bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the quadratic closeness of eigenfunctions of «unperturbed» and «perturbed» differentiation operators on an interval
Authors:   U. Janibekov South Kazakhstan pedagogical university, Imanbaev N. S. , Sairam N. N. ,   Institute of Mathematics and Mathematical Modelin
Published: October 2024

The article considers the eigenvalue problem of the differentiation operator, when the spectral param- eter is also present in the boundary condition with an integral perturbation, where the integrand has the property of limited variation and has a value of unity at the ends of the segment [-1, 1]. The derivatives with respect to the time variable included in the boundary condition naturally arise when solving (by the Fourier method) initial boundary value problems for evolution equations. The conjugate operator is constructed. It is shown that the spectral questions of the conjugate operator have a similar structure. The characteristic determinant of the original direct spectral problem with an integral perturbation of the boundary condition and for the eigenvalue problem of a loaded first-order differential equation on a segment with a periodic boundary condition, which is an entire analytical function of the spectral parameter, is constructed. Based on the formula of the characteristic determinant, conclusions are drawn about the asymptotic behavior of the spectrum of the original «perturbed» differentiation operator and the loaded first-order differential equation on the segment. A special feature of the operator under consideration is the non-self-adjointness of the operator in L2(–1,1). The quadratic proximity of the systems of eigen functions of the «unperturbed» and «perturbed» differentiation operators and the Riesz basis property of these systems are proved. In this case, the system of eigenfunctions of the «perturbed» operator is not orthonormal.
Encefalocele Occipital, revisión científica a propósito de un reporte de caso
Authors: Terán Pazmiño Edson Esteban , Olmedo Becerra Viviana Gissela , Vélez Vera Andrea Jeanette
Published: October 2024

Introducción: El encefalocele es un defecto que ocurre cuando el neuroporo rostral no se cierra adecuadamente durante las primeras tres semanas de desarrollo post-conceptivo. Este defecto se caracteriza por la salida de masa intracraneal través de una abertura, extendiéndose más allá de sus límites normales. Esto puede suceder a través de uno o varios huesos del cráneo, o en casos más raros, a través de orificios o fisuras normales en el cráneo.  Objetivo: Describir diagnóstico y evaluación de un caso neotal con Encefalocele Occipital.  Materiales y métodos: Caso clínico de masculino nacido de 40 semanas con Encefalocele Occipital. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura dada la poca frecuencia de esta patología. Resultados: La investigación actual describe el hallazgo clínico y de imágenes en un neonato masculino de 40 semanas de gestación, con encefalocele occipital atendido en el Hospital Roberto Gilbert Elizalde. Conclusión: El encefalocele es un defecto del desarrollo del tubo neural muy infrecuente en la población pediátrica, cuyo diagnóstico se realiza en la etapa prenatal mediante los niveles de alfafetoproteína y rastreo ecográfico.
EFFICACY OF CHROMOLAENA ODORATA SUPPLEMENTATION ON METHOTREXATE -INDUCED NEPHROPATHY AND OXIDATIVE STRESS
Authors: Usunobun Usunomena , Ikponmwosa Bridget , Anyanwu Gabriel
Published: October 2024

We carried out this research to investigate nephro-protective efficacy of Chromolaena odorata aqueous leaf extract on kidney toxicity in Methotrexate (MTX)-induced albino male rats. Thirty (30) wistar male rats spread into five study groups were used. Group I: orally administered normal saline daily and was the normal control. Group II: received C. odorata extract (250 mg/kg B.W.) orally once daily for ten days. Group III: received MTX (7mg/kg B.W.) intraperitoneally from 8th day for three days consecutively. Group IV: received C. odorata extract (250 mg/kg B.W.) orally once daily for ten days and then administered MTX (7 mg/kg B.W.) intraperitoneally from 8th day for three days consecutively. Group V: received Vitamin C (100 mg/kg B.W.) orally once daily for ten days and then administered MTX (7 mg/kg BW) intraperitoneally from 8th day for three days consecutively. 24hours after last treatment and administration, all rats were sacrificed and blood collected in EDTA bottles for hematology or in plain tubes for biochemical analysis. Creatinine and Urea were analyzed in serum. Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase, Malondialdehyde (MDA) and histopathological analysis was assessed using the kidney tissues. The obtained results revealed that three days of consecutive Methotrexate administration caused a significant rise in kidney function activity as well as severe oxidative damage and oxidative stress shown by a significant rise in Creatinine and Urea, increased level of MDA and a significant drop in SOD and CAT. However, C. odorata attenuated Methotrexate-induced biochemical alterations and oxidative stress in kidney. Also, C. odorata alone or in combination with Methotrexate showed an increase in Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Red Blood Cells (RBC), Haemoglobin (HB), White Blood Cells (WBC) and Platelets  level compared to the group administered Methotrexate alone which showed degenerative levels in the analyzed hematological parameters. Showing corroboration, histopathological analysis showed deterioration and collapse of the kidney tubules in rats administered Methotrexate alone whereas C. odorata groups showed considerable nephro-protection and restoration towards normalcy. The results from this study revealed that the C. odorata have a nephro-protective efficacy against Methotrexate-induced kidney toxicity and damage via scavenging of free radicals and stabilization/enhancement of endogenous antioxidant status
Survival Analysis of Typhoid Fever Patients in Cameroon
Authors: Fabris Nginyu Semuyeh , Ringmu Huboh S. , Kimal Gam Dieudonne , Njibili Moto-aseh Terence
Published: October 2024

Cameroonian typhoid fever continues to pose a serious threat to public health due to its high rates of morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this retrospective cohort study was to look into the survival rates of Cameroonian typhoid fever patients and to pinpoint the risk variables for survival. Data from 500 individuals with typhoid fever who were hospitalised to Cameroonian hospitals between 2015 and 2020 were examined. By employing Kaplan-Meier estimations, we were able to determine that the overall survival rate was 54% after 30 days. Sex, disease severity, and treatment delay were found to be significant predictors of survival by multivariate analysis. Patients with severe illness, those between the ages of 15 and 24, and women all had worse survival rates. Our results emphasise the necessity of early detection, timely treatment, and focused interventions to enhance the survival rates of Cameroonian patients with typhoid fever.
Unveiling Motivational Differences: Gender Influences on Physical Activity Engagement at UiTM Sarawak
Authors: Ugau Virgine Angging , Kram Suhardi , Catarinella Piermauro , Sanif Siti Nurr Atika Mohd , James Adjullea , Shafie Asmalini Che Abu
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the motivations behind adult participation in physical activity among male and female students at UiTM Sarawak. Employing the Physical Activity Leisure Motivation Scale-Malay (PALMS-M), the research explores both intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors, including mastery, enjoyment, psychological condition, physical condition, appearance, others’ expectations, affiliation, and competition/ego. A stratified sampling method was applied, yielding a total sample of 399 UiTM Sarawak students (n=399). The findings reveal a significant relationship between gender and factors such as mastery, enjoyment, psychological condition, physical condition, appearance, affiliation, and competition/ego, with the exception of others’ expectations (p<0.05). The results indicate that male students exhibit higher motivation for physical activity. It is recommended to foster a health-conscious campus environment that encourages students to lead active, balanced, and healthy lifestyles.
The Impact of EduKomEko on the Living Standards of Asnaf in Melaka, Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Noor Nor Hamiza , Saja Ijlal
Published: October 2024

Asnaf refers to those who are in poverty, a serious issue for the country as it becomes a burden. Therefore, this study aims to assess the effectiveness of the EduKomEko model implemented among the asnaf. This model encompasses aspects of education (Edu), community (Kom), and economy (Eko). The study’s background demonstrates that existing programmes still have many shortcomings as the asnaf continue to rely on continuous aid to survive. This problem significantly impacts the country because they are unable to become self-sufficient in improving their living standards. As a result, the current cost of living has become more challenging, causing them to remain trapped in poverty. A quantitative approach was employed to conduct descriptive and comparative analysis, allowing the researchers to assess changes in key indicators, including education, community involvement, economic well-being, and psychosocial support, before and after the model’s implementation. The study adopts a quasi-experimental design with 53 asnaf divided into treatment and control groups. The treatment group participated in the EduKomEko model intervention, while the control group did not. Data were collected using a five-point Likert scale questionnaire in pre-test and post-test phases, and the results were analyzed using SPSS software. T-tests were conducted to determine significant differences between the two groups. The reliability of the questionnaire was validated with Cronbach’s alpha exceeding 0.7, indicating high reliability. The findings indicate that the model positively impacts financial management awareness, subsequently improving the living standards of the asnaf. This study can help eradicate poverty to a zero level and enhance the social and economic welfare of the asnaf. Future studies should focus on expanding the model to other states by incorporating technology to achieve a more effective and sustainable impact. Additionally, integrating digital platforms could facilitate broader access to educational resources and economic opportunities, further empowering the asnaf and ensuring long-term resilience against poverty.
Altman’s Z-model an approach to predict the financial distress of selected companies of Tata Group in India
Authors: Reddy Karthik , Kumar B. Arun , Shireesha V.
Published: October 2024

In India Z Atman’s model has very less applicability and untouched in the research area, as this model has highly successful and have more than 85 percent of success rate there is a need to utilize this model for the Indian companies. The present study is about Z Alman’s Score Model applied on four selected Tata Group companies, listed in the NSE for a study period of 2020-2022. Where the study concludes that, among the four selected companies Tata Chemicals which are reported as high financial healthiness with Z score of 2.94 which indicates that the company has strong financial standards and support and there is absolutely no scope for bankruptcy in the near future. Thereafter, Tata Steel company reported Z score of 1.86 which also indicates the company is financially doing well but there is a chance of being bankrupted. So, the company should be cautious about its existing operations and strategies. Thereafter, Tata Power company reported Z score of 1.35 which indicates it is in a very tough position where there is a need to take immediate actions to make sure the company to get it out of that situation as soon as possible. Finally, Tata Motors company reported Z score of 1.69 which indicates that it is in dangerous zone in terms of financial position there should be a huge chance of being bankrupt. So, the company should focus on rebuilding its financial structure in order to overcome the instability and financial distress. Thus, the present study concludes that, among the four companies which are selected among the Tata group three were in the safer position and the only one company was in the danger position due to pandemic affect.
Optimizing agile adoption in virtual learning environments : A framework for classification and prioritization
Authors: Behl Gunjan , Padalikar Hemachandra , Vijaykumar Suhasini , Pujari Purvi , Kaur Baljeet
Published: October 2024

This research presents a classification and prioritization framework for agile methods in virtual learning environments. The framework uses adaptive agile modeling principles and machine learning techniques to categorize agile methods into three tiers: Essential Agile Methods, Desired Agile Methods, and Deferred Methods. This system aids in informed decision-making regarding adopting and implementing Agile practices, ensuring alignment with educational goals and learner preferences. Essential Agile Methods include core practices like iterative development, continuous feedback, and collaboration, which are prioritized for immediate adoption due to their significant impact on learner engagement. Desired Agile Methods are supplementary practices that enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of virtual learning environments, offering additional benefits like communication enhancement, adaptability, and stakeholder engagement. Deferred Methods are valuable but less immediately relevant or feasible for implementation. The framework helps educational stakeholders make informed decisions regarding resource allocation, curriculum development, and instructional design, enhancing the responsiveness, relevance, and effectiveness of virtual learning environments. The framework’s efficacy is demonstrated through case studies and simulations across diverse educational contexts, showing improved learner satisfaction, engagement, and learning outcomes through strategic adoption of Essential and Desired Agile Methods. So, the framework provides a structured approach to agile adoption in virtual learning environments, ensuring optimal resource utilization and maximizing the benefits of agile practices. Future research may focus on refining the classification criteria, validating the framework across different settings, and exploring its scalability and generalizability.
An empirical study of gamification in educational sector
Authors: Yadav Sonia , Dixit Sweta
Published: October 2024

Gamification is the practice of game layout characteristics in non-game circumstances. A sample of one hundred high school students, ages fifteen to seventeen, participate in the quasi-experimental study, which compares gamified and conventional learning strategies. Gamification can meet the needs of students for independence, competency, and connection while promoting active learning, according to the theoretical structure of the research, which is based on the study’s findings regarding how gaming affects pupil enthusiasm, cooperation, and procurement of information. Evaluations, empirical checklists, and initial and final tests were employed in the data collection procedure to assess academic achievement, motivation, and engagement.The results suggest that gamified learning activities significantly improved academic achievement when compared to traditional ways (p < 0.001). There were noteworthy beneficial relationships between academic achievement and motivation (r = 0.60-0.68, p <0.01). All of these characteristics showed positive associations with users’ perceptions of how simple it is to use gamified activities (r = 0.45-0.55, p < 0.01).These results support the introduction of gamified elements into educational courses to create more engaging and effective instructional settings. However, constraints such as study duration and sample size suggest that more research needs to be conducted to look at long-term effects and suitability for a variety of people and age groups.The study increases the body of evidence that indicates gamification is a viable tactic for enhancing student interactions and educational outcomes in today’s technological world [2], [6].
Digital disruptions in commodity trading and risk management : impact on operational performance of oil and energy trading firms in UAE
Authors: Chandrasekharan Rajesh Nellissery , Baser Narayan
Published: October 2024

The commodity trading sector, particularly within the oil and energy markets, faces unprecedented challenges driven by rising uncertainties, reduced global demand, geopolitical risks, and market volatility. The onset of the Russia–Ukraine war, compounded by the Covid-19 pandemic, has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies and virtual collaborative tools among trading firms, fundamentally reshaping business processes. This study investigates the impact of digital disruptions on the oil and energy trading sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with a specific focus on the integration and adoption of Commodity Trading and Risk Management (CTRM) solutions. By employing a comparative analysis of trading operations before and after CTRM implementation, alongside detailed case studies of UAE-based firms, this research examines how advanced digital technologies have transformed operational efficiency, strategic management, and risk management practices within the sector. Primary data from 68 oil and energy trading firms were collected through a cross-sectional descriptive research design, using a comprehensive questionnaire that addressed pre- and post-adoption scenarios. Results reveal significant enhancements in operational efficiency and risk management capabilities following the adoption of CTRM digital solutions. Case studies highlight how UAE firms have leveraged these technologies to improve market responsiveness, reduce transaction times, and enhance transparency and security in trading operations. The study concludes that firms have become better equipped to navigate volatile markets, mitigate risks, and increase profitability, with stakeholder feedback affirming improved efficiency throughout the trade cycle. This research contributes to the energy trading industry by demonstrating how embracing digital technologies for CTRM functions can foster sustainable competitive advantages and align with future market developments. It underscores the importance of continuous innovation and strategic agility in the evolving digital landscape.
Sustainability and ease of doing business in India : Challenges and influencing factors
Authors: Dhawan Aditya , Roy Manas , Bhardwaj Ananya
Published: October 2024

A positive business environment is crucial for national development, and India’s rapid growth positions it as a potential leader among global corporations. Recent reforms in India, aimed at improving the business landscape, are central to initiatives such as “Make in India.” This research investigates the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) in India by examining the factors influencing it and the obstacles hindering its progress. The study employs a descriptive approach, integrating both primary and secondary data through an exploratory research design. A mixed-method approach is utilised, including a one-sample t-test to compare sample means to hypothesised values. Findings reveal a consensus on the need for improved global EODB rankings, with research highlighting the roles of policymakers, management, public education, and trust. Despite identifying certain grey areas in rankings, the necessity for continued improvement remains clear. The study underscores the importance of reforms such as the application of GST, the decommissioning of public sector undertakings, labour law reforms, and bureaucratic changes. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for economic self-sufficiency and shifted focus from consumption-based growth. Government initiatives are crucial for revitalising the economy and countering challenges posed by economic competition, particularly in healthcare research and development.
Psychiatric Nursing Care Process with NANDA, NIC, and NOC Classifications: Case Example
Authors: Şahin Tokatlıoğlu Tuğba , Oflaz Fahriye
Published: October 2024

Nursing care plans present a systematic way and standard language for nurses. Standardized care terminology and evaluations are important in providing a common language globally and showing nursing care outcomes. The North American Nursing Diagnosis Association Taxonomy, Nursing Interventions Classification, and Nursing Outcomes Classification form the structure of the nursing care plans. This standardized nursing process language provides a system that supports individualized care, allowing us to visualize and formulate a nursing process. The aim of this study is to present an example of the use of the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association Taxonomy, Nursing Interventions Classification, and Nursing Outcomes Classification system in the care process of a 42-year-old individual with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
Investigating Heavy Metal Contamination in Groundwater of Agricultural Areas: The Case Study of Shekhan, Duhok, Iraq
Authors: Mohammed Rangeen Shihab , Nazif Hindreen Mohammed , Kareem Idrees Majeed , Ahmed Ahmed Mohamed
Published: October 2024

This study assesses water quality and heavy metal concentrations in 17 main groundwater sources in Duhok City, Iraq's agriculturally vital Shekhan area. It is important to comprehend the possible health concerns associated with heavy metal pollution in this area because of its relevance to food production. With an emphasis placed on heavy metal concentrations in groundwater sources to support public health and sustainable practices, this study provides essential insights into controlling water quality for irrigation and safe consumption. The Water Quality Index (WQI) results ranged from 15.23 to 37.05, indicating good and excellent water quality, well-suited for drinking and agricultural purposes. The results of heavy metals concentration from Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Lead (Pb), and Nickel (Ni) ranged from 0.0002 to 0.0111 ppm, 0.0023 to 0.0187 ppm, 0.0006 to 0.0024 ppm, and 0.007 to 0.032 ppm, respectively. The World Health Organization (WHO) criteria were satisfied by all heavy metal concentrations in the water samples, except Cadmium (Cd), which exceeded the recommended threshold in six analyzed sources and varied from 0.0015 to 0.0158 ppm. The water is appropriate for irrigation and consumption, according to the findings of the heavy metal content analysis and water quality evaluation, while continuous monitoring is needed to guarantee optimum water quality.
A Recyclable Waste Image Recognition System with YOLOv8 for Children's Environmental Education
Authors: Zambri Aiman Fahmi , Abdul-Rahman Shuzlina , Mohd Sabri Norlina , Mutalib Sofianita
Published: October 2024

Rapid economic growth and increasing urban population have led to a significant increase in waste production, raising serious concerns for countries worldwide. As the population expands, the increase in waste generation poses numerous environmental and public health challenges. This study focuses on educating children about recyclable waste to promote early awareness and proper waste classification habits. Specifically, this study investigates the performance of the YOLOv8 model to embed it into a waste recognition system tailored for children's waste management education. Datasets were obtained from Kaggle and underwent preprocessing. The findings show that a model with 100 epochs, an SGD optimizer, and a batch size of 25 achieved the best performance, with an accuracy of over 94% and a low loss of 0.367. This model demonstrated competitive accuracy in detecting and classifying waste images, highlighting its potential as an effective tool in educational programs aimed at teaching children the importance of waste management and promoting sustainable practices from an early age.
Renovation Strategies for Energy Conservation in Multi-Story Residential Buildings in Turkey
Authors: Sut Gulcin , Colak Demirel Burcu Buram , Goksen Takva Fulya
Published: October 2024

Reducing the energy consumption of existing and new buildings is necessary in the context of energy efficiency. This study emphasizes the importance of energy-efficient renovation of existing housing stock and the development of renovation strategies according to the TS 825 standard and climate characteristics across the different degree day zones of Turkey. The research proposes an energy-efficient renovation of a public housing project and analyzes the impact of these suggestions on building energy performance. The impact of renovations to improve the thermal performance of opaque and transparent components on the energy performance of the building is calculated using the Design-Builder simulation program, and the heating-cooling loads, electricity, natural gas, and total energy consumption are analyzed in the four zones. With the most cost-saving renovation suggestions, total energy consumption is reduced by 35.7% in Erzurum, 32.2% in Ankara, 27.3% in Istanbul, and 19.3% in Antalya. In residential building renovations in Turkey, especially in hot climates, it is essential to focus on energy-efficient design principles, increase the insulation thickness of opaque components, improve the thermal performance of transparent components, and install solar control where necessary to improve the energy efficiency of the building.
Unlocking Business Intelligence and Data Analytics Adoption Patterns: Insights from Jordanian Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Matar Nasim , Al-Jaber Amneh , Matar Wasef
Published: October 2024

There is a significant change in operational approaches, especially in business intelligence solutions, due to the application of modern technologies at Jordan's universities. However, further research is required. Faculty and staff are often reluctant to accept these technologies, as they are used to traditional teaching approaches. This highlights the importance of examining these change dynamics. To gain more insight into this issue, a questionnaire was created based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model and distributed to 587 participants in 12 prominent Jordan universities. Structural equation modeling was deployed to assess the fit of the model to the data and determine whether the hypothesized relationships are supported. The findings indicated that there was a strong behavioral intention among staff and faculty members to embrace business intelligence solutions in their professional roles. This study discusses the positive and negative factors that affect the adoption of business intelligence in Jordanian higher education institutions. It is widely believed that these variables are critical in university management as they help relevant individuals make informed decisions about future investments and implement new technologies into institutional practices.
Applying Sliding Mode Control to a Quadrotor
Authors: Huu Toan Le , Anh Hoang Le , Tran Duc Thuan
Published: October 2024

The current paper discusses the application of Sliding Mode Control (SMC) to a quadcopter. The controller is designed based on the system's nonlinear model. An adaptive sliding mode controller is developed specifically for the quadcopter's attitude subsystem, aiming to mitigate the undesirable vibration phenomena typically associated with conventional sliding mode controllers while ensuring robust trajectory tracking for the quadcopter's attitude. The stability of the proposed controller was verified using the Lyapunov stability theorem. The quadcopter Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) model and the performance of the proposed controller were simulated and validated in MATLAB/SIMULINK environment. The results demonstrate that the proposed controller effectively positions the quadcopter with minimal error, maintaining the UAVs flight along the prescribed trajectory. Additionally, it performs well in trajectory tracking under collision noise and vibration reduction conditions.
Study of Synergistic Effect of Silica Fume and Fly Ash Inclusion in High Performance Concrete
Authors: Ranjan Manish , Kumar Sanjay , Sinha Sanjeev
Published: October 2024

The use of Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) in the construction industry to reduce the carbon footprint associated with cement manufacturing is increasing worldwide. This study examined the synergistic behavior of two SCMs, Fly Ash (FA) and Silica Fume (SF), in the production of High-Performance Concrete (HPC). Using various amounts of SF and FA to replace cement, several ternary mixes were created and their strength, microstructure, durability and fresh state properties were evaluated.  A Rapid Chloride Permeability test (RCPT) was performed to determine the resistance of the mixture to chloride ion penetration. Microstructural analysis was carried out utilizing Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) images to study the morphological characteristics of the mixes. The results revealed that the combined use of SF and FA in HPC significantly increased its durability and compressive strength owing to the pozzolanic reaction and filler effect. Microstructural investigation exhibited improved particle packing, refined pore structure, and the creation of more Calcium Silicate Hydrate (CSH) phases. Thus, SF and FA, when used in conjugation, optimize HPC performance and promise to be a sustainable and viable solution for reducing cement requirements.
Assessing Radon Exhalation Rates from Building Tiles: Implications for Sustainability and Indoor Air Quality
Authors: Dhuoki Riman Mohammed Said Bashir , Karaaslan Mizgine , Kareem Idrees Majeed , Ahmed Ahmed Mohamed
Published: October 2024

This study evaluates the radon-222 (²²²Rn) exhalation rates from building tiles commonly used in Duhok, Iraq. Eighteen samples of tiles used for flooring and walls were collected and analyzed using the Airthings radon detector to measure the 222Rn levels. Surface exhalation (EA) and mass exhalation (EM) rates were calculated based on the measured radon concentrations. The results showed that ²²²Rn levels in the tile samples ranged from 2.96 to 46.99 Bq/m³, which is below the limit of 100 Bq/m³ recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for indoor air environments. Indian Pink Granite exhibited the highest radon emission rates among the tested materials, with an EA of 97.9 mBq/m²h and an EM of 9.79 mBq/kgh. These findings highlight the importance of considering both average radon concentrations and emission rates when selecting building materials. Although the immediate radon levels of these tiles are within safe limits, materials such as Indian Pink Granite, which have high emission rates, could potentially increase indoor radon levels over time. This underscores the need for comprehensive evaluations to ensure long-term safety. Identifying materials with high emission rates enables informed decision-making, supporting the sustainable selection of building materials. This approach helps mitigate indoor radon accumulation, improves air quality, and protects public health.
Comparison of Alumina Powder Behavior on Surface Roughness using the Surface Lapping Technique for JIS 420 and JIS 440 Stainless Steel Materials
Authors: Thammasang Suwit , Thasana Wiroj , Unpikul Boonkit , Surin Prayoon , Thermsuk Somkiat
Published: October 2024

The current research compared the behavior of alumina powders on the surface roughness of stainless steel materials, JIS 420, and JIS 440 using the surface lapping technique. The study employed the Design of Experiments (DeE) approach and specifically a factorial experiment, to analyze the impact of four different sizes of alumina powder, i.e. 0.05, 0.30, 1.00, and 3.00 μm, and nine different lapping times, i.e. 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, and 270 min, on multiple responses, including weight loss and Average Surface Roughness (Ra) values along the x and y axes. These responses were explored to assess the surface quality of JIS 420 and JIS 440 during the lapping process. To prepare the specimen conditions for the surface roughness experiments, 200 g of alumina powder, 150 ml of alumina powder lubricant, and 1 lt of water were used. Finally, the statistical analysis resulted in the optimization of the lowest multi-response values, such as an Ra value of 0.0630 μm on the x-axis and an Ra value of 0.0688 on the y-axis. For the JIS 440, the optimal conditions were determined to be 1 μm alumina powder and a lapping time of 30 min. These statistical analyses demonstrated a high level of satisfaction (desirability), with a value as high as 90.25% during the statistical processing phase.
AI Analysis of the Thermal Effects on Reinforced Concrete Buildings with Floating Columns
Authors: Laissy Mohamed , Belbol Besher , Boshi Osama , Eldeiasti Abdalla
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the significant structural difficulties caused by the combined influence of floating columns and thermal stresses on Reinforced Concrete (RC) structures in Saudi Arabia. Discontinuities in load flows are created by floating columns, resulting in increased stress concentrations. These stresses are increased by thermal expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuations, which can potentially lead to critical structural deformations. This study evaluates structural performance under different temperature conditions using numerical simulations and AI-driven prediction analysis. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating thermal load considerations and accounting for the effects of floating columns in design methods to guarantee the safety, durability, and long-term stability of reinforced concrete buildings in severe climates for long-span structures. This study emphasizes the integration of AI and simulation methods into structural engineering to support building design and performance when subjected to both heat and load impacts.
A Framework for Sustainable Urban Street Design
Authors: Bhagat Anushree , Kumar Ajay
Published: October 2024

Rapid urbanization worldwide poses sustainability issues. To address these issues, Sustainable Urban Streets (SUS) are being developed to balance social, economic, and environmental factors in street design. The main aim of this paper is to investigate the suitable SUS characteristics for metropolitan environments and to develop a framework for SUS design. This study creates a framework for SUS based on four main aspects: environmental sustainability, social sustainability, economic sustainability, and design sustainability. A rigorous search strategy, focusing on urban street design parameters within sustainability frameworks, has been employed through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) using PRISMA meta-analysis and considering databases from Scopus and Web of Science (WoS). Subsequently, a comprehensive list has been compiled, encompassing all the parameters or attributes and their respective sub-parameters or indicators identified in the study. In the second part of the paper, three rounds of the Delphi technique were used to extract the Indian experts' opinions and to reach a consensus among the experts on the attributes and indicators identified through SLR. To determine the weightage of indicators, statistical computations were performed using SPSS software, which calculated the mean, Standard Deviation (SD), Interquartile Range (IQR), and Coefficient of Variation (CV). Finally, 19 primary attributes and 46 secondary indicators have eventually emerged, which may contribute towards four aspects of SUS design. These attributes and indicators will provide a framework to develop sustainable urban streets in metropolitan areas and foster sustainable development in the city.
Block-based Watermarking for Robust Authentication and Integration of GIS Data
Authors: Tareef Afaf , Al-Tarawneh Khawla , Sleit Azzam
Published: October 2024

A Geographic Information System (GIS) is a computer system for gathering, storing, transmitting, and presenting data related to positions on Earth’s surface. This research aims to authenticate the GIS data during transmission via internet based on transform-based invisible watermarking. The proposed framework uses the singular value decomposition and discrete cosine transformation in the frequency domain. The proposed framework is evaluated on National DEM images obtained from the Geospatial Information Agency's (Badan Informasi Geospatial—BIG) geoportal, under several types of attacks. Two performance metrics (Peak to Signal Noise Ratio (PSNR) and Mean Square Error (MSE)) were considered for the evaluation of the security of the designed framework. Likewise, Normalized Correlation (NC) was computed to assess the robustness by calculating the similarity between the original and the extracted images. The experimental outcomes show that the extracted logos are readable even if altered, which guarantees that the received DEM data are authentic.
Combining Local and Global Feature Extraction for Brain Tumor Classification: A Vision Transformer and iResNet Hybrid Model
Authors: Jaffar Amar Y.
Published: October 2024

Early diagnosis of brain tumors is crucial for effective treatment and patient prognosis. Traditional Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have shown promise in medical imaging but have limitations in capturing long-range dependencies and contextual information. Vision Transformers (ViTs) address these limitations by leveraging self-attention mechanisms to capture both local and global features. This study aims to enhance brain tumor classification by integrating an improved ResNet (iResNet) architecture with a ViT, creating a robust hybrid model that combines the local feature extraction capabilities of iResNet with the global feature extraction strengths of ViTs. This integration results in a significant improvement in classification accuracy, achieving an overall accuracy of 99.2%, outperforming established models such as InceptionV3, ResNet, and DenseNet. High precision, recall, and F1 scores were observed across all tumor classes, demonstrating the model's robustness and reliability. The significance of the proposed method lies in its ability to effectively capture both local and global features, leading to superior performance in brain tumor classification. This approach offers a powerful tool for clinical decision-making, improving early detection and treatment planning, ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes.
Development of a MEMS-based Piezoresistive Cantilever Sensor for Lead (Pb(II)) Detection in Drinking Water
Authors: Vankara Jyothi , Burra Rajesh Kumar
Published: October 2024

One of the most hazardous pollutants of natural water resources is lead -Pb (II)- which poses a significant threat to human health and environmental safety. The accumulation of this heavy metal in an organism affects a number of systems and is particularly dangerous for children. At low levels of intake over short periods, it induces diarrhea, abdominal pain, and renal damage, with the potential for fatal outcomes in extreme cases. The principal sources of lead pollution are industries, coal-fired power plants and motor vehicles. In response to the critical demand for effective lead detection, researchers have developed advanced Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) piezoresistive cantilever sensors that make use of the chelating properties of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) and the superior electrical properties of reduced Graphene Oxide (rGO). It has been proven that this composite can be effectively immobilized on a MEMS cantilever surface, enabling the selective removal of Pb (II) ions from wastewater. This adsorption process exerts stress on the surface of the cantilever, resulting in variations in resistance that can subsequently be measured. A sensitive and selective MEMS piezoresistive cantilever sensor for Pb (II) has been developed, offering significant potential as a lead monitoring tool in water samples. The sensor demonstrated high sensitivity and selectivity, with a detection limit of 1 ppb and a linear response range of 10-100 ppb. This novel approach has the potential to significantly enhance pollution monitoring and provide substantial benefits for public health by enabling real-time, on-site mapping of lead contamination across aqueous environments. This technological advancement in the environmental surveillance domain offers a new perspective on the safety of water and the reduction of potential health hazards associated with lead consumption.
Mathematical and Numerical Explanation of the Nonlinear Acoustic Wave Interaction in Acousto-Optical Cells
Authors: Ourahmoun Abbes , Guessoum Amir
Published: October 2024

In addition to a recently acousto-optical deflector that has been the subject of both theoretical and experimental analysis, this work presents the successful processing of two acousto-optical deflectors that have been orthogonally positioned using two frequency-modulated ultrasonic waves. A comprehensive theoretical analysis is conducted, based on the Collins integral and the ABCD matrix formalism, to explain how the positions of the diffracted orders oscillate in two dimensions as a function of time. The numerical simulation of the derived formula demonstrates the potential for steering a laser beam along Lissajous trajectories. The trajectories in question are observed to exhibit a variety of shapes and velocities. They are sometimes linear with sinusoidal velocities, sometimes circular with constant velocities, and often elliptical with variable velocities. The noteworthy aspect is that all these diffracted orders traverse the spatial domain with an identical sweep frequency, despite the heterogeneity of their trajectories and velocities. Furthermore, these trajectories can be shaped by controlling the phase shift value. This technique can be employed in metrology for rotation measurements based on the Doppler effect. Additionally, it can be used to develop a spatial display that enables tracing Lissajous trajectories, rather than relying on an oscilloscope.
Bonding between New and Old Concrete in Composite Beams under the Effect of Static Loads
Authors: Ibrahim Tariq Emad , Abdulrazzaq Oday A. , Saleh Samoel Mahdi
Published: October 2024

This study experimentally investigates the bonding strength of aged and other forms of new concrete. Its primary objective is to assess several methodologies for achieving effective bonding behavior. Additionally, the present study examines the impact of varying stiffness and shrinkage rates at the boundary between concrete layers poured at different times. The experiment on bonding strength included examining the effects of several factors, such as surface preparation, bonding agent type, age difference, and the type of concrete used in the new layer. The flexural test results show that the ultimate load decreases by 16.2%, and 13.3% for composite beams with new concrete of Self-Comparing Concrete (SCC), and steel fibers, respectively, compared to the reference beam. However, the ultimate load increases by 6.5% and 9% for composite beams with new concrete of Sika and High-Strength Concrete (HSC), respectively, compared to the reference beam. So, using new concrete with Sika or HSC is the best choice. The composite beam with shear connectors has the highest ultimate load in the test, whereas the beam with SCC as a new layer has the lowest value.
A Study of Traditional Shipyard Existing Conditions at the Ujong Baroh Fishery Base, West Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Rizwan Thaib , Srimulyana Yuma , Ramadhani Thaharah , El-Rahimi Sayyid Afdhal , Setiawan Ichsan , Thaib Razali , Arif Muhammad , Kurnianda Viqqi
Published: October 2024

The large increase in the number of traditional fishing vessels in West Aceh and the limited facilities for repairing these vessels indicate the great potential for developing shipyards around the port. However, the shipyards that produce fishing vessels in West Aceh still use traditional technology, resulting in relatively low productivity. Therefore, the aim of this research is to determine the initial conditions of shipyards in West Aceh and their production capacity. The research method deploys a qualitative approach along with data collection techniques through surveys. The social aspects studied include the development of Human Resources (HR), materials, production equipment, funding, and shipbuilding methods. The results of this research show that the condition of the shipyards in West Aceh is adequate due to their strategic location with large areas of land and proximity to the sea or river, making the process of unloading completed ships easier. There are two types of shipyards in West Aceh: land shipyards and water shipyards. In the area, there are six (out of nine) active land shipyards and three (out of five) active water shipyards.
Loosely Skirted Circular Foundation under Different Loading Conditions: Performance, Mechanism, and Limitations
Authors: Al Dabi Sajjad Kamel , Albusoda Bushra S.
Published: October 2024

The term loosely skirted foundation is used to describe the geogrid skirts that are positioned beneath the footing. This technique enhances soil performance and reduces costs when compared to rigid skirted footings. The present study examines the performance of loosely skirted circular footings on poorly graded sand with and without horizontal reinforcement layers inside the skirt rooms. The footings are subjected to loading eccentricities, (e) of 0, 0.08 D and 0.16 D, where D is the diameter of the footing. The depth of the skirt (L) was adjusted to values of 0.5 D, 1 D, 1.5 D, and 2 D. The number of geogrid layers (N) was varied based on the skirt depth. The spacing between horizontal reinforcements (Y) was evaluated at 0.25 D, 0.5 D, 0.75 D, and 1 D. The loosely skirted circular footing without lateral reinforcement within the skirt demonstrated optimal performance at L/D = 1.5, enhancing bearing capacity by 111.64%, 91.5%, and 76.3% and reducing settlement by 57.1%, 52.7%, and 51%, respectively, for e/D = 0, 0.08, and 0.16. Concerning the loosely skirted circular footing with lateral reinforcement within the skirt, the optimal performance was observed at L/D = 2 and the minimum spacing reinforcement was evidenced at Y = 0.25 D, which enhanced the bearing capacity by 235.6% and 224%, respectively. The results revealed that the best performance was obtained for the loosely skirted circular footing without lateral reinforcement within the skirt, with enhancements of 111.64%, 91.5%, and 76.3% in the bearing capacity and reductions of 57.1%, 52.7%, and 51% in the settlement at e/D = 0, 0.08, and 0.16, respectively. Conversely, the best performance for the loosely skirted circular footing with lateral reinforcement inside the skirt was observed at L/D = 2 and the minimum spacing reinforcement Y = 0.25 D, with enhancements of 235.6%, 224%, and 194% in the bearing capacity and reductions of 72.2%, 67.2%, and 68% was noted at e/D= 0, 0.08, and 0.16, respectively.
Numerical Evaluation of Aluminum-faced Sandwich Panels in Large Enclosure Fires
Authors: Al-Jahmany Yarub , Al-Jarrah Jawdat , Al-Waqfi Mohammed S. , Rbehat Diana S. , Al-Masadeh Hassan A.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates numerically the safety level of using Aluminum Faced Sandwich Panels (AFSP) in case of fire inside large enclosures. The investigated sandwich roof panel has three layers; inner and outer-faced aluminum sheets and an insulation core (mainly composed of rigid polyurethane foam). Different solutions like adding natural and mechanical ventilation systems are proposed to improve the safety level of the building. The Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS) code for low-speed flows is deployed for the numerical data to be generated. FDS is an open-source software provided by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The final results demonstrate a significant safety level improvement in the presence of the natural and mechanical ventilation systems, compared to large enclosures without the proposed ventilations.