bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Projector-Camera Calibration with Non-overlapping Fields of View Using a Planar Mirror
Authors: Vanherck Joni , Jorissen Lode , Zoomers Brent , Michiels Nick
Published: July 2024

Projector-camera systems have numerous applications across diverse domains. Accurate calibration of both intrinsic and extrinsic parameters is crucial for these systems. Intrinsic parameters include focal length, distortion parameters, and the principal point, while extrinsic parameters encompass the position and orientation of the projector and camera. A non-overlapping projector-camera system is required in certain scenarios due to practical limitations, physical arrangements, or specific application requirements. These systems pose a more complex calibration challenge because the devices have no direct correspondences or overlapping fields of view, necessitating intermediate objects or methods. This paper proposes a calibration method for non-overlapping projector-camera systems using a planar mirror. The method involves a straightforward process that requires a calibrated camera and a separate mirror calibration step. In this setup, the projector displays a pattern on a planar calibration board, and the camera has an indirect view of this calibration board through the mirror. Using homography, 3D-2D correspondences of the projector are established, enabling the calibration of the system. This method is empirically evaluated using real-world setups and quantitatively assessed in a synthetic environment. The results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves precise calibration across various setups, proving its effectiveness. This approach is an easy-to-use and accessible calibration process for non-overlapping projector-camera systems, made possible by a mirror.
ANALISIS PERHITUNGAN COST PRODUKSI DALAM MENENTUKAN HARGA POKOK PRODUKSI KUE RED VELVET
Authors: Himawan Bobby , Zebua Diana Rezki
Published: July 2024

Abstrak: Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk menganalisis perhitungan harga pokok produksi kue red velvet dengan menggunakan metode full costing dan variabel costing pada took kue Delicio Balikpapan untuk menentukan harga jual produk. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif. Data yang digunakan adalah data primer dan data sekunder. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan kekeliruan dalam perhitungan harga produksi Delicio. Perbandingan full costing dan variable costing pada perhitungan harga pokok produksi kue red velvet Delicio menunjukkan bahwa full costing menunjukkan harga lebih tinggi dari harga jual saat ini, sedangkan metode variabel costing menunjukkan harga pokok produksi kurang lebih sama dengan harga jual saat ini, karena perhitungan harga pokok produksi pada metode full costing memasukkan semua biaya-biaya yang bersifat tetap dan variabel.
Kata Kunci: Harga Pokok Produksi; Full Costing; Variable Costing
 
Abstract: This study aimed to assess the computation of the Cost of Goods Production for red velvet cakes at the Delicio Balikpapan cake shop, employing both full costing and variable costing approaches to determine the product's selling price. It is a descriptive research using primary and secondary data. Findings revealed an error in Delicio's Cost of Goods Produced calculation. When comparing full costing and variable costing for the red velvet cake, full costing yielded a higher Cost of Goods Produced than the current selling price, whereas the variable costing method indicated a Cost of Goods Produced nearly matching the current selling price. This disparity arises because full costing includes all fixed and variable costs in its calculation.
Keywords: Cost of Goods Produced; Full Costing; Variable Costing
Small cell cancer of the esophagus, treatment outcomes of a rare histological type
Authors: Toneev E. A. , Firstov A. A. , Nuretdinov D. I. , Savenko E. Yu. , Anokhina E. P. , Martynov A. A. , Karabanova Yu. A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose: To demonstrate treatment outcomes in two patients with small cell esophageal cancer. Cases reports. Patient M. was assigned to receive polychemotherapy (PC H) composed of etoposide 100 mg/ m2 intravenously on days 1–3 + cisplatin 80 mg/m2 on day 1, every 21 days for 6 cycles and lanreotide 120 mg subcutaneously, every 28 days, followed by chemoradiotherapy (CRT). The patient received 1 cycle of PCT , which was well tolerated. Then, the patient received a cycle of 3D-conformal radiation therapy concurrently with 2 cycles of chemotherapy: etoposide 120 mg/m2 + cisplatin 80 mg/m2. Chemoradiotherapy was well tolerated. Dysphagia regression to grade I was observed. Currently, the patient continues to receive treatment (etoposide 100 mg/ m2 intravenously on days 1–3 + cisplatin 80 mg/m2 on day 1, every 21 days for 6 cycles and lanreotide 120 mg subcutaneously, every 28 days) and tolerates it well. Patient A. was assigned to receive PCT with etoposide 120 mg/m2 + cisplatin 80 mg/m2. After 4 cycles of PCT , the follow-up CT images revealed disease progression (enlarged retroperitoneal lymph nodes). The patient underwent external bean radiation therapy to the primary tumor. Radiotherapy was relatively well tolerated. The patient underwent the course of radiation therapy relatively satisfactorily. Due to the progression of the disease, symptomatic treatment was assigned. The patient died 9 months after diagnosis. Conclusion. Small cell carcinoma of the esophagus is a rare histological type with poor prognosis. Concurrent platinum-based chemoradiotherapy allows achievement of stable disease and disease control.
THE EFFECTS OF COMIC-ASSISTED ELECTRICAL LABORATORY ON ACHIEVEMENT AND INTEREST TOWARDS LEARNING PHYSICS
Authors:   Research Scholar, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI), Perak, 35900 Malaysia., Abdullah Aslindawati , Syafiqah Yap Abdullah Nurul ,   Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI), Perak, 35900 Malaysia., Hadi Yaacob Ikhwan ,   Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI), Perak, 35900 Malaysia.
Published: July 2024

A powerful media for instruction and learning and understanding physics principles is essential for clarifying abstract ideas. A poor teaching strategy will discourage students from mastering their experimenting skills and worsen their comprehension of the material in practical terms. This study aimed to investigate the impact of an intervention employing a comic-assisted Electrical laboratory learning application on students achievement and interest for physics in the matriculation program. In this study from 2022, 134 students with low Electrical test scores took part. This study was carried out utilizing a one group pre- and post-test study design and a quasi-experimental quantitative analysis. This study involves study subjects getting an intervention for eight weeks and their experience was measured quantitatively to ascertain the success of the intervention that has been carried out. The comic instrument, the Electrical Topic Achievement Test, and the Comic Based Physics Learning Interest questionnaire which were based on comic teaching materials were the instruments employed in this study. The studys conclusions demonstrate a notable improvement in student interest and accomplishment as well as in their recall of facts and capacity to respond to problems requiring sophisticated thought processes related to Electrical. The studys conclusions also demonstrate a rise in the high degree of student interest for learning physics, as well as a gain value or N-Gain of 0.83. As a result, this study demonstrates how applying Electrical laboratory learning with comics can serve as an active teaching and learning media, boosting student interest to meet learning goals more successfully.
EVALUATION DES VARIABLES MECANIQUES LORS DE LA LOCOMOTION SUR TRICYCLES DES PARAPLEGIQUES
Authors:   Laboratoire STAPSJL/ INSEPS/ Universite Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar., Beye M.N. , Diouf D. ,   Laboratoire STAPSJL/ INSEPS/ Universite Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar.
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to quantify the average mechanical variables when moving paraplegics on two types of tricycles. The latter are means of transport that have been made at the national center for orthopedic equipment in Senegal to improve or preserve the autonomy of paraplegics. However, to our knowledge, no scientific study has been conducted to assess the mechanical parameters of these devices. Methods:Twenty male paraplegics participated in the study. The subjects had traveled a distance of 4800 meters with the outrigger and pedal tricycles. On arrival, the level of arduous effort, the mechanical variables of locomotion on a tricycle were determined. Results: The results showed that seventy-five percent (75%) of the subjects, i.e. 15/20, perceived the tricycle locomotion exercise as easy. Regarding the average speed respectively on the pedal tricycle and on the pendulum tricycle, it was 2.03 m/s and 1.86 m/s. The average power developed was 54.15 W and 50.15 W on the pedal tricycle and on the pendulum tricycle respectively. The mechanical work provided was 139.68 KJ and 138.67 KJ respectively on the pedal tricycle and on the pendulum tricycle. The average energy expenditure on the pendulum tricycle was 879.89 KJ and that on the pedal tricycle was 801.51 KJ. The average locomotion efficiency on the pedal tricycle was 19.87% and 16.62% on the pendulum tricycle.
A REVIEW ON NEEM COATED UREA AS CONTROLLED RELEASE AGRICULTURAL FORMULATION
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, New Delhi-110021, India., Bajaj Gandhi Pinkey , Baweja Pooja ,   Department of Botany, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, New Delhi-110021, India., Vodwal Lata ,   Department of Chemistry, Maitreyi College, University of Delhi, New Delhi-110021, India.
Published: July 2024

Fertilizers are the chemicals that are added to soil so that necessary nutrients can be provided to the plants for increased crop production. Primarily Nitrogen (50-70%) is added to the soil as a conventional source of fertilizer. It is identified as the most significant element for the growth of the plants. In India, urea alone supplies about 82% of Nitrogen.As urea itself is highly water soluble, when it is mixed to the soil, immediately the leaching advances and as a result the Nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUE) by plants gets reduced. Therefore, it is essential to improve the formulation of the fertilizers in a way that it supplies nutrients as and when required for the proper plant growth and development. Controlled release (CR) agricultural formulations have long been recognized as the best solution to traditional formulations. With the implementation of slow-release fertilizers (SRFs), the requirement of fertilizers decreases as fertilizer use proficiency of the plantsincreases significantly. The use of SRFs may also reduce the environmental pollution. As a CR fertilizer the Neem coated urea (NCU) is ascertained as one of the best alternatives to supply the nutrient as per the demand of the plants and to reduce the environmental contamination.
PRISE EN CHARGE DES PERSONNES ATTEINTES DE TROUBLES MUSCULO SUELETTIQUES ET DE MALADIES CHRONIQUES NON TRANSMISSIBLES PAR DES ACTIVITES PHYSIQUES ADAPTEES SANTE (APS) DURANT LE CONFINEMENT EN PERIODE DE COVID 19 AU SENEGAL
Authors:   Enseignante Chercheure, Institut National Superieur de lEducation Populaire et du Sport (INSEPS), Universite Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar, Senegal., Ndarao Mbengue , El Hadji Mamouthiam Diop ,   Enseignante Chercheure, Institut National Superieur de lEducation Populaire et du Sport (INSEPS), Universite Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar, Senegal.
Published: July 2024

The appearance of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in China, and more specifically in Wuhan, triggered a pandemic, declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) on March 11, 2020, which rapidly spread around the world, causing several thousand deaths. All countries have taken preventive measures, including containment, which reduces the mobility of populations. Consequently, inactivity among individuals, especially the elderly and women suffering from certain pathologies, further increases the risk of certain non-transmissible chronic diseases, as well as musculoskeletal and cardiovascular disorders. Thus, our study consisted in providing a remedy during the period of relief from restrictive measures or decontainment through a health adapted physical activity program (APAS). Anthropometric variables and musculoskeletal disorders in 11 Senegalese women, all suffering from musculoskeletal disorders and some from chronic non-transmissible diseases (diabetes, sickle-cell anemia AS, osteoarthritis) aged between 31 and 55, were measured before and at the end of a month-long program consisting of treadmill walking combined with muscle-strengthening exercises. Students t-tests performed to compare the mean values of variables measured in our sample before and at the end of the physical activity program revealed no statistically significant differences, although the women showed an absolute reduction in weight, body fat and Body Mass Index, a remarkable reduction in musculoskeletal disorders and a stabilization of chronic non-transmissible diseases.
EQUILIBRIUM IN TECHNICAL WRITING: HARMONIZING OBJECTIVITY WITH ADVOCACY
Authors:   Assistant Professor of English, University of Chittagong, Chittagong-4331, Bangladesh., Yeasmin Fahmeda
Published: July 2024

The task of editing is strenuous, and the most challenging one is to reach the target goals within the time limitation. Equilibrium is the stage of finding a balance between two opposite things. In this research piece, the standpoint of an editor will be analyzed from the perspective of objectivity and advocacy. The fact cannot be denied that editors (many of them) spend an extensive time only to rectify the issues related to lexicon. However, painfully true, many of them overlook the rhythm of balancing act, and only for that lethargic activity, they face a challenging situation to reach the laudable phase. The goal of this research task is to help the future editors and the technical writers to connect the eclectic issues related to the balancing act.
On the issue of radon regulation in the Russian Federation. Discussion on the materials of the publication “Radon regulation crisis in Russia: scale of the problem and proposals for remediation”
Authors: Romanovich I. K. , Kormanovskaya T. A. , Kononenko D. V.
Published: July 2024

The paper presents comments, remarks and opinions on the material presented in the publication “Radon regulation crisis in Russia: scale of the problem and proposals for remediation” by Tsapalov A., Miklyaev P., Petrova T., Kuvshinnikov S., published in the Russian peer-reviewed journal “ANRI” (“Radiation measurement equipment and news”), 2024, No. 1.
Quantifying the nonrevenue water problem in a sub-Saharan African environment: a practical application in the Republic of Cameroon (Central Africa)
Authors: Mvongo Victor Dang , Defo Celestin , Tchoffo Martin
Published: July 2024

This paper aims to update nonrevenue water (NRW) estimations in Cameroon to identify challenges to reducing NRW in the country. Data were collected from the databases of the Joint Monitoring Program of WHO and UNICEF, International Benchmarking Network for Water and Sanitation, the Central Bureau of the Census and Population Studies of Cameroon, and the Demographic Health Survey. Results indicate that the global volume of NRW in Cameroon was about 84.6 million m3/year, which represents 50.8% of the system input volume. According to this estimate, it is about 32.2 billion CFA francs (USD 53.6 million), which is lost every year. By cutting down Cameroon's NRW to half its present level, about 1.75 million people could be supplied with water. This new analysis of global levels of NRW in Cameroon shows that the current estimated volume is higher than previously estimated. This is partly due to outdated infrastructure, poor operation and maintenance, over-conservative estimates used in previous estimates, and NRW level in rural areas. However, this estimate has been found to provide similar results to Camwater statistics. Nonetheless, more data would help refine the numbers.
Employment generation potentials in the implementation of a rural drinking water supply program: evidence from India's Jal Jeevan Mission
Authors: Naik Gopal , Singh Abinash , Jas Abhilasha
Published: July 2024

Policymakers in India are finding it challenging to generate adequate employment to meet the requirements of growing population. An avenue consistently used is to invest in large-scale public infrastructure projects. In 2019, the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was launched with the aim of providing potable drinking water to every rural household in India. Underscoring the large investments in infrastructure development, the mission holds significant potential to create employment. The evidence base of studies assessing the effect of rural development programs on employment was weak. Against this backdrop, we assessed the employment generation potential of JJM at various phases of its implementation. We utilized secondary and scheme-level primary data across states of India and used the input-output model and ratio method to assess employment prospects. Our results suggest that JJM has the potential to generate an average of 5.99 million person-year of direct and 22.25 million person-year of indirect employment during the construction phase, and 1.11 million person-year of additional direct employment annually during the maintenance phase. Our study highlights the spillover effects of public investments in the form of employment generation and indicates that the impact of JJM is likely to be substantial once the program is complete and operational.
Adsorptive and oxidative removal of phenolphthalein by sono-assisted synthesized FeAcC in advanced oxidation-integrated fluidized bed reactor
Authors: Italiya Gopal , Subramanian Sangeetha
Published: July 2024

Environmental water sources are under increasing threat due to the addition of harmful chemicals not addressed by conventional water treatment processes. To work on this concern, the current study aimed to synthesize sono-assisted Fe-modified activated carbon-chitosan (FeAcC) composite and construct a laboratory-scale ozone-integrated fluidized bed reactor (FBR) to eliminate phenolphthalein (php). Following 120 min of incubation, the adsorbent demonstrated a 27.28 mg g−1 of php adsorption capacity at pH 4 with 0.5 g L−1 of adsorbent dosage. The adsorption efficacy and mechanism were defined using isotherm and kinetic models. The study investigated the impact of different factors including, initial concentration, reuse of FeAcC, recirculation flow rate, and hydraulic retention time (HRT), on the efficiency of php removal. The optimum removal efficiency was observed at approximately 95% after 20 min of operation at 1.5 L min−1 recirculation flow rate (batch FBR) and 70 min of HRT (continuous FBR) under 400 mg h−1 ozonation rate. Experimental parameters were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD) to improve php removal. The large-scale implementation of the findings in the future can be a step for adding new technology for clean water treatment processes for emerging toxic pollutants.
Diversities of Omnipotent Tulsi: Pharmacological and Chemical Aspects
Authors: Dobhal Kiran , Jakhmola Vikash , Rautela Jaya
Published: July 2024

Ocimum is a well-known genus accepted for various ethnopharmacological
benefits worldwide. The Tulsi plant is abundant globally; and falls under the Ocimum
species. Earlier, numerous species relevant to the Ocimum genus have been identified
and cultivated in various parts of the world. Leaves of Ocimum contain 0.1% of
essential oils, which are composed of eugenol, citral, ursolic acid, carvacrol, linalool,
limatrol, caryophyllene, camphor, and estragole while fatty acids and sitosterol are
present in the volatile oil of seed. Eugenol is responsible for its potential effect. The
ethnopharmacological aspects of Ocimum species have been reported as antimicrobial,
antimalarial, anthelmintic, anti-mosquito agents, anti-diarrheal, anti-oxidant, anticataract, anti-inflammatory, chemo, and radioprotective, antiseptic drugs, cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-hypertensive, anti-cancer, pain killer,
antiallergenic, antidepressant, memory boosting drugs, antiasthmatic, cough
suppressant, diaphoretic, anti-thyroid, anti-fertility, spasmolytic, anti-arthritic, herbal
pharmaceuticals, anti-anxiety, and blood thinning activities. In the previous studies,
Tulsi has reported the potential effect against cellular toxicity caused by insecticides
and industrial chemicals, which is the subject of attention. In this chapter, the author
will explore the pharmacological and chemical paradigms of Tulsi that are present
globally. 
Combretum Caffrum Confers a Potential CuttingEdge Anticancer Molecule as Combretastatins
Authors: Patel Vijay Kumar , Rajak Harish , Shirbhate Ekta , Kumar Ajay , Singh Sandeep Kumar
Published: July 2024

Combretum caffrum (Combretaceae) commonly known as the South African
bush willow tree grows naturally along the coast region of the East Cape of South
Africa. Combretastatins are emerging chemical molecules discovered from C. caffrum
tree capable of targeting colchicine binding sites; thus inhibiting the tubulin
polymerization for the treatment of cancer. Numerous combretastatin analogues have
been found in nature and created artificially, which showed strong cytotoxicity against
a variety of cancers, including breast, colorectal, lung, kidney, ovarian, thyroid, liver,
leukaemia, pancreatic, and cervical. Combretastatin A-4 was revealed to be the most
potent antitumor agent in an isolated extract of C. caffum. Combretastatin A-4 is a
pioneer in the development of anticancer medicines because of its distinctive features,
which include a simple molecular structure, simple synthesis procedure, and antitubulin and antivascular activities. The objective of the present chapter is to elucidate
the chemistry and biological activity of isolated combretastatins from C. caffrum, and
to explore the development, mechanism of action, computer-aided drug design studies,
and current clinical status as anticancer agents. As orphan drugs, the two
Combretastatin A-4 analogs CA-4P and AVE8062 have been approved by the US Food
and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency to treat anaplastic
thyroid cancer (ATC), ovarian cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, gastro-enteropancreatic
neuroendocrine tumors, and gliomas.
A holistic approach to menstrual hygiene: Analyzing the interconnected roles of knowledge, socio-cultural correlates, and attitudes in adolescent girls
Authors: Fauziah Hidayatul Auliya , Yualita Perla , Kamila Ami
Published: July 2024

Background: Adolescent girls are vulnerable to reproductive health problems such as genitalia infections, due to lack of personal hygiene during menstruation. Adolescent girls' attitudes towards personal hygiene during menstruation can be influenced by several factors, including the level of knowledge about menstruation and socio-cultural aspects that influence perceptions of personal hygiene during menstruation.

Objectives: This study was conducted to analyze the relationship between knowledge and social culture with attitudes about personal hygiene during menstruation among adolescent girls.

Methods: This study uses quantitative correlation with a cross sectional approach. Sampling using purposive sampling with a total of 112 adolescent girls. The research was conducted at MTS Al-Hidayah Satron, Tasikmalya Regency in April-July 2023. Data were collected using knowledge, socio-cultural, and attitude questionnaires about personal hygiene during menstruation. Data were analysed using univariate and bivariate with Spearman rank.

Results: The results of research on adolescent girls mostly have poor knowledge as many as 51 people (45.5%), most of them were 62 people (55,4%) with unsupportive socio-culture, and most of them were 65 people (58%) with negative attitude. The statistical test results showed that there was a relationship between knowledge and attitude about personal hygiene during menstruation with a p-value of 0.001 and there was a relationship between social culture and attitude about personal hygiene during menstruation with a p-value of 0.000.

Conclusions: Knowledge and social culture of adolescent girls are associated with attitudes about personal hygiene during menstruation. Further research is needed to change the attitude of adolescent girls about personal hygiene during menstruation by increasing the knowledge and socio-culture of adolescent girls so that they can perform personal hygiene during menstruation.
Exploring the User Acceptability and Feasibility of a Clinical Decision Support Tool Designed to Facilitate Timely Diagnosis of New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes in Children: Qualitative Interview Study Among General Practitioners
Authors: Beccia Chiara , Hunter Barbara , Manski-Nankervis Jo-Anne , White Mary
Published: July 2024

Background

Up to half of the children with new-onset type 1 diabetes present to the hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening condition that can develop because of diagnostic delay. Three-quarters of Australian children visit their general practitioner (GP) the week before presenting to the hospital with diabetic ketoacidosis. Our prototype, DIRECT-T1DM (Decision-Support for Integrated, Real-Time Evaluation and Clinical Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus), is an electronic clinical decision support tool that promotes immediate point-of-care testing in general practice to confirm the suspicion of diabetes. This avoids laboratory testing, which has been documented internationally as a cause of diagnostic delay.

Objective

In this investigation, we aimed to pilot and assess the feasibility and acceptability of our prototype to GP end users. We also explored the challenges of diagnosing type 1 diabetes in the Australian general practice context.

Methods

In total, 4 GPs, a pediatric endocrinologist, and a PhD candidate were involved in conceptualizing the DIRECT-T1DM prototype, which was developed at the Department of General Practice and Primary Care at the University of Melbourne. Furthermore, 6 GPs were recruited via convenience sampling to evaluate the tool. The study involved 3 phases: a presimulation interview, simulated clinical scenarios, and a postsimulation interview. The interview guide was developed using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) as a guide. All phases of the study were video, audio, and screen recorded. Audio recordings were transcribed by the investigating team. Analysis was carried out using CFIR as the underlying framework.

Results

Major themes were identified among three domains and 7 constructs of the CFIR: (1) outer setting—time pressure, difficulty in diagnosing pediatric type 1 diabetes, and secondary care considerations influenced GPs’ needs regarding DIRECT-T1DM; (2) inner setting—DIRECT-T1DM fits within existing workflows, it has a high relative priority due to its importance in patient safety, and GPs exhibited high tension for change; and (3) innovation—design recommendations included altering coloring to reflect urgency, font style and bolding, specific language, information and guidelines, and inclusion of patient information sheets.

Conclusions

End-user acceptability of DIRECT-T1DM was high. This was largely due to its implications for patient safety and its “real-time” nature. DIRECT-T1DM may assist in appropriate management of children with new-onset diabetes, which is an uncommon event in general practice, through safety netting.
Using deep learning to perform automatic quantitative measurement of masseter and tongue muscles in persons with dementia (Preprint)
Authors: Imani Mahdi , Borda Miguel G. , Vogrin Sara , Meijering Erik , Aarsland Dag , Duque Gustavo
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass and strength) increases adverse outcomes risk and contributes to cognitive decline in older adults. Accurate methods to quantify muscle mass and predict adverse outcomes, particularly in older persons with dementia, are still lacking.

OBJECTIVE

Here, we aimed to evaluate the role of a deep learning model in quantifying muscle volumes in head MRI in patients with neurocognitive disorders

METHODS

In a cross-sectional analysis of 65 participants, we used deep neural networks (Unet-type) to segment five different tissues in head MRI images, using the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and average symmetric surface distance to compare results. We also analyzed the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and muscle and fat volumes.

RESULTS

Our framework accurately quantified masseter and subcutaneous fat on the left and right sides of the head and tongue muscle (Avg DSC 92.4%). A significant correlation exists between the area and volume of tongue muscle, left masseter muscle, and BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates the successful application of a deep learning model to quantify muscle volumes in head MRI in patients with neurocognitive disorders. This is a promising first step towards clinically applicable artificial intelligence and machine learning methods for estimating masseter and tongue muscle and predicting adverse outcomes in this population.
The Impact and Development Trends of Cross-Border Interaction between the Jing Ethnic Group across
Authors: Wang Yu
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the impact and development trends of cross-border interactions of the Jing ethnic group in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of northern Vietnam. By outlining the geographical, historical backgrounds, and cultural overview of the Jing ethnic group, it analyzes their roles and influences in cross-border interactions. The study finds that the Jing ethnic people in the region not only act as bridges in economic trade but also promote cultural dissemination and social interactions. Furthermore, the article discusses the stimulating effect of such interactions on local socio-economic development and outlines future trends in cross-border interactions of the Jing ethnic group.
Dissemination and Reception of French New Allegory: A Case Study of the Chinese Translation and Introduction of Tournier’s Works
Authors: Du Jiashu , Zeng Jiawei
Published: July 2024

The New Allegory School originated in France during the 1950s and gained recognition in the literary world due to its distinctive writing style and ideas. Michel Tournier, as the most prominent representative of this school, is also considered one of the most important French writers of the latter half of the 20th century. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, his works were introduced to China, where they have been repeatedly printed and published as classic French literature in Chinese translation. The translations and studies of Tournier’s works in China have been locally featured, reflecting the influence of local scholarship, social culture, and contemporary characteristics. Over the past 50 years, there has been a continuous process of recognition and deepening understanding of Tournier within Chinese academic circles. The appreciation of Tournier by Chinese scholars represents a diverse interpretation influenced by national conditions and local academic background. These scholars have demonstrated their unique vision and multiple choices regarding the translation of Tournier’s works as well as their evaluation of his writing thoughts and characteristics.
Investigating Awareness, Preparedness and Challenges of Agency Officers in Implementing GSIS Electronic Billing and Collection System (EBCS)
Authors: Carpio Marvin L. , Aguilar Aileen Joy D. , Evangelista Princess M. , Feliciano Rodentor P. , Balaria Felipe E. , Santos Mercedes D.
Published: July 2024

Increasing unpaid compulsory premiums and high loan default rates have led to serious discussions concerning agencies under the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Cabanatuan Branch Office. Substantial attention has been made to addressing these delinquencies on premiums and loan payments. One solution is the introduction of Electronic Billing and Collection System (EBCS). The ‘Electronic Billing Remittance’ refers to the electronic billing system of the GSIS introduced in August 2003 which required the agencies to use the electronic remittance file format of the GSIS. With the continuous improvement of the billing system, the Electronic Billing and Collection System (EBCS) was implemented in July 2014. During the first few months of program implementation, some agencies could not comply immediately. It is in no discreet information that EBCS experienced major errors and technical difficulties during its implementation phase some of it concerning the ability of the government agencies and its agency officers to adjust in using the new system. The objectives of this paper is to investigate the level of awareness of the respondents on the different functionalities of electronic billing and collection system. Additionally, the researcher analyzed are the profile of the respondents and the challenges faced by Agency Officers in using EBCS and preparation for the Agency’s Electronic Remittance File (ERF). Empirical results indicated that some agency remitting officers still are not aware of all of the EBCS's features. This shows how important it is for all government agencies to improve how quickly they collect mandatory fees and loan payments. Additionally, different agency practices, budget preparation methods, and technical problems like internet connectivity make it harder to use the EBCS effectively. This shows that the system needs to be standardized and improved.
Metacognition in ELT writing: Teacher’s facilitation and students’ strategies
Authors: Rimun Jennifer Cristy , Yumarnamto Mateus
Published: July 2024

Metacognition is central in understanding learning processes in the classroom, especially in the context of EFL writing. This study explores how an English teacher facilitated the mastery of metacognition strategies used by students in English writing classes, metacognitive strategies used by the students, and the impact of metacognitive strategies on students’ writing. The subjects were 17 eleventh grade students enrolled in the social program and their English teacher (one teacher) at a private school in Surabaya. The data were collected from students’ writing works, observation, and interviews. The data were coded and analyzed further by using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that the teacher played a role in fostering the mastery of metacognition skills in an English writing class by providing students with background knowledge, monitoring their progress, and encouraging an awareness of future tasks. With these types of facilitation, students could enhance their metacognitive strategies, such as using personal styles, planning, and self-evaluation. The findings show the importance of metacognition to promote students' awareness, self-regulation, and reflection. The findings imply that writing pedagogy should also involve in developing metacognition by means of effective teachers’ facilitation.
Post-project monitoring: the experience of the Krasnoyarsk Regional Fund of Science and Technology Support
Authors: Panteleeva I. A. , Koroleva S. A. , Pisarev I. V. , Byvshev V. I.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: due to the current geopolitical situation, the results of scientific research must go far beyond the fundamental level and find application in the real sector of the economy. This is a key vector of the national scientific and technological policy, justified by the urgent need for import-substituting technologies that have emerged as a result of the global crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and sanctions pressure. The research focuses on analyzing the development of scientific and scientific-technical projects after they have received state support. Objectives: to analyze the experience of the Krasnoyarsk Regional Fund of Science and Technology Support in monitoring the projects' relevance. Methods: post-project monitoring, continuous questionnaires, statistical and graphical analysis, and system analysis. Results: an analysis of the development of projects that received state support, conducted using post-project monitoring, showed that 8% of the total number of respondents commercialized the results of their projects, 37% introduced their results into socio-economic turnover in organizations operating in the Krasnoyarsk Krai. Conclusions: more than a third of all projects supported by the Krasnoyarsk Regional Fund of Science and Technology Support have received some form of further development or practical application in one form or another, which exceeds the average statistical data provided in other studies. However, there is still a need to increase the level of commercialization of scientific projects' outputs. The authors proposed a number of measures to achieve this goal.
Aprendizaje por refuerzo como soporte a la predicción de la precipitación mensual. Caso de estudio: Departamento de Boyacá - Colombia
Authors: Zea Gutiérrez Jimmy Alejandro , Suárez Barón Marco Javier , González Sanabria Juan Sebastián
Published: July 2024

La emisión de gases de efecto invernadero, atribuida directa o indirectamente a la actividad humana, es la principal causa del cambio climático a nivel mundial. Entre los gases emitidos, el dióxido de carbono (CO2) es el que más contribuye a la variación espacio temporal de magnitudes físicas como la humedad relativa, la presión atmosférica, la temperatura ambiente y, de manera más significativa, la precipitación. El objetivo de la investigación fue presentar un análisis de la predicción de la precipitación mensual en el departamento de Boyacá mediante el uso de modelos basados en aprendizaje reforzado (RL, por sus siglas en inglés). La metodología empleada consistió en extraer datos desde CHIRPS 2,0 (Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station data, versión 2,0) con una resolución espacial de 0,05° que posteriormente fueron preprocesados para la implementación de enfoques basados en una simulación Montecarlo y aprendizaje reforzado profundo (DRL, por sus siglas en inglés) para proporcionar predicciones de la precipitación mensual. Los resultados obtenidos demostraron que la simulación Montecarlo como el DRL generan predicciones significativas de la precipitación mensual. Es esencial reconocer que los modelos convencionales basados en Aprendizaje profundo, como Memoria a Corto Plazo (LSTM) o Redes Convolucionales a Corto Plazo (ConvLSTM), pueden superar a los enfoques de simulación Montecarlo y DRL en términos de precisión de predicción. Se concluye que la implementación de técnicas de aprendizaje por refuerzo en modelos de predicción de la precipitación mensual detecta patrones de información que pueden ser usados como soporte a estrategias dirigidas a mitigar los riesgos económicos y sociales derivados de fenómenos climáticos.
Composing Composing Instruments
Authors: Tijs Ham
Published: July 2024

This exposition aims to provide insights into my artistic practice and research 'Tipping Points', working within the field of live electronics and focusing on the exploration of tipping points in chaotic processes. The activities associated with my practice are profoundly interdisciplinary and include designing and buildinginstruments, composing artistic works for these instruments, and performing with them. Each of these aspects are interlaced and equally important in the development of new artistic works. The preface details my process in the production of new artistic works. Then the text details my thoughts on the term comprovisation and how it informs my approaches to the development of my work. Then the focus shifts to describe how my use of chaotic processes turns instruments into actant technologies which has important consequences on both my performance practice and instrument design. These insights are then illustrated through reflections on my work Multiple Minds, concluding that the instrument itself is actively composing, while at the same time, the act of designing and building an instrument can be viewed as composing.
Defense Industrial Base: Acquisition Program Case History
Authors: Mortlock Robert
Published: July 2024

This Defense Industrial Base case history encourages critical analysis of a DoD project manager responding to typical management oversight questions regarding industrial base planning within defense acquisition. The analysis centers on the capability and capacity of the defense industrial base to develop and produce body armor for Warfighters. The case incorporates the perspectives from key stakeholders to include commercial industry companies, congressional committees, DoD senior leadership, and the program management/acquisition chain of command. Considerations include the balancing of limited resources against competing priorities, sustaining inventory for wartime readiness, managing the demand for increased capability, and balancing surge requirements with industry capacity. The case history reinforces critical thinking in uncertain environments, documents lessons learned for sound project management, and provides exposure to the complexities of public sector acquisition and manufacture of critical warfighting products.
El cambio climático global impacta el círculo polar ártico
Authors: Eslava Sarmiento Alexander
Published: July 2024

Numerosas evidencias confirman que la Tierra se está calentando, y entre ellas se incluyen: días y noches más calurosos, calentamiento del océano, reducción del tiempo frío, la capa de nieve en el hemisferio norte está disminuyendo a ritmo vertiginoso, retiro de los glaciares, cambio en los patrones de lluvia, aumento del nivel del mar, disminución del hielo marino en el Círculo Polar Ártico, acidificación de los océanos; ahora se están abriendo rutas que antes estaban impedidas, lo que ofrece el potencial de conectar mercados internacionales a través de rutas polares más cortas. El cambio climático global está provocando el deshielo del permafrost y la reducción de la capa de hielo del océano Ártico, lo que hace que los vastos depósitos minerales de esta parte del mundo sean más accesibles. El Ártico contiene vastas reservas de recursos naturales del mundo: agua dulce (20 %), reservas estimadas de gas natural inexploradas (13 %) y reservas de petróleo (30 %). La región es rica en metales no ferrosos y de tierras raras, oro, diamantes e hidrocarburos. China, país no ártico, pretende obtener acceso a los recursos y a las rutas marítimas del Ártico para asegurar y reforzar su ascenso militar, económico y científico.
Formation des élus locaux, organismes de formation et gestion des collectivités locales : Pratiques, enjeux et perspectives
Authors: GHALLAL Sabrina ,   Université Paris-Saclay, France, KATFI Ayoub , EL MNOUER Oumaima , KATFI Hamza ,   Université Mohammed V, Maroc,   Université Mohammed V, Maroc,   Université Mohammed V, Maroc
Published: July 2024

The sector of training for local elected officials is highly regulated. Only organizations approved by the Ministry of the Interior on the advice of CNFEL - the National Council for the Training of Local Elected Officials - can provide training. As of September 27, 2018, there were 200 private or public organizations approved for the training of elected officials, such as universities, grandes écoles, associations, and consulting firms. For the elected official, it is a matter of understanding the functioning of an assembly, drafting a budget, speaking in public, using social networks, interacting with associations, and understanding new laws. For this, the elected official relies, among other things, on their experience, interpersonal skills, know-how, and exchanges of good practices with experienced officials. Each elected official also has the right to training, a right that has been strengthened by the legislature in recent years. Today, with the non-accumulation of mandates and the parity law, we see so-called novice officials taking office. Strong expectations are expressed by citizens, as seen in the "yellow vests crisis. In this communication, we propose a reflection on the effectiveness of training organizations and the ability of elected officials to meet these expectations.
Low Wear Rate Selection of Nylon 6-Boron Nitride (PA6/BN) Composite During Composite Development Using Grey Relational Analysis Through the Direct and Indirect Factors of Taguchi Method
Authors: Adekoya Abdulganiyu Adegboyega , Rajan John , Jose Swaminathan , Oke Sunday Ayoola , Aderibigbe Samuel Bolaji , Odudare Samson Oluwaseun
Published: July 2024

Wear performance has been evaluated for mechanical equipment using normal load, sliding speed, and sliding distance, but aspect ratios have been traditionally ignored in the literature. Also, limited studies have analyzed wear performance with sparse information. In this study, a grey relational analysis (GRA) technique is proposed for the wear performance analysis of nylon 6/boron nitride composite using aspect ratios. A complete divergence is made from the literature where the aspect ratios of the particulate weight of the composite, normal load, sliding speed, and sliding distance are treated in direct and aspect ratios of 12 cases where the reciprocals of factors, their squares and cubes are considered. Results show that the proposed method of GRA is feasible and offers an adequate illustration of the indices of the parameters of the wear process as opposed to the present method of Taguchi that exists in the literature. A key result is from case 2, which shows that experimental trial 9 with the grey relational grade of 1.00 has the lowest wear rate. The corresponding values of the parameters are 0.05 of the 1/NL parameter, while the SD parameter is 500. This is interpreted as 0.05N-1 of the reciprocal of normal load and 500m for the sliding distance. The principal contribution of this research is the introduction of the grey relational analysis to reduce the wear rate of nylon 6-boron nitride composite. The proposed method is useful as a planning tool for the maintenance engineer to monitor the health of equipment in practice.
The 3Ps (profits, problems & planning) of dams as inevitable developmental source: a review
Authors: Jasrotia Nidhi , Singh Ripudaman
Published: July 2024

Since the beginning of river valley civilizations, humans have sought to harness the potential of flowing waters. The monumental structures of dams have been instrumental in damming these flowing waters and providing a wide range of benefits to society, including irrigation, drinking water, and generating clean energy. The present paper reviews in detail the hydropower reservoirs (dams) and presents a broader depiction of the 3Ps associated with their profits, problems, and planning. A literature review pertaining to dam construction and their impacts has been undertaken to analyze various approaches involving studies on socio-economic and environmental indicators and sustainability/risk factors related to dams. Various online search engines have been used to identify the desired studies and research for review. The first section of the paper gives a detailed account of the contribution (i.e., profits) made by dams to the economic development of humanity. The second part presents the negative social and environmental impacts (i.e., problems) of dams. As the paper proceeds, numerous tools/models analyzed during the literature review are presented that can be used to mitigate the negative fallouts of these dams (i.e., planning). However, it has been found that all these methods provide fragmented information with no certainty regarding which essential aspects require more emphasis while planning for these superstructures. Thus, a basic uniform frame is suggested, showcasing the fundamental and most critical aspects to be considered while planning a dam structure, which are described according to the three phases of dam construction, i.e., pre-construction, construction, and post-construction phases. While presenting the 3Ps (profits, problems and planning) of dams and analyzing their pitfalls, the 3Is (innovative keys) are recommended, emphasizing innovative technologies, innovative planning, and innovative solutions, which are needed in making these dams more optimal, judicious, and sustainable.