bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An evaluation of noble nanocomposites based on zinc oxide: synthesis, characterization, environmental, optical and biomedical applications
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Sir M. Visvesvaraya Institute of Technology,  Bengaluru-562157, India, Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University,  Belagavi-590 018, India., Prashanth G. K. , Dileep M. S. ,   Department of Physics, Sir M. Visvesvaraya Institute of Technology, Bengaluru 562157, India, Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi 590018, Indi, Prashanth P.A. ,   Department of Chemistry, PES College of Engineering, Mandya-571401,  Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi-590018, India, Sreeja Mole S. S. ,   Department of ECE, Christu Jyothi Institute of Institute of Technology and  Science, Jangaon, Telangana-506167, India., Boselin Prabhu S. R. ,   Department of ECE, Surya Engineering College, Mettukadai-638107, India., Nagabhushana B. M. ,   Department of Chemistry, M. S. Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-560  054, Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi-590018, India, Ravichandran S. ,   Department of Chemistry, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab 144001, India, Bhagya N. P. ,   Department of Chemistry, Sai Vidya Institute of Technology, Bengaluru-560064,  Affiliated to Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi-590 018, India.
Published: February 2023

Metal oxide nanocomposites have concerned an obvious agreement of consideration because of their enormous applications in numerous domains like photocatalyst, catalysis, biological and sensors. The conservational purification technology is getting advanced by the development of heterostructured semiconductor photocatalysts. In this paper, we documented a comparative analysis of synthesis process (Solution-based methods, High temperature-based methods and Electrical methods) and characterisation techniques such as Transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and Scanning electron microscopy on various noble Nanocomposites (NCs) of metal (M) - zinc oxide (ZnO/ZO). This review inclines over multiple stat-of-the-art applications like photocatalytic, catalyst, sensor and biological activities. It could be concluded from this study that, the catalytic activity of noble M-ZO nanostructures depends not only on the noble metal species, but on the catalytic material architecture as well. The future research and development challenges together with future prospects are critically presented.
Immunity against Moraxella catarrhalis requires guanylate‐binding proteins and caspase‐11‐NLRP3 inflammasomes
Authors: Enosi Tuipulotu Daniel , Feng Shouya , Pandey Abhimanu , Zhao Anyang , Ngo Chinh , Mathur Anukriti , Lee Jiwon , Shen Cheng , Fox Daniel , Xue Yansong , Kay Callum , Kirkby Max , Lo Pilato Jordan , Kaakoush Nadeem O , Webb Daryl , Rug Melanie , Robertson Avril AB , Tessema Melkamu B , Pang Stanley , Degrandi Daniel , Pfeffer Klaus , Augustyniak Daria , Blumenthal Antje , Miosge Lisa A , Brüstle Anne , Yamamoto Masahiro , Reading Patrick C , Burgio Gaetan , Man Si Ming
Published: February 2023

Moraxella catarrhalis is an important human respiratory pathogen and a major causative agent of otitis media and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Toll‐like receptors contribute to, but cannot fully account for, the complexity of the immune response seen in M. catarrhalis infection. Using primary mouse bone marrow‐derived macrophages to examine the host response to M. catarrhalis infection, our global transcriptomic and targeted cytokine analyses revealed activation of immune signalling pathways by both membrane‐bound and cytosolic pattern‐recognition receptors. We show that M. catarrhalis and its outer membrane vesicles or lipooligosaccharide (LOS) can activate the cytosolic innate immune sensor caspase‐4/11, gasdermin‐D‐dependent pyroptosis, and the NLRP3 inflammasome in human and mouse macrophages. This pathway is initiated by type I interferon signalling and guanylate‐binding proteins (GBPs). We also show that inflammasomes and GBPs, particularly GBP2, are required for the host defence against M. catarrhalis in mice. Overall, our results reveal an essential role for the interferon‐inflammasome axis in cytosolic recognition and immunity against M. catarrhalis, providing new molecular targets that may be used to mitigate pathological inflammation triggered by this pathogen.
Ribosome biogenesis factors—from names to functions
Authors: Dörner Kerstin , Ruggeri Chiara , Zemp Ivo , Kutay Ulrike
Published: February 2023

The assembly of ribosomal subunits is a highly orchestrated process that involves a huge cohort of accessory factors. Most eukaryotic ribosome biogenesis factors were first identified by genetic screens and proteomic approaches of pre‐ribosomal particles in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Later, research on human ribosome synthesis not only demonstrated that the requirement for many of these factors is conserved in evolution, but also revealed the involvement of additional players, reflecting a more complex assembly pathway in mammalian cells. Yet, it remained a challenge for the field to assign a function to many of the identified factors and to reveal their molecular mode of action. Over the past decade, structural, biochemical, and cellular studies have largely filled this gap in knowledge and led to a detailed understanding of the molecular role that many of the players have during the stepwise process of ribosome maturation. Such detailed knowledge of the function of ribosome biogenesis factors will be key to further understand and better treat diseases linked to disturbed ribosome assembly, including ribosomopathies, as well as different types of cancer.
Diagnósticos de enfermagem do domínio atividade/repouso evidenciados por idosos em tratamento hemodialítico
Authors: Fernandes Maria das Graças Melo , Pereira Maria Auxiliadora , Bastos Rosângela Alves Almeida , dos Santos Kamyla Félix Oliveira
Published: February 2023

O processo de enfermagem constitui ferramenta essencial para orientar o tratamento hemodialítico individual. Neste estudo, objetivou-se identificar diagnósticos de enfermagem do domínio atividade/repouso da NANDA Internacional evidenciados por idosos em tratamento hemodialítico e delimitar as características definidoras e os fatores de risco ou os relacionados aos diagnósticos de enfermagem. Trata-se de uma pesquisa descritiva com abordagem quantitativa, realizada com 40 idosos. Quanto ao perfil dos pacientes investigados, evidenciou-se uma prevalência do sexo masculino, idade média de 64,5 anos, e nível de escolaridade de 5-8 anos de estudo. Foram identificados no domínio atividade/repouso oito enunciados de diagnósticos de enfermagem, dezenove características definidoras e vinte e três fatores relacionados. Conclui-se que a identificação dos diagnósticos de enfermagem é essencial para o planejamento de cuidados sistematizados para idosos em tratamento hemodialítico.
Vínculo e acesso na estratégia saúde da família: percepção de usuários com tuberculose
Authors: Nogueira Jordana de Almeida , Oliveira Luana Carla Santana , Sá Lenilde Duarte de , Silva Cybelle Alves da , Silva Daiane Medeiros da , Villa Tereza Cristina Scatena
Published: February 2023

Este estudo toma como recorte dois componentes da Atenção Primária a Saúde: “acesso” e “vínculo”, com o objetivo de analisar as ações de controle da tuberculose no contexto de Equipes de Saúde da Família. Pesquisa qualitativa, realizada em município da região metropolitana de João Pessoa-PB, Brasil, que envolveu cinco usuários em tratamento de tuberculose. Os depoimentos foram coletados por meio de entrevista semiestruturada e o material empírico obtido foi analisado utilizando a técnica de Análise de Conteúdo. Para obtenção do diagnóstico da tuberculose predominou a busca por serviços especializados. Nas unidades de saúde da família em que o acesso esteve facilitado, favoreceu-se uma postura promotora de vínculo com os usuários de tuberculose e familiares, destacando-se os profissionais enfermeiros e agentes comunitários de saúde. Ressalta-se a necessidade de mudanças no planejamento e/ou orga-nização local que facilitem o acesso e fortaleçam a relação equipe/usuário e deste modo concretize um cuidado integralizado.
Lúdico como recurso para o cuidado de enfermagem pediátrica na punção venosa
Authors: Cunha Gabriela Lopes , Silva Liliane Faria da
Published: February 2023

Objetivou-se compreender os efeitos do lúdico na punção venosa periférica de pré-escolar hospitalizado, na percepção do acompanhante, e analisar o benefício da inclusão do lúdico na assistência de enfermagem ao pré-escolar na percepção do acompanhante. Pesquisa qualitativa, o cenário foi uma enfermaria de um Hospital Pediátrico de Niterói-RJ. Foram sujeitos sete mães. A coleta de dados realizada em fevereiro e março de 2011, consistiu de orientação com o uso de um fantoche, sobre o procedimento de punção venosa e uma entrevista semi-estruturada na qual as acompanhantes expressaram suas percepções quanto ao uso do lúdico. Emergiram as unidades temáticas: opinião das acompanhantes quanto à utilização do lúdico; a percepção das acompanhantes quanto aos efeitos do uso do lúdico sobre a criança; a importância do uso da atividade lúdica na assistência à criança hospitalizada. O êxito da utilização do fantoche oferece sustentação para intervenções dessa natureza.
Vigilância epidemiológica no contexto do programa de controle da tuberculose: limites e possibilidades
Authors: Feitoza Daniela de Souza , Clares Jorge Wilker Bezerra , Rodrigues Leila Vieira , Almeida Paulo César de
Published: February 2023

Estudo descritivo, que objetivou identificar as fragilidades e potencialidades do Programa de Controle da Tuberculose em um município da região Norte do Ceará. Os dados foram coletados no período de janeiro a março de 2010, por meio da busca na página eletrônica do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação. Os resultados revelaram como principais entraves no combate à doença na região: baixa detecção de casos, baixa cobertura do programa de agentes comunitários de saúde e da estratégia saúde da família, ausência de serviço de referência municipal para o atendimento de casos graves da doença e baixa testagem para o HIV. Com relação às potencialidades, observaram-se: descentralização das ações de tuberculose em 100% das unidades básicas de saúde e aumento das taxas de cura. Conclui-se que a identificação desses indicadores representa importante ferramenta na gestão do sistema de saúde.
Autocuidado após o transplante de medula óssea autólogo no processo de cuidar pelo enfermeiro
Authors: de Castro Edna Aparecida Barbosa , Andrade Angélica Mônica , Santos Kelli Borges dos , Soares Teresa Cristina , Esterci Luana Torres
Published: February 2023

Este artigo apresenta uma investigação qualitativa, apoiada nos pressupostos teóricos de Dorothea Orem, que objetivou compreender como as orientações fornecidas no momento da alta sobre os cuidados relacionados ao transplante de medula óssea influenciam no autocuidado após a alta. Foram sujeitos sete adultos de um município de Minas Gerais submetidos ao transplante e que obtiveram alta hospitalar entre outubro de 2004 e setembro de 2010. A coleta dos dados foi realizada em janeiro de 2011 por meio de visitas domiciliares, entrevistas semiestruturadas e observação. A partir da análise temática os resultados apontaram para uma discussão sobre as orientações recebidas no momento da alta e sobre os requisitos para o autocuidado após a alta do transplante. Conclui-se que as necessidades de autocuidado evidenciadas por este estudo reforçam a importância da sistematização do cuidado de enfermagem a fim de que as orientações no momento da alta representem efetiva contribuição à reabilitação dos pacientes.
Mapeamento dos cuidados de enfermagem para pacientes em pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca
Authors: Araújo Wanessa Morais de , Carvalho Lira Ana Luisa Brandão de , de Souza Nathália Tôrres Costa , Queiroz Frazão Cecília Maria Farias de , Medeiros Ana Beatriz de Almeida
Published: February 2023

Estudo descritivo com abordagem quantitativa, com objetivo de identificar os cuidados realizados pelos enfermeiros em unidade de terapia intensiva aos pacientes em pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca e compará-los ao que é evidenciado na literatura. O estudo foi realizado em um hospital universitário de grande porte localizado no Brasil, durante os meses de janeiro a fevereiro de 2012. Seis enfermeiros responderam o questionário contendo perguntas relativas à caracterização sócio-demográfica e aos cuidados prestados aos pacientes em pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca. Os cuidados de enfermagem identificados foram agrupados em sete categorias: manutenção do débito cardíaco, da integridade tecidual, do equilíbrio hidroeletrolítico, da ventilação e oxigenação, prevenção e tratamento da dor, prevenção e controle da infecção e apoio psicológico. Conclui-se que as ações de enfermagem identificadas neste estudo estão de acordo com as diversas práticas recomendadas pela literatura.
Sperm utilize tumor necrosis factor alpha to shut down a 2-methoxyestradiol nongenomic pathway that accelerates oviductal egg transport in the rat
Authors: Oróstica María L , Reuquen Patricia , Guajardo-Correa Emanuel , Parada-Bustamante Alexis , Cardenas Hugo , Orihuela Pedro A
Published: February 2023

In brief

Mating shuts down the 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME) nongenomic pathway that accelerates oviductal egg transport in the rat. This study shows that sperm cells, but not vaginocervical stimulation, utilize TNF-α to shut down this 2ME nongenomic pathway.

The transport of oocytes or embryos throughout the oviduct to the implantation site in the uterus is defined as egg transport. In the rat, 2-methoxyestradiol (2ME) accelerates egg transport through the oviduct via a nongenomic pathway. Mating is known to shut down this 2ME pathway and then trigger an estradiol genomic pathway that accelerates egg transport. Here, we tested whether intrauterine insemination (IUI) or vaginocervical stimulation (VCS) shuts down the 2ME nongenomic pathway that accelerates egg transport, and if these mating components require tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Levels of TNF-α and the mRNA for TNF-α receptors were measured in the oviduct of IUI or VCS rats. The tissue distribution of TNF-α receptor proteins and the concentration of the mRNA for catechol-O-methyl transferase (Comt) and 2ME were also analyzed in the oviduct. Finally, we assessed whether 2ME accelerates egg transport in IUI or VCS rats previously treated with the TNF-α antagonist W9P9QY. Results show that IUI, but not VCS, increased TNF-α and their receptors in the oviduct. IUI and VCS did not change the tissue distribution of TNF-α receptors; however, both decreased the oviductal concentration of Comt and 2ME. IUI and VCS each blocked the 2ME-induced egg transport acceleration; however, only the IUI was antagonized by the TNF-α antagonist. We concluded that IUI and VCS inhibit the 2ME nongenomic pathway that accelerates egg transport; however, the vias of action are distinct, with a TNF-α increase on spermatozoa presence being required for the shutdown of the 2ME pathway.
Preparation of fully bio-based sound absorbers from waste wood and pulp fibers by foam forming
Authors: Valkonen Mikko J. , Cucharero Jose , Lokki Tapio , Rautkari Lauri , Hänninen Tuomas
Published: February 2023

Building materials that are bio-based and produced from waste streams have a substantial effect on the carbon footprint of buildings. In this study, the authors prepared fully bio-based sound absorbers from waste wood and other cellulosic materials. Cutter shavings (CSs), softwood pulp, and cellulose powder (CP) were used as raw materials to prepare sound absorber samples using the foam-forming technique. The fully bio-based sound absorbers prepared were mechanically stable. However, an increase in CSs content decreased their mechanical properties, and samples with high CSs content became difficult to handle. The CP increased the mechanical properties, but it did not affect the sound absorption of the samples. The sound absorption properties of these fully bio-based materials could be tuned by carefully selecting CSs and fiber contents and adjusting the thickness of the material. Greater CSs content decreased the sound absorption properties of the materials. This decrease was mainly due to an increase in the average pore size, leading to poorer sound energy dissipation by visco-thermal effects.
Sleep Apnea in Children With Down Syndrome
Authors: Seither Katelyn , Helm Benjamin M. , Heubi Christine , Swarr Daniel , Suhrie Kristen R.
Published: February 2023

OBJECTIVE

The authors of this study aimed to evaluate the use of polysomnography (PSG) in children with Down syndrome (DS) between ages 0 and 7 years, to assess the prevalence and severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and associated comorbidities, and to describe interventions used for OSA.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center for children with DS born between 2013 and 2019. Data were extracted from the electronic medical record, including demographics, age at PSG, PSG results, and interventions after an abnormal PSG. Statistical analysis included unadjusted bivariate association testing and multivariable logistic regression modeling to investigate associations with OSA severity.

RESULTS

Among 397 patients in the cohort, 59% (n = 235) had a documented PSG and 94% (n = 221) had an abnormal study with 60% (n = 141) demonstrating moderate or severe OSA. There was an inverse relationship between age and OSA severity (P < .001). In a multiple regression model, OSA severity was associated with increased rates of failure to thrive (P < .01), aspiration (P = .02), and laryngomalacia (P < .01). After medical or surgical intervention, 73% of patients experienced the resolution of OSA or an improvement in OSA severity.

CONCLUSION

In this study of pediatric patients with DS, OSA was identified most frequently in the first year of life. In addition, to prompt evaluation of symptomatic infants, our data support earlier PSG screening for patients requiring neonatal ICU care and those with feeding difficulties, airway abnormalities, and/or pulmonary hypertension given their increased risk for severe OSA.
Recommendations for grounding systems in lightning protection systems
Authors: Montaña Johny
Published: February 2023

This paper presents some practical recommendations for designing grounding systems as part of an integral protection system against lightning strikes. These recommendations are made taking into account the results of academic software whose development was based on hybrid electromagnetic method and the method of moments. This paper presents the results of impedance and transient voltage for triangle, wye, counterpoises and mesh configurations. Some recommendation are made concerning the use and characteristics of earth electrodes, for example effective counterpoise length, where to locate grounding rods, where to connect down conductors in a mesh and the potential difference between points on the same grounding electrodes. These recommendations guide a systems' designer to ensure greater benefit from grounding setups without wasting money.
An overview of approaches for modelling uncertainty in harmonic load-flow
Authors: Romero A. A. , Zini H. C. , Ratta G.
Published: February 2023

Harmonic distortion is a growing problem in all power systems (PS) around the world due to the increasing use of electronic power devices and nonlinear loads (NLL). Several methods have been developed for the computational analysis of PS harmonic load-flow (HLF). These approaches allow harmonic distortion to be estimated at each PS bus when NLLs (the harmonic sources) are distributed throughout a whole network. Some widely accepted deterministic formulations are used in HLF analysis; however, harmonic distortion in PS is a time-varying phenomenon because both linear loads (LL) and NLLs change non-predictably all the time. Moreover, network configuration also varies and such considerations make HLF calculation a mathematical problem which must be able to model the uncertainty associated with input data. Some approaches based on probability theory and others using fuzzy sets and possibility theories have been proposed for modeling such uncertainty. This paper was thus aimed at providing an overview regarding these approaches. The main HLF formulations within probabilistic and possibilistic frameworks have thus been introduced and some numerical comparisons have been made to clarify some concepts raised.
Implementation of an evolutionary algorithm in planning investment in a power distribution system
Authors: García Montoya Carlos Andrés , Mendoza Toro Steiner
Published: February 2023

The definition of an investment plan to implement in a distribution power system, is a task that constantly faced by utilities. This work presents a methodology for determining the investment plan for a distribution power system under a short-term, using as a criterion for evaluating investment projects, associated costs and customers benefit from its implementation. Given the number of projects carried out annually on the system, the definition of an investment plan requires the use of computational tools to evaluate, a set of possibilities, the one that best suits the needs of the present system and better results. That is why in the job, implementing a multi objective evolutionary algorithm SPEA (Strength Pareto Evolutionary Algortithm), which, based on the principles of Pareto optimality, it deliver to the planning expert, the best solutions found in the optimization process. The performance of the algorithm is tested using a set of projects to determine the best among the possible plans. We analyze also the effect of operators on the performance of evolutionary algorithm and results..
The influence of transformers, induction motors and fault resistance regarding propagation voltage sags
Authors: Blanco Jairo , Leal Ruben Darío , Jacome Jonathan , Petit Johann F. , Ordoñez Gabriel , Barrera Víctor
Published: February 2023

This article presents an analysis of voltage sag propagation. The ATPDraw tool was selected for simulating the IEEE 34 node test feeder. It takes into account both voltage sags caused by electrical fault network, as well as voltage sag propagation characteristics caused by induction motor starting and transformer energising. The analysis was aimed at assessing the influence of transformer winding connections, the impedance of these transformers, lines and cables, summarising the effects on disturbance magnitude and phase. The study shows that the influence of an induction motor on voltage sag propagation results in increased voltage sag severity. Voltage sags caused by induction motor starting and transformer energising have no zero-sequence component, so they are only affected by type 3 transformers. The influence of fault resistance on voltage sag magnitude and phase characteristics is examined and some aspects of interest in characterising these electromagnetic disturbances is identified.
Gasification from waste organic materials
Authors: Ramírez Rubio Santiago , Sierra Fabio Emiro , Guerrero Carlos Alberto
Published: February 2023

This article describes the fixed bed biomass gasifier operation designed and built by the Clean Development Mechanisms and Energy Management research group, the gasifier equipment and the measurement system. The experiment involved agro-industrial residues (biomass such wood chips, coconut shell, cocoa and coffee husk); some temperatures along the bed, its pressure, inlet air flow and the percentage of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide in the syngas composition were measured. The test results showed that a fuel gas was being obtained which was suitable for use with an internal combustion engine for generating electricity because more carbon monoxide than carbon dioxide was being obtained during several parts of the operation. The gasification experimentation revealed that a gasifier having these characteristics should be ideal for bringing energy to areas where it is hard to obtain it (such as many rural sites in Latin-America) or other places where large amounts of agro-industrial wastes are produced. Temperatures of around 1,000°C were obtained in the combustion zone, generating a syngas having more than 20% carbon monoxide in its composition, thereby leading to obtaining combustible gas.
Rating curve estimation using Envisat virtual stations on the main Orinoco river
Authors: León Juan , Seyler Frederique , Puerta Astrid
Published: February 2023

Rating curve estimation (height-stream relation) made by hydrometric stations representing cross-sections of a river is one of hydrometrics' fundamental tasks due to the fact that it leads to deducing a river's average daily flow on that particular section. This information is fundamental in any attempt at hydrological modelling. However, the number of hydrological control stations monitoring large hydrological basins has been reduced worldwide. Space hydrology studies during the last five years have shown that satellite radar altimetry means that hydrological monitoring networks' available information can be densified due to the introduction of so-called virtual stations and the joint use of such information along with in-situ measured flow records for estimating expenditure curves at these stations. This study presents the rating curves for 4 Envisat virtual stations located on the main stream of the Orinoco River. Virtual stations' flows were estimated by using the Muskin-gum-Cunge 1D model. There was less than 1% error between measured and estimated flows. The methodology led to reducing average zero flow depth; in this case, it led to depths ranging from 11 to 20 meters being found along the 130 km of the Orinoco River represented by the virtual stations being considered.
Stochastic approximation algorithm for industrial process optimisation
Authors: Olguín Tiznado Jesús Everardo , García Martínez Rafael , Camargo Wilson Claudia , López Barreras Juan Andrés
Published: February 2023

Stochastic approximation algorithms are alternative linear search methods for optimising control systems where the functional relationship between the response variable and the controllable factors in a process and its analytical model remain unknown. These algorithms have no criteria for selecting succession measurements ensuring convergence, meaning that, when implemented in practice, they may diverge with consequent waste of resources. The objective of this research was to determine industrial processes' optimum operating conditions by using a modified stochastic approximation algorithm, where its succession measurements were validated by obtaining response variable values for each iteration through simulation. The algorithm is presented in nine stages; its first six describe which are process independent and dependent variables, the type of experimental design selected, the experiments assigned and developed and the second order models obtained. The last three stages describe how the algorithm was developed, and the optimal values of the independent variables obtained. The algorithm was validated in 3 industrial processes which it was shown to be efficient for determining independent variables' optimum operating conditions (temperature and time): the first three iterations were obtained at 66°C in 3 hours 42 minutes for process 1, unlike processes 2 and 3 where the first iteration was obtained at 66°C in 6 hours 06 minutes and 80°C in 5 hours 06 minutes, respectively.
Corrosion resistance of Cu-Al coatings produced by thermal spray
Authors: Dimaté Castellanos Laura Marcela , Olaya Flórez Jhon Jairo , Alfonso Orjuela José Edgar
Published: February 2023

Many components in the shipbuilding industry are made of copper-based alloys. These pieces tend to break due to corrosion generated by a marine environment; such components can be salvaged through surface engineering, through deposition of suitable coatings. This paper studied the influence of three surface preparation methods involving phosphor bronze substrates concerning the corrosion resistance of commercial coatings having Al-Cu +11% Fe chemical composition. The surface was prepared using three methods: sand blasting, shot blasting and metal polishing with an abrasive disk (with and without a base layer). The deposited coatings were microstructurally characterised by x-ray diffraction (XRD), optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Corrosion resistance was evaluated by electrochemical test electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Surfaces prepared by sandblasting showed the best resistance to corrosion, so these systems could be a viable alternative for salvaging certain parts in the marine industry. The corrosion mechanisms for the coatings produced are discussed in this research.
Using hybrid associative classifier with translation (HACT) for studying imbalanced data sets
Authors: Cleofas Sánchez Laura , Guzmán Escobedo Magali , Valdovinos Rosas Rosa María , Yáñez Márquez Cornelio , Camacho Nieto Oscar
Published: February 2023

Class imbalance may reduce the classifier performance in several recognition pattern problems. Such negative effect is more notable with least represented class (minority class) Patterns. A strategy for handling this problem consisted of treating the classes included in this problem separately (majority and minority classes) to balance the data sets (DS). This paper has studied high sensitivity to class imbalance shown by an associative model of classification: hybrid associative classifier with translation (HACT); imbalanced DS impact on associative model performance was studied. The convenience of using sub-sampling methods for decreasing imbalanced negative effects on associative memories was analysed. This proposal's feasibility was based on experimental results obtained from eleven real-world datasets.
A systematic review of applying modern software engineering techniques to developing robotic systems
Authors: Pons Claudia , Giandini Roxana , Arévalo Gabriela
Published: February 2023

Robots have become collaborators in our daily life. While robotic systems become more and more complex, the need to engineer their software development grows as well. The traditional approaches used in developing these software systems are reaching their limits; currently used methodologies and tools fall short of addressing the needs of such complex software development. Separating robotics' knowledge from short-cycled implementation technologies is essential to foster reuse and maintenance. This paper presents a systematic review (SLR) of the current use of modern software engineering techniques for developing robotic software systems and their actual automation level. The survey was aimed at summarizing existing evidence concerning applying such technologies to the field of robotic systems to identify any gaps in current research to suggest areas for further investigation and provide a background for positioning new research activities.
Modulating electrocardiographic signals with chaotic algorithms
Authors: Barbará Morales Eduardo , Alba Blanco Emiliano , Rodríguez Ramírez Oscar
Published: February 2023

Chaos theory is becoming increasingly applied to areas like communications, telemedicine and processing signals and images. Algorithms generating chaotic signals can be used for generating, encrypting and encoding carriers. This work proposes a transmission method allowing electrocardiogram (ECG) signals obtained from a patient to be combined with algorithms generating chaotic signals, based on the Lorenz equation system. Acceptable results were obtained regarding noise and other traditional modulation methods.
Experimental assessment of damping factors in concrete housing walls
Authors: Carrillo Julián , Alcocer Sergio M. , González Giovanni
Published: February 2023

Thin walls having low concrete strength, minimum web steel ratios and web shear reinforcement made of welded wire meshes are commonly used in low-rise concrete housing. The damping factor commonly used for code-based dynamic analysis was evaluated based on seismic response measured during shake table tests of six low-rise concrete walls. The variables studied were the type of concrete (normal and lightweight), the web steel shear ratio (0.125% and 0.25%), the type of web shear reinforcement (deformed bars and welded wire meshes) and the effect of openings (doors and windows). Dynamic properties were evaluated considering the advantages of frequency-domain system identification, using the dynamic transfer function amplitude fitting method. The effect of failure mode on damping factor is discussed. An equation for estimating damping associated with a particular vibration period value is also proposed. It was observed that a 5% damping factor (assumed for dynamic analysis of concrete housing in the range of lineal elastic behaviour) was consistent with the values measured here.
A programming environment having three levels of complexity for mobile robotics
Authors: Giraldo Carlos Alberto , Florian-Gaviria Beatriz , Bacca-Cortés Eval Bladimir , Gómez Felipe , Muñoz Francisco
Published: February 2023

This paper presents a programming environment for supporting learning in STEM, particularly mobile robotic learning. It was designed to maintain progressive learning for people with and without previous knowledge of programming and/or robotics. The environment was multi-platform and built with open source tools. Perception, mobility, communication, navigation and collaborative behaviour functionalities can be programmed for different mobile robots. A learner is able to programme robots using different programming languages and editor interfaces: graphic programming interface (basic level), XML-based meta-language (intermediate level) or ANSI C language (advanced level). The environment supports programme translation transparently into different languages for learners or explicitly on learners' demand. Learners can access proposed challenges and learning interfaces by examples. The environment was designed to allow characteristics such as extensibility, adaptive interfaces, persistence and low software/hardware coupling. Functionality tests were performed to prove programming environment specifications. UV-BOT mobile robots were used in these tests.
Performance under sulfate attack of concrete additioned with fluid catalytic cracking catalyst residue (FCC) and metakaolin (MK)
Authors: Torres Castellanos Nancy , Torres Agredo Janneth , Mejía de Gutiérrez Ruby
Published: February 2023

In this work the evaluation of the performance of concrete added with Fluid Catalytic Cracking Catalyst residue (FCC) from a Colombian petroleum company, under sulfate attack, is presented. The results of this concrete are compared with the results of Metakaolin (MK) added concrete. The analysis of the pozzolanic materials included the determination of the particle size, the pozzolanic activity and the chemical and mineralogical composition. Different percentages of FCC were used as Portland cement replacement in proportions of 0, 10, 20 and 30%; similarly concrete added with 20% of MK as replacement was elaborated. Compressive strength and performance under sulfate attack were evaluated. Results showed that concrete with FCC and MK as well as control concrete had similar behavior; however its expansion was higher. In addition, the performance of the two types of concrete (FCC y MK) under sulfate attack was comparable; this could be due to fact that FCC and MK showed similarities regarding of their chemical and mineralogical composition. Importantly, after 360 days of exposure the specimens with MK and FCC showed no significant deterioration.
AlN film deposition as a semiconductor device
Authors: Caicedo Julio Cesar , Pérez Taborda C , Chaparro Willian Aperador
Published: February 2023

AlN films were deposited by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) using an Nd: YAG laser (λ = 1064 nm). The films were deposited in a nitrogen atmosphere as working gas; the cathode was an aluminium high purity (99.99%) target. The films were deposited using 7 J/cm2 laser fluence for 10 minutes on silicon (100) substrates. The working pressure was 9x10-3 mbar and the substrate temperature was varied from 200°C to 630°C. The thickness measured by profilometer was 150 nm for all films. Moreover, surface acoustic wave (SAW) devices with a Mo/AlN/Si configuration have been fabricated using AlN-buffer and Mo Channel. The films’ morphology and composition were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), respectively. The films’ optical reflectance spectra and colour coordinates were obtained by optical spectral reflectometry in the 400-900 cm-1 range using an Ocean Optics 2000 spectrophotometer. The present work found clear dependence on morphological properties, reflectance, dominant wavelength colour purity, frequency response and acoustic wave speed in terms of the temperature applied to the substrate. About 30% reduction in reflectance was observed and increased acoustic wave speed of about 1.3 % when the temperature was increased from 200°C to 630°C.
Urban air pollution in school-related microenvironments in Bogota, Colombia
Authors: Franco Juan Felipe , Rojas Néstor Yesid , Sarmiento Olga Lucía , Behrentz Eduardo
Published: February 2023

Particle-related pollution (PM10, PM2.5 and soot) was measured in both indoor and outdoor microenvironments at four public elementary schools in Bogotá, Colombia. Three of these schools were located alongside major urban roads in which different types of public transit systems are used (bus rapid transit system and conventional transit buses). The fourth school was located on a non-congested road (background school). Pollutant levels at schools situated on major-roads were higher than those found at the low-congestion-road school. Outdoor black carbon daily mean concentrations at the schools located near major roads were up to six times higher than those recorded at the background school. Mean particulate matter concentrations at schools near major roads were above international standards, suggesting that school-age children in Bogotá are exposed to pollution levels that are considered to be harmful by environmental and public health authorities. Elevated indoor and outdoor pollutant concentrations documented in this study suggested that traffic has a direct impact on air quality regarding the schools' characterised microenvironments.
Using radio frequency and ultrasonic antennas for inspecting pin-type insulators on medium-voltage overhead distribution lines
Authors: Lefort Borges Cícero , Barreira Martinez Manuel Luís
Published: February 2023

This paper summarises the activities undertaken when using antennas (ultrasound and radiofrequency) for identifying insulators in pre-failure state by detecting the noise emitted by the distribution line and correlating this with these insulators (porcelain pin type) dielectric breakdown. This has led to developing low-cost maintenance procedures and providing support and criteria for engineering decisions regarding replacing these insulators. The technique used two detectors; a radio frequency detector was used in a first investigation of a particular distribution line, set to 40 MHz and installed on the roof of a moving vehicle. The ultrasound detector was used for inspecting (phases A, B, C) each structure (pole) selected. Atmospheric conditions had no influence on defining pre-failure insulators (pin type) based on the noise detection technique. Pin type insulators emitting noise should be replaced since measurement was made from the ground and near the base of the post.
Acoustic emission-based early fault detection in tapered roller bearings
Authors: Usgame Sandoval Hector M. , Pedraza Ramírez Camilo A. , Quiroga Jabid
Published: February 2023

This paper proposes an acoustic emissions-based method for monitoring tapered roller bearings. This method monitors tracking time-based fault indicators (i.e. RMS, peak value, ring-down count and kurtosis) obtained using the AE signal. Experiments were carried out on a dedicated test bench for different levels of tapered roller bearing outer and inner race defect severity. Although the fault indicators studied could not discriminate between outer and inner raceway defects, the experimental results highlighted the proposed indicators' tapered roller bearing fault detection and fault severity assessment ability (i.e. peak value, RMS and ring-down count).
#selberdenken.
Authors: Dickel Sascha , Kornehl Karolin
Published: February 2023

Soziale Medien stellen wichtige Bühnen für zeitgenössische Konflikte um Wissen und Wahrheit dar. Der Artikel widmet sich vor diesem Hintergrund dem Gebrauch des Hashtags #selberdenken auf Twitter. Mittels einer quantitativen Datenanalyse wird zunächst die Konjunktur der Verwendung des Hashtags nachgezeichnet. Eine anschließende hermeneutische Sequenzanalyse zeigt, wie in seinem Gebrauch ein Anspruch auf epistemische Autonomie zum Ausdruck gebracht wird: Allein die eigenen Erfahrungen, Interpretationen und Quellen gelten als vertrauenswürdig. Dies korrespondiert mit einem grundlegenden Misstrauen in die von den Massenmedien konstruierten Realitäten und einer Trivialisierung von Erkenntnisprozessen. Die Untersuchung leistet einen Beitrag zum Verständnis der kommunikativen Mikrostrukturen mediatisierter Wissenskonflikte und der Rolle, die ein öffentlich kommunizierter Skeptizismus in ihnen spielt.
The Effects of Marriage and Divorce on Women's Nationality in the Iranian Law
Authors: Zavareh Seyed Mohsen Hashemi Nasab
Published: February 2023

As the first and foremost social institution, the family significantly impacts its immediate larger society. Also, the importance of family as a key figure in a healthy society and the necessity of strong relations between spouses make it imperative to devise the required legal devices. As women are prone to suffer and receive more damage in cases of family breakdown, the legislator should develop and establish more protective statutes concerning women's rights. This study uses legal research methods with a qualitative approach. To protect Iranian women's rights, the legislator distinguishes cases where an Iranian woman marries a foreign man and those where Iranian men marry foreign women. In the former case, the wife's change, or retention, of nationality is subject to the laws of the husband’s State. In contrast, in the latter case, the legislator enforces the unity of nationality principle. Marriage between Iranian women and foreign men causes women to experience many changes and limitations regarding their national and inheritance rights. Also, they may lose their Iranian nationality due to their marriage —in cases when the husband’s nationality, due to the law of the husband's State, is forced upon the wife. On the other hand, foreign women married to Iranian men, though forced to accept Iranian nationality, encounter fewer limitations resulting from marriage. Upon Divorce, they are neither forced to accept a nationality, unlike when marriage is celebrated, nor denied their Iranian nationality. They can choose whether to remain an Iranian national or recover their original nationality.
Forecasting Models Based on Fuzzy Logic: An Application on International Coffee Prices
Authors: Fatih Chellai
Published: February 2023

In recent decades, Fuzzy Time Series (FTS) has become a competitive, sometimes complementary, approach to classical time series methods such as that of Box-Jenkins. This study has two different purposes: a theoretical purpose, presenting an overview of the fuzzy logic and fuzzy time series models, and a practical purpose, which is to estimate and forecast monthly international coffee prices during the period 2000-2022. Analysing and forecasting the dynamics of coffee prices is of great interest to producers, consumers, and other market actors in managing and making rational decisions. The findings showed that international coffee prices exhibited significant fluctuations, with large increases and decreases influenced mainly by the level of top-ranked producers. The forecasted results revealed that a decrease in prices during the next six months (Jan 2023 to June 2023) is expected. Based on the results, it is also clear that the FTS models are more flexible and can be applied in forecasting time-series variables. At the same time, volatility and, sometimes, the unexpected swingsin coffee prices continue to draw more criticism and raise different issues regarding the roles of the markets and countries in ensuring food security.
Familia. Lugar común para la prevención de sustancias psicoactivas en adolescentes
Authors: Bello-Reales Andrea Marcela , Buitrago-Arango Disney , Flórez-Ospina Elizabeth , Giraldo-Fernández Lina María , Correa-Pérez Luisa Fernanda , Rodríguez-Bustamante Alexander
Published: February 2023

Introducción: la familia es el escenario en el que los adolescentes consumidores construyen o destruyen aspectos relacionados a su personalidad, esta afirmación tiene que ver con elementos que hacen parte de la dinámica cotidiana como: la comunicación familiar, los procesos de crianza y las estrategias de prevención y riesgo que generan en su práctica de vida. El objetivo que fundamenta este artículo de reflexión es hacer una apuesta frente a los factores protectores a nivel familiar que favorecen la mitigación del riesgo de consumo de sustancias psicoactivas en la adolescencia. La metodología es cualitativa con enfoque metodológico hermenéutico en clave hacia la reflexión que permita a las familias y los adolescentes encontrar puntos comunes en los procesos de interacción y disminuir factores de riesgo. Se desarrolla la temática del consumo en torno al significado de la familia y sus prácticas de prevención para construir un lugar común, que una, vincule y motive a la participación afectiva de cada integrante; la prevención frente a las dificultades surge tras la reflexividad y el tejido vincular. Como resultado principal se destaca el lugar de la familia y los procesos psicoeducativos inherentes al mundo parental y marental aunado al apoyo de las demás redes de proximales. Como conclusión de este ejercicio escritural reflexivo se encuentra que la comunicación, las prácticas de crianza en el tejido familiar para la reconstrucción y construcción de adolescentes libres de consumo, con más procesos de democratización de las relaciones familiares se convierten en insumo fundamental para el trabajo con las familias.
Las clases virtuales en México durante la pandemia. Ventajas y desventajas
Authors: Martínez Aguilar José Manuel , Pérez Múzquiz Erika E.
Published: February 2023

La modalidad de clases virtuales debido a la contingencia sanitaria provocada por la COVID-19 hace necesarios estudios diagnósticos que permitan conocer sus efectos en el proceso de aprendizaje-enseñanza. En este trabajo se confrontan las ventajas y desventajas de las clases virtuales, según la opinión de 350 estudiantes y 100 profesores de universidades públicas de México, obtenida mediante un sondeo hecho por los autores a través de Google Forms®.  Entre los resultados obtenidos, se puede destacar que tanto los profesores como los estudiantes identifican más desventajas que ventajas respecto a las clases virtuales; sin embargo, ambos reconocen que debido a la pandemia era necesario continuar las clases bajo esta modalidad. Aunque hay diferencias entre las respuestas de profesores y estudiantes, y se identifica que la experiencia para los docentes ha sido más positiva, también hay coincidencias. Entre las desventajas mencionadas, sobresalen la falta de interacción personal, la poca motivación, el estrés que el encierro genera, la carencia de equipo y deficiencia de la señal de internet, entre otras. Algunas de las ventajas que más se mencionan son la facilidad de acceder a distintas fuentes por medios electrónicos, el ahorro económico y el adquirir nuevas habilidades informáticas.