Biology
Title | Fungal diversity in oil mill water, isolated from Morocco, using genes based fingerprinting |
Authors: | Adil Essahale, Carmen Martinez, Moustafa Malki |
Abstract: | Fungi form a diverse group with a large variety of life cycles like ecologies, morphologies and metabolisms. Through their capacities to eliminate pollution in various forms, human use it in treatment process. The objective of the current research is to study fungal diversity of olive mill wastewater (OMW) sampled from Fes region (Morocco), emplying cultural-dependent method monitored by internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, and uncultivable approach by sequencing 18S and analyzing with denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE). Results denote that within twenty two Fungi recovered by both approaches, a total of twelve fungi were isolated and cultured, they belong to two subphylums. The first is Saccharomycotina, including three families : Dipodascaceae (4 strains), Ogataea (1) and Saccharomycetaceae (1) and the second subphylum is Pezizomycotina, containing Penicillium (3 strains), Aspergillus (2) and Monascus (1). On the other hand, uncultivable fungi have revealed that from12 bands only seven sequences are correct. They belong to two subphylum (within the Ascomycota phylum): Saccharomycotina, which is consisted of five species and Pezizomycotina which involves only two species. It should be noted that 22H and D25, constitutes a well-separated branch in phylogenetic tree. Likewise, some sequences demonstrate weak similarities (less than 97% of similitude with the GenBank sequences); it is possible that they are new fungal. Hence, these endogenous fungi could have a biological role in the depollution of olive mill wastewater. |
Keywords: | Oil Mill Water; Fungal; Biodiversity; DGGE, Fez, Morocco. |
Title | In-Line Monitoring of Polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA)Production during High-Cell-Density Plant Oil Cultivations Using Photon Density Wave Spectroscopy |
Authors: | Björn Gutschmann, Thomas Schiewe, Manon T.H. Weiske, Peter Neubauer, Roland Hass and Sebastian L. Riedel |
Abstract: | Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biodegradable plastic-like materials with versatile properties. Plant oils are excellent carbon sources for a cost-effective PHA production, due to their high carbon content, large availability, and comparatively low prices. Additionally, effcient process development and control is required for competitive PHA production, which can be facilitated by on-line or in-line monitoring devices. To this end, we have evaluated photon density wave (PDW) spectroscopy as a new process analytical technology for Ralstonia eutropha (Cupriavidus necator) H16 plant oil cultivations producing polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) as an intracellular polymer. PDW spectroscopy was used for in-line recording of the reduced scattering coeffcient fs’ and the absorption coeffcient Fa at 638 nm. A correlation of fs’ with the cell dry weight (CDW) and Fa with the residual cell dry weight (RCDW) was observed during growth, PHB accumulation, and PHB degradation phases in batch and pulse feed cultivations. The correlation was used to predict CDW, RCDW, and PHB formation in a high-cell-density fed-batch cultivation with a productivity of 1.65 gPHB and a final biomass of 106 g containing 73 wt% PHB. The new method applied in this study allows in-line monitoring of CDW, RCDW, and PHA formation. |
Keywords: | polyhydroxyalkanoate; PHA; process analytical technologies; PAT; plant oil; high-cell-density fed-batch; photon density wave spectroscopy; PDW; Ralstonia eutropha; Cupriavidus necator; on-line; in-line |
Title | Assessment of the Inner Surface Microstructure of Decellularized Cortical Bone by a Scanning Electron Microscope |
Authors: | Heonuk Jeong, Jungo Asai, Takashi Ushida and Katsuko S. Furukawa |
Abstract: | The microstructural changes of bones, which form a hierarchy of skeletal tissue, vary, depending on their condition, and are aected by the behaviors of bone cells. The purpose of this study is to assess the microstructural changes in the inner femoral surface of Sprague Dawley rats according to the conditions using a scanning electron microscope. Microstructural dierences on the endocortical surface were observed in the characteristics of osteocytic canaliculi, bone fibers, and surface roughness, showing a rougher surface in old adults and an osteoporosis model by quantitative comparison. These results could be helpful for developing a basic understanding of the microstructural changes that occur on the bone surface under various conditions. |
Keywords: | decellularized bone; surface topography; bone microstructure; endocortical surface; scanning electron microscope |
Title | Gelatin-Methacryloyl (GelMA) Formulated with Human Platelet Lysate Supports Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation and Dierentiation and Enhances the Hydrogel’s Mechanical Properties |
Authors: | Marline Kirsch, Luise Birnstein, Iliyana Pepelanova, Wiebke Handke, Jessica Rach, Axel Seltsam, Thomas Scheper and Antonina Lavrentieva |
Abstract: | Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture is a major focus of current research, since cultivation under physiological conditions provides more reliable information about in vivo cell behavior. 3D cell cultures are used in basic research to better understand intercellular and cell-matrix interactions. Moreover, 3D cell culture plays an increasingly important role in the in vitro testing of bioactive substances and tissue engineering. Gelatin-methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels of dierent degrees of functionalization (DoFs) are a versatile tool for 3D cell culture and related applications such as bioprinting. Human platelet lysate (hPL) has already demonstrated positive eects on 2D cell cultures of different cell types and has proven a valuable alternative to fetal calf serum (FCS). Traditionally, all hydrogels are formulated using buers. In this study, we supplemented GelMA hydrogels of dierent DoF with hPL during adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cell (AD-MSCs) encapsulation. We studied the eect of hPL supplementation on the spreading, proliferation, and osteogenic dierentiation of AD-MSCs. In addition, the influence of hPL on hydrogel properties was also investigated. We demonstrate that the addition of hPL enhanced AD-MSC spreading, proliferation, and osteogenic dierentiation in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, the addition of hPL also increased GelMA viscosity and stiness. |
Keywords: | gelatin-methacryloyl (GelMA); hydrogels; 3D cell culture; human platelet lysate; adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) |
Business & Management
Title | A Sectorial Validation and Application of a Conceptual Framework for Creating a Brand Management Strategy |
Authors: | Allan Cid, Pierre Blanchet, François Robichaud and Nsimba Kinuani |
Abstract: | Brands can be one of a company’s most valuable intangible assets and a lever to generate value. As a source of added value, a brand should be strategically built and managed. To fully take advantage of the benefits that the brand provides, it is necessary to propose a brand management strategy. A conceptual framework was developed by the authors as an alternative to propose a brand management strategy according to a specific business scenario. The objective of this study is to validate this conceptual framework and apply it to propose a brand management strategy in a specific business scenario. For this purpose, a sectorial cross-validation was developed by triangulating the application of the framework to two data collection methods: (1) interviews and (2) a literature review. The results suggested that decomposing a complex business scenario into single-dimensioned business scenarios can help to propose, enhance, or reframe a brand strategy. The results also suggested that some brand dimensions can be used to lever other brand dimensions, such as brand relationship, which is at the top of CEO/CMO priorities in this field. This work contributes to theory by cross-validating the conceptual framework for creating brand management strategies through triangulation. |
Keywords: | branding; brand management; brand management strategy; Business-to-Business (B2B); ingredient branding; sectorial branding; export branding; alliance branding; construction branding; SME (Small and Medium Enterprise) branding |
Title | Sustainable Development and Business Strategies: An Exploratory Study of Greek Businesses |
Authors: | Spyridon A. Bafas, Alexandra P. Alexandropoulou, Andreas E. Fousteris, Eleni A. Didaskalou and Dimitrios A. Georgakellos |
Abstract: | The purpose of the present study is threefold: (a) it examines how Greek businesses perceive the concept of sustainability, (b) it investigates the implementation of sustainable development practices in Greek businesses, and (c) it examines if there is a correlation between sustainable development practices adopted by businesses and the competitive advantage of businesses. Furthermore, reference is made to concepts like sustainability, the Triple Bottom Line (TBL), and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In addition, the TBL for sustainable business practices and the viability of measurement systems are examined. For this study, a survey was conducted using a questionnaire composed of five sections, which was addressed to Greek companies operating in various sectors. A total of 150 questionnaires were sent out and responses were received from 34 enterprises. An analysis of the data from field research confirms that Greek companies perceive sustainability as a transformation catalyst for businesses and have adopted sustainability practices. Furthermore, there is a moderate correlation between the economic and social pillar of sustainability and the competitive advantage of organisations. The study aims to provide a deeper understanding of factors that influence the adoption of sustainable practices in Greek enterprises. |
Keywords: | sustainable development; TBL (triple bottom line); business; strategy; competitive advantage |
Title | Bibliometric Analysis on the Application of Fuzzy Logic into Marketing Strategy |
Authors: | Albérico Travassos Rosário, Joana Carmo Dias and Hélder Ferreira |
Abstract: | Fuzzy marketing considers the degree to which a customer belongs to specific segments and subsequently allows them to be targeted with messages that engage them emotionally. To better understand the application and importance of fuzzy logic in marketing strategy, we developed a systematic literature review with bibliometric analysis to examine a sample of 96 studies from the SCOPUS database to identify research activity on this topic until December 2022. It was possible to create a connection between these concepts, marketing and fuzzy logic, to increase the efforts of marketing professionals. For instance, the results show that adopting approaches such as fuzzy marketing or the fuzzy marketing mix model enhances the company’s capability to build stronger customer relationships, enhance profitability, and improve marketing performance. |
Keywords: | fuzzy logic; fuzzy marketing; marketing strategy; consumer behavior |
Title | How to Support Expanding Sales Channels of Agri-Food Products in New Markets: Healthiness and New Experiences of Tunisian Olive Oil |
Authors: | Hiroko Oe and Yasuyuki Yamaoka |
Abstract: | This study addresses the empirical problem of improving sales channels in countries like Tunisia, with a specific focus on the sales channels of Tunisian olive oil. The authors aim to explore this problem within the theoretical framework of sales channels and emphasize the contribution of their research to enhancing sales channels and accessing new markets for Tunisian olive oil. To achieve these goals, the authors conducted a study with a specific research objective: to examine the factors influencing consumer behavior and perceptions towards olive oil. By doing so, this research contributes to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities of expanding sales channels and supports the development of sustainable agribusiness. Additionally, the authors highlight the importance of advertising healthy food with good quality based on an ethical production process that emphasizes accountability and transparency. They argue that these ethical practices can serve as competitive strengths for agri-food producers in emerging markets as they explore new market opportunities. Overall, this research not only addresses the need for improving sales channels in Tunisia but also provides insights into consumer behavior, highlights the significance of ethical production processes, and supports the competitiveness of agri-food producers in emerging markets. |
Keywords: | Tunisian olive oil; communication; innovative milieu; collaboration; learning organization; triangulation |
Title | Cultural Intelligence, Firm Capabilities, and Performance: The Case of German Subsidiaries in Malaysia |
Authors: | Bienvenido S. Cortes and Zhengyao Ooi |
Abstract: | The extant literature shows that firm capabilities such as knowledge transfer and innovation are highly related to firm performance. How these relationships express themselves for foreign-based firms operating in global environments is less understood. The objectives of this study are as follows: (1) to examine the differential effects of knowledge transfer and innovation on the performance of German-based companies operating in Malaysia; (2) to determine if these relationships and effects operate via an “intervening variable” or mediator, in this case, competitive advantage; and (3) to determine if another latent variable (cultural intelligence) has an altering or “moderating” influence on the effects of innovation and knowledge transfer on competitive advantage. Analyses of the causal relationships are tested using a sample of 475 respondents working in German subsidiaries in Malaysia and applying a structural equation model. The empirical findings indicate that innovation and knowledge transfer are positively and significantly related to German companies’ overall performance, that these effects are mediated by competitive advantage, and that cultural intelligence interacts with innovation and knowledge transfer to affect the strength of the relationships between innovation (knowledge transfer) and competitive advantage. |
Keywords: | competitive advantage; cultural intelligence; firm performance; knowledge transfer; innovation; international business |
Title | Sustainable Business Model Innovation for raising Donors’ Loyalty Case of Healthcare NGOs |
Authors: | Farah Atallah |
Abstract: | The welfare of a society hinges on the delicate balance between ecological preservation and social justice. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) play a pivotal role in advancing environmental and economic well-being, serving as essential contributors to societal welfare. These organizations are widely recognized as vital agents in safeguarding community health and prosperity. NGOs serve as key architects in maintaining a harmonious equilibrium amidst economic demands and societal imperatives. Over the years, these organizations have garnered significant attention from researchers due to their profound impact on sustainable development and social welfare. This study delves into the multifaceted role of NGOs in promoting environmental sustainability and economic prosperity, emphasizing their crucial function in mitigating the pressures of the economy while addressing the fundamental needs of society. |
Keywords: | Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), societal welfare, environmental preservation, economic well-being, sustainable development, social justice, community health, equilibrium, societal needs, research interest |
Farah Atallah. “Sustainable Business Model Innovation for raising Donors’ Loyalty Case of Healthcare NGOs.” International Research in Engineering, Science and Humanities. Business & Management, vol. 1, no. 6, Summer 2024, ISSN: 2717-8854.
Chemistry
Title | Solid-State Electrochemical Process and Performance Optimization of Memristive Materials and Devices |
Authors: | Wuhong Xue, Xiao-Hong Xu and Gang Liu |
Abstract: | As an emerging technology, memristors are nanoionic-based electrochemical systems that retains their resistance state based on the history of the applied voltage/current. They can be used for on-chip memory and storage, biologically inspired computing, and in-memory computing. However, the underlying physicochemical processes of memristors still need deeper understanding for the optimization of the device properties to meet the practical application requirements. Herein, we review recent progress in understanding the memristive mechanisms and influential factors for the optimization of memristive switching performances. We first describe the working mechanisms of memristors, including the dynamic processes of active metal ions, native oxygen ions and other active ions in ECM cells, VCM devices and ion gel-based devices, and the switching mechanisms in organic devices, along with discussions on the influential factors of the device performances. The optimization of device properties by electrode/interface engineering, types/configurations of dielectric materials and bias scheme is then illustrated. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and the future development of the memristor. |
Keywords: | memristor; conduction mechanisms; influence factors of memristive performances |
Title | Acetylation of Alcohols, Amines, Phenols, Thiols under Catalyst and Solvent-Free Conditions |
Authors: | Nagaraj Anbu, Nagarathinam Nagarjun, Manju Jacob, J. Mary Vimala Kumari Kalaiarasi and Amarajothi Dhakshinamoorthy |
Abstract: | In the present study, an easy and an ecient approach is reported for the acetylation of alcohols, amines, phenols, and thiols under solvent- and catalyst-free conditions. The experimental conditions were milder than conventional methods and the reactions were completed in shorter reaction time. The examined substrates aorded higher yields of the acetylated products under the short reaction time. Comparison of this work with earlier reported procedures reveals that this method oers some advantages than with reported catalysts and solvents. The as-synthesized products were characterized by 1H-NMR and GC-MS techniques to ensure their purity and identity. In addition, a possible mechanism was also proposed for this reaction. |
Keywords: | acetylation; phenol; amines; green chemistry; solvent-free; catalyst-free |
Title | Hydroquinone-Based Anion Receptors for Redox-Switchable Chloride Binding |
Authors: | Daniel A. McNaughton, Xiaochen Fu, William Lewis , Deanna M. D’Alessandro and Philip A. Gale |
Abstract: | A series of chloride receptors has been synthesized containing an amide hydrogen bonding site and a hydroquinone motif. It was anticipated that oxidation of the hydroquinone unit to quinone would greatly the diminish chloride binding anity of these receptors. A conformational switch is promoted in the quinone form through the formation of an intramolecular hydrogen bond between the amide and the quinone carbonyl, which blocks the amide binding site. The reversibility of this oxidation process highlighted the potential of these systems for use as redox-switchable receptors. H-NMR binding studies confirmed stronger binding capabilities of the hydroquinone form compared to the quinone; however, X-ray crystal structures of the free hydroquinone receptors revealed the presence of an analogous inhibiting intramolecular hydrogen bond in this state of the receptor. Binding studies also revealed interesting and contrasting trends in chloride anity when comparing the two switch states, which is dictated by a secondary interaction in the binding mode between the amide carbonyl and the hydroquinone/quinone couple. Additionally, the electrochemical properties of the systems have been explored using cyclic voltammetry and it was observed that the reduction potential of the system was directly related to the expected strength of the internal hydrogen bond. |
Keywords: | anion binding; chloride receptor; switchable system; hydroquinone; redox switch |
Title | Eect of pH, Surfactant, and Temperature on Mixed-Phase Structure and Band Gap Properties of BiNbO4 Nanoparticles Prepared Using Different Routes |
Authors: | Maram Bakiro, Salwa Hussein Ahmed and Ahmed Alzamly |
Abstract: | Alpha- and Beta-BiNbO4 nanoparticles were successfully prepared using three different routes, namely co-precipitation, hydrothermal, and citrate precursor methods. Structural characterization has been analyzed using powder X-ray diraction where results confirmed the mixed-phase nature of the prepared powders. When co-precipitation method is applied, BiNbO4 prepared at pH 2 and calcined at 750 C shows predominately the BiNbO4 owning the narrowest band gap of 2.86 eV, whereas an increase in the pH value resulted in the BiNbO4 phase being the predominant phase. On the other hand, samples prepared using citrate precursor method show co-existence of both- and BiNbO4 at all pH values under study; however, at pH 10 the BiNbO4 was the dominant phase exhibiting a higher bandgap energy value of 3.16 eV. When applying the hydrothermal approach, BiNbO4 prepared at all pH ranges of the present study show a band gap >3.2 eV indicating their activity in the ultraviolet region of the spectrum. Moreover, increasing calcination temperature to 900 C, a gradual transformation was observed. Lastly, it was noticed that as the lattice volume increases, the band gap of prepared BiNbO4 decreases. |
Keywords: | BiNbO4; co-precipitation; hydrothermal; citrate precursor; bandgap; visible light |
Title | Solvatochromism and Selective Sorption of Volatile Organic Solvents in Pyridylbenzoate Metal-Organic Frameworks |
Authors: | Christophe A. Ndamyabera, Savannah C. Zacharias, Clive L. Oliver and Susan A. Bourne |
Abstract: | Using cobalt(II) as a metal centre with dierent solvent systems aforded |
Keywords: | metal-organic frameworks; vapour sorption; solvatochromism; desorption kinetics |
Title | Eect of Hydrazine Pretreatment on the Activity, Stability and Active Sites of Cobalt Species for Preferential Oxidation (PROX) of CO in H2-Rich Stream |
Authors: | Reineck Mhlaba, Thuto Mosuang and Takalani Magadzu |
Abstract: | The as-prepared (Co3O4) and hydrazine-treated (Co3O4(H)) cobalt catalysts were prepared using the precipitation method and evaluated at a temperature range of 40–220 C for preferential oxidation (PROX) of CO in excess hydrogen. An improved surface reducibility with smaller crystallite sizewas noted on hydrazine-treated cobalt species (i.e.,Co3O4(H) catalyst),which indicates some surface transformation. This finding correlates with the surface roughness formation (as depicted by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) data), which was further confirmed by an increase in the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area. The mesoporous structure of the Co3O4(H) catalyst remained intact, as compared to that of the Co3O4 catalyst. Interestingly, the in situ treatment of the standalone Co3O4(H) catalyst decreased themaximumCO conversion temperature (T100%) from 160 C (over Co3O4) to 100 C, with good selectivity. The Co3O4(H) catalyst showed good stability, with approximately 85% CO conversion at 100 C for 21 h, as compared to a faster deactivation of the Co3O4 catalyst. However, the Co3O4(H) catalyst was unstable in both CO2 and the moisture environment. Based on the evaluation of spent hydrazine-treated (CoO(H)) cobalt catalyst, the high PROX activity is associated with the formation of Co3+ species as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS), and temperature-programmed reduction (TPR) data. |
Keywords: | PROX; Co3O4; CoO(H); Co3O4(H); catalyst; CO conversion and selectivity |
Civil Engineering
Title | Fire Rating of Post-Installed Anchors and Rebars |
Authors: | Philipp Mahrenholtz and Akanshu Sharma |
Abstract: | Fire safety is a critical performance aspect of construction products, and post-installed anchors and rebars are no exemption in that regard. During their service life, anchors and rebars are subjected to dierent kinds of load actions, so they have to be qualified and designed for critical safety performance. While the qualification guidelines for static and seismic loading have matured to conclusive requirements over the past two decades, the requirements for determining the resistance to fire are just about to consolidate. This contribution strives to provide clarity on the fire rating of post-installed anchors and rebars. For this, the current status of the regulations, as well as the underlying background, is reviewed after a brief introduction. Typical examples of fire ratings in the field of post-installed anchors and rebars are given, and recent research undertaken to close the last regulative gaps is briefly presented. |
Keywords: | the field of post-installed anchors and rebars are given, and recent research undertaken to clos |
Title | Strengthening Strategies for Existing Rammed Earth Walls Subjected to Out-of-Plane Loading |
Authors: | Phuntsho Wangmo, Kshitij C. Shrestha, Takayoshi Aoki, Mitsuhiro Miyamoto and Pema |
Abstract: | The paper reports an experimental campaign to study the e_ectiveness of strengthening measures proposed for rammed earth (RE) wall in an out-of-plane direction. Two simple and feasible strengthening techniques were explored, namely, mesh-wrapped and timber-framed strengthening techniques. The test involved testing three full-scale U-shaped RE walls in an out-of-plane direction. The first specimen without any intervention served as the reference wall, while the two others were strengthened with two di_erent strengthening methods. It was observed that both proposed strengthening techniques improved the load-carrying capacity of the wall and the maximum displacement and the energy absorption. The mesh-wrapped strengthening technique was found to be more e_ective than the timber-framed strengthening technique, which disrupted the visual aspects of the wall’s facade and needed proper anchoring to the foundation. |
Keywords: | rammed earth; pull-down test; strengthening; Bhutan |
Climate
Title | The Impact of Atmospheric Temperature Variations on Glycaemic Patterns in Children and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes |
Authors: | Piero Chiacchiaretta, Stefano Tumini, AlessandraMascitelli, Lorenza Sacrini, Maria Alessandra Saltarelli, Maura Carabotta, Jacopo Osmelli, Piero Di Carlo, Eleonora Aruffo |
Abstract: | Seasonal variations in glycaemic patterns in children and young adults affected by type 1 diabetes are currently poorly studied. However, the spread of Flash Glucose Monitoring (FGM) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems and of dedicated platforms for the synchronization and conservation of CGM reports allows an efficient approach to the comprehension of these phenomena. Moreover, the impact that environmental parameters may have on glycaemic control takes on clinical relevance, implying a need to properly educate patients and their families. In this context, it can be investigated how blood glucose patterns in diabetic patients may have a link to outdoor temperatures. Therefore, in this study, the relationship between outdoor temperatures and glucose levels in diabetic patients, aged between 4 and 21 years old, has been analysed. For a one-year period (Autumn 2022–Summer 2023), seasonal variations in their CGM metrics (i.e., time in range (TIR), Time Above Range (TAR), Time Below Range (TBR), and coefficient of variation (CV)) were analysed with respect to atmospheric temperature. The results highlight a negative correlation between glucose in diabetic patients and temperature patterns (R value computed considering data for the entire year; Ry = −0.49), behaviour which is strongly confirmed by the analysis focused on the July 2023 heatwave (R = −0.67), which shows that during heatwave events, the anticorrelation is accentuated. The diurnal analysis shows how glucose levels fluctuate throughout the day, potentially correlating with atmospheric diurnal temperature changes in addition to the standard trend. Data captured during the July 2023 heatwave (17–21 July 2023) highlight pronounced deviations from the long-term average, signalling the rapid effects of extreme temperatures on glucose regulation. Our findings underscore the need to integrate meteorological parameters into diabetes management and clinical trial designs. These results suggest that structured diabetes self-management education of patients and their families should include adequate warnings about the effects of atmospheric temperature variations on the risk of hypoglycaemia and about the negative effects of excessive therapeutic inertia in the adjustment of insulin doses. |
Keywords: | temperature; type 1 diabetes; climate change; atmosphere; glucose pattern |
Computer Science & Engineering
Title | Trustworthiness of Dynamic Moving Sensors for Secure Mobile Edge Computing |
Authors: | John Yoon |
Abstract: | Wireless sensor network is an emerging technology, and the collaboration of wireless sensors becomes one of the active research areas for utilizing sensor data. Various sensors collaborate to recognize the changes of a target environment, to identify, if any radical change occurs. For the accuracy improvement, the calibration of sensors has been discussed, and sensor data analytics are becoming popular in research and development. However, they are not satisfactorily efficient for the situations where sensor devices are dynamically moving, abruptly appearing, or disappearing. If the abrupt appearance of sensors is a zero-day attack, and the disappearance of sensors is an ill-functioning comrade, then sensor data analytics of untrusted sensors will result in an indecisive artifact. The predefined sensor requirements or meta-data-based sensor verification is not adaptive to identify dynamically moving sensors. This paper describes a deep-learning approach to verify the trustworthiness of sensors by considering the sensor data only. The proposed verification on sensors can be done without having to use meta-data about sensors or to request consultation from a cloud server. The contribution of this paper includes (1) quality preservation of sensor data for mining analytics. The sensor data are trained to identify their characteristics of outliers: whether they are attack outliers, or outlier-like abrupt changes in environments; and (2) authenticity verification of dynamically moving sensors, which was possible. Previous unknown sensors are also identified by deep-learning approach. |
Keywords: | sensor collaborations; sensor trustworthiness; dynamic moving-sensor collaboration; sensor calibration |
Title | Self-Configuring IoT Service QoS Guarantee Using QBAIoT |
Authors: | Ahmad Khalil, Nader Mbarek and Olivier Togni |
Abstract: | Providing Internet of Things (IoT) environments with service level guarantee is a challenging task for improving IoT application usage experience. We specify in this paper an IoT architecture enabling an IoT Service Level Agreement (iSLA) achievement between an IoT Service Provider (IoT-SP) and an IoT Client (IoT-C). In order to guarantee the IoT applications’ requirements, Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms should be implemented within all the layers of the IoT architecture. Thus, we propose a specific mechanism for the lowest layer of our service level based IoT architecture (i.e., sensing layer). It is an adaptation of the IEEE 802.15.4 slotted CSMA/CA mechanism enabling to take into consideration the requirements of real-time IoT services. Our access method called QBAIoT (QoS based Access for IoT) extends IEEE 802.15.4 systems by creating a new contention access period for each specified traffic class in the iSLA. Furthermore, due to the huge number of IoT connected devices, self-configuring capability provisioning is necessary for limiting human intervention and total cost of ownership (TCO). Thus, we integrate a self-configuring capability to the QBAIoT access method by implementing the MAPE-K closed control loop within the IoT High Level Gateway (HL-Gw) of our proposed QoS based IoT architecture. |
Keywords: | QBAIoT; self-configuring; IEEE 802.15.4; Slotted CSMA/CA; e-health |
Title | Specification and Verification in Integrated Model of Distributed Systems (IMDS) |
Authors: | Wiktor B. Daszczuk |
Abstract: | Distributed systems, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing, are becoming popular. This requires modeling that reflects the natural characteristics of such systems: the locality of independent components, the autonomy of their decisions, and asynchronous communication. Automated verification of deadlocks and distributed termination supports rapid development. Existing techniques do not reflect some features of distribution. Most formalisms are synchronous and/or use some kind of global state, both of which are unrealistic. No model supports the communication duality that allows the integration of a remote procedure call and client-server paradigm into a single, uniform model. The majority of model checkers refer to total deadlocks. Usually, they do not distinguish between communication deadlocks from resource deadlocks and deadlocks from distributed termination. Some verification mechanisms check partial deadlocks at the expense of restricting the structure of the system being verified. The paper presents an original formalism for the modeling and verification of distributed systems. The Integrated Model of Distributed Systems (IMDS) defines a distributed system as two sets: states and messages, and the relationship of the “actions” between these sets. Communication duality provides projections on servers and on traveling agents, but the uniform specification of the verified system is preserved. General temporal formulas over IMDS, independent of the structure of the verified system, allow automated verification. These formulas distinguish between deadlocks and distributed termination, and between communication deadlocks and resource deadlocks. Partial deadlocks and partial termination can be checked. The Dedan tool was developed using IMDS formalism. |
Keywords: | distributed systems; distributed system modeling; asynchronous modeling; formal methods; model checking |
Title | Demystifying the Electrocardiogram—A Printed Circuit Board for Use in a Biomedical Electronics Laboratory |
Authors: | Pádraig Herbert |
Abstract: | The electrocardiogram is a widely used clinical diagnostic tool and is studied in biomedical engineering and electrophysiology courses. Modern electrocardiograms are complex, requiring some knowledge in many domains of engineering to comprehend their operation. This project develops an ECG laboratory for learners enrolled in biomedical electronics or biomedical instrumentation modules, who are exposed to a steep learning curve in electronics, intended to allow learners to uncover the fundamental processes of data capture, analysis, and presentation. |
Keywords: | electrocardiogram (ECG); biomedical engineering; active learning |
Title | Extending NUMA-BTLP Algorithm with Thread Mapping Based on a Communication Tree |
Authors: | IuliaS tirb |
Abstract: | The paper presents a Non-Uniform Memory Access (NUMA)-aware compiler optimization for task-level parallel code. The optimization is based on Non-Uniform Memory Access—Balanced Task and Loop Parallelism (NUMA-BTLP) algorithm ¸Stirb, 2018. The algorithm gets the type of each thread in the source code based on a static analysis of the code. After assigning a type to each thread, NUMA-BTLP ¸Stirb, 2018 calls NUMA-BTDM mapping algorithm ¸Stirb, 2016 which uses PThreads routine pthread_setaffinity_np to set the CPU affinities of the threads (i.e., thread-to-core associations) based on their type. The algorithms perform an improve thread mapping for NUMA systems by mapping threads that share data on the same core(s), allowing fast access to L1 cache data. The paper proves that PThreads based task-level parallel code which is optimized by NUMA-BTLP ¸Stirb, 2018 and NUMA-BTDM ¸Stirb, 2016 at compile-time, is running time and energy efficiently on NUMA systems. The results show that the energy is optimized with up to 5% at the same execution time for one of the tested real benchmarks and up to 15% for another benchmark running in infinite loop. The algorithms can be used on real-time control systems such as client/server based applications which require efficient access to shared resources. Most often, task parallelism is used in the implementation of the server and loop parallelism is used for the client. |
Keywords: | thread mapping; NUMA systems; data locality; static code analysis; PThreads Library |
Title | The Changing Effectiveness of Monetary Policy |
Authors: | Jonathan E. Leightner |
Abstract: | In the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, many countries are hoping that massive increases in their money supplies will revive their economies. Evaluating the effectiveness of this strategy using traditional statistical methods would require the construction of an extremely complex economic model of the world that showed how each country’s situation affected all other countries. No matter how complex that model was, it would always be subject to the criticism that it had omitted important variables. Omitting important variables from traditional statistical methods ruins all estimates and statistics. This paper uses a relatively new statistical method that solves the omitted variables problem. This technique produces a separate slope estimate for each observation which makes it possible to see how the estimated relationship has changed over time due to omitted variables. I find that the effectiveness of monetary policy has fallen between the first quarter of 2003 and the fourth quarter of 2012 by 14%, 36%, 38%, 32%, 29% and 69% for Japan, the UK, the USA, the Euro area, Brazil, and the Russian Federation respectively. I hypothesize that monetary policy is suffering from diminishing returns because it cannot address the fundamental problem with the world’s economy today; that problem is a global glut of savings that is either sitting idle or funding speculative bubbles. |
Keywords: | monetary policy; gross domestic product; inflation; glut of savings |
Title | Effects of Fiscal Policy and Monetary Policy on the Stock Market in Poland |
Authors: | Yu Hsing |
Abstract: | The focus of this paper is to examine potential impacts of fiscal and monetary policies on stock market performance in Poland. Applying the GARCH model and based on a sample during 1999.Q2 to 2012.Q4, this paper finds that Poland’s stock market index is not affected by the ratio of government deficits or debt to GDP and is negatively influenced by the money market rate. The stock index and the ratio of M3 to GDP show a quadratic relationship with a critical value of 46.03%, suggesting that they have a positive relationship if the M3/GDP ratio is less than 46.03% and a negative relationship if the M3/GDP ratio is greater than 46.03%. Furthermore, Poland’s stock index is positively associated with industrial production and stock market performance in Germany and the U.S. and negatively affected by the nominal effective exchange rate and the inflation rate. |
Keywords: | stock market index; fiscal policy; monetary policy; macroeconomic variables; GARCH |
Title | Monetary Transfers in the U.S.: How Efficient Are Tax Rebates? |
Authors: | Diego E. Vacaflores |
Abstract: | Recent debate on the effectiveness of tax rebates has concentrated on the degree to which they can affect economic activity, which depends on the methodology, the state of the economy, and the underlying assumptions. A better approach to assess the effectiveness of these monetary transfers is by comparing this method to alternative policies—like the traditional monetary injections through the financial intermediaries. A limited participation model calibrated to the U.S. economy is used to show that the higher the proportion of the monetary injection channeled through the consumers—instead of banks—leads to a less vigorous recovery of output but softens the detrimental effect on the utility of the representative household from the inherent inflationary pressure. This result is robust to the relative importance of the injection (utilization of resources) and alternative utility functions. |
Keywords: | tax rebates; monetary policy; expansionary and stabilization policy |
Title | What role does the environment play in ensuring the health, quality of life, and well-being of humanity? |
Authors: | Professor Mohamed TAHIRI, Dr. Manal INCHAOUH |
Abstract: | The environment constitutes, in our view, a set resources to ensure sustainability, the key component of sustainable development the diverse and rich space which provides well-being to humanity on Earth. Convinced of the virtue of constructive dialogue engaged in the competent bodies on all major regional issues. If our country (Morocco) contains, by the grace of God, abundant natural resources. It’s also the divine with which wishes to test our convictions as to the importance of the complementarities existing between the different regions of our country. The perverse effects of desertification phenomena, climate change and fluctuations, environmental inefficiencies, pollution of surface and groundwater, air and soil could be more serious for our health, for our economy and for the balance of the ecosystem. Relying on the interventions and conscience of various economic, institutional, social and associative operators who, through their continuous work, their dedication and their perseverance. They confront the economic, political and social issues facing the challenges of the degradation of the environment and human health, as well as the risk of loss of natural balance. Environmental accounting makes it possible to estimate damage costs and inefficiencies on the one hand; and remediation one the other. By using tested, recognized and robust evaluation tools which can be used as decision support adopted by competent and multidisciplinary authorities (urban municipalities, regional directorates, ministries, etc.). Various studies were carried out by our team and concerned in particular to: health, tourism and education sectors. The main goal is to assess the damage and inefficiencies caused by these sectors to water, air, soil/landscape, noise/nuisance and their impacts on health/quality of life and well-being. The impacts are alarming and call for permanent vigilance, awareness of the related risks. Therefore, implementation of a very serious operational action plan is mandatory to ovoid catastrophes. We will detect, for example, that for the public health sector (hospitals and university Center), the cost of damage and inefficiencies caused to health/quality of life/well-being sometimes reaches staggering figures which are around 2-3% of the Moroccan GDP (Gross Domestic Product). In the case of the tourism sector this percentage is estimated at 1% of added value. |
Keywords: | Environmental Accounting, Impact assessment tools, Environmental meso-economic studies, Damage costs and inefficiencies, Remediation costs, Public health sectors, Morocco. |
Title | Tales of Two Cities: Architecture, Print and Early Guidebooks to Paris and London |
Authors: | Elizabeth McKellar |
Abstract: | This pioneering paper is the first to consider the contribution of a new type of urban literature to perceptions and portrayals of the city in the late seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries. It focuses on London and Parisian guidebooks, a genre that has been little studied to date, particularly those of: Germaine Brice, Description nouvelle de ce qui’il ya de plus remarquable dans la Ville de Paris (1684); F. Colsoni, Le Guide de Londres (1693); and Edward Hatton, A New View of London (1708). The article is the first to establish the significance of language primers as source for tourist guidebooks and the prevalence of lexicographers among those producing them. It examines the modern type of non-antiquarian urban guidebook as part of the new urban consumer culture. It also explores the genre’s contribution to a novel form in the writing and understanding of the city in the period focussed on the contemporary and the experiential, rather than the traditional orientation towards the historical and the monumental. |
Keywords: | London; Paris; architecture; urbanism; literature; guidebooks; tourism; |
Title | Rorty, Williams, and Davidson: Skepticism and Metaepistemology |
Authors: | Duncan Pritchard and Christopher Ranalli |
Abstract: | We revisit an important exchange on the problem of radical skepticism between Richard Rorty and Michael Williams. In his contribution to this exchange, Rorty defended the kind of transcendental approach to radical skepticism that is offered by Donald Davidson, in contrast to Williams’s Wittgenstein-inspired view. It is argued that the key to evaluating this debate is to understand the particular conception of the radical skeptical problem that is offered in influential work by Barry Stroud, a conception of the skeptical problem which generates metaepistemological ramifications for anti-skeptical theories. In particular, we argue that, contra Williams, Rorty’s view that Davidson was offering a theoretical diagnosis of radical skepticism can be consistently maintained with his transcendental approach. |
Keywords: | transcendental arguments; radical skepticism; metaepistemological skepticism; theoretical diagnosis; Barry Stroud |
Title | Rorty, Pragmatism, and Analytic Philosophy |
Authors: | Cheryl Misak |
Abstract: | One of Richard Rorty's legacies is to have put a Jamesian version of pragmatism on the contemporary philosophical map. Part of his argument has been that pragmatism and analytic philosophy are set against each other, with pragmatism almost having been killed off by the reigning analytic philosophy. The argument of this paper is that there is a better and more interesting reading of both the history of pragmatism and the history of analytic philosophy. |
Keywords: | William James; analytic philosophy; history of pragmatism; Peirce; |
Title | Richard Rorty in Context |
Authors: | Brian Lloyd |
Abstract: | Richard Rorty was a strong contextualist in his approach to philosophical and political ideas, yet his own most characteristic arguments are typically evaluated without much reference to the historical circumstances that provoked them. A key participant in the post-1980 revival of pragmatism within North American and European intellectual circles, Rorty reaffirmed the strong connections between American pragmatism and German idealism. This move placed him at odds with scholars who forged the unity of pragmatism—united John Dewey and William James—under the banner of radical empiricism. Those engaged most enthusiastically in celebrating Rorty’s achievements, in short, defend a conception of pragmatism that Rorty sharply criticized and ideas about the history of philosophy that he did not share. His distinctive intellectual agenda is best appreciated after setting it in the context of the history of the American Left and, more specifically, the reckoning with the tumultuous 1960s that animates so many ongoing debates—inside and outside the academy—about cultural and political affairs. |
Keywords: | pragmatism; Richard Rorty; John Dewey; American exceptionalism; the 1960s |
Title | Double Visions: Autobiography and the Ends of Philosophy |
Authors: | Neil Gascoigne |
Abstract: | In Contingency, irony and solidarity Rorty attempts to solve what Robert Pippin calls the ‘Modernity Problem’ by outlining a new self-understanding for the intellectuals of the ideal liberal society. The so-called liberal ironists of this post-philosophical milieu are no longer characterized by the quest for what Rorty describes as ‘a single vision’. This paper evaluates Rorty’s attempt to conceptualize the self-image of post-philosophical intellectuals in the light of two similar endeavors; namely, Nietzsche’s and the ancient Sceptics’. The preliminary conclusion is that although Rorty’s attempt fails, it points to an alternative way of interpreting the desire for a single vision; namely, as a form of autobiography. Drawing on Nietzsche, Nagel and Mill, the paper proceeds to argue that Rorty’s own autobiographical fragment exemplifies the way in which the narration of a failed attempt to find a ‘single vision’ can itself be seen as the achievement of such a vision. |
Keywords: | liberal ironist; autobiography; ancient scepticism; Nietzsche; modernity |
Title | A Food Transportation Framework for an Efficient and Worker-Friendly Fresh Food Physical Internet |
Authors: | Amitangshu Pal and Krishna Kant |
Abstract: | In this paper, we introduce a physical Internet architecture for fresh food distribution networks with the goal of meeting the key challenges of maximizing the freshness of the delivered product and minimizing waste. The physical Internet (PI) architecture is based on the fundamental assumptions of infrastructure sharing among various parties, standardized addressing of all entities and modularized operations. In this paper, we enhance the PI architecture by including a freshness metric and the space-efficient loading/unloading of heterogeneous perishable goods onto the trucks depending on their delivery requirements. We also discuss mechanisms for reducing empty miles of trucks and the carbon footprint of the logistics while reducing the driver’s away-from-home time for long distance delivery. Via extensive simulations, the paper shows that the proposed architecture reduces the driver’s away-from-home time by 93%, whereas it improves the food delivery freshness by 5%. We show that there is a clear tradeoff between the transportation efficiency of the trucks and the delivery freshness of the food packages. |
Keywords: | fresh food distribution networks; physical Internet; logistics sustainability; infrastructure sharing; transportation; worker-friendly logistics |
Title | Features of Compressed Natural Gas Physical Distribution: A Bulgarian Case Study |
Authors: | Miroslav Stefanov |
Abstract: | Building a competitive and resource-efficient transportation system involves the achievement of a number of ambitious goals. Two of the main instruments in the European transportation policy in this field address the significant reduction of GHG emissions and oil dependency in transportation. Alternative fuels and compressed natural gas (CNG) in particular have huge potential for achieving these goals. The main problem that limits its wide utilization is related to the insufficient number of CNG refueling stations, especially along highways and routes from the core TEN-T network where no gas pipelines are available. Therefore, the aim of this research is to study a possible solution to building daughter CNG refueling stations which can be used as basis for formulating some recommendations for their accelerated construction along TEN-T core network as well as providing some initial knowledge to be used later for more comprehensive research. The research is based on the case-study method, which allows the presentation of the described best practice. The process of data collection is based on semi-structured interviews, study of normative documents, observation of daily sales and direct observations which were processed with the help of qualitative and quantitative methods for time series analysis—trend and seasonal component as well as descriptive statistics tools. Scientific literature and research as well as secondary data provided by international institutions are also used. |
Keywords: | physical distribution; logistics activities; compressed natural gas (CNG); CNG refueling stations; daughter CNG refueling station; CNG refueling infrastructure |
Title | Integrating AI and SCOR Model in Supply Chain Management |
Authors: | Ghita DERFOUFI, Rhizlane BENRREZZOUQ |
Abstract: | In the contemporary landscape of logistics, the integration of advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain is revolutionizing traceability and auditing processes. This article explores the multifaceted benefits and inherent challenges associated with these innovations. AI significantly enhances logistics operations by optimizing route planning, automating inventory management, and improving real-time tracking, thus boosting efficiency and reducing costs. Blockchain technology further strengthens the logistics framework by ensuring transparent, secure, and immutable record-keeping, which is critical for audit purposes and regulatory compliance. The synergy between AI and Blockchain not only improves operational transparency but also mitigates risks related to fraud and data manipulation. However, the implementation of these technologies is not without challenges, including high initial investment costs, integration complexities, and concerns over data privacy and security. Addressing these challenges through strategic planning and robust cybersecurity measures is essential for harnessing the full potential of AI and Blockchain in logistics. |
Keywords: | Blockchain, audit logistic, AI, traceability, supply chain. |
Title | Blockchain for and in Logistics: What to Adopt and Where to Start |
Authors: | Mario Dobrovnik, David M. Herold 2, Elmar Fürst and Sebastian Kummer |
Abstract: | Despite the claim that blockchain will revolutionise business and redefine logistics, existing research so far is limited concerning frameworks that categorise blockchain application potentials and their implications. In particular, academic literature in transport and logistics to date has not sufficiently distinguished between blockchain adoption (‘what to adopt’) and the identification of the right business opportunity (‘where to start’). In response, this paper (1) uses Rogers’ (2003) ‘attributes of innovation framework’ to identify potential blockchain applications and (2) presents a framework explicating four transformation phases to subsequently categorise the identified areas of application according to their effects on organisational structures and processes. Using academic and practitioner literature, we classify possible applications for adoption and provide a framework to identify blockchain opportunities in the logistics industry, thereby helping managers to systematically assess where to start building organisational capabilities in order to successfully adopt and deploy blockchain-based technology. |
Keywords: | blockchain; supply chain management; logistics; innovation; innovation |
Title | Beyond the Basics: Exploring Industry-Specific Logistics KPIs in two Moroccan industrial sectors |
Authors: | Abdeslam Chraibi, Benrezzouq Ghizlane, Benabdellah Nouhaila |
Abstract: | It's evident that industrial companies are increasingly incorporating dashboards into their internal management processes to track performance. These companies must carefully select their indicators and optimize dashboard usage across various areas to enhance their efficiency. In this context, many industrial companies are utilizing logistical indicators alongside financial and operational ones. This article aims to conduct a thorough comparative analysis of the key performance indicators (KPIs) most commonly used in logistics operations, focusing on the selection and application of indicators within the pharmaceutical and automotive sectors. We conducted a literature review to identify the relevant KPIs, followed by a quantitative study using real data from several companies in both industries. The findings offer valuable insights into the most effective KPIs for assessing logistics performance and provide recommendations for their application in decision-making. |
Keywords: | dashboard, logistics dashboard, performance, logistics indicators, Moroccan companies, industrial companies. |
Abdeslam Chraibi, Benrezzouq Ghizlane, and Benabdellah Nouhaila. “Beyond the Basics: Exploring Industry-Specific Logistics KPIs in two Moroccan industrial sectors.” International Research in Engineering, Science and Humanities, Logistics, vol. 1, no. 5, Summer 2024, ISSN: 2717-8854.
Pharmaceutics
Title | A Critical Analysis of the CFD-DEM Simulation of Pharmaceutical Aerosols Deposition in Upper Intra-Thoracic Airways: Considerations on Aerosol Transport and Deposition |
Authors: | Georgi H. Spasov, Riccardo Rossi, Andrea Vanossi, Ciro Cottini and Andrea Benassi |
Abstract: | The reliability and accuracy of numerical models and computer simulations to study aerosol deposition in the human respiratory system is investigated for a patient-specific tracheobronchial tree geometry. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model coupled with discrete elements methods (DEM) is used to predict the transport and deposition of the aerosol. The results are compared to experimental and numerical data available in the literature to study and quantify the impact of the modeling parameters and numerical assumptions. Even if the total deposition compares very well with the reference data, it is clear from the present work how local deposition results can depend significantly upon spatial discretization and boundary conditions adopted to represent the respiratory act. The modeling of turbulent fluctuations in the airflow is also found to impact the local deposition and, to a minor extent, the flow characteristics at the inlet of the computational domain. Using the CFD-DEM model, it was also possible to calculate the airflow and particles splitting at bifurcations, which were found to depart from the assumption of being equally distributed among branches adopted by some of the simplified deposition models. The results thus suggest the need for further studies towards improving the quantitative prediction of aerosol transport and deposition in the human airways. |
Keywords: | orally inhaled drug products; pharmaceutical aerosol; aerosol deposition; CFD-DEM simulation; dry powder for inhalation; human lungs; human respiratory system |
Title | A Review of the Efficacy of Nanomaterial-Based Natural Photosensitizers to Overcome Multidrug Resistance in Cancer |
Authors: | Jagadeesh Rajaram, Lokesh Kumar Mende and Yaswanth Kuthati |
Abstract: | Natural photosensitizers (PS) are compounds derived from nature, with photodynamic properties. Natural PSs have a similar action to that of commercial PSs, where cancer cell death occurs by necrosis, apoptosis, and autophagy through ROS generation. Natural PSs have garnered great interest over the last few decades because of their high biocompatibility and good photoactivity. Specific wavelengths could cause phytochemicals to produce harmful ROS for photodynamic therapy (PDT). However, natural PSs have some shortcomings, such as reduced solubility and lower uptake, making them less appropriate for PDT. Nanotechnology offers an opportunity to develop suitable carriers for various natural PSs for PDT applications. Various nanoparticles have been developed to improve the outcome with enhanced solubility, optical adsorption, and tumor targeting. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a phenomenon in which tumor cells develop resistance to a wide range of structurally and functionally unrelated drugs. Over the last decade, several researchers have extensively studied the effect of natural PS-based photodynamic treatment (PDT) on MDR cells. Though the outcomes of clinical trials for natural PSs were inconclusive, significant advancement is still required before PSs can be used as a PDT agent for treating MDR tumors. This review addresses the increasing literature on MDR tumor progression and the efficacy of PDT, emphasizing the importance of developing new nano-based natural PSs in the fight against MDR that have the required features for an MDR tumor photosensitizing regimen. |
Keywords: | photodynamic therapy; nanotechnology; multidrug resistance; natural PSs |
Title | Toward Model-Informed Precision Dosing for Remimazolam: A Population Pharmacokinetic–Pharmacodynamic Analysis |
Authors: | Yueting Chen, Cansheng Gong, Feng Liu, Zheng Jiao, and Xiaochun Zheng |
Abstract: | Remimazolam, widely used for procedural sedation and general anesthesia, is a new ultra short-acting benzodiazepine for intravenous sedation and anesthesia. We aim to characterize the pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) of remimazolam and its metabolite CNS 7054 in healthy Chinese volunteers using population analysis and suggest an optimal dosing regimen for sedation therapy. Data were collected from a single-center, placebo-controlled, randomized, and dose–escalation clinical pharmacology study. Forty-six healthy volunteers received a single infusion dose of remimazolam, while nine healthy subjects received a continuous infusion of remimazolam. A population PK/PD model was established and RxODE and Shiny in R were used to design the remimazolam dosing regimens. A three-compartment model best described the PK of remimazolam and a two-compartment model with one transit compartment was adopted for CNS 7054. The relationship between exposure and the bispectral index was best described using an effect compartment model with an inhibitory sigmoid model. Additionally, a web-based dashboard was developed to provide individualized dosing regimens, complemented by a graphical illustration of the PK/PD profiles of the proposed dosing regimen. The established population PK/PD model characterized the dose–exposure–response relationship of remimazolam well, which could be applied to optimize individual dosing regimens. |
Keywords: | remimazolam;Monte Carlo simulation; population pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics models; individualized dosing regimens; web-based dashboard |