bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Thermal Properties of Materials Used to Insulate External Walls
Authors: Pomada Marta , Kieruzel Klaudia , Ujma Adam , Palutkiewicz Paweł , Walasek Tomasz , Adamus Janina
Published: September 2024

This article emphasizes the significance of understanding the actual thermal properties of thermal insulation materials, which are crucial for avoiding errors in building design and estimating heat losses within the energy balance. The aim of this study was to analyse the thermal parameters of selected thermal insulation materials, particularly in the context of their stability after a period of storage under specific conditions. The materials chosen for this study include commonly used construction insulations such as polystyrene and mineral wool, as well as modern options like rigid foam composites. Experimental studies were conducted, including the determination of the thermal conductivity coefficient λ, as well as numerical analyses and analytical calculations of heat flow through a double-layer external wall with a window. The numerical analyses were performed using the TRISCO software version 12.0w, based on the finite element method (FEM). A macrostructural analysis of the investigated materials was also performed. The findings indicated that improper storage conditions adversely affect the thermal properties of insulation materials. Specifically, storing materials outdoors led to a deterioration in insulating properties, with an average reduction of about 4% for the standard materials and as much as 19% for the tested composite material. Insufficient understanding of the true thermal properties of insulation materials can result in incorrect insulation layer thickness, degrading the fundamental thermal parameters of external walls. This, in turn, increases heat loss through major building surfaces, raises heating costs, and indirectly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Projection-Uniform Subsampling Methods for Big Data
Authors: Sun Yuxin , Liu Wenjun , Tian Ye
Published: September 2024

The idea of experimental design has been widely used in subsampling algorithms to extract a small portion of big data that carries useful information for statistical modeling. Most existing subsampling algorithms of this kind are model-based and designed to achieve the corresponding optimality criteria for the model. However, data generating models are frequently unknown or complicated. Model-free subsampling algorithms are needed for obtaining samples that are robust under model misspecification and complication. This paper introduces two novel algorithms, called the Projection-Uniform Subsampling algorithm and its extension. Both algorithms aim to extract a subset of samples from big data that are space-filling in low-dimensional projections. We show that subdata obtained from our algorithms perform superiorly under the uniform projection criterion and centered L2-discrepancy. Comparisons among our algorithms, model-based and model-free methods are conducted through two simulation studies and two real-world case studies. We demonstrate the robustness of our proposed algorithms in building statistical models in scenarios involving model misspecification and complication.
Equilibrium Strategies for Overtaking-Free Queueing Networks under Partial Information
Authors: Barbato David , Cesaro Alberto , D’Auria Bernardo
Published: September 2024

We investigate the equilibrium strategies for customers arriving at overtaking-free queueing networks and receiving partial information about the system’s state. In an overtaking-free network, customers cannot be overtaken by others arriving after them. We assume that customer arrivals follow a Poisson process and that service times at any queue are independent and exponentially distributed. Upon arrival, the received partial information is the total number of customers already in the network; however, the distribution of these among the queues is left unknown. Adding rewards for being served and costs for waiting, we analyze the economic behavior of this system, looking for equilibrium threshold strategies. The overtaking-free characteristic allows for coupling of its dynamics with those of corresponding closed Jackson networks, for which an algorithm to compute the expected sojourn times is known. We exploit this feature to compute the profit function and prove the existence of equilibrium threshold strategies. We also illustrate the results by analyzing and comparing two simple network structures.
Assessment of Femoral Head Sphericity Using Coordinate Data through Modified Differential Evolution Approach
Authors: Mian Syed Hammad , Almutairi Zeyad , Aboudaif Mohamed K.
Published: September 2024

Coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) are utilized to acquire coordinate data from manufactured surfaces for inspection reasons. These data are employed to gauge the geometric form errors associated with the surface. An optimization procedure of fitting a substitute surface to the measured points is applied to assess the form error. Since the traditional least-squares approach is susceptible to overestimation, it leads to unreasonable rejections. This paper implements a modified differential evolution (DE) algorithm to estimate the minimum zone femoral head sphericity. In this algorithm, opposition-based learning is considered for population initialization, and an adaptive scheme is enacted for scaling factor and crossover probability. The coefficients of the correlation factor and the uncertainty propagation are also measured so that the result’s uncertainty can be determined. Undoubtedly, the credibility and plausibility of inspection outcomes are strengthened by evaluating measurement uncertainty. Several data sets are used to corroborate the outcome of the DE algorithm. CMM validation shows that the modified DE algorithm can measure sphericity with high precision and consistency. This algorithm allows for an adequate initial solution and adaptability to address a wide range of industrial problems. It ensures a proper balance between exploitation and exploration capabilities. Thus, the suggested methodology, based on the computational results, is feasible for the online deployment of the sphericity evaluation. The adopted DE strategy is simple to use, has few controlling variables, and is computationally less expensive. It guarantees a robust solution and can be used to compute different form errors.
MS-UNet: Multi-Scale Nested UNet for Medical Image Segmentation with Few Training Data Based on an ELoss and Adaptive Denoising Method
Authors: Chen Haoyuan , Han Yufei , Yao Linwei , Wu Xin , Li Kuan , Yin Jianping
Published: September 2024

Traditional U-shape segmentation models can achieve excellent performance with an elegant structure. However, the single-layer decoder structure of U-Net or SwinUnet is too “thin” to exploit enough information, resulting in large semantic differences between the encoder and decoder parts. Things get worse in the field of medical image processing, where annotated data are more difficult to obtain than other tasks. Based on this observation, we propose a U-like model named MS-UNet with a plug-and-play adaptive denoising module and ELoss for the medical image segmentation task in this study. Instead of the single-layer U-Net decoder structure used in Swin-UNet and TransUNet, we specifically designed a multi-scale nested decoder based on the Swin Transformer for U-Net. The proposed multi-scale nested decoder structure allows for the feature mapping between the decoder and encoder to be semantically closer, thus enabling the network to learn more detailed features. In addition, ELoss could improve the attention of the model to the segmentation edges, and the plug-and-play adaptive denoising module could prevent the model from learning the wrong features without losing detailed information. The experimental results show that MS-UNet could effectively improve network performance with more efficient feature learning capability and exhibit more advanced performance, especially in the extreme case with a small amount of training data. Furthermore, the proposed ELoss and denoising module not only significantly enhance the segmentation performance of MS-UNet but can also be applied individually to other models.
Metabolite Measurement in Index Substrate Drug Interaction Studies: A Review of the Literature and Recent New Drug Application Reviews
Authors: Yu Jingjing , Rioux Nathalie , Gardner Iain , Owens Katie , Ragueneau-Majlessi Isabelle
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives: Index substrates are used to understand the processes involved in pharmacokinetic (PK) drug–drug interactions (DDIs). The aim of this analysis is to review metabolite measurement in clinical DDI studies, focusing on index substrates for cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, including CYP1A2 (caffeine), CYP2B6 (bupropion), CYP2C8 (repaglinide), CYP2C9 ((S)-warfarin, flurbiprofen), CYP2C19 (omeprazole), CYP2D6 (desipramine, dextromethorphan, nebivolol), and CYP3A (midazolam, triazolam). Methods: All data used in this evaluation were obtained from the Certara Drug Interaction Database. Clinical index substrate DDI studies with PK data for at least one metabolite, available from literature and recent new drug application reviews, were reviewed. Further, for positive DDI studies, a correlation analysis was performed between changes in plasma exposure of index substrates and their marker metabolites. Results: A total of 3261 individual index DDI studies were available, with 45% measuring at least one metabolite. The occurrence of metabolite measurement in clinical DDI studies varied widely between index substrates and enzymes. Discussion and Conclusions: For substrates such as caffeine, bupropion, omeprazole, and dextromethorphan, the use of the metabolite/parent area under the curve ratio can provide greater sensitivity to DDI or reduce intrasubject variability. In some cases (e.g., omeprazole, repaglinide), the inclusion of metabolite measurement can provide mechanistic insights to understand complex interactions.
Francisella novicida-Containing Vacuole within Dictyostelium discoideum: Isolation and Proteomic Characterization
Authors: Marecic Valentina , Shevchuk Olga , Link Marek , Viduka Ina , Ozanic Mateja , Kostanjsek Rok , Mihelcic Mirna , Antonic Masa , Jänsch Lothar , Stulik Jiri , Santic Marina
Published: September 2024

Francisella is a highly infectious gram-negative bacterium that causes tularemia in humans and animals. It can survive and multiply in a variety of cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells, amoebae, and arthropod-derived cells. However, the intracellular life cycle of a bacterium varies depending on the cell type. Shortly after the infection of mammalian cells, the bacterium escapes the phagosome into the cytosol, where it replicates. In contrast, in the amoebae Acanthamoeba castellanii and Hartmannella vermiformis, the bacterium replicates within the membrane-bound vacuole. In recent years, the amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum has emerged as a powerful model to study the intracellular cycle and virulence of many pathogenic bacteria. In this study, we used D. discoideum as a model for the infection and isolation of Francisella novicida-containing vacuoles (FCVs) formed after bacteria invade the amoeba. Our results showed that F. novicida localized in a vacuole after invading D. discoideum. Here, we developed a method to isolate FCV and determined its composition by proteomic analyses. Proteomic analyses revealed 689 proteins, including 13 small GTPases of the Rab family. This is the first evidence of F. novicida-containing vacuoles within amoeba, and this approach will contribute to our understanding of host–pathogen interactions and the process of pathogen vacuole formation, as vacuoles containing bacteria represent direct contact between pathogens and their hosts. Furthermore, this method can be translocated on other amoeba models.
Distributed Acoustic Sensing: A Promising Tool for Finger-Band Anomaly Detection
Authors: Zhang Kunpeng , Ku Haochu , Wang Su , Zhang Min , He Xiangge , Lu Hailong
Published: September 2024

The straddle-type monorail is an electric-powered public vehicle widely known for its versatility and ease of maintenance. The finger-band is a critical connecting structure for the straddle-type monorail, but issues such as loose bolts are inevitable over time. Manual inspection is the primary method for detecting bolt looseness in the finger-band, but this approach could be more efficient and resistant to missed detections. In this study, we conducted a straddle-type monorail finger-band-anomaly-monitoring experiment using Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS), a distributed multi-point-monitoring system widely used in railway monitoring. We analyzed track vibration signals’ time-domain and frequency-domain characteristics under different monorail operating conditions. Our findings revealed the following: 1. DAS can effectively identify the monorail’s operating status, including travel direction, starting and braking, and real-time train speed measurement. 2. Time-domain signals can accurately pinpoint special track structures such as turnouts and finger-bands. Passing trains over finger-bands also results in notable energy reflections in the frequency domain. 3. After the finger-band bolts loosen, there is a significant increase in vibration energy at the finger-band position, with the degree of energy increase corresponding to the extent of loosening.
Research on the Conversion Coefficient in Coherent Φ-OTDR and Its Intrinsic Impact on Localization Accuracy
Authors: Zhong Zhen , Zou Ningmu , Zhang Xuping
Published: September 2024

Phase-sensitive optical time domain reflectometry (Φ-OTDR) plays a crucial role in localizing and monitoring seismic waves, underwater structures, etc. Accurate localization of external perturbations along the fiber is essential for addressing these challenges effectively. The conversion coefficient, which links the detected phase signal to the perturbation signal on the fiber, has a significant impact on localization accuracy. This makes the characteristic of parameters relative to the conversion coefficient in Φ-OTDR a subject of deep research. Based on the coherent Φ-OTDR mathematical model, parameters like the modulus, the statistical phase, the phase change, and the peak difference are analyzed with and without the static region, respectively. When perturbations are homogeneously distributed along the fiber, the absence of static region on the phase change-fiber length plane leads to a nonlinear phase change relationship. This deviation from the expected linear relationship in the presence of static region means that the static region is essential for higher localization accuracy. The absence of static region results in a standard deviation of 0.042263 m for the localization deviation value, which could be theoretically reduced by a new sensor design with a static region. These findings underscore the importance of the conversion coefficient and the relevance of the static region in Φ-OTDR to achieving accurate and effective localization.
Non-Invasive Optoacoustic Imaging for In-Depth Cultural Heritage Diagnostics
Authors: Tserevelakis George J. , Pirgianaki Eleanna , Melessanaki Kristalia , Zacharakis Giannis , Fotakis Costas
Published: September 2024

The complex composition of cultural heritage (CH) items presents significant challenges in assessing their condition and predicting potential risks of material degradation. Typically employed diagnostic optical methods are inevitably limited by light scattering, thus restricting in-depth investigations of objects with complex structural and optical properties. To address this issue, we introduce a novel reflection-mode optoacoustic (OA) diagnostic system for non-contact and non-invasive measurements of CH, placing emphasis on the detection of ageing-related modifications in artistic media such as paints. In this direction, the sensitivity of OA measurements was proven to be up to two orders of magnitude higher than conventional absorption spectroscopy assessments. Furthermore, we have evaluated the in-depth imaging capabilities of the developed OA system, demonstrating that it can offer superior contrast levels of sketches beneath opaque paint layers compared to standard near-infrared diagnostic techniques. The current OA imaging technology may advance state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities in CH preservation by delivering unprecedented depth-to-resolution ratios combined with exceptional optical absorption sensitivity in a non-invasive manner. These features are crucial for the early detection of material degradation and the comprehensive analysis of CH objects, facilitating the development of optimal conservation strategies to prolong their lifespan and preserve their aesthetic value.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Study on Dynamic Characteristics of Gas Turbine Rotor System Subjected to Ship Hull Excitation
Authors: Zhang Xin , Liu Yongbao , Wang Qiang , Xing Zhikai , Li Mo
Published: September 2024

To address the challenge of measuring the dynamic characteristic parameters of the gas turbine rotor system affected by hull excitation, a vibration transmission model integrating a ship model slice, test data, and a three-dimensional entity is proposed, based on the two-dimensional slice theory, scaled ship model, and finite element model of the turbine rotor system. The transient dynamic responses of the front and rear bearing points were calculated and analyzed. Vibration response tests with significant wave heights of 0.5 m, 1.25 m, 2.5 m, and 4 m were carried out in the towing tank of the ship model to obtain the dynamic characteristic parameters of the deck position. Techniques including wavelet denoising, Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), and signal resampling were employed to filter out and reconstruct high-frequency noise, overcoming the technical challenges of a high sampling frequency and a low computational efficiency. The experimental data and simulation results were compared and analyzed, validating the accuracy of the vibration transmission model of the turbine rotor system with data and entity integration. By comparing the vibration signal values in the X and Z directions at the front and rear bearing points after vibration transmission, it is evident that the effective values of the vibration signals at the front bearing point are 0.03% to 0.1% greater than those at the rear bearing point. This model provides a theoretical basis and reference for the design of the gas turbine rotor system.
Guest Editorial on Image and Signal Processing
Authors: Jeon Gwanggil , Ahmed Imran
Published: September 2024

In recent years, we have witnessed significant advancements in technologies that integrate artificial intelligence into image and signal processing, along with their wide-ranging applications [...]
TLR4 as a Potential Target of Me-PFOSA-AcOH Leading to Cardiovascular Diseases: Evidence from NHANES 2013–2018 and Molecular Docking
Authors: Mao Zhilei , Chen Yanling , Li Haixin , Lu Qun , Zhou Kun
Published: September 2024

Background: Concerns have been raised regarding the effects of perfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure on cardiovascular diseases (CVD), but clear evidence linking PFAS exposure to CVD is lacking, and the mechanism remains unclear. Objectives: To study the association between PFASs and CVD in U.S. population, and to reveal the mechanism of PFASs’ effects on CVD. Methods: To assess the relationships between individual blood serum PFAS levels and the risk of total CVD or its subtypes, multivariable logistic regression analysis and partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) were conducted on all participants or subgroups among 3391 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The SuperPred and GeneCards databases were utilized to identify potential targets related to PFAS and CVD, respectively. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses of intersection genes were performed using Metascape. Protein interaction networks were generated, and core targets were identified with STRING. Molecular docking was achieved using Autodock Vina 1.1.2. Results: There was a positive association between Me-PFOSA-AcOH and CVD (OR = 1.28, p = 0.022), especially coronary heart disease (CHD) (OR = 1.47, p = 0.007) and heart attack (OR = 1.58, p < 0.001) after adjusting for all potential covariates. Me-PFOSA-AcOH contributed the most to distinguishing between individuals in terms of CVD and non-CVD. Significant moderating effects for Me-PFOSA-AcOH were observed in the subgroup analysis stratified by sex, ethnicity, education level, PIR, BMI, smoking status, physical activity, and hypertension (p < 0.05). The potential intersection targets were mainly enriched in CVD-related pathways, including the inflammatory response, neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, MAPK signaling pathway, and arachidonic acid metabolism. TLR4 was identified as the core target for the effects of Me-PFOSA-AcOH on CVD. Molecular docking results revealed that the binding energy of Me-PFOSA-AcOH to the TLR4-MD-2 complex was −7.2 kcal/mol, suggesting that Me-PFOSA-AcOH binds well to the TLR4-MD-2 complex. Conclusions: Me-PFOSA-AcOH exposure was significantly associated with CVD. Network toxicology and molecular docking uncovered novel molecular targets, such as TLR4, and identified the inflammatory and metabolic mechanisms underlying Me-PFOSA-AcOH-induced CVD.
Formaldehyde Resin as a Solid Fuel and Activated Carbon
Authors: Faizal Azrul Nurfaiz Mohd , Zaini Muhammad Abbas Ahmad
Published: September 2024

This work was aimed to assess the potential of formaldehyde resin residue as a solid fuel and activated carbon. The resin materials were characterized in terms of calorific value, elemental composition, thermal stability, specific surface area, surface side groups, flame retardancy, flue gas and the toxicity characteristic leaching procedure (TCLP). Meanwhile, the hardened resin was chemically activated using potassium hydroxide and phosphoric acid to remove methylene blue. The TCLP shows that resins are stable with minimal leaching of minerals. The resins are composed primarily of carbon with 3.1 % ash content with the high calorific values. The KOH-activated carbon exhibits a maximum dye adsorption capacity of 388 mg/g, surpassing that of H3PO4-activated carbon by only21.2 mg/g. The analysis of hardened resins has revealed its versatility as a solid fuel and activated carbon, thereby supporting sustainability efforts.
The Influence of Modern Antitumor Drug Therapy on Oncoepidemiological Indicators for Bladder Cancer in the Krasnoyarsk Region
Authors:   A.I. Kryzhanovsky Krasnoyarsk Regional Clinical Oncology Dispensary, Zukov R.A. , Safontsev I.P. , Zabrodskaya T.E. , Anzhiganova Yu.V. ,   V.F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University
Published: September 2024

The incidence of bladder cancer is growing every year and occupies a leading position in the overall structure of cancer incidence. The introduction of programs for the early detection of malignant neoplasms and the use of modern treatment methods affect the prognosis of the disease and oncological epidemiological indicators in general. The article presents data characterizing the state of oncological care for bladder cancer in the Krasnoyarsk Territory, as well as personal experience of the authors in the treatment of this disease.
Onconephrology Fellowship Training: Current Status and Future Outlook
Authors: Bonilla Macro , Geara Abdallah S.
Published: September 2024

Onconephrology, an emerging discipline nestled at the intersection of nephrology and oncology, has experienced remarkable growth over the past 15 years. This evolution has been punctuated by pivotal events, including establishing the American Society of Onconephrology, dedicated forums, and journals, highlighting its increasing significance. The clinical landscape of onconephrology is diverse, encompassing AKI in patients with cancer, toxicity from anticancer treatments, and a spectrum of electrolyte disorders, necessitating close collaboration between nephrologists and oncologists. However, trainees and mentors encounter various challenges surrounding its status as a distinct subspecialty. To overcome these barriers, there is a pressing need for streamlined training pathways, enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, and targeted research efforts to elucidate the effect of onconephrology on patient outcomes. By addressing these challenges head-on, the field of onconephrology can continue its trajectory of growth and better serve patients with cancer with complex kidney needs.
Reliable artificial intelligence in the situational management of guided robotic platforms of industrial enterprises
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Pavliuk O.M. , Medykovskyy M.O. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Mishchuk M.V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: September 2024

The incorporation of guided robotic platforms (GRPs) has become an essential component of Industry 4.0. A significant amount of data obtained from sensors can be used for intelligent control. Analyzing and selecting informative data, as well as removing redundant data for subsequent use, is a crucial task. The paper analyses and compares different industrial enterprise management types that utilize GRPs. A comparative analysis of procedures for optimizing the decision choice in general and situational management has been carried out. It has been proved that using traditional management for industrial enterprises that use GRPs is ineffective. The advantages and disadvantages of traditional and situational management of industrial enterprises are shown. Taking into account the shortcomings of each of them, the authors have developed an improved method of situational management that utilizes reliable artificial intelligence (AI). For this purpose, the stages of the modified general procedure for optimizing the choice of AI solutions have been described. A mathematical description of the process of evaluating alternatives has been made, which can be adapted to the use of AI models and their training. A model of the procedure for optimizing the choice of solutions based on situational control that considers the GRP’s battery charge has been developed. The model has been tested on a route map built at an industrial enterprise for the GRP Formica 1 manufactured by AIUT, Gliwice, Poland. The frame of the GRP Formica 1 data acquisition structure has been described. Data mining has been applied to the collected sensor data. The predictive model has been built based on an artificial neural network with deep learning and takes into account the residual charge of the battery, the mass transported by the GRP, and the presence of obstacles on its way. The mean absolute percentage error for the short-term forecast of the battery discharge of the GRP has decreased to 8 %. This proves the high efficiency of the developed method of situational control.
Application of intelligent image processing in the systems of living environment manage-ment
Authors:   National University of Bioresources and Nature Management of Ukraine, Kovalenko O.Ye. , Li L. ,   Benbu University
Published: September 2024

Management of the environment aimed at ensuring sustainable development is a topical prob-lem of the present and the future since the requirements for the ecological indicators of the liv-ing environment are growing and regulatory restrictions are increasing. Environmental man-agement should cover the entire project cycle. A typical project cycle has well-defined start and end points with well-defined major phases and sub-phases and complex interfaces with other supporting processes such as procurement, modernization, planning, and contractor manage-ment. The construction and use of environmental management systems require the development of methods and means of convergence of information technologies for the implementation of adequate situational management in the target organization using formalized knowledge. The application of environmental management systems is a necessary condition for sustainable de-velopment. The development of such systems requires the use of a holistic approach of a num-ber of factors of a different nature to meet the requirements for environmental parameters. The systemogenesis of environment management systems takes into account the complexity of the structure, the situational nature of connections between components, the situational nature of behavior scenarios under different conditions, the number of parameters and variables, the in-completeness and uncertainty of information sources, the variety of informational, and proba-bilistic parameters of the environment. Difficulties associated with visual analysis of the state of the environment can be overcome by applying image processing and computer vision tech-nologies. The article analyzes image processing technologies for environmental management. As a result of the analysis, a generalized structure of environmental management processes us-ing image processing was outlined, and directions for building and using knowledge models in creating target environmental management systems based on image processing were deter-mined.
Determining the admissibility of the metal corrosion wear and estimating the residual life of corroded pipelines at NPP
Authors:   Institute of Mathematical Machines and Systems Problems of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Cespedes Garcia P.D.
Published: September 2024

Since in the field of nuclear energy, there is a need to assess the risk of erosion-corrosion wear (ECW) in pipelines, the key task of the article is to solve specific issues related to determining the admissibility of the depth caused by ECW defects in the metal walls of pipelines at nuclear power plants and estimate their residual life. A method for calculating the threshold values of wall thickness reduction depths in pipelines caused by corrosion has been processed in accordance with the established methodology adopted by the National Nuclear Energy Generating Company «Energoatom» and additionally, by incorporating regulatory and recommended documentation for pipeline design. The use of the methodology demonstrates certain advantages in terms of assessing erosion-corrosion wear and the fitness of the object for operation, specifically by reducing the requirements for the minimum permissible wall thickness of pipelines with a corrosion defect, especially for small-sized thinning, allowing for a reduction in the planned repair work volumes. In practice, the implementation of the methodology can pose difficulties due to its complexity and time-consuming nature of the procedures for calculating limit values. The paper provides an example of calculating the residual resource of defective pipeline systems at nuclear power plants using a probabilistic-physical approach to assess the technical condition of these objects. For this purpose, a probabilistic-physical reliability model was employed in the form of a diffusion monotonic distribution (DM-distribution) of failures. Its parameters are interpreted physically as the coefficient of variation for the generalized degradation process and the mean rate of the defining parameter. The defining parameter is considered to be the minimum allowable wall thickness of the pipeline under the influence of erosion-corrosion wear, which was determined as a result of calculations using the above-mentioned methodology and additionally by incorporating accompanying regulatory documents.
Information model for supporting the process of electronic devices production
Authors:   National University of Bioresources and Nature Management of Ukraine, Smolij V.M. , Kovalenko O.Ye. ,   National University of Bioresources and Nature Management of Ukraine, Smolij N.V. ,   National Technical University of Ukraine "Ihor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute"
Published: September 2024

The process of the production of electronic devices was considered as an interaction of ERP-, MES-, and PDM-subsystems, which made it possible to find some directions and levers of in-fluence on the acceleration of the production process, customization for specific technological solutions, and available warehouse stocks. The tasks of the need for a more detailed analysis of the connections between the specified subsystems by studying the interaction and modeling the management process using the example of database queries were defined. A scheme for forming orders for production was proposed, namely, the need for electronic devices of a certain config-uration and parameters should be monitored, its satisfaction by organizing production; acquisi-tion (re-equipment, modification) of components, creation of a model and direct production; inspection and acceptance tests with the provision of relevant documents and supplies to fulfill the direct appointment by electronic device. Special attention was paid to the organization of the production of electronic devices in modern military realities to speed up the production pro-cess with the provision of customization to the specific technical requirements of an individual customer and simultaneous consideration of the available stocks of components in the ware-house and those that satisfy the relevant technical characteristics of the finished device. The se-lected subject area was studied and the description of the subject area, input and output data was made. Designing the database was carried out by building an infological model of the database, normalizing tables in the design of the database, and developing a datological model of the da-tabase. The infological model of the database includes the description of entities, attributes, in-terrelations, and the «entity-relationship» diagram. Databases were created by filling the data-base with values and improving work with equipment, orders, and clients. The organization of the data sample from the database was analyzed, namely, the data samples, the sample of calcu-lated values, and the sample using templates were evaluated, the grouping of data during the organization of queries was carried out, and the tables were combined.
Interpretation of systems of organizational measures in terms of Kron’s electrical networks
Authors:   Institute of Information Registration Problems of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Dodonov O.H. , Nykyforov O.V. ,   Scientific center of the Air Force of Kharkiv National University of the Air Force named after Ivan Kozhedub, Putiatin V.H. ,   Institute of Information Registration Problems of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Dodonov V.O. ,   Institute of Information Registration Problems of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: September 2024

The task of adapting complex (organizational) systems in the process of their functioning is be-coming increasingly relevant as computing tools and means of communication develop. At pre-sent, it is not yet possible to say that the goal of constructing a formal method for managing ad-aptation processes has been fully achieved. From the analysis of scientific literature, it follows that the results presented to date on adaptation methods and models do not yet allow solving large-scale problems. However, it is with this dimension of systems that we have to deal with when solving practical problems. To a large extent, adaptation methods represent expert ap-proaches and procedures for preliminary analytical study. The central task of adaptation meth-ods is the task of synthesizing a structure with given properties. Currently known results on this topic use an ontological approach and algorithms based on the theory of systems algebra, stages of sets, and conceptual design. The article discusses the methodology of set-theoretic and alge-braic synthesis of topologies in the form of tensor transformations of electrical networks by G. Kron as an alternative to existing approaches to the synthesis of structures. Based on tensor transformations, it is possible to construct formal methods for transforming the structures of organizational systems, provided that they are correctly interpreted in terms of electrical net-works. A variant of establishing a correspondence between the parameters of electrical net-works and the quantitative characteristics of organizational measures is presented. As an exam-ple illustrating this correspondence, a system of educational institutions for training specialists for the economic sector is given, which is interpreted as a «nodal» multi-coil electrical network with cross-connections between coils. Such parameters of the electrical network as current strength and potential difference in individual coils, their admittances and admittances of cross-connections of the network are matched with expressions for the beneficial effect, financial costs, and indicators of useful output, taking into account the mutual influence of educational institutions. An expression for the transformation tensor is obtained and the sequence of calcu-lations when transforming the structure of the specialist training system with subsequent as-sessment of its characteristics is shown.
Genetically Encoded Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer Biosensor for Live-Cell Visualization of Lamin A Phosphorylation at Serine 22
Authors: Liu Jian , Li Qianqian , Wang Jinfeng , Qiu Juhui , Zhou Jing , Peng Qin
Published: September 2024

Extensive phosphorylation at serine 22 (pSer22) on lamin A is the hallmark of cell mitosis, which contributes to the breakdown of nuclear envelope. In the interphase, pSer22 lamin A exists in low abundance and is involved in mechanotransduction, virus infection, and gene expression. Numerous evidences emerge to support lamin A regulation on cell function and fate by phosphorylation. However, live-cell imaging tools for visualizing the dynamics of pSer22 lamin A are yet to be established. Herein, we developed a novel lamin A phosphorylation sensor (LAPS) based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) with high sensitivity and specificity. We observed the dynamic lamin A phosphorylation during the cell cycle progression in single living cells: the increase of pSer22 modification when cells entered the mitosis and recovered upon the mitosis exit. Our biosensor also showed the gradual reduction of pSer22 modification during cell adhesion and in response to hypotonic environment. By applying LAPS, we captured the propagation of pSer22 modification from inside to outside of the inner nuclear membrane, which further led to the breakdown of nuclear envelope. Meanwhile, we found the synchronous phosphorylation of pSer22 lamin A and H3S10ph at mitosis entry. Inhibition of Aurora B, the responsible kinase for H3S10ph, could shorten the mitotic period without obvious effect on the pSer22 modification level of lamin A. Thus, LAPS allows the spatiotemporal visualization of the lamin A pSer22, which will be useful for elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying cell mitosis and mechanoresponsive processes.
The Perception of Stakeholders on the Forest Ecosystem Services: National Parks in China and Canada
Authors: Zhang Yangyang , Wang Guangyu , Teng Mingjun , Xu Jiaoyang , Li Shuling , Shresth Anil , Yin Jiaojiao , Yan Zhaogui , Fu Qiang , Wang Pengcheng
Published: September 2024

The stakeholders’ perceptions of forest ecosystem services (FESs) vary among different stakeholder groups. This study, using China’s Shennongjia National Park Pilot (SNP) and Canada’s Banff National Park (BNP) as case studies, identifies and evaluates the preference characteristics of key stakeholders (including farmers, individual operators, government officials, and tourists) toward various FESs. We utilized Q-methodology and semistructured interviews to conduct a sorting of 23 Q-statements regarding FESs, across 7 categories (ranging from −3 to +3), with 24 Q-participants. Stakeholders’ preferences toward FESs were categorized into 3 common perspectives: tourism and culture, production and livelihood, and ecological conservation. Different types of stakeholders hold both consensus and divergence regarding their views on FESs. For instance, there was strong consensus on services related to “natural ecotourism and biodiversity conservation”, while stakeholders expressed strong opposition regarding services related to “forest protection”. Furthermore, stakeholders elucidated the reasons behind their preferences for different types of FESs. Overall, our study indicates that besides considering the services provided by forests themselves, policymakers also need to pay attention to the preferences and divergences in needs among stakeholders of national parks. This ensures a more comprehensive fulfillment of diverse societal needs and facilitates the formulation of more effective policies to promote the sustainable management and conservation of national parks.
A Simple Approach for the Diagnosis of Oral Ulcers: A Novel Algorithm
Authors: Ahmadi-Motamayel Fatemeh , Najar-Karimi Fereshteh , Safabakhsh Deniz , Abbasi Fatemeh , Atapour Parya , Shahabi Laleh
Published: September 2024

Ulcers are one of the most common lesions in the oral cavity and are caused by injuries to the oral mucosa for different reasons. These ulcers are clinically characterized by the loss of the whole thickness of the epithelium and the denuding of the underlying lamina propria in the presence of a white/yellow layer called the fibrinoleukocytic layer and are usually accompanied by pain. Due to the wide array of etiologic agents for oral ulcers, pinpointing the etiologic agent can be highly challenging, and the availability of a good diagnostic guide assists in the diagnosis and selection of proper treatment modalities because a fast and accurate diagnosis of some ulcers (e.g., the early stages of squamous cell carcinoma) is crucial for the early initiation of treatment. The present study attempts to present a proper and comprehensive diagnostic guide to facilitate the classification and diagnosis of different oral ulcers.
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Infection Up-regulates miR-221-5P in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Alipour Fatemeh , Jalayer Naderi Noushin , Bakhtiari Ronak
Published: September 2024

Background: Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection contributes to oral carcinoma, but its carcinogenic role has not been elucidated yet. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in carcinogenesis. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of HSV-1 infection on the expression of miR-29c, miR-221-5P, miR-21-5P, and miR-96-5P in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSSC). Methods: Twenty-five cases of OSCC and 25 samples of normal oral mucosa were examined in this study. The SYBR real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was completed to confirm the presence of HSV-1. The expressions of miR-29c, miR-221-5P, miR-21-5P, and miR-96-5P were measured using RT-PCR. Results: The expression of miR-221-5P was significantly higher in OSCC with HSV-1 infection compared to non-infected cases (P=0.007). The expressions of miR-29c, miR-21-5P, and miR-96-5P were not significantly different between OSCCs with HSV-1 infection and controls (P=0.27, P=0.66, and P=0.23, respectively). Conclusion: HSV-1 infection had an up-regulation effect on miR-221-5P in OSCC. This finding proposes a novel mechanism for HSV-1 infection in the development of OSCC.
Investigating the Relationship Between Parenting Styles and Levels of Social Anxiety and Dental Anxiety in Adolescents
Authors: Amirabadi Forough , Roshan Fatemeh , Akhavan Fard Fatemeh
Published: September 2024

Background: Dental anxiety is a challenge faced by dental professionals when treating young children and adolescents. It is caused by several complex factors. This study aimed to investigate the association between different parenting styles and the levels of social anxiety and dental anxiety in adolescents. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 126 adolescents aged 12-19 and their mothers at a private pediatric dental clinic in Zahedan in 2021. The convenience sampling method was used to select participants. The Dental Anxiety Scale (DAS) and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) were employed to measure dental anxiety and social anxiety, respectively. Mothers completed the Baumrind Parenting Styles Questionnaire. Statistical analyses included variance tests, post hoc (Tukey) tests, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and multiple linear regression analysis. Results: According to the findings of this study, the number of mothers with permissive, authoritarian, and authoritative parenting styles was 4 (3.2%), 9 (7.1%), and 113 (89.7%), respectively. The means±standard deviations (SD) of dental anxiety in the authoritative, permissive, and authoritarian parenting styles were 45.80±28.0%, 45.31±11.83%, and 35.42±18.49%, respectively. In addition, the mean scores±SD of social anxiety in the authoritative, permissive, and authoritarian parenting styles were 22.61±17.71%, 48.81±5.24%, and 38.72 ±11.93%, respectively. According to the results, social anxiety and maternal parenting styles were significant and influential factors in dental anxiety in adolescents (P<0.001). Conclusion: This study highlights the significant relationship between dental anxiety, social anxiety, and parenting styles in adolescents. Addressing social anxiety and understanding the impact of parenting styles can help reduce dental anxiety. Interventions should prioritize creating a supportive environment and attending to psychological well-being alongside dental care.
Healthcare-Associated Intestinal Protozoan Parasites among Inpatients of a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria
Authors: Orjighjigh Ishar Cornelius , Ifeanyi Ikeh Mulumba , Anthonia Okeke Obiageli , Godwin Benedict Aboje
Published: September 2024

Background: Despite the advancements in medical sciences, healthcare-associated infections continue to pose significant threats to human health. Objectives: This research was carried out to assess the prevalence of healthcare-associated intestinal protozoan parasites among admitted patients of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Awka. Materials and Methods: Two stool samples were collected from each of 159 patients and analyzed using saline wet mount test, formol ether concentration technique, and modified Ziehl Neelsen technique. Other data concerning demography and risk factors were obtained with the aid of a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square test and a P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Overall, 25 samples (15.7%) were positive for nosocomial intestinal protozoan infection. Females had the highest prevalence of this infection (18.3%). Additionally, the age group 10- 19 years had the highest prevalence (31.6%). Patients who were hospitalized for more than 30 days revealed the highest prevalence (87.5%), and patients admitted to the pediatric ward also had a high prevalence (23.5%). Moreover, patients who drank well water had a prevalence of 33.3%, and those who did not sanitize their hands revealed a prevalence of 22.2%. Nosocomial infection was strongly associated with duration of hospital stay and stool consistency (P ˂ 0.000). In this study, 5 parasites were isolated, among which Entamoeba histolytica was the most prevalent parasite (52.0%). Conclusion: Hence, improved patient and medical personnel hygiene, safer health practices, and hospital sanitation should be adopted to curtail the spread of infection.