bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Design and Modeling of Pneumatic Artificial Muscle
Authors: Al-Mayahi Wafaa , Al-Fahaam Hassanin
Published: January 2024

Soft robots, which are often considered safer than rigid robots when interacting with humans due to the reduced risk of injury, have found utility in various medical and industrial fields. Pneumatic artificial muscles (PAMs), one of the most widely used soft actuators, have proven their efficiency in numerous applications, including prosthetic and rehabilitation robots. PAMs are lightweight, responsive, precise, and capable of delivering a high force-to-weight ratio. Their structure comprises a flexible, inflatable membrane reinforced with fibrous twine and fitted with gas-sealing fittings. For the optimal design and integration of these into control systems, it is crucial to develop mathematical models that accurately represent their functioning mechanisms. This paper introduces a general concept of PAM's construction, its various types, and operational mechanisms, along with its key benefits and drawbacks, and also reviews the most common modeling techniques for PAM representation. Most models are grounded in PAM architecture, aiming to calculate the actuator's force across its full axis by correlating pressure, length, and other parameters that influence actuator strength.
Internet of Things Based Oil Pipeline Spill Detection System Using Deep Learning and LAB Colour Algorithm
Authors: H. Obaid Muhammad , H. Hamad Ali
Published: January 2024

Given the role that pipelines play in transporting crude oil, which is considered the basis of the global economy and across different environments, hundreds of studies revolve around providing the necessary protection for it. Various technologies have been employed in this pursuit, differing in terms of cost, reliability, and efficiency, among other factors. Computer vision has emerged as a prominent technique in this field, albeit requiring a robust image-processing algorithm for spill detection. This study employs image segmentation techniques to enable the computer to interpret visual information and images effectively. The research focuses on detecting spills in oil pipes caused by leakage, utilizing images captured by a drone equipped with a Raspberry Pi and Pi camera. These images, along with their global positioning system (GPS) location, are transmitted to the base station using the message queuing telemetry transport Internet of Things (MQTT IoT) protocol. At the base station, deep learning techniques, specifically Holistically-Nested Edge Detection (HED) and extreme inception (Xception) networks, are employed for image processing to identify contours. The proposed algorithm can detect multiple contours in the images. To pinpoint a contour with a black color, representative of an oil spill, the CIELAB color space (LAB) algorithm effectively removes shadow effects. If a contour is detected, its area and perimeter are calculated to determine whether it exceeds a certain threshold. The effectiveness of the proposed system was tested on Iraqi oil pipeline systems, demonstrating its capability to detect spills of different sizes.
The Impact of Task and Technology Characteristics on Cost Estimation Performance in Construction Projects: A Regression Analysis
Authors: Mohammad Waffy Fazil  , Puteri Fadzline Muhamad Tamyez  , Lee Chia Kuang
Published: January 2024

Accurate cost estimation is crucial for the success of construction projects worldwide. However, many projects encounter failures due to challenges in this area. Existing research has primarily focused on developing and comparing cost estimation methods, as well as identifying factors and best practices for improving cost estimation performance. Yet, only a limited number of studies have explored deeply into the relationship between these factors and cost estimation performance. This study aims to address this gap by investigating how task characteristics and cost estimation method characteristics affect cost estimation performance from the perspective of cost estimators. Data were collected from cost estimators in construction projects and subsequently analyzed using multiple regression analysis. The results demonstrate that task interdependence and the cost estimation method characteristics significantly impact the cost estimation performance. This study provides novel insights regarding the significance of these method characteristics and sheds light on which task characteristics influence the cost estimation performance. It also provides the importance of fostering a positive organizational culture to mitigate the adverse effects of task interdependence on cost estimation performance. Furthermore, this study recommends further exploration of the interaction between task and cost estimation method characteristics through task-technology fit theory or moderator analysis.
Emulsion Liquid Membrane Modelling for Cadmium Removal using Taylor-Couette Column
Authors: Adhi Kusumastuti  , Abdul Latif Ahmad  , Ooi Boon Seng  , Derek Chan Juinn Chieh  , Meor Muhammad Hafiz Shah Buddin  , Zaenal Abidin  , Samsudin Anis
Published: January 2024

Emulsion liquid membrane modelling for cadmium extraction using a counter rotating Taylor-Couette column (TCC) has been done. Lower shear stress in a TCC system is beneficial in preventing emulsion damage while maintaining excellent extraction efficiency. The study used type II facilitated transport of cadmium based on the immobilized hollow spherical globule model. The investigated parameters were HCl concentration in the external phase (0.05 - 0.5 M), extraction speed (inner cylinder 600 rpm, outer cylinder: 300 - 700 rpm), initial feed concentration (75 - 300 ppm), volume ratio of internal to membrane phase (1/3 - 1/6), and volume ratio to of emulsion to feed phase (1/4 - 1/10). The model could explain the experimental data very well with an accuracy of more than 95%.
Stability Analysis of Unsteady Flow and Heat Transfer of Rear Stagnation Point in Hybrid Nanofluids with Thermal Radiation and Magnetic Impact
Authors: Nurul Amira Zainal  , Iskandar Waini  , Najiyah Safwa Khashi’ie  , Khairum Hamzah  , Sayed Kushairi Sayed Nordin  , Abdul Rahman Mohd Kasim  , Roslinda Nazar  , Ioan Pop
Published: January 2024

In this study, the stability analysis is conducted in order to observe the reliability of the generated solutions. The influence of several parameters is taken into consideration including magnetic parameter, radiation parameter, and heat transfer. The well-known heat transfer fluid that is Al2O3-Cu/H2O hybrid nanofluid past a rear stagnation point is implied. The similarity equations are achieved after implying suitable similarity transformation which then needed to be solved numerically using bcp4c, embedded in MATLAB software. Dual solutions are observed along the investigation within specified values of involved parameters. It is important to note that verification results show excellent concordance with pre-existing reports.
MHD Natural Convection Flow of Casson Ferrofluid over a Vertical Truncated Cone
Authors: Muhammad Khairul Anuar Mohamed  , Anuar Ishak  , Wan Muhammad Hilmi Wan Rosli  , Siti Khuzaimah Soid  , Hamzeh Taha Alkasasbeh
Published: January 2024

This study considers the mathematical model of MHD free or natural convection boundary layer flow of a Casson ferrofluid over a truncated cone. The set of non-linear partial differential equations that governed the model is first reduced to a simpler set of equations using the non-similar transformation. This set of equations then is solved numerically using the implicit finite difference method known as the Keller-box method. Blood and magnetite are taken as the based-fluid and the ferroparticles for the Casson ferrofluid, respectively. From the numerical study, it was found that the increase of ferroparticles volume fraction results in the increase in the skin friction coefficient and the Nusselt number while the magnetic parameter does the contrary. Further, both parameter shows diminishing effects, whereby if one of the parameter values is set to be increases, the friction between fluid and surface can be controlled by manipulating the other parameter values.
Investigation of Vertical Axis Wind Turbine Performance with Savonius Rotor on Air Ejector Dimensions using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Ismail  , Rinawati  , Imam Muzaki
Published: January 2024

This study evaluates the tsunami forces exerted on a terrestrial structure caused by a collision-induced tsunami. Conventionally, assessing these forces relies on the inundation depth of the colliding tsunami passing without the presence of the terrestrial structure. However, it is essential to consider the inundation depth and incident fluid velocity, as both significantly influence the resulting tsunami forces. In this research, ANSYS Fluent 17.2 is employed to simulate excitation sources using a Defined Function (UDF) code within a C++ framework. The dynamic meshing technique is adopted to replicate the interactions between the bore pressure of the tsunami and an idealised vertical wall structure across three distinct water levels. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling demonstrates the proposed methodology's capability to offer precise impact pressure distributions concerning geographical and temporal aspects. The findings reveal specific instances: at a water depth of 10 m, the maximum Froude number is attained at 3.5 and 6.9 seconds, corresponding to a maximum pressure value of 3.9x105 Pa at 3.85 seconds for a water flow velocity of 20 m/sec. Similarly, for a water depth of 12 m, the most significant Froude number is observed at 3.95 and 6.9 seconds, with a peak pressure value of 1.8x105 Pa at 4.6 seconds, associated with a water flow velocity of 15 m/s. Additionally, at a water depth of 14 m, the maximum Froude number is reached at 4.95 and 7.1 seconds, accompanied by a maximum pressure value of 7.4x104 Pa at 4.85 seconds for a water flow velocity of 10 m/s.
Efficient methylene blue dye removal using hybrid ZnO/Co/Cs photocatalyst beads
Authors: Ong Kwang Zhean  , Mohd Fadhil Majnis  , Mohd Azam Mohd Adnan  , Suhanna Natalya Mohd Suhaimy
Published: January 2024

This study highlighted the developments of the hybrid photocatalytic system for wastewater treatment in the textile industry. Chitosan (Cs) and cobalt (Co) were introduced into the conventional catalyst zinc oxide (ZnO) to form the hybrid photocatalyst beads. Four different weight ratios of ZnO/Cs (1:1) and ZnO/Co/Cs (1:1:1, 1:2:1 and 2:1:1) beads were synthesized by the sol-gel method. The photocatalytic degradation properties of the hybrid ZnO/Co/Cs were investigated under visible light irradiation for methylene blue (MB) photodegradation. The study focused on the effect of ZnO/Co/Cs composition ratio, irradiation time and the amount of catalyst loading in the photoreactor for five hours of exposure time. The result was that the 1:1:1 ZnO/Co/Cs photocatalyst beads had the highest degradation rate compared to the other systems. Adding Co to the ZnO/Cs photocatalyst improved the photocatalytic activity by increasing the decolourization percentage of methylene blue
Enhancing solar hybrid system efficiency in Libya through PSO & flower pollination optimization
Authors: Ahmed Moh A Al Smin  , Alkbir Munir Faraj Almabrouk  , Sairul Izwan Safie  , Mohd Al Fatihhi Mohd Szali Januddi  , Mohd Fahmi Hussin  , Abdulgader Alsharif
Published: January 2024

The integration and optimization of Concentrated Solar Power-Photovoltaic (CSP-PV) hybrid systems have become a focal point in the field of solar energy research and development. The fusion of the strengths from both forms of power generation in the CSP-PV hybrid system offers the potential to deliver affordable and manageable solar energy solutions. However, the key parameters of the CSP plant can vary in different situations. Taking these variations into account is crucial for optimizing the overall performance of the CSP-PV hybrid system and ensuring its adaptability to different scenarios. Therefore, there is a need for a method that can optimize all the main parameters of the CSP and the hybrid system at the same time. The maximum acquired energy from the CSP is 7 kWh with meeting the objective of Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE). In this paper utilized the Flower Pollination Algorithm (FPA). method to globally optimize the CSP-PV Hybrid System. The experimental results prove the effectiveness of this method.
MODEL DEVELOPMENT AND CALCULATIONS FOR 35/10 KV ELECTRICAL SUBSTATIONS IN TURKESTAN REGION USING RASTRWIN3 PROGRAM
Authors: Kalimoldayev Maksat , Shermantayeva Zhazira
Published: January 2024

The city of Turkestan, Kazakhstan is experiencing growth leading to an increased need for electricity. In order to meet this demand the city is upgrading its infrastructure specifically focusing on improving its 35/10 kV substations. Engineers are utilizing calculation software like RastrWin3 to design and analyze these substations.This software offers capabilities, for modeling substations. Using RastrWin3 the ability to import data from sources like drawings AutoCad, GIS maps and other relevant resources. This imported data serves as the foundation for constructing the substation model. Engineers can easily incorporate components such as transformers, feeders, circuit breakers and busbars into the model. Each element of the model can be assigned parameters like voltage, current, resistance and power to represent real world conditions. Additionally, load profiles can be generated for analysis purposes to capture fluctuations, in energy demands throughout the day and year.Numerical calculation software plays a role, in the design and analysis of substations. It provides engineers with a toolset to achieve the following objectives:1. Construct models of substations.2. Simulate the behavior of substations under operational conditions.3. Resolve issues that may arise in electrical substations.4. Enhance the design and optimization of substations.One notable software in this domain is RastrWin3 which offers capabilities for calculations and simulations related to electric substations. Engineers can utilize this program to evaluate power systems, in emergency and transient modes. Accounting for various factors such as non-linearity, power and reactive power losses, as well, as the influence of capacitive coupling.Various types of loads such, as consumer loads, substation auxiliary loads and loads from protection and automation devices are considered in the modeling process. The software RastrWin3 is utilized to design and analyze 35/10 kV substations, in Turkestan. This software assists in enhancing the precision of substation design reducing the time needed for designing and developing substations improving substation efficiency and lowering maintenance costs.
APPLICATION OF MACHINE LEARNING FOR RECOGNIZING SURFACE WELDING DEFECTS IN VIDEO SEQUENCES
Authors: Yemelyanova Mariya , Smailova Saule
Published: January 2024

The paper offers a solution to the problem of detecting and recognizing surface defects in welded joints that appear during tungsten inert gas welding of metal edges. This problem belongs to the machine vision. Welding of stainless-steel edges is carried out automatically on the pipe production line. Therefore, frames of video sequences are investigated. Images of some welding defects are shown in the paper. An algorithm proposed by the authors is used to detect welding defects in the video sequence frames, the efficiency of which has been confirmed experimentally. The problem solution of welding defects recognition is based on the use of traditional machine learning methods: support vector machine and artificial neural network. To build classification models, a labeled dataset containing automatically extracted texture features from the areas of welding defects detected in the video sequences was created. An analysis was performed to identify the strength of the correlation of texture features between each other and the dependent variable in the dataset for dimensionality reduction of the feature vector. The models were trained and tested on datasets with different numbers of features. The quality of the classification models was evaluated based on the accuracy metric values. The best results were achieved by the classifier built using the support vector machine with a chi-square kernel on a training sample with two features. The build models allow automatic recognition of such welding defects as lack of fusion and metal oxidation. The computational experiments with real video sequences obtained with a digital camera confirmed the possibility of using the proposed solution for recognizing surface welding defects in the process of manufacturing stainless steel pipes.
DEVELOPMENT OF A MODEL FOR IMPLEMENTING A CASE METHOD FOR INTERACTIVE STUDY PROCESS MANAGEMENT MONITORING
Authors: Zunimova Gulnaz , Soltan Gulzhan , Likhacheuski Dmitry , Ismailova Aisulu , Issayeva Nazym
Published: January 2024

The importance of this research topic lies in the need to gather, store, analyze and disseminate accurate information on the management status of educational institutions to guarantee the provision of quality educational services. This is particularly crucial in the current trend towards digitalizing educational work and utilizing the internet to facilitate practical management tasks. The study aims to construct a case method model to supervise educational process management outcomes. For that purpose, the study scrutinises the implementation methodologies of existing case models to monitor and analyse the situation without human intervention. Also, the investigation entails creating an implementation algorithm and a simulation model of an interactive case method to monitor educational activities. The formalized logical-semantic apparatus is used to address the research problems. The algorithm development and simulation modeling enabled correlation of the obtained answer with the assigned task, automating the results output. Generating answers in the case method involves considering rules based on the base word, answer keywords, and constraints (true/false). These elements are part of the thesaurus specific to the survey domain and are included in the test's base vocabulary. To test an answer against a question, each inductive step is viewed through a logical formula. Logical statements such as conjunction, disjunction, logical negation, implication, and equivalence are represented by formulas. This method enables the evaluation of the respondent's answer based on the nodes within the statement tree integrated into the test. The progression from the initial word to the node-connection generates an automated assessment of individual educational process management standards. This study enables the enhancement of automated monitoring capabilities for the University's educational process results. The research suggests the potential for developing models and algorithms to form question sets and enable individualized assessments based on the respondent's performance. As a consequence, the devised algorithm and simulation model for the interactive case approach are showcased.  During the testing, the key words and example words were compared with the responses of the participants and specific results were obtained. Additional case vocabulary terms need to be added to address the limitations encountered during the model testing and the testing period.
Sosialisasi Kewirausahaan Pada Masyarakat Terdampak Bencana Gempa dan Tsunami di Desa Tompe Kecamatan Sirenja Kabupaten Donggala
Authors: Mappatoba Mappatoba , Fandi Roy , Afandi Muhammad , Rahman Arif , Astuti Agusta Sri , Vany Suci Dwi
Published: January 2024

Salah satu alternatif yang dapat dilakukan untuk pemulihan pasca bencana terjadi adalah berwirausaha sesuai keahlian masing-masing. Berwirausaha dianggap mampu membangkitkan perekonomian masyarakat. Metode yang digunakan adalah melakukan Sosialisasi dengan melibatkan masyarakat yang terdampak bencana. Tujuan sosialisasi ini adalah untuk menambah wawasan bagi Pemerintah Desa dan Masyarakat tentang pengembangan UMKM pasca bencana, guna memulihkan perekonomian masyarakat yang terdampak bencana. Hasil penelitian yang dilakukan ialah respon masyarakat dalam kegiatan ini sangat antusias, hal ini dianggap penting untuk meningkatkan perekonomian masyarakat pasca bencana, sehingga kegiatan ini menjadi spirit perubahan dalam mengubah pola pikir bagi masyarakat agar lebih produktif. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, bahwa desa tompe memiliki potensi yang bisa dimanfaatkan dalam berwirausaha. Untuk itu masyarakat dan pemerintah agar memanfaatkan potensi desa yang ada.
Rancang Bangun Pemanggang Daging Ayam Dari Drum Bekas Dalam Upaya Pengurangan Limbah Keras Anorganik
Authors: Perkasa Petrisly , Siswandi Galfri , Wiyogo Wiyogo , Ovany Riska , Prayoga Aldi Wira , Nugroho Septian Aji
Published: January 2024

Masalah lingkungan pada desa mitra ketika dilakukan observasi adalah banyaknya drum bekas penyimpanan solar yang tidak terpakai. Selain itu kurangnya pengetahuan mitra dalam mengolah makanan berbahan baku daging ayam yang cepat dan menyehatkan untuk disajikan ke konsumen. Topik yang dipilih adalah pengelolaan limbah dari drum bekas agar memiliki nilai jual. Pengolahan drum bekas ini melalui metode difusi ipteks sebagai solusi yang diberikan ke mitra untuk menggiatkan kembali usaha masyarakat desa. Kegiatan ini menghasilkan produk yang langsung dapat digunakan dan digandakan secara mandiri. Rancang bangun alat pemanggang dari drum bekas ini juga upaya dalam mengurangi sampah anorganik yang tentunya bisa membantu menyelamatkan lingkungan. Pengabdian ini bertujuan meningkatkan perekonomian masyarakat melalui pengelolaan usaha berbasis sumber daya. Objek mitra yakni usaha kecil katering rumahan di desa Tumbang Terusan, Kabupaten Pulang Pisau, Provinsi Kalimantan Tengah. Hasil ujicoba didapat daging ayam ketika dipanggang lebih empuk, tidak gosong, menyehatkan dan lebih cepat masak. Metode memanggang secara konvesional membutuhkan waktu lebih dari satu jam sedangkan dengan drum bekas ini hanya 30 menit.
Efektivitas “Puzzle Rumah Perkalian” dalam Menunjang Konsep Matematika Dasar Murid Slow Learner di Kawasan Perbatasan
Authors: Ndapa Deda Yohanis , Disnawati Hermina , Roberto Kasa Andreas , Owa Florida , Kusi Esterlin
Published: January 2024

Kegiatan ini didasari learning loss pada saat Covid-19 yang berdampak munculnya murid slow learner akibat adanya kebijakan belajar dari rumah. Tujuan kegiatan ini adalah untuk menguji tingkat efektivitas “Puzzle Rumah Perkalian” dalam menunjang konsep matematika dasar murid slow leraner di Kawasan Perbatasan Darat Indonesia dengan Republik Demokratik Timor Leste. Metode yang digunakan adalah metode kuantitatif dengan jenis eksperimen, yaitu One-Group Pretest-Posttest. Tahapan pelaksanaan penelitian ini dimulai dari perencanaan, pelaksanaan pre test, eksperimen dan postest. Jumlah murid yang terlibat adalah 18 orang siswa sekolah dasar kelas 4. Metode pengumpulan informasi merupakan tes, serta dokumentasi. Metode analisa data yang dipakai merupakan analisa statistik deskriptif, analisa N- Gain serta analisa inferensial. Hasil riset membuktikan kalau nilai rerata pretest merupakan 40,51 serta nilai rerata post test merupakan 66,29. Nyata kalau terjadi kenaikan sehabis peserta didik dikasihkan perlakuan Pembelajaran matematika memakai“ Puzzle Rumah Perkalian” sebesar 25,78 serta rerata N-gain ialah 0,43 termasuk kategori sedang. Bersumber pada hasil studi ini, bisa disimpulkan kalau aplikasi “Puzzle Rumah Perkalian” pada pembelajaran matematika materi operasi bilangan bulat khususnya pada operasi perkalian bisa mendukung matematika dasar anak didik slow learner di Area Perbatasan. Konsep berikutnya yang hendak digarap merupakan meningkatkan alat pembelajaran matematika yang sesuai buat anak didik slow learner di Area Perbatasan.
Sosialisasi Bantuan Hukum Ganti Rugi Lahan Sebagai Problem Solving Pada Masyarakat Lok Bahu Samarinda
Authors: Nur Insan Tajali
Published: January 2024

Secara ontologis, manusia merupakan makhluk sosial sekaligus subyek hukum yang selalu berinteraksi dengan hukum beserta akibat yang ditimbulkannya. Secara epistimologis, akibat hukum berpotensi menimbulkan konflik baik secara vertikal maupun horizontal. Hal tersebut menimbulkan berbagai perkara yang patut diselesaikan. Secara aksiologis,,diperlukannya kehadiran regulasi tarkait bantuan hukum. Faktanya, melalui keberadaan regulasi tersebut yang merupakan perwujudan prinsip persamaan didepan hukum memberikan perlindungan dan jaminan hukum belum dipahami secara utuh oleh masyarakat serta keterbatasan ekonomi. Seperti konflik antara masyarakat Kelurahan Lok Bahu, Kota Samarinda dengan Pemerintah Daerah Provinsi Kalimantan Timur terkait tidak jelasnya pergantian ganti rugi tanah yang dijadikan jalan Provinsi selama bertahun- tahun. Hal ini menjadi alasan perlunya dukungan dari wakil sekaligus legislator daerah yang memiliki kekuasaan untuk dipenuhi haknya melaui kegiatan Sosialisasi Peraturan Daerah Nomor 05 Tahun 2019 Tentang Penyelenggaraan Bantuan Hukum yang merupakan Langkah untuk meningkatan literati guna mengoptimalisasikan program bantuna hukum gratis bagi rakyat yang kurang mampu. Dari hasil sosialisasi tersebut, terjadi peningkatan pemahaman dari Masyarakat.
Pelatihan Kreatif untuk Meningkatkan Keterampilan Menulis Portofolio untuk Anak Panti Asuhan
Authors: Afrianti Desi , Candra Ifani , Sriwahyuningsih Vera
Published: January 2024

Pemahaman tentang bagaimana menulis portofolio kerja sangat minim diketahui oleh anak panti. Hal ini penting dilakukan dalam bentuk pelatihan mengingat banyak anak panti yang setelah taman bangku SMK langsung bekerja. Keterampilan menulis portofolio terutama portofolio kerja merupakan salah satu bentuk keterampilan yang harus dimiliki oleh seseorang ketika akan melamar pekerjaan. Portofolio merupakan salah satu dokumen penting untuk melamar pekerjaan. Pelatihan ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan keterampilan menulis portofolio bagi para penghuni panti, tertama anak-anak yang berada di jenjang kelas XII SMK. Metode kegiatan PKM ini menggunakan tiga metode yaitu,  metode analisis, metode pengabdian, dan metode sosialisasi. Hasil pelatihan ini adalah anak-anak panti kelas XII SMK merasa sangat senang dan terbantu mendapatkan informasi dan pelatihan dalam menulis portofolio ini. Peserta pelatihan ini banyak mendapatkan ilmu tentang portofolio, seperti apa itu fortofolio, beda fortofolio dengan CV, apa saja isi portofolio, dan cara menulis atau membuat portofolio yang menarik. Hasil akhir dari pelatihan ini adalah anak Panti dapat menghasilkan sebuah portofolio yang baik dan menarik
Assessing the Quality of Non-Professional Meteorological Data for Operational Purposes
Authors: Sládek David , Kolář Petr
Published: January 2024

Non-professional weather stations are often omitted from the networks of standard/professional stations at various spatial scales. Nevertheless, there are many tasks when such non-professional datasets can serve as the only or the most relevant available
source respectively. Its acquisition costs, sufficient quality and capacity together with its
moveability represent properties that should be taken into consideration when planning
operational usage of various meteorological data. In this paper, we focus on the datasets
of air temperatures and relative humidities measured both with professional and nonprofessional devices at nearly the same location. Four years of almost continual measurements (2016-2019) ensure robust sample of mutual comparison, which we analyze in the paper more in detail in order to assess the potential of non-professional datasets for utilization in aviation meteorology. Particular issues such as value difference patterns, large errors occurrence, temporal signal stability and seasonality are elaborated as well.
Planing of the Finite Aspect Ratio Plate at Subsonic, Transonic and Supersonic Speeds
Authors: Mayboroda Oleksandr , Derepa A.
Published: January 2024

The mechanics of underwater supercavitating projectiles are currently being extensively
researched. The disadvantage of such projectiles is their movement instability. There is
a proposal to use stern planing plates to stabilize projectile’s movement. However, the
hydrodynamic characteristics of planing plates are known only for low subsonic speeds.
This article describes a load study on a planing plate at subsonic, transonic and supersonic speeds with detached and attached shock waves. The obtained calculation results of normal forces satisfactorily agree with the known theoretical solutions and experimental data and can be used to calculate the motion stabilization of supercavitating underwater projectiles with planing stern plates.
Synthesis of Algorithm to Change Guidance Law for Air-to-Air Missiles Intercept Separating Targets
Authors: Nguyen Tat Tuan , Vu Hoa Tien , Doan Van Minh , Nguyen Thi Thu Trang
Published: January 2024

This paper presents the results of summarizing the algorithm of target selection and
changing guidance law applied for medium and long-range air-to-air intercept missiles
to ensure the ability to detect and distinguish the group-separating target, which in turn
improving the efficiency in tracking and terminating the selected targets. The proposed
algorithm reduces the miss distance to a minimal value while ensuring two primary
requirements, including distinguishing each target in the group by Doppler frequency
and identifying the flight direction of the target to track and destroy.
First records of non-native species Callitriche deflexa (Plantaginaceae), which was previously misidentified as C. terrestris in Japan
Authors: Koga Hiroyuki , Doll Yuki , Ohnishi Wataru , Tsukaya Hirokazu
Published: January 2024

The cosmopolitan genus Callitriche (Plantaginaceae) is a clade of small herbaceous plants that encompasses terrestrial and aquatic species. In Japan, six Callitriche species have been identified: four native and two naturalised species. Callitriche terrestris, a naturalised terrestrial species, was first reported in 1984 in Kanagawa Prefecture and it is thriving today.

We report the presence of a new naturalised terrestrial species, Callitriche deflexa, which has been previously misidentified as C. terrestris because of its similar morphology. Callitriche deflexa can be distinguished from C. terrestris through genetic differences and distinct morphological traits, such as longer pedicels. Re-examination of herbarium specimens in the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History confirmed that most of the specimens labelled as C. terrestris, including voucher specimens from the original report, were indeed C. terrestris, but a few were C. deflexa. We also noted that the plants referred to as “C. terrestris” in our previous developmental studies should be corrected to C. deflexa.
Interplay of adiponectin and resistin in type 2 diabetes: Implications for insulin resistance and atherosclerosis
Authors: Abudalo Rawan , Alqudah Abdelrahim , Qnais Esam , Athamneh Rabaa Y. , Oqal Muna , Alnajjar Roaa
Published: January 2024

Aim: The study aims to investigate the association between type 2 diabetes and adipokines, particularly resistin and adiponectin, in insulin resistance. It also explores the potential of the resistin to adiponectin ratio as an indicator for these conditions

Methods: This research involved 198 participants, including 100 patients with type 2 diabetes and 98 controls. It focused on measuring various biochemical parameters like HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, lipid profiles (low-density lipoprotein, oxidized low-density lipoprotein, triglyceride, total cholesterol), and adipokines (resistin and adiponectin). The study utilized the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance and Triglyceride-Glucose index to evaluate insulin resistance.

Results: Type 2 diabetic patients exhibited higher levels of HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, lipid profiles, and resistin, but lower adiponectin levels compared to controls. Adiponectin showed a negative correlation with insulin resistance, while resistin demonstrated a positive correlation. Both adipokines significantly related to atherogenic markers, with adiponectin offering protection against atherosclerosis and resistin augmenting it.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the complex roles of resistin and adiponectin in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance. The resistin to adiponectin ratio could be a useful biomarker for insulin resistance. These insights suggest potential therapeutic strategies for treating diabetes and preventing its complications.
A Good Response to Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs Does Not Discriminate Patients With Longstanding Axial Spondyloarthritis From Controls With Chronic Back Pain
Authors: Baraliakos Xenofon , Bergmann Elena , Tsiami Styliani , Redeker Imke , Braun Jürgen
Published: January 2024

Objective

To compare the response to nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in patients with longstanding axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and controls with back pain (nonspondyloarthritis [non-SpA]).

Methods

Consecutive outpatients with chronic back pain (axSpA or non-SpA), were prospectively recruited. Any previous NSAIDs were withdrawn 2 days before study start (baseline). Back pain was assessed using a numerical rating scale (NRS; range 0-10) starting at 2 hours after baseline and several times thereafter up to 4 weeks. “Any response” to NSAIDs was defined as improvement of back pain on the NRS > 2 units, and “good response” as improvement > 50%, compared to baseline.

Results

Among 233 patients included, 68 had axSpA (29.2%) and 165 had non-SpA back pain (70.8%). The mean age was 42.7 (SD 10.7) vs 49.3 (SD 11.1) years, symptom duration 15.1 (SD 11.1) years vs 14.6 (SD 11.9) years, and pain score 5.9 (SD 2.3) vs 6.3 (SD 2.0), respectively. Overall, of patients with axSpA or non-SpA back pain, 30.9% vs 29.1% of patients showed any response and 23.5% vs 16.4% of patients showed a good response after 4 weeks, respectively (Pvalue not significant). No differences were found in the rapidity of response or between subgroups of patients based on demographics, including different stages of axSpA.

Conclusion

No major differences in the response to NSAIDs were found between patients with axSpA and those with non-SpA with longstanding chronic back pain. The item in the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society classification criteria on “response to NSAIDs” needs more study.
Patient-Reported Outcomes (PROs) and PRO Remission Rates in 12,262 Biologic-Naïve Patients With Psoriatic Arthritis Treated With Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors in Routine Care
Authors: Ørnbjerg Lykke M. , Rugbjerg Kathrine , Georgiadis Stylianos , Rasmussen Simon H. , Jacobsson Lennart , Loft Anne G. , Iannone Florenzo , Fagerli Karen M. , Vencovsky Jiri , Santos Maria J. , Möller Burkhard , Pombo-Suarez Manuel , Rotar Ziga , Gudbjornsson Bjorn , Cefle Ayse , Eklund Kari , Codreanu Catalin , Jones Gareth , van der Sande Marleen , Wallman Johan K. , Sebastiani Marco , Michelsen Brigitte , Závada Jakub , Nissen Michael J. , Sanchez-Piedra Carlos , Tomšič Matija , Love Thorvardur J. , Relas Heikki , Mogosan Corina , Hetland Merete L. , Østergaard Mikkel
Published: January 2024

Objective

To evaluate patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after initiation of tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi) treatment in European real-world patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Further, to investigate PRO remission rates across treatment courses, registries, disease duration, sex, and age at disease onset.

Methods

Visual analog scale or numerical rating scale scores for pain, fatigue, patient global assessment (PtGA), and the Health Assessment Questionnaire–Disability Index (HAQ-DI) from 12,262 patients with PsA initiating a TNFi in 13 registries were pooled. PRO remission rates (pain ≤ 1, fatigue ≤ 2, PtGA ≤ 2, and HAQ-DI ≤ 0.5) were calculated for patients still on the treatment.

Results

For the first TNFi, median pain score was reduced by approximately 50%, from 6 to 3, 3, and 2; as were fatigue scores, from 6 to 4, 4, and 3; PtGA scores, from 6 to 3, 3, and 2; and HAQ-DI scores, from 0.9 to 0.5, 0.5, and 0.4 at baseline, 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Six-month Lund Efficacy Index (LUNDEX)–adjusted remission rates for pain, fatigue, PtGA, and HAQ-DI scores were 24%, 31%, 36%, and 43% (first TNFi); 14%, 19%, 23%, and 29% (second TNFi); and 9%, 14%, 17%, and 20% (third TNFi), respectively. For biologic-naïve patients with disease duration < 5 years, 6-month LUNDEX-adjusted remission rates for pain, fatigue, PtGA, and HAQ-DI scores were 22%, 28%, 33%, and 42%, respectively. Corresponding rates for patients with disease duration > 10 years were 27%, 32%, 41%, and 43%, respectively. Remission rates were 33%, 40%, 45%, and 56% for men and 17%, 23%, 24%, and 32% for women, respectively. For patients aged < 45 years at diagnosis, 6-month LUNDEX-adjusted remission rate for pain was 29% vs 18% for patients ≥ 45 years.

Conclusion

In 12,262 biologic-naïve patients with PsA, 6 months of treatment with a TNFi reduced pain by approximately 50%. Marked differences in PRO remission rates across treatment courses, registries, disease duration, sex, and age at onset of disease were observed, emphasizing the potential influence of factors other than disease activity on PROs.
Systemic Sclerosis in Individuals With Exposure to World Trade Center Ground Zero Rescue and Recovery Efforts: A Case Series
Authors: Own Maryam , Bloostein Aliza , Spiera Robert , Berman Jessica R. , Moline Jacqueline , Gordon Jessica K. , Lakin Kimberly S.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The World Trade Center (WTC) attack in New York resulted in a dust plume containing silica, hydrocarbons, and asbestos. Autoimmune disorders have been reported among those with WTC site exposure. The characteristics of individuals developing systemic sclerosis (SSc) have not been previously described. The purpose of this study was to describe the features of patients with SSc with WTC exposure.

Methods

Data were collected from 11 patients with SSc or SSc spectrum conditions who reported exposure to the WTC site. Seven patients completed an exposure assessment.

Results

Of the 11 patients, the majority (n = 8) were female. The median (range) for age at diagnosis was 46 (36-75) years, time between exposure and first non-Raynaud phenomenon SSc symptom was 8 (1-19) years, and time between exposure and diagnosis was 11 (2-18) years. Fifty-five percent had SSc onset > 5 years from WTC exposure. Five patients had limited cutaneous SSc, 3 patients had diffuse cutaneous SSc, 1 patient with SSc features met criteria for mixed connective tissue disease (CTD), and 2 patients had undifferentiated CTD with features of SSc. Four patients had overlapping features with other CTDs. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) was present in 10 patients. Five of 11 patients had a history of tobacco use. Seven of 7 patients who completed the questionnaire reported other hazardous exposures outside of WTC. Of these, only 2 patients reported personal protective equipment use.

Conclusion

A high frequency of ILD and overlap features were observed among patients with SSc with WTC exposure. Future studies are needed to characterize this association.
The Link Between Dysregulated Immunometabolism and Vascular Damage: Implications for the Development of Atherosclerosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Other Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Yennemadi Anjali S. , Jordan Natasha , Diong Sophie , Keane Joseph , Leisching Gina
Published: January 2024

A bimodal pattern of mortality in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) exists. Early-stage deaths are predominantly caused by infection, whereas later-stage deaths are mainly caused by atherosclerotic disease. Further, although SLE-related mortality has reduced considerably in recent years, cardiovascular (CV) events remain one of the leading causes of death in people with SLE. Accelerated atherosclerosis in SLE is attributed to both an increase in traditional CV risk factors and the inflammatory effects of SLE itself. Many of these changes occur within the microenvironment of the vascular-immune interface, the site of atherosclerotic plaque development. Here, an intimate interaction between endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and immune cells dictates physiological vs pathological responses to a chronic type 1 interferon environment. Low-density neutrophils (LDNs) have also been implicated in eliciting vasculature-damaging effects at such lesion sites. These changes are thought to be governed by dysfunctional metabolism of immune cells in this niche due at least in part to the chronic induction of type 1 interferons. Understanding these novel pathophysiological mechanisms and metabolic pathways may unveil potential innovative pharmacological targets and therapeutic opportunities for atherosclerosis, as well as shed light on the development of premature atherosclerosis in patients with SLE who develop CV events.
STS-TransUNet: Semi-supervised Tooth Segmentation Transformer U-Net for dental panoramic image
Authors: Sun Duolin , Wang Jianqing , Zuo Zhaoyu , Jia Yixiong , Wang Yimou
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we introduce a novel deep learning method for dental panoramic image segmentation, which is crucial in oral medicine and orthodontics for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Traditional methods often fail to effectively combine global and local context, and struggle with unlabeled data, limiting performance in varied clinical settings. We address these issues with an advanced TransUNet architecture, enhancing feature retention and utilization by connecting the input and output layers directly. Our architecture further employs spatial and channel attention mechanisms in the decoder segments for targeted region focus, and deep supervision techniques to overcome the vanishing gradient problem for more efficient training. Additionally, our network includes a self-learning algorithm using unlabeled data, boosting generalization capabilities. Named the Semi-supervised Tooth Segmentation Transformer U-Net (STS-TransUNet), our method demonstrated superior performance on the MICCAI STS-2D dataset, proving its effectiveness and robustness in tooth segmentation tasks.
A discontinuous Galerkin Method based on POD model reduction for Euler equation
Authors: Zhu Lan , Xu Li , Yin Jun-Hui , Huang Shu-Cheng , Li Bin
Published: January 2024

This paper considers the work of combining the proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) reduced-order method with the discontinuous Galerkin (DG) method to solve three-dimensional time-domain Euler equations. The POD-DG formulation is established by constructing the POD base vector space, based on POD technology one can apply the Galerkin projection of the DG scheme to this dimension reduction space for calculation. Its overall goal is to overcome the disadvantages of high computational cost and memory requirement in the DG algorithm, reduce the degrees of freedom (DOFs) of the calculation model, and save the calculation time while ensuring acceptable accuracy. Numerical experiments verify these advantages of the proposed POD-DG method.
Reforming Social Protection under Ideological Influences and Preferences. Social Protection Between Austerity and Other Reforms - The Case of North Macedonia
Authors: Bajrami Ollogu Elisabeta
Published: January 2024

This research provides an analysis of reforms in the transition period with a special focus on the last decade regarding the social protection system as a crucial social policy domain in North Macedonia. From a methodological point of view, the research is based on a literature review and quantitative methods. It provides empirical evidence in the form of a survey conducted with various interest groups and political parties nationwide. The empirical results in the form of perceptions show a tendency of interest groups and political parties preferring social-democratic ideological values on issues such as social protection financing, social services delivery and the central role of the state in welfare provision. On the other hand, based on the literature review and policy analyses, there is evidence of a tendency of neo-liberalizing social policy in the country, in which principles of conditionality and eligibility, cuts in benefits, marketization of social services, etc., have become dominant trends in the last decade, thus transforming the social protection system in essence. Therefore, two questions should be asked: What kind of social protection system do we have? What kind of social protection do we prefer ideologically? Key words: social protection, ideology, reforms, North Macedonia
Self-Perceived Financial Sufficiency of the Elderly Population in Croatia
Authors: Žmuk Berislav , Ivanda Krešimir
Published: January 2024

Subjective income, as measured by self-perceived financial sufficiency, is a critical determinant of well-being, including an individual’s health and quality of life. This study investigates self-perceived financial sufficiency among the elderly population in Croatia and its demographic and socioeconomic correlates, drawing on data from a 2022 survey conducted as part of the SENIOR2030 project. Our findings reveal significant variations in self-perceived financial sufficiency across Croatian regions, age groups, duration of working life and other socioeconomic factors, with household characteristics playing an important role. Additionally, we found that objective income is positively associated with self-perceived financial sufficiency among the elderly in Croatia. As Croatia’s population ages and single-person households become more prevalent, understanding how the elderly perceive their financial status and its impact on their quality of life is becoming increasingly important. While objective and subjective measures of income differ, both have significant and sometimes diverse effects on behaviour and well-being. Research surveys often use questions about self-perceived financial sufficiency, providing valuable insights for informing public policies aimed at improving the well-being of the elderly population. Our findings contribute to the growing literature on the importance of subjective measures of income and their relationship with well-being among the elderly with some comparable results identified in other European countries. Keywords: subjective income, elderly population, socio-economic characteristics.
Jesu li fleksibilni oblici rada uvijek dobri? Fleksibilni oblici rada usmjereni roditeljima i pružateljima skrbi u zemljama Europske unije
Authors: Dobrotić Ivana
Published: January 2024

Changes in the world of labour lead to the need to regulate flexible forms of work, and in the case of parents and carers this is additionally demanded by the Directive on work-life balance for parents and carers (EU/2019/1158) that was transferred by Croatia to its national legislation in 2022. At the same time, research indicates that adjustments of labour legislation in that direction can also, apart from positive ones, have negative effects on the well-being of employees and gender equality, so it is important to take into consideration the political, organisational and cultural context within which flexible forms of work are regulated. As there was no discussion during the process of the adjustment of the Croatian legislation, this paper considers the strengths and weaknesses of the current regulation of flexible forms of work for parents and carers in Croatia, placing it in a comparative perspective and within the context of current knowledge about the effects of flexible forms of work on the well-being of employees and gender equality. It indicates that the wider regulation of the right to flexible forms of work due to the need for care was not followed by consideration of the negative effects that such forms of work may have on the well-being of employees and gender equality, or by the introduction of mechanisms that could prevent or alleviate them. Key words: flexible forms of work, remote work, work with reduced working hours, care.