bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Gastropods from Texas, the Western Caribbean, and Southern Brazil
Authors: Petuch Edward , Berschauer David
Published: September 2021

For inclusion within a new reference text on marine molluscan biogeography, four new gastropods are described here in anticipation of the publication of the book. These include: Stramonita alderi n. sp. (Muricidae) from the Texan Subprovince, Carolinian Province; Turritella (Torcula) howardpetersi n. sp. (Turritellidae) and Prunum sunderlandorum n. sp. (Marginellidae) from the Nicaraguan Subprovince, Caribbean Province; and Charonia marylenae n. sp. Charoniidae) from the Janeiran Subprovince, Paulinian Province.
Large Eastern Cuban Slugs: Overview of an Enigmatic and Forgotten Group
Authors: González-Guillén Adrián , Méndez-Hernández Abelardo , Álvarez-Lajonchere Luis
Published: September 2021

New findings of larger slugs from different localities of eastern Cuba, belonging to the family Veronicellidae (Gray, 1840), are revealed. Three of these species could be new to science. This paper verifies the geographic distribution, color forms and sizes, based on the evidence known to date.
The Never Spoken Poignant Connection Between Cuban Tree Snails and Carpentry/Crafts/Art: the case of Polymita and Liguus
Authors: González-Guillén Adrián , Berschauer David , Pérez-Rivero Roberto , Méndez-Hernández Abelardo
Published: September 2021

The extinction of endemic Cuban tree snail colonies are shown to be directly caused by habitat fragmentation due to deforestation. Hardwood extraction and exploitation started in the 16 th century and has steadily increased throughout the Cuban archipelago. This article is the first investigation into the connection between overexploitation of natural resources by local communities and the extinction of Cuban tree snail colonies. The authors have compiled a list of 345 hardwood trees species, many of which have been clear cut and over used by Cuban farmers, carpenters, artists and crafts people. Of those hardwood tree species, 84 species are known to be host plants for endemic Cuban Liguus and Polymita tree snails. Since the late 1960s, there has been an accelerated demand for hardwood for traditional craftworks. That demand became more aggressive after the opening of the country to international tourism in the 1990s. This desire for exotic hardwoods has endangered both the precious hardwood tree species and the endemic tree snail species that inhabit them. It is our hope that with the development of field guides on endemic Cuban hardwood tree species that educators can raise awareness of this issue while discouraging unmanaged or uncontrolled harvesting of these hardwoods in Cuba. Encouraging artists and crafts people to create miniature wood sculptures could be an alternative sustainable solution.
A new species of Quasimitra (Gastropoda: Mitridae: Mitrinae) from Indonesia
Authors: Dharma Bunjamin
Published: September 2021

Several specimens of a new species of Quasimitra Fedosov, Herrmann, Kantor & Bouchet, 2018 were found off Bungin Island, North West of Sumbawa Island in Nusa Tenggara Islands, Indonesia. The shell is different from other species in the family Mitridae Swainson, 1831, and is compared to other species in the genus Quasimitra Fedosov, Herrmann, Kantor & Bouchet, 2018.
E-commerce Web App in Azure Cloud: Considerations, Components of Implementation and Schematic Design
Authors: Al-Mahrouqi Rasha , Al Siyabi Khalsa , Al Nabhani Amani , Al-Hashemi Salma , Ali Muhammed Shoukath
Published: September 2021

Consumers shifted their spending to the web due to the coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak. Businesses and organizations that once mapped digital strategy with careful planning over a transition period, now forced to scale their initiatives in a matter of days. In this regard, we are motivated by the need to develop a scalable, highly available, resilient, secure, and cost-effective e-commerce web application for demonstrating how cloud services can be leveraged for implementing such applications.

This paper is a part of the aforementioned web application development project, titled “A cloud-based e-commerce storefront prototype for SMEs in Oman”. In this paper, we discuss the system considerations, components of implementation, and the schematic design of the proposed software solution.

This paper provides meaningful guidelines for companies that want to adopt cloud-based E-commerce web application to bring their products and services online without much upfront cost or initial investment.
Effects of Coronavirus Pandemic on Young Adults’ Ability to Access Health Services and Practice Recommended Preventive Measures
Authors: Nalukwago Judith , Olapeju Bolanle , Passaniti Anna , Kimbowa Musa , Ciloglu Arzum , Mkandawire Glory , Kabanda Richard , Storey Douglas
Published: September 2021

Given the limited attention to young adults as key contributors to the spread of COVID-19 in Uganda, this study examines the effects of the outbreak on the ability of young adults aged 18-29 to access health services and practice preventive measures. A national population-based mobile phone survey was conducted in December 2020. Multivariable regression analyses were used to explore the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to health care services. Control variables included region, education level, parity, and source of health information. The majority (98%) perceived COVID-19 as a serious threat to Ugandans. Although the majority reported handwashing (97%) and masking (92%), fewer respondents avoided shaking hands (39%), ensured physical distancing (57%), avoided groups of more than four people (43%), stayed home most days (30%), avoided touching eyes, nose, and mouth (14%), and practiced sneezing/coughing into their elbow (7%). Participants noted that the COVID-19 pandemic affected their ability to access family planning (40%), HIV (49%), maternal health (55%), child health (56%), and malaria (63%) services. The perceived effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on services was higher for those in the Northern region (OR= 2.00, 95% CI 1.00-4.02), those with higher education OR= 2.26, 95% CI 1.28-3.99), those with five plus children (OR= 2.05, 95% CI 0.92-4.56), and those who trust radio for COVID-19 information (OR= 1.65, 95% CI 1.01-2.67). The findings show the pragmatic importance of understanding the dynamic characteristics and behavioral patterns of young adults in the context of COVID-19 to inform targeted programming.
A micro-computed tomography evaluation of the change in volume of different bulk-fill composite materials caused by polymerization shrinkage
Authors: Cangül Suzan , Adıgüzel Özkan , Sağmak Savaş , Evran Begüm
Published: September 2021

Aim: Composite resins contain different monomers and fillers that are directly affected by polymerization shrinkage.  Therefore, an accurate and reliable method is needed to measure the volume changes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the amount of volume change associated with polymerization shrinkage in four different bulk-fill composite materials in class II restorations using a micro-CT device, which has high resolution and provides 3-dimensional images.

Methodology: A total of 40 human 3rd molar teeth were used. First, standard class II cavities were opened on the mesial surfaces of all the teeth, and then the first micro-CT images were obtained. The same adhesive material was applied to all the teeth. The teeth were then separated into four groups, and a different bulk-fill composite was applied to each group; Filtek (FTK), X-tra Fil (XTF), Tetric Evo Ceram (TEC), and Filtek One (FLO) and the second micro-CT images were obtained. Then after polymerization of the materials, the final micro-CT images were taken, and analyses were made according to the scanning results. The Kruskal Wallis and Mann Whitney U-tests were used in the statistical evaluation of the data. 

Results: The volumetric gap formed after polymerization of the composite resins was not determined to be statistically significant (p>0.05).

Conclusion: The volumetric difference (%) between the composite resin and the dental tissue following polymerization was seen to be greatest in XTF and least in FTK. It was concluded that the volumetric gap caused by the polymerization shrinkage of the tested materials may be due to the structure of the material.

 

How to cite this article: Cangül S, Adıgüzel Ö, Sağmak S, Evran B. A micro-computed tomography evaluation of the change in volume of different bulk-fill composite materials caused by polymerization shrinkage. Int Dent Res 2021;11(2):75-82. https://doi.org/10.5577/intdentres.2021.vol11.no2.4

 

Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
Transverse dentofacial dimensions according to skeletal maturation
Authors: Sezen Erhamza Türkan , Akan Burçin , Nazik Ünver Fatma , Dalgalı Evli Perihan
Published: September 2021

Aim: This study aimed to determine the dentofacial transverse dimensions according to the hand-wrist and cervical vertebrae skeletal maturation stages in order to evaluate the differences between the sexes, to identify the correlations between transverse measurements, and to compare the transverse measurements of individuals of different origins with those of Turkish individuals.

Methodology: Transverse measurements were performed using the posteroanterior radiographs of 265 Turkish individuals (150 females, 115 males) at 7–17 years of age. Skeletal maturation was evaluated using hand-wrist radiographs and lateral cephalometric radiographs, and the results were used to categorize the patients into 3 stages of hand-wrist skeletal maturity (prepubertal/pubertal/postpubertal) and 2 stages of cervical vertebrae maturity (prespurt/postspurt). Seven measurements were evaluated. A multivariate linear regression model was used to evaluate the correlations between transverse measurements and the variables of skeletal age and sex.

Results: Sex was a significant explanatory factor for all transverse variables. In the postpubertal and postspurt stages, all transverse measurement values were found to be higher in males. Postpubertal term was a significant explanatory factor for maxillary, mandibular, mandibular intermolar, and maxillary intermolar widths, whereas pubertal term was only a significant explanatory factor for maxillary intermolar width.

Conclusion: Skeletal age and sex should be taken into account when determining transverse dentofacial measurements.

 

How to cite this article: Sezen Erhamza T, Akan B, Nazik Ünver F, Evli Dalgalı P. Transverse dentofacial dimensions according. Int Dent Res 2021;11(2):99-108. https://doi.org/10.5577/intdentres.2021.vol11.no2.7

 

Linguistic Revision: The English in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
Evaluating the masking ability of CAD/CAM hybrid ceramics with different thicknesses
Authors: Ünalan Değirmenci Beyza , RASOOL Farhad Wahid
Published: September 2021

Aim:  A discoloration existing under the restoration can affect the final restoration color, and various techniques can be used to address this situation. The aim of this study was to investigate the masking ability of the substructure, color of different hybrid CAD/CAM ceramics in various thicknesses.

Methodology: A total of 120 samples were produced from 4 different CAD/CAM hybrid ceramic blocks (Cerec blocs, GC Cerasmart, Vita Enamic, 3M Lava Ultimate) in 1, 1.5 and 2 mm thickness. The samples were sliced with 100 N pressure in a low-speed precision cutting device under water cooling. The specimens were placed over the neutral grey background for initial spectrophotometric measurements. A3 color posterior nanohybrid composite (14 X 7 X 1 mm) was preferred to mimic discoloration in the substructure. The cementation procedure of composite and the CAD/CAM hybrid ceramic complex was standardized under 10 N continuous pressure and was performed using a dual cured resin cement. All samples were incubated at 37 °C for 24 hours in incubator after cementation. And the second spectrophotometeric measurement was done via the L*, a*, and b* color attributes of the complex specimens. Additionally, ΔE* values were calculated to determine the color differences between each group. Kruskal Wallis test was used for statistical analysis and Dunn’s test was used for group comparison. Significance was evaluated at least p <0.05.

Results: It was found that thickness of the ceramics increases, the substructure color is better masked and the thickness made a statistically significant difference on the masking ability (p<0.01). For 1 mm thick samples, the highest ΔE* value was found in Cerec blocs with 9.36, while the lowest value was found in GC Cerasmart as 4.27.

Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that the tested CAD/CAM hybrid ceramics showed better masking ability than Cerec blocs.

 

How to cite this article: Ünalan Değirmenci B, Wahid WF. Evaluating the masking ability of CAD/CAM hybrid ceramics with different thicknesses. Int Dent Res 2021;11(2):114-20. https://doi.org/10.5577/intdentres.2021.vol11.no1.9

 

Linguistic Revision: The English language in this manuscript has been checked by at least two professional editors, both native speakers of English.
GENESIS AND DEVELOPMENT OF TRAINING AND IMPROVEMENT OF MANAGERIAL STAFF IN THE POLISH POLICE
Authors: MISIUK ANDRZEJ
Published: September 2021

The article presents the establishment of the training as well as the professional development of the Polish police managerial staff in the early 1990s. It was closely related to the transformation of police services, which consisted, among other things, in a thorough personnel exchange, especially of the managerial staff. The subsequent stages of shaping the model of training police executives in the second half of the 1990s, which was associated with the creation of a personnel reserve, were then characterised. The 1998 reform of the territorial administration system also had a signifi cant impact on human resources and the training policy.
EXPERIENCE OF THE POLICE ACADEMY IN SZCZYTNO IN TRAINING LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES INVOLVED IN PREVENTING AND COMBATTING HUMAN TRAFFICKING
Authors: MALINOWSKA IRENA
Published: September 2021

Organised crime, including human traffi cking, is one of the most serious crimes against persons and violations of human rights. Human trafficking is a complex illegal business and, in most cases, involves activities undertaken by international organised crime gangs. Human traffi cking combines aspects of human life in terms of limitating freedom to enjoy it. This publication intends to standardise the existing theories and defi nitions and to collect and systematise the knowledge of the experience of the Police Academy in Szczytno in training law enforcement services involved in preventing and combatting human traffi cking. The study presents a number of activities undertaken since 2006 by the Academy, whose aim has been to provide training for the relevant services responsible for combatting transnational organised crime, and for preventing and combatting human traffi cking.
FORENSIC TECHNIQUES AT THE POLICE ACADEMY IN SZCZYTNO AFTER 1990
Authors: KĘDZIERSKA GRAŻYNA
Published: September 2021

In 2020, it has been thirty years since the Police Academy in Szczytno was established. The article discusses how, over these years, forensic techniques have been taught through the prism of individuals, types of training courses, number of teaching hours, conferences, symposia, publications, research projects and coursebooks. The text has been prepared based on an analysis of the available printed and online publications as well as on interviews with former and current employees of the Police Academy in Szczytno. The research question to be answered is whether the process of teaching forensic techniques has changed over the last 30 years.
Characteristics of Polymeric Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composite (PFRCC) under Uniaxial Compression
Authors: Said Shwan Hussain , Abdulhaleem Khamees Nayyef , Al-Shaar Ahmed Abdalhafedh Mustafa
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the compressive characteristics and toughness of polymeric fiber reinforced cementitious composites (PFRCC). In the experimental program, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers were used to prepare two groups of PFRCC cylinders with different fiber contents. The main factor considered in this study was the reinforcing index. Several parameters were investigated, i.e. compressive strength, elastic modulus, strain at peak stress, Poisson’s ratio and toughness of PFRCC. The results revealed that there was a reduction in both compressive strength and elastic modulus as the reinforcing index increased, while a significant increase in the strain at peak stress was observed. Moreover, a comparison was made between different methods of toughness estimation and it was found that 7.9 was the best reinforcing index for PVA fibers  based on the energy absorption performance and ductility of PFRCC. Furthermore, an empirical model is proposed in this paper to predict the PFRCC-PVA compressive stress-strain curve. The proposed model features new formulas to calculate a number of important coefficients to plot the curve based on the reinforcing index value. Besides that, the model had good convergence compared to the experimental results, with perfect values for both variance and correlation coefficient.
Pelagic Biodiversity, Ecosystem Function, and Services: An Integrated Observing and Modeling Approach
Authors:   NOAA, Santora Jarrod , Schroeder Isaac , Bograd Steven , Chavez Francisco , Cimino Megan , Fiechter Jerome , Hazen Elliott , Kavanaugh Maria , Messié Monique , Miller Rebecca , Sakuma Keith , Sydeman William , Wells Brian , Field John
Published: September 2021

Our synthesis combines inferences from a long-term fisheries monitoring survey and principles of ecosystem oceanography to inform and benefit biodiversity monitoring and modeling studies within the California Current Large Marine Ecosystem. We review the history, research, and application of the Rockfish Recruitment and Ecosystem Assessment Survey, highlighting how one survey of life can illuminate understanding of pelagic biodiversity patterns and ecosystem function (from micronekton to top predators to ecosystem services) that may be easily extended to other surveys to strengthen observation networks. Biodiversity is often used as the standard for understanding ecosystem resilience to climate or anthropogenic disturbances. This concept is central to our review, and we examine it in relation to complex impacts resulting from a recent climate event (a marine heatwave) on biodiversity, ecosystem function, and socioeconomic services. We present a system of interconnected modules that summarize and illustrate patterns of pelagic biodiversity using a phylogenetic approach, known modulations and environmental drivers of variability (i.e., source waters, habitat compression, and ecosystem shifts), remote sensing and modeling tools for monitoring biodiversity (i.e., seascapes and krill hotspot models), and the status of top predator biodiversity. We use these modules to summarize connections between biodiversity and ecosystem services provided. Following each module, a brief discussion of questions raised and recommendations for future studies and partnerships is provided to improve future integrative biodiversity monitoring. Additionally, we invested in promoting data accessibility and outreach, resulting in several data visualization and ecosystem context tools for biodiversity monitoring and fisheries management. We advocate that a diverse integrated ecosystem approach should result in fewer ecological surprises by putting past events and surprises into context, and thus better anticipating those yet to arrive. Building partnerships among researchers and coastal communities will result in increased capacity of analytical tools and perspectives to ensure sustainable use of fishery resources, while strengthening the resilience of fishing communities.
Improve and Gain Efficiency in Winter Operations
Authors: Iyer Ananth V. , Dunlop Steven R. , Senicheva Olga , Thakkar Dutt J. , Yan Ruier , Subramanian Karthikeyan , Vasu Suraj , Siddharthan Gokul , Vasandani Juily , Saurabh Srijan
Published: September 2021

This report analyzes the current service level of winter operations in Indiana and explores opportunities to optimize performance. We analyze data regarding winter operations managed by INDOT and provide specific quantified estimates of opportunities to improve efficiency while also managing costs. For our exploration, we use data provided by INDOT sources, qualitative insights from interviews with INDOT personnel, literature survey data and benchmarking information, salt and supplier data analysis, and simulation. As part of our research, we developed a simulation model to visually represent the impact of alternate management of trucks for snow removal and a dashboard to understand the impact. Our analysis suggests the following: (1) opportunities exist to coordinate salt delivery by suppliers and combine local city salt purchases with INDOT’s purchases to save costs, (2) adjusting routes will reduce deadhead, (3) understanding truck maintenance and truck locations improves performance, and (4) incorporating critical locations into snow route planning will meet service thresholds. These insights provide implementable recommendation initiatives to improve winter operations performance. The simulation tool developed in this project simulates various weather events to draw insights and determine appropriate resource allocations and opportunities for improving operational efficiency. The report thus provides a quantifiable approach to winter operations that can improve the overall service level and efficiency of the process.
Kommunalrecht Rheinland-Pfalz
Authors: Stubenrauch Hubert
Published: September 2021

Das Kompendium bereitet in übersichtlicher und systematischer Form das Kommunalrecht des Bundeslandes Rheinland-Pfalz auf. Es wendet sich insbesondere an die Studierenden der Rechtswissenschaften an den Universitäten sowie der Hochschule für öffentliche Verwaltung Rheinland-Pfalz. Es soll aber auch den mit kommunalrechtlichen Fragen befassten Praktikerinnen und Praktiker in der öffentlichen Verwaltung sowie den vielen Ehrenamtlichen in der Kommunalpolitik sachkundigen Rat geben.

Das Werk von Hubert Stubenrauch beruht auf den Erfahrungen des Autors als langjähriger Referatsleiter für Kommunalverfassungsrecht im rheinland-pfälzischen Innenministerium, als Referent bei Fortbildungsveranstaltungen der Kommunalakademie Rheinland-Pfalz sowie als ehemaliger Fraktionsvorsitzender in einem Stadtrat.

Neben den allgemeinen kommunalrechtlichen Themen geht das Kompendium vor allem auf die sich aus der besonderen Kommunalstruktur des Bundeslandes ergebenden Fragen ein.
Die Sprache der Populisten
Authors: Schaefer Johannes
Published: September 2021

Language constitutes the arena of political debate and is therefore itself the object of political struggle. But what language do populists speak? Existing research on this subject attests to its importance without being able to substantiate this empirically. This study examines the election programmes of the parties and the first ‘general debate’ in the 19th German Bundestag in order to understand what is really specific to populists’ use of language. Starting from a broad understanding of language, the author develops the theoretical concept of party language and applies a modified variant of linguistic multilevel discourse analysis. In the end, he identifies six characteristics of the language of populists.
Datenschutzrechtliche Aspekte neuer Mobilitätskonzepte im Öffentlichen Nahverkehr
Authors: Bretthauer Sebastian , Müllmann Dirk , Spiecker gen. Döhmann Indra
Published: September 2021

New digital mobility concepts for public transport involve data protection and IT security issues that can be addressed through smart regulation and intelligent design.

The data protection challenges of new intelligent and digitalized mobility concepts in public transport are highlighted, and legal regulatory gaps are identified and analyzed in order to derive concrete recommendations for action.

The book addresses the data protection challenges of new autonomous and networked mobility concepts in local public transport, identifies legal regulatory gaps and develops recommendations for action for the design of data protection-compliant concepts.
Maßstäbe demokratischer Legitimation
Authors: Brandl-Michel Philipp
Published: September 2021

The concept of democratic legitimization is used in various disciplines and also in different legal contexts. However, it is regularly not a matter of one and the same legal standard; rather, German constitutional law and EU primary law appear to contain very different approaches. There are also certain shifts in discourse between jurisprudence and legal scholarship. The thesis differentiates methodologically and disciplinarily in order to put the different positions in relation to each other and to gain a better overview of the discourse.
Zugang zu Sozialleistungen in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Ya-Chu
Published: September 2021

This dissertation examines the question of whether the non-systematic or non-purpose-related benefit requirements in social law are in accordance with the Constitution in Taiwan. Access to social benefits is opened when the legal requirements are fulfilled. However, not all these requirements are system-related or purpose-oriented. In such cases, access to social benefits may be restricted or even blocked. Such benefit requirements are often found in Taiwanese social law, especially foreigners are involved. In this research, the constitutionality of the social benefit requirements will be examined.
Politische Betätigung im Betrieb
Authors: Krülls Sebastian
Published: September 2021

Political statements by the works council are often a sensitive issue for companies - all the more so since right-wing lists have been on the rise in recent times. The Works Council Constitution Act (BetrVG) of 1952 already contained a ban on (party) political activity, which has since been amended several times and interpreted differently. By means of an analysis of the basic powers of the works councils as well as an interpretation of the of the law, the author shows that the workplace must be neither a politics-free zone nor a playground for agitators. Ultimately, the works council has a company-related mandate, while the employer is only affected by the ban in its specific role under works constitution law.
Amtsträger und politische Akteure fremder Staaten auf deutschem Boden
Authors: Wernke-Schmiesing Maren
Published: September 2021

The question of whether and within what limits foreign political actors may use the public of other states for political purposes flared up in the media during the election campaign appearances of Turkish government members in 2017, which showed the need for legal discussion.

The author analyses the problem at the level of international law, state organisation law and fundamental rights. In doing so, she differentiates between state officials acting in their official authority and politicians and associations without a official function and describes the exercise of political rights, particularly in the context of access, residence, state visits, elections and freedom of assembly and speech of those affected.
Ministererlaubnis und subjektiver Drittschutz
Authors: Zechmann Simon
Published: September 2021

Third party protection against a ministerial permission is alive. This thesis essentially addresses the question of whether third parties can invoke subjective rights to challenge a ministerial permission within the admissibility of an action. Contrary to the prevailing view and the (presumed) intention of the legislator, it substantiates the existence of subjective rights and thereby distinguishes the "original" third party protection arising solely in the ministerial procedure from the "derivative" third party protection arising in the Federal Cartel Office procedure and continuing to have effect in the ministerial procedure. Finally, it qualitatively and quantitatively sharpens the scope of protection of subjective third party protection.
Die Auswirkung von Umwandlungen auf die Verantwortlichkeit von Vorstand und Geschäftsführung
Authors: Mennemann Marcel
Published: September 2021

If a corporation is transformed, tensions may arise at various points between the legal provisions existing prior to the transformation and the rules applicable thereafter. One area of particular practical relevance is the liability of board members, which is the subject of this publication. Furthermore, the question of discharge of the management in the context of a transformation is addressed. The focus lies on the problem of the extent to which transformation processes lead to a cut-off of the legal framework applicable to the transformed legal entity and/or the extent to which it continues to apply. By answering various controversial questions in this regard, it is also intended to enable practice to handle the issue with legal certainty.
Textiles for Noise Control
Authors: Datta Mallika , Das Srijan , Nath Devarun
Published: September 2021

This chapter includes the mechanism of sound absorption and the classes of sound absorbing material to control the noise. The basic phenomena related to the reduction of sound by allowing it to soak in and dissipate also were introduced first, which, can be realised by viscous effects, heat conduction effects, and internal molecular energy interchanges. Porous absorbers are materials where sound propagates through an interconnected pore network resulting in sound energy dissipation. They are only effective at the mid-to-high frequency range, which is most sensitive to the human ear. The applications of different textile fibres and their various forms were identified later in the chapter. Finally, specific discussions are given to sound parameters, noise absorption coefficient, and its measurement technique. The chapter also deals with various factors influencing sound absorption.
Health Monitoring of an Aircraft Fuel System Using Artificial Intelligence Techniques
Authors: S. Jigajinni Vijaylakshmi
Published: September 2021

Aircraft is a non-linear complex system and is need of regular monitoring. Integrated Vehicle Health Management (IVHM) is a process of health management paradigm, which involves system parameter monitoring, assessment of current, future conditions through diagnostic and prognostic approaches by providing required maintenance activities. Deployment of diagnostic, prognostic and health management processes enable to improve the system reliability and reduces the operating cost of the aircraft. Health monitoring and management plays a vibrant role in safe operation and maintenance of aircraft. Soft computing methodologies such as Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) are used to estimate the health status of fuel system by developing model of a typical pump feed, twin-engine, four-tank small aircraft fuel system using Simulink in the laboratory environment. The controller is designed to generate the signals of the fuel tanks based on the fuel requirement of the engine. The ANFIS based management system helps to detect the faults existing in the fuel system and diagnose those faults using the expert’s logical rules. During a fault ailment, the controller’s performance is evaluated. The efficacy of this intelligent controller is verified with the present fuel control system and ANN controller.
Exergoeconomic and Normalized Sensitivity Analysis of Plate Heat Exchangers: A Theoretical Framework with Application
Authors: Ahmad Jamil Muhammad , S. Goraya Talha , Yaqoob Haseeb , Choon Ng Kim , Wakil Shahzad Muhammad , M. Zubair Syed
Published: September 2021

Heat exchangers are the mainstay of thermal systems and have been extensively used in desalination systems, heating, cooling units, power plants, and energy recovery systems. This chapter demonstrates a robust theoretical framework for heat exchangers investigation based on two advanced tools, i.e., exergoeconomic analysis and Normalized Sensitivity Analysis. The former is applied as a mutual application of economic and thermodynamic analyses, which is much more impactful than the conventional thermodynamic and economic analyses. This is because it allows the investigation of combinatory effects of thermodynamic and fiscal parameters which are not achieved with the conventional methods. Similarly, the Normalized Sensitivity Analysis allows a one-on-one comparison of the sensitivity of output parameters to the input parameters with entirely different magnitudes on a common platform. This rationale comparison is obtained by normalizing the sensitivity coefficients by their nominal values, which is not possible with the conventional sensitivity analyses. An experimentally validated example of a plate heat exchanger is used to demonstrate the application of the proposed framework from a desalination system.
Treatment Algorithm in Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy - From Protocols to the Real World
Authors: Hernan Gonzalez-Cortes Jesus , Emiliano Gonzalez-Cantu Jesus , Sudhalkar Aditya , Eustolio Hernandez-Da Mota Sergio , Bilgic Alper , Alan Garza-Chavarria Javier , Mohamed-Hamsho Jesus
Published: September 2021

Diabetes mellitus is a global epidemic that leads to multiple macrovascular and microvascular complications. The complex interrelated pathophysiological mechanisms triggered by hyperglycemia underlie the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) is a microvascular complication, considered the main cause of irreversible blindness in patients of productive age in the world. On the other hand, diabetic macular edema (DME) remains the clinical feature most closely associated with vision loss. In general, both manifestations are due to an increase in inflammatory factors, such as specific pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, interleukins and angiogenic substances including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Laser photocoagulation and VEGF inhibitors have been shown to be effective in the treatment of PDR and DME. Currently, randomized protocols suggest that VEGF inhibitors therapy could displace laser photocoagulation in the treatment of PDR with and without the presence of DME. The ongoing discussion still prevails about the different treatment modalities for both retinal manifestations in real-world settings.
Methods of Sperm Selection for In-Vitro Fertilization
Authors: Nanna Abimibola
Published: September 2021

50–60% of infertility cases are as a result of male infertility and infertile men semen sample is characterize with poor motility, abnormal morphology, low sperm concentration, azoospermic and increased levels of sperm DNA damage. As a result of this heterogeneity of the ejaculate, sperm selection has become a necessary step to carry out prior to in vitro fertilization. Furthermore, the choice of sperm cell selection techniques depend on sperm concentration and sperm biology and the recovery of highly functional sperm cell population depend on the combination of more than one technique in some cases. The regular sperm cell selection methods in ART laboratory are swim up, density gradient, simple wash and other advanced and emerging sperm selection techniques which include hyaluronic acid mediated sperm binding, Zeta potential, hypoosmotic swelling test, magnetic activated cell sorting and microfluidic separation of sperm cells. The various methods have its own advantages and disadvantages which may be applicable to the individual need of infertile men and its effect on ART outcome.
Numerical Investigations of Electromagnetic Oscillations and Turbulences in Hall Thrusters Using Two Fluid Approach
Authors: Singh Sukhmander , Vidhani Bhavna , Tyagi Ashish
Published: September 2021

The first part of the contributed chapter discuss the overview of electric propulsion technology and its requirement in different space missions. The technical terms specific impulse and thrust are explained with their relation to exhaust velocity. The shortcoming of the Hall thrusters and its erosion problems of the channel walls are also conveyed. The second part of the chapter discuss the various waves and electromagnetic instabilities propagating in a Hall thruster magnetized plasma. The dispersion relation for the azimuthal growing waves is derived analytically with the help of magnetohydrodynamics theory. It is depicted that the growth rate of the instability increases with magnetic field, electron drift velocity and collisional frequency, whereas it is decreases with the initial drift of the ions.
Dynamics of Rural Development in India
Authors: Khan Kazma
Published: September 2021

India is the second largest populous country in the world and more than half of its population lives in rural areas. This leads to widespread unemployment, low standard of living, inadequate productive skills and malnutrition in the country. In the developing countries especially like India, rural development is always been an important issue related to country’s economic progress. The rural development programmes are the key devices for the development of the rural areas in the country. As we know that, the people of rural area have seen difficulties from the time immemorial, the time has come to give them their deserving rights. India cannot shine without the shinning of the Rural India. National Development is almost synonymous with the Rural Development. This paper makes an attempt to measure actual performance and Government’s initiatives to accelerate the process of rural development through rural development programme in India and would be dealing with the changing life of the vulnerable people. The study reveals that the target number of houses to be constructed by the year 2021–2022, is 2.95 crore. The target set is to be achieved in phases and in the 1st phase 1 crore houses have been taken up for construction and in the 2nd phase 1.95 crore houses are being taken up for construction. 35.27 lakh houses have been constructed during 2020–2021 under Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (PMAY-G) scheme. The pace of construction of PMGSY roads a nine years high of 135 kms per day in 2018–2019 as against an average of 73 kms during the period 2011 to 2014. Hence, the pace of construction has increased by 93%. Under PMGSY about 6, 26,910 Km road length completed where as 41000 Km road length constructed by using green technology and 14312 Km road length constructed by using plastic waste. MGNREGA has provided employment to 6.9 crore households by generating more than 305.71 crore person-days of wage employment covering 74.74 lakh works during financial year 2020–2021 and 5 crore works completed since inception. During COVID-19 pandemic, migrant workers were allowed to work under the scheme by being applying for job card. Approximately 1.44 crore Job Cards have been issued in FY 2020–2021. Total person-days generated in FY 2020–2021 have been 305.71 crore against approved LB for FY 2020–2021 of 333.09 crore. There has been 47% increase in person-days generated in comparison to FY 2019–2020. Further, the paper will give an idea how it will be beneficial for our country and how this little effort to rebuild the rural life and livelihood will make our country from developing to the developed country.
The Incidence of Ovulation and Detection of Genes Associated with Ovulation and Twinning Rates in Livestock
Authors: Cobanoglu Ozden
Published: September 2021

Cattle is a monotocous species that generally produce only one offspring per conception. However, multiple ovulations are a naturally emerging reproductive phenomenon typically controlled by genetic structure and environmental factors. On the other hand, few genes or causative mutations might explain significant genetic variations between animals for the reproductive traits. Studies report different methods, including QTL analysis, fine mapping, GWAS, and MAS selection, to improve such traits due to their economic importance. The recent fine-mapping study, which narrows the genomic region, indeed, influencing multiple ovulation, gives positive signals that causative mutation controlling high ovulation rate may be identified shortly. In conclusion, identifying the major genes that considerably affect ovulation and twinning rates provides the opportunity to increase reproduction efficiency by improving genetic gain in livestock species.
Lifetime Enhancement of Propulsion Shafts Against Corrosion-Fatigue by Laser Peening
Authors: Hackel Lloyd A. , Rankin Jon E.
Published: September 2021

This paper reports substantially enhanced fatigue and corrosion-fatigue lifetimes of propulsion shaft materials, 23284A steel and 23284A steel with In625 weld overlay cladding, as a result of shot or laser peening. Glass reinforced plastic (GRP) coatings and Inconel claddings are used to protect shafts against general corrosion and corrosion pitting. However salt water leakage penetrating under a GRP can actually enhance pitting leading to crack initiation and growth. Fatigue coupons, untreated and with shot or laser peening were tested, including with simultaneous salt water immersion. Controlled corrosion of the surfaces was simulated with electric discharge machining (EDM) of deep pits enabling evaluation of fatigue and corrosion-fatigue lifetimes. Results specifically show high energy laser peening (HELP) to be a superior solution, improving corrosion-fatigue resistance of shaft and cladding metal, reducing the potential for corrosion pits to initiate fatigue cracks and dramatically slowing crack growth rates. At a heavy loading of 110% of the 23284A steel yield stress and with 0.020 inch deep pits, laser peening increased fatigue life of the steel by 1370% and by 350% in the corrosion-fatigue testing.
Innovative Propulsion Gear Solutions for Frigate Surface Combatants
Authors: Ruschmeyer Kai , Batra Amit , Harth Marco , Wasinger Phil
Published: September 2021

An objective evaluation of different propulsion concepts for naval frigates has been demonstrated. Based on an assumed operation profile and weighting of criteria stated herein, hybrid-propulsion arrangements incorporating electric drives have been observed to optimally meeting the specified requirements commonly observed across most navies. The demonstrated evaluation shows that the resultant propulsion plant configurations may not fully achieve all defined requirements, which are often conflicting, but represent a good compromise to best meet the operation requirements based on defined priorities. Development of innovative propulsion gear systems for these options then become a key step in transforming the developed concept into a feasible tailored design.
Shock-Qualified Stern Tube Seal with Improved Capabilities and Reduced Total Ownership Cost
Authors: Klepper S. , Ludlow C. , Spadafora M.
Published: September 2021

Stern tube seals are a critical component in a ships propulsion system, sealing the shafts penetration through the hull. Stern tube seals can result in a significant maintenance burden when they are unable to handle the operational conditions of the vessel. Current systems are also lacking a capability to be able to operate through a primary seal failure, something that should be critical to the United States Navy. The United States Navy’s Independence-class littoral combat ship (LCS) has challenging operational conditions including the need to survive shock loads, high shaft speed and significant galvanic corrosion potential. Through a five-year effort the authors developed a stern tube seal for LCS that could handle the challenging operational conditions and provide the Navy with new critical capabilities such as the ability to operate propulsion systems through a primary seal failure without the use of packing and to extend maintenance windows to reduce vessel downtime and associated cost. This paper will present the limitations and challenges of existing stern tube seals, followed by the design improvements developed by the authors to improve performance and reliability while also reducing the total ownership cost for the U.S. Navy.
Shafting Systems without a Forward Stern Tube Bearing: Advantages and Prevention of Failures
Authors: Cowper Bruce , Schramm Zachary
Published: September 2021

In recent years shafting systems, particularly those powered by slow-speed diesel engines, have been designed with only one bearing supporting the propeller shaft (typically an aft stern tube bearing). Designs with only one stern tube bearing provide for a system with more flexibility, easier installation, and a reduction in cost. With no forward stern tube bearing, there are different alignment characteristics that must be considered. Of importance is the significant effect of the aft intermediate shaft bearing position on the relative shaft slope in-way-of the aft stern tube bearing. The lineshaft bearing can be offset sufficiently to cause excessive relative shaft slope in the bearing, resulting in poor load distribution, excessive bearing pressure and subsequent failure. To provide more assurance that this relative shaft slope is acceptable with the vessel afloat and the shafting completely assembled, the strain gauge alignment measurement technique can be used. This paper describes the advantages of having only one propeller shaft bearing, the measurement technique used to reduce the risk of bearing failure due to excessive pressures, and examples of the application of this technique.
Notas sobre o Teatro Musical de Eduardo Dussek
Authors: Wasilewski Luís Francisco
Published: September 2021

O artigo estuda duas canções criadas por Eduardo Dussek e Luiz Carlos Góes para o Teatro Musical Brasileiro. São analisadas as canções Alô, Alô, Brasil, composta por Dussek para o show Feiticeira, protagonizado por Marília Pêra, em 1975, e A Loura do Carteado, engendrada por ele em parceria com Góes. Esta foi escrita para a travesti Rogéria cantar em Rio Gay, encenação que estreou no Teatro Alaska, no Rio de Janeiro. A montagem possuía um elenco composto por travestis e sua concepção estética revivia os áureos tempos do Teatro de Revista no Brasil.  No artigo também há a descrição do começo da carreira teatral de Dussek, revisitando sua atuação, quando ainda era adolescente, no espetáculo As Desgraças de uma Criança, de Martins Pena, sob direção de Antônio Pedro.
Health assessment measurements quality assurance program :
Authors: Barber Charles A , Burdette Carolyn Q , Hayes Hugh V , Johnson Monique E , Kotoski Shaun P , Murray Jacolin A , Phillips Melissa M , Rimmer Catherine A , Wood Laura J , Yarberry Andrea J
Published: September 2021

The Health Assessment Measurements Quality Assurance Program (HAMQAP) was launched in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS) in 2017. HAMQAP was established to enable laboratories to improve the accuracy of measurements in samples that represent human intake (e.g., foods, dietary supplements, tobacco) and samples that represent human metabolism (e.g., blood, serum, plasma, urine) for demonstration of proficiency and/or compliance with various regulations. Analytes are paired where possible to represent the full spectrum of health assessment. Exercise 6 of this program offered the opportunity for laboratories to assess their in house measurements of nutritional elements (chlorine, iodine, chromium, molybdenum, and selenium), toxic elements (arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury), contaminants (chlorate and perchlorate, glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA)), water-soluble vitamins (biotin and vitamin C), fat-soluble vitamins (vitamins A and E), fatty acids (select omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids), botanicals (anthocyanidins), natural products (caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline), and proximates (fat, protein, carbohydrates, solids, ash, and calories) in foods and dietary supplements, and corresponding biomarkers/metabolites in clinical specimens (human red blood cells).