bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) on sperm quality in mice
Authors: Windhofer Lisa , Boersma Auke , Dahlhoff Maik , Rülicke Thomas , Auer Kerstin E.
Published: May 2023

In laboratory mice sperm quality is usually assessed in spermatozoa collected from the cauda epididymidis of freshly sacrificed males. Percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA) is a non-terminal alternative that would allow repeated sperm collection for sperm quality assessment in living males. To test whether PESA is a suitable method to assess sperm quality, we compared sperm traits between samples collected by PESA versus the commonly applied terminal cauda epididymis dissection. The collected sperm samples were analyzed using computer assisted sperm analysis and various parameters, including sperm motility, swimming velocity and morphology were determined. We were able to retrieve motile sperm from all mice using PESA and the terminal cauda epididymis dissection. Based on computer assisted sperm analysis, however, sperm motility and swimming velocity were significantly lower after PESA compared to samples obtained by cauda epididymis dissection. In addition, we found significantly more morphological deformities in PESA samples, probably induced as a side effect of the sampling technique. Although sperm samples collected by PESA are successfully used for in vitro fertilizations, we cannot recommend PESA as a suitable method to assess sperm quality in mice, since the procedure seems to impair various sperm traits.
Producción de materiales ecológicos reciclados con escombros de construcción
Authors: Magaña Herrera Pedro Pablo
Published: May 2023

El objeto de la presente investigación es el aprovechamiento mediante el reciclaje de los residuos sólidos de la actividad constructiva, para ser empleados en la producción de elementos prefabricados como bloques de mampostería, ladrillos, adoquines, baldosas, morteros de pega. Para la producción de estos materiales ecológicos, es necesario desarrollar una metodología que involucre la producción del agregado reciclado, la caracterización (ensayos de laboratorio) de estos agregados, el diseño de las mezclas a emplear (cuantificación técnica de la cantidad de materiales a utilizar), en este caso el método empleado en la investigación es el del American Concrete Institute (ACI), por ser el más conocido y utilizado en el medio ingenieril. En el desarrollo de esta investigación se recurre al método tradicional de ensayo y error, que consiste en elaborar unas mezclas de prueba por medio de probetas, que cumplan con las características de las normas y los materiales a emplear, para posteriormente evaluar sus propiedades mecánicas mediante el ensayo de la resistencia a compresión de estas probetas.
Diagnóstico de salud ocupacional en la empresa de curtiembres Cueros JCG
Authors: Lozano Rodríguez Carlos Gerardo , Rubio Cárdenas Carlos Andrés
Published: May 2023

Las pieles son consideradas un subproducto de la industria de la carne y mataderos, en donde, el 59% de las empresas del sector de curtiembres en Colombia, en su gran mayoría son microempresas las cuales no cuentan con los procesos y tecnología necesaria para dar un buen trato al animal y posteriormente al cuero (López y Hueza, 2018). De acuerdo con la Guía de Producción Limpia para el Sector Curtiembres de Bogotá (2017), los procesos de transformación de los cueros se caracteriza por su excesivo consumo de agua; a su vez el uso desproporcionado de productos químicos por tonelada de piel procesada, siendo el proceso de curtido el más contaminante. Las condiciones actuales del proceso de producción en la empresa Cueros JCG provocan un impacto ambiental negativo que afecta a la comunidad cercana a la empresa, así como bajos niveles de productividad y un alto riesgo de sanciones por el incumplimiento de las normas ambientales. En ese sentido se propone desde la comprensión de las condiciones actuales de la empresa, el diseño de una propuesta de mejora del proceso de recurtido que considere la incorporación de tecnologías limpias, de fácil acceso y que a su vez mejore las condiciones higiénicas en los puestos de trabajo en la empresa.  Los resultados obtenidos en el presente trabajo evidenciaron que, el 75% de los riesgos afectan a la salud y la vida, el 17.1% están relacionados con el contacto y/o inhalación con productos químicos como pinturas, disolventes, anticorrosivos y el 8.6% tienen que ver con condiciones no idóneas de orden y aseo.
Comunicación intercultural en contextos atravesados por la diversidad cultural
Authors: Perusset Macarena
Published: May 2023

Este trabajo aborda las posibilidades de comunicación intercultural de distintos profesionales de la salud en una organización sanitaria de gestión privada en la provincia de Córdoba que presenta una población de pacientes diversa. El objetivo de investigación es identificar los distintos elementos que se encuentran en la comunicación efectiva con los pacientes. Al respecto, se considera que los estudios previos han prescindido de esta realidad, pese a ser de vital importancia en la comunicación entre pacientes y profesionales de la salud, al poder resultar en malentendidos, diagnósticos errados y generar insatisfacción en la atención.  En este artículo se incluyen las percepciones de los propios pacientes sobre la capacidad de comunicación con los profesionales, para ello se aplicó la técnica de observación participante durante dieciocho semanas y se realizaron encuestas a médicos de distintas especialidades y enfermeros; asimismo, a pacientes ambulatorios e internados en la institución. En las encuestas realizadas se solicitó a los profesionales de la salud que calificaran su capacidad de comunicación con personas pertenecientes a otras culturas, mientras que en las encuestas realizadas a los pacientes, se les solicitó que valoraran la capacidad de comunicación de los profesionales de la salud . Se analizaron las respuestas de 22 profesionales (tanto médicos como enfermeros) y 91 pacientes. Los resultados demuestran que los profesionales que presentan mayor empatía y experiencia intercultural previa tienen mayores posibilidades de alcanzar una comunicación efectiva con los pacientes, con respecto al cuidado de la salud de estos últimos.
El Perú como destino: Percepciones sobre el retorno y la permanencia de los inmigrantes venezolanos
Authors: Napan Karen
Published: May 2023

Durante muchos años, específicamente, entre la segunda mitad del siglo XX, Venezuela fue un país muy atractivo para muchas personas que salieron de su país de origen con destino a este en busca de una mejor calidad de vida (Domínguez et al., 2021; Ramírez, 2018; Castillo y Reguant, 2017); sin embargo, debido a la crisis social, política, económica y sanitaria (Equilibrium, 2021), en los últimos años, los venezolanos han emigrado a España, Estados Unidos, Italia, Portugal y a diversos países de América del Sur tales como Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Brasil, Perú (Domínguez et al., 2021; Blouin, 2019; Ramírez, 2018) y, a abril de 2020, la población venezolana en el Perú era de 861 000 individuos según el Portal sobre Migración en América Latina y el Caribe (2022); lo cual posiciona al Perú como el segundo país de destino para los migrantes venezolanos. Por ello, este artículo describe y analiza las motivaciones que permiten seleccionar al Perú como lugar de destino, las expectativas de permanencia y retorno. Esta investigación incluye el enfoque sociocognitivo del análisis crítico del discurso (ACD) (Van Dijk, 1999), específicamente, la triada discurso, cognición y sociedad. Respecto a la metodología aplicada, los procedimientos para la recolección de información fueron dos: la entrevista semiestructurada y la recopilación de testimonios extraídos de la plataforma virtual YouTube. Particularmente, en los casos en los cuales se realizaron entrevistas, el instrumento fue un cuestionario, cuyo criterio de inclusión era tener mayoría de edad y radicar en el Perú. Los hallazgos principales evidencian que el regreso de los nacionales venezolanos está supeditado a que las políticas del Estado aseguren estabilidad económica y una mejor calidad de vida en el país de origen. Así mismo, la permanencia en el Perú depende de las oportunidades laborales y la estabilidad económica que les permita vivir dignamente y apoyar a sus familiares.
Las metáforas en las adivinanzas o watuchis quechuas: un estudio desde la semántica cognitiva
Authors: Palomino Niel , Arredondo Roxssana
Published: May 2023

El propósito del estudio es identificar, clasificar y exponer las metáforas en las adivinanzas o watuchis quechuas, así como los procedimientos cognitivos para su creación. Para ello, se indagará en la teoría de las metáforas propuesta por Lakoff y Johnson (1980), en el libro Metaphors We Live By. Metodológicamente, el corpus se encuentra integrado por cincuenta adivinanzas que fueron recopiladas y transcritas del libro Watuchikuna. El cual ha sido publicado en 1986 por el Centro Andino de Educación y Promoción (CADEP) "José María Arguedas" (Cusco-Perú). Los resultados muestran que, en las adivinanzas quechuas, los objetos, los frutos y los animales son personas; las plantas, animales; los animales, objetos; los objetos, seres vivos. Asimismo, que el cuerpo es planta y el camino es objeto. El artículo concluye que la mayoría de los watuchis quechuas son ontológicas. Además, en la experiencia perceptual, corpórea y cultural del quechuahablante la tierra es un ser que tiene vida. Por lo tanto, todo lo que en ella existe tiene vida o se personifica para ser expresada mediante las adivinanzas.
Distribución de la atención visual en la realización de una tarea de lectura con sintagmas nominales extensos especializados (SNEE)
Authors: Rey Sánchez Omar Alejandro , Naranjo Ruiz Mónica , Suárez de la Torre Mercedes
Published: May 2023

La presente investigación de carácter exploratorio y preexperimental tiene como objetivo principal establecer las variaciones en la distribución de la atención visual de los traductores en una tarea de lectura con Sintagmas Nominales Extensos Especializados (en adelante SNEE). Para alcanzar este objetivo, se realizó un estudio de caso con cuatro traductores en formación, quienes realizaron una prueba de lectura de 10 contextos de un corpus de Genoma Humano que presenta SNEE de 3 y 5 tokens. La recolección de datos se realizó a través de la técnica de movimiento ocular (Eye tracker) y un cuestionario tipo escala Likert. Los resultados del estudio mostraron que la distribución de la atención visual de los traductores en formación presentó variaciones según la longitud de los SNEE. Se observó mayor tiempo y número de fijaciones en los SNEE de 5 tokens en contraste con los SNEE de 3 tokens. Así mismo, con el estudio se demuestra que la variable de la longitud es un factor que afecta la atención visual durante la realización de la tarea de lectura.
Actitudes lingüísticas hacia la lengua maya por angloamericanos, a partir del paisaje lingüístico de la ciudad de Mérida, Yucatán (México)
Authors: Sima Lozano Eyder Gabriel
Published: May 2023

En el centro histórico y otros espacios de la ciudad de Mérida, existen letreros en español, inglés y maya yucateco, cuya información es un atractivo para los visitantes, la población de origen extranjero y los hablantes del inglés que habitan en la ciudad. Desde la sociolingüística, el estudio busca analizar las actitudes lingüísticas hacia la lengua maya en relación con el paisaje lingüístico por algunos extranjeros anglohablantes en la capital yucateca, ya que no existen estudios acerca de este sector de población. A partir de una entrevista semidirigida se analizaron los testimonios de hablantes que tienen el inglés como primera lengua. Entre las actitudes más sobresalientes destaca la propia postura crítica que analiza la ausencia de lectores mayas hacia su propia lengua, ya que dicho paisaje está dirigido hacia los turistas y no hacia los mayahablantes, según los informantes angloamericanos. Sin embargo, ellos señalan que la fortaleza y presencia del maya yucateco como una lengua de Yucatán está vigente en este contexto.
Foreign Language Learning in the Digital Wilds
Authors: Dizon Gilbert
Published: May 2023

CALICO Best Article 2023 While primary studies on technology-mediated informal foreign language (FL) learning are increasingly popular, research synthesis on self-directed FL learning in incidental, out-of-class contexts are scarce. Therefore, this article seeks to address this gap in the literature through a qualitative research synthesis (QRS) on language learning in the digital wilds; that is, digitally mediated FL learning in which the main goal of the activity is not related to language learning. The QRS involved a search of the Scopus and Web of Science databases for relevant literature between 2010 and 2021. Thirteen studies aligned with the inclusion criteria, and data from these studies were extracted for thematic analysis. Five themes were identified according to the analysis: diversity in digital practices; development of FL vocabulary; exposure to authentic language; opportunities for interaction and collaboration; and difficulty understanding FL input. These themes were analyzed using a framework by Reinders and Hubbard (2013), in order to understand the affordances and constraints of the digital wilds. Five affordances and two constraints were identified, which have implications for learner autonomy in computer-assisted language learning (CALL).
Randomized Trial to Assess the Clinical Utility of Renal Allograft Monitoring by Urine CXCL10 Chemokine
Authors: Hirt-Minkowski Patricia , Handschin Joelle , Stampf Susanne , Hopfer Helmut , Menter Thomas , Senn Lisa , Hönger Gideon , Wehmeier Caroline , Amico Patrizia , Steiger Jürg , Koller Michael , Dickenmann Michael , Schaub Stefan
Published: May 2023

Significance Statement

This study is the first randomized controlled trial to investigate the clinical utility of a noninvasive monitoring biomarker in renal transplantation. Although urine CXCL10 monitoring could not demonstrate a beneficial effect on 1-year outcomes, the study is a rich source for future design of trials aiming to explore the clinical utility of noninvasive biomarkers. In addition, the study supports the use of urine CXCL10 to assess the inflammatory status of the renal allograft.

Background

Urine CXCL10 is a promising noninvasive biomarker for detection of renal allograft rejection. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical utility of renal allograft monitoring by urine CXCL10 in a randomized trial.

Methods

We stratified 241 patients, 120 into an intervention and 121 into a control arm. In both arms, urine CXCL10 levels were monitored at three specific time points (1, 3, and 6 months post-transplant). In the intervention arm, elevated values triggered performance of an allograft biopsy with therapeutic adaptations according to the result. In the control arm, urine CXCL10 was measured, but the results concealed. The primary outcome was a combined end point at 1-year post-transplant (death-censored graft loss, clinical rejection between month 1 and 1-year, acute rejection in 1-year surveillance biopsy, chronic active T-cell–mediated rejection in 1-year surveillance biopsy, development of de novo donor-specific HLA antibodies, or eGFR <25 ml/min).

Results

The incidence of the primary outcome was not different between the intervention and the control arm (51% versus 49%; relative risk (RR), 1.04 [95% confidence interval, 0.81 to 1.34]; P = 0.80). When including 175 of 241 (73%) patients in a per-protocol analysis, the incidence of the primary outcome was also not different (55% versus 49%; RR, 1.11 [95% confidence interval, 0.84 to 1.47]; P = 0.54). The incidence of the individual end points was not different as well.

Conclusions

This study could not demonstrate a beneficial effect of urine CXCL10 monitoring on 1-year outcomes (ClinicalTrials.gov_NCT03140514).
Detection and Localization of Glioma and Meningioma Tumors in Brain MR Images using Deep Learning
Authors: CENGİL Emine , EROĞLU Yeşim , ÇINAR Ahmet , YILDIRIM Muhammed
Published: May 2023

Brain tumors are common tumors arising from parenchymal cells in the brain and the membranes that surround the brain. The most common brain tumors are glioma and meningioma. They can be benign or malignant. Treatment modalities such as surgery and radiotherapy are applied in malignant tumors. Tumors may be very small in the early stages and may be missed by showing findings similar to normal brain parenchyma. The correct determination of the localization of the tumor and its neighborhood with the surrounding vital tissues contributes to the determination of the treatment algorithm. In this paper, we aim to determine the classification and localization of gliomas originating from the parenchymal cells of the brain and meningiomas originating from the membranes surrounding the brain in brain magnetic resonance images using artificial intelligence methods. At first, the two classes of meningioma and glioma tumors of interest are selected in a public dataset. Relevant tumors are then labeled with the object labeling tool. The resulting labeled data is passed through the EfficientNet for feature extraction. Then Path Aggregation Network (PANet) is examined to generate the feature pyramid. Finally, object detection is performed using the detection layer of the You Only Look Once (YOLO) algorithm. The performance of the suggested method is shown with precision, recall and mean Average Precision (mAP) performance metrics. The values obtained are 0.885, 1.0, and 0.856, respectively. In the presented study, meningioma, and glioma, are automatically detected. The results demonstrate that using the proposed method will benefit medical people.
Facile Synthesis and Characterization of gCN, gCN-Zn and gCN-Fe Binary Nanocomposite and Its Application as Photocatalyst for Methylene Blue Degradation
Authors: KAVGACI Mustafa , ESKALEN Hasan
Published: May 2023

The combustion method to obtain for pure graphitic carbon nitride (gCN) and two binary nanocomposites, gCN-Zn - gCN-Fe have been used in the present study. The structural, morphological, thermal and optical characterizations of the syhtesized samples were characterized with X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The intensity of characteristic gCN peak at (002) crystalline plane decrease with formation of binary nanocomposites was observed. The EDX spectra supports presents of Zn and Fe element in binary nanocomposites. The bandgap of pristine gCN is calculated as 2.75 eV and it decreases to 2.58 eV and 2.50 eV for Zn and Fe addition. The degradation capacity of pristine gCN and synthesized binary nanocomposites showed an enhanced photodegradation performance for binary composite relative to pristine gCN was observed. The maximum degradation performance was observed at gCN-Zn binary composite. The obtained composites with this simple synthesis method and cost effective raw materials used for the photodegradation of methylene blue dye detail.
Estimating the Strength and Deformation Properties of the End Milling Process Using Numerical Analysis Methods
Authors: GÖRGÜLÜ Yasin Furkan , AYDIN Murat
Published: May 2023

In the study, the end mill made of titanium material and having a unique design with a 4-flute was simulated during the milling of the workpiece with a geometry of a rectangular prism made of aluminum material. Ansys Explicit Dynamics was used in the study. Modeling and simulation of the milling process were made with finite element analysis for the estimation of the strength properties. The end mill is chosen as a titanium alloy, while the milled workpiece is aluminum. All parameters were kept constant and only the depth of cut was examined in three scenarios 3, 6, and 9 mm. The simulations were carried out by taking the spindle speed of 4000 RPM and the feeding rate of 3350 mm/s. One of the conveniences provided by Explicit Dynamics is that it can be solved in very small time intervals, and for this reason, the time step in the analysis is solved by taking 0.001 seconds. While hexahedral mesh is applied to the tool, a tetrahedral mesh is applied to the workpiece. The generated mesh has 8,012 nodes and 17,052 mesh elements. Average deformations for both tool and workpiece are 36.92, 38.10, and 38.29 mm, respectively. Strain also shows a similar trend to the total deformation and the average values for all three scenarios were found to be 2.84 x 10-3, 4.43 x 10-3 and 3.99 x 10-3 mm/mm. Also, the stress values were obtained as 78.23, 76.83, and 77.99 MPa.
Tailoring the Porosity and Breathability of Nanofiber Webs with Mesh Size of the Deposition Material
Authors: AKDUMAN Çiğdem , OĞLAKÇIOĞLU Nida
Published: May 2023

Nano and micro-pores of the electrospun webs present good moisture vapor transmission rate, while it maintains resistance to pressured air and resistance to liquid for some type of clothing. Laminating a nanofiber web to any textile structure could improve the desired resistance to air permeability with providing excellent breathability. In the present study, hydrophobic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and hydrophilic poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofiber webs were produced onto three different chromium sieve wires and then laminated to an interlining fabric and compared in means of pore size, breathability, and air permeability. Mesh count of the wires affected the pore size and smallest pore size are belong to 90 mesh wire. The water vapor permeability of the samples varied between 80% and 90% as well as providing relatively low air permeability values. With increasing nanofiber amount, air permeability decreased dramatically.
Human Pose Estimation Using Deep Learning Models
Authors: MURADLI Fırgat , ÇAKAR Serap , ÇEREZCİ Feyza , ÇİT Gülüzar
Published: May 2023

In the last decade, there has been a lot of research into recovering 3D human poses from images. The current datasets need to address frequent exposure estimation problems adequately. However, these are shared resources to assess, inform, and contrast various models. Deep learning models are widely utilized and perform at high levels in many branches of research and engineering. So these models are used in this study with the help of the OpenCV and Keras libraries, which are open-source programs. Providing significant improvements in diversity and difficulty, the MPII Human Pose dataset is used to train and test the ResNet50 and VGG16 models. The validation rate of the dataset is shown to evaluate the model's performance.
Blow Rifle: A Healthy New Sport
Authors:   Department of Health and Physical Education, Faculty of Education, Shizuoka University 836, Ohya, Suruga, Shizuoka 422-8529, Japan, Sugiyama Koji
Published: May 2023

Aging society has been considered as one of the most important problems in Japan. Japanese total annual expenditure on national healthcare in fiscal 2013 exceeded 40 trillion yen ($333 billion) for the first time, reflecting the growing number of elderly people
gamificación y las Tecnologías Digitales en el área de Matemáticas de Educación Primaria
Authors: Suárez Caballero Javier
Published: May 2023

Este artículo aborda la conceptualización e implementación de una de las estrategias metodológicas más activas e innovadoras que existen en la actualidad en educación: la gamificación. Se ha llevado a cabo una metodología cualitativa por medio de la realización de una revisión sistemática cuya búsqueda se ha hecho en las bases de datos de Scopus, Web of Science y Dialnet. El objetivo es analizar de qué manera la gamificación contribuye al proceso didáctico de las matemáticas en la etapa de Educación Primaria teniendo como apoyo las Tecnologías Digitales. Para ello, se han seguido las bases del procedimiento PRISMA, identificando aquellos ítems que resultaban válidos para nuestro análisis. Los resultados muestran un impacto muy positivo tanto en la motivación como en el rendimiento académico del alumnado en los procesos de gamificación de la enseñanza y aprendizaje de las matemáticas en Educación Primaria. La revisión realizada pone de manifiesto que las tecnologías empleadas, como la realidad aumentada, la robótica y los videojuegos favorecen y dinamizan la puesta en práctica de la gamificación en las actividades de Matemáticas.
Conviviality in Public Squares: How Affordances and Individual Factors Shape Optional Activities
Authors: Widmer Hannah
Published: May 2023

Conviviality can briefly be defined as togetherness among strangers despite their differences. While most of the research on conviviality focuses on (inter-)cultural differences, this article argues that considering other kinds of differences (e.g., socio-economic status, gender, age, stage of the life course, etc.) may increase our understanding of conviviality. In addition, to help us measure the convivial use of public space, the article looks at participation in “optional activities” (e.g., enjoying the sun, playing), which contribute to a convivial atmosphere by encouraging people to be co-present, thus offering the potential for “thicker sociability.” Based on fieldwork consisting of behavioural mapping (n = 1,448) and an intercept survey (n = 1,474), this study explores key factors that increase the likelihood of people using three small public squares in Zurich, Switzerland, in a convivial way. A logistic regression model based on survey data shows that, even when controlling for individual factors, the squares and their affordances contribute substantially to convivial use, e.g., by providing ample seating. The model furthermore suggests that gender, people’s relationship to the neighbourhood, their occupation, and the time of day, are more significant factors in shaping convivial use of the squares than the cultural background, socio-economic status, age, or having children.
MODERN TRENDS IN THE ARCHITECTURE OF CO-LIVING BUILDINGS
Authors: Kuznetsova Anna Andreevna , Nosov Sergey Dmitrievich
Published: May 2023

A brief history of the domestic experience in implementing the idea of cohabitation of groups of people with similar goals and interests is given. Based on the structural analysis of the most modern examples of the design of such buildings (co-living), the main trends in the design of objects of this typological group are identified and formulated. The prerequisites for considering co-living as a separate type of objects for living are considered. One of the factors in the formation of this typological group of residential architecture was the Covid-19 pandemic. The study provides statistical data showing the relevance of the chosen direction of research. The result of the work is the data of a comparative analysis of the implemented objects, which determine the further functional development of this typology.
Investigating the Performance of Different Antenna Designs for Wireless Communication Applications
Authors: Dubey Dheeraj
Published: May 2023

In this work, the findings of an in-depth study that compared the effectiveness of a variety of antenna layouts for wireless communication are presented. Antennas, due to the essential position they play in wireless networks, have the potential to have a significant impact on the overall effectiveness, dependability, and quality of communication provided by the system. This study provides an overview of the various techniques that are currently in use to investigate antenna performance. These techniques include simulation and measurement methods. In addition to this, it proposes a methodology for enhancing the analysis of antenna performance by integrating simulation and measurement techniques. When analyzing antenna performance, some of the problems that may appear include interference, limitations on bandwidth, and excessive power usage. Recent innovations in antenna design have included things like metamaterials, machine learning, and additive manufacturing, among other things. In conclusion, the research looks at a wide variety of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace and defense, Internet of Things (IoT), automotive, and medical, all of which find it beneficial to investigate antenna performance. The purpose of this paper is to provide a summary of the present state of research into increasing antenna performance and to discuss the significance of examining the performance of various antenna designs for applications involving wireless communication.
An Efficient and Clinical-Oriented 3D Liver Segmentation Method
Authors: Agnihotri Aditya
Published: May 2023

Due to the vast variety of human differences in the morphologies of the liver and the variance in pixel intensity in the picture, automatic liver segmentation is challenging. Furthermore, the limits of the liver are unclear since it shares intensity distributions with neighbouring organs and tissues. We suggest a quick and accurate approach for segmenting the liver using contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) images in this methodology. We apply level-set speed photos to adopt the two-step seeded region growth (SRG) method to generate an initial liver boundary that is roughly defined. According to the gradient information and related component connectivity, this separates a CT picture into a collection of distinct objects. Our technique reduces computing time by reducing threshold propagation, which converges at the best segmentation result, with such an optimal estimation of the initial liver border. The limits of liver computer supported detection/diagnosis systems and potential strategies to enhance them will also be covered. We came to the conclusion in this research that, despite some potential for advancement, automatic liver segmentation approaches are now on level with human segmentation. However, it may be said that both automated and semi-automatic liver tumour segmentation approaches perform less well than anticipated. It is also clear that the majority of computer assisted detection/diagnosis techniques call for manual liver and liver tumour segmentation, which restricts the clinical use of these systems.
A Distributed Algorithm for Topology Control in VANETs: Distributed Distant Node Graphical Structure (DDGST) Algorithm
Authors: Sivaraman Himani
Published: May 2023

Vehicle ad hoc networks—a subset of MANETs—allow cars to directly connect. These networks are independent of previous infrastructure. VANETs promote traffic safety, efficiency, and ITS application development. Their link allows this. Vehicular Ad-hoc Networks (VANETs) have grown in popularity due to its ability to efficiently and reliably connect automobiles. Vehicular networks evolve rapidly, making network topology maintenance problematic. VANET topologies are managed decentralized here. The algorithm uses neighbor numbers and distances to calculate vehicle transmission range. Simulations indicate that the suggested method reduces network partitions and maximizes connection. Due to the great mobility of VANET vehicles, the network architecture changes quickly. As this network topology is continually changing, creating strong and effective routing protocols is difficult. Topology control can overcome this difficulty. We present a distributed topology control mechanism that keeps VANETs online, reduces control messages, and prevents collisions. Node centrality and network density are used to fine-tune each node's transmission power. Computer simulations compare the proposed approach to different topology control algorithms. The results show that the suggested method outperforms the alternatives in network connectivity, longevity, and control overhead.
PyCaret based URL Detection of Phishing Websites
Authors: Rani Poonam
Published: May 2023

The primary objective of the research project is to employ machine learning algorithms to conduct studies and identify instances of phished URLs that might direct people to fraudulent websites. The Kaggle repository, which contains more than 11,000 URLs, is where the authors received a phished dataset for this application. Examples of both genuine and phished URL links can be found in the collection. Also, the dataset contains 31 features that must be obtained using feature engineering stages and methodologies. Nevertheless, this dataset is also available as a csv file and has been further pre-processed to remove redundant and pointless data. This is followed by the feature extraction process, which extracts URL properties including domain-based, content-based, and address-based attributes. The implementation of PyCaret follows, with each line of code being in charge of the entire execution. Nonetheless, the testing at this level consists of three parts. In order to create accuracy, the initial stage of PyCaret's implementation includes running 14 built-in algorithms. The top three accuracy-generating algorithms are combined to build a stacking model in the last stage of the system model's implementation, which is divided into two stages. The second stage of the system model implementation entails taking random forest into account. In the conclusion, the accuracy of each algorithm is assessed together with its performance. After comparison, the technique with the highest generating accuracy is considered to be the optimised model.
Multi-objective Optimization Techniques for Solving Complex Engineering Problems
Authors: Naithani Kanchan
Published: May 2023

In recent years, multi-objective optimization techniques have gained popularity as a powerful approach to the solution of complex engineering problems that involve multiple competing objectives. This popularity can be attributed to the fact that multi-objective optimization techniques can solve complex engineering problems. Engineers are able to think about many goals at the same time using this method, which enables them to discover the best solution that fits all of their requirements. Yet, there are obstacles connected with setting objectives, dealing with high computational costs, comprehending complicated Pareto fronts, coping with uncertainty, and having limited accessibility to data from the real world. The purpose of this paper is to present a literature review of multi-objective optimization techniques for the solution of complex engineering problems. The review covers a variety of techniques that are available for multi-objective optimization as well as their applications in a variety of engineering fields. It also draws attention to the difficulties involved with their application and the necessity of giving serious consideration to these difficulties while attempting to solve actual engineering problems that occur in the real world. The research comes to the conclusion that multi-objective optimization is an effective method that can assist engineers in solving complicated engineering issues by concurrently taking into consideration numerous competing objectives.
Smart Contract Technology for Blockchain-based Systems: Design and Implementation Challenges.
Authors: Chattopadhyay Saumitra
Published: May 2023

The technology of smart contracts, which is an essential component of blockchain-based systems, has the potential to improve the efficiency, transparency, and safety of these systems. However, there are a number of challenges that need to be conquered in order to develop and implement smart contracts, particularly in regard to security, adaptability, interoperability, and meeting the standards imposed by legal and regulatory authorities. This paper examines ideas for designing and implementing smart contracts, as well as providing an outline of the challenges that have been encountered. In this article, we take a look back at 25 essential works that were published in the field between 2010 and 2019, and we discuss the impact that these works have had. According to the findings of our research, continual collaboration between the necessary stakeholders is required in order to fully realize the benefits given by smart contract technology while also limiting the risks associated with it.
A Machine Learning-based Approach for Anomaly Detection in IoT Systems
Authors: Singh Sumeshwar
Published: May 2023

The increased use of IoT devices has created new hurdles in the detection of anomalies. Anomaly detection is the process of discovering unexpected or abnormal behaviour in a system, and anomalies in IoT systems can be produced by a variety of sources, including hardware and software faults, cyber assaults, and environmental conditions. Machine learning-based approaches for anomaly detection in IoT systems have emerged as a viable option, harnessing the capabilities of machine learning algorithms to detect and categorise anomalies in real-time. However, there are drawbacks to these approaches, such as data quality difficulties, the necessity for real-time analysis, and the possibility of false positives and false negatives. Organizations must carefully analyse the trade-offs associated in their implementation and deployment to overcome these problems. Based on research a review of machine learning-based algorithms for anomaly detection in IoT systems. We explore the problems and potential associated with these approaches, as well as a synopsis of available datasets and models. In addition, the article describes a framework for designing and testing machine learning-based algorithms for anomaly detection in IoT systems. Overall, machine learning-based technologies have the potential to transform the way we detect and respond to abnormalities in IoT systems, but their successful implementation necessitates a cautious and deliberate approach.
The role of anthropogenic dermatotoxicants in the etiology of acne in adolescents
Authors: Pilnik Elena N. , Deryagina Larisa E. , Reinyuk Vladimir L. , Pyatibrat Aleksandr O.
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND: As urbanization continues to increase, so do the detrimental impacts of anthropogenic toxic substances on human health.
AIM: to study the role of toxic elements in the etiology of acne in adolescents.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 595 adolescents from different settings of the Moscow region participated in a cross-sectional study. Of them, 301 had acne. The reference group consisted of 294 healthy and acne-free children. Spectrometric, cytogenetic, biochemical and immunological research methods were used in the study. Concentrations of essential and toxic trace elements in hair samples were estimated. A micronuclear test was performed in buccal epithelial cells. The testosterone level and the immunoregulatory index were assessed. Discriminant analysis was used for development of the algorithm to predict acne in adolescents.
RESULTS: Elevated concentrations of lead, cadmium and mercury were observed in 23% of adolescents with acne, respectively, while in the reference group the corresponding proportions were 10, 5 and 8% all p 0.01). Decreased concentration of selenium and zinc were found in 22 and 16% of adolescents, respectively, compared to the 6% in the reference group (p 0.01). Micronucleus test revealed signs of genetic instability in 42% of adolescents with acne vs 19% in the acne-free group. Positive correlations were observed between genotoxic disorders and hear concentrations of lead and mercury.
CONCLUSIONS: Low concentrations of selenium and zinc combined with high concentrations of mercury and lead in hair samples as well as with increased number of micronuclei in the buccal epithelium suggest predominantly toxic etiology of acne. Adolescents with a predominantly hormonal etiology of acne were characterized by an increase in testosterone levels and a decrease in the immunoregulatory index. Discriminant analysis allows classification of acne by predominant etiology.
Functional activity of the brain among elderly women with different autonomic tones in the Arctic zone of the Russian Federation
Authors: Gribanov Anatoliy V. , Shiryaeva Taisiia P. , Fateeva Irina L. , Fedotov Denis M. , Preminina Oksana S. , Anoshina Tatiana V.
Published: May 2023

AIM: To identify the distinctive features of brain activity based on the distribution of DC-potential levels among elderly women across different autonomic tones in the Russian Arctic.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In total, 121 6074 years old women permanently living in Arctic Russia participated in a cross-sectional study. Differences in the indicators of DC-potential levels were measured in three groups of elderly women with different levels of autonomic tone, namely, in vagotonics, normotonics and sympathotonics. Registration of the DC-potential levels of the brain was carried out using a 12-channel Neuro-KM diagnostic equipment. The assessment of the autonomic regulation of the heart rate was carried out using the VNS-spectrum equipment.
RESULTS: Greater total and average indicators of DC-potential distribution were observed in the sympathotonic group compared with the two other groups. For all monopolar leads, a clear trend towards an increase in neuroenergometabolism of the brain in elderly women with predominant activity of the sympathetic part of the ANS was observed. The dome-shaped principle was violated in both sympathotonics and vagotonics. In the group of normotonics and vagotonics, the leading factors were the functional activity of the central and frontal regions of the brain, while in the group of sympathotonics, the greatest proportion was determined by the factors regulating brain activity of the right temporal and frontal regions.
CONCLUSION: The study of the functional activity of the brain in elderly women with different autonomic tones demonstrates the presence of specific changes in the distribution of values of the constant potential level, which may indicate some change in the mechanisms characterizing the state of cerebral energy exchange. The most pronounced changes were observed in women with the sympathotonic type of ANS, which may characterize the processes of incomplete adaptation.
The Community Stress-Drop Validation Study—Part II: Uncertainties of the Source Parameters and Stress Drop Analysis
Authors: Bindi Dino , Spallarossa Daniele , Picozzi Matteo , Oth Adrien , Morasca Paola , Mayeda Kevin
Published: May 2023

As part of the community stress-drop validation study, we evaluate the uncertainties of seismic moment M0 and corner frequency fc for earthquakes of the 2019 Ridgecrest sequence. Source spectra were obtained in the companion article by applying the spectral decomposition approach with alternative processing and model assumptions. The objective of the present study is twofold: first, to quantify the impact of different assumptions on the source parameters; and second, to use the distribution of values obtained with different assumptions to estimate an epistemic contribution to the uncertainties. Regarding the first objective, we find that the choice of the attenuation model has a strong impact on fc results: by introducing a depth-dependent attenuation model, fc estimates of events shallower than 6 km increase of about 10%. Also, the duration of the window used to compute the Fourier spectra show an impact on fc: the average ratio between the estimates for 20 s duration to those for 5 s decreases from 1.1 for Mw<3 to 0.66 for Mw>4.5. For the second objective, we use a mixed-effect regression to partition the intraevent variability into duration, propagation, and site contributions. The standard deviation ϕ of the intraevent residuals for log(fc) is 0.0635, corresponding to a corner frequency ratio 102ϕ=1.33. When the intraevent variability is compared to uncertainties on log(fc), we observe that 2ϕ is generally larger than the 95% confidence interval of log(fc), suggesting that the uncertainty of the source parameters provided by the fitting procedure might underestimate the model-related (epistemic) uncertainty. Finally, although we observe an increase of log(Δσ) with log(M0) regardless of the model assumptions, the increase of Δσ with depth depends on the assumptions, and no significant trends are detected when depth-dependent attenuation and velocity values are considered.
Üniversite Öğrencilerinin İnanç Gelişimlerine ve Anlam Arayışlarına Yönelik Nitel Bir Çalışma
Authors: DOĞANAY Süleyman
Published: May 2023

Ergenlik, bilişsel açıdan soyut düşünceye geçişin ve duygusal açıdan genelde bağımsızlığın kazanıldığı bir dönemdir. Ergenlik dönemi, dinî inanç hususunda şüphe ve sorgulama dönemi olduğu için inanç konuları gençler tarafından sıkça irdelenmektedir. Bu çalışma, James Fowler’ın bir yönüyle genel gelişim kuramlarına bir yönüyle da teolojiye dayanan bilişsel temelli inanç gelişim kuramından hareketle hazırlanmıştır. Çalışma, nitel desenli bir araştırmanın ürünüdür. Üniversite öğrencilerden bazılarıyla mülakat yapılmış, bazılarından da düşüncelerini kâğıda aktarmaları istenmiştir. Veriler fenomenolojik yöntemle analiz edilmiş ve şu sonuçlara ulaşılmıştır. Günümüz üniversite öğrencileri hedefsizlikten, ümitsizlikten, geleceğe dair plan yapamamaktan, yetişkinler tarafından baskı görmekten ve kendilerine güvenilmemesinden, anlaşılmamaktan veya yanlış anlaşılmaktan, yetişkinlerin söylem ve eylem tutarsızlığından, çevrelerinin merhamet ve adalet yoksunluğundan şikâyet etmektedir. Üniversite öğrencileri, inançla ilgili eğilimlerin zihinsel arka planında; anlam arayışı sürecinde kendilerine duygudaşlık ve sempati ile yaklaşmayan akran grubu, ebeveynler veya yetişkinlere karşı sergilenen inadına bir refleks olabileceğini, sosyokültürel alanda da bazı gençlerin dikkat çekme veya varlığını kanıtlama arzusunun yattığını söylemektedir.
PET Scan Capstone Paper
Authors:   , Hyduk Roxanne , Poyss Alicemarie R. , LaPointe Robert J
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this capstone paper was to improve flow of patients obtaining a stress PET scan in an outpatient setting. This state-of-the-art test produces high caliber pictures of myocardial blood flow to help diagnosis cardiac disease. This paper attempts to increase the amount of PET test scans performed to ten in one day by using lean methodology. Value stream mapping assisted the lean process by highlighting the non-value and value-added processes involve in a patients' appointments. The data was collected by means of non- probability methods and taken over two weeks prior and ten weeks post the intervention of a set scheduling. The results of the value stream mapping showed that inpatient scans increased overall and in value-added time. However, both values decreased in the inpatient scans and value-added time. If this could be corrected, the patient satisfaction and financial implications would be substantially increase for the intuition. It is important that a data champion is selected to chair this improvement project for streamlining the process.
Risk perception normalization of sunlight exposure
Authors: Gaspar Gabriela , Luís Sílvia
Published: May 2023

Health organizations recommend avoiding direct sunlight exposure usually between 11 am and 5 pm. Nevertheless, it is common to see people on the beach during all day. This study focuses on understanding if sunlight exposure risk might be normalized. Risk normalization is a process by which people minimize a perceive threat to psychologically cope with it, frequently by using positive illusions. A pilot study (N = 44) suggests that the positive illusions most referred to explain exposition at unrecommended hours are the use of protective measures. To explore if knowledge of sunlight exposure risk and risk perception were negatively associated, illustrating risk normalization, a questionnaire was applied to a convenience sample (N = 276). This effect was found among those individuals that exposed themselves to sunlight between 12 am and 3 pm and reported a use of protective measures that was above the average. Furthermore, health literacy moderated the negative relation between knowledge and risk perception. This study suggests that it is important communicating that the use of protective measures during unrecommended hours does not guarantee protection, promoting health literacy, as it can minimize risk normalization, and understanding how information on risks and benefits interacts to influence risk perception.