bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Damage Prediction of Monolithic and Non-Monolithic Braced Unreinforced Brick Masonry Walls under Explosion Loadings
Authors: Anas S.M. , Al-Dala’ien Rayeh Nasr , Alam Mehtab , Umair Mohammad
Published: October 2023

Numerous unreinforced masonry (URM) structures worldwide face greater vulnerability to direct threats like earthquakes, wind, impact, or explosions compared to reinforced concrete and steel structures. Given the current worldwide environment characterized by dominance and extremism, the task of safeguarding structures, especially from explosive detonations, presents a growing and crucial obstacle for engineers and researchers. The Masonry Society (TMS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have recognized that the primary cause of material damage resulting from explosions is the collapse of walls made of URM. The recent catastrophic explosion at the Beirut seaport in Lebanon, the largest of its kind, serves as a stark reminder to town planners, architects, and structural designers. This tragic incident resulted in an immense loss of building infrastructure overall and specifically affected load-bearing masonry structures, leading to severe injuries and casualties. It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive attention and strategic measures in addressing the vulnerabilities inherent in these structures. This research study explores the response of URM walls, constructed with clay bricks, to out-of-plane blast forces. The walls are braced with either monolithic or non-monolithic transverse walls, and a three-dimensional micro-modeling approach is employed. The analysis is conducted using the Abaqus software, which utilizes the finite element method. Alongside the braced walls, the study also examines a free-standing URM wall without transverse walls. The exposed face of the walls is subjected to peak reflected pressures of 0.38 and 1.01 MPa, generated by explosive charges weighing 4.34 and 7.49 kg-TNT at scaled distances of 2.19 and 1.83 m/kg1/3, respectively. The Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) model, which incorporates the influence of strain rate, is utilized to simulate the behavior of masonry under blast loads. Comparisons are made between the computed damage patterns of a wall reinforced with monolithic transverse walls and the experimental results found in existing literature, revealing a notable level of agreement. The influence of both monolithic and non-monolithic joints on the performance of the exposed wall is thoroughly examined and contrasted with one another, as well as with the performance of a free-standing wall. The research indicates that non-monolithic joints between the exposed wall and transverse bracing walls exhibit a greater extent of damage to the bracing walls, as this is predominantly influenced by the response of the exposed wall itself.
Application of pressing and hydro distillation technology in the extraction of seedless lemon essential oil (Citrus latifolia Tanaka)
Authors: Thien Hien Tran , Thi Tuu Tran , Tien Le Xuan , Long Tran Bach , Phong Huynh Xuan
Published: October 2023

Citrus is one of the most popular tropical fruit tree genera in the world with delicious taste and a rich content of vitamins C, A, fiber, and other essential minerals. The citrus essential oil has the main component being D-limonene, which is a substance with high antibacterial and antioxidant properties, along with various compounds. The experimental process of essential oils extraction from seedless lemon peels by mechanical distillation method combined with hydrodistillation, followed by comparative analysis of the chemical composition of the resulted essential oils. Results have shown that the yield of essential oils obtained from the mechanical pressing and distillation process is 0.089% and 0.10%, respectively. The main compound present in these essential oils is D-limonene with the concentrations in pressed and distilled oils being 58.967% and 38.552%, respectively. The research results show that the technological process of extracting essential oils by mechanical pressing can provide basic understanding about different extraction methods.
Combating hidden hunger caused by wheat and soil-drived zinc deficiency
Authors: Akman Hayati
Published: October 2023

Essential vitamins, proteins, and microelements are provided by nutrition, but inadequate and nutrient-poor diets can lead to hidden hunger. Zinc deficiency is a significant hidden resource that affects multiple bodily functions, including immune system function, growth, and development. The primary reasons for the prevalence of zinc deficiency in humans are grain-based products with low concentrations and low zinc solubility in the soil. Intensifying plant production and the inability to replace nutrients absorbed in excess from the soil leads to zinc deficiency in the soil. Consequently, substantial reductions in crop yields are observed, along with decreased zinc concentrations in harvested grains. A number of unsustainable strategies, including expensive medical supplements and zinc-enriched flour-based products to address zinc deficiency, are temporary solutions. Additionally, one such strategy is agronomic biofortification, which recommends utilizing water-soluble zinc fertilizers to increase the concentration of zinc in the plant and soil. A more sustainable and cost-effective approach involves employing traditional plant breeding and molecular techniques to develop new zinc-biofortified cultivars. By enriching wheat with zinc, it absorbs 20-40% more zinc from the soil. Here, this paper will discuss the role of zinc deficiency in wheat and soil and its impact on both crop yield and human nutrition, with a particular emphasis on biofortified wheat.
Study on the possibilities of effective use of basalt
Authors: Matchanova Nargiz , Rakhimov Farhad , Rajapova Marguba
Published: October 2023

This article presents research on the possibilities of creating value-added unconventional materials, functional fabrics and products from local basalt and basalt roving. Basalt fiber, i.e. roving, is used to make knitwear and heat-insulating cord. The thermal insulation cord was tested in the "SNOL 15/1200" electric furnace in the laboratory of the "Mega invest industrial" LLC joint enterprise and its durability up to +980ºС was determined.
Zoning groundwater vulnerability in residential areas around the Terjun landfill using the aplis method
Authors: Nurfahasdi Meutia , Turmuzi Muhammad , Husin Amir , Khair AM Hafizhul , Kristopel Tanjung Julius , Atashev Elyor , Rakhmatov Abdugani
Published: October 2023

The development of the Medan City area causes an increase in population, increased activity, changes in the use of water catchment land into residential land, one of which is around the Terjun landfill area, Medan Marelan District. This is directly proportional to the increasing need for water. This study aims to determine how much pollution vulnerability in groundwater with the APLIS Method approach (Altitud, Pendiente, Litologia, Infiltration Prefencial, Seule). Zoning of groundwater vulnerability with the APLIS Method results in a low vulnerability class with a classification of >20-40%.
Study on the parameters of bars of the potato digger ploughshare
Authors: Mamatov Farmon , Karimov Akmal , Shodmonov Golib
Published: October 2023

Currently, potato diggers used in agricultural production in Uzbekistan have a number serious drawbacks. In particular, they have a high material and energy capacity, and their use in small farms and personal subsidiary farms is considered less effective. The purpose study is to substantiate the parameters vibrating rods potato digger ploughshare. The authors proposed a potato digger with lattice ploughshares equipped with vibrating rods. Swinging rods are attached to the main ploughshares, the oscillation which is carried out from the tractor power take-off shaft. A diagram a ploughshare with vibrating rods and a mechanism for transmitting motion is given. The laws theoretical mechanics are used in the research. In the experiments, losses and damage to potatoes, as well as traction resistance, were taken as a criterion for evaluating the performance potato digger. As a result theoretical studies carried out, analytical dependencies and mathematical models were obtained that allow determining the parameters rods. It is proved that the length bars the potato digger ploughshare should be 25 cm, the number bars is 14 pieces, the distance between the bars is 3 cm, the diameter the bars is 1 cm.
Study on the Influence of Sideration on Soil Microbiological Activity
Authors: Kenjaev Yunus , Tursunkulova Adiba
Published: October 2023

In the fall, siderate is used in cotton fields in its pure state; 7.81-31.38 t/ha of biomass was accumulated per heke when rapeseed and rapeseed + rapeseed were planted in a mixed state. When this biomass is crushed in siderate quality and buried in the soil, the microbiological activity increases along with the improvement of the soil properties, and the rapid and short retention of the biomass in the soil accelerates the decay, as a result, it has a positive effect on the increase in the amount of nutrients in the soil.
Uniformity of water distribution in sprinkler irrigation mini-cannons in a high Andean community in Peru
Authors: Clavitea Abigael , Mamani J.A. , Huaquisto E. , Alfaro-Alejo Roberto , Belizario G.
Published: October 2023

The objective of the present work was to determine the uniformity of water distribution through mini-irrigation cannons in conditions of the Peruvian altiplano, applying the formulas for the Christiansen Uniformity Coefficient (CUC) and the Distribution Coefficient (DU) and to interpret the incidence of wind on water distribution at three different times during the day (5:30-7:30, 12-14 and 16-18 hours). Necessary climatological information, field rainfall tests, emitter pressure, and flow, wind speed were collected to evaluate their influence on water application. Variable CUC and distribution uniformity results were obtained at the level of four demonstration plots, the maximum and minimum CUC was 87.42% and 55.34%, while the DU resulted with a maximum of 80.79% and 26. 88% minimum; it is worth mentioning that in the last two schedules, results were obtained that show a poor water distribution; while winds less than 2 m/s favored the uniform distribution of water applied through the sprinklers, affirming that it was possible to obtain an acceptable water distribution uniformity at the plot level considering the irrigation schedule.
Study of the mechanical properties of knitted fabrics
Authors: Ubaydullaeva Dilora , Shumkarova Shamsiya , Akhmedova Mohinur , Begmanov Rustam
Published: October 2023

In this article results of analyses physical-mechanical properties of 3 new structures of fleecy knitting interloping made by cotton yarn of different linear density at the flat knitting machine TERROT have been offered. The influence of the location of the lining thread on the physical and mechanical properties of the lining knitted fabric in the composition of the newly formed, it turned out the place of their use can be determined by the type of raw material.
Study the state of deformation of fibers with variable properties
Authors: Ochilov Tulkin , Yodgorova Hilola , Shumkarova Shamsiya , Yuldasheva Mavluda
Published: October 2023

The method for calculating the tensile and compressive strength of certain fiber systems with different structures in terms of layer thickness was presented. The laws of influence of various parameters, which become invisible in stretching, have been established on the description of two-layer yarn interaction. It was found that the tension (pressure) compressing the fiber in the center of the thread has a maximum value, it increases significantly with the increase of the angle of attack, which leads to an uneven distribution along the radius of the thread. In a two-layer yarn formed from two fiber systems with different mechanical characteristics, the degree of compression of the fibers depends significantly on the ratio. It was expected that the fiber maturity index decreased in the outer layer, and the pressure between the fibers increased as the thickness of the inner layer increased. All the fibers in the two-layer yarn are in a sliding state, and as this indicator increases, starting from the center of the yarn, the fibers begin to be in tight contact with each other, the length of which depends on the radius of the inner layer, the bending angle, and the ratio of the Young's modulus of the fibers of the two-layer yarn. It was observed that the fibers in the thread layer are in tight contact with each other at the value of the angle of sag
Transient Hypoxemia Upon Initiation of Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Rohrer Charlene H. , Auvil Jackson , Vertrees Roger A. , Rousou John H. , Engelman Richard M.
Published: October 2023

A review of 38 consecutive coronary artery bypass perfusions was undertaken with the goal to determine the efficiency of oxygenation with the BOS-10 oxygenator. In reviewing these 38 cases, six (16%) showed surprisingly low initial arterial oxygen tension (PaO2 56–70 torr). These six patients required active remedial measures to correct this deficit which was corrected within 10 minutes of continued perfusion. In addition, there were five more patients (13%) with initial PaO2 70–100 torr, or a total of eleven (29%) of the 38 cases with less than optimal PaO2. All of the initial blood gases were drawn after stabilization of perfusion flows and pressures, discontinuation of patient ventilation, and the initiation of moderate hypothermia (30°C). No explanation could be found for this transient hypoxemia which appeared to correlate only with a higher hematocrit in patients with the lowest oxygen tensions.

It has been observed that, on occasion, an unacceptably low arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) develops during the initial phase of routine perfusion. This observation prompted a review of the last 38 consecutive coronary artery bypass perfusions done in this institution. The review has shown that eleven (28.9%) of the cases done with the BOS-1 0* oxygenator had PaO2’s less than 100 torr. An attempt was therefore made to delineate the factors involved and to try to isolate the problem. Realizing fully that at a PaO2 of 70 torr, the hemoglobin is still well saturated, and probably is not detrimental to the anesthetized patient, six patients (16%) had truly depressed oxygenation with PaO2 56–0 torr and in these six patients, arterial desaturation could become a factor in successful perfusion.
Endpunkte zu mikrovaskulären Folgekomplikationen: klinische Endpunkte, patientenberichtete Endpunkte und Surrogatendpunkte, Methodik von Surrogatvalidierungsstudien
Authors: Gallwitz Baptist , Kellerer Monika , Müller-Wieland Dirk , Wanner Christoph , Ziemssen Focke
Published: October 2023

Für die Bewertung und die Vergleichbarkeit klinischer Langzeitstudien zur Sicherheit und/oder Effektivität verschiedener Therapieformen bei chronischen Erkrankungen sind möglichst vergleichbare und homogene vorab festgelegte Endpunkte und Surrogatparameter wichtig. Am Beispiel des Diabetes mellitus Typ 2 als chronische Erkrankung wird die Erhebung mikrovaskulärer Endpunkte und von Surrogatparametern bei der diabetesbedingten Retinopathie und Nephropathie dargelegt und diskutiert.
Bewegung beim Menschen über 60 Jahre: aktuelle Studie auf der
Basis einer Forsa-Befragung
Authors: Albrecht Franziska , Dresel Uwe
Published: October 2023

Durch den demografischen Wandel und die Zunahme sitzender Tätigkeit in
Alltag und Beruf wird das Gegensteuern durch körperliche
Aktivität und Bewegung gegen einen Abbau der physischen und kognitiven
Leistungsfähigkeit sowie gegen die Verschlechterung der Gesundheit durch
die Zunahme chronisch-degenerativer Erkrankungen mit zunehmendem Alter immer
entscheidender. Sowohl die WHO als auch nationale Bewegungsempfehlungen
unterstreichen die Wichtigkeit dieses Themas mit konkreten Mindestempfehlungen
für körperliche Aktivität auch und vor allem im Alter.
Aktuelle Ergebnisse einer Forsa-Umfrage der Krankenkasse DAK-Gesundheit zeigen
jedoch, dass die Mehrheit der Personen ab 60 Jahren in Deutschland diese
Empfehlungen nicht erreicht. Ab 80 Jahren erreicht nicht einmal jeder Dritte
diese Empfehlungen. Diese aktuellen Ergebnisse verdeutlichen die weitere Arbeit,
die notwendig ist, um körperliche Aktivität und Bewegung als
elementare Lebensbestandteile auch im Alter zu integrieren und im Rahmen der
Prävention über deren Wichtigkeit zu sensibilisieren. Auch die
Personengruppe ab 80 Jahren muss hier verstärkt adressiert werden.
Grußwort
Authors: Storm Andreas
Published: October 2023

Sehr geehrte Leserinnen und Leser,

der demografische Wandel führt dazu, dass immer mehr alte immer weniger
jungen Menschen gegenüberstehen. Damit ist die Pflege eine der
großen Herausforderungen für unsere Gesellschaft. Wir haben eine
Verantwortung für die Pflegebedürftigen und müssen
sicherstellen, dass ein Leben in Würde auch im Alter möglich ist und
die pflegerische Versorgung nicht zur Fürsorgefalle wird. Auf der anderen
Seite müssen Ausbildung und Arbeitsbedingungen von Pflegerinnen und Pflegern
attraktiv gestaltet sein. Entscheidend hierbei ist, auch die Gesundheit von
Pflegekräften in den Fokus zu nehmen – ein
verhältnismäßig hoher Krankenstand in der Branche erfordert
rasches Handeln.
POLKA und Digitalisierung: Über das Spielen zu mehr
Bewegung
Authors: Huber Gerhard
Published: October 2023

Die Digitalisierung im Gesundheitswesen ist eine vordringliche Aufgabe der
Gesundheitspolitik. Gleichzeitig besteht ein dringender Bedarf an einer
regelmäßigen und nachhaltigen Bewegungsförderung in der
stationären Altenpflege. Die Erfüllung dieser Anforderung ist
angesichts der knappen Personalressourcen nur selten im notwendigen Umfang
möglich.

Vor diesem Hintergrund wurde im Rahmen des Projektes POLKA eine digitale
Anwendung entwickelt, die über eine spielerische Aufgabe
(„Apfelpflücken“) die Bewegungsaktivitäten von
Bewohner*innen in stationären Altenpflegeeinrichtungen steigern
soll. Der Gesetzgeber fordert für solche „Gesundheitsanwendung
niedriger Risikoklasse“ die Evaluation von Machbarkeit und Nutzen der
Anwendung.

In dem Beitrag wird zunächst der Forschungsstand zu
„Gamification“ in der Geriatrie vorgestellt. Das geplante
Vorgehen soll die technische und motivationale Akzeptanz des
„Apfelpflückspiels“ in der stationären
geriatrischen Versorgung sowie die Effekte auf der funktionellen Ebene
überprüfen.
A Facile, Mechanochemical, Solvent-, and Catalyst-Free Synthesis of Functionalized 4-Thiazolidinones
Authors: Bhargava Gaurav , Wahan Simranpreet K. , Chawla Pooja A. , Singh Parvesh , Kumar Rupesh
Published: October 2023

A highly eco-friendly greener approach based on the mechanochemical method using mortar and pestle is explored for the preparation of a variety of functionalized 4-thiazolidinones. The developed methodology does not require the use of harmful or expensive reagents and organic solvents and requires very less reaction time with easy isolation. The explored greener approach for the synthesis of 4-thiazolidinones is an important in terms of their usefulness for their valuable pharmacological properties.
Hepatic Visceral Larva Migrans: A Case Series
Authors: Jain Suchita , Jain Ajay K. , Agrawal Praveen , Bhagat Priyanka , Chatterji Debi
Published: October 2023

Visceral larva migrans is an uncommon systemic parasitic infection of liver caused by second-stage larva of Toxocara canis or Toxocara catis. The liver is the most common visceral organ to be involved. The diagnosis is usually delayed because of a lack of awareness about visceral larva migrans in adults, with most patients confused with either an abscess or neoplastic nodules. Heterogenous solid cystic, multiple hypodense, and hypovascular lesions on imaging with peripheral eosinophilia make the diagnosis in most cases. We present four adult patients with 2 to 4 weeks of fever and very high peripheral eosinophilia. The liver biopsy in three cases revealed an eosinophilic abscess. All cases on treatment with albendazole showed a good response. Visceral larva migrans must be considered in patients with heterogenous, hypovascular space-occupying liver lesions presenting with fever and peripheral eosinophilia.
Aiding Ukraine in the Russian war: unity or new dividing line among Europeans?
Authors: Stolle Dietlind
Published: October 2023

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has caused a seemingly high level of unity amongst Europeans in support of Ukraine. However, this article uncovers some inter- and intra-country fault-lines in public opinion across and within 16 EU countries and the UK regarding pro-Ukraine aid initiatives by using a two-wave design with data from the EUI-YouGov survey conducted in April and September 2022. Findings show that support is relatively stable but varies a lot depending on the specific measure and between countries. We uncover lowest support for measures that go against the self-interest of Europeans such as deploying troops and accepting higher energy costs. Frontrunners of Ukraine support are geographically close to Russia and located in both Western and Eastern Europe (though not exclusively), whereas laggards are countries of Eastern and Southern Europe with a history of Russian ties during the Cold War. Yet within countries, Ukraine support does not follow a simple pre-determined ideological pattern of the left and right. Most countries with lower overall support for Ukraine display a higher level of polarization between supporters of the incumbent versus the opposition party. Understanding these fault-lines is important for insights on current and future levels of Ukraine aid across Europe.
Global citizenship skills among Qatar University students
Authors: Alshawi Ali A. Hadi
Published: October 2023

The concept of the borderless environment, in the 21st century, has intensified global citizenship education and attracted tremendous attention from researchers and educators. This article explores the level of global citizenship in Qatar University students. This cross-sectional quantitative study examines Qatar University students’ perceptions of global changes. Data was collected from 10 colleges at Qatar University using a survey method based on Morais and Ogden’s global citizenship framework, and its elements of social responsibility, global competence and global civic engagement. The results of the cluster and correlation analyses reveal that all three elements of global citizenship skills (i.e., social responsibility, global competence and global civic engagement) apply to Qatar University students, to varying degrees. The demographic variables and global citizenship components (social responsibility, global competence, and global civic engagement) reveal Qatari students’ global citizenship skills, perceptions of a broader world, sense of being part of the world community, responsibility for contributing to the well-being of that community, understanding of diversity, politics and culture, and social, economic, environmental and technological functioning. The implications of the findings suggest ways policymakers, faculty, teachers and curriculum developers can develop robust global citizenship education.
Review of soil erosion modelling involving water with field applications
Authors: Rose C. W. , Haddadchi A.
Published: October 2023

The literature associated with the topic of soil erosion processes is so vast that coverage must be restricted in some way. The major restriction adopted includes a focus on physically-based soil erosion modelling and its application in field studies including gully formation and sediment control methods. The choice of topics has also been biased towards those in which the authors have had some involvement, ensuring some emphasis on erosion studies in Australia and Southeast Asia.
Whole-brain, gray, and white matter time-locked functional signal changes with simple tasks and model-free analysis
Authors: Schilling Kurt G. , Li Muwei , Rheault Francois , Gao Yurui , Cai Leon , Zhao Yu , Xu Lyuan , Ding Zhaohua , Anderson Adam W. , Landman Bennett A. , Gore John C.
Published: October 2023

Recent studies have revealed the production of time-locked blood oxygenation level–dependent (BOLD) functional MRI (fMRI) signals throughout the entire brain in response to tasks, challenging the existence of sparse and localized brain functions and highlighting the pervasiveness of potential false negative fMRI findings. “Whole-brain” actually refers to gray matter, the only tissue traditionally studied with fMRI. However, several reports have demonstrated reliable detection of BOLD signals in white matter, which have previously been largely ignored. Using simple tasks and analyses, we demonstrate BOLD signal changes across the whole brain, in both white and gray matters, in similar manner to previous reports of whole brain studies. We investigated whether white matter displays time-locked BOLD signals across multiple structural pathways in response to a stimulus in a similar manner to the cortex. We find that both white and gray matter show time-locked activations across the whole brain, with a majority of both tissue types showing statistically significant signal changes for all task stimuli investigated. We observed a wide range of signal responses to tasks, with different regions showing different BOLD signal changes to the same task. Moreover, we find that each region may display different BOLD responses to different stimuli. Overall, we present compelling evidence that, just like all gray matter, essentially all white matter in the brain shows time-locked BOLD signal changes in response to multiple stimuli, challenging the idea of sparse functional localization and the prevailing wisdom of treating white matter BOLD signals as artifacts to be removed.
Heterogeneous changes in mobility in response to the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.2 outbreak in Shanghai
Authors: Zhang Juanjuan , Tan Suoyi , Peng Cheng , Xu Xiangyanyu , Wang Mengning , Lu Wanying , Wu Yanpeng , Sai Bin , Cai Mengsi , Kummer Allisandra G. , Chen Zhiyuan , Zou Junyi , Li Wenxin , Zheng Wen , Liang Yuxia , Zhao Yuchen , Vespignani Alessandro , Ajelli Marco , Lu Xin , Yu Hongjie
Published: October 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the measures taken by authorities to control its spread have altered human behavior and mobility patterns in an unprecedented way. However, it remains unclear whether the population response to a COVID-19 outbreak varies within a city or among demographic groups. Here, we utilized passively recorded cellular signaling data at a spatial resolution of 1 km × 1 km for over 5 million users and epidemiological surveillance data collected during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron BA.2 outbreak from February to June 2022 in Shanghai, China, to investigate the heterogeneous response of different segments of the population at the within-city level and examine its relationship with the actual risk of infection. Changes in behavior were spatially heterogenous within the city and population groups and associated with both the infection incidence and adopted interventions. We also found that males and individuals aged 30 to 59 y old traveled more frequently, traveled longer distances, and their communities were more connected; the same groups were also associated with the highest SARS-CoV-2 incidence. Our results highlight the heterogeneous behavioral change of the Shanghai population to the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.2 outbreak and the effect of heterogenous behavior on the spread of COVID-19, both spatially and demographically. These findings could be instrumental for the design of targeted interventions for the control and mitigation of future outbreaks of COVID-19, and, more broadly, of respiratory pathogens.
The developmental hierarchy and scarcity of replicative slender trypanosomes in blood challenges their role in infection maintenance
Authors: Larcombe Stephen D. , Briggs Emma M. , Savill Nick , Szoor Balazs , Matthews Keith R.
Published: October 2023

The development of
Trypanosoma brucei
in its mammalian host is marked by a distinct morphological change as replicative “slender” forms differentiate into cell cycle arrested “stumpy” forms in a quorum-sensing-dependent manner. Although stumpy forms dominate chronic infections at the population level, the proportion of replicative parasites at the individual cell level and the irreversibility of arrest in the bloodstream are unclear. Here, we experimentally demonstrate that developmental cell cycle arrest is definitively irreversible in acute and chronic infections in mice. Furthermore, analysis of replicative capacity and single-cell transcriptome profiling reveal a temporal hierarchy, whereby cell cycle arrest and appearance of a reversible stumpy-like transcriptome precede irreversible commitment and morphological change. Unexpectedly, we show that proliferating parasites are exceptionally scarce in the blood after infections are established. This challenges the ability of bloodstream trypanosomes to sustain infection by proliferation or antigenic variation, these parasites instead being overwhelmingly adapted for transmission.
Blending of Landsat and Sentinel images using Multi-sensor fusion
Authors: Bharathi D , Karthi R , Geetha P
Published: October 2023

Global surveillance based on remote sensing always has a trade-off between spectral, temporal, and spatial resolutions of the sensor data. Since unique land cover information could be estimated at a good spatial scale than the temporal resolution, the Sentinel sensor, for example, has a revisit of 5 days and gathers images at a 10-20m spatial resolution. The Landsat sensor can only be revisited every 16 days with a spatial scale of 30 m. Fine temporal and spatial resolution data are essential for seasonable observation of dynamic agricultural, environmental, or ecological phenomena. This trade-off problem can be solved by using fusion methods based on the linear differences between images with fine (Sentinel) and coarse (Landsat) spatial resolution. As a result, an image with high spatial resolution can be predicted than acquired from a single Landsat-like sensor. The proposed work will combine Landsat and Sentinel data to bridge the gap between the Landsat image (spatial resolution,30m) and the Sentinel image (temporal resolution,10m or 20m). As a result, detailed investigations of the Earth’s surface and dynamics will be possible. Evaluation metrics – RMSE, SRE, and SSIM are used to compare the predicted image with the Sentinel image of the predicted date. The metrics analysis found that the predicted image is like the reference image with optimal values for all three-evaluation metrics.
SOLMAT: A Neoteric Contextual Model for Odia Language Understanding
Authors: Dey G , Maringanti H B
Published: October 2023

In this era of digital revolution people are expressing their opinion in natural language text. So, people of Odisha staying inside or outside Odisha are also expressing their opinion in Odia language text through different online blogs, review sites, social networking sites etc. Natural Language researchers are now working on these opinions to extract the actual sentiment of people hidden inside these opinions. More than 67% of works are based on machine learning and deep learning. Rarely 29% are only lexicon and context based because the development of lexicon is little bit difficult and time consuming. However, the lexical based gives more accurate result as compared to machine learning approach. As the opinion is much deeper than surface meaning, there is need of contextual analysis of opinion statements. In this paper we have designed a context based model named SOLMAT-A Neoteric Contextual Model for Odia Language Understanding to understand contextual meaning of the object statement for which opinion is called by identifying objects on which the opinion is based on, the action performed by or on the object, type, time of action(Present, Past, Future) and the type of statement( positive, negative or neutral) before forecasting the opinion.
A novel application to develop illness severity scores for predicting mortality and morbidities in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
Authors: Shirwaikar Rudresh Deepak , Dinesh Acharya U , Lamgaonkar Yogini Eknath , Lal Shivkumar Mahadev
Published: October 2023

The first hundred days of child life is considered the most critical phase of its physical development and its health. Neonates who are critically sick are kept under observation in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for continuous monitoring of their health conditions. Classifying infants on the first day of admission based on illness severity score would help neonatologist in understanding the prognosis and better management of neonates at NICU. Illness severity scoring systems with a Score for Neonatal Acute Physiology (SNAP) and its variants was proposed to classify neonates based on its prognosis. A novel risk stratification module was developed which allowed neonatologist to design and develop an illness severity scoring system using the Richardson defined method. The SNAP I, modified SNAP I and SNAP II for the study population at study site was validated on 230 preterm neonates diagnosed with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), apnea and sepsis as a retrospective study. All the scores predicted mortality with statistical significance, with improved accuracy performance (+ 15 to 25%) was seen with proposed modified SNAP I. The proposed modified SNAP I score was found to be most accurate compared to SNAP I and SNAP II for predicting the mortality and also other outcome measures such as severity of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) (70%), presence of apnea (65%) and sepsis (80%) for the study population. Results obtained were strong indication of the need for scoring system where the variables as well as their range could be altered based on study population and NICU involved for the study.
Performance Analysis of SnO2/CsSnGeI3/CuSCN perovskite solar cells using SCAPS 1D Simulator
Authors: Deepak K , Sharath Chandra Reddy G. , Tiwari Chandni
Published: October 2023

In this paper, we have used Cesium tin-germanium triiodide (CsSnGeI3) perovskite-based solar cells (PSC). Here, SnO2 and CuSCN have been used as electron transport and hole transport layers, respectively. We have optimized the performance parameters of this device using an open-source software known as Solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS–1D). We have varied the thickness of absorber layer to understand its impact on the efficiency of the proposed solar cell. We have also varied the interface defects and defect density of absorber layer to optimize the performance of this device. Further, we have also varied the thickness of ETL and HTL with respect to absorber layer to determine the best suitable thickness of all the layers. Later, we have varied the electron affinity of ETL layer to determine the most suitable value. Finally, we have varied the work function of the back metal contact to understand its influence on the efficiency of the solar cell. The analysis indicates that the highest obtained efficiency of this device is 31.97% and the observed open circuit voltage and fill factor is 1.25 V and 89.97%, respectively.
Efficient Object Detection for Micro Aerial Vehicle Navigation Using Enhanced SSD-HOG Descriptors
Authors: Salokhe Gururaj , Bhamare Sushant , Kodanda Ramayya A , Anbarasu B
Published: October 2023

Autonomous robots, such as micro aerial vehicles (MAVs), require object detection for navigation and inspection tasks. However, the limited computational resources and real-time constraints of MAVs make object detection challenging. To address this, we propose an efficient object detection method for MAVs using enhanced SSD-HOG descriptors. Our method combines HOG and SSD techniques to create enhanced descriptors that provide better object detection accuracy and efficiency than traditional HOG or SSD descriptors. We evaluate our method on an aerial image dataset and compare it with state-of-the-art methods like SSD and YOLO. Our experimental results demonstrate that our method achieves high accuracy and real-time performance while using limited computational resources. Our proposed method is ideal for MAV navigation applications that require real-time object detection with limited computational resources.
TeachAR-Augmented reality-based Education application
Authors: Jaybhaye Sangita M. , Natekar Devendra , Nayakodi Poonam , Raut Neha , Jahagirdar Omkar
Published: October 2023

Augmented reality has come a long way from the concept of science fiction to science-based reality. Until recently, the cost of augmented reality was so high that designers only dreamed of working on an AR related design project. Things have changed now, and augmented reality is also available on mobile phones. An e-learning Augmented Reality application for immersive and practical based learning is proposed in this paper where any student can make use of this platform to learn concepts easily in Augmented Reality. This has been implemented by using technologies like Unity, Zappar and deploying the project on web using python and Django. By incorporating AR technology in education, students can effectively learn and understand complex concepts in a more engaging and interactive way.
Design automation and CAD customization of an EV chassis
Authors: Nawale Purushottam , Kanade Akshay , Nannaware Bhalchandra , Sagalgile Abhijeet , Chougule Nagesh , Patange Abhishek
Published: October 2023

This study focuses on developing an efficient approach to design and customizing electric vehicle (EV) chassis using automation and machine learning techniques. It includes 1) the design of an EV chassis using Python, 2) The implementation of a machine learning model to predict and find the suitable material for the chassis, and 3) CAD Customization of the chassis using Fusion 360 API in Python. 4) Structural Analysis of the chassis in Fusion 360. The mentioned methodology provides faster calculations, reduced manual errors, and a more efficient way of exploring design alternatives. The use of machine learning for material selection ensures a reliable and safe chassis. The study contributes to the advancement of EV chassis design processes by integrating automation and machine learning techniques, leading to faster and more reliable designs, and demonstrating the benefits of CAD customization.
Computational Study on Forced Convection Heat Transfer in Pin Fin Heat Sink (PFHS) with Inclined Wings
Authors: Gurav Raviraj B. , Purohit Pritee , Nalavade Sandeep P
Published: October 2023

Fins are used to enhance the rate of heat dissipation by increasing convection. The total amount of conduction, convection, or radiation of an object determines the amount of heat it transfers. A pin fin heat sink is acts as a heat exchanger and transfers the heat generated by an electronic or a mechanical device to a fluid medium, where it is dissipated away from the device which helps in proper functioning of device. The present investigation deals with the CFD simulation of heat dissipation and fluid flow behavior of pin fin heat sink with straight and inclined wings. The results show that pin fin with straight wings or wings at 0 degrees dissipate more heat than pin fin with inclined wings at 15 degrees.
Experimental and numerical study of rigid polyurethane foams for mechanical characteristics using finite element analysis
Authors: Jeyanthi S , Nivedhitha D M , Jeyamani Elammaran , Lazar Prince Jeya Lal , Krishnaswamy Prabhu
Published: October 2023

Over the past three decades, the global market has attracted polyurethane (PU) foams. It has been estimated that three-quarters of global consumption of polyurethane products are mainly foams. Based on hardness and density, foams can be classified into flexible and rigid. Features like flexibility, durability, stiffness, lightweight, less cost, and low density make foams more suitable for a wide range of automotive, industrial and agricultural industries. In this aspect, rigid foams are largely used as base materials for insulating purposes, seals, gaskets, tires, bedding, and seating of trucks. Generally, these PU foams are synthesized by mixing two chemicals: polyol and isocyanates. But unfortunately, the utilisation of Petro-based polyols makes PU foam restricted due to the rapid depletion of fossil fuels. Hence, this study attempts to replace Petro-based polyols with castor oil-based polyols. Other mechanical properties, such as compression strength, were tested to evaluate its ductile and flow behaviour. Finally, the developed Kelvin foam models were used for Finite Elemental Analysis (FEM) using ANSYS software to validate experimental results. Based on the results shows that both experimental and numerical analysis of castor oil PU foams resulted in greater compressive strength when compared to Petro-based PU foams.
Beyond Reality: A Study of Integrating Digital Twins
Authors: Kolekar A. , Shalgar S. , Malawade I.
Published: October 2023

As the world faces increasing global challenges, innovation becomes crucial for creating a sustainable future. In the age of the Internet of Things (IoT) and Industry 5.0, emerging technologies such as Digital Twins and Extended Reality (XR) are showing promise in addressing these challenges. The article examines the concept of merging Digital Twins, which are virtual reproductions of actual assets, with technologies like Extended Reality (XR) and the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as its applications in optimizing processes, enhancing decision making, and decreasing waste in global enterprises. The convergence of digital twins with extended reality, IoT, and Industry 5.0 presents unprecedented opportunities for innovation in agriculture, healthcare, and industry. In healthcare, digital twins enable personalized treatments and simulations for surgical planning, while in agriculture, they optimize crop growth and resource utilization. In the industry, digital twins streamline production processes, predict maintenance needs, and reduce downtime. This comprehensive review delves into the present landscape, obstacles, and future prospects of digital twins, extended reality, and IoT in various industries, emphasizing the imperative of ongoing research and development to unlock the complete transformative potential of these technologies for a sustainable future in Industry 5.0.
Study of Ripening Stages of Mango by Image Processing Techniques
Authors: Sumathi V , Archana A , Senthil Rethinam , Adarsh JK , Nabeel Muhammed
Published: October 2023

Mango reaches its maturity in different stages which comprise both size and color. These maturity stages are well-known by the farmer in the field. On the basis of these different stages of maturity or commonly say ‘ripening of Mango’ one can predict when these are perfect for harvesting. The stages comprise a distinct pattern in which Mango gets ripped. In this paper, a study is carried out on the different stages of ripening of Mangoes based on their color. Image processing techniques are used to predict the mango’s different ripening stages by taking the Mango’s image.
Parametrizations of coupled betatron motion for strongly coupled lattices
Authors: Vanwelde Marion , Hernalsteens Cédric , Bogacz S. Alex , Machida Shinji , Pauly Nicolas
Published: October 2023

The coupling of transverse motion is a natural occurrence in
particle accelerators, either in the form of a residual coupling
arising from imperfections or originating by design from strong
systematic coupling fields. While the first can be treated
perturbatively, the latter requires a robust approach adapted to
strongly coupled optics, and a parametrization of the linear optics
must be performed to explore beam dynamics in such peculiar
lattices. This work highlights the key physical interpretations of
the main parametrization formalisms to describe linear coupled
optics, along with explicit links and comparisons of these
parametrizations. Concepts rarely illustrated in other works, such
as forced mode flips and local coupling, are explored in detail,
clarifying some anomalies that can arise in lattice functions. The
analytical methods have been implemented in a reference Python
package and connected with ray-tracing and integration codes to
explore examples of strongly coupled lattices, which are discussed
in detail to highlight the key physical interpretations of the
parametrizations and characteristics of the lattices.
Recent developments in photodynamic therapy and its application against multidrug resistant cancers
Authors: Bhattacharya Debalina , Mukhopadhyay Mainak , Shivam Kumar , Tripathy Satyajit , Patra Ranjan , Pramanik Arindam
Published: October 2023

Recently, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has received a lot of attention for its potential use in cancer treatment. It enables the therapy of a multifocal disease with the least amount of tissue damage. The most widely used prodrug is 5-aminolevulinic acid, which undergoes heme pathway conversion to protoporphyrin IX, which acts as a photosensitizer (PS). Additionally, hematoporphyrin, bacteriochlorin, and phthalocyanine are also studied for their therapeutic potential in cancer. Unfortunately, not every patient who receives PDT experiences a full recovery. Resistance to different anticancer treatments is commonly observed. A few of the resistance mechanisms by which cancer cells escape therapeutics are genetic factors, drug–drug interactions, impaired DNA repair pathways, mutations related to inhibition of apoptosis, epigenetic pathways, etc. Recently, much research has been conducted to develop a new generation of PS based on nanomaterials that could be used to overcome cancer cells’ multidrug resistance (MDR). Various metal-based, polymeric, lipidic nanoparticles (NPs), dendrimers, etc, have been utilized in the PDT application against cancer. This article discusses the detailed mechanism by which cancer cells evolve towards MDR as well as recent advances in PDT-based NPs for use against multidrug-resistant cancers.
What caused the unseasonal extreme dust storm in Uzbekistan during November 2021?
Authors: Xi Xin , Steinfeld Daniel , Cavallo Steven M , Wang Jun , Chen Jiquan , Zulpykharov Kanat , Henebry Geoffrey M
Published: October 2023

An unseasonal dust storm hit large parts of Central Asia on 4–5 November 2021, setting records for the column aerosol burden and fine particulate concentration in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The dust event originated from an agropastoral region in southern Kazakhstan, where the soil erodibility was enhanced by a prolonged agricultural drought resulting from La Niña-related precipitation deficit and persistent high atmospheric evaporative demand. The dust outbreak was triggered by sustained postfrontal northerly winds during an extreme cold air outbreak. The cold air and dust outbreaks were preceded by a chain of processes consisting of recurrent synoptic-scale transient Rossby wave packets over the North Pacific and North Atlantic, upper-level wave breaking and blocking over Greenland, followed by high-latitude blocking over Northern Europe and West Siberia, and the equatorward shift of a tropopause polar vortex and cold pool into southern Kazakhstan. Our study suggests that the historic dust storm in Uzbekistan was a compound weather event driven by cold extreme, high winds, and drought precondition.