bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Yield Load Solutions for SE(B) Fracture Toughness Specimen with I-Shaped Heterogeneous Weld
Authors: Konjatić Pejo , Katinić Marko , Kozak Dražan , Gubeljak Nenad
Published: December 2021

The objective of this work was to investigate the fracture behavior of a heterogeneous I-shaped welded joint in the context of yield load solutions. The weld was divided into two equal parts, using the metal with the higher yield strength and the metal with the lower yield strength compared to base metal. For both configurations of the I-shaped weld, one with a crack in strength in the over-matched part of the weld and one for a crack in the under-matched part of the weld, a systematic study of fracture toughness SE(B) specimen was carried out in which the crack length, the width of the weld and the strength mismatch factor for both weld metals were varied, and the yield loads were determined. As a result of the study, two mathematical models for determination of yield loads are proposed. Both models were experimentally tested with one strength mismatch configuration, and the results showed good agreement and sufficiently conservative results compared to the experimental results.
Durability of Mortars with Fly Ash Subject to Freezing and Thawing Cycles and Sulfate Attack
Authors: Jaworska-Wędzińska Monika , Jasińska Iga
Published: December 2021

Destruction of cement composites occurs due to the alternate or simultaneous effects of aggressive media, resulting in the destruction of concrete under the influence of chemical and physical factors. This article presents the results of changes in the measurement of linear strains of samples and changes in the microstructure of cement after 30 freezing and thawing cycles and immersed in 5% sodium sulfate solution. The compressive strengths ratios were carried out at the moment when the samples were moved to the sulfate solution after 30 cycles and at the end of the study when the samples showed visual signs of damage caused by the effect of 5% Na2SO4. The composition of the mixtures was selected based on the Gibbs triangle covering the area up to 40% replacement of Portland cement with low and high-calcium fly ashes or their mixture. Air-entrained and non-air entrained mortars were made of OPC, in which 20%, 26.6%, and 40% of Portland cement were replaced with low and/or high-calcium fly ash. Initial, freezing and thawing cycles accelerated the destruction of non- air-entrained cement mortars immersed in 5% sodium sulfate solution. The sulfate resistance, after the preceding frost damage, decreased along with the increase in the amount of replaced fly ash in the binder. Air-entrained mortars in which 20% of cement was replaced with high-calcium fly ash showed the best resistance to the action of sodium sulfate after 30 freezing and thawing cycles.
Comparison of Aerosol Pt, Au and Ag Nanoparticles Agglomerates Laser Sintering
Authors: Khabarov Kirill , Nouraldeen Messan , Tikhonov Sergei , Lizunova Anna , Seraya Olesya , Filalova Emiliia , Ivanov Victor
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we investigated the interaction of nanosecond pulsed-periodic infrared (IR) laser radiation at a 50 and 500 Hz repetition rate with aerosol platinum (Pt) and silver (Ag) nanoparticles agglomerates obtained in a spark discharge. Results showed the complete transformation of Pt dendrite-like agglomerates with sizes of 300 nm into individual spherical nanoparticles directly in a gas flow under 1053 nm laser pulses with energy density 3.5 mJ/cm2. Notably, the critical energy density required for this process depended on the size distribution and extinction of agglomerates nanoparticles. Based on the extinction cross-section spectra results, Ag nanoparticles exhibit a weaker extinction in the IR region in contrast to Pt, so they were not completely modified even under the pulses with energy density up to 12.7 mJ/cm2. The obtained results for Ag and Pt laser sintering were compared with corresponding modification of gold (Au) nanoparticles studied in our previous work. Here we considered the sintering mechanisms for Ag, Pt and Au nanoparticles agglomerates in the aerosol phase and proposed the model of their laser sintering based on one-stage for Pt agglomerates and two-stage shrinkage processes for Au and Ag agglomerates.
Physico-Chemical Properties of Calcium-Silicate vs. Resin Based Sealers—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Laboratory-Based Studies
Authors: Chopra Viresh , Davis Graham , Baysan Aylin
Published: December 2021

Introduction: The aim of this systematic review is to analyse the effect of physico-chemical properties of calcium silicate-based sealers in comparison to epoxy resin sealers in permanent teeth using a single-cone obturation technique. Methods: The study was conducted according to the guidelines of Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Literature search was performed using the PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, DOAJ, Open Gray with no language restrictions until October 2020. Two reviewers assessed the studies for eligibility. Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) was carried out to assess the evidence. Meta-analysis of the pooled data with subgroups was performed using the RevMan software (p < 0.05). Results: Results from the 28 included studies showed that the mean difference in adaptation to root canal walls (marginal adaptation, interfacial gaps and void volume) for both sealers were non-significant. However, void volume values showed a significant mean difference (p < 0.00001) favouring the calcium silicate-based sealers. The pooled meta-analysis reported statistically significant differences for apical microleakage (p = 0.0007) whilst there were non-significant mean differences for fracture resistance (p = 0.09) and push-out bond strength (p = 0.63). The heterogeneity among the included studies was 97% (I2). Conclusions: Within the limitations of this review, calcium silicate-based sealers demonstrated a similar or superior performance in comparison to resin-based sealers in terms of the physico-chemical properties.
Combining H-Adaptivity with the Element Splitting Method for Crack Simulation in Large Structures
Authors: Song Shi , Braun Moritz , Wiegard Bjarne , Herrnring Hauke , Ehlers Sören
Published: December 2021

H-adaptivity is an effective tool to introduce local mesh refinement in the FEM-based numerical simulation of crack propagation. The implementation of h-adaptivity could benefit the numerical simulation of fatigue or accidental load scenarios involving large structures, such as ship hulls. Meanwhile, in engineering applications, the element deletion method is frequently used to represent cracks. However, the element deletion method has some drawbacks, such as strong mesh dependency and loss of mass or energy. In order to mitigate this problem, the element splitting method could be applied. In this study, a numerical method called ‘h-adaptive element splitting’ (h-AES) is introduced. The h-AES method is applied in FEM programs by combining h-adaptivity with the element splitting method. Two examples using the h-AES method to simulate cracks in large structures under linear-elastic fracture mechanics scenario are presented. The numerical results are verified against analytical solutions. Based on the examples, the h-AES method is proven to be able to introduce mesh refinement in large-scale numerical models that mostly consist of structured coarse meshes, which is also beneficial to the reduction of computational resources. By employing the h-AES method, very small cracks are well represented in large structures without any deletions of elements.
Structure and Branching of Unstable Modes in a Swirling Flow
Authors: Akhmetov Vadim
Published: December 2021

Swirling has a significant effect on the main characteristics of flow and can lead to its fundamental restructuring. On the flow axis, a stagnation point with zero velocity is possible, behind which a return flow zone is formed. The apparent instability leads to the formation of secondary vortex motions and can also be the cause of vortex breakdown. In the paper, a swirling flow with a velocity profile of the Batchelor vortex type has been studied on the basis of the linear hydrodynamic stability theory. An effective numerical method for solving the spectral problem has been developed. This method includes the asymptotic solutions at artificial and irregular singular points. The stability of flows was considered for the values of the Reynolds number in the range 10≤Re≤5×106. The calculations were carried out for the value of the azimuthal wavenumber parameter n=−1. As a result of the analysis of the solutions, the existence of up to eight simultaneously occurring unstable modes has been shown. The paper presents a classification of the detected modes. The critical parameters are calculated for each mode. For fixed values of the Reynolds numbers 60≤Re≤5000, the curves of neutral stability are plotted. Branching points of unstable modes are found. The maximum growth rates for each mode are determined. A new viscous instability mode is found. The performed calculations reveal the instability of the Batchelor vortex at large values of the swirl parameter for long-wave disturbances.
Asymptomatic Stroke in the Setting of Percutaneous Non-Coronary Intervention Procedures
Authors: Ciccarelli Giovanni , Renon Francesca , Bianchi Renato , Tartaglione Donato , Cappelli Bigazzi Maurizio , Loffredo Francesco , Golino Paolo , Cimmino Giovanni
Published: December 2021

Advancements in clinical management, pharmacological therapy and interventional procedures have strongly improved the survival rate for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Nevertheless, the patients affected by CVDs are more often elderly and present several comorbidities such as atrial fibrillation, valvular heart disease, heart failure, and chronic coronary syndrome. Standard treatments are frequently not available for “frail patients”, in particular due to high surgical risk or drug interaction. In the past decades, novel less-invasive procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI), MitraClip or left atrial appendage occlusion have been proposed to treat CVD patients who are not candidates for standard procedures. These procedures have been confirmed to be effective and safe compared to conventional surgery, and symptomatic thromboembolic stroke represents a rare complication. However, while the peri-procedural risk of symptomatic stroke is low, several studies highlight the presence of a high number of silent ischemic brain lesions occurring mainly in areas with a low clinical impact. The silent brain damage could cause neuropsychological deficits or worse, a preexisting dementia, suggesting the need to systematically evaluate the impact of these procedures on neurological function.
Interactions of Analgesics with Cisplatin: Modulation of Anticancer Efficacy and Potential Organ Toxicity
Authors: El-Sheikh Azza , Khired Zenat
Published: December 2021

Cisplatin (CDDP), one of the most eminent cancer chemotherapeutic agents, has been successfully used to treat more than half of all known cancers worldwide. Despite its effectiveness, CDDP might cause severe toxic adverse effects on multiple body organs during cancer chemotherapy, including the kidneys, heart, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and auditory system, as well as peripheral nerves causing severely painful neuropathy. The latter, among other pains patients feel during chemotherapy, is an indication for the use of analgesics during treatment with CDDP. Different types of analgesics, such as acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), and narcotic analgesics, could be used according to the severity of pain. Administered analgesics might modulate CDDP’s efficacy as an anticancer drug. NSAIDS, on one hand, might have cytotoxic effects on their own and few of them can potentiate CDDP’s anticancer effects via inhibiting the CDDP-induced cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme, or through COX-independent mechanisms. On the other hand, some narcotic analgesics might ameliorate CDDP’s anti-neoplastic effects, causing chemotherapy to fail. Concerning safety, some analgesics share the same adverse effects on normal tissues as CDDP, augmenting its potentially hazardous effects on organ impairment. This article offers an overview of the reported literature on the interactions between analgesics and CDDP, paying special attention to possible mechanisms that modulate CDDP’s cytotoxic efficacy and potential adverse reactions.
Long-Term Outcomes of Chronic Cough Reduction after Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication—A Single-Center Study
Authors: Dowgiałło-Gornowicz Natalia , Masiewicz Anna , Kacperczyk Justyna , Lech Paweł , Saluk Sławomir , Osowiecka Karolina , Michalik Maciej
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases. It affects 20% of the adult population and is the third most common cause of chronic cough in adults. This study describes the results of LNF for the relief of GERD-related cough. Materials and Methods: The prospectively collected data on 135 laparoscopic LNF in our department from 2014 to 2018 were reviewed. During consultations, patients were asked about the frequency of symptoms using the GERD Impact Scale (GERD-IS), their satisfaction and recommendation to others, and their general condition after the procedure. Results: We analyzed 23 of 111 patients (20.7%) reporting chronic cough. The mean age was 47 years (range 27–76 years, ±13.9 years) and the mean follow-up time was 48.3 months (range 22.6–76.3 ± 18.05 months). Most patients reported relief from cough after the surgery (78.3%, p < 0.001). Five patients (22%) reported the recurrence of symptoms after a mean of 10.8 months (6–18 months). Seventeen patients (74%) would undergo the surgery again and 18 patients (78%) would recommend the surgery to their relatives. There was a statistically significant improvement in all symptoms from the GERD-IS (p < 0.05). Conclusions: LNF may play an important role in the management of GERD patients with extraesophageal symptoms. After LNF, most of the operated patients reported complete resolution of chronic cough and would recommend the procedure to their relatives.
Very Early Onset of Therapy-Related Acute Myeloid Leukemia with 11q23 Rearrangement Presenting with Unusual PET Findings after R-DA-EPOCH for Primary Mediastinal Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Chatzidimitriou Chrysovalantou , Rondogianni Phivi , Arapaki Maria , Liaskas Athanasios , Plata Eleni , Angelopoulou Maria K. , Tsirigotis Panagiotis , Vassilakopoulos Theodoros P.
Published: December 2021

Background: R-DA-EPOCH is an effective regimen for PMLBCL, which permits the omission of consolidative radiotherapy in the majority of patients. Patient: We describe a 27-year-old female patient, who achieved a complete remission after treatment with six cycles of R-DA-EPOCH (up to the final level). At 6 months after the end of treatment, PET/CT revealed an unexpected, diffusely increased 18FDG uptake by the bone marrow. Simultaneously, pancytopenia with monocytosis was observed. Result: The patient was diagnosed with therapy-related myelodysplastic syndrome, which rapidly evolved into acute myeloid leukemia (t-MDS/AML) with MLL rearrangements. She achieved a complete remission after induction therapy, received an allogenic transplant and remains disease-free 2 years later. Conclusions: The extremely early onset of t-MDS/AML, together with the unexpected PET/CT findings make this case unique and highlights the need for the accurate estimation of the possible dose-dependent risk of t-MDS/AML after R-DA-EPOCH in the real-life setting in patients with PMLBCL.
A Proximity Ligation Method to Detect Proteins Bound to Single-Stranded DNA after DNA End Resection at DNA Double-Strand Breaks
Authors: Fowler Faith C. , Tyler Jessica K.
Published: December 2021

After a DNA double-strand break, cells utilize either non-homologous end joining or homologous recombination to repair the broken DNA ends. Homologous recombination requires extensive nucleolytic processing of one of the DNA strands, resulting in long stretches of 3′ single-strand DNA overhangs. Typically, single-stranded DNA is measured using immunofluorescence microscopy to image the foci of replication protein A, a single-stranded DNA-binding protein. Microscopy analysis of bromodeoxyuridine foci under nondenaturing conditions has also been used to measure single-stranded DNA. Here, we describe a proximity ligation assay which uses genome-wide bromodeoxyuridine incorporation to label single-stranded DNA in order to measure the association of a protein of interest with single-stranded DNA. This method is advantageous over traditional foci analysis because it is more direct and specific than traditional foci co-localization microscopy methods, uses only one color channel, and can reveal protein-single-stranded DNA interactions that are rare and potentially undetectable using traditional microscopy methods. We show here the association of replication protein A and bromodeoxyuridine as proof-of-concept.
Nanocomposites: Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (Nanoscale Phenomena) in Advanced Composites
Authors: Paramsothy Muralidharan
Published: December 2021

Nanocomposites can be viewed as abundant interface nanoscale systems having the ability to manipulate length scales that are fundamentally important to many physical properties [...]
Rod–Coil Block Copolymer: Fullerene Blend Water-Processable Nanoparticles: How Molecular Structure Addresses Morphology and Efficiency in NP-OPVs
Authors: Ferretti Anna Maria , Diterlizzi Marianna , Porzio William , Giovanella Umberto , Ganzer Lucia , Virgili Tersilla , Vohra Varun , Arias Eduardo , Moggio Ivana , Scavia Guido , Destri Silvia , Zappia Stefania
Published: December 2021

The use of water-processable nanoparticles (WPNPs) is an emerging strategy for the processing of organic semiconducting materials into aqueous medium, dramatically reducing the use of chlorinated solvents and enabling the control of the nanomorphology in OPV active layers. We studied amphiphilic rod-coil block copolymers (BCPs) with a different chemical structure and length of the hydrophilic coil blocks. Using the BCPs blended with a fullerene acceptor material, we fabricated NP-OPV devices with a sustainable approach. The goal of this work is to clarify how the morphology of the nanodomains of the two active materials is addressed by the hydrophilic coil molecular structures, and in turn how the design of the materials affects the device performances. Exploiting a peculiar application of TEM, EFTEM microscopy on WPNPs, with the contribution of AFM and spectroscopic techniques, we correlate the coil structure with the device performances, demonstrating the pivotal influence of the chemical design over material properties. BCP5, bearing a coil block of five repeating units of 4-vinilpyridine (4VP), leads to working devices with efficiency comparable to the solution-processed ones for the multiple PCBM-rich cores morphology displayed by the blend WPNPs. Otherwise, BCP2 and BCP15, with 2 and 15 repeating units of 4VP, respectively, show a single large PCBM-rich core; the insertion of styrene units into the coil block of BCP100 is detrimental for the device efficiency, even if it produces an intermixed structure.
Autofluorescence Spectroscopy and Imaging II: A Special Issue Aimed to Promote Optically Based Studies on Biological Substrates
Authors: Croce Anna C.
Published: December 2021

The Journal Molecules, in particular the Photochemistry Section, and the younger Journal Photochem are active in promoting the advances and practical applications based on the interaction of light with the various biological substrates from both animal and vegetal systems [...]
Genome-Wide Association Analysis of Salt-Tolerant Traits in Terrestrial Cotton at Seedling Stage
Authors: Zheng Juyun , Zhang Zeliang , Gong Zhaolong , Liang Yajun , Sang Zhiwei , Xu Yanchao , Li Xueyuan , Wang Junduo
Published: December 2021

Soil salinization is the main abiotic stress factor affecting agricultural production worldwide, and salt stress has a significant impact on plant growth and development. Cotton is one of the most salt-tolerant crops. Therefore, the selection and utilization of salt-tolerant germplasm resources and the excavation of salt resistance genes play important roles in improving cotton production in saline–alkali soils. In this study, we analysed the population structure and genetic diversity of a total 149 cotton plant materials including 137 elite Gossypium hirsutum cultivar accessions collected from China and 12 elite Gossypium hirsutum cultivar accessions collected from around the world. Illumina Cotton SNP 70 K was used to obtain genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data for 149 elite Gossypium hirsutum cultivar accessions, and 18,430 highly consistent SNP loci were obtained by filtering. It was assessed by using PCA principal component analysis so that the 149 elite Gossypium hirsutum cultivar accessions could be divided into two subgroups, including subgroup 1 with 78 materials and subgroup 2 with 71 materials. Using the obtained SNP and other marker genotype test results, under salt stress, the salt tolerance traits 3d Germination potential, 3d Radicle length drop rate, 7d Germination rate, 7d Radicle length drop rate, 7d Germination weight, 3d Radicle length, 7d Radicle length, Relative Germination potential, Relative Germination rate, 7d Radicle weight drop rate, Salt tolerance index 3d Germination potential index, 3d Radicle length index, 7d Radicle length index, 7d Radicle weight index and 7d Germination rate index were evaluated by GWAS (genome-wide association analysis). A total of 27 SNP markers closely related to the salt tolerance traits and 15 SNP markers closely related to the salt tolerance index were detected. At the SNP locus associated with phenotyping, Gh_D01G0943, Gh_D01G0945, Gh_A01G0906, Gh_A01G0908, Gh_D08G1308 and Gh_D08G1309 related to plant salt tolerance were detected, and they were found to be involved in intracellular transport, sucrose synthesis, osmotic pressure balance, transmembrane transport, N-glycosylation, auxin response and cell amplification. This study provides a theoretical basis for the selection and breeding of salt-tolerant upland cotton varieties.
Dietary Habits and Obesity in Patients with Psychotic Disorders in Rural Areas in Northwestern Greece
Authors: Bakola Maria , Manthopoulou Thiresia , Bonotis Konstantinos , Peritogiannis Vaios
Published: December 2021

People suffering from psychotic disorders display high rates of physical morbidity and mortality in comparison to the general population. The present study explores the relation between the dietary habits, the prevalence of obesity and the occurrence of physical morbidity in patients who suffer from psychotic disorders in rural regions of northwest Greece. Two scales were applied to evaluate the quality of life (Quality of Life Questionnaire II, Moorehead–Ardelt) and the dietary habits (Dietary Instrument for Nutrition Education (DINE) Questionnaire) of these patients. The study sample used in this study consisted of 55 patients who suffered from a psychotic disorder. Most (75%) were male, with a mean age of 51.5 years and an average duration of disease of 25.1 years. Of these, 38.2% (21 patients) were obese with a BMI < 30 Kg/m2, 32.7% (16 patients) were overweight and 29.1% had a normal body weight. The majority of the sample, 80%, was treated with second-generation medications. With regards to their dietary habits, 94.5% (52/55) of the sample showed a low intake of fiber content, 67.3% (37/55) showed a high intake of saturated fats and 100% (55/55) a low intake of unsaturated fats. The rates of physical morbidity in the present sample were 21.8% with at least one disease and 14.5% with two diseases, whereas 5.5% met the criteria for metabolic syndrome (MS). The average BMI of the women was statistically significantly higher compared to the men. The majority of the sample (69.1%) exhibited acceptable levels of quality of life. No co-relations of quality of life with BMI were found. In addition, no co-relations of BMI with dietary habits were revealed.
Modifications of Metallic and Inorganic Materials by Using Ion/Electron Beams
Authors: Iwase Akihiro
Published: December 2021

Welcome to the Special Issue of Quantum Beam Science entitled “Modifications of Metallic and Inorganic Materials by Using Ion/Electron Beams” [...]
Landscape and Divinity Spoken in the Same Breath
Authors: Winters Dennis Alan
Published: December 2021

From where can we draw inspiration to cultivate an intimate sensibility into the spiritual nature of landscape, the foundation for designing gardens for meditation and healing? Through various spiritual lenses, this inquiry penetrates fundamental grounds for our subtle relationship with landscape. Beginning with excerpts of a private audience with His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Middlebury College, at which I present my proposed plans and designs for Milarepa Center in Barnet, Vermont, this inquiry looks into the profound links between spiritual inquiry and the practice of designing gardens, making design of landscape integral to a spiritual path, and the profound relationship between Landscape and Divinity. It is presented in three parts: (1) spiritual inspiration; (2) setting terms on the table; and (3) expressions of sacred landscape.
The Confucian Moral Community of the Clan Association in the Chinese Diaspora: A Case Study of the Lung Kong Tin Yee Association
Authors: Chen Yong
Published: December 2021

Using the Lung Kong Association as a case study, this article explores the cultural and socio-religious significance of the clan association in overseas Chinese societies. It argues that the Chinese diaspora has continually endeavored to utilize Confucian resources, via the clan association, to construct a “moral community” for the facilitation of their internal solidarity and external identity.
Comparison of National Innovation Systems in the European Union Countries
Authors: Dworak Edyta , Grzelak Maria Magdalena , Roszko-Wójtowicz Elżbieta
Published: December 2021

The effective operation of national innovation systems can be a source of many opportunities, but it cannot be forgotten that innovation in itself may mean limiting but also generating various types of risks for the functioning of the local market. The main aim of the article is to present the concept and classification of national innovation systems in the world and to try to answer whether the type of NIS determines the level of innovation of the economies of the European Union countries. The following research thesis was formulated in the study: the type of National Innovation System determines a certain level of innovation in the economy of an European Union country, i.e., in countries belonging to a developed NIS, the level of innovation of the economy is higher than in countries belonging to developing systems. The results of the analysis confirm the research thesis. In the empirical part, the level of innovation in the European Union countries was assessed using the synthetic measure of development (SMD) by Z. Hellwig. Based on the obtained values of the synthetic measure of development (innovation), a ranking of the innovation of the economies of the EU countries was compiled and groups of countries with a similar degree of innovation in the economy were distinguished. The developed ranking of the European Union countries was compared with the NSI classification presented in the theoretical part of the article. The study covered 2010 and 2019.
Mammography Image-Based Diagnosis of Breast Cancer Using Machine Learning: A Pilot Study
Authors: Alshammari Maha M. , Almuhanna Afnan , Alhiyafi Jamal
Published: December 2021

A tumor is an abnormal tissue classified as either benign or malignant. A breast tumor is one of the most common tumors in women. Radiologists use mammograms to identify a breast tumor and classify it, which is a time-consuming process and prone to error due to the complexity of the tumor. In this study, we applied machine learning-based techniques to assist the radiologist in reading mammogram images and classifying the tumor in a very reasonable time interval. We extracted several features from the region of interest in the mammogram, which the radiologist manually annotated. These features are incorporated into a classification engine to train and build the proposed structure classification models. We used a dataset that was not previously seen in the model to evaluate the accuracy of the proposed system following the standard model evaluation schemes. Accordingly, this study found that various factors could affect the performance, which we avoided after experimenting all the possible ways. This study finally recommends using the optimized Support Vector Machine or Naïve Bayes, which produced 100% accuracy after integrating the feature selection and hyper-parameter optimization schemes.
Evaluation of Machine Learning Methods for Monitoring the Health of Guyed Towers
Authors: Martinez Ricardo Diana Marcela , Castañeda Jimenez German Efrain , Vaqueiro Ferreira Janito , de Oliveira Nobrega Euripedes Guilherme , de Lima Eduardo Rodrigues , de Almeida Larissa M.
Published: December 2021

This paper presents the development of a methodology to detect and evaluate faults in cable-stayed towers, which are part of the infrastructure of Brazil’s interconnected electrical system. The proposed method increases system reliability and minimizes the risk of service failure and tower collapse through the introduction of predictive maintenance methods based on artificial intelligence, which will ultimately benefit the end consumer. The proposed signal processing and interpretation methods are based on a machine learning approach, where the tower vibration is acquired from accelerometers that measure the dynamic response caused by the effects of the environment on the towers through wind and weather conditions. Data-based models were developed to obtain a representation of health degradation, which is primarily based on the finite element model of the tower, subjected to wind excitation. This representation is also based on measurements using a mockup tower with different types of provoked degradation that was subjected to ambient changes in the laboratory. The sensor signals are preprocessed and submitted to an autoencoder neural network to minimize the dimensionality of the resources involved, being analyzed by a classifier, based on a Softmax configuration. The results of the proposed configuration indicate the possibility of early failure detection and evolution evaluation, providing an effective failure detection and monitoring system.
A Case Study of Quantizing Convolutional Neural Networks for Fast Disease Diagnosis on Portable Medical Devices
Authors: Garifulla Mukhammed , Shin Juncheol , Kim Chanho , Kim Won Hwa , Kim Hye Jung , Kim Jaeil , Hong Seokin
Published: December 2021

Recently, the amount of attention paid towards convolutional neural networks (CNN) in medical image analysis has rapidly increased since they can analyze and classify images faster and more accurately than human abilities. As a result, CNNs are becoming more popular and play a role as a supplementary assistant for healthcare professionals. Using the CNN on portable medical devices can enable a handy and accurate disease diagnosis. Unfortunately, however, the CNNs require high-performance computing resources as they involve a significant amount of computation to process big data. Thus, they are limited to being used on portable medical devices with limited computing resources. This paper discusses the network quantization techniques that reduce the size of CNN models and enable fast CNN inference with an energy-efficient CNN accelerator integrated into recent mobile processors. With extensive experiments, we show that the quantization technique reduces inference time by 97% on the mobile system integrating a CNN acceleration engine.
Unified InterPlanetary Smart Parking Network for Maximum End-User Flexibility
Authors: Iacobescu Ciprian , Oltean Gabriel , Florea Camelia , Burtea Bogdan
Published: December 2021

Technological breakthroughs have offered innovative solutions for smart parking systems, independent of the use of computer vision, smart sensors, gap sensing, and other variations. We now have a high degree of confidence in spot classification or object detection at the parking level. The only thing missing is end-user satisfaction, as users are forced to use multiple interfaces to find a parking spot in a geographical area. We propose a trustless federated model that will add a layer of abstraction between the technology and the human interface to facilitate user adoption and responsible data acquisition by leveraging a federated identity protocol based on Zero Knowledge Cryptography. No central authority is needed for the model to work; thus, it is trustless. Chained trust relationships generate a graph of trustworthiness, which is necessary to bridge the gap from one smart parking program to an intelligent system that enables smart cities. With the help of Zero Knowledge Cryptography, end users can attain a high degree of mobility and anonymity while using a diverse array of service providers. From an investor’s standpoint, the usage of IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) lowers operational costs, increases service resilience, and decentralizes the network of smart parking solutions. A peer-to-peer content addressing system ensures that the data are moved close to the users without deploying expensive cloud-based infrastructure. The result is a macro system with independent actors that feed each other data and expose information in a common protocol. Different client implementations can offer the same experience, even though the parking providers use different technologies. We call this InterPlanetary Smart Parking Architecture NOW—IPSPAN.
Examination of Local Plan Changes from a Value Capture Perspective: Istanbul Case
Authors: Kılınc Numan , Turk Sevkiye Sence
Published: December 2021

Local governments have an increasing tendency to capture the value increase occurring as a result of partial interventions into local plans. The basic acceptance behind this is that value definitely will increase as a result of partial interventions. However, all partial interventions always cannot lead to an increase in value. There can be also partial interventions in which the value does not change or even decreases. The aim of this study is to identify the value capture capacity of local plan changes as partial interventions, and to discuss this capacity in terms of the balance between betterment and compensation. Istanbul, which is one of the cities where the effects of neo-liberal policies are most intense and where local plan changes are common, was chosen as the study area. In the first stage of the study, the spatial distributions of 17,369 plan changes approved by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Council between 2009–2018 were examined. In the second stage, the value capture capacities of the plan changes grouped by subject, were determined by interviewing 46 people working in different areas of the planning discipline. The findings of the study demonstrate that although the plan changes are spread throughout the metropolitan area, they are concentrated in the central and secondary central districts where the accessibility value is high. The interviewees emphasized that the plan changes made as a result of private-sector demand and the plan change for the improvement of the infrastructure increase the value of the land and that the plan changes within this scope have value capture capacities. On the other hand, according to the findings of the study, some plan changes reduce the value of the land because of restricting the property rights on the land. Plan changes in this group are needed to be compensated fairly and equitably. Thus, the balance between betterment and compensation would be achieved.
Mixing and Magnetic Fields in Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars in the Framework of FRUITY Models
Authors: Vescovi Diego
Published: December 2021

In the last few years, the modeling of asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars has been much investigated, both focusing on nucleosynthesis and stellar evolution aspects. Recent advances in the input physics required for stellar computations made it possible to construct more accurate evolutionary models, which are an essential tool to interpret the wealth of available observational and nucleosynthetic data. Motivated by such improvements, the FUNS stellar evolutionary code has been updated. Nonetheless, mixing processes occurring in AGB stars’ interiors are currently not well-understood. This is especially true for the physical mechanism leading to the formation of the 13C pocket, the major neutron source in low-mass AGB stars. In this regard, post-processing s-process models assuming that partial mixing of protons is induced by magneto-hydrodynamics processes were shown to reproduce many observations. Such mixing prescriptions have now been implemented in the FUNS code to compute stellar models with fully coupled nucleosynthesis. Here, we review the new generation of FRUITY models that include the effects of mixing triggered by magnetic fields by comparing theoretical findings with observational constraints available either from the isotopic analysis of trace-heavy elements in presolar grains or from carbon AGB stars and Galactic open clusters.
Position in Minimal Length Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Bosso Pasquale
Published: December 2021

Several approaches to quantum gravity imply the presence of a minimal measurable length at high energies. This is in tension with the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle. Such a contrast is then considered in phenomenological approaches to quantum gravity by introducing a minimal length in quantum mechanics via the Generalized Uncertainty Principle. Several features of the standard theory are affected by such a modification. For example, position eigenstates are no longer included in models of quantum mechanics with a minimal length. Furthermore, while the momentum-space description can still be realized in a relatively straightforward way, the (quasi-)position representation acquires numerous issues. Here, we will review such issues, clarifying aspects regarding models with a minimal length. Finally, we will consider the effects of such models on simple quantum mechanical systems.
Research on Hydrogen Consumption and Driving Range of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle under the CLTC-P Condition
Authors: Duan Zhijie , Mei Nan , Feng Lili , Yu Shuguang , Jiang Zengyou , Chen Dongfang , Xu Xiaoming , Hong Jichao
Published: December 2021

Hydrogen consumption and mileage are important economic indicators of fuel cell vehicles. Hydrogen consumption is the fundamental reason that restricts mileage. Since there are few quantitative studies on hydrogen consumption during actual vehicle operation, the high cost of hydrogen consumption in outdoor testing makes it impossible to guarantee the accuracy of the test. Therefore, this study puts forward a test method based on the hydrogen consumption of fuel cell vehicles under CLTC-P operating conditions to test the hydrogen consumption of fuel cell vehicles per 100 km. Finally, the experiment shows that the mileage calculated by hydrogen consumption has a higher consistency with the actual mileage. Based on this hydrogen consumption test method, the hydrogen consumption can be accurately measured, and the test time and cost can be effectively reduced.
Detection of Distributed Denial of Service Flooding Attack Using Odds Ratio
Authors: Nashat Dalia , Hussain Fatma A. , Jiang Xiaohong
Published: December 2021

Computer networks are vulnerable to many types of attacks while the Distributed Denial of Service attack (DDoS) serves as one of the top concerns for security professionals. The DDoS flooding attack denies the services by consuming the server resources to prevent the legitimate users from using their desired services. The hardness of detecting this attack lies in sending a stream of packets to the server with spoofed IP addresses, so that the internet routing infrastructure cannot distinguish the spoofed packets. Based on the odds ratio (OR) statistical measurement, in this work we propose a new detection method for the DDoS flooding attacks. By exploring the odds ratio to determine the risk factor of any incoming traffic to the server, the legitimate and attack traffic packets can be easily differentiated. Experimental results demonstrate the efficiency of the presented detection method in terms of its detection probability and detection time.
A Bariatric Patient at a Gastroenterologist's Appointment Before and After Surgery
Authors:   A.S. Loginov Moscow Clinical Scientific Center, Firsova L.D. , Bodunova N.A. , Polyakova V.V. , Askerkhanov R.G.
Published: December 2021

The article deals with diseases of the digestive system, pathogenetically associated with obesity; presents a description of the two most common bariatric surgeries at present, with an emphasis on changes in the gastrointestinal tract in the postoperative period
La aplicación del Mindfulness para mejorar las estrategias de enseñanza y aprendizaje en la educación superior
Authors: Benavides Mayaute Lucía Del Carmen , Benavides Mayaute Aldo Luigi
Published: December 2021

El Mindfulness es el denominador común que se encuentra en las corrientes de meditación derivadas de la tradición budista. El desarrollo de esta técnica se basa en disminuir los procesos automáticos mentales, por lo que resalta los detalles del entorno de la persona por medio de estrategias cognitivas que permiten la comprensión del ambiente que le rodea. El objetivo general es analizar la aplicación del Mindfulness para mejorar las estrategias de enseñanza-aprendizaje en la educación superior. La metodología aplicada tiene un diseño bibliográfico de tipo documental. Como conclusión se obtuvo que los procesos de que desarrollan el mindfulness permiten generar un ambiente más cordial dentro del aula de clase, donde la generación de conocimiento es más efectiva y productiva, otorgando una educación de calidad. En el caso de los docentes, elimina los efectos del burnout, el estrés, la desmotivación, que inciden directamente en las estrategias didácticas que implementan en el aula de clase; el mindfulness ayuda a generar las estrategias didácticas acordes a las necesidades y situaciones de los estudiantes con el fin de desarrollar los profesionales más acordes a la sociedad actual.
AN ANALYSIS OF THE USE OF BRITISH ENGLISH AND AMERICAN ENGLISH TOWARD WRITING ABILITY IN THE STUDENTS’ INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS OF NAHDLATUL ULAMA UNIVERSITY OF PURWOKERTO
Authors: Bestari Ade Christanty Yudha , Mayekti Meilina Haris , Faiza Dinar
Published: December 2021

This research contains an analysis of the use of British and American English on writing skills on student accounts of the Nahdlatul Ulama Purwokerto University (UNU Purwokerto). The purpose of this study was to determine the British English and American English vocabularies used by students in developing writing skills. This study uses a qualitative approach using descriptive analysis methods. The sampling technique was carried out by means of purposive sampling of the captions used for English writing practice. The Instagram account analyzed was the Instagram account of the Purwokerto Nahdlatul Ulama University students. The accounts analyzed were 50 students accounts. The results of this study are first, the researcher will record the vocabulary contained in the results of English Writing on the Instagram account and classify British and American English. So that we can understand the differences between British English and American English in the captions on students' Instagram. Second, the researcher will analyze writing skills regarding the suitability of grammatical with sentence context. Third, that this research can be used as a reference for British and American English knowledge that supports the process of developing English writing skills.
DEVELOPING ENGLISH TEXTBOOK IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BASED BANYUWANGI LOCAL WISDOM IN BANYUWANGI REGENCY
Authors: Hasibin Nur , Inayah Arin
Published: December 2021

This study aims to develop an English textbook based on Banyuwangi local wisdom. The design used is research and development (R&D) using Borg and Gall models, namely; 1) Preliminary study (define) and design (design); 2) Textbook development (Development); (3) the model testing phase, and 4) Dissemination of implementation (development, validation, and testing) of textbook development results. The collecting data is a qualitative data which is the result of interviews, questionnaires, and document analysis. There were 12 teachers as respondents in two sub-districts in Banyuwangi district, namely Kabat District and Banyuwangi District. Three experts in providing input on the research prototype. The results of this study indicate that the process of developing textbooks includes an introduction in the form of a map of the teacher's need for textbooks based on Banyuwangi local wisdom that most respondents want textbooks. The design stage includes a book draft, and the development stage is the final textbook result. Assessment of the quality of textbooks from the material, presentation, language, and graphics components. The material components got good ratings, good presentation, good language, and good graphics.
DEVELOPMENT OF VIRTUAL LEARNING SYSTEM (VLS) BASED ON MOODLE AS A PLATFORM ONLINE LEARNING IN THE COVIC-19
Authors: Sirwan Sirwan , Ahyani Radhiani , Sartika Sartika
Published: December 2021

The objectives of this research are to; 1) Produce a Virtual Learning System (VLS) Based on Moodle as a Covid-19 Online Learning Platform; 2) Testing the Feasibility of the Virtual Learning System (VLS) from the Appearance and Practicality Aspects. This type of research is Research and Development (R&D) with the Borg and Gall development model. The Borg and Gall model was modified inti six (6) steps, needs analysis, planning, development, Implementation, revision. The subject of the trial involved two media experts, one material experts and 30 student from SMKN 1 Sorong, West Papua were selected randomly. The instrumen used collect data is a product validation questionnaire. The data obtained in the form of qualitative data which are quantified, the tabulated and analyzed descriptively. The results showed that; 1) Research This development has produced a Moodle-based Virtual Learning System (VLS). Moodle-based Virtual Leaning System (VLS) application passed the quality and practicality test by media experts; 2). The results of the trial of the media expert's product on the display aspect obtained a value of 89.5% very feasible criteria, while the practicality aspect was 90.0% practical criteria. Meanwhile, from the aspect of Usabily Virtual Learning system (VLS) based on moodle, 90% of students complete the lesson independently, then 98% of students understand the lesson.