bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIGITAL TECHNOLOGIES FOR OPTICAL IMAGES PROCESSING IN LABORATORY PRACTICE IN PHYSICS
Authors: Korneyev Vladimir S. , Raychert Valery A.
Published: July 2020

Examples of a laboratory work on wave optics are considered, in which, using the MS Office Excel program, computer processing of images of interference patterns (Newton's rings) obtained with a digital video camera is performed. The sequence of computer processing of the obtained images is described and the possibility of comparing the experimentally obtained data with theoretical models of the intensity distribution is shown. Computer processing of the images obtained with the digital video camera can be used in subsequent courses in the study of special disciplines, when performing research work, in processing measurement results and constructing models of physical phenomena.
FORMATION OF COMMUNICATIVE COMPETENCE OF FUTURE LAWYERS IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE CLASSES
Authors: Liskina Olga A.
Published: July 2020

The article deals with the training of law students for their future professional activity, namely, the formation of the communicative competence of future lawyers in foreign language classes. It is suggested to use discussions as educational training technologies.
SPEECH CONFLICT IN PEDAGOGICAL PRACTICE
Authors: Nedostup Oleg I.
Published: July 2020

In the article the most important conflictogenic factors influencing communication nature between a teacher and a student is analyzed, some ways of minimizing conflict situations in pedagogical communication are described.
The repercussions of Covid-19 On the field of education
Authors: Naji Abdennasser
Published: July 2020

The school, which is attended by about a third of Moroccan citizens, has been closed since March 16, 2020. Given that schools represent spaces for heavy gathering for children and adults alike, this may provide an appropriate environment for the spread of Covid-19 in the school population. According to UNESCO, as of April 21, 2020, 191 countries have closed their schools (Figure 1), with more than 1.5 billion students involved in this measure, which represents 90 % of the total number of learners internationally. As for Morocco, it was affected by the decision to close schools 8.943.156 Moroccan students, which is equivalent to the total of learners at all levels of education at the national level. And like the rest of the world, Morocco has adopted remote learning as a solution to face the interruption of studies in educational institutions.
Peranan Edukasi Bidan dalam Mencegah Kurang Energi Kronis (KEK) pada Ibu Hamil di Provinsi Sulawesi Tengah
Authors: Tempali Sri Restu , Sumiaty Sumiaty
Published: July 2020

Basic Health Research in 2013 recorded the prevalence of Chronic Energy Deficiency (SEZ) in pregnant women nationally reaching 24.2 percent, an increase from 2010 (18.8 %%) and 2007 (10.9%). The prevalence of SEZs in Central Sulawesi Province in 2013 was 32.6%, higher than the national average. Nutritional status monitoring in Central Sulawesi Province reported a prevalence of KEK Risk in pregnant women in 2015 of 32.6%. Districts with the highest prevalence were consecutively in Banggai Kepulauan District (67.8%), Tojo Una-Una District (51.9%), Sigi District (46.4%), Donggala District (36.7%), and Palu City (35.4%). Midwives in providing services to the community, especially pregnant women, always strive to prepare pregnant women since the first contact during prenatal care provides counseling or education to every pregnant mother about nutritional needs during pregnancy. This study aims to determine the role of midwives education in preventing SEZ in pregnant women in Central Sulawesi Province. Observational research with a study design crossectional. Sampling using the proportional random sampling technique with a total sample of 98 midwives in the working area of 4 selected districts, namely Banggai Islands District (15 samples), Sigi District (18 samples), Donggala District (25 samples) and Palu City (40 samples). The results of the study showed that the midwives who carried out the role of education to pregnant women in their regions mostly did not have the incidence of pregnant women with SEZ (83.1%). The results of the analysis Chi-Square obtained a p-Value value of 0.041, which means that there is a relationship between the role of midwife education and prevention of SEZ events in pregnant.
Sensitivity Analysis for Microscopic Crowd Simulation
Authors: Gödel Marion , Fischer Rainer , Köster Gerta
Published: July 2020

Microscopic crowd simulation can help to enhance the safety of pedestrians in situations that range from museum visits to music festivals. To obtain a useful prediction, the input parameters must be chosen carefully. In many cases, a lack of knowledge or limited measurement accuracy add uncertainty to the input. In addition, for meaningful parameter studies, we first need to identify the most influential parameters of our parametric computer models. The field of uncertainty quantification offers standardized and fully automatized methods that we believe to be beneficial for pedestrian dynamics. In addition, many methods come at a comparatively low cost, even for computationally expensive problems. This allows for their application to larger scenarios. We aim to identify and adapt fitting methods to microscopic crowd simulation in order to explore their potential in pedestrian dynamics. In this work, we first perform a variance-based sensitivity analysis using Sobol’ indices and then crosscheck the results by a derivative-based measure, the activity scores. We apply both methods to a typical scenario in crowd simulation, a bottleneck. Because constrictions can lead to high crowd densities and delays in evacuations, several experiments and simulation studies have been conducted for this setting. We show qualitative agreement between the results of both methods. Additionally, we identify a one-dimensional subspace in the input parameter space and discuss its impact on the simulation. Moreover, we analyze and interpret the sensitivity indices with respect to the bottleneck scenario.
On the Effects of Structural Coupling on Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting Systems Subject to Random Base Excitation
Authors: Masoumi Hamidreza , Moeenfard Hamid , Haddad Khodaparast Hamed , Friswell Michael I.
Published: July 2020

The current research investigates the novel approach of coupling separate energy harvesters in order to scavenge more power from a stochastic point of view. To this end, a multi-body system composed of two cantilever harvesters with two identical piezoelectric patches is considered. The beams are interconnected through a linear spring. Assuming a stochastic band limited white noise excitation of the base, the statistical properties of the mechanical response and those of the generated voltages are derived in closed form. Moreover, analytical models are derived for the expected value of the total harvested energy. In order to maximize the expected generated power, an optimization is performed to determine the optimum physical and geometrical characteristics of the system. It is observed that by properly tuning the harvester parameters, the energy harvesting performance of the structure is remarkably improved. Furthermore, using an optimized energy harvester model, this study shows that the coupling of the beams negatively affects the scavenged power, contrary to the effect previously demonstrated for harvesters under harmonic excitation. The qualitative and quantitative knowledge resulting from this analysis can be effectively employed for the realistic design and modelling of coupled multi-body structures under stochastic excitations.
Quantifying Soil Compaction in Persimmon Orchards Using ISUM (Improved Stock Unearthing Method) and Core Sampling Methods
Authors: Moradi Ehsan , Rodrigo-Comino Jesús , Terol Enric , Mora-Navarro Gaspar , Marco da Silva Alexandre , N. Daliakopoulos Ioannis , Khosravi Hassan , Pulido Fernández Manuel , Cerdà Artemi
Published: July 2020

Agricultural activities induce micro-topographical changes, soil compaction and structural changes due to soil cultivation, which directly affect ecosystem services. However, little is known about how these soil structural changes occur during and after the planting of orchards, and which key factors and processes play a major role in soil compaction due to cultivation works. This study evaluates the improved stock unearthing method (ISUM) as a low-cost and precise alternative to the tedious and costly traditional core sampling method, to characterize the changes in soil compaction in a representative persimmon orchard in Eastern Spain. To achieve this goal, firstly, in the field, undisturbed soil samples using metallic core rings (in January 2016 and 2019) were collected at different soil depths between 45 paired-trees, and topographic variations were determined following the protocol established by ISUM (January 2019). Our results show that soil bulk density (Bd) increases with depth and in the inter-row area, due to the effect of tractor passes and human trampling. The bulk density values of the top surface layers (0–12 cm) showed the lowest soil accumulation, but the highest temporal and spatial variability. Soil consolidation within three years after planting as calculated using the core samples was 12 mm, whereas when calculated with ISUM, it was 14 mm. The quality of the results with ISUM was better than with the traditional core method, due to the higher amount of sampling points. The ISUM is a promising method to measure soil compaction, but it is restricted to the land where soil erosion does not take place, or where soil erosion is measured to establish a balance of soil redistribution. Another positive contribution of ISUM is that it requires 24 h of technician work to acquire the data, whereas the core method requires 272 h. Our research is the first approach to use ISUM to quantify soil compaction and will contribute to applying innovative and low-cost monitoring methods to agricultural land and conserving ecosystem services.
Effect of Social Rank upon Estrus Induction and Some Reproductive Outcomes in Anestrus Goats Treated With Progesterone + eCG
Authors: Zuñiga-Garcia Santiago , Meza-Herrera Cesar A. , Mendoza-Cortina Adela , Otal-Salaverri Julio , Perez-Marin Carlos , Lopez-Flores Noé M. , Carrillo Evaristo , Calderon-Leyva Guadalupe , Gutierrez-Guzman Ulises N. , Veliz-Deras Francisco G.
Published: July 2020

We evaluated the possible role of the social rank [R] (i.e., low—LSR, middle—MSR, or high—HSR) in anestrus goats exposed to a P4 + eCG [D] (i.e., 100 or 350 IU) estrus induction protocol (EIP). Adult, multiparous (two to three lactations), multiracial, dairy-type goats (Alpine–Saanen–Nubian x Criollo goats (n = 70; 25°51′ North) managed under stall-fed conditions were all ultrasound evaluated to confirm anestrus status while the R was determined 30 d prior to the EIP. The variables of estrus induction (EI, %), estrus latency (LAT, h), estrus duration (DUR, h), ovulation (OVU, %), ovulation rate (OR, n), corpus luteum size (CLS, cm), pregnancy (PREG, %), kidding (KIDD, %), and litter size (LS, n) as affected by R, D, and the R × D interaction, were evaluated. While OVU and CLS favored (p < 0.05) HSR (96% and + 1.04 ± 0.07 cm), an increased (p < 0.05) LS occurred in D350 vs. D100 (2.06 ± 0.2 vs. 1.36 ± 0.2); neither R nor D affected (p > 0.05; 38.5%) KIDD. However, EI, LAT, DUR, OR, and PREG were affected by the R × D interaction. The HSR group had the largest (p < 0.05) EI % and DUR h, irrespective of D. The shortest (p < 0.05) LAT occurred in D350, irrespective of R. While the largest (p < 0.05) OR occurred in HSR and MSR within D350, the HSR + D350 group had the largest PREG (p < 0.05). These research outcomes are central to defining out-of-season reproductive strategies designed to attenuate seasonal reproduction in goats.
Dietary Preference of Newly Weaned Pigs and Nutrient Interactions According to Copper Levels and Sources with Different Solubility Characteristics
Authors: Villagómez-Estrada Sandra , Pérez José Francisco , van Kuijk Sandra , Melo-Durán Diego , Karimirad Razzagh , Solà-Oriol David
Published: July 2020

Two feeding preference experiments and an in vitro assay were performed to assess the weaned pig preference for Cu doses and sources based on their sensorial perception and on the likely post-ingestive effects of Cu. At day 7 post-weaning, a total of 828 pigs were distributed into two different experiments. In Exp.1 (dose preference) a diet with a nutritional Cu level (15 mg/kg) of Cu sulfate (SF) was pair offered with higher Cu levels (150 mg/kg) of either SF or hydroxychloride (HCl). In Exp.2 (source preference), a diet supplemented with Cu-SF at 150 mg/kg was compared to a Cu-HCl (150 mg/kg) diet. At the short-term (day 7–9) and for the entire experimental week (day 7–14), pigs preferred diets with a high Cu level than with Cu at a nutritional dose (p < 0.05). Likewise, pigs preferred diets supplemented with a Cu-HCl source compared to diets with Cu-SF (p < 0.05). In vitro assay results showed a greater solubility and interaction of Cu-SF with phytic acid compared to Cu-HCl. In conclusion, pigs chose diets with higher levels of Cu probably to re-establish homeostasis after weaning. Pigs preferred diets with Cu-HCl compared to Cu-SF probably due to their solubilities and chemical differences.
Use of a Tri-Axial Accelerometer Can Reliably Detect Play Behaviour in Newborn Calves
Authors: Gladden Nicola , Cuthbert Erin , Ellis Kathryn , McKeegan Dorothy
Published: July 2020

Traditionally, the welfare assessment of farm animals has focused on health and production outcomes. Positive welfare is, however, not merely the absence of negative welfare and is an important part of a life worth living. Play behaviour is widely considered to be an indicator of positive emotions because it is a “luxury” behaviour. Direct visual observation is considered the most accurate method of behavioural analysis, but it is time consuming and laborious. There is increasing interest in the use of remote monitoring technology to quantify behaviour. We compared the data output (“motion index” (MI)) from a commercially available tri-axial accelerometer fitted to newborn dairy calves to video footage of the same calves, with a focus on play behaviour. The motion index values over 48 h were positively correlated with both the duration of play behaviour and the number of play bouts. The motion index threshold in each sample interval with the optimal sensitivity and specificity for the identification of play behaviour was MI ≥ 2.5 at a 1 min resolution (sensitivity (Se) = 98.0%; specificity (Sp) = 92.9%) and MI ≥ 24.5 at a 15 min resolution (Se = 98.0%; Sp = 89.9%), but these values consistently overestimated the overall proportion of sample intervals in which play was observed. The MI that best reflected the results obtained from visual one-zero sampling was MI ≥ 23 for 1 min intervals and MI ≥ 62 for 15 min intervals—this may therefore be the basis of a more conservative approach to the identification of play behaviour from accelerometer-generated data. Our results indicate that accelerometer-generated data can usefully indicate the amount of play behaviour shown by newborn calves for up to 48 h, providing an efficient method for identifying this important parameter in future work.
Isolation of a Highly Efficient Antigenic-Protein-Degrading Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Assessment of Its Safety
Authors: Li Yang , Guo Baozhu , Li Chong , Wang Weiwei , Wu Zhengke , Liu Guohua , Cai Huiyi
Published: July 2020

The aims of this study were to screen and isolate a highly efficient strain from the rumen of a cow that can degrade the antigenic soy proteins in soybean meal (SBM) and improve the nutritional value of SBM by fermenting it with this strain. The safety of this strain was investigated with an acute oral toxicity test. A Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain was successfully screened with plate tests and fermentation. After solid state fermentation of SBM with B. amyloliquefaciens for 24 h, the amounts of glycinin and β-conglycinin, two major antigenic proteins in SBM, decreased by 92.32% and 85.05%, respectively. The crude protein content in the fermented soybean meal (FSBM) increased by 17.54% compared with that in SBM. Notably, the trichloroacetic-acid-soluble protein (TCA-SP) content, particularly small peptides and free amino acids, was 9.97-fold higher in FSBM than in SBM. The in vitro dry matter digestibility and digestible energy of SBM increased from 62.91% to 72.52% and from 10.42 MJ/kg to 13.37 MJ/kg (dry matter basis), respectively, after fermentation. The acute oral toxicity test suggested that the strain exerted no harmful effects on the relative organ weights, the morphological tissue structure, or the health of mice. These results indicate that the B. amyloliquefaciens strain isolated in this study is a safe strain for animals, and could be used to improve the nutritional quality of SBM by solid-state fermentation.
A Review of Topical Phage Therapy for Chronically Infected Wounds and Preparations for a Randomized Adaptive Clinical Trial Evaluating Topical Phage Therapy in Chronically Infected Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Duplessis Christopher Anthony , Biswas Biswajit
Published: July 2020

The advent and increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance commensurate with the absence of novel antibiotics on the horizon raises the specter of untreatable infections. Phages have been safely administered to thousands of patients exhibiting signals of efficacy in many experiencing infections refractory to antecedent antibiotics. Topical phage therapy may represent a convenient and efficacious treatment modality for chronic refractory infected cutaneous wounds spanning all classifications including venous stasis, burn-mediated, and diabetic ulcers. We will initially provide results from a systematic literature review of topical phage therapy used clinically in refractorily infected chronic wounds. We will then segue into a synopsis of the preparations for a forthcoming phase II a randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial assessing the therapeutic efficacy exploiting adjunctive personalized phage administration, delivered topically, intravenously (IV) and via a combination of both modalities (IV + topical) in the treatment of infected diabetic foot ulcers (perhaps the canonical paradigm representing complicated recalcitrant infected cutaneous wounds).
Protective Effects of SPA0355, a Thiourea Analogue, Against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Mice
Authors: Kim Jung-Yeon , Leem Jaechan , Hong Hyo-Lim
Published: July 2020

Inflammation and oxidative stress plays an essential role in the pathophysiology of sepsis-associated acute kidney injury (AKI). SPA0355, a thiourea analogue, has been shown to display beneficial effects against a variety of inflammatory diseases arising from its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. However, the potential protective effects of SPA0355 against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced AKI have not been explored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of SPA0355 on LPS-induced AKI and investigate its underlying mechanisms. We found that renal dysfunction and histological abnormalities after LPS injection were significantly ameliorated by SPA0355. The compound also reduced renal expression of tubular injury markers. Mechanistically, SPA0355 significantly suppressed plasma and tissue levels of inflammatory cytokines and immune cell infiltration with inhibition of nuclear factor kappa-B p65 signaling. In addition, elevated levels of 4-hydroxynonenal and malondialdehyde after LPS injection were significantly decreased by SPA0355. The compound also regulated expression of pro-oxidant and antioxidant enzymes after LPS injection. Moreover, SPA0355 attenuated LPS-induced tubular cell apoptosis via inhibition of p53 signaling pathway. Altogether, these results suggest that SPA0355 protects against LPS-induced AKI through suppressing inflammation, oxidative stress, and tubular cell apoptosis and might be a potential preventive option for the disease.
The NADPH Oxidase Isoform 1 Contributes to Angiotensin II-Mediated DNA Damage in the Kidney
Authors: Zimnol Anna , Spicker Nora , Balhorn Ronja , Schröder Katrin , Schupp Nicole
Published: July 2020

In higher concentrations, the blood pressure regulating hormone angiotensin II leads to vasoconstriction, hypertension, and oxidative stress by activating NADPH oxidases which are a major enzymatic source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). With the help of knockout animals, the impact of the three predominant NADPH oxidases present in the kidney, i.e., Nox1, Nox2 and Nox4 on angiotensin II-induced oxidative damage was studied. Male wildtype (WT) C57BL/6 mice, Nox1-, Nox2- and Nox4-deficient mice were equipped with osmotic minipumps, delivering either vehicle (PBS) or angiotensin II, for 28 days. Angiotensin II increased blood pressure and urinary albumin levels significantly in all treated mouse strains. In Nox1 knockout mice these increases were significantly lower than in WT, or Nox2 knockout mice. In WT mice, angiotensin II also raised systemic oxidative stress, ROS formation and DNA lesions in the kidney. A local significantly increased ROS production was also found in Nox2 and Nox4 knockout mice but not in Nox1 knockout mice who further had significantly lower systemic oxidative stress and DNA damage than WT animals. Nox2 and Nox4 knockout mice had increased basal DNA damage, concealing possible angiotensin II-induced increases. In conclusion, in the kidney, Nox1 seemed to play a role in angiotensin II-induced DNA damage.
Precision Auto-Focusing Apparatus Based on Long-Working-Distance, Wide-Spectrum Microscope
Authors: Wang Chao , Zhang Tao , Wang Weibo
Published: July 2020

A mirror-based Schwarzschild microscope with a wide spectrum and a long working distance was investigated to perform precise assemblage of detectors. We employed a gradient square method to construct the evaluation function for realizing accurate quantitative analysis of image defocusing. By imaging a resolution target that corresponded to 228 line pairs per mm, the validity and imaging ability of the system was proven. The results of repeated focusing tests yielded a standard deviation of 0.75 μm, which indicated high performance accuracy for the focusing system. The proposed system has potential applications in industrial inspection and focusing detection.
Exploiting a Deep Neural Network for Efficient Transmit Power Minimization in a Wireless Powered Communication Network
Authors: Hameed Iqra , Tuan Pham-Viet , Koo Insoo
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we propose a learning-based solution for resource allocation in a wireless powered communication network (WPCN). We provide a study and analysis of a deep neural network (DNN) which can reasonably effectively approximate the iterative optimization algorithm for resource allocation in the WPCN. In this scheme, the deep neural network provides an optimized solution for transmitting power with different channel coefficients. The proposed deep neural network accepts the channel coefficient as an input and outputs minimized power for this channel in the WPCN. The DNN learns the relationship between input and output and gives a fairly accurate approximation for the transmit power optimization iterative algorithm. We exploit the sequential parametric convex approximation (SPCA) iterative algorithm to solve the optimization problem for transmit power in the WPCN. The proposed approach ensures the quality of service (QoS) of the WPCN by managing user throughput and by keeping harvested energy levels above a defined threshold. Through numerical results and simulations, it is verified that the proposed scheme can best approximate the SPCA iterative algorithms with low computational time consumption.
Examining the Usefulness of Quality Scores for Generating Learning Object Recommendations in Repositories of Open Educational Resources
Authors: Gordillo Aldo , López-Fernández Daniel , Verbert Katrien
Published: July 2020

Open educational resources (OER) can contribute to democratize education by providing effective learning experiences with lower costs. Nevertheless, the massive amount of resources currently available in OER repositories makes it difficult for teachers and learners to find relevant and high-quality content, which is hindering OER use and adoption. Recommender systems that use data related to the pedagogical quality of the OER can help to overcome this problem. However, studies analyzing the usefulness of these data for generating OER recommendations are very limited and inconclusive. This article examines the usefulness of using pedagogical quality scores for generating OER recommendations in OER repositories by means of a user study that compares the following four different recommendation approaches: a traditional content-based recommendation technique, a quality-based non-personalized recommendation technique, a hybrid approach that combines the two previous techniques, and random recommendations. This user study involved 53 participants and 400 OER whose quality was evaluated by reviewers using the Learning Object Review Instrument (LORI). The main finding of this study is that pedagogical quality scores can enhance traditional content-based OER recommender systems by allowing them to recommend OER with more quality without detriment to relevance.
Special Issue: Eco-Novel Food and Feed
Authors: Sousa Isabel , Raymundo Anabela , Torres María Dolores
Published: July 2020

Tendencies in food and feed industries deal with a permanent need to develop innovative products, tailored to consumer demands and, in the near future, to scarcity of food resources. Sustainable food production and food products as health and wellness promoters, and the use of alternative ingredients or by-products in designed thought food or feed formulations following circular economy principles, are hot topics that act as driving forces for innovation. This special issue offers a comprehensive forum for exchanging novel research ideas or empirical practices covering discussions from healthy foodstuffs enriched with functional ingredients, with special emphasis on those targets for populations with specific requirements, to consumer attitudes towards new ingredients and end products.
Solar Thermal Collector Output Temperature Prediction by Hybrid Intelligent Model for Smartgrid and Smartbuildings Applications and Optimization
Authors: Casteleiro-Roca José-Luis , Chamoso Pablo , Jove Esteban , González-Briones Alfonso , Quintián Héctor , Fernández-Ibáñez María-Isabel , Vega Vega Rafael Alejandro , Piñón Pazos Andrés-José , López Vázquez José Antonio , Torres-Álvarez Santiago , Pinto Tiago , Calvo-Rolle Jose Luis
Published: July 2020

Currently, there is great interest in reducing the consumption of fossil fuels (and other non-renewable energy sources) in order to preserve the environment; smart buildings are commonly proposed for this purpose as they are capable of producing their own energy and using it optimally. However, at times, solar energy is not able to supply the energy demand fully; it is mandatory to know the quantity of energy needed to optimize the system. This research focuses on the prediction of output temperature from a solar thermal collector. The aim is to measure solar thermal energy and optimize the energy system of a house (or building). The dataset used in this research has been taken from a real installation in a bio-climate house located on the Sotavento Experimental Wind Farm, in north-west Spain. A hybrid intelligent model has been developed by combining clustering and regression methods such as neural networks, polynomial regression, and support vector machines. The main findings show that, by dividing the dataset into small clusters on the basis of similarity in behavior, it is possible to create more accurate models. Moreover, combining different regression methods for each cluster provides better results than when a global model of the whole dataset is used. In temperature prediction, mean absolute error was lower than 4 ∘ C.
Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Neuromodulation in Patients with Unilateral Anterior Knee Pain: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: García-Bermejo Paula , De-la-Cruz-Torres Blanca , Romero-Morales Carlos
Published: July 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the short-term and crossover effects of a percutaneous neuromodulation (PNM) intervention on the femoral nerve, regarding the pain, knee flexion motion (range of motion (ROM)), and functionality, in patients with unilateral anterior knee pain (AKP). Our study used a randomized clinical trial design. Thirty patients were divided into two groups: one asymptomatic knee group in which patients received stimulation in the femoral nerve corresponding to the nonsymptomatic knee; and one symptomatic knee group, in which patients received stimulation in the femoral nerve corresponding to the painful knee. Pain, knee flexion ROM, Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment-Patella (VISA-P) and Kujala questionnaires were evaluated. Twenty-eight patients completed the study. Compared to their baseline values, both groups showed an increase immediately at 24 h, and at 1 week for the knee flexion ROM variable. In addition, the symptomatic knee group showed an increase for the Kujala score and a decrease for the numeric rating scale (NRS) variable from baseline to 1 week. VISA-P score did not show statistically significant differences for the time-group interaction. After the intervention, there were no differences between the groups in any measured time. Conclusion: a single-shot ultrasound-guided PNM intervention per week in the femoral nerve may be an effective treatment for improving the pain, knee flexion ROM, and knee functionality. In addition, this technique produces crossover benefits in the nonintervention limb.
Thermal Behavior of Single-Crystal Diamonds Catalyzed by Titanium Alloy at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Hou Pengyu , Zhou Ming , Zhang Haijun
Published: July 2020

Single-crystal diamonds are considered as the best tool material for ultra-precision machining. However, due to its low thermal conductivity, small elastic modulus and strong chemical activity, titanium alloy has poor machinability and is a typically difficult-to-machine material. Excessive tool wear prevents diamonds from cutting titanium alloy. This study conducts a series of thermal analytic experiments under conditions of different gas atmospheres in order to research the details of thermochemical wear of diamonds catalyzed by titanium alloy at elevated temperatures. Raman scattering analysis was performed to identify the transformation of the diamond crystal structure. The change in chemical composition of the work material was detected be means of energy dispersive X-ray analysis. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was used to confirm the resultant interfacial thermochemical reactions. The results of the study reveal the diffusion law of the single-crystal diamond under the action of titanium in the argon and air environment. From the experimental results, the product of the chemical reaction corresponding to the interface between the diamond and the titanium alloy sheet could be found. The research results provide a theoretical basis for elucidating the wear mechanism of diamond tools in the titanium alloy cutting process and for exploring the measures to suppress tool wear.
Weakly Supervised Fine-Grained Image Classification via Salient Region Localization and Different Layer Feature Fusion
Authors: Chen Fangxiong , Huang Guoheng , Lan Jiaying , Wu Yanhui , Pun Chi-Man , Ling Wing-Kuen , Cheng Lianglun
Published: July 2020

The fine-grained image classification task is about differentiating between different object classes. The difficulties of the task are large intra-class variance and small inter-class variance. For this reason, improving models’ accuracies on the task heavily relies on discriminative parts’ annotations and regional parts’ annotations. Such delicate annotations’ dependency causes the restriction on models’ practicability. To tackle this issue, a saliency module based on a weakly supervised fine-grained image classification model is proposed by this article. Through our salient region localization module, the proposed model can localize essential regional parts with the use of saliency maps, while only image class annotations are provided. Besides, the bilinear attention module can improve the performance on feature extraction by using higher- and lower-level layers of the network to fuse regional features with global features. With the application of the bilinear attention architecture, we propose the different layer feature fusion module to improve the expression ability of model features. We tested and verified our model on public datasets released specifically for fine-grained image classification. The results of our test show that our proposed model can achieve close to state-of-the-art classification performance on various datasets, while only the least training data are provided. Such a result indicates that the practicality of our model is incredibly improved since fine-grained image datasets are expensive.
Call Redistribution for a Call Center Based on Speech Emotion Recognition
Authors: Bojanić Milana , Delić Vlado , Karpov Alexey
Published: July 2020

Call center operators communicate with callers in different emotional states (anger, anxiety, fear, stress, joy, etc.). Sometimes a number of calls coming in a short period of time have to be answered and processed. In the moments when all call center operators are busy, the system puts that call on hold, regardless of its urgency. This research aims to improve the functionality of call centers by recognition of call urgency and redistribution of calls in a queue. It could be beneficial for call centers giving health care support for elderly people and emergency call centers. The proposed recognition of call urgency and consequent call ranking and redistribution is based on emotion recognition in speech, giving greater priority to calls featuring emotions such as fear, anger and sadness, and less priority to calls featuring neutral speech and happiness. Experimental results, obtained in a simulated call center, show a significant reduction in waiting time for calls estimated as more urgent, especially the calls featuring the emotions of fear and anger.
Predicting Network Behavior Model of E-Learning Partner Program in PLS-SEM
Authors: Hou Hsing-Yu , Lo Yu-Lung , Lee Chin-Feng
Published: July 2020

The Ministry of Education of Taiwan conducted an e-learning partner program to offer life-accompaniment and subject teaching to elementary and secondary students through a network platform with cooperation from university undergraduates. The aim of the e-learning partner program was to improve the motivation and interest of the children after learning at school. However, the outcome of this program stated that the retention rate of the undergraduates was low over three semesters in the case universities. Therefore, the training cost for the program was wasted each semester, and it was necessary to solve the problem and improve the situation. The evaluation of self-efficacy directly affects a person’s motivation for the job. This research examined inner self-efficacy (teaching and counseling) and outer support (administration and equipment) that would contribute to and predict the success and the persistence of the e-learning partner program. There were 94 valid self-evaluation records in the 2019 academic year. ANOVA, post hoc, and partial least squares (PLS) analyses were conducted. The results showed that the year level, experience, and teacher education program background were significantly different in this study. The network behavior model was set up effectively to predict the retention from four scopes. A higher teaching self-efficacy would have better passion and innovation scores than the others. Using the suggestions for improvement, decreasing the gap between undergraduates’ expectations and promoting sustainability in the e-learning partner program can be achieved.
Nanosecond Laser Ablation of Ti–6Al–4V under Different Temperature
Authors: Zhao Jiantao , Zhu Zhenge , Xu Yacheng , Song Xueyong , Wang Yufan , Peng Hao , Wang Ying , Zuo Jinrong , Shu Xuedao , Yin Anmin
Published: July 2020

Multi-pulse nanosecond laser ablation of Ti–6Al–4V is a complex process. In this study, the effect of substrate temperature on the nanosecond laser ablation of Ti–6Al–4V was investigated. Morphology, diameter and depth of ablation craters were observed; ablation efficiency ω (μm3/mJ) was proposed to analyzes the ablation process. The results showed that, with the increasing of substrate temperature, the ablation craters’ diameter increased and depth decreased, while ω initially increased, but then decreased rapidly. Furthermore, with increasing pulse number, the depth of ablation crater increased linearly, while the growth of the diameter gradually slowed down and tended to be stable after the 16th irradiation. The above changes were different in details at different substrate temperatures.
Tunable Terahertz Metamaterial Using an Electric Split-Ring Resonator with Polarization-Sensitive Characteristic
Authors: Xu Tao , Lin Yu-Sheng
Published: July 2020

We present a tunable terahertz (THz) metamaterial using an electric split-ring resonator (eSRR), which exhibits polarization-sensitive characteristics. The proposed eSRR is composed of double symmetrical semicircles and two central metal bars. By changing the lengths of two metal bars, the electromagnetic responses can be tuned and switched between dual-band and triple-band resonances in transverse magnetic (TM) mode. Furthermore, by moving the bottom metal bar to change the gap between the two metal bars, the first resonance is stable at 0.39 THz, and the second resonance is gradually blue-shifted from 0.83 to 1.33 THz. The tuning range is 0.50 THz. This means that the free spectrum ranges (FSR) could be broadened by 0.50 THz. This proposed device exhibits a dual-/triple-band switch, tunable filter, tunable FSR and polarization-dependent characteristics. It provides an effective approach to perform tunable polarizer, sensor, switch, filter and other optoelectronics in THz-wave applications.
Design of a Predictive RBF Compensation Fuzzy PID Controller for 3D Laser Scanning System
Authors: Zhao Minghui , Xu Xiaobin , Yang Hao , Pan Zhijie
Published: July 2020

A new proportional integral derivative (PID) control method is proposed for the 3D laser scanning system converted from 2D Lidar with a pitching motion device. It combines the advantages of a fuzzy algorithm, a radial basis function (RBF) neural network and a predictive algorithm to control the pitching motion of 2D Lidar quickly and accurately. The proposed method adopts the RBF neural network and feedback compensation to eliminate the unknown nonlinear part in the Lidar pitching motion, adaptively adjusting the PID parameter by a fuzzy algorithm. Then, the predictive control algorithm is adopted to optimize the overall controller output in real time. Finally, the simulation results show that the step response time of the Lidar pitching motion system using the control method is reduced from 15.298 s to 1.957 s with a steady-state error of 0.07°. Meanwhile, the system still has favorable response performance for the sinusoidal and step inputs under model mismatch and large disturbance. Therefore, the control method proposed above can improve the system performance and control the pitching motion of the 2D Lidar effectively.
Effects of Treated Manure Conditions on Ammonia and Hydrogen Sulfide Emissions from a Swine Finishing Barn Equipped with Semicontinuous Pit Recharge System in Summer
Authors: Wi Jisoo , Lee Seunghun , Kim Eunjong , Lee Myeongseong , Koziel Jacek A. , Ahn Heekwon
Published: July 2020

Gaseous emissions from animal production systems affect the local and regional air quality. Proven farm-scale mitigation technologies are needed to lower these emissions and to provide management practices that are feasible and sustainable. In this research, we evaluate the performance of a unique approach that simultaneously mitigates emissions and improves air quality inside a barn equipped with a manure pit recharge system. Specifically, we tested the effects of summertime feeding rations (used by farmers to cope with animal heat stress) and manure management. To date, the pit recharge system has been proven to be effective in mitigating both ammonia (NH3; approximately 53%) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S; approximately 84%) emissions during mild climate conditions. However, its performance during the hot season with a high crude protein diet and high nitrogen loading into the pit manure recharge system is unknown. Therefore, we compared the emissions and indoor air quality of the rooms (240 pigs, ~80 kg each) equipped with a conventional slurry and pit recharge system. The main findings highlight the importance and impact of seasonal variation and diet and manure management practices. We observed 31% greater NH3 emissions from the pit recharge system (33.7 ± 1.4 g·head−1·day−1) compared with a conventional slurry system (25.9 ± 2.4 g·head−1·day−1). Additionally, the NH3 concentration inside the barn was higher (by 24%) in the pit recharge system compared with the control. On the other hand, H2S emissions were 55% lower in the pit recharge system (628 ± 47 mg·head−1·day−1) compared with a conventional slurry pit (1400 ± 132 mg·head−1·day−1). Additionally, the H2S concentration inside the barn was lower (by 54%) in the pit recharge system compared with the control. The characteristics of the pit recharge liquid (i.e., aerobically treated manure), such as the total nitrogen (TN) and ammonium N (NH4-N) contents, contributed to the higher NH3 emissions from the pit recharge system in summer. However, their influence on H2S emissions had a relatively low impact, i.e., emissions were still reduced, similarly as they were in mild climate conditions. Overall, it is necessary to consider a seasonal diet and manure management practices when evaluating emissions and indoor air quality. Further research on minimizing the seasonal nitrogen loading and optimizing pit recharge manure characteristics is warranted.
Gas-Phase Reaction of trans-2-Methyl-2-butenal with Cl: Kinetics, Gaseous Products, and SOA Formation
Authors: Antiñolo María , Asensio María , Albaladejo José , Jiménez Elena
Published: July 2020

The gas-phase reaction between trans-2-methyl-2-butenal and chlorine (Cl) atoms has been studied in a simulation chamber at 298 ± 2 K and 760 ± 5 Torr of air under free-NOx conditions. The rate coefficient of this reaction was determined as k = (2.45 ± 0.32) × 10−10 cm3 molecule−1 s−1 by using a relative method and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition to this technique, gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and proton transfer time-of-flight mass spectrometry were used to detect and monitor the time evolution of the gas-phase reaction products. The major primary reaction product from the addition of Cl to the C-3 of trans-2-methyl-2-butenal was 3-chloro-2-butanone, with a molar yield (YProd) of (52.5 ± 7.3)%. Acetaldehyde (Y = (40.8 ± 0.6)%) and HCl were also identified, indicating that the H-abstraction by Cl from the aldehyde group is a reaction pathway as well. Secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation was investigated by using a fast mobility particle sizer spectrometer. The SOA yield in the Cl + trans-2-methyl-2-butenal reaction is reported to be lower than 2.4%, thus its impact can be considered negligible. The atmospheric importance of the titled reaction is similar to the corresponding OH reaction in areas with high Cl concentration.
Gathering Pipeline Methane Emissions in Utica Shale Using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and Ground-Based Mobile Sampling
Authors: Li Hugh Z. , Mundia-Howe Mumbi , Reeder Matthew D. , Pekney Natalie J.
Published: July 2020

The United States Environmental Protection Agency Greenhouse Gas Inventory only recently updated the emission factors of natural gas gathering pipelines in April 2019 from the previous estimates based on a 1990s study of distribution pipelines. Additional measurements are needed from different basins for more accurate assessments of methane emissions from natural gas midstream industries and hence the overall climate implications of natural gas as the interim major energy source for the next decade. We conducted an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) survey and a ground-based vehicle sampling campaign targeting gathering pipeline systems in the Utica Shale from March to April in 2019. Out of 73 km of pipeline systems surveyed, we found no leaks on pipelines and two leaks on an accessory block valve with leak rates of 3.8 ± 0.4 and 7.6 ± 0.8 mg/s. The low leak frequency phenomenon was also observed in the only existing gathering pipeline study in Fayetteville Shale. The UAV sampling system facilitated ease of access, broadened the availability of pipelines for leak detection, and was estimated to detect methane leaks down to 0.07 g/s using Gaussian dispersion modeling. For future UAV surveys adopting similar instrument setup and dispersion models, we recommend arranging controlled release experiments first to understand the system’s detection limit and choosing sampling days with steady and low wind speeds (2 m/s).
Characterization and Source Apportionment of Fine Particles during a Heavy Pollution Episode over the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Xia Li , Zhu Bin , Wang Honglei , Kang Hanqing , An Junlin
Published: July 2020

Regional-scale field observations of fine particles (PM2.5) were carried out at urban, suburban and regional background sites across the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) from 15–30 January 2015. The coefficients of divergence (CD) values reveal the similarity of dataset at the three sites. The PM2.5 concentrations and meteorological data exhibit temporal synchronization. From January 15 to 26, the YRD experienced severe PM2.5 pollution resulting from a cold front moving through and high-pressure control. Then, a 4-day intermittent rain event from 27–30 January significantly scavenged PM2.5. For the chemical components in PM2.5, secondary inorganic ions were dominant, and they accounted for larger proportions at the urban and suburban sites than at the regional background site. The OC/EC ratios were higher in daytime than at night, and were lower on polluted days than on clean (rainy) days. The principal sources of PM2.5 were secondary nitrate (38%) and sulfate (23%) formation, biomass burning (14%), and marine source (8%). Marine (16%) and sulfate (30%) sources were enhanced on clean (rainy) days, indicating the notable effect of marine air masses on PM2.5 chemical components. The open burning source contribution at the regional site was the largest during the polluted period because more air masses arrived from combustion zones.