Search

In this study, it was aimed to increase the antimicrobial properties by combining chitosan and titanium nanoparticles. First, titanium nanoparticles were synthesized by sol-gel method and nanoparticles were modified with thiol groups. The chitosan has been modified with allyl glycidyl ether. Both obtained molecules were linked to each other by a thiol-ene click reaction. The chemical structure of the obtained chitosan modified titanium nanoparticles was elucidated by ATR-FTIR. Paper coating formulations were prepared by using the produced nanoparticles and hydroxy ethyl cellulose at different rates and applied on the base paper. Color, gloss, surface energy, contact angle, air permeability properties of the papers were determined by spectrophotometer, glossmeter, goniometer and L&W air permeability device, respectively. Screen prints were made on coated papers and their printability properties were examined. Antimicrobial properties of titanium nanoparticles, chitosan and chitosan modified titanium nanoparticles were determined against E. coli and S. aureus by disk diffusion method. As a result, it has been determined that both titanium and chitosan have antimicrobial properties against both bacterial species separately and the produced chitosan modified titanium nanoparticles increase this antimicrobial property more having a synergetic effect. It has been concluded that the produced antimicrobial papers have a high upside to be active packaging printing material.

This study was aimed to examine the effects of basic properties, fiber morphological properties, strength properties, wettability and optical properties on offset printing of office papers. Widely used office papers with different brands were obtained from Istanbul-Turkey. Technical characteristics of papers; basic properties, strength properties including tensile, burst, tear, and Z direction tensile strength and optical properties such as gloss, whiteness, opacity, and wettability tests were determined according to TAPPI and ISO standards. The results obtained by the tests are as follows; i) there is a great difference in water resistance between the top and the lowest values (207 %), ii) there is little difference between the highest and the lowest brightness value (3.8 %), other papers values have close to each other, iii) in the printing process there is a little difference between the highest, and the lowest gloss values (36.7 %), although the others are close iv) the highest and lowest values in CIE C* showed that it ranged from the narrowest color gamut to the widest color gamut. By applying the widely used offset printing process to commercially produced office papers, the quality levels were evaluated to raise awareness of consumers and sellers.

© 2022, Publishing House of the Romanian Academy. All rights reserved.Adding an antimicrobial effect to the papers used in the cardboard packaging industry can extend the life of the packed product. Paper, due to its structure, has the property of being ignited quickly. Enhancing the properties of paper, the combination of antimicrobial protection, low flammability and good printability to the paper will expand its usage area in the packaging industry. In this study, barium borate was synthesized in order to impart low flammability to paper. Different combinations of rosemary oil and barium borate were mixed with binding starch in varying amounts, and formulations were prepared. With these mixtures, 80 g/m2 paper was coated using a laboratory-type paper coating machine. The antimicrobial properties of the paper were investigated by performing the disk diffusion antimicrobial test against E. coli and S. aureus bacteria. The Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) test was performed to determine the low flammability of the paper. Color, gloss, contact angle and surface energy tests were performed for the printability properties of the paper. As a result, the coatings containing formulations of barium borate and rosemary oil, applied to the paper surface, succeeded in imparting antimicrobial and low flammability properties to the papers, while also improving the printability features.

Nowadays, the need for papers and cardboards with improved surface properties is increasing with the development of the packaging industry. The improvements made are not only limited to the paper and paper surface, but also environmentalist approaches are exhibited in printing ink. For this purpose, the use of water-based ink tends to become widespread, especially in food packaging. In this study, five different paper coating formulations were prepared using different proportions of precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) and kaolin pigments. Latex (Acronal S360D) was used as a binder. All prepared coating mixes were applied onto the base paper surface. All coated papers were also subjected to the calendering process. In addition, three different dyestuffs (14, 17, 20%) concentrations of water-based printing inks were prepared. Prints were made by the silk screen printing technique on the calendered-coated papers. The optical and physical properties (roughness, air permeance, paper gloss and printing gloss, contact angle and surface energy) of all papers were measured according to the standards. Paper gloss, print gloss, Delta E-00 color differences, contact angles and surface energy measurements were made, and the effects of dye ratio on printing and gloss in water-based inks and coating type suitable for printability were investigated. As a result, papers can be coated and even calendered to achieve better paper surface properties and printability. In the case of printing with water-based inks, better printability properties are obtained by choosing PCC pigmented coated papers.

Papers are the most commonly used substrates. A printable paper must have certain properties. These properties include surface smoothness, air permeability, surface energy, colour of the paper, opacity, whiteness, light fastness, gloss, and coefficient of elongation under force. In addition, a good printable paper should not allow ink to pass between its two surfaces. After the papers are produced, they are subjected to surface treatments in order to improve the above-mentioned properties and to provide extra specification. Surface treatments include calendering, surface sizing and coating processes. While filling the recesses and protrusions on the surface with the coating process, the paper's affinity for the ink is increased, and the penetration of the ink to the other surface of the paper is prevented. In the coating process basically, a filler is dispersed in a binder. In this study, it is aimed to obtain the highest quality and most printable paper by changing the type of binder used in the coating. In this study, equal amount (5% w/w) titanium dioxide filler was used in all coating formulations. In coating formulations; cationic starch, hydroxy ethyl cellulose and polyvinyl alcohol polymers were used as binders. Binder amounts are adjusted according to optimum viscosity. The obtained coating formulations were coated on the paper surface with a laboratory type coating device. Colour, gloss, surface smoothness, air permeability, surface energy and surface morphology of the coated papers were determined. It was printed with magenta offset printing ink on three different types of paper coated with different binders, using the IGT C1 offset printability test device, under 400 N/m2 pressure printing conditions. Colour and gloss measurements of the prints were made. As a result; It was determined that three different binders improved the printability parameters.

Valuable papers, such as checks, promissory notes, money or printing papers used in wallpaper laminates, must be resistant to burning. For this reason, different flame retardants are used in papers. However, generally, the flame retardants used negatively affect printability by creating a hydrophobic surface. For this reason, it is thought that the combination of flame retardants with a filler that will positively affect the printability of paper will be more suitable for such printable papers. For this purpose, this work aimed to obtain paper with good printability and delayed ignition properties by using calcium carbonate, which is a good paper filler, and tin oxide, which is a flame retardant.

Background Brucellosis, as a serious zoonotic infectious disease, has been recognized as a re-emerging disease in the developing countries worldwide. In china, the incidence of brucellosis is increasing each year, seriously threatening the health of humans as well as animal populations. Despite a quite number of diagnostic methods currently being used for brucellosis, innovative technologies are still needed for its rapid and accurate diagnosis, especially in area where traditional diagnostic is unavailable. Methodology/Principal findings In this study, a total of 22 B cell linear epitopes were predicted from five Brucella outer membrane proteins (OMPs) using an immunoinformatic approach. These epitopes were then chemically synthesized, and with the method of indirect ELISA (iELISA), each of them displayed a certain degree of capability in identifying human brucellosis positive sera. Subsequently, a fusion protein consisting of the 22 predicted epitopes was prokaryotically expressed and used as diagnostic antigen in a newly established brucellosis testing method, nano-ZnO modified paper-based ELISA (nano-p-ELISA). According to the verifying test using a collection of sera collected from brucellosis and non-brucellosis patients, the sensitivity and specificity of multiepitope based nano-p-ELISA were 92.38% and 98.35% respectively. The positive predictive value was 98.26% and the negative predictive value was 91.67%. The multiepitope based fusion protein also displayed significantly higher specificity than Brucella lipopolysaccharide (LPS) antigen. Conclusions B cell epitopes are important candidates for serologically testing brucellosis. Multiepitope fusion protein based nano-p-ELISA displayed significantly sensitivity and specificity compared to Brucella LPS antigen. The strategy applied in this study will be helpful to develop rapid and accurate diagnostic method for brucellosis in human as well as animal populations., Author summary Brucellosis is one of the most important zoonosis in the world and has caused tremendous economic losses in agriculture and animal husbandry in many countries. Developing rapid, sensitive and specific diagnostic methods is very important for early detection and treatment of brucellosis patients. In this study, a novel diagnostic technique, nano-ZnO modified paper ELISA, was established. The antigen used in this technique was a fusion protein containing multiple B cell epitopes, which were predicted from Brucella major outer membrane proteins such as Bp26, Omp31, Omp16, Omp2b and Omp25. Comparing to traditional LPS antigen, this multiepitope based antigen displayed considerably higher sensitivity and higher specificity in laboratory. With the strategy described in this paper, more efficient epitopes and protein antigen can be identified in the future. Currently, LPS antigen is only prepared from live Brucella, while protein antigen can be produced in large quantities in prokaryotic expression system. In addition to nano-p-ELISA, this protein antigen can also be used for development other methods such as fluorescent polarization assay (FPA) and immunochromatographic assay (ICA) to meet the varied demand for brucellosis testing.

In this study, rose oil was encapsulated with stearic acid substituted polyvinyl alcohol macromolecule. In the first part of the study, stearic acid substituted polyvinyl alcohol macromolecule was synthesized and its chemical structure was elucidated by ATR-FTIR and ¹HNMR. Then, rose oil was encapsulated using this obtained polymer. The chemical structure of the obtained capsules was made by ATR-FTIR, and dimensional analysis was done by scanning electron microscope (SEM). After the obtained capsules, a paper coating formula was prepared and coated on 80 g/m² paper. The resulting scented papers were printed using the screen printing technique. The color, gloss, and deformation of the capsules on the surface of the printed and unprinted papers were determined by spectrophotometer, glossmeter and SEM. As a result, it was determined that the synthesized polymer could encapsulate the rose oil and the papers using these capsules could be printed without deformation.

© 2022, Publishing House of the Romanian Academy. All rights reserved.This study aimed to determine whether 100% recycled papers can replace papers made from virgin fibers for the purpose of electrophotographic printing for packaging by evaluating the recycling potential of electrophotographically printed paper using the INGEDE and the washing deinking method. In the first part of the study, typical office copy paper, containing up to 30% recycled fiber, was printed electrophotographically. In the second part of the study, the deinked pulp was then used to prepare the handsheets for deinking evaluation, paper analysis and printability analysis. The print quality of the recycled papers was highly encouraging, as the results were comparable and, in some cases, identical to those of papers manufactured from virgin fibers.

Although regression models play a central role in the analysis of medical research projects, there still exist many misconceptions on various aspects of modeling leading to faulty analyses. Indeed, the rapidly developing statistical methodology and its recent advances in regression modeling do not seem to be adequately reflected in many medical publications. This problem of knowledge transfer from statistical research to application was identified by some medical journals, which have published series of statistical tutorials and (shorter) papers mainly addressing medical researchers. The aim of this review was to assess the current level of knowledge with regard to regression modeling contained in such statistical papers. We searched for target series by a request to international statistical experts. We identified 23 series including 57 topic-relevant articles. Within each article, two independent raters analyzed the content by investigating 44 predefined aspects on regression modeling. We assessed to what extent the aspects were explained and if examples, software advices, and recommendations for or against specific methods were given. Most series (21/23) included at least one article on multivariable regression. Logistic regression was the most frequently described regression type (19/23), followed by linear regression (18/23), Cox regression and survival models (12/23) and Poisson regression (3/23). Most general aspects on regression modeling, e.g. model assumptions, reporting and interpretation of regression results, were covered. We did not find many misconceptions or misleading recommendations, but we identified relevant gaps, in particular with respect to addressing nonlinear effects of continuous predictors, model specification and variable selection. Specific recommendations on software were rarely given. Statistical guidance should be developed for nonlinear effects, model specification and variable selection to better support medical researchers who perform or interpret regression analyses.

Stable and predictable energy supply, a low ecological footprint and affordability of energy require a mix of energy technologies with thermal energy included. In this context, supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) power cycles promise a large development step that will ensure security and flexibility of electricity supply at lower costs with a reduced carbon footprint. In the last decade, extensive research has been carried out to develop knowledge and upscale the technology readiness level of sCO2 power systems. At European level, the European sCO2 Research & Development Alliance aims at providing a platform for exchanging knowledge on sCO2 technologies in the energy sector for academia and industry, as well as at promoting this topic to the wide society. The 4th European Conference on Supercritical CO2 (sCO2) for Energy Systems is one of the initiatives promoted by the EU sCO2 alliance that was held in Prague on 22-26/03/2021. The event brought together more than 100 participants from all over the world with expertise from research to policy development. There were two keynotes and more than 50 podium presentations. All submitted papers were peer reviewed and approved by the conference committee. Further details at www.sco2.eu This special issue gathers selected papers from the 4th European Conference on Supercritical CO2 in the following research topics related to energy systems: Heat Exchanger and Transfer, Turbomachines and Cycles, sCO2 Applications and Energy Systems, sCO2 Experiments and Loops, Fluid and Material Aspects.

Cellulose is an important raw material in the manufacture of paper. Cellulose is formed by thefelting, fringing, swelling by absorbing water of the fibers and the combination of these fibersas a result of certain processes. Paper is also obtained by processing plant fibers. It is alsopossible to reuse the waste paper, which are completed in utilization, in paper production byrecovering the cellulose in its structure. Recycling is the process of transforming these wastepapers, which can be reused, into a second raw material by subjecting them to physical orchemical processes. In addition to being sustainable, significant savings are achieved in theamount of raw materials used in paper recycling. In addition, this saving is economicallybeneficial to production due to the high cost of raw materials.In this study, natural dye plants and natural dyeing methods were used to produce paper fromrecycled cellulose with the aim of increasing sustainability. In order to prevent the negativitiesoriginating from the increase in carbon emissions that synthetic dyes cause, it is aimed toincrease the use of natural dyeing methods in paper production. Since natural dye plants areproduced from plant itself or its waste, they do not cause environmental pollution and provideadvantages for recycling.In this study, cellulose fibers were colored with natural dyeing method using walnut shell.Thus, between the fibers, samples colored with walnut shells and samples that were notcolored were examined under two different conditions. Samples were prepared in twodifferent ponds, 5 L and 8 L, with a fixed ratio of solids. Paper sheets were formed with thesieve using the dipping method in the prepared concentration and at the same time, thetechnical properties of the samples were examined by reducing the fibers at a certain rate.Samples were measured in terms of weight, color measurement, light fastness, contact angle,surface smoothness, air permeability and compared with the data obtained.Keywords: Waste paper, Recycling, Natural dyeing, Sustainability Kağıdı imalatında önemli bir yere sahip hammadde selülozdur. Selüloz, liflerin keçeleşmesi, saçaklanması, su emerek şişmesi ve belirli işlemlerden geçmesi sonucunda bu liflerin birleşmesiyle oluşmaktadır. Bitkisel liflerin işlenmesiyle de kağıt elde edilmektedir. Kullanımı tamamlanmış atık durumunda olan kağıtların, yapısındaki selülozun geri kazanılmasıyla tekrardan kağıt üretiminde kullanılabilmesi de mümkündür. Yeniden değerlendirilme imkanı olan bu atık kağıtların fiziksel veya kimyasal işlemlere tabi tutularak ikinci bir hammaddeye dönüştürülmesine geri dönüşüm denmektedir. Sürdürülebilir olmasının yanında kağıt geri dönüşümünde kullanılan hammadde miktarında önemli oranda tasarruf sağlanmaktadır. Ayrıca yapılan bu tasarruf hammaddenin pahalı olmasından dolayı ekonomik açıdan üretime fayda sağlamaktadır. Bu çalışmada sürdürülebilirliği arttırmak amacıyla geri dönüştürülen selülozlardan kağıt üretimi yaparken doğal boya bitkileri ve doğal boyama yöntemleri kullanılmıştır. Sentetik boyaların karbon salınımını arttırmasından kaynaklı olumsuzlukları engellemek için doğal boyama yöntemi tercih edilerek kağıt üretiminde kullanımını arttırmak amaçlanmaktadır. Doğal boya bitkileri kendilerinden veya atıklarından üretildiği için çevre kirliliği oluşturmamakta ve geri dönüşüm için avantaj sağlamaktadır. Yapılan bu çalışmada selüloz lifleri ceviz kabuğu kullanılarak doğal boyama yöntemi ile renklendirilmiştir. Böylece lifler arasında ceviz kabuğu ile renklendirilen numuneler ve renklendirilmeyen numuneler olarak iki farklı koşulda incelenmiştir. Numuneler iki farklı havuz içerisinde 5 L ve 8 L olarak ve belirlenen sabit oranlarda katı madde oranıyla hazırlanmıştır. Hazırlanan konsantrasyon içerisine daldırma yöntemi kullanılan elek ile kağıt sahifeleri oluşturulmuş ve aynı zamanda numuneler belirli oranda lifleri azaltılarak teknik özellikleri incelenmiştir. Numuneler; gramaj, renk ölçümü, ışık haslığı, kontak açısı, yüzey düzgünlüğü, hava geçirgenliği bakımından ölçülüp çıkan veriler ile karşılaştırılmıştır. Anahtar kelimeler: Atık kağıt, Geri dönüşüm, Doğal boyama, Sürdürülebilirlik

Denna kvalitativa fallstudie syftade till att undersöka hur riskanalysmetoden Process Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (PFMEA) tillämpas och anpassas till pappers- och massaindustrin för att proaktivt hantera processrisker. Studien baserades på antagandet att Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) och Verband der Automobilindustries (VDA) PFMEA-metod från år 2019 även kan användas för en process där virke omvandlas till träflis. Data samlades in genom litteraturstudier, observationer, företagsdokument, intervjuer och workshops med processexperter. Processrisker analyserades med AIAG och VDAs PFMEA-metod och tematisk analys användes för att identifiera lämpliga anpassningar av metoden. Utifrån deltagande roller och tidsåtgången för PFMEA-aktiviteter analyserades även resurser för en PFMEA. Resultatet visade att AIAG och VDAs PFMEA-metod är tillämplig för en process där virke omvandlas till träflis, förutsatt att bedömningskriterierna för allvarlighetsgrad anpassas och fiskbendiagram, 5-varför och felträdsanalys inkluderas för en strukturerad analys av grundorsaker. Totalt identifierades 36 feltillstånd, varav grundorsaksanalyser prioriterades för fyra som hade effekter med en allvarlighetsgrad åtta eller högre. För prioriterade feltillstånd identifierades elva grundorsaker för vilka åtgärder kunde rekommenderas. För att genomföra analysen under en 16-veckorsperiod uppskattades kostnaden till cirka 212 571 kr i arbetstidskostnader. Studien visar att AIAG och VDAs PFMEA-metod är en strukturerad metod för att analysera processrisker även inom pappers- och massaindustrin, om anpassningar görs av bedömningskriterier och metoder för grundorsaksanalys inkluderas. Budgeteras kvalificerad personal kan en PFMEA genomföras inom 16 veckor på en process där virke omvandlas till träflis. This qualitative case study aimed to investigate how the Process Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (PFMEA) methodology can be applied and adapted to the pulp and paper industry for proactive management of process risks. The study assumed that the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG) och Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA) PFMEA method from year 2019 could also be utilized for a process that transforms timber into wood chips. Data were collected through literature reviews, observations, company documents, interviews, and workshops with process experts. Process risks were analyzed using the AIAG and VDA PFMEA method, and thematic analysis was applied to identify suitable adaptations of the method. Resources required for a PFMEA were also analyzed based on the roles of the participants and the time for conducting PFMEA activities. The results revealed that the AIAG and VDA PFMEA method is applicable to a process that transforms timber into wood chips, provided that the severity assessment criteria are adjusted and fishbone diagrams, 5-why analysis, and fault tree analysis are included for a structured examination of root causes. A total of 36 failure modes were identified, where root cause analysis was prioritized for four failure modes exhibiting effects with a severity rating of eight or higher. Eleven root causes were identified for the prioritized failure modes for which recommended actions could be proposed. The estimated cost of labor for conducting the analysis over a 16-week period was approximately 212 571 SEK. This study demonstrates that the AIAG and VDA PFMEA method is a structured approach for analyzing process risks, even within the pulp and paper industry, if adjustments are made to the severity assessment criteria and methods for root cause analysis are included. With the allocation of sufficient resources and qualified personnel, a PFMEA can be completed within a 16-week timeframe for a process involving the conversion of timber into wood chips.

It is known that the decarbonization of our economy is crucial for our quest to mitigate climate change and build a sustainable society. Governments are reviewing strategies to eliminate, or at least minimize, the release of carbon emissions into the atmosphere. These efforts are not limited to national energy networks, but also extended to industry and other carbon-intensive sectors. In general, the Pulp & Paper industry is regarded as bio-based and relatively sustainable since most of its raw materials are recycled or come from biogenic sources. However, this is an energy-intensive industry, and even though bioenergy covers most of the energy needs at pulp plants, recycled paper mills do not count on the same resources and rely heavily on fossil fuels to power their operations. This study was performed to assess and compare different decarbonization pathways available for a recycled paper mill. For this, operational data was gathered to characterize the thermal and electric demands and assess locally available resources. Simultaneously, scientific literature was consulted to assemble a technology portfolio, from which the most suitable technologies were selected. Carbon capture and storage, electrification, and hydrogen were chosen to be tested, under different scenarios, using an energy modelling software. Finally, the combinations were evaluated and compared. It was found that under ideal conditions it is possible to achieve an emissions reduction of almost 100% via electrification and hydrogen-based options. However, this would represent a significant increase in the operating cost of the energy system and would depend on the development of the necessary infrastructure. The most promising alternative for this site was a combination of electrification and green electricity purchase agreements. However, further work is needed to improve the efficiency of the energy use and generation, to achieve a carbon-neutral operation without incurring elevated costs. Det är känt att avkarboniseringen av vår ekonomi är avgörande för vår strävan att mildra klimatförändringarna och bygga ett hållbart samhälle. Regeringar ser över strategier för att eliminera, eller åtminstone minimera, utsläpp av koldioxid i atmosfären. Dessa ansträngningar är inte begränsade till nationella energinät, utan sträcker sig även till industrin och andra kolintensiva sektorer. Massa- och pappersindustrin är biobaserad och relativt hållbar eftersom de flesta av dess råvaror återvinns eller kommer från biogena källor. Detta är dock en energiintensiv industri, och även om bioenergin täcker det mesta av energibehovet vid massafabrikerna, räknar inte återvunnet pappersbruk med samma resurser som är starkt beroende av fossila bränslen för att driva sin verksamhet. Denna studie utfördes för att bedöma och jämföra olika avkolningsvägar tillgängliga för ett återvunnet pappersbruk. För detta samlades operativa data in för att karakterisera de termiska och elektriska kraven och bedöma lokalt tillgängliga resurser. Samtidigt konsulterades vetenskaplig litteratur för att sammanställa en teknologiportfölj, från vilken de mest lämpliga teknologierna valdes ut. Kolavskiljning och lagring, elektrifiering och väte valdes ut för att testas, under olika scenarier, med hjälp av en mjukvara för energimodellering. Slutligen utvärderades och jämfördes kombinationerna. Man, fann att det under ideala förhållanden är möjligt att uppnå en utsläppsminskning på nästan 100 % via elektrifiering och vätebaserade alternativ. Detta skulle dock innebära en betydande ökning av driftskostnaden för energisystemet och skulle bero på utvecklingen av den nödvändiga infrastrukturen. Det mest lovande alternativet för denna plats var en kombination av elektrifiering och köp av grön el. Det krävs dock ytterligare arbete för att effektivisera energianvändningen och energiproduktionen, för att uppnå en koldioxidneutral drift utan förhöjda kostnader.

Background In 2005, Bangladesh, India and Nepal agreed to eliminate visceral leishmaniasis (VL) as a public health problem. The approach to this was through improved case detection and treatment, and controlling transmission by the sand fly vector Phlebotomus argentipes, with indoor residual spraying (IRS) of insecticide. Initially, India applied DDT with stirrup pumps for IRS, however, this did not reduce transmission. After 2015 onwards, the pyrethroid alpha-cypermethrin was applied with compression pumps, and entomological surveillance was initiated in 2016. Methods Eight sentinel sites were established in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. IRS coverage was monitored by household survey, quality of insecticide application was measured by HPLC, presence and abundance of the VL vector was monitored by CDC light traps, insecticide resistance was measured with WHO diagnostic assays and case incidence was determined from the VL case register KAMIS. Results Complete treatment of houses with IRS increased across all sites from 57% in 2016 to 70% of houses in 2019, rising to >80% if partial house IRS coverage is included (except West Bengal). The quality of insecticide application has improved compared to previous studies, average doses of insecticide on filters papers ranged from 1.52 times the target dose of 25mg/m2 alpha-cypermethrin in 2019 to 1.67 times in 2018. Resistance to DDT has continued to increase, but the vector was not resistant to carbamates, organophosphates or pyrethroids. The annual and seasonal abundance of P. argentipes declined between 2016 to 2019 with an overall infection rate of 0.03%. This was associated with a decline in VL incidence for the blocks represented by the sentinel sites from 1.16 per 10,000 population in 2016 to 0.51 per 10,000 in 2019. Conclusion Through effective case detection and management reducing the infection reservoirs for P. argentipes in the human population combined with IRS keeping P. argentipes abundance and infectivity low has reduced VL transmission. This combination of effective case management and vector control has now brought India within reach of the VL elimination targets., Author summary Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), also known as kala-azar, is a major parasitic disease in South Asia (Indian subcontinent), with 85% of the disease incidence in India. Historically VL had been controlled and almost eliminated with Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) using dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT). However, reinitiating this approach in 2015 failed due to high insecticide resistance in the sand fly vector and poor IRS quality, meaning that VL elimination targets were not met. To improve this the National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme changed to an effective insecticide, alpha-cypermethrin and altered the mode of application to compression pumps. Sentinel sites were established to monitor the entomological indicators, these showed the positive impact of these changes from 2016 to 2019. During this period the overall incidence of disease has decreased, and India is now on track to reach it’s target incidence for VL of less than 1/1000 people at the sub-district (block) level.

Access to energy is fundamental to economic and technological advancement. Hence, the more the world develops, the greater the demand for energy becomes. Evidently, the production and consumption of energy alone account for more than 80% of global anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. There is broad scientific consensus that efficiency improvements in energy production and consumption must come first on the path to reducing global GHG emissions. As the largest producer and consumer of energy, the industrial sector faces tremendous challenges due to stringent environmental regulations, intense price-based global competition, rising operating costs and rapidly changing economic conditions. Therefore, increasing energy and resource efficiency while improving throughput and asset reliability is a matter of utmost importance. Satisfying such demanding objectives requires an optimal operation, control and monitoring of plant assets and processes. This is one of the main driving forces behind developing digital solutions, methods, and frameworks that can be integrated with old and new industrial automation platforms. The main focus of this dissertation is to investigate frameworks, process models, soft sensors, control optimization, and diagnostic techniques to improve the operation, control, and monitoring of industrial plants and processes. In this thesis, a generic architecture for control optimization, diagnostics, and decision support system, referred to here as a learning system, is proposed. The research is centred around an investigation of different components of the proposed learning system. Two very different case studies, one representing large-scale assets and another representing a fleet of small-scale assets, are considered to demonstrate the genericness of the proposed system architecture. In this thesis, a very energy-intensive chemical pulping process represents the case study of large-scale assets, and a micro gas turbine (MGT) fleet for distributed heat and power generation represent the case study of a fleet of small-scale assets. One of the main challenges in this research arises from the marked differences between the case studies in terms of size, functions, quantity, and structure of the existing automation systems. Typically, only a few pulp digesters are found in a Kraft pulping mill, but there may be hundreds of units in a MGT fleet. The main argument behind the selection of these two case studies is that, if the proposed learning system architecture can be adapted for these significantly different cases, then it can be adapted for many other industrial applications as well. Within the scope of this thesis, mathematical modelling, model adaptation, model predictive control, and diagnostics methods are studied for continuous pulp digesters, whereas mathematical modelling, model adaptation, and diagnostics techniques are explored for the MGT fleet. Due to the naturally varying wood quality, significant residence time, insufficient measurements, and complexity of pulping reactions, modelling and controlling a continuous pulp digester is a challenging task. Moreover, process abnormalities due to non-ideal flow in the digester often occur that considerably affect the pulp quality. Within this dissertation, variation of wood-chip quality is identified as one of the main process disturbances. Thereafter, a feedforward model predictive control (MPC) approach is explored by feedforwarding the lignin content of the wood chips to the controller. The result shows that the disturbance rejection and tracking performance of the feedforward MPC are superior to other alternatives, like Proportional–integral–derivative (PID), MPC, and current industrial control. When it comes to diagnostics, a literature gap is identified in the area of modelling digester faults. Hence, the well-known Purdue model, a widely used dynamic model of the digester, is extended to simulate process faults like screen-clogging, hangups, and channelling. The findings suggest that both hangups and channelling considerably affect the pulp quality at the blowline. The impact of channelling is prominent on reaction temperature compared to hangups, while hangups change the residence time of the wood chips significantly. Subsequently, a hybrid diagnostics scheme for pulp digester, combining a physical model and a Bayesian network (BN), is demonstrated. Overall, the results show that fault type and severity can be estimated with acceptable accuracy even in presence of noise. Enabling remote fleet diagnostics is expected to foster the commercialization of distributed micro-combined heat and power (micro-CHP) generators, i.e., MGTs. Even though the modelling and diagnostics of large-scale gas turbines are well researched, studies targeting MGT are limited. In this thesis, a physical model of a commercial MGT system is developed. Subsequently, a hybrid scheme by combining a physics-based gas path analysis with a data-driven approach is used to enable MGT diagnostics. The proposed scheme was tested by simulating case studies corresponding to single and multiple faults. Furthermore, sensitivity studies are performed for different measurement uncertainties (i.e., sensor noise and bias) to evaluate the robustness of the scheme against measurement uncertainties. The findings show that the proposed diagnostics approach performs satisfactorily even under measurement uncertainties. To sum up, the increased availability of data and higher computing power is fostering the development of accurate process models and algorithms necessary for optimal operation, control, and monitoring of industrial processes. With the emergence of new measurement techniques, it is possible to leverage productivity and quality with tighter control of key process parameters. Additionally, studying the underlying mechanism of process degradation and developing diagnostics methods by incorporating these can lead to significant economic benefits. Having said that, to tap the full potential of these digital solutions, an integrated framework like that presented in this thesis, i.e., a learning system is essential. FUDIPO

An orange peel waste biorefinery was developed employing a design of experiments approach to optimize the ultrasound-assisted dilute acid hydrolysis process applied for production of useful commodities. Central composite design-based response surface methodology was used to approximate the combined effects of process parameters in simultaneous production of essential oils, pectin and a sugar-rich hydrolyzate. Application of a desirability function determined the optimal conditions required for maximal production efficiency of essential oils, pectin and sugars as 5.75% solid loading, 1.21% acid concentration and 34.2 min duration. Maximum production yields of 0.12% w/w essential oils, 45% w/w pectin and 40% w/w sugars were achieved under optimized conditions in lab- and pilot-scale facilities. The hydrolyzate formed was applied in bacterial cellulose fermentations producing 5.82 g biopolymer per 100 g waste. Design of experiments was efficient for process analysis and optimization providing a systems platform for the study of biomass-based biorefineries.

Since the innovation of our new half-piece elastometric respirator, this type of filtering facepiece respirator (FFR) has been used widely in Thailand. Decontamination methods including ultraviolet C (UVC) germicidal irradiation and 70% alcohol have been implemented to decontaminate these respirators. We then examined the inactivation potential of different decontamination processes on porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) and numerous bacterial strains, most of which were skin-derived. To enable rigorous integrity of the masks after repeated decontamination processes, fit tests by the Bitrex test, tensile strength and elongation at break were also evaluated. Our results showed that UVC irradiation at a dose of 3 J/cm2 can eradicate bacteria after 60 min and viruses after 10 min. No fungi were found on the mask surface before decontamination. The good fit test results, tensile strength and elongation at break were still maintained after multiple cycles of decontamination. No evidence of physical degradation was found by gross visual inspection. Alcohol (70%) is also an easy and effective way to eradicate microorganisms on respirators. As the current pandemic is expected to continue for months to years, the need to supply adequate reserves of personnel protective equipment (PPE) and develop effective PPE reprocessing methods is crucial. Our studies demonstrated that the novel silicone mask can be safely reprocessed and decontaminated for many cycles by UVC irradiation, which will help ameliorate the shortage of important protective devices in the COVID-19 pandemic era.

IEEEWhile the zeitgeist of today prescribes localization as a key to eliminate the excessive transportation for manufacturing firms, firm-level practical and workable guidelines that go beyond maxims are scant. Laden with analytical methods, this paper offers a phronetic, customizable framework based on Lean Six Sigma (LSS). The framework mimics Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control (DMAIC) process. The early phases of the framework, ex-ante, prescribe the use of a variety tools and techniques from Lean Six sigma (LSS) and employ fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to extract the vital few root-causes that may impede localization. The latter phases suggest the use of design of experiments (DOE) to evaluate the root-causes, ex-post. The paper outlines a clear and established procedure and demonstrates each analytical phase using evidence from a two-year real-world application in steel industry.

Steer-by-wire systems represent a key technology for highly automated and autonomous driving. In this context, robust steering control is a fundamental precondition for automated vehicle lateral control. However, there is a need for improvement due to degrees of freedom, signal delays, and nonlinear characteristics of the plant which are unconsidered in the design models for the design of current steering controls. To be able to design an extremely robust steering control, suitable optimal models of a steer-by-wire system are required. Therefore, this paper presents an innovative nonlinear detail model of a steer-by-wire system. The detail model represents all characteristics of a real steer-by-wire system. In the context of a dominance analysis of the detail model, all dominant characteristics of a steer-by-wire system, including parameter dependencies, are identified. Through model reduction, a reduced model of the steer-by-wire system is then developed that can be used for a subsequent robust control design. Furthermore, this paper compares the steer-by-wire system with a conventional electromechanical power steering and shows similarities as well as differences.

Antennas are one of the key components that empower a new generation of wireless technologies, such as 5G and new radar systems. It has been shown that antenna design strategies based on modal theories represent a powerful systematic approach to design practical antenna systems with high performance. In this thesis, several innovative multi-antenna systems are proposed for wireless applications in different frequency bands: from sub-6 GHz to millimeter-wave (mm-wave) bands. The thesis consists of an overview (Part I) and six scientific papers published in peer-reviewed international journals (Part II). Part I provides the overall framework of the thesis work: It presents the background and motivation for the problems at hand, the fundamental modal theories utilized to address these problems, as well as subject-specific research challenges. Brief conclusions and future outlook are also provided. The included papers of Part II can be divided into two tracks with different 5G and beyond wireless applications, both aiming for higher data rates.In the first track, Papers [I] to [IV] investigate different aspects of antenna system design for smart-phone application. Since Long Term Evolution (LTE) (so-called 3.5G) was deployed in 2009, mobile communication systems have utilized multiple-input multiple-output antenna technology (MIMO) technology to increase the spectral efficiency of the transmission channel and provide higher data rates in existing and new sub-6 GHz bands. However, MIMO requires multi-antennas at both the base stations and the user equipment (mainly smartphones) and it is very challenging to implement sub-6 GHz multi-antennas within the limited space of smartphones. This points to the need for innovative design strategies. The theory of characteristic modes (TCM) is one type of modal theory in the antenna community, which has been shown to be a versatile tool to analyze the inherent resonance properties of an arbitrarily shaped radiating structure. Characteristic modes (CMs) have the useful property of their fields being orthogonal over both the source region and the sphere at infinity. This property makes TCM uniquely suited for electrically compact MIMO antenna design.In the second track, Papers [V]-[VI] investigate new integrated antenna arrays and subarrays for the two wireless applications, which are both implemented in a higher part of the mm-wave frequency range (i.e. E-band). Furthermore, a newly developed high resolution multi-layer “Any-Layer” PCB technology is investigated to realize antenna-in-package solutions for these mmwave antenna system designs. High gain and high efficiency antennas are essential for high-speed wireless point-to-point communication systems. To meet these requirements, Paper [V] proposes directive multilayer substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) cavity-backed slot antenna array and subarray. As a background, the microwave community has already shown the benefits of modal theory in the design and analysis of closed structures like waveguides and cavities. Higher-order cavity modes are used in the antenna array design process to facilitate lower loss, simpler feeding network, and lower sensitivity to fabrication errors, which are favorable for E-band communication systems. However, waveguide/cavity modes are confined to fields within the guided media and can only help to design special types of antennas that contain those structures. As an example of the versatility of TCM, Paper [VI] shows that apart from smartphone antenna designs proposed in Papers [I]-[IV], TCM can alsobe used to find the desirable modes of the linear antenna arrays. Furthermore, apart from E-band communications, the proposed series-fed patch array topology in Paper [VI] is a good candidate for application in 79 GHz MIMO automotive radar due to its low cost, compact size, ability to suppress surface waves, as well as relatively wide impedance and flat-gain bandwidths.

Two wheeled Self balancing robots have become more popular in recent times and used in many applications, commonly used in transportation as these balancing robots are faster and apparently stable. Balancing is achieved by using controllers tuned for the system. Inverted pendulum principle is used in these robots. This paper proposes the use of two control methods, namely Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) and Extended PID (EPID), for maintaining the balance of two-wheeled and self-balancing robots, even when slightly tilted, thus preventing them from falling. PID control theory generally depends up on transfer functions, this paper extends the theory using EPID. EPID provides a new perspective on the working principle of PID control and its relationship with other control theories, such as tracking control and disturbance observer. This approach is illustrated using the fundamental principle of inverted pendulum technology. The key advantage of these robots over other mobile robots is their increased stability due to zero turning radius, which allows for smoother rotations during changes in direction.

Augmented reality (AR) has seen a rise in public and corporate interest in recent years and with Apple's announcement of the Vision Pro headset, it is an exciting time to study the technology. The question on many people's minds is if AR is the computing platform of tomorrow or if it is a fad. However, this uncertainty is generally the case for emerging technologies and challenges exist with adoption for it to go from interest to value creator. This research paper explores technology adoption and the current state of Augmented Reality (AR) adoption in a mobile context, by utilizing common innovation frameworks. These frameworks were Diffusion of Innovations, Hype Cycle, and Disruptive Innovations. There seems to be a disparity between the practical and theoretical understanding of technology adoption. Some concepts are misused or unused in practice but well understood in theory and the other way around. This ambiguity and disparity could lead to suboptimal theory development and practical application. The purpose of this paper is to explore emerging technology adoption and to nuance the academic and practical knowledge of technology adoption, by studying the AR. It is important to evolve understanding in this area to decrease resource waste and to increase societal and technological progress. This paper analyzed Google's ARCore data, search topic data, and research publications data and interviewed AR companies to answer the research questions. The results were first that the level of mobile AR adoption is at 40 percent of the total AR mobile market. Secondly, the current interest in AR is 50 to 60 percent compared to the peak interest in 2016 while research isincreasing exponentially. Finally, the study found that the technology is not disruptive to a high degree at the moment. Argumented reality (AR) eller förstärk verklighet har fått ett ökat intresse bland allmänheten och företag under de senaste åren, och med Apples tillkännagivande av Vision Pro-headsetet är det en spännande tid att studera tekniken. Frågan som många ställer sig är om AR är morgondagens datorplattform eller om det är en modefluga. Denna osäkerhet är dock generellt sett fallet för ny teknik och det finns utmaningar med införandet för att den ska gå från intresse till värdeskapande. I det här forskningsdokumentet undersöks teknikadoption och det aktuella läget för Augmented Reality (AR) i en mobil kontext, genom att använda vanliga innovationsramverk. Dessa ramverk var Diffusion of Innovations, Hype Cycle och Disruptive Innovations. Det verkar finnas en skillnad mellan den praktiska och teoretiska förståelsen av teknikadoption. Vissa begrepp missbrukas eller används inte i praktiken, men är väl förstådda i teorin och tvärtom. Denna tvetydighet och skillnad kan leda till suboptimal teoriutveckling och praktisk tillämpning. Syftet med denna artikel är att utforska ny teknik och nyansera den akademiska och praktiska kunskapen om teknikadoption genom att studera AR. Det är viktigt att utveckla förståelsen inom detta område för att minska resursslöseriet och öka de samhälleliga och tekniska framstegen. I den här artikeln analyserades Googles ARCore-data, data om sökämnen och data om forskningspublikationer, och AR-företag intervjuades för att besvara forskningsfrågorna. Resultaten var för det första att användningen av mobil AR ligger på 40 procent av den totala mobila AR-marknaden. För det andra är det nuvarande intresset för AR 50 till 60 procent jämfört med toppen 2016, samtidigt som forskningen ökar exponentiellt. Slutligen visade studien att tekniken för närvarande inte är särskilt disruptiv.

Blended finance has the past decade become an increasingly popular way for development banks in Southeast Asia to invest in renewable energy projects with the aim of mobilizing additional private investments. Although definitions of the method differ among stakeholders, blended finance is a way of blending development loans with below-market-rate funds to lower risks experienced by private investors. This relatively unexplored financing approach could be one of the solutions to bridge the large private funding gap the region's renewable energy sector is currently experiencing. This paper investigates if and how blended finance contributes to the diffusion of renewable energy innovation in Southeast Asia, through the mobilization of further private investments. To do this, the de-risking effects of blended finance have been investigated, as well as which stage in the diffusion innovation process blended finance is relevant, and how it contributes to the innovation functions of an energy technology innovation system. Exploratory interviews were held with both regional climate finance experts, as well as with eight blended finance investment executives. The findings from this thesis show that blended finance helps renewable energy technologies in their product commercialization and market formation stage, by targeting first-mover projects. During this stage, renewable energy projects in Southeast Asia experience especially high barriers to attracting private investments, the so-called commercialization valley of death. Further, blended finance contributes to four out of seven innovation functions in the energy technology innovation system: Resource mobilization, knowledge diffusion, creation of legitimacy and market creation. The financial risks of renewable energy projects are being mitigated as the public loans and concessional funds lower costs and create increased returns, leading to projects being more financially attractive for private investors. The perceived risks among private investors are being mitigated through knowledge diffusion and the creation of legitimacy. Development banks spread the knowledge about investments in renewable energy projects, as well as the technology, and the very existence of blended finance investment brings a quality mark for renewable energy projects. The paper additionally found that the lack of a common definition of blended finance leads to a lack of common methodologies, data availability and evaluations of the approach. This in turn leads to little research and difficulties in collaboration among blended finance investors, ultimately resulting in the approach being hard to scale. Blandfinansiering, eller "blended finance", har det senaste decenniet blivit ett allt populärare sätt för utvecklingsbanker i Sydostasien att investera i projekt för förnyelsebar energi. Blandfinansiering ett sätt att blanda vanliga utvecklingslån med lån med en lägre ränta än marknadsräntan. Syftet är att attrahera och mobilisera mer privata investeringar mot förnyelsebar energi, genom att minska riskerna privata investerare upplever. Denna relativt outforskade finansieringsmetod kan vara en av lösningarna för att överbrygga den stora privata finansieringsklyfta som den sydostasiatiska förnyelsebara energisektorn upplever. Denna uppsats undersöker om och hur bland finansieringbidrar till spridningen av innovationer inom förnybar energi i Sydostasien. Detta genom att undersöka de riskminimerande effekterna av blandfinansiering, i vilken fas in innovationsprocessen blandfinansiering är relevant och hur det bidrar till innovationsfunktionerna inom ett energitekniskt innovationssystem. Explorativa intervjuer hölls med både regionala experter inom klimatfinansiering och med åtta investerare inom blandfinansiering. Resultaten visar att blandfinansiering hjälper förnyelsebar energiteknik i produktkommersialiserings- och marknadsbildningsfasen i innovationsprocessen, genom att rikta in sig på "first-mover" projekt. I denna fas upplever projekt för förnyelsebar energi i Sydostasien särskilt höga hinder för att attrahera privata investeringar, den så kallade "commercialisation valley of death". Vidare bidrar blandfinansiering till fyra av sju innovationsfunktioner i det energitekniska innovationssystemet: Resursmobilisering, kunskapsspridning, legitimitetsskapande och marknadsskapande. Den finansiella risken för förnyelsebara energiprojekt sjunker då blandfinansiering sänker kostnaderna och ökar avkastningen, vilket leder till att projekten blir mer ekonomiskt attraktiva för privatainvesterare. De upplevda riskerna bland privata investerare sjunker genom kunskapsspridning och skapandet av legitimitet. Utvecklingsbanker sprider kunskapen om hur man investerar i förnyelsebara energiprojekt, och utvecklingsbankernas närvaro i projekten skapar trovärdighet. Rapporten fann dessutom att avsaknaden av en gemensam definition för blandfinansiering leder till en brist på gemensamma metoder, datatillgänglighet och utvärderingar av investeringsmetoden. Detta leder i sin tur till lite forskning och svårigheter i samarbetet mellan investerare, vilket resulterar i att blandfinansiering är svårt att etablera på en större skala.

This research paper delves into the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the process of user experience (UX) design resulting in more-than-human-made designs. Specifically, the study focuses on the utilization of the text-to-image AI tool, Midjourney. The primary research questions addressed in this paper are twofold: 1) How do AI tools influence the current UX design process of a high-fidelity prototype? and 2) How do more-than-human-made high-fidelity prototypes compare with human-made high-fidelity prototypes in terms of UX? To answer these research questions, a two-method study design was employed. Firstly, two focus groups with in total of 8 designers as participants were formed, with one group utilizing Midjourney to investigate its influence on the design process and to compare the two groups regarding their workwise. The aim was to create two comparable prototypes within a specific e-commerce setting. Secondly, a between-subjects design user study with 32 participants was conducted to test the high-fidelity prototypes and to assess any potential disparities in UX quality between them. The findings regarding the first research question indicate that Midjourney primarily serves as an inspirational tool. Designers were able to harness the AI tool to generate dark mode images, with the final chosen dark mode exemplifying the impact of Midjourney. Additionally, designers attempted to utilize the tool for creating icons. Regarding the second research question, the user study revealed that, despite similar and comparable use cases, there were only minor significant differences in terms of UX quality. The overall scores in System Usability Scale (SUS) and User Experience Questionnaire Plus (UEQ+) did not exhibit any significant disparity. This study suggests that while Midjourney proves to be a useful tool within the design process, its current influence on designers' UX design process and the ultimate performance of the final prototype remains relatively modest. Further research and development may be required to enhance its impact in the field of UX design and the study design should be used to test other AI tools in comparable settings.

This paper explores the environmental impact of construction materials in a battery factory, with a particular focus on their global warming potential, acidification, and eutrophication potential. The production of construction materials is found to contribute significantly to the overall environmental impact of a building, with steel and concrete identified as having the highest impact among the materials analyzed. The GWP of steel and concrete production can range from 100 to 200 kg CO2eq/m2 and 10 to 20 kg CO2eq/m2, respectively. However, initiatives such as HYBRIT and H2Green steel involving the use of hydrogen in the steelmaking process have the potential to reduce emissions by up to 95 percent. Moreover, the carbon footprint of battery cell production is another critical aspect to consider. Northvolt has set an ambitious target to decrease the carbon footprint of its cell fabrication from 33 kg to 10 kg CO2eq./kWh by 2023. Additionally, in the product stage (A1-A3) when constructing the factory, a cell’s energy storage capacity only accounts for significantly less than 1 kg CO2eq./kWh. This means that Northvolt is heading in the right direction to achieve its goal. In conclusion, this paper highlights the urgent need for action in the building sector to reduce carbon emissions and promote greater sustainability. With greener initiatives, the steel industry can achieve significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, which can contribute to achieving global carbon emission targets. It is critical to continue researching and implementing sustainable practices in the building sector as it plays a crucial role in reducing overall carbon emissions.

This report presents a project focused on designing and developing interior items for a trade fair booth, where the items are constructed using paper struts. These interior items are intended to showcase and promote the paper struts as a product and the company's brand. The project was commissioned by Wood Tube, the company that owns the rights to, manufactures, and sells the paper struts that were central to the project. Compared to metal struts commonly used for similar purposes, the paper struts are a sustainable material. They are made from recycled paper pulp and glue, making them biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Since paper struts are currently primarily used for non-load-bearing interior walls,the project aimed to explore new applications for the material.The project's goal was to develop one or more concepts for interior items made from Wood Tube's paper struts that could be utilized for marketing purposes. Multiple concepts were explored using product development methods, ultimately leading to a final combination of two concepts. The project's outcome consists of two concepts which is a standing table and a business card holder constructed from paper struts. The results also include comprehensive drawings and manufacturing instructions for the furniture to enable replication and further development. Additionally, a full-scale prototype of one of the concepts was created to demonstrate the potential of paper struts.

Cybersäkerhet är ett konstant växande hot mot organisationer, genom det ständigt ökade digitaliserade samhället, dock finns tecken på att medvetenheten hos organisationer ökar vad gäller cyberattacker och cybersäkerhet. Cyberattacker kan skapa konsekvenser som kan förhindra organisationens verksamhet. Detta lägger grunden till arbetet, att se hur försvarsförmågan har utvecklats. I värsta fall medför en cyberattack konsekvenser som kan äventyra en organisations överlevnadsförmåga. I och med det nya hotet ransomware, där hotaktören krypterar offrets filer och sedan kräver en lösensumma, har konsekvenserna kraftigt kommit att bli mer fatala. Metoderna för ransomware utvecklas av hotaktörerna vilket kan bidra till mer än bara ekonomiska konsekvenser för organisationen. Mot ransomware gäller i stort samma skyddsåtgärder som mot alla former av cyberattacker, däremot finns en del särskilt viktiga aspekter som belyses i detta arbete, till exempel implementering av backups, adekvat dataskydd samt god Patch Management (d.v.s. protokoll för att åtgärda sårbarheter i programvara). I arbetet sammanställs en branschkonsensus för hur organisationer skall arbeta gentemot cyberattacker, specifikt ransomwareattacker. Detta har gjorts genom en litteratur- och kvalitativ intervjustudie, som sedan har analyserats och diskuterats. Intervjustudien har genomförts hos organisationer som bedöms lämpliga för detta då de dagligen arbetar med cybersäkerhet. En av rekommendationerna är att ha en bra backuprutin, där man skapar, distribuerar och testar dessa. Genom arbetet belyses även hur god patch management bör implementeras. Slutligen presenteras även en ny metod, Ransomware 3.0 där hotaktörer stjäl en organisations IT-miljö för att sedan radera denna lokalt hos organisationen och sedan säljer tillbaka denna, som används av hotaktörerna, som hittills varit okänd, där vidare forskning bör vidtas. Cybersecurity is a constantly growing threat against organisations due to the increasingly digitalisation of society, although there are signs that the consciousness at organisations has increased regarding cyberattacks and cybersecurity. Cyberattacks can create consequences that can restrain an organisations operations. This creates the foundation for this study, to see how the defence capabilities has developed. A cyberattack can, in the worst case scenario, threaten an organisations ability to survive. In regards to the new threat, ransomware, where the threat actor encrypts the victim’s files and demands a ransom, the consequences can be fatal. The new methods associated with ransomware, where the threat actor also exfiltrates the victim’s files, strongly impact the organisations ability to operate. This could lead to economic consequences, as well as damages towards stakeholder relations. Most protective measures applies towards ransomware, however there are some especially important aspects that are presented in this paper, such as implementation of backups, sufficient data protection as well as good Patch Management (protocol to patch vulnerabilities in software). In this paper, an industry consensus on how organisations should work against cyberattacks, especially ransomware, is compiled. This was performed through a litterature and a qualitative interview study. Both studies has been analysed and discussed.The interview study has been accomplished by interviewing appropriate organisations that work with cyber security daily. One of the recommendations is to have a good backup protocol, which implies creating, distributing and testing these backups. This paper also presents how a good patch management should be implemented. Finally, this paper presents a new method, Ransomware 3.0 where the threat actor steals an organisations IT environment, and then destroys the local copy at the organisation to then sell it back, that is used by the threat actors, that is still uncommon knowledge, where continued research have to be conducted.

In a context of rising environmental pressure and slow societal changes in response, the emergence of ecovillages comes as a small-scale solution to actively propose sustainable alternatives to the modern consumerist society. The human factor plays a key role in enabling such ecovillages to last. An adapted governance and decision-making system is thus needed to ensure a positive future for such places. This paper investigates the governance models for ecovillages through an ethnographic study of three French ecovillages using different governance systems. Building on data collected via immersion in those ecovillages, the paper analyses the advantages and drawbacks of the different governance systems. Their practical implementation is given much importance as a first finding is that the human factor as well as the informal governance play key roles in supporting these ecovillages’ governance systems. The comparison between the three studied ecovillages also shows that they all base their decision-making process on consent and implement a formal tension management system. The thesis argues that those elements are key features of a successful governance for an ecovillage. Consent is praised as it enables collective intelligence but avoids the flaws of a systematic search for universal consensus. Consent can be included in an integrative governance approach which uses different decision-making processes for different types of decision and allows to recognize and structure informal decision-making. As findings illustrate the prominent role of the human factor in ecovillages’ governance, the thesis argues that an adapted tension management system is needed to avoid conflicts and that the governance system should be adaptable to evolve with its members and allow a strong shared culture to emerge. The paper also examines what elements of ecovillages’ governance can be applied in other contexts, such as companies or politics. The horizontal governance systems used, the decision-making process enabling collective intelligence and the general focus on well-being and human relations can all be sources of inspiration in various contexts. The thesis invites for further research on ecovillages and their governance as they provide rich and diverse propositions which could nourish a fresh momentum towards a more sustainable society. Den här artikeln använder en etnografisk metod för att studera styrningssystemen i tre franska ekobyar. Deras praktiska genomförande ges stor betydelse, eftersom en första slutsats är att den mänskliga faktorn och den informella styrningen spelar en nyckelroll för att stödja dessa ekobyars styrsystem. Jämförelsen mellan de tre studerade ekobyarna visar också att de alla baserar sin beslutsprocess på "samtycke". De tillämpar också ett formellt system för förvaltning av spänningar. I avhandlingen hävdas att dessa element är viktiga inslag i ett framgångsrikt styre för ett ekobyn. Styrningssystemet bör också vara anpassningsbart, och det kan vara fördelaktigt att använda en integrativ styrning. I uppsatsen undersöks också vilka delar av ekobyars styrning som kan tillämpas i andra sammanhang, t.ex. företag eller politik. De horisontella styrsystem som används, beslutsprocessen som möjliggör kollektiv intelligens och det allmänna fokuset på välbefinnande och mänskliga relationer kan alla vara inspirationskällor i olika sammanhang. Avhandlingen inbjuder till ytterligare forskning om ekobyar och deras styrning, eftersom de ger rika och varierande förslag som kan ge näring åt en ny dynamik mot ett mer hållbart samhälle.

Den här uppsatsen syftar till att ta fram vilka utmaningar det finns för svenska tillverkande Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) att implementera ett Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP-system). Den här studien undersöker parametrar som avgör en lyckad eller misslyckad implementering av ett ERP-system hos SMEs och hinder som är viktiga att beakta för att inte misslyckas med parametrarna. Tidigare studier har använts för att ta fram viktiga parametrar och hinder som har testats genom intervjuer med olika företag. Undersökningen i uppsatsen har begränsningar som att det bara har intervjuats fyra företag, inom fyra branscher och enbart personer med ledarpositioner. Det togs fram tre parametrar vilka är att hålla implementeringen inom budget, implementationstid och välfungerande ERP-system. Det togs även fram sex hinder vilka är brist på engagemang och ledarskap från ledning, otillräcklig utbildning, brist på kommunikation, otillräckliga resurser, felaktiga förväntningar på ERP-system och för lite engagemang från medarbetare. This paper aims to bring out which challenges exist for Swedish manufacturing Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to implement an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP- system). This study investigates parameters which lead to a successful or unsuccessful implementation of an ERP- system at SMEs and obstacles that are important to consider in order to not be unsuccessful with the parameters. Previous studies have been used to identify important parameters and obstacles which have been tested through interviews with different companies. The investigation in this paper has limitations as only four companies have been interviewed, in four different industries and only people with leadership positions. Three parameters where identified, these are to keep the implementation within budget, implementation time and well functioning ERP-system. Six obstacles were also identified, these are lack of commitment and leadership from management, insufficient training, lack of communication, insufficient resources, inaccurate expectations on ERP-system and too little commitment from coworkers.

This paper examines how the advance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies may affect the role of project managers. It draws on a narrative literature review and semi-structured interviews conducted with seventeen project managers from various industries in Sweden. The theoretical framework of the study is based on Wachnik's stages of AI development and categorization of core competencies for project success of Alvarenga et al. The results of this paper suggest that even though the current uptake of AI technologies is still low in project management practices, project managers can already start preparing for the potential paradigm shift by focusing on developing competencies such as communication, leadership, and understanding the technological context. Moreover, the authors developed the Holistic Competencies Triangle model to navigate project managers through the competencies needed for successful and effective project management when AI is more widely adopted. Denna studie undersöker hur utvecklingen av artificiella intelligensteknologier (AI) kan påverka projektledarens roll. Studien är byggd på en narrativ litteraturöversikt och semistrukturerade intervjuer som genomfördes med sjutton projektledare från olika branscher i Sverige. Studiens teoretiska ramverk baseras på Wachniks steg för AI-utveckling och kategoriserade kärnkompetenser för projektframgång av Alvarenga et al. Resultatet tyder på att även om den nuvarande användningen av AI-tekniker fortfarande är låg inom projektledningspraxis, kan projektledare redan börja förbereda sig för det potentiella paradigmskiftet genom att fokusera på att utveckla kompetenser som kommunikation, ledarskap och förstå den teknologiska kontexten. Dessutom har författarna utvecklat en holistisk kompetens-triangelmodell för att navigera projektledare genom kompetenserna som krävs för en lyckad och effektivt projektledning när AI blir mer utbrett.

In the growing digitalization of the grocery industry, it is necessary for traditional grocery retailers to adapt their business models to the new digital era. Augmented reality (AR) and other digital tools have proven to have the ability to transform the grocery business, and it is crucial for traditional grocers to act in order to remain competitive. AR technology has been used in a number of different retail industries, such as the clothing industry and the furniture industry. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how the implementation of AR can affectthe business model of a traditional grocery retailer. A case study has been conducted with a food company in Sweden, at the request of our commissioner working in the field of digitalization of different industries. Furthermore, the Triple Layered Business Model Canvas, has been used as a tool to identify the current business model, and to give suggestions on how the future business model can look like, after an implementation of AR. The results show a change on the canvas of the three different sustainability factors, but also an identification of the different challenges a grocery retailer can face. The results show an increased collaboration with external partners and the implementation of new activities for the case company. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the impact on distribution and suppliers, as well as the social consequences. Preparation for the technology is further presented in the study. The study contributes to increased knowledge of business model change in the grocery industry. Previous research on the impact of AR on the grocery industry has been confirmed, and this paper contributes new research investigating the impact of technological innovations on the business model of traditional grocery retailers. This study also adds knowledge on theuse of the Triple Layered Business Model Canvas as an analytical tool for sustainability and business model change. I den växande digitaliseringen av livsmedelsbranschen är det nödvändigt för traditionella livsmedelshandlare att anpassa sina affärsmodeller till den nya digitala eran. Förstärkt verklighet (AR) och andra digitala verktyg har visat sig ha förmågan att omvälva livsmedelshandeln, och det är avgörande för traditionella livsmedelshandlare att agera för att behålla sin konkurrenskraft. AR-tekniken har använts inom ett flertal olika industrier inom detaljhandeln, såsom klädindustrin och möbelindustrin. Den här uppsatsens syfte är att undersöka hur implementeringen av AR kan påverka en traditionell livsmedelshandlarnas affärsmodell. En fallstudie har gjorts på ett livsmedelsföretag i Sverige, på begäran av vår kommissarie som arbetar inom digitalisering av olika branscher. Vidare har Triple Layered Business Model Canvas använts som ett verktyg för att identifiera den nuvarande affärsmodellen, och för att ge förslag på hur den framtida affärsmodellen kan se ut, efter en implementering av förstärkt verklighet (AR). Resultaten visar en förändring av canvasen med tre olika hållbarhetsfaktorerna, men även en identifiering över de olika utmaningarna en livsmedelshandlare kan stå inför. Resultatet visar ett ökat samarbete med externa partners samt implementering av nya aktiviteter för fallföretaget. Dessutom belyses påverkan på distribution och leverantörer, samt de sociala konsekvenserna. Vidare i studien presenteras även olika relevanta och betydelsefulla förberedelser för en implementation av AR tekniken. Studien bidrar till ökad kunskap inom förändring av affärsmodeller inom livsmedelsindustrin. Tidigare forskning om förstärkt verklighets påverkan på livsmedelsbranschen har bekräftats, och denna uppsats bidrar med ny forskning som undersöker effekten av teknologiska innovationer på affärsmodellen för traditionella livsmedelshandlare. Denna studie tillför även kunskap om användningen av Triple Layered Business Model Canvas som analysverktyg för hållbarhet och förändring av affärsmodeller.

The growing popularity of cross-laminated timber (CLT) in the construction industryhas resulted in a demand for research focusing on the construction and design of CLTbalconies. This paper aims to address this need by presenting a CLT balcony design aswell as investigating its structural stability and moisture safety. The ultimate goal is toenhance knowledge and provide a solid foundation for the construction sector to furtherevaluate the feasibility of building CLT balconies.The purpose of this study is to investigate whether it is possible to design durable and safeCLT balconies in terms of structural stability and moisture safety. The structural stabilityis examined through calculations by EKS 10, the Eurocodes, and the CLT-handbook. Byemploying these calculations the study aimed to determine whether a CLT slab can safelysupport the anticipated loads subjected to a balcony.Moisture safety is examined through literature studies as well as interviews to gain knowledgeand insight into general practices, challenges as well as opportunities in the constructionsector. Consequently, the goal was to identify measures that enhance the long-termmoisture safety of CLT balconies.The research methodology is a combination of calculations, literature studies, and interviews.Based on this knowledge, a considered CLT balcony design is presented. Thedesign consists of a CLT slab placed in a steel frame of L-profiles, which is further supportedby tie rods. The CLT slab is further designed to be lifted from the L-profiles byusing battens, to ventilate the area between the L-profiles and the CLT. The design alsoaims to avoid connections and attachments to the CLT slab, to keep the sealing layertight and thus reduce the risk of moisture ingress.The results of this study show that from a structural stability perspective, the CLT slabcould safely support the anticipated loads subjected to a balcony. The results furtherindicate the possibility of dimensioning down the CLT slab, which however would increasethe sensitivity to vibrations and sagging, possibly generating an unsafe feeling for users.From a moisture safety perspective, the results show that several parameters influencethe final moisture durability. Amongst others, these are parameters such as avoidingattachments to the CLT slab, keeping the sealant layer tight, and designing detailedbalcony solutions.By combining calculations, interviews, and literature studies, this paper contributes anddevelops the knowledge base regarding CLT balconies. The construction industry couldbenefit from the outcomes of this research, which could contribute to the further developmentof guidelines and recommendations for designing moisture-safe CLT balconies.However, further studies are recommended regarding for example environmental impact,economic costs as well as a cold bridge analysis to evaluate the feasibility of constructingCLT balconies. Den ökande populariteten av Kl-trä i byggsektorn har skapat ett behov av forskninggällande design och konstruktion av KL-träbalkonger. Denna uppsats möter den efterfrågangenom att presentera en balkongdesign i KL-trä samt undersöka dess strukturellaegenskaper och fuktsäkerhet. Det övergripande målet är att öka kunskapen och erbjudaen grund för byggsektorn att ytterligare utvärdera genomförbarheten att bygga KLträbalkonger.Syftet med denna studie är att undersöka om det är möjligt att designa en, strukturellt ochfuktmässigt, hållbar och säker KL-träbalkong. Strukturella förmågan undersöks genomberäkningar i enlighet med EKS 10, Eurokoderna och KL-trähandboken. Genom tillämpningav beräkningarna, ska studien avgöra om en balkongplatta av KL-trä kan bära deförväntade laster som balkonger utsätts för.Fuktsäkerheten undersöks genom litteraturstudier samt intervjuer för att öka kunskapoch ge insikt om generalla tillvägagångssätt, utmaningar samt möjligheter som byggsektornmöter. Således var målet att identifiera faktorer och åtgärder som bidrar till KLträbalkongerslångsiktiga fuktsäkerhet.Studiens metod bestod av en kombination av beräkningar, litteraturstudier samt intervjuer.Baserat på den kunskap som erhållits har en noga övervägd design av balkong iKL-trä presenterats. Designen består av en KL-trä platta som placerats på en stålram avL-profiler, som även stödjs av dragstag. Vidare är KL-träplattan vidare höjd från L-ståletmed glespanel för att utrymmet mellan L-stål och KL-trä ska vara ventilerat. Designenundviker även förbindelser och anknytningar till KL-träplattan för att hålla tätskitet tättoch på så sätt minska risken för inträngande fukt.Studiens resultat visar att ur ett strukturellt perspektiv kan KL-träplattan säkert bärade förväntade laster som balkonger utsätts för. Resultaten indikerar även att det finnsen möjlighet att dimensionera ner KL-träplattan. Däremot hade känsligheten mot vibrationeroch nedböjning ökat, vilket möjligtvis skapar en känsla av otrygghet för användaren.Ur ett fuktsäkerhetsperspektiv, visar resultaten att totala fuktbeständighetenför en KL-träbalkong är beroende av flertal faktorer, exempelvis undvika förbindelseroch anknytningar till KL-träplattan för att undvika genomträngning av tätskikt och attdesigna balkonglösningar med hög detaljeringsgrad.Genom beräkningarna, intervjuerna och litteraturstudien, bidrar och utvecklar dennauppsats kunskapsbasen om KL-träbalkonger. Byggsektorn kan dra fördel av denna uppsats,som kan bidra till vidareutveckling av riktlinjer och rekommendationer för design avfuktbeständiga KL-träbalkonger. Däremot rekommenderas vidare studier angående köldbryggor,miljöpåverkan samt ekonomisk kostnad för att avgöra möjligheten och genomförbarhetenav att bygga KL-träbalkonger.

Små och medelstora företag med bristande ekonomiska förutsättningar brukar ha problem med att standardisera sitt arbete samt minska sina slöserier på grund av uppdaterade arbetsinstruktioner, en oorganiserad arbetsmiljö och produktionsprocessen. 5S är ett leanverktyg som kan implementeras i syfte att förbättra produktionsprocessen och arbetsmiljön samt reducera slöserier. Implementering av 5S leder även till ökad produktivitet och effektivitet i produktionen. Många SME företag har problem med att implementera 5S eftersom det är en metod som behöver anpassas specifikt till varje företags olika förutsättningar. Välutformade arbetsinstruktioner är ett bra sätt att standardisera sitt arbete men i nuläget är de flesta SME företag oenade om i vilken media arbetsinstruktionerna ska vara utformade i. I dagsläget är pappersinstruktioner den dominanta varianten bland SME företag. Med tanke på att digitalisering ökar inom företag bör man utforska möjligheterna med digitala arbetsinstruktioner. Syftet med arbetet är att utföra en undersökning på hur arbetsinstruktioner ska vara utformade samt en implementering av lean verktyget 5S för ett effektivt och standardiserat arbetssätt. Med utformningen av arbetsinstruktionerna menas specifikt i vilken media arbetsinstruktionerna ska utformas i för att uppfylla målet. För att uppnå syftet utformades samt tillämpades pappers- och digitala arbetsinstruktioner i företaget Conflux AB. En litteraturstudie utfördes i syfte att få en djupare förståelse inom implementationer av 5S. Sedan implementerades 5S tillsammans med produktionschefen och operatörerna i företaget för att försöka minska slöserier samt öka effektiviteten. Resultatet av detta arbete visade att implementationen av 5S och välutformade arbetsinstruktioner ledde till en förbättrad arbetsmiljö, ökad effektivitet och produktivitet samt minskade slöserier enligt intervjuerna med operatörerna som tog plats hos Conflux AB. Vidare förklarade operatörerna att arbetsinstruktionen i papper föredrogs över den digitala arbetsinstruktionen. Detta på grund av att pappersinstruktionen var lättillgänglig och tydlig med tanke på den detaljerade nivån. Dessutom saknade företaget utrustning för att kunna utnyttja den digitala arbetsinstruktionen till dess fulla potential. Förbättringsförslagen som togs fram var bland annat att testa olika kombinationer av placering av maskiner i produktionen. Ett annat förbättringsförslag som togs fram var inköp av utrustning för användning av den digitala arbetsinstruktionen. Small and medium companies with insufficient financial conditions often struggle with standardizing their work and reducing waste due to outdated work instructions, disorganized work environment, and production flow. 5S is a lean tool that can be implemented to organize the production flow and work environment, as well as reduce waste. Implementing 5S also leads to increased productivity and efficiency in production. Many SME companies face challenges in implementing 5S because it is a method that needs to be tailored specifically to each company's different conditions. Well-designed work instructions are a good way to standardize work, but currently, most SME companies are unsure about the medium in which work instructions should be designed. Currently, paper instructions are the dominant variant among SME companies. Considering the increasing digitization within companies, it is worth exploring the possibilities of digital work instructions. The purpose of this work is to conduct a study on how work instructions should be designed and to implement the lean tool 5S for an efficient and standardized work approach. The design of work instructions specifically refers to the medium in which work instructions should be designed to achieve the goal. To achieve the purpose, both paper and digital work instructions were designed and applied in the company Conflux AB. A literature study was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of 5S implementations. Subsequently, 5S was implemented together with the production manager and operators in the company in an effort to reduce waste and increase efficiency. The results of this work showed that the implementation of 5S and well-designed work instructions led to an improved work environment, increased efficiency and productivity, as well as reduced waste, according to the interviews with the operators at Conflux AB. Furthermore, the operators explained that they preferred the paper instructions over the digital work instructions. This was because the paper instructions were easily accessible and clear, especially in terms of detail. Additionally, the company lacked the necessary equipment to fully utilize the digital work instructions. Improvement suggestions that were developed included testing different combinations of machine placements in the production flow. Another improvement suggestion was the procurement of equipment to enable the use of the digital work instructions to their full potential.

The report Genomlysning branschstandard för fuktsäker byggprocess (translated as “Reviewof the industry standard for moisture-proof construction process”) is produced by a group ofpeople who represent different actors within the construction sector. These actors are wellacquainted with the industry standard ByggaF (an abbreviation of “building moisture-proof”),which is a method for moisture safe design. The report states that the moisture safety design isthe part in the industry standard ByggaF that works the worst.The report mentions that there are many indications that the moisture safety design will beelevated from general advice to regulation (requirement) in the upcoming BBR (Boverket’sbuilding regulations). The purpose and goal of this paper is to examine how this elevationwould affect the actors, i.e. the designers, and their work.The paper comprises two parts. The first is a literature study that aims to give the reader ageneral theoretical understanding of current regulations, the moisture problem and theconstruction process and more specifically describe moisture safety design, the industrystandard ByggaF, the system documentation phase (systemhandlingsskedet) and the newbuilding regulations. The second part is a survey consisting of a questionnaire of 20 questionssent to architects and constructors. The questionnaire consists of four parts: Professionalbackground, Moisture knowledge, Moisture safety design and Viewpoints. The first three partsaim to obtain general information about the professional background of the participatingactors, what moisture knowledge they consider themselves to possess and how they work withmoisture safety design. In the last part, the actors give their views on the change from generaladvice to regulation.The result of the last part of the questionnaire, viewpoints, was mainly used in combinationwith the literature study to answer the questions asked in this paper. To summarise, themajority of the actors are positive about the elevation. It will force affected parties and actorsto take the moisture problem seriously. Actors will be able to justify their moisture-proofdesigns more easily as a result. This will lead to increased competence among the actors, butalso demands of greater knowledge from them. As a regulation, the moisture safety design willclarify and simplify the daily work as there is no room for misinterpretation and neglect. As aresult, moisture safety design will become more efficient.

Recycling is becoming more crucial due to the fast pace of consumerism. This thesis explores how well a robot arm, with three degrees of freedom, can be implemented to give an autonomous recycling process. After the prototyping phase it was found that a cylindrical robot arm was best suited for the project. Computer vision in addition with machine learning is used for sorting and detecting objects. The end effector is a suction cup, connected to a plastic 60-milliliter syringe. Negative pressure is created by pulling and pushing a lead screw connected to a stepper motor. The accuracy of the ML-model, the robot’s movement andmax weight are evaluated. The ML-model is trained to detect four classes; plastic, metal, paper, and glass. The thesis found that the ML-model could classify plastic the most sufficient and paper the least. The robot arm’s movement had an average error of 0.54 cm and the maximum weight was 900 grams. For future development it would be interesting to compare a range of different suction cups, to see how the material, diameter, and depth would affect its ability to pick up various objects. Additionally, the model could be enhanced by training it on a larger dataset.

The Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) and its improved formulations, the Fast Fourier Transforms (FFTs), are vital for scientists and engineers in a range of domains from signal processing to the solution of partial differential equations. A growing trend in Scientific Computing is heterogeneous computing, where accelerators are used instead or together with CPUs. This has led to problems for developers in unifying portability, performance, and productivity. This thesis first motivates this work by showing the importance of having efficient DFT calculations, describes the DFT algorithm and a formulation based on matrix-factorizations which has been developed to formulate FFT algorithms and express their parallelism to exploit modern computer architectures, such as accelerators. The first paper is a motivating study of the breakdown of the performance and scalability of the high-performance Molecular Dynamics code GROMACS where DFT calculations are a main performance bottleneck. In particular, the long-range interactions are solved with the Particle-Mesh Ewald algorithm which uses a three-dimensional Fast Fourier Transform. The two following papers present two approaches to leverage factorization with the help of two different frameworks using Intermediate Representation and compiler technology, for the development of fast and portable code. The second paper presents a front-end and a pipeline for code generation in a domain-specific language based on Multi-Level Intermediate Representation (MLIR) for developing Fast Fourier Transform libraries. The last paper investigates and optimizes an implementation of an important kernel within the matrix-factorization framework: the batched DFT. It is implemented with data-centric programming and a data-centric intermediate representation called Stateful Dataflow multi-graphs (SDFG). The paper evaluates strategies for complex-valued data layout for performance and portability and we show that there is a trade-off between portability and maintainability in using the native complex data type and that an SDFG-level abstraction could be beneficial for developing higher-level applications. Den diskreta Fouriertransformen och dess snabba implementeringar är viktiga för vetenskap och ingenjörskonst. Den har tillämningar i ämnen som singnal behnadling, lösning av partiella diffrentialekvationer och många andra ämnen inom vetenskapliga beräkningar. En växande trend inom ämnet är heterogena datorer där acceleratorer som är specialicerade till vissa beräkningar kan användas som stöd för traditionella processorer. Detta leder till problem med portabilitet, prestanda och produktivitet. Avhandligen inleds med att beskriva diskret Fouriertransform och ett ramverk för faktorisering till glesa strukturerade matriser som tillsammans representerar snabb Fouriertransform (FFT, Eng.) och som kan användas för att uttrycka parallelism i algorithmerna. För att motivera arbete med FFT i vetenskapliga beräkningar så utväreras den parallela prestandan av GROMACS: en kod för simulering av Molekyldynmik. GROMACS använder en tredimensionell diskret Fouriertransform för att finna den elektrostatiska potentialen med hjälp av Particle-Mesh Ewald-tekniken. De följande två artiklarna presenterar två olika ramverk för att utnyttja mellankod (IR Eng.) och kompilatorteknik, för utvecklandet av snabb och portabel kod. Den andra artikeln beskriver arbetet att utveckla ett domänspecifikt språk baserat på Multi-Level Intermediate Representation för design av snabba Fouriertransformer baserat på matrisfaktorisering. Den sista artikeln undersöker och optimerar en viktig komponent för matrisfaktorisering av diskreta Fouriertransformen: att beräkna flera små diskreta Fouriertransformer parallelt. Detta är gjort med DaCe som är ramverk för data-centrisk programmering som använder en mellankod kallad SDFG. I artikeln utvärderas strategier för data format av komplexa tal för prestanda och portabilitet, och visar att en abstraktion med hjälp av SDFG kan motiveras. QC 20230522

Although it is evident that the RC infill wall is an economic and practical way to improve the lateral strength of framed structures and a retrofitting method for existing buildings to withstand earthquake loads, there are still a lot of limitations regarding their application. Codes do not provide any guidance for their design and detailing or specific regulations for their interaction with the bounding frame. Furthermore, specific directions do not exist for the modelling or evaluation of frame bays converted into RC walls, depending on the type and details of the connection. A representation of the real behaviour of the wall and its interaction with the bounding frame during an earthquake is necessary to provide more accurate guiding information. For this aim, numerical models of this structural system were developed and are presented in this paper. The experimental results of the project SERFIN, which was a full-scale four-storey model tested with the pseudo-dynamic method at the ELSA facility of the Joint Research Centre in Ispra, were used to calibrate the numerical models. Two-dimensional (2D) frames were modelled in DIANA FEA, and nonlinear transient analyses were performed to simulate the experimental results obtained from the SERFIN full-scale experiment. In this paper, the FE model simulation of the test specimen is presented along with a comparison between the experimental results and the numerical ones. It was concluded that the developed numerical models capture effectively the behaviour of the studied structural system and can be used for parametric studies to examine the effects of the number of dowels on the behaviour of the system and propose design guidelines based on the results of the parametric study.

Membrane systems have become one of the major technologies in water and wastewater treatment processes. In recent decades, membrane processes have made rapid progress owing to their advantageous properties over conventional systems. However, biofouling restricts their widespread application through irreversible deterioration of their structure, performance, and longevity. Any effort against biofouling either in the membrane synthesis step or in the process necessitates a well understanding of the underlying mechanisms causing this issue through employing various monitoring and diagnosis techniques. This paper mainly reviews the progress in the research and development of biofouling reduction in membrane processes. It first addresses the underlying biofouling mechanisms. Then, a critical overview of the state-of-the-art approaches in the membrane biofouling diagnosis and monitoring was provided to discuss the advantages and the limitations of the current techniques in the lab and large-scale applications. The last section of the review focuses on the future aspects. This paper could be served as a guide for the new entrants to the field of biofouling, as well as to the established researchers and academicians.

Image transmission over Low-Power Wide Area Networks (LP-WAN) protocols has always been a difficult task since it necessitates high data rates and high energy consumption. Long Range (LoRa) is one such protocol, which is excellent for transferring data over long distances but has generated severe doubts regarding the viability of image transmission due to its low data rate. This paper demonstrates the application results of an integrated LoRa and Deep Learning-based computer vision system that can efficiently identify grape leaf diseases using low-resolution images. In particular, the focus in this paper is to combine the two technologies, LoRa and Deep Learning, to make the transmission of the images and the identification of the diseases possible. To achieve this objective, the framework utilizes a combination of on-site and simulation experiments along with different LoRa parameters and Convolutional Neural Model (CNN) model fine-tuning. Based on the evaluation, the proposed framework proved that the transmission of images using LoRa is possible within the protocol limitations (such as limited bandwidth and low duty cycle). Our fine-tuned model can efficiently identify grape leaves diseases. The technique is both efficient and adaptive to the specifics of each leaf disease, while it does not need any training data to adjust parameters. It is worth noting that today, end-user trust in Machine and Deep Learning models has increased significantly because of novel solutions in the field of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI). In this study, we use the Grad-CAM method to visualize the output layer judgments of the CNN. The disease’s spot region is highly activated, according to the visualization findings. This is how the network distinguishes between different grape leaf diseases.

Nowadays, Industry 4.0 (I4.0) has become a trendy topic in manufacturing industries worldwide. The definition is far from being comprehensible for small players, and the practical uptake is ambiguous. Transnational companies are often at the top in deploying I4.0 features, learning primarily from their experimentation. Alternatively, small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), given their less stable value chains and unsteady processes, tend to target most of their efforts on controlling disturbances and adopting solutions for deviation control. Such solutions can be features that set the path for SMEs to transition to I4.0. This paper aims to examine the reported degree of digitalization in implemented solutions in SMEs when handling deviations and analyze the integration of such solutions in their digital transformation process. Systematic literature review (SLR) is used to examine literature published up to and including January 2019. The results show a higher concentration on practical applications rather than on frameworks. Existing frameworks that focus on SMEs address particular elements of I4.0 rather than a gradual shift with a holistic view, increasing the deployment difficulty for SMEs. This paper identifies potential constraints in deployment if such a trend maintains for consecutive years.

© 2022 IEEE.Deep transfer learning is one of the common techniques used to classify different types of cancer. The goal of this research is to focus on and adopt a fast, accurate, suitable, and reliable for classification of colorectal cancer. Digital histology images are adjustable to the application of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for analysis and classification, due to the sheer size of pixel data present in them. Which can provide a lot of information about colorectal cancer. We used ten different types of pr-trained models with two type method of classification techniques namely (normal classification and k-fold crosse validation) to classify the tumor tissue, we used two different kinds of datasets were these datasets consisting of three classes (normal, low tumors, and high tumors). Among all these eight models of deep transfer learning, the highest accuracy achieved was 96.6% with Darknet53 for 5-Fold and for normal classification the highest results obtained was 98.7% for ResNet50. Moreover, we compared our result with many other papers in stat-of-the-art, the results obtained show clearly the proposed method was outperformed the other papers.

Steadily increasing demand requires neonatal units and networks to improve their overall capacities. Given the operational complexities involved, simulation is a popular choice for modelling patient flow and analysing its impact on resource capacities. Clinical pathways, designed to reduce variation of care and improve the quality of care for a specific group of patients, broadly define patient flow patterns. The literature points to many simulation studies where the interactions between clinical pathways and resource planning have been addressed. For efficient model building, these simulation studies have, however. assumed a unidirectional flow of patients, i.e., progressively moving to lower levels of care. Patient flows are, however, much more complex. In some instances, patients may require a higher level of care than the current level of care. In such cases, bi-directional flows are created. This paper explores the impact of bidirectional flows on capacity planning. Using a real-world neonatal unit as an example, two scenarios of patient flow, i.e., unidirectional and bidirectional, are modelled and extensively analysed. This study revealed that the bidirectional flow model, which is the more realistic model, produces significantly different capacity planning estimates. For example, the number of admission requests rejected by the unit increased by 5-7 times, i.e., the uni-directional model significantly underestimates the overall capacity. The bidirectional model also revealed that there is a need to double the number of beds required for high-level care, and bed utilisation, in general, is higher than the estimates produced by the unidirectional model. Given that there is a need to generate accurate capacity estimates to ensure better services for patients and minimise regular changes due to poor capacity estimates, this paper argues that bidirectional modelling should be used to produce more accurate capacity estimates.

Layout optimization of wave energy offshore parks is a challenging task, as it encompasses various design objectives and constraints attributed to the complex hydrodynamic interactions. The wave energy converter (WEC) park performance is affected by local environment and device characteristics. To solve this challenge, advanced numerical algorithms, including artificial intelligence, have been applied to a wide range of case studies. Nevertheless, this process remains incomplete, which keeps it as a pertinent research topic in the field of WEC development. The present paper provides an overview of the current state and research trends of offshore WEC park layout optimization. To analyze the state-of-the-art, the paper targets the last decades' research on this topic, summarizing the studies, addressing the optimization objective and the employed methods and separating them according to the corresponding technique. The review showed that the results strongly depend on the methodologies applied. Furthermore, a preferential use of computational intelligence techniques has been observed in recent years. (c) 2022 Elsevier Ltd

This paper collects the challenges and opportunities that emerge from the millions of controllable devices – and the micro-flexibility they offer – that are deployed across the transmission and distribution systems. Moving to power systems that are dominated by converter-interfaced resources poses both threats and opportunities. On the one hand, new dynamic phenomena and types of instability arise and there is need for advanced simulation tools. On the other hand, these devices allow for a massive decentralized and direct response to disturbances. The emerging power system paradigm aims to tap the flexibility potential of the millions of controllable devices to ensure the safe operation of power systems. To achieve that, however, we first need to address a range of modeling and control challenges. This paper attempts to identify and describe these challenges.

The study utilizes a unique dataset of 16,575 research papers published in 68 national Business and Economics journals to investigate editorial bias towards insiders in Turkish academia. The study questions insiders\" motive for their choice of journal and predicts faster acceptance for papers that contain insider authors relative to the outsider papers in anticipation of favorable editorial treatment. The findings show that insiders not only publish in large numbers in their affiliated institutions\" journals but also do so at significantly faster speeds. Specifically, 4938 (29.79% of) papers have at least one insider author, and they are accepted 41.5 days faster than the average outsider submission. Papers in English, junior professors, and new-generation university journals are less likely to have insider authors; while papers in Turkish, senior professors, old-generation university journals, and papers originating from graduate theses are more likely. Remarkably, national journals indexed in ESCI do not engage in editorial favoritism towards insiders and require considerably longer time to accept submissions. As Turkish universities are leading publishers of academic journals, the findings have important implications for the Turkish academia. We note a declining trend of insider authorship and provide suggestions to mitigate insider bias.

Background Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) primarily affect the poorest populations, often living in remote, rural areas, urban slums or conflict zones. Arboviruses are a significant NTD category spread by mosquitoes. Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika are three arboviruses that affect a large proportion of the population in Latin and South America. The clinical diagnosis of these arboviral diseases is a difficult task due to the concurrent circulation of several arboviruses which present similar symptoms, inaccurate serologic tests resulting from cross-reaction and co-infection with other arboviruses. Objective The goal of this paper is to present evidence on the state of the art of studies investigating the automatic classification of arboviral diseases to support clinical diagnosis based on Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) models. Method We carried out a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) in which Google Scholar was searched to identify key papers on the topic. From an initial 963 records (956 from string-based search and seven from a single backward snowballing procedure), only 15 relevant papers were identified. Results Results show that current research is focused on the binary classification of Dengue, primarily using tree-based ML algorithms. Only one paper was identified using DL. Five papers presented solutions for multi-class problems, covering Dengue (and its variants) and Chikungunya. No papers were identified that investigated models to differentiate between Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika. Conclusions The use of an efficient clinical decision support system for arboviral diseases can improve the quality of the entire clinical process, thus increasing the accuracy of the diagnosis and the associated treatment. It should help physicians in their decision-making process and, consequently, improve the use of resources and the patient’s quality of life., Author summary Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) primarily affect the poorest populations, often living in remote, rural areas, urban slums or conflict zones. Arboviruses are a significant NTD category spread by mosquitoes. Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika are three arboviruses that affect a large proportion of the population in Latin and South America. The clinical diagnosis of these arboviral diseases is a difficult task due to the concurrent circulation of several arboviruses which present similar symptoms and, sometimes, inaccurate test results. In this paper, we present the state of the art of studies investigating the automatic classification of arboviral diseases based on Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) models. Results show that current research is focused on the classification of Dengue, primarily using tree-based ML algorithms. The use of an efficient clinical decision support system for arboviral diseases can improve the quality of the entire clinical process, thus increasing the accuracy of the diagnosis and the associated treatment. It should help physicians in their decision-making process and, consequently, improve the use of resources and the patient’s quality of life.

During the pandemic the elderly were a vulnerable group with higher risk of gettingseriously sick when exposed to the corona virus. To limit their physical interaction with people, and limit the risk of infection, digital health care could be a good complement to the physical health care. This paper aims to create a better understanding for how the elderly people are using digital health care and how we can change the technology behind the services to make it easier for them to understand and use it. By using semi-structured interviews with five participants in the age between 62-82 it was discovered that the technology was not a barrier for them. The reason they did not choose digitalhealth care in most cases when seeking treatment was because they preferred the face-to-face interaction with professionals. The participants did not have any obstacles regarding the technology to seek digital health care. This paper sheds light on the importance of these types of studies since it was hard to get participants since not many have ever tried seeking digital health care. Further studies are needed to better understand the elderly people´s use of digital health care and how the technology can be improved.

The brand is something every company must deal with whether they like it or not, and as a company grows it develops and works as a way to build recognition, trust, customer loyalty and employee branding (Jones, 2022). In the fast-paced startup environment, the resources are limited, and focus has to be split between different tasks and the most urgent problems are the ones to be dealt with - leaving the rest to be, where the unmeasurable and intangible focus areas such as branding often get deprioritized. The purpose of this study is to investigate the brand development process amongst startups, and to investigate how this aligns with the developed brand building framework for startups. The methods used are of qualitative nature, including 3 exploratory interviews, a literature review, framework development, 8 semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis of the collected data. The thesis resulted in insights on the brand understanding in startups, as well as findings concerning thresholds for startups to invest in their brand work. A varying level of understanding of brand between the startups could be seen, both in regards of what brand includes, but also which building blocks are necessary and how the brand can elevate the business. This paper is expected to contribute both toward a deeper theoretical understanding of branding frameworks for startups as well as working as a practical guide. In practice, this paper will guide startups in how to properly build their brand and keep a balanced approach to brand and how to properly build the brand and brand foundation.