Digital Content Research Articles

Information value of latex test for pathogenic burkholderia serological diagnostics using microscopy and video digital recording system

Objective: the purpose of the work is assessment of the possibility of using instrumental assay to record the results of the latex test in the detection of pathogenic burkholderia. Monoclonal based latex agglutination test was prepared according to a previously developed technique. The latex agglutination test results were obtained using a “Nikon Eclipse TE 2000-U HMC/System microscope”, as w ell as the video-digital hardware-software com plex “Expert-lab”. The results of an objective assessment of the latex agglutination test were obtained using statistical analysis. The use of “Nikon Eclipse” microscope for visual accounting of microagglutination increased the sensitivity of the latex test to 1•107 CFU/ml. The “Expert-lab” make arrangements for quantitative assessment of the scanned image of the latex test results, which makes it possible to determine the threshold values for discrimination between positive and negative samples. Objective information about the presence or absence of agglutination is recorded. Numerical values of the latex test intensity between samples and controls are compared using system software. Also we can a possibility to save protocols and images of the study, to archive the obtained data. The use of “Nikon Eclipse TE 2000-U HMC/System” microscope for visual recording of the results and on the “Expert-lab” video digital system for objective evaluation of data when searching for pathogenic burkholderia allow s us to document and to archive the data obtained, to conduct in-laboratory quality control of studies and increase the sensitivity of the latex-agglutination reaction.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality: Reshaping the Future of Interactive Experiences

In the modern society, nowadays, Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are permeating into our daily lives. Not only it changes the way individuals interact with digital content, but also has a significant influence on urbanization, migration, social justice, urban right and so on. This paper aims at analyzing the potential of VR and AR, particularly in different areas of society as they transform society in different ways. Regarding the concepts above, it investigates how these technologies affect questions of urbanism, equality, mobility, prejudice, and rights in cities. Through the examination of the concepts of Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality and their utilization, the paper exposes the possibility of developing an equitable built environment in cities. In this paper, having provided an overview of the existing literature and cases, issues and prospects are revealed in VR and AR development. Thus, studies imply that the implementation of both VR and AR into the main urban planning and social policies can promote social equity and inclusion.

Advanced documentation technologies for people-centred preparedness and re-construction in Bela, India

PurposeDespite the recurrence of earthquakes, responses are usually triggered afterwards, lacking mitigation strategies to diminish risks. Damaged dwellings cannot be immediately reinforced to continue inhabitation, generating disruption. Repairs are usually costly, as large numbers of affected constructions make damage assessment difficult, and post-earthquake reconstruction programmes often lack a heritage-specific approach. This research seeks to address these issues through a methodology based on high-end documentation technologies applied to built heritage and local community engagement.Design/methodology/approach The methodology proposed combines different recording tools to capture social and built environment data, such as interviews, mapping, drone capture, photography and 3D laser scanning, in the pilot case study of Bela, a historical settlement in the seismic region of Kutch in Gujarat, India, affected by the 2001 Bhuj earthquake. This paper particularly discusses aspects of community engagement around data capture and representation processes.FindingsThe introduction of advanced documentation technologies can help speed up the process of damage assessment, analyse social aspects that are key to a respectful re-construction, and enhance community engagement through visual representations, which are relevant to social acceptance and understanding towards a meaningful introduction and sustained use in earthquake risk management.Research limitations/implicationsThe methodology proposed can inform similar cases in seismic areas and enhance engagement, helping to develop a sense of awareness in the community regarding the need for preparedness in the face of earthquakes. However, there are technical challenges in using advanced recording technologies in terms of equipment accessibility, skills, knowledge and future uses of the data. Social and cultural aspects, such as caste and gender divisions, also implied disparity in accessing the data and relating it to the research team, bringing forward the need to tailor public engagement to achieve inclusivity. Practical implicationsThis study has practical implications. The most relevant one is how the process of carrying out the research served as a way to raise awareness for future seismic events. In this regard, local academic institutions and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are critical mediators in reaching the community in greater depth, from which to bridge to external and/or governmental agencies based on existing links and trust.Social implicationsThis study also shows social implications. As a case study-based research, the link developed with the local community will help coordinate actions in case an earthquake occurs and increase cohesion within the community towards a joint aim, in this case, to reduce the risk of disasters due to seismic events.Originality/valueThis paper accounts for a novel approach to documenting buildings in heritage settlements prone to earthquakes that uses the digital record as (1) a basis to assess and intervene in the built environment and better understand how it supports the local community’s ways of living and maintaining buildings; and (2) a platform for local engagement and agency in planning and re-construction as a post-disaster mitigation measure.

A study on the digital restoration of an ancient city based on historic building information modeling of wooden architectural heritage: focusing on Suwon Hwaseong

This study describes the process of digitally reconstructing the ancient Korean city of Suwon Hwaseong in 3D utilizing Historic Building Information Modeling (HBIM) resources to accurately represent its wooden architectural heritage. Previous 3D reconstructions of cultural heritage have often prioritized appearance or remained partially disassembled. However, our reconstruction method offers a comprehensive representation of the appearance and the internal structure of wooden architectural heritage, which can be suitable for restoration maintenance. To ensure accuracy in digital restoration, we collected and utilized administrative records and historical materials, including the geography, fortress walls, folk houses, and Haenggung (the temporary palace of the Joseon Dynasty)—drawing from the archive of the Korean Cultural Heritage Service’s management records and the 1796 manuscript “Uigwe: Royal Protocols of the Hwaseong Fortress” which documents the construction of the ancient city of Suwon Hwaseong. Extensive architectural records were used to generate HBIM data, which digitized historical records, documents, and drawings to accurately represent the complex layout of the wooden architectural heritage. For the folk houses that lacked design records and the fortress walls that retained their original shape, we performed a digital restoration-based façade modeling. These elements of the ancient city of Suwon Hwaseong were assembled into a 3D model using Unreal Engine (version 5.1.1) to digitally reconstruct the city and enhance its visual representation. The digital restoration content, which utilizes visual effects and precise rendering from a game engine, can be used for the restoration, repair, and maintenance of both appearance and internal structures.

Estimating the impact on patient safety of enabling the digital transfer of patients’ prescription information in the English NHS

ObjectivesTo estimate the number and burden of medication errors associated with prescription information transfer within the National Health Service (NHS) in England and the impact of implementing an interoperable prescription...

Biomimetic Cooling: Functionalizing Biodegradable Chitosan Films with Saharan Silver Ant Microstructures.

The increasing occurrence of hot summer days causes stress to both humans and animals, particularly in urban areas where temperatures can remain high, even at night. Living nature offers potential solutions that require minimal energy and material costs. For instance, the Saharan silver ant (Cataglyphis bombycina) can endure the desert heat by means of passive radiative cooling induced by its triangular hairs. The objective of this study is to transfer the passive radiative cooling properties of the micro- and nanostructured chitin hairs of the silver ant body to technically usable, biodegradable and bio-based materials. The potential large-scale transfer of radiative cooling properties, for example, onto building exteriors such as house facades, could decrease the need for conventional cooling and, therefore, lower the energy demand. Chitosan, a chemically altered form of chitin, has a range of medical uses but can also be processed into a paper-like film. The procedure consists of dissolving chitosan in diluted acetic acid and uniformly distributing it on a flat surface. A functional structure can then be imprinted onto this film while it is drying. This study reports the successful transfer of the microstructure-based structural colors of a compact disc (CD) onto the film. Similarly, a polyvinyl siloxane imprint of the silver ant body shall make it possible to transfer cooling functionality to technically relevant surfaces. FTIR spectroscopy measurements of the reflectance of flat and structured chitosan films allow for a qualitative assessment of the infrared emissivity. A minor decrease in reflectance in a relevant wavelength range gives an indication that it is feasible to increase the emissivity and, therefore, decrease the surface temperature purely through surface-induced functionalities.

Measuring Exercise Self-Efficacy After Stroke: Validity and Reliability of Current Measures.

Many physically capable stroke survivors are insufficiently active, with low self-efficacy considered an important contributor. However, validity and reliability of self-efficacy measures in stroke survivors have not been established. This research aims to evaluate the test-retest reliability and construct validity of 3 self-efficacy measures: Self-Efficacy for Exercise Scale (SEE), Spinal Cord Injury Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale (SCI-ESES), and Participation Strategies Self-Efficacy Scale (PS-SES). A repeated measures study with community-dwelling, independently mobile adult stroke survivors (n=51, mean age 74years, 45% female, median 22months poststroke) was completed. Test-retest reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients and Bland-Altman analyses. Construct validity was assessed using 8 pre-determined hypotheses concerning physical activity level (subjective and objective), comorbidities, work and volunteering, and measures of function. Retest reliability was established for the SEE (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC=0.77) and PS-SES (ICC=0.78) but not for the SCI-ESES (ICC=0.68). Bland-Altman analysis showed participants consistently scored higher on the second test for all measures. The SEE achieved construct validity by meeting 75% of hypotheses, whereas the PS-SES and SCI-ESES did not. Self-efficacy was positively related to steps/day, functional capacity, self-reported activity levels, and work or volunteering participation. The SEE was found to be the most appropriate tool to measure exercise self-efficacy in independently mobile chronic stroke survivors in terms of retest reliability and validity. N/A. for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1 "Espernberger-JNPT-Video-Abstract," available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A489).

Do People With Stroke Meet Aerobic and Muscle-Strengthening Activity Guidelines? Data From the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

Background and Purpose: It is unclear to what extent Canadians with stroke engage in moderate-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and muscle-strengthening activities (MSA). The purpose of this study was to describe overall physical activity, aerobic MVPA, and MSA participation in Canadians with stroke; determine the functioning, disability, and health classes that best characterize this population; and examine the relationship between-class membership and physical activity participation. Methods: Activity levels were quantified using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly in 2094 adults with stroke or transient ischemic attack (mean age 67.9 years, 9.5 years poststroke) from the CLSA. Means and percentages were used to characterize participation. Latent class analysis was used to create health and disability classes, and activity levels were compared between classes. Results: Only 6.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 4.8%-8.0%) met both MVPA and MSA guidelines. Most (88.2%, 95% CI, 85.0%-88.9%) engaged in MVPA <3 times/wk and 76.7% (95% CI, 73.7%-79.1%) never engaged in MSA. In latent class analyses, 2 classes for males and females were characterized by high-positive or low-negative levels of intrinsic capacity (eg, grip strength), functional mobility (eg, walking speed), and environment (eg, social support). Those in the low-negative classes had the lowest Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly scores and aerobic MVPA levels compared to the high-positive (healthiest) classes. MSA participation was not different between classes. Discussion and Conclusions: Canadians with stroke are not engaging in sufficient physical activity. Clinicians should encourage regular participation in physical activity, especially among those with lower levels of intrinsic capacity, functional mobility, and environmental support. Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see Supplementary Digital Content 3 available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A494).

Examination of Proprioceptive Reliance During Backward Walking in Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis

Background: Slowed somatosensory conduction in multiple sclerosis (MS) increases postural instability and decreases proprioception. Despite these delays, individuals with MS rely more on proprioception for balance compared to controls. This heightened reliance, combined with slowed signal transduction, increases fall risk. Backward walking (BW) increases proprioceptive reliance by reducing visual cues. However, no study has conclusively linked proprioception to BW. This study aims to assess proprioception’s role in BW compared to forward walking (FW) in MS and to compare differences in proprioception between MS fallers and non-fallers. Methods: Fifty participants (average age: 50.34 ± 11.84, median Patient Determined Disease Steps [PDDS]: 2) completed the study. Participants completed BW and FW at comfortable and fast speeds. We have previously established vibration sensation as a proxy measure for proprioception. Vibration thresholds were quantified at the great toe bilaterally using a 2-alternative forced-choice procedure. Results: Significant correlations were seen for vibration sensation and FW comfortable (ρ = 0.35), FW fast (ρ = 0.34), BW comfortable (ρ = 0.46), and BW fast (ρ = 0.46). After controlling for age, sex, and PDDS, vibration sensation significantly predicted performance during all walking tasks, with larger beta coefficients seen during BW (comfortable β = 0.57; fast β = 0.58) compared to FW (comfortable β = 0.41; fast β = 0.45). Fallers performed significantly worse than non-fallers for vibration sensation (P = 0.04). Discussion and Conclusions: Considering the notable decrease in proprioception in participants with MS and the clear distinction between fallers and non-fallers, it is crucial to conduct fall risk assessments and interventions focusing on proprioception. With its heightened reliance on proprioception, BW offers a promising method for assessing fall risk and could be an effective exercise intervention. Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Supplemental Digital Content available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A490).

Materializing Digital Archaeology: Managing 3D Models

The archaeological record is fragmented yet the artifacts and data that comprise it are used to make vast claims about human nature and behavior, and about past and contemporary cultures and societies (Huggett, 2012; Huvila, 2019). The digital archaeological record is further fragmented by the rarity of digitization (due to resource and time constraints) and the loss of information through the digitization process Huvila & Huggett, 2018; Schroer & Mudge, 2017). Due to the lack of connection between the physical artifacts and their digital instantiations (as 3D models, metadata records, scanned images, etc.) it is difficult to understand what contextual information has been lost and/or altered from the physical data. This results in knowledge and information claims based on limited and biased data which can lead to an exacerbation of the silences and gaps in the archaeological record (Huggett, 2020) which 1) reduces the accuracy of archaeological research and 2) can differentially harm marginalized communities because, like archival records, the archaeological record can be used to assert “master” or “grand” narratives (Bastian, 2009; Carbajal & Caswell, 2021). This Work-in-Progress poster is focused on information loss during the 3D modeling of archaeological artifacts. I posit that instead of understanding 3D models of artifacts as singular sources of information, they should be treated as one component of a complex resource. However, it has been difficult to find my way through the required reorientation of concepts like materiality from the digital humanities (Drucker, 2013; Kirschenbaum, 2012) and to implement this reorientation in practice.

Atypical PC-BPPV – Cupulolithiasis and Short-Arm Canalithiasis: A Retrospective Observational Study

Background and Purpose: Atypical posterior canal (pc) benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) may be caused by cupulolithiasis (cu), short arm canalithiasis (ca), or jam. The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical presentation and differential diagnosis of pc-BPPV-cu and short arm canalithiasis. Methods: This retrospective observation study identified persons with atypical pc-BPPV based on history and findings from four positional tests. Patterns of nystagmus suggested canal involved and mechanism of BPPV. Interventions included canalith repositioning procedures (CRP). Results: Fifteen persons, 17 episodes of care, met inclusion criteria, 65% referred following unsuccessful CRPs. Symptoms included persistent, non-positional unsteadiness, “floating” sensation, with half experiencing nausea/vomiting. Downbeat nystagmus with/without torsion in Dix-Hallpike (DH) and Straight Head Hang (SHH) position and no nystagmus upon sitting up, occurred in 76% of persons attributed to pc-BPPV-cu. Upbeat nystagmus with/without torsion and vertigo/retropulsion upon sitting up, occurred in 24% attributed to pc-BPPV-ca short arm. During SHH, canal conversion from pc-BPPV-cu to long arm canalithiasis occurred in 31%. The Half-Hallpike position identified pc-BPPV-cu in 71%. The Inverted Release position identified pc-BPPV-cu adjacent short arm and pc-BPPV-ca short arm. Discussion and Conclusion: Persistent, peripheral nystagmus that is downbeat or downbeat/torsion away from involved ear in provoking positions and no nystagmus sitting up, may be attributed to pc-BPPV-cu, and nystagmus that is upbeat or upbeat/torsion towards involved ear upon sitting up may be attributed to pc-BPPV-ca short arm. Both are effectively treated with canal- and mechanism-specific CRPs. Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1 available at: (http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A487).

EFEKTIVITAS PELATIHAN PEMBUATAN KONTEN DIGITAL DALAM MENINGKATKAN PEMASARAN PRODUK KELOMPOK WANITA TANI (KWT) PANCASONA

The Women Farmers Group (KWT) Pancasona, located in the Dephan Pondok Rajeg Asri complex, manages 5 plot areas and 1 greenhouse, focusing on providing organic vegetables. However, they face challenges in effectively utilizing social media to promote their harvests and sales, particularly in digital content creation. This community service initiative aims to provide training in digital content creation using the Canva application to enhance product marketing through social media. The methods used include observation to identify the problems faced by the partners, preparation of appropriate training materials, conducting training and mentoring in technology-based content creation with Canva, and evaluation to measure participants' understanding after the training. The results show that participants' understanding of the Canva application increased from 61% in the pretest to 92% in the posttest. Feedback from questionnaires indicated high satisfaction with the materials, facilities, and benefits of the training. Overall, this activity was effective in improving the knowledge and skills of participants, helping to provide solutions to marketing problems by optimizing social media use.

Health Promotion and Physical Wellness in Pediatric Physical Therapy.

A health promotion and physical wellness (HPPW) life course approach for pediatric physical therapy (PT) is recommended to improve children's health outcomes across the lifespan. A life course approach describes how a child's individual responses to environmental factors influence health outcomes. Using HPPW strategies, pediatric physical therapists can identify health risks and promote positive outcomes. Outcome measures and intervention recommendations are outlined to assist therapists in integrating HPPW strategies to ensure a longitudinal plan of care and optimal health outcomes for children. A child's health trajectory begins in the prenatal period and is influenced by individual and environmental factors. Pediatric PT uses child- and family-centered approaches and environmental assessments to design plans of care that address child and family HPPW goals. Incorporating HPPW strategies into pediatric PT facilitates positive health and physical wellness across a child's lifespan.See the video abstract for insights from the authors. Supplemental digital content available at https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/3g468hj1rpxrrivbeses0/HPPW-Video-Abstract_1080.mp4?rlkey=4p1i8z1gynroz064zpx3alijz&st=8u0gqemz&dl=0.

Understanding Behavior Change in Clinical Practice Guideline Implementation: A Qualitative Study

Background and Purpose: Growing numbers of clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) are available to neurologic physical therapists to guide and inform evidence-based patient care. Adherence to CPG recommendations often necessitates behavior change for therapists and patients. The purpose of this qualitative study was to gain insight into the experiences, perspectives, and drivers of behavioral change for therapists working to improve adherence to a CPG. We also sought to understand the perspectives of patients impacted by this work. Methods: Five sites participated in a 6-month implementation study integrating a CPG into local practice using the Knowledge to Action model. At the conclusion of the intervention, therapists and patients were recruited to participate in semi-structured interviews or focus groups. An inductive phenomenological approach was used for data analysis. Two authors coded data to generate primary themes. A secondary analysis used the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behavior (COM-B) model to explain the drivers of behavior change for therapists and patients. Results: Perspectives from 16 therapists generated 6 themes around feedback/accountability, teamwork/belonging, complexity/adaptability, leadership/prioritization, engagement/benefit, and motivation/growth. Twelve patients’ perspectives generated 2 themes around communication/personalization and support/recovery. Drivers for behavior change associated with the COM-B model are highlighted. Discussion and Conclusions: Therapist adherence to CPG recommendations was supported by inclusive and goal-directed teams, regular quantitative audit and feedback, opportunities for learning, and a sense of accountability to their coworkers, patients, and themselves. Patients’ engagement in rehabilitation was supported by personalized education, objective measures of progress, and a strong therapeutic relationship. Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A491).

Exploring Natural Language Processing through an Exemplar Using YouTube.

There has been a growing emphasis on data across various health-related fields, not just in nursing research, due to the increasing volume of unstructured data in electronic health records (EHRs). Natural Language Processing (NLP) provides a solution by transforming this unstructured data into structured formats, thereby facilitating valuable insights. This methodology paper explores the application of NLP in nursing, using an exemplar case study that analyzes YouTube data to investigate social phenomena among adults living alone. The methodology involves five steps: accessing data through YouTube's API, data cleaning, preprocessing (tokenization, sentence segmentation, linguistic normalization), sentiment analysis using Python, and topic modeling. This study serves as a comprehensive guide for integrating NLP into nursing research, supplemented with digital content demonstrating each step. For successful implementation, nursing researchers must grasp the fundamental concepts and processes of NLP. The potential of NLP in nursing is significant, particularly in utilizing unstructured textual data from nursing documentation and social media. Its benefits include streamlining nursing documentation, enhancing patient communication, and improving data analysis.

Provincial Drag in the Philippine Tropics: Towards a Decolonial Queer Tropical Aesthetics

Drag, in its neoliberal permutation, has become the most consumed queer art form everywhere in the world. The popularity of drag is often attributed to the bourgeoning empire of the Drag Race franchise. While the cultural phenomenon that is Drag Race has constructed a platform for drag to thrive in the mainstream scene, it has also created a limited and hegemonic understanding of drag as simply glamour and superstardom. This essay problematizes what has become “homonormative drag” and outlines the need to turn to pluriversal drag aesthetic praxes. It is argued that deploying a decolonial queer tropical lens, following Rolando Vazquez’s decolonial aesthesis and Samantha Nöel’s tropical aesthetics, opens our understanding of drag to situated local experiences in the tropics. This essay, unpacks the aesthetics of what I call “provincial drag,” found in the digital content produced by queer subjects in the Philippine provinces, to illustrate and re-locate the critical function of drag not simply for gender subversion, but also to laugh at neoliberal and colonial projects.

The effect of the molting cycle on the acoustic characteristics of clicks emitted by Litopenaeus vannamei

In penaeid shrimp, the mandibles are responsible for emitting click sounds when they collide during food intake, which has been used to assess feeding activity by passive acoustic monitoring. However, the acoustic parameters of the clicks could be affected by variations in the thickness of mandible cuticle during the molting cycle. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the molting cycle on the acoustic characteristics of clicks emitted during the feeding activity of Litopenaeus vannamei fed commercial pelleted diet. Shrimp with an average weight of 8.75 ± 1.05 g were individually maintained in 24 tanks in a recirculating water system. A total of 12 animals had their feeding activity individually recorded soon after ecdysis (postmolt group), while another 12 were recorded in the middle of their molting cycle (intermolt group). Recordings took place in anechoic chambers with a hydrophone connected to a digital recorder (sampling rate of 192 kHz), and the click acoustic parameters were characterized in Raven® 1.5 Pro software. After the recordings, the shrimp had their mandibles removed for length measurement and histological analysis of the mandibular cuticle. Body (weight and length) and mandibular measurements did not differ between shrimp groups, but those in the postmolt stage showed significantly lower cuticle thickness. The acoustic characteristics of the clicks were affected by shrimp molting stages, with significantly lower maximum energy (dB) and maximum frequency (kHz) in postmolt shrimp, probably related to their lower mandibular cuticle thickness. These results may contribute to the assessment of shrimp feeding behavior associated with the molting cycle, as well as to the optimization of algorithms controlling acoustic automatic feeders in farming systems.

Precision Seismicity of the San Andreas Fault System in Central California: Insights into Active Tectonics and Earthquake Physics

Since the late 1960s, seismicity of the San Andreas Fault system in central California has been under intense observation by U. S. Geological Survey’s Northern California Seismic Network (NCSN). Designed to provide accurate focal depth control and a low magnitude of catalog completeness, the network maps fault, both large and small across the full breadth of this 400-kilometer-long portion of the plate boundary, including many that are known only from their seismicity. Beginning in 1984, with the advent of routine digital recording, new opportunities were created to significantly enhance the spatial resolution of seismicity. This led to the co-evolution of method that take full advantage of digital waveforms and new insights into the nature of seismicity and faults. Collectively referred to as precision seismicity, discoveries included repeating earthquakes and highly organized and stable distributions of seismicity on major faults. Long term observation of seismicity before and after the six largest earthquakes over the last half-century underscore the outstanding challenges for earthquake predictability and theories of earthquake nucleation.

Red Mud as a Potential Catalyst for Petrochemicals Production from Oxygenated Aromatic Plastic Wastes via Fast Pyrolysis

The increased rate of post‐use accumulation of the heteroatom‐containing plastic wastes like polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC) and polyurethane (PU) in the environment propels the research for effective and sustainable valorization. In this study, PET from bottle waste, PC from compact discs and PU from waste wind turbine blade were characterized and employed for fast pyrolysis experiments. Importantly, red mud (RM), a mixed oxide, rich in Fe, Al, Si, Na and Ca, was used as a catalyst for fast pyrolysis. The effects of temperature and feed‐to‐catalyst ratio on product yields were studied to elucidate the product formation mechanism. Benzoic acid and its derivatives, bisphenol‐A and oxygenated aromatics, and 4,4’‐methylenebisbenzamine were the major products obtained from the non‐catalytic fast pyrolysis of PET, PC and PU, respectively. The use of RM improved the yield of aromatic hydrocarbons from PET to 27.8 wt.% at 550°C, phenolics from PC to 46.6 wt.% at 550°C, and 4,4’‐methylenebisbenzamine to 34.9 wt.% at 650oC. The catalytic activity of RM is ascribed to the presence of active basic sites. The present study paves the path for the catalytic upcycling of challenging plastic wastes using industrial waste like RM as a sustainable catalyst from a circular economy viewpoint.

Regimes of Self-Presentation and Digital Street Credibility: How Urban Youth Negotiate Online and Offline Visibility

AbstractDrawing on a study of how young people in Switzerland appropriate urban public space, this article explores what we term “regimes of self-presentation” among youth in both online and offline spaces. We address issues of privacy and power that help shape such regimes by applying an expanded notion of street credibility that encompasses digital practices. Our concept of “digital street credibility” recognizes how, in today’s world, any social or cultural practices engaged in by youth have two potential types of audiences. One is physically present, consisting of other users of urban public space. The second audience is media-based, consisting of people with access to live or prerecorded digital content captured on smartphones and shared on social networks. This situation has forced young people to develop new and specific social conventions governing self-presentation. The article highlights the complex and perilous nature of visibility management. Where privacy and power relations are concerned, a very thin line separates behavior that enhances an individual’s social status from actions considered “embarrassing” or “cringe.” Our results show how, in the streets as well as online, acceptable forms of visibility are determined on the basis of digital street credibility. These findings suggest a need to reconsider young people’s understanding of privacy, as it relates to their leisure activities in urban and digital spaces.