatings and their implementation in clinical practice, factors such as the choice of one or more GFs, their concentration, the coating material, the method of incorporation, and the implant material must be considered to achieve the desired controlled release. Therefore, the avoidance of revision surgery also depends on the success of the design of the most appropriate bioactive coating. This overview considers the integration of the most common GFs that have been investigated in in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as in human clinical trials, with the aim of applying them in bioactive coatings. An overview of the main therapeutic agents that can stimulate cells to express the GFs necessary for bone tissue development is also provided. The main objective is to present the advantages and disadvantages of the GFs that have shown promise for inclusion in bioactive coatings according to the results of numerous studies.
Target Tracking and Ranging Based on Single Photon Detection
Authors: Li Zhikang , Liu Bo , Wang Huachuang , Chen Zhen , Zhang Qun , Hua Kangjian , Yang Jing
Published: July 2021

In order to achieve non-cooperative target tracking and ranging in conditions of a weak echo signal, this paper presents a real-time acquisition, pointing, tracking (APT), and ranging (APTR) lidar system based on single photon detection. With this system, an active target APT mechanism based on a single photon detector is proposed. The target tracking and ranging strategy and the simulation of target APT are presented. Experiments in the laboratory show that the system has good performance to achieve the acquisition, pointing and ranging of a static target, and track a dynamic target (angular velocity around 3 mrad/s) under the condition of extremely weak echo signals (a dozen photons). Meanwhile, through further theoretical analysis, it can be proven that the mechanism has stronger tracking and detection ability in long distance. It can achieve the active tracking of the target with a lateral velocity of hundreds of meters per second at about one hundred kilometers distance. This means that it has the ability of fast long-distance non-cooperative target tracking and ranging, only by using a single-point single photon detector.
Organic Diode Laser Dynamics: Rate-Equation Model, Reabsorption, Validation and Threshold Predictions
Authors: Lenstra Daan , Fischer Alexis P.A. , Ouirimi Amani , Chime Alex Chamberlain , Loganathan Nixson , Chakaroun Mahmoud
Published: July 2021

We present and analyze a simple model based on six rate equations for an electrically pumped organic diode laser. The model applies to organic host-guest systems and includes Stoke-shifted reabsorption in a self-consistent manner. With the validated model for the Alq3:DCM host-guest system, we predict the threshold for short-pulse laser operation. We predict laser operation characterized by damped relaxation oscillations in the GHz regime and several orders of magnitude linewidth narrowing. Prospect for CW steady-state laser operation is discussed.
Adhesion and Structural Changes of PEGylated Lipid Nanocarriers on Silica Surfaces
Authors: Grad Philipp , Edwards Katarina , Agmo Hernández Víctor
Published: July 2021

PEGylated lipid nanoparticles have a continuously expanding range of applications, particularly within pharmaceutical areas. Hereby, it is shown with the help of the Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation monitoring (QCM-D) and other surface sensitive techniques that, at room temperature, PEGylated liposomes and lipodisks adhere strongly to silica surfaces resulting in the displacement of the hydration layer of silica and the formation of immobilized nanoparticle films. Furthermore, it is shown that drastic changes in the structure of the immobilized films occur if the temperature is increased to >35 °C. Thus, intact immobilized PEGylated liposomes rupture and spread, even in the gel phase state; immobilized lipodisks undergo complete separation of their components (bilayer forming lipids and PEGylated lipids) resulting in a monolayer of adsorbed PEGylated lipids; and PEGylated supported lipid bilayers release part of the water trapped between the lipid membrane and the surface. It is hypothesized that these changes occur mainly due to the changes in the configuration of PEG chains and a drastic decrease of the affinity of the polymer for water. The observed phenomena can be applied, e.g., for the production of defect-free supported lipid bilayers in the gel or liquid ordered phase states.
Growth Promotion or Osmotic Stress Response: How SNF1-Related Protein Kinase 2 (SnRK2) Kinases Are Activated and Manage Intracellular Signaling in Plants
Authors: Kamiyama Yoshiaki , Katagiri Sotaro , Umezawa Taishi
Published: July 2021

Reversible phosphorylation is a major mechanism for regulating protein function and controls a wide range of cellular functions including responses to external stimuli. The plant-specific SNF1-related protein kinase 2s (SnRK2s) function as central regulators of plant growth and development, as well as tolerance to multiple abiotic stresses. Although the activity of SnRK2s is tightly regulated in a phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA)-dependent manner, recent investigations have revealed that SnRK2s can be activated by group B Raf-like protein kinases independently of ABA. Furthermore, evidence is accumulating that SnRK2s modulate plant growth through regulation of target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling. Here, we summarize recent advances in knowledge of how SnRK2s mediate plant growth and osmotic stress signaling and discuss future challenges in this research field.
Phytochemical Constituents and Allelopathic Potential of Parthenium hysterophorus L. in Comparison to Commercial Herbicides to Control Weeds
Authors: Motmainna Mst. , Juraimi Abdul Shukor , Uddin Md. Kamal , Asib Norhayu Binti , Islam A. K. M. Mominul , Ahmad-Hamdani Muhammad Saiful , Hasan Mahmudul
Published: July 2021

The allelopathic effect of various concentrations (0, 6.25, 12.5, 50 and 100 g L−1) of Parthenium hysterophorus methanol extract on Cyperus iria was investigated under laboratory and glasshouse conditions. No seed germination was recorded in the laboratory when P. hysterophorus extract was applied at 50 g L−1. In the glasshouse, C. iria was mostly injured by P. hysterophorus extract at 100 g L−1. The phytochemical constituents of the methanol extract of P. hysterophorus were analyzed by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS=MS. The results indicated the presence of phenolic compounds, terpenoids, alkaloids, amino acids, fatty acids, piperazines, benzofuran, indole, amines, azoles, sulfonic acid and other unknown compounds in P. hysterophorus methanol extract. A comparative study was also conducted between P. hysterophorus extract (20, 40 and 80 g L−1) with a synthetic herbicide (glyphosate and glufosinate ammonium at 2 L ha−1) as a positive control and no treatment (negative control) on Ageratumconyzoides, Oryzasativa and C. iria. The growth and biomass of test weeds were remarkably inhibited by P. hysterophorus extract. Nevertheless, no significant difference was obtained when P. hysterophorus extract (80 g L−1) and synthetic herbicides (glyphosate and glufosinate ammonium) were applied on A.conyzoides.
Seed Treatment with Biostimulants Extracted from Weeping Willow (Salix babylonica) Enhances Early Maize Growth
Authors: Mutlu-Durak Hande , Yildiz Kutman Bahar
Published: July 2021

Biostimulants can be used as innovative and promising agents to address current needs of sustainable agriculture. Weeping willow tree (Salix babylonica) extracts are rich in many bioactive compounds, including, but not limited, to salicylates and phenolics. In this study, the potential of willow bark (WB) and willow leaf (WL) extracts is evaluated as plant-based biostimulants to improve the early growth of maize (Zea mays) under control and salinity stress conditions. In 3 days, seed treatment with salicylic acid and willow extract increased the shoot FW of maize seedlings 130% and 225%, respectively. The root area was, on average, enhanced by 43% with SA and 87% with willow extract applications. Moreover, these extracts increased the leaf protein concentration and reduced the negative effects of salinity during early growth. Reductions in lipid peroxidation and specific activities of antioxidative enzymes by seed treatments with willow extracts suggests a mitigation of salinity-induced oxidative stress. For most reported traits, WL applications were at least as effective as WB applications. Results indicate that aqueous extracts of weeping willow leaves, as well as bark, can be used as seed treatment agents with biostimulant activity to improve seedling growth and establishment under control and stress conditions.
Soil Nitrate Nitrogen Content and Grain Yields of Organically Grown Cereals as Affected by a Strip Tillage and Forage Legume Intercropping
Authors: Arlauskienė Aušra , Gecaitė Viktorija , Toleikienė Monika , Šarūnaitė Lina , Kadžiulienė Žydrė
Published: July 2021

Reducing tillage intensity and increasing crop diversity by including perennial legumes is an agrotechnical practice that strongly affects the soil environment. Strip tillage may be beneficial in the forage legume–cereals intercropping system due to more efficient utilization of biological nitrogen. Field experiments were conducted on a clay loam Cambisol to determine the effect of forage legume–winter wheat strip tillage intercropping on soil nitrate nitrogen (N-NO3) content and cereal productivity in various sequences of rotation in organic production systems. Forage legumes (Medicago lupulina L., Trifolium repens L., T. alexandrinum L.) grown in pure and forage legume–winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) strip tillage intercrops were studied. Conventional deep inversion tillage was compared to strip tillage. Nitrogen supply to winter wheat was assessed by the change in soil nitrate nitrogen content (N-NO3) and total N accumulation in yield (grain and straw). Conventional tillage was found to significantly increase N-NO3 content while cultivating winter wheat after forage legumes in late autumn (0–30 cm layer), after growth resumption in spring (30–60 cm), and in autumn after harvesting (30–60 cm). Soil N-NO3 content did not differ significantly between winter wheat strip sown in perennial legumes or oat stubble. Winter wheat grain yields increased with increasing N-NO3 content in soil. The grain yield was not significantly different when comparing winter wheat–forage legume strip intercropping (without mulching) to strip sowing in oat stubble. In forage legume–winter wheat strip intercropping, N release from legumes was weak and did not meet wheat nitrogen requirements.
Surface Modification of Polyurethane Membrane with Various Hydrophilic Monomers and N-Halamine: Surface Characterization and Antimicrobial Properties Evaluation
Authors: Cheng Chi-Hui , Liu Han-Cheng , Lin Jui-Che
Published: July 2021

Reducing microbial infections associated with biomedical devices or articles/furniture noted in a hospital or outpatient clinic remains a great challenge to researchers. Due to its stability and low toxicity, the N-halamine compound has been proposed as a potential antimicrobial agent. It can be incorporated into or blended with the FDA-approved biomaterials. Surface grafting or coating of N-halamine was also reported. Nevertheless, the hydrophobic nature associated with its chemical configuration may affect the microbial interactions with the chlorinated N-halamine-containing substrate. In this study, a polymerizable N-halamine compound was synthesized and grafted onto a polyurethane surface via a surface-initiated atom transfer radical polymerization (SI-ATRP) scheme. Further, using the sequential SI-ATRP reaction method, different hydrophilic monomers, namely poly (ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA), hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and [2-(methacryloyloxy) ethyl] dimethyl-(3-sulfopropyl) ammonium hydroxide (SBMA), were also grafted onto the polyurethane (PU) substrate before the N-halamine grafting reaction to change the surface properties of the N-halamine-modified substrate. It was noted that the chains containing the hydrophilic monomer and the polymerizable N-halamine compound were successfully grafted onto the PU substrate. The degree of chlorination was improved with the introduction of a hydrophilic monomer, except the HEMA. All of these hydrophilic monomer-containing N-halamine-modified PU substrates demonstrated a more than 2 log CFU reduction after microbial incubation. In contrast, the surface modified with N-halamine only exhibited significantly less antimicrobial efficacy instead. This is likely due to the synergistic effects caused by the reduced chlorine content, as well as the reduced surface interactions with the microbes.
On the Influence of Viscoelastic Modeling in Fluid Flow Simulations of Gum Acrylonitrile Butadiene Rubber
Authors: Stieger Sebastian , Mitsoulis Evan , Walluch Matthias , Ebner Catharina , Kerschbaumer Roman Christopher , Haselmann Matthias , Mostafaiyan Mehdi , Kämpfe Markus , Kühnert Ines , Wießner Sven , Friesenbichler Walter
Published: July 2021

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is an important tool as it enables engineers to study different design options without a time-consuming experimental workload. However, the prediction accuracy of any CFD simulation depends upon the set boundary conditions and upon the applied rheological constitutive equation. In the present study the viscoelastic nature of an unfilled gum acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) is considered by applying the integral and time-dependent Kaye–Bernstein–Kearsley–Zapas (K-BKZ) rheological model. First, exhaustive testing is carried out in the linear viscoelastic (LVE) and non-LVE deformation range including small amplitude oscillatory shear (SAOS) as well as high pressure capillary rheometer (HPCR) tests. Next, three abrupt capillary dies and one tapered orifice die are modeled in Ansys POLYFLOW. The pressure prediction accuracy of the K-BKZ/Wagner model was found to be excellent and insensitive to the applied normal force in SAOS testing as well as to the relation of first and second normal stress differences, provided that damping parameters are fitted to steady-state rheological data. Moreover, the crucial importance of viscoelastic modeling is proven for rubber materials, as two generalized Newtonian fluid (GNF) flow models severely underestimate measured pressure data, especially in contraction flow-dominated geometries.
Physicochemical, Bacteriostatic, and Biological Properties of Starch/Chitosan Polymer Composites Modified by Graphene Oxide, Designed as New Bionanomaterials
Authors: Krystyjan Magdalena , Khachatryan Gohar , Grabacka Maja , Krzan Marcel , Witczak Mariusz , Grzyb Jacek , Woszczak Liliana
Published: July 2021

The application of natural polymer matrices as medical device components or food packaging materials has gained a considerable popularity in recent years, this has occurred in response to the increasing plastic pollution hazard. Currently, constant progress is being made in designing two-component or three-component systems that combine natural materials which help to achieve a quality comparable to the purely synthetic counterparts. This study describes a green synthesis preparation of new bionanocomposites consisting of starch/chitosan/graphene oxide (GO), that possess improved biological activities; namely, good tolerability by human cells with concomitant antimicrobial activity. The structural and morphological properties of bionanocomposites were analyzed using the following techniques: dynamic light scattering, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, wettability and free surface energy determination, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The study confirmed the homogenous distribution of GO layers within the starch/chitosan matrix and their large particle size. The interactions among the components were stronger in thin films. Additionally, differential scanning calorimetry analysis, UV–vis spectroscopy, surface colour measurements, transparency, water content, solubility, and swelling degree of composites were also performed. The mechanical parameters, such as tensile strength and elongation at break (EAB) were measured in order to characterise the functional properties of obtained nanocomposites. The GO additive altered the thermal features of the composites and decreased their brightness. The EAB of composite was improved by the introduction of GO. Importantly, cell-based analyses revealed no toxic effect of the composites on HaCat keratinocytes and HepG2 hepatoma cells, although a pronounced bacteriostatic effect against various strains of pathogenic bacteria was observed. In conclusion, the starch/chitosan/GO nanocomposites reveal numerous useful physicochemical and biological features, which make them a promising alternative for purely synthetic materials.
Life Cycle Blue and Grey Water in the Supply Chain of China’s Apparel Manufacturing
Authors: Liu Ao , Han Aixi , Chai Li
Published: July 2021

Apparel manufacturing involves high water consumption and heavy water pollution in its supply chain, e.g., planting cotton, producing chemical fibers, and dyeing. This study employs a multi-regional input–output (MRIO) model to (1) assess the life cycle of blue and grey water (chemical oxygen demand (COD) specific) of China’s apparel manufacturing; (2) reveal the hidden linkage among sectors and regions in the whole supply chain; and (3) identify the key regions and upstream sectors with the most water consumption and heaviest water pollution. We found that the agricultural sector (i.e., planting fiber crops) is responsible for primary water consumption and water pollution. In addition, different provinces assume different production roles. Guangdong is a major output province in apparel manufacturing. However, its economic output is contributed to by other regions, such as blue water from Xinjiang and Jiangsu and grey water from Hebei and Shandong. Our research reveals the significance of taking an inter-regional perspective on water resource issues throughout the supply chain in apparel manufacturing. The sustainable development of China’s apparel manufacturing relies on improving water-use efficiency and reasonable industrial layout. The results are of significance and informative for policymakers to build a water-sustainable apparel industry.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Brownian Motion-Induced Particle Agglomeration Using the Taylor-Series Expansion Method of Moments
Authors: He Qing , Xie Mingliang
Published: July 2021

On the basis of binary perfectly inelastic collision theory, the time evolutions of kinetic energy and surface area for a particle agglomerate system, due to Brownian motion, are investigated by using the Taylor series expansion technology. The asymptotic behaviors over a long time period show a significantly negative power function of time. The thermodynamic constraints of this system are then obtained according to the principle of maximum entropy, which establishes a relationship of inequality between the first three particle moments and some physical parameters (i.e., surface tension and temperature). In the thermodynamic equilibrium state, this function provides a new approach for estimating the effect of molecular structure on surface tension of liquid polymers.
Evaluation of Sand Filtration and Activated Carbon Adsorption for the Post-Treatment of a Secondary Biologically-Treated Fungicide-Containing Wastewater from Fruit-Packing Industries
Authors: Azis Konstantinos , Mavriou Zografina , Karpouzas Dimitrios G. , Ntougias Spyridon , Melidis Paraschos
Published: July 2021

In this work, a sand filtration-activated carbon adsorption system was evaluated to remove the fungicide content of a biologically treated effluent. The purification process was mainly carried out in the activated carbon column, while sand filtration slightly contributed to the improvement of the pollutant parameters. The tertiary treatment system, which operated under the batch mode for 25 bed volumes, resulted in total and soluble COD removal efficiencies of 76.5 ± 1.5% and 88.2 ± 1.3%, respectively, detecting total COD concentrations below 50 mg/L in the permeate of the activated carbon column. A significant pH increase and a respective electrical conductivity (EC) decrease also occurred after activated carbon adsorption. The total and ammonium nitrogen significantly decreased, with determined concentrations of 2.44 ± 0.02 mg/L and 0.93 ± 0.19 mg/L, respectively, in the activated carbon permeate. Despite that, the initial imazalil concentration was greater than that of the fludioxonil in the biologically treated effluent (i.e., 41.26 ± 0.04 mg/L versus 7.35 ± 0.43 mg/L, respectively). The imazalil was completely removed after activated carbon adsorption, while a residual concentration of fludioxonil was detected. Activated carbon treatment significantly detoxified the biologically treated fungicide-containing effluent, increasing the germination index by 47% in the undiluted wastewater or by 68% after 1:1 v/v dilution.
Laboratory Properties of Waste PET Plastic-Modified Asphalt Mixes
Authors: Mashaan Nuha , Chegenizadeh Amin , Nikraz Hamid
Published: July 2021

Commercial polymers have been used in pavement modification for decades; however, a major drawback of these polymers is their high cost. Waste plastic polymers could be used as a sustainable and cost-effective additive for improving asphalt properties, attaining combined environmental–economic benefits. Since 2019, in Australia, trial segments of roads have been built using waste materials, including plastic, requiring that laboratory evaluations first be carried out. This study aims to examine and evaluate the effect of using a domestic waste plastic, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), in modifying C320 bitumen. The assessment of several contents of PET-modified bitumen is carried out in two phases: modified bitumen binders and modified asphalt mixtures. Dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) and rolling thin film oven tests (RTFOT) were utilised to investigate the engineering properties and visco-elastic behaviour of plastic-modified bitumen binders. For evaluating the engineering properties of the plastic-modified asphalt mixtures, the Marshall stability, Marshall flow, Marshall quotient and rutting tests were conducted. The results demonstrated that 6–8% is the ideal percentage of waste plastic proposed to amend and enhance the stiffness and elasticity behaviour of asphalt binders. Furthermore, the 8% waste PET-modified asphalt mixture showed the most improvement in stability and rutting resistance, as indicated by increased Marshal stability, increased Marshall quotient and decreased rut depth. Future fatigue and modulus stiffness tests on waste plastic-modified asphalt mixtures are suggested to further investigate the mechanical properties.
LCA of Glass Versus PET Mineral Water Bottles: An Italian Case Study
Authors: Ferrara Carmen , De Feo Giovanni , Picone Vincenza
Published: July 2021

Due to the serious problem of plastic pollution in aquatic environment, many people reject plastic packaging in favour of glass containers which are considered more sustainable. To avoid misjudgements, the sustainability assessment of packaging alternatives should be carried out with a life cycle thinking approach. In this regard, the study presents a comparative Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of two alternative packaging systems for drinking water: reusable glass bottles and polyethylene (PET) bottles. The case study was performed considering the real data of an Italian mineral water company that bottles and distributes both natural and sparkling water. The environmental impacts of the two packaging systems were estimated with the ReCiPe 2016 (H) evaluation method adopting both midpoint and endpoint approaches. The results showed that the PET bottle is the most sustainable alternative for natural water for many impact categories; while, in the case of sparkling water, the environmental impacts of the two packaging systems are similar and the most environmentally sound solution can vary depending on the impact category. The following are the most significant aspects of the analysis: (1) the number of reuses of a single glass bottle; (2) the distribution distance. Their variation can determine which packaging is the most sustainable. Therefore, a life cycle assessment approach is needed for each specific case.
From the Philosophy of Cult to the Philosophy of History in the Work of Pavel Alexandrovich Florensky (* 1882 + 1937)
Authors: Porubec Daniel
Published: July 2021

P. A. Florensky dedicated nine writings of his rich interdisciplinary work to the phenomenon of cult, which were first published in a censored form in 1977. We turn our attention to one of these writings called Cult, Religion and Culture, published under the common title Philosophy of Cult, in which the author elaborates a distinctive concept of the cult as the primary activity of man and at the same time as the gift offered to him for his own sanctification. It is the sacred cult—sacra from where, according to the author, two other human activities originate: namely, the ability to create tools—instrumenta—and the ability to create abstract concepts—notiones. However, both human activities have to be understood as a process of disintegration of the cult—sacra. Thus, by prioritizing one of the three human activities mentioned above, we can recognize three historical periods in history. According to Florensky, the human ability to create tools corresponds to the era of historical materialism, the ability to create concepts corresponds to the era of ideologism, and ultimately, the primary human activity—the life of man in the cult and its culture corresponds to the sacral materialism or concrete idealism.
Corporealism as an Ontological Position and Its Involvement in the Thought of Tertullian
Authors: Ambrozy Marián
Published: July 2021

This paper aims to examine the meaning, role, inspirations, and place of corporealism in Tertullian’s system of thought. The extent to which corporealism is a basic philosophical belief in Tertullian’s work and to what extent it is a particular element of his theological doctrine is questioned. It presents the named ontological position as a rare specificity within the range of early Christian thought, especially in Tertullian’s works De anima and De carne Cristi. This paper makes a clear distinction between corporealism and materialism, as it tries to determine the degree of influence of Stoic philosophy, especially ontology, on Tertullian, as well as the influence of Aristotle in selected areas. In this context, his traducianism is also examined. In the ontological context, the status of the soul and God in Tertullian thought is also presented. In connection with the metaphysical problem of creation, the article also touches on the question of creatio ex nihilo as a problem on which Tertullian had to take a stand. It investigates the role of corporealism in Tertullian’s polemic against Marcion, Apelles, and the Valentinian Gnosis by mapping which elements in the teachings of these representatives and Gnosis, especially (but not exclusively) Valentinian, could provoke Tertullian to controversy. This paper holds the opinion that Tertullian’s corporealism was due to his theological views and controversy with opponents, which were used as philosophical inspiration, especially stoic inspiration, but was used mainly in the service of his theological thinking and strategic needs for argumentation.
Sixteen Contributors: A Response
Authors: Sterba James P.
Published: July 2021

It is a rare event indeed to have sixteen philosophers join together in a symposium to reflect up the central question of one’s book [...]
The Crucifix and the Art Gallery: An Odyssey from Religious Material Culture to Fine Art
Authors: Hogan Cynthia A.
Published: July 2021

This article focuses the epistemological processes through which a thirteenth-century Spanish Crucifix in less than pristine condition transformed from an obscure rural Catholic devotional into an art commodity and celebrated work of medieval art now exhibited at the Memorial Art Gallery of the University of Rochester (MAG) in Rochester, New York. By situating the Spanish Crucifix within the nascent art historical epistemology and museum movement in the late eighteenth to early twentieth century, this article offers a case study in how religious material culture becomes embedded in capitalistic systems as products or commodities, yet suggests the ways that critical religious studies approaches might enhance our understanding of religious material culture in fine arts museums.
Sustainable Risk Management in IT Enterprises
Authors: Trzeciak Mateusz
Published: July 2021

A synthesis of literature studies covering the determinants of agile project management methods, risk management processes as well as factors influencing the shaping of project success and failure clearly indicates that in most publications on risk in agile managed projects, the human factor is heavily underestimated at the expense of often excessive favoring of procedures. Meanwhile, after analyzing the risk factors that arise in agile-managed IT projects, it became apparent that in addition to aspects such as technology, hardware, system, or even project schedule and cost, the project team is highlighted, which is also the second concept with the GPM P5 Standard for Sustainability in Project Management. Thus, the purpose of this article is to develop a model for risk management in IT projects. As a result of the empirical research carried out by means of an expert interview (108 experts) and a questionnaire survey (123 respondents), a risk management model was developed and six original risk management areas were identified, describing 73.92% of all risk factors that may occur during the implementation of an IT project. Furthermore, empirical studies confirm that basic processes such as risk factor identification, impact assessment, and key risk factor management are used by managers and/or team leaders during the implementation of IT projects.
A Multiple Level-of-Detail 3D Data Transmission Approach for Low-Latency Remote Visualisation in Teleoperation Tasks
Authors: Pacheco-Gutierrez Salvador , Niu Hanlin , Caliskanelli Ipek , Skilton Robert
Published: July 2021

In robotic teleoperation, the knowledge of the state of the remote environment in real time is paramount. Advances in the development of highly accurate 3D cameras able to provide high-quality point clouds appear to be a feasible solution for generating live, up-to-date virtual environments. Unfortunately, the exceptional accuracy and high density of these data represent a burden for communications requiring a large bandwidth affecting setups where the local and remote systems are particularly geographically distant. This paper presents a multiple level-of-detail (LoD) compression strategy for 3D data based on tree-like codification structures capable of compressing a single data frame at multiple resolutions using dynamically configured parameters. The level of compression (resolution) of objects is prioritised based on: (i) placement on the scene; and (ii) the type of object. For the former, classical point cloud fitting and segmentation techniques are implemented; for the latter, user-defined prioritisation is considered. The results obtained are compared using a single LoD (whole-scene) compression technique previously proposed by the authors. Results showed a considerable improvement to the transmitted data size and updated frame rate while maintaining low distortion after decompression.
Nonlinear Model Predictive Horizon for Optimal Trajectory Generation
Authors: Al Younes Younes , Barczyk Martin
Published: July 2021

This paper presents a trajectory generation method for a nonlinear system under closed-loop control (here a quadrotor drone) motivated by the Nonlinear Model Predictive Control (NMPC) method. Unlike NMPC, the proposed method employs a closed-loop system dynamics model within the optimization problem to efficiently generate reference trajectories in real time. We call this approach the Nonlinear Model Predictive Horizon (NMPH). The closed-loop model used within NMPH employs a feedback linearization control law design to decrease the nonconvexity of the optimization problem and thus achieve faster convergence. For robust trajectory planning in a dynamically changing environment, static and dynamic obstacle constraints are supported within the NMPH algorithm. Our algorithm is applied to a quadrotor system to generate optimal reference trajectories in 3D, and several simulation scenarios are provided to validate the features and evaluate the performance of the proposed methodology.
Non-Binary Snow Index for Multi-Component Surfaces
Authors: Arreola-Esquivel Mario , Toxqui-Quitl Carina , Delgadillo-Herrera Maricela , Padilla-Vivanco Alfonso , Ortega-Mendoza Gabriel , Carbone Anna
Published: July 2021

A Non-Binary Snow Index for Multi-Component Surfaces (NBSI-MS) is proposed to map snow/ice cover. The NBSI-MS is based on the spectral characteristics of different Land Cover Types (LCTs), such as snow, water, vegetation, bare land, impervious, and shadow surfaces. This index can increase the separability between NBSI-MS values corresponding to snow from other LCTs and accurately delineate the snow/ice cover in non-binary maps. To test the robustness of the NBSI-MS, regions in Greenland and France–Italy where snow interacts with highly diversified geographical ecosystems were examined. Data recorded by Landsat 5 TM, Landsat 8 OLI, and Sentinel-2A MSI satellites were used. The NBSI-MS performance was also compared against the well-known Normalized Difference Snow Index (NDSI), NDSII-1, S3, and Snow Water Index (SWI) methods and evaluated based on Ground Reference Test Pixels (GRTPs) over non-binarized results. The results show that the NBSI-MS achieved an overall accuracy (OA) ranging from 0.99 to 1 with kappa coefficient values in the same range as the OA. The precision assessment confirmed the performance superiority of the proposed NBSI-MS method for removing water and shadow surfaces over the compared relevant indices.
Superior PM2.5 Estimation by Integrating Aerosol Fine Mode Data from the Himawari-8 Satellite in Deep and Classical Machine Learning Models
Authors: Zang Zhou , Li Dan , Guo Yushan , Shi Wenzhong , Yan Xing
Published: July 2021

Artificial intelligence is widely applied to estimate ground-level fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from satellite data by constructing the relationship between the aerosol optical thickness (AOT) and the surface PM2.5 concentration. However, aerosol size properties, such as the fine mode fraction (FMF), are rarely considered in satellite-based PM2.5 modeling, especially in machine learning models. This study investigated the linear and non-linear relationships between fine mode AOT (fAOT) and PM2.5 over five AERONET stations in China (Beijing, Baotou, Taihu, Xianghe, and Xuzhou) using AERONET fAOT and 5-year (2015–2019) ground-level PM2.5 data. Results showed that the fAOT separated by the FMF (fAOT = AOT × FMF) had significant linear and non-linear relationships with surface PM2.5. Then, the Himawari-8 V3.0 and V2.1 FMF and AOT (FMF&AOT-PM2.5) data were tested as input to a deep learning model and four classical machine learning models. The results showed that FMF&AOT-PM2.5 performed better than AOT (AOT-PM2.5) in modelling PM2.5 estimations. The FMF was then applied in satellite-based PM2.5 retrieval over China during 2020, and FMF&AOT-PM2.5 was found to have a better agreement with ground-level PM2.5 than AOT-PM2.5 on dust and haze days. The better linear correlation between PM2.5 and fAOT on both haze and dust days (dust days: R = 0.82; haze days: R = 0.56) compared to AOT (dust days: R = 0.72; haze days: R = 0.52) partly contributed to the superior accuracy of FMF&AOT-PM2.5. This study demonstrates the importance of including the FMF to improve PM2.5 estimations and emphasizes the need for a more accurate FMF product that enables superior PM2.5 retrieval.