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Tracing the origin of Roman mosaic tiles in Aquileia: Petrographic analysis of specimens from the suburbium
Get PDFThis research represents the most extensive characterisation of Roman mosaic tesserae (tiles) from Aquileia, Italy, to date, examining 153 specimens. The study aimed to identify the lithotypes used in mosaics production through a multi-analytical approach, which
included colorimetric analysis, polarised light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The results showcase a variety of materials, particularly limestone sourced from the Italian and the Slovenian Karst regions, as well as colourful lithic materials from distant
locations. These findings expand current knowledge beyond the limited scientific literature on Aquileian mosaics and can inform further studies on sourcing strategies, local socio-economic connections and craftsmanship of the Roman era
Functionalization of LCD glass for the manufacturing of advanced 3D-printed translucent photocatalytic scaffolds
Get PDFIn this paper, we discuss the functionalization of translucent glass scaffolds obtained from LCD glass waste with a photocatalytic coating. Scaffolds were in the form of four-layer lattices and gyroids, depending on the printing technology, such as direct ink writing and masked stereolithography. The printed structures were dip-coated with a sol-gel TiO2 precursor solution followed by thermal annealing to induce crystallization. Preliminary tests were performed on LCD slides to optimize the process parameters such as withdrawal speed and annealing temperature. The physicochemical properties of the coatings were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis, UV–VIS spectroscopy, ellipsometry, and SEM. The photocatalytic efficiency was evaluated by monitoring the degradation of methylene blue under UV light. Photodegradation kinetics were studied following a pseudo-first-order reaction. We found that the coated scaffolds show comparable photodegradation rate constant, despite the different topologies
Analysis of Low Voltage Ride Through Capability in Multiport Converters for Soft Open Point Applications
No full textThe growing power demand, combined with intermittent renewables, presents significant challenges for distribution networks. This paper focuses on multiport converters as key devices for enhancing flexibility and optimizing existing infrastructure. Multiport converters are designed to facilitate enhanced power flow control on meshed networks and extended operation in case of faults. As an example of multiport converters, traditional soft open points (SOPs) are explored in this study, configured in a back-to-back (B2B) circuit. SOPs are investigated for their vulnerabilities, particularly in fault scenarios disrupting the converter responsible for regulating the dc link voltage, so fault ride through (FRT) approach is required to handle this situation. Furthermore, low voltage ride through (LVRT) requirements mandate the converter to remain connected during voltage sags, to prevent undesired tripping and provide reactive power support to the grid. To address these challenges, a unified control logic is proposed, devised to handle both LVRT requirements and FRT conditions. This approach ensures system connection during voltage sags and provides reactive power support to the grid. Simulation results presented in this paper validate the effectiveness of the proposed unified control logic, discussing its significance in enhancing the reliability of distribution networks and meeting the LVRT requirements
Investigating the efficiency of hybrid architectures for agricultural tractors using real-world farming data
No full textIn 2020, the European Commission (EC) approved the European Green Deal, which is an ambitious package of measures that aim to transform Europe into a climate-neutral area. Agricultural machinery in Europe produces around 70 million tons of CO2 emissions each year. Industry and researchers are currently investigating hybrid powertrains to significantly reduce CO2 emissions. This paper aims to investigate two hybrid powertrain architectures and report the benefits to farmers of such solutions using real-world data. Real-world data were collected using a Controller Area Network (CAN-BUS) data logger on a row-crop tractor with an engine power of 158 kW. Engine and transmission operating parameters were recorded for more than two years of field use. Data were first classified into tasks and then a series of inefficiency indices were defined. The operational inefficiency of each task type was then identified. Two hybrid powertrain architectures were evaluated using load point shifting principles. These were electric power take-off (ePTO) and plug-in P4 architecture. The hybrid architecture with the greatest benefits was the plug-in P4 powertrain, which achieved cost and CO2 savings of 7.2 % and 9.5 %, respectively. In the future, as the proportion of electricity from renewable sources increases, greater benefits could be achieved. On the other hand, the ePTO architecture permits to achieve a lower fuel saving, below than 2 %, but with a simpler technology
Nutritional guidance in spondyloarthritis: confronting the evidence gap
Get PDFPurpose of review: to summarize current evidence on the role of specific dietary patterns in spondyloarthritis (SpA) management. Recent findings: dietary interventions may offer a novel, complementary strategy to manage symptoms and enhance overall quality of life in many rheumatic diseases, including SpA. Evidence suggests that the Mediterranean diet may have beneficial effects on inflammation and SpA symptoms. Although there is growing interest in the ketogenic diet with some promising results, data is scarce. Some SpA patients may have sensitivities or intolerances to certain foods containing gluten, which can trigger or worsen their symptoms, especially when associated with intestinal inflammation. Hypocaloric diets and weight loss can provide significant benefit in overweight and obese patients with SpA, potentially reducing systemic inflammation. Finally, while the efficacy of probiotics remains a matter of debate, periods of fasting have proven effective in reducing disease activity indices. Summary: the importance of a healthy dietary lifestyle and its potential benefits in symptom management is acknowledged by the majority of the patients. There is an increased need and demand from patients to receive nutritional counseling that should be integrated into routine SpA management to enhance patient outcomes
Smart Solutions for Fire Emergencies: how Digital Tech is Revolutionizing Evacuations
No full textWith advancements in technology, various innovative products have entered the market, aimed at making the training process more interactive and engaging. The adoption of these new technologies has the potential to overcome many challenges, making the training not only more effective but also more inclusive. This study aims to assess the awareness and effectiveness of digital technologies in emergency evacuations. We explored the potential of advanced tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Virtual Reality (VR), drone photogrammetry, and laser scanner surveying to improve both evacuation procedures and the training related to emergencies. The analysis examined how these tools can be integrated into different phases of an emergency (before, during, and after) to ensure greater efficiency and safety during evacuation operations.
Starting from the creation and modeling of environments and evacuation routes through BIM, photogrammetry, or point clouds generated by laser scanning, it is possible to simulate emergency scenarios and prepare personnel for potential evacuations. This type of training would not only benefit staff in workplaces but also rescue operators, who could simulate and prepare for recovery operations in specific and challenging environments,
which are often difficult to replicate in real life. Furthermore, virtual reality headsets could be used in the post-emergency phase to analyze actual risk scenes, allowing for a detailed review of the incident and identifying critical points for improvement. This work is based on an analysis of digital technologies, providing recommendations on how to enhance evacuation procedures and personnel training. The goal is to promote a more inclusive and technologically advanced approach to emergency management, one that can be applied across different settings and contexts.
In conclusion, we believe that just as we learn to read, do math, and ride a bicycle from a young age, and retain those skills throughout life, we believe that education on evacuation should be given the same level of importance. Through training that incorporates digital technologies, it will be possible to transmit these skills from children to teenagers and adults, offering a simulated demonstration of how to apply theoretical concepts in practice. This will expand their understanding of emergency managemen
Retrieval of Dissolved Oxygen Concentrations in Fishponds in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area Using Satellite Imagery and Machine Learning
Get PDFDissolved oxygen (DO) is a fundamental water quality parameter that directly determines
aquaculture productivity. China contributes 57% of the global aquaculture production, with
the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) serving as a key contributor.
However, this region faces significant environmental challenges due to increasing intensive
stocking densities and outdated management practices, while also grappling with the
systematic monitoring limitations of large-scale operations. To address these challenges,
in this study, a random forest-based model was developed for DO concentration retrieval
(R2 = 0.82) using Landsat 8/9 OLI imagery. The Lindeman, Merenda, and Gold (LMG) algorithm
was applied to field data collected from four cities—Foshan, Hong Kong, Huizhou,
and Zhongshan—to identify key environmental drivers to the changes in DO concentration
in these cities. This study also employed satellite imagery from multiple periods to analyze
the spatiotemporal distribution and trends of DO concentrations over the past decade, aiming
to enhance understanding of DO variability. The results indicate that the average DO
concentration in fishponds across the GBA was 7.44 mg/L with a statistically insignificant
upward trend. Spatially, the DO levels remained slightly lower than those in other waters.
The primary environmental factor influencing DO variations was the pH levels, while
the relationship between natural factors such as the temperature and DO concentration
was significantly hidden by aquaculture management practices. The further analysis of
fishpond water quality parameters across land uses revealed that fishponds with lower DO
concentrations (7.293 mg/L) are often located in areas with intensive human intervention,
particularly in highly urbanized regions. The approach proposed in this study provides an
operational method for large-scale DO monitoring in aquaculture systems, enabling the
qualification of anthropogenic influences on water quality dynamics. It also offers scalable
solutions for the development of adaptive management strategies, thereby supporting the
sustainable management of aquaculture environments
Malicious Drone Identification by Vibration Signature Measurement: a Radar-Based Approach
No full textWhile commercial drones are nowadays effectively used across many application sectors, they can still pose several security risks and, if tampered, may serve as a tool for illegitimate activities. Therefore, it is important to design methods that facilitate the recognition of malicious drones. This paper shows a contactless vibration measurement method that fulfils this task. Indeed, it is demonstrated that the vibration fingerprint of a specific type of propeller can be extracted with a radar sensor. Building upon such a result, a measurement methodology for decoding the vibration signatures of drones is presented as well. In the second part of the work, by controlling variations of the Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal driving the drone motors, it is proved that the proposed radar technique can extract a simple PWM codification. Experimental results validate both the methods showing that, by setting up a fixed rotational speed of the propellers, the vibration of the drone chassis m..
Understanding, predicting, and treating depression in pregnancy to improve mothers' and offspring's mental health outcomes: The HappyMums study
Get PDFBackground: Perinatal depression is common: on average, more than 13% of women suffer from physician-diagnosed disorder and 20% report symptoms bearing clinical relevance. Maternal depression not only significantly impacts women's quality of life but also increases the offspring's risk of negative developmental outcomes, including mental disorders, through a combination of maternal alterations in in-utero biology and postnatal rearing factors during the early period of life. The HappyMums project aims to improve our understanding of perinatal depression by identifying the factors that robustly predict risk and resilience in mothers and their offspring, determining underlying neurobiological mechanisms, and, finally, testing the efficacy of potential interventions. Methods: HappyMums will use data from a large collection of cohorts and registries containing biological, clinical, socio-demographic, environmental, and lifestyle data. It will pool unique human samples of maternal blood, pl..
Studio delle proprietà nutrizionali e nutraceutiche dei microgreens ottenuti con coltivazione aeroponica
No full textIn recent years there has been an increasing interest in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In particular, good food habits are considered a cornerstone for improving health. In the wake of these new food trends, superfoods have become a keyword for commercial food producers. Microgreens, young forms of many staple crops allowed to grow 5 to 10 days, are one of such super foods. The goal of the present study is to evaluate the possibility of using microgreens as fortification ingredients or integrators. Additionally, microgreens will be grown using the innovative aeroponic approach. Aeroponics is part of the so-called soil-less growing techniques. Specifically, plants grown in aeroponic systems have free hanging roots that are regularly misted with nutritive solution. This method of growing plants is characterized by highly efficient use of water and nutrients, eliminates the need for pesticide treatments and is free of any contamination from soil. Furthermore, every aspect of the plant growth can be customized: light exposure and photoperiod, water transpiration control, pH and conductivity of the nutritive solution and its nutrient makeup. Combining the fast growing cycles of microgreens and the excellent customizability of aeroponic growing, it was possible to produce four different preliminary products with high nutritional value. One betalain extract from Amaranthus caudatus or Atriplex hortensis, which has the potential of affording good red dyeing properties in a wide pH range. One extract from Tuscan black cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. acephala f. palmifolia) rich in glucoraphanin, the precursor to sulforaphane, which has been linked to important anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activities. Two dried plant powders, one made with Avena sativa and one with Atriplex hortensis, rich in iron and potassium, respectively. These four products show great potential as ingredients in integrator formulations or for foritification of foods and showcase the great synergy between microgreens and aeroponic growing