Analyzing Figures of Brain Images from Alzheimer's Disease Papers

Which papers focusing on Alzheimer's disease (AD) include MRI scans of human brains? These images play an important role in clinical detection of AD, but finding them currently requires manual inspection of papers after a keyword search. In order to provide AD researchers with a more efficient way of finding relevant papers, here we focus on three preliminary problems involving automatically identifying figures containing brain images, and solve them as automatic image classification tasks. This is a first step towards efficiently allowing AD researchers to retrieve papers containing a particular type of brain image (e.g. of a patient). We report preliminary results from a larger project, in collaboration with AD researchers

Retrospective suspect and non-target screening combined with similarity measures to prioritize MDMA and amphetamine synthesis markers in wastewater

3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and amphetamine are commonly used psychoactive stimulants. Illegal manufacture of these substances, mainly located in the Netherlands and Belgium, generates large amounts of chemical waste which is disposed in the environment or released in sewer systems. Retrospective analysis of high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) data was implemented to detect synthesis markers of MDMA and amphetamine production in wastewater samples. Specifically, suspect and non-target screening, combined with a prioritization approach based on similarity measures between detected features and mass loads of MDMA and amphetamine was implemented. Two hundred and thirty-five 24 h-composite wastewater samples collected from a treatment plant in the Netherlands between 2016 and 2018 were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry. Samples were initially separated into two groups (i.e., baseline consumption versus dumping) based on daily loads of MDMA and amphetamine. Significance testing and fold-changes were used to find differences between features in the two groups. Then, associations between peak areas of all features and MDMA or amphetamine loads were investigated across the whole time series using various measures (Euclidian distance, Pearson's correlation coefficient, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient, distance correlation and maximum information coefficient). This unsupervised and unbiased approach was used for prioritization of features and allowed the selection of 28 presumed markers of production of MDMA and amphetamine. These markers could potentially be used to detect dumps in sewer systems, help in determining the synthesis route and track down the waste in the environment

A visual data analysis for determining the geographical extent of the cabreves

The historical cadastral archives are an important source of information to help understand our cultural heritage since they contain a trace of the activities, land uses, and buildings developed by people from different periods. However, in the era of Big Data there remain many historical documents of great value that have not been digitized or studied in depth. This is the case of the cabreves, which are precatastral documents used for centuries in several regions of Spain to document those properties that were subject to the payment of taxes to a feudal lord. Rescuing these data would enable studying the landscape structure of relatively recent dates for which there is no cadastral cartography. However, it is difficult to establish the state of conservation, degree of accessibility, content detail, and quality of the archived cabreves. In recent years, progress has been made in digitizing these sources. In Spain, the Spanish Archives Portal (PARES) harmonizes and unifies the efforts of national archives, and a significant number of documents have been archived in recent years. We use text mining techniques to analyze and map the records in which cabreves appear. Out of the 1752 records found, a total of 1408 cabreves have been geocoded and mapped, enabling us to establish which territories and periods can be studied using these sources. From this experience, we request that digital archives maintain a geographical perspective during archival appraisal.This work was supported by grants from the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness, project SIOSE-INNOVA (CSO2016-79420-R AEI/FEDER UE)

Recycling process of permanent magnets by polymer binder using injection molding technique

Seltene Erden-Elemente (REE) werden aufgrund ihrer technologischen Bedeutung und geopolitischen Versorgungskriterien als kritische Metalle eingestuft. Sie werden in einem breiten Spektrum von Anwendungen eingesetzt, einschließlich der Herstellung von Magneten, Batterieelektroden, Katalysatoren und Polierpulver. Viele dieser Anwendungen sind wichtig für die sog. „grünen“ Technologien. Dauermagneten sind hinsichtlich der Marktgröße die wichtigste Anwendung insbesondere für Neodym-, Praseodym-, Dysprosium- und Terbium-Magnete, die in NdFeB-Magneten verwendet werden. Die Nachfrage nach Seltenerdelementen für die Herstellung von Magneten nimmt zu und es wird erwartet, dass sich dieser Trend in den kommenden Jahren fortsetzt. Um die mit der Nachfrage verbundenen Risiken zu verringern, wurden Maßnahmen zur Entwicklung von Recyclingtechnologien zur Wiederverwendung von NdFeB aus Magneten ergriffen. Während der industrielle NdFeB-Schrott bereits zurückgewonnen wird, ist das Recycling von Magneten aus Altprodukten noch weitergehend auf Labor- und Pilotprojekte beschränkt. Diese Abhandlung stellt die Ergebnisse der Materialanalyse vor, die die Möglichkeit bestätigen, magnetische Materialien durch die Einarbeitung in eine Polymermatrix zu recyceln und mittels Spritzgussprozess vorzubereiten. Kern der vorliegenden Dissertation ist die Frage, wie der geschlossene Kreislauf und das Recyclingverfahren von Neodynium Magneten aus Elektroschrott gestattet sein soll. Um diese Frage zu beantworten, sind folgende Aspekte relevant: • Die Wahl der Technologien/Prozesse, die für das Recycling eingesetzt werden. • Nachweis der Wiederverwendung von Neodym-Magneten, die aus WEEE (Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment) gewonnen sind. • Herstellung und Analyse von Polymer/Magnet- Compound. • Einfluss der Magnetpartikel, abhängig von ihrer Anzahl und Größe, auf die Viskosität und Fließverhalten des Materials während des Spritzgussprozess. • Analyse des Einflusses der Restmagnetisierung auf das Fließverhalten und einer gezielten Anordnung von magnetischen Partikeln im Bauteil. • Technisch-ökonomische Analyse, die entscheidend dazu beitragen wird, ob und in welchem Ausmaß die Einführung des Prozesses erreichbar ist und damit geschlossene Kreisläufe möglich sind. Auf der Grundlage einer umfangreichen Analyse wurden die optimalen Prozessparameter und die Spritzgussmöglichkeiten des verwendeten Materials vorgestellt. Die Nachfrage nach NdFeB-Magneten in Motoranwendungen wächst und wird in den nächsten Jahren voraussichtlich noch zunehmen. Vor allem die Nachfrage nach E-Bike und E-Autos gewinnt an Bedeutung. Infolgedessen wird die Nachfrage nach schweren Seltenen Erden steigen, was die Entwicklung von Recyclingsystemen für diese Materialien erforderlich macht.Rare earth elements (REE) are classified as critical metals due to their technological importance and geopolitical supply criteria. They are used in a wide range of applications, including the manufacture of magnets, battery electrodes, catalysts, and polishing powders. Many of these applications are important for so-called "green" technologies. Permanent magnets are the most important application in terms of market size, particularly for neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium magnets used in NdFeB magnets. The demand for rare earth elements for the production of magnets is increasing and this trend is expected to continue in the coming years (Langkau S. 2020; Li J. 2020; Goodenough K.M. et al. 2018). To mitigate the risks associated with that demand, have been taken to develop recycling technologies to reuse NdFeB magnets. While industrial scrap is already being recovered, recycling of magnets from end-of-life products is still further limited to laboratory and pilot projects. The following work presents the results of the material analysis, which confirm the possibility to recycle magnetic materials by using a polymer matrix. The main goal of this dissertation is the question of how the closed-loop and recycling process of neodymium magnets from electronic waste should be designed. To answer this question, the following aspects are relevant: • The choice of technologies/processes used for recycling and processing. • Evidence of reuse of neodymium magnets obtained from WEEE (Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment). • Process flow analysis and final product evaluation (polymer/magnet compound). • The effect of magnetic particles characteristics (size, distribution, and contribution) on the viscosity and flow behavior of the material during the injection molding process. • Analysis of residual magnetization on the flow behavior and a targeted arrangement of magnetic particles in the component. • Technical-economic analysis, which decisively contributes to whether and to what extent the introduction of the process is achievable. Based on an extensive analysis, the optimal process parameters and the maximum injection possibilities of the material used is discussed along the whole processing line. The demand for NdFeB magnets in motor applications is growing and is expected to increase in the coming years. In particular, the demand for e-bikes and e-vehicles is gaining importance (Kampker A. et al. 2021; Pollák F. 2021; Flores P.J 2021). As a result, the demand for heavy rare earths will increase, necessitating the development of recycling systems for these materials, where this thesis is one basic concept to close the loop

Authenticity and cultural heritage in the age of 3D digital reproductions

This volume represents the first attempt to collate an organic collection of contributions on authenticity and the digital realm in heritage and archaeology. It analyses the concept of authenticity from different perspectives and with different multidisciplinary contributions, together with theoretical debate. The collection of papers explores the concept of authenticity in a comprehensive way, engaging with theories relating to the commodification of ancient material culture, heritage-making processes, scholarly views and community engagement. These papers also take into account current digital practices for the study of past material culture and how their use affects and redefines interpretation processes in archaeology. This will provide a key reference text for archaeologists, museum and heritage specialists, and other readers interested in authenticity, cultural heritage and 3D reproductions.This book was funded by the EU 7th Framework Programme (7FP), DIGIFACT 625637 Project (http://cordis.europa.eu/project/rcn/187953_ en.html) and ADS3DV 625636 Project (http://cordis.europa.eu/project/ rcn/187952_en.html). The book will be Open Access, thanks to FP7 post-grant Open Access (https://www.openaire.eu/postgrantoapilot)

Using spatial visualization testing to select recruits as weather technicians in the United States Air Force

This study reviews the current qualities and requirements that the United States Air Force (USAF) uses to select its enlisted weather forecasters. Specifically, I will focus on spatial visualization skills and researching their application on personnel taking the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test for selection to enlist in the USAF as a Weather (Meteorological) Technician. Recent research “suggests that spatial abilities may be an important predictor of performance, particularly in scientific and technical fields” (National Research Council of the National Academies, 2015). This study is concentrated on uncovering antecedents that may assist during the process of selecting personnel for AF Weather (AFW). The premise of this research is to find out if spatial visualization tests could be used as predictors of performance for AFW technicians. The utilization of spatial visualization testing could be especially important in a projected future competitive recruiting environment by providing assistance in identifying the right recruits who can succeed in the AFW career field. During operations, meteorologists can become too reliant on weather forecast models. On occasion, there are periods when model data is inaccurate (off) or not available due to computer outages (both deliberate and undeliberate). There may also be instances where a person cannot access weather model data, for example, during a power outage. It is during these critical situations that meteorologists must be able to use their mental models and spatial visualization skills to assist in determining a forecast of what the weather will do when the model is off, inaccurate, or unavailable. Additionally, in a world where cyber-attacks are becoming more common—in both military and commercial industry website enclaves—the likelihood that weather data availability and data reliability may be questionable at times in the future will also increase. As a consequence, USAF Weather Technicians (forecasters) can become over-confident and over reliant when it comes to their expectation of data flow and communication capabilities via the internet by assuming that weather data will always be available and always be accurate. Lack of or manipulation of this data would also require the use of spatial visualization skills to predict the weather of the future and its impacts on USAF missions. Currently, the ASVAB includes a spatial-visualization test battery known as Assembling Objects (AO) that all candidates must take. However, this score is not used as a selection determinant for classifying someone to enter the USAF in the scientific Weather Technician specialty. Additionally, the Santa Barbara Sense of Direction (SBSOD) survey, developed by Hegarty, also considers spatial visualization skills as being an important factor in the natural science fields (Hegarty, Crookes, & Shipley, 2010). I posit that utilizing spatial visualization testing, like the ASVAB AO score and the SBSOD, would be advantageous for the USAF to use as selection determinants for future Weather Technicians. It is imperative that the USAF select the right people (those with spatial visualization skills) for the right jobs (the Weather Technician specialty) at the right time to ensure future mission success. Examining the use of the AO test battery from the ASVAB and the Santa Barbara Sense of Direction survey to assist in determining spatial visualization capabilities could go a long way in supporting the endeavor of selecting the right people to become weather-recruits for the USAF

Design of cardboard prefabricated temporary dwellings through economic and hygrothermal assessment-according to nZEB requirements in warm-temperate climates

Uno degli obiettivi più importanti applicati dalla rifusione dell'EPBD è che entro la fine del 2020, tutti i nuovi edifici devono essere edifici a energia quasi zero. Nell'attuale regolamento, alcune categorie di tipi di edifici sono escluse da questa procedura di valutazione, inclusi edifici temporanei con un periodo di utilizzo inferiore a due anni. Sebbene ultimamente siano state sviluppate costruzioni prefabbricate, raramente sono stati condotti studi sulle prestazioni energetiche. Tuttavia, una fase cruciale delle abitazioni post disastro è il periodo di alloggio nelle case temporanee che può durare tre anni o più. Pertanto, richiede un'attenzione più seria alla loro efficienza energetica. Questa ricerca affronta le suddette preoccupazioni. In questo studio, viene presa in considerazione la progettazione economica ed efficiente dal punto di vista energetico delle case temporanee di emergenza adatte al contesto italiano, con particolare attenzione alle regioni con clima temperato caldo. Essendo un materiale innovativo, riciclato al 100% e a basso impatto ambientale, è stato utilizzato il cartone a nido d'ape per isolamenti delle pareti; sono state condotte indagini sperimentali e analitiche per determinarne le caratteristiche termiche e ambientali. È stata progettata una tipologia di edificio con caratteristiche di flessibilità ed espandibilità da prendere come edificio di riferimento. Le buste per pareti, tetto e pavimento sono state progettate, valutate in merito al trasferimento di calore e umidità e modificate per essere compatibili con i più recenti requisiti di prestazione energetica. Simulazioni di energia per l'intero edificio sono state condotte in tre zone climatiche italiane calde (B, C e D) per studiare l'effetto delle condizioni climatiche sul loro fabbisogno di energia termica. Effettuando uno studio parametrico sulla trasmittanza termica dell'inviluppo opaco nelle gamme di normative richieste, è stato analizzato che dal punto di vista dell'efficienza energetica in termini di costi, in climi più miti varianti di inviluppo con minore resistenza termica e in climi più caldi con quelli più alti anziché i limiti richiesti potrebbe trovarsi nel corridoio ottimale in termini di costi. Inoltre, sono stati valutati diversi orizzonti temporali e si suggerisce che, considerando i costi di capitale e di sostituzione più influenti, il periodo di vita più appropriato per l'edificio prefabbricato debba essere scelto per la "seconda vita" dopo il periodo di occupazione. I dettagli delle gamme di soluzioni ottimali trovate sono presentati in questo studio.One of the most important targets enforced by EPBD recast is that by end of 2020, all new buildings have to be nearly zero energy buildings. In the current regulation, some building type categories are excluded from this assessment procedure, including temporary buildings with usage period less than two years. Although prefabricated construction has been developed lately, energy performance studies have rarely been carried out for them. However, one crucial stage in post-disaster housing is the accommodation period in temporary homes which may last three years or more. Therefore, it necessitates more serious attention to their energy efficiency. This research addresses the aforesaid concerns. In this study, the cost-effective and energy efficient design of emergency temporary homes suitable for Italian context with a focus on regions with warm temperate climate is considered. As an innovative, 100% recycled, and low environmental impact material, honeycomb cardboard was taken for wall insulations; experimental and analytical investigations were carried out to determine its thermal and environmental characteristics. A building typology was designed with flexibility and expandability features to be taken as reference building. Its wall, roof, and floor envelopes were designed, assessed regarding heat and moisture transfer, and modified to be compatible with the latest energy performance requirements. Whole building energy simulations were carried out in three warm Italian climate zones (B, C, and D) to investigate effect of climate conditions on their thermal energy needs. Performing a parametric study on the opaque envelope thermal transmittance in the required ranges of regulations, it was analyzed that from cost-effectiveness energy efficiency viewpoint, in milder climates envelope variants with less thermal resistance and in warmer climates with higher ones rather than the required limits could be located in the cost-optimal corridor. In addition, various time horizons were assessed and it is suggested that by considering the most influential capital and replacement costs, the most appropriate life time for the prefabricated building must be chosen for the “second life” after occupancy period. Details of the optimum solution ranges found are presented in this study

SHINY OBJECTS, HIDING PLACES: EXAMINING COMMUNITY-ENGAGED DATA PRACTICES IN LEXINGTON, KY

As local governments increasingly turn to data-driven solutions to help address some of their most acute challenges, from entrenched poverty to affordable housing, they often call on community-engaged researchers as collaborators, analysts and experts. While critical scholarship has highlighted the problematic logics underpinning this turn to data and digital technologies as the solution for urban issues, university-community partnerships offer a unique opportunity to further explore not only how these discourses materialize, but also how they are being actively negotiated and re-imagined in spaces of local government. In this thesis, I explore one such university-community partnership and its efforts to critically apply data-driven narratives to discussions of gentrification and affordable housing in Lexington, KY. Examining the positioning of academic contributions, the centrality of politics within urban planning processes, and the need to interrogate the securitization of whiteness within data-driven narratives, I ultimately argue that embracing data as inextricably saturated with power and politics creates possibilities to enliven a more progressive praxis that resists the certainty of a stratified, unequal and gentrified city. Importantly, this requires data practices that move beyond simply acknowledging the presence of power and politics, to actively, and indeed critically, embracing their very imbrication with data