bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ply-Blocking Phenomenon and Hole Size Effects in Modeling Progressive Damage in Fiber-Reinforced Plastics Laminates
Authors: Divse Vishwas , Joshi Suhas S. , Marla Deepak
Published: August 2023

This work presents a 3D progressive damage model based on Puck’s failure theory and linear damage evolution in fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) laminates. It includes shear nonlinearity, in situ strengths, equivalent stress–strain, and mixed-mode fracture energy, and is implemented in abaqus/explicitTM through VUMAT subroutine. Various test cases were performed to validate the model and demonstrate its applications. The shear nonlinearity test shows that transverse compression retards matrix microcracking while transverse tension accelerates it. The open hole tension (OHT) test of laminates shows that delamination initiates around the holes and free edges, spreads the most, and propagates in different directions at different interfaces. Later, interfiber damage in 45 deg or −45 deg plies initiates and spreads at a slight inclination to the tip of the hole. Finally, fiber damage in 0 deg plies initiates at the tip of the hole, spreads the least, and propagates perpendicular to the loading direction. The ply-blocked laminates show around 30% higher strength and fracture strain than non-ply-blocked laminate due to delay in damage propagation, and are less sensitive to the hole size. Accordingly, their OHT strength reduces by 14.3% as opposed to 21.14% in the non-ply-blocked laminates, when the hole size increases from 6 to 9 mm. The damage location, magnitude, and propagation were corroborated with experimental findings in the literature.
A spatiotemporal Notch interaction map from plasma membrane to nucleus
Authors: Martin Alexandre P. , Bradshaw Gary A. , Eisert Robyn J. , Egan Emily D. , Tveriakhina Lena , Rogers Julia M. , Dates Andrew N. , Scanavachi Gustavo , Aster Jon C. , Kirchhausen Tom , Kalocsay Marian , Blacklow Stephen C.
Published: August 2023

Notch signaling relies on ligand-induced proteolysis of the transmembrane receptor Notch to liberate a nuclear effector that drives cell fate decisions. Upon ligand binding, sequential cleavage of Notch by the transmembrane protease ADAM10 and the intracellular protease γ-secretase releases the Notch intracellular domain (NICD), which translocates to the nucleus and forms a complex that induces target gene transcription. To map the location and timing of the individual steps required for the proteolysis and movement of Notch from the plasma membrane to the nucleus, we used proximity labeling with quantitative, multiplexed mass spectrometry to monitor the interaction partners of endogenous NOTCH2 after ligand stimulation in the presence of a γ-secretase inhibitor and as a function of time after inhibitor removal. Our studies showed that γ-secretase–mediated cleavage of NOTCH2 occurred in an intracellular compartment and that formation of nuclear complexes and recruitment of chromatin-modifying enzymes occurred within 45 min of inhibitor washout. These findings provide a detailed spatiotemporal map tracking the path of Notch from the plasma membrane to the nucleus and identify signaling events that are potential targets for modulating Notch activity.
Genome sequence of an indole-3-acetic acid and siderophores producing
Pseudomonas monsensis
SARCC-3054 with the potential as a microbial inoculant for enhanced crop production
Authors: Hassen Ahmed Idris , Khambani Langutani Sanger , Pierneef Rian
Published: August 2023

The genome of
Pseudomonas monsensis
strain SARCC-3054 was sequenced after being confirmed as a potential plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in both
in vitro
and
in vivo
assays. The 6.3 MB genome has a GC content of 60.2% and is divided into 59 contigs that contain several plant beneficial genes and proteins.
Carbon dioxide flushing versus saline flushing of thoracic aortic stents (INTERCEPTevar): protocol for a multicentre pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Crockett Stephen , Hanna Lydia , Singh Abhinav , Gunning Stephen , Nicholas Richard , Bicknell Colin , Hamady Mohamad , Gable Dennis , Sallam Morad , Modarai Bijan , Abisi Said , Lyons Oliver , Gibbs Richard
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) carries a 3%–6.1% stroke risk, including risk of ‘silent’ cerebral infarction (SCI). Stent-grafts are manufactured in room air and retain air. Instructions for use recommend saline flushing to ‘de-air’ the system prior to insertion, but substantial amounts of air are released when deploying them, potentially leading to downstream neuronal injury and SCI. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is more dense and more soluble in blood than air, without risk of bubble formation, so could be used in addition to saline to de-air stents. This pilot trial aims to assess the feasibility of a full-scale randomised controlled trial (RCT) investigating the neuroprotective benefit against SCI with the use of CO2-flushed aortic stent-grafts.

Methods and analysis

This is a multicentre pilot RCT, which is taking place in vascular centres in the UK, USA and New Zealand. Patients identified for TEVAR will be enrolled after informed written consent. 120 participants will be randomised (1:1) to TEVAR-CO2or TEVAR-saline, stratified according to TEVAR landing zone. Participants will undergo preoperative neurocognitive tests and quality of life assessments, which will be repeated at 6 weeks, or first outpatient appointment, and 6 months. Inpatient neurological testing will be performed within 48 hours of return to level 1 care for clinical stroke or delirium. Diffusion-weighted MRI will be undertaken within 72 hours postoperatively (1–7 days) and at 6 months to look for evidence and persistence of SCI. Feasibility will be assessed via measures of recruitment and retention, informing the design of a full-scale trial.

Ethics and dissemination

The study coordination centre has obtained approval from the London Fulham Research Ethics Committee (19/LO/0836) and Southern Health and Disability Ethics Committee (NZ) and UK’s Health Regulator Authority (HRA). The study has received ethical approval for recruitment in the UK (Fulham REC, 19/LO/0836), New Zealand (21/STH/192) and the USA (IRB 019-264, Ref 378630). Consent for entering into the study will be taken using standardised consent forms by the local study team, led by a local PI. The results of the trial will be submitted for publication in an open access journal.

Trial registration number

NCT03886675
Efficacy of coenzyme Q10 supplementation for male infertility with high
sperm DNA fragmentation index: a protocol for a systematic review and
meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Yu , Zhao Xiaoli , Zhang Guangyin , Ma Ruihong , Geng Qiang , Ouyang Bin , Xia Tian
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Infertility is a focal issue in public health and affects human
reproduction and survival. Notably, an increasing number of studies in
recent decades have found that sperm DNA integrity plays a critical role
in the development of healthy embryos. Among the multiple pathogenic
factors of sperm DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress has proven to be
predominant. Coenzyme Q10 supplementation, which has been used for the
treatment of male infertility, has shown good clinical efficacy due to
its oxidation resistance, but its efficacy as measured by the sperm DNA
fragmentation index remains controversial. To address this issue, we
will perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the
efficacy of coenzyme Q10 for male infertility patients with a high sperm
DNA fragmentation index.

Methods and analysis

The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Studies and Web of
Science databases will be comprehensively searched from inception to 31
December 2022 to identify relevant studies published in the English
language using appropriate search strategies. The search terms will be
derived from the following concepts: sperm DNA fragmentation, coenzyme
Q10 and randomised controlled trials. Two review stages, that is, title
and abstract screening and full-text screening, will be performed by two
reviewers. The risk of bias, publication bias and evidence grade of the
included studies will be assessed using a standardised protocol. Data
will be used to calculate effect sizes. Heterogeneity among the studies
will be evaluated graphically. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity
analysis will be performed if necessary to validate the
results.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval will be needed, as there will be no participants
in this study. We will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for
Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to disseminate the
findings through publication and conference presentation.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022293340.
Analysis of the key themes in the healthcare of older people with multimorbidity in Germany: a framework analysis as part of the LoChro trial
Authors: Salm Claudia , Mentzel Anja , Sofroniou Mario , Metzner Gloria , Farin Erik , Voigt-Radloff Sebastian , Maun Andy
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Multimorbidity challenges healthcare systems. In Germany, coordination of healthcare for older multimorbid patients remains unstructured.

This study aims to identify key themes in the healthcare of these patients and the inter-relationships between them.

Design

Framework analysis of six cases based on 1-year data of primary and secondary care, patient-answered questionnaires and video material.

Setting

Southern Germany.

Participants

Six multimorbid older patients participating in a randomised controlled trial that compared usual care with a local, collaborative, stepped and personalised care management approach for older people with chronic diseases (LoChro-trial). The LoChro care intervention involved a care manager who assisted participants in self-management. The primary outcome was a composite of functional health and depressive symptoms at 12 and 18 months. The LoChro-intervention had no effect on the primary outcome.

Primary outcome measure

Key themes in the healthcare of older patients with multimorbidity and the inter-relationships between them.

Methods

One-year data included diagnoses, treatment plans, examinations, assessments and discharge reports. Patient perspectives were assessed using the Patient Assessment of Chronic Illness Care. In three cases, videos of the LoChro intervention showed patients describing their health needs. These data were evaluated by three doctors and public health researchers. Using framework analysis, recurring themes influencing the healthcare situation of multimorbid older patients and their inter-relationships were identified.

Results

Participants had an average age of 77, with 13 diagnoses, taking eight medications regularly. The five key themes describing the healthcare situation of these multimorbid patients were as follows:insufficient coordination,overuseandunderuse of medical care,doctorandpatient roles. Each theme covered three to four subcategories. The most significant inter-relationships between these themes were a lack of coordination leading to overuse and underuse of medical care. These were characterised by redundant inpatient stays, potential prescribing omissions and missed examinations. Deficiencies in vaccinations and secondary prevention were also demonstrated.

Conclusion

Coordination of care for multimorbid older patients in Germany is still deficient. Future healthcare arrangements should be explored with the participation of physicians and patients.

Trial registration number

LoChro trial: DRKS00013904.
Effects of intensive lipid lowering compared with moderate-intensity
lipid lowering on coronary atherosclerotic plaque phenotype and major
adverse cardiovascular events in adults with low to intermediate 10-year
ASCVD risk (ILLUMINATION study): protocol for a multicentre, open-label,
blinded-endpoint, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zheng Jianan , Hou Zhihui , Yuan Jinqing , Zhao Xueyan , Wang Yang , Li Jia , Zhang Wenjia , Dou Kefei , Lu Bin
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Current guidelines recommend moderate-intensity lipid lowering
(low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL-C of <2.6 mmol/L or 30%–49%
reduction from the baseline) for patients with intermediate 10-year
atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk. The effects of
intensive lipid lowering (LDL-C of <1.8 mmol/L) on coronary
atherosclerotic plaque phenotype and major adverse cardiovascular events
(MACE) in adults with both non-obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD)
and low to intermediate 10-year ASCVD risk remain uncertain.

Methods and analysis

Intensive Lipid-lowering for Plaque and Major Adverse Cardiovascular
Events in Low to Intermediate 10-year ASCVD Risk Population is a
multicentre, randomised, open-label, blinded endpoint clinical trial.
Inclusion criteria are as follows: (1) patients with the age of 40–75
years within 1 month of coronary CT angiography (CCTA) and coronary
artery calcium score (CACS) evaluation; (2) population with low to
intermediate 10-year ASCVD risk (<20%) and (3) patients with
non-obstructive CAD (stenosis <50%) using CCTA. 2900 patients will be
randomly assigned to the intensive lipid lowering (LDL-C of
<1.8 mmol/L or ≥50% reduction from the baseline) or the
moderate-intensity lipid lowering (LDL-C of<2.6 mmol/L or 30%–49%
reduction from the baseline) group in a 1:1 ratio. The primary endpoint
is MACE (composite of all-cause death, non-fatal MI, non-fatal stroke,
any revascularisation and hospitalisation for angina) within 3 years
after enrolment. The secondary endpoints are changes in coronary total
plaque volume (mm3), plaque burden (%), plaque
composition (mm3, %), high-risk plaque
characteristics detected using CCTA and CACS determined using
CT.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics committee approval for this study was obtained from the
review boards of Fuwai Hospital (No.2022-1787) and all other study
sites. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants.
The results of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals
and reported at international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05462262.
Feasibility of a peer-supported, WhatsApp-assisted, lifestyle modification intervention for weight reduction among adults in an urban slum of Karachi, Pakistan: a mixed-methods, single-group, pretest–post-test, quasi-experimental study
Authors: Naz Sabahat , Haider Kaniz Amna , Jaffar Ali , Khan Umber , Azam Iqbal , Siddiqui Amna Rehana , Iqbal Romaina
Published: August 2023

Objectives

This pilot study assessed whether a peer-supported, WhatsApp-assisted lifestyle modification intervention for weight reduction is feasible to execute a definitive trial.

Design

A mixed-methods, single group, pretest and post-test, quasi-experimental study.

Setting

Azam Basti, an urban slum in Karachi, Pakistan.

Participants

Fifty participants (males and females aged 20–60) with a body mass index of>23 kg/m2, along with their nominated peers from the same family.

Intervention

Using motivational interviewing techniques, a trained nutritionist delivered the lifestyle modification intervention to the participants and peers for 3 days after the baseline assessment and then once monthly for 1 year. The intervention was delivered in groups using WhatsApp voice calls. The education sessions mainly focused on dietary modifications, physical activity advice and peer-support assignments to achieve a 5% wt loss from the participant’s initial body weight.

Outcomes

The feasibility measures included screening, recruitment, retention and monthly interview response rates. At 1 year, in-depth interviews (IDIs) with participants and peers were conducted to explore the facilitators, barriers, acceptability and experiences of the intervention. Changes in weight, calorie intake/day and calorie expenditure/day were also assessed.

Results

The recruitment and retention rates were 32% (n=50/156) and 78% (n=39/50), respectively, while the response rate for monthly interviews ranged between 66% (n=33) and 94% (n=47). The mean weight loss at 1 year was 2.2 kg, and the reduction in mean calorie intake was 386 kcal/day. There were no changes in the mean calorie expenditure. During the IDIs, participants and peers reported intervention via WhatsApp and peer support as convenient, flexible and supportive.

Conclusions

The quantitative and qualitative findings of the current pilot study support the scale-up of this work with minor modifications to the screening method as well as close monitoring and motivational interviewing to improve adherence in terms of physical activity.

Trial registration number

NCT05928338.
$$K_0^*(1430)$$ twist-2 distribution amplitude and $$B_s,D_s \rightarrow K_0^*(1430)$$ transition form factors
Authors: Huang Dong , Zhong Tao , Fu Hai-Bing , Wu Zai-Hui , Wu Xing-Gang , Tong Hong
Published: July 2023

Based on the scenario that the $$K_0^*(1430)$$

K
0
∗

(
1430
)

is viewed as the ground state of $$s\bar{q}$$

s

q

¯

or $$q\bar{s}$$

q

s

¯

, we study the $$K_0^*(1430)$$

K
0
∗

(
1430
)

leading-twist distribution amplitude (DA) $$\phi _{2;K_0^*}(x,\mu )$$

ϕ

2
;

K
0
∗

(
x
,
μ
)

with the QCD sum rules in the framework of background field theory. A more reasonable sum rule formula for $$\xi $$
ξ
-moments $$\langle \xi ^n\rangle _{2;K_0^*}$$

⟨

ξ
n

⟩

2
;

K
0
∗

is suggested, which eliminates the influence brought by the fact that the sum rule of $$\langle \xi ^0_p\rangle _{3;K_0^*}$$

⟨

ξ
p
0

⟩

3
;

K
0
∗

cannot be normalized in whole Borel region. More accurate values of the first ten $$\xi $$
ξ
-moments, $$\langle \xi ^n\rangle _{2;K_0^*} (n = 1,2,\ldots ,10)$$

⟨

ξ
n

⟩

2
;

K
0
∗

(
n
=
1
,
2
,
…
,
10
)

, are evaluated. A new light-cone harmonic oscillator (LCHO) model for $$K_0^*(1430)$$

K
0
∗

(
1430
)

leading-twist DA is established for the first times. By fitting the resulted values of $$\langle \xi ^n\rangle _{2;K_0^*} (n = 1,2,\ldots ,10)$$

⟨

ξ
n

⟩

2
;

K
0
∗

(
n
=
1
,
2
,
…
,
10
)

via the least squares method, the behavior of $$K_0^*(1430)$$

K
0
∗

(
1430
)

leading-twist DA described with LCHO model is determined. Further, by adopting the light-cone QCD sum rules, we calculate the $$B_s,D_s \rightarrow K_0^*(1430)$$

B
s

,

D
s

→

K
0
∗

(
1430
)

transition form factors and branching fractions of the semileptonic decays $$B_s,D_s \rightarrow K_0^*(1430) \ell \nu _\ell $$

B
s

,

D
s

→

K
0
∗

(
1430
)

ℓ

ν
ℓ

. The corresponding numerical results can be used to extract the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix elements by combining the relative experimental data in the future.
Diagnosing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Using Machine Learning Methods on Serious Game-generated Data
Authors: Kouloumpris Eleftherios , Lazaridis Aristotelis , Fachantidis Anestis , Vlahavas Ioannis
Published: August 2023

Attention Deﬁcit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a frequent learning disorder affecting about 5%–8% of the student population globally. Currently, the traditional methods for ADHD diagnosis are not fully speciﬁed, due to difficulties in identifying the particular factors that cause this disorder. In this paper, we present a novel system for diagnosing ADHD, which does not need special equipment. Instead, it is based on the application of machine learning (ML), using data gathered from gameplay sessions of a serious game named “ADHD360”, developed for this purpose. Participants were recruited with particular criteria in order to generate data for the study. The beneﬁts of our approach include less subjectivity in the decision process, cost-efficiency and easier accessibility than the typical procedure. To this end, special data preprocessing steps and ML techniques were applied. Our models achieved up to 85.7% F1-score performance metric in predicting correctly a user’s label (ADHD or not) from his/her gameplay session in ADHD360. Our method also proved to be efficient using only a small amount of data for the training procedure. The results of our systems are very promising, indicating notable ability of the tool to distinguish players that probably suffer from ADHD than those who do not.
EVALUATION OF ENTEROCYTOZOON HEPATOPENAEI (EHP) IN FARMED PENAEUS VANNAMEI IN TAIWAN
Authors: Nguyen Dieu-An Le , Byadgi Omkar Vijay , Cheng Li-Wu , Pulpipat Theeraporn , Wang Pei-Chi , Chen Shih-Chu
Published: July 2023

Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) was first described in Thailand in 2009 and has since been identified as a significant threat to the shrimp aquaculture industry. Recently, intracellular microsporidia were identified as a causative agent of hepatopancreatic microsporidiosis (HPM). To date, HPM has been listed as an emerging threat to shrimp farming industries because of reduced shrimp growth and survival rates which are considered to be a wasting disease. This study investigated the outbreaks of HPM in farmed Penaeus vannamei in Taiwan. Sixty-five shrimp samples were collected from Taiwan. The proportion of HPM-positive cases was 48% (31/65). Additionally, the gross signs in infected shrimp were stunted growth, sloughed hepatopancreas (HP), and lethargy. The smear impression on the HP also revealed the existence of large EHP spores. Nested-PCR findings identified that 9 cases were confirmed to be positive for the EhSWP1 gene in the first step and 22 cases tested positive for the second step. Phylogenetic analysis of EHP from Taiwan showed 100% similarity to EHP from Thailand, India, and the United States. Histopathological analysis of the HP revealed haemocyte infiltration and the presence of EHP spores in the hepatopancreatic tubule epithelial cells. These results demonstrated that EHP is the main cause in shrimp farms in Taiwan.
How Viable are Energy Savings in Smart Homes? A Call to Embrace Rebound Effects in Sustainable HCI
Authors: Bremer Christina , Gujral Harshit , Lin Michelle , Hinkers Lily , Becker Christoph , Coroamă Vlad C.
Published: August 2023

As part of global climate action, digital technologies are seen as a key enabler of energy efficiency savings. A popular application domain for this work is smart homes. There is a risk, however, that these efficiency gains result inrebound effects, which reduce or even overcompensate the savings. Rebound effects are well-established in economics, but it is less clear whether they also inform smart energy research in other disciplines. In this paper, we ask: to what extent have rebound effects and their underlying mechanisms been considered in computing, HCI and smart home research? To answer this, we conducted a literature mapping drawing on four scientific databases and a SIGCHI corpus. Our results reveal limited consideration of rebound effects and significant opportunities for HCI to advance this topic. We conclude with a taxonomy of actions for HCI to address rebound effects and help determine the viability of energy efficiency projects.
Upcoming SIGWEB Supported Conferences
Authors: Roßner Daniel
Published: August 2023

The Special Interest Group on Hypertext and the Web, SIGWEB was created in 1989 to support the community participating in the annual ACM Hypertext Conference. In its fourth decade, SIGWEB continues its efforts to support a wide range of communities and eight annual conferences. SIGWEB supports several specialized conferences, short courses, and workshops of different sizes, as well as the annual Hypertext Conference. SIGWEB sponsored conferences focus on timely topics in applied and computational hypertext and Web disciplines and provide a place for members and the entire applied Hypermedia and Web community to exchange ideas and to meet with and expand their network of colleagues. In this article, we provide a brief overview of SIGWEB sponsored conferences, in addition to events that are in cooperation with SIGWEB.
When Biased Humans Meet Debiased AI: A Case Study in College Major Recommendation
Authors: Wang Clarice , Wang Kathryn , Bian Andrew Y. , Islam Rashidul , Keya Kamrun Naher , Foulds James , Pan Shimei
Published: August 2023

Currently, there is a surge of interest in
fair Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)
research which aims to mitigate discriminatory bias in AI algorithms, e.g., along lines of gender, age, and race. While most research in this domain focuses on developing fair AI algorithms, in this work, we examine the challenges which arise when humans and fair AI interact. Our results show that due to an apparent conflict between human preferences and fairness, a fair AI algorithm on its own may be insufficient to achieve its intended results in the real world. Using college major recommendation as a case study, we build a fair AI recommender by employing gender debiasing machine learning techniques. Our offline evaluation showed that the debiased recommender makes fairer career recommendations without sacrificing its accuracy in prediction. Nevertheless, an online user study of more than 200 college students revealed that participants on average prefer the original biased system over the debiased system. Specifically, we found that perceived gender disparity is a determining factor for the acceptance of a recommendation. In other words, we cannot fully address the gender bias issue in AI recommendations without addressing the gender bias in humans. We conducted a follow-up survey to gain additional insights into the effectiveness of various design options that can help participants to overcome their own biases. Our results suggest that making fair AI explainable is crucial for increasing its adoption in the real world.
New Design Potentials of Non-mimetic Sonification in Human–Robot Interaction
Authors: Naphausen Elias , Muxel Andreas , Willmann Jan
Published: August 2023

With the increasing use and complexity of robotic devices, the requirements for the design of human–robot interfaces are rapidly changing and call for new means of interaction and information transfer. On that scope, the discussed project—being developed by the Hybrid Things Lab at the University of Applied Sciences Augsburg and the Design Research Lab at Bauhaus-Universität Weimar—takes a first step in characterizing a novel field of research, exploring the design potentials of non-mimetic sonification in the context of human–robot interaction. Featuring an industrial seven-axis manipulator and collecting multiple information (for instance, the position of the end-effector, joint positions and forces) during manipulation, these datasets are being used for creating a novel augmented audible presence and thus allowing new forms of interaction. As such, this article considers

(1)

research parameters for non-mimetic sonification (such as pitch, volume, and timbre);

(2)

a comprehensive empirical pursuit, including setup, exploration, and validation;

(3)

the overall implications of integrating these findings into a unifying human–robot interaction process.

The relation between machinic and auditory dimensionality is of particular concern.
Behavior of Reinforced Composite Foamed-Normal Concrete Beams
Authors: Jaffal Angham Nassar , Hilal Ameer A. , Mahmoud Akram S.
Published: August 2023

A study has been undertaken to investigate the production and behavior of beams made with foamed, normal, and composite concrete and reinforced with different steel percentages (under, balanced, and over). Nine reinforcement beams, including three normal-weight concrete, three lightweight foamed concrete, and three composite concrete, were made with similar rectangular cross sections of dimensions (150 × 250 mm) and length of 1500 mm. A 28-day compressive strength of 29 MPa (suitable for structural purposes) was achieved for all investigated concrete mixes. Ultimate load, crack mode, ductility, deflection, and stiffness as flexural parameters were investigated. The results showed that in terms of loading, the load of composite concrete beams was equal to that of normal concrete beams, and a slight increase in the lightweight foamed concrete beams was noticed. The ductility of foamed concrete beams with balanced reinforcement and under reinforcing was lower than that of normal concrete. In the case of the over-reinforcement beams, the ductility of foamed concrete beam increased by about 19.5% compared to that of normal reinforced concrete. In addition, the ductility and stiffness of composite concrete beams increased by about 91.7% and 5.6% compared to normal beams and 61% and 15.1% compared to foamed concrete beams, respectively.
Multi-objective optimization of slotted stator switched reluctance motor for electric vehicle application
Authors: Kh Al-Farhan Saif , Sh Al-Yozbaky Omar
Published: July 2023

The popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) is projected to increase as environmental consciousness rises. They have emerged as a potential substitute for traditional electrical machines like the switched reluctance motors (SRMs). SRMs are renowned for their low cost of production and maintenance, built-in fault tolerance, and simple design. Additionally, because the machine's rotor construction does not require copper coils or permanent magnets, production costs are significantly reduced. However, it has disadvantages, including as high non-linearity, high torque ripple, and acoustic noise production. In this research, a method for designing slotted stator teeth switched reluctance motors (SST-SRM) in EVs using a genetic algorithm (GA) optimization design with multiple targets is provided. In order to achieve the best possible balance between peak torque (Tp), average torque (Tavg), and efficiency, the developed optimization function is chosen. The stator/rotor pole arc angle and slot width/depth are chosen as the optimized variables. When compared to traditional SRM, the optimization results of proposed SST-SRM demonstrate improvements in peak torque (24.40%, 36.98%, 42.73%, and 42.45%), average torque (7.40%, 29.94%, 33.00%, and 33.62%), and efficiency (0.27%, 0.52%, 0.97%, and 1.03%).
Comparative study of nature-inspired maximum power point tracking algorithms for partially shaded photovoltaic systems
Authors: Kulkarni Prasannati , Deshmukh Suresh
Published: July 2023

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are widely used for converting solar energy into electrical energy. However, PV systems are susceptible to partial shading, leading to fluctuations in temperature and irradiation that degrade the system's performance. To overcome this challenge, maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithms are implemented in PV systems. This research paper provides a comprehensive comparative analysis of three nature-inspired MPPT algorithms, namely cuckoo search, grey wolf and fish swarm optimization, to improve the performance of PV systems under partially shaded conditions. The study evaluates the speed, complexity, compatibility, and stability of each algorithm, and concludes that the fish swarm optimization algorithm is the most effective among the three. The novelty of this research lies in the in-depth comparison of nature-inspired MPPT algorithms (specifically fish swarm optimization) for partially shaded PV systems, offering valuable insights for researchers to improve the performance of PV systems.
Remotely controlled water channel system for laboratory education utilizing internet of things and SCADA technologies
Authors: Abd Al-asadi Hasan Allawi , Jabbar Chlaihawi Amer Abdulmahdi
Published: July 2023

This paper was discussed the hardware components of a remotely controlled water channel management system for laboratory education utilizing the internet of things(IoT) and supervisory control and data acquisition systems (SCADAs). The system consists of various sensors and devices included the air pressure sensor (mpx5010dp), water pressure sensor, ultrasonic distance sensor (JSNSR04T) and solenoid water valve plastic. The air pressure sensor (mpx5010dp) was used to detect the water level in the manometer of the pitot tube, a water pressure sensor for detecting the pressure of water, an ultrasonic distance sensor (JSN-SR04T) for detecting the level of water in the channel, a solenoid water valve plastic with relay for protecting the motor when the water level in the tank reduces to 5 cm. These components work together to monitor and control the water channel system remotely, providing users with a more scalable, flexible, and accessible solution for laboratory education. Also, a web page was developed with an IoT and SCADA system for remote control and management of a water channel system that was used for teaching hydraulic and hydrological concepts to students.
Optimize single line to ground fault detection in distribution grid power system using artificial bee colony
Authors: Ibrahim Jabbar Feryal , Muhammad Soomro Dur , Noor bin Abdullah Mohd , Mohammad Radzi Nur Hanis , Hussain Baloch Mazhar , Ahmed Rahmoon Asif , Fakhruldeen Hassan Falah
Published: July 2023

The most common power system (PS) distribution network fault, single lineto-ground fault (SLGF), causes residual current (I res) to start an electrical arc and high voltage (HV) three times the rated voltage in other healthy phases. HV from capacitive currents (IC) damages cable insulation and PS appliances. Peterson The neutral point coil (PC) reduces (I res) and extinguishes the electric arc, but the fault current (I fault) remains below the protection devices' threshold. Operations and equipment are riskier. PC adaptive eliminates electrical arcs, making the network safer. This paper detects I faults online using Texas instrument validation in MATLAB and adaptive by artificial bee colony (ABC). This paper discusses Texas instrument fault current detection and MATLAB validation. It improves system reliability, device protection, and copper savings by thousands of tons. ABC intelligently optimizes many mathematical problems. ABC with network neural artificial intelligence (AI) improves algorithm performance (artificial bee colony network neural (ABCNN)). This new method may improve distribution network SLGF detection. This first work can work online in electrical power stations by building the (eZdsp F28335-RS232) into the program to send fault signals to the control when SLGF occurs without damaging devices, equipment, cables, or power outages.
Throughput maximization with channel access fairness model using game theory approach
Authors: Tauseef Humera , Fatima Rukhsar , Khanam Rohina
Published: July 2023

The adoption of cognitive radio (CR) technology into wireless sensor networks (WSNs) effectively addresses the spectrum scarcity problem of traditional unlicensed spectrum. Allocating and managing limited network channel to secondary user (SUs) considering dynamic behavior pattern of primary users (PUs) is a critical issue of CR-WSN. Recently, various channel access methodologies using statistical, reinforcement learning (RL), game theory (GT), and deep learning (DL) model have been presented for CR-WSN. However, the existing channel access methodologies has following two limitations: i) fails to assure balance between maximizing throughput of SUs with minimal interference to PUs considering multi-channel CR-WSNs environment; and ii) maximizing throughput with minimal collision assuring access fairness among SUs considering energy constraint CR-WSNs. In addressing the research issues, this paper present throughput maximization channel access fairness using game theory (TMCAF-GT) model. The TMCAF employ both shared and non-shared channel access mechanism employing GT model for assuring throughput maximization with minimal interference and access fairness. Experiment outcome shows the TMCAF-GT provides superior throughput with minimal collision.
Arduino based irrigation monitoring system using Node microcontroller unit and Blynk application
Authors: Shahar Syahir Haziq , Ismail Syila Izawana , Dzulkefli Nik Nur Shaadah Nik , Abdullah Rina , Zain Mazratul Firdaus Mohd
Published: July 2023

In the case of traditional irrigation systems, irrigation is done manually by the user. Since the water is irrigated directly into the land, plants undergo high stress from variations in soil moisture, and therefore plant appearance is reduced. The objective is for remote monitoring and controlling devices, which are controlled using a Wi-Fi module, and to optimize water consumption. The sensors collect and evaluate data regarding changing weather, soil moisture levels, and water levels before sending timely notifications to the user's phone and desktop. The system also contains a device application (Blynk) that runs on various devices and may be used to monitor plant conditions at the user's workplace. It constantly monitors the situation and notifies the user of any developments that necessitate urgent action. It combines the sensor devices, Node microcontroller unit (NodeMCU), and Arduino to work together to meet the system's objectives.
Real-time optimized wireless networked control system with cooperative network protocols
Authors: Alobaidy Yousif Safaa , Awad Osama Ali
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we present a real-time optimized fuzzy fuzzy proportional integral derivative (FPID)-controlled wireless networked system for a high-torque direct current (DC) motor. The main challenge faced by such systems is the delay in the wireless networked control system (WNCS). We employed a powerful FPID controller tuned using particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique to compensate for the delay. The system is tested on a network using the TrueTime simulator with different parameters. The results show that the system exhibits a very stable response, with the FPID controller compensating for the delay effectively. Increasing the number of nodes negatively impacts the system's performance, resulting in higher overshoot, longer settling time, and longer rise time. Moreover, the choice of bandwidth share and sampling time significantly affects the system's stability and real-time response. The use of transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP) or user datagram protocol (UDP) protocols with Node MCU is necessary to transfer data from the Arduino Microcontroller to MATLAB, as MATLAB TrueTime simulator does not support direct serial communication. In conclusion, this study highlights valuable insights into the performance of the proposed system, demonstrating the need for further improvements in the system's design and control algorithms to achieve stable operation.
G-code converter using interface system for a STEP file (ISO 10303)
Authors: Rahman Zammeri Abd , Mohamed Saiful Bahri , Minhat Mohamad , Mohd Alias , Rahman Zulkifli Abd , Awang Roslan
Published: July 2023

The STEP file is the “standard for the exchange of product model data,” which is usually used to exchange geometric data in boundary representation (B-rep) between different computer-aided design (CAD) platforms. These data can be fully utilized and integrated into a larger manufacturing organization, such as a computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) environment for computer numerical control (CNC) machining applications based on ISO 6983. The 3D models of 2D machining profiles were created in CAD software and saved as STEP files. The data structure was analyzed by comparing the geometric entities of the CAD model and the STEP file. The algorithm was created using the hypertext preprocessor (PHP) programming language and produced a computer interface system to convert STEP files into G-code format. The machining blocks with profile machining features were simulated using a CNC simulator and PC-based open architecture control (OAC) software. The G-code was validated on a three-axis CNC milling machine, and the result was compared to the CAD model to confirm the machining profile. The integrated interface system I2S demonstrates its ability to interpret all 2D profiles and generate machining tool paths and G-code, allowing data flow between CAD and CAM environments and shortening product development cycles.
Satellite mission to study the Van Allen belts
Authors: Jhunjhunwalla Drishana , Mishra Debani Prasad , Sahu Jayanta Kumar , Hembram Dashmat , Salkuti Surender Reddy
Published: July 2023

The Van Allen belts are said to be a pack of highly energetic particles which are extremely fatal to electronic systems and living beings. Very little information is known about them. Besides the data from past missions, it’s still not enough to draw any conclusion regarding the phenomenon of its shape, size, and density. The paper talks of a cost-effective satellite mission named Vansat to study the Van Allen belts in depth. The project aims to study the energetic particles, magnetic fields, and plasma waves in the radiation belts. The mission also focuses on having environment-friendly concepts demonstrated through the technologies along with a reduction in the complexity of the devices and instruments. Vansat consists of a dual satellite system-one satellite to study the inner belt and the other to study the outer belts. The octagonal geometry of the satellite along with wings and solar panels ensure aero dynamicity, energy saving as well as radiation shielding.
UAV-enabled communications using NOMA for 5G and beyond: research challenges and opportunities
Authors: Kharil Muhamad Nafis , Johal Muhammad Syahrir , Idris Fakrulradzi , Hashim Norlezah
Published: July 2023

Future wireless networks are expected to provide ubiquitous connectivity to a wide range of devices with varying traffic patterns, wherever and whenever it is required. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are also considered a potential technique for accommodating massive connections and providing seamless coverage. They can be used as flying base stations (BSs) to take advantage of line-of-sight (LoS) connections and effectively support wireless communication coverage and throughput for 5G and beyond. However, the use of highly mobile and energy-constrained UAVs for wireless communications brings plenty of new challenges. 5G wireless networks require non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) to be able to meet heterogeneous requirements for low latency, high dependability, massive connection, better fairness, and high throughput. This paper presents an overview of NOMA-based UAV enabled communications by introducing the background of UAV communication and NOMA schemes. Power allocation schemes are also explored as they are critical controlling mechanisms for performance optimization of NOMA-UAV systems. We also categorize UAV-enabled communication applications for usage in both routine professional settings and emergency scenarios. Finally, we address several open research questions that need to be solved for NOMA, as well as new opportunities and future research trends to be exploited.
Maximizing wireless sensor network lifetime through energy-efficient routing
Authors: Vishweshwaraiah Prashanth Malligere , Siddegowda Prema Nisana , Rudraswamy Shivashankar
Published: July 2023

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are an emerging technology that has the potential to transform the way agricultural farms operate. However, deploying WSNs in agricultural farms presents a unique set of challenges. Limited coverage area, power source availability, data collection and processing, environmental factors, cost, and integration with existing systems are some of the potential problems that need to be addressed when deploying WSNs in agricultural farms. Hence, in this work, we have proposed a method for increasing the lifetime of the sensor network which will help also help to reduce the energy. The proposed method has been evaluated in terms of network lifetime of the sensor nodes, routing and communication overhead. The results have been compared with the existing M-LEACH method and the results show that there is an enhancement of 79.02% for average network lifetime. The results also show that the proposed method reduces the average routing and communication overhead by 49.17% and 38.37% respectively.
New conception of 3×4 circularly polarized antenna patch network for RF energy harvesting at 2.45 GHz
Authors: En-Naghma Walid , Halaq Hanan , El Ougli Abdelghani
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a developed design of a 3×4 circular polarization microstrip antenna patch array whose its resonance frequency is 2.45 GHz in the ISM band. This array is printed on a FR4 substrate of 1.58 mm thickness with a dielectric permittivity of 4.4. The basic antenna patch is a square shape inserted by a rectangular slot inclined positioned diagonally at the center to achieve circular polarization. In addition, a triangular-shaped slit is added at each of the four corners of the patch. The antenna array performance is tested numerically using two different software packages, CST MWS and HFSS. The antenna’s array size is compacted to a 22.7 cm×13.5 cm. The simulated results give good performance results in terms of return loss and gain; directivity is found to be 9.66 dBi at 2.45 GHz; the axial ratio value is 1.69 dB; and total efficiency is about 95.55% at 2.45 GHz. Then, the simulated results obtained by these two programs are in good agreement, which makes this proposed array design very suitable for radio frequency energy harvesting and its various applications to power supply different devices in a clean way for our environment.
Texture and pixel intensity characterization-based image segmentation with morphology and watershed techniques
Authors: Ibrahim Noor Khalid , Al-Saleh Anwar Hassan , Jabar Asmaa Sadiq Abdul
Published: July 2023

Image segmentation is an image processing technique that concentrated on finding and locating the parts of an image such as objects and boundaries. The purpose of locating these parts is for use in further processing analysis of an image such as recognition tasks, and content-based image retrieval. This paper introduces the segmentation procedure using a proposed template of features with watershed or morphology operations. Features template based on segmentation process conveys pixels’ intensities property perceived by the threshold value of histogram representation and texture feature where the regions are characterized by their texture content using standard deviation (SD) filtering. Wiener filter and histogram equalization (HE) techniques are used as preprocessing operations to enhance the image quality. The edge detector operator is hybridized to boost the segmentation process. Some statistical metrics are used for assessing and analyzing the performance of the stages in the proposed work. As a result, this proposed template of features achieved more performance with watershed and morphology segmentation.
Document retrieval using term term frequency inverse sentence frequency weighting scheme
Authors: Mohammed Mohannad T. , Rashid Omar Fitian
Published: July 2023

The need for an efficient method to find the furthermost appropriate document corresponding to a particular search query has become crucial due to the exponential development in the number of papers that are now readily available to us on the web. The vector space model (VSM) a perfect model used in “information retrieval”, represents these words as a vector in space and gives them weights via a popular weighting method known as term frequency inverse document frequency (TF-IDF). In this research, work has been proposed to retrieve the most relevant document focused on representing documents and queries as vectors comprising average term term frequency inverse sentence frequency (TF-ISF) weights instead of representing them as vectors of term TF-IDF weight and two basic and effective similarity measures: Cosine and Jaccard were used. Using the MS MARCO dataset, this article analyzes and assesses the retrieval effectiveness of the TF-ISF weighting scheme. The result shows that the TF-ISF model with the Cosine similarity measure retrieves more relevant documents. The model was evaluated against the conventional TF-ISF technique and shows that it performs significantly better on MS MARCO data (Microsoft-curated data of Bing queries).