bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comorbid Conditions in Persons Exposed to Ionizing Radiation and Veterans of the Soviet–Afghan War: A Cohort Study in Kazakhstan
Authors: Sarkulova Saule , Tatayeva Roza , Urazalina Dinara , Ossadchaya Ekaterina , Rakhmetova Venera
Published: January 2024

Objectives: This study investigated the prevalence and characteristics of comorbid conditions in patients exposed to ionizing radiation and those who were involved in the Soviet–Afghan war.Methods: This study analyzed the frequency and spectrum of morbidity and comorbidity in patients over a long-term period (30-35 years) following exposure to ionizing radiation at the Semipalatinsk nuclear test site or the Chornobyl nuclear power plant, and among participants of the Soviet–Afghan war. A cohort study, both prospective and retrospective, was conducted on 675 patients who underwent comprehensive examinations.Results: Numerical data were analyzed using the Statistica 6 program. The results are presented as the mean±standard deviation, median, and interquartile range (25-75th percentiles). The statistical significance of between-group differences was assessed using the Student t-test and Pearson chi-square test. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. We found a high prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension (55.0%) and cardiac ischemia (32.9%); these rates exceeded the average for this age group in the general population.Conclusions: The cumulative impact of causal occupational, environmental, and ultra-high stress factors in the combat zone in participants of the Soviet–Afghan war, along with common conventional factors, contributed to the formation of a specific comorbidity structure. This necessitates a rational approach to identifying early predictors of cardiovascular events and central nervous system disorders, as well as pathognomonic clinical symptoms in this patient cohort. It also underscores the importance of selecting suitable methods and strategies for implementing treatment and prevention measures.
Pre-exposure Prophylaxis Adherence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Hudrudchai Suchitra , Suwanwong Charin , Prasittichok Pitchada , Mohan Kanu Priya , Janeaim Nopphadol
Published: January 2024

Objectives: The effectiveness and efficiency of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in reducing the transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) among men who have sex with men (MSM) relies on how widely it is adopted and adhered to, particularly among high-risk groups of MSM. The meta-analysis aimed to collect and analyze existing evidence on various factors related to PrEP adherence in MSM, including demographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, substance use, and psychosocial factors.Methods: The meta-analysis followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The search included articles published between January 2018 and December 2022, obtained from the PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases. The studies that were included in the analysis reported the proportion of MSM who demonstrated adherence to PrEP and underwent quality appraisal using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.Results: Of the 268 studies initially identified, only 12 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the final meta-analysis. The findings indicated that education (odds ratio [OR], 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.12 to 2.40), number of sexual partners (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.02 to 1.31), engaging in sexual activities with an human immunodeficiency virus-positive partner (OR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.16 to 2.26), substance use (OR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.70 to 0.99), and lower levels of depression (OR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.37 to 0.82) were associated with higher rates of PrEP adherence among MSM.Conclusions: Despite these findings, further research is necessary to investigate PrEP adherence more comprehensively. The findings of this meta-analysis can be utilized to inform interventions aimed at improving PrEP adherence among MSM and provide directions for future research in this area.
L’étude des emprunts lexicaux dans le roman de Faîza Guėne « Un homme ça ne pleure pas »
Authors: Belkacem Zerhouni Fatima Zohra , Chafi Wissam
Published: January 2024

L’écriture romanesque est une œuvre d’art fictive qui a du sens Elle est engagée et dénonciatrice de certains faits communautaires rattachés à l’exil et à la mutation des individus à travers le monde. Faïza Guène, ayant un lien avec le Maghreb, amène une conception quasi analogue sur les obstacles qu’elle rencontre au cours de son parcours. Tout en acceptant le déplacement et la progression, elle se présente comme une écrivaine locale et une porteuse culturelle en évolution.
Greening Human Resources for Elevating Value Creation in Organizations
Authors: Murillo-Ramos Lydia , Huertas-Valdivia Irene , García-Muiña Fernando E.
Published: January 2024

This chapter delves into the concept of green human resource management (Green HRM), which holds promise for both sustainable vision adoption and fostering eco-friendly workplaces. While Green HRM has gained attention, it remains an emerging field with unanswered questions. Investigating its potential, this study addresses key research questions and highlights the untapped opportunities for enhancing staff productivity and gaining a competitive edge through Green HRM. Drawing on systematic analyses, the chapter reveals the value of Green HRM in bolstering sustainable performance, bridging the gap in academic understanding. Theoretical implications underscore its role in pro-environmental paradigm shifts, while practical contributions advocate for strategic incorporation of Green HRM initiatives for intra- and inter-organizational benefits. This chapter enriches the discourse by offering insights on the connection among Green HRM, organizational effectiveness, and the triple bottom line, guiding practitioners towards a greener, competitive future.
Business Strategic Chess
Authors: Carvalho João M. S.
Published: January 2024

This chapter aims to summarize several years of research around strategic concepts and models that are useful for any organization. It starts with the study of the environment related to smart city development. In this turbulent context, organizations must survive and be robust, creating products with broader value based on a market-oriented approach to be successful. These products (goods, services, ideas, experiences, information) should be a solution to human needs and wants, accessible, enhanced, and inclusive. Organizations should be able to overcome marketing problems and undertake their production and delivery, fulfilling the entrepreneur's vision. Thus, strategic planning helps to guide the organization toward its goals and objectives through an inclusive and sustainable entrepreneurial marketing strategy. Finally, organizational products and activities are expected to contribute to societal sustainability.
Metaverse Dynamics
Authors: Malik Nidhi , Jindal Komal , Verma Shikha , Gupta Siddhant
Published: January 2024

Recently, the word “Metaverse” has gained popularity, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the rapid development of technology. It relates to lifelike experiences that people can have in immersive virtual settings. This research study offers a thorough analysis of the historical background, evolution, current applications, and anticipated developments of the Metaverse. It investigates the transformative potential of the Metaverse in the field of education, embracing immersive learning environments, virtual research facilities, and extensive study resources in order to improve educational outcomes holistically. It also explores the fascinating potential of the Metaverse in other fields, giving users the opportunity to transcend temporal and spatial limitations for richer and more immersive experiences. This research study focuses on the potential effects of the metaverse on our future and society by doing in-depth literature research, examining trends, and providing useful views.
Using the ELM to Explore the Impact of Fake News on Panic Vaccination Intention
Authors: Cheng Hsiang-Lan , Tan Chiew Mei , Chiu Chao-Min , Huang Hsin-Yi , Lee Yi-Chien
Published: January 2024

The study explores the effects of COVID-19 vaccine fake news on social media from the perspective of the elaboration likelihood model (ELM). The research model theorizes that factors of the central route and factors of the peripheral route influence panic vaccination intention through the third-person effect of fake news, personal norm, and the individual's attitude toward panic vaccination (i.e., the vaccination equivalent of “panic buying”). Data were collected via an online survey with 409 valid responses. The study applies partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the hypotheses. The findings have theoretical and practical implications and provide insights to help reduce the spread of fake news on social media during an outbreak to better ensure that people are not misled by fake news.
Programa de Aperfeiçoamento do Magistério Primário
Authors: Faria Thais Bento , Burioli Simone
Published: January 2024

Este estudo documental e histórico analisa o Programa de Aperfeiçoamento do Magistério Primário em âmbito nacional e tem como fonte de pesquisa quatro relatórios de encontros nacionais de chefes dos serviços de supervisão de ensino primário dos anos de 1967 a 1970. O artigo problematiza as terminologias referentes a “professor rural” e “professor não titulado” e as duas frentes de atuação do programa, o serviço de supervisão e os cursos de aperfeiçoamento. Concluímos que o programa estava em consonância com os acordos internacionais e transformou o professor não titulado em problema, cuja alternativa residia na supervisão direta e indireta do trabalho docente leigo e na formação mediante cursos ofertados por etapas para sua titulação.
Practices of essential newborn care endorsed for every newborn and interventions recommended for pre-term babies in selected government hospitals of Colombo District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Peiris Dimuth , Jayaratne Kapila , De Alwis Seneviratne S. Rohini
Published: January 2024

Introduction: World Health Organization (WHO) has identified essential newborn care interventions to improve the care of every newborn. In 2015, the WHO published evidence-based guidelines to improve pre-term birth. Though Sri Lanka also adheres to these recommendations on interventions to improve pre-term birth outcomes, coverage of them have not yet been assessed for the country and there is no recent assessment of essential newborn care coverage as well.Objectives: To describe the practice of essential newborn care (ENC) for babies born pre-term and WHO recommended interventions to improve pre-term birth outcomes in government hospitals of Colombo District.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study with two components was conducted in seven government hospitals with obstetric and neonatal care facilities in Colombo District in 2017-2018. The first component describes the coverage of essential newborn care (ENC) assessed by direct observation among convenient sample of 77 deliveries. The second component assessed the practice of recommended interventions to improve pre-term birth. Data were extracted by pre-intern doctors from the medical records using a checklist on 510 pre-terms. Descriptive analysis was done.Results: In relation to ENC, among 77 deliveries, preparation before delivery was satisfactory and it was >90%. Overall, the practice of immediate newborn care interventions were satisfactory, but a low coverage was found for maternal abdomen delivery 31(40.3%), delayed cord clamping 39 (50.6%), temperature measurement 8(10.4%), educating about vitamin K 29 (37.7%), breastfeeding counselling 40 (51.9%) and delayed weighing 26 (33.8%). Practising recommended pre-term interventions was satisfactory except for the use of magnesium sulphate which was received by only 38 (60.3%) and kangaroo mother care was given for only 74 (57.8%).Conclusions & Recommendations: Most of the ENC practices and adhering to recommended interventions for pre-term were satisfactory except for a few. A refresher course of care for the preterm baby and ENC is recommended to the labour room staff.
The Impact of English Language Proficiency on Academic Performance with the Mediating Effect of Choice of Learning Approaches: The Case of a Management Faculty of a Sri Lankan University
Authors: Gunasekara R.M.R.M. , Senaratne S.
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of English language proficiency (ELP) on academic performance with the mediating effect of the choice of learning approaches of students. The study is based on the final year students of a management faculty of a Sri Lankan university. In the study, ELP was measured using the grades for both G.C.E. Advanced Level General English Examination and Business Communication Examination of the first year, first semester at degree level. The choice of learning approaches was divided into two as the Surface Learning Approach (SLA) and the Deep Learning Approach (DLA), which were measured by 20 indicators of the revised two-factor study process questionnaire (R-SPQ-2F). The academic performance was measured using the GPA of students. The relationships among these variables were examined using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) analysis. The study found that most students prefer SLA than DLA in their academic studies at the university. Further, the study showed a significant positive relationship between the ELP and academic performance with a partial mediation effect of choice of learning approach on this relationship. The findings of the study are useful for university administrators and academics in educational reforms and the undergraduates to understand the impact of ELP on their learning approach and academic performance.
LNCGM1082 in Gut Epithelial Cells Promotes Expulsion of Infected Epithelial Cells and Release of IL-18
Authors: Wang Ya , Gao Yunhuan , Su Xiaomin , Hao Yang , Zhang Yuan , Yang Rongcun
Published: January 2024

Inflammasome NLRC4 (NLR family CARD domain containing 4) can protect mucosal barriers such as intestine from invading bacterial pathogens. However, it was incompletely clear how NLRC4 was activated in intestinal epithelial cells. In this study, we demonstrated that LNCGM1082 could mediate the activation of NLRC4 via binding NLRC4 with protein kinase C (PKC)δ. LNCGM1082 knockout (KO) mice had reduced resistance against Salmonella Typhimurium infection, as well as impaired expulsion of infected gut epithelial cells and release of IL-18 upon exposure to S. Typhimurium. Similar to NLRC4 KO and PKCδ knockdown gut organoids, there also was impaired expulsion of gut epithelial cells and release of IL-18 in LNCGM1082 KO gut organoids. Furthermore, there also was reduced activation of caspase-1 and caspase-8 in these LNCGM1082 KO, NLRC4 KO, and PKCδ knockdown gut organoids upon exposure to S. Typhimurium. Our results show that LNCGM1082 in the ICEs plays a critical role in mediating activation of NLRC4 through binding NLRC4 and PKCδ and promoting expulsion of infected epithelial cells and release of IL-18 upon exposure to bacteria such as S. Typhimurium.
Impact of Nutrition on Depression: A Review of Some Dietary Components with Antidepressant Effects and Their Mechanism of Action
Authors: Ekpo Ubong Udeme , Umana Uduak Emmanuel , Sadeeq Abubakar Adamu
Published: January 2024

Recent years have seen a surge in psychiatric diseases, which has resulted in considerable disease distress and considerably decreased living conditions. Many considerable synthetic medications have been used to treat these illnesses throughout the years, but they have been found to have limited effects and substantial recurrence risks in many individuals. Mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety are persistently on the rise around the world, posing serious challenges to the affected person’s and their family members’ personal lives. There is mounting evidence that suggests the gut–brain axis (GBA) contributes to the genesis and development of psychiatric diseases. This review focuses on contemporary dietary therapies such as Mediterranean diets and dietary supplements and emphasizes nutrition’s critical role in psychiatric care through the GBA. Several research have indicated that dietary quality affects mental health because it controls metabolic processes, has anti-inflammatory and antiapoptotic characteristics, and promotes neurogenesis and synaptogenesis. This study demonstrates many dietary components, their relationships to depression, and how they work. The use of dietary recommendations to support mental health appears to be a novel, affordable, useful, nonpharmacological intervention for people with mental problems.
Interdisciplinary Approaches: Fog/Cloud Computing and IoT for AI and Robotics Integration
Authors: Singh Prabh Deep , Singh Kiran Deep
Published: January 2024

Fog/Cloud Computing and the Internet of Things have created intriguing opportunities for AI and robotics integration. This study examines interdisciplinary approaches that combine FCC, IoT, AI, and Robotics to construct sophisticated autonomous systems. These integrated systems may efficiently and intelligently conduct complicated tasks by using edge devices and cloud resources. Communication protocols, data management, security, and interoperability are studied in this interdisciplinary environment. Real-world case studies demonstrate the practicality and benefits of this integration. This study shows how interdisciplinary approaches will change AI and robotics integration. In conclusion, the intersection of Fog/Cloud Computing, IoT, AI, and Robotics is influencing autonomous systems. Edge devices and the cloud enable robots to become intelligent, adaptable, and essential parts of many industries. This research encourages researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to collaborate on innovation and widespread adoption of disruptive technologies. Interdisciplinary techniques are essential to maximizing AI and robotics integration and launching a new era of intelligent automation
The mediating role of atrial fibrillation in causal associations between risk factors and stroke: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Qin Shanmei , Wang Mengmeng , Gill Dipender , Zhang Zhizhong , Liu Xinfeng
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVES: Atrial fibrillation (AF) contributes to stroke development and progression. We aimed to quantify the mediating role of AF in the causal associations between a wide range of risk factors and stroke via a Mendelian randomization (MR) framework.METHODS: We assessed the associations of 108 traits with stroke and its subtypes in a 2-sample univariable MR approach, then conducted a bidirectional MR analysis between these 108 traits and AF to evaluate the presence and direction of their causal associations. Finally, to further investigate the extent to which AF mediated the effects of eligible traits on stroke, we applied multivariable and 2-step MR techniques in a mediation analysis where outcomes were restricted to stroke types causally affected by AF (any stroke [AS], any ischemic stroke [AIS], and cardioembolic stroke [CES]).RESULTS: Among 108 traits, 42 were putatively causal for at least 1 stroke type; of these 42 traits, 20 that had no bidirectional relationship with AF were retained. Finally, 33 associations of 15 eligible traits were examined in the mediation analysis. The mediation analyses for AS, AIS, and CES each included 11 eligible traits. After AF adjustment, the direct effects of all traits on CES were attenuated to null (all p>0.05), while the associations with AS and AIS persisted for most traits (AF-mediated proportion: from 6.6% [95% confidence interval, 2.7 to 0.6] to 52.0% [95% confidence interval, 39.8 to 64.3]).CONCLUSIONS: The causal associations between all eligible traits and CES were largely mediated through AF, while most traits affected AS and AIS independently of AF.
A prospective association between dietary mushroom intake and the risk of type 2 diabetes: the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study–Cardiovascular Disease Association Study
Authors: Kim Yu-Mi , Woo Hye Won , Shin Min-Ho , Koh Sang Baek , Kim Hyeon Chang , Kim Mi Kyung
Published: January 2024

OBJECTIVES: Mushrooms, known for their nutritious and functional components, are considered healthy and medicinal. This study investigated the prospective association between dietary mushroom consumption and the incidence of type 2 diabetes among Korean adults aged ≥40 years.METHODS: In total, 16,666 participants who were not taking anti-diabetic medication or insulin and had normal fasting blood glucose (FBG; <126 mg/dL) were included. We used the cumulative average dietary consumption of mushrooms as an exposure metric, calculated from food frequency questionnaires at every follow-up, along with covariates collected during a baseline survey. To estimate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for type 2 diabetes, a modified Poisson regression model with a robust error estimator was applied.RESULTS: In multivariable models, dietary mushroom consumption was inversely associated with type 2 diabetes incidence in both genders (men: IRR, 0.65; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.47 to 0.90; plinearity=0.043 in the highest quartile (Q4) vs. the lowest quartile (Q1); women: IRR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.54 to 0.93; plinearity=0.114 in Q4 vs. Q1). The inverse association remained after adjustment for dietary factors instead of dietary quality index, the baseline FBG, and the exclusion of incidence within the first year. Additionally, no significant interaction was found regarding the risk of type 2 diabetes between dietary mushroom consumption and participants’ gender or other factors.CONCLUSIONS: Dietary mushroom consumption was inversely linked with the risk of type 2 diabetes incidence in both genders, indicating the beneficial role of mushrooms in preventing the disease.
A dynamic model of a complete vehicle with a driver to evaluate the behavior of a passenger car on the road
Authors: Dias Cádmo , Lins Alice Furtado , Júnior Jánes Landre
Published: January 2024

While computational resources are in accelerated development, so are virtual models of physical systems applied to engineering analysis via simulation. In this context, the present work aims to develop and update software that uses a computational model of a half-car into a full vehicle with a driver with 8 degrees of freedom for vehicle dynamics analysis. The Vehicle Dynamic Model software provides four main results: (I) Steady-state responses; (II) frequency responses; (III) animation of the vehicle riding on the track profile; and (IV) the natural frequencies and vibration modes of the vehicle. Seeking an interactive process that allows simulations aiming at a clear understanding of the effects on the dynamic behavior of a passenger vehicle according to the defined design parameters, a friendly graphical user interface was also developed with the aid of MATLAB. In this interface, parameters such as mass, stiffness, inertia, components lengths, and damping coefficients of body and suspension can be changed, as also the track profile. At the end of the work, a few scenarios were proposed, and the simulations were made using data from the literature, endeavoring to achieve the validation of the computational model used by the Vehicle Dynamic Model software. Once the expected results were found, the software was considered validated.
Big Data and Telemetry Data Methodology for Usage Failure Mode Detection
Authors: Prazeres Christopher , Hachyia Afonso , Takahashi Marcio
Published: January 2024

Using current technologies, a single “entry level” vehicle has millions of electrical signals sent through dozens of modules, sensors and actuators, and those signals can be sent over the air, creating a telemetry data that can be used for several ends.

One electrical device is set up to have diagnosis, in order to make maintenance feasible and support repair, plus giving improvement directions for specialists on new developments and specifications, but in several cases the diagnosis can only determine the mechanism of failure, but not the event that triggered that failure. Current evaluation method involves teardown, testing and knowledge from the involved specialized team, but this implies in recovering of failed parts, which in larger automakers with thousands of dealers/repair shops, reduces the sample for analyses when there is a systemic issue with one component. This specificity is usual in Propulsions systems, regarding electro-mechanical devices, and sensors, also in electrochemical devices, such as batteries and others, when a systemic issue appears, the teardown reveals its failure, but now why it failed.

Based on that information and needs a methodology using big data mining and tools combined with available telemetry data in order to detect statistically main events or contributors/variables that triggers a failure event. That sort of methodology is helpful and more agile since it doesn’t depend on recovering of parts to give directions of which potential event may trigger a failure event, supporting in systemic/application comprehension of any component failure which uses electrical signals monitored within vehicle, and doesn’t depend on extraction of failed components, it can use and consider every single failed vehicle, for one specific component, as basis for analyses and identification of failure event, which will support in systemic correction/improvement and adjustment/improvement of specification for future and specific developments.
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT FOR THE SHORTENING OF THE GEAR ENGAGEMENT IN AN AUTOMOTIVE TRANSMISSION: “SHORT SHIFTER”
Authors: Sutecas Luiz Henrique , de Engenharia Mackenzie Victor Alessandro Notarnicola
Published: January 2024

In this work the design and development of a device that shortens the engagement distance of the gearbox for the Volkswagen MQ200 gearbox was developed specifically for the VW UP! TSi. This project was initially developed in CAD 3D and after that, all the necessary parts were produced in a machining laboratory in the university campus. All the respective stress analysis were made with the FEA solver of the Autodesk Inventor software as well as all the machining processes. After de development of the parts and manufacture of the prototype, its effectiveness was verified in a test car during seven days which shown that the prototype had a compliance to all the calculation done prior to its production.
Virtual Brake Pull Maneuver Development
Authors: Terra Rafael Tedim
Published: January 2024

The Brake Pull phenomena is the directional deviation when a strong deceleration is applied, this happens due to asymmetries in the vehicle with diverse origins: dimensional, stiffness, damping, friction and loading condition. This phenomenon creates the necessity of driver inputs on the steering wheel adjusting the vehicle direction to keep the straight line.

Great part of asymmetries in the vehicle is avoidable due to building quality, correct maintenance, and others. However, an unequal loading condition on the transversal direction of the vehicle is very common: the vehicle occupied only by the driver is a usual condition. This circumstance creates a load asymmetry that can induces the brake pull phenomena.

This study aims to create and validate a virtual toll capable of representing the brake pull phenomena caused by a loading asymmetry. A vehicle modeled in multibody dynamics technique representing the vehicle mass inertias, suspension mechanisms kinematics, tire behavior and components dampers and stiffness is the adopted tool to represent this situation.

This model will be exposed to a strong deceleration (~0.85g) and verify the brake bull measuring the yaw velocity. The yaw velocity results acquired through simulation will be compared with physical results.
Experimental analysis of different blends of diesel with biodiesel obtained from residues from cotton production on a conventional tractor engine
Authors: Rincon Alvaro Ferney Algarra , de Oliveira Lia Azevedo , Laurindo Geovani Marques , de Oliveira Notório Ribeiro Jessica , Alvarez Carlos Eduardo Castilla
Published: January 2024

Biodiesel is one of the renewable alternatives to the use of diesel of fossil origin, and its usage has been growing in the world. The production of biodiesel can be performed from a large variety of raw materials. Within these raw materials, a known highlight is the cottonseed, from which the oil can represent 20% of its mass. For this, this work has the goal to study, with an experimental and methodic approach, the behavior of an internal combustion engine when working with biodiesel produced from cottonseed and different blends of this biofuel with commercial diesel. The tested proportions were 100%, 80%, 50%, 20% and 0% of biodiesel in the blend. To make this research, the specific fuel consumption and the power generated on a diesel cycle conventional engine working at maximum power speed and plain load were observed. After the tests, it was identified that for every tested blend, the engine was able to develop a stable combustion and that as the percentage of biodiesel in the blend increased, there was a tendency of the fuel consumption increase and the reduction of the power generated by the engine, which did not overcome 9%.
Performance Evaluation of a Vehicle Using Different Fuels through Speed Recovery Tests on a Chassis Dynamometer
Authors: Pereira Leonardo Pedreira , Braga Sérgio Leal
Published: January 2024

Speed Recovery is an important performance metric for vehicles and can directly affect passenger safety. In situations such as overtaking, a quick response from the vehicle can be crucial to avoid accidents. In this study, a conventional light vehicle was tested using seven fuels with different concentrations of ethanol, gasoline, and water to evaluate its performance through speed recovery tests on a chassis dynamometer. The SAE J1491 standard was used to conduct the tests third and fourth gears and two different speed ranges for each gear, from 40 to 80 km/k and 60 to 100 km/h. The results indicated that pure anhydrous ethanol (E100) showed the best performance, which can be attributed to its high-octane rating and greater calorific value compared to gasoline. In addition, the use of pure anhydrous ethanol can contribute to greater energy efficiency and reduced emissions of polluting gases, which is important for the sustainability of the automotive industry. Speed recovery tests on chassis dynamometer can be a valuable tool to evaluate vehicle performance under different usage conditions and assist in decision making by the automotive industry and consumers.
Harshness Improvement in Mid-Size Trucks
Authors: Alves Paulo Sérgio Lima , Bemfica Marcelo Machado , Sarmento Alisson Alves
Published: January 2024

Ride comfort is a critical factor to customer perception of vehicle quality as it is related to vehicle experience when driving. It adds value to the product and, consequently, to vehicle brand. It has become a demand not only for passenger unibody vehicles but also to larger segments including mid-size trucks. Ride quality is usually quantified as harshness which is a measure of how the vehicle transmits the road irregularities to the customer at the tactile points such as the steering wheel and seats. Improving harshness requires tuning of different parts including tires, chassis frame/subframe and suspension mounts and bushings. This paper describes the methodology to enhance the harshness performance for a mid-size truck using a full vehicle CAE model. The influence of stiffnesses of body mounts and control arms bushings to harshness response is investigated through sensitivity analysis and the optimal configuration is found. A DOE (Design of Experiments) of bushings stiffnesses is generated to assess their influence on harshness response. The Kriging method is used to create response surface of the CAE model that predicts harshness at seat track and steering wheel. The optimal mounting configuration is found by minimizing the average of the root-mean square of harshness response using the Monte Carlo Method. A design proposal that minimizes the design restrictions of the optimal solution is presented and its performance improvement is confirmed by a single number metric.
Convolutional Neural Networks for Object Detection
Authors: Romão Bruno , Fagotto Eric
Published: January 2024

Autonomous cars (ACs) and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) have relied on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for object detection. However, image degradation caused by adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, and fog can decrease the performance of a CNN. So, this paper presents the development of an image-processing technique aimed to mitigate such a problem. First, after an extensive evaluation of models for object detection, YOLOv3 was chosen because of its compromise between precision and inference time. Afterwards, the training and test of a YOLOv3 CNN was investigated for cars, traffic signals, traffic lights, pedestrians, and riders. Performance was evaluated by estimating the average and mean average precision (mAP) for every one of the mentioned object classes. An OpenCV based pre-processing technique to mitigate the degradation imposed by adverse weather conditions was implemented. Specifically, the OpenCV filters of erosion, dilation and joint bilateral filter were applied during training and tests of the datasets Berkeley DeepDrive (BDD100K) and Detection in Adverse Weather Nature (DAWN). The developed work discusses the benefits of OpenCV filters for data augmentation in training and testing CNNs. Our results show a mAP improvement around 3% in the tests with DAWN.
Comparison of theoretical and experimental maximum stress of polyester composite and aligned sisal fibers
Authors: Dias Roberto Yuri Costa , Junior Manoel Antonio Cantão Simões , de Mendonca Maia Pedro Victor , Veloso Mauro José Guerreiro , Fujiyama Roberto Tetsuo
Published: January 2024

Natural fibers such as sisal, jute, and curauá have lengths that allow the production of aligned specimens. In the case of sisal fiber, this length varies from 700 to 1100 mm, making it possible to manufacture composites with lengths that fit the dimensions provided for in specific standards such as ASTM D3039M. This work seeks to evaluate the mechanical resistance of a composite of natural Sisal fiber aligned 0° unidirectional in the form of a plate, making a comparison in the tension obtained with experimental data through the universal testing machine EMIC with the theoretical data applying the mixing rule. The methodology used to manufacture these plates was manual, which fits the proposal of using little equipment or technology to obtain these composite materials. On the occasion, glass plates and double-sided tape were used so that the fibers maintained their alignment and it was possible to manufacture them. The results were satisfactory and within expectations for this type of orientation and fiber, obtaining a maximum tension of 147.10 MPa for the experimental test and 147.24 obtained theoretically by the mixture rule equation. Experimental data usually differ from theoretical ones and one of the proposals of this work is to evaluate the possible possibilities of factors that influence this differentiation.
Optimizing Automotive Product Development: Integration of Electronic Control Units and Virtual Prototypes Using Virtual Reality
Authors: Bedulli Fernando H. , Leite Rodrigo , Freitas Fabio , Murari Thiago , Winkler Ingrid
Published: January 2024

The automotive industry is continually evolving, with advanced technologies in a dynamic and competitive market increased consumer expectations driving the need for faster and more efficient product development process. It`s required vehicle manufacturers to launch new models with a short time to market and a larger number of electronic functionalities. Virtual reality is being widely adopted by the automotive industry to enhance the efficiency of product development processes and streamline project stages, leading to a reduction in the use of physical prototypes. Nevertheless, there is still a need for improvement in the analysis and verification of virtual reality through the monitoring of eye tracking and brain signals, which can enhance its robustness. A promising approach to increasing the efficiency of developing new products during the conceptual phase is the integration of models of Electronic Control Units with virtual prototypes. Testing on virtual prototypes reduces the usage of natural resources and inputs compared to physical prototypes, making the product development process more sustainable. The objective of this optimization is to improve the engineering efficiency in the process of generating and assessing ideas for vehicle digital functionalities during the conceptual phase. During the conceptual phase of developing new vehicle digital functionalities, discussions among the engineering team, user experience team, and studio team can be time-consuming since a logical and technological requirement base is often unavailable to drive new ideas in terms of technical feasibility of implementation. The absence of a validation process for the Electronic Control Unit logic model from the perspective of the end consumer highlights gaps in the industrial means in the decomposition of product development and how technological interactions can enhance the development process.
Validation of a CFD hydrogen combustion model on an PFI SI engine under lean combustion
Authors: França Louise Bomfim Magalhães , Pasa Bruno Roberto , Fagundez Jean Lucca Souza , Pereira Juliano Silveira , Martins Mario Eduardo Santos , Lanzanova Thompson Diórdinis Metzka , Salau Nina Paula Gonçalves
Published: January 2024

In order to further explore the potential of hydrogen as an alternative fuel, this study aims to validate a computational fluid dynamics model for hydrogen combustion in a port fuel injection spark ignition engine. The engine operates at 1800 rpm with a compression ratio of 10:1, under two lean combustion conditions: excess air ratios of 2.5 and 1.7, at full and part load, respectively. The simulations were performed using the CONVERGE 3.1 software and the C3MechV3.3 reaction mechanism. The predictions were then compared with experimental data to assess the accuracy and validity of the model, enabling the comparison of different lean operating conditions to evaluate important combustion characteristics, such as flame development, apparent heat release and NOx formation. The tested model successfully validated the two experimental conditions, accurately adjusting the in-cylinder pressure profiles for both cases of lean hydrogen mixture combustion. Additionally, the prediction of the apparent heat release rate was corrected, with the partial load condition and ignition timing set to a more favorable charge thermal state, which resulted in faster and lower-intensity heat release compared to the leaner mixture condition at full load. Finally, regarding thermal NOx formation, the model successfully predicted the higher formation in the λ= 1.7 condition, while the λ = 2.5 condition resulted in near-zero NOx. The validated CFD model provides valuable insights for designing efficient and environmentally friendly hydrogen-fueled engines, contributing to the development of carbon-free transportation solutions.
A design methodology to employ digital twins for remaining useful lifetime prediction in electric vehicle batteries
Authors: Branco César Tadeu Nasser Medeiros , Fontanela Jackson Michels
Published: January 2024

Predictive maintenance plays a crucial role in the context of Industry 4.0, and the adoption of Digital Twin methodologies has emerged as a promising approach for predicting the remaining useful lifetime of assets, particularly after a fault is identified. However, there is a lack of understanding regarding how to effectively apply digital twins for prognosis purposes, including estimating confidence intervals and identifying root causes of faults. To address this gap, this paper presents a methodology based on a comprehensive literature review, aiming to provide a systematic approach for predicting the remaining useful lifetime of assets. The proposed methodology encompasses several steps. It starts with data collection from physical assets or relevant databases, followed by modeling the asset’s behavior using dynamic equations. Machine learning algorithms are then applied to predict the asset’s final state in response to corrective actions. The interpretation systems provide insights and recommendations based on the virtual model, which can be further utilized by users for decision-making or implemented directly in the physical product. This methodology focuses specifically on implementing digital twins to determine the remaining lifetime of battery discharge. By following the step-by-step procedure outlined in this study, practitioners and researchers can effectively implement digital twin models and utilize them for prognosis purposes, enhancing the accuracy of predictions and enabling proactive maintenance strategies. This research contributes to bridging the gap in understanding the application of digital twins for prognosis, presenting a systematic methodology that can be applied in various domains to predict the remaining useful lifetime of assets, thereby optimizing maintenance processes and ensuring efficient asset management.
Traumatisme crânioencephalique du nourrisson par un mécanisme rare : une observation inhabituelle
Authors: Vahamwiti Aimé Lukwamirwe , Dianaben Asaph Bwini , Mbila Junior Mtoro , Azabali Israel Maoneo , W’Ifongo Freddy Wami
Published: January 2024

We reported a case of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in childhood complicated with anemia following a complex high-energy mechanism. It was reported that the wall of a house collapsed on top of the patient head, which is an unusual mechanism. A head CT scan carried out on the third week post-trauma showed sequelae of cerebral lesions and skull fractures. The patient’s0 condition improved under medical management with left hemiplegia and internal strabismus of the left eye as sequelae.

Il s’agissait d’un cas de traumatisme cranio-encéphalique (TCE) grave compliqué d’un coma et d’anémie chez un nourrisson dont le scanner cérébral réalisé trois semaines plus tard, a mis en évidence des fractures de la voute du crâne associées à des lésions des séquelles encéphaliques du type contusion cérébrale. Il a pu survivre, quoiqu’avec des séquelles d’hémiplégie gauche et de strabisme convergent gauche, après un traumatisme grave de suite de la chute d’un mur sur le nourrisson, ce qui est un mécanisme peu communément rapporté dans la littérature.
Ministros de la pluma. Agentes de la cultura y del poder de la Edad Media a la Modernidad
Authors: Corral Sánchez Nuria , Erquiaga Martínez Cristina
Published: January 2024

No Abstract.
Mercado negro (Kurt Land, 1953): cine policial, propaganda estatal y ambigüedad moral
Authors: Gijon Pablo Rubio
Published: January 2024

Este ensayo tiene como propósito analizar Mercado negro (Kurt Land, 1953), filme policial argentino que no solamente preconiza  determinadas instituciones esta- tales como la Gendarmería Nacional y la Policía Federal, sino que también alude a las políticas sociales  implementadas por el gobierno peronista. Estos mensajes, que invaden la trama argumental de la película, dejan constancia de las  reformas y logros conseguidos o proyectados por los dos planes quinquenales de 1947-1951 y 1952- 1955. No obstante esto, mediante un  ex- haustivo análisis es posible atisbar peque- ñas zonas de ambigüedad que el género policial, desde sus mismos planteamientos constitutivos y su supuesta rigidez ideológica en un contexto político como el pero- nista, puede llegar a conceder. Es decir, a pesar de  poseer una función propagandística, Mercado negro podría también prestarse a una lectura desde la disconformidad ideológica por  medio de la audacia que exhibe al presentar de un modo alternante el lado más humano del delincuente.

 

English title: Mercado negro (Kurt Land, 1953): Crime Cinema, State Propaganda and Moral Ambiguity

This essay aims to analyze Mercado negro (Kurt Land, 1953), an Argentine crime film that not only praises certain State institutions such  as the Argentine National Gendarmerie and the Federal Police, but also alludes to the social policies implemented by the Peronist  government. These messages invade the film’s plot in order to leave proof of the reforms and achievements obtained or projected by the two Peronist five-year plans of 1947-1951 and 1952-1955. However, by means of a thorough analysis it is possible to glimpse small areas  of ambiguity that this genre, from its own fundamental approaches and alleged ideological rigidity in a political context such as  Peronism, can allow. That is to say, in spite of its propagandistic func- tion, Mercado negro may lend itself to an interpretation from the  ideological noncon- formity through the audacity it displays as it presents alternatively the criminal’s most humane side.
La portugalidad de Faria e Sousa en los cronotopos de Gelia y Flaminio: construcción de un imaginario mítico (1624-1644)
Authors: Márquez Martínez Esther
Published: January 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es llevar a cabo un primer acercamiento al epilio Gelia y Flaminio de Manuel de Faria e Sousa para analizar la  relación entre sus cronotopos y las reivindicaciones naciona- les del autor. Para ello, en primer lugar, vamos a trazar un recorrido por el  trata- miento de las écfrasis topográficas en los epilios del siglo XVII. A continuación, exa- minaremos la evolución de los epilios de Faria.  En tercer lugar, cotejaremos las variantes que hay entre las dos versiones conservadas: la primera publicada en Divinas y humanas  flores (1624) y la segunda recogida en la Fuente de Aganipe (1644). De este modo, y finalmente, podremos analizar cómo aflora la  portugalidad en Gelia y Flaminio

 

English title: Faria e Sousa's Portugueseness in the Chronotopes of Gelia and Flaminio: Construction of a Mythical Imaginary (1624-1644)

The aim of this article is to carry out a first approach of Gelia and Flaminio by Manuel de Faria e Sousa in order to analyze the relationship  between its chronotopes and the author's national claims. To do so, we will first trace the treatment of topographical  ekphrasis in the epilios of the 17th century. Next, we will examine the evolution of Faria's epyllia. Thirdly, we will com- pare the variants  between the two preserved versions: the first one published in Divinas y humanas flores (1624) and the second one collected in the  Fuente de Aganipe (1644). In this way, and finally, we will be able to analyze how Portugueseness emerges in Gelia and Flaminio.
Post-Mumps vaccination parotitis
Authors: Alemayehu Tinsae
Published: January 2024

Mumps is a common communicable disease among children. It is one of 31 vaccine-preventable diseases at present. The presentation of a two and half year old boy who developed parotitis for the first time three weeks after taking a Mumps vaccine is outlined. Potential adverse events following administration of similar vaccines are discussed. Pediatricians and child health workers in Africa are less experienced in Mumps vaccines due to the absence of Mumps-containing vaccines from their national immunization programs. This description of a child with post-Mumps vaccine parotitis (a comparatively common adverse reaction) serves as learning point on performance and reactions to expect after Mumps-vaccine containing immunizations.