bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isothermal oxidation characteristics of laser‐treated Al2O3 + Sm2SrAl2O7 composite thermal barrier coatings
Authors: James Joseph Fredy , Arya Shashi Bhushan , D Satish Kumar
Published: April 2023

A thermal barrier coating system with Al2O3 + Sm2SrAl2O7 composite top coat was developed on an Inconel 718 superalloy substrate by using an atmospheric plasma spray technique, and the coated samples are treated with an Nd:YAG fiber laser to improve the surface properties. The as‐coated and laser‐treated samples were subjected to high temperature isothermal oxidation test at 1100°C for 150 h duration. The surface of the oxidized samples showed the presence of dissociated SmAlO3, SrAl2O4, and Sm2O3. Thermally grown oxides (TGO) are found at the bond coat top coat interface of the samples. The oxidation kinetics is examined by monitoring weight gain at regular intervals. The electrochemical impedance behavior, oxidation mechanism, and TGO formation in the developed composite coatings are discussed in detail.
A Novel Immobilization Method of Urease in Silk Fibroin Scaffolds by Annealing at Constant Temperature and Humidity
Authors: Qian Xiao‐Qin , Wang Hai‐Yan , Jing Feng‐Ya , Zhang Yu‐Qing , Xu Xue , Shu Yan
Published: April 2023

Temperature and humidity (TH) post‐treatment is a relatively mild way to change the silk fibroin (SF) secondary structure. Here, urease is immobilized in SF scaffold (SFS) by TH post‐treatment, and the effects of annealing on the immobilized urease activity are examined. Fourier transform infrared indicates that the SFS secondary structure started to transform when the scaffold is annealed at 35 °C with 100% relative humidity for 20 min. The higher the temperature, the lower the treatment time is required to change SFS structure. Compared to methanol annealing, TH post‐treatment maintains the original form of the sample, and the scaffold shows better water‐binding abilities. The maximum recovery ratio of immobilized urease is 98.4 ± 7.0%, which is obtained after the scaffold is postprocessed at 35 °C for 60 min, and the relative recovery ratio of the urease activity is still as high as 80.6 ± 12.1% after repeatedly measuring 10 times. In addition, the relative recovery ratio of urease is not significantly decrease within 4 weeks of storage. Therefore, TH annealing is a relatively mild and effective way to immobilize urease in SFS. The urease‐immobilized SFS with hydrophilic properties and prolonged enzyme activity may be used for peritoneal dialysate regeneration systems.
Thiol‐ene Reaction as Reversible Covalent Bond for the Design of Shape‐Memory Polymers
Authors: Shohraty Farhad , Hniopek Julian , Meurer Josefine , Zechel Stefan , Schmitt Michael , Popp Jürgen , Hager Martin D.
Published: April 2023

Besides a stable phase, shape‐memory polymers require an additional switchable moiety. In addition to thermal transitions and supramolecular interactions, these units can also be based on covalent bonds. Herein, the use of the reversible thiol‐ene reaction as reversible cross‐linker for the design of shape‐memory polymers is demonstrated. A facile route to polymer networks with a thiol‐ene acceptor and a comonomer (butyl methacrylate or 2‐ethylhexyl methacrylate) cross‐linked by dithiols is introduced. The thermal and mechanical properties of the resulting polymers are characterized in detail. Hereby, the polymers feature excellent shape‐memory behavior with fixity and recovery rates above 90%. This study shows that the thiol‐ene cross‐linker can function as both, the stable and the switchable structural moiety rendering the usage of a covalent cross‐linker unnecessary. This partial reversibility can also be proven by temperature‐depending Raman spectroscopy.
The effects of cultural networks on migration among Early and High Medieval populations in Central Europe based on dental phenotypic data
Authors: Ragsdale Corey S. , Velemínský Petr
Published: April 2023

Throughout the region of Central Europe, population movements have transcended political boundaries throughout history. The Early (6th to 11th centuries AD) and High (11th to 14th centuries AD) Medieval periods were times of constantly shifting cultural relationships, as well as climatic fluctuations. Limited archeological and historic records for the region often focus on the broader cultural processes of the time, and to a large degree, on elites. Very little work has focused on population movement, particularly across cultural boundaries. Here we examine the potential effects of cultural processes on the movement and subsequent genetic exchange among the people throughout the region. We compare biological, cultural, geographic, and temporal relationships using biological distance analysis and model matrix comparison. To examine population structures, we combine dental morphological and metric data derived from human skeletal remains representing Early and High Medieval groups. Our results support the important influence of cultural processes on migration and population structures among Early and High Medieval groups. Distances based on the cultural complexity model we employ here is significantly correlated with biological distances (p = 0.028), while temporal period (p = 0.099), geographic proximity (p = 0.104), and shared origin (p = 0.193) models are not significant. Although our model is limited in the complex breadth of cultural processes during the Early and High Medieval period, we assert that these processes played an important role in population movement. Finally, we support an inter‐regional approach to examining population interactions among Central European and neighboring areas.
Advances in the clinical management of high‐risk Wilms tumors
Authors: Ortiz Michael V. , Koenig Christa , Armstrong Amy E. , Brok Jesper , de Camargo Beatriz , Mavinkurve‐Groothuis Annelies M. C. , Herrera Thelma B. Velasquez , Venkatramani Rajkumar , Woods Andrew D. , Dome Jeffrey S. , Spreafico Filippo
Published: April 2023

Outcomes are excellent for the majority of patients with Wilms tumors (WT). However, there remain WT subgroups for which the survival rate is approximately 50% or lower. Acknowledging that the composition of this high‐risk group has changed over time reflecting improvements in therapy, we introduce the authors’ view of the historical and current approach to the classification and treatment of high‐risk WT. For this review, we consider high‐risk WT to include patients with newly diagnosed metastatic blastemal‐type or diffuse anaplastic histology, those who relapse after having been initially treated with three or more different chemotherapeutics, or those who relapse more than once. In certain low‐ or low middle‐income settings, socio‐economic factors expand the definition of what constitutes a high‐risk WT. As conventional therapies are inadequate to cure the majority of high‐risk WT patients, advancement of laboratory and early‐phase clinical investigations to identify active agents is urgently needed.
Fully biobased composite made with epoxidized‐lignin, reinforced with bamboo fibers
Authors: Bagheri Sajad , Nejad Mojgan
Published: April 2023

In this study, we entirely replaced petroleum‐based bisphenol A (BPA) with unmodified kraft softwood lignin in epoxy resin formulation. Epoxidized lignin was prepared by reacting lignin with biobased epichlorohydrin (ECH) made from glycerol, and the formation of epoxide rings was confirmed by measuring the epoxy content of the epoxidized lignin using titration and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). A fully biobased epoxy resin was then prepared by mixing the epoxidized lignin with a biobased curing agent derived from chew nutshell (from Cardolite Co.). Pre‐impregnated composite sheets were fabricated by impregnating unidirectional bamboo fibers with the developed water‐dispersion epoxy resin. The properties of the biobased composite samples were measured using a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA), scanning electron microscope (SEM), and a universal testing machine. The flexural strength of the lignin‐based epoxy composite was found to be 36% lower (14 MPa) compared to commercial epoxy (22 MPa). However, when bamboo fibers were added to the lignin‐based biocomposite (containing 25 wt.%), a higher flexural strength (116 MPa) was observed, representing an increase of 11% compared to the biocomposite made with EPON and bamboo fiber (104 MPa). Similarly, the addition of bamboo fibers to the lignin epoxy resulted in an increase in the flexural modulus by 1255% (from 0.42 to 5.69 GPa), while the flexural modulus of commercial epoxy was increased by only 736% (from 0.58 to 4.85 GPa). This was attributed to the higher compatibility of bamboo fiber with lignin, which is known to act as a natural glue in plants.
In situ preparation of carbon fiber fabric reinforced poly(lactic acid) composites by vacuum‐assisted resin transfer molding
Authors: Wu Fangjuan , Yang Shangda , Huang Li , Hu Jiahuan , Li Guifeng , Chen Haoxiang , Fang Hui
Published: April 2023

Carbon fiber fabric reinforced poly(lactic acid) (CFF/PLA) composites were manufactured using both vacuum‐assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) and compression molding (CM) methods. Of the two methods, the CFF/PLA‐VARTM composite shows superior carbon fiber infiltration and interfacial adhesion compared to the CFF/PLA‐CM composite. The improved infiltration enables the carbon fibers to induce a dense group of PLA crystal nuclei along their surface, resulting in the formation of a trans‐crystalline layer (TCL) structure where the PLA lamellae grow perpendicular to the fiber axis. As a result, the interfacial adhesion is improved, and the crystallinity of the PLA in the CFF/PLA‐VARTM composite is 4.1 times higher than that of pure PLA. However, the weak infiltration of fibers and matrix in CFF/PLA‐CM composite results in poor load‐bearing ability. Conversely, CFF/PLA‐VARTM composite presents better interlayer bonding and tight fiber‐matrix wrapping, promoting effective tensile load transfer to carbon fibers, which results in higher strength and modulus. The presence of TCL structures also plays a key role in improving mechanical properties. Overall, these findings demonstrate a promising method for producing high‐performance PLA composites.
The effects of nature‐inspired amino acid substitutions on structural and biochemical properties of the E. coli L‐asparaginase EcAIII
Authors: Janicki Maciej , Ściuk Anna , Zielezinski Andrzej , Ruszkowski Milosz , Ludwików Agnieszka , Karlowski Wojciech M. , Jaskolski Mariusz , Loch Joanna I.
Published: April 2023

The Escherichia coli enzyme EcAIII catalyzes the hydrolysis of L‐Asn to L‐Asp and ammonia. Using a nature‐inspired mutagenesis approach, we designed and produced five new EcAIII variants (M200I, M200L, M200K, M200T, M200W). The modified proteins were characterized by spectroscopic and crystallographic methods. All new variants were enzymatically active, confirming that the applied mutagenesis procedure has been successful. The determined crystal structures revealed new conformational states of the EcAIII molecule carrying the M200W mutation and allowed a high‐resolution observation of an acyl‐enzyme intermediate with the M200L mutant. In addition, we performed structure prediction, substrate docking, and molecular dynamics simulations for 25 selected bacterial orthologs of EcAIII, to gain insights into how mutations at the M200 residue affect the active site and substrate binding mode. This comprehensive strategy, including both experimental and computational methods, can be used to guide further enzyme engineering and can be applied to the study of other proteins of medicinal or biotechnological importance.
Time from biopsy to radical prostatectomy by race in an equal‐access healthcare system: Results from the SEARCH cohort
Authors: Pereira Victor , Oyekunle Taofik , Janes Jessica , Amling Christopher J. , Aronson William J. , Cooperberg Matthew R. , Kane Christopher J. , Terris Martha K. , Klaassen Zachary , Freedland Stephen J. , Vidal Adriana C. , Csizmadi Ilona
Published: April 2023

Background

We previously showed that within an equal‐access health system, race was not associated with the time between prostate cancer (PC) diagnosis and radical prostatectomy (RP). However, in the more recent time‐period of the study (2003−2007), Black men had significantly longer times to RP. We sought to revisit the question in a larger study population with more contemporary patients. We hypothesized that time from diagnosis to treatment would not differ by race, even after accounting for active surveillance (AS) and the exclusion of men at very low to low risk of PC progression.

Methods

We analyzed data from 5885 men undergoing RP from 1988 to 2017 at eight Veterans Affairs Hospitals from SEARCH. Multiple linear regression was used to compare time from biopsy to RP and to examine the risk of delays (>90 and >180 days) between races. In sensitivity analyses we excluded men deemed to have initially chosen AS based on having >365 days from biopsy to RP and men at very low to low PC risk for progression according to National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clinical Practice Guidelines.

Results

At biopsy, Black men (n = 1959) were younger, had lower body mass index, and higher prostate specific antigen levels, (all p < 0.02), compared to White men (n = 3926). Time from biopsy to RP was longer in Black men (mean days: 98 vs. 92; adjusted ratio of mean number of days, 1.07 [95% confidence interval: 1.03−1.11], p < 0.001); however, there were no differences in delays >90 or >180 days after adjusting for confounders (all p ≥ 0.286). Results were similar following the exclusion of men potentially under on AS and at very low and low risk.

Conclusions

In an equal‐access healthcare system, we did not find evidence of clinically relevant differences in time from biopsy to RP in Black versus White men.
Synthesis of Nonlayered 2D α‐Fe2O3 Nanosheets by Ultralow Concentration Precursor with Se Catalysts Design
Authors: Chu Wenlong , Xin Ruifeng , Zou Luwei , Fan Xiulian , Zhou Xilong , Li Cheng , Zhou Yu
Published: April 2023

2D nonlayered materials have attracted more and more attention due to their novel properties and special surface structures. However, due to isotropic chemical bonds within the crystal, the synthesis of ultrathin 2D nonlayered materials is an urgent challenge. Herein, α‐Fe2O3 2D nanosheets as thin as ≈8.2 nm on different substrates using self‐designed ultralow concentration precursors combined with Gibbs free energy and Se catalysts design are successfully synthesized. The thickness‐dependent growth mechanism is systematically studied, demonstrating the thermodynamic and kinetic controlling factors. The as‐grown α‐Fe2O3 nanosheets are demonstrated with single‐crystal structures without any other elements doping. The α‐Fe2O3 nanosheets photodetectors show the reasonable response performance with the positive photoconductive mechanism. This improved chemical vapor deposition method provides a promising idea for the synthesis of ultrathin 2D nonlayered materials.
Heat‐sealing and microscopic evaluation of paper‐based coated materials using various seal bar geometries in vertical form fill seal machine
Authors: Merabtene Mahdi , Tanninen Panu , Wolf Johanna , Kayatz Fabian , Hauptmann Marek , Saukkonen Esa , Pesonen Antti , Laukala Teija , Varis Juha , Leminen Ville
Published: April 2023

With the growing emphasis on minimization of global plastic waste, flexible fibre‐based packaging has gained significant interest over the past few years. Heat‐sealing technology is commonly applied for vertical form‐fill‐seal machine to provide tight closure of packages for maintaining food quality and shelf life. Several different seal bar geometries and adequate heat‐seal parameters are required to improve the seal tightness of the packages. This study aims to compare the heat sealability of thermoplastic film (OPP/PE) and paper‐based materials in vertical form‐fill‐seal machine using various seal bar profiles. The investigation includes seal strength measurement, understanding the causes of leak formation, seal tightness and inspection of the seal using scanning electron microscopy. Results reveal that OPP/PE material has exceptional seal strength and leakproof ability compared with paper‐based materials. However, it has limited operating window because the material shrinks and coarsens at approximately 140°C. Sealing temperature and dwell time are found to be the major factors affecting the seal strength of paper‐based material. Results reveal the PE‐coated papers exhibit nearly twice the seal strength compared with the dispersion‐coated paper. It was difficult to achieve good hot‐tack values with dispersion‐coated paper. During testing, all the paper‐based materials experience delamination and fibre tear, and its severity increases with the increasing material grammage. As plateau temperature is reached, the fibre delamination remains relatively constant. The serrated geometry of seal bar design plays a significant role in providing a satisfactory airtight seal, particularly around the pouch's layer jump. However, flat seal bar designs are not recommended for gas tight applications for paper‐based materials.
Dehydration of Xylose and Xylan to Furfural using P‐Zr‐SBA‐15 Catalyst in Aqueous or Biphasic System
Authors: Liu Panli , Shi Shengbin , Wei Ruiping , Gao Lijing , Zhang Jin , Xiao Guomin
Published: April 2023

A series of bifunctional P‐Zr‐SBA‐15 catalysts with Lewis acid and Brønsted acid sites were prepared by modifying mesoporous material SBA‐15 with Zr4+ and phosphate group, which were used in the conversion of xylose and xylan into furfural. The structure and acidic characteristics of the catalyst were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, N2 adsorption desorption, scanning/transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, NH3 temperature programmed desorption, and pyridine adsorption infrared spectroscopy. The effects of different process parameters on the catalytic performance of the catalyst were studied. when using the xylose and xylan as substrates, the furfural yield were 80.3 % and 68.8 % under the optimal conditions in the H2O(NaCl)/toluene (3/3 mL) biphasic solvent system, respectively, and 52.5 % furfural yield was obtained using xylose as substrate in aqueous system. In addition, the catalyst has good thermal stability and easy recovery in the recycling experiment.
MXene Free Standing Films: Unlocking the Impact of Flake Sizes in Microwave Resonant Structures in Humid Environments
Authors: Niksan Omid , Wyatt Brian C. , Kazemi Kasra Khorsand , Anasori Babak , Zarifi Mohammad H.
Published: April 2023

Microwave communication devices necessitate elements with high electrical conductivity, a property which was traditionally found in metals (e.g., copper). However, in applications such as satellite communications, metals prevent the payload from achieving lightweight and flexible characteristics. Here, we demonstrate the development of MXene film microwave resonators, leveraging MXene's high electrical conductivity and unique mechanical properties. To investigate resonant performance in humid conditions and study the effects of MXene's processing and treatment, MXene films with different flake sizes are prepared and exposed to cyclic humidity. For the large‐ and small‐flake Ti3C2 MXene films in cyclic humidity, the large‐flake film demonstrates higher electrical conductivity, higher resonance quality factor (150 and 35 as unloaded, and loaded), and less fluctuation of performance (≈1.7% total shift in resonance frequency). Further, by implementing MXene films of two different diameters, the correlation between film size and resonant frequency is demonstrated. By introducing an active resonant configuration, the effect of MXene degradation and microwave losses can be compensated. This active feedback loop demonstrates a ≈300 times increase in the quality factor of MXene resonators. As a building block for terrestrial and satellite communication modules, MXene resonators potentiate the replacement of metals in achieving unique electrical and mechanical properties.
Boosting Polyethylene Hydrogenolysis Performance of Ru‐CeO2 Catalysts by Finely Regulating the Ru Sizes
Authors: Ji Hongyan , Wang Xiao , Wei Xiaoxu , Peng Yuxuan , Zhang Shuaishuai , Song Shuyan , Zhang Hongjie
Published: April 2023

Hydrogenolysis is an effective method for converting polyolefins into high‐value chemicals. For the supported catalysts commonly used, the size of active metals is of great importance. In this study, it is discovered that the activity of CeO2‐supported Ru single atom, nanocluster, and nanoparticle catalysts shows a volcanic trend in low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) hydrogenolysis. Compared with CeO2 supported Ru single atoms and nanoparticles, CeO2‐supported Ru nanoclusters possess the highest conversion efficiency, as well as the best selectivity toward liquid alkanes. Through comprehensive investigations, the metal‐support interactions (MSI) and hydrogen spillover effect are revealed as the two key factors in the reaction. On the one hand, the MSI is strongly related to the Ru surface states and the more electronegative Ru centers are beneficial to the activation of CH and CC bonds. On the other hand, the hydrogen spillover capability directly affects the affinity of catalysts and active H atoms, and increasing this affinity is advantageous to the hydrogenation of alkane species. Decreasing the Ru sizes can promote the MSI, but it can also reduce the hydrogen spillover effect. Therefore, only when the two effects achieve a balance, as is the case in CeO2‐supported Ru nanoclusters, can the hydrogenolysis activity be promoted to the optimal value.
All‐Oxide Transparent Photodetector Array for Ultrafast Response through Self‐Powered Excitonic Photovoltage Operation
Authors: Ghosh Shuvaraj , Patel Malkeshkumar , Lee Junsik , Kim Joondong
Published: April 2023

Can photodetectors be transparent and operate in self‐powered mode? Is it possible to achieve invisible electronics, independent of the external power supply system, for on‐site applications? Here, a ZnO/NiO heterojunction‐based high‐functional transparent ultraviolet (UV) photodetector operating in the self‐powered photovoltaic mode with outstanding responsivity and detectivity values of 6.9 A W−1 and 8.0 × 1012 Jones, respectively, is reported. The highest IUV/Idark value of 8.9 × 104 is attained at a wavelength of 385 nm, together with a very small dark current value of 9.15 × 10−12 A. A large‐scale sputtering method is adopted to deposit the heterostructure of n‐ZnO and p‐NiO sequentially. This deposition instinctively forms an abrupt junction, resulting in a high‐quality heterojunction device. Moreover, developing a ZnO/NiO‐heterojunction–based 4 × 5 matrix array with an output photovoltage of 4.5 V is preferred for integrating photodetectors into sensing and imaging systems. This transparent UV photodetector exhibits the fastest photo‐response time (83 ns) reported for array configurations, which is achieved using an exciton‐induced photovoltage based on a neutral donor–bound exciton. Overall, this study provides a simple method for achieving a high‐performance large‐scale transparent UV photodetector with a self‐powered array configuration.
A web application for reasoning on probabilistic description logics knowledge bases
Authors: Zese Riccardo , Bellodi Elena
Published: April 2023

The aim of the Semantic Web is making information and resources from the Web automatically processable by machines. Usually, the uncertainty characterizing much of this information is addressed by means of a probabilistic semantics. Following the vision of a “Probabilistic Semantic Web”, a plethora of probabilistic semantics have been proposed: some of them change the syntax and/or the semantics itself of the knowledge representation language, others allow one to annotate axioms of a knowledge base with a probability value. Among the latter, the DISPONTE semantics exploits probabilistic annotations to extend query answering with the capability of returning the probability of a query being true in a domain. In order to promote the adoption of Probabilistic Semantic Web we first developed BUNDLE, a framework that can exploit different underlying (probabilistic and non‐probabilistic) reasoners to perform probabilistic inference under the DISPONTE semantics. In this paper we present a web application for BUNDLE, to show how DISPONTE is easily usable even in already established applications and systems. It allows users to query a DISPONTE knowledge base written or uploaded directly in the application interface by using just a web browser, without the need to install any software on their machine. It is accessible on the web at
https://bundle.ml.unife.it/ and also provides some examples for familiarizing with the application. The results of a usability evaluation involving human participants are also reported, showing the relevance and the practical impact of the tool and possible ways for improvement.
Obesity and alcoholic etiology as risk factors for multisystem organ failure in acute pancreatitis: Multinational study
Authors: Lee Peter J. , Lahooti Ali , Culp Stacey , Boutsicaris Andrew , Holovach Phillip , Wozniak Kayla , Lahooti Ila , Paragomi Pedram , Hinton Alice , Pothoulakis Ioannis , Talukdar Rupjyoti , Kochhar Rakesh , Goenka Mahesh K. , Gulla Aiste , Gonzalez Jose A. , Singh Vikesh , Bogado Miguel Ferreira , Stevens Tyler , Babu Sorin Traian , Nawaz Haq , Gutierrez Silvia Cristina , Zarnescu Narcis , Capurso Gabriele , Easler Jeffrey , Triantafyllou Konstantinos , Peláez Luna Mario , Thakkar Shyam , Ocampo Carlos , de‐Madaria Enrique , Cote Gregory A. , Wu Bechien U. , Hart Phil A. , Krishna Somashekar G. , Lara Luis , Han Samuel , Papachristou Georgios I.
Published: April 2023

Background

Multisystem organ failure (MSOF) is the most important determinant of mortality in acute pancreatitis (AP). Obesity and alcoholic etiology have been examined as potential risk factors for MSOF, but prior studies have not adequately elucidated their independent effects on the risk of MSOF.

Objective

We aimed to determine the adjusted effects of body mass index (BMI) and alcoholic etiology on the risk of MSOF in subjects with AP.

Methods

A prospective observational study of 22 centers from 10 countries was conducted. Patients admitted to an APPRENTICE consortium center with AP between August 2015 and January 2018 were enrolled. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the adjusted effects of BMI, etiology, and other relevant covariates on the risk of MSOF. Models were stratified by sex.

Results

Among 1544 AP subjects, there was a sex‐dependent association between BMI and the risk of MSOF. Increasing BMI was associated with increased odds of MSOF in males (OR 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–1.15) but not in females (OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.90–1.1). Male subjects with AP, whose BMIs were 30–34 and >35 kg/m2, had odds ratios of 3.78 (95% CI 1.62–8.83) and 3.44 (95% CI 1.08–9.99), respectively. In females, neither higher grades of obesity nor increasing age increased the risk of MSOF. Alcoholic etiology was independently associated with increased odds of MSOF compared with non‐alcohol etiologies (OR 4.17, 95% CI 2.16–8.05).

Conclusion

Patients with alcoholic etiology and obese men (but not women) are at substantially increased risk of MSOF in AP.
Parasitic fauna of farmed freshwater ornamental sutchi catfish (Pangasiandon hypophthalmus) and silver dollar (Metynnis hypsauchen) in Alborz province, Iran
Authors: Rahmati‐Holasoo Hooman , Tavakkoli Sima , Ebrahimzadeh Mousavi Hosseinali , Marandi Amin , Taheri Mirghaed Ali
Published: April 2023

Background

: Parasitic infestations are one of the most significant problems in global aquaculture. In addition to direct economic losses due to significant mortalities, parasites may have a significant negative impact on the fish's behaviour, energetic demands, trophic position, interspecific competition, growth rate, and reproductive function.

Objectives

: We conducted the present study to evaluate the infection status of parasitic pathogens in freshwater sutchi catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) and silver dollar (Metynnis hypsauchen) farmed in Alborz province of Iran.

Methods

: Between January and February 2021, 140 ornamental fish, including 70 sutchi catfish (P. hypophthalmus) and 70 silver dollar (M. hypsauchen), were delivered from various ornamental fish farms for parasitological analysis. Thorough macroscopic and microscopic examinations were performed to detect parasitic infections in delivered freshwater ornamental fish.

Results

: A total of six parasite species, including five protozoan species (Nyctotherus piscicola, Trichodina heterodentata, Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, Protoopalina sp., and Hexamita sp.) and one monogenean species (Ancyrocephalus sp.), were identified in the examined fish. The overall prevalence of the recovered parasites was 46.43% (65/140) of the fish.

Conclusions

: In the current study, several parasites, including Hexamita sp., Ancyrocephalus sp., Protoopalina sp., and N. piscicola, were identified as the first records of the sutchi catfish (P. hypophthalmus) and/or silver dollar (M. hypsauchen), and these two fish species are known as new hosts for the isolated parasites in ornamental fish farms in Iran. Assessing the parasitic fauna of ornamental fish is therefore critical for preventing parasite introduction into adjacent provinces as well as neighbouring countries and promoting fish health.
Introduction to Atmospheric Simulation Chambers and Their Applications
Authors: Kiendler-Scharr Astrid , Becker Karl-Heinz , Doussin Jean-François , Fuchs Hendrik , Seakins Paul , Wenger John , Wiesen Peter
Published: April 2023

Atmospheric simulation chambers have been deployed with various research goals for more than 80 years. In this chapter, an overview of the various applications, including emerging new applications, is given. The chapter starts with a brief historical overview of atmospheric simulation chambers. It also provides an overview of how simulation chambers complement field observations and more classical laboratory experiments. The chapter is concluded with an introduction to the different aspects requiring consideration when designing an atmospheric simulation chamber.
Physical and Chemical Characterization of the Chamber
Authors: Alfarra Rami , Camredon Marie , Cazaunau Mathieu , Doussin Jean-François , Fuchs Hendrik , Jorga Spiro , McFiggans Gordon , Newland Mike J. , Pandis Spyros , Rickard Andrew R. , Saathoff Harald
Published: April 2023

In order to perform experiments in the chamber, characterization of physical properties is essential for the evaluation and interpretation of experiments. In this chapter, recommendations are given how to measure physical parameters such as temperature and pressure. For photochemistry experiments, knowledge of the radiation either provided by the sun or lamps is key to calculate photolysis frequencies. Standard protocols are described how to validate the calculation of the radiation inside the chamber using actinometry experiments. In addition, the characterization of loss processes for gas-phase species as well as for aerosol is discussed. Reference experiments can be used to test the state of the chamber. Different types of reference experiments focusing on gas-phase photo-oxidation experiments are recommended and described in detail in this chapter.
Preparation of Simulation Chambers for Experiments
Authors: Bell David , Doussin Jean-François , Hohaus Thorsten
Published: April 2023

When setting up a simulation chamber experiment it is essential, in order to ensure meaningful results, to start with a well-controlled chemical system. Coming after the chapter dealing with the requested careful characterization of the simulation chamber, the present chapter describes the preparation of the chamber before running an experiment. It includes various chamber cleaning protocols, the preparation of a clean chamber atmosphere (the reacting mixture) and a series of protocols for blank experiments. Indeed, having a clean atmosphere in a simulation chamber, as free as possible from both particulate and gaseous impurities, is essential to ensure high quality experimental results. As it may not be possible to have a perfectly clean chamber, blank experiments are crucial to both assess chamber cleanliness, account for impurities and establish uncertainties of the observed phenomena. In the present chapter, various cleaning protocols which involve the oxidation of the impurities, dilution, temperature degradation/evaporation, but the evacuation or manual cleaning are described as well. The various techniques to generate clean gas mixture—mostly clean O2, N2 or water vapor, are discussed. Finally, complementarily to the reference experiments proposed in Chap. 2, blank experiments to characterize walls chemical inertia, chamber-dependent radical sources or the presence of water-soluble species are also described.
Preparation of the Experiment: Addition of Particles
Authors: Alfarra Rami , Baltensperger Urs , Bell David M. , Danelli Silvia Giulia , Di Biagio Claudia , Doussin Jean-François , Formenti Paola , Gysel-Beer Martin , Massabò Dario , McFiggans Gordon , Modini Rob L. , Möhler Ottmar , Prati Paolo , Saathoff Harald , Wenger John
Published: April 2023

Atmospheric simulation chambers are often utilized to study the physical properties and chemical reactivity of particles suspended in air. In this chapter, the various approaches employed for the addition of particles to simulation chambers are described in detail. Procedures for the generation of monodispersed seed aerosols, mineral dust, soot particles and bioaerosols are all presented using illustrative examples from chamber experiments. Technical descriptions of the methods used for the addition of whole emissions (gases and particles) from real-world sources such as wood-burning stoves, automobile engines and plants are also included, along with an outline of experimental approaches for investigating the atmospheric processing of these emissions.
Sampling for Offline Analysis
Authors: Borrás Esther , Herrmann Hartmut , Kalberer Markus , Muñoz Amalia , Mutzel Anke , Vera Teresa , Wenger John
Published: April 2023

The detailed chemical characterization of gas and particle phase species is essential for interpreting the results of atmospheric simulation chamber experiments. Although the application of online techniques has advanced significantly over the last two decades, offline analytical methods such as GC–MS and LC–MS are still frequently used. In this chapter, the approaches commonly employed for gas and particle sampling prior to subsequent offline analysis are described in detail. Methods involving the use of cartridges, canisters, bags and sorbent tubes for gas sampling are described with the support of examples reported in the literature. Technical descriptions related to the application of different types of filters, inertial classifiers and particle-into-liquid samplers for the collection of particles are also provided.
Introduction
Authors: Gutman Mary , Jayusi Wurud , Beck Michael , Bekerman Zvi
Published: April 2023

The introductory chapter begins by clarifying the rationale that led the editors to delve into this project despite the many challenges in this field of study. First, we outline the rationale that preceded our journey, while explaining the gap in the academic literature in this field. Thereafter, we address each of the four parts of this book. The first part deals with immigrant and immigrant-origin teachers. It reviews the social and linguistic challenges they face in geopolitical contexts in Israel, Europe, and the USA. The second part reviews the experiences of indigenous teachers as minorities in multilingual and bilingual schools. The third focuses on international minority teacher educators, and examines the pedagogical and cultural challenges they face as educators, instructors, and supervisors of pre-service teachers. The fourth and final part showcases ethnic minority teachers integrated into educational frameworks around the globe, highlighting the challenges and benefits involved. We conclude this chapter by presenting the potential contributions of the empirical evidence contained in this open-access book to the growing theoretical and practical understanding of the potential benefits and risks involved in these processes.
Germany: Professional Networks of Minority Teachers and Their Role in Developing Multicultural Schools
Authors: Strasser Josef
Published: April 2023

In order to explore the conditions for successfully realizing the supposed positive impact, the paper focuses on the role of the school context on the professional cooperation of minority teachers. It is assumed that minority teachers within a supportive context cooperate more tightly and cohesively. Thereby they may develop a common approach and realize a stronger impact on their school’s development. Based on two case studies it is highlighted how such an impact can come about. The implementation of professional networks and learning communities of minority teachers may be a major step in developing multicultural schools. Schools with such communities seem to be open to professional impulses of minority teachers and give them space to develop a “diversity agenda”, whereas other schools tend to marginalize them.
Independent Schools in South Africa: Acculturation of Zimbabwean Immigrant Teachers
Authors: Makula Tshatiwa
Published: April 2023

South Africa, which offers relative political stability and prosperity, has always been a major destination country for a large flow of people seeking better economic and social opportunities. Many Zimbabweans left to flee from poverty as a result of Zimbabwe’s political and financial crumble around 2008; thus, this paper aimed at shedding light on Zimbabwean immigrant teachers’ experiences of acculturation in independent schools in Johannesburg, South Africa. It also sought to identify educational leadership approaches that promote multiculturalism and acculturation in culturally diverse independent schools. Data which were collected from a purposefully selected sample of six immigrant teachers were transcribed verbatim. The transcriptions were then analysed thematically through critical discourse analysis and content analysis, following open coding which identified and named segments of participants’ responses. The findings indicated absence of cultural assimilation. Immigrant teachers are treated differently from their South African peers and they do not blend in easily. Thus, formal academic programmes, induction programmes, and in-service-training should be undertaken to cultivate revolutionary principals who facilitate cultural assimilation. There is need for school policies and practices that are sensitive to cultural differences and a call for all relevant individuals to face head-on the issue of multiculturalism.
“Crossing the River by Feeling the Stones”: Understanding Chinese Minority Teachers’ Transnational and Transitional Experiences
Authors: Wu Pei-Ying
Published: April 2023

This chapter focuses on 6 minority teachers who were raised and trained in China and traveled transnationally to the U.S. as non-immigrants on J-1 Visas which allowed them to teach in the U.S. for up to 5 years. The central theme of the chapter is that teaching in a foreign culture is analogous to crossing a river by feeling the stones. The great differences between Chinese and American cultures and educational traditions presented unique challenges to these minority teachers. Such differences, especially those in conflict with their original professional norms, demanded that the minority teachers observe and imitate what other American teachers do, explore and test the new norms in their classrooms, and wrestle with and possibly adjust their habitual pedagogy to better meet the foreign culture’s expectations. As part of a larger study, this present chapter utilizes interview data collected from six Chinese teachers during their first or second year in U.S. public elementary schools. The findings illustrate a number of shared personal and professional challenges encountered by newly-arrived minority teachers in their initial transitions to life and work in the U.S. The challenges include the unfamiliarity with U.S. public schools, inadequate teaching materials, a heavy teaching load, and other teaching-related issues.
A New Business Model for the Circular Economy of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Shafinejad Parnia , Georgopoulos Konstantinos , Bolech Michael , Copani Giacomo
Published: April 2023

The market for electrical vehicles (EVs) is expected to show constant growth in the next years. However, Europe is not prepared to manage such a massive flow of electric vehicles at the End-of-Life (EoL). Consolidated value chains including recyclers, remanufacturers, and dismantlers able to treat key parts of EVs efficiently and safely at the EoL (such as batteries) do not exist at the needed industrial scale due to their novelty and complexity which requires innovative technologies and methods.

Furthermore, the huge uncertainty on the volume of parts, their EoL conditions, materials cost fluctuations, and market acceptability discourage companies from starting new recycling/remanufacturing businesses. This carries the risk of delaying the consolidation of European value chains specialized in the EoL management of EVs. In order to address these challenges, the present research, which was carried out in the frame of the H2020 “CarE-Service” European-funded project, proposes a new circular business model for the EoL management of EVs.
Design Model for the Sustainability Management of Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Sohnius Felix , Iglauer Martin , Schmitt Robert H.
Published: April 2023

This paper presents a design model that supports the systematic steering and operationalization of sustainability in manufacturing industry at all corporate levels. Studies show (e.g. Ramboll Group, Smurfit Kappa) that companies are aware of both the need for and the opportunities of corporate sustainability. Corporate sustainability means improving environmental and social effects as well as conditions, while operating profitably in the long term. However, companies face the challenge of resolving the complexity of corporate sustainability. Due to this challenge, the sustainability management model presented in this paper provides a holistic framework that addresses the relevant elements, fields of action and interrelationships of sustainability management in manufacturing companies. A top-down approach enables the management of sustainability at several corporate levels. In addition, various design elements enable the integration of sub-models through which a further concretization and operationalization of corporate sustainability can be realized.
Implications of Strategic Orientation on Sustainable Performance and Organizational Innovation: A Case of Manufacturing SMEs in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Onu Peter , Pradhan Anup , Mbohwa Charles
Published: April 2023

The ability of manufacturing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to adopt sustainability is predicated on several criteria, including purchasing and developing specialized resources. SMEs in emerging economies have great potential, and in terms of intensifying business performance, it is important to focus on strategic orientation. The influence of four strategic orientations on firm performance is examined in this study. The role of learning, entrepreneurial, technological, and environmental orientations within proactive strategic orientations in the manufacturing sector have been investigated. This study uses a survey questionnaire to collect data from four hundred and sixty-five sub-Saharan African manufacturing SMEs. The proactive strategic orientations were advantageous for organizational innovation (OI) and sustainable performance (SP); OI improves SP, and SP catalyzes OI, based on the Pearson correlation coefficient. This research provides information that may be utilized to advance conceptual and practical debates on manufacturing SMEs to be innovative and improve their sustainability performance to contribute to society, the environment, and the economy.
Guideline for Identifying Required Data Granularity for Deriving Improvements to the Environmental Impact of Production
Authors: Kaufmann Michel , Ekwaro-Osire Henry , Thoben Klaus-Dieter
Published: April 2023

Various sustainability reporting tools (SRTs) already exist, such as ISO 14001, Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), and Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GGP). However, these tools focus on calculating total environmental impact for reporting to external parties, rather than providing guidance to a company on obtaining measures needed to identify improvement potentials within its production. This is due to low granularity of data measurements dictated by the SRTs, since insights only available from higher granular data are typically needed to derive actionable improvements. Understandably, differentiating for which processes higher granularity is needed is not always straightforward. Thus, this paper presents a guideline concept to support manufacturers in determining the required data and data granularity to identify improvement potential, while also assessing the ecological impact of their production. Firstly, energy consumption (electricity and heat), water and material use are determined to be the most relevant measures. Secondly, a structured categorization of production steps is created. As a starting point, selected metal working processes according to DIN 8580 are incorporated into the guideline. Thirdly, the data/device hierarchy from the Reference Architecture Model Industry 4.0 (RAMI 4.0) is used to define three data granularity levels. Finally, a structured approach for determining ideal data granularity for each production step is developed and applied to build an initial version of the guideline. An evaluation shows that the guideline recommends appropriate data granularities, promising to be a useful tool for manufacturers wanting to improve their ecological impact.
Concept of Sustainable Supply Chain Management Using Multi-agent System: Negotiation by Linear Physical Programming
Authors: Koketsu Jundai , Ishigaki Aya , Ijuin Hiromasa , Yamada Tetsuo
Published: April 2023

Industry and academia are both making efforts to realize a sustainable society; an important part of these efforts is to ensure the sustainability of the supply chains that support our daily life. Sustainable supply chains are more complex than traditional supply chains, and they involve a combination of multiple issues. Multiple plans must be used to deal with these issues. However, these plans often conflict with each other. To manage a sustainable supply chain, an integrated approach is needed to operate multiple plans for multiple issues.

This paper introduces a research concept for integrated sustainable supply chain management using a multi-agent system. An agent executing a plan for an issue autonomously negotiates with other agents and avoids conflicts. Linear physical programming used for negotiation balances agents’ utility and ensures that all plans function well. Through this research, we provide an example of the simultaneous operation of multiple plans in a sustainable supply chain, aiming at the social implementation of sustainable supply chains.