bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vancomycin Flight Simulator: A Team-Based Learning Exercise
Authors: Carris Nicholas W. , Cole Jaclyn D. , Snyder Franklin Ann , Sunjic Katlynd M.
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND: Team-based learning (TBL) encourages learners to think critically to solve problems they will face in practice. Pharmacokinetic dosing and monitoring are complex skills requiring the application of learned knowledge. The study sought to assess the impact of a TBL, vancomycin dosing activity in a Pharmaceutical Skills IV course measured with exam question performance during the second professional year. METHODS: This retrospective, descriptive study relates a TBL activity, assigned to 85 students, which included an individual student pre-preparation quiz, assigned readings, in-class individual and team-based readiness assessments, small group application of a vancomycin patient case, and group discussion/feedback on clinical decisions with supportive reasoning. The class year before and class year of the TBL implementation were compared using the total percentage of points possible earned by the class years, by topic. To minimize potential confounding, the primary outcome was the change in topic performance by the rank difficulty (e.g., the largest possible benefit being the hardest topic becoming the easiest with no other variation in topic rank difficulty). RESULTS: In the year of implementation, the mean individual readiness assurance test (IRAT) performance was 5.5 ± 1.88 (10 points possible, 55%). The mean team readiness assurance test (TRAT) performance was 10 of 10 points possible (100%). The class exam item performance in the year before (n = 101) and year of (n = 84) TBL implementation showed a general decline in exam scores. However, the vancomycin topic difficultly went from fifth easiest, to second easiest, with less than 1% change in raw score. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of a pharmacokinetic TBL activity appeared to moderately support the students’ vancomycin learning. Additional studies are warranted on APPE readiness and performance.
Common Grounds: Thinking With Ruderal Plants About Other (Filmic) Histories
Authors: Castro Teresa
Published: January 2023

This article explores the connections between film and ruderal plants: plants that grow spontaneously in anthropized environments and that we often call “weeds”. Thriving across damaged lands, ruderals are not only exceptional companions for thinking with at a time of ecological rupture, but also a way of engaging with less anthropocentric histories. As argued in this paper, such histories also pertain to film. Despite its timid representational interest in ruderals and “weeds”, cinema is concerned with the stories of collaborative survival, companionship and contaminated diversity raised by such turbulent creatures. Framed by a reflection on our ruderal condition, a discussion around some recent artists’ films allows us to explore some of these problems, while putting an accent on the idea of affective ecologies and involutionary modes of perception.
1.73 kW CW Amplification ASE Source Based on Yb3+ Ions-Doped All-Fiber System
Authors: Li Xin , Zhang Zhe , Xu Xinyang , Liu Junjie , Bai Xiaolei
Published: January 2023

The all-fiber ASE source is an intriguing tool in the fields of super-fluorescence detection, coherent measurement and spectrum analysis technology. We experimentally demonstrate a continuous all-fiber amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) source based on amaster-oscillator power amplifier (MOPA) system, which aims at achieving high power and frequency stability. The seed source is homemade ASE low power super-fluorescence source with 200 mW. The system employs large-mode-area Yb3+-doped double-clad fiber (LMA-DCF), and the maximum power can reach 1.73 kW at a center wavelength of 1079.36 nm, and can maintain an optical-to-optical conversion efficiency of 79.13%. During 30 min of real-time monitoring, the ASE source system did not generate a nonlinear effect, and power fluctuation was less than 2%.
Highly Sensitive Multichannel Fano Resonance-Based Plasmonic Sensor for Refractive Index and Temperature Sensing Application
Authors: Chou Chao Chung-Ting , Chou Chau Yuan-Fong
Published: January 2023

We propose a susceptible multichannel plasmonic sensor for sensing refractive index (RI) and temperature media working in the visible to near-infrared range. The proposed structure’s resonator consists of an elliptical-shaped ring with two stubs at two sides and four metal nanorods side-coupled to two separated metal–insulator–metal waveguides. The optical responses of the structure, including transmittance spectra and magnetic and electric field distributions, are investigated using the finite element method (FEM) to obtain the optimal structural parameters. The designed structure supports five channels of Fano resonance modes because of the interaction between the narrowband mode of the elliptical-shaped ring resonator and the broadband mode of two separated MIM WGs. The maximum sensitivity values can reach 4500 nm/RIU for RI sensing, and the temperature sensitivity can get 1.00 nm/°C. The designed device exhibits excellent sensing performance and could pave the way for sensing devices with significantly higher sensitivity.
Study of Straight-Line-Type Sagnac Optical Fiber Acoustic Sensing System
Authors: Wang Jiang , Tang Ruixi , Chen Jianjun , Wang Ning , Zhu Yong , Zhang Jie , Ruan Juan
Published: January 2023

A straight-line-type Sagnac optic fiber acoustic sensing system is proposed in this paper to adopt the application needs of no man’s plateau borderline for monitoring mechanical invasion. The Sagnac interference fiber loop is replaced by a straight-line fiber and a 1 × 2 coupler, and the length of the Sagnac interference fiber loop is shortened by close to 50%. The influences of delay fiber and sensing fiber on the sensing system are analyzed by theory calculation and simulation and the optimal lengths of delay fiber and sensing fiber were decided. The experiment system was set, and the sensing fiber was wound into titanium alloy cylinder to compose the sensing element. Experimental results show that the sensing system has a good response to 50−8000 Hz and 70 dB sinusoidal acoustical signals and can well distinguish the signals of different frequencies. Using a small-scale helicopter audio signal as the acoustical signal, the test results show that the response curve is consistent with the simulation results and the sensitivity reaches 30.67 mV/Pa.
Germination and Vigor of Soybean and Corn Seeds Treated with Mixed Mineral Fertilizers
Authors: Machado Carla Gomes , Silva Givanildo Zildo da , Cruz Simério Carlos Silva , Anjos Rafael Cardoso Lourenço dos , Silva Caíque Lopes , Matos Lucas Ferreira Lima de , Smaniotto Alex Oliveira
Published: January 2023

The use of mixed mineral fertilizers consisting of macro- and micronutrients, which are already routinely used for leaf fertilization, in the treatment of corn and soybean seeds would positively influence germination and vigor, consequently improving growth and seedling development. This study aimed to evaluate the physiological potential of corn and soybean seeds treated with mixed mineral fertilizers. The seed treatment efficiency test with mixed mineral fertilizers was conducted at the Federal University of Jataí—UFJ—using Vital®, Lança®, Ídolo®, Massivo®, and their combinations. The treatments consisted of two controls for soybean and three for corn. Analysis of variance was performed using the F-test (p ≤ 0.05), and when there was significance, the means were compared using the Scott–Knott test (p ≤ 0.05). The mixed mineral fertilizers Vital® + Massivo® (T6), Lança® + Ídolo® (T7), and Vital® + Lança® + Ídolo® (T10) used in the seed treatment benefit the development of soybean (NS7667 IPRO) seeds. The treatments for corn (MG744 PWU) had little effect on germination and seedling development. The use of mixed mineral fertilizers in the seed treatments did not affect the physiological potential of the soybean and corn seeds, keeping the lots with germination values within commercialization standards.
Phytotoxic Action of Silver Nanoparticles on Lemna minor: Multi-Parameter Analysis of Different Physiological Processes
Authors: Glavaš Ljubimir Katarina , Domijan Ana-Marija , Radić Brkanac Sandra
Published: January 2023

Considering the widespread use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and their consequent build-up in waterways, there is a concern about the hazardous effect of AgNPs for aquatic ecosystems. The aim of this study was to clarify the mechanism of the action of AgNPs on duckweed (Lemna minor L.) by evaluating multiple parameters in different physiological processes. Duckweed was treated with AgNPs in a concentration range of 0.5 to 5 mg/L over a 7-day period. The analysis revealed that the AgNP-treated duckweed accumulated Ag in accordance with increasing AgNP concentrations. Furthermore, higher concentrations (2 and 5 mg/L) of AgNPs negatively affected N, P and especially K and Mg levels in the plant tissue. Accordingly, the plant growth and photosynthetic parameters were more inhibited in response to higher concentrations of AgNPs. Nanosilver significantly increased the generation of ROS at higher concentrations, although lipid peroxidation was significant even at the lowest concentration of AgNPs. However, defense mechanisms were able to counteract AgNP-induced oxidative stress and balance the intracellular redox status, as evidenced by increased activities of the main detoxification enzymes. With this experimental setting, AgNPs exhibited a relatively weak phytotoxicity at 0.5 and 1 mg/L; nevertheless, silver in a nano form poses a hazard for plants, considering its continuous release into aquatic environments.
Omega Phase Formation and Mechanical Properties of Ti–1.5 wt.% Mo and Ti–15 wt.% Mo Alloys after High-Pressure Torsion
Authors: Gornakova Alena S. , Korneva Anna , Tyurin Alexander I. , Afonikova Natalia S. , Kilmametov Askar R. , Straumal Boris B.
Published: January 2023

The paper analyzes the effect of severe plastic deformation by the high-pressure torsion (HPT) on phase transformations, in particular, on the formation of the ω-phase, and on mechanical properties, such as hardness and Young’s modulus, in Ti alloys with 1.5 and 15 wt.% Mo. Both alloys were pre-annealed at 1000 °C for 24 h and quenched. The microstructure of the initial Ti–1.5 wt.% Mo alloy consisted of the α-phase and α’-martensite, and the initial Ti–15 wt.% Mo alloy contained polycrystalline β solid solution. The hardness tests of the samples were carried out under the load of 10 and 200 mN. The annealed alloys were subjected to HPT, and the micro- and nanohardness of both deformed samples increased up to ~1 GPa compared to their initial state. It turned out that the values of hardness (H) and Young’s modulus (E) depend on the applied load on the indenter: the higher the applied load, the lower H and higher E. It was also found that the HPT leads to the 30% increase in E for an alloy with 1.5 wt.% Mo and to the 9% decrease in E for the alloy with 15 wt.% Mo. Such a difference in the behavior of the Young’s modulus is associated with phase transformations caused by the HPT.
Identification of Cell Culture Factors Influencing Afucosylation Levels in Monoclonal Antibodies by Partial Least-Squares Regression and Variable Importance Metrics
Authors: Rish Adam J. , Huang Zhuangrong , Siddiquee Khandaker , Xu Jianlin , Anderson Carl A. , Borys Michael C. , Khetan Anurag
Published: January 2023

Retrospective analysis of historic data for cell culture processes is a powerful tool to develop further process understanding. In particular, deploying retrospective analyses can identify important cell culture process parameters for controlling critical quality attributes, e.g., afucosylation, for the production of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). However, a challenge of analyzing large cell culture data is the high correlation between regressors (particularly media composition), which makes traditional analyses, such as analysis of variance and multivariate linear regression, inappropriate. Instead, partial least-squares regression (PLSR) models, in combination with machine learning techniques such as variable importance metrics, are an orthogonal or alternative approach to identifying important regressors and overcoming the challenge of a highly covariant data structure. A specific workflow for the retrospective analysis of cell culture data is proposed that covers data curation, PLS regression, model analysis, and further steps. In this study, the proposed workflow was applied to data from four mAb products in an industrial cell culture process to identify significant process parameters that influence the afucosylation levels. The PLSR workflow successfully identified several significant parameters, such as temperature and media composition, to enhance process understanding of the relationship between cell culture processes and afucosylation levels.
Prediction Method of Tunnel Natural Wind Based on Open-Source Meteorological Parameters
Authors: Ni Yangqin , Wang Mingnian , Ge Zhenghui , Guo Yuxuan , Han Changling , Wang Anmin , Chen Jingyu , Yan Tao
Published: January 2023

The rational use of natural wind in extra-long tunnels for feedforward operation ventilation control can dramatically reduce tunnel operation costs. However, traditional tunnel natural wind calculation theory lacks a prediction function. This paper proposes a three-stage tunnel natural wind prediction method relying on the Yanglin Tunnel in Yunnan, China based on the massive meteorological parameters provided by the open-source national meteorological stations around the tunnel, which make up for the partial deficiency of the meteorological parameters of the tunnel portal. The multi-layer perceptron model (MLP) was used to predict the real-time meteorological parameters of the tunnel portal using the data from four national meteorological stations. The nonlinear autoregressive network model (NARX) was used to predict the meteorological parameters of the tunnel portal in the next period based on the predicted and measured real-time data. The natural wind speed in the tunnel was obtained by a theoretical calculation method using the predicted meteorological parameters. The final tunnel natural wind prediction results are in good agreement with the field measured data, which indicates that the research results of this paper can play a guiding role in the feedforward regulation of tunnel operation fans.
Cyclic Production of Galacto-Oligosaccharides through Ultrafiltration-Assisted Enzyme Recovery
Authors: Cao Teng , Kovács Zoltán , Ladányi Márta
Published: January 2023

Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are prebiotics manufactured enzymatically from lactose as substrate. The growing GOS market facilitates the valorization of dairy by-products which represent cheap and abundant sources of lactose. Large-scale GOS production typically employs soluble enzymes in batch reactors that are commonly associated with low enzyme usability and, therefore, high operational expenditures. In this study, we investigate the possibility of recovering enzymes by ultrafiltration (UF) and reusing them in repeated reaction steps. The proposed process scheme included 24 h batch reaction steps with Biolacta N5, a commercial enzyme preparation of Bacillus circulans origin. The reaction steps were followed by UF steps to separate the carbohydrate products from the enzymes by applying a volume concentration factor of 8.6. Then, the collected biocatalysts were reused for repeated cycles by adding fresh lactose. Enzyme losses were quantified with a direct method by analyzing the underlying relationship between reaction rates and enzyme dosage obtained from additional experiments conducted with known enzyme loads. Within five cycles, the enzyme activity declined gradually from 923 to 8307 U·kg−1, and the half-life was estimated as ca. 15.3 h. The outcomes of this study may serve as a basis for further optimization of the reported process scheme with enhanced enzyme usability.
A Petal-like Structured NiCuOOH-NF Electrode by a Sonochemical Combined with the Electrochemical Method for Ammonia Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Wang Hailong , Zhou Luanqi , Chen Wenyi , Tong Xing , Wang Yifei , Zhang Huimin
Published: January 2023

Direct electrochemical oxidation, as an economical and efficient method, has recently received increasing attention for ammonia-nitrogen wastewater treatment. Developing a low-cost, efficient catalytic electrode is the key to solve the problem of sluggish ammonia oxidation reaction (AOR) kinetics. In this study, a three-dimensional (3D) Ni foam electrode coated with NiCuOOH petal-like cluster structures was prepared using a simple sonochemical method combined with a surface electrochemical reconstruction strategy. This structure has a large surface area and abundant NiCuOOH active sites, giving a good premise for extraordinary electrocatalytic activity of AOR. The results show that the maximum current density for AOR reaches 97.8 mA cm−2 at 0.60 V vs. saturated calomel electrode (SCE). Additionally, 96.53% of NH4+-N removal efficiency and 63.12% of TN removal efficiency were acquired in the electrolysis system based on the NiCuOOH-NF electrode, as well as a good stability for at least 24 h. It is a promising flow-through anode for the clean treatment of ammonia-nitrogen wastewater.
Co-Pyrolysis Behavior, Kinetic and Mechanism of Waste-Printed Circuit Board with Biomass
Authors: Prajapati Sonalben B. , Gautam Alok , Gautam Shina , Yao Zhitong , Tesfaye Fiseha , Lü Xiaoshu
Published: January 2023

Waste-printed circuit boards (WPCBs) account for approximately 3–6 wt% of total electronic waste. Due to their content of thermosetting materials and added brominated fire retardants, their recycling and disposal is difficult and not eco-friendly. Pyrolysis as a thermal degradation process may assist in the solution of this problem. In addition, using biomass as an additive can upgrade the bio-oil and fix bromines in the char. In this study, cotton stalk (CS) is chosen as an additive and kinetic of the pyrolysis of three samples namely: PCB, CS, and CS:PCB (50:50) were investigated by the thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA) at heating rates of 5, 10, and 15 K/min. Three non-isothermal methods: FWO, KAS, and Starink were found in good agreement with the TGA data; however, the FWO method was more efficient in the description of the degradation mechanism of solid-state reactions. For CS and CS:PCB (50:50), α was increased from 0.2 to 0.9 with the FWO method, and calculated Eα values were found in the range of 121.43–151.88 and 151.60–105.67 kJ/mol in zone 1, while 197.06–79.22 and 115.90–275.06 kJ/mol in zone 2, respectively. Whereas, for PCB in zone 1, Eα values were found to be in the range of 190.23–93.88 kJ/mol. The possible decomposition mechanism was determined by the Criado method, which was in agreement with the mechanism model for reaction order n = 3. The oil product was also analyzed using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy analysis.
Determination of the Dominating Coalescence Pathways in Double Emulsion Formulations by Use of Microfluidic Emulsions
Authors: Leister Nico , Karbstein Heike Petra
Published: January 2023

In water-in-oil-in-water (W1/O/W2) double emulsions several irreversible instability phenomena lead to changes. Besides diffusive processes, coalescence of droplets is the main cause of structural changes. In double emulsions, inner droplets can coalesce with each other (W1–W1 coalescence), inner droplets can be released via coalescence (W1–W2 coalescence) and oil droplets can coalesce with each other (O–O coalescence). Which of the coalescence pathways contributes most to the failure of the double emulsion structure cannot be determined by common measurement techniques. With monodisperse double emulsions produced with microfluidic techniques, each coalescence path can be observed and quantified simultaneously. By comparing the occurrence of all possible coalescence events, different hydrophilic surfactants in combination with PGPR are evaluated and discussed with regard to their applicability in double emulsion formulations. When variating the hydrophilic surfactant, the stability against all three coalescence mechanisms changes. This shows that measuring only one of the coalescence mechanisms is not sufficient to describe the stability of a double emulsion. While some surfactants are able to stabilize against all three possible coalescence mechanisms, some display mainly one of the coalescence mechanisms or in some cases all three mechanisms are observed simultaneously.
The Theological Sources of the Torah and Labor (Torah U’melakha) Yeshivas
Authors: Mashiach Amir
Published: January 2023

In this article, I seek to reveal the theological sources of the Israeli high school yeshivas designated “Torah U’melakha” (Torah and labor). High school yeshivas are schools for 9th–12th grade boys that offer religious studies in the first half of the day and secular studies, i.e., science and languages, in the second half. These schools serve mainly religious Zionist and modern orthodox society. Torah U’melakha yeshivas are high school yeshivas that are unique for combining vocational studies in the curriculum, such that graduates acquire a trade and can serve in the army and join the labor force in their field of expertise. Over the years, some of the Torah U’melakha yeshivas were subsequently closed and others changed their nature from vocational to technological. However, the educational trend toward “Torah and labor” has not disappeared. Vocational education, which became technological as well, has been assimilated in nearly all high school yeshivas, which, to a great degree, made the Torah U’melakha yeshivas redundant. The ideological and theological value of engaging in “Torah and work” became embedded in the pedagogic consciousness of religious Zionism and is continuing to infuse the many high school yeshivas in Israel and elsewhere.
Wind Imagery in Shijing: Sacrificing to the Wind God in Early China
Authors: Cai Chao , Yeung Siu Kwai
Published: January 2023

Shijing 詩經 is the earliest collection of Chinese poems and songs traditionally considered to be compiled by Confucius. Scholarship on this collection deems the widespread wind imagery contained in it to be either a metaphor for males or a medium of emotional expression. However, the religious ideas involved in the sacrifices to the wind gods in early China, which are, in fact, deeply linked with the “wind” in Shijing, warrant further consideration. This article focuses on the relation between the “wind” in Shijing and the religious ideas involved in sacrificial rites (“ningfeng 寧風” and “difeng 禘風”) to the wind gods. Drawing upon the history of wind disasters and sacrifices to the wind gods in early China, this article suggests that the pieces entitled “Gufeng 谷風” (included in the Xiaoya 小雅 section) and “Herensi 何人斯” provide descriptions of “ningfeng” (appeasing unwanted wind). Moreover, it argues that the pieces entitled “Kaifeng 凱風” and “Tuoxi 蘀兮” depict a genial wind in connection with harvest, childbearing, and prosperity involved in “difeng”.
Rethinking Public Religion in Korea: The Role of Religions in the Era of Climate Crisis
Authors: Suh Dong-Uhn , Kim Hyun Kyoung
Published: January 2023

This paper attempts to explore the public dimension of religion in Korea. First, it examines the Western and East Asian contexts on the concept of ’public’, noting that the gap in notions of public is large between East Asian and Western traditions. The following section discusses Habermas’ ‘institutional translation proviso’ in relation to the notion ‘public’. The institutional translation proviso serves as the basis for further discussion on rethinking the public role of religion in Korea in the era of climate crisis. We argue that ‘secular’ translations of religious convictions can help religious citizens and communities engage in public discourses on ecological challenges. We then consider major limitations of Habermas’ understanding of religion. In the following section, we move on to discuss Albert Schweitzer and process theology in order to demonstrate how religious languages can be reinterpreted on the basis of modern experiences of ecological challenges. We then consider Buddhist alternatives for overcoming the climate crisis. The final section introduces José Casanova’s account of public religions and discusses its implication for envisioning the public role of religious organizations in ecological efforts. Reviewing the contributions made by religious organizations to the Korean society, we suggest that ‘ecological publicness’ of religion can be obtained.
Rational versus Irrational Behavior of Indonesian Cryptocurrency Owners in Making Investment Decision
Authors: Tjondro Elisa , Hatane Saarce Elsye , Widuri Retnaningtyas , Tarigan Josua
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate the salient factors that influence Indonesian cryptocurrency owners in making their investment decision. This study employs intergroup bias, subjective norms, overborrowing, and spending control to explain cryptocurrency investment behavior. The questionnaire was collected from 309 respondents from the five largest internet user areas: Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Semarang, and Medan. This study executes the research framework using binary logistic regression. The results reveal that intergroup bias and overborrowing are the most impulsive factors contributing to the cryptocurrency investment decisions over the past year. Furthermore, after November 2021, Indonesian crypto owners are more irrational in a bearish period since their investment decisions are driven by their desire to be accepted in the social group. Moreover, when they have overindebtedness, instead of solving their debt problems, they prefer to spend their money on cryptocurrency investments. The subjective norms’ influencers suggest that crypto owners not invest when the cryptocurrency price is sharply declining. The findings contribute to the dual-systems perspective and social contagion theories, enriching the empirical study regarding investment behavior.
A Novel Technique for Ultrathin Inhomogeneous Dielectric Powder Layer Sensing Using a W-Band Metasurface
Authors: Kurland Zachary , Goyette Thomas , Gatesman Andrew
Published: January 2023

A novel technique using a W-band metasurface for the purpose of transmissive fine powder layer sensing is presented. The proposed technique may allow for the detection, identification, and characterization of inhomogeneous ultrafine powder layers which are effectively hundreds of times thinner than the incident wavelengths used to sense them. Such a technique may be useful during personnel screening processes (i.e., at an airport) and in industrial manufacturing environments where early detection and quantization of harmful airborne particulates can be a matter of security or safety. The proposed sensing technique was experimentally and theoretically tested. The results suggest that, using this technique, one may identify, extract the effective complex dielectric properties, and measure the layer thicknesses of ultrafine powder layers present on a metasurface. Using this technique, it may be possible to identify and characterize diverse media in various physical, chemical, and biological metasurface sensing efforts at numerous bands of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Effective and Low-Cost Adsorption Procedure for Removing Chemical Oxygen Demand from Wastewater Using Chemically Activated Carbon Derived from Rice Husk
Authors: Mortada Wael , Mohamed Raed , Monem Amir , Awad Marwa , Hassan Asaad
Published: January 2023

Wastewater treatment by adsorption onto activated carbon is effective because it has a variety of benefits. In this work, activated carbon prepared from rice husk by chemical activation using zinc chloride was utilized to reduce chemical oxygen demand from wastewater. The as-prepared activated carbon was characterized by scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nitrogen adsorption/desorption analysis. The optimum conditions for maximum removal were achieved by studying the impact of various factors such as solution pH, sorbent dose, shaking time and temperature in batch mode. The results displayed that the optimum sorption conditions were achieved at pH of 3.0, sorbent dose of 0.1 g L−1, shaking time of 100 min and at room temperature (25 °C). Based on the effect of temperature, the adsorption process is exothermic in nature. The results also implied that the isothermal data might be exceedingly elucidated by the Langmuir model. The maximum removal of chemical oxygen demand by the activated carbon was 45.9 mg g−1. The kinetic studies showed that the adsorption process follows a pseudo-first order model. The findings suggested that activated carbon from rice husk may be used as inexpensive substitutes for commercial activated carbon in the treatment of wastewater for the removal of chemical oxygen demand.
Exploiting 2D/3D Geomatics Data for the Management, Promotion, and Valorization of Underground Built Heritage
Authors: Gorgoglione Lucrezia , Malinverni Eva Savina , Smaniotto Costa Carlos , Pierdicca Roberto , Di Stefano Francesco
Published: January 2023

The scarce knowledge and documentation of Underground Built Heritage (UBH) assets frequently limit their full exploitation and valorization. The aim of this work is to reflect on the techniques, functions, and technical features of a specific case study in a very broad context that can, however, be a building block for the understanding, preservation, and reuse of architectural and engineering values that represent a fundamental trace of the history of a society. Therefore, to fill these knowledge gaps, it was constructed a 3D GIS model, multi-scale, and interoperable database, capable of management, promotion, and valorization of UBH. The case study focuses on the old water supply system of the city of Lisbon, as UBH site, with galleries and cisterns that are points of connection with the urban environment above. For the creation of 3D models of the structure under investigation, it was decided to carry out a survey with Mobile Mapping System as a first step, which allowed the construction of a dense point cloud useful to build 3D models of individual objects. Finally, the 3D models were imported into the 3D GIS environment and multi-information could be linked for each previously identified element for greater knowledge sharing. This research has demonstrated how geomatic techniques can be effectively used in conjunction with the information management systems of GIS to explore this “hidden” heritage and has highlighted the limitations and problems of 3D digitization of the UBH. The results obtained offer the possibility of extending and adapting the methodology to different application contexts and the possibility of customizing the data representation.
Statistical Prediction of Future Sports Records Based on Record Values
Authors: Empacher Christina , Kamps Udo , Volovskiy Grigoriy
Published: January 2023

Point prediction of future record values based on sequences of previous lower or upper records is considered by means of the method of maximum product of spacings, where the underlying distribution is assumed to be a power function distribution and a Pareto distribution, respectively. Moreover, exact and approximate prediction intervals are discussed and compared with regard to their expected lengths and their percentages of coverage. The focus is on deriving explicit expressions in the point and interval prediction procedures. Predictions and forecasts are of interest, e.g., in sports analytics, which is gaining more and more attention in several sports disciplines. Previous works on forecasting athletic records have mainly been based on extreme value theory. The presented statistical prediction methods are exemplarily applied to data from various disciplines of athletics as well as to data from American football based on fantasy football points according to the points per reception scoring scheme. The results are discussed along with basic assumptions and the choice of underlying distributions.
Proposing a Small-Scale Digital Twin Implementation Framework for Manufacturing from a Systems Perspective
Authors: Loaiza Jonatan H. , Cloutier Robert J. , Lippert Kari
Published: January 2023

Due to the fourth industrial revolution, manufacturing companies are looking to implement digital twins in their factories to be more competitive. However, the implementation of digital twins in manufacturing systems is a complex task. Factories need a framework that can guide them in the development of digital twins. Hence, this article proposes a small-scale digital twin implementation framework for manufacturing systems. To build this framework, the authors gathered several concepts from the literature and designed a digital twin subsystem model using a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) approach and the systems engineering “Vee” model. The systems modelling defines the digital twin components, functionalities, and structure. The authors distribute most of these concepts throughout the framework configuration and some concepts next to this general configuration. This configuration presents three spaces: physical, virtual, and information. The physical space presents a physical layer and a perception layer. The information space has a single layer called middleware. Finally, the virtual space presents two layers: application and model. In addition to these layers, this framework includes other concepts such as digital thread, data, ontology, and enabling technologies. This framework could help researchers and practitioners to learn more about digital twins and apply it to different domains.
Feline Susceptibility to Leptospirosis and Presence of Immunosuppressive Co-Morbidities: First European Report of L. interrogans Serogroup Australis Sequence Type 24 in a Cat and Survey of Leptospira Exposure in Outdoor Cats
Authors: Mazzotta Elisa , De Zan Gabrita , Cocchi Monia , Boniotti Maria Beatrice , Bertasio Cristina , Furlanello Tommaso , Lucchese Laura , Ceglie Letizia , Bellinati Laura , Natale Alda
Published: January 2023

Leptospirosis is one of the most widespread zoonotic diseases and can infect both humans and animals worldwide. The role of the cat as a susceptible host and potential environmental reservoir of Leptospira is still not well understood, due to the lack of obvious clinical signs associated with Leptospira spp. infection in this species. This study aims to describe the first European detection of Leptospira interrogans serogroup Australis ST 24 in a young outdoor cat with a severe comorbidity (feline panleukopenia virus). In addition, the results of a preliminary study conducted in 2014–2016 are presented (RC IZSVE 16/12), which reports an investigation of Leptospira exposure of outdoor cats in Northeast Italy by means of serological investigation and molecular evaluation of urine. The animals included in the survey are part of samples collected during active and passive surveillance (diagnostic samples). The study reported a seroprevalence of 10.5% among outdoor cats and the serogroups identified were Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Bratislava, Canicola and Ballum. Symptomatic cats reported high MAT titres (ranging from 1:800 to 1:1600) towards antigens belonging to the serovars Grippotyphosa (1:800), Bratislava (1:1600), Icterohaemorrhagiae (1:200) and Copenhageni (1:200–1:800). In one subject, urine tested positive for Leptospira PCR. Cats with high antibody titres for Leptospira and/or positivity on molecular test suffered from immunosuppressive comorbidities (feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukaemia virus; feline herpesvirus and lymphoma; hyperthyroidism). The overall prevalence of serum antibodies against Leptospira found in free-ranging cats (10.53%, 95% CI: 4.35–16.70%) and the identification of L. interrogans ST 24 in a young cat with immunosuppressive disease (feline panleukopenia virus) suggest the possibility of natural resistance to clinical leptospirosis in healthy cats. In a One Health perspective, further studies are needed to better define the pathogenesis of leptospirosis in cats and their epidemiological role as environmental sentinels or possible carriers of pathogenic Leptospira.
Dependence of Freeze-Out Parameters on Collision Energies and Cross-Sections
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , AbdelKader Atef , Ajaz Muhammad , Tawfik Abdel , Wazir Zafar , Haj Ismail Abd , Luo Shi , Khan Hafsa
Published: January 2023

We analyzed the transverse momentum spectra (pT) reported by the NA61/SHINE and NA49 experiments in inelastic proton–proton (pp) and central Lead–Lead (Pb−Pb), Argon–Scandium (Ar−Sc), and Beryllium–Beryllium (Be−Be) collisions with the Blast-wave model with Boltzmann–Gibbs (BWBG) statistics. The BGBW model was in good agreement with the experimental data. We were able to extract the transverse flow velocity (βT), the kinetic freeze-out temperature (T0), and the kinetic freeze-out volume (V) from the pT spectra using the BGBW model. Furthermore, we also obtained the initial temperature (Ti) and the mean transverse momentum () by the alternative method. We observed that T0 increases with increasing collision energy and collision cross-section, representing the colliding system’s size. The transverse flow velocity was observed to remain invariant with increasing collision energy, while it showed a random change with different collision cross-sections. In the same way, the kinetic freeze-out volume and mean transverse momentum increased with an increase in collision energy or collision cross-section. The same behavior was also seen in the freeze-out temperature, which increased with increasing collision cross-sections. At chemical freeze-out, we also determined both the chemical potential and temperature and compared these with the hadron resonance gas model (HRG) and different experimental data. We report that there is an excellent agreement with the HRG model and various experiments, which reveals the ability of the fit function to manifest features of the chemical freeze-out.
Current Evidence on Vaccinations in Pediatric and Adult Patients with Systemic Autoinflammatory Diseases
Authors: Massaro Maria Grazia , Caldarelli Mario , Franza Laura , Candelli Marcello , Gasbarrini Antonio , Gambassi Giovanni , Cianci Rossella , Rigante Donato
Published: January 2023

Systemic autoinflammatory diseases (SAIDs) are defined by recurrent febrile attacks associated with protean manifestations involving joints, the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and the central nervous system, combined with elevated inflammatory markers, and are caused by a dysregulation of the innate immune system. From a clinical standpoint, the most known SAIDs are familial Mediterranean fever (FMF); cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome (CAPS); mevalonate kinase deficiency (MKD); and periodic fever, aphthosis, pharyngitis, and adenitis (PFAPA) syndrome. Current guidelines recommend the regular sequential administration of vaccines for all individuals with SAIDs. However, these patients have a much lower vaccination coverage rates in ‘real-world’ epidemiological studies than the general population. The main purpose of this review was to evaluate the scientific evidence available on both the efficacy and safety of vaccines in patients with SAIDs. From this analysis, neither serious adverse effects nor poorer antibody responses have been observed after vaccination in patients with SAIDs on treatment with biologic agents. More specifically, no new-onset immune-mediated complications have been observed following immunizations. Post-vaccination acute flares were significantly less frequent in FMF patients treated with colchicine alone than in those treated with both colchicine and canakinumab. Conversely, a decreased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection has been proved for patients with FMF after vaccination with the mRNA-based BNT162b2 vaccine. Canakinumab did not appear to affect the ability to produce antibodies against non-live vaccines in patients with CAPS, especially if administered with a time lag from the vaccination. On the other hand, our analysis has shown that immunization against Streptococcus pneumoniae, specifically with the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, was associated with a higher incidence of adverse reactions in CAPS patients. In addition, disease flares might be elicited by vaccinations in children with MKD, though no adverse events have been noted despite concurrent treatment with either anakinra or canakinumab. PFAPA patients seem to be less responsive to measles, mumps, and rubella-vaccine, but have shown higher antibody response than healthy controls following vaccination against hepatitis A. In consideration of the clinical frailty of both children and adults with SAIDs, all vaccinations remain ‘highly’ recommended in this category of patients despite the paucity of data available.
Maturation of Aluminium Adsorbed Antigens Contributes to the Creation of Homogeneous Vaccine Formulations
Authors: Laera Donatello , Scarpellini Camilla , Tavarini Simona , Baudner Barbara , Marcelli Agnese , Pergola Carlo , Meppen Malte , O’Hagan Derek T.
Published: January 2023

Although aluminium-based vaccines have been used for almost over a century, their mechanism of action remains unclear. It is established that antigen adsorption to the adjuvant facilitates delivery of the antigen to immune cells at the injection site. To further increase our understanding of aluminium-based vaccines, it is important to gain additional insights on the interactions between the aluminium and antigens, including antigen distribution over the adjuvant particles. Immuno-assays can further help in this regard. In this paper, we evaluated how established formulation strategies (i.e., sequential, competitive, and separate antigen addition) applied to four different antigens and aluminium oxyhydroxide, lead to formulation changes over time. Results showed that all formulation samples were stable, and that no significant changes were observed in terms of physical-chemical properties. Antigen distribution across the bulk aluminium population, however, did show a maturation effect, with some initial dependence on the formulation approach and the antigen adsorption strength. Sequential and competitive approaches displayed similar results in terms of the homogeneity of antigen distribution across aluminium particles, while separately adsorbed antigens were initially more highly poly-dispersed. Nevertheless, the formulation sample prepared via separate adsorption also reached homogeneity according to each antigen adsorption strength. This study indicated that antigen distribution across aluminium particles is a dynamic feature that evolves over time, which is initially influenced by the formulation approach and the specific adsorption strength, but ultimately leads to homogeneous formulations.
Technical and Economic Analysis to Select Suitable Design Parameters of an E-Machine for Electric Commercial Vehicles
Authors: Kampker Achim , Heimes Heiner , Dorn Benjamin , Brans Florian , Dorantes Gómez José Guillermo , Sharma Chetan
Published: January 2023

In the European Union (EU), road transport contributes a major proportion of the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, of which a significant amount is caused by heavy-duty commercial vehicles (CV). The increasing number of emission regulations and penalties by the EU have forced commercial vehicle manufacturers to investigate powertrain technologies other than conventional internal combustion engines (ICE). Since vehicle economics plays an important role in purchase decisions and the powertrain of a battery electric vehicle (BEV) contributes to about 8–20% of the total vehicle cost and the electric machine (EM) alone contributes to 33–43% of the drivetrain cost, it is necessary to analyze suitable EM topologies for the powertrain. In this paper, the authors aim to analyze the technical and cost aspects of an EM for electric commercial vehicles (ECV). Based on prior research and literature on this subject, an appropriate methodology for selecting suitable geometrical parameters of an e-machine for the use case of a heavy-duty vehicle is developed using MATLAB and Simulink tools. Then, for the economic analysis of the e-machine, reference ones are used, and their design parameters and cost structures are utilized to develop a cost function. Different use cases are evaluated according to the vehicle’s application. The results for a use case are compared by varying the design parameters to find the most cost-effective EM. Later, an analysis is performed on other decisive factors for EM selection. This highlights the importance of collaborative consideration of technological as well as the economic aspects of EMs for different use cases in ECVs. The method developed in this work contributes to understand the economic aspect of EMs as well as considering their performance factors. State-of-the-art methods and research are used to develop a novel methodology that helps with the selection of the initial geometry of the electric motor during the design process, which can serve to aid future designers and converters of electric heavy-duty vehicles.
An Experimentally Validated Selection Protocol for Biochar as a Sustainable Component in Green Roofs
Authors: Haeldermans Tom , Puente Torres Jeamichel , Vercruysse Willem , Carleer Robert , Samyn Pieter , Vandamme Dries , Yperman Jan , Cuypers Ann , Vanreppelen Kenny , Schreurs Sonja
Published: January 2023

Green roofs contribute to more sustainable cities, but current commercial substrates suffer from important limitations. If carefully selected, biochar could serve as a viable option for a more sustainable green roof substrate. We propose a protocol to select an optimal biochar for green roof substrate amendment. Coffee husks, medium-density fiberboard, palm date fronds, and a mixture of waste wood, tree bark, and olive stone kernels are selected as residues for biochar production to develop a selection protocol. The residues are pyrolyzed at 350, 450, 500, and 550 °C in a lab-scale reactor. A pyrolysis temperature of 450 °C is selected for upscaling and is based on biochar yield, pH, salinity, and elemental composition. From evaluating the biochar characteristics after upscaling, it can be concluded that the biochar’s carbonization degree is mainly controlled by pyrolysis temperature, while yield, pH, and salinity are more dependent on the biomass properties. Ultimately, our procedure evaluates the presence of important contaminants, the biochar’s water holding capacity, salinity, pH, and carbonization degree. To validate the developed protocol, plant coverage experiments on green roofs are performed, which are quantified using a novel digital image processing method, demonstrating its efficient use to facilitate future biochar selection in substrates.
Exploring TGE Young Adults’ Experiences Seeking Health Information and Healthcare
Authors: McCormick Melinda , Allen Elissa , Wadsworth Pamela J. , Gulliver Berry
Published: January 2023

The number of young adults who identify as transgender or gender expansive is rapidly growing in the U.S. Due to this rapid growth, healthcare providers are not properly informed on how to provide culturally competent healthcare and mental healthcare for this population. The sexual and gender-minority population has already been identified as a health-disparity population by the National Institutes of Health, so this lack of provider knowledge may add to the current health disparities of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ+). In this research, we asked how young people who identify as transgender or gender expansive (TGE) seek information related to their health, mental health, and well-being and to understand how they connect to necessary resources to meet their healthcare needs. Participants responded to an online survey which included open-ended questions, and shared how they seek healthcare information and determine if that information is trustworthy. They also shared their own healthcare experiences and recommendations for their peers as they seek health and mental healthcare. Results indicate that many barriers to care still exist and that providers, agencies, and systems still have much work to do to meet the needs of this population.