bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on the Weldability of Copper—304L Stainless Steel Dissimilar Joint Performed by Robotic Gas Tungsten Arc Welding
Authors: Mitru Andrei , Semenescu Augustin , Simion George , Scutelnicu Elena , Voiculescu Ionelia
Published: August 2022

The welding process of dissimilar metals, with distinct chemical, physical, thermal, and structural properties, needs to be studied and treated with special attention. The main objectives of this research were to investigate the weldability of the dissimilar joint made between the 99.95% Cu pipe and the 304L stainless steel plate by robotic Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), without filler metal and without preheating of materials, and to find the optimum welding regime. Based on repeated adjustments of the main process parameters—welding speed, oscillation frequency, pulse frequency, main welding current, pulse current, and decrease time of welding current at the process end—it was determined the optimum process and, further, it was possible to carry out joints free of cracks and porosity, with full penetration, proper compactness, and sealing properties, that ensure safety in operating conditions. The microstructure analysis revealed the fusion zone as a multi-element alloy with preponderant participation of Cu that has resulted from mixing the non-ferrous elements and iron. Globular Cu- or Fe-rich compounds were developed during welding, being detected by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Moreover, the Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDAX) recorded the existence of a narrow double mixing zone formed at the interface between the fusion zone and the 304L stainless steel that contains about 66 wt.% Fe, 18 wt.% Cr, 8 wt.% Cu, and 4 wt.% Ni. Due to the formation of Fe-, Cr-, and Ni-rich compounds, a hardness increase up to 127 HV0.2 was noticed in the fusion zone, in comparison with the copper material, where the average measured microhardness was 82 HV0.2. The optimization of the robotic welding regime was carried out sequentially, by adjusting the parameters values, and, further, by analyzing the effects of welding on the geometry and on the appearance of the weld bead. Finally, employing the optimum welding regime—14 cm/min welding speed, 125 A main current, 100 A pulse current, 2.84 Hz oscillation frequency, and 5 Hz pulse frequency—appropriate dissimilar joints, without imperfections, were achieved.
Influence of WC Particle Size on the Mechanical Properties and Residual Stress of HVOF Thermally Sprayed WC–10Co–4Cr Coatings
Authors: Fan Kunyang , Jiang Wenhuang , Luzin Vladimir , Gong Taimin , Feng Wei , Ruiz-Hervias Jesus , Yao Pingping
Published: August 2022

Cermet coatings deposited using high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) are widely used due to their excellent wear and corrosion resistance. The new agglomeration–rapid sintering method is an excellent candidate for the preparation of WC–Co–Cr feedstock powders. In this study, four different WC–10Co–4Cr feedstock powders containing WC particles of different sizes were prepared by the new agglomeration–rapid sintering method and deposited on steel substrates using the HVOF technique. The microstructures and mechanical properties of the coatings were investigated using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, nanoindentation, and Vickers indentation. The through-thickness residual stress profiles of the coatings and substrate materials were determined using neutron diffraction. We found that the microstructures and mechanical properties of the coatings were strongly dependent on the WC particle size. Decarburization and anisotropic mechanical behaviors were exhibited in the coatings, especially in the nanostructured coating. The coatings containing nano- and medium-sized WC particles were dense and uniform, with a high Young’s modulus and hardness and the highest fracture toughness among the four coatings. As the WC particle size increased, the compressive stress in the coating increased considerably. Knowledge of these relationships enables the optimization of feedstock powder design to achieve superior mechanical performance of coatings in the future.
Critical Minerals for Zero-Emission Transportation
Authors: Czerwinski Frank
Published: August 2022

Fundamentals of critical minerals and their paramount role in the successful deployment of clean energy technologies in future transportation are assessed along with current global efforts to satisfy the needs of automotive supply chains and environmental concerns. An implementation of large quantities of minerals, in particular metals, into the manufacturing of strategic components of zero-emission vehicles will bring new challenges to energy security. As a result, a reduced dependency on conventional hydrocarbon resources may lead to new and unexpected interdependencies, including dependencies on raw materials. It is concluded that to minimize the impact of a metal-intensive transition to clean transportation, in addition to overcoming challenges with minerals mining and processing, further progress in understanding the properties of critical materials will be required to better correlate them with intended applications, to identify potential substitutions and to optimize their use through the sustainable exploration of their resources and a circular economy.
A Hybrid Flexible Neutral Grounding Mode for Large Generators
Authors: Wang Yikai , Yin Xin , Yin Xianggen , Qiao Jian , Tan Liming
Published: August 2022

Single-phase ground faults frequently occur at the generator stator windings. To realize reliable arc suppression, a dual-frequency active arc-suppression strategy has been widely considered. However, the existing method needs an inverter with large capacity, which is large in volume and high in cost, causing limited engineering application prospects. To reduce the capacity, a novel hybrid flexible neutral grounding method for large generators is proposed in this paper. It combines the dual-frequency active arc-suppression strategy with the arc-suppression coil-grounding mode. Thus, most of the fundamental components in the fault current are compensated by the arc-suppression coil, and the rest are compensated by the active arc-suppression device. The capacity of the inverter can be greatly reduced under the premise of reliably realizing arc suppression. To identify transient and permanent ground faults after arc suppression, the phase-angle relation between the third-harmonic voltage and current variation at the generator neutral point is used to form the fault-type identification criterion. The third-harmonic quantities can avoid the blind area at the neutral point caused by fundamental quantities. Simulation and experimental test results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Really Ageing Systems Undergoing a Discrete Maintenance Optimization
Authors: Briš Radim , Jahoda Pavel
Published: August 2022

In general, a complex system is composed of different components that are usually subject to a maintenance policy. We take into account systems containing components that are under both preventive and corrective maintenance. Preventive maintenance is considered as a failure-based preventive maintenance model, where full renewal is realized after the occurrence of every nth failure. It offers an imperfect corrective maintenance model, where each repair deteriorates the component or system lifetime, the probability distribution of which gradually changes via increasing failure rates. The reliability mathematics for unavailability quantification is demonstrated in the paper. The renewal process model, involving failure-based preventive maintenance, arises from the new corresponding renewal cycle, which is designated a real ageing process. Imperfect corrective maintenance results in an unwanted rise in the unavailability function, which can be rectified by a properly selected failure-based preventive maintenance policy; i.e., replacement of a properly selected component respecting both cost and unavailability after the occurrence of the nth failure. The number n is considered a decision variable, whereas cost is an objective function in the optimization process. The paper describes a new method for finding an optimal failure-based preventive maintenance policy for a system respecting a given reliability constraint. The decision variable n is optimally selected for each component from a set of possible realistic maintenance modes. We focus on the discrete maintenance model, where each component is realized in one or several maintenance mode(s). The fixed value of the decision variable determines a single maintenance mode, as well as the cost of the mode. The optimization process for a system is demanding in terms of computing time because, if the system contains k components, all having three maintenance modes, we need to evaluate 3k maintenance configurations. The discrete maintenance optimization is shown with two systems adopted from the literature.
Multi-Objective Material Logistics Planning with Discrete Split Deliveries Using a Hybrid NSGA-II Algorithm
Authors: Fang Weikang , Guan Zailin , Su Peiyue , Luo Dan , Ding Linshan , Yue Lei
Published: August 2022

To schedule material supply intelligently and meet the production demand, studies concerning the material logistics planning problem are essential. In this paper, we consider the problem based on the scenario that more than one vehicle may visit each station in batches. The primary objective is to satisfy the demands in the time windows, followed by logistics planning with the minimum vehicles and travel time as the optimization objective. We construct a multi-objective mixed-integer programming model for the scenario of discrete material supply in workshops. First, we propose a hybrid heuristic algorithm combining NSGA-II and variable neighborhood search. This proposed algorithm combines the global search capability of NSGA-II and the strong local search capability, which can balance intensification and diversification well. Second, to maintain the diversity of population, we design the population diversity strategy and various neighborhood operators. We verify the effectiveness of the hybrid algorithm by comparing with other algorithms. To test the validity of the proposed problem, we have carried out research and application in a construction machinery enterprise.
Bayesian Aerosol Retrieval-Based PM2.5 Estimation through Hierarchical Gaussian Process Models
Authors: Zhang Junbo , Li Daoji , Xia Yingzhi , Liao Qifeng
Published: August 2022

Satellite-based aerosol optical depth (AOD) data are widely used to estimate land surface PM2.5 concentrations in areas not covered by ground PM2.5 monitoring stations. However, AOD data obtained from satellites are typically at coarse spatial resolutions, limiting their applications on small or medium scales. In this paper, we propose a new two-step approach to estimate 1-km-resolution PM2.5 concentrations in Shanghai using high spatial resolution AOD retrievals from MODIS. In the first step, AOD data are refined to a 1×1km2 resolution via a Bayesian AOD retrieval method. In the second step, a hierarchical Gaussian process model is used to estimate PM2.5 concentrations. We evaluate our approach by model fitting and out-of-sample cross-validation. Our results show that the proposed approach enjoys accurate predictive performance in estimating PM2.5 concentrations.
Bipolar Complex Fuzzy Subgroups
Authors: Yang Xiaopeng , Mahmood Tahir , ur Rehman Ubaid
Published: August 2022

In this study, firstly, we interpret the level set, support, kernel for bipolar complex fuzzy (BCF) set, bipolar complex characteristic function, and BCF point. Then, we interpret the BCF subgroup, BCF normal subgroup, BCF conjugate, normalizer for BCF subgroup, cosets, BCF abelian subgroup, and BCF factor group. Furthermore, we present the associated examples and theorems, and prove these associated theorems. After that, we interpret the image and pre-image of BCF subgroups under homomorphism and prove the related theorems.
Development of Predictive Models for Determination of the Extent of Damage in Granite Caused by Thermal Treatment and Cooling Conditions Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Khan Naseer Muhammad , Cao Kewang , Emad Muhammad Zaka , Hussain Sajjad , Rehman Hafeezur , Shah Kausar Sultan , Rehman Faheem Ur , Muhammad Aamir
Published: August 2022

Thermal treatment followed by subsequent cooling conditions (slow and rapid) can induce damage to the rock surface and internal structure, which may lead to the instability and failure of the rock. The extent of the damage is measured by the damage factor (DT), which can be quantified in a laboratory by evaluating the changes in porosity, elastic modulus, ultrasonic velocities, acoustic emission signals, etc. However, the execution process for quantifying the damage factor necessitates laborious procedures and sophisticated equipment, which are time-consuming, costly, and may require technical expertise. Therefore, it is essential to quantify the extent of damage to the rock via alternate computer simulations. In this research, a new predictive model is proposed to quantify the damage factor. Three predictive models for quantifying the damage factors were developed based on multilinear regression (MLR), artificial neural networks (ANNs), and the adoptive neural-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The temperature (T), porosity (ρ), density (D), and P-waves were used as input variables in the development of predictive models for the damage factor. The performance of each predictive model was evaluated by the coefficient of determination (R2), the A20 index, the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), the root mean square error (RMSE), and the variance accounted for (VAF). The comparative analysis of predictive models revealed that ANN models used for predicting the rock damage factor based on porosity in slow conditions give an R2 of 0.99, A20 index of 0.99, RMSE of 0.01, MAPE of 0.14, and a VAF of 100%, while rapid cooling gives an R2 of 0.99, A20 index of 0.99, RMSE of 0.02, MAPE of 0.36%, and a VAF of 99.99%. It has been proposed that an ANN-based predictive model is the most efficient model for quantifying the rock damage factor based on porosity compared to other models. The findings of this study will facilitate the rapid quantification of damage factors induced by thermal treatment and cooling conditions for effective and successful engineering project execution in high-temperature rock mechanics environments.
Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro/In Vivo Efficacy Studies of a Novel Liposomal Drug Delivery System of Amphiphilic Jaspine B for Treatment of Synovial Sarcoma
Authors: Khajeh pour Sana , Mateen Sameena , Pashikanti Srinath , Barrott Jared J. , Aghazadeh-Habashi Ali
Published: August 2022

Sphingomyelin is a cell membrane sphingolipid that is upregulated in synovial sarcoma (SS). Jaspine B has been shown to inhibit sphingomyelin synthase, which synthesizes sphingomyelin from ceramide, a critical signal transducer; however, jaspine B’s low bioavailability limits its application as a promising treatment option. To address this shortcoming, we used microfluidics to develop a liposomal delivery system with increased anticancer efficacy. The nano-liposome size was determined by transmission electron microscopy. The jaspine B liposome was tested for its tumor inhibitory efficacy compared to plain jaspine B in in vitro and in vivo studies. The human SS cell line was tested for cell viability using varying jaspine B concentrations. In a mouse model of SS, tumor growth suppression was evaluated during four weeks of treatment (3 times/week). The results show that jaspine B was successfully formulated in the liposomes with a size ranging from 127.5 ± 61.2 nm. The MTT assay and animal study results indicate that jaspine B liposomes dose-dependently lowers cell viability in the SS cell line and effectively suppresses tumor cell growth in the SS animal model. The novel liposome drug delivery system addresses jaspine B’s low bioavailability issues and improves its therapeutic efficacy.
High-Sensitivity Cardiac Troponin Impact on the Differential Diagnosis of Non-ST Segment Elevation Coronary Syndromes—Is It Helping?
Authors: Šulskutė Kristina , Pilkienė Aistė , Meškėnė Emilija , Kersnauskaitė Džiugilė , Šerpytis Rokas , Petrulionienė Žaneta , Šerpytis Pranas
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives: Increased levels of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) are the main criteria that differentiate non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) from unstable angina (UA). How are these implemented in clinical practices? This study aims to detect cases of misdiagnosed UA instead of NSTEMI. Materials and Methods: We analysed discharge summaries of 840 patients admitted to Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos with the diagnosis of UA in 2017–2018. We retrospectively checked symptoms, levels of hs-cTn, coronary angiography and electrocardiogram changes with an aim to differentiate UA and type 1 NSTEMI, according to the Fourth Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction. We excluded patients with missing hs-cTn levels or coronary angiography. Results: We found that 46.71% (n = 334) of patients met the diagnostic criteria of UA according to the Fourth Universal Definition, whereas 19.16% of patients (n = 137) could have been diagnosed with type 1 NSTEMI instead of UA. In the group of patients who could be reclassified to type 1 NSTEMI, the median level of hs-cTn was 184.32 [226.15] ng/L on admission. The median of the lowest level during the hospitalization was 114.0 [207.4] ng/L. Median highest—304.0 [257.6] ng/L. Myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries could have been diagnosed in 3.36% (n = 24) of patients. Conclusions: Only less than half of patients met the diagnostic UA criteria. Almost one-fifth of patients with a diagnosis of UA could be reclassified to type 1 NSTEMI.
Hepatitis E Virus Detection in Hunted Wild Boar Liver and Muscle Tissues in Central Italy
Authors: Ferri Gianluigi , Lauteri Carlotta , Festino Anna Rita , Piccinini Andrea , Olivastri Alberto , Vergara Alberto
Published: August 2022

In different European countries, including Italy, hepatitis E virus (HEV) has been recognized as an emerging public health concern. Humans are infected through the orofecal route by the ingestion of contaminated uncooked or undercooked animal-origin foodstuffs. Wild boars (Sus scrofa) have gained a crucial role as viral reservoirs. HEV-3 is the most frequently identified genotype from hunted wild boar liver and muscle tissues. The Marche region, more specifically Ascoli Piceno province, is characterized by a rooted hunting tradition and related product consumption. In this research study, 312 liver and 296 muscle specimens were screened using biomolecular assays, and HEV RNA was detected from 5.45% and 1.35% of liver and muscle samples, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that positive animals were infected by genotype 3 subtype c. Based on the environmental pathogen characteristics, HEV has also evolved to guarantee its survival in a wild environment. Therefore, wild boars and ruminants have a key role in its persistence. Epidemiological data regarding HEV circulation have resulted as necessary, and biomolecular analysis represents an important means of monitoring and establishing preventive measures. A multidisciplinary approach could provide a wide perspective regarding HEV and infectious implications on human, animal, and environmental health.
Multiscale Fractal Characterization of Pore Structure for Coal in Different Rank Using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry
Authors: Ma Yankun
Published: August 2022

Multiscale fractal analysis of the pore system for coal is necessary to obtain more inner information. The techniques of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Mercury Intrusion Porosimetry (MIP) are combined to characterize the pore structure of natural coal. A total of eight coal samples, of a different rank and coalification degree, are prepared for experiments. Methods of SEM image processing, piecewise curve-fitting and correction of intrusion data are adopted to obtain more useful results. According to the pore size range of the MIP probe, pores in coal are classified as seepage pore (pore size ≥ 1000 nm), transition pore (pore size ≥ 50 nm and <1000 nm) and mesopore (pore size < 50 nm). Variations of multi-scale fractal dimensions are studied from the perspective of coalification degree or coal rank. Fractal dimension from SEM data (D1) and fractal dimensions of seepage pore, transition pore and mesopore (D2, D′2 and D″2) from MIP data are calculated by fitting curves, and consequently correlations of those with volatile matter (Vdaf), pore volume and pore size are analyzed and discussed. The U-shape relationships between fractal dimensions (D1, D2 and D′2) and Vdaf are observed. Macropores are presented as the isolated clusters embedding in the network of smaller pores, and the difference of the order of magnitude of the pores’ size affects the connectivity between pores. Both the pore size and volume have a direct influence on multiscale fractal dimensions. Overall, multiscale fractal analysis is beneficial to explore the structure of natural coal.
Symmetry Function: The Differences between Active and Non-Active Above-the-Knee Amputees
Authors: Kowal Mateusz , Winiarski Sławomir , Gieysztor Ewa , Kołcz Anna , Dumas Ilias , Paprocka-Borowicz Małgorzata
Published: August 2022

The number of patients with unilateral above-knee amputation (AKA) due to non-vascular causes has remained stable over the years, at 0.92 per 1000 people per year. Post-AKA individuals are at risk of experiencing a higher incidence of chronic pain. Post rehabilitation, it is estimated that between 16–62% of patients with musculoskeletal disabilities fail to meet the minimum criteria for physical activity in comparison to a healthy population. The current study included 14 participants (11 men and 3 women) with a mean age of 46.1 ± 14.2 years, body height of 1.76 ± 0.09 m, and weight of 79.6 ± 18.3 kg, who were all post-unilateral above-the-knee amputees. Patients in the study were divided into two groups: active (AC) and non-active (NAC). This study was conducted in a certified Laboratory of Biomechanical Analysis using the BTS Smart-E system (BTS Bioengineering). In order to investigate the symmetry function (SF) of gait, the only measurements included were the time series assessment of gait variables defining pelvic and lower limb joint motion and ground reaction forces (GRF). Both groups had an asymmetrical gait pattern with a different magnitude and relative position in the gait cycle, which was revealed by SF. The differences in terms of median, minimum, and maximum were statistically significant (p < 0.05), with SF ranging from –25 to 24% for the AC group and from 43 to 77% (59% on average) for the NAC group. The AC’s pattern was more symmetrical compared to the NAC’s pattern, especially in the case of pelvic and hip joint motion.
Indoor Positioning System with UWB Based on a Digital Twin
Authors: Lou Ping , Zhao Qi , Zhang Xiaomei , Li Da , Hu Jiwei
Published: August 2022

Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is used for indoor positioning, but its positioning accuracy is usually degenerated by various obstacles in the indoor environment because of non-line-of-sight (NLOS). Facing the complex and changeable indoor environment, an indoor positioning system with UWB based on a digital twin is presented in this paper. The indoor positioning accuracy is improved with a perception–prediction feedback of cyber-physics space in this indoor positioning system. In addition, an anchor layout method with virtuality–reality interaction and an error mitigation method based on neural networks is put forward in this system. Finally, a case study is presented to validate this indoor positioning system with a significant improvement in positioning accuracy.
Channel-Hopping Sequence and Rendezvous MAC for Cognitive Radio Networks
Authors: Paul Rajib , Jang Jiwoon , Choi Young-June
Published: August 2022

In cognitive radio networks (CRNs), two secondary users (SUs) need to meet on a channel among multiple channels within a finite time to establish a link, which is called rendezvous. For blind rendezvous, researchers have devised ample well-grounded channel hopping (CH) sequences that guarantee smaller time-to-rendezvous. However, the best part of these works lacks the impact of network factors, particularly channel availability and collision during rendezvous. In this study, a new CH scheme is investigated by jointly considering the medium access control (MAC) protocol for single-hop multi-user CRNs. The analysis of our new variable hopping sequence (V-HS) guarantees rendezvous for the asymmetric channel model within a finite time. Although this mathematical concept guarantees rendezvous between two SUs, opportunities can be overthrown because of the unsuccessful exchange of control packets on that channel. A successful rendezvous also requires the exchange of messages reliably while two users visit the same channel. We propose a MAC protocol, namely ReMAC, that can work with V-HS and CH schemes. This design allows multiple rendezvous opportunities when a certain user visits the channel and modifies the conventional back-off strategy to maintain the channel list. Both simulation and analytical results exhibited improved performance over the previous approaches.
Lamb Wave Detection for Structural Health Monitoring Using a ϕ-OTDR System
Authors: Zahoor Rizwan , Cerri Enis , Vallifuoco Raffaele , Zeni Luigi , De Luca Alessandro , Caputo Francesco , Minardo Aldo
Published: August 2022

In this paper, the use of a phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (ϕ-OTDR) sensor for the detection of the Lamb waves excited by a piezoelectric transducer in an aluminum plate, is investigated. The system is shown to detect and resolve the Lamb wave in distinct regions of the plate, opening the possibility of realizing structural health monitoring (SHM) and damage detection using a single optical fiber attached to the structure. The system also reveals the variations in the Lamb wave resulting from a change in the load conditions of the plate. The same optical fiber used to detect the Lamb waves has also been employed to realize distributed strain measurements using a Brillouin scattering system. The method can be potentially used to replace conventional SHM sensors such as strain gauges and PZT transducers, with the advantage of offering several sensing points using a single fiber.
A Compact Measurement Setup for Material Characterization in W-Band Based on Dielectric Waveguides
Authors: Orend Kerstin , Baer Christoph , Musch Thomas
Published: August 2022

In this contribution, we present a measurement system for material characterization in the millimeter-wave range that requires extremely small amounts of sample material. With the help of a dielectric waveguide, it is possible to measure the complete S-parameters with only one port. Fundamentals regarding dielectric waveguides and algorithms are explained, which form the basis of the measurement system. Within the scope of this work, an existing waveguide system was extended and optimized. In addition, two algorithms were implemented to determine permittivity. Finally, measurements were carried out to prove the function of the measurement setup and compared to existing measurement setups.
A Distributed Method for Self-Calibration of Magnetoresistive Angular Position Sensor within a Servo System
Authors: Čeperković Vladimir , Rajović Vladimir , Prokin Milan
Published: August 2022

Magnetoresistive angle position sensors are, beside Hall effect sensors, especially suitable for usage within servo systems due to their reliability, longevity, and resilience to unfavorable environmental conditions. The proposed distributed method for self-calibration of magnetoresistive angular position sensor uses the data collected during the highest allowed speed shaft movement for the identification of the measurement process model parameters. Data acquisition and initial data processing have been realized as a part of the control process of the servo system, whereas the identification of the model parameters is a service of an application server. The method of minimizing of the sum of algebraic distances of the sensor readings and the parametrized model is employed for the identification of parameters of linear compensation, whereas the average shaft rotation speed has been used as a high precision reference for the identification of parameters of harmonic compensation. The proposed method, in addition to a fast convergence, provides for the increase in measurement accuracy for an order of magnitude. Experimentally obtained measurement uncertainty was better than 0.5°, with the residual variance less than 0.02°, comparable to the sensor resolution.
Fusion-Based Versatile Video Coding Intra Prediction Algorithm with Template Matching and Linear Prediction
Authors: Luo Dan , Xiong Shuhua , Ren Chao , Sheriff Raymond Edward , He Xiaohai
Published: August 2022

The new generation video coding standard Versatile Video Coding (VVC) has adopted many novel technologies to improve compression performance, and consequently, remarkable results have been achieved. In practical applications, less data, in terms of bitrate, would reduce the burden of the sensors and improve their performance. Hence, to further enhance the intra compression performance of VVC, we propose a fusion-based intra prediction algorithm in this paper. Specifically, to better predict areas with similar texture information, we propose a fusion-based adaptive template matching method, which directly takes the error between reference and objective templates into account. Furthermore, to better utilize the correlation between reference pixels and the pixels to be predicted, we propose a fusion-based linear prediction method, which can compensate for the deficiency of single linear prediction. We implemented our algorithm on top of the VVC Test Model (VTM) 9.1. When compared with the VVC, our proposed fusion-based algorithm saves a bitrate of 0.89%, 0.84%, and 0.90% on average for the Y, Cb, and Cr components, respectively. In addition, when compared with some other existing works, our algorithm showed superior performance in bitrate savings.
Classification Performance of a Novel Hydraulic Classifier Equipped with a W-Shaped Reflector
Authors: Zhang Yuekan , Duan Yaoxu , Jiang Lanyue , Cao Jingzhen
Published: August 2022

In the present research, we propose the use of a novel hydraulic classifier equipped with a W-shaped reflector to enhance classification performance. The effects of the structural dimensions of a W-shaped reflector on the flow field of a classifier and its classification performance were investigated using numerical simulations and experiments. The results demonstrate that the reflection of the W-shaped reflector results in the return of the feed material back to the classification cavity. After this, the materials are mixed with a rising water flow in order to avoid the settlement of particles. Thus, the particles can stay longer in the classification cavity, facilitating the generation of a suspension bed and effectively improving the classification efficiency and accuracy. Our data indicates that the overall classification efficiency of the classifier embedded with the W-shaped reflector was 11.19% higher than that of a traditional classifier. Our results provide a reference for classifier optimization.
Special Issue Editorial Asymptotic Methods in the Mechanics and Nonlinear Dynamics
Authors: Andrianov Igor
Published: August 2022

The idea of asymptotic approximation is one of the most important and profound in mathematics, especially in the parts of it those are in close contact with physics, mechanics, and engineering [...]
Isolated Gluteus Maximus Tear of a Middle-Aged Fitness Coach; A Case Report
Authors: Shekhbihi Abdelkader , Pfeiffer Michael , Masoud Mohammad , Reichert Winfried
Published: August 2022

Background: Injuries of the hip extensors are not uncommon, with those of the hamstrings being frequent among athletes. On the contrary, isolated injuries of the gluteus maximus muscle have been barely reported in the literature. Case Report: We present a case of a 63-year-old male water aerobics trainer with an acute tear of the right gluteus maximus tendon and describe the clinical presentation, imaging studies, surgical treatment, and functional outcome one year after surgery.
Individual Risk Factors of Mycetoma Occurrence in Eastern Sennar Locality, Sennar State, Sudan: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Hassan Rowa , Deribe Kebede , Simpson Hope , Bremner Stephen , Elhadi Osama , Alnour Mustafa , Fahal Ahmed Hassan , Newport Melanie , Bakhiet Sahar
Published: August 2022

Mycetoma is a serious chronic subcutaneous granulomatous inflammatory disease that is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions, where it impacts profoundly on patients, families, and communities. Individual-level risk factors for the disease are poorly understood. To address this, a case-control study was conducted based on data collected from 60 villages in Eastern Sennar Locality, Sennar State, Sudan. Based on the presence of swelling in any part of the body, or sinus formation with or without grain discharge evident from the lesion by ultrasound examination, we diagnosed 359 cases of mycetoma. For each case, we included three healthy sex-matched persons, with no evidence of mycetoma, from the same village as the control group (n = 1077). The odds for mycetoma were almost three times higher in individuals in the age group 16–30 years (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 2.804, 95% CI = 1.424–5.523) compared to those in age group ≤ 15 years. Other factors contributing to the odds of mycetoma were history of local trauma (AOR = 1.892, 95% CI = 1.425–2.513), being unmarried (AOR = 3.179, 95% CI = 2.339–4.20) and owning livestock (AOR = 3.941, 95% CI = 2.874–5.405). In conclusion, certain factors found to be associated with mycetoma in this study could inform a high index of suspicion for mycetoma diagnosis, which would improve early case detection. Other factors found to be associated could inform the development of an interventional program for mycetoma control in Sudan, including education on healthy farming practices and the risks of puncture wounds for individuals residing in endemic areas. However, this work was conducted in one endemic state, while mycetoma cases occur in all states of Sudan. Replicating this study over a wider area would give a fuller picture of the situation, providing the control program with more comprehensive information on the risk factors for the disease.
Narrative Review of the Control and Prevention of Knowlesi Malaria
Authors: Mohammad Ahmad Hazim , Naserrudin Nurul Athirah , Syed Abdul Rahim Syed Sharizman , Jelip Jenarun , Atil Azman , Sazali Mohd Fazeli , Muyou Adora J. , Kunasagran Priya Dharishini , Ahmad Kamarudin Nornazirah , Azhar Zahir Izuan , Dapari Rahmat , Jeffree Mohammad Saffree , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat
Published: August 2022

Despite the reduction in the number of cases of human malaria throughout the world, the incidence rate of knowlesi malaria is continuing to rise, especially in Southeast Asia. The conventional strategies for the prevention and control of human malaria can provide some protection against knowlesi malaria. Despite the numerous studies on the risk factors and the innovative methods that may be used to prevent and control the vectors of Plasmodium knowlesi, the incidence rate remains high. An integrated approach that includes environmental intervention should be adopted in order to ensure the successful control of zoonotic malaria. A combination of personal-level protection, vector control and environmental control may mitigate the risk of Plasmodium knowlesi transmission from macaques to humans and, ultimately, reduce the incidence rate of knowlesi malaria.
The Prevalence of Asymptomatic Infections with Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus and Attitude towards Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine in the Endemic Area of Northeastern Poland
Authors: Bojkiewicz Ewa , Toczylowski Kacper , Grygorczuk Sambor , Zelazowska-Rutkowska Beata , Dunaj Justyna , Zebrowska Agnieszka , Czupryna Piotr , Moniuszko-Malinowska Anna , Sulik Artur
Published: August 2022

In Poland, tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccination rate is low despite high incidence of severe infections with TBE virus (TBEV). However, infection with TBEV can be asymptomatic or mild, which makes the total number of cases difficult to assess. We aimed at assessing asymptomatic TBEV infections and describing attitudes towards the TBE vaccine. We studied 298 healthy adult blood donors and 180 children from the TBE endemic area of northeastern Poland for the presence of anti-TBEV IgG antibodies. We also surveyed a separate cohort of 444 adults. Thirty-eight blood donors (13%) and 38 survey respondents (9%) reported a history of a prior anti-TBEV vaccination. Forty respondents (9%) reported vaccinating their child in the past. Fourteen unvaccinated blood donors (5%) and four children (2%) were seropositive for specific anti-TBEV antibodies, suggesting a history of an undiagnosed TBEV infection. In the surveyed cohort, 130 (32%) expressed their intention to be vaccinated and 144 (36%) expressed their intention to vaccinate their child. This intention was significantly higher in respondents with a recent tick-bite, a diagnosis of tick-borne disease in a close relative, and in males. Our study shows that asymptomatic TBEV infections are common. The acceptance of TBE vaccine is low, but might be increased by communicating risks associated with tick bites.
Satisfaction of Search Can Be Ameliorated by Perceptual Learning: A Proof-of-Principle Study
Authors: Park Erin , Branch Fallon , Hegdé Jay
Published: August 2022

When searching a visual image that contains multiple target objects of interest, human subjects often show a satisfaction of search (SOS) effect, whereby if the subjects find one target, they are less likely to find additional targets in the image. Reducing SOS or, equivalently, subsequent search miss (SSM), is of great significance in many real-world situations where it is of paramount importance to find all targets in a given image, not just one. However, studies have shown that even highly trained and experienced subjects, such as expert radiologists, are subject to SOS. Here, using the detection of camouflaged objects (or camouflage-breaking) as an illustrative case, we demonstrate that when naïve subjects are trained to detect camouflaged objects more effectively, it has the side effect of reducing subjects’ SOS. We tested subjects in the SOS task before and after they were trained in camouflage-breaking. During SOS testing, subjects viewed naturalistic scenes that contained zero, one, or two targets, depending on the image. As expected, before camouflage-training, subjects showed a strong SOS effect, whereby if they had found a target with relatively high visual saliency in a given image, they were less likely to have also found a lower-saliency target when one existed in the image. Subjects were then trained in the camouflage-breaking task to criterion using non-SOS images, i.e., camouflage images that contained zero or one target. Surprisingly, the trained subjects no longer showed significant levels of SOS. This reduction was specific to the particular background texture in which the subjects received camouflage training; subjects continued to show significant SOS when tested using a different background texture in which they did not receive camouflage training. A separate experiment showed that the reduction in SOS was not attributable to non-specific exposure or practice effects. Together, our results demonstrate that perceptual expertise can, in principle, reduce SOS, even when the perceptual training does not specifically target SOS reduction.
Characterisation of Norwegian Battery Electric Vehicle Owners by Level of Adoption
Authors: Bjørge Nina Møllerstuen , Hjelkrem Odd André , Babri Sahar
Published: August 2022

In this paper we investigate differences between groups of Norwegian electric vehicle owners, sorted by their adoption level. The grouping is based on adoption theory and the share of battery electric vehicles in new car sales numbers. We investigate Norwegian adopters’ preferences, values, and motivations for choosing a battery electric vehicle. The main data source is a yearly survey between 2015 and 2020 amongst Norwegian electric vehicle drivers. The motivation of the study is to reveal different choices by the adopter groups, contributing to policy recommendations and incentives for other countries. However, the Norwegian case might be a special one, having economic advantages which many other countries do not have access to. We assess the validity of the results and policy recommendations by analysing the results of a survey amongst the Nordic countries on investment choices concerning battery electric vehicles.
PROSPECTS OF INTRODUCTION OF THE PUNICA GRANATUM (PUNICA GRANATUM L.) IN THE FOREST STEPPE OF UKRAINE
Authors: Krasovsky V. , Cherniak T. , Orlovskiy O. , Gapon S.
Published: August 2022

On the basis of modern publications the morphological and bioecological features of punica granatum regarding the introduction into the forest-steppe zone of Ukraine are generalized. It is shown that P. granatum can withstand a short-term decrease in air temperature to minus 15 ° C without damage, and in the case of winter shelter with insulation material can withstand a decrease in temperature to minus 25 ° C.The requirements of the pomegranate for heat are highlighted - for fruit ripening it needs a growing season of 180-200 days and the sum of active temperatures during the growing season over 3000 ° C. According to the Poltava Regional Center for Hydrometeorology, the period of active vegetation of agricultural crops lasts 169-173 days, varying in some years from 148 to 190 days. The growing season begins on April 16-18 and ends on October 4-6. The sum of active air temperatures during this period varies from 2795 ° С in the north of the region to 3045 ° С in the south. In some years, this amount ranges from 2390 ° C to 3435 ° C.It is emphasized that the plants have many dormant buds, they are durable, age slowly but easily become active, forming numerous shoots, which indicates a high regenerative capacity of the species. Due to this feature, the pomegranate enters the period of fruiting early - propagated by cuttings fruiting from the third to fourth year. It is noted that the common pomegranate is well propagated by sowing seeds, which is important for practical selection. It is undemanding to soil conditions, grows on a variety of gravelly to heavy clay soils, except for wetlands. Salt resistance is also relatively high, as plants can develop normally with salinity of up to 0.5 g / kg of soil.The results of the work on the mobilization of the vegetative material of the common pomegranate in the Khorol Botanical Garden as the beginning of the creation of the gene pool of the species and its storage are presented. Ways to increase the adaptive potential of the species in the climatic conditions of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine are shown.
STUDY OF BIOECOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND PHENOLOGICAL FEATURES OF CERTAIN VARIETIES OF ABELMOSCHUS ESCULENTUS (L.) MOENCH IN CONDITIONS IN THE VINNYTSIA REGION
Authors: Mashtaler O. , Lutsenko A. , Mikulich L.
Published: August 2022

The article presents the results of bioecological characteristics and phenological features of some varieties of Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench in Vinnytsia region: two varieties of Ukrainian origin - ‘Sopilka’ and ‘Alabama red’, as well as a variety of okra of Turkish origin - ‘Sultani’. Germination energy and seed germination were studied. The results of phenological observations are obtained: calendar terms of the beginning of phenological phases, duration of phases and interphase periods of selected varieties. It was found that the earliest passage of phenological phases is the variety Abelmoschus esculentus of Turkish origin - ‘Sultani’. For this variety, the duration of the interphase periods (for 2018-2019) was: «sowing-germination» - 20 days, «germination-flowering» - 54 days, «flowering-beginning of fruiting» - 4 days. According to the results of 2020, the interphase periods for the variety ‘Sultani’ were longer by an average of 3-4 days.
CRANIOLOGY OF MALE POPULATION OF BATURYN TOWN OF 17–18 CENTURIES
Authors: Dolzenko Yu.
Published: August 2022

Material and methods. This article deals with the publication and the comparative analysis of 17–18 century Baturyn male cranial series found during excavations by V. Kovalenko, O. Kovalenko, Yu. Sytyi, V. Mezentsev, V. Skorokhod in 2005–2015 on the territory of the Fortress (the Castle of the Life-Giving Trinity) and in resedimentation. Computer software designed by B. Kozintsev and O. Kozintsev in 1991 has been utilized in the research. 14 craniometric traits defined by R. Martin have been involved into the analysis.The objective of this paper is to introduce a new material into the scientific domain and define the place of the given series among famous anthropological types. To achieve this goal, it is necessary to provide the general description of the male group from Baturyn of 17–18 centuries on the background of neighboring ethnic groups from Ukraine and Eastern Europe (a synchronistic method), determine the distance between separate cranial series of 12–19 centuries with the help of multidimensional canonical and cluster analysis, and to define the place of male population from Baturyn in the system of craniological types of Eastern Europe.Results. For the first time, the general male series from Baturyn town of 17–18 centuries including 74 skulls has been made. After comparison of square divergence of 69 basic traits and indexes of Baturyn male skulls with the standard ones, one can conclude that the researched selection is heterogeneous by its structure. The application of the multidimensional canonical and cluster analysis for the comparison of the studied group of 17–18 centuries with the synchronic series from 11–12 centuries from Eastern, Central and Western Europe has demonstrated the closest similarity of the researched group to town series from Kyiv Podil.Conclusion. According to the average craniometric trait value, the researched male group can be classified as Central Ukrainian anthropological type due to brachycranial braincase, relatively wide face, and big angle of nasal bones protrusion.