bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Historical Analysis of Pan-Islamism in Sindh during Collapse of the Ottoman Empire
Authors: Rasool Ghulam , Keerio Tarique Hussain , - Faisal
Published: February 2024

Pan Islam in Sindh played a vital role as a radical wave of the time. First World War was an outcome that significantly awakened Indian Muslims during the Ottoman Collapse. It aimed to unite Muslims of the world under Ottomans' rule against Westernization, promoting the followers of Islam converting to Pan-Islamic sentiments. Besides, Pan-Islamism and actual Islam differ to the core in concepts and even played a role in the historical events that unfolded in the Indian Subcontinent,which emerged as a parallel movement to the Indian Khilafat movement. Moreover, the research paper aims to analyze the role of Pan-Islamism in Indian politics with special reference to Sindh during the Ottoman dissolution, the Muslim Pious Saltant. Hence, the present study's findings would unlock the lanes for investigators, literate, disciplined, and others. Lastly, the proposed research underpins accentuating the contemporary history works on account of modern Sindh, the British colonial period.
Unveiling Language Hurdles: Exploring Errors in Written English Paragraphs by Secondary School English Learners
Authors: Akbar Komal , Atta Aqsa , Awan Alia
Published: February 2024

This study examines error analysis in written English paragraphs by secondary school-level English learners. It focuses on 20 participants from Government Girls High School Sambrial, Sialkot, shedding light on their challenges. These learners from the English group navigate a linguistic landscape where English is not their primary mode of communication. Using Chanquoy's (2001) framework, the study categorizes errors in the learners' written paragraphs. It reveals challenges in spelling,capitalization, prepositions, verbs, and sentence structure, with the most common error being improper usage of English articles. The study offers tangible suggestions and recommendations to empower EFL instructors in addressing the hurdles faced by English language learners. It aims to unlock their potential for confident expression in English. This research invites the scholarly community to delve into language acquisition and error analysis. Addressing challenges faced by secondary school English learners, it aims to enhance education, empowering the new generation to thrive in an interconnected world.
Prospective Teachers' Perceptions and Experiences with Grading Rubrics: A Survey Study
Authors: Mir Tayyaba Tariq , Arif Amna
Published: February 2024

Grading rubrics are valuable tools in education that clarify expectations, facilitate transparent grading, improve self-regulation, and increase learning outcomes. This paper explores the use and impact of grading rubrics from the perspective of prospective teachers, reviewing literature, research, and a survey. The survey was done with 400 prospective teachers from 4 universities in Lahore, and each of them filled out a questionnaire about their thoughts and experiences with rubrics.The findings of this survey are included in the paper as well. This work contributes to the existing body of research on the use of rubrics in education by giving a detailed and critical evaluation of the research that has already been conducted, as well as by presenting fresh empirical data from the viewpoint of prospective teachers, thus intending to stimulate more research and practice on grading rubrics in the field of education.
An Investigation into the Effectiveness of Metacognitive Skills Development Training at University Level
Authors: Afzal Ashfaq , Ali Muhammad Shahid Zulfiqar , - Samreen
Published: February 2024

This was an experimental study that has been conducted while taking BS Physics students from a Public sector university based in Lahore. The independent variable for the study was the Metacognitive skills development strategy (Thinking Aloud) enhanced with Cooperative Learning whereas the students' Metacognitive skills were the dependent variable. The sample (two groups, comprising 35 students in each) for the study has been selected with the help of Convenient Sampling. One of them was the experimental whereas the other was a controlled group. The Quasi-Experimental nonequivalent pretest-posttest control group design was used for the conduction of this research. The researcher used a performance test named "Metacognitive Skills Assessment Tool" (MSAT) adapted from (Ali, Siddiqui, & Tatlah, 2020) for the data collection. The results show that the intervention has a considerable impact on the development of university students' metacognitive abilities.
Narrative Building in Politics: A Critical Analysis of Imran Khan's Selected Discourse
Authors: Arif Fatima , Khan Muhammad Akbar , Haider Ali
Published: February 2024

This paper aims to shed light on narrative building in politics. It explores how Former Prime Minister, Imran Khan built his political narrative and consequently got unrivalled popularity in his country. It also investigates Imran Khan's linguistic strategies used for building his political narrative since the early days of his political party. This study is qualitative and narrative analysis has been done on the selected excerpts from the speeches by Imran Khan to understand how he built such a powerful narrative that changed the political views and perception of the masses. The study also reveals that Mr Khan has manipulated his usage of language to influence the minds of his countrymen. Hero-card and the space left by his opponents both helped him to succeed in making his incomparable place in Pakistani politics.
Impact of Head Teachers' Transformational Style on Students Achievements
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Ullah Shamim , Ahmad Rizwan
Published: February 2024

This research was done to explore the head teachers’ transformational leadership style, to see its impact on students’ achievement. The descriptive quantitative and survey approach was applied to conduct this research. The data were attained from secondary school teachers about the transformational leadership style of their heads through a five-point questionnaire. The matriculation results of students from sampled schools were also taken to see the effect of the head's leadership style on students' achievements. The purposive sampling method was used to collect data. Eight representative schools were selected from the district Lahore cantonment area and fifteen teachers were selected from each school to collect data and analyse SPSS. The data is presented in frequency distribution tables. Descriptive and influential statistics were applied to infer from data. It revealed that school heads with transformational leadership styles and strict rules regulations clear goals and values had a high effect on students’ achievements.
Cultural Assimilation Leading to Third Space Identity: A Postcolonial Analysis of The Reluctant Fundamentalist
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Khan Umair Ahmed , Abbasi Shozab Ali Raza
Published: February 2024

The present paper analyzes the novel ‘The Reluctant Fundamentalist’ (2007) from the postcolonial perspective in terms of Cultural Assimilation and Third Space Identity. Postcolonial theory features cultural hybridity and conflictive and conflated identities with a specific focus on theorists like Frantz Fanon’s ‘The Wretched of the Earth’ (1961), Edward Said’s, ‘Orientalism’ (1978) and Homi K. Bhabha’s 8‘Location of Culture’(1994). In the postcolonial context, cultural assimilation refers to cultural domination where the dominant culture seeks to erase indigenous culture and identity, whereas the Third Space Identity is the in-between space where cultural identities are hybridized. In ‘The Reluctant Fundamentalist’ Pakistani expatriate, Changes is filled to the brim with the issue of an identity crisis. After 9/11 he questions his American Dream when he experiences the prejudice of Americans against Muslims. The paper will explore the theme of identity consciousness and crisis that leads to hybridization in the selected text by applying postcolonial theory. The focus of the study will be on Cultural assimilation and Third Space identity and will examine ‘The Reluctant Fundamentalist’ the in pre and post-9/11 literary and socio-political milieu.
Developing Administration Competencies of Educational Managers in Services Teachers-Training Program QAED Punjab: A Case Study
Authors: Abbas Muhammad , Rehman Raza Ur , Arif Muhammad
Published: February 2024

Through in-service teachers' training program administration competencies among educational managers, increased efficacy in the study delves into the realm of educational management.The aim of this study was to deal with administration, decision-making, resource allocation, team management, and conflict resolution. This case study is a qualitative and exploratory analysis of the experiences and transformations undergone by educational managers in the QAED Teachers-Training Program approach to explore this program's effectiveness and outcomes in enhancing educational managers' administrative skills. The study's methodology involves in-depth interviews of fifteen participants with a select group of educational managers who have participated in the QAED, promotion-linked training program. Themes are extracted using thematic analysis to discern patterns in their responses. By fostering administration competencies, the QAED Teachers-Training Program can contribute to the enhancement of educational management practices in Punjab. In conclusion, this exploratory study offers valuable insights into the development of administration competencies through this program.
Fractional Order Fault Tolerant Control - A Survey
Authors: Ladaci Samir , Benchaita Hamza
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a comprehensive review of recent advances and trends regarding Fractional Order Fault Tolerant Control (FOFTC) design is presented. This novel robust control approach has been emerging in the last decade and is still gathering great research efforts mainly because of its promising results and outcomes. The purpose of this study is to provide a useful overview for researchers interested in developing this interesting solution for plants that are subject to faults and disturbances with an obligation for a maintained performance level. Throughout the paper, the various works related to FOFTC in literature are categorized first by considering their research objective between fault detection with diagnosis and fault tolerance with accommodation, and second by considering the nature of the studied plants depending on whether they are modelized by integer order or fractional order models. One of the main drawbacks of these approaches lies in the increase in complexity associated with introducing the fractional operators, their approximation and especially during the stability analysis. A discussion on the main disadvantages and challenges that face this novel fractional order robust control research field is given in conjunction with motivations for its future development. This study provides a simulation example for the application of a FOFTC against actuator faults in a Boeing 747 civil transport aircraft is provided to illustrate the efficiency of such robust control strategies.
Exploring Blockchain Data Analysis and Its Communications Architecture: Achievements, Challenges, and Future Directions: A Review Article
Authors: M. Marhoon Hamzah , Basil Noorulden , Ma'arif Alfian
Published: February 2024

Blockchain technology is relatively young but has the potential to disrupt several industries. Since the emergence of Bitcoin, also known as Blockchain 1.0, there has been significant interest in this technology. The introduction of Ethereum, or Blockchain 2.0, has expanded the types of data that can be stored on blockchain networks. The increasing popularity of blockchain technology has given rise to new challenges, such as user privacy and illicit financial activities, but has also facilitated technical advancements. Blockchain technology utilizes cryptographic hashes of user input to record transactions. The public availability of blockchain data presents a unique opportunity for academics to analyze it and gain a better understanding of the challenges in blockchain communications. Researchers have never had access to such an opportunity before. Therefore, it is crucial to highlight the research problems, accomplishments, and potential trends and challenges in blockchain network data analysis and communications. This article aims to examine and summarize the field of blockchain data analysis and communications. The review encompasses the fundamental data types, analytical techniques, architecture, and operations related to blockchain networks. Seven research challenges are addressed: entity recognition, privacy, risk analysis, network visualization, network structure, market impact, and transaction pattern recognition. The latter half of this section discusses future research directions, opportunities, and challenges based on previous research limitations.
Finding and Tracking Automobiles on Roads for Self-Driving Car Systems
Authors: Farag Wael , Abouelela Mohamed , Helal Magdy
Published: February 2024

Road-object detection, recognition, and tracking are vital tasks that must be performed reliably and accurately by self-driving car systems in order to achieve the automation/autonomy goal. Other vehicles are one of the main objects that the egocar must accurately detect and track on the road. However, deep-learning approaches proved their effectiveness at the expense of very demanding computational power and low throughput. They must be deployed on expensive CPUs and GPUs. Thus, in this work, a lightweight vehicle detection and tracking technique (LWVDT) is suggested to fit low-cost CPUs without sacrificing robustness, speed, or comprehension. The LWVDT is suitable for deployment in both advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) functions and autonomous-car subsystems. The implementation is a sequence of computer-vision techniques fused together and merged with machine-learning procedures to strengthen each other and streamline execution. The algorithm details and their execution are revealed in detail. The LWVDT processes raw RGB camera pictures to generate vehicle boundary boxes and tracks them from frame to frame. The performance of the proposed pipeline is assessed using real road camera images and video recordings under different circumstances and lighting/shading conditions. Moreover, it is also tested against the well-known KITTI database, achieving an average accuracy of 87%.
Study on Viral Transmission Impact on Human Population Using Fractional Order Zika Virus Model
Authors: Palanisami Dhanalakshmi , Elango Shrilekha
Published: February 2024

This work comprises the spread of Zika virus between humans and mosquitoes as a mathematical simulation under fractional order, which also incorporates the asymptotically infected human population. For determining the solution of the model the fuzzy Laplace transform technique is utilized. By combining fuzzy logic with the Laplace transform, we can analyze systems even when we lack precise information. Further, the sensitivity analysis is performed to validate the model. On top of that the population dynamics of both human and mosquito populations are discussed using numerical data and the graphical result of the model is presented. The main objective of this work is to study the dynamics of the Zika virus and to examine the effect of virus on humans when the transmission occurs between humans and from mosquitoes, under fractional order. The outcome of these comparisons suggests that even by reducing a minute fractional part of transmission through mosquitoes results in a greater reduction of Zika exposed population. The comparisons improve the understanding of fractional level transmission resulting in more effective drug administration to patients. The Hyers-Ulam stability method is a mathematical technique used to study the stability of functional equations. Eventually, Ulam Hyers and Ulam Hyers Rassias stability are employed to assess the stability of the proposed model.
Backstepping Controller for Mobile Robot in Presence of Disturbances and Uncertainties
Authors: Hassani Imen , Rekik Chokri
Published: February 2024

The objective of this work is to devise an effective control system for addressing the trajectory tracking challenge in nonholonomic mobile robots. Two primary control approaches, namely kinematic and dynamic strategies, are explored to achieve this goal. In the kinematic control domain, a backstepping controller (BSC) is introduced as the core element of the control system. The BSC is utilized to guide the mobile robot along the desired trajectory, leveraging the robot’s kinematic model. To address the limitations of the kinematic control approach, a dynamic control strategy is proposed, incorporating the dynamic parameters of the robot. This dynamic control ensures real-time control of the mobile robot. To ensure the stability of the control system, the Lyapunov stability theory is employed, providing a rigorous framework for analyzing and proving stability. Additionally, to optimize the performance of the control system, a genetic algorithm is employed to design an optimal control law. The effectiveness of the developed control approach is demonstrated through simulation results. These results showcase the enhanced performance and efficiency achieved by the proposed control strategies. Overall, this study presents a comprehensive and robust approach for trajectory tracking in nonholonomic mobile robots, combining kinematic and dynamic control strategies while ensuring stability and performance optimization.
Wireless Sensor Networks Fault Detection and Identification
Authors: Selmic Rastko R. , Scoggin Jake , Oonk Stephen , Maldonado Francisco
Published: February 2024

We have developed and experimentally tested a set of models for the detection and identification of sensor faults that commonly occur in wireless sensor networks. Considered faults include outlier, spike, variance, high-frequency noise, offset, gain, and drift faults. These faults affect the system operations and can endanger operators, final users, and the general public. The fault detection models are divided into two classes: data-centric models, which only analyze a single data stream, and system-centric models, which consider the overall system. For data-centric models, we use the magnitude, the gradient, and the variance of raw sensor data to model faults. For system-centric models, we introduce variogram-based techniques that allow faults to be detected by comparing readings from multiple sensors that measure related phenomena. For data-centric and system-centric sensor fault detection, we show how a few model parameters affect the sensitivity of wireless sensor network fault models. We present simulation and experimental results that illustrate the fault detection and identification models. The system is intended for health monitoring applications of the NASA Stennis Space Center (SSC) test stands and widely distributed support systems, including pressurized gas lines, propellant delivery systems, and water coolant lines. The testbed consists of Coremicro® reconfigurable embedded smart sensor nodes [29] capable of wireless communication, a network-capable application processor, a wireless base station, the software that supports sensor and actuator health monitoring, a database server, and a smartphone running a health monitoring Android application.
Real-Time Obstacle Detection for Unmanned Surface Vehicle Maneuver
Authors: Handayani Anik Nur , Pusparani Ferina Ayu , Lestari Dyah , Wirawan I Made , Wibawa Aji Prasetya , Fukuda Osamu
Published: February 2024

The rapid advancement and increasing demand for Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) technology have drawn considerable attention in various sectors, including commercial, research, and military, particularly in marine and shallow water applications. USVs have the potential to revolutionize monitoring systems in remote areas while reducing labor costs. One critical requirement for USVs is their ability to autonomously integrate Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) technology, enabling self-reliant operation without constant human oversight. However, current study for USV shown the use of traditional method using color detection which is inadequate to detect object with unstable lighting condition. This study addresses the challenge of enabling Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs) to operate with minimal human intervention by enhancing their object detection and classification capabilities. In dynamic environments, such as water surfaces, accurate and rapid object recognition is essential. To achieve this, we focus on the implementation of deep learning algorithms, including the YOLO algorithm, to empower USVs with informed navigation decision-making capabilities. Our research contributes to the field of robotics by designing an affordable USV prototype capable of independent operation characterized by precise object detection and classification. By bridging the gap between advanced visualization techniques and autonomous USV technology, we envision practical applications in remote monitoring and marine operations with object detection. This paper presents the initial phase of our research, emphasizing significance of deep learning algorithms for enhancing USV navigation and decision-making in dynamic environmental conditions, resulting in mAP of 99.51%, IoU of 87.80%, error value of the YOLOv4-tiny image processing algorithm is 0.1542.
Finite-Time Synchronization of the Rabinovich and Rabinovich-Fabrikant Chaotic Systems for Different Evolvable Parameters
Authors: Umoh Edwin A. , Ma'arif Alfian , Tola Omokhafe J. , Suwarno Iswanto , Umar Muhammed N.
Published: February 2024

This paper addresses the challenge of synchronizing the dynamics of two distinct 3D chaotic systems, specifically the Rabinovich and Rabinovich-Fabrikant systems, employing a finite-time synchronization approach. These chaotic systems exhibit diverse characteristics and evolving chaotic attractors, influenced by specific parameters and initial conditions. Our proposed low-cost finite-time synchronization method leverages the signum function's tracking properties to facilitate controlled coupling within a finite time frame. The design of finite-time control laws is rooted in Lyapunov stability criteria and lemmas. Numerical experiments conducted within the MATLAB simulation environment demonstrate the successful asymptotic synchronization of the master and slave systems within finite time. To assess the global robustness of our control scheme, we applied it across various system parameters and initial conditions. Remarkably, our results reveal consistent synchronization times and dynamics across these different scenarios. In summary, this study presents a finite-time synchronization solution for non-identical 3D chaotic systems, showcasing the potential for robust and reliable synchronization under varying conditions.
Implementation of LoRa Wireless Communication in Smart Diabetic Shoes Design
Authors: Purwono Purwono , Burhan Asmat , Lutviana Lutviana
Published: February 2024

Diabetes is a widespread medical condition affecting a substantial portion of the global population. It is a metabolic disorder known as diabetes mellitus, characterized by severe fluctuations in blood glucose levels due to inadequate insulin production in the human body. The effective monitoring of diabetes is of paramount importance to researchers as it holds the potential to enhance the quality of healthcare services. Among the challenges faced by individuals with diabetes, one prevalent issue is the development of ulcers, which can be challenging to detect promptly. Technological advancements offer a promising avenue for cost-effective and continuous monitoring of chronic diseases like diabetes. This study centers on the development of IoT-based intelligent diabetic footwear that incorporates pressure sensors and temperature monitoring for individuals with diabetic feet. In the evaluation of SX1278 (Ra-02) Lora Module communication, deployed at eight different locations, it was observed that two of these points achieved a flawless transmission success rate of 100%. Conversely, the communication failed at points 6 and 7, with a success rate falling below 50%. Some of these failures can be attributed to signal obstructions, including natural elements such as trees and terrain, as well as man-made structures like buildings and machinery workshops, which hinder the efficient transmission of signals from the end node to the gateway. The results of this research provide positive implications in the form of developing IoT-based diabetes shoes that can be applied with alternative Lora communication connections in areas with poor internet signal.
Analysis Of Nursing Care In Schizophrenic Patients With Chronic Low Self-Esteem Through Hortikultural Therapy At Rsj Prof. Dr. Soerodjo Magelang
Authors: Ristanti Revi Nur
Published: February 2024

Background : Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that is chronic and requires antipsychotic treatment for a long time or even a lifetime (Julacha et al. 2022). One of the nursing problems in Schizophrenic patients encountered is low self-esteem. Low self-esteem is a personal assessment of the results achieved by analyzing how far the behavior meets the ideal self. Long-lasting low self-esteem in the absence of therapeutic intervention can lead to identity chaos and eventually personalization. So it is necessary to make a promotive effort.Purpose : To explain the application of horticultural therapy to improve self-esteem in schizophrenic patients with chronic low self-esteem.Method : Using a case study of the application of horticultural therapy in 3 patients with chronic low self-esteem. The location of the case study was carried out at Wisma Dwarawati RSJ Prof. Dr. Soedjono Magelang. Selection of case study subjects according to inclusion criteria. Data collection was carried out through a therapeutic approach to patients, observation, and measurement of low self-esteem levels using the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale (RSES) instrument. Implementation was carried out for three meetings for 60 minutes.Discussion : Based on research by Krissanti et al. (2019) revealed that occupational gardening therapy can reduce the level of low self-esteem disorders. Recommendations : Efforts in implementing low self-esteem patients with horticultural therapy can affect the level of self-esteem in patients to fall. So that it can be used as a guideline for health workers to provide implementation of structural activity therapy with horticultural therapy in patients with intense chronic low self-esteem.Keywords : Schizophrenia, Low Self-Esteem, Horticultural Therapy
Mechanical behavior of fiber-glass plastic with hole pattern using digital image correlation and acoustic emission methods
Authors: Strungar Elena , Lobanov Dmitrii , Chebotareva Ekaterina , Kochneva Yaroslava
Published: February 2024

In this paper, tensile tests of specimens with a pattern of holes made of fiber-glass plastic based on combined epoxy and phenol-formaldehyde resins are carried out in order to study the processes of damage accumulation and tension fracture. The Vic-3D video system is used to evaluate damage development and inhomogeneity of strain localization during loading. Continuous recording of acoustic emission signals is carried out during the tests, resulting in obtaining data on fracture mechanisms in the material. Ranges of peak frequencies are identified. Surface analysis of specimens was carried out using a microscope. A significant reduction in strength occurs due to the presence of a circular hole in the material, although additional holes do not exacerbate this effect. Fracture patterns of specimens with a hole pattern have been analyzed, and different "paths" of fracture have been observed. The comparison of strain fields obtained on the basis of application of three-dimensional digital optical system with the configuration of strain fields constructed as a result of numerical modeling by the finite element method has been carried out. It is found that the strain fields for different open hole patterns are quantitatively and qualitatively similar and identical.
Evolution of prototyping in automotive engineering: a Comprehensive Study on the reliability of Additive Manufacturing for advanced powertrain components
Authors: Cecchel Silvia , Ferraresi Riccardo , Magni Matteo , Guerini Leonardo , Cornacchia Giovanna
Published: February 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) could be used to reduce the production times of prototypes; however, further research is required to address metals structural parts. To obtain the correct properties, some relevant factors to be considered are the build volume, shape factor, and the need for specific heat treatments. This study aims to evaluate the reliability of AM prototypes applied at a new powertrain system developed to reduce vehicle emissions. Firstly, it was investigated the mechanical behavior, microstructure, and the effect of sample size and heat treatments on both specimens and prototypes made of AM 17-4PH steel. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was performed to evaluate the structural resistance. Finally, the prototypes were produced, analyzed, and tested on a functional engine test bench to evaluate their reliability. The mechanical properties decreased with an increase in the sample volume. After heat treatment, the yield strength increased, due to the transformation of δ-ferrite in martensite and the reduction of retained austenite. The engine test bench was successfully completed. The conclusions set the basis for similar future applications of time-effective prototypes that can be dimensioned owing to appositely developed postprocesses that guarantee the required resistance.
In-Plane Mixed-Mode Brittle Fracture Assessment of Harsin Marble Using HCSP Specimen
Authors: Salavati Hadi , Moqadaszadeh Zuhair , Rashidi Mogaddam Morteza
Published: February 2024

The primary objective of this manuscript is studying the effect of T-stress term (T) on the crack propagation angle (CPA) and fracture toughness of in-plane mixed mode loading by utilizing a generalized form of minimum strain energy density (SED) criterion. The generalized criterion considers the influence of the first non-singular term of the Williams stress field as well as the conventional stress intensity factors (SIFs). A specimen known as a holed-cracked square plate (HCSP) composed of white Harsin marble is used for a wide range of in-plane mixed-mode fracture studies. HCSP is a square plate containing two cracks that are placed along each other in the circumference of a hole at the center of the specimen. The experimental results from mixed-mode fracture test by using proposed geometry are then compared with the results obtained theoretically from the conventional and generalized form of SED. It is demonstrated that the generalized criterion which includes the T, is substantially in agreement with the experimentally observed in-plane mixed-mode fracture results when compared to the SED criterion.
Machining effects and multi-objective optimization in Inconel 718 turning with unitary and hybrid nanofluids under MQL
Authors: Chinchanikar Satish , Kulkarni Paresh
Published: February 2024

Designing tooling and cooling systems to prevent cutting tool damage is crucial while machining difficult-to-cut nickel alloys. This study investigates the machining effects during turning Inconel 718 using unitary aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and hybrid aluminum oxide+multi-walled carbon nanotube type (Al2O3+MWCNT) nanofluids under minimum quantity lubrication (NFMQL) through mathematical modeling and multi-objective optimization. The worn-out tools were analyzed for damage and wear mechanisms through images captured using optical and scanning electron microscopes. The study indicates that hybrid nanofluids outperform unitary nanofluids, which could be attributed to the better lubricating and cooling capabilities of MWCNT and the higher surface tension and thermal conductivity of Al2O3 nanoparticles. The cutting parameters were optimized by combining the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) and genetic algorithm. The study reveals an average error of less than 10% between experimental and predicted responses from the proposed optimization model. This study found lower cutting force up to 80 N, surface roughness of 0.6–0.7 µm, and tool life over 10 minutes with a cutting speed of 50–70 m/min and a lower feed and depth of cut of 0.1 mm/rev and 0.2 mm, respectively, using a hybrid Al2O3+MWCNT nanofluid under NFMQL conditions.
An investigation of cracks caused by concrete shrinkage and temperature difference in common reinforced concrete bridge structures.
Authors: Nguyen Van-Hau
Published: February 2024

Cracking phenomena commonly occur in reinforced concrete structures of bridge and culvert components. While some bridge design standards, such as the AASHTO LRFD standard from America, allow for the presence of cracks, they do not provide direct quantitative limits on permissible crack widths. This research analyzes the crack formation mechanism of reinforced concrete structures under the influence of shrinkage and temperature loading, using the "tension-chord" model from the fib MODEL CODE. The research findings demonstrate that despite the steel reinforcement adequately arranged to resist shrinkage and temperature, as per American bridge design standards, cracks frequently occur with widths that may exceed the allowable limits specified in the fib MODEL CODE. The main reason is the inadequate control of concrete construction temperature, especially for large-sized concrete structures. Other findings are: with the same steel ratio, using small diameter reinforcement can significantly reduce the crack width compared to larger ones; Increasing the steel ratio can reduce the crack width but increases the susceptibility to cracking; Crack does not occur immediately after maintenance completion but after a period ranging from several days to several months; Crack width due to concrete shrinkage and temperature changes is typically 0.3mm but may reaches to 0.7mm due to high hydration heat of large sizes structures.
Improving Mass Gathering Management Using Process Mining Techniques
Authors: Alharbi Amirah
Published: February 2024

Crowd management is a significant topic especially for countries that support gathering events frequently. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia hosts and manages one of the world class annual religious gatherings known as “pilgrimage”. Several challenges are raised for managing and controlling such mass gathering event. In this paper we propose a comprehensive framework for event processes modelling and management. The framework consists of four main stages starts with acquiring temporal data and ends by modelling different processes of the event. The main contribution of this work is to demonstrate how process mining techniques can be used innovatively to model the movement flow of crowd. Synthetic data is used to show a proof-of-concept of the proposed framework and the applicability of using it in modelling and monitoring real crowd movement scenarios.
Simulation Model for Economic Analysis of Shore Power Technique
Authors: Fu Rong , Li Jialing , Zhu Jia , Yu Jie , Han Jin , Tang Yifan
Published: February 2024

Maritime vessels utilizing shore power while docked offer significant potential for substantial reduction of exhaust emissions, consequently mitigating atmospheric pollution within port environs. However, the substantial initial investment costs associated with constructing shore power infrastructure and retrofitting vessels with shore power access equipment pose a substantial challenge, as the short-term economic returns are not readily apparent. This unfavorable aspect significantly impedes the widespread adoption of shore power technology. Furthermore, dynamic factors such as government subsidy policies, environmental mandates for maritime vessels, electricity pricing, fuel costs, and port queuing strategies exert direct influence over the economic returns of shore power systems, thereby introducing significant complexities into the comprehensive evaluation of their economic viability.In response to these challenges, this paper presents a simulation model designed to replicate the behaviors of vessels, shore power facilities, and dynamic factors. This model offers a detailed estimation of the economic benefits of shore power systems throughout their entire lifecycle under various operational strategies. The simulation model is implemented using the Anylogic tool. The results indicate that the simulation outcomes over the past three years closely align with actual data, thus affirming the reliability of the model. The simulation model serves as a valuable decision-making tool for vessel operators, shore power stakeholders, and governmental authorities. It is conducive to the promotion of shore power adoption and enables the projection of the economic benefits of shore power systems over a defined time horizon.
Performance evaluation of homogenization techniques for proximity losses in PCB coils applied to inductive devices
Authors: Narváez Alexis , Carretero Claudio , Acero Jesús
Published: February 2024

Energy efficiency is the primary objective in optimal design of inductive power components. This goal is totally aligned with the minimization of power losses in the coils. Typically, coils have been constructed by wire winding but, more recently, the utilization of printed circuit board (PCB) constructions has become more common due to their advantages, i. e. low profile and ease of fabrication, among others. At the operating frequencies of magnetic power devices, multi-conductor cabling with litz structure is required to reduce losses. PCB loss optimization procedure involves determining the number and size of the tracks. Numerical simulation is a very powerful tool to obtain the parameters of magnetic devices. However, including the internal structure of multi-track wiring in the numerical simulation implies a very high computational cost and a low accuracy of the results, because the size of the tracks is very small. Techniques of homogenization of the cabling are used to overcome such difficulty, disregarding the internal structure in order to determine the fields in the system and their electrical equivalent by means of computational simulation. The coil losses are further determined on the basis of the characteristics of the cabling as well as of the surrounding fields. The preceding procedure has proven to be suitable for cables composed of strands of circular cross-section, but should be adjusted to apply to tracks of rectangular cross-section. In this paper, different homogenization techniques for PCB coils have been proposed and evaluated. A highly symmetric reference system is selected to reduce the computational cost of numerical modeling, but the conclusions can be applied to more complicated geometries without loss of generality. Finally, the results of the different homogenization techniques have been validated by comparison with experimental results.
The IAAM LTBP4 Haplotype is Protective Against Dystrophin-Deficient Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Bello Luca , Sabbatini Daniele , Fusto Aurora , Gorgoglione Domenico , Borin Giovanni Umberto , Penzo Martina , Riguzzi Pietro , Villa Matteo , Vianello Sara , Calore Chiara , Melacini Paola , Vio Riccardo , Barp Andrea , D’Angelo Grazia , Gandossini Sandra , Politano Luisa , Berardinelli Angela , Messina Sonia , Vita Gian Luca , Pedemonte Marina , Bruno Claudio , Albamonte Emilio , Sansone Valeria , Baranello Giovanni , Masson Riccardo , Astrea Guja , D’Amico Adele , Bertini Enrico , Pane Marika , Lucibello Simona , Mercuri Eugenio , Spurney Christopher , Clemens Paula , Morgenroth Lauren , Gordish-Dressman Heather , McDonald Craig M. , Hoffman Eric P. ,   CINRG-DNHS Investigators, Pegoraro Elena
Published: February 2024

Background:

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a major complication of, and leading cause of mortality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Its severity, age at onset, and rate of progression display wide variability, whose molecular bases have been scarcely elucidated. Potential DCM-modifying factors include glucocorticoid (GC) and cardiological treatments, DMD mutation type and location, and variants in other genes.

Methods and Results:

We retrospectively collected 3138 echocardiographic measurements of left ventricular ejection fraction (EF), shortening fraction (SF), and end-diastolic volume (EDV) from 819 DMD participants, 541 from an Italian multicentric cohort and 278 from the Cooperative International Neuromuscular Group Duchenne Natural History Study (CINRG-DNHS). Using generalized estimating equation (GEE) models, we estimated the yearly rate of decrease of EF (–0.80%) and SF (–0.41%), while EDV increase was not significantly associated with age. Utilizing a multivariate generalized estimating equation (GEE) model we observed that mutations preserving the expression of the C-terminal Dp71 isoform of dystrophin were correlated with decreased EDV (–11.01 mL/m2, p = 0.03) while for dp116 were correlated with decreased EF (–4.14%, p = <0.001). The rs10880 genotype in the LTBP4 gene, previously shown to prolong ambulation, was also associated with increased EF and decreased EDV (+3.29%, p = 0.002, and –10.62 mL/m2, p = 0.008) with a recessive model.

Conclusions:

We quantitatively describe the progression of systolic dysfunction progression in DMD, confirm the effect of distal dystrophin isoform expression on the dystrophin-deficient heart, and identify a strong effect of LTBP4 genotype of DCM in DMD.
Kinematic Effects of Combined Subthalamic and Dorsolateral Nigral Deep Brain Stimulation in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kroneberg Daniel , Al-Fatly Bassam , Morkos Cornelia , Steiner Leon Amadeus , Schneider Gerd-Helge , Kühn A.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Additional stimulation of the substantia nigra (SNr) has been proposed to target axial symptoms and gait impairment in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Objective:

This study aimed to characterize effects of combined deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and SNr on gait performance in PD and to map stimulation sites within the SNr.

Methods:

In a double-blinded crossover design, 10 patients with PD and gait impairment underwent clinical examination and kinematic assessment with STN DBS, combined STN+SNr DBS and OFF DBS 30 minutes after reprogramming. To confirm stimulation within the SNr, electrodes, active contacts, and stimulation volumes were modeled in a common space and overlap with atlases of SNr was computed.

Results:

Overlap of stimulation volumes with dorsolateral SNr was confirmed for all patients. UPDRS III, scoring of freezing during turning and transitioning, stride length, stride velocity, and range of motion of shank, knee, arm, and trunk as well as peak velocities during turning and transitions and turn duration were improved with STN DBS compared to OFF. On cohort level, no further improvement was observed with combined STN+SNr DBS but additive improvement of spatiotemporal gait parameters was observed in individual subjects.

Conclusions:

Combined high frequency DBS of the STN and dorsolateral SNr did not consistently result in additional short-term kinematic or clinical benefit compared to STN DBS. Stimulation intervals, frequency, and patient selection for target symptoms as well as target region within the SNr need further refinement in future trials.
DRD3 Predicts Cognitive Impairment and Anxiety in Parkinson’s Disease: Susceptibility and Protective Effects
Authors: Gonçalves Alexandra , Mendes Alexandre , Damásio Joana , Vila-Chã Nuno , Boleixa Daniela , Leal Bárbara , Cavaco Sara
Published: February 2024

Background:

A possible genetic contribution of dopamine D3 receptor (DRD3) to cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease (PD) has yet to be investigated.

Objective:

To explore the effects of rs6280 (Ser9Gly) genotype on PD patients’ cognitive performance and to clarify possible interactions with psychopathology.

Methods:

Two hundred and fifty-three consecutive PD patients underwent neurological and neuropsychological evaluations, which included: Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), Hoehn & Yahr scale (H&Y), Dementia Rating Scale-2 (DRS-2), and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). rs6280 polymorphism was genotyped for all PD patients and for 270 ethnically matched healthy volunteers (HC). Non-parametric group comparisons and logistic regressions were used for data analyses.

Results:

rs6280 genotype did not differ between PD and HC groups. PD patients with rs6280 CC genotype had more impaired cognitive performance (i.e., <1st percentile of demographically adjusted norms) on DRS-2 subscales Initiation/Perseveration and Construction than those with TT genotype. These associations remained statistically significant when other covariates (e.g., demographic features, disease duration, severity of motor symptoms in OFF and ON states, anti-parkinsonian medication, and psychopathology symptoms) were taken into consideration. PD patients with rs6280 TC had less anxiety (i.e., HADS Anxiety≥11) than those with TT ( p = 0.012). This association was also independent of other covariates.

Conclusions:

Study findings suggest that rs6280 CC genotype predisposes to executive dysfunction and visuoconstructional deficits, whereas the heterozygous genotype protects from anxiety in PD. These effects do not appear to be dependent of one another. rs6280 is not a genotypic susceptibility factor for PD.
Molecularly Defined Renal Carcinomas
Authors: Amann-Arévalo Marta , Ballestín Martínez Pablo , Vidal Cassinello Natalia , Moreno Perez Ignacio , de la Torre-Serrano Montserrat , Puente Javier
Published: February 2024

RCC has witnessed a significant increase in its incidence over the last five decades, ranking as the ninth most common cancer globally. Although survival rates have improved substantially, RCC remains one of the deadliest urological cancers. Traditionally, RCC subtypes were classified based on histopathological features. However, in recent years, there has been a paradigm shift towards molecular and genomic characterization of RCC, leading to the recognition of distinct molecular subtypes.

The 2022 World Health Organization (WHO) classification introduced a new category called “molecularly defined renal carcinomas,” encompassing various subtypes, including SMARCB1-deficient medullary carcinoma, ALK-rearranged RCC, FH-deficient RCC, SDH-deficient RCC, ELOC-mutated RCC, TFEB-altered RCC, and TFE3-rearranged RCC.

These molecular subgroups have significant consequences for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. Molecularly defined RCCs are frequently underrepresented in clinical trials, encouraging additional research to identify beneficial therapeutics. Immune checkpoint inhibitors and tyrosine- kinase inhibitors have shown promising results in some subtypes, while others may benefit from specific inhibitors targeting their molecular drivers. Additionally, these classifications have important prognostic implications, guiding treatment decisions and genetic counseling.
Synthesis of selenium containing quinoline probe for superoxide sensing and its anticancer activity study
Authors: Salunke Shrikrishna T. , Shelar Divyesh S. , Salunkhe Snehal S. , Singh Pinky R. , Vaidya Shashikant P. , Manjare Sudesh T.
Published: February 2024

Herein, we have reported the highly effective use of the Knoevenagel condensation reaction to synthesize organoselenium containing quinoline-based probe. The probe was characterized by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Infra-Red spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The probe selectively detects KO2 with high sensitivity over other reactive oxygen species and biothiols. Photo-induced electron transfer process is responsible for fluorescence “turn-on” event through transformation of selenide to selenoxide. The probe reacted with KO2 in less than a second with lower detection limit (0.14μM). The probe have better anticancer potency as compared to standard drug Cisplatin.