bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of organic shock loading on anaerobic performance of pumice-reinforced up-flow anaerobic sludge bed for incineration leachate treatment
Authors: Zhang Yong , Ji Fengquan , Hu Qunlin , Luo Tao , Jin Zhen , Xu Guangsong , Zhan Yu , Wang Hui 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThe research and application of leachate in the treatment of leachate in UASB reactors are increasing, but UASB also has problems such as poor resistance to organic load impact and unstable operation. In order to improve the anaerobic performance stability of an up-flow anaerobic sludge bed reactor (UASB) subjected to high organic loading shock, pumice was added to the leachate from the incineration. The reinforcement effect of pumice on the anaerobic efficiency of the reactor was studied by increasing the influent load. The results showed that with a gradual increase in the influent organic load [11.6‒66.6 kg COD/(m3∙d)] and without the addition of pumice, irreversible acidification took place in the reactor (R1) when the influent load reached 14.51 kg COD/(m3∙d). The average methane output and content were reduced to 39.7 L/d and 66.16%, respectively. In contrast, the reactor (R2) with pumice could still be operated stably when the influent organic load reached 40.04 kg COD/(m3∙d). The COD removal rate reached 91.80%, and the average methane output and content were increased by 42.30% and 15.20%, respectively. The results of analyzing the sludge microbial community structure in the reactor showed that the adding of pumice could selectively enrich the methanogenic bacterium methanosaeta, promote the decomposition of volatile fatty acid (VFA), effectively mitigate the acid inhibition effect of VFA on the anaerobic reactor, and enhance the balance between acidogenic bacteria (Chloroflexi and Proteobacteria) and methanogenic bacterium (Methanosaeta) to a great degree. These results prove that the addition of pumice filler can reinforce the resistance of UASB to organic loading.
Consumer Preferences in Greece for Bio-Based Products: a Short Communication
Authors: Skouloudis Antonis , Malesios Chrysovalantis , Lekkas Demetris-Francis , Panagiotopoulou Altani 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
This study examines consumer preferences for bio-based products. Drawing from a sample of Greek consumers (n = 533) and the use of self-reported scales, we assess the effects of individuals’ characteristics such as innovativeness, trust in science and technology, environmental concern, and previous experience with bio-products on consumer preferences, i.e., willingness to pay (WTP) for (a) a bio-nylon jacket, (b) a pack of bio-based breadsticks, and (c) a bioplastic bottled water. Findings indicate that certain consumer- and product-specific attributes may influence WTP for the three bio-based products included in our study and offer insights on the extent to which such characteristics may shape purchase decisions for products of this growing market. In this respect, the results encapsulate managerial/practical and policy implications toward the development of appropriate advertising messages and awareness-raising campaigns and indicate the need to further explore consumers’ attitudes and purchase decisions for bio-based products in Greece.
Study of an abnormally strong saltwater intrusion in the Humen Channel of the Pearl River estuary
Authors: Wang Jiaxi , Hong Bo , Gong Wenping 
Published: October 2022

AbstractSaltwater intrusion in estuaries has become a serious environmental problem, such as in the Pearl River estuary (PRE). In this study, we used a fully validated three-dimensional hydrodynamic model EFDC to numerically investigate the saltwater intrusion in the PRE during the dry season of 2007-2008. Based on the measured salinity, an abnormally strong saltwater intrusion occurred in the Humen Channel in February 2008. The saltwater intrusion occurred twice a month to varying extents, with each saltwater intrusion happening 1-3 days before spring tide, and the stronger saltwater intrusion always occurred at the beginning of the month. Our model results show that caused by a long-term northerly wind during the dry season, the increased steady shear term in the salt transport flux were responsible for the abnormally strong saltwater intrusion in the Humen Channel. The abnormally strong saltwater intrusion has features of long duration, far-reaching upstream distance and great hazard to freshwater resources. The wind effects were revealed to mainly influence the bottom salinity in the middle reach of the PRE, especially near the Humen outlet.
Mapping the trajectory of acute mild-stroke cognitive recovery using serial computerised cognitive assessment
Authors: Campbell Alana , Gustafsson Louise , Grimley Rohan , Gullo Hannah , Rosbergen Ingrid , Summers Mathew 
Published: October 2022

AbstractIntroduction:Cognitive impairment is common post-stroke. There is a need to understand patterns of early cognitive recovery post-stroke to guide both clinical and research practice. The aim of the study was to map the trajectory of cognitive recovery during the first week to 90-days post-stroke using serial computerised assessment.Method:An observational cohort study recruited consecutive stroke patients admitted to a stroke unit within 48 hours of onset. Cognitive function was assessed using the computerised Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) daily for seven days, then 14, 30 and 90 days post-stroke. The CANTAB measured visual episodic memory and learning, information processing speed, visuo-spatial working memory, complex sustained attention and mental flexibility. Repeated measures MANOVA/ANOVA with Least Squares Difference post-hoc analyses were performed to ascertain significant change over time.Result:Forty-eight participants, mean age 73, primarily mild, ischaemic stroke, completed all assessment timepoints. There was a trajectory of early, global cognitive improvement, indicative of a post-stroke delirium, that largely stabilised between 6 and 14-days post-stroke. Change over time was examined within each cognitive test, with one measure stabilising by day 6 (Reaction Time) and others detecting improving performances up to 14 days post-stroke.Conclusions:Serial, computerised cognitive assessment can effectively map post-stroke cognitive recovery and revealed an early phase of global improvement over 14 days that is evidence for an acute post-stroke delirium. Resolution of post-stroke delirium in the second week following mild stroke indicates more extensive neuropsychological testing may be undertaken earlier than previously thought.
New Software Interface for Registering Rapid Antigen Test Results to Prevent Fraud
Authors: Besong Donald O. 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
Donald O. Besong has already documented that the online registration of unsupervised lateral flow test results poses concerns in the case of a serious pandemic where there are not enough medics to read scans or watch videos of candidates’ results (Besong Int J Biomed Healthc Sci. 2022;12(1):1-12). Scanning or videorecording requires a high number of available medics (Besong Int J Biomed Healthc Sci. 2022;12(1):1-12) in an adverse pandemic scenario. In the above study (Besong Int J Biomed Healthc Sci. 2022;12(1):1-12), an artificial intelligence (AI) interface with image recognition was suggested as a method to prevent cheating during the online registration of unsupervised test results. The second solution suggested was a method that obscures the meaning of the result the candidate reads from their test device so that a software interface can resolve that from a database (Besong Int J Biomed Healthc Sci. 2022;12(1):1-12). This is an entirely new method. In this study, the latter (entirely new) method is proposed and described in detail. Precisely, this simple but new method is all about blinding the test strips so that the candidate does not know what the face values signify. The software then connects to a database of unique strip identification numbers to determine the test result when the candidate or patient registers their results. Both strip number and the value of their test must be entered to register results. This method has never been proposed or implemented. The technique will be described in detail.
Developing a Personal Protective Equipment Calculator During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Abdollahzade Sina , Rafiei Sima , Namdar Peyman , Ghashghaee Ahmad 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
These days, because of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, we have faced a number of challenges and scarcities in Iran. Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE) is one of the most remarkable problems that can have damaging consequences on the health system. In this letter, we introduce software that can help hospitals manage their PPE in terms of purchasing, distributing, and predicting the future needs in different time intervals. The software has several distinctive features such as superior speed, cost management, managerial dashboard, a wide range of applicability, comprehensiveness, supply chain management, and quality appraisal. We hope that our findings can assist health authorities in planning and optimizing the use of PPE for the response to COVID-19, where the shortage of resources may occur due to supply chain issues.
Progress in understanding middle Eocene nassellarian (Radiolaria, Polycystinea) diversity; new insights from the western equatorial Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Meunier Mathias , Danelian Taniel 
Published: October 2022

AbstractMiddle Eocene deep-sea sediment sequences cored at Ocean Drilling Program Site 1260 (Leg 207; equatorial Atlantic Ocean) yielded diverse and abundant radiolarian faunas that are conducive to biostratigraphic and palaeoceanographic research, as well as to the study of radiolarian diversity dynamics during this epoch of significant climate changes. However, many species present in these sediments still have not been formally described and are therefore neglected in most biodiversity surveys. In an effort to improve the taxonomic resolution of middle Eocene radiolarians, 15 new species of nassellarians are described and illustrated. The species are: Cymaetron? dilatatus n. sp., Eucyrtidium levisaltatrix n. sp. (Eucyrtidiidae), Siphocampe pollen n. sp., Spirocyrtis? renaudiei n. sp. (Artostrobiidae), Pterocyrtidium eep n. sp. (Rhopalosyringiidae), Petalospyris cometa n. sp., Petalospyris castanea n. sp. (Cephalospyrididae), Velicucullus armatus n. sp. (Theophormididae), Lychnocanium nimrodi n. sp. (Lithochytrididae), Aphetocyrtis zamenhofi n. sp., Aphetocyrtis? columboi n. sp., Aphetocyrtis? spheniscus n. sp. (Lophocyrtiidae), Albatrossidium regis n. sp., Albatrossidium annikasanfilippoae n. sp., and Phormocyrtis lazari n. sp. (Pterocorythidae). Stratigraphic range data are provided for each new species, as well as the orbitally tuned ages for their first and last occurrences. In addition to these new species, we also illustrate and document the stratigraphic distribution of four species described in early radiolarian studies and rarely reported since.UUID: http://zoobank.org/b5993e6b-659b-4220-80c2-c6ddccc13793
METRICS FOR FORMAL STRUCTURES, WITH AN APPLICATION TO KRIPKE MODELS AND THEIR DYNAMICS
Authors: KLEIN DOMINIK , RENDSVIG RASMUS K. 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThe paper introduces a broad family of metrics applicable to finite and countably infinite strings, or, by extension, to formal structures serving as semantics for countable languages. The main focus is on applications to sets of pointed Kripke models, a semantics for modal logics. For the resulting metric spaces, the paper classifies topological properties including which metrics are topologically equivalent, providing sufficient conditions for compactness, characterizing clopen sets and isolated points, and characterizing the metrical topologies by a concept of logical convergence. We then apply the approach to maps from dynamic epistemic logic, showing that product updates with action models yield continuous maps, hence allowing for an interpretation of the iterated updates as discrete time dynamical systems.
An alternative formula for the cubic equation
Authors: Missa Abdel , Youssfi Chrif 
Published: October 2022

Consider the general cubic equation:

$${x^3} + a{x^2} + bx + c = 0.$$
A change of variable: x = z + t leads to:
(1)
$${z^3} + (3t + a){z^2} + (3{t^2} + 2at + b)z + ({t^3} + {at^2} + bt + c) = 0.$$
ON THE CENTRAL KERNEL OF A GROUP
Authors: RUSSO ALESSIO 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThe central kernel
$K(G)$
of a group G is the (characteristic) subgroup consisting of all elements
$x\in G$
such that
$x^{\gamma }=x$
for every central automorphism
$\gamma $
of G. We prove that if G is a finite-by-nilpotent group whose central kernel has finite index, then the full automorphism group
$Aut(G)$
of G is finite. Some applications of this result are given.
The Role of Creditor Protection in Lending and Tax Avoidance
Authors: De Vito Antonio , Jacob Martin 
Published: October 2022

AbstractWe examine how creditor rights affect the trade-off between non-debt and debt tax shields. Using four bankruptcy reforms and a panel of private and public firms from Italy, we show that laws empowering creditors reduce tax avoidance and increase debt financing, consistent with firms substituting non-debt tax shields with debt tax shields. We corroborate the validity of our findings using a panel of public firms across 33 countries. Additionally, we document that the impact of creditor protection laws is mitigated by tax system characteristics, which significantly reduce the incentives to substitute tax avoidance with debt.
Historical and social forces in the Iridescent Life Course: key life events and experiences of transgender older adults
Authors: Fredriksen-Goldsen Karen , Emlet Charles A. , Fabbre Vanessa D. , Kim Hyun-Jun , Lerner Justin , Jung Hailey H. , Harner Vern , Goldsen Jayn 
Published: October 2022

AbstractThe lives of transgender older adults are rarely examined, and little is known about the critical life events and experiences of this population. Informed by the Iridescent Life Course, this study investigates how intersectionality, fluidity, context and power impact the life events and experiences of trans older adults by generation and gender. Utilising 2014 data from the National Health, Aging, and Sexuality/Gender Study: Aging with Pride (National Institutes of Health/National Institute on Aging funded), a national sample of LGBTQ+ individuals 50 years and older, living in the United States of America, were analysed to examine life events of 205 transgender older adults, including identity development, work, bias, kin relationships, social and community engagement, health and wellbeing. Ordinary least-squares regressions and logistics regressions are used to compare the life events between the generations then test the interaction effect of gender. Pride Generation more openly disclose their identities and are more likely to be employed and married compared to the Silenced Generation, who have more military service, higher rates of retirement, fewer same-sex marriages and more different-sex marriages. Invisible Generation, the oldest group, are more likely retired, have more children and are more likely engaged in the community compared to the Silenced Generation, who experienced more discrimination. Applying the Iridescent Life Course is instrumental in understanding older trans adults' lives through intersecting identities of both generation and gender. These insights have the potential to create a greater appreciation of how historical events shape differing generations of transgender people, creating an opportunity to link generations together.
Intergenerational family relationships and the impact of behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD): a qualitative longitudinal study
Authors: La Fontaine Jenny , Larkin Michael , Oyebode Jan R. 
Published: October 2022

AbstractResearch concerning the reciprocal influence of relationships and dementia largely focuses on dyadic relationships despite evidence that whole families are affected. Furthermore, such research generally considers more common forms of dementia such as Alzheimer's disease. Behavioural variant fronto-temporal dementia (bvFTD) primarily although not exclusively affects people below the age of 65 and is distinctly different in its impact from more common forms of dementia, affecting social cognition and therefore relational functioning. We aimed to develop a detailed understanding of intergenerational family experiences of bvFTD over time. We adopted a social constructivist and pluralist approach, using Narrative Thematic Analysis and Grounded Theory. We interviewed seven families in their own homes, including the person with bvFTD, at up to three time-points every six to nine months from 2012 to 2014, resulting in 46 interviews with 19 family members. Three super-ordinate themes were identified: Theme 1: We before bvFTD: cohesive and connected – disconnected and distant; Theme 2: Challenges experienced by us; and Theme 3: Relational outcomes: a changing we – an entrenched we. Results emphasise bvFTD brought early and significant disruption to family relationships. The interplay of prior relational functioning, involving the nature of the relationship for family members, the specific impact of bvFTD on these relationships and family member's understanding of bvFTD was critical to how each family fared over the duration of the research, and the relational outcomes they experienced. These findings suggest health-care practice could enhance its support for families living with bvFTD, through the development of tailored, family-oriented approaches to assessment and practice. Such approaches are necessary to understand how families work together and identify interventions that address the family-specific challenges bvFTD brings. The provision of tailored, relational-focused and specialised information concerning the experience of living with bvFTD is needed to flexibly address families' needs and expectations.
Hospitalisations of children and adults with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome in Texas from 2009 to 2019
Authors: Well Andrew , Dawson Catherine , Johnson Gregory , Patt Hanoch , Fraser Charles D. , Mery Carlos M. , Beckerman Ziv 
Published: October 2022

AbstractIntroduction:Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome accounts for a significant proportion of CHD morbidity and mortality, despite improvements in care and improved survival. This study evaluates number of, reasons for, and trends in discharges of patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome over 11 years in Texas.Methods:The Texas Inpatient Discharge Dataset Public Use File captures almost all discharges in Texas and was reviewed from 2009 to 2019. Discharges of patients ≥5 years of age and diagnosis codes for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome were included. The admitting and principle diagnoses were categorised and all discharges were evaluated for procedures performed. Descriptive and univariate statistical analyses were performed.Results:A total of 1024 discharges were identified with a 16.9% annual increase over the study period. Median length of stay was 4 [IQR: 2–8] and there were 17 (1.7%) in-hospital mortalities with no differences across age groups. Seven (17.1%) discharges of patients 25+ years were uninsured, higher than other age groups (p < 0.001). The most common admitting diagnosis was CHD and 224 (21.9%) of discharges included a procedure, including 23 heart transplants. Discharges occurred from 67 different hospitals with 4 (6.0%) representing 71.4% of all discharges.Conclusions:Discharges of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome have increased rapidly, particularly in the older age groups and were spread over a large number of hospitals. Further work is needed to understand the interplay between Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and other conditions and care experiences that occur within the general population, which will become more common as this population ages and grows.
Head-mounted digital metamorphopsia suppression as a countermeasure for macular-related visual distortions for prolonged spaceflight missions and terrestrial health
Authors: Ong Joshua , Zaman Nasif , Waisberg Ethan , Kamran Sharif Amit , Lee Andrew G. , Tavakkoli Alireza 
Published: October 2022

Abstract
During long-duration spaceflight, astronauts are exposed to various risks including spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome, which serves as a risk to astronaut vision and a potential physiological barrier to future spaceflight. When considering exploration missions that may expose astronauts to longer periods of microgravity, radiation exposure, and natural aging processes during spaceflight, more severe changes to functional vision may occur. The macula plays a critical role in central vision and disruptions to this key area in the eye may compromise functional vision and mission performance. In this article, we describe the development of a countermeasure technique to digitally suppress monocular central visual distortion with head-mounted display technology. We report early validation studies with this noninvasive countermeasure in individuals with simulated metamorphopsia. When worn by these individuals, this emerging wearable countermeasure technology has demonstrated a suppression of monocular visual distortion. We describe the considerations and further directions of this head-mounted technology for both astronauts and aging individuals on Earth.
Spectroscopic Studies on the Puga Hot Spring Deposits, Ladakh, an Astrobiological Martian Analog Site in India
Authors: Sarkar S. , Moitra H. , Bhattacharya S. , Dagar A. , Ray D. , Gupta S. , Chavan A. , Shukla A. D. , Bhandari S. 
Published: October 2022

AbstractHot spring localities on continents may represent the most probable locales for the formation of early life constituents on Earth. Apart from liquid water and carbohydrates, these components also include elements like boron that are crucial for stabilization of the complex organic molecules that constitute life. Many of these life sustaining ingredients are commonly found in the vicinity of terrestrial hot springs. Analogously, similar existing or extinct hot spring localities on other planets may constitute prospective astrobiological sites. In the present study, we have characterized the complete mineralogical assemblage of the Puga hot spring deposit, Ladakh, India, using detailed spectroscopic and X‐ray diffraction studies. The spectroscopic characterization was done using both field as well as lab based visible/near‐infrared (400–2,500 nm) and lab measured mid‐infrared (4,000–400 cm−1) hyperspectral data. The identified mineral phases include Na‐borates, such as borax and tincalconite, and hydrous sulfates such as jarosite, alunite, copiapite, tamarugite, and gypsum, in conjunction with native sulfur, halite, and opaline silica. Borate minerals have been identified from the valley‐fill material along with halite and opaline silica, whereas sulfates occur alongside crystalline sulfur deposits. We have compared mineral assemblages found in Puga with other hot spring/hydrothermal deposits on Earth identified as Martian analog sites, and also with mineral assemblages identified in situ on Mars. We argue that the spectral characterization of hydrated borates in natural association with hydrous sulfates can be used for identification of fossil/paleo hydrothermal settings on Mars that are prospective in the search for extinct/extant extra‐terrestrial life.