bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of real-time traffic information in car navigation – results from a case study in Erfurt, Germany
Authors: UHLMANN Julius , REINHOLD Hans-Jacob , VIEHWEGER Philipp , PLANK-WIEDENBECK Uwe
Published: October 2023

The inclusion of real-time traffic information (RTTI) in navigation systems is commonplace nowadays. The
data sources for the RTTI can be manifold: It is mostly floating car data obtained either by the application users or
via a specific fleet of cars (e.g., Taxis). At the same time, cities around the world are also collecting information on the
traffic situation via different sources such as induction loops in the streets. The data source collected by the cities can
have higher quality, due to more and more precise data collection points, and can also be enriched with information on
construction sites and road closures from the cities’ road authority. In the FaMoS research project, a prototypical navigation
app was developed, which directly uses the RTTI provided by the cities via the “Mobilitäts Daten Marktplatz”
(MDM), a German mobility data exchange platform. The performance of the navigation app was tested in a study with
417 trips in Erfurt, Germany. For comparison, the FaMoS navigation app was tested against a default app using the
same routing algorithm but without the city’s RTTI. It was found that the FaMoS app with the city’s RTTI was on par
with the default app (HERE WeGo) on all routes. On select routes, the FaMoS app statistically significantly reduced the
average trip time by up to 12.6%. Further studies over a longer time period with more users and routes are needed to
prove the trend seen in this study. Nevertheless, the data from this first case study can be a starting point for the further
development of RTTI inclusion in navigation apps and systems with the goal to reduce congestion.
Removal of ammonium nitrogen from wastewater by tertiary treatment
Authors: ŠARKO Julita , MAŽEIKIENĖ Aušra
Published: October 2023

Ammonium nitrogen present in treated wastewater effluent can cause eutrophication. Wastewater treatment
plants do not always meet the strict requirements for the residual total nitrogen concentration – 10 mg/L in the treated
wastewater. Additional wastewater treatment is recommended for higher nitrogen removal efficiency achievement. One
of the ways to remove nitrogen compounds from wastewater is filtration through sorbents filter media. Zeolite is used
to remove nitrogen compounds from water. Zeolite is known for its high surface area and high porosity. Zeolite adsorbs
part of organic compounds and ammonium ions, so their concentration in the filtrate decreases. An ammonium
nitrogen concentration was reduced by filtering wastewater through sorbents filter media during the experiment in real
conditions. Concentrations of treated wastewater pollutants, filtration rate, efficiency of zeolite sorbent to remove ammonium
nitrogen from the wastewater were measured and evaluated. Experiment results showed that ammonium nitrogen
was effectively removed by zeolite sorbent (removal efficiency 66–99%), from wastewater by tertiary treatment.
Multi-criteria evaluation of masonry facade installation by saving resources and limiting waste
Authors: ZIGMUND Viačeslav , ANTUCHEVIČIENĖ Jurgita , MIGILINSKAS Darius
Published: October 2023

The aim of the study is to offer a new sustainable method for production and installation of masonry facade.
The paper presents a case study of facade reconstruction and aims to evaluate three masonry facade alternatives
according to multiple criteria, focusing on saving resources and limiting waste. Building Information Model was
prepared for precise quantity surveying and management. The Entropy method was applied to determine the relative
weights of criteria, and alternatives were evaluated and ranked by applying the CoCoSo (Combined Compromise Solution)
method. Prefabricated tension masonry panels were found to be the best sustainable way of masonry facade
installation.
Railway infrastructure of Ukraine as a factor of soil chemical hazard (analytical overview)
Authors: DANCHENKO Yuliya , BOSAK Pavlo , SHUKEL Igor , POPOVYCH Vasyl
Published: October 2023

To reach the aim in solving these tasks, the following theoretical methods of research were used, mainly
analysis, experimental data, complex assessment of hazardous influence of railway infrastructure on the environment,
mainly soil chemical pollution, which are an essential part of railway infrastructure. Considering the comparative characteristics,
we can make a prognosis on any heavy metal impact with excessive content of acid and alkaline properties
of polluted soils. A result of scientific research an analytical review of the issue of railway infrastructure in Ukraine
as a factor of soil chemical hazard and determination of the main sources of pollution among the enterprises of rail
transport.
Use of sulfur binder in asphalt and cement concrete mixtures in the construction of airfields
Authors: KRAYUSHKINA Kateryna , LAPENKO Oleksandr
Published: October 2023

Currently, work on the creation and production of new composite materials capable of long-term operation
in industrial, climatic and other types of aggressive environments is one of the main tasks of the airfield industry. When
organizing the production of new building materials in the context of rising prices for raw materials and energy resources,
it is necessary to study the possibility of replacing the traditional raw material component with cheaper, more
common raw materials, while simultaneously increasing the durability of airfield construction. One of these materials
is technical sulfur. The organization of the production of sulfur-containing composites – sulfur asphalt concrete and
sulfur concrete will ensure the production of new materials characterized by reduced energy consumption and ensuring
reliable operation in conditions of variable temperatures and aggressive environments without increasing their cost
compared to traditionally used materials. A significant reduction in excess sulfur will have a positive impact on the
environmental situation in the areas of its production, a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the production
of sulfur composites compared to the production of existing analogues based on traditional materials.
Methodology of average speed enforcement systems spot selection on Lithuanian roads and its evaluation
Authors: GAVĖNIENĖ Laura , MATUSEVIČIUS Ernestas , ČYGAS Donatas , JATEIKIENĖ Laura , VOROBJOVAS Viktoras , ČIUPRINSKAS Kęstutis
Published: October 2023

Average speed enforcement systems were installed on Lithuanian roads in 1 September, 2018. The Lithuanian
Road Administration document, created on 29 April, 2020 No. V-60 “Methodology for creating a priority order for the
selection and installation of average speed enforcement systems locations in Rural areas” determined where these systems
should be installed. 81 road sections were selected by this method where was average speed enforcement systems
have been installed. 12 road sections which length is higher than in document No. V-60 “Methodology for creating a
priority order for the selection and installation of average speed enforcement systems locations in Rural areas” have
been selected by the paper authors. The following parameters of road sections are analyzed in this paper: crossroads
or exits lanes, traffic volume, number of road accidents, number of fatal and injury road accidents. Conclusions and
recommendations for the methodology of road section selection are drawn at the end of this article.
Performance of MSWI bottom ash under freezing and thawing
Authors: ŠKULTECKĖ Judita , VAITKUS Audrius , ŠERNAS Ovidijus
Published: October 2023

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the performance of municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) bottom ash under freezing and thawing and how it disintegrates. For this purpose, three different MSWI bottom ash samples, taken from different periods and waste-to-energy plants, and a reference one, produced only from natural aggregates, were tested according to two test methods: EN 1367-1 and a modified one, where the amount of particles smaller than 0.063 mm was determined after 10 freeze-thaw cycles. The results showed that the MSWI bottom ash is more susceptible to freezing and thawing compared to natural aggregates, but it disintegrates similarly.
Evaluation of biofiltration materials for H2S removal
Authors: MOHAMMADI Kamyab , VAIŠKŪNAITĖ Rasa
Published: October 2023

H2S concentrations in Biogas are limited by environmental regulations. Hence, there are multiple purification
methods as biological filtration are developed to meet the standards. In a typical biofiltration process, a bed of organic
or inorganic porous materials is forced through a humid gaseous stream that contains the H2S pollutant, because
it helps microbial growth and serves as the deck for the bioprocess, and is the most important part of a biofilter and the
whole process of Biogas purification from H2S. An ideal packing medium ought to possess a number of characteristics,
including a high mechanical resistance, the capacity to provide essential nutrients to a diverse microbial population, a
large buffer capacity, a suitable moisture-holding capacity, a high specific area, and high porosity. The physicochemical
properties and H2S removal efficiency of the biochar, compost, expanded schist, and waste of cellular concrete will be
discussed and compared in this study.
An assessment of self-driving vehicles: road maintenance and infrastructure needs
Authors: KONDRATOVIČ Vladislav , ČYGAS Donatas , PALEVIČIUS Vytautas
Published: October 2023

In the coming years, on the roads of the European Union countries, we will increasingly see self-driving vehicles
(SDV), which will face considerable challenges on the roads. At first, SDVs will aim to adapt to the existing road
infrastructure, but their increasing use on roads will make tangible influence on the progress of the components of the
road infrastructure ecosystem. The following main trends in global car transport can be distinguished: artificial intelligence
in SDV, various SDV digital and communication systems, SDV sharing platforms and other components of the
SDV ecosystem. Although the benefits of using new autonomous technologies for transport have been widely explored,
research on requirements for the physical infrastructure for the SDV traffic is still at an early stage. In this context, the
emergence of new technologies calls for immediate action to adapt the existing transport infrastructure system to the
evolving SDV industry. This paper examines the impact of SDVs on the physical road infrastructure in order to identify
road infrastructure elements that influence the SDV traffic.
BIM for railway infrastructure: the case study of the Ogliastro–Sapri High-Speed rail
Authors: BIANCARDO Salvatore Antonio , PALAZZO Sabrina , INTIGNANO Mattia , DELL’ACQUA Gianluca
Published: October 2023

The Infrastructure-BIM is constantly growing in all the main European countries. The focus of this research
is the digital twin creation of the Ogliastro-Sapri High-Speed rail in Italy. The entire project was carried out using Bentley
Systems® BIM-based tools such as OpenRail Concept Station and OpenRail Designer. The advantages and limitations
of the methodology applied to a real railway project are highlighted. As the main result, a specific interoperable
asset manager is proposed for maintenance purposes.
Physicochemistry properties of water treatment sludge (WTS) as adsorbents for dyes and antibiotics removal
Authors: SAMAN Norasikin , SUBRAMANIAN Kavij Kumar , JOHARI Khairiraihanna , MAT TAIB Shazwin , MARČIULAITIENĖ Eglė
Published: October 2023

Application of waste materials as adsorbent for water treatment has obtained special attention owning to
their low cost and surface functionality. In this study the waste-treatment sludge (WTS) sludge was selected as based
materials and used as adsorbents for dyes and antibiotic adsorption. The adsorbent was prepared by calcination of the
washed and dried WTS adsorbent (S105) at 300 °C (S300) and 700 °C (S700). The morphology, elemental composition,
functional groups, pH at point zero charged, and cationic exchange capacity were observed and evaluated to
understand the adsorption performance capability of the adsorbents. Then, the adsorbents were test for dyes and antibiotic
adsorption in aqueous solution. Adsorbent prepared at higher temperature have darker color. The FTIR peaks
related to functional groups of organic compounds such as OH and CO were diminished when the WTS was calcined
at 700 °C. Value of pHpzc of of S105, S300 and S700 were 5.43, 5.81 and 5.89, respectively. The value of CEC for S700
and S105 however lower than S300. Adsorption performance of WTS adsorbents towards cationic methylene blue
(MB), anionic methyl orange (MO) and reactive red-120 was evaluated in aqueous solution. All adsorbents show high
adsorption performance towards MO, but lower adsorption performance towards RR was observed. The calcination of
WTS results the higher adsorption capacity observed for adsorption of anionic and cationic dyes. The S700 also show
better adsorption performance towards OTC and TC. This study indicates that the WTS has a potential application as
low-cost adsorbent to remove hazardous substances from aqueous solution.
Nonparametric Inference of the Population of Compact Binaries from Gravitational-wave Observations Using Binned Gaussian Processes
Authors: Ray Anarya , Hernandez Ignacio Magaña , Mohite Siddharth , Creighton Jolien , Kapadia Shasvath
Published: October 2023

The observation of gravitational waves from multiple compact binary coalescences by the LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA detector networks has enabled us to infer the underlying distribution of compact binaries across a wide range of masses, spins, and redshifts. In light of the new features found in the mass spectrum of binary black holes and the uncertainty regarding binary formation models, nonparametric population inference has become increasingly popular. In this work, we develop a data-driven clustering framework that can identify features in the component mass distribution of compact binaries simultaneously with those in the corresponding redshift distribution, from gravitational-wave data in the presence of significant measurement uncertainties, while making very few assumptions about the functional form of these distributions. Our generalized model is capable of inferring correlations among various population properties, such as the redshift evolution of the shape of the mass distribution itself, in contrast to most existing nonparametric inference schemes. We test our model on simulated data and demonstrate the accuracy with which it can reconstruct the underlying distributions of component masses and redshifts. We also reanalyze public LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA data from events in GWTC-3 using our model and compare our results with those from some alternative parametric and nonparametric population inference approaches. Finally, we investigate the potential presence of correlations between mass and redshift in the population of binary black holes in GWTC-3 (those observed by the LIGO–Virgo–KAGRA detector network in their first three observing runs), without making any assumptions about the specific nature of these correlations.
Dust Coagulation in Oxygen-rich Circumstellar Outflows
Authors: Paquette John A. , Nuth Joseph A. , Ferguson Frank T.
Published: October 2023

We show that the inefficient growth of SiO molecules on (SiO)
x
dust grains prolongs the period of maximum dust nucleation in circumstellar outflows resulting in a several orders-of-magnitude increase in the dust density near the star. This increase in dust density powers dust coagulation and results in the formation of large fractal aggregates that should be extremely efficient per unit mass in coupling to both the stellar radiation field and to the ambient gas.
On the Theory of Ring Afterglows
Authors: DuPont Marcus , MacFadyen Andrew , Sari Re’em
Published: October 2023

Synchrotron and inverse Compton emission successfully explain the observed spectra of gamma-ray burst (GRB) afterglows. It is thought that most GRBs are products of extremely relativistic outflows and the afterglow marks the interaction of that ejecta with the surrounding matter. A faster decay of afterglow light curves at late times is indicative of nonspherical geometries, and is usually interpreted as evidence for jet geometry. Recent numerical simulations have shown that ring-like geometries are also permissible for relativistic outflows. We therefore extend the standard theory of afterglow evolution to ring geometries. An analytic prescription for the light curves and spectra produced by relativistic toroidal blast waves is presented. We compare these to their spherical and jet-like counterparts, and show that ring afterglows decay faster than spherical outflows but not as fast as jets.
First description of the male of Oecobius przewalskyi Hu & Li, 1987 (Araneae, Oecobiidae) from Shigatse City, Tibet, China
Authors: Hu Changhao , Liu Jie , Wang Kai
Published: October 2023

With 90 described species, the genus Oecobius Lucas, 1846 is the largest genus of the family Oecobiidae Blackwall, 1862, five of which are known from China. Since Oceobius przewalskyi was described by Hu & Li in 1987, no males of this species have ever been reported.

The male of Oceobius przewalskyi is described for the first time, based on the specimens collected in Tibet Autonomous Region. Morphological description and illustrations are given.
Anoectochilus zhongshanensis (Orchidaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Authors: Wu Yan-Bin , Han Yu , He Xu-Hui , Chen Hui-Ling , Wu Jin-Zhong , Ye Qi , Zheng Cheng-Jian
Published: October 2023

A new species of Anoectochilus (Orchidaceae) from Guangxi, China, A. zhongshanensis, is described here, which was identified based on phylogenetic studies adopting combined plastid markers (rbcL-matK-trnL-F), morphological observation and chemical analysis. Molecular phylogenetic results support the systematic status of A. zhongshanensis as a new species in Anoectochilus genus. Morphologically, this new species is similar to A. zhejiangensis and A. malipoensis, but differs by its characteristic labellum and column, including the hastate or scalpel-shaped lobes of epichile, forward curved and pinnately divided cristate lobes at both sides of the mesochile and inverted triangle column wings. Furthermore, HPLC-ELSD analysis of these three species revealed the interesting chemotaxonomic difference that the principle and characteristic lactone glycoside in this new species was kinsenoside, rather than its diastereoisomer, goodyeroside A, a major glycoside in A. zhejiangensis and A. malipoensis.
Hallways to learning: creating brave spaces inside contemporary Higher Education
Authors: Khatun Fatema , Poynton Gary , Evans Josh
Published: October 2023

Over the last two decades, two contradictory processes have been notable within the development of Higher Education. The marketisation of the sector has advanced steadily at the same time as professed policies of widening participation, and this has left universities stuck between a
rock and a hard place. The datafication of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) policies has rendered invisible the minoritised experience in HE, and the needs of non-traditional student identities. As early career researchers and casualised members of staff, the authors are expected to
fulfil dual roles in the institution, and operate under conditions of 'in-extremis'. Drawing on Wenger's ideas of identity as a negotiated experience, and the notion of Communities of Practice, they show how different senses of achievement have been framed for non-traditional
students and staff, through both policy and practice. Because of the precarity of their posts, the authors are expected to edgewalk their way through conditions of crisis. To address some of these issues they have introduced the concept of hallway teaching - a practice that exists within a
liminal space - to highlight their sense of transience between the position of student and staff. This transience affects their ability to create long-term engagement, while they are simultaneously expected to be the most likely people to create bridges between EDI policy, staff and students
From Starmer's scuffle to the Siege of Ottawa: the resistible rise of the anti-vaxxers
Authors: Iliffe Steve , Manthorpe Jill
Published: October 2023

This article discusses the energy and aggressiveness of the campaigns against mitigating transmission of Covid-19 during the pandemic, and especially against vaccination. These campaigns have brought anti-vaxx sentiments into the limelight with a vengeance. The aim of the article is
to seek a better understanding of the forms that the contemporary anti-vaxx movements can take and what is fuelling them. It has three parts. The first describes recent anti-vaxxer actions in the UK, France, Austria and Canada, highlighting the siege of Ottawa. The second part draws on the
history of anti-vaxx movements in the UK and the USA for insights into their militancy; and in the third part there is an exploration of ideas about what makes anti-vaxx platforms so attractive and who is drawn towards them. Countering anti-vaxxer propaganda requires an understanding of the
pathways by which the information spreads. False narratives will move from anti-vaccine echo chambers to mass audiences via social-media sharing, as well as coverage in local and mainstream media. Countering this misinformation all along the pathway requires a whole-of–society effort
that is multifaceted, tolerant of short-term setbacks, and persistent even in challenging conditions. The NHS faces the whole of society. Could it, in its present state, be the vehicle for engaging the anti-vaxxer movements?
Growing the Entrepreneurial Mindset in First Year Engineering Students Using Sociotechnical Design Challenges
Authors: DeWaters Jan , Kotla Bhavana
Published: October 2023

Engineering graduates must acquire both technical knowledge and a diverse range of professionalskills to effectively address the current global challenges. Equally important is aprofound understanding of how technological solutions are influenced by the human andnatural environments in which they are implemented. An open-ended, team-based designchallenge integrates entrepreneurial-minded (EM) skill development into an interdisciplinaryfirst-year engineering course that approaches engineering from a sociotechnical perspective.A mixed-methods study using a post-course reflective questionnaire explored students’self-perceived development of EM skills. Quantitative results from a series of 5-point Likerttypequestions indicate that students felt they developed EM skills in all three areas of the 3-Cframework, with average mean scores above 4.0 in all three categories. Scores were significantlyhigher in the Connections and Create Value subscales (mean 4.31 ± 0.62 and 4.23 ± 0.76,respectively) compared to the Curiosity subscale (mean 4.04 ± 0.84). Student comments onopen response questions support the overall value of the project and the broader sociotechnicallearning outcomes that were achieved. Overall, this study suggests the effectiveness ofincorporating open-ended, sociotechnical engineering design challenges to develop skills thatwill better prepare students for collaborative work on complex, interdisciplinary problemsthey may encounter in their professional careers.
Perfusionists’ Perception of a Blended Training Process in the Management of Extracorporeal Membranes
Authors: Boude Oscar , Bravo Pineda Carol
Published: October 2023

During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, many challenges were faced in the global healthcare system, one of which was the lack of competent professionals to implement therapies such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), which proved to be lifesaving during the H1N1 virus infection. In response to this need, this project aimed to determine the characteristics of a blended training process to contribute to the development of competencies in the management of ECMO therapy and to understand the perception of participants regarding this training process as a suitable strategy for competency development. A mixed design with a descriptive scope based on design-based research was used. The main results indicated that the designed learning environment was suitable for competency development in ECMO therapy management, as well as the importance of including high-quality simulation scenarios in the development of skills for managing this type of therapy. However, the most significant impact was observed in the development of competencies and skills of the participating healthcare professionals through the process of feedback.
Technological Advancement and Mechanization of the Hotel Industry
Authors: Bhalla Amanjeet , Singh Parambir , Singh Amrik
Published: October 2023

In this era of technological advancement, when everyone is utilizing technology in some manner, especially when the pandemic hit the world, everyone has now accepted technology in their vicinity. This chapter broadly classifies the robots into two different groups (i.e., industrial robots and service robots). The hospitality industry, being the focus of this chapter, is primarily known for its services to guests; thus, service robots remain the focus of this chapter as they are related to rendering services to people. This chapter tries to make the readers understand the basic metrics that are essential for developing a robot for the sole purpose of providing services to people.
Women's Financial Inclusion
Authors: Ozili Peterson K.
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine women financial inclusion. Some barriers to women financial inclusion were highlighted. Some strategies to increase women financial inclusion were also identified such as providing greater financial education for women, greater access to formal credit for women-owned businesses, microfinance designed for women, government loan schemes for women, adequate legal identification for women, affordable mobile phones for women, and laws that criminalize gender discrimination against women.
A Comparative Study of Cloud Databases
Authors: Abiodun Moses Kazeem
Published: October 2023

The adoption of cloud-based services has been on the rise in recent years. In this study, a comparative study of three major cloud database platforms, namely Microsoft Azure, IBM DB2, and Oracle Cloud, was conducted to analyze their features, performance, and suitability for different use cases. This chapter explores the architectures of these platforms, examines their database management tools, and evaluates their support for scalability, security, and data integration. In the experiment section, Oracle performed the best with an average execution time of 3.35ms, which was the fastest of the three databases. In the survey section, the results show that MS Azure is the most available, secure, cost effective, and efficient. Oracle can be seen from the survey responses as the most reliable and also most cost effective. This chapter gives insightful information to organizations and people who want to pick the finest cloud database platform for their requirements.
Enhanced Throttled Load Balancing Algorithm for Optimizing Cloud Computing Efficiency
Authors: Mohapatra Sudhir Kumar , Tesfa Tarikwa , Prasad Srinivas , Tilahun Natnael Tilahun
Published: October 2023

Facilitated by high-speed internet connectivity, the adoption of cloud computing has surged dramatically due to its distinctive attributes such as pay-as-you-go billing, ubiquitous accessibility, and minimal support requirements in the realm of service and resource delivery. While cloud computing draws inspiration from distributed, parallel, and grid computing paradigms, it also inherits their associated complexities and concerns. Among these challenges, optimizing performance stands out prominently. Enhancing performance can be achieved through the development of efficient load balancing algorithms. Efficient algorithms satisfy users and make optimal uses of resources of the cloud and hence improve performance. Several load balancing algorithms were designed to respond to performance problems. In this chapter, three well-established load balancing algorithms, namely round robin, equally spread current execution, and throttled, underwent a comprehensive analysis. This examination sought to unveil both the strengths and weaknesses inherent to these algorithms.
Effective Cloudlet Scheduling Algorithm for Load Balancing in Cloud Computing Using Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Wided Ali , Çelebi Numan , Fatima Bouakkaz
Published: October 2023

Clouds contain a huge number of virtualized resources that can be made available instantaneously. Cloud technology offers a wide array of services, encompassing platforms, hardware, and software, effectively providing almost anything as a service. A single host represents a physical computer component, while a datacenter comprises numerous hosts responsible for managing virtual machines throughout their life cycles. The efficient scheduling of virtual machine requests plays a crucial role in cloud, as it ensures that requested tasks are completed within the shortest time according to user-defined preferences. This chapter introduces an optimization model based on fuzzy logic for scheduling tasks in cloud computing. The proposed model was tested and evaluated using a fuzzy logic-based scheduling algorithm. The proposed algorithms were compared against scheduling algorithms without fuzzy logic. The experimental findings undeniably establish the superiority of the proposed algorithm.
Semantic-Aware Efficient Multi-Keyword Top K-Similarity Search Over Encrypted Cloud Data
Authors: Muthurajkumar S. , Shangeeth R. , Anika Lakshmi S. , Gaythrisri R.
Published: October 2023

Outsourcing data storage in infrastructure has been a popular solution for organizations and individual users since it offers numerous advantages over traditional on-premises storage choices. Data encryption before outsourcing data to infrastructure is a general strategy to safeguard data confidentiality. It is challenging to search for the specified keywords in encrypted datasets in cloud computing settings, and it is obviously impracticable to download all the data from the cloud and decode it locally. The focus of current search technique is on exact matches and simple pattern matching, which result in incomplete or irrelevant. The approach uses 4D hyperchaotic mapping and a powerful deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) encryption mechanism to make it very difficult to decrypt the encrypted data without the proper key. The proposed approach helps create an effective and safe encryption. Global vector word embedding is taken into consideration while generating semantically aware search results in a semantically conscious top-k multi-keyword retrieval-supporting searchable encryption technique.
Detection of DDoS Attacks Using Variational Autoencoder-Based Deep Neural Network
Authors: Kandiero Agripah , Chiurunge Panashe , Munodawafa Jacob
Published: October 2023

Distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks are one of the most commonly used tools to disrupt web services. DDoS is used by groups of diverse backgrounds with diverse motives. To counter DDoS, machine learning-based detection systems have been developed. Proposed is a variational autoencoder (VAE) based deep neural network (VAE-DNN) classifier that can be trained on an unbalanced dataset without needing feature engineering. A variational autoencoder is a type of deep neural network that learns the underlying distribution of computer network flows and models how the benign and DDoS classes were generated. Because a VAE model learns the distribution of the classes within the dataset, it also learns how to separate them. The variational autoencoder-based classifier can scale to any data size. A deep neural network, quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA), and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) decision boundaries are applied to the latent representation of network traffic to classify the flows. The DNN shows the highest precision and recall of the three classifiers.
Rogue Access Detection Using Multi-Parameter Dynamic Features on WLAN
Authors: Owolafe Otasowie , Adediran Gbenga Moses , Ayeni Olaniyi Abiodun
Published: October 2023

The threat posed by rogue access points (RAPs) has grown significantly in importance for network security as a result of the growing use of wireless local area networks (WLANs). This work proposes a novel RAP detection method that makes use of multi-parameter dynamic WLAN properties. This chapter addresses the rising problem of rogue access points (RAPs) in wireless local area networks (WLANs) and suggests a new RAP detection approach that makes better use of multi-parameter dynamic features of WLAN. The proposed approach provides a comprehensive evaluation of each access point's unique characteristics and reduces susceptibility to RAPs. The study compared the proposed approach with four other RAP detection methods using metrics such as detection rate, false positive rate, customizability, and computational resources required. Results showed that the proposed approach achieves 98.7% detection rate with lower false positive rates and greater customizability than the other methods. The proposed RAP detection can effectively detect RAPs in wireless networks and enhance network security.
Influence of Silicon-Aluminium Modified Materials on Durability of Fly Ash-Based Geopolymers
Authors: Wang Hai Tao , Yang Xin Yue , Wang Meng , Qu Cong
Published: October 2023

The addition of silicon-aluminium materials can improve the strength of geopolymers, but its effect on the durability of geopolymers has not been confirmed. In this paper, chemical corrosion resistance and freeze-thaw cycle tests were carried out on fly ash geopolymer and metakaolin/mineral slag-fly ash geopolymer, and the reaction mechanism was determined by microscopic analysis. In the chemical corrosion resistance tests, three groups of specimens were immersed in different corrosive solutions, and the corrosion resistance of the specimens was measured by testing the compressive strength and quality change of the specimens immersed in the solution for different times. The results show that the addition of silicon-alumina materials can improve the chemical corrosion resistance of geopolymers in a certain extent, and the mineral slag shows better improvement effect. In the freeze-thaw cycle tests, three groups of materials were put into the freeze-thaw test machine, and their freezing-thawing resisting performance was measured by testing their mass loss rate and compressive strength after different cycles. The results showed that the strength loss of the specimens was improved with the addition of the silicon-aluminium materials, but the mass loss rate of the specimens became higher with the addition of metakaolin.
Microstructural and Thermal Characterization of AZ31 and Ca-modified AZ31 Magnesium Alloys: Insight into Dynamic Recrystallization and Discontinuous Precipitation Phenomena
Authors: Anwar Md Ashif , Galib Roisul Hasan , Rashed H.M. Mamun Al
Published: October 2023

Magnesium alloys are highly desirable for weight critical applications owing to their high weight to strangth ratio. However, their poor formability at room temperature limits their widespread use in industrial applications. In this study, we invstigate the hot deformation behaviour of AZ31 and AZ31-0.7% Ca magnesium alloys and explore their microstructural and thermal properties. Our findings reveal that dynamic recrystallization during hot deformation leads to successful grain refinement in the AZ31 alloy, resulting in a normal grain size distribution. In contrast, the AZ31-0.7% Ca alloy shows bimodal grain size distribution due to the addition of calcium. Additionally, the number and size of β-Mg17Al12 particles were found to increase with the addition of a small amount of calcium. These particles are responsible for the discontinuous precipitation phenomenon, which strongly influences microstructural changes during hot rolling. Our study provides valuable insights into the dynamic recrystallization and discontinuous precipitation phenomena of magnesium alloys, which can aid in the development of novel alloys with improved formability and mechanical properties.
Analysis of DC Conductivity and I-V Characterization of Nanocrystalline Copper Ferrite Sample at and above Room Temperature
Authors: Mandal Siba Prasad
Published: October 2023

Spinel copper ferrite nanoparticles have wide spread technological applications. Polycrystalline copper ferrite nanoparticles is prepared by sonochemical method. The structural property is investigated by X-ray diffraction study, which reveals cubic spinel structure of copper ferrite NPs with average crystalline size of 20 nm. The temperature variation of DC conductivity of copper ferrite nanoparticles is studied. The conductivity is observed to increase with temperature which implies semiconducting nature of copper ferrite. The Mott study reveals that conduction process is three dimensional in present case. Again, p-n junction formation in the ferrite system is observed from the current voltage (I-V) study. This study further shows that the trap height increases with temperature. Ideality factor with values greater than 1 has been observed in present case.
Cu-Alginate/Graphene Aerogels Derived Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Wang Ping , Dong Shu Guang , Zhao Zhong Chao , Fu Yu
Published: October 2023

In this work, the Cu-alginate/graphene aerogels were prepared by using alginate, graphene and copper chloride as precursors by a freeze-drying process. Finally, N-doped carbon aerogels supported by Cu nanoparticles (NPs) (Cu/N-CAs) were obtained through annealing in the NH3 atmosphere. The morphology, microstructures, specific surface area, and pore size distribution were studied by SEM, XRD, and BET analysis. The results showed that a significant amount of Cu NPs were uniformly disseminated on the aerogels’ surface, and the catalysts’ specific surface area reached 141 m2/g. Electrochemical tests revealed good catalytic capabilities for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of the as-obtained Cu/N-CAs. Compared to the commercial 20%Pt/C, the Cu/N-CAs exhibited comparable catalytic performance, superior catalytic stability and methanol resistance. The transfer of 3.94 electrons indicated that the Cu/N-CAs were undergoing a four-electron (4e-) ORR process.
Simulation-Based Medical Learning: The Future of Sri Lankan Health Care
Authors: Gamage C. K. W. , Sudusinghe W. S. , Abdulmohsen H. A. E.
Published: October 2023

Novel medical curricula stress the need for proficiency in clinical skills by medical and nursing undergraduates over the mere possession of knowledge. Simulation-based Medical Learning has gained the attention of modern clinical training by enhancing clinical performance and patient safety more than traditional clinical training at hospitals. The present modern medical context uses various types of simulators. However, Simulation-Based Medical Learning in Sri Lanka remains at a preliminary stage compared to the international context due to multiple challenges.This paper aims to identify the challenges faced in Simulation-Based Medical Learning in Sri Lanka and recommend the mechanisms to overcome those challenges. Lack of resources and infrastructure, lack of funding, poor literacy on handling simulators, lack of trained personnel, and cultural and mindset barriers were the identified potential challenges in Sri Lanka towards Simulation-Based Medical Learning. Nevertheless, these challenges can be mediated by finding international partnerships and funding sources, establishing foreign training with new collaborations, increasing awareness through faculty development programmes, combining Simulated Patients with low-fidelity simulators, and integrating Simulation-Based Medical Learning into the medical curriculum.
Assessment of Attitudes, Ethics and Communication Skills in a Competency-Based Undergraduate Medical Curriculum
Authors: Shankar N. , Fathima F. N. , Lakshmi T. A.
Published: October 2023

Affective learning outcomes are difficult to objectively analyse and assess as they refer to feelings and internal processes of the mind and heart. These cannot be quantified by traditional testing methods. The available methods rely on qualitative self-reflection and the observation of simple to complex internally consistent qualities of character. Just as in the other domains of learning, the validity and reliability of these assessments need to be ensured.  The assessment of the affective domain requires careful observation of specified behaviours by multiple observers. Miller’s pyramid, Krathwohl’s levels and Epstein’s conceptual frameworks can be used to devise suitable assessment plans for the complex and varied competencies in this domain. Many techniques including paper-based tests, self-administered rating scale, faculty and peer assessment, simulations, reflections, portfolios, observed clinical encounters, collated views of co-workers, record of incidents of unprofessionalism, critical incident reports, patient surveys and global view of supervisor have been used for assessment of affective domain. The effective utilization of these assessment tools needs to factor in the ground realities that exist in different medical colleges. The acceptability and feasibility of using resource intensive assessment methods needs to be carefully balanced against their contributions towards increasing validity and reliability
Graduate Medical Education Regulations 2023: One Step Towards the Improvement of Public Health Services of India
Authors: Jankar J. S. , Waghmode A. H.
Published: October 2023

No abstract available
Colon cancer and their targeting approaches through nanocarriers
Authors: Kumari Richa , Sharma Nitin , Karwasra Ritu , Khanna Kushagra
Published: October 2023

Colon cancer is the fifth most common type of cancer in the world. Colon cancer develops when healthy cells in the lining of the colon or rectum alter and grow uncontrollably to form a mass known as a tumor. Despite major medical improvements, colon cancer is still one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality globally. One of the main issues of chemotherapy is toxicity related to conventional medicines. The targeted delivery systems are considered the safest and most effective by increasing the concentration of a therapeutic substance at the tumor site while decreasing it at other organs. Therefore, these delivery systems required lower doses for high therapeutic value with minimum side effects. The current review focuses on targeting therapeutic substances at the desired site using nanocarriers. Additionally, the diagnostic applications of nanocarriers in colorectal cancer are also discussed.
Melatonin alleviates oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and DNA damage in acrylamide–induced nephrotoxicity in rats
Authors: Ibaokurgil Fatma , Aydin Hakan , Yildirim Serkan , Sengul Emin
Published: October 2023

Objective:

To investigate the effects of melatonin on renal inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, as well as DNA and tissue damage in acrylamide-induced nephrotoxicity in rats.

Methods:

Fifty male rats were randomly divided into five groups. The control group received distilled water by gastric lavage for 11 days and the acrylamide group was administered acrylamide (50 mg/kg, i.g.) for 11 days. The MEL10+ACR and MEL20+ACR groups received intraperitoneal melatonin 10 and 20 mg/kg, respectively, for 11 days, and acrylamide (50 mg/kg, i.g.) was administered 1 h after melatonin injection. The MEL20 group was injected with melatonin (20 mg/kg) for 11 days. Kidney function tests were performed and biochemical and inflammatory parameters were determined. In addition, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and immunofluorescence examinationswerecarried out.

Results:

Melatonin significantly abated acrylamide-induced rise in serum urea and creatinine levels. Acrylamide caused oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, as well as DNA and tissue damage in the kidneys. Melatonin treatment alleviated acrylamide-induced renal damage by exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti- apoptotic effects. Moreover, melatonin significantly ameliorated acrylamide-caused histopathological changes in kidney tissue.

Conclusions:

Melatonin attenuates acrylamide-induced renal oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and DNA damage in rats.
Naringenin suppresses NLRP3 inflammasome activation via the mRNA-208a signaling pathway in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction
Authors: Eldourghamy Ayman , Hossam Toka , Hussein Mohammed Abdalla , Abdel-Aziz Amal , El-masry Samir A.
Published: October 2023

Objective:

To investigate the cardioprotective effect of naringenin against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiotoxicity in rats.

Methods:

Rats were divided into five groups: the normal group, the ISO group (85 mg/kg b.w.); the ISO+naringenin (50 mg/kg b.w.) group, the ISO+naringenin (100 mg/kg b.w.) group and the ISO+propranolol (10 mg/kg b.w.) group. Plasma creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), cardiac troponin T, lactate dehydrogenase, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), and IL-10, as well as cardiac transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were examined. In addition, NLRP3 and mRNA-208a expressions were evaluated by RT-PCR analysis. Histopathological examination was also performed to assess cardiac damages.

Results:

Naringenin treatment significantly decreased plasma lactate dehydrogenase, CK-MB, cardiac troponin T, BNP, and IL-10, as well as cardiac TGF-β1, VEGF, and MDA while increasing p-Akt and superoxide dismutase in ISO-administered rats. It also reduced NLRP3 and mRNA-208a gene expression levels. Furthermore, naringenin improved ISO-induced cardiac damage.

Conclusions:

Naringenin attenuates myocardial dysfunction in ISO-treated rats by decreasing oxidative stress and increasing cardiac endogenous antioxidant system, which may be modulated partly by improvement of NLRP3 and mRNA-208a gene expression.
A Retrospective Comparative Study in Patients with SUNA and SUNCT
Authors: Prakash Sanjay , Vadodaria Varoon , Patel Harsh , Rana Kaushik , Shah Chetsi
Published: October 2023

Introduction:

Short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT) and short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with cranial autonomic symptoms (SUNA) are rare primary headache disorders.

Aim:

The aim of the study is to describe and compare the clinical characteristics of patients with SUNA and SUNCT.

Methods:

Patients with SUNCT or SUNA observed in a neurology clinic of a tertiary hospital in India between January 2017 and December 2022 were evaluated.

Results:

Thirteen patients with SUNA (seven female, 54%) and 16 patients with SUNCT (nine female, 56%) were identified for the evaluation. The mean ages at the onset of SUNA and SUNCT were 36.8.5 ± 8.1 years and 37.2 ± 8.4 years, respectively. The age of onset in our patients was somewhat younger than that of other large series. The demographic and clinical features of SUNA patients were comparable to those of SUNCT patients. Orbital/retro-orbital area was the most common site of pain in both types of headaches. The pattern of pain was noted as single stab (in all patients), repetitive stabs (SUNA vs. SUNCT: 77% vs. 75%), and sawtooth patterns (SUNA vs. SUNCT: 23% vs. 25%). The majority of attacks in both groups lasted less than two minutes. Conjunctival injection and tearing were present in all SUNCT patients (as a part of the diagnostic criteria). The prevalence of conjunctival injection and tearing in SUNA was 46% and 31%, respectively. All patients reported spontaneous attacks. Triggers were reported in seven (54%) patients with SUNA and nine (56%) with SUNCT. Only one patient in each group had a refractory period following a trigger-induced episode. Two patients in the SUNCT group had compression of the trigeminal nerve by a vascular loop.

Conclusion:

This is the largest case series from India. There were no significant differences between patients with SUNA and SUNCT.