bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear Impairment Compensation Using Transfer Learning-Assisted Convolutional Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory Neural Network for Coherent Optical Communication Systems
Authors: Luo Xueyuan , Bai Chenglin , Chi Xinyu , Xu Hengying , Fan Yaxuan , Yang Lishan , Qin Peng , Wang Zhiguo , Lv Xiuhua
Published: November 2022

By combining the nonlinear impairment features derived from the first-order perturbation theory, we propose a nonlinear impairment compensation (NLC) scheme based on the transfer learning-assisted convolutional bidirectional long short-term Memory (CNN-BiLSTM) neural network structure. When considering the correlation of nonlinear impairment between preceding and succeeding consecutive adjacent symbols on the current moment symbol and integrating the multidimensional feature extraction and time memory characteristics of CNN-BiLSTM, the nonlinear impairment information contained in the input feature can be fully utilized to accurately predict the nonlinear impairment showing significant compensation effect. Meanwhile, transfer learning (TL) is introduced to greatly reduce the complexity of the scheme on the basis of high compensation performance. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, we construct single-channel (SC) and 5-channel 28 GBaud polarization division multiplexing 16 quadrature amplitude modulation (PDM-16QAM)/85 GBaud PDM-64QAM simulation systems, and SC and 3-channel 28 GBaud PDM-16QAM experimental systems. The experimental results show that when compared with simple recurrent neural network (SRNN) NLC and DBP 20 steps per span (DBP20StPs), the Q-factor gain of our scheme is about 1 dB and 1.7 dB in the SC system, and about 1.1 dB and 1.5 dB in the 3-channel system at the optimal launch power, respectively. It is interesting to highlight that, by applying TL to the simulation and experimental systems, our scheme based on only 5% of the training samples can achieve compensation performance comparable to or higher quality than retraining at various launch powers.
Optical Design of an Integrated Paschen–Runge Spectrometer by Using a Multigrating Structure
Authors: Xia Guo , Zhang Long , Feng Zhiwei , Shi Wenjie , Gao Lin , Li Yanduo
Published: November 2022

An integrated direct-reading spectrometer scheme using seven concave gratings is proposed. At present, the optical design simulation has been completed, and the subsequent physical design may be carried out according to the simulation results. Ray-tracing software (Zemax) is used to divide the spectrum on the grating into seven bands, and an area array detector is used to receive the spectral signals simultaneously, which reduces the volume of the spectrometer and improves the spectral consistency. Using this method, a spectrometer covering 230–440 nm is designed, and the spectral resolution of the center wavelength corresponding to the seven grating windows of 230–260 nm, 260–290 nm, 290–320 nm, 320–350 nm, 350–380 nm, 380–410 nm, and 410–440 nm can reach 0.0974 nm, 0.0652 nm, 0.0361 nm, 0.0157 nm, 0.0838 nm, 0.0872 nm, and 0.1471 nm.
Wheat and Rice beyond Phenolic Acids: Genetics, Identification Database, Antioxidant Properties, and Potential Health Effects
Authors: Shahidi Fereidoon , Danielski Renan , Rhein Samantha Ottani , Meisel Lee A. , Fuentes Jocelyn , Speisky Hernan , Schwember Andrés R. , de Camargo Adriano Costa
Published: November 2022

Wheat and rice play a vital role in human nutrition and food security. A better understanding of the potential health benefits associated with consuming these cereals, combined with studies by plant scientists and food chemists to view the entire food value chain from the field, pre and post-harvest processing, and subsequent “fork” consumption, may provide the necessary tools to optimize wheat and rice production towards the goal of better human health improvement and food security, providing tools to better adapt to the challenges associated with climate change. Since the available literature usually focuses on only one food chain segment, this narrative review was designed to address the identities and concentration of phenolics of these cereal crops from a farm-to-fork perspective. Wheat and rice genetics, phenolic databases, antioxidant properties, and potential health effects are summarized. These cereals contain much more than phenolic acids, having significant concentrations of flavonoids (including anthocyanins) and proanthocyanidins in a cultivar-dependent manner. Their potential health benefits in vitro have been extensively studied. According to a number of in vivo studies, consumption of whole wheat, wheat bran, whole rice, and rice bran may be strategies to improve health. Likewise, anthocyanin-rich cultivars have shown to be very promising as functional foods
PGP-Bacterium Pseudomonas protegens Improves Bread Wheat Growth and Mitigates Herbicide and Drought Stress
Authors: Bakaeva Margarita , Chetverikov Sergey , Timergalin Maksim , Feoktistova Arina , Rameev Timur , Chetverikova Dar’ya , Kenjieva Aliya , Starikov Sergey , Sharipov Danil , Hkudaygulov Gaisar
Published: November 2022

The reaction of plants to simultaneous stress action and treatment with biological stimulants still remains poorly studied. Laboratory and field experiments have been conducted to study the growth and yield of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) of the variety Ekada 113; stress markers and quantitative ratios of phytohormones in plants under insufficient soil moisture; the effects of spraying with herbicide containing 2,4-D and dicamba and growth-stimulating bacterium Pseudomonas protegens DA1.2; and combinations of these factors. Under water shortage conditions, spraying plants with Chistalan reduced their growth compared to non-sprayed plants, which was associated with inhibition of root growth and a decrease in the content of endogenous auxins in the plants. Under conditions of combined stress, the treatment of plants with the strain P. protegens DA1.2 increased the IAA/ABA ratio and prevented inhibition of root growth by auxin-like herbicide, ensuring water absorption by the roots as well as increased transpiration. As a result, the content of malondialdehyde oxidative stress marker was reduced. Bacterization improved the water balance of wheat plants under arid field conditions. The addition of bacterium P. protegens DA1.2 to the herbicide Chistalan increased relative water content in wheat leaves by 11% compared to plants treated with herbicide alone. Application of the bacterial strain P. protegens DA1.2 increased the amount of harvested grain from 2.0–2.2 t/ha to 3.2–3.6 t/ha. Thus, auxin-like herbicide Chistalan and auxin-producing bacterium P. protegens DA1.2 may affect the balance of phytohormones in different ways. This could be the potential reason for the improvement in wheat plants’ growth during dry periods when the bacterium P. protegens DA1.2 is included in mixtures for weed control.
Influence of Mineralized Water Sources on the Properties of Calcisol and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Abakumov Evgeny , Yuldashev Gulomjon , Darmonov Dilmurod , Turdaliev Avazbek , Askarov Kamoliddin , Khaydarov Mavlonjon , Mirzayev Ulugbek , Nizamutdinov Timur , Davronov Kakhramonjon
Published: November 2022

The use of conservation agriculture (SWC—soil and water conservation) technologies is now becoming more and more necessary. For the soils in arid ecosystems, the problem of irrigation deficiencies has always been relevant, and clean fresh water is always insufficient to irrigate these agricultural lands. This paper provides a brief historical overview of the use of mineralized water sources in agriculture and their impacts on soils and plants (Triticum aestivum L.). The experiment involving wheat cultivation in saline soils irrigated with mineralized water was set for 3 years. The main chemical and physical–chemical properties of the agro-transformed solonchaks and mineralized water sources were investigated. According to the contents of mobile forms of N, P, and K, the soils were poorly supplied; after a series of irrigation phases, they remained the same. There were signs of the growth of mobile phosphorus in the variants where mineralized water sources were applied. Our results showed that under conditions of irrigation with water sources with mineralization rates of up to 2.8–3.5 g/L, the wheat yield increased by 1.5 c/ha compared to the control. The use of mineralized water for irrigation purposes will reduce the use of clean river water.
Anatomy and Biomechanics of Peltate Begonia Leaves—Comparative Case Studies
Authors: Rjosk Annabell , Neinhuis Christoph , Lautenschläger Thea
Published: November 2022

Plants are exposed to various external stresses influencing physiology, anatomy, and morphology. Shape, geometry, and size of shoots and leaves are particularly affected. Among the latter, peltate leaves are not very common and so far, only few studies focused on their properties. In this case study, four Begonia species with different leaf shapes and petiole attachment points were analyzed regarding their leaf morphology, anatomy, and biomechanical properties. One to two plants per species were examined. In all four species, the petiole showed differently sized vascular bundles arranged in a peripheral ring and subepidermal collenchyma. These anatomical characteristics, low leaf dry mass, and low amount of lignified tissue in the petiole point toward turgor pressure as crucial for leaf stability. The petiole-lamina transition zone shows a different organization in leaves with a more central (peltate) and lateral petiole insertion. While in non-peltate leaves simple fiber branching is present, peltate leaves show a more complex reticulate fiber arrangement. Tensile and bending tests revealed similar structural Young’s moduli in all species for intercostal areas and venation, but differences in the petiole. The analysis of the leaves highlights the properties of petiole and the petiole-lamina transition zone that are needed to resist external stresses.
Effect of Solid-State Fermentation on Vitamin C, Photosynthetic Pigments and Sugars in Willow Herb (Chamerion angustifolium (L.) Holub) Leaves
Authors: Vaitkeviciene Nijole , Jariene Elvyra , Kulaitiene Jurgita , Lasinskas Marius , Blinstrubiene Ausra , Hallmann Ewelina
Published: November 2022

The goal of this investigation was to establish the impact of solid-state fermentation of different durations on the quantitative changes of vitamin C, sugars and photosynthetic pigments in the leaves of willow herbs. The tested leaves were fermented using two solid-state fermentation methods (aerobic and anaerobic) for different time periods (unfermented and fermented for 24, 48 and 72 h). The quantitative and qualitative composition of chlorophylls, carotenoids, sugars and vitamin C were determined using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with UV detectors. Results indicated that aerobic and anaerobic solid-state fermentation significantly decreased the contents of vitamin C, dehydroascorbic and L-ascorbic acids in leaves compared with the unfermented leaves. The contents of total chlorophyll and chlorophyll a were the highest in unfermented leaves and after 24 h of aerobic solid-state fermentation. The maximum content of total carotenoids in leaves were after 48 and 72 h of aerobic solid-state fermentation (149.31 mg 100 g−1 and 151.51 mg 100 g−1, respectively). The application of anaerobic solid-state fermentation resulted in significant increase in the content of total sugars, fructose and glucose in investigated samples. In conclusion, optimization of fermentation parameters allows increasing the content of sugars and photosynthetic pigments in leaves of willow herbs.
Transcriptome Dynamics of Rooting Zone and Leaves during In Vitro Adventitious Root Formation in Eucalyptus nitens
Authors: Ayala Paula G. , Acevedo Raúl M. , Luna Claudia V. , Rivarola Máximo , Acuña Cintia , Marcucci Poltri Susana , González Ana M. , Sansberro Pedro A.
Published: November 2022

Wood properties and agronomic traits associated with fast growth and frost tolerance make Eucalyptus nitens a valuable forest alternative. However, the rapid age-related decline in the adventitious root (AR) formation (herein, meaning induction, initiation, and expression stages) limits its propagation. We analyzed transcriptomic profile variation in leaves and stem bases during AR induction of microcuttings to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in AR formation. In addition, we quantified expressions of candidate genes associated with recalcitrance. We delimited the ontogenic phases of root formation using histological techniques and Scarecrow and Short-Root expression quantification for RNA sequencing sample collection. We quantified the gene expressions associated with root meristem formation, auxin biosynthesis, perception, signaling, conjugation, and cytokinin signaling in shoots harvested from 2- to 36-month-old plants. After IBA treatment, 702 transcripts changed their expressions. Several were involved in hormone homeostasis and the signaling pathways that determine cell dedifferentiation, leading to root meristem formation. In part, the age-related decline in the rooting capacity is attributable to the increase in the ARR1 gene expression, which negatively affects auxin homeostasis. The analysis of the transcriptomic variation in the leaves and rooting zones provided profuse information: (1) To elucidate the auxin metabolism; (2) to understand the hormonal and signaling processes involved; (3) to collect data associated with their recalcitrance.
The Response of Beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) Populations to Climate in the Easternmost Sites of Its European Distribution
Authors: Roibu Cătălin-Constantin , Palaghianu Ciprian , Nagavciuc Viorica , Ionita Monica , Sfecla Victor , Mursa Andrei , Crivellaro Alan , Stirbu Marian-Ionut , Cotos Mihai-Gabriel , Popa Andrei , Sfecla Irina , Popa Ionel
Published: November 2022

In the context of forecasted climate change scenarios, the growth of forest tree species at their distribution margin is crucial to adapt current forest management strategies. Analyses of beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) growth have shown high plasticity, but easternmost beech populations have been rarely studied. To describe the response of the marginal beech population to the climate in the far east sites of its distribution, we first compiled new tree ring width chronologies. Then we analyzed climate–growth relationships for three marginal beech populations in the Republic of Moldova. We observed a relatively high growth rate in the marginal populations compared to core distribution sites. Our analyses further revealed a distinct and significant response of beech growth to all climatic variables, assessing for the first time the relationship between growth and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) which described how plant growth responds to drought. These results highlight that accumulated water deficit is an essential limiting factor of beech growth in this region. In conclusion, beech growth in the easternmost marginal population is drought-limited, and the sensitivity to VPD will need to be considered in future studies to update the forest management of other economic and ecologically important species.
Non-Inverting Quadratic Buck–Boost Converter with Common Ground Configuration for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Khan Mohammad Suhail , Lin Chang-Hua , Ahmad Javed , Sarwar Adil , Tariq Mohd , Urooj Shabana
Published: November 2022

This article presents a novel buck–boost converter-based topology suitable for supercapacitors and grid-connected solar PV system applications. The proposed converter can handle a wide range of voltage variations at the input side, making it ideal for extracting most of the energy from supercapacitors or a solar PV system connected to the input side of the converter. The output voltage of the converter is non-inverting which makes the control easier. The design of passive components, continuous mode operation, and discontinuous mode operation are all thoroughly discussed. A low-power hardware prototype of three hundred watts is developed and tested in the laboratory to validate the theoretical aspects of the converter.
Angular Velocities and Linear Accelerations Derived from Inertial Measurement Units Can Be Used as Proxy Measures of Knee Variables Associated with ACL Injury
Authors: Jones Holly S. R. , Stiles Victoria H. , Verheul Jasper , Moore Isabel S.
Published: November 2022

Given the high rates of both primary and secondary anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in multidirectional field sports, there is a need to develop easily accessible methods for practitioners to monitor ACL injury risk. Field-based methods to assess knee variables associated with ACL injury are of particular interest to practitioners for monitoring injury risk in applied sports settings. Knee variables or proxy measures derived from wearable inertial measurement units (IMUs) may thus provide a powerful tool for efficient injury risk management. Therefore, the aim of this study was to identify whether there were correlations between laboratory-derived knee variables (knee range of motion (RoM), change in knee moment, and knee stiffness) and metrics derived from IMUs (angular velocities and accelerations) placed on the tibia and thigh, across a range of movements performed in practitioner assessments used to monitor ACL injury risk. Ground reaction forces, three-dimensional kinematics, and triaxial IMU data were recorded from nineteen healthy male participants performing bilateral and unilateral drop jumps, and a 90° cutting task. Spearman’s correlations were used to examine the correlations between knee variables and IMU-derived metrics. A significant strong positive correlation was observed between knee RoM and the area under the tibia angular velocity curve in all movements. Significant strong correlations were also observed in the unilateral drop jump between knee RoM, change in knee moment, and knee stiffness, and the area under the tibia acceleration curve (rs = 0.776, rs = −0.712, and rs = −0.765, respectively). A significant moderate correlation was observed between both knee RoM and knee stiffness, and the area under the thigh angular velocity curve (rs = 0.682 and rs = −0.641, respectively). The findings from this study suggest that it may be feasible to use IMU-derived angular velocities and acceleration measurements as proxy measures of knee variables in movements included in practitioner assessments used to monitor ACL injury risk.
Detection of Double-Compressed Videos Using Descriptors of Video Encoders
Authors: Lee Yun Gu , Na Gihyun , Byun Junseok
Published: November 2022

In digital forensics, video becomes important evidence in an accident or a crime. However, video editing programs are easily available in the market, and even non-experts can delete or modify a section of an evidence video that contains adverse evidence. The tampered video is compressed again and stored. Therefore, detecting a double-compressed video is one of the important methods in the field of digital video tampering detection. In this paper, we present a new approach to detecting a double-compressed video using the proposed descriptors of video encoders. The implementation of real-time video encoders is so complex that manufacturers should develop hardware video encoders considering a trade-off between complexity and performance. According to our observation, hardware video encoders practically do not use all possible encoding modes defined in the video coding standard but only a subset of the encoding modes. The proposed method defines this subset of encoding modes as the descriptor of the video encoder. If a video is double-compressed, the descriptor of the double-compressed video is changed to the descriptor of the video encoder used for double-compression. Therefore, the proposed method detects the double-compressed video by checking whether the descriptor of the test video is changed or not. In our experiments, we show descriptors of various H.264 and High-Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) video encoders and demonstrate that our proposed method successfully detects double-compressed videos in most cases.
An Entropy Analysis-Based Window Size Optimization Scheme for Merging LiDAR Data Frames
Authors: Kim Taesik , Jung Jinman , Min Hong , Jung Young-Hoon
Published: November 2022

LiDAR is a useful technology for gathering point cloud data from its environment and has been adapted to many applications. We use a cost-efficient LiDAR system attached to a moving object to estimate the location of the moving object using referenced linear structures. In the stationary state, the accuracy of extracting linear structures is low given the low-cost LiDAR. We propose a merging scheme for the LiDAR data frames to improve the accuracy by using the movement of the moving object. The proposed scheme tries to find the optimal window size by means of an entropy analysis. The optimal window size is determined by finding the minimum point between the entropy indicator of the ideal result and the entropy indicator of the actual result of each window size. The proposed indicator can describe the accuracy of the entire path of the moving object at each window size using a simple single value. The experimental results show that the proposed scheme can improve the linear structure extraction accuracy.
Fatigue Effect on Minimal Toe Clearance and Toe Activity during Walking
Authors: Jin Yingjie , Sano Yui , Shogenji Miho , Watanabe Tetsuyou
Published: November 2022

This study investigates the effects of fatigue on the process of walking in young adults using the developed clog-integrated sensor system. The developed sensor can simultaneously measure the forefoot activity (FA) and minimum toe clearance (MTC). The FA was evaluated through the change in the contact area captured by a camera using a method based on a light conductive plate. The MTC was derived from the distance between the bottom surface of the clog and ground obtained using a time of flight (TOF) sensor, and the clog posture was obtained using an acceleration sensor. The induced fatigue was achieved by walking on a treadmill at the fastest walking speed. We evaluated the FA and MTC before and after fatigue in both feet for 14 participants. The effects of fatigue manifested in either the FA or MTC of either foot when the results were evaluated by considering the participants individually, although individual variances in the effects of fatigue were observed. In the dominant foot, a significant increase in either the FA or MTC was observed in 13 of the 14 participants. The mean MTC in the dominant foot increased significantly (p = 0.038) when the results were evaluated by considering the participants as a group.
A Novel Dynamic Bit Rate Analysis Technique for Adaptive Video Streaming over HTTP Support
Authors: Ashok Kumar Ponnai Manogaran , Arun Raj Lakshmi Narayanan , Jyothi B. , Soliman Naglaa F. , Bajaj Mohit , El-Shafai Walid
Published: November 2022

Recently, there has been an increase in research interest in the seamless streaming of video on top of Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) in cellular networks (3G/4G). The main challenges involved are the variation in available bit rates on the Internet caused by resource sharing and the dynamic nature of wireless communication channels. State-of-the-art techniques, such as Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (DASH), support the streaming of stored video, but they suffer from the challenge of live video content due to fluctuating bit rate in the network. In this work, a novel dynamic bit rate analysis technique is proposed to model client–server architecture using attention-based long short-term memory (A-LSTM) networks for solving the problem of smooth video streaming over HTTP networks. The proposed client system analyzes the bit rate dynamically, and a status report is sent to the server to adjust the ongoing session parameter. The server assesses the dynamics of the bit rate on the fly and calculates the status for each video sequence. The bit rate and buffer length are given as sequential inputs to LSTM to produce feature vectors. These feature vectors are given different weights to produce updated feature vectors. These updated feature vectors are given to multi-layer feed forward neural networks to predict six output class labels (144p, 240p, 360p, 480p, 720p, and 1080p). Finally, the proposed A-LSTM work is evaluated in real-time using a code division multiple access evolution-data optimized network (CDMA20001xEVDO Rev-A) with the help of an Internet dongle. Furthermore, the performance is analyzed with the full reference quality metric of streaming video to validate our proposed work. Experimental results also show an average improvement of 37.53% in peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and 5.7% in structural similarity (SSIM) index over the commonly used buffer-filling technique during the live streaming of video.
PU-MFA: Point Cloud Up-Sampling via Multi-Scale Features Attention
Authors: Lee Hyungjun , Lim Sejoon
Published: November 2022

Recently, research using point clouds has been increasing with the development of 3D scanner technology. According to this trend, the demand for high-quality point clouds is increasing, but there is still a problem with the high cost of obtaining high-quality point clouds. Therefore, with the recent remarkable development of deep learning, point cloud up-sampling research, which uses deep learning to generate high-quality point clouds from low-quality point clouds, is one of the fields attracting considerable attention. This paper proposes a new point cloud up-sampling method called Point cloud Up-sampling via Multi-scale Features Attention (PU-MFA). Inspired by prior studies that reported good performance at generating high-quality dense point set using the multi-scale features or attention mechanisms, PU-MFA merges the two through a U-Net structure. In addition, PU-MFA adaptively uses multi-scale features to refine the global features effectively. The PU-MFA was compared with other state-of-the-art methods in various evaluation metrics through various experiments using the PU-GAN dataset, which is a synthetic point cloud dataset, and the KITTI dataset, which is the real-scanned point cloud dataset. In various experimental results, PU-MFA showed superior performance of generating high-quality dense point set in quantitative and qualitative evaluation compared to other state-of-the-art methods, proving the effectiveness of the proposed method. The attention map of PU-MFA was also visualized to show the effect of multi-scale features.
Low-Frequency Ground Vibrations Generated by Debris Flows Detected by a Lab-Fabricated Seismometer
Authors: Huang Ching-Jer , Chen Hsin-Yu , Chu Chung-Ray , Lin Ching-Ren , Yen Li-Chen , Yin Hsiao-Yuen , Wang Chau-Chang , Kuo Ban-Yuan
Published: November 2022

A lab-fabricated ocean bottom seismometer was modified and deployed terrestrially to detect low-frequency (<10 Hz) ground vibrations produced by debris flows. A frequency–response test of the new seismometer revealed that it can detect seismic signals at frequencies of 0.3–120 Hz. Its seismic ground motion detection ability was investigated by comparing its measurements of seismic signals produced by rockfalls with those of a geophone. Two new seismometers were deployed at the Aiyuzi Stream, Nantou County, Taiwan, in September 2012. Seismic signals produced by two local earthquakes, two teleseisms, and three debris flows detected by the seismometer in 2013 and 2014 were discussed. The seismic signal frequencies of the local earthquakes and teleseisms (both approximately 1800 km apart) were 0.3–30 and <1 Hz, respectively. Moreover, seismometer measurements revealed that seismic signals generated by debris flows can have minimum frequencies as low as 2 Hz. Time-matched CCD camera images revealed that debris flow surge fronts with larger rocks have lower minimum frequencies. Finally, because the seismometer can detect low-frequency seismic waves with low spatial decay rates, it was able to detect one debris flow approximately 3 min and 40 s before it arrived.
Ring Cavity Erbium-Doped Fiber for Refractive Index Measurements
Authors: Perez-Herrera Rosa Ana , Soares Liliana , Silva Susana , Frazão Orlando
Published: November 2022

In this study, an interrogation system based on an erbium-doped fiber ring cavity for refractive index measurements is presented and experimentally demonstrated. This cavity ring includes a 1 × 3 coupler wherein one of the fiber output ports is used to increase the optical power of the system by means of an FBG used as a reflector. The other two output ports are used as a refractive index sensing head and reference port, respectively. An experimental demonstration of this proposed sensor system for the measurement of a distinct refractive index is presented.
Deep Learning in the Detection of Disinformation about COVID-19 in Online Space
Authors: Machová Kristína , Mach Marián , Porezaný Michal
Published: November 2022

This article focuses on the problem of detecting disinformation about COVID-19 in online discussions. As the Internet expands, so does the amount of content on it. In addition to content based on facts, a large amount of content is being manipulated, which negatively affects the whole society. This effect is currently compounded by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which caused people to spend even more time online and to get more invested in this fake content. This work brings a brief overview of how toxic information looks like, how it is spread, and how to potentially prevent its dissemination by early recognition of disinformation using deep learning. We investigated the overall suitability of deep learning in solving problem of detection of disinformation in conversational content. We also provided a comparison of architecture based on convolutional and recurrent principles. We have trained three detection models based on three architectures using CNN (convolutional neural networks), LSTM (long short-term memory), and their combination. We have achieved the best results using LSTM (F1 = 0.8741, Accuracy = 0.8628). But the results of all three architectures were comparable, for example the CNN+LSTM architecture achieved F1 = 0.8672 and Accuracy = 0.852. The paper offers finding that introducing a convolutional component does not bring significant improvement. In comparison with our previous works, we noted that from all forms of antisocial posts, disinformation is the most difficult to recognize, since disinformation has no unique language, such as hate speech, toxic posts etc.
Suitability of a Low-Cost Wearable Sensor to Assess Turning in Healthy Adults
Authors: Mason Rachel , Byerley Joe , Baker Andrea , Powell Dylan , Pearson Liam T. , Barry Gill , Godfrey Alan , Mancini Martina , Stuart Samuel , Morris Rosie
Published: November 2022

Background: Turning is a complex measure of gait that accounts for over 50% of daily steps. Traditionally, turning has been measured in a research grade laboratory setting, however, there is demand for a low-cost and portable solution to measure turning using wearable technology. This study aimed to determine the suitability of a low-cost inertial sensor-based device (AX6, Axivity) to assess turning, by simultaneously capturing and comparing to a turn algorithm output from a previously validated reference inertial sensor-based device (Opal), in healthy young adults. Methodology: Thirty participants (aged 23.9 ± 4.89 years) completed the following turning protocol wearing the AX6 and reference device: a turn course, a two-minute walk (including 180° turns) and turning in place, alternating 360° turn right and left. Both devices were attached at the lumbar spine, one Opal via a belt, and the AX6 via double sided tape attached directly to the skin. Turning measures included number of turns, average turn duration, angle, velocity, and jerk. Results: Agreement between the outcomes from the AX6 and reference device was good to excellent for all turn characteristics (all ICCs > 0.850) during the turning 360° task. There was good agreement for all turn characteristics (all ICCs > 0.800) during the two-minute walk task, except for moderate agreement for turn angle (ICC 0.683). Agreement for turn outcomes was moderate to good during the turns course (ICCs range; 0.580 to 0.870). Conclusions: A low-cost wearable sensor, AX6, can be a suitable and fit-for-purpose device when used with validated algorithms for assessment of turning outcomes, particularly during continuous turning tasks. Future work needs to determine the suitability and validity of turning in aging and clinical cohorts within low-resource settings.
The TinyV3RSE Hardware-in-the-Loop Vision-Based Navigation Facility
Authors: Panicucci Paolo , Topputo Francesco
Published: November 2022

The increase in number of interplanetary probes has emphasized the need for spacecraft autonomy to reduce overall mission costs and to enable riskier operations without ground support. The perception of the external environment is a critical task for autonomous probes, being fundamental for both motion planning and actuation. Perception is often achieved using navigation sensors which provide measurements of the external environment. For space exploration purposes, cameras are among the sensors that provide navigation information with few constraints at the spacecraft system level. Image processing and vision-based navigation algorithms are exploited to extract information about the external environment and the probe’s position within it from images. It is thus crucial to have the capability to generate realistic image datasets to design, validate, and test autonomous algorithms. This goal is achieved with high-fidelity rendering engines and with hardware-in-the-loop simulations. This work focuses on the latter by presenting a facility developed and used at the Deep-space Astrodynamics Research and Technology (DART) Laboratory at Politecnico di Milano. First, the facility design relationships are established to select hardware components. The critical design parameters of the camera, lens system, and screen are identified and analytical relationships are developed among these parameters. Second, the performances achievable with the chosen components are analytically and numerically studied in terms of geometrical accuracy and optical distortions. Third, the calibration procedures compensating for hardware misalignment and errors are defined. Their performances are evaluated in a laboratory experiment to display the calibration quality. Finally, the facility applicability is demonstrated by testing imageprocessing algorithms for space exploration scenarios.
Bifurcation Control on the Un-Linearizable Dynamic System via Washout Filters
Authors: Zhai Chi , Yang Chunxi , Na Jing
Published: November 2022

Information fusion integrates aspects of data and knowledge mostly on the basis that system information is accumulative/distributive, but a subtle case emerges for a system with bifurcations, which is always un-linearizable and exacerbates information acquisition and presents a control problem. In this paper, the problem of an un-linearizable system related to system observation and control is addressed, and Andronov–Hopf bifurcation is taken as a typical example of an un-linearizable system and detailed. Firstly, the properties of a linear/linearized system is upon commented. Then, nonlinear degeneracy for the normal form of Andronov–Hopf bifurcation is analyzed, and it is deduced that the cubic terms are an integral part of the system. Afterwards, the theoretical study on feedback stabilization is conducted between the normal-form Andronov–Hopf bifurcation and its linearized counterpart, where stabilization using washout-filter-aided feedback is compared, and it is found that by synergistic controller design, the dual-conjugate-unstable eigenvalues can be stabilized by single stable washout filter. Finally, the high-dimensional ethanol fermentation model is taken as a case study to verify the proposed bifurcation control method.
The Application of Deep Learning for the Evaluation of User Interfaces
Authors: Keselj Ana , Milicevic Mario , Zubrinic Krunoslav , Car Zeljka
Published: November 2022

In this study, we tested the ability of a machine-learning model (ML) to evaluate different user interface designs within the defined boundaries of some given software. Our approach used ML to automatically evaluate existing and new web application designs and provide developers and designers with a benchmark for choosing the most user-friendly and effective design. The model is also useful for any other software in which the user has different options to choose from or where choice depends on user knowledge, such as quizzes in e-learning. The model can rank accessible designs and evaluate the accessibility of new designs. We used an ensemble model with a custom multi-channel convolutional neural network (CNN) and an ensemble model with a standard architecture with multiple versions of down-sampled input images and compared the results. We also describe our data preparation process. The results of our research show that ML algorithms can estimate the future performance of completely new user interfaces within the given elements of user interface design, especially for color/contrast and font/layout.
Application of Combined Local and Global Optimization Algorithms in Joint Interpretation of Direct Current Resistivity and Seismic Refraction Data: A Case Study of Dammam Dome, Eastern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Edigbue Paul , Demirci Ismail , Akca Irfan , Hamdan Hamdan , Kirmizakis Panagiotis , Soupios Pantelis , Tranos Markos , Abu-Mahfouz Israa S. , Candansayar Emin , Hanafy Sherif , Al-Shuhail Abdullatif
Published: November 2022

The main geological structures in the Dammam Dome are defined by integrating geophysical measurements and applying new methodological approaches. Dammam Dome is characterized by a well-developed fracture/joints system; thus, high complexity of the subsurface is expected. Direct Current Resistivity (DCR) and Seismic Refraction (SR) geophysical survey aimed to map the Dammam Dome’s near-surface features. The geophysical data were acquired along two profiles in the northern part of Dammam Dome. To maximize the results from conducting DCR and SR measurements over a complex area, a combined local and global optimization algorithm was used to obtain high-resolution near-surface images in resistivity and velocity models. The local optimization technique involves individual and joint inversion of the DCR and SR data incorporating appropriate regularization parameters, while the global optimization uses single and multi-objective genetic algorithms in model parameter estimation. The combined algorithm uses the output from the local optimization method to define a search space for the global optimization algorithm. The results show that the local optimization produces satisfactory inverted models, and that the global optimization algorithm improves the local optimization results. The joint inversion and processing of the acquired data identified two major faults and a deformed zone with an almost N–S direction that corresponds with an outcrop were mapped in profile one, while profile two shows similar anomalies in both the resistivity and velocity models with the main E–W direction. This study not only demonstrates the capability of using the combined local and global optimization multi-objectives techniques to estimate model parameters of large datasets (i.e., 2D DCR and SR data), but also provides high-resolution subsurface images that can be used to study structural features of the Dammam Dome.
Getting Smarter about Smart Cities: Improving Data Security and Privacy through Compliance
Authors: Aslam Mudassar , Khan Abbasi Muhammad Abbas , Khalid Tauqeer , Shan Rafi us , Ullah Subhan , Ahmad Tahir , Saeed Saqib , Alabbad Dina A. , Ahmad Rizwan
Published: November 2022

Smart cities assure the masses a higher quality of life through digital interconnectivity, leading to increased efficiency and accessibility in cities. In addition, a huge amount of data is being exchanged through smart devices, networks, cloud infrastructure, big data analysis and Internet of Things (IoT) applications in the various private and public sectors, such as critical infrastructures, financial sectors, healthcare, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). However, these sectors require maintaining certain security mechanisms to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of personal and critical information. However, unfortunately, organizations fail to maintain their security posture in terms of security mechanisms and controls, which leads to data breach incidents either intentionally or inadvertently due to the vulnerabilities in their information management systems that either malicious insiders or attackers exploit. In this paper, we highlight the importance of data breaches and issues related to information leakage incidents. In particular, the impact of data breaching incidents and the reasons contributing to such incidents affect the citizens’ well-being. In addition, this paper also discusses various preventive measures such as security mechanisms, laws, standards, procedures, and best practices, including follow-up mitigation strategies.
Simvastatin: In Vitro Metabolic Profiling of a Potent Competitive HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor
Authors: Yin Wencui , Alwabli Reem I. , Attwa Mohamed W. , Rahman A. F. M. Motiur , Kadi Adnan A.
Published: November 2022

Simvastatin (SV) is a semisynthetic derivative of lovastatin (LV), which is biosynthetically produced from the fungus Aspergillus terreus and has a high log p value (log p = 4.39)and thus high hepatic extraction and high efficacy in controlling cholesterol synthesis. The current study was undertaken to investigate the metabolic profile of SV using various mass spectrometry (MS) platforms. Metabolic profiling was studied in in vitro models, rat liver microsomes (RLMs), and isolated perfused rat liver hepatocytes (RLHs) using both ion trap and triple quadruple LC–MS/MS systems. A total of 29 metabolites were identified. Among them, three types of SV-related phase-I metabolites, namely exomethylene simvastatin acid (exomethylene SVA), monohydroxy SVA, and dihydrodiol SVA, were identified as new in RLMs. No phase-II metabolites were identified while incubating with RLHs.
Slope Stability Analysis for the Phosphogypsum Stockpiles: A Case Study for the Sustainable Management of the Phosphogypsum Stacks in Aqaba Jordan
Authors: Husein Malkawi Dima A. , Husein Malkawi Abdallah I. , Bani-Hani Khaldoon A.
Published: November 2022

The process of making phosphates fertilizer involves taking the soft rock phosphate and mixing it with sulphuric acid. This process creates a gypsum by-product (phosphogypsum). Although gypsum is a widely used material in the construction industry, most of the produced phosphogypsum is not processed around the world and is stacked into large piles over the land, especially near coastal areas, which raised concerns about their stability. Such a disposal scheme creates man-made slopes in the surrounding areas which are prone to failure, which represents a common challenge for engineers. A slope failure will lead to a significant risk not only to human lives and activities but to the topographic and geological location of the stacks. In this paper, the geotechnical properties of the phosphogypsum in Aqaba, Jordan are determined and embankment stability analysis is carried out, as the purpose of this study is to evaluate the phosphogypsum stockpiles’ stability, and therefore, avoid any possible environmental disasters. Limit equilibrium methods and finite element methods were utilized in the analysis of this study. The required topographic and geological characteristics were obtained during the site visits and the contour plot of each phosphogypsum pile was produced by the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company (JPMC). Several laboratory tests were conducted to estimate the geotechnical properties of the stacked material due to the limited information on the Jordanian Phosphogypsum characteristics. Based on the results of this study, the above-ground slopes for the stacking of Phosphogypsum in Aqaba were found to be stable under both static and earthquake loading. Therefore, this study proved that the disposal process of the current stockpiles in Aqaba is sustainably managed for providing stable stockpiles and that the process has a generally low environmental risk.
Research on the Green Effect of Environmental Policies—From the Perspective of Policy Mix
Authors: Liu Zixiao , Wu Zengming , Zhu Mengnan
Published: November 2022

Environmental protection policy serves as an effective means for the government to curb environmental pollution and promote high-quality economic development. The government must weigh the effects of different policy mixes. From the perspective of policy combination, this paper discusses the green effect of environmental protection policy theoretically and empirically. First and foremost, this paper sorts out the reforming time of environmental protection taxes and the situation of the low-carbon pilot city, and puts forward two hypotheses. Furthermore, by referring to the environmental protection tax, the policy for the low-carbon pilot city, and the urban air quality indicator from 2014 to 2020, this paper explores the green effect of the environmental protection policy and further validates the consolidation effect of the policy mix on the green effect. The study reveals a significant decrease in the air pollution level in regions with higher standards for levying an environmental protection tax. The conclusion remains robust via parallel trend testing and substitution of the subject variables. Furthermore, an analysis of the policy mix of an environmental protection tax indicates that the policy mix of an environmental protection tax and low-carbon city produces a significant green effect, which not only curbs air pollution but also reduces greenhouse gas emissions. An in-depth analysis shows that an environmental protection tax has the best green effect in the first and second areas of a low-carbon pilot market. The synergies of low-carbon pilot effects are higher in areas with low and middle tax rates.
Reliability Analysis of Survivable Networks under the Hostile Model
Authors: Laborde Sebastián , Robledo Franco , Nesmachnow Sergio
Published: November 2022

This article studies the Generalized Steiner Problem with Node-Connectivity Constraints and Hostile Reliability and introduces a metaheuristic resolution approach based on Greedy Randomized Adaptive Search Procedure and Variable Neighborhood Descent. Under the hostile model, nodes and links are subject to probabilistic failures. The research focuses on studying the relationship between the optimization and the reliability evaluation in a symmetric network design problem. Relevant research questions are addressed, linking the number of feasible networks for the full probabilistic model, the sensitivity with respect to elementary probabilities of operation for both edges and nodes, and the sensitivity of the model with respect to the symmetric connectivity constraints defined for terminal nodes. The main result indicates that, for the hostile model, it is better at improving the elementary probabilities of operation of links than improving the elementary probabilities of Steiner nodes, to meet a required reliability threshold for the designed network.
Some Properties of Janowski Symmetrical Functions
Authors: Alsarari Fuad , Alkhammash Aljazi , Deniz Erhan
Published: November 2022

In our present work, the concepts of symmetrical functions and the concept of spirallike Janowski functions are combined to define a new class of analytic functions. We give a structural formula for functions in Sη,μ(F,H,λ), a representation theorem, the radius of starlikeness estimates, covering and distortion theorems and integral mean inequalities are obtained.