bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auto-Threshold Deep SVDD for Anomaly-based Web Application Firewall
Authors: Moradi Vartouni Ali , Shokri Matin , Teshnehlab Mohammad
Published: August 2021

Protecting websites and applications from cyber-threats is vital for any organization. A Web application firewall (WAF) prevents attacks to damaging applications. This provides a web security by filtering and monitoring traffic network to protect against attacks. A WAF solution based on the anomaly detection can identify zero-day attacks. Deep learning is the state-of-the-art method that is widely used to detect attacks in the anomaly-based WAF area. Although deep learning has demonstrated excellent results on anomaly detection tasks in web requests, there is trade-off between false-positive and missed-attack rates which is a key problem in WAF systems. On the other hand, anomaly detection methods suffer adjusting threshold-level to distinguish attack and normal traffic. In this paper, first we proposed a model based on Deep Support Vector Data Description (Deep SVDD), then we compare two feature extraction strategies, one-hot and bigram, on the raw requests. Second to overcome threshold challenges, we introduce a novel end-to-end algorithm Auto-Threshold Deep SVDD (ATDSVDD) to determine an appropriate threshold during the learning process. As a result we compare our model with other deep models on CSIC-2010 and ECML/PKDD-2007 datasets. Results show ATDSVDD on bigram feature data have better performance in terms of accuracy and generalization.
Rare species of Sorbus L. growing in Dagestan and introduction in the Mountain Botanical Garden
Authors: Zalibekov M. D. , Gabibova A. R.
Published: August 2021

The collection fund of rowan trees of the Mountain Botanical Garden, located at an altitude of 1700 m above sea level (Gunib plateau), includes 30 species, 5 varieties, cultivars and hybrid forms. There are 6 species of rowan in Dagestan, introduced from natural habitats, of which three species are included in the Red Book of Dagestan, and are included in the Red List of Endemic Species of the Caucasus (IUCN). As a result of the search and research work, new locations of four rare and endangered species of rowan ( S. caucasica, S. graeca, S. kusnetzovii, S. subfusca ) that are threatened with extinction in Dagestan were identified. The geographical coordinates of the exact location of rowan species are marked, and maps of the species' range on the territory of the Republic of Dagestan are compiled. For further monitoring observations, the total number of species was clarified, the biomorphological indicators and the age structure of the populations were studied. Under the conditions of culture, they were propagated by seeds and vegetatively by grafting on the rootstock of S. aucuparia .
CURRENT COLLAPSE MEASUREMENTS IN PULSED GAN TRANSISTORS
Authors: Abolduev I. M. , Alkeev N. V. , Belyaev V. S. , Kaevitser E. V. , Kashlakov I. D.
Published: August 2021

The article discusses the issues of design and methodology related to the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of a GaN HEMT. Reliable I-V characteristics show the operability of a semiconductor device, provide initial data for functional application of the device, and provide insight into the quality and reproducibility of the technological process. The type and behavior of I–V characteristics are influenced by the design and technological features of a GaN HEMT. Measurements of I-V characteristics in continuous and pulsed operation modes provide more details about the electrical and thermal characteristics of the devices under study.
Rewilding Cognition: Complex Dynamics in Open Experimental Systems
Authors: Ross Wendy , Vallée-Tourangeau Frédéric
Published: August 2021

Insight problems are sometimes designed to encourage an incorrect and misleading interpretation that veils a simple answer. The socks problem is one such problem: Given black socks and brown socks in a drawer mixed in a ratio of four to five, how many socks will you have to take out to make sure that you have a pair of the same color? The ratio information is misleading since, with only two colors, pulling three socks will guarantee a matching pair. Recently, offered a distinction between first- and second-order problem-solving: The former proceeds with and through a physical model of the problem, while the latter proceeds in the absence of such interactions with the world, in other words on the basis of mental processes alone. Vallée-Tourangeau and March also proposed a thought experiment, suggesting that the ratio information in the socks problem might be quickly abandoned in a first-order environment, that is, one where participants observe the results of drawing socks out of a bag rather than imagining themselves doing so. We tested this prediction by randomly allocating participants to a low- (second-order) or high- (first-order) interactivity condition. Marginally more participants announced the correct answer within a 5-minute period in the high than in the low condition, although the difference was not significant. Detailed analysis of the video recording revealed the challenges of operationalizing a second-order condition, as participants engaged in dialogical interactions with the experimenter. In addition, the manner in which the high-interactivity condition was designed appeared to encourage the physical reification of the misleading ratio, thus anchoring that information more firmly rather than defusing it through interactivity. We close the paper with some reflections on wide, or systemic, cognition in experimental research on creative problem-solving.
The COVID-19 epidemiology and monitoring ontology
Authors: Queralt-Rosinach Núria , Schofield Paul , Hoehndorf Robert , Weiland Claus , Schultes Erik Anthony , Bernabé César Henrique , Roos Marco
Published: August 2021

The novel COVID-19 infectious disease emerged and spread, causing high mortality and morbidity rates worldwide. In the OBO Foundry, there are more than one hundred ontologies to share and analyse large-scale datasets for biological and biomedical sciences. However, this pandemic revealed that we lack tools for an efficient and timely exchange of this epidemiological data which is necessary to assess the impact of disease outbreaks, the efficacy of mitigating interventions and to provide a rapid response. In this study we present our findings and contributions for the bio-ontologies community.
The Relationship Between Modified Rodnan Skin Score (mRSS) With Pulmonal Hypertension and Lung Fibrosis in Systemic Sclerosis Patients
Authors: Rohman Syaifur , Rakhma Yanti Hellmi  , Friska Anggraini HS
Published: August 2021

Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a connective tissue disease, which affects the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract and musculoskeletal system. The manifestations in blood vessels include pulmonary hypertension which can be seen from echocardiography, while the manifestations to the lungs in the form of pulmonary fibrosis are examined by high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Modified Rodnan Skin Score (mRSS) a method for measuring skin thickness in SSc patients.

Objective: This study aims to determine the relationship between mRSS and pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary fibrosis in SSc patients.

Methods and Materials: Research with a cross sectional approach at Dr Kariadi Hospital. There were 23 study subjects with SSc patients having their mRSS measured by a rheumatologist and an HRCT examination by a radiologist to see the percent of lung damage and echocardiographic examination by a cardiologist to measure the Tricuspid Regurgitation Velocity Maximum (TRV Max) as a marker of pulmonary hypertension. Normality test using Saphiro-Wilk. The Spearman rank correlation test was used to analyze the relationship between the mRSS score, pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary fibrosis.

Results: The proportion of study subjects with a mean age of 40.39 years, women, and 4.43 years of illness. The mean mRSS score was 17.43. Examination of pulmonary hypertension from echocardiography found most of the light category 95.6%, heavy category 4.4%, while the HRCT examination found pulmonary fibrosis of 86.9%, normal 13.1%. There are significant relationship between mRSS and pulmonary fibrosis (r = 0.485, p = 0.019), and significant relationship between pulmonary hypertension (r = 0.63, p = 0.001)

Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between mRSS, pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension.
Indonesian Rheumatology Association (IRA) Recommendations for Diagnosis and Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hidayat Rudy , Bagus Putu Putra Suryana  , Linda Kurniaty Wijaya  , Anna Ariane  , Rakhma Yanti Hellmi  , Endy Adnan  , Sumariyono
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune rheumatic disease which often found in daily practice and requires certain considerations in recognizing clinical appearance also managing the disease as it often causes permanent joint damage, disability, even premature death. This recommendation is expected to become the latest reference for diagnosis and management of RA in Indonesia.

Methods: The steering committee was formed by the Indonesian Rheumatology Association (IRA) to formulate key questions; conduct literature search, selection, and review; then formulate recommendation statements for diagnosis, therapy, and monitoring of RA. Furthermore, the steering committee determined the level of evidence and grades of the recommendations. After that, the level of agreement (LOA) was determined for each item by panelists including rheumatology consultants who have been appointed by IRA to represent Indonesia regions.

Results: The steering committee established 30 recommendations including diagnosis, the role of laboratory and radiology tests, general treatment, the use of glucocorticoids, sDMARD, bDMARD, and tsDMARD. This recommendation also discusses guidelines on monotherapy, combination therapy, treatment strategies (treat-to-target), tapering, and continuous clinical remission. Treatment on co-morbidities and complications are also included in brief.

Conclusion: IRA recommendations regarding the diagnosis and management of RA was made by considering various aspects such as the availability of drugs and supporting facilities, socioeconomic and cultural conditions in Indonesia, as well as the latest research that can be applied to Indonesian population.
Inguinal Lymph Node Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Unknown Primary Site
Authors: Pina L , Sinagra D , Paradedao ME , Juárez MA , Muñoz Pozo F
Published: August 2021

El carcinoma escamoso de piel y mucosas presenta un riesgo potencial de metástasis ganglionares, con la posibilidad de que este suceso preceda la presentación clínica del tumor primario. El objetivo del presente trabajo es describir un caso de linfadenectomía inguinal por metástasis de carcinoma escamoso de origen primario desconocido y realizar una revisión bibliográfica de los casos presentados en la literatura médica.

Se describió el caso de un hombre de 84 años con una tumoración inguinal correspondiente a una neoplasia escamosa, se le realizó una evaluación multidisciplinaria con dermatología, urología y coloproctología, sin encontrar el tumor primario. Se efectuó un vaciamiento inguinal con radioterapia postoperatoria. En la base de datos de Medline informaron solo 49 casos en los últimos 10 años.

Las metástasis inguinales de carcinomas escamosos representan un grupo heterogéneo de neoplasias que pueden originarse a partir de la región anogenital o de territorios cutáneos de la zona perineal, miembros inferiores o parte baja del tronco. El manejo diagnóstico y terapéutico de estas lesiones continúa siendo un desafío al que se debe enfrentar con todas las herramientas disponibles y de forma multidisciplinaria.
STRONG CONVERGENCE OF IMPLICIT ITERATIVE ALGORITHMS FOR STRICTLY PSEUDO-CONTRACTIVE MAPPINGS
Authors: Aibinu M.O. , Thakur S.C. , Moyo S.
Published: August 2021

The class of strictly pseudo-contractive mappings is known to have more powerful applications than the class of nonexpansive mappings in solving nonlinear equations such as inverse and equilibrium problems. Motivated by the potency of the class of strictly pseudo-contractive mappings, a generalized viscosity implicit algorithm is constructed for finding their fixed points in the framework of Banach spaces. The strong convergence of the newly constructed sequence to a fixed point of a strictly pseudo-contractive mapping is obtained under some mild conditions on the parameters and the fixed point is shown to solve some variational inequality problems. An example is given to illustrate the convergence analysis of the newly constructed generalized viscosity implicit algorithm for the class of strictly pseudo-contractive mappings. The example also shows that the algorithm and the conditions which are imposed on the parameters are not just optical illusion.
ЗДОБУТКИ ТА ПЕРСПЕКТИВИ РОЗВИТКУ ОСВІТИ УКРАЇНИ (ВСЕУКРАЇНСЬКА НАУКОВО-ПРАКТИЧНА КОНФЕРЕНЦІЯ ЗА МІЖНАРОДНОЇ УЧАСТІ У ХАРКОВІ)
Authors: Хомич Лідія Олексіївна , Баніт Ольга Василівна
Published: August 2021

У статті висвітлено результати роботи Всеукраїнської науково-практичної конференції за міжнародної участі «Освіта України — 30. Здобутки та перспективи», що відбулася в м. Харкові 23-26 червня 2021 р. Наведено ключові аспекти виступів представників Міністерства освіти і науки України, депутатів Верховної Ради України, а також вчених Національної академії педагогічних наук України і польських дослідників на пленарних та секційних засіданнях. Окреслено перспективні напрями подальшого розвитку освіти України в контексті створення Національного технопарку з підвищення якості освіти.
Number is not just an illusion: Discrete numerosity is encoded independently from perceived size
Authors: Adriano Andrea , Girelli Luisa , Rinaldi Luca
Published: August 2021

While seminal theories suggest that nonsymbolic visual numerosity is mainly extracted from segmented items, more recent views advocate that numerosity cannot be processed independently of nonnumeric continuous features confounded with the numerical set (i.e., such as the density, the convex hull, etc.). To disentangle these accounts, here we employed two different visual illusions presented in isolation or in a merged condition (e.g., combining the effects of the two illusions). In particular, in a number comparison task, we concurrently manipulated both the perceived object segmentation by connecting items with Kanizsa-like illusory lines, and the perceived convex-hull/density of the set by embedding the stimuli in a Ponzo illusion context, keeping constant other low-level features. In Experiment 1, the two illusions were manipulated in a compatible direction (i.e., both triggering numerical underestimation), whereas in Experiment 2 they were manipulated in an incompatible direction (i.e., with the Ponzo illusion triggering numerical overestimation and the Kanizsa illusion numerical underestimation). Results from psychometric functions showed that, in the merged condition, the biases of each illusion summated (i.e., largest underestimation as compared with the conditions in which illusions were presented in isolation) in Experiment 1, while they averaged and competed against each other in Experiment 2. These findings suggest that discrete nonsymbolic numerosity can be extracted independently from continuous magnitudes. They also point to the need of more comprehensive theoretical views accounting for the operations by which both discrete elements and continuous variables are computed and integrated by the visual system.
CFD Modeling of Regular and Irregular Waves Generated by Flap Type Wave Maker
Authors: Ali Shehab Shams Eldeen  , Ahmed M. R. El-Baz  , Abdalla Mostafa Elmarhomy
Published: August 2021

The improvement of wave generation in numerical tanks represents the key factor in ocean engineering development to save time and effort in research concerned with wave energy conversion. For this purpose, this paper introduces a numerical simulation method to generate both regular and irregular waves using Flap-Type wave maker. A 2D numerical wave tank model is constructed with a numerical beach technique, the independence of the numerical beach slope is tested to reduce the wave reflections. The different governing parameters of the Flap type wave maker were studied such as periodic time dependency and length of the flap stroke. The linear wave generated was validated against the wave maker theory WMT, the numerical results agreed with WMT. The Pierson-Moskowitz model is used to generate irregular waves with different frequencies and amplitudes. The numerical model succeeded to generate irregular waves which was validated against published experimental data and with Pierson-Moskowitz spectrum model using Fourier expansion theory in the frequency domain. Useful results are presented in this paper based on the numerical simulation to understand the characteristics of the waves. This paper produces a full guide to generate both regular and irregular waves numerically using ANSYS-CFX approach to solve the 2D Unsteady Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes Equation (URANS).
Three Dimensional MHD Hybrid Nanofluid Flow with Rotating Stretching/Shrinking Sheet and Joule Heating
Authors: Yuan Ying Teh  , Adnan Ashgar
Published: August 2021

A three-dimensional hybrid nanofluid flow over a stretching/shrinking sheet is numerically studied. The hybrid nanofluid being considered in this study used water as the base fluid and mixed with two types of solid nanoparticles, namely alumina (Al2O3) and copper (Cu). The main focus of the current study is to examine the effect of magnetic field, Joule heating, and rotating sheet on the velocity, and temperature profiles. In addition, the impact of suction and stretching sheet on the variations of reduced skin friction, , and reduced heat transfer are studied as well. The fluid flow and heat transfer problem presented in this study is governed by a system of nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs), which is then transformed into the corresponding system of high order nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using similarity variables. The resulting system of higher order nonlinear ODEs is solved numerically using a boundary value solver known as bvp4c, which operates on the MATLAB computational platform. Results revealed that dual solutions exist for shrinking sheet while unique solutions are observed for stretching sheet with various values of Cu nanoparticles volume fraction and magnetic parameter. Dual solutions also exist for the value of the suction parameter greater than its critical point with various values of Cu nanoparticles volume fraction. Velocity profile of the hybrid nanofluid increases alongside with the value of magnetic parameter but declination was observed in the profile of and temperature, for both solutions as the value of Cu nanoparticles volume fraction increases. When the value of rotational parameter increases, both velocity and profiles increase for both solutions. This indicates that the momentum boundary layer thickness increases with increasing values of for both solutions, but thermal boundary layer thickness decreases for the first solution and increases for the second solution. Finally, an increment in the value of Eckert number causes the temperature of the hybrid nanofluid to rise as well for both first and second solutions.
Contralateral Suppression at Adrenal Venous Sampling Is Associated with Renal Impairment Following Adrenalectomy for Unilateral Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Yang Ye Seul , Lee Seung Hun , Kim Jung Hee , Yoo Jee Hee , Lee Jung Hyun , Lee Seo Young , Hong A Ram , Lee Dong-Hwa , Koh Jung-Min , Kim Jae Hyeon , Kim Sang Wan
Published: August 2021

Background: Adrenal venous sampling (AVS) is performed to distinguish the subtype of primary aldosteronism (PA). The clinical implication of contralateral suppression (CS; aldosterone/cortisolnondominant<aldosterone/cortisolperipheral) at AVS remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the clinical significance of CS and its impact on postoperative outcomes after unilateral adrenalectomy. Methods: In this retrospective observational multi-center study, we analyzed PA patients who underwent both successful adrenocorticotropin hormone-stimulated AVS and unilateral adrenalectomy. Successful cannulation was defined as the selectivity index (cortisoladrenal/ cortisolperipheral) ≥3. Clinical and biochemical outcomes after unilateral adrenalectomy were evaluated based on the international Primary Aldosteronism Surgical Outcome consensus.Results: Among 263 patients analyzed, 247 had CS (93.9%). Patients with CS had lower serum potassium levels, higher plasma aldosterone concentration, higher aldosterone-to-renin ratio (ARR), and larger adenoma size than those without CS. Those with CS showed significantly higher lateralization index than those without CS (P<0.001). Although postoperative blood pressure and ARR significantly decreased in those with CS, clinical and biochemical outcomes were comparable in both groups. When the cut-off value of age was determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, patients aged ≥50 years old with contralateral suppression index (CSI; the ratio between aldosterone/cortisolnondominant and aldosterone/cortisolperipheral) ≤0.26 had greater odds ratio (6.43; 95% confidence interval, 1.30 to 31.69) of incident chronic kidney disease than those aged <50 years with CSI >0.26 after adjusting for other factors.Conclusion: CS may not predict postoperative clinical and biochemical outcomes in subjects with unilateral aldosterone excess, but it is associated with postsurgical deterioration of renal function in subjects over 50 years with CSI ≤0.26.
A study on the pollen morphology of the genus Combretum Loefl. and its taxonomic significance
Authors: El Ghazali Gamal E. B. E.B.
Published: August 2021

Pollen grains of 92 species (from 99 collections) belonging to the genus Com-bretum (Combretaceae) were examined by Light Microscope (LM) and Scan-ning Electron Microscope (SEM). These species are representatives of vari-ous taxa outlined in the latest taxonomic revision of the genus. The genus belongs to a tropical or subtropical family, frequently encountered in various Quaternary deposits and acts as ecological indicator in various habitats. Pol-len grains of all members of the genus Combretum examined are hetero-colpate (with three simple apertures alternating with three composite ones) and exhibited wide range of inter-specific variation with respect to polar axes (P), Equatorial diameters (E), P/E ratios, shape classes, shape in polar view, costae pori, vestibula, protrusion of endoapertures and exine sculptur-ings. Species delimitation in these nine characters is tabulated. Four shape classes, eight exine sculpturings and seven pollen types were recognized. A key for identification to these pollen types is presented and the species in-cluded in each of these types are also outlined. Previous macro-morphological and molecular classification of the genus were discussed in the light of the present palynological study.
Resurgent Analysis of Ward-Schwinger-Dyson Equations
Authors:   Sorbonne Universit&, Bellon Marc P. ,   #233,   , France, Russo Enrico I. ,   Sorbonne Université, France
Published: August 2021

Building on our recent derivation of the Ward-Schwinger-Dyson equations for the cubic interaction model, we present here the first steps of their resurgent analysis. In our derivation of the WSD equations, we made sure that they had the properties of compatibility with the renormalisation group equations and independence from a regularisation procedure which was known to allow for the comparable studies in the Wess-Zumino model. The interactions between the transseries terms for the anomalous dimensions of the field and the vertex is at the origin of unexpected features, for which the effect of higher order corrections is not precisely known at this stage: we are only at the beginning of the journey to use resurgent methods to decipher non-perturbative effects in quantum field theory.
Dust Production of Interstellar Comet 2I/Borisov Throughout Perihelion
Authors: Clements Tiffany D.
Published: August 2021

The recently discovered comet 2I/Borisov quickly became a prime target for comet observers during its perihelion approach in 2019 December, after it was discovered to be the first comet of interstellar origin. We present our observations and measurements of the dust production between 2019 October, when the interstellar comet became bright enough for small aperture telescopes, and 2020 January, when the comet entered the plane of the Milky Way. We observed the comet for 24 nights using three telescopes in the public iTelescope network. The telescopes spanned both the Northern and Southern hemispheres, were of similar aperture size (0.43–0.51 m), and employed a Johnson–Cousins R
C filter. Using these data, we measure an A(0°)f
ρ range of 94 ± 14 to 139 ± 34 cm, a dust production rate Q
dust range of 11.2 ± 4.4 to 16.4 ± 7.3 kg s−1, and a dust-brightness profile-parameter range of −0.95 ± 0.11 to −1.81 ± 0.20 for the interstellar comet. This work revealed low dust production rates from the comet that remained consistent throughout its apparition, with no notable brightening or increase in dust production throughout the observing campaign.
Resolving Complex Inner X-Ray Structure of the Gravitationally Lensed AGN MG B2016+112
Authors: Schwartz Daniel , Spingola Cristiana , Barnacka Anna
Published: August 2021

We use a Chandra X-ray observation of the gravitationally lensed system MG B2016+112 at z = 3.273 to elucidate the presence of at least two X-ray sources. We find that these sources are consistent with the very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) components measured by Spingola, which are separated by ∼200 pc. Their intrinsic 0.5–7 keV source frame luminosities are 1.5 × 1043 and 1.8 × 1044 erg s−1, respectively. Most likely this system contains a dual active galactic nucleus (AGN), but we are possibly detecting an AGN plus a parsec-scale X-ray jet, the latter lying in a region at very high magnification. The quadruply lensed X-ray source is within ±40 pc (1σ) of its VLBI counterpart. Using a gravitational lens as a telescope, and a novel statistical application, we have achieved unprecedented accuracy for measuring metric distances at such large redshifts in X-ray astronomy. This is tens of mas if the source is located close to the caustics, while it is of hundreds of mas if the source is in a region at lower amplification. The present demonstration of this approach has implications for future X-ray investigations of large numbers of lensed systems.
The Formation and Lifetime of Outflows in a Solar Active Region
Authors: Brooks David H. , Harra Louise , Bale Stuart D. , Barczynski Krzysztof , Mandrini Cristina , Polito Vanessa , Warren Harry P.
Published: August 2021

Active regions are thought to be one contributor to the slow solar wind. Upflows in EUV coronal spectral lines are routinely observed at their boundaries, and provide the most direct way for upflowing material to escape into the heliosphere. The mechanisms that form and drive these upflows, however, remain to be fully characterized. It is unclear how quickly they form, or how long they exist during their lifetimes. They could be initiated low in the atmosphere during magnetic flux emergence, or as a response to processes occurring high in the corona when the active region is fully developed. On 2019 March 31 a simple bipolar active region (AR 12737) emerged and upflows developed on each side. We used observations from Hinode, SDO, IRIS, and Parker Solar Probe (PSP) to investigate the formation and development of the upflows from the eastern side. We used the spectroscopic data to detect the upflow, and then used the imaging data to try to trace its signature back to earlier in the active region emergence phase. We find that the upflow forms quickly, low down in the atmosphere, and that its initiation appears associated with a small field-opening eruption and the onset of a radio noise storm detected by PSP. We also confirmed that the upflows existed for the vast majority of the time the active region was observed. These results suggest that the contribution to the solar wind occurs even when the region is small, and continues for most of its lifetime.
Social Determinants, Health Literacy, and Disparities: Intersections and Controversies
Authors: Schillinger Dean
Published: August 2021

This article synthesizes what is known about the relationship between social disadvantage and measures of health literacy (HL), and reviews the research examining whether low HL is an explanatory factor connecting social disadvantage, health outcomes, and health disparities. Written from a United States perspective, this article offers a novel conceptual framework that presents how the social determinants of health might interact with HL to result in health disparities. The framework articulates relationships that reflect public health pathways and health care pathways, which include their related health literacies. The article continues with several cautionary statements based on the inherent limitations of current HL research, including problems and concerns specific to the attribution of HL as an explanatory factor for extant socioeconomic and racial/ethnic health disparities. The article closes with recommendations regarding future research directions.

[
HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice
. 2021;5(3):e233–e243.]

Plain Language Summary:

Socially disadvantaged populations have worse health and health literacy compared to privileged populations. Scientists, health care providers, and policymakers are interested in the possible role health literacy plays in explaining health differences. The article reviews our current understandings of whether and how population characteristics and related exposures to risk interact with low health literacy to generate worse health to inform interventions.
Assessing Teach-Back Utilization in a Downtown Medical Center
Authors: Komondor Karen , Choudhury Ryan
Published: August 2021

Background:

The St. Vincent Charity Medical Center's Patient and Family Education Policy directs staff to provide patients with easy-to-understand written and verbal communication. This includes using plain language and Teach-Back. Teach-Back—or asking patients to explain in their own words what they have learned—is a best practice that health care professionals use to ensure patient understanding. The effective use of plain language is key to using Teach-Back successfully. From random audits, we could assess whether staff were documenting their use of Teach-Back. We had not, however, ascertained whether that documentation was a true account of the use of Teach-Back.

Brief description of activity:

We created a three-part project to (1) assess staff knowledge and use of Teach-Back, (2) assess and address barriers to use of Teach-Back, and 3) assess patients' recall of their providers using Teach-Back.

Implementation:

Internal medicine resident physicians (hereafter termed “residents”) and nurses completed an anonymous, online survey regarding their experience with Teach-Back. After vetting, these responses were integrated into mandatory provider training. Focusing on health literacy and Teach-Back, the training addressed barriers, reinforced positive experiences, and tailored practice encounters to patients. We then randomly surveyed inpatients to assess their recall of their providers using Teach-Back.

Results:

The majority (96.3%) of providers indicated that Teach-Back should be used frequently. Only 79.9%, however, reported using Teach-Back. Providers regarded Teach-Back as important and rated their confidence level as high. Providers also reported barriers to Teach-Back. Of the 135 patients surveyed, 46% recalled their providers using this method.

Lessons learned:

We note a gap between providers' self-reported use of Teach-Back and patients' recall of their providers using it. Providers may be overstating their utilization rate. The survey, further, assessed patients at random points in their hospital stays, to include those who had not yet received Teach-Back education. These factors could contribute to the observed discrepancy. Most notably, results confirmed our position that regular provider training helps address barriers and misconceptions about Teach-Back.

[
HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice
. 2021;5(3):e226–e232.]

Plain Language Summary:

Our Health Literacy Institute was created in 2007 after receiving a grant to institutionalize health literacy across the continuum of patient care. Health literacy refers to a person's ability to obtain, understand, and process basic information, which empowers them to make appropriate health decisions.
Limit cycles of piecewise polynomial differential systems with the discontinuity line xy = 0
Authors: Li Tao , Llibre Jaume
Published: August 2021

In this paper we study the maximum number of limit cycles bifurcating from the periodic orbits of the center \begin{document}$ \dot x = -y((x^2+y^2)/2)^m, \dot y = x((x^2+y^2)/2)^m $\end{document} with \begin{document}$ m\ge0 $\end{document} under discontinuous piecewise polynomial (resp. polynomial Hamiltonian) perturbations of degree \begin{document}$ n $\end{document} with the discontinuity set \begin{document}$ \{(x, y)\in\mathbb{R}^2: xy = 0\} $\end{document}. Using the averaging theory up to any order \begin{document}$ N $\end{document}, we give upper bounds for the maximum number of limit cycles in the function of \begin{document}$ m, n, N $\end{document}. More importantly, employing the higher order averaging method we provide new lower bounds of the maximum number of limit cycles for several types of piecewise polynomial systems, which improve the results of the previous works. Besides, we explore the effect of 4-star-symmetry on the maximum number of limit cycles bifurcating from the unperturbed periodic orbits. Our result implies that 4-star-symmetry almost halves the maximum number.
Double controlled quasi metric-like spaces and some topological properties of this space
Authors: Zidan A. M. ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61413, Saudi Arabia, Mostefaoui Z. ,   Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Assiut Branch 71524, Egypt,   Department of Mathematics, E.N.S, B.P. 92 Vieux Kouba 16050 Algiers, Algeria
Published: August 2021

In present paper, we introduce a new extension of the double controlled metric-like spaces, so called double controlled quasi metric-like spaces "assuming that the self-distance may not be zero". Also, if the value of the metric is zero, then it has to be "a self-distance". After that, by using this new type of quasi metric spaces, we generalize many results in the literature and we prove fixed point theorems along with some examples illustrating.
Value functions in a regime switching jump diffusion with delay market model
Authors: Llemit Dennis ,   Institute of Mathematics, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Metro Manila, Philippines, IV Jose Maria Escaner
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we consider a market model where the risky asset is a jump diffusion whose drift, volatility and jump coefficients are influenced by market regimes and history of the asset itself. Since the trajectory of the risky asset is discontinuous, we modify the delay variable so that it remains defined in this discontinuous setting. Instead of the actual path history of the risky asset, we consider the continuous approximation of its trajectory. With this modification, the delay variable, which is a sliding average of past values of the risky asset, no longer breaks down. We then use the resulting stochastic process in formulating the state variable of a portfolio optimization problem. In this formulation, we obtain the dynamic programming principle and Hamilton Jacobi Bellman equation. We also provide a verification theorem to guarantee the optimal solution of the corresponding stochastic optimization problem. We solve the resulting finite time horizon control problem and show that close form solutions of the stochastic optimization problem exist for the cases of power and logarithmic utility functions. In particular, we show that the HJB equation for the power utility function is a first order linear partial differential equation while that of the logarithmic utility function is a linear ordinary differential equation.
On $ \Phi $-powerful submodules and $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-strongly prime submodules
Authors: Khan Waheed Ahmad ,   Department of Mathematics, University of Education Lahore, Attock Campus, Pakistan, Farid Kiran , Taouti Abdelghani ,   ETS-Maths and NS Engineering Division, HCT, University City P.O. Box 7947, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Published: August 2021

Let $ R $ be a commutative ring with identity and $ N $ be a submodule of an $ R $-module $ M $. We say a nonnil submodule $ N $ of an $ R $-module $ M $ is a $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-powerful (resp., $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-strongly prime) submodule, if $ \mathrm{\Phi}(N) $ is a powerful (resp., strongly prime) submodule of a module $ \mathrm{\Phi}(M) $. We show that a nonnil prime submodule $ N $ of an $ R $-module $ M $ is a $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-powerful submodule if and only if it is a $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-strongly prime submodule. Similarly, if every prime submodule of an $ R $-module $ M $ is a $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-strongly prime, then we call it a $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-pseudo-valuation module ($ \mathrm{\Phi} $-PVM). We also prove that a faithful multiplication $ R $-module $ M $ is $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-PVM if and only if some maximal nonnil submodules of $ M $ are $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-powerful. In this perspective, we analyze that $ M $ is $ \mathrm{\Phi} $-PVM if and only if $ R $ is a PVD. In due course, we provide some characterizations of these submodules along with their relationships under certain conditions.
On partial fuzzy k-(pseudo-)metric spaces
Authors: Wu Yaoqiang ,   School of Mathematics and Arts, Suqian University, Suqian, 223800, Jiangsu, China
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we introduce the concept of partial fuzzy k-(pseudo-)metric spaces, which is a generalization of fuzzy metric type spaces which introduced by Saadati. Also, we study some properties in partial fuzzy k-metric spaces and give some examples to support our results. Furthermore, we investigate the topological structures of partial fuzzy k-pseudo-metric spaces. Finally, we prove the existence of fixed points in these spaces.
Deconvolving breath alcohol concentration from biosensor measured transdermal alcohol level under uncertainty: a Bayesian approach
Authors: Hawekotte Keenan ,   Department of Mathematics, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90089, USA, Luczak Susan E. , Rosen I. G. ,   Department of Psychology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles CA 90089, USA
Published: August 2021

The posterior distribution (PD) of random parameters in a distributed parameter-based population model for biosensor measured transdermal alcohol is estimated. The output of the model is transdermal alcohol concentration (TAC), which, via linear semigroup theory can be expressed as the convolution of blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC or BrAC) with a filter that depends on the individual participant or subject, the biosensor hardware itself, and environmental conditions, all of which can be considered to be random under the presented framework. The distribution of the input to the model, the BAC or BrAC, is also sequentially estimated. A Bayesian approach is used to estimate the PD of the parameters conditioned on the population sample's measured BrAC and TAC. We then use the PD for the parameters together with a weak form of the forward random diffusion model to deconvolve an individual subject's BrAC conditioned on their measured TAC. Priors for the model are obtained from simultaneous temporal population observations of BrAC and TAC via deterministic or statistical methods. The requisite computations require finite dimensional approximation of the underlying state equation, which is achieved through standard finite element (i.e., Galerkin) techniques. The posteriors yield credible regions, which remove the need to calibrate the model to every individual, every sensor, and various environmental conditions. Consistency of the Bayesian estimators and convergence in distribution of the PDs computed based on the finite element model to those based on the underlying infinite dimensional model are established. Results of human subject data-based numerical studies demonstrating the efficacy of the approach are presented and discussed.
Integrating Drone Technology in Service Learning for Engineering Students
Authors: Phang Fatin Aliah , Pusppanathan Jaysuman , Nawi Nina Diana , Zulkifli Nur Amira , Zulkapri Izwyn , Che Harun Fauzan Khairi , Wong Adam Yoon Khang , Alsayaydeh Jamil Abedalrahim , Sek Tee Kian
Published: August 2021

Future engineers shall not only good at knowledge and technology but also good at other attributes such ethical, professional as well as managing people and emotion. Service learning is an effective education model to develop more holistic engineers. However, there is a lack of service learning framework that integrates technology, in order to achieve the acquisition of the above attributes. This paper describes how drone technology is disseminated by engineering students to the public through a service learning programme. Document analysis of the course information, project reports, and students’ reflections were employed in this study to identify the learning process and attributes developed by the students. the students went through 6 phases of service learning implementation. Results show that the service learning has enhanced the students’ learning, sense of responsibility, accountability, and international exposure. These are essential to develop good engineers in the future.
Evaluation of Engineering Students’ Learning Outcomes: Creating a Culture of Continuous Quality Improvement
Authors: Liew Chia Pao , Puteh Marlia , Lim Li Li , Yu Lih Jiun , Tan Jully , Chor Wai Tong , Tan Kim Geok
Published: August 2021

Assessment and evaluation of outcomes and continuous quality improvement often lead to uneasiness among engineering educators, which is a barrier to implementing an effective system of results-assessment. The sophisticated evaluation models and analytical instruments adopted by higher learning institutions are believed to worsen this uneasiness, impeding the successful implementation of programme quality improvement. In this paper, the challenges in assessing and evaluating learning outcomes, types of programme outcome assessment model and an analytical tool known as Engineering Outcome Analytics developed by Tunku Abdul Rahman University College for the assessment were presented. Documents related to quality improvement from two higher learning institutions in Malaysia were reviewed and discussed based on the key elements of continuous quality improvement. The results can be used to avoid the shortcomings and adopt the best practices in continuous quality improvement. With proper understanding on the key elements of continuous quality improvement, and adoption of culminating assessment model and a highly integrated analytical tool, engineering educators and programme owners are expected to benefit from this re-search in three ways. First, it cultivates a culture of continuous improvement of quality by increasing the educators' willingness to evaluate results. Second, it enhances their existing analytical tools to reflect students' actual developments, resulting in significant continuous actions to improve quality. Third, it satisfies the accreditation requirements on outcomes-based assessment.
Development and Evaluation of a Mobile-Learning Application Based on the Felder-Silverman Learning Styles Model
Authors: Isal R. Yugo K. , Santoso Harry Budi , Novandi Elvan Rizky
Published: August 2021

Every student has a different learning style. Not all of these learning styles can be facilitated through classroom learning. Mobile learning (m-learning) is the use of mobile technology to support learning activities and facilitate a variety of student learning styles. However, no previous studies of the development of m-learning products have tested the possibility of facilitating different learning styles within a single M-learning application. This study describes the development and evaluation of an adaptive m-learning application that can facilitate the needs of different students. The Felder-Silverman Learning Style Model was used as the reference for learning styles. The prototype application was developed using the user-centered design method, which includes user needs analysis, interaction design, application development, and usability testing. The designers followed the best practices laid out in Shneiderman's Eight Golden Rules of Interface Design and Gagné’s Nine Events of Instruction. A usability test of the prototype involving ten participants. Usability testing is carried out by conducting usability testing and filling out the System Usability Scale (SUS) questionnaire by all participants. The result found that it had good usability.
Engineering Students Learning Experience through a Unique Global Project-Based Learning
Authors: Ghazali Nurzal Effiyana , Mohd. Yusof Khairiyah , Phang Fatin Aliah , Arsat Rashidah , Ahmad Nur Azliza , Morino Hiroaki
Published: August 2021

Current students must prepare themselves with the necessary skills for employment in the engineering industry. In addition, students should prepare themselves to work globally. Along with the needs, Shibaura Institute of Technology introduces a program named global Project-Based Learning (gPBL). Malaysian students from different educational backgrounds joined this pro-gram to experience new skills. The program was participated by 34 students from Malaysia and Japan. Current engineering education is focusing on a course that can foster students’ creativity and critical thinking. Therefore, this study explores students’ experiences in gPBL and what student skills developed throughout the program. Students reported their experiences through the self-reflective journal. Then, thematic analysis was used to analyze the students’ self-reflective journals. The results show gPBL promotes thinking and problem-solving skills, encourages students to work with peers in other fields, and encourages students to adapt to a new culture.
Teaching of Remote Sensing Technology for Landscape Architecture in the Context of Spatial Information Technology
Authors: Zhang Xueling , Zhang Dayu
Published: August 2021

The research of digital landscape architecture springs up in recent years. The emerging digital technology provides a rational and objective method to mine and quantify the endogenous laws of landscape architecture. Remote sensing (RS) technology has become a new growth point in the current research and design of landscape spatial information. To develop the professional teaching of landscape architecture, it is important to fully integrate the RS technology into the teaching system of spatial information technology, carry out systematic spatial information quantification and research-based teaching of landscape architecture, and collaboratively promote the teaching of landscape architecture design. This paper firstly analyzes the integration and application potential of RS technology into landscape architecture. Considering the demand and trend of information-based teaching of landscape architecture, the authors integrated the relevant technologies into an RS teaching platform for landscape architecture, and summarized an application model of RS technology in the teaching of landscape architecture theories and practices. Moreover, a landscape spatial information chain, which is question-oriented, task-driven, and exploration-based, was constructed to promote the synergistic development between the students’ research and practice ability under spatial information integration.