bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rail-Temperature-Prediction Model Based on Machine Learning: Warning of Train-Speed Restrictions Using Weather Forecasting
Authors: Hong Sunguk , Park Cheoljeong , Cho Seongjin
Published: July 2021

Predicting the rail temperature of a railway system is important for establishing a rail management plan against railway derailment caused by orbital buckling. The rail temperature, which is directly responsible for track buckling, is closely related to air temperature, which continuously increases due to global warming effects. Moreover, railway systems are increasingly installed with continuous welded rails (CWRs) to reduce train vibration and noise. Unfortunately, CWRs are prone to buckling. This study develops a reliable and highly accurate novel model that can predict rail temperature using a machine learning method. To predict rail temperature over the entire network with high-prediction performance, the weather effect and solar effect features are used. These features originate from the analysis of the thermal environment around the rail. Precisely, the presented model has a higher performance for predicting high rail temperature than other models. As a convenient structural health-monitoring application, the train-speed-limit alarm-map (TSLAM) was also proposed, which visually maps the predicted rail-temperature deviations over the entire network for railway safety officers. Combined with TSLAM, our rail-temperature prediction model is expected to improve track safety and train timeliness.
Traffic Sign Recognition Evaluation for Senior Adults Using EEG Signals
Authors: Koh Dong-Woo , Kwon Jin-Kook , Lee Sang-Goog
Published: July 2021

Elderly people are not likely to recognize road signs due to low cognitive ability and presbyopia. In our study, three shapes of traffic symbols (circles, squares, and triangles) which are most commonly used in road driving were used to evaluate the elderly drivers’ recognition. When traffic signs are randomly shown in HUD (head-up display), subjects compare them with the symbol displayed outside of the vehicle. In this test, we conducted a Go/Nogo test and determined the differences in ERP (event-related potential) data between correct and incorrect answers of EEG signals. As a result, the wrong answer rate for the elderly was 1.5 times higher than for the youths. All generation groups had a delay of 20–30 ms of P300 with incorrect answers. In order to achieve clearer differentiation, ERP data were modeled with unsupervised machine learning and supervised deep learning. The young group’s correct/incorrect data were classified well using unsupervised machine learning with no pre-processing, but the elderly group’s data were not. On the other hand, the elderly group’s data were classified with a high accuracy of 75% using supervised deep learning with simple signal processing. Our results can be used as a basis for the implementation of a personalized safe driving system for the elderly.
A Vision-Based Social Distancing and Critical Density Detection System for COVID-19
Authors: Yang Dongfang , Yurtsever Ekim , Renganathan Vishnu , Redmill Keith A. , Özgüner Ümit
Published: July 2021

Social distancing (SD) is an effective measure to prevent the spread of the infectious Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, a lack of spatial awareness may cause unintentional violations of this new measure. Against this backdrop, we propose an active surveillance system to slow the spread of COVID-19 by warning individuals in a region-of-interest. Our contribution is twofold. First, we introduce a vision-based real-time system that can detect SD violations and send non-intrusive audio-visual cues using state-of-the-art deep-learning models. Second, we define a novel critical social density value and show that the chance of SD violation occurrence can be held near zero if the pedestrian density is kept under this value. The proposed system is also ethically fair: it does not record data nor target individuals, and no human supervisor is present during the operation. The proposed system was evaluated across real-world datasets.
Overall Profile Measurements of Tiny Parts with Complicated Features with the Cradle-Type Five-Axis System
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhu Linlin , Miao Li , Li Chen , Fang Changshuai , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: July 2021

There are generally complex features with large curvature or narrow space on surfaces of complicated tiny parts, which makes high-precision measurements of their three-dimensional (3D) overall profiles a long-lasting industrial problem. This paper proposes a feasible measurement solution to this problem, by designing a cradle-type point-scanning five-axis measurement system. All the key technology of this system is also studied from the system construction to the actual measurement process, and the measurement accuracy is improved through error calibration and compensation. Finally, the feasibility is proved by engineering realization. The measurement capability of the system is verified by measuring workpieces such as cross cylinders and microtriangular pyramids.
MIRRA: A Modular and Cost-Effective Microclimate Monitoring System for Real-Time Remote Applications
Authors: Pieters Olivier , Deprost Emiel , Van Der Donckt Jonas , Brosens Lore , Sanczuk Pieter , Vangansbeke Pieter , De Swaef Tom , De Frenne Pieter , wyffels Francis
Published: July 2021

Monitoring climate change, and its impacts on ecological, agricultural, and other societal systems, is often based on temperature data derived from official weather stations. Yet, these data do not capture most microclimates, influenced by soil, vegetation and topography, operating at spatial scales relevant to the majority of organisms on Earth. Detecting and attributing climate change impacts with confidence and certainty will only be possible by a better quantification of temperature changes in forests, croplands, mountains, shrublands, and other remote habitats. There is an urgent need for a novel, miniature and simple device filling the gap between low-cost devices with manual data download (no instantaneous data) and high-end, expensive weather stations with real-time data access. Here, we develop an integrative real-time monitoring system for microclimate measurements: MIRRA (Microclimate Instrument for Real-time Remote Applications) to tackle this problem. The goal of this platform is the design of a miniature and simple instrument for near instantaneous, long-term and remote measurements of microclimates. To that end, we optimised power consumption and transfer data using a cellular uplink. MIRRA is modular, enabling the use of different sensors (e.g., air and soil temperature, soil moisture and radiation) depending upon the application, and uses an innovative node system highly suitable for remote locations. Data from separate sensor modules are wirelessly sent to a gateway, thus avoiding the drawbacks of cables. With this sensor technology for the long-term, low-cost, real-time and remote sensing of microclimates, we lay the foundation and open a wide range of possibilities to map microclimates in different ecosystems, feeding a next generation of models. MIRRA is, however, not limited to microclimate monitoring thanks to its modular and wireless design. Within limits, it is suitable or any application requiring real-time data logging of power-efficient sensors over long periods of time. We compare the performance of this system to a reference system in real-world conditions in the field, indicating excellent correlation with data collected by established data loggers. This proof-of-concept forms an important foundation to creating the next version of MIRRA, fit for large scale deployment and possible commercialisation. In conclusion, we developed a novel wireless cost-effective sensor system for microclimates.
SARS-CoV-2 Receptor Binding Domain as a Stable-Potential Target for SARS-CoV-2 Detection by Surface—Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Awada Chawki , Abdullah Mohammed Mahfoudh BA , Traboulsi Hassan , Dab Chahinez , Alshoaibi Adil
Published: July 2021

In this work, we report a new approach for detecting SARS-CoV-2 RBD protein (RBD) using the surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technique. The optical enhancement was obtained thanks to the preparation of nanostructured Ag/Au substrates. Fabricated Au/Ag nanostructures were used in the SERS experiment for RBD protein detection. SERS substrates show higher capabilities and sensitivity to detect RBD protein in a short time (3 s) and with very low power. We were able to push the detection limit of proteins to a single protein detection level of 1 pM. The latter is equivalent to 1 fM as a detection limit of viruses. Additionally, we have shown that the SERS technique was useful to figure out the presence of RBD protein on antibody functionalized substrates. In this case, the SERS detection was based on protein-antibody recognition, which led to shifts in the Raman peaks and allowed signal discrimination between RBD and other targets such as Bovine serum albumin (BSA) protein. A perfect agreement between a 3D simulated model based on finite element method and experiment was reported confirming the SERS frequency shift potential for trace proteins detection. Our results could open the way to develop a new prototype based on SERS sensitivity and selectivity for rapid detection at a very low concentration of virus and even at a single protein level.
Automated Landslide-Risk Prediction Using Web GIS and Machine Learning Models
Authors: Tengtrairat Naruephorn , Woo Wai Lok , Parathai Phetcharat , Aryupong Chuchoke , Jitsangiam Peerapong , Rinchumphu Damrongsak
Published: July 2021

Spatial susceptible landslide prediction is the one of the most challenging research areas which essentially concerns the safety of inhabitants. The novel geographic information web (GIW) application is proposed for dynamically predicting landslide risk in Chiang Rai, Thailand. The automated GIW system is coordinated between machine learning technologies, web technologies, and application programming interfaces (APIs). The new bidirectional long short-term memory (Bi-LSTM) algorithm is presented to forecast landslides. The proposed algorithm consists of 3 major steps, the first of which is the construction of a landslide dataset by using Quantum GIS (QGIS). The second step is to generate the landslide-risk model based on machine learning approaches. Finally, the automated landslide-risk visualization illustrates the likelihood of landslide via Google Maps on the website. Four static factors are considered for landslide-risk prediction, namely, land cover, soil properties, elevation and slope, and a single dynamic factor i.e., precipitation. Data are collected to construct a geospatial landslide database which comprises three historical landslide locations—Phu Chifa at Thoeng District, Ban Pha Duea at Mae Salong Nai, and Mai Salong Nok in Mae Fa Luang District, Chiang Rai, Thailand. Data collection is achieved using QGIS software to interpolate contour, elevation, slope degree and land cover from the Google satellite images, aerial and site survey photographs while the physiographic and rock type are on-site surveyed by experts. The state-of-the-art machine learning models have been trained i.e., linear regression (LR), artificial neural network (ANN), LSTM, and Bi-LSTM. Ablation studies have been conducted to determine the optimal parameters setting for each model. An enhancement method based on two-stage classifications has been presented to improve the landslide prediction of LSTM and Bi-LSTM models. The landslide-risk prediction performances of these models are subsequently evaluated using real-time dataset and it is shown that Bi-LSTM with Random Forest (Bi-LSTM-RF) yields the best prediction performance. Bi-LSTM-RF model has improved the landslide-risk predicting performance over LR, ANNs, LSTM, and Bi-LSTM in terms of the area under the receiver characteristic operator (AUC) scores by 0.42, 0.27, 0.46, and 0.47, respectively. Finally, an automated web GIS has been developed and it consists of software components including the trained models, rainfall API, Google API, and geodatabase. All components have been interfaced together via JavaScript and Node.js tool.
Effect of the Geometrical Constraints to the Wenner Four-Point Electrical Resistivity Test of Reinforced Concrete Slabs
Authors: Robles Kevin Paolo V. , Yee Jurng-Jae , Kee Seong-Hoon
Published: July 2021

The main objectives of this study are to evaluate the effect of geometrical constraints of plain concrete and reinforced concrete slabs on the Wenner four-point concrete electrical resistivity (ER) test through numerical and experimental investigation and to propose measurement recommendations for laboratory and field specimens. First, a series of numerical simulations was performed using a 3D finite element model to investigate the effects of geometrical constraints (the dimension of concrete slabs, the electrode spacing and configuration, and the distance of the electrode to the edges of concrete slabs) on ER measurements of concrete. Next, a reinforced concrete slab specimen (1500 mm (width) by 1500 mm (length) by 300 mm (thickness)) was used for experimental investigation and validation of the numerical simulation results. Based on the analytical and experimental results, it is concluded that measured ER values of regularly shaped concrete elements are strongly dependent on the distance-to-spacing ratio of ER probes (i.e., distance of the electrode in ER probes to the edges and/or the bottom of the concrete slabs normalized by the electrode spacing). For the plain concrete, it is inferred that the thickness of the concrete member should be at least three times the electrode spacing. In addition, the distance should be more than twice the electrode spacing to make the edge effect almost negligible. It is observed that the findings from the plain concrete are also valid for the reinforced concrete. However, for the reinforced concrete, the ER values are also affected by the presence of reinforcing steel and saturation of concrete, which could cause disruptions in ER measurements.
A Bond-Wire Drift Offset Minimized Capacitance-to-Digital Interface for MEMS Accelerometer with Gain-Enhanced VCO-Based Quantization and Nested Digital Chopping Feedback Loops
Authors: Li Fanyang , Yin Tao , Yang Haigang
Published: July 2021

This paper presents an output offset minimized capacitance-to-digital interface for a MEMS accelerometer. With a gain-enhanced voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO)-based quantization loop, the interface is able to output a digital signal with improved dynamic range. For optimizing the output offset caused by nonideal factors (e.g., the bond-wire drift), a nested digital chopping feedback loop is embedded in the VCO-based quantization loop. It enables the interface to minimize the output offset without digital filtering and digital-to-analog conversion. The proposed architecture is well suited for dynamic range and offset improvements with low cost. Fabricated with a 0.18 μm Global Foundry (GF) CMOS process, the interface offers a 78 dB dynamic range with 0.4% nonlinearity from a single 2 V supply. With the input referred offset up to 1.3 pF, the offset cancellation loop keeps the DC output offset within 40 mV. The power dissipation is 6.5 mW with a bandwidth of 4 kHz.
Characterization of Degenerate Configurations in Attitude Determination of Three-Vehicle Heterogeneous Formations
Authors: Cruz Pedro , Batista Pedro
Published: July 2021

The existence of multiple solutions to an attitude determination problem impacts the design of estimation schemes, potentially increasing the errors by a significant value. It is therefore essential to identify such cases in any attitude problem. In this paper, the cases where multiple attitudes satisfy all constraints of a three-vehicle heterogeneous formation are identified. In the formation considered herein, the vehicles measure inertial references and relative line-of-sight vectors. Nonetheless, the line of sight between two elements of the formation is restricted, and these elements are denoted as deputies. The attitude determination problem is characterized relative to the number of solutions associated with each configuration of the formation. There are degenerate and ambiguous configurations that result in infinite or exactly two solutions, respectively. Otherwise, the problem has a unique solution. The degenerate configurations require some collinearity between independent measurements, whereas the ambiguous configurations result from symmetries in the formation measurements. The conditions which define all such configurations are determined in this work. Furthermore, the ambiguous subset of configurations is geometrically interpreted resorting to the planes defined by specific measurements. This subset is also shown to be a zero-measure subset of all possible configurations. Finally, a maneuver is simulated to illustrate and validate the conclusions. As a result of this analysis, it is concluded that, in general, the problem has one attitude solution. Nonetheless, there are configurations with two or infinite solutions, which are identified in this work.
Reducing the Influence of Environmental Factors on Performance of a Diffusion-Based Personal Exposure Kit
Authors: Zong Huixin , Brimblecombe Peter , Sun Li , Wei Peng , Ho Kin-Fai , Zhang Qingli , Cai Jing , Kan Haidong , Chu Mengyuan , Che Wenwei , Lau Alexis Kai-Hon , Ning Zhi
Published: July 2021

Sensor technology has enabled the development of portable low-cost monitoring kits that might supplement many applications in conventional monitoring stations. Despite the sensitivity of electrochemical gas sensors to environmental change, they are increasingly important in monitoring polluted microenvironments. The performance of a compact diffusion-based Personal Exposure Kit (PEK) was assessed for real-time gaseous pollutant measurement (CO, O3, and NO2) under typical environmental conditions encountered in the subtropical city of Hong Kong. A dynamic baseline tracking method and a range of calibration protocols to address system performance were explored under practical scenarios to assess the performance of the PEK in reducing the impact of rapid changes in the ambient environment in personal exposure assessment applications. The results show that the accuracy and stability of the ppb level gas measurement is enhanced even in heterogeneous environments, thus avoiding the need for data post-processing with mathematical algorithms, such as multi-linear regression. This establishes the potential for use in personal exposure monitoring, which has been difficult in the past, and for reporting more accurate and reliable data in real-time to support personal exposure assessment and portable air quality monitoring applications.
Preliminary Results of an Astri/UWM EGNSS Receiver Antenna Calibration Facility
Authors: Dawidowicz Karol , Rapiński Jacek , Śmieja Michał , Wielgosz Paweł , Kwaśniak Dawid , Jarmołowski Wojciech , Grzegory Tomasz , Tomaszewski Dariusz , Janicka Joanna , Gołaszewski Paweł , Wolak Bogdan , Baryła Radosław , Krzan Grzegorz , Stępniak Katarzyna , Florin-Catalin Grec , Brzostowski Karol
Published: July 2021

In 2019, the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, in cooperation with Astri Polska, started a European Space Agency (ESA) project. The purpose of the project is the development and implementation of a field calibration procedure for a multi-frequency and multi-system global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The methodology and algorithms proposed in the project are inspired by the “Hannover” concept of absolute field receiver antenna calibration; however, some innovations are introduced. In our approach, the antenna rotation point is close to the nominal mean phase center (MPC) of the antenna, although it does not coincide with it. Additionally, a National Marine Electronics Association local time zone (NMEA ZDA) message is used to synchronize the robot with the GNSS time. We also propose some modifications in robot arm movement scenarios. Our first test results demonstrate consistent performance for the calibration strategy and calibration procedure. For the global positioning system (GPS) L1 frequency, the calibration results show good agreement with the IGS-type mean values. For high satellite elevations (20°–90°), the differences do not exceed 1.5 mm. For low elevation angles (0°–20°), the consistency of the results is worse and the differences exceed a 3 mm level in some cases.
Shameful Technological Impertinence: Consumer Ambivalence among iPad Early-Buyers
Authors: Tjora Aksel , Løvik Lisbeth Elvira Levang , Hansen Frank Hauboff , Skaar Marianne
Published: July 2021

This article is motivated by the excessive success of Apple’s iPad, introduced in 2010, questioning the motives for acquiring the product at the time of launch. The purpose is to understand the decision to buy an expensive product that had a fairly undefined use. On the basis of in-depth interviews of ‘early-buyers’ (‘early adopters’) of the iPad, we examine, in this article, justifications for the acquisition of such an ‘open technology’ use. Using theories of consumer society (Veblen, Bauman, Debord), Protestant ethics (Weber), impression management (Goffman, Leary) and group identity (Maffesoli), we develop, in the analysis, the concept of shameful technological impertinence concerning the ambiguity between frugality as value and consumer-based identity related to the latest technology. A reflection on this concept contributes to an understanding of how excessive technology consumption, on the one hand is followed by an unashamed desire to show off new ‘gadgets’ and on the other hand, a more shameful self-presentation defending the purchase. Today, just over ten years after the launch of the iPad and our interviews, the iPad is taken for granted as a central platform for a number of applications, for everything from personal entertainment to work- and school-related use. In light of this, we conclude with a reflection on how shameful technological impertinence as a more generic concept will be relevant in some phases rather than others, as new innovations are brought into use. The project is limited to the first iPad and its users, and further research could investigate a larger array of consumer electronics and how attitudes towards buying could be increasingly influenced by a growing concern about the abuse of natural resources.
Indigenous Meanings of Provenance in the Context of Alternative Food Movements and Supply-Chain Traceability: A Review
Authors: Sharma Chetan , Torrico Damir D. , Carpenter Lloyd , Harrison Roland
Published: July 2021

This article reviews the concept of provenance from both contemporary and traditional aspects. The incorporation of indigenous meanings and conceptualizations of belonging into provenance are explored. First, we consider how the gradual transformation of marketplaces into market and consumer activism catalyzed the need for provenance. Guided by this, we discuss the meaning of provenance from an indigenous and non-indigenous rationale. Driven by the need for a qualitative understanding of food, the scholarship has utilized different epistemologies to demonstrate how authentic connections are cultivated and protected by animistic approaches. As a tool to mobilize place, we suggest that provenance should be embedded in the immediate local context. Historic place-based indigenous knowledge systems, values, and lifeways should be seen as a model for new projects. This review offers a comprehensive collection of research material with emphasis on a variety of fields including anthropology, economic geography, sociology, and biology, which clarifies the meaning of provenance in alternative food systems. It questions the current practices of spatial confinement by stakeholders and governments that are currently applied to the concepts of provenance in foods, and instead proposes a holistic approach to understand both indigenous and non-indigenous ideologies but with an emphasis on Maori culture and its perspectives.
Analysis of Non-Marital Fertility in Nigeria and Implications for Intervention and Future Research
Authors: Alawode Oluwatobi Abel
Published: July 2021

Fertility and marriage are inextricably linked in sub-Saharan Africa, but recent changes, such as the rise in non-marital fertility, signals a weakening link, and the second demographic transition offers some explanations. Non-marital fertility comes with disadvantages, but it has not been adequately studied in Nigeria. Hence, this study examined the levels, patterns, and correlates of non-marital fertility, and offers implications for interventions and future research. Using data from the Nigeria Demographic and Survey 2008–2018, with a pooled weighted sample size of 11,925 unmarried women, percentage distribution was employed and a two-part model for count data was fitted, with the result showing that the level of non-marital fertility is 29%, and it is common among younger, rural dwelling, and uneducated unmarried women. The correlates of non-marital fertility include age, region of residence, level of education, religion, household wealth index, relationship status, ethnicity, work status, and age at sexual debut. Interventions to arrest rise of non-martial fertility due to its obvious disadvantages, should strengthen sexual and reproductive health programs for unmarried rural-dwelling young women, and revitalize welfare efforts for children born outside wedlock, for poor women, while future research should explore an in-depth understanding of non-marital births.
Revisiting the Predictability of the Haicheng and Tangshan Earthquakes
Authors: Sornette Didier , Mearns Euan , Wheatley Spencer
Published: July 2021

We analyze a set of precursory data measured before but compiled in retrospect of the MS7.5 Haicheng earthquake in February 1975 and the MS7.6–7.8 Tangshan earthquake in July 1976. We propose a robust and simple coarse-graining method that aggregates and counts how all the anomalies together (levelling, geomagnetism, soil resistivity, earth currents, gravity, earth stress, well water radon, well water level) develop as a function of time. We demonstrate strong evidence for the existence of an acceleration of the number of anomalies leading up to the major Haicheng and Tangshan earthquakes. In particular for the Tangshan earthquake, the frequency of occurrence of anomalies is found to be well described by the log-periodic power law singularity (LPPLS) model, previously proposed for the prediction of engineering failures and later adapted to the prediction of financial crashes. Using a mock real-time prediction experiment and simulation study, based on this methodology of monitoring accelerated rates of physical anomalies measured at the surface, we show the potential for an early warning system with a lead time of a few days.
Perturbative versus Non-Perturbative Quantum Field Theory: Tao’s Method, the Casimir Effect, and Interacting Wightman Theories
Authors: Wreszinski Walter Felipe
Published: July 2021

We dwell upon certain points concerning the meaning of quantum field theory: the problems with the perturbative approach, and the question raised by ’t Hooft of the existence of the theory in a well-defined (rigorous) mathematical sense, as well as some of the few existent mathematically precise results on fully quantized field theories. Emphasis is brought on how the mathematical contributions help to elucidate or illuminate certain conceptual aspects of the theory when applied to real physical phenomena, in particular, the singular nature of quantum fields. In a first part, we present a comprehensive review of divergent versus asymptotic series, with qed as background example, as well as a method due to Terence Tao which conveys mathematical sense to divergent series. In a second part, we apply Tao’s method to the Casimir effect in its simplest form, consisting of perfectly conducting parallel plates, arguing that the usual theory, which makes use of the Euler-MacLaurin formula, still contains a residual infinity, which is eliminated in our approach. In the third part, we revisit the general theory of nonperturbative quantum fields, in the form of newly proposed (with Christian Jaekel) Wightman axioms for interacting field theories, with applications to “dressed” electrons in a theory with massless particles (such as qed), as well as unstable particles. Various problems (mostly open) are finally discussed in connection with concrete models.
Concept of Social Marketing of «BeGood» Agency
Authors: Izotina Kseniya
Published: July 2021

The article describes the analysis of directions of entrepreneurial activity in the fi eld of social marketing. In the work, portraits of segments of the target audience as a result of a survey through a questionnaire have been formed. The author identifi ed the target client task, developed recommendations for the promotion of social marketing services of “BeGood” Agency.
On the interest of the individual to work in the structure of modern trends HR-processes in the organization: theory and practice
Authors: Ustinovich Elena
Published: July 2021

The article presents an analysis of individual domestic and foreign positions of scholars regarding the most important motivational component of labor activity - labor interest. The place of an individual's interest in labor activity in the structure of modern trends in HR processes in an organization has been determined.
Experience of surgical treatment in a granular cell tumor in the qscending colon: a case report
Authors: Kim In-Kyeong , Ju Young-Tae , Kim Han-Gil , Lee Jin-Kwon , Kim Dong-Chul , Kim Jae-Myung , Cho Jin Kyu , Park Ji-Ho , Kim Ju-Yeon , Jeong Chi-Young , Hong Soon-Chan , Kwag Seung-Jin
Published: July 2021

We report a case about successful surgical treatment of a granular cell tumor in the ascending colon. A 36-year-old man underwent screening colonoscopy. An endoscopic examination revealed a 10-mm yellowish and hemispheric mass in the ascending colon, and lower endoscopic ultrasonography revealed a hypoechoic-to-isoechoic mass invaded the submucosal layer. The mass was suspected to be a colonic carcinoid tumor. Based on the preoperative evaluation, endoscopic complete resection was considered difficult. Therefore, the lesion was removed via laparoscopic right hemicolectomy. Histological examination revealed that the tumor consisted of nests of polygonal cells with abundant granular eosinophilic cytoplasm. Immunohistochemical staining revealed diffuse positivity for S100 and CD68. Therefore, the tumor was diagnosed as a granular cell tumor. We suggest that surgical resection should be considered if it is located in the thin-walled ascending colon prone to perforation, difficult to rule out malignant tumor due to submucosal invasion, or to remove endoscopically.
The measurements results adjustment by the Least Square Method
Authors: Samoilenko Oleksandr , Kuzmenko Yurii
Published: July 2021

The method for processing of the measurement results obtained from Comite International des Poids et Measures (CIPM) Key, Regional Metrology Organizations (RMO) or supplementary comparisons, from the proficiency testing by interlaboratory comparisons and the calibrations is proposed. It is named by authors as adjustment by least square method (LSM). Additive and multiplicative parameters for each measuring standard of every particular laboratory will be the results of this adjustment. As well as the parameters for each artifact.

The parameters of the measurements standards are their additive and multiplicative degrees of equivalence from the comparison and the estimations of the systematic errors (biases) from calibrations. The parameters of the artifacts are the key comparisons reference value from the comparison and the assigned quantity values from the calibrations.

The adjustment is considered as a way to solving a problem of processing the great amount of homogeneous measurements with many measuring standards at a different comparison levels (CIPM, RMO or supplementary), including connected problems.

Four different cases of the adjustments are considered. The first one is a free case of adjustment. It was named so because of the fact that none of participants has any advantage except their uncertainties of measurements.

The second one is a fixed case of adjustment. Measuring results of RMO and supplementary comparisons are rigidly linked to additive and multiplicative parameters of measuring standards of particular laboratories participated in CIPM key comparisons.

The third one is a case of adjustment with dependent equations. This one is not so rigidly linked of the new comparisons results to previous or to some other comparisons as for fixed case. It means that the new results of comparisons are influenced by the known additive and multiplicative parameters and vice versa.

The fourth one is a free case of adjustment with additional summary equations. In that case certain checking equations are added to the system of equations. So, the sum of parameters multiplied by their weights of all measurement standards for particular laboratories participated in comparisons should be equal to zero.
Specifics of biomedical parameters estimation of human organism respiratory subsystem
Authors: Kosheva Larysa , Ivanets Olha
Published: July 2021

Offered approach to the functional state of organism estimation as holistic system with the complex of interrelated, interactive, mutually affecting functional subsystems of homeostatic type, which may be described as statistically stable biomedical parameters complex. Offered integral index helps to estimate the respiratory subsystem condition using basic organism indexes. Information model of the biomedical parameters transformation was developed. Input quantities uncertainty analysis of the mentioned subsystem information model of the organism gave an opportunity to increase probability of making correct decision concerning the biological objects condition. Methodic of the respiratory subsystem condition estimation was developed and possible conditions range was determined.
Corpoexperiência: cartografias, dobras e descontinuidades
Authors:   , Alves Adriana Andrade
Published: July 2021

Corpoexperiência é um percurso de estados de experiência construído a partir de corpos como lugares de passagem. Permeados por proposições da linguagem da dança, experimentam o espaço, o outro e a si em oficinas, denominadas de ateliê de experimentação corporal. As ações propositivas marcam o corpo como lugar de descontinuidades capazes de produzir outras narrativas constituídas de palavras, textos, imagens e registros gráficos. Na tessitura coletiva, esses corpos criam modulações nos espaços percorridos, atravessando linhas de fuga que se desenham em diários que acompanham toda trajetória. O corpo pesquisador cartógrafo percorre contornos e linhas, acompanha percursos e transita entre perspectivas, tecendo composições de escritas e mapas como paisagens que reconstroem elementos no espaço. Em lâminas soltas, são costuradas e dissolvidas as linhas CORPO, GESTO, MOVIMENTO e POÉTICA, que inauguram escritas tidas como experiências de escrita. Escritas também tidas como experiências de leitura, perpassam os movimentos de indefinição desse corpo categorizado e capturado, que estabelece diálogos com outros corpos, outras escritas, autores e artistas, e inauguram estados capazes de produzir espaços de desobediência e liberdade, devolvendo ao corpo à situação poética. O leitor é convidado a traçar seu próprio caminhar, habitando a escrita da maneira que desejar.
Uso de veículos aéreos não tripulados (VANT’s) para monitoramento de condição corporal de pequenos cetáceos sul americanos
Authors:   , Oliveira Lucas Lima de
Published: July 2021

Condição corporal em mamíferos pode ser interpretada como sua reserva energética, onde, melhor condição corporal está associada a maior sucesso reprodutivo e melhor eficiência em processos de termorregulação. A popularização dos veículos aéreos não tripulados (VANT’s ou drones), tornou possível monitorar condição corporal em cetáceos de vida livre, a partir de técnicas de fotogrametria aérea. Neste trabalho, um protocolo de fotogrametria aérea utilizando um drone, foi aplicado para estimar medidas morfométricas e de condição corporal em toninha (Pontoporia blainvillei, n = 122) e boto-cinza (Sotalia guianensis, n = 41), durante o inverno (julho / 2019) e verão (março / 2020), na Baía da Babitonga-SC. Um objeto de 115 cm, foi utilizado como escala para as medidas em pixel obtidas em diferentes altitudes (15-50 m). O modelo de calibração de escala considerando a altitude e variáveis ambientais (estado do mar e cobertura de nuvens) apresentou o melhor ajuste. Foram extraídas cinco medidas dos animais, comprimento do corpo, larguras na porção anterior a nadadeira peitoral, largura na região da axila, anterior a nadadeira dorsal e posterior a nadadeira dorsal (CC, AP, AX, AD, PD respectivamente). As larguras referentes às porções anteriores (AP, AX e AD) dos animais apresentaram maiores valores no inverno. O índice de condição corporal AD_CC, mostrou-se eficiente em monitorar variações sazonais na condição corporal das espécies estudadas, apresentando valores 1.1% superiores no inverno. As três categorias propostas para o índice AD_CC (“Abaixo”, “Média” e “Acima”), mostraram-se eficientes no monitoramento da condição corporal das espécies entre as classes de tamanho. A condição corporal “Média” foi a mais frequente para ambas as espécies estudadas e foi observada em todas as classes de tamanhos, enquanto a condição corporal “Abaixo” apresentou maior frequência no verão, ocorrendo apenas nas classes de tamanho superiores. O protocolo apresentado foi capaz de obter medidas morfométricas e de condição corporal precisas em ambas as espécies, destacando o potencial do uso de técnicas de fotogrametria aérea para monitorar padrões morfométricos e de condição corporal nas espécies de pequenos cetáceos estudados.
Tutto è scherzo d’amore: padre José Maria Wisniewski entre memórias passadas, presentes e futuras
Authors:   , Dias Jéssica Wisniewski
Published: July 2021

José Maria Wisniewski Filho (1913-1995) foi padre pertencente à Igreja Católica Apostólica Romana e atuante pela Congregação do Verbo Divino, músico compositor, instrumentista e regente coral, tradutor e escritor de obras literárias sacras e infantis, professor do Colégio Academia em Juiz de Fora, fundador do Coral Mater Verbi – Meninos Cantores da Academia (1953) e presidente/co-fundador da Federação Nacional de Meninos Cantores do Brasil (1967). A pesquisa de dissertação intitulada “Tutto è scherzo d’amore: Padre José Maria Wisniewski entre memórias passadas, presentes e futuras” busca redescobrir e reinterpretar a identidade e a obra musical de Pe. José Maria sob um olhar da memória social de acordo com os conceitos elaborados por Halbwachs, Gondar e Candau. Para isto, serão analisadas as fontes escritas encontradas no acervo do Coral Mater Verbi, as quais se encontram em formato de diários pessoais, crônicas do coral e tomos do Colégio Academia. São revisitados seus diários pessoais com o objetivo de compreender quem foi este indivíduo em sua comunidade, questionando os fenômenos autobiográficos (Borges, Calligaris) e a relação matéria-memória (Ariès, Bergson). Compreendendo a obra de Pe. José Maria como parte do contexto histórico-musical restaurista e pós-conciliar, este trabalho de dissertação procurou também reunir e reorganizar as composições do padre. No acervo do Coral Mater Verbi foram encontradas cerca de 83 obras autorais. Adentrando às noções de acervo (Farge) e reconhecendo o acervo em questão como um lugar de memória (Nora), busca-se explorar, juntamente às fontes escritas, como ocorre o fenômeno da memória coletiva e seus meios de transmissão ao longo dos séculos e na contemporaneidade (Le Goff, Bellotto, Assmann), considerando possíveis soluções para que a memória e acervo do Padre José Maria continuem em uso corrente. Dentre estas, menciona-se a reprodução musical através das mídias contemporâneas (Baldutti e Castello Branco, Flusser), a proposta da cultura digital e a fotografia como suporte de rememoração (Sontag, Samain e Kossoy).
Mediating Role of Quality of Work-Life in the Relationship between Employees Empowerment and Organizational Performance Using Balanced Scorecard
Authors: Al-Kasasbeh Mohammed
Published: July 2021

This study aims at clarifying the mediating role of quality of work-life in the relationship between employees’ empowerment and organizational performance using balanced scorecard. The study population consists of all the employees of cement companies in Jordan. The number of employees in the researched companies is (1564) individuals, and the study used a proportional stratified random sample. Consequently, (307) questionnaires were distributed, and (217) valid questionnaires were retrieved. To test the study hypotheses, the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (“PLS-SEM”) software was used. Path analysis was conducted to find out the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable through the mediating variable.
Accordingly, the results show that there is an impact of employees empowerment represented by (influence, competency, self-orientation, the meaning of work) on organizational performance represented by (customer satisfaction, internal processes, innovation and learning, environmental performance). There is a partial mediation of work-life quality in the relationship between employees’ empowerment and organizational performance.
Based on the results reached, the study include some recommendations, the most important of which are: that senior management should continue to support the empowerment process as a well-established management approach, and increase interest in aspects of the quality of work-life in cement companies because of their importance in improving organizational performance. More future researches on empowerment, organizational performance, and quality of work-life could be conducted in other organizations
Sinergi Bela Negara dan Kemanusiaan dalam Kegiatan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat Prodi Teknik Mesin Unhan RI di RSIA Melania Cibinong
Authors: Rukmono Linus Yoseph Wawan , Jaya Arie Sukma
Published: July 2021

Kewajiban utama masyarakat akademis di lingkungan Program Studi (Prodi) Teknik Mesin Universitas Pertahanan Republik Indonesia (Unhan RI) adalah melaksanakan Tri Dharma Perguruan Tinggi, yang salah satu komponennya adalah Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat (PKM). Berada di dalam kelembagaan Kementerian Pertahanan, masyarakat akademis di lingkungan Unhan RI ditekankan untuk menjadi cendekiawan Bela Negara. Oleh karena itu, Prodi Teknik Mesin Unhan RI merancang kegiatan PKM yang tidak hanya bertujuan untuk menerapkan keahlian Teknik Mesin bagi masyarakat umum tetapi juga menyebarluaskan semangat Bela Negara. Puncak dari setiap kegiatan PKM tersebut adalah pelaksanaan sosialisasi Bela Negara dalam rangka memberikan kesadaran pelaksanaan Bela Negara melalui profesi masing-masing. Artikel ini membahas terwujudnya sinergi Bela Negara dan Kemanusiaan melalui kegiatan PKM Prodi Teknik Mesin Unhan RI di Rumah Sakit Ibu dan Anak (RSIA) Melania Cibinong. Tahap pertama kegiatan PKM ini adalah penerapan keahlian Teknik Mesin melalui perbaikan berbagai peralatan pendukung operasional rumah sakit seperti komputer, genset dan alat RO (Reverse Osmosis). Selanjutnya, tahap kedua PKM ini adalah kegiatan sosialisasi Bela Negara pada pimpinan dan karyawan rumah sakit. Melalui kegiatan PKM ini, semangat Bela Negara masyarakat akademis di lingkungan Teknik Mesin Unhan RI terwujud melalui penerapan keahliannya dalam mendukung keberlangsungan pelayanan kemanusiaan terhadap masyarakat. Di lain pihak, pimpinan dan karyawan RSIA Melania Cibinong memiliki kesadaran bahwa Bela Negara dapat diwujudkan melalui tanggung jawab profesinya dibidang pelayanan kemanusiaan. Pemilihan institusi kesehatan sebagai tempat dilaksanakannya PKM Prodi Teknik Mesin Unhan RI menjadi contoh sinergi antara semangat Bela Negara dan Kemanusiaan yang mendukung kehidupan berbangsa dan bernegara yang sehat dan humanis.
A sensitive homogeneous enzyme assay for euchromatic histone-lysine-N-methyltransferase 2 (G9a) based on terbium-to-quantum dot time-resolved FRET
Authors: Amjadi Mohammad , Hallaj Tooba , Hildebrandt Niko
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Histone modifying enzymes include several classes of enzymes that are responsible for various post-translational modifications of histones such as methylation and acetylation. They are important epigenetic factors, which may involve several diseases and so their assay, as well as screening of their inhibitors, are of great importance. Herein, a bioassay based on terbium-to-quantum dot (Tb-to-QD) time-resolved Förster resonance energy transfer (TR-FRET) was developed for monitoring the activity of G9a, the euchromatic histone-lysine N-methyltransferase 2. Overexpression of G9a has been reported in some cancers such as ovarian carcinoma, lung cancer, multiple myeloma and brain cancer. Thus, inhibition of this enzyme is important for therapeutic purposes. Methods: In this assay, a biotinylated peptide was used as a G9a substrate in conjugation with streptavidin-coated ZnS/CdSe QD as FRET acceptor, and an anti-mark antibody labeled with Tb as a donor. Time-resolved fluorescence was used for measuring FRET ratios. Results: We examined three QDs, with emission wavelengths of 605, 655 and 705 nm, as FRET acceptors and investigated FRET efficiency between the Tb complex and each of them. Since the maximum FRET efficiency was obtained for Tb to QD705 (more than 50%), this pair was exploited for designing the enzyme assay. We showed that the method has excellent sensitivity and selectivity for the determination of G9a at concentrations as low as 20 pM. Furthermore, the designed assay was applied for screening of an enzyme inhibitor, S-(5’-Adenosyl)-L-homocysteine (SAH). Conclusion: It was shown that Tb-to-QD FRET is an outstanding platform for developing a homogenous assay for the G9a enzyme and its inhibitors. The obtained results confirmed that this assay was quite sensitive and could be used in the field of inhibitor screening.
Investigation of Submarine Groundwater Discharge using Thermal Satellite and Radon mapping along the East Coast of the Tamil Nadu and Pondicherry Region, India
Authors: A Rajesh Kanna , K Srinivasamoorthy , G Ponnumani , C Babu , R Prakash , S Gopinath
Published: July 2021

Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) demarcated as a significant component of hydrological cycle found to discharge greater volumes of terrestrial fresh and recirculated seawater to the ocean associated with chemical constituents (nutrients, metals, and organic compounds) aided by downward hydraulic gradient and sediment-water exchange. Delineating SGD is of primal significance due to the transport of nutrients and contaminants due to domestic, industrial, and agricultural practices that influence the coastal water quality, ecosystems, and geochemical cycles. An attempt has been made to demarcate the SGD using thermal infrared images and radon-222 (222Rn) isotope. Thermal infrared images processed from LANDSAT-8 data suggest prominent freshwater fluxes with higher temperature anomalies noted in Cuddalore and Nagapattinam districts, and lower temperature noted along northern and southern parts of the study area suggest saline/recirculated discharge. Groundwater samples were collected along the coastal regions to analyze Radon and Physico-chemical constituents. Radon in groundwater ranges between 127.39 Bq m-3 and 2643.41 Bq m-3 with an average of 767.80 Bq m-3. Calculated SGD fluxes range between -1.0 to 26.5 with an average of 10.32 m day-1. Comparison of the thermal infrared image with physio-chemical parameters and Radon suggest fresh, terrestrial SGD fluxes confined to the central parts of the study area and lower fluxes observed along with the northern and southern parts of the study area advocate impact due to seawater intrusion and recirculated seawater influence.