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The present economic climate has sharply focussed the minds of all medical education providers on how they can provide effective teaching and learning at a lower cost. Technology can appear to offer an exciting opportunity to achieve this aim but there are two important considerations. The first question is: can technology be a low-cost approach? The second, and probably the most important consideration, is: can the use of technology offer an effective approach for teaching and learning? Once these considerations have been critically discussed it is then time to consider what is known about the cost-effectiveness of the use of technology for medical education and how these insights can inform future practice, policy and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalysis is playing a vital role for the treatment of recalcitrant pollutants present in water streams. Solar photocatalysis is an environmental friendly and cost-effective technology. Various research works have been reported on the development of novel photocatalysts and the enhancement of their photocatalytic activity. Efforts were being made to apply solar photocatalysis for the removal of pollutants from saline water and industrial saline wastewater. Researchers carried out experimental studies with different reactor configurations such as batch studies, batch recirculation studies, and continuous flow studies with photocatalysts in suspension or photocatalysts in immobilised thin-film systems. The performance of the photocatalytic process was mostly evaluated through percentage removal efficiencies of various parameters such as chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total organic carbon (TOC). Experimental runs were optimised using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) techniques. This work is a comprehensive review on the application of solar photocatalysis for the treatment of pollutants present in saline water and industrial saline wastewater. It briefly examines the latest advances in both experimental and theoretical approaches, probing the novel techniques. Finally, this review concludes with current challenges and new directions in this emerging area of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) represents the standard treatment for ST-elevated myocardial infarction, nevertheless, mortality and heart failures are frequent. Pressure-controlled intermittent coronary sinus occlusion (PiCSO) might reduce infarct size showing better patients' outcomes. We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of PCI+PiCSO compared to PCI from the National Healthcare Service (NHS) perspective in Italy. A Markov model was developed to estimate life years (LYs), quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and costs. A micro-costing analysis has been performed to inform the cost of PCI+PiCSO procedure. Sensitivity analyses were performed to test the robustness of the model results. Considering a willingness-to-pay threshold of 50,000€/QALY for the ICUR and a cost for PCI+PiCSO procedure of 14,654€, the innovative strategy may be cost-effective compared to PCI alone from the Italian NHS perspective, showing an ICUR of 17,530€/QALY (ICER 14,631€/LY) over a lifetime horizon; the probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that PCI+PiCSO is cost-effective in 78.8% of simulations.Considering the above mentioned willingness-to-pay threshold, PCI+PiCSO strategy would be cost-effective over a lifetime horizon considering a cost for PCI+PiCSO procedure lower than 28,160€. PCI+PiCSO procedure may be considered a cost-effective technology that allows reducing cardiac events, while improving patients' life expectancy and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sepsis is a fatal condition with high treatment costs, early identification of sepsis is mandatory to avoid lethal complications. The objective of this study was to compare the predictive capabilities of platelets to lymphocytes ratio (PLR) and procalcitonin (PCT) in determining the outcome of sepsis. Methods: This study was a prospective cross-sectional study and fifty-four individuals diagnosed with sepsis were involved. The participants were between the ages of twenty-one and sixty-five and had been admitted to ICU for more than twenty-four hours. The measurement of whole blood count and PCT serum levels was conducted at time of diagnosis, as well as on days three, seven, and fourteen following the onset of sepsis while SOFA score was conducted at time of admission. Results: There was important elevation in platelet to lymphocytes ratio value and PCT in non survivors group compared to survivors group at day one, three, and seven of diagnosis of sepsis (p value ≤ 0.05), and day fourteen there were no data in non survivors group. The Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score was found to be the most effective in mortality prediction [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.982] second effective was PCT (AUC = 0.977) and PLR was third (AUC = 0.945). Conclusions: In adult patients diagnosed with sepsis PLR with cutoff value > 228.89 demonstrates efficacy as a reliable prognostic indicator for predicting outcomes in sepsis. Although PLR may have a lower predictive power compared to PCT and SOFA score, it possesses the advantage of being a readily available and cost-effective technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wide presence of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the environment is a global concern, thus their degradation is an imminent task. In this study, oxidative and/or reductive degradation of three representative PFAS – perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was achieved using nanoscale zero-valent iron (Fe0 NPs) under ultraviolet (UV) light, both with and without the presence of oxygen. Higher degradation and defluorination rates were obtained for a longer chain PFNA compared to PFOA, and a higher removal of PFAS was achieved without the presence of O2 compared to that with O2. The degradation followed first-order reaction kinetics, and obtained the highest rates of 97.6, >99.9, and 98.5% without the presence of O2 for PFOA, PFNA, and PFOS, respectively. The degradation rates increased with an increase in the nanoparticle concentrations in the range of 1–100 mg/L. In addition to fluoride ions, shorter chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) were detected as the main intermediates during PFAS degradation; PFHpS and 6:2 FTS were also detected during PFOS degradation. Hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and superoxide radicals (·O2−) were not involved in the degradation of PFOA, but likely involved in the degradation of PFOS. Emerging contaminants PFAS degradation using the UV/Fe0 system is a cost-effective technology owing to the low cost and recyclability of Fe0 nanomaterials, low energy consumption in the system, and its capability to degrade PFAS both with and without the presence of oxygen. This technology can be potentially applied to treat PFAS-contaminated waters in the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decades, the increasing consumption of phosphonates, which are limited resources, has attracted greater attention at the world level. Phosphonate in wastewater is a crucial resource while it may cause eutrophication as a serious environmental problem. Hence phosphonates removal and recovery from wastewater are crucial for sustainable development consideration. Adsorption as a cost-effective technology for low-concentration phosphonates resource utilization has contributed to sustainable wastewater treatment practices. Nevertheless, a systematic review on phosphonates removal and recovery from wastewater via economically realistic adsorption technique is still missing and therefore is realized in this review, especially regarding novel adsorbents. Additionally, we discussed the influence of pH and metal ions on adsorption performance and the role of characterization and chemical computation techniques for phosphonates removal mechanism. The recently established novel adsorbents (granular ferric hydroxide, ZnFeZr@MP, La/Zn/Fe3O4@PAC, Zr-La@Fe3O4, and montmorillonite) provided good adsorption capacity and removal efficiency of phosphonates. Specifically, the ZnFeZr@MP was implemented for practical application in industrial and municipal wastewater, and ZnFeZr-oxyhydroxide suggested a potential endothermic process could be realized in application practices. High desorption efficiency typically obtained by ZnFeZr (NTMP-90%; DTPMP-100%), Zr-La@Fe3O4 (96.1% and 101.8%), and clay minerals (100%) from the reusability tests. During the practically column breakthrough treatment >90% removal efficiency and 78% desorption efficiency of NTMP were achieved from membrane concentrate. Further, various modern characterization tools enhanced the investigation of phosphonate removal mechanisms. Thus, this review article is recommended to explore the mechanism for phosphonate removal and adsorption via characterization and chemical computation techniques in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power generation is touted as a cost-effective technology for combining electricity generation with carbon capture. For IGCC carbon capture, membrane technology is ideally suited owing to its low energy requirements and operational simplicity. This paper describes the development of polymeric membranes for CO2 removal in IGCC plants and reviews both H2-selective and CO2-selective membranes. First, the fundamentals of CO2/H2 separation using polymeric membranes are presented along with their implications for the performances of H2-selective and CO2-selective polymers. Popular H2-selective and CO2-selective polymers that have been proposed for IGCC carbon capture are evaluated and compared. Benefits and drawbacks of each membrane type are discussed. Strategies that have resulted in improved performance are highlighted. Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) power plants are rapidly gaining attention as an economic way to integrate carbon capture with power generation. For IGCC carbon capture, membrane technology is ideally suited, and a number of polymeric membranes have been explored for this purpose. This review provides a well-timed update regarding the status of polymeric membranes for carbon capture from IGCC syngas. H2-selective and CO2-selective polymeric materials are critically examined and compared, with an emphasis on promising candidates such as polybenzimidazoles, polyethers and facilitated transport membranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This research aims to develop an improved model that promotes reverse engineering /RE/ practice in metal engineering industries (MEIs). RE is one cost-effective technology transfer /TT/ and innovation method that improves organizational performance. However, only a few scholars have written on the adoption of RE models, and no one has contextualized TT and innovation models as a means to adopt RE practice. Methodology: Primarily, the study conducted a systematic literature review based on previous works to develop a conceptual model for RE adoption. To do this, the researchers conducted an intensive literature review and identified factors contributing to the model. Contextualizing TT and innovation factors and models within the new RE adoption model is also a significant part of the work. After a comparative analysis, the researchers developed the improved RE adoption model that enhances the performance of MEIs. Finding: The majority of previous related literature focuses on RE hardware, with only a few authors acknowledging the soft aspects, i.e., managerial and legal issues of RE practice. Besides, no authors contextualized factors of TT and innovation within the RE adoption. In this study, the researchers identified and clustered RE adoption factors as organizational, technological, managerial, and resource-based from previous RE adoption models and contextualization of TT and innovation adoption factors. Originality: To the best of the writers' knowledge, no previous authors have contextualized TT and innovation models within the adoption of RE. However, such models have a substantial impact on adopting the practice. Hence, the researchers developed an improved model by examining and contextualizing the existing models that can impact MEI performance through improving product, process, and technological capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although plerixafor in association with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) can improve mobilization and collection of hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) by leukapheresis, cost may limit its clinical application. The present study systematically reviews economic evaluations of plerixafor plus G-CSF usage compared to G-CSF alone and compares different strategies of plerixafor utilization in multiple myeloma and lymphoma patients eligible for autologous HSC transplantation. Relevant economic evaluations, partial or complete, were searched on PubMed, Embase, LILACS, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for a period ending 30 June 2021. This systematic review was reported following the PRISMA Statement. Six economic evaluations were included, considering the use of upfront or just-in-time plerixafor compared to G-CSF alone or other plerixafor strategies. Most comparisons showed both increased cost and health benefits with the addition of plerixafor. Most analyses favored just-in-time plerixafor compared to upfront plerixafor, with a probable preference for broader cutoffs for just-in-time plerixafor initiation. Plerixafor is a potentially cost-effective technology in the mobilization of HSC in patients with multiple myeloma and lymphomas eligible for autologous HSC transplantation. There is a decreased number of leukapheresis sessions and remobilizations and a higher yield of CD34+ cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How can the factors affecting the technology transfer fee in the public sector be found in practice? This study is, to the best of our knowledge, the first to empirically test the simultaneous relationship between technological and contractual factors and the technology transfer fee. Through using a large sample of data, from the dominant public energy research organisation in Korea, our findings reveal the tendencies of technology transfer players in public to private transactions. Furthermore, we show that for technological factors, the number of patents and research fund positively affect the technology transfer fee; and for contractual factors, exclusivity has a positive and SME licensee has a negative relationship. These findings contribute to the technology transfer literature by allowing policy-makers of public and private sectors to understand that large scale investment on selected technology, appropriate patents management and cost-effective technology transfer strategy development should all be considered for greater economic return. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MomConnect is a mHealth programme in South Africa targeted at improving antenatal and maternal health. This study explored the barriers and facilitators to implementing the MomConnect programme in South Africa and the applicable lessons for scaling mHealth programmes in Africa. We reviewed the published literature and collected data through semi-structured interviews of project partners and leaders who worked on the MomConnect project. We asked study participants to identify any barriers and/or facilitators in the implementation of the MomConnect project and how they would overcome those barriers and strengthen the facilitators. We employed the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to inform the identification of a priori codes for the directed content analysis. Based on the analysis, the key components that supported the implementation of the MomConnect project included (1) strategic partnership and coordination across partner levels, (2) cost-effective technology and sustainable funding measures, (3) adequate adaptation of the innovation to local and national settings, and (4) guiding mHealth policy and legislation frameworks. The study's results suggest that strong political will and a robust partnership are essential to lead the strategic implementation process of mHealth projects. Such mHealth projects thrive in a policy framework that can support the planning and implementation process. In addition, understanding the accessibility needs of the project's target population as identified in this study is critical to developing mHealth projects that are sustainable in the long term by adapting to cost-effective technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simultaneous partial nitrification, anammox and denitrification (SNAD) is a sustainable and cost-effective technology for nitrogen removal from low-strength wastewater. However, knowledge of the biofilm microenvironment of the SNAD system is currently unsatisfactory. The purpose of this study was to evaluate organic carbon effects on the microenvironment and microbial growth in the SNAD biofilm system. Microelectrodes were used to investigate microbial activity in-depth within biofilms. ORP distribution of the SNAD system was positively related to anammox activity(R2 = 0.9), and had some influence on microbial community structure. The synergistic effect of anammox bacteria and denitrifiers could be achieved when the abundance ratio of anammox bacteria to denitrifying bacteria is greater than 1.2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar desalination is an appropriate and cost-effective technology for water distillation which requires solar energy as a heat source. Based on the previous studies, the effect of basin water depth of solar still coupled with shallow solar pond has not been performed yet. The optimum frequency of external heat supply to solar still during off-sunshine hours has been found missing in literature. The objective of present study is to enhance the nocturnal distillate productivity of solar still and is accomplished by increasing the basin water temperature during off-sunshine hours. The variation in basin water depth of modified solar still on the distiller output is studied. The individual and combined effects of shallow solar pond and mini solar pond integrated to solar still on the performance of still are studied. To achieve this, the solar still coupled with shallow solar pond in closed cycle mode (heat transfer through heat exchanger) and continuous flow mode (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) are tested at various basin water depth of 4–7 cm. Further, the solar still with optimum basin water depth is integrated with shallow pond in continuous flow mode (8 a.m. to 8 p.m.) and mini pond in two-batch frequency mode (12 a.m. to 2 a.m. and 4 a.m. to 6 a.m.). A total cumulative distillate output of 3.5 kg/m2, 3.08 kg/m2, 3.18 kg/m2 and 2.96 kg/m2 with an enhancement of 2.94%, 14.5%, 20.85% and 16% was obtained for modified solar still (still integrated with shallow pond) with basin water depth of 4 cm, 5 cm, 6 cm and 7 cm respectively as compared to reference solar still. The cumulative productivity of 4.6 kg/m2 was obtained for modified still (still integrated with shallow pond and mini pond) with an enhancement of 43.75% over reference solar still. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Disruptive innovation is an invention that disrupts an existing market and creates a new one by providing a different set of values, which ultimately overtakes the existing market. Typically, when disruptive innovations are introduced, their performance is initially less than existing standard technologies, but because of their ability to bring the cost down, and with gradual improvement, they end up replacing established service standards. Disruptive technologies have their fingerprints in health care. Pathology and laboratory medicine are fertile soils for disruptive innovations because they are heavily reliant on technology. Disruptive innovations have resulted in a revolution of our diagnostic ability and will take laboratory medicine to the next level of patient care. There are several examples of disruptive innovations in the clinical laboratory. Digitizing pathology practice is an example of disruptive technology, with many advantages and an extended scope of applications. Next-generation sequencing can be disruptive in two ways. The first is by replacing an array of laboratory tests, which each requires expensive and specialized instruments and expertise, with a single cost-effective technology. The second is by disrupting the current paradigm of the clinical laboratory as a diagnostic service by taking it into a new era of preventive or primary care pathology. Other disruptive innovations include the use of dry chemistry reagents in chemistry analyzers and also point of care testing. The use of artificial intelligence is another promising disruptive innovation that can transform the future of pathology and laboratory medicine. Another emerging disruptive concept is the integration of two fields of medicine to create an interrelated discipline such as "histogenomics and radiohistomics." Another recent disruptive innovation in laboratory medicine is the use of social media in clinical practice, education, and publication. There are multiple reasons to encourage disruptive innovations in the clinical laboratory, including the escalating cost of health care, the need for better accessibility of diagnostic care, and the increased demand on the laboratory in the era of precision diagnostics. There are, however, a number of challenges that need to be overcome such as the significant resistance to disruptive innovations by current technology providers and governmental regulatory bodies. The hesitance from health care providers and insurance companies must also be addressed. Adoption of disruptive innovations requires a multifaceted approach that involves orchestrated solutions to key aspects of the process, including creating successful business models, multidisciplinary collaborations, and innovative accreditation and regulatory oversight. It also must be coupled with successful commercialization plans and modernization of health care structure. Fostering a culture of disruptive innovation requires establishing unique collaborative models between academia and industry. It also requires uncovering new sources of unconventional funding that are open to high-risk high-reward projects. It should also be matched with innovative thinking, including new approaches for delivery of care and identifying novel cohorts of patients who can benefit from disruptive technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reverse micro electro-discharge machining (RµEDM) is a promising and cost-effective technology for fabricating unconventional shaped single and arrayed micro-pins of high aspect ratio. However, dimensional inaccuracies, poor surface finish and long machining time are of great concern. An experiment-based detailed investigation of process parameters for analyzing various machining responses has been performed in this article. Taguchi's L16 orthogonal array design of experiments has been used to frame out the experimental runs. Discharge voltage, capacitance and feed rate have been considered as process parameters whereas, material removal rate, taper root angle, surface roughness and machining time as responses for the fabrication of a single micro-pin. Additionally, the feasibility of a novel high-pressure suction flushing technology implemented for RµEDM has been demonstrated. The performance of this technology is verified for better surface quality and lesser machining time. It is observed that by using the proposed suction technology, along with the suitable parametric settings, the micromachining time significantly improved (~20%) while fabricating an arrayed micro-pins in elliptical cross-sections profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Chlorophyta Picocystis sp. isolated from a Tunisian household sewage pond appears promising for effective removal of Bisphenol A (BPA). Efficient and cost-effective technology for contaminants remediation relies on a tradeoff between several parameters such as removal efficiency, microorganism growth, and its tolerance to contaminant toxicity. This article demonstrates the optimum conditions achieving the highest removal rates and the minimal growth inhibition in batch cultures of Picocystis using response surface methodology. A central composite face-centered (CCF) design was used to determine the effects on removal and growth inhibition of four operating parameters: temperature, inoculum cell density, light intensity, and initial BPA concentration. Results showed that the maximal BPA removal was 91.36%, reached the optimal culture conditions of 30.7 °C, 25 × 105 cells ml−1 inoculum density, 80.6 µmol photons m−2 s−1 light intensity, and initial BPA concentration of 10 mg l−1. Various substrate inhibition models were used to fit the experimental data, and robustness analysis highlighted the Tessier model as more efficient to account for the interaction between Picocystis and BPA and predict removal efficiency. These results revealed how Picocystis respond to BPA contamination and suggest that optimization of experimental conditions can be effectively used to maximize BPA removal in the treatment process. Surface response methodology was applied for optimization of BPA removal by the Chlorophyta Picocystis sp. Temperature, light intensity, inoculum cell density and initial BPA concentration were selected as factors that may affect BPA removal and microalgae growth. The optimal conditions for the maximum BPA removal and minimum growth inhibition were 30.7 °C; 80.6 µmol photons m−2 s−1; 25 × 105 cells ml−1 and 10 mg l−1 BPA. Teissier model was selected to fit the kinetic of BPA removal by Picocystis with R2 = 0.92. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faridmarandi S, Khare YP, Naja GM. 2020. Long-term regional nutrient contributions and in-lake water quality trends for Lake Okeechobee. Lake Reserv Manage. XX:XXX–XXX. A long-term dataset was used to investigate the historical regional changes in Lake Okeechobee water quality from water year 1974 to 2018. During this period, the total phosphorus (TP) load from the northern region to the lake remained statistically stable while the in-lake TP concentrations showed a statistically significant increasing trend, despite decades of state plans to restore this ecosystem. During the investigated period of record, the inflow TP flow weighted mean concentration from the southern region had a slightly higher value of 0.191 mg/L (when compared to the northern region) with a statistically significant increasing trend. The average annual total nitrogen unit area inflow loading (678.6 kg/km2) and flow weighted mean concentration (4.35 mg/L) into Lake Okeechobee from the southern region had the highest levels when compared to other regions. Lake Okeechobee TP sedimentation rate showed a statistically significant decreasing trend indicating a reduction in the capacity of the lake sediments to assimilate phosphorus. Results showed that the lake sediments may become a continuous source of phosphorus in water year 2035. Sustained and long-term efforts on the scale of decades will be required for restoring the lake using a multipronged approach consisting of mainly the implementation of nutrient/fertilizer best management practices and the construction of ∼200 km2 of constructed wetlands for a total project cost of US$4.26 billion. Unless a proven cost-effective technology is developed to tackle the legacy TP problem in the lake sediments, a prioritization of state resources is required while focusing on Lake Okeechobee watershed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study analyzes and assesses the robustness of monitoring effectiveness of institutional investment against the information asymmetry prevailing in the market, especially the asymmetric monitoring effectiveness of Domestic Institutional Investment (DII) vis-à-vis Foreign Institutional Investment (FII). Drawing from a sample of listed non-financial firms with institutional investment of 20% or more, this study tests the relationship between earnings management and institutional ownership controlling for known firm-specific variables. The results reveal that institutional investment in aggregate as well as DII and FII have significant negative impact on earnings management supporting the active monitoring hypothesis. The results also support hometown advantage hypothesis for the sub-group of companies with higher Price to Book Value (PBV) and global investor hypothesis for the sub-group of companies with lower PBV ratio. Various implications applicable in the Indian markets contexts are discussed. Domestic institutional investors should improve their cost-effective technology to acquire and process the price-sensitive information which can enhance their competitive advantage over their foreign counterparts. This is one among the first few studies that tests the robustness of monitoring effectiveness of institutional investment against the information asymmetry in the market and shows that monitoring effectiveness of FII and DII is not uniform across companies in which they invest. Another contribution to the extant literature in India is the analysis using alternative definitions of earnings management, incorporating industry-specific and time-specific factors in estimation of discretionary accruals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Layered double hydroxide (LDH)/conductive polymer nanocomposites combine the promising adsorption capabilities of 2D layered nanomaterials and the electric properties of conductive polymers, resulting in multifunctional adsorbents for wastewater treatment. In this work, a simple in situ polymerization of aniline was conducted in the presence of Zn-Fe LDH to synthesize a Zn-Fe LDH/PANI nanocomposite, which was characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, and BET. The composite showed a particle-like morphology with a size of 30–60 nm and a BET surface area of 23.27 m2/g and was used as an adsorbent for carbamazepine (CBZ). Zn-Fe LDH/PANI removed 98% of CBZ at pH 7, 0.2 g/L, and 40 mg/L CBZ. For biocompatibility, acute toxicity was assessed in vivo for ten days using male albino rats, and probit analysis (after 2, 6, and 24 hours) was used to determine the LD0, LD20, LD50, LD90, and LD100 values, which were calculated to be 890, 1051, 3188, 6371, and 11,300, respectively. During this time, the rats were weighed, and other observations were made, including mortality, behavior, injuries, and any symptoms of toxicity or side effects. Histopathological examination of organs such as the liver, kidney, brain, skin, intestine, and cecum for any pathological alterations was performed. Two green metrics were applied, the Analytical Eco-scale and the Analytical GREEness Calculator (AGREE). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) contains economically significant levels of precious, critical metals and rare earth elements, apart from base metals and other toxic compounds. Recycling and recovery of critical elements from WEEEs using a cost-effective technology are now one of the top priorities in metallurgy due to the rapid depletion of their natural resources. More than 150 publications on WEEE management, leaching and recovery of metals from WEEE were reviewed in this work, with special emphasize on the recent research (2015-2018). This paper summarizes the recent progress regarding various hydrometallurgical processes for the leaching of critical elements from WEEEs. Various methodologies and techniques for critical elements selective recovery (using ionic liquids, solvent extraction, electrowinning, adsorption, and precipitation) from the WEEEs leachates are discussed. Future prospects regarding the use of WEEEs as secondary resources for critical raw materials and its techno-economical and commercial beneficiaries are discussed. Abbreviations: E-Waste Electronic waste WEEE Waste electrical and electronic equipment CRM Critical raw materials PCB Printed circuit board LCD Liquid crystal display CRT Cathode ray tube Fl. Lamp Fluorescent lamp HDD Hard disk drives LED Light emitting diode EU European Union UNEP United Nations Environmental Program REE Rare earth element ITO Indium-tin oxide PM Precious metal NiMH battery Nickel-hydride battery CPU Central processing unit RAM Random access memory LiBs Li-ion batteries SFL Spent fluorescent lamps [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three brown algal biomasses namely, Sargassum latifolium, Padina pavonica and Dictyota dichotoma were used in the uranium biosorption from the processing effluent of Gattar pilot plant project, Eastern Desert, Egypt. Biosorption enhancement process was studied, and the uranium loading capacities were optimised at 1 h contact time, 1/1000 solid/liquid ratio, 200 ppm uranium as initial feed concentration, pH 4 and all experiments were at room temperature. The maximum capacities reached 190, 177 and 170 mg/g for Sargassum latifolium, Padina pavonica and Dictyota dichotoma, respectively. SEM examination for the three concerned algae showed different morphological and surface structural changes such as shrinking and appearance of large cavities. FTIR study revealed that, there are many functional groups contributed in uranium biosorption mechanism such as carboxylic, sulphonate, hydroxyl and amine groups. The obtained experimental data for the three concerned algal biomasses were comparable with pseudo-second-order model and best described by Langmuir isotherm model. 0.1 N HCl was used for desorption of the loaded uranium on the three algal masses. By applying the most effective alga (Sargassum latifolium) with fixing the optimum concluded conditions in the treatment of Gattar pilot plant effluent, it was clear that almost all elements and nearly uranium complete concentrations were recovered from the waste water and the water can be safely reused again. The present work concluded that the phyco-sorption is a sufficient, low costing, eco-friendly way for the recovery of variable elements and purification of waste water solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoremediation is a new ecological and cost-effective technology applied for cleaning heavy metals and total petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated (TPH-contaminated) soils. This study was conducted to evaluate the potential of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) to phytoremediate cadmium (Cd (II)) from contaminated soils. To this end, the investigators applied a completely randomized design with the factorial arrangement and four replications. The results indicated that all the evaluated parameters of S. Marianum, including shoot and root fresh and dry weight, as well as shoot and root Cd, were significantly influenced by Cd (II) concentration and diesel oil (DO). The Cd-contaminated soil showed minor declining effects on the produced plant biomass, whereas the DO-contaminated soil had more inhibitory effects. Moreover, the soil contaminated with both Cd and DO led to adverse effects on the plant biomass. The shoot and root Cd concentration had an increasing trend in the presence of DO as the bioconcentration factor (BCF) by 1.740 (+90.78%), 1.410 (+36.89%), 2.050 (+31.41%), 1.68 (+32.28%), and 1.371 (+22.41%) compared to the soil without DO at Cd (II) concentrations of 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg/kg, respectively. Biological accumulation coefficient also showed the same trend as the BCF. In all the treatments, the translocation factor was >1. Therefore, it was demonstrated that milk thistle had high potential for transferring Cd from root to shoot and reducing its concentration in the soil. Moreover, the study revealed that milk thistle had high potential for absorbing Cd in the soil contaminated with Cd and DO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electromagnetic pollution has increased because of technological advances and the use of telecommunication equipment and electronics. Developing a smart shielder based on nanocomposite polymer with excellent electromagnetic radiation shielding (EMS) is highly desired for protection. This review will cover the challenge of reducing electromagnetic radiation by developing smart nanocomposite polymers with a broad absorption frequency. The study will focus on the impact of electromagnetic radiation on our natural surroundings. The reflection, absorption, and multiple reflection EMS strategies will also be covered. The fabrication methods of nanocomposite polymer will be investigated. Finally, future perspectives and research routes will be considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in digital technology necessitate a shift from traditional linear buyer-supplier value chains to a network-centric approach facilitated by digital platforms. Despite digital platforms being a dominant model for transformation, limited research has explored the enablers for incumbent pipeline firms to embrace platformization. To address this gap, this study reviews existing literature on digital transformation, identifying nine enablers for digital platformization: changing client behavior, information technology (IT) capabilities development, structural efficiencies, disruptive competitive forces, scope advantages, economic triggers, disruptive third-party technology, creation of autonomous corporate structures, and regulatory compliance. Case studies of platformization in diverse industries are analyzed using the modified total interpretive structural modeling (m-TISM) approach, resulting in a hierarchical model with five levels. This model delineates interrelationships among trigger events, external enablers, internal organizational enablers, process enablers, and outcome drivers. Furthermore, the study highlights that the creation and extraction of value from digital platforms are operationalized through e-business strategies, contributing insights to e-business literature by discussing the implications of these enablers on dimensions such as commerce, collaboration, communication, connection, and computing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study developed magnetically separable CeO2/CoFe2O4 heterojunction photocatalysts for dye degradation to reduce water pollution. The CeO2/CoFe2O4 nanocomposites with different CeO2 ratios (10, 20, and 30 wt%) were prepared by a precipitation method. The nanocrystalline 20%CeO2/CoFe2O4 photocatalyst with a surface area of 117 m2.g−1, Eg 2.37 eV, and uniform distribution of quasi-spherical CeO2 minor phase (cubic fluorite structure with particle size 3 ± 1 nm) throughout the distorted spherical CoFe2O4 major phase (cubic spinel structure with particle size 9 ± 3 nm) showed the best photocatalytic performance for methylene blue (MB) degradation under UV light irradiation at the efficiency of 88.7% and the apparent rate constant (k) of 0.0138 min−1. The 20%CeO2/CoFe2O4 photocatalyst had a good magnetic response and could be easily separated from the dye solution by applying an external magnetic field. The reusability test showed lower photodegradation efficiency due to the adsorption of residual MB dye on the photocatalyst surface. The formation of heterojunction at the interfaces of CeO2/CoFe2O4 facilitated the photogenerated charge separation and increased availability of active species of holes (h+) and hydroxy radicals (∙OH), which were the key factors in improving the photocatalytic activity. Improved photocatalysis in CeO2-coupled CoFe2O4 composites. Heterojunctions in CeO2/CoFe2O4 increase the availability of active species. External magnetic field separates the photocatalyst from the dye solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoremediation is widely promoted as a cost-effective technology for treating heavy metal and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) co-contaminated soil. This study investigated the concurrent removal of TPHs and Pb in co-contaminated soil (27,000 mg kg−1TPHs, 780 mg kg−1Pb) by growing Siam weed (Chromolaena odorata) in a pot experiment for 90 days. There were four treatments: co-contaminated soil; co-contaminated soil withC. odorataonly; co-contaminated soil withC. odorataandMicrococcus luteusinoculum; and co-contaminated soil withM. luteusonly.C. odoratasurvived and grew well in the co-contaminated soil.C. odoratawithM. luteusshowed the highest Pb accumulation (513.7 mg kg−1) and uptake (7.7 mg plant−1), and the highest reduction percentage of TPHs (52.2%). The higher TPH degradation in vegetated soils indicated the interaction between the rhizosphere microorganisms and plants. The results suggested thatC. odoratatogether withM. luteusand other rhizosphere microorganisms is a promising candidate for the removal of Pb and TPHs in co-contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The early atmospheric detection of carbon dioxide (CO2) leaks from carbon capture and storage (CCS) sites is important both to inform remediation efforts and to build and maintain public support for CCS in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. A gas analysis system was developed to assess the origin of plumes of air enriched in CO2, as to whether CO2is from a CCS site or from the oxidation of carbon compounds. The system measured CO2and O2concentrations for different plume samples relative to background air and calculated the gas differential concentration ratio (GDCR = −ΔO2/ΔCO2). The experimental results were in good agreement with theoretical calculations that placed GDCR values for a CO2leak at 0.21, compared with GDCR values of 1–1.8 for the combustion of carbon compounds. Although some combustion plume samples deviated in GDCR from theoretical, the very low GDCR values associated with plumes from CO2leaks provided confidence that this technology holds promise in providing a tool for the early detection of CO2leaks from CCS sites.  Implications: This work contributes to the development of a cost-effective technology for the early detection of leaks from sites where CO2has been injected into the subsurface to enhance oil recovery or to permanently store the gas as a strategy for mitigating climate change. Such technology will be important in building public confidence regarding the safety and security of carbon capture and storage sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Separation using selective polymeric membranes has been well-established as an energy-efficient and cost-effective technology in water treatment and many other applications involving aqueous solutions. However, limited chemical, thermal, and mechanical resistances besides their tendency to fouling and inadequate pure water flux may often restrict their applications. To this end, inorganic materials as additives have been demonstrated to be able to enhance chemical, thermal, and fouling membrane resistances, which demonstrate their great potential for developing novel membranes by using them as additives in polymer matrices. Considering the excellent characteristics of the nanosized particles, this study reviews the effects of inorganic nano-additives on properties and performance of polymer/nanoparticle composite membranes. It has been demonstrated that using nanomaterials in a polymer matrix could enhance the mechanical strength and stiffness, wettability, selectivity, water permeability, and antifouling characteristics of the host polymer. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The implementation of increasingly stringent regulations for wastewater discharge has enforced research efforts toward either the implementation of novel treatments or the improvement of those presently available. The literature on the use of Fenton oxidation in wastewater treatment has established this method as one of the most effective and suitable process for the abatement of recalcitrant water pollutants. However, despite the many advantages of the conventional Fenton process, there are issues relative to pH modulation, the cost associated to H2O2and catalyst consumption as well as to sludge disposal that limit a more extended full-scale application. In recent years, several solutions have been developed for the sake of improving Fenton (or Fenton-like) oxidation as a cost-effective technology. This paper presents a thorough review on the different ways of intensifying the Fenton by using radiation, electrochemistry, and/or heterogeneous catalysts, as well as by optimizing the main operating conditions in the conventional homogeneous system. The application of these enhanced technologies to synthetic and real industrial wastewaters is described and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The information that automated train control (ATO) systems use to improve safety and reduce power usage is limited by on-board and wayside monitoring applications and computing power. This paper presents an augmented digital twin for railway applications that enables real-time consideration of derailment risk in train operations. The augmented digital twin implements a surrogate model with the results of a massive multibody dynamics numerical program and machine learning models to predict the instantaneous wagon derailment risk. A case study for a heavy haul iron ore wagon with three-piece bogies was conducted to test the augmented digital twin. A multibody simulation numerical program comprising 2100 simulation cases was completed. The surrogate model was developed using linear, polynomial, decision tree and ensemble forest regression models on the results of the numerical program. A longitudinal train simulator was used to calculate the speed and lateral coupler force throughout a train trip. The surrogate model effectively predicted the derailment index for empty and loaded conditions accounting for lateral coupler forces, vehicle speeds and curve radius. The proposed augmented digital twin can be further developed to accomplish other train operational benefits such as the reduction of rail damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review investigated depth literature survey on the removal of various heavy metals and dyes contamination. The current study is a broad review of the different methods of preparation of biowaste adsorbent from rice husk and rice straw that has been implemented for the adsorption of many hazardous heavy metals and dyes in order to reduce their harmful effect on the environment. The selection of rice waste-based material for the adsorption process was considered due to its cost-effectiveness, easy availability, high adsorption efficiency, and reusability. This study is a comprehensive review of the adsorption of toxic heavy metals and dyes using rice husk and rice straw-based adsorbents either in bare or in modified forms under different physicochemical processes. In addition, some parameters affecting adsorption capability like pH, initial dye concentration, equilibrium time, temperature, adsorbent dosage, and shaking or stirring speed influence the adsorption mechanism have been discussed thoroughly. The applicability of various adsorption isotherm models and adsorption kinetic models for dye adsorption by various rice husk and straw biomass adsorbents is also reported here. Finally, from the literature reviewed conclusions have been drawn and also proposed a few future research suggestions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy saving is the top most requirement of the wireless sensor network (WSN) for making it a cost effective technology. In this direction, minimisation of the distance between the communicating nodes should be an obvious choice, as it consumes the biggest chunk of the node energy. But the stationary nature of nodes (including the base station) in the standard WSN does not allow it; thus, the provision of a moving base station has been recently introduced. A few schemes with moving base station have already been developed but they suffer from several drawbacks, for example, the path over which the base station can move has not been considered which is highly unfeasible. An efficient and implementable moving strategy is needed to be developed, which is the primary goal of the present work. The fuzzy logic inference mechanism has been developed and the performance of the same is illustrated in terms of WSN lifetime. Lifetime of a WSN depends on many factors, for example, residual energy of nodes, distance between communicating nodes and base station, etc. Ability of fuzzy logic theory to address more than one factor simultaneously gives it an upper edge over other alternatives. The present work explores the possibilities of building either a circular shaped or a cross-shaped path in the deployment area. A relative study of the movement of base station on these paths has been presented. Simulation results show that the cross path always give better performance than circular path and the lifetime improves with increase in the length of the predefined path. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In this work the possible large-scale integration of photovoltaic (PV) systems and parabolic trough concentrated solar power (CSP) technologies in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) power system is investigated in technical, economic and environmental terms. The analysis takes into account the available solar potential for UAE and in particular for the Emirate of Sharjah. In order to identify the least-cost feasible option for each renewable energy source for power-generation (RES-E) technology, a parametric analysis is carried out by varying each RES-E candidate system capital cost. From the analysis it is evident that an alternative cost-effective technology to the installation of a 50 MWp PV system might be the utilisation of a 50 MWe parabolic trough CSP system with either a 14.5 h thermal storage system or a 24/7 operation. The advantages of the latter are the dispatchability and the increased electricity output due to the utilisation of a thermal storage system, which leads to higher amounts of annual CO2avoided emissions. However, the electricity selling prices are higher than the current UAE electricity tariffs; therefore, for the promotion of solar RES-E technologies in the UAE, relevant financial supporting mechanisms need to be developed such as feed-in tariffs or feed-in premiums. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work we demonstrated that the active oxygen radicals could be produced by the synergistic interaction between electricigens and natural pyrrhotite. The identification of such an interactive pathway was conducted by using a fuel cell-type design, in which the electricigen-attached carbon felt electrode was used as the anode and the pyrrhotite-coated graphite electrode was used as the corresponding cathode. Current density, polarization and power density curves obtained at different treatments demonstrated the synergistic effects of electricigens and pyrrhotite improved the electrons transfer rate between them. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) analysis showed the reductive peaks of O2/H2O2 at 0.88 V (vs. SCE, saturated calomel electrode) and ionic and structural Fe(III)/Fe(II) at 0.31 V (vs. SCE) and 0 V (vs. SCE), respectively. The electrochemical results indicated the electricigen-assisted pyrrhotite photoelectrochemical reactions gave rise to Fenton's reagents: Fe2+ and H2O2, which underwent a further reaction to generate active oxygen radical ·OH. By using N, N-dimethyl-p-nitrosoaniline discoloration as a model reaction, the ·OH production rate at the pyrrhotite-cathode was found to follow the first-order kinetics. Practical application of the synergistic interaction between the electricigen and natural pyrrhotite to a real old-aged landfill leachate degradation resulted in 78% chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and 77% decolourization efficiency. The current generation lasted more than 45 days verified the validity of such system in long-term operation. The proposed interactive pathway would be expected as an alternative cost-effective technology for future wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The design requirements in various engineering applications have necessitated the development of novel materials. The Glass Fiber (GF)/vinyl ester composites are one such class of materials finding widespread application owing to their superior mechanical and chemical properties. The addition of fillers has further increased their application spectrum. Although these materials can be produced to a near-net shape, but still drilling of holes is necessary to ascertain the assembly of complex products. With an increase in demand, it becomes imperative to develop high quality cost effective technology for their manufacturing. The present research initiative is an attempt to experimentally investigate the drilling characteristics of GF/vinyl ester composites. The effect of drill geometry, the cutting speed and the feed rate has been found on the drilling forces and the surface roughness of the drilled hole wall. The relative significance of the various parameters has been found using ANOVA. The results of the experimental investigation bring out certain important facts in context of the drilling behavior of GF/vinyl ester composites filled with fillers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive review of the current water pollution status in China has indicated that the urban lakes in Chinese cities have suffered from serious pollution and are in high risk of eutrophication, although the pollution sources have been largely controlled. The objective of this study lies in exploring a long term restoration of the aquatic ecosystem in Chinese city lakes using treatment wetland, an environmentally friendly and cost-effective technology. Trials from a subsurface horizontal flow constructed wetland (CW) have demonstrated that the treatment wetland can be used for a purpose such as lake water quality control. Average removal of 84.2% for COD, 53.8% for NH3-N, 47.9% for TN, 73.3% for TP and 86.6% for SS can be achieved. Relatively, low removal of nitrogen lies in the lack of nitrification and denitrification process. Accordingly, improved configuration of the treatment wetland system has been proposed and discussed. Finally, the importance of the integrated constructed wetland especially for the application of urban lake water treatment is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on laboratory experiments and several tests, the application of direct electric current to enhance oil recovery appears to be a cost-effective technology. It can be used for both heavy and light crudes. The technology is based primarily on electrokinetics, with coupled thermal effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chromium (Cr) plating is one of the most widely used forms of electroplating. It is also an important source of heavy and toxic metal discharges into wastewater lines. In the present study the biosorption capacity of Vetivera root has been studied with reference to removal of Cr (VI) from the chromium plating effluent. The results of biosorption studies in terms of pH, agitation time and dosage of adsorbent, revealed higher metal removal up to 150 ppm/g of adsorbent. Metal [Cr (VI)] removal within 120 min was enhanced up to 78.5%. Cr (VI) removal is higher at lower pH of 2.5. The reuse of plant biomass was subjected to elution studies using various eluting agents such as HNO3, HCl, H2SO4, Thiourea and EDTA. The retention capacity of Vetivera was almost constant after three cycles of elution. Hence, this process can be used as an alternative to classical cost effective technology for heavy metal recovery and would also be efficient for effluent treatment system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind energy is the fastest-growing electricity-generating technology. The wind energy targets set during the last decade have all been surpassed. Climate change is a major challenge to sustainable development worldwide and is increasingly recognized by forward-looking political and business leaders. One of the tasks we are facing is a profound transformation of our energy system over the next few decades of replacing fossil fuels with renewable energies and dramatically increasing energy efficiency. This article reviews the progress made by wind energy in recent years, and discusses the potential of this technology in the world. The Denmark and Germany experience has shown that wind energy today comprises a reliable and cost-effective technology with positive effects on the reduction of CO2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biosorption experiments were carried out in batch and column mode for the removal of As(V) from aqueous solution using native, autoclaved and PVP treated Aspergillus clavatus biomass. The influence of process parameters such as contact time, As(V) concentration, adsorbent dosage, and pH have been investigated for As(V) adsorption. Maximum As(V) removal was observed with PVP K25 modified biomass (PVPAB) (80.25%) when compared to native (57%) and autoclaved (71.63%) biomass. PVPAB biomass required less time to reach equilibrium (90 min) whereas autoclaved and native biomass required 105 and 125 min to attain saturation respectively. The PVPAB showed maximum As(V) removal (Q0 = 2.06 mg/g) and was used as adsorbent for column studies. Equilibrium isotherms were analyzed by Langmuir and Dubinin and Radushkevich isotherms. Kinetics of the adsorption process was studied using pseudo-first-order and second-order models and it was found to obey pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Desorption studies showed that PVPAB could be reused after regeneration and could lead to the development of viable and cost-effective technology for arsenic removal from ground water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cost-effective technology has been developed to utilise bioorganic wastes as culture media, to produce mosquitocidal biopesticides, Bacillus sphaericus and B. thuringiensis serovar israelensis. The mosquitocidal spore/crystal toxins produced from the experimental medium (chicken feather waste, CFW+paddy husk waste, PHW) was higher than that of the conventional medium (Nutrient Yeast Extract Salt Medium, NYSM). The bacterial toxins produced from different media (NYSM, CFW, PHW, CFW+PHW) were bioassayed against mosquito vectors and the toxic effect was found to be significant. The use of chicken feathers and paddy husk wastes as bacterial culture media is cost-effective and economical for the production of these mosquito pathogenic bacilli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of high power ultrasonics to concentrated slurries of soils and sediments is discussed and we show that very high destruction rates can be achieved for many of the more notorious chemical contaminants, including PCBs and organochloride pesticides. Results are presented which suggest that a convenient and cost-effective technology is generally applicable. Experiments have been conducted at laboratory and pilot plant scales showing that reduction of contaminant concentration by 90% or more can be achieved with low energy budgets and without the generation of dangerous breakdown products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable energy sources (RES) are essential to tackle climate change. Renewable energy (RE) technologies are uniquely well suited to respond to the limitations of current patterns of energy generation and consumption, to complement existing energy production systems, and to contribute to the further modernization of the energy sector. On the other hand, climate change is a major challenge to sustainable development worldwide and increasingly recognized by forward-looking political and business leaders. One of the tasks we are facing is a profound transformation of our energy system over the next few decades of replacing fossil fuels with REs and dramatically increasing energy efficiency. This article aims at giving a critical picture of the expenditures in research and development for RES in the EU-15 Member States. The European experience has shown that wind energy comprises today a reliable and cost-effective technology with positive effects on the reduction of CO2 emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wind energy is the fastest-growing electricity-generating technology. The wind energy targets set during the last decade have all been surpassed. New targets are proposed for 2010 and 2020, since the existing European Commission and European Wind Energy Association targets do not reflect the trends in the market. Climate change is a major challenge to sustainable development worldwide and is increasingly recognized by forward-looking political and business leaders. One of the tasks we are facing is a profound transformation of our energy system over the next few decades of replacing fossil fuels with renewable energies and dramatically increasing energy efficiency. This article reviews the progress made by wind energy in the last ten years, and discusses the potential of this technology in the European Union and Turkey for the future. The European experience has shown that wind energy today comprises a reliable and cost-effective technology with positive effects on the reduction of CO 2 emissions. This study also shows that Turkey has more wind energy potential and existing wind-electricity-producing companies should be encouraged and supported by the government while new financing mechanisms are needed to promote investment in wind energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The preparation of side group modified polystyrene-based surface-active block copolymers (SABC) for use as marine fouling resistance/release applications is described. Modifying moieties such as poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and semifluorinated segments were used. A novel bilayer methodology has been employed that provides both suitable mechanical properties through the use of an elastomeric primer layer of styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene (SEBS) and control of surface-chemistry through use of the SABCs. This approach has potential as a cost-effective technology for environmentally benign coatings that resist and release marine biofouling. Initial testing of these materials included determination of captive bubble contact angles and protein adsorption. Testing against marine fouling organisms was performed using settlement and adhesion bioassays with zoospores of the green alga Enteromorpha . The results showed that all surfaces had markedly reduced levels of zoospore settlement compared with glass controls and that adhesion strength was strongly affected by the semifluorinated SABC. The results are discussed in terms of surface properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article augments d'Aspremont and Jacquemin's [1988. "Cooperative and Noncooperative R&D in Duopoly with Spillovers." American Economic Review 78: 1133–1137; 1990. "Cooperative and Noncooperative R&D in Duopoly with Spillovers: Erratum." American Economic Review 80: 641–642] cost-reducing R&D duopoly by introducing network externalities and product compatibility and then considers the investment decision stage. For standard non-network industries, the received literature has robustly shown that the non-cooperative R&D investment decision game is, without technological spill-over, a prisoner's dilemma with investing firms (there is a conflict between self-interest and mutual benefit of investing in R&D), and a deadlock (there is no conflict between self-interest and mutual benefit of investing in R&D) only whether the extent of technological spill-over is sufficiently high. Network externalities and product compatibility challenge this result. In fact, outcomes antithetical to those emerging in a non-network industry do exist. Under symmetric full compatibility, the game is a deadlock also without spill-over effects. Under symmetric incompatibility, the game can be a prisoner's dilemma irrespective of the extent of the technological spill-over. From a policy perspective, the article shows that R&D subsidies or taxes can be used as social welfare maximising tools depending on the extent of the network externality and the degree of product compatibility. The work focuses on Cournot rivalry, but results hold also for price-setting firms (Bertrand rivalry). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although a large body of literature exists to support the execution of Information and Communication Technologies for Development (ICT4D) initiatives, many such initiatives fail to deliver the intended results. By following a Design Science Research (DSR) methodology, this article presents an artifact (a framework) whose purpose is to integrate activities/processes noted in the literature to support the successful development of ICT4D initiatives. The result of the study is an evaluated process framework which serves as a tool to guide developers in identifying activities/processes that can support the success of ICT4D initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride overexposure, especially through drinking water, poses a severe risk to people all over the world. There are several ways to get rid of fluoride, but adsorption technologies are typically seen to be the most appealing in view of their efficiency, practicality, simplicity of operation, and attractiveness from an economic and environmental standpoint. In the current work, Zirconia and activated carbon nanocomposite (Zr-AC) were researched for the adsorption of fluoride from water. The impact of the various factors, viz. Zr-AC dosage (0.25-2.5 g/L), initial concentration of fluoride (2-32 ppm), pH (2.0-7.0) and contact time (30-180 min) and their effect on adsorption of fluoride was examined by using central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM). At pH 7, initial fluoride concentration of 2 ppm, contact time of 180 min, and Zr-AC dosage of 2.5 g/L, fluoride removal was around 95% using Zr-AC composite. Surface characterisation of the prepared adsorbent was done using SEM-EDS and FTIR. The obtained results indicate that Zr-AC gave good results and therefore could be used for treating fluoride-contaminated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]