bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Framework for IoT Data Collection and Fusion in Infectious Diseases Surveillance
Authors: Jillahi Kamal Bakari , Thandekkattu Salu George
Published: September 2024

Although IoT has proven to be a vital instrument for data collection, epidemiological data collection has presented a significant challenge to the AI community. Thus, data for epidemiological research from multiple sources needs to be integrated to gain a holistic insight into epidemiological incidences. Hence, the authors aim to provide a framework for collecting, aggregating, and fusing data from diverse IoT sources for epidemiological research. Thus, a wireless network is designed for energy efficiency and communication efficiency. In addition, the CoAP mechanism for data transfer to a cloud-based service for aligning, de-duplicating, aggregating, and mapping data from several sources is presented. Subsequently, the researchers trained three machine learning models to predict disease incidence, vector abundance, and host population using both synthesized data using the proposed framework and data captured using traditional means. They assessed the performance of the two models by measuring their accuracy and learning rate. Results show the superiority of the proposed framework.
IoT Technologies for the Intelligent Dairy Industry
Authors: Kazi Kutubuddin Sayyad Liyakat
Published: September 2024

The smart dairy industry has radically transformed the manufacturing, processing, and distribution processes of milk and other dairy products. By utilizing sensors, data analytics, and other smart technologies, dairy farmers can lower their environmental impact, boost productivity, enhance herd management, and improve food safety and traceability. The dairy industry must use smart technology to effectively and sustainably meet the growing demand for dairy products around the world. The intelligent dairy industry has advanced significantly from its early days. The industry has become more consumer-driven, efficient, and sustainable and uses cutting-edge technology. It is expected that the smart dairy sector will continue to grow and bring about more revolutionary changes in the future, given the growing global demand for dairy products. The dairy industry is adopting IoT technology at an increasing rate, and this trend could be significant.
Commitment to the Planet
Authors: Galán-Valdivieso Federico , Mañas-Álvarez Isabel Cristina , Rodríguez-Martínez María José , del Mar Gálvez-Rodríguez María
Published: September 2024

Sustainable reporting implies that a company not only takes action to help meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but also that it is transparent with its stakeholders to show its efforts and commitment. Previous literature is scarce in studies that focus on certain SDGs, particularly planet-related, and perhaps even more scarce in delving into specific actions taken to meet the targets. From a sample of the 51 biggest Spanish companies in terms of revenue, the authors analyse their 2022 sustainability reports. The results show that the most committed companies are also the most transparent when disclosing information about SDGs, and that, in line with previous research, SDGs 12 and 13 are the most addressed by companies. The analysis also allows us to conclude that firms lack real commitment and transparency, since the vast majority of them do not mention which specific actions are being taken to meet the sustainable goals.
Impact of Sustainability Strategies on ESG Performance Disclosure
Authors: Monteiro Albertina Paula , Cepeda Catarina , Macedo Cristina , Cardoso Carla , Oliveira Catarina
Published: September 2024

With signaling lens, this study aims to analyze whether the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance disclosure is influenced by sustainability strategies and global reporting initiative (GRI) standards adoption. The data obtained from the Refinitiv Eikon database, for Chinese listed companies, are subject to correlation and regression analysis for panel data. The findings reveal that the presence of business ethics and human rights policies have a positive impact on ESG performance disclosure. Additionally, stakeholder engagement level and GRI standards adoption are predictive variables for ESG performance disclosure. Exclusive analysis in the China's industrial sector restricts the results generalization. This study explores the effect of sustainability strategies on ESG performance disclosure.
Clinical Simulation in Nursing Education
Authors: Waliu Ajibola Olaosebikan , Muojekwu Esther Emarobebh , Matthew Ugochukwu Okwudili , Kazaure Jazuli Sanusi , Oseni Victoria Enemona , Ononiwu Chamberlyn Chisom , Haruna Khalid
Published: September 2024

Virtual reality simulation has revolutionized the healthcare sector by fusing human skills with cutting-edge technology to promote patient-centered care, clinical efficacy, and a compassionate digital healthcare ecosystem. In order to enhance nursing education by providing dynamic and engaging learning settings, the goal of this research is to assess the transformative potential of virtual reality. Through familiarization with state-of-the-art technology through the use of immersive pedagogy and technology framework, the paper proposed a fresh way to nursing education and clinical practice. Student nurses can fully immerse themselves in a personalized virtual reality as if they were actually there, interact with their surroundings, and learn in a dynamic and pedagogically informative digital ecosystem by donning VR headgear or goggles. Virtual reality can be used to create incredibly lifelike simulations that allow trainee nurses to practice problem-solving skills without really putting themselves in danger as clinical simulation offers deep understanding of real-world situations.
Healthcare Applications of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
Authors: Esseme Alain Claude Bah , Oladipupo Matthew Abiola , Ogechukwu Onyedibe Nkiruka , Andrew-Vitalis Nneoma , Akpan Edidiong Elijah , Oseni Victoria Enemona , Matthew Ugochukwu Okwudili
Published: September 2024

With the advancement of technology, digital gadgets have progressively become tools for educational pedagogy, enabling the widespread application of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in healthcare education. Neurological rehabilitation, telemedicine, psychotherapy, medical education, and surgical simulation are among the fields in which VR and AR are used. Studies have shown that VR and AR can reduce medical errors resulting from incompetent medical personnel, lessen the inconvenience of traditional medical care, and save medical education and training costs. The application has improved the quality of diagnosis and treatment, raised the bar for medical education and training, and strengthened the bond between clinicians and patients. In an effort to assist clinical professionals in enhancing the standard of care they provide, this study integrates VR and AR technologies into medical-clinical practice, utilizing Actor Network(ANT) model to develop a conceptual framework for the implementation of AR/VR pedagogy simulation on artificial intelligence training platform.
Intelligent Asset Allocation Portfolio Division and Recommendation
Authors: Cai Liang , Wu Zhixin
Published: September 2024

With the continuous development of financial markets, intelligent asset allocation has become a topic of great concern in the investment field. However, traditional asset allocation methods often face difficulties in grasping the relationship between diversity, risk and return, which limits its application in complex market environments. To solve this problem, this study introduces deep learning and knowledge graphs and proposes an intelligent asset allocation model. Our model makes full use of the advantages of the Knowledge Graph Embedding Model (KGE), LSTM, and Genetic Algorithm (GA) to build a multi-level and multi-dimensional asset allocation model. KGE helps capture the complex relationships between different assets, LSTM is used to learn key patterns of historical portfolio performance, and GA finds the optimal asset allocation combination by simulating natural selection and genetic mechanisms. Experimental findings indicate that our model has demonstrated substantial improvements across various performance metrics and outperforms conventional approaches.
Uso do RPG nas aulas de educação do campo e pesquisa
Authors: Santos Carlos Antonio Cunha dos
Published: September 2024

O presente relato apresenta os resultados do uso do Role Play Game (RPG) nas aulas da disciplina de Educação do Campo e Pesquisa em uma turma do curso Técnico de Agroindústria, no Campus Rural de Marabá do Instituto Federal do Pará (IFPA). O jogo foi utilizado para contextualizar, reforçar os pontos mais importantes, esclarecer dúvidas e ajudar os alunos a assimilar melhor o conteúdo trabalhado. A etapa observada foi constituída de quatro momentos em que os estudantes precisaram contextualizar o RPG com os conteúdos “Educação do Campo: projeto em disputa”, “História do campesinato nacional e paraense” e “Educação do Campo: Um olhar panorâmico”. Após 8 aulas que incluíram a introdução ao RPG, a formação de grupos, eleição dos mestres e a construção de personagens, os 30 alunos da turma foram submetidos a um questionário baseado na escala de Likert de 5 pontos a fim de avaliar a aceitação do jogo, o aprendizado e a importância do uso do RPG durante as aulas da disciplina. Os resultados demonstraram aprovação unânime em relação ao uso RPG e a dinâmica foi considerada importante na disciplina, especialmente, para a aprendizagem dos conteúdos.
A experiência na construção dos saberes docentes: um relato sobre a residência pedagógica
Authors: Paiva Sophia Leitão Pastorello de , Rodrigues Naielly Christhiny Paz , Oliveira Ilkilene Taques Camargo , Oliveira Graciela da Silva
Published: September 2024

A experiência na escola apresenta papel fundamental na licenciatura por proporcionar momentos de vivência para a percepção da profissão e de exercício das teorias pedagógicas. O presente artigo tem como objetivo relatar a experiência de formação docente de duas estudantes de Ciências Biológicas no programa Residência Pedagógica. O público-alvo compreende adolescentes cursando o primeiro ano do ensino médio, com idade entre 14 e 16 anos. Durante o estágio na escola-campo, foram vivenciadas as etapas de ambientação, observação e regência. A partir deste contato na escola e com o aporte teórico, embasado principalmente nas ideias de Vygotsky, foi possível inferir que a maneira como os professores relacionam-se com os alunos e o método pedagógico utilizado, influencia no comportamento destes jovens em sala de aula.
O ensino de Física em escolas do campo
Authors: Moura Claudiana Beserra de , Paz Fábio Soares da
Published: September 2024

Este estudo diz respeito ao ensino de Física nas escolas do campo, de modo que tal deve contribuir para o processo formativo dos sujeitos do campo proporcionando e possibilitando identificar problemas e desafios no dia a dia; além de esclarecer situações concretas diante da diversidade de fenômenos que o ocorrem no contexto campesino. Este trabalho tem como objetivo discutir os elementos que norteiam o ensino de Física nas escolas do campo. A metodologia adotada baseia-se na abordagem qualitativa através do levantamento bibliográfico realizado por meio da revisão sistemática de literatura no catálogo de teses e dissertações da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES). Ao término do levantamento dos trabalhos, obteve-se oito estudos, entre teses e dissertações em interface com o ensino de Física e a Educação do Campo. Os dados foram organizados em três eixos de análises: i) Formação docente, ii) Currículo e iii) Metodologias de Ensino.
Advanced Simulation and Environmental Impact Assessment of Combustion in Maritime Energy Systems
Authors: Saadeldin Mahmoud A. , Elgohary Mohamed M. , Abdelnaby Maged M. , Shouman Mohamed R.
Published: September 2024

Abstract The current study aims to simulate the combustion process performance inside a diesel engine and then assess the environmental impact of variable methanol ratios on maximum and operational temperatures, as well as the emission performance of a diesel/methanol dual-fuel
engine. The numerical simulation for combustion is conducted on a 3-D sector cylinder using Ansys Fluent to calculate the dynamic motion of air and combustion characteristics. Subsequently, diesel/methanol dual-fuel combustion is performed to evaluate the distribution of essential mass fraction,
operational temperature, and pollution inside the combustion engine, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and soot emissions. The study illustrates that NOx emissions from diesel/methanol, including NO and N2O, are reduced by 57% and 65%, respectively, compared with
pure diesel fuel. Additionally, there is a decrease in SOx and soot pollution by 52% and 53%, respectively. The mass fraction for oxygen, hydrogen, and carbon monoxide is reduced by increasing the methanol ratio. The convergence between the Computational Fluid Dynamics and experimental results
indicates the feasibility of using numerical analysis in diesel engine design.
Rare Presentation of Acinic Cell Carcinoma in the Parotid Gland
Authors: Yadav Rita , Agarwal Preeti , Sagar Mala , Maurya Malti Kumari
Published: September 2024

Acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) arising in the salivary glands is a rare tumor. It is a low-grade malignant salivary gland tumor. It is predominantly seen in females and occurs in the fifth and sixth decades of life. It is mostly located in the parotid gland. ACC has a significant potential for recurrence and metastasis. Therefore, long-term follow-up is necessary after treatment. Here, a 28-year-old male presented with right preauricular swelling for 9 months. Ultrasound of the head-and-neck region and fine-needle aspiration cytology of preauricular swelling suggest the diagnosis of neoplasm in the parotid gland, most probably a benign tumor. After that, a total parotidectomy with facial nerve preservation was performed. On histopathological and immunohistochemical study was consistent with the diagnosis of ACC in the parotid gland.
Comparison of the Analgesic Duration Using Ultrasound-guided Popliteal Sciatic Nerve Block between Diabetics with Neuropathy and Nondiabetics without Neuropathy
Authors: Prasad Ganesh , Misquith Julie C. R. , Ribeiro Karl Nicholas Sa , Naik Shilpa A.
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

In India, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus neuropathy was reported to be as high as 30%. Eight percentage of the diabetic population suffer from foot ulceration and 1.8% have amputations. Popliteal nerve block can be potentially used for foot and ankle surgery with several advantages.

Aim:

To compare analgesic duration of an ultrasound (US)-guided popliteal sciatic nerve block between diabetics with neuropathy and nondiabetics without neuropathy.

Patients and Methods:

Participants were allocated into two groups for popliteal sciatic nerve blocks under US guidance. The primary outcome was the duration to onset of sensory and motor blockade. The secondary outcome was the duration to rescue analgesic and the visual analog scale scoring within 24 h. Hemodynamic outcomes were also monitored along with the above variables.

Results:

It was observed that the onset of sensory blockade was faster in participants with diabetes mellitus with peripheral neuropathy as compared to the nondiabetic participants and the duration for onset of motor blockade in dorsiflexion was faster in diabetic patients as compared to the nondiabetic patients (17.48 ± 3.21 min). However, there was no significant changes when comparing the onset of duration to loss of plantar flexion, in diabetics (17.86 ± 2.29 min) versus in nondiabetics (18.51 ± 3.32 min). The duration for rescue analgesics was found to be longer in diabetic participants (13.19 ± 2.14 h) as compared to the nondiabetic participants (11.44 ± 1.86 h). No differences were observed in the hemodynamic changes and the complications associated with local anesthetics in either group.

Conclusion:

Diabetic patients with neuropathy have faster onset of blockade when compared to nondiabetic patients without neuropathy which may be due to the degenerative condition of the peripheral nerves in them. The hemodynamic parameters do not play a role in defining the outcome of the block.
Application of topical minoxidil in acne vulgaris treatment
Authors: Chen Chun-Bing , Kuo Yung-Chia , Chang Sun-Min , Lin An-Chi , Fan Hsien-Chi , Lin Tung-Liang , Chung Wen-Hung , Hsu Cheng-Lung
Published: September 2024

Background:

Acne vulgaris (AV) results from increased sebum production and Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) overgrowth, leading to pilosebaceous unit inflammation. The androgen-androgen receptor (AR) pathway significantly contributes to acne development, with minoxidil showing promise in suppressing AR-related activities.

Objectives:

This study aims to examine the mechanism and effectiveness of minoxidil in treating AV.

Methods:

The effects of minoxidil on lipid metabolism and bacterial infection/inflammation were tested. A clinical trial was performed to evaluate the effect of topical minoxidil on AV.

Results:

Minoxidil suppressed fatty acid synthase activity and lipid formation in an androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cell line in vitro and sebum formation in hamster flank organs in vivo. For C. acnes, minoxidil had a half-maximum inhibitory concentration of 5 mM. Both 2% and 5% minoxidil suppressed C. acnes-induced infection/inflammation in an animal model. A phase I/II clinical trial of topical minoxidil in treating AV using a split-face model demonstrated a good response and well-tolerated side effects. Compared to the untreated side, the numbers of all types of lesions decreased significantly on the treated side on day 3 (mean: −2.238, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −3.821 to −0.655, P = 0.008), day 8, and reached the maximum effect on day 15 (mean: −1.286, 95% CI: −2.151 to −0.420, P = 0.006). Responders to topical minoxidil may experience rapid regression of acne as early as 3 days of treatment.

Conclusion:

Our collective data indicate that minoxidil could inhibit AR-related functions and C. acnes growth in treating AV.
Evaluation of arthroscopic ankle fusion for diabetic ankle fractures
Authors: Erfan Hossam Tarek Ali , El Tabbaa Ayman Yousef , Samy Ahmed , El-Rosasy Mahmoud Abdel-Monem
Published: September 2024

Background

Ankle fractures are a very common orthopedic trauma. One in eight patients undergoing ankle fixation is diabetic. Most of these patients also have additional comorbidities including peripheral arterial disease and diabetic neuropathy. Therefore, on one hand surgical intervention can pose challenges for wound healing and risk of infection, but non-operative management increases the risk for loss of reduction and therefore stresses the condition of the surrounding soft tissue. The aim of this work was to observe the radiological and functional outcome of arthroscopic ankle fusion in diabetic ankle fractures.

Methods

This prospective study was carried out on 20 patients, both sexes, with clinical criteria of displaced ankle fractures in diabetics, adults, closed ankle fractures, isolated trauma, diabetic patients with neuropathy and Adelaide Fracture in the Diabetic Ankle score more than or equal 5.

Results

Fourteen cases had solid bony union at a mean of 27.2 weeks while six cases had stable ankles with stiff fibrous nonunion at the end of the follow up period. Two of which had a breakage of distal locking screws. However, stiff fibrous nonunion of tibio-talar joint with the foot in a stable plantigrade position was considered satisfactory and no further intervention was advised. Our limb salvage rate was 100%. No below knee amputation was done.

Conclusions

Ankle fractures in diabetic patients are increasingly frequently encountered in comorbid patients with suboptimal overlying soft tissue integrity. Arthroscopic assisted ankle fusion can be considered a valid primary definitive treatment option to help reduce the potential perioperative soft tissue insult and associated complications. Utilizing an arthroscopic-assisted approach to this procedure is of added benefit in allowing for articular preparation and thereby reducing the risk of non-union while also minimizing additional extensive soft tissue insult in patients with underlying soft tissue compromise.
Calcaneotalotibial arthrodesis by retrograde intramedullary nailing for Charcot osteo-neuroarthropathy of the foot and ankle
Authors: Kholeif Ahmed M. , Hassan Ahmed S. , Ghani Hatem A.
Published: September 2024

Background

The Charcot’s foot and ankle presents a significant and complex clinical challenge for foot and ankle surgeons. Neuropathic arthropathy of the foot and ankle is a degenerative deformity that gradually worsens over time. It is most frequently observed in individuals with diabetic neuropathy.

Aim and objectives

To evaluate the efficacy, advantages, and disadvantages of calcaneotalotibial arthrodesis by retrograde intramedullary nailing for Charcot osteo-neuroarthropathy of the ankle.

Patients and methods

This prospective research was done on 20 cases with Charcot osteoarthropathy of the ankle using calcaneotalotibial interlocking nails at Helwan University Hospital, Al Helal Hospital, Boulak El Dakror General Hospital, and Kasr Al Ainy Hospital during the period between January 2021 and January 2022.

Results

Patients had both types of diabetes mellitus. As regard complications, they occurred in seven (35%) patients as follows: one patient had an intraoperative distal tibial crack during nail introduction, two patients had loosening of proximal screws and infection, three patients had skin infection at the site of distal screws, and one patient had deep infection improved with parenteral antibiotics. There was a statistically significant improvement in the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score among the studied patients with a P value less than 0.001.

Conclusion

We observed a satisfactory result in the treatment of severe abnormalities of the ankle and hind foot in Charcot neuroarthropathy utilizing the retrograde intramedullary arthrodesis nail. The transcalcaneal retrograde intramedullary represents a safe and efficacious fixation option.
Cryoablation in Chronic Pain Management: A Narrative Review
Authors: Naskar Sreyashi , Bhoi Debesh , Hoda Wasimul , Garg Heena
Published: September 2024

Cryoneurolysis is a technique of applying extreme cold temperatures to specific sensory nerves, causing a prolonged period of loss of conduction through that nerve. This technique has found widespread application in the field of interventional pain medicine in a variety of conditions including chronic postsurgical pain, phantom limb pain (PLP), and cancer pain. Its use in chronic pain states has been aided further by the advent of handheld cryoneurolysis devices and the widespread use of ultrasonographic imaging to guide and target nerves accurately. Chronic pain states – chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis, refractory PLP, temporomandibular disorders, cervicogenic headaches, low back pain, different peripheral neuropathies, and metastatic bone tumor pain – are some of the conditions where cryoneurolysis has been proven to benefit patients in cases where the symptoms were refractory to other conventionally used modalities. Chronic pain is a complex and multifaceted condition and hence requires a variety of individualized treatment approaches. Current research on this treatment method for chronic pain indicates that it carries low risk and, when used correctly, offers extended pain relief without causing motor function loss. This narrative review includes all types of scientific studies, published between 2010 and 2023, which were selected using a specific set of keywords through two different literature search engines. In conclusion, it explains how cryoneurolysis works to provide long-term pain relief and summarizes the latest evidence supporting its use in chronic pain management.
Implant-supported prosthesis rehabilitation for a completely edentulous patient with digital workflow – Clinical case report
Authors: Chandraker Neeraj Kumar , Chander Naveen Gopi , Jha Anumeha , Kerketta Jenifer , Chandraker Rashmi
Published: September 2024

The literature documents the implementation of digital workflow for rehabilitating edentulous conditions with implant-supported prostheses. However, various factors limit its implementation in completely edentulous conditions, especially in impression-making and jaw relations recording. This clinical case report describes rehabilitating a completely edentulous patient with an implant-supported prosthesis using a comprehensive digital workflow. Furthermore, it provides an overview of the technical difficulties and limitations of the technology during the process.
Mandibular complete denture converted to a total fixed implant-supported prosthesis using a distal extension bar: A protocol modification
Authors: Neves Flávio Domingues Das , Peixoto Ana Carolina Candelas , Rocha Luísa de Lanna Reis , Santos Fábio Henrique de Paulo Costa , Zancopé Karla
Published: September 2024

For total immediate occlusal loading (IOL) implant protocol cases, a reinforcement in the distal portion is necessary. Initially called IOL component, the distal extension bar is indicated for patients who use removable dentures and for patients who need multiple extractions. The main advantage of the distal extension bar is that it permits denture capture directly over the abutments. Converting the removable denture to an implant-supported treatment avoids psychological or functional trauma from wearing dentures during this interim phase and does not transmit undesirable pressure to the submerged implants. In addition, the use of a distal extension bar gives the cantilever region of the temporary protocol prosthesis, which is weak because it lacks a metal framework that internally unites all the teeth as in the definitive protocol prosthesis, more strength. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to describe a case report of a mandibular protocol using a distal extension bar with a modification of the manufacturers’ protocol.
An Unusually Large Symptomatic Leiomyoma of the Renal Capsule
Authors: Jose Binu , Harikrishnan Karattiyil Balakrishnan , Surendran Divya , Augustine Joy , Joy Sterly
Published: September 2024

Leiomyoma of the renal capsule is an extremely rare tumor. Diagnosis is usually made by histopathological examination of surgically removed specimen by partial or radical nephrectomy. We present the case of a 57-year-old female who presented with low backache and right leg pain and on evaluation leiomyoma of renal capsule. It was detected to have unusually large right renal mass mimicking renal cell carcinoma. Radical nephrectomy was done due to large tumor size and histopathology confirmed leiomyoma of the renal capsule.
Evaluation of Animal Birth Control Program in an Urban Area of North Kerala
Authors: Amrutha D. , Chandran Priya , Sreeshma V. S.
Published: September 2024

Background:

India contributes to 36% of global rabies-related deaths, according to the World Health Organization. To address the issue of increased number of stray dog exposures, the Kerala Government initiated a comprehensive plan that includes an intensive animal birth control (ABC) program along with antirabies vaccination. This study was conducted with the objective of evaluating the implementation of the ABC program in the corporation area of Kozhikode district.

Materials and Methods:

Evaluation of the ABC program was performed based on the Standard Operating Procedures proposed by the Animal Welfare Board of India. The program was evaluated using input–output analysis.

Results:

The input indicators included the infrastructure, workforce, equipment, and logistics for the conduct of the program. As per a survey conducted in Kozhikode Municipal Corporation in 2018, there were 13,182 ± 1612 stray dogs. The program includes sterilization and vaccination, as well as pet dog licensing and microchipping services. Even though a remarkable reduction in animal exposures is not seen in corporation area, not much cases of human rabies were reported.

Conclusion:

A single ABC clinic catering to a large population may not be enough to meet the increasing stray dog population. Achievements gained by the program may be diluted due to insufficient workforce and procedures. Sustained coverage of ABC programs to some extent can solve the frequent shortages of vaccines and hence the increased dependence on PEP which is overburdening the health system. The program may be expanded to rural areas also.
Urban Health Sector in South Kerala: Exploring the Role of Local Government Institutions
Authors: Sundaram Divya Chaithanya , Kamala R. , Jagajeevan N. , Nair Sanjeev
Published: September 2024

Background:

Following rapid urbanization in Kerala, the urban population grew faster with different health needs, widening the socioeconomic and health inequity. The urban primary health centers were formed, and with the introduction of decentralized governance, the primary and secondary health-care facilities in the urban region were transferred to the urban local bodies (ULBs) such as corporations and municipalities. This study tried to explore the role of the local government institutions in the urban health sector of Kerala.

Methodology:

Qualitative approaching was used involving in-depth interviews and secondary data analysis of health financing data from ULBs. The settings were purposively chosen from different levels of ULBs in South Kerala.

Results:

The in-depth interviews were analyzed deductively based on the themes evolved from the larger project. The major finding of the study was organized under the themes: (1) fund allocation and resource mobilization, (2) drinking water and waste management, (3) challenges in project implementation, (4) health care of vulnerable populations under the ULBs, and (5) Kudumbashree and community participation.

Conclusion:

The findings from thematic analysis and secondary data analysis lead to the conclusion that most of the ULBs focused on health-related domains such as sanitation, drinking water, waste management, and nutrition. The financial and administrative support given to health facilities was limited due to many factors including lack of resource availability, low autonomy, and low community participation. Despite this, many ULBs made efforts to collaborate with health facilities and other stakeholders to implement innovative and need-based health projects.
The prognostic implication of polymerase epsilon-mutated endometrial cancer
Authors: Wang Kai-Hung , Ding Dah-Ching
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT

The traditional classification and risk stratification systems of endometrial cancer (EC), which relied on histomorphological features, were limited and poor reproducible. The classification of new molecular subtypes of EC has been developing, including The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)-four molecular subtypes: Polymerase epsilon (POLE) mutation (POLEmut), microsatellite instability hypermutated, copy number-low, and copy number-high and ProMisE-four molecular subtypes: POLEmut, mismatch repair deficiency, no specific molecular profile, and p53 abnormal. POLEmut usually correlates with a favorable outcome. Hence, we reviewed the research since the TCGA molecular subtypes developed in 2013 and summarized the characteristics and prognosis of POLEmut EC patients. In summary, we found POLEmut occurs in 7.3%–9.6% of EC in the previous studies. POLEmut EC consistently exhibits favorable patient outcomes, regardless of adjuvant therapy. The research of POLEmut in EC is absent in Taiwan, and the underlying mechanisms and cost-effectiveness need further investigation.
Graphical Networks and Motion Detection
Authors: Hoxie David J. , Gardner Steven , Misko Sam , Haider Mohammed , Jayakumar P.
Published: September 2024

This works seeks to address fundamental research questions regarding the
perception of autonomous vehicles. Most critical to the system is that the
system be able to classify, predict and interpret spatial and temporal data.
Further, this must be done on a time scale relevant to at least twice the speed
of operational speeds of a vehicles to be able to successfully navigate
potential head on collisions with other vehicles. Traditional tech requires a
rethink, and that’s to use ESN and RC type compute systems as they offer
a much more efficient means of processing, training and adaptability over
conventional networks. Further, a subset of these systems, graphical networks,
work by embedding high dimensional information into a latent space for
memorization, retrieval and other things. This ability makes graph nets a prime
candidate. We demonstrate the first steps in a deployable graphical network for
unmanned vehicles.
A Safety Reasoning Copilot Design for Future Uncrewed Ground Vehicles
(UGVs)
Authors: Frederick Philip A.
Published: September 2024

Autonomous Navigation (AN) in complex-heterogeneous environments is an unsolved
issue for both commercial and defense Autonomous Vehicle (AV) applications: A)
Based on accumulated data through 2021 there are on average 9.1 driverless car
crashes per million miles driven compared to 4.1 human-driven car crashes. B)The
US Army recently reduced the requirement for its current Bradley replacement
program of record from an “optionally manned fighting vehicle”
to a system that “will not be something you operate entirely unmanned in
its initial configuration”. C) Between 2021 and 2023 Ford, UBER, Lyft
and Tesla have limited their fully AV operations due to safety related business
concerns.

It is clear a research breakthrough is needed to ensure AV software is mature to
a point where it can handle complex driving scenarios. In complex dynamic
domains (e.g. intersections or congested terrain) the expected mode of operation
for ensured safety of these unmanned systems is still direct human control
(whether through direct vehicle input or teleoperation). This paper summarizes
results of a completed PHD focused on the creation of an autonomous vehicle
safety reasoning copiloting system that works.
Applications of Unifying Off-Road Datasets Through
Ontology
Authors: Medellin Anthony , Bhamri Anant , Ma Albert , Lanagri Reza , Gopalswamy Swaminathan , Grabowsky David , Mikulski Dariusz
Published: September 2024

https://github.com/tamu-edu/ORATOR-ATLAS
Safety-Regulated Reinforcement Learning Compensated Model Predictive
Control for Ground Vehicles with Unknown Disturbances
Authors: Gupta Prakhar , Jia Yunyi
Published: September 2024

This paper proposes an MPC-RL-CBF control framework that leverages the individual
strengths of MPC (Model Predictive Control) schemes and Deep RL (Reinforcement
Learning) techniques. This allows using a model mismatched computationally
inexpensive optimal controller with a compensating learning technique to handle
the uncertainties in system dynamics and unknown external disturbances. The
controller is evaluated in simulation for a vehicle tracking a path with a lane
change, subjected to unknown crosswinds. The results show that the MPC-RL-CBF
approach helps track the path better than the purely model-based approach and
does so safely, through safety guided training. This framework can be extended
to off-road driving controls under changing terrain types and properties,
tire-terrain interaction behavior, steep slopes etc.
Identifying and Mitigating the Challenges with Vehicle Path Planning in the Presence of Dynamic Obstacles
Authors: Harnett Stephen J. , Brennan Sean , Pangborn Herschel C. , Pentzer Jesse , Reichard Karl
Published: September 2024

A critical first step for a robot navigating an obstacle field is to plan a collision-free path through the environment. Historically, solutions for path planning largely use grid-based search methods particularly when guarantees are required that do not permit randomization-based methods. In large operational domains, gridding the search environment necessitates significant memory overhead and corresponding performance loss. To avoid gridded maps, grid-free path planners can achieve significant benefits to performance and memory overhead. These methods utilize visibility graphs with edge costs rather than grids with cell weights to represent possible path choices. This work presents methods to extend known 2D grid-free static environment path planners into higher dimensions to use these same planners for dynamic obstacle path planning via timespace representations. Such extensions to include time trajectories into the visibility graph readily admit path planning through highly dynamic obstacle fields; however, the resulting path plans can be sub-optimal. After reviewing the challenges of timespace grid-free path planning, this paper presents methods to recover near-optimal path plans in timespace, with only slight performance impacts, including example results.
Modernization and Integration of Technologies for Ground Systems
(MINT-GS): Qualification of 17-4PH Stainless Steel Manufactured Using Laser
Powder Bed Fusion & Direct Energy Deposition Additive Manufacturing
Processes
Authors: Tomblin John , Andrulonis Rachael , Saathoff Brandon , Shaw Mark , Williams Brady , Lowney Matthew , Walker Eric
Published: September 2024

There is a critical military need to improve readiness and operational
performance by utilizing Additive Manufacturing (AM) for the sustainment and
modernization of ground vehicles. AM opens the opportunity to add value to the
manufacturing of parts and components that may be limited or not achievable by
traditional manufacturing methods and materials. Additionally, AM can serve as a
secondary source of manufacturing that can solve supply-chain and obsolescence
issues at the point of need or point of repair. One of the primary challenges
that exists with AM is the lack of defined standards for the qualification of
materials and processes. WSU-NIAR is collaborating with the Army Ground Vehicle
System Center to address this challenge by establishing a rapid qualification
process utilizing Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) and Direct Energy Deposition
(DED) AM processes with 17-4PH stainless steel material applied to ground
vehicle parts of need. An overview of the 2023 MINT-GS projects at WSU-NIAR is
discussed throughout this paper. In the early stages of this effort, candidate
parts were jointly identified and a suitability assessment was performed for the
AM processes considered using 17-4PH stainless steel. An overview of the
critical path parts selected for qualification is provided along with the
criteria used for the suitability assessment. Additionally, the
pre-qualification (screening) and qualification considerations are discussed for
each modality.
LogPACE: Methods to Enhance the Collection, Movement, and Automation
of Logistics and Sustainment Data
Authors: Baumann Edward
Published: September 2024

The next major conflict for the United States Army is predicted to encounter a
peer or near-peer force able to contest operations across wide domains of the
battlefield. The logistics and sustainment elements will be required to move
parts efficiently with enough advance notice to sustain the force. Current
methods for collecting and transmitting logistics data face systemic problems
against a near-peer aggressor. A standardized Primary, Alternate, Contingency,
and Emergency plan for Logistics and Maintenance data (LogPACE) is proposed to
both enhance and automate the collection and transmission of logistics data.
This methodology is built upon current and emerging technologies, adaptive
communications mediums, as well as proposed changes to current concepts of
operations (CONOPS).
AI/ML Digital Twins of Hardware-in-the-Loop Systems
Authors: Colley Wesley N. , Banyai Joel , Gordy Joshua , Mills Matthew , Warren Randall
Published: September 2024

Proprietary, black box, and other hard-to-model subsystems are a leading source
of schedule and labor cost across simulation supported analysis and lifecycle
management. Using AI/ML technologies to rapidly develop and deploy digital twins
of Hardware in the Loop (HWIL) and software systems reduces the Non-Recurring
Engineering (NRE) in Modeling and Simulation (M&S) and supports validation
of existing software digital twins. This approach also allows for portability of
obsolete or proprietary components into a broader range of simulations or
applications without exposing critical technologies. We present results of
multiple case studies applying AI to black box components of interest to the
ground vehicle community.
The Use and Benefits of Modeling and Simulation with Autonomous
Vehicles
Authors: Whitt John M. , Bounker Paul J.
Published: September 2024

Traditional live testing of autonomous ground vehicles can be augmented through
use of digital twins of the test environment, the vehicle mobility models, and
the vehicle sensors. These digital twins combined with the autonomous software
under test allow testers to inject faults, weather, obstacles, find edge case
scenarios, and collect information to understand the decision making of the
autonomous software under test. With this new capability, autonomous ground
vehicles can now be tested in four stages. The first stage is testing the
autonomous software using digital twins. In this stage with the help of a
High-Performance Computer thousands of scenarios can be run. Once issues are
communicated and addressed, stage two, hardware in the loop testing can begin.
Hardware in the loop uses simulators that already exist to test systems such as
autonomous convoys with a virtual leader and a live follower. Stage three
employs a live virtual constructive approach by using one vehicle to test a
convoy on the live track. Stage four allows traditional live testing to occur
but with the help of a hardware and software applique kit to prevent the
autonomous software from doing anything unsafe on the test track.
Vehicle-Level Control Systems Framework for Use in Create-GV Vehicle
Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Jelinek Bohumir , Henley Greg , Card Angela , Hannis Tyler , Gibson Michael , Priddy Jody , Boyle Sara , Figueroa-Santos Miriam , Mange Jeremy
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a software framework developed for the simulation of
vehicle-level control systems for modern (existing or conceptual) ground
vehicles, targeted for high-performance platforms (Linux clusters). The
framework augmented existing ground vehicle simulation environments (such as
CREATE-GV MERCURY or other object-oriented software packages) making it possible
to perform a comprehensive evaluation of a ground vehicle’s performance
when equipped with vehicle level controllers to determine the effectiveness of
the control systems on the vehicle. The framework, implemented as part of the
PACE (Powertrain Analysis Computational Environment), was comprised of software
components (a C++ objects library) simulating various vehicle-level controllers,
an Application Programming Interface for the development of new components to be
used within the framework, and C++ code for integrating these components into
simulations of control systems within a ground vehicle simulation
environment.
Development of Machine Learning Models for Predicting Wind Fields Around a Military Ground Vehicle
Authors: Koomullil Roy , Ramogi Emmanuel , Iqbal Feroz Mohamed , Rynes Peter , Vantsevich Vladimir , Korivi Vamshi , Tison Nathan
Published: September 2024

During multi-day missions, military vehicles face different environmental conditions. Calculating high-fidelity flow fields for these varying conditions in real-time is an impossible task due to the significant computational time required. This paper discusses a machine learning (ML) based approach to predict the flow fields faster than real-time. The testcase for this ML model is taken as the FED-Alpha vehicle geometry, and the training data for the ML model is taken to be the high-fidelity simulation data from computational fluid dynamics studies involving various wind directions using Ansys/Fluent. The surface temperature of the vehicle is calculated based on the operating conditions of the vehicle using the software TAITherm from ThermoAnalytics, Inc. Three different ML models were tested to estimate the accuracy of the predictions and time requirements.
Off-Road Autonomy Validation Using Scalable Digital Twin Simulations
Within High-Performance Computing Clusters
Authors: Samak Tanmay , Samak Chinmay , Krovi Venkat , Binz Joey , Luo Feng , Smereka Jonathon , Brudnak Mark , Gorsich David
Published: September 2024

Off-road autonomy validation presents unique challenges due to the unpredictable
and dynamic nature of off-road environments. Variability analyses, by
sequentially sweeping across the parameter space, struggle to comprehensively
assess the performance of off-road autonomous systems within the imposed time
constraints. This paper proposes leveraging scalable digital twin simulations
within high-performance computing (HPC) clusters to address this challenge. By
harnessing the computational power of HPC clusters, our approach aims to provide
a scalable and efficient means to validate off-road autonomy algorithms,
enabling rapid iteration and testing of autonomy algorithms under various
conditions. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our framework through
performance evaluations of the HPC cluster in terms of simulation
parallelization and present the systematic variability analysis of a candidate
off-road autonomy algorithm to identify potential vulnerabilities in the
autonomy stack’s perception, planning and control modules.
A Modular Open System Approach to a Digital Autonomy
Testbed
Authors: Roberts Gerald , Simmons Caleb , Palmer Tim
Published: September 2024

With the arrival of robotic autonomy in future Army ground combat vehicles there
is an intrinsic need for modeling and simulation infrastructure for autonomy.
Taking a Modular Open System Approach to designing modeling and simulation
architecture facilitates creating a flexible, scalable, and adaptable
infrastructure that can be applied to a wide range of scenarios to assist Army
programs of record and accelerate technology maturation while providing a
low-cost, efficient way to reduce program risk and ensure next-generation
robotic ground vehicles provide greater value to the soldier.
Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) in Military Ground Vehicle
Architectures
Authors: Elliott Leonard
Published: September 2024

For more than a decade, military ground vehicle projects and programs have
leveraged ubiquitous communication technologies such as Transmission Control
Protocol (TCP), User-Datagram Protocol (UDP), Internet Protocol (IP) and
Ethernet. Open standards such as Data Distribution Service (DDS) and the
Vehicular Integration for Command, Control, Computers, Communication,
Intelligence, Surveillance [C4ISR] Interoperability (VICTORY) typically are
built on top of this traditional UDP, TCP/IP, and Ethernet networking suite
which has resulted in a dramatic increase in the ability to connect and
integrate systems on Army ground vehicles. Systems that are built using this
approach enjoy the high-performance, scalability, interoperability and other
desired architectural attributes that are foundational to the Modular Open
System Approach (MOSA), however for the most part they lack critical
characteristics such as synchronization, redundancy, guarantees for bounded
latency and jitter; these deficiencies make the aforementioned approach largely
unsuitable for constructing cyber physical systems which perform safety-related
functions (e.g., weapon systems). Time-Sensitive Networking (TSN) is a
collection of open-standards that enhance traditional Ethernet in a way that
remedies these deficiencies, and this paper will explore the features of TSN and
how it might be applied in U.S. Army ground vehicles.