bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and In Vitro Evaluation of RITUXfab-Decorated Lipoplexes to Improve Delivery of siRNA Targeting C1858T PTPN22 Variant in B Lymphocytes
Authors: Arena Andrea , Belcastro Eugenia , Accardo Antonella , Sandomenico Annamaria , Pagliarosi Olivia , Rosa Elisabetta , Petrini Stefania , Conti Libenzio Adrian , Giorda Ezio , Corsetti Tiziana , Schiaffini Riccardo , Morelli Giancarlo , Fierabracci Alessandra
Published: December 2021

Autoimmune endocrine disorders, such as type 1 diabetes (T1D) and thyroiditis, at present are treated with only hormone replacement therapy. This emphasizes the need to identify personalized effective immunotherapeutic strategies targeting T and B lymphocytes. Among the genetic variants associated with several autoimmune disorders, the C1858T polymorphism of the protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22 (PTPN22) gene, encoding for Lyp variant R620W, affects the innate and adaptive immunity. We previously exploited a novel personalized immunotherapeutic approach based on siRNA delivered by liposomes (lipoplexes) that selectively inhibit variant allele expression. In this manuscript, we improved lipoplexes carrying siRNA for variant C1858T by functionalizing them with Fab of Rituximab antibody (RituxFab-Lipoplex) to specifically target B lymphocytes in autoimmune conditions, such as T1D. RituxFab-Lipoplexes specifically bind to B lymphocytes of the human Raji cell line and of human PBMC of healthy donors. RituxFab-Lipoplexes have impact on the function of B lymphocytes of T1D patients upon CpG stimulation showing a higher inhibitory effect on total cell proliferation and IgM+ plasma cell differentiation than the not functionalized ones. These results might open new pathways of applicability of RituxFab-Lipoplexes, such as personalized immunotherapy, to other autoimmune disorders, where B lymphocytes are the prevalent pathogenic immunocytes.
Design and Engineering of an Efficient Peroxidase Using Myoglobin for Dye Decolorization and Lignin Bioconversion
Authors: Guo Wen-Jie , Xu Jia-Kun , Wu Sheng-Tao , Gao Shu-Qin , Wen Ge-Bo , Tan Xiangshi , Lin Ying-Wu
Published: December 2021

The treatment of environmental pollutants such as synthetic dyes and lignin has received much attention, especially for biotechnological treatments using both native and artificial metalloenzymes. In this study, we designed and engineered an efficient peroxidase using the O2 carrier myoglobin (Mb) as a protein scaffold by four mutations (F43Y/T67R/P88W/F138W), which combines the key structural features of natural peroxidases such as the presence of a conserved His-Arg pair and Tyr/Trp residues close to the heme active center. Kinetic studies revealed that the quadruple mutant exhibits considerably enhanced peroxidase activity, with the catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) comparable to that of the most efficient natural enzyme, horseradish peroxidase (HRP). Moreover, the designed enzyme can effectively decolorize a variety of synthetic organic dyes and catalyze the bioconversion of lignin, such as Kraft lignin and a model compound, guaiacylglycerol-β-guaiacyl ether (GGE). As analyzed by HPLC and ESI-MS, we identified several bioconversion products of GGE, as produced via bond cleavage followed by dimerization or trimerization, which illustrates the mechanism for lignin bioconversion. This study indicates that the designed enzyme could be exploited for the decolorization of textile wastewater contaminated with various dyes, as well as for the bioconversion of lignin to produce more value-added products.
The Mathematical Models of the Operation Process for Critical Production Facilities Using Advanced Technologies
Authors: Yemelyanov Vitaliy A. , Zhilenkov Anton A. , Chernyi Sergei G. , Zinchenko Anton , Zinchenko Elena
Published: December 2021

The paper presents data on the problems of monitoring and diagnosing the technical conditions of critical production facilities, such as torpedo ladle cars, steel ladles. The accidents with critical production facilities, such as torpedo ladle cars, lead to losses and different types of damages in the metallurgical industry. The paper substantiates the need for a mathematical study of the operation process of the noted critical production facilities. A Markovian graph has been built that describes the states of torpedo ladle cars during their operation. A mathematical model is presented that allows determining the optimal frequency of diagnostics of torpedo ladle cars, which, in contrast to the existing approaches, take into account the procedures for preventive diagnostics of torpedo ladle cars, without taking them out of service. Dependence of the utilization coefficient on the period of diagnostics of PM350t torpedo ladle cars was developed. The results (of determining the optimal period of diagnostics for PM350t torpedo ladle cars) are demonstrated. The system for automated monitoring and diagnosing the technical conditions of torpedo ladle cars, without taking them out of service, has been developed and described.
Using the Ecosystem Services Concept to Assess Transformation of Agricultural Landscapes in the European Alps
Authors: Schirpke Uta , Tasser Erich , Leitinger Georg , Tappeiner Ulrike
Published: December 2021

Mountain farming sustains human well-being by providing various ecosystem services (ES). In the last decades, socio-economic developments have led to worldwide changes in land-use/cover (LULC), but the related effects on ES have not been fully explored. This study aimed at assessing the impacts of the transformation of agricultural land on ES in the European Alps. We mapped 19 ES within the agriculturally used areas in the year 2000 and analyzed LULC changes by 2018. We compared eight regions with a similar development, regarding social–ecological characteristics, to outline contrasting trends. Our results indicate that the ES decreased most strongly in regions with a massive abandonment of mountain grassland, while ES in the ‘traditional agricultural region’ remained the most stable. In regions with an intensification of agriculture, together with urban sprawl, ES had the lowest values. Across all regions, a shift from ES that are typically associated with mountain farming towards forest-related ES occurred, due to forest regrowth. By relating differing trends in ES to social–ecological developments, we can discuss our findings regarding new landscapes and farming systems across the European Alps. Our quantitative and spatially explicit findings provide a valuable basis for policy development, from the regional to the international/EU level, and for adopting sustainable management strategies.
Characterization of Novel Selected Microalgae for Antioxidant Activity and Polyphenols, Amino Acids, and Carbohydrates
Authors: Santiago-Díaz Paula , Rivero Argimiro , Rico Milagros , Gómez-Pinchetti Juan Luis
Published: December 2021

The biochemical composition of three novel selected microalgae strains (Chlorophyta) was evaluated to confirm their potential possibilities as new sustainably produced biomass with nutritional, functional, and/or biomedical properties. Extracts from cultured Pseudopediastrum boryanum, Chloromonas cf. reticulata, and Chloroidium saccharophilum exhibited higher radical scavenging activity of DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) when compared to butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), but lower than butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Total phenolic compounds and amino acids were determined by newly developed RP-HPLC methods. Total phenolic contents, as µg g−1 of dry biomass, reached 27.1 for C. cf. reticulata, 26.4 for P. boryanum, and 55.8 for C. saccharophilum. Percentages of total analysed amino acids were 24.3, 32.1, and 18.5% of dry biomass, respectively, presenting high values for essential amino acids reaching 54.1, 72.6, and 61.2%, respectively. Glutamic acid was the most abundant free amino acid in all microalgae samples, followed by proline and lysine in C. saccharophilum and P. boryanum, and methionine and lysine in C. reticulata. Soluble carbohydrates in aqueous extracts ranged from 39.6 for C. saccharophilum to 49.3% for C. reticulata, increasing values to 45.1 for C. saccharophilum and 52.7% for P. boryanum in acid hydrolysates of dried biomass. Results confirmed the potential possibilities of these microalgae strains.
Biomineralization by Extremely Halophilic and Metal-Tolerant Community Members from a Sulfate-Dominated Metal-Rich Environment
Authors: Harpke Marie , Pietschmann Sebastian , Costa Flávio Silva , Gansert Clara , Langenhorst Falko , Kothe Erika
Published: December 2021

The adaptation to adverse environmental conditions can lead to adapted microbial communities that may be screened for mechanisms involved in halophily and, in this case, metal tolerance. At a former uranium mining and milling site in Seelingstädt, Germany, microbial communities from surface waters and sediment soils were screened for isolates surviving high salt and metal concentrations. The high salt contents consisted mainly of chloride and sulfate, both in soil and riverbed sediment samples, accompanied by high metal loads with presence of cesium and strontium. The community structure was dominated by Chloroflexi, Proteobacteria and Acidobacteriota, while only at the highest contaminations did Firmicutes and Desulfobacterota reach appreciable percentages in the DNA-based community analysis. The extreme conditions providing high stress were mirrored by low numbers of cultivable strains. Thirty-four extremely halotolerant bacteria (23 Bacillus sp. and another 4 Bacillales, 5 Actinobacteria, and 1 Gamma-Proteobacterium) surviving 25 to 100 mM SrCl2, CsCl, and Cs2SO4 were further analyzed. Mineral formation of strontium- or cesium-struvite could be observed, reducing bioavailability and thereby constituting the dominant metal and salt resistance strategy in this environment.
Coriandrum sativum L.: A Review on Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Cardiovascular Benefits
Authors: Mahleyuddin Nisa Najibah , Moshawih Said , Ming Long Chiau , Zulkifly Hanis Hanum , Kifli Nurolaini , Loy Mei Jun , Sarker Md. Moklesur Rahman , Al-Worafi Yaser Mohammed , Goh Bey Hing , Thuraisingam Shobna , Goh Hui Poh
Published: December 2021

Coriandrum sativum (C. sativum), belonging to the Apiaceae (Umbelliferae) family, is widely recognized for its uses in culinary and traditional medicine. C. sativum contains various phytochemicals such as polyphenols, vitamins, and many phytosterols, which account for its properties including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and analgesic effects. The cardiovascular benefits of C. sativum have not been summarized before, hence this review aims to further evaluate and discuss its effectiveness in cardiovascular diseases, according to the recent literature. An electronic search for literature was carried out using the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, preprint platforms, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Articles were gathered from the inception of the database until August 2021. Moreover, the traditional uses and phytochemistry of coriander were surveyed in the original resources and summarized. As a result, most of the studies that cover cardiovascular benefits and fulfilled the eligibility criteria were in vivo, while only a few were in vitro and clinical studies. In conclusion, C. sativum can be deemed a functional food due to its wide range of cardiovascular benefits such as antihypertensive, anti-atherogenic, antiarrhythmic, hypolipidemic as well as cardioprotective effects.
The Emerging Role of MicroRNAs in Bone Diseases and Their Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Bravo Vázquez Luis Alberto , Moreno Becerril Mariana Yunuen , Mora Hernández Erick Octavio , León Carmona Gabriela García de , Aguirre Padilla María Emilia , Chakraborty Samik , Bandyopadhyay Anindya , Paul Sujay
Published: December 2021

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small (20–24 nucleotides), highly conserved, non-coding RNA molecules whose main function is the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression through sequence-specific manners, such as mRNA degradation or translational repression. Since these key regulatory molecules are implicated in several biological processes, their altered expression affects the preservation of cellular homeostasis and leads to the development of a wide range of pathologies. Over the last few years, relevant investigations have elucidated that miRNAs participate in different stages of bone growth and development. Moreover, the abnormal expression of these RNA molecules in bone cells and tissues has been significantly associated with the progression of numerous bone diseases, including osteoporosis, osteosarcoma, osteonecrosis and bone metastasis, among others. In fact, miRNAs regulate multiple pathological mechanisms, including altering either osteogenic or osteoblast differentiation, metastasis, osteosarcoma cell proliferation, and bone loss. Therefore, in this present review, aiming to impulse the research arena of the biological implications of miRNA transcriptome in bone diseases and to explore their potentiality as a theragnostic target, we summarize the recent findings associated with the clinical significance of miRNAs in these ailments.
Preparation of Oxysterols by C–H Oxidation of Dibromocholestane with Ru(Bpga) Catalyst
Authors: Fujii Yui , Yoritate Makoto , Makino Kana , Igawa Kazunobu , Takeda Daiki , Doiuchi Daiki , Tomooka Katsuhiko , Uchida Tatsuya , Hirai Go
Published: December 2021

Seven mono- and dihydroxycholesterols were prepared by direct C–H oxidation of the cholestane skeleton with a recently developed Ru(Bpga) catalyst (Ru(Bpga) = [RuCl (bpga) (PPh3)] Cl; bpga = 2-(bis(pyridin-2-ylmethyl)amino)-N-(2,6-dimethylphenyl)acetamide)). Due to the high selectivity of the Ru(Bpga) complex for tertiary C–H, the reaction afforded a mixture of 25-, 20-, 17-, and 14-oxygenated cholesterols that could be easily separated by high-performance liquid chromatography. These results suggest that late-stage C–H oxidation could be a viable strategy for preparing candidate metabolites of biologically important molecules.
Dust-Acoustic Nonlinear Waves in a Nanoparticle Fraction of Ultracold (2K) Multicomponent Dusty Plasma
Authors: Trukhachev Fedor , Boltnev Roman , Vasiliev Mikhail , Petrov Oleg
Published: December 2021

The nonlinear dust-acoustic instability in the condensed submicron fraction of dust particles in the low-pressure glow discharge at ultra-low temperatures is experimentally and theoretically investigated. The main discharge parameters are estimated on the basisof the dust-acoustic wave analysis. In particular, the temperature and density of ions, as well as the Debye radius, are determined. It is shown that the ion temperature exceeds the temperature of the neutral gas. The drift characteristics of all plasma fractions are estimated. The reasons for the instability excitation are considered.
Detection and Identification of VOCs Using Differential Ion Mobility Spectrometry (DMS)
Authors: Fabianowski Wojciech , Maziejuk Mirosław , Szyposzyńska Monika , Wiśnik-Sawka Monika
Published: December 2021

The article presents a technique of differential ion mobility spectrometry (DMS) applicable to the detection and identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from such categories as n-alkanes, alcohols, acetate esters, ketones, botulinum toxin, BTX, and fluoro- and chloro-organic compounds. A possibility of mixture identification using only the DMS spectrometer is analyzed, and several examples are published for the first time. An analysis of different compounds and their mechanisms of fragmentation, influence on effective ion temperature, and high electric field intensity is discussed.
Effect of Must Hyperoxygenation on Sensory Expression and Chemical Composition of the Resulting Wines
Authors: Rihak Zdenek , Prusova Bozena , Kumsta Michal , Baron Mojmir
Published: December 2021

This paper evaluates the effect of must hyperoxygenation on final wine. Lower concentrations of caftaric acid (0.29 mg·L−1), coutaric acid (1.37 mg·L−1) and Catechin (0.86 mg·L−1) were observed in hyperoxygenated must in contrast to control must (caftaric acid 32.78 mg·L−1, coutaric acid 5.01 mg·L−1 and Catechin 4.45 mg·L−1). In the final wine, hydroxybenzoic acids were found in higher concentrations in the control variant (gallic acid 2.58 mg·L−1, protocatechuic acid 1.02 mg·L−1, vanillic acid 2.05 mg·L−1, syringic acid 2.10 mg·L−1) than in the hyperoxygenated variant (2.01 mg·L−1, 0.86 mg·L−1, 0.98 mg·L−1 and 1.50 mg·L−1 respectively). Higher concentrations of total flavanols (2 mg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated must and 21 mg·L−1 in control must; 7.5 mg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated wine and 19.8 mg·L−1 in control wine) and polyphenols (97 mg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated must and 249 mg·L−1 in control must; 171 mg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated wine and 240 mg·L−1 in control wine) were found in both the must and the control wine. A total of 24 volatiles were determined using gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Statistical differences were achieved for isobutyl alcohol (26.33 mg·L−1 in control wine and 32.84 mg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated wine), or 1-propanol (7.28 mg·L−1 in control wine and 8.51 mg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated wine), while esters such as isoamyl acetate (1534.41 µg·L−1 in control wine and 698.67 µg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated wine), 1-hexyl acetate (136.32 µg·L−1 in control wine and 71.67 µg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated wine) and isobutyl acetate (73.88 µg·L−1 in control wine and 37.27 µg·L−1 in hyperoxygenated wine) had a statistically lower concentration.
The Combined Effect of Biochar and Mineral Fertilizer on Triticale Yield, Soil Properties under Different Tillage Systems
Authors: Usevičiūtė Luiza , Baltrėnaitė-Gedienė Edita , Feizienė Dalia
Published: December 2021

This study examined the effect of study time, biochar dose, and fertilization-tillage system on the improvement of sandy loam physical-chemical properties and triticale grain yield. The soil properties (water holding capacity (WHC), wettability, moisture content (MC), organic matter content (SOM), pH, and electrical conductivity (EC) were monitored in short time intervals (after 3, 6, 12, and 24 months). Soil was tilled in two methods (shallow ploughless tillage and direct drilling), fertilized with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) fertilizers, and amended with three hydrophobic pine wood biochar doses (0 t/ha; 5 t/ha; 15 t/ha). It was found that 15 t/ha biochar dose had the highest effect on the soil’s physical-chemical properties improvement (SOM increased by 33.7%, pH—by 6.84%, EC—by 23.4%, WHC—by 8.48%, and MC—by 21.8%) compared to the variants without biochar. Direct drilling, fertilization with NPK fertilizers and 15 t/ha biochar dose significantly influenced the rise of soil’s physical-chemical properties and triticale yield (3.51 t/ha).
Experimental Study on Axial Compressive Performance of Polyvinyl Alcohol Fibers Reinforced Fly Ash—Slag Geopolymer Composites
Authors: Xiao Shuhua , Cai Yongjian , Guo Yongchang , Lin Jiaxiang , Liu Guotao , Lan Xuewei , Song Ying
Published: December 2021

Geopolymer concrete (GC) has been gaining attention in research and engineering circles; however, it is a brittle material with poor tensile performance and crack resistance. To address these problems, we introduced fibers into GC. In this study, axial compression and scanning electron microscope (SEM) tests were carried out on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) short fiber reinforced low-calcium fly ash-slag-based geopolymer concrete (PFRGC). The ratio of PVA short fibers and low-calcium fly ash on the compression behavior of fiber reinforced geopolymer concrete (FRGC) were investigated and discussed. The test results show that PVA fibers play a bridging role in the cracks of the specimen and bear the load together with the matrix, so the addition of PVA fibers delayed the crack propagation of GC under axial compression. However, with the increase of low-calcium fly ash/PVA fibers, the number of unreacted fly ash particles in PFRGCs increases. Too many unreacted fly ash particles make GC more prone to micro-cracks during loading, adversely affecting compressive properties. Therefore, the axial compressive strength, elastic modulus, and Poisson’s ratio of GC decrease with the increasing low-calcium fly ash/PVA fibers.
Development and Usability Testing of a Finger Grip Enhancer for the Elderly
Authors: Tan Dominic Wen How , Ng Poh Kiat , Noor Ervina Efzan Mhd , Saptari Adi , Hue Chee Chen , Ng Yu Jin
Published: December 2021

As people age, their finger function deteriorates due to muscle, nerve, and brain degeneration. While exercises might delay this deterioration, an invention that enhances elderly people’s pinching abilities is essential. This study aims to design and develop a finger grip enhancer that facilitates the day-to-day pinching activities of elderly people. This research is an extension of a previous study that conceptualised a finger grip enhancer. The device facilitates finger flexion on the thumb and index finger, and weighs 520 g, allowing for improved portability and sufficient force exertion (13.9 N) for day-to-day pinching. To test for usability, eleven subjects aged 65 years and above performed a pinch-lift-hold test on various household objects. The pinch force before and after utilising the device was measured. Using Minitab 18, the statistical significance of using this device was analysed with a paired-samples t-test. With this device, the elderly people’s pinching abilities significantly improved in both pinch force and pinch force steadiness (p < 0.05). The proposed device has the potential to enhance elderly people’s quality of life by supporting a firm pinch in the handling of everyday objects. This research has applicational value in developing exoskeleton devices for patients who require rehabilitation.
A Survey of Localization Methods for Autonomous Vehicles in Highway Scenarios
Authors: Laconte Johann , Kasmi Abderrahim , Aufrère Romuald , Vaidis Maxime , Chapuis Roland
Published: December 2021

In the context of autonomous vehicles on highways, one of the first and most important tasks is to localize the vehicle on the road. For this purpose, the vehicle needs to be able to take into account the information from several sensors and fuse them with data coming from road maps. The localization problem on highways can be distilled into three main components. The first one consists of inferring on which road the vehicle is currently traveling. Indeed, Global Navigation Satellite Systems are not precise enough to deduce this information by themselves, and thus a filtering step is needed. The second component consists of estimating the vehicle’s position in its lane. Finally, the third and last one aims at assessing on which lane the vehicle is currently driving. These two last components are mandatory for safe driving as actions such as overtaking a vehicle require precise information about the current localization of the vehicle. In this survey, we introduce a taxonomy of the localization methods for autonomous vehicles in highway scenarios. We present each main component of the localization process, and discuss the advantages and drawbacks of the associated state-of-the-art methods.
Robust and Secure Data Transmission Using Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Ad-Hoc Networks
Authors: Rani Pooja , Kavita  , Verma Sahil , Kaur Navneet , Wozniak Marcin , Shafi Jana , Ijaz Muhammad Fazal
Published: December 2021

The paper presents a new security aspect for a Mobile Ad-Hoc Network (MANET)-based IoT model using the concept of artificial intelligence. The Black Hole Attack (BHA) is considered one of the most affecting threats in the MANET in which the attacker node drops the entire data traffic and hence degrades the network performance. Therefore, it necessitates the designing of an algorithm that can protect the network from the BHA node. This article introduces Ad-hoc On-Demand Distance Vector (AODV), a new updated routing protocol that combines the advantages of the Artificial Bee Colony (ABC), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), and Support Vector Machine (SVM) techniques. The combination of the SVM with ANN is the novelty of the proposed model that helps to identify the attackers within the discovered route using the AODV routing mechanism. Here, the model is trained using ANN but the selection of training data is performed using the ABC fitness function followed by SVM. The role of ABC is to provide a better route for data transmission between the source and the destination node. The optimized route, suggested by ABC, is then passed to the SVM model along with the node’s properties. Based on those properties ANN decides whether the node is a normal or an attacker node. The simulation analysis performed in MATLAB shows that the proposed work exhibits an improvement in terms of Packet Delivery Ratio (PDR), throughput, and delay. To validate the system efficiency, a comparative analysis is performed against the existing approaches such as Decision Tree and Random Forest that indicate that the utilization of the SVM with ANN is a beneficial step regarding the detection of BHA attackers in the MANET-based IoT networks.
High-Efficiency Broadband Planar Array Antenna with Suspended Microstrip Slab for X-Band SAR Onboard Small Satellites
Authors: Anim Kyei , Danuor Patrick , Park Seong-Ook , Jung Young-Bae
Published: December 2021

In this paper, a high efficiency broadband planar array antenna is developed at X-band for synthetic aperture radar (SAR) on small satellites. The antenna is based on a multi-layer element structure consisting of two dielectric substrates made of Taconic TLY-5 and three copper layers (i.e., the parasitic patch (top layer), the active patch (middle layer), and the ground plane (bottom layer)). The parasitic patch resides on the bottom surface of the upper TLY-5 substrate while the active patch is printed on the top surface of the lower substrate. A Rohacell foam material is sandwiched between the top layer and the middle layer to separate the two dielectric substrates in order to achieve high directivity, wideband, and to keep the antenna weight to a minimum as required by the SAR satellite application. To satisfy the required size of the antenna panel for the small SAR satellite, an asymmetric corporate feeding network (CFN) is designed to feed a 12 × 16 planar array antenna. However, it was determined that the first corporate feed junction at the center of the CFN, where higher amplitudes of the input signal are located, contributes significantly to the leaky wave emission, which degrades the radiation efficiency and increases the sidelobe level. Thus, a suspended microstrip slab, which is simply a wide and long microstrip line, is designed and positioned on the top layer directly above that feed junction to prevent the leaky waves from radiating. The experimental results of the antenna show good agreement with the simulated ones, achieving an impedance bandwidth of 12.4% from 9.01 to 10.20 GHz and a high gain above 28 dBi. The antenna efficiency estimated from the gain and directivity eclipses 51.34%.
Smart Sensors for Augmented Electrical Experiments
Authors: Kapp Sebastian , Lauer Frederik , Beil Fabian , Rheinländer Carl C. , Wehn Norbert , Kuhn Jochen
Published: December 2021

With the recent increase in the use of augmented reality (AR) in educational laboratory settings, there is a need for new intelligent sensor systems capturing all aspects of the real environment. We present a smart sensor system meeting these requirements for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) experiments in electrical circuits. The system consists of custom experiment boxes and cables combined with an application for the Microsoft HoloLens 2, which creates an AR experiment environment. The boxes combine sensors for measuring the electrical voltage and current at the integrated electrical components as well as a reconstruction of the currently constructed electrical circuit and the position of the sensor box on a table. Combing these data, the AR application visualizes the measurement data spatially and temporally coherent to the real experiment boxes, thus fulfilling demands derived from traditional multimedia learning theory. Following an evaluation of the accuracy and precision of the presented sensors, the usability of the system was evaluated with n=20 pupils in a German high school. In this evaluation, the usability of the system was rated with a system usability score of 94 out of 100.
A Governance Framework to Assist with the Adoption of Sensing Technologies in Construction
Authors: Arabshahi Mona , Wang Di , Wang Yufei , Rahnamayiezekavat Payam , Tang Weichen , Wang Xiangyu
Published: December 2021

Sensing technologies present great improvements in construction performance including the safety, productivity, and quality. However, the corresponding applications in real projects are far behind compared with the academically research. This research aims to discover dominate influence factors in the sensing technologies adoption and ultimately develop a governance framework facilitating adoption processes. The framework is dedicated on general sensing technologies rather than single sensor in previous framework studies. To begin with, the influence factors of sensing technologies and other similar emerging technologies are summarised through a review. Then, a mixed methods design was employed to collect quantitative data through an online survey, and qualitative data through semi-structured interviews. Findings of the quantitative method reveal that the most widely implemented sensing technologies are GPS and visual sensing technology, but they’re still not adopted by all construction companies. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling reveals that supplier characteristics have the highest effect in all influence factors. Qualitative method was adopted to investigate perceptions of construction stakeholders on the major decision-making considerations in the adoption process. Ultimately, a triangulation analysis of findings from the literature review, online survey and interviews resulted in the governance framework development. The overarching contribution of this research focus on the general adoption of sensing technologies rather than the adoption of a specific sensor. Therefore, the governance framework can assist with the decision-making process of any sensing technology adoption in construction.
A Systematic Review of Hardware-Accelerated Compression of Remotely Sensed Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Altamimi Amal , Ben Youssef Belgacem
Published: December 2021

Hyperspectral imaging is an indispensable technology for many remote sensing applications, yet expensive in terms of computing resources. It requires significant processing power and large storage due to the immense size of hyperspectral data, especially in the aftermath of the recent advancements in sensor technology. Issues pertaining to bandwidth limitation also arise when seeking to transfer such data from airborne satellites to ground stations for postprocessing. This is particularly crucial for small satellite applications where the platform is confined to limited power, weight, and storage capacity. The availability of onboard data compression would help alleviate the impact of these issues while preserving the information contained in the hyperspectral image. We present herein a systematic review of hardware-accelerated compression of hyperspectral images targeting remote sensing applications. We reviewed a total of 101 papers published from 2000 to 2021. We present a comparative performance analysis of the synthesized results with an emphasis on metrics like power requirement, throughput, and compression ratio. Furthermore, we rank the best algorithms based on efficiency and elaborate on the major factors impacting the performance of hardware-accelerated compression. We conclude by highlighting some of the research gaps in the literature and recommend potential areas of future research.
On the Performance of Generative Adversarial Network by Limiting Mode Collapse for Malware Detection Systems
Authors: Murray Acklyn , Rawat Danda B.
Published: December 2021

Generative adversarial network (GAN) has been regarded as a promising solution to many machine learning problems, and it comprises of a generator and discriminator, determining patterns and anomalies in the input data. However, GANs have several common failure modes. Typically, a mode collapse occurs when a GAN fails to fit the set optimizations and leads to several instabilities in the generative model, diminishing the capability to generate new content regardless of the dataset. In this paper, we study conditional limiter solutions for mode collapse for the Intrusion Detection System (IDS) Control Flow GAN (ICF-GAN) model. Specifically, the ICF-GAN’s mode collapse instances are limited by a mini-batch method that significantly improves the model accuracy. Performance evaluation is conducted using numerical results obtained from experiments.
Flaw Detection in Highly Scattering Materials Using a Simple Ultrasonic Sensor Employing Adaptive Template Matching
Authors: Wu Biao , Huang Yong
Published: December 2021

Ultrasonic sensors have been extensively used in the nondestructive testing of materials for flaw detection. For polycrystalline materials, however, due to the scattering nature of the material, which results in strong grain noise and attenuation of the ultrasonic signal, accurate detection of flaws is particularly difficult. In this paper, a novel flaw-detection method using a simple ultrasonic sensor is proposed by exploiting time-frequency features of an ultrasonic signal. Since grain scattering mostly happens in the Rayleigh scattering region, it is possible to separate grain-scattered noise from flaw echoes in the frequency domain employing their spectral difference. We start with the spectral modeling of grain noise and flaw echo, and how the two spectra evolve with time is established. Then, a time-adaptive spectrum model for flaw echo is proposed, which serves as a template for the flaw-detection procedure. Next, a specially designed similarity measure is proposed, based on which the similarity between the template spectrum and the spectrum of the signal at each time point is evaluated sequentially, producing a series of matching coefficients termed moving window spectrum similarity (MWSS). The time-delay information of flaws is directly indicated by the peaks of MWSSs. Finally, the performance of the proposed method is validated by both simulated and experimental signals, showing satisfactory accuracy and efficiency.
Information Conversion in Measuring Channels with Optoelectronic Sensors
Authors: Kukharchuk Vasyl V. , Pavlov Sergii V. , Holodiuk Volodymyr S. , Kryvonosov Valery E. , Skorupski Krzysztof , Mussabekova Assel , Karnakova Gaini
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this work is the authors’ attempt to identify the main phases of information transformation in measurement channels on the example of an optical measurement channel with microprocessor control. The authors include such phases: hardware implementation and analytical representation of an optical sensor’s converting functions and a current-to-voltage converter; based on the methods of experimental computer science, the converting functions and sensitivity are deduced, analytical dependences for estimation of a range of measurement are obtained. It is shown that the choice of information transmission type in the microprocessor measuring channel significantly affects the speed of the measuring channel. Based on the uncertainty in the form of entropy before and after measurements, the amount of information for measuring channels with optoelectronic sensors is estimated. The application of the results obtained in the work allows even at the design stage of physical and mathematical modeling to assess the basic static metrological characteristics of measuring channels, aimed at reducing the stage of development and debugging of hardware and software and standardization of their metrological characteristics.
A Short Review on Clustering Dark Energy
Authors: Batista Ronaldo C.
Published: December 2021

We review dark energy models that can present non-negligible fluctuations on scales smaller than Hubble radius. Both linear and nonlinear evolutions of dark energy fluctuations are discussed. The linear evolution has a well-established framework, based on linear perturbation theory in General Relativity, and is well studied and implemented in numerical codes. We highlight the main results from linear theory to explain how dark energy perturbations become important on the scales of interest for structure formation. Next, we review some attempts to understand the impact of clustering dark energy models in the nonlinear regime, usually based on generalizations of the Spherical Collapse Model. We critically discuss the proposed generalizations of the Spherical Collapse Model that can treat clustering dark energy models and their shortcomings. Proposed implementations of clustering dark energy models in halo mass functions are reviewed. We also discuss some recent numerical simulations capable of treating dark energy fluctuations. Finally, we summarize the observational predictions based on these models.
TECHNOLOGY FORMING ADMINISTRATIVE AND ADMINISTRATIVE CULTURE OF FUTURE OFFICERS OF OPERATIONAL AND TACTICAL LEVEL OF THE NATIONAL GUARANTEE OF UKRAINE
Authors: DENISENKO Ye.
Published: December 2021

The article defines the main components of the technology of formation of administrative and managerial culture of future officers of the operational-tactical level of NMU in the process of master's training on the basis of the development of the personality of each specialist as a  competent, responsible, able  to continuously improve the commander with a  scientific, professional, administrative and managerial outlook, developed creative practical thinking, able and ready to effectively solve the whole complex of managerial tasks facing him for entity management in various military structures, units and institutions that can build their own management experience in difficult conditions daily activities real circumstances of combat missions. The pedagogical essence and structure of the technology of formation of administrative and managerial culture of future officers of the operational-tactical level in the unity of conceptual, content, operational-methodical, diagnostic components are described. The main feature of the proposed technology for the formation of the administrative and managerial culture of future officers at the operational and tactical level was  that instead of a rather fragmented structure of the model of military management with rigid internal rules and the impersonal nature of the relations "commander-subordinate" who demand the conquest of a position, rather than respect for personality It embraces conceptual foundations, content and methods that are oriented towards human resources and are aimed at solving fundamentally new, long- to increase the military-combat effectiveness of the military organization, to maintain its balance with the environment. In this approach, servicemen of the selected category cease to be "cadres"; they are seen as a key factor in success as a resource of officers at the operational-tactical level, with a high level of administrative and managerial culture.
REALIZATION OF THE TUTOR ACCOMPANIMENT IN THE ORGANIZATION OF THE SELF-EMPLOYED WORK OF FOREIGN STUDENTS IN THE HIGHER TECHNICAL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Authors: DENYSOVETS I.
Published: December 2021

The article considers and theoretically substantiates the necessity and feasibility of the implementation  of  tutor support during the organization of independent work of foreign students in the higher technical educational institution. The basic ways of construction and improvement of elements of independent studying of educational material in the context of self-improvement of professional skills of a personality are determined. The main factors influencing the successful performance of independent work by foreign students in technical universities are analyzed. The specific pedagogical means of organization and management of independent activity of foreign students in higher technical educational institutions are studied. The interpretation of the concept of “tutor” in the domestic and foreign pedagogical practice is considered. The content of the tasks of the tutor-teacher, who works directly with foreign students, is analyzed in detail. It is proved that a tutor at a higher technical educational institution creates an educational sphere that allows a foreign student not only to acquire knowledge and skills, but also to solve real problems in his educational activity, to create a comfortable and convenient mode of work for him, especially during the initial stages of adaptation. The author emphasizes that this new method of successful cooperation between the teacher-tutor and foreign citizens who are students of Ukrainian universities is quite optimal and effective in terms of reforming the educational process in higher education, although it requires improvement and some adaptation to the system of higher education in Ukraine.
PREPARATION OF THE FUTURE MANAGER FOR SUCCESSFUL CREATIVE SELF-REALIZATION IN THE INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION
Authors: DZEKUN Yu.
Published: December 2021

The article deals with the directions of the influence of a modern institution of higher education on the personal and professional development of the future manager as a potentially successful personality capable of constructive creative self- organization, analyzing social roles, the implementation of which allows the student to gain experience in constructive self-development. One of the main tasks of the higher school as a  person-formation environment is the creation of a broad system of events in which the student would acquire sufficient social and quasi-professional experience, and, it is the experience of successful, that would become the basis for making decisions that are adequate to their own intentions and opportunities, and provided a high level of motivation to expand its own success zone.
V.G. KOROLENKO AGRICULTURAL YOUNG OFFENDERS INSTITUTION : EXPERIENCE OF SAFETY CHILDREN'S EDUCATION IN POLTAVA REGION
Authors: ILCHENKO O.
Published: December 2021

The problem of homeless children in Ukraine of the 21th century has been updated. The best practices of one of the first managers in the Poltava region, who initiated the re-education of young people on the principles of teamwork and cohesiveness of pupils around joint productive work, were analyzed by Fedor Danilovich Ivanov, the head of the children's agricultural colony named after V.G. Korolenko.The main achievements of the colony were identified: the creation of a system of children's  self-governance,  the structure that included general meetings, the organizational committee, the system of detachments, commissions (economic, sanitary, linen, club board, library, editorial); availability of Pioneer and Komsomol organization; clear organization of the labor process of the colonists; organization and provision of  educational work for pupils; organization of cultural and educational life and improvement of children.The author notes that the organization of work’s level has ensured its high effectiveness: the upbringing and returning to the full life of hundreds of pupils (together with the labor colony of A. S. Makarenko, about 2 thousand pupils were rescued by children's institutions, the cases of relapse were not recorded among them); the recognition of the colony of the People's Commissariat of Ukraine as a research and development institution, 1925; the abandonment of the posts of educators and the transition to self-governing colonial administration, from 1928 (colony named after M. Gorky, since 1930); the popularization of the experience of educational work in pedagogical journals, journals, methodical collections. There was concluded that the efficiency and high results in education had become possible due to the innovative, non- standard approach to work created by the  personal convictions and views, efforts and desires of Theodore Danilovich Ivanov, his dedication and love for children. The specifics of work with children of preschool and junior school age have helped the children's institution become an innovative center for the development and validation of democratic, humane views on the education of young people.The author expresses the hope that the innovative experience of upbringing street children of Fyodor Ivanov will not only be a historical value, but will also be a real example for the formation of Ukrainian citizens and their return to full- fledged life.
THE COMPONENT OF MANAGERIAL OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE OF A SPECIALIST IN THE EDUCATION SYSTEM
Authors: KONDUR O.
Published: December 2021

Transformation in society generates new trends in management processes. They are projected onto the educational system. Therefore, the educational reform has increased the requirements for the content and quality of the formation of professional competence of specialists in education. The reform considers the need for modernization of the organizational and managerial qualities of teachers. In the conditions of decentralization of education and autonomy of educational institutions, teachers become stakeholders. Therefore, it is necessary to involve them in management processes. It is also necessary to supplement the content of pedagogical education with modern educational management. The specialist should clearly understand the equivalence of the concepts of "management" and "responsibility".Monitoring of professional competence of a teacher helps to reveal and develop creative potential possibilities of his personality, his professional competence, intellectual and general cultural levels. It is proposed to assess the level of managerial competence of the teacher with the help of a technological map. It consists of three blocks: professional level; organizational and methodical behavior, management culture. The method of calculating the coefficient of efficiency of the managerial component of the teacher's professional competence is offered.. A grading scale is written.
CREATION OF AN INNOVATIVE EDUCATIONAL SPACE BY MEANS OF INTRODUCTION OF INNOVATIVE FORMS AND METHODS OF EDUCATION AND UPBRINGING IN CONDITIONS OF AN OUT-OF-SCHOOL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Authors: LESHCHENKO I.
Published: December 2021

The article defines the priority directions of activity out-of-school education with the purpose of modernization of the educational environment and orientation of the educational process to ensure the effective implementation of innovative forms and methods of education and upbringing in the system of extracurricular education in the region.The introduction of innovations into the structure of the Poltava regional ecological and naturalistic center of student youth has given its positive results, namely: increased the percentage of children involved in extracurricular education, particularly in the districts; the region has increased the number of senior pupils involved in research in the field of biology and chemistry; the process of recovery and restoration of gifted and talented children and pupils' youth has improved qualitatively.