bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated Design of a Turbocharged, Fueled, Four-Stroke Engine for Minimum Fuel Consumption
Authors: Woodard J. K. , Johnson G. E. , Lott R. L.
Published: April 2021

The design of a turbocharged, gasoline fueled, four-stroke engine is considered with the goal of selecting design and operating variables to minimize fuel consumption. The development of the engine simulation code and the effect of model assumptions on the results are presented. The optimization includes constraints on detonation, exhaust emissions, and torque. Variables are bounded to assure the validity of the simulation. A number of observations about the interaction between the thermo-fluid model and the nonlinear programming algorithm are made and general strategies to enhance the optimization under such circumstances are discussed. The method is illustrated by exploring the design of a turbocharged Buick V-6 engine on an IBM PC/AT personal computer.

Stock design variables, and operating variables that provided a design away from the constraints imposed by torque, emission, and detonation were chosen as the starting point for the optimization. Application of the optimization strategy resulted in an 18 percent reduction in predicted fuel consumption at 50 miles per hour. Significant specific recommendations included a reduction in combustion chamber volume, an increase in intake manifold pressure, an increase in intake duration, a decrease in exhaust duration, and relatively small changes in valve geometry. The paper clearly demonstrates that it is feasible to do relatively sophisticated engineering design and optimization on personal computers, and it sets the stage for further work in this area.
On the Experimental vs. Numerical Shape Optimization of a Hole in a Tall Beam
Authors: Azarm S. , Bhandarkar S. M. , Durelli A. J.
Published: April 2021

This paper describes and compares an experimental and a numerical method for shape optimization of continuum structures. The experimental method is based on a systematic application of photoelasticity. The numerical method is based on coupling of a finite element analysis and an optimizer. The paper demonstrate several means used for interactive communication between the designer and the (experimental or numerical) shape optimization process. The discussion is made taking shape optimization of a hole in a tall beam as an example.
Compromise: An Effective Approach for Designing Composite Conical Shell Structures
Authors: Fuchs W. J. , Karandikar H. M. , Mistree F. , Eschenauer H. A.
Published: April 2021

The layout of fiber composite structures compared to that of structures made from conventional homogenous isotropic materials is far more difficult, because a fiber composite (laminate) is built up of several unidirectional layers (UD-layers) with fibers set at different angles. A contribution to the structural analysis and preliminary design of a fiber-reinforced conical shell is made in this paper. The equations of the membrane theory are used for analyzing the shell behavior. The design, with the objective of obtaining minimal deformation at minimal weight, subject to a set of failure constraints, is achieved by formulating and solving a compromise Decision Support Problem. Some designs of a fiber reinforced conical shell subjected to pressure load and temperature are presented.
Building an Expert System for Engineering Design Based on the Object-Oriented Knowledge Representation Concept
Authors: Akagi S. , Fujita K.
Published: April 2021

An expert system is developed for engineering design based on object-oriented knowledge representation concept. The design process is understood as determining design variables and their relationships which compose design model. The design model is represented as a network in the computer system using the object-oriented knowledge representation. The system built with the above concept provides the following abilities: 1) flexible model building and easy modification, 2) effective diagnosis of the design process, 3) supporting method for redesign, 4) a hybrid function with numerical computations and graphics, and 5) applicability for various design problems. Finally, it is applied to the basic design of a ship.
Composite Drive Shaft Coupling for Future Rotorcraft: A 3D Finite-Element Analysis
Authors: Margasahayam R. N. , Faust H. S.
Published: April 2021

A finite-element stress analysis of a one-piece, integrated, all-composite shaft and coupling is presented. In addition to a brief discussion of design-driving parameters, some limitations of the analytical techniques used for design development are described. The 3D finite-element method (FEM) was then used to evaluate critical stresses and strains experienced by the shaft coupling. A comparison of the results from the finite-element analysis and those from static bending, axial, and torsional tests conducted on these prototype shafts yielded excellent correlation. Some important considerations in the development of the FE model and the correlation of results with tests, especially in the design of composite materials, are addressed.
A New Synthesis Method for Cam-Follower Systems Using Finite Series
Authors: Berzak N.
Published: April 2021

A general method for design cam-follower systems with desired kinematic and dynamic properties is presented. In this method, an output motion is defined as a sum of two series and satisfies prescribed terminal conditions as well as constraints directly related to the characteristics of the system. Approximation of such characteristics was based on certain properties of the series. The method is suitable for polynomials as well as finite trigonometric series or a combination of both. The application of this method is demonstrated for output motion expressed by polynomials.
Fuzzy Set Based Models in Design Optimization
Authors: Diaz A. R.
Published: April 2021

A formulation for multiobjective optimization for engineering design based on fuzzy sets is presented. Models for the optimization problem and operations to introduce model variations are described formally. Under a reasonable set of rules it is shown that solutions to fuzzy multiobjective problems are weakly efficient and can reproduce solutions obtained by traditional methods such as compromise and goal programming. Results are easily implemented in computations.
After revival, Iran's great salt lake faces peril
Authors: Stone Richard
Published: April 2021

Upcoming presidential election could stall efforts to restore Lake Urmia.
Gravity powers batteries for renewable energy
Authors: O'Grady Cathleen
Published: April 2021

With winches, weights, and disused mine shafts, company looks to beat chemical batteries.
Atomic-scale ion transistor with ultrahigh diffusivity
Authors: Xue Yahui , Xia Yang , Yang Sui , Alsaid Yousif , Fong King Yan , Wang Yuan , Zhang Xiang
Published: April 2021

Gated ion flow in graphene oxide membranes

Cells are adept at fast, gated ion flow through tailored channels, which is key to many biological processes. Xue
et al.
developed ion transistors from reduced graphene oxide membranes and observed a field-enhanced diffusivity of the ions (see the Perspective by Hinds). By applying electrical gating, the average surface potential on the graphene layer could be controlled, thus altering the energy barrier for ion intercalation into the channel and leading to very high diffusion rates. The authors observed selective ion transport two orders of magnitude faster than the ion diffusion in bulk water.

Science
, this issue p.
501
; see also p.
459
Pattern of upper limb amputation associated with lower limb amputation: the UK military experience from Iraq and Afghanistan
Authors: McMenemy Louise , Mondini V , Roberts D C , Kedgley A , Clasper J C , Stapley S A
Published: April 2021

Introduction

The conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan resulted in large numbers of personnel sustaining extremity injuries. In the context of polytrauma, partial hand amputation is often unrecorded. The aim of this work was to quantify the burden of upper limb (UL) amputation at any level occurring concurrently with a major (ankle and proximal) lower limb (LL) amputation. Knowledge of this cohort could aid in prosthetic modification to further improve quality of life outcomes in a population with dexterity loss.

Method

A trauma database search was undertaken for all UK military LL amputees from the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. A manual search method was employed to identify from the major LL amputees those who had a concurrent UL amputation at any level (including isolated finger amputation). Demographics, level of amputation, and injury profile data were recorded.

Results

Sixty-eight individuals were identified; the most prevalent population was bilateral LL with a unilateral UL amputation (60%). Most UL amputations were partial hand (75%). The was no statistically significant difference between left or right side (p=0.13). On the left side, correlation was found between amputation of the thumb and third digit (rho=0.34; p=0.005) not seen on the right.

Conclusion

We have determined the rate of UL amputation at any level, in combination with LL amputation as a result of blast injury. Knowledge of these combinations enables further research to support anecdotal evidence that there is a need for tailored prosthetics in the context of potential dexterity loss making donning and doffing problematic.
Nature and type of patient-reported safety incidents in primary care: cross-sectional survey of patients from Australia and England
Authors: Hernan Andrea L , Giles Sally J , Carson-Stevens Andrew , Morgan Mark , Lewis Penny , Hind James , Versace Vincent
Published: April 2021

Background

Patient engagement in safety has shown positive effects in preventing or reducing adverse events and potential safety risks. Capturing and utilising patient-reported safety incident data can be used for service learning and improvement.

Objective

The aim of this study was to characterise the nature of patient-reported safety incidents in primary care.

Design

Secondary analysis of two cross sectional studies.

Participants

Adult patients from Australian and English primary care settings.

Measures

Patients’ self-reported experiences of safety incidents were captured using the validated Primary Care Patient Measure of Safety questionnaire. Qualitative responses to survey items were analysed and categorised using the Primary Care Patient Safety Classification System. The frequency and type of safety incidents, contributory factors, and patient and system level outcomes are presented.

Results

A total of 1329 patients (n=490, England; n=839, Australia) completed the questionnaire. Overall, 5.3% (n=69) of patients reported a safety incident over the preceding 12 months. The most common incident types were administration incidents (n=27, 31%) (mainly delays in accessing a physician) and incidents involving diagnosis and assessment (n=16, 18.4%). Organisation of care accounted for 27.6% (n=29) of the contributory factors identified in the safety incidents. Staff factors (n=13, 12.4%) was the second most commonly reported contributory factor. Where an outcome could be determined, patient inconvenience (n=24, 28.6%) and clinical harm (n=21, 25%) (psychological distress and unpleasant experience) were the most frequent.

Conclusions

The nature and outcomes of patient-reported incidents differ markedly from those identified in studies of staff-reported incidents. The findings from this study emphasise the importance of capturing patient-reported safety incidents in the primary care setting. The patient perspective can complement existing sources of safety intelligence with the potential for service improvement.
Prospective pragmatic quasi-experimental study to assess the impact and effectiveness of an innovative large-scale public health intervention to foster healthy ageing in place: the SoBeezy program protocol
Authors: Pérès Karine , Zamudio-Rodriguez Alfonso , Dartigues Jean-Francois , Amieva Hélène , Lafitte Stephane
Published: April 2021

Introduction

With the accelerating pace of ageing, healthy ageing has become a major challenge for all societies worldwide. Based on that Healthy Ageing concept proposed by the WHO, the SoBeezy intervention has been designed through an older person-centred and integrated approach. The programme creates the environments that maximise functional ability to enable people to be and do what they value and to stay at home in best possible conditions.

Methods and analysis

Five levers are targeted: tackling loneliness, restoring feeling of usefulness, finding solutions to face material daily life difficulties, promoting social participation and combating digital divide. Concretely, the SoBeezy programme relies on: (1) a digital intelligent platform available on smartphone, tablet and computer, but also on a voice assistant specifically developed for people with digital divide; (2) a large solidarity network which potentially relies on everyone’s engagement through a participatory intergenerational approach, where the older persons themselves are not only service receivers but also potential contributors; (3) an engagement of local partners and stakeholders (citizens, associations, artisans and professionals). Organised as a hub, the system connects all the resources of a territory and provides to the older person the best solution to meet his demand. Through a mixed, qualitative and quantitative (before/after analyses and compared to controls) approach, the research programme will assess the impact and effectiveness on healthy ageing, the technical usage, the mechanisms of the intervention and conditions of transferability and scalability.

Ethics and dissemination

Inserm Ethics Committee and the Comité Éthique et Scientifique pour les Recherches, les Études et les Évaluations dans le domaine de la Santé approved this research and collected data will be deposited with a suitable data archive.
Communication in decision aids for stage I–III colorectal cancer patients: a systematic review
Authors: Hommes Saar , Vromans Ruben , Clouth Felix , Verbeek Xander , de Hingh Ignace , Krahmer Emiel
Published: April 2021

Objectives

To assess the communicative quality of colorectal cancer patient decision aids (DAs) about treatment options, the current systematic review was conducted.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

DAs (published between 2006 and 2019) were identified through academic literature (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library and PsycINFO) and online sources.

Eligibility criteria

DAs were only included if they supported the decision-making process of patients with colon, rectal or colorectal cancer in stages I–III.

Data extraction and synthesis

After the search strategy was adapted from similar systematic reviews and checked by a colorectal cancer surgeon, two independent reviewers screened and selected the articles. After initial screening, disagreements were resolved with a third reviewer. The review was conducted in concordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. DAs were assessed using the International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) and Communicative Aspects (CA) checklist.

Results

In total, 18 DAs were selected. Both the IPDAS and CA checklist revealed that there was a lot of variation in the (communicative) quality of DAs. The findings highlight that (1) personalisation of treatment information in DAs is lacking, (2) outcome probability information is mostly communicated verbally and (3) information in DAs is generally biased towards a specific treatment. Additionally, (4) DAs about colorectal cancer are lengthy and (5) many DAs are not written in plain language.

Conclusions

Both instruments (IPDAS and CA) revealed great variation in the (communicative) quality of colorectal cancer DAs. Developers of patient DAs should focus on personalisation techniques and could use both the IPDAS and CA checklist in the developmental process to ensure personalised health communication and facilitate shared decision making in clinical practice.
Ergodic sampling of the topological charge using the density of states
Authors: Cossu Guido , Lancaster David , Lucini Biagio , Pellegrini Roberto , Rago Antonio
Published: April 2021

In lattice calculations, the approach to the continuum limit is hindered by the severe freezing of the topological charge, which prevents ergodic sampling in configuration space. In order to significantly reduce the autocorrelation time of the topological charge, we develop a density of states approach with a smooth constraint and use it to study SU(3) pure Yang Mills gauge theory near the continuum limit. Our algorithm relies on simulated tempering across a range of couplings, which guarantees the decorrelation of the topological charge and ergodic sampling of topological sectors. Particular emphasis is placed on testing the accuracy, efficiency and scaling properties of the method. In their most conservative interpretation, our results provide firm evidence of a sizeable reduction of the exponent z related to the growth of the autocorrelation time as a function of the inverse lattice spacing.
Measuring Intelligence in Natural and Artificial Systems
Authors: Gamez David
Published: April 2021

A systematic understanding of the relationship between intelligence and consciousness can only be achieved when we can accurately measure intelligence and consciousness. In other work, I have suggested how the measurement of consciousness can be improved by reframing the science of consciousness as a search for mathematical theories that map between physical and conscious states. This paper discusses the measurement of intelligence in natural and artificial systems. While reasonable methods exist for measuring intelligence in humans, these can only be partly generalized to non-human animals and they cannot be applied to artificial systems. Some universal measures of intelligence have been developed, but their dependence on goals and rewards creates serious problems. This paper sets out a new universal algorithm for measuring intelligence that is based on a system’s ability to make accurate predictions. This algorithm can measure intelligence in humans, non-human animals and artificial systems. Preliminary experiments have demonstrated that it can measure the changing intelligence of an agent in a maze environment. This new measure of intelligence could lead to a much better understanding of the relationship between intelligence and consciousness in natural and artificial systems, and it has many practical applications, particularly in AI safety.
Data-Driven Particle-Based Liquid Simulation with Deep Learning Utilizing Sub-Pixel Convolution
Authors: Tumanov Evgenii , Korobchenko Dmitry , Chentanez Nuttapong
Published: April 2021

In recent years, the performance of neural network inference has been drastically improved. This rapid change has paved the way for research projects focusing on accelerating physics-based simulations by replacing solver with its approximation. In this paper, we propose several efficient architectures of neural networks, which can be used to exploit this idea. The purpose of our research was to specifically target a liquid simulation problem. The central challenge for us was to create an efficient solution capable of approximating Position Based Fluid [Macklin and Müller 2013] solver. It requires the network to produce an accurate output at particles located in a continuous space and be significantly faster than the GPU based simulation. We achieved this by using modern sub-pixel convolution techniques originally used for image super-resolution. In our experiments, our method runs up to 200 times faster than the reference GPU simulation.
Efficient Algorithms for Rotation Averaging Problems
Authors: Dong Yihong , Xie Lunchen , Shi Qingjiang
Published: April 2021

The rotation averaging problem is a fundamental task in computer vision applications. It is generally very difficult to solve due to the nonconvex rotation constraints. While a sufficient optimality condition is available in the literature, there is a lack of a fast convergent algorithm to achieve stationary points. In this paper, by exploring the problem structure, we first propose a block coordinate descent (BCD)-based rotation averaging algorithm with guaranteed convergence to stationary points. Afterwards, we further propose an alternative rotation averaging algorithm by applying successive upper-bound minimization (SUM) method. The SUM-based rotation averaging algorithm can be implemented in parallel and thus is more suitable for addressing large-scale rotation averaging problems. Numerical examples verify that the proposed rotation averaging algorithms have superior convergence performance as compared to the state-of-the-art algorithm. Moreover, by checking the sufficient optimality condition, we find from extensive numerical experiments that the proposed two algorithms can achieve globally optimal solutions.
Blunted autonomic response to standing up and head-up tilt in individuals with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Hilgenkamp Thessa I. M. , Lefferts Elizabeth C. , White Daniel W. , Baynard Tracy , Fernhall Bo
Published: April 2021

Individuals with ID demonstrated altered hemodynamic and autonomic regulation to the clinical autonomic function tasks standing up and head-up tilt (active and passive orthostasis). Higher resting heart rate and higher MAP throughout the protocol suggest a higher arousal level, and individuals with ID showed a blunted response in parasympathetic modulation. Further research should investigate the relationship of these findings with clinical outcomes.
Acute preexercise supplementation of combined carnosine and anserine enhances initial maximal power of Wingate tests in humans
Authors: Blancquaert L. , Everaert I. , Baguet A. , Bex T. , Barbaresi S. , de Jager S. , Lievens E. , Stautemas J. , De Smet S. , Baron G. , Gilardoni E. , Regazzoni L. , Aldini G. , Derave W.
Published: April 2021

Current results reveal that carnosine and anserine competitively bind to the highly active carnosinase enzyme in human plasma. Acute combined carnosine and anserine supplementation is therefore described as novel strategy to raise plasma anserine and carnosine. We report that indices of maximal exercise/muscle power during the initial stage of a Wingate test were significantly improved by preexercise 20–25mg/kg body wt anserine and carnosine supplementation, pointing toward a novel acute nutritional strategy to improve high-intensity exercise performance.
[Retracted] Optimization of English Online Learning Dictionary System Based on Multiagent Architecture
Authors: Wang Ying
Published: April 2021

As a universal language in the world, English has become a necessary language communication tool under the globalization of trade. Intelligent, efficient, and reasonable English language‐assisted learning system helps to further improve the English ability of language learners. English online learning dictionary, as an important query tool for English learners, is an important part of English online learning. This paper will optimize the design of English online learning dictionary system based on multiagent architecture. Based on the hybrid multiagent cooperative algorithm, this paper will improve the disadvantages of the online English learning dictionary system and propose an appropriate dictionary application evaluation function. At the same time, an improved reinforcement learning algorithm is introduced into the corresponding English online learning dictionary navigation problem so as to improve the efficiency of the online English learning dictionary system. English online learning dictionary is more intelligent and efficient. In this paper, the new online learning dictionary system optimization algorithm is proposed and compared with the traditional system algorithm. The experimental results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper solves the collaborative confusion problem of English learning online dictionary to a certain extent and further solves the corresponding navigation problem so as to improve the efficiency.
Mediative Fuzzy Extension Technique and Its Consistent Measurement in the Decision Making of Medical Application
Authors: Sharma M. K. , Dhiman Nitesh , Mishra Lakshmi Narayan , Mishra Vishnu Narayan , Sahani Suresh Kumar
Published: April 2021

The notion of fuzzy set theory has not so far been districted over medical diagnosis. There are some added applications, for example, in image processing, pattern identification, and many medical devices. In this research article, we introduced a new mediative fuzzy ranking technique as the fuzzy extension in decision making. The proposed mediative fuzzy logic-based technique is more relevant and applicable to incomplete and doubtful situations or some contradictions present in the expert knowledge. The value of the contradictory degree for mediative fuzzy sets used in the extension principle is deﬁned. The proposed mediative fuzzy ranking method is easily implemented in the medical field, and the proposed mediative fuzzy extension-based measured technique is useful to medical experts and doctors in many decision-making situations; the entire work is illustrated with numerical examples. We have also given some future aspects of mediative fuzzy extension in the interpretation of type-2 intuitionistic fuzzy sets.
Linkage of Depression with Elder Abuse among Institutionalized Older Persons in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
Authors: Dahal Maginsh , Dhakal Smriti , Khanal Sudip , Baral Kushalata , Mahaseth Saroj
Published: April 2021

Background. To identify the association between elderly abuse and depression among elderly living in old age homes of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. Materials and Methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out in 5 old age homes of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal. The Geriatric Mistreatment Scale and the Geriatric Depression Scale were used to collect information from 220 elderly aged 65 or above, and face-to-face interviews were conducted. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify the association between elderly abuse and geriatric depression. Results. Among the different types of abuse analyzed, the multivariate analysis showed that neglect (

AOR
=
2.995

; CI: 1.249-7.181) and economical abuse (

AOR
=
4.728

, CI: 1.836-12.173) were significantly associated with increased risk of geriatric depression. Furthermore, the study identified that future saving and absence of chronic disease significantly reduced the risk of psychological abuse, neglect, and geriatric depression. Conclusions. Neglect and economical abuse are a predictor of geriatric depression. Efforts should be directed to increase awareness about the different forms of abuse among the primary caregivers of the elderly. Counseling services and support programs should be introduced in old age homes to address the high burden of geriatric depression.
Research on Multiobjective Optimization of Bulb Tubular Turbine Based on Orthogonal Test
Authors: Sun Jie , Zhou Ye , Ge Xinfeng , Cai Jianguo , Han Yang , Zhang Hui , Wang Jinliang , Zhang Lei , Chen Dong , Hua Hongchang , Li Li , Zheng Yuan
Published: April 2021

The bulb tubular unit has advantages over other units in the low head, large discharge, and tidal energy. The development and utilization of low head and ultralow head hydraulic resources can increase the runner’s energy parameters, make up for the defects of large size and low speed of the unit, and reduce the construction investment. The bulb tubular turbine’s operation stability and structural strength are compared and analyzed by the orthogonal test method to improve the perfomance of bulb tubular turbine. The results show that the optimal design scheme can be obtained when the number of guide vane is 16, the distance between the guide vane and the blade is 1995 mm, the hub ratio is 0.31, the relative twist angle of the blade is 27°, and the cascade density is 0.72. After optimization, the bulb tubular turbine’s efficiency and output are increased by 5.72% and 2.86% at a low flow rate, respectively. The vortex at the tailpipe is reduced, and the blade work effect and the cavitation performance are well. The maximum pressure pulsation amplitude in the flow passage is reduced by 73.15%, the maximum blade deformation is reduced by 39.59%, and the maximum blade static stress is reduced by 13.16%. Finally, the reliability of numerical simulation results is verified by the model test.
Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) on Clozapine with a Potential Atypical Interaction with Paliperidone
Authors: Agarwal Paras , Omoruyi Adanegbe , Perai Kiara Gascon , MacDaid Kerenza , Burton Andrea
Published: April 2021

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS) associated with the use of first-generation antipsychotics is a widely known phenomenon. This idiosyncratic reaction is less significant with the use of second-generation antipsychotics, and only a few cases in the literature exist, describing this reaction with clozapine use. While being titrated on clozapine, the patient developed major and minor criteria features of NMS as per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth edition (DSM-5) criteria except for fever, a core symptom which created diagnostic uncertainty. Initially, clozapine was temporarily discontinued due to his deteriorating mental and physical state. A rechallenge was considered at a much lower dose, but due to a rapid increase in his creatinine kinase (CK) levels within a 12-hour timeframe, clozapine was permanently stopped. The evidence further suggests that the presentation of NMS for patients on this medication may be different to the classical presentation, and other criteria for diagnosis are suggested, which may lower the threshold for investigating NMS for patients on clozapine.
Human Motion Capture Based on Incremental Dimension Reduction and Projection Position Optimization
Authors: Li Wanyi , Zeng Yuqi , Zhang Qian , Wu Yilin , Chen Guoming
Published: April 2021

Three‐dimensional (3D) human motion capture is a hot researching topic at present. The network becomes advanced nowadays, the appearance of 3D human motion is indispensable in the multimedia works, such as image, video, and game. 3D human motion plays an important role in the publication and expression of all kinds of medium. How to capture the 3D human motion is the key technology of multimedia product. Therefore, a new algorithm called incremental dimension reduction and projection position optimization (IDRPPO) is proposed in this paper. This algorithm can help to learn sparse 3D human motion samples and generate the new ones. Thus, it can provide the technique for making 3D character animation. By taking advantage of the Gaussian incremental dimension reduction model (GIDRM) and projection position optimization, the proposed algorithm can learn the existing samples and establish the relevant mapping between the low dimensional (LD) data and the high dimensional (HD) data. Finally, the missing frames of input 3D human motion and the other type of 3D human motion can be generated by the IDRPPO.
An Improved Nonequidistant Grey Model Based on Simpson Formula and Its Application
Authors: Hu Zhiming , Liu Chong
Published: April 2021

Grey prediction models have been widely used in various fields of society due to their high prediction accuracy; accordingly, there exists a vast majority of grey models for equidistant sequences; however, limited research is focusing on nonequidistant sequence. The development of nonequidistant grey prediction models is very slow due to their complex modeling mechanism. In order to further expand the grey system theory, a new nonequidistant grey prediction model is established in this paper. To further improve the prediction accuracy of the NEGM (1, 1, t2) model, the background values of the improved nonequidistant grey model are optimized based on Simpson formula, which is abbreviated as INEGM (1, 1, t2). Meanwhile, to verify the validity of the proposed model, this model is applied in two real‐world cases in comparison with three other benchmark models, and the modeling results are evaluated through several commonly used indicators. The results of two cases show that the INEGM (1, 1, t2) model has the best prediction performance among these competitive models.
On Blockchain and IoT Integration Platforms: Current Implementation Challenges and Future Perspectives
Authors: Nartey Clement , Tchao Eric Tutu , Gadze James Dzisi , Keelson Eliel , Klogo Griffith Selorm , Kommey Benjamin , Diawuo Kwasi
Published: April 2021

Digitization and automation have engulfed every scope and sphere of life. Internet of Things (IoT) has been the main enabler of the revolution. There still exist challenges in IoT that need to be addressed such as the limited address space for the increasing number of devices when using IPv4 and IPv6 as well as key security issues such as vulnerable access control mechanisms. Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that has immense benefits such as enhanced security and traceability. Thus, blockchain can serve as a good foundation for applications based on transaction and interactions. IoT implementations and applications are by definition distributed. This means blockchain can help to solve most of the security vulnerabilities and traceability concerns of IoTs by using blockchain as a ledger that can keep track of how devices interact, in which state they are and how they transact with other IoT devices. IoT applications have been mainly implemented with technologies such as cloud and fog computing, and AI to help address some of its key challenges. The key implementation challenges and technical choices to consider in making a successful blockchain IoT (BIoT) project are clearly outlined in this paper. The security and privacy aspect of BIoT applications are also analyzed, and several relevant solutions to improve the scalability and throughput of such applications are proposed. The paper also reviews integration schemes and monitoring frameworks for BIoT applications. A hybrid blockchain IoT integration architecture that makes use of containerization is proposed.
Antibacterial Activity of Rosmarinus officinalis against Multidrug-Resistant Clinical Isolates and Meat-Borne Pathogens
Authors: Manilal Aseer , Sabu Kuzhunellil Raghavanpillai , Woldemariam Melat , Aklilu Addis , Biresaw Gelila , Yohanes Tsegaye , Seid Mohammed , Merdekios Behailu
Published: April 2021

Background. In developing countries, the prevalence of bacterial infections is quite rampant due to several factors such as the HIV/AIDS pandemic, lack of hygiene, overcrowding, and resistance to conventional antimicrobials. Hence the use of plant-based antimicrobial agents could provide a low-cost alternative therapy. Rosmarinus officinalis is reputed as a medicinal plant in Ethiopia; however, its antibacterial activity against many of the clinical isolates remains overlooked. Methods. Tender foliage of R. officinalis was collected and extracted in ethanol (EtOH) and evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against ten multidrug-resistant (MDR) clinical isolates, human type culture pathogens, and meat-borne bacterial isolates by employing agar well diffusion assay. Results. EtOH extract of R. officinalis efficiently subdued the growth of all tested MDR clinical isolates in varying degrees. Salmonella sp. and Staphylococcus aureus were found to be the most sensitive clinical isolates. Likewise, it efficiently repressed the growth of meat-borne pathogens, particularly, S. aureus and Salmonella sp. showing its potentiality to be used as a natural antibacterial agent in the meat processing industry. The mechanism of antibiosis of plant extract against meat-borne pathogens is inferred to be bactericidal. Chemical constituents of the crude plant extract were analysed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS), Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR), and UV-visible spectroscopy showing genkwanin (26%), camphor (13%), endo-borneol (13%), alpha-terpineol (12%), and hydroxyhydrocaffeic acid (13%) as the major compounds. Conclusion. Overall results of the present study conclude that R. officinalis could be an excellent source of antimicrobial agents for the management of drug-resistant bacteria as well as meat-borne pathogens.
Internet of Things (IoT)-Enabled Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for the Inspection of Construction Sites: A Vision and Future Directions
Authors: Israr Ambar , Abro Ghulam E. Mustafa , Sadiq Ali Khan M. , Farhan Muhammad , Bin Mohd Zulkifli Saif ul Azrin
Published: April 2021

Today people are witnessing the rapid evolvement in every area. This is because of the emerging trends in communication technology and autonomous unmanned vehicles. These trends have led us towards the high standards of health, energy, transportation, monitoring, and surveillance of huge domestic and industrial projects. Thus, this review paper presents the integration of the latest trend in communication technology, i.e., Internet of things (IoT) with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This manuscript not only reviews the use of IoT-enabled unmanned aerial vehicles for inspecting the several construction sites but also emphasizes the utilization of such IoT-enabled autonomous aerial vehicles for ensuring the health and safety measures at the site. It discusses the major limitations and shortcomings of state-of-the-art techniques for the same purpose, i.e., optimization issues in path planning, lightweight artificial intelligence (AI) and computer vision algorithms, coordination in communication using IoT, and scalability of IoT network. Thus, this paper shall help the reader to explore different open research problems in-depth.
Network Pharmacology Reveals Polyphyllin II as One Hit of Nano Chinese Medicine Monomers against Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Meng-Zhe , Zhang Bei-Bei , Huang Jian-Chun , Bai Xian-Yu , Liang Zhen-Qiang , Yi Xiang , Xu Ning , Huang Yuan-Jiao , Jiao Ai-Jun
Published: April 2021

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a malignant tumor in southern China, and nano Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) represents great potential to cancer therapy. To predict the potential targets and mechanism of polyphyllin II against NPC and explore its possibility for the future nano-pharmaceutics of Chinese medicine monomers, network pharmacology was included in the present study. Totally, ninety-four common potential targets for NPC and polyphyllin II were discovered. Gene Ontology (GO) function enrichment analysis showed that biological processes and functions mainly concentrated on apoptotic process, protein phosphorylation, cytosol, protein binding, and ATP binding. In addition, the anti-NPC effects of polyphyllin II mainly involved in the pathways related to cancer, especially in the PI3K-Akt signaling indicated by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. The “drug-target-disease” network diagram indicated that the key genes were SRC, MAPK1, MAPK14, and AKT1. Taken together, this study revealed the potential drug targets and underlying mechanisms of polyphyllin II against NPC through modern network pharmacology, which provided a certain theoretical basis for the future nano TCM research.
Computer Vision-Based Wildfire Smoke Detection Using UAVs
Authors: Rahman Ehab Ur , Khan Muhammad Asghar , Algarni Fahad , Zhang Yihong , Irfan Uddin M. , Ullah Insaf , Ahmad Hafiz Ishfaq
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a new methodology based on texture and color for the detection and monitoring of different sources of forest fire smoke using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). A novel dataset has been gathered comprised of thin smoke and dense smoke generated from the dry leaves on the floor of the forest, which is a source of igniting forest fires. A classification task has been done by training a feature extractor to check the feasibility of the proposed dataset. A meta-architecture is trained above the feature extractor to check the dataset viability for smoke detection and tracking. Results have been obtained by implementing the proposed methodology on forest fire smoke images, smoke videos taken on a stand by the camera, and real-time UAV footages. A microaverage F1-score of 0.865 has been achieved with different test videos. An F1-score of 0.870 has been achieved on real UAV footage of wildfire smoke. The structural similarity index has been used to show some of the difficulties encountered in smoke detection, along with examples.
Multifocal Colonic Ulcerations: An Unusual Presentation of Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT) Lymphoma
Authors: Macedo Silva Vítor , Freitas Marta , Boal Carvalho Pedro , Dias de Castro Francisca , Cotter José
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma is relatively uncommon and accounts for only 5% of all non-Hodgkin lymphomas. The most common site of extranodal involvement is the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, with most cases affecting the stomach (up to 75% of all GI MALT lymphomas). Colonic disease occurs in only 2.5% of cases, most commonly manifesting as a single polypoid lesion on endoscopic evaluation. Case Presentation: We present the case of a 61-year-old woman whose colonoscopy (after a positive fecal occult blood test as part of colorectal cancer screening) revealed superficially ulcerated pseudo-polypoid lesions in the ascending proximal colon and hepatic flexure; microscopical and immunohistochemical analysis of the tissue sample was compatible with MALT lymphoma. Staging computed tomography showed concomitant nodular pulmonary lesions, the largest being located in the superior left lobe and 34 mm in size. Due to the disseminated state of the disease, systemic treatment with bendamustine and rituximab was initiated. Up to the time of submitting this paper, the patient was still asymptomatic and under chemotherapy treatment. Conclusion: With this case report, we aim to demonstrate the diversity of presentation of MALT lymphoma as well as its less typical locations; gastroenterologists should have an awareness of these and a low suspicion threshold.
Pediatric Acute Liver Failure in Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Rodrigues Luís , Almeida Sofia , Salgado Catarina , Gonçalves Cristina
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Sickle cell intrahepatic cholestasis (SCIC) is one of the rarest and the most severe acute hepatic manifestations of sickle cell disease (SCD) and it can rapidly progress to acute liver failure. It is associated with a high mortality rate, demanding prompt recognition and management. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 7-year-old boy with a history of homozygous HbS SCD who presented to the emergency department with fever, increasing abdominal pain, and jaundice. His course was complicated by acute liver injury (AST 9,472 IU/L, ALT 2,683 IU/L, total bilirubin 15.4 mg/dL; conjugated bilirubin 8.69 mg/dL, hypoalbuminemia 2.6 g/dL, and persistent hypoglycemia), with acute liver failure (coagulopathy not corrected by vitamin K administration with INR 3.26, decreased factors V 10% and VII 28%, and West Haven grade I hepatic encephalopathy associated with mild hyperammonemia of 71 µmol/L). After excluding other causes of acute liver failure, the patient was diagnosed as having SCIC and was successfully treated with manual exchange transfusion. Conclusion: This case reinforces that exchange transfusion is an effective treatment for SCIC and that it should be introduced promptly to prevent fulminant and potentially fatal liver failure.
Tackling Dialysis Burden around the World: A Global Challenge
Authors: Li Philip Kam-Tao , Chan Gordon Chun-Kau , Chen Jianghua , Chen Hung-Chun , Cheng Yuk-Lun , Fan Stanley L.-S. , He John Cijiang , Hu Weixin , Lim Wai-Hon , Pei York , Teo Boon Wee , Zhang Ping , Yu Xueqing , Liu Zhi-Hong
Published: April 2021

CKD is a global problem that causes significant burden to the healthcare system and the economy in addition to its impact on morbidity and mortality of patients. Around the world, in both developing and developed economies, the nephrologists and governments face the challenges of the need to provide a quality and cost-effective kidney replacement therapy for CKD patients when their kidneys fail. In December 2019, the 3rd International Congress of Chinese Nephrologists was held in Nanjing, China, and in the meeting, a symposium and roundtable discussion on how to deal with this CKD burden was held with opinion leaders from countries and regions around the world, including Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, the UK, and the USA. The participants concluded that an integrated approach with early detection of CKD, prompt treatment to slow down progression, promotion of home-based dialysis therapy like peritoneal dialysis and home HD, together with promotion of kidney transplantation, are possible effective ways to combat this ongoing worldwide challenge.
Adaptive backstepping control of induction motor powered by photovoltaic generator
Authors: Madark M. , Ba-razzouk A. , Abdelmounim E. , El Malah M.
Published: April 2021

This paper is aimed at addressing the design of an effective adaptive nonlinear control of a photovoltaic (PV) water pumping system powering a submersible induction motor and a centrifugal water pump. Four objectives are achieved using an adaptive Backstepping controller. First, it is applied to ensure maximum power point tracking, and uses the latter as a reference in regulation of the rotor speed to convert the maximum electrical power into maximum mechanical power. Second, the adaptive controller is synthesized to control motor rotor flux and restrict the magnetic circuit to its linear interval. Third, it is used to online estimate the rotor time-constant and the load torque disturbance estimation. Finally, this controller is employed to limit the stator currents to protect induction motor windings. Mathematical modelling of the main elements of the system is presented. A sliding mode rotor flux estimator is employed in the output feedback control of the whole system. DC-AC converter is controlled by pulse width modulation. The feasibility, the robustness and the effectiveness of the proposed adaptive nonlinear controller are evaluated through simulations in MATLAB/Simulink environment.
Nonlinear control strategy of single-phase unified power flow controller
Authors: Abouelmahjoub Younes , Moutchou Mohamed
Published: April 2021

In this work we propose a nonlinear control strategy of single-phase unified power flow controller (UPFC), using in order to enhance energy quality parameters of a perturbed single-phase power grid supplying nonlinear loads. The control objectives are: i) The current harmonics and the reactive power compensation, that ensure a satisfactory power factor correction (PFC) at the point of common coupling (PCC); ii) compensation of the voltage perturbations (harmonics and sags of voltage) in order to ensure the desired level, of load voltage, without distortion; iii) DC bus voltage regulation. The considered control problem entails several difficulties including the high system dimension and the strong system nonlinearity. The problem is dealt with by designing a nonlinear controller with structure including three control loops. The inner-loop regulator is designed using the Lyapunov technique to compensate the current harmonics and reactive power. The intermediary-loop regulator is designed using the Backstepping technique to compensate the voltage perturbations. The outer-loop regulator is designed using a linear PI to regulate the DC bus voltage. The control stability is proved theoretically and through simulations, these latter show the effectiveness and strong robustness of the proposed control, and prove that the above-mentioned objectives are achieved.