bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE LAB PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION AS AN INTERNATIONAL DESIGN-BUILD STUDIO: TEACHING AND LEARNING EXPERIENCE
Authors: Andrade Benitez Jorge Javier , Naranjo Serrano Gabriela , Valdivia Lorena , Iturriaga Sandra , Jódar Rubén , Blieske Jan , Wollscheid Franziska
Published: March 2024

This working paper explores experiential learning and teaching experiences that aim to create socially responsible architects and buildings who prioritize sustainability and innovation and offer some questions for further research.   The ideas presented in this work are the evaluation of a cross-cultural Design-Build studio established in 2022 by design units from universities in Ecuador, Chile, and Germany to reflect on various aspects of architectural design, civil engineering, management, and other aspects of sustainable construction that are often overlooked in traditional teaching programs.  The Design-Build methodology, explores such potential linkages: 1-Interactive and dynamic learning environment allow to establish the design of an architectural project through a cooperative process 2-The application through scientific inquiry and critical thinking of local construction techniques in international projects update the methods to comply with current building codes 3-Active involvement of the team planning in the construction of the building, allow to test and establish sustainable constructions methods that are suitable for informal self-build and can be reproduced by the local population. Over one hundred participants contributed to the completion of the building. A questionnaire was conducted to evaluate the academic experience. Most respondents reported an increase in their academic and practical knowledge in construction, as well as in architectural skills, self-confidence and personal skills.
SOLAR POWERED OFF-GRID WATER DISTRIBUTION PROJECTS: A CASE STUDY COMPARISON OF TWO COMMUNITIES
Authors: Simonian Lonny , Redden Paul
Published: March 2024

This paper presents the pre-construction planning and construction installation phases of student-run projects in Ecuador and Ghana to provide fresh water via pumped water storage through photovoltaic (PV) systems. Our Ecuadorian project relied on a preliminary design prepared by a non-profit organization as the construction basis. The Ghanian project was designed by students, with faculty support. These two case studies were chosen because they had similar project goals, occurred close in time, and had the same faculty and student clubs performing the work. The fundamental project management areas of scope, schedule, and budget management were assessed as a basis for comparison. Although there were several differences between the projects, students gained new knowledge in all of these areas. The work involved several students and two faculty from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly). The work included piping connections to direct current submersible pumps, water storage, distribution piping/connections to a village community center or directly to households, PV panels, and an electrical distribution system with overcurrent protection. The initial design was an important part of each project; however, many details were resolved during construction using a design-build approach.
SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT OF AN INDUSTRIALIZED HOUSE
Authors: Piantanida Paolo , Pilar Claudia Alejandra , Villa Valentina , Vottari Antonio
Published: March 2024

The PRO.CRE.AR. Bicentenario (Argentine Bicentennial Single-Family Housing Credit Program) implemented between 2012 and 2015 approximately, included a model of wooden houses, thus enhancing in Argentina the opportunity to have a house built with industrialized wooden elements. The paper compares at a conceptual level the construction of the same house (similar to the prototype named “Maderera”) as a traditional building, i.e., with brick masonry and reinforced concrete, and instead with industrialized wood construction as funded by the PRO.CRE.AR program: the comparison focuses on the amount of CO2 incorporated in the two constructive solutions. Alongside this assessment, conducted on the basis of estimated quantities of materials and data found in the literature, the paper examines the amount of CO2 not produced over the lifetime of the house when photovoltaic elements and solar panels are possibly adopted for local energy production and then discusses the positive impact of any energy storage systems. The results regarding the building energy demand and the CO2 saved support the choice of building industrialization for the wood supply chain, propose additional options for the deployment of wood construction, and evaluate the impact of home PV & solar panels for sustainability and integration into the technological system.
EMERGENCY SHELTER AND CONNECTIVITY FOR RURAL COMMUNITIES AFTER NATURAL DISASTERS: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Dieppa Ortiz Josue Antonio , Lopez del Puerto Carla , Acevedo Guzman Genesis Paulette , Garcia Torres Eiden Ojani , Cavallin Calanche Humberto Eduardo , Rodriguez Roman Daniel , Andrade Rengifo Fabio
Published: March 2024

After a decade-long economic crisis and a series of major natural disasters, rural com-munities in Puerto Rico are grappling with significant gaps in vital services such as shelter, energy, water, and mobility. This particularly affects low-income elderly resi-dents who rely on these services for an improved quality of life. A prime example of this situation is Corcovada, a rural community in the countryside of Puerto Rico which faces isolation and has a sizeable aging population. Its residents rely on themselves, their relatives, and other community members to provide transportation, as well as basic services like electricity for sustenance and medication maintenance. A site as-sessment was conducted, including solar irradiation, soil conditions, weather, and seismicity. This research presents an interdisciplinary design solution for modular emergency shelters for families in Corcovada, incorporating structural, solar energy, water use, and wind simulations. The emergency shelter module was designed with specific objectives and requirements: short-term accommodation for a family of four, expandability and collapsibility as needed, off-grid operation for water and energy dur-ing emergencies, and sustainability, resilience, affordability, and ease of assembly. Fu-ture endeavors involve the development of a mobility hub to reduce residents' reliance on private transportation.
INFLUENCE OF CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY ON THE THERMAL PERFORMANCE OF VERNACULAR HOUSING
Authors: Galvez Marco Flavio , Aguirre-Maldonado Eduardo Bladimir , Balcázar-Arciniega Cristian André
Published: March 2024

The canton of Zapotillo, located in the south of Ecuador, has a hot climate that has led the population to use endemic materials in the construction of their homes. These materials provide a comfortable indoor environment for the inhabitants, with earth, wood and stone being the main structural components of traditional houses. These vernacular houses represent years of empirical research and testing by local builders who have developed unique construction techniques. However, these houses have been overshadowed by new architectural typologies that use modern materials and construction systems with lower thermal performance. In the current landscape of Zapotillo, remains of the first settlements in the area can be found, blending into the overall landscape with contemporary constructions. Therefore, the aim of this research is to analyze the bioclimatic performance of vernacular houses in the canton, focusing on the technical and constructional study of selected cases, seeking to identify parameters that contribute to indoor comfort in relation to local climatic conditions. The research visualizes the energy characteristics of vernacular housing, highlighting the solar protection provided by the use of portals and terraces, as well as the comfort of the raw earth construction system to mitigate the effects of high temperatures during periods of extreme heat. The energy analysis programs Revit Insight, Rhinoceros, Grasshopper and Lady Bug tools are used to measure these variables, with the ultimate aim of rescuing vernacular values and adapting them to new projects, thereby revaluing the concept of traditional Zapotillo housing.
STABILITY ANALYSIS OF VEHICLE BEHAVIOR IN A LONG PLATOON
Authors: Kita Eisuke , Sakakura Yoshmune
Published: March 2024

A vehicle platoon is the method of the group of vehicles traveling in short inter-vehicle distance. It can increase the traffic capacity in keeping the traffic safety. Since, in the platoon of vehicles, the vehicles travel in short inter-vehicle distance, the traffic safety depends on the vehicle distance. In this paper, the vehicle velocity is controlled according to the car-following models. The vehicles travelling at the rear of the platoon refer to their frontal vehicles for controlling their velocity. The stability analysis of the models leads the adequate range of the model parameters in which vehicles can control the vehicle distance safely without crush to the preceding vehicle. The stability analysis reveals that the stable region of the parameters becomes wider according to the increase of the number of the frontal vehicles. Finally, the simulation results show that the stability analysis can give the adequate value of the model parameter.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EVALUATION CRITERIA FOR UNPAVED RURAL ROADS: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Vasquez Monteros Carlos Javier , Flor Chavez Gino , Machuca Ordóñez Lizbeth Michelle
Published: March 2024

This study focused on the evaluation of the condition of the unpaved rural road: Sauces Norte-Imbana in the province of Loja, using two main indicators: Unsurfaced Road Condition Index (URCI) and the International Roughness Index (IRI). The IRI was measured using three different devices: MERLIN, Roughometer III, and a mobile application. The collected data were statistically analyzed to determine their distribution and the correlation between the variables. The results revealed a weak correlation between these variables, indicating that each methodology may be assessing different aspects of the road condition or due to the particular conditions of the road. The lack of a strong relationship may be related to the specific characteristics of the studied road, such as its sinuosity and the influence of environmental conditions on roughness measurements. This study underscores the importance of considering a variety of factors when evaluating the condition of unpaved roads and the need to develop and apply suitable evaluation techniques for the specific conditions of each road.
PROPOSED METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTATION OF RAILROADS FOR FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION
Authors: Zúniga César , Rodríguez Ada , Perdomo Maria Elena
Published: March 2024

Honduras is a country that lacks the development of rail transport for the mobilization of cargo within the territory, generating congestion on the roads and problems of merchandise since practically only road transport is available within the country. The country has a privileged geographic location due to its location in the heart of America, making it attractive for several entities to be part of a project to implement a 730 km freight train from the customs office in Puerto Cortes, making the entire journey in the Honduran territory and returning to its starting point. The objective of this work is to propose a graphical method to determine the route of a freight train in Honduras. This method is based on identifying on a map protected zones, import/export zones, cargo ports and customs, determined by the number of containerized cargo passing through the country. As a result, a route for the freight train is obtained that prioritizes the areas with the highest container movement, avoiding the passage through the highways of some of the country's major cities. The main contribution is the proposal of a graphic and systematic methodology to evaluate the possible logistic transport routes that give continuity to this initiative.
FUNCTIONALLY GRADED CONCRETE: POROSITY GRADATION TO ENHANCE DURABILITY UNDER CARBONATION
Authors: Ribeiro Daniel Véras , Dias Cleber Marcos Ribeiro , Silva Adriana dos Santos
Published: March 2024

In this study the porosity was strategically varied throughout the layers to obtain concrete with higher performance against the actions of the environment to which the material is exposed. In the present work the potential application of the functionally graded material (FGM) concept to develop more durable concrete to carbonation, one of the main degradation mechanisms of reinforced concrete structures is evaluated. Accelerated carbonation tests with controlled temperature (27  2°C), CO2 concentration (3  0.5%) and humidity (65  5%) were carried out in homogeneous concretes and with functional gradation in which the porosity of the material was varied across the slices. For the manufacture of graded concrete specimens, concretes with water/cement ratios equal to 0.35, 0.45, and 0.55 were produced, with lower porosity (w/c = 0.35) close to the surface of the specimen. The advance of the carbonation front was evaluated after 8, 9, 10, 14, and 24 weeks of accelerated exposure, using the chemical indicator phenolphthalein. The results show that the functionally graded concrete had a carbonation coefficient (K) slightly higher than that of the concrete with a w/c ratio equal to 0.35 (1.71 and 1.54 mm.week-0.5, respectively) and much lower than concrete with water-cement ratio equal to 0.45 (2.31 mm.week-0.5) and 0.55 (3.78 mm.week-0.5). This demonstrates that functional grading can be an efficient method to increase the durability of concrete elements subject to carbonation.
LITERATURE REVIEW OF COCONUT SHELL AND FIBERS IN PAVEMENT DESIGN
Authors: Guerra Miguel Andrés , Iturralde Francisco
Published: March 2024

The construction industry faces the challenge to balance the growing demand for new infrastructure and the sustainable use of resources that are generated throughout the different stages of civil infrastructure work. Other industries use materials that leave behind great amount of waste, that often their biodegradation and recycling processes are complex. To find avenues to adapt or incorporate such materials into the productive cycle, characteristics and mechanical properties studies are necessary. For example, due to the large consumption of coconut water, the elimination of these resources has generated major problems such as environmental pollution, methane emissions, insect outbreaks, reduction of the useful life of landfills and increased costs of maintenance of cities. However, several research have demonstrated that coconut fibers and shells may be utilized in concrete applications. This study provides an in-depth review of the literature to learn about the current state of the art in the use of coconut fibers and shells as aggregates in pavement mixtures. Thanks to new technologies, it has been possible to carry out a more in-depth analysis regarding the use of environmentally friendly materials to be used in civil infrastructure works. The incorporation of the shell and coconut fibers are aimed to determine its influence on asphalt mix, considering the amount to be used and its long-term performance and to provide a new technology engineering in the construction of sustainable roads and highways using available ecological material. Researchers propose and agenda for future work for both researchers and practitioners.
CLIMATE PLANNING AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT: ACTORS AND CLIMATE CHANGE MEASURES
Authors: Llacas Vicuña Luis Deliberto
Published: March 2024

Urban development based on anthropogenic systems led to evident urban transformations on a global and local scale. Climate change is the product of these transformations, characterized by weather patterns and ecological systems alterations. These alterations cause impacts on urban dynamics, which generate severe social consequences. It becomes imperative to assume the inevitability of the climate phenomenon and adopt a new management model with adaptation and mitigation actions. The research addresses the climatic phenomenon in Ecuador, specifically in the urban area of Riobamba, emphasizing its planning instruments. The objective is to recognize the scope of local instruments and plans related to climate change and to identify actors involved through a map of actors according to their level of engagement and support for climate change action. The research contemplates a descriptive methodology with a qualitative approach using theoretical and argumentative techniques. The research considers documentary and fieldwork through methods such as documentary analysis, unstructured observation, in-depth interviews with strategic actors, case studies, and self-completed perception surveys of available subjects, corresponding to an exploratory and descriptive level. The results show that the local government did not consider initiatives aimed at climate planning and, despite programs and projects that seek to solve environmental problems, they need to be developed in detail or linked as measures against climate change.
WATER EROSION RISK AND FOOD SECURITY: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Oñate-Valdivieso Fernando , González Jhonatan
Published: March 2024

Water erosion reduces soil fertility and productivity, negatively impacting crop yields. The transported material not only affects water quality but also significantly shortens the lifespan of water infrastructure. The Catamayo-Chira transboundary basin, spanning an area of 17,199 km2, serves as the primary water source for agriculture in the Ecuador-Peru border. Ongoing sediment production within the basin has drastically decreased the volume of the Poechos reservoir, northern Peru's largest irrigation system, raising concerns about its potential complete filling in the near future. To identify vulnerable areas to water erosion, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) was utilized. By integrating meteorological, topographic, land use, and soil type data, a GIS-based model was developed to map the spatial variation of soil loss. This approach facilitated the identification of critical areas necessitating soil conservation actions. Within the basin, approximately 65% of the land exhibits high to critical erosion due to a combination of intense rainfall, steep slopes, limited vegetation cover, and erodible soils. Soil losses of around 200 tons per year have been observed. In the absence of effective soil loss management practices, sediment production, and transportation continue to pose significant challenges for the expansive agricultural lands in northern Peru, thereby jeopardizing regional food security.
P-M INTERACTION DIAGRAMS FOR REINFORCED CONCRETE WALLS RETROFITTED WITH EXTERNALLY BONDED CARBON-FIBER REINFORCED POLYMER
Authors: Villa Destiny S. , Perez Felipe J. , Lomiento Giuseppe
Published: March 2024

This research develops analytical axial load-bending moment (P-M) interaction diagrams for reinforced concrete (RC) walls retrofitted with carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP). A 12-inch thick, 1-foot strip of RC wall section is considered with varying reinforcement ratios, varying axial compressive loading, and varying number of CFRP layers. The CFRP material is treated as externally bonded onto the tension face of the RC wall to investigate its impact on the flexural capacity of the section. Each P-M interaction diagram was generated considering a discretized compression zone and by satisfying principles of static equilibrium and strain compatibility. An elastic-plastic steel stress-strain relationship is used for Grade 60 reinforcement; a uniaxial nonlinear compressive stress-strain relationship is used for concrete; and a linear stress-strain relationship is used for CFRP in tension. The failure modes considered are steel yielding, concrete crushing, and CFRP debonding. The computed P-M interaction diagrams are normalized for their general use in the retrofit of existing RC walls using CFRP. Results show that as the axial compressive force on the RC wall increases, the less effective CFRP is. CFRP is more effective in sections with beam-like behavior, where the reinforcement ratio tends to be the smallest.
COMPARISON BETWEEN SMF AND SPSW STEEL BUILDING FOR MIXED-USE RESIDENCE USING THE AHP METHOD
Authors: Hidalgo Diego Hernan , Guevara Roberto Alejandro , Navarro Marlon Hernan
Published: March 2024

The objective of this work is to compare the Special Moment Frame (SMF) system and the Steel Plate Shear Wall (SPSW) system using the AHP multi-criteria comparison method with the two Seismic Load Resisting Systems (SFRS). From the linear static analysis, dynamic analysis, and nonlinear static analysis (Pushover), representative characteristics of each Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS) are determined. These characteristics include the structure's self-weight, target displacement, floor drifts, and seismic response modification factor (R). As a result, two buildings are obtained with different SFRS that comply with the design of their elements and checks according to the regulatory requirements. After determining the capacity curve of each Seismic Force-Resisting System (SFRS) and assessing the performance level of the buildings, the conclusion is drawn that the Special Plate Shear Wall (SPSW) system is more suitable and advantageous compared to the Special Moment Frame (SMF) system. This preference is due to the SPSW system's ability to provide ductility, which translates into higher energy dissipation capacity, and stiffness, which leads to reduced floor drifts in the building.
INFLUENCE OF THE ADDITION OF LIME ON A MATRIX EARTH REINFORCED WITH COCONUT FIBER
Authors: Ferrín Guido Ernesto Ferrín , Viera José Luis Galarza
Published: March 2024

The present research is based on improving the stability, resistance to moisture degradation and fire resistance of molded soil blocks for use in housing construction. The main objective was to include fibers obtained from the shell of the coconut fruit and slaked lime. The methodology includes a prior characterization of the materials using the Eades and Grim method (ASTM D6276), density test, Atterberg limits and granulometric study; and then combine the fiber and lime into a local soil matrix. It is then subjected to water absorption and erosion tests, and is also subjected to direct fire. The results reveal that the additions of 0.5% fiber and 7% lime showed changes in the weight of the blocks, at the same time improvements in the resistance to water absorption and also good fire resistance. Finally, the results are compared with the scientific literature consulted, in order to correlate them with each other.
Tools From The "Hat" of an Operational Manager, with an Applied: Case Study
Authors: Matei Denisa Ligia
Published: March 2024

Introduction to Operations Management is an essential starting point for understanding the complexity and importance of effectively managing resources and processes within contemporary organizations. According to Jay Heizer and Barry Render in their seminal work Principles of Operations Management, operations management is defined as the process of designing, managing, and improving processes and systems that create and deliver goods and services. It is a vital component of organizational strategy, having a direct impact on a company's competitiveness and market success. Through operational management, organizations can optimize the use of resources, improve efficiency and provide added value to their customers. We briefly present quantitative forecasting methods, go into detail in a case study with a causal (associative) forecast, then approach the linear regression calculation model. Also, we will estimate pancake sales using the Brown model of exponential leveling, the working tool being QM for Windows. We close the paper by punctually addressing methods of stock optimization by carrying out the case study with the method of uniform price reduction. Finally, we will schematically point out an investment project model for a pancake business.
The associations of depressive symptoms and perceived stress with arterial health in adolescents
Authors: Toivonen Emmi , Lee Earric , Leppänen Marja H. , Laitinen Tomi , Kähönen Mika , Lakka Timo A. , Haapala Eero A.
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular and mental diseases are among the most important global health problems, but little is known on the associations between mental and arterial health in adolescents. Therefore, we investigated the associations of arterial health with depressive symptoms and perceived stress in adolescents. A total of 277 adolescents, 151 boys, 126 girls, aged 15–17 years participated in the study. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory and perceived stress by the Cohen Perceived Stress Scale. Arterial health was assessed by measures from carotid ultrasonography (carotid intima‐media thickness, Young's Elastic Modulus, carotid artery distensibility, stiffness index), impedance cardiography (pulse wave velocity, cardio‐ankle vascular index), and pulse contour analysis (reflection index, stiffness index). The data were analyzed using linear regression models adjusted for age and sex. Depressive symptoms or perceived stress were not associated with indices of arterial health in the whole study group (β = −0.08 to 0.09, p > 0.05), in boys (β = −0.13 to 0.10, p > 0.05) or in girls (standardized regression coefficient β = −0.16 to 0.08, p > 0.05). We found no associations of depressive symptoms and perceived stress with arterial health in adolescents. These observations suggest that the association between mental and arterial health problems develop in later life.
A Bi-GRU-DSA-based social network rumor detection approach
Authors: Huang Xiang , Liu Yan
Published: March 2024

In the rumor detection based on crowd intelligence, the crowd behavior is constructed as a graph model or probability mode. The detection of rumors is achieved through the collaborative utilization of data and knowledge. Aiming at the problems of insufficient feature extraction ability and data redundancy of current rumor detection methods based on deep learning model, a social network rumor detection method based on bidirectional gated recurrent unit (Bi-GRU) and double self-attention (DSA) mechanism is suggested. First, a combination of application program interface and third-party crawler approach is used to obtain microblogging data from publicly available fake microblogging information pages, including both rumor and non-rumor information. Second, Bi-GRU is used to capture the tendency of medium- and long-term dependence of data and is flexible enough to deal with variable length input. Finally, the DSA mechanism is introduced to help reduce the redundant information in the dataset, thereby enhancing the model’s efficacy. The results of the experiments indicate that the proposed method outperforms existing advanced methods by at least 0.114, 0.108, 0.064, and 0.085 in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, andF1-scores, respectively. Therefore, the proposed method can significantly enhance the ability of social network rumor detection.
Task offloading in mobile edge computing using cost-based discounted optimal stopping
Authors: ALFahad Saleh , Wang Qiyuan , Anagnostopoulos Christos , Kolomvatsos Kostas
Published: March 2024

Mobile edge computing (MEC) paradigm has emerged to improve the quality of service & experience of applications deployed in close proximity to end-users. Due to their restricted computational and communication resources, MEC nodes can provide access to a portion of the entire set of services and data gathered. Therefore, there are several obstacles to their management. Keeping track of all the services offered by the MEC nodes is challenging, particularly if their demand rates change over time. Received tasks (such as, analytics queries, classification tasks, and model learning) require services to be invoked in real MEC use-case scenarios, e.g., smart cities. It is not unusual for a node to lack the necessary services or part of them. Undeniably, not all the requested services may be locally available; thus, MEC nodes must deal with the timely and appropriate choice of whether to carry out a service replication (pull action) or tasks offloading (push action) to peer nodes in a MEC environment. In this study, we contribute with a novel time-optimized mechanism based on the optimal stopping theory, which is built on the cost-based decreasing service demand rates evidenced in various service management situations. Our mechanism tries to optimally solve the decision-making dilemma between pull and push action. The experimental findings of our mechanism and its comparative assessment with other methods found in the literature showcase the achieved optimal decisions with respect to certain cost-based objective functions over dynamic service demand rates.
Challenges in treating primary immune thrombocytopenia patients undergoing COVID-19 vaccination: A retrospective study
Authors: Xu Huiping , Zhang Beibei , Xie Linjun
Published: March 2024

Background

Since the outbreak of COVID-19 in December 2019, countries around the world, including China, have been administering COVID-19 vaccines in response to the pandemic. Our center has observed that treating patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) has become more challenging in this context.

Methods

This study compared the treatment response of 25 de novo ITP patients who had received a COVID-19 vaccination (Group 1) with an equal number of de novo ITP patients randomly selected from the 2 years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic (Group 2) by using the Mann–Whitney U test and Fisher’s exact.

Results

Patients in both groups had predominantly female gender with similar age and baseline platelet counts. However, on Day 3, the median platelets were 22 and 49 × 109/L, and on Day 7, they were 74 and 159 × 109/L, respectively (P < 0.05). Compared to Group 2, Group 1 showed a suboptimal short-term response to glucocorticoid monotherapy, with a higher proportion of patients requiring combination therapy with other drugs including intravenous immunoglobulin, thrombopoietin receptor agonists, and rituximab. After subgroup analysis, a significant difference was observed in the proportion of patients requiring second-line therapy between the two groups.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that COVID-19 vaccination may lead to a lower response rate to first-line treatment in de novo ITP patients. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge the inherent limitations in this conclusion. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and investigate the underlying mechanisms.
Soliton, quasi-soliton, and their interaction solutions of a nonlinear (2 + 1)-dimensional ZK–mZK–BBM equation for gravity waves
Authors: Wang Chunxia , Yin Xiaojun , Cao Na , Xu Liyang , Bai Shuting
Published: March 2024

The ZK–mZK–BBM equation plays a crucial role in actually depicting the gravity water waves with the long wave region. In this article, the bilinear forms of the (2 + 1)-dimensional ZK–mZK–BBM equation were derived using variable transformation. Then, the multiple soliton solutions of the ZK–mZK–BBM equation are obtained by bilinear forms and symbolic computation. Under complex conjugate transformations, quasi-soliton solutions and mixed solutions composed of one-soliton and one-quasi-soliton are derived from soliton solutions. These solutions are further studied graphically to observe the propagation characteristics of gravity water waves. The results enrich the research of gravity water wave in fluid mechanics.
Sarah Renee Werner, Rooted Faith: Practices for Living Well on a Fragile Planet
Authors: Power Bratton Susan
Published: March 2024

Sarah Renee Werner, Rooted Faith: Practices for Living Well on a Fragile Planet (Harrisonburg, VA: Herald Press, 2023), 189 pp., $18.99 (pbk), ISBN:978-1513813165.
Rubber-sand infilled soilbags as seismic isolation cushions: experimental validation
Authors: Wang J. , Wu M. , Liu F. , Bin J. , He J.
Published: March 2024

This study proposes soil bags filled with a rubber sand mixture (SFRSM) to enhance the stability of rubber sand layers for effective seismic isolation. To evaluate the dynamic characteristics of the SFRSM, large-scale cyclic simple shear tests were conducted to investigate the effects of rubber content, vertical pressure, shear displacement amplitude, fill percentage, and laying scheme. Furthermore, shaking table tests were carried out to evaluate the impact of vibration intensity and frequency on the seismic isolation of SFRSM layers. The results indicate that (1) SFRSM exhibits lower shear modulus and higher damping than traditional rubber-sand layers, suggesting superior seismic isolation and energy dissipation capabilities. (2) The dynamic characteristics of the SFRSM were influenced by the fill percentage and laying scheme, indicating the potential for creating resilient isolators suited to various conditions. (3) The isolating efficacy of SFRSM is due to its effective damping of high-frequency vibrations, with the threshold frequency reducing as more SFRSM layers are implemented. In summary, these experimental results provide evidence that the proposed innovative strategy enhances the strength and vertical stiffness of the original rubber-sand layer, making it well-suited for seismic design applications in low-rise buildings in less-developed regions.
The influence of graphene nanoplatelet content on the mechanical properties and microstructure of sustainable concrete
Authors: Mohsen Mohamed O. , Aburumman Mervat O. , Al-diseet Malak M. , Abdel-Jaber Mu'tasim , Taha Ramzi , Al Ansari Mohamed S. , Senouci Ahmed , Taqa Ala Abu
Published: March 2024

The effects of the content of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) on the mechanical properties and microstructure of sustainable concrete were investigated. Aqueous solutions were prepared, using a wet-dispersion technique to disperse GNPs in the mixing water. Concrete batches were prepared using different GNP fractions (0.05, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2% by weight of cement), and their compressive, flexural and tensile strengths were determined at 28 days. Qualitative microstructural analyses were performed using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. The results obtained were analysed using analysis of variance (Anova), which demonstrated improvements in all strength properties when using GNP filaments regardless of their weight fraction. The batch containing 0.5% GNPs showed the largest strength improvements, with improvements in compressive, flexural and tensile strength properties of 22.6%, 23.9% and 255.4%, respectively. Microstructural analysis showed a good dispersion of nanofilaments inside the concrete matrix through the dispersion technique used in this study. Finally, Anova revealed statistically significant relationships between the GNP content and the compressive, flexural and tensile strengths of the concrete specimens. The results highlight the importance of the GNP content in influencing the concrete's mechanical properties.
When Are You Going to Marry? Intention to Marry through the Lens of Theory of Planned Behavior and Self-Regulatory Focus
Authors: Koçak Aylin , Mouratidis Athanasios
Published: March 2024

What makes people to take important decisions in their lives, such as marriage? To answer this question, we relied on theory of planned behavior to examine the degree to which peoples’ attitudes, subjective-norms, and behavioral control perceptions predict their intentions to marry. Furthermore, we used self-regulatory focus theory to examine whether such attitudes, norms, and perceptions could be partly explained by peoples’ focus on pursuing-gains versus securing non-losses. We conducted a cross-sectional, web-based survey with a sample of 699 Turkish young adults (70.7% females; Mage = 24.89 years, SD = 4.31). The results of the structural equation modeling showed that promotion-focus positively and prevention-focus negatively related to perceived behavioral control, which in turn negatively related to intentions to marry. Intentions also related positively to attitudes but not to subjective-norms, which however related positively to promotion-focus and negatively to prevention-focus. Gender and age differences were also found. The results are discussed in light of the two theories.
Prediction of mortality in patients with secondary pulmonary embolism based on primary admission indication: A short communication
Authors: Ryll Martin J. , Weingarten Toby N. , Sprung Juraj
Published: March 2024

We evaluated the prediction of mortality in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) who subsequently developed a pulmonary embolism (PE) (i.e., secondary PE) using three PE-specific scores, the Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI), simplified PESI (sPESI), and modified sPESI (ICU-sPESI) and compared them to the gold standard for the assessment of ICU all-cause mortality, the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation-IV (APACHE-IV). All critical care admission indications were grouped into four major categories: post-operative, cardiovascular, infectious (sepsis), and other. The APACHE-IV displayed better discriminative ability to predict in-hospital mortality than the PESI and ICU-sPESI, but these two scores still performed fair for the ICU admissions related to postoperative, cardiovascular, and other admission types. Meanwhile, the sPESI displayed poor predictive performance across all four admission categories. Notably, discriminatory performance for patients with an infection-related admission was consistently low regardless of which score was used.
An Individualized Yoga Intervention for People with Functional Neurological Disorder: Case Series
Authors: Kipnis Danielle , Leung Sally , Schreier Abigail R. , Kwei Kimberly , Shah Hiral , Quinn Lori
Published: March 2024

Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a heterogeneous condition of neurological symptoms that cannot be linked to a specific neurological cause. Yoga combines movement, breathing, and meditation and has established mind-body effects for people who are managing both psychological and neurological conditions. This case series describes key components of a yoga program for people with FND, evaluating feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy via self-report surveys, clinical assessments, and postintervention interview. Four individuals with FND participated in 45-minute, one-to-one virtual yoga sessions, two times a week for 8 weeks. We measured outcomes in four domains (healthcare utilization, FND symptoms, quality of life and self-efficacy, and function and mobility) at baseline, week 4, and week 8. Assessments included the Psychogenic Movement Disorders Rating Scale, timed up-and-go test, Patient Health Questionnaire-15, Brief Illness Perceptions Questionnaire, 36-Item Short Form Health Survey, and University of Washington Self-Efficacy Scale. Four participants completed at least 8 sessions, and two completed the full intervention (16 sessions). There were no adverse events. Two participants reported positive changes after yoga and improved on all clinical assessments (timed up-and-go test and Psychogenic Movement Disorders Rating Scale). Postintervention interview analysis revealed three themes: negative diagnosis experience, perceived health effects of yoga, and session format preferences. This was an exploratory case series describing a yoga intervention that was associated with some benefits for people with FND (decreased FND symptom severity and increased function, perceived health, quality of life, and self-efficacy). A larger case series is warranted to understand how to best select individuals who would benefit from the program.
Help Desk Support Ticket and Issue Management
Authors: Lakshya Sharma, Sharik Ahmad Saurabh Kumar, Nishu Kumari,
Published: March 2024

IT companies require methodical approaches to handle the growing volume of customer-reported software issues and service requests. An enormous backlog of unresolved issues has the potential to drastically raise software development and maintenance expenses. An         IT company therefore need a clearly defined customer support model. It acts as a link between the client and the business from beginning to end. The support industry also used this to track and record any procedures and solutions used to close tickets. With the Helpdesk Ticketing System, you can use an online platform to solve questions in a web-based environment. To ensure seamless and efficient operation, the user can submit tickets for even the smallest questions. Both within the company and remotely, the ticketing tool is usable. which can be accessed by anyone in organization or end user.
Knowledge and perception of hypercholesterolemia among Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University students
Authors: Bakry Huny , Alharbi Bushra K. , Zaini Raghad H. , Araki Reema H. , Alshammari Sara T. , Abusalih Howeida
Published: March 2024

Background: Hypercholesterolemia is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, which could escalate mortality rates in Saudi Arabia. Research has shown that the prevalence of high cholesterol in Saudi Arabia is predicted to rise in the next few years. The knowledge and perception are important as this is one of the modifiable risk factors for NCDs. The aim of study is to assess the knowledge and perception regarding hypercholesterolemia among university students and to determine if there is any relation between knowledge and perception of hypercholesterolemia among university students.
Methods: A cross-sectional study using a self-administrated questionnaire measuring the knowledge and perception of hypercholesterolemia was conducted among 588 medical and non-medical students at Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University.
Results: The result indicates that 54.93% of the participants had poor knowledge about hypercholesterolemia and 79.76% of them had a positive perception about it.
Conclusions: There is a gap in knowledge and perception regarding high cholesterol. Furthermore, it was found that there is a significant association between the knowledge and perception regarding hypercholesterolemia among Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University students.
Pathology MCQ for All India Postgraduate Medical Entrance Examination
Authors: D.M. Dr. Chetan , H.L. Dr. Raghavendra. , Babu Dr. Ramesh , B.H Dr. Rakesh.
Published: March 2024

This set of MCQs based on the different topics of Pathology is made for the aspirants of PG Medical this set has very relevant questions and it covers MCQs in depth.

Salient features:
1.       The MCQs covered and designed from each letter in depth.
2.       Discover what students know about a topic prior to teaching. Design the MCQ’s based on that knowledge.
Involve students in higher-level thinking questions and extending activities.
Competency Based Human Anatomy Volume - I
Authors: Kumar Dr. A. Prasanna Veera
Published: March 2024

The chapters are organized as per the CBME curriculum. There is complete coverage of all MCI competencies serial-wise. Anatomical basis has been given utmost importance while dealing with the competencies. All the competencies were dealt with by taking into consideration recent advances in medicine.
Handbook of Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo
Authors: Golhar Dr. Sucheta , Jeswani Dr. Kiran , Kauser Dr. Mohammed Sheeba
Published: March 2024

This book is a resource and reference guide for patients and health care professionals. It provides a concise review of Anatomy, Pathophysiology and Mechanism, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis, a brief Medical and Surgical Management, Recent advanced Physiotherapy treatment of BPPV based on most recent and reliable researches. It also constitutes Vestibular rehabilitation exercises and yoga.

Special emphasis is given on psychological aspects of BPPV. Stress coping procedures such as Relaxation and Meditation has been focused, so that BPPV patients can take maximum advantage of this book. Most of the patients fear that vertigo may crop up any time. We hope that any question that arises about treating a patient with BPPV may have answer in this book.

Highlights:

Holistic approach in vertigo rehabilitation.
Different objectives and methods of treating vertigo.
Psychological aspects of vertigo.
Stress coping procedures such as relaxation and meditation.
Endodontology: The Art and Science
Authors: Singh Dr. Shishir
Published: March 2024

The book covers all the latest and novel concepts in Endodontics.
Each chapter has an outline with a numbered flowchart for ease of understanding 
and reference.
The various techniques are explained pointwise and backed with clinical and in vitro illustrations and diagrams to understand better.
The book will be a guiding light to students and clinicians alike. 
This book will be helpful to both Undergraduate BDS students as well as post-graduates studying Endodontics.
Concepts in Paediatrics : Nutrition
Authors: MD Dr. Atul Choube
Published: March 2024

This book on human nutrition is a complete treatise on nutrition, nutriture, nurture and nourishing in health and disease. The book covers in its chapters all aspects of nutrition starting from intrauterine life upto young adults. There are chapters on maintaining nutrition in systemic and organic diseases. Special emphasis is given in chapters on nutritional assessment in the community, Protein energy malnutrition and Metabolic diseases related to nutrition and their diagnosis and therapy
Concepts In Paediatrics : Nephrology
Authors: MD Dr. Atul Choube
Published: March 2024

Concepts in Paediatrics : Nephrology is a synopsis of diseases of kidneys and urinary tract. Its concise and compact format makes it easy to be carried to the clinics by UG and PG students studying Paediatric Medicine and also practitioners of Paediatrics and Medicine. The book covers in its chapters all aspects of Nephrology starting from development, structure and function to various diseases of kidneys and urinary system. Special emphasis is given to congenital renal disorders which are so prevalent in children. Chapter on urinary tract infection describes in detail the diagnosis and treatment. A significant addition is chapter on renal transplant for end stage renal diseases. The book is also useful for Paediatricians aspiring for superspeciality courses in Nephrology and Urology.
Short Questions and Answers of Physiology
Authors: Ghataliya Dr. Shitalben Pravinbhai , Shah Dr. Chinmay , Christian Dr. Sharlin
Published: March 2024

This book is prepared as reference book of UG, PG M.B.B.S. Students for quick review of physiology. It will help students for reference of subject, help in exam preparation as physiology is explained in easily understandable language. So the information provided can be understood, memorised easily and reproduce the knowledge whenever required.
This book can also be used as reference book by physiotherapy, dental students.
Concepts in Paediatrics : Haematology
Authors: MD Prof. (Dr.) Atul Choube
Published: March 2024

The book “Concepts In Paediatrics : Haematology” is a treatise on diseases of blood and blood components in children. The book in its 51 chapters deals formally and systematically with the physiologic and pathologic aspects of blood and its components. The book in disquisition provides a detailed account of the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of all diseases of blood and blood components in an easy to comprehend format.
After learning the contents in various chapters the learner should be able to, with reasonable confidence, discuss and treat both common and rare haematologic problems faced in office practice as well as in hospital and in the community at large. With this learning objective, the book is extremely useful to the students of Paediatrics, both undergraduate and postgraduate, as well as general practitioners, clinicians, paediatricians and paramedical and nursing personnel interested in the care of the newborn, child, adolescent and young adult.