bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Non-Destructive Methods: Case Studies of Marine Port and Bridges Structures in Surabaya
Authors: Y. Oktavianus  , M. Sofi  , Lumantarna Elisa , M. Maizuar  , Mendis Priyan , Duffield Colin , Rajabifard Abbas , H. Widyastuti
Published: August 2022

Consideration of degradation due to harsh environments, overweight vehicles, increasing traffic and frequent earthquake events are some of the challenges to overcome when designing reinforced concrete bridges. Structural elements can be affected by a reduction in strength and stiffness due to the carbonation of the concrete cover, the corrosion of the reinforcement, excessive cracking and displacement under service load and failure. Therefore, structures need to be monitored over time to ensure that they have the sufficient capacity to resist the intended design loads. The existing condition of bridges on toll roads and in ports located in Surabaya Indonesia has been investigated using non-destructive testing (NDT) equipment. Several reinforced concrete bridges of high level of importance have been chosen as case studies considering different exposure and age of structure. Typical results from the site investigation are presented and discussed in this paper. The NDT equipment utilised in this paper includes the use of eddy current, two-chamber vacuum cell and Wenner Probe principle to assess the thickness, the air permeability and the electrical resistivity of the concrete cover, respectively. In addition, Silver Schmidt hammer was also used to measure the compressive strength of the concrete.
Leak Detection and Quantification of Leak Size along Water Pipe using Optical Fibre Sensors Package
Authors: L. Wong  , R. N. Deo  , S. Rathnayaka  , B. Shannon  , C. S. Zhang  , J. Kodikara  , W. K. Chiu  , H. Widyastuti
Published: August 2022

Water pipeline condition monitoring is a challenging task that requires in-depth research and investigation. Leakages in pipelines can waste large quantities of water daily and affect the quality of the water supply. Detection, quantification, and accurate localisation of leaks can significantly improve the service delivered. In this context, a ‘contact-less’ optical fibre sensor package was developed with the ability to measure pressure and detect vibration in pipe. This study provides a description of the developed sensor and presents the findings from a set of experiments with the sensor package deployed inside a pressurised pipe. Results indicate that the proposed sensing strategy for leak detection and quantification is robust and promising.
Analysis and Evaluation Research on Road Damage of Post-Earthquake Using Generalized Information Diffusion Model
Authors: F. Wang  , J. Zhang  , Z. Tan  , X. Ma  , W. Wang
Published: August 2022

Timely and effective estimation of road damage degree can provide scientific and reasonable support for emergency rescue. In this paper, we shall first briefly introduced a generalized information diffusion model to evaluate the damage degree of roads. Since the road earthquake loss system is influenced by many factors, which has some characters such as smaller and random sample size, the excessive features and nonlinear, etc. Based on it, several measured indicators of road damage were selected as key impacting indicators to estimate the failure grade, including the damage degree of road and bridge x1, damage degree of subgrade and pavement x2 and damage degree of roadside environment destruction on road x3. Moreover, the fuzzy diffusion and interpolation mapping for sparse data points has been defined by the fuzzy mapping theory. Next, the heterogeneous information diffusion from limited data point information to its adjacent area points was implemented. In this procedure, the fuzzy approximate reasoning and information centralization of road rupture width are also has been estimated. The numerical results show that the Generalized Information Diffusion (GID) model can reasonably approximate and extend effective information for incomplete data samples, which also can be applied to treat the nonlinear relationship between road damage degree of postearthquake.Finally, an example is given to illustrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the method.
Enhancing the Durability Properties of Concrete prepared with Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Vijayabhaskar A , M. Shanmugasundaram
Published: August 2022

This paper describes the study of durability aspects of concrete incorporated with different dosages of (0 % - 0.40 %) of Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs). Each specimen was subjected to Acid attack test, Chloride attack test, Sulphate attack test and water permeability test for a duration of 28, 56 and 90 days respectively. It has been observed from the experiments that the specimen of 0.25% Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes shows an extraordinary performance among the other specimens. It was also observed that this mix performed much better than the control specimen.
The Effects of Insulation Thickness on Temperature Field and Evaluating Cracking in the Mass Concrete
Authors: N.T. Chuc  , Le Quy Don  , P.V. Thoan  , B.A. Kiet
Published: August 2022

This paper is mainly to study the effects of insulation thickness (0 - 3) cm on temperature field and evaluating cracking in the mass concrete by using Finite Element Midas Civil 2011. The finite element method is developed for simulation analysis of the temperature field in the concrete in early age mass concrete. From the results temperature field and evaluating cracking for the mass concrete it is concluded that insulation with adequate thickness at the face of massive concrete should be used to reduce the temperature differentials and control cracking of early-age concrete. Finally, the results are applied to provide some references for the constructions in the mass concrete such as dams, bridges beams, bridge piers, foundations of bridges and buildings.
Application of concordance analysis method (CA) for optimal selection of asphalt mixtures reinforced with rubber powder and carbon fiber
Authors: M. Zarei  , B. Mirbaha  , F. Akbarinia  , Z. Rahmani  , M. Zahedi  , A. Zarei
Published: August 2022

Unlike the conducted studies in the field of reinforcing the asphaltic mixture, this research has used the multi-criteria decision-making method to determine the optimal percentage of the asphalt mix, which was reinforced with rubber powder and carbon fibers. After adding different percentages of two kinds of additives, i.e. rubber powder and carbon fibers conjointly, conducting Marshall Tests, analyzing the data and plotting the needed diagrams, it was observed that adding these two additives leads to a change in the results of Marshall Tests. Analyzing the diagrams, the optimal percentages for combining the rubber powder with carbon fibers were obtained, 15% and 0.5%, respectively having the best effect on the asphalt mix. Subsequently, the extra cost caused by adding the additives to the asphalt was evaluated by conducting an economic analysis. Then, six Mar-shall Parameters were used as six indices in the concordance analysis method, which is a multi-criterion decision-making method. Ultimately, the superior alternatives were proposed according to the results of the ranking. Ac-cording to the results, the suggested alternatives differed from the estimated alternative and the concordance analysis method proposed better alternatives.
Seismic behavior of isolated bridges: A-state-of-the-art review
Authors: M.C. Kunde  , R.S. Jangid
Published: August 2022

An update state-of-the-art review of the behaviour of isolated bridges to seismic excitation is presented. The review includes the literature on theoretical aspects of seismic isolation, parametric behaviour of base-isolated bridges and experimental studies to verify some of the theoretical findings. A brief review of the earlier and current base isolation devices, proposed or implemented, is given, and aspects for future research in the area of isolation of bridges are included.
Analysis of Retrofitted Reinforced Concrete Shear Beams using Carbon Fiber Composites
Authors: R.Santhakumar  , E.Chandrasekaran  , R.Dhanaraj
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the numerical study to simulate the behavior of retrofitted reinforced concrete (RC) shear beams. The study was carried out on the unretrofitted RC beam designated as control beam and RC beams retrofitted using carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites with ±45o and 90o fiber orientations. The effect of retrofitting on uncracked and precracked beams was studied too. The finite elements adopted by ANSYS were used in this study. A quarter of the full beam was used for modeling by taking advantage of the symmetry of the beam and loadings. The load deflection plots obtained from numerical study show good agreement with the experimental plots reported by Tom Norris, et al (1997). There is a difference in behavior between the uncracked and precracked retrofitted beams though not significant. The crack patterns in the beams are also presented.
Seismic Pounding between Adjacent Building Structures
Authors: Shehata E. Abdel Raheem
Published: August 2022

Investigations of past and recent earthquake damage have illustrated that the building structures are vulnerable to severe damage and/or collapse during moderate to strong ground motion. Among the possible structural damages, seismic induced pounding has been commonly observed in several earthquakes. A parametric study on buildings pounding response as well as proper seismic hazard mitigation practice for adjacent buildings is carried out. Three categories of recorded earthquake excitation are used for input. The effect of impact is studied using linear and nonlinear contact force model for different separation distances and compared with nominal model without pounding consideration. Pounding produces acceleration and shear at various story levels that are greater than those obtained from the no pounding case, while the peak drift depends on the input excitation characteristics. Also, increasing gap width is likely to be effective when the separation is sufficiently wide practically to eliminate contact.
Blast Loading and Blast Effects on Structures – An Overview
Authors: Ngo Tuan , Mendis Priyan , A. Gupta  , J. Ramsay
Published: August 2022

The use of vehicle bombs to attack city centers has been a feature of campaigns by terrorist organizations around the world. A bomb explosion within or immediately nearby a building can cause catastrophic damage on the building's external and internal structural frames, collapsing of walls, blowing out of large expanses of windows, and shutting down of critical life-safety systems. Loss of life and injuries to occupants can result from many causes, including direct blast-effects, structural collapse, debris impact, fire, and smoke.The indirect effects can combine to inhibit or prevent timely evacuation, thereby contributing to additional casualties. In addition, major catastrophes resulting from gas-chemical explosions result in large dynamic loads, greater than the original design loads, of many structures. Due to the threat from such extreme loading conditions, efforts have been made during the past three decades to develop methods of structural analysis and design to resist blast loads. The analysis and design of structures subjected to blast loads require a detailed understanding of blast phenomena and the dynamic response of various structural elements. This paper presents a comprehensive overview of the effects of explosion on structures. An explanation of the nature of explosions and the mechanism of blast waves in free air is given. This paper also introduces different methods to estimate blast loads and structural response.
A Review of Blast and Impact of Metallic and Sandwich Structures
Authors: F. Zhu  , Lu Guoxing
Published: August 2022

In blast and impact, structures usually undergo large plastic deformations or failure, and they absorb considerable energy. In this paper, the characteristics of blast loads and corresponding structural response, as well as the current advances in this area, were briefly reviewed. The concept and effects of blast wave, the main means of blast impact, are introduced. Several critical structural responses are classified and briefly illustrated. The major experimental methods were introduced with a brief description of corresponding experimental devices such as ballistic pendulums and a wide range of sensors to measure impulse, pressure and acceleration and displacement of structures. Several commonly used analytical models were presented and compared to estimate the dynamic behaviour of structure under blast loading. The numerical approaches to analyze the structure responses to blast impact were also summarised with a number of available constitutive relations of explosive charge and material properties of structures.
Upgrading the shear strength of non-ductile reinforced concrete frame connections using FRP overlay systems
Authors: Mohamad J. Terro  , Sameer Hamoush  , Moetaz El-Hawary
Published: August 2022

This investigation presents the use of Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composite systems in upgrading existing reinforced concrete frames to meet strength and ductility requirements laid out in recent ACI building codes (ACI-318. 2002). Analytical calculations are presented for the shear behavior of frames strengthened with layers of FRP and an experimental study is carried out to verify the mechanical properties of the proposed FRP systems with various fiber architecture designs. Carbon and fiber glass FRP systems have been analysed. Flat layers and corrugated shapes with rectangular and circular configurations are employed in the retrofitting systems in addition to various orientations of the fibers which are taken into consideration. The ductility requirement is ensured by controlling the out of plane flexural rigidity of the FRP systems. The desired out of plane rigidity is obtained by increasing the thickness of the FRP systems or by corrugating the applied FRP overlays. In conclusion, this study has shown that the use of FRP systems is an efficient and viable repair method for upgrading concrete frame connections with shear deficiency.
Shallow Spherical Shell Rectangular Finite Element for Analysis of Cross Shaped Shell Roof
Authors: A.I. Mousa  , M.H. El Naggar
Published: August 2022

A new spherical rectangular finite element based on shallow shell formulation is developed in this paper. The element has six degrees of freedom at each corner node, five of which are the essential external degrees of freedom and the additional sixth is associated with the in-plane shell rotation. The displacement fields of the element satisfy the exact requirement of rigid body modes of motion. The element is based on independent strain assumption insofar as it is allowed by the compatibility equations. The element developed herein is first validated by applying it to the analysis of a benchmark problem involving a standard spherical shell with simply supported edges. A reliable finite element package program, ANSYS, is used for structural analysis. The results of the analysis showed that reasonably accurate results were obtained even when modeling the shells using fewer elements compared to other shell element types. The element is then used in a finite element model to analyze cross shaped spherical roof structures. The distribution of the various components of deflection and stress is obtained. Furthermore, the effect of introducing circular arched beams as stiffeners spanning the two diagonally opposite end corners is investigated. It is found that the stiffeners reduced the deflections and the stresses in the roof structure by considerable value
Structural Failure Probability Estimation Using HDMR and FFT
Authors: R. Chowdhury  , B. N. Rao
Published: August 2022

This paper presents a new and alternative method based on High Dimensional Model Representation (HDMR) and fast Fourier transform (FFT) to estimate the structural failure probability of structural systems subject to random loads, material properties and geometry. The proposed methodology is based on the limit state/performance function approximation and the convolution theorem to estimate the structural failure probability. The limit-state function is obtained by linear approximation of the first-order HDMR component functions at the most probable failure point, and the convolution integral is solved efficiently using the FFT technique. The proposed technique estimates the failure probability accurately with significantly less computational effort compared to the direct Monte Carlo simulation. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method is demonstrated through numerical examples involving implicit performance functions.
The New Response Spectrum Model for Australia
Authors: Lam Nelson , Wilson John
Published: August 2022

This paper presents an overview of recent research in Australia into seismic activity and ground motion modelling which has culminated in the development of a new response spectrum model for Australia as featured in the new standard for seismic actions. An important element of the research is the prediction of the displacement demand of small-moderate magnitude earthquakes that are characteristics of the intraplate tectonic environment of Australia. The practical implementation of the response spectrum model is illustrated at the end of the paper with the case-study of a lifeline facility. Advancements in seismic demand is complimented by the accurate assessment of the seismic performance of the structure and their sub-assemblages including those with non-ductile behavior.
Seismic Hazard of Hong Kong
Authors: J.W. Pappin  , R.C.H. Koo  , M.W. Free  , H.H. Tsang
Published: August 2022

This paper reviews the probabilistic seismic hazard assessment studies undertaken in recent years to estimate the potential seismic ground motion levels on bedrock in Hong Kong. A detailed catalogue of historical and recent seismicity within the South China region has been compiled. A suite of published empirical and stochastic attenuation relationships have been used with alternative source models and source parameters in a logic tree hazard analysis. Uniform hazard bedrock ground-motion spectra having various probabilities of being exceeded in 50 years have been calculated. The results have been de-aggregated to investigate what earthquake magnitude and distance combinations have contributed most to the hazard levels for the different probabilities and structural periods. The obtained uniform hazard spectra have been compared to the study using an alternative assessment approach developed by the University of Hong Kong. Recent recorded earthquake ground motions in Hong Kong are also presented with the uniform hazard spectra.
Seismic Hazard of Singapore and Malaysia
Authors: T Balendra  , Z. Li
Published: August 2022

This article reviews the seismic hazard studies of low-to-moderate regions like Singapore and Malaysia, and presents a procedure to obtain the seismic demand for buildings in Singapore. The review includes the research on potential seismic sources, attenuation models and soft soil amplification effects. A comparative study of various attenuation models is carried out. In light of the latest two strong earthquakes (2004 Aceh earthquake and 2005 Nias earthquake), the Component Attenuation Model (CAM) is found to predict reliable and more accurate ground motions as far as 600km from potential earthquake sources. It is found that the maximum bedrock spectral acceleration for the worst possible earthquake scenario can be nearly 14 gals. With soil amplification, this could translate to a base shear demand of 10% of the weight of the building.
An Overview of Research at HKU on HSRC Columns and Beam- Column Joints for Low-Medium Seismic-Risked Regions
Authors: H.J. Pam  , J.C.M. Ho  , J. Li
Published: August 2022

Up to now building structures in Hong Kong (HK) are not required to resist earthquake effects. The design is based primarily on strength without taking into account any ductility consideration. Therefore, the resulting structures would have unpredictable inelastic performance when subject to overloading, a sudden impact or an earthquake attack. The situation is even worse if the structural members are of high-strength reinforced concrete (HSRC), which is becoming more popular in HK. To improve the post-elastic design of reinforced concrete (RC) members, a continued research study consisting of experimental tests has been conducted at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) since 2000, which covered among others tests on HSRC columns and internal RC beam-column joints. This paper reviews these research studies that focused on the strength, ductility and reinforcement detailing of columns and internal beam-columns joints. The test results showed that HSRC columns and beam-column joints designed according to the authors’ proposals behaved in a limited ductile manner, which is suitable for low-medium seismic-risked regions where HK is located.
Overturning of Non-Structural Components in Low-Moderate Seismicity Regions
Authors: Lam Nelson , Emad Gad
Published: August 2022

The objective of this paper is to review key issues concerned with the proper engineering of non-structural components in buildings for their safe and satisfactory performances in projected seismic conditions in regions of low and moderate seismicity. Initially, the paper provides an overview of the conventional force-based provisions for the calculation of the required strengths for full restraints of non-structural components. Given the relatively small displacement demand of the ground in conditions of low and moderate seismicity, provisions for protection of non-structural components should only target at items which have been identified to be vulnerable to overturning and their failure can have serious consequences. In this context, the displacement-based (DB) model for overturning and its linearisation is presented. The DB model can potentially become very useful as technical reference when it comes to identifying potentially hazardous items which risk overturning if unrestrained. The paper concludes with a discussion on engineering for earthquake safety in buildings in a broader context than merely regulating the structural design of the building.
Duffy Antigens and Malaria: The African Experience
Authors: Akunwata Chima
Published: August 2022

The Duffy blood group antigen is also known as Duffy Antigen Receptor for Chemokines (DARC) serves more functions than just a blood group antigen for serological reactions. It is a receptor for pro-inflammatory chemokines and Plasmodium vivax invasion of the red blood cells. A point mutation in the promoter region of the Duffy gene disrupts the binding of a transcription factor, leading to a lack of expression of the antigen on the erythrocytes. This Duffy negative phenotype is found predominantly in the African population. This mutation is advantageous as individuals with the Fy(a-b-) phenotype are less susceptible to P. vivax malaria. Malaria is caused by plasmodium parasites and it is endemic in Africa, where it is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. It is believed that the absence of Duffy antigen in most Africans contributed to the resistance to P. vivax and by extension, reduced the burden of malaria in these endemic areas.
Perspective Chapter: Digitization of Traditional Higher Education Touchpoints
Authors: Malešević Adam
Published: August 2022

This chapter presents the possibilities of using e-services in the context of higher education. Modern technologies provide an opportunity to create a stronger bond between the higher education institution and its stakeholders, among whom students and employees are the most important and those who have the greatest needs in terms of the number and frequency of use of e-services. The main objective of this chapter is to explore the role of e-services in relationship management in the higher education complex ecosystem. There is a possibility to digitize a lot of traditional higher education touchpoints, such as everyday administration processes, admission, enrollment, relevant information sharing, e-learning, Q&A, and similar. The comprehensive e-services system was developed and implemented in one of the higher educational institutions. The upcoming generations of students are increasingly likely to have prominent previous experience with the major use of digital technologies as a part of their elementary and secondary level education. Higher education institutions should expand the portfolio of their e-services, given that the demands of students are expected to increase in the future.
An Ethnographic Study on Sense of a Community: The “Awramba” Experience
Authors: Yesuf Nassir-Maru
Published: August 2022

The study was conducted on “Awramba” Community who are living in “Amhara” region, south “Gondor” Zone, Ethiopia. The general objective of this study was to capture an understanding of sense of community in “Awramba” community. The study tried to answer the following questions: How the community was established? What are the criteria to be part of the community? What are the shared values of social practice that has survived for the test of time? What is the historical background of the “Awramba” Community? The researcher used realist ethnography method to achieve the above objective and to answer the questions. In-depth interview and observational guide techniques were applied to collect reliable data for the study. The observation and in-depth interview data were analyzed qualitatively. The study showed the following themes: Membership criteria of the community are based on adhering to the community norm. They have a strong sense of community based on shared story, cooperative work, marriage and mourning values, religious view, gender equality, commitment to be honest, and solving their problem by themselves. The emotional connection of the “Awramba” community is strengthened by their common celebration of the yearly anniversary of New Year and scheduled meeting.
Refractories for the Cast Iron Melting
Authors: Sengupta Prasunjit
Published: August 2022

Refractory is a very important component in economically successful melting of cast iron. Refractory is used to line the furnace or any other vessel used for melting or holding of the molten metal. This chapter has discussed the different type of furnaces used for the melting of cast iron, the special features of those furnaces and the operational parameters of those furnaces with special emphasis on the coreless induction furnace, which is most commonly used. It has dealt with the installation practices of the refractory lining and also has discussed the mode of failure of the refractory lining and the precautions to be taken during installation and during use.
Role of Surface Defects and Optical Band-gap Energy on Photocatalytic Activities of Titanate-based Perovskite Nanomaterial
Authors: Stanislaus Okeke Izunna , Yahemba Aondona Priscilla , Chidinma Ogu Amoge , Echeweozo Eugene , Ifeanyichukwu Ezema Fabian
Published: August 2022

In recent years, water pollution has become one of the major challenges faced by humans because of consistent rise in population and industrial activities. Water pollution due to discharge from cosmetics and pharmaceutical wastes, organic dyes, and heavy metal seen as carcinogens has the potential to disrupt hormonal processes in the body. Different approaches such as chlorination, aerobic treatment, aeration, and filtration have been deployed to treat wastewaters before being discharged into the streams, lakes, and rivers. However, more attention has been accorded to treatment approaches that involve use of nanomaterial due to non-secondary pollution, energy efficiency, and ease of operation. Titanate-based perovskite (TBP) is one of the most frequently studied nanomaterials for photocatalytic applications because of its stability and flexibility in optical band-gap modification. This chapter provided an overview of basic principles and mechanisms of a semiconductor photocatalyst, and current synthesis techniques that have been used in formulating TBP nanomaterial. The effect of reaction conditions and approaches such as doping, codoping, composites, temperature, pH, precursor type, surface area, and morphology on surface defects and optical band-gap energy of TBP nanomaterial was highlighted. Importantly, the impact of surface defects and optical band-gap energy of TBP on its photocatalytic activities was discussed. Finally, how to enhance the degradation efficiency of TBP was proposed.
Optimal N-of-1 Clinical Trials for Individualized Patient Care and Aggregated N-of-1 Designs
Authors: Li Yin , Kee Wong Weng , Chough Carriere Keumhee
Published: August 2022

Precision medicine typically refers to the use of genomic signatures of patients to assign more effective therapies to treat patients, or, for improved diagnosis of the early onset of a disease so that interventions can be delivered to prevent or delay the disease progression. Because the aim is to provide individualized patient treatment, such single-person trials are called N-of-1 trials. This chapter reviews fundamental ideas, models, and construction of optimal designs for N-of-1 trials, which are invariably constructed from crossover trials, where each patient receives a random sequence of trial treatments over time. We construct examples of universally optimal N-of-1 designs for comparing two treatments under various correlation structure assumptions and discuss how N-of-1 trials may be combined to form optimal aggregated N-of-1 trials for assessing average treatment effects for two or more treatments.
Feedback Linearization Control of Interleaved Boost Converter Fed by PV Array
Authors: Şehirli Erdal
Published: August 2022

One of the powerful methods of nonlinear control is the feedback linearization technique. This technique consists of input state and input-output linearization methods. In this chapter, the feedback linearization technique, including input state and input-output linearization methods, is described. Then, input-output linearization method is used for output voltage control of interleaved boost converter. Firstly, mathematical model of the interleaved boost converter is derived after that the method is applied. Besides, the interleaved boost converter is fed by a PV array under irradiation level and ambient temperature change. As a result of the simulation study, output voltage control of interleaved boost converter under reference voltage change is realized as desired.
Current and Potential Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Metabolic Bariatric Surgery
Authors: G. Pantelis Athanasios
Published: August 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI) is an umbrella term, which refers to different methods that simulate the process of human learning. As is the case with medicine in general, the field of bariatric metabolic surgery has lately been overwhelmed by evidence relevant to the applications of AI in numerous aspects of its clinical practice, including prediction of complications, effectiveness for weight loss and remission of associated medical problems, improvement of quality of life, intraoperative features, and cost-effectiveness. Current studies are highly heterogeneous regarding their datasets, as well as their metrics and benchmarking, which has a direct impact on the quality of research. For the non-familiar clinician, AI should be deemed as a novel statistical tool, which, in contradistinction to traditional statistics, draws their source data from real-world databases and registries rather than idealized cohorts of patients and is capable of managing vast amounts of data. This way, AI is supposed to support decision-making rather than substitute critical thinking or surgical skill development. As with any novelty, the clinical usefulness of AI remains to be proven and validated against established methods.
Interferometric Gravitational Wave Detectors
Authors: Frajuca Carlos
Published: August 2022

The existence of gravitational waves is an important proof of Einstein’s theory of general relativity and took 100 years to be achieved using optical interferometry. This work describes how such a detector works and how it can change the way of seeing the Universe. Kilometers size laser interferometers are being built around the world in the way to make gravitational astronomy; detectors already built in the United States, Italy, and Japan will join efforts with detectors built in Japan and India and provide humanity with the means to see gravitational interactions of black holes and neutron star. Interactions, without these detectors, will be forever out of our sight.
Choledochal Cyst: Clinical Features, Diagnosis and Treatment Perspectives
Authors: Torres Magaly , Becerra Mitzi , Calderón Beatriz , Salinas Iván , Ruiz María , Ventura Jorge
Published: August 2022

Choledochal cyst is a congenital or acquired anomaly affecting the biliary tree in which exists a dilatation of the bile duct, not only the choledochus is affected but also the intrahepatic and extrahepatic ducts might be affected. The clinical presentation is not specific, even the classic triad with abdominal pain, mass, and jaundice is not common as suspected, found only in 10% of cases. Clinicians must rely on imaging studies for diagnosis and classification. The treatment is cyst excision with hepaticoenterostomy in most of the cases, but in some others, a liver transplant would be necessary. These patients require lifelong follow-up due to its rate of recurrence compared with general population.
Cotton Based Cellulose Nanocomposites: Synthesis and Application
Authors: Jayshree Samuel Jacob Patricia
Published: August 2022

Nanocellulose is a renewable natural biomaterial which has risen to prominence due to its biodegradability and physiochemical properties making it a promising candidate to replace non-biodegradable synthetic fibers. Due to its profound qualities, nanocellulose extracted from cotton fibers have tremendous application potential and have been intensively studied particularly in the generation of nanofillers and as reinforcement components in polymer matrixes. Deposition of inorganic nanoparticles on cotton fabric result in antimicrobial textiles with multifunctional use particularly in manufacture of PPE and as filtration devices against environmental pollutants and pathogens. This chapter compiles three main sections. The first section gives an overview of the extent of work done in the creation and application potential of cotton-based nanocomposites. The second section describes the in situ and ex situ methods of nanoparticle deposition and self assembly on cotton fabrics to generate multifunctional cotton-based nanocomposites with antimicrobial potential while the final section describes the incorporation of cotton nanofibers in polymer matrices, their reinforcing properties, as well as surface modification to assist their incorporation. Finally in the conclusion, a summary of the up-to-date challenges and progresses is presented postulating the undiscovered arenas and future undertakings of this venture.
Mixed Reality Applications in Business Contexts
Authors: Mehler-Bicher Anett , Steiger Lothar , Weitzel Dirk
Published: August 2022

Mixed reality is becoming increasingly relevant in business. In the corporate environment, such as logistics or maintenance, the use of data glasses allows extensive possibilities for process optimization and quality assurance. In the area of construction, virtual models either as augmentation of reality or mapped in virtual reality offer new approaches to experience ability. The goal of this paper is to show the manifold possibilities of mixed reality in the enterprise environment. For this purpose, selected application scenarios with corresponding realization stages will be shown and analyzed regarding their added value.
A remarkable new genus and species of Euryproctini (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae, Ctenopelmatinae) from Thailand
Authors: Reshchikov Alexey , Quicke Donald L.J. , Butcher Buntika A.
Published: August 2022

Rhytidaphora Reshchikov & Quicke gen. nov. (type species Rhytidaphora thailandica Reshchikov & Quicke gen. et sp. nov.) from Thailand is described and illustrated. It belongs to the tribe Euryproctini of the subfamily Ctenopelmatinae (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) based on the absence of glymma and the subapical notch on the ovipositor. The new taxon differs from all other genera of Euryproctini by the occipital carina being broadly incomplete dorsally, the hypostomal carina joining the occipital carina shortly before the base of the mandible, distinctly pectinate tarsal claws, and immovably fused and strongly sculptured second and third metasomal tergites.
The Federal Council for the Protection of the Constitutional Order in the control of intelligence services in former Yugoslavia (1975-1992)
Authors: Lazić Radojica
Published: August 2022

The Federal Council for the Protection of the Constitutional Order was established on January 10, 1975, as a part of the Presidency of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. It had eight members. From 1975 to 1992, it had over 150 sessions, where it made some of the most important decisions that were especially important for the functioning of t he intelligence system of Yugoslavia at the time. It analyzed the state of the protection of the constitutional order, it investigated the matters of building and establishing the foundations of the intelligence system, it evaluated the initiatives and proposals for establishing cooperation with foreign intelligence services, it determined guidelines, the forms and methods of cooperation, as well as other important matters for the political guidance and work coordination of organs dealing with state security. By considering these and other questions in their jurisdiction, it took appropriate stands to give their opinions and recommendations to the Presidency of Yugoslavia to take measures for policy implementation in the area of state security. In the last few years of its existence, this body did not have the strength or power to prevent the civil war and the disappearance of this state, much like other significant political factors in this federation.
The role of the Office of the High Representative in the development of Bosnia and Herzegovina's safety policy
Authors: Vojinović Nikolina
Published: August 2022

The safety, political, social, economic and other situations in Bosnia and Herzegovina may be affected by the functionning of the Office of the High Representative, primarily due to the organization of the state itself and the powers of the High Representative. In this paper, a preliminary study was conducted to examine the impact of the Office of the High Representative on safety and other situations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A questionnaire of 12 items was created, which were evaluated using a five-point Likert scale by 15 decision-makers from different structures in terms of knowledge of the functioning of the Office of the High Representative and knowledge of its work. The obtained results show that it cannot be said that the Office of the High Representative has a positive impact on the safety situation and stability in the country. The highest percentage of answers refers to disagreement with the questionnaire items. Mean values were obtained using the Bonferroni Mean Operator (BMO). In addition to this, descriptive statistics with basic parameters has been included and crosschecked for consistency by calculating Cronbach's Alpha coefficient, whose value of 0.80 indicates the validity of the research findings.
The effectiveness of internal control in local government units
Authors: Ciarko Marta , Paluch-Dybek Agnieszka
Published: August 2022

There are many definitions of control, which shows its various functions, however the essence of control always remains one - the control is aimed at comparing the existing actual state of affairs with the desired state. All differences between these states should be detected by the controlling authority and the methods, guidelines being supposed to eliminate these shortcomings must be indicated in the recommendations and conclusions. It should be pointed out that each individual unit is aspiring to the realization of defined goals. These goals can be differently defined. They express themselves in the pursuit of full compliance actions with the law, ensuring that the data presented in financial statement are reliable, preventing the uncontrolled outflow of information from the unit. The effective internal control is helpful in achieving these goals. Aim-determining the meaning of the terms: internal control, management control and presenting the relationship between these concepts. Research methodology - direct questionnaire surveys (PAPI). The attempt was made to identify supporting factors and limit the effectiveness of internal control in local government units.
Factor analysis of a tool for measuring the teaching competence of Algerian university professors
Authors: Bengueneb Abdarahmane , Atallah Ahmed , Touati Hayet
Published: August 2022

The objective of the research is to build a tool for measuring the pedagogical competence of the university professor of the Algerian University, and this, by checking its crediblete and its applicability, the tool includes in its final form (45) criteria or questions which responds to the reliability and reliability of honesty and consistency, and covers (6) key areas which are cognitive competence and effectiveness Planning, competence of implementation competence in evaluation and monitoring, personal competence and relations with students (communication), competence and mastery of languages and media technologies. The model was applied to (786) students from Algerian physical and sports education institutes, for the 2016/2017 academic year, where the persistence coefficient (0.826). At the end of these results, we recommend that you use this tool to assess teaching competence.
Evaluation of physical education classes for older primary school students in distance work during the corona virus pandemic
Authors: Mihailović Igor
Published: August 2022

Two years ago, the Kovid-19 Crown Pandemic forced the whole world to redirect a good part of its regular and established activities to an alternative type of action. Education also found itself in these circumstances. The teaching staff of the school system of the Republic of Serbia has subordinated their knowledge, time and organizational skills to holding teaching activities in difficult circumstances, so that the acquisition of knowledge can continue in an emergency situation without major difficulties. Physical and health education was in a complex position due to the specifics of the teaching process that it has. In addition to the indirect teaching (online), the problem also occurred in the control of outcomes. The solutions were harmonized with the general obligations of the students so that they would not be additionally burdened due to the value system of the subject when it comes to summative assessment. Pupils were given the opportunity to give their opinion on distance learning and make certain suggestions for improving the teaching process. This paper presented the obtained results through descriptive analysis through research in one cross - section of the situation. Objectively, it should be borne in mind that the same criteria cannot apply to indirect teaching as to direct teaching. In that sense, this was a period when, with constant but constant commitment, work could be valued more. The question that arises is whether the outcomes correlate with the values expressed through the assessment?
The Provision and Implication of Insanity Defense in Pakistani Laws
Authors: Inam Ayesha , Zaman Sahira , Mushtaq Asia , Babar Muhammad Usama
Published: August 2022

The current study sought to explore the provision and implications of the insanity defense in Pakistani laws. This research aims to find the lacunae in the law that aids mentally ill offenders. It also proposes to identify the role of lawyers and forensic psychologists and government institutions in the insanity defense. The study includes understanding and implementing the insanity defense in Pakistani laws and the law system. The study sample involved nine lawyers and four forensic psychologists whose interviews were conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire. Participants were contacted through the snowball sampling technique. The current study concluded that more than one key factor hindered the law system's understanding of insanity defense and mental health. The absence of psychiatric or psychological assessments in the court system suggests a common knowledge of insanity defense and mental health. The case studies overall present the different sides of mental health in Pakistan. The results also inferred that the key factors that had played the role of hindering the development of insanity defense could also enhance the development of insanity defense. The psychosocial factors that influence the hindering of insanity defense are highlighted. The results of the present study indicate a completely different point of view regarding insanity defense for lawyers and forensic psychologists, who can use this knowledge in their professional endeavors.
Staging cybersecurity risks for enterprise risk management and governance oversight
Authors: Quinn Stephen , Ivy Nahla , Barrett Matthew , Witte Greg , Gardner R K
Published: August 2022

This document is the third in a series that supplements NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) 8286, Integrating Cybersecurity and Enterprise Risk Management (ERM). This series provides additional details regarding the enterprise application of cybersecurity risk information; the previous documents, NISTIRs 8286A and 8286B, provided details regarding stakeholder risk direction and methods for assessing and managing cybersecurity risk in light of enterprise objectives. NISTIR 8286C describes how information, as recorded in cybersecurity risk registers (CSRRs), may be integrated as part of a holistic approach to ensuring that risks to information and technology are properly considered for the enterprise risk portfolio. This cohesive understanding supports an enterprise risk register (ERR) and enterprise risk profile (ERP) that, in turn, support the achievement of enterprise objectives.
El feminismo transexcluyente en Twitter: un monólogo sesgado en #ContraElBorradoDeLasMujeres
Authors: Ferré Pavia Carme , Zaldívar Gorka
Published: August 2022

Este artículo se centra en estudiar el lenguaje del movimiento al que se ha denominado TERF (Feministas Radicales Trans Excluyentes en inglés) en Twitter. A través de una investigación interpretativa de tipo exploratorio, el caso se centra en el hashtag #ContraElBorradoDeLasMujeres, analizado desde el 1 de enero al 9 de abril de 2021. Se ha generado una tabla de análisis de contenido con categorías de circulación, reacción, contenido retórico y postura. Los resultados muestran cómo, a partir de la apropiación de un hashtag por parte de un colectivo, se puede crear una comunidad de personas con sentimientos y opiniones compartidas. Así y todo, este grupo no parece haberse ampliado a tenor de su circulación en Twitter. El discurso que se despliega en los tweets de este hashtag es marcadamente emotivo, no genera diálogo, tiene claros tintes tránsfobos y funciona como una etiqueta de identificación y refuerzo de los usuarios TERF. De los tweets analizados, tan solo uno es contrario a la postura TERF, por lo que el hashtag se ha definido como un “espacio seguro” en el que reafirmar posturas. Este estudio se suma al campo de la identificación del discurso tránsfobo que se ha desarrollado recientemente.