bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecast of the Development of Sediment Pile Foundations in Water-Saturated Clay Soils
Authors: Troshkova N , Maltseva I , Panova A , Kochnev G
Published: November 2020

The article presents the methodology and the main results of experimental studies of the laws governing the development of single-pile sediment in time on models under short-term and long-term exposure to loads. The obtained data are compared with the results of observations of precipitation of natural foundations. Indicates the direction of further research on the development of methods for predicting the sediment pile foundations. Established the legitimacy of the design of pile foundations for the maximum allowable deformations in the conditions of water-saturated clay soils.
The Role of the Internet of Things (IoT) in Energy Management of a Smart City
Authors: Maltseva I , Tkachuk K
Published: November 2020

The 2030 climate & energy framework contains three key targets for Europe: to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increase the share of renewable energy (RE) sources and promote energy efficiency. These tasks are relevant for Russia as well. As one of the frontrunners, Germany has raised its RE share target to 65% by 2030. At the same time, global energy needs are expected to increase by 30% by 2040. In this context, energy systems should not only be planned for the current supply but also be designed for a substantial increase in energy demand. To achieve these goals and avoid an energy crisis, the general idea is to shift from centralized to decentralized energy systems. Furthermore, energy sectors are currently integrated with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions, especially the Internet of Things (IoT), for efficient and sustainable energy management. The article analyses the role of IoT technology in existing and future energy systems according to three scales: flat, building and city.
Efficient Waste Management in a Smart City
Authors: Zakharova G B , Fedorova A V
Published: November 2020

National projects for the development of the Russian Federation, including in the field of digitalization, aimed at creating a comfortable ecologically pure urban environment are presented. The evolution of the “smart city” concept is briefly presented: from technological to humanitarian view. Some examples of smart solutions in terms of ecology are given. Indicators of the smart city are analyzed, environmental characteristics are highlighted. The data on Yekaterinburg and actual directions of automation for solving environmental problems in the Sverdlovsk region are shown. The logistical task of garbage picking in multi-agent systems technology is formalized and the model example is presented in the Any Logic simulation system.
Is a sustainable future possible?
Authors: Anikin Y V , Shilkov V I
Published: November 2020

The article presents the issues of transition to a sustainable balanced development of economic systems, taking into account the minimization of environmental losses. A thesis on the internal contradictions of modern economic models is proposed. Problems and negative consequences of the introduction of new technologies are noted. The problems of the interaction of economics and ecology are analyzed. The main obstacles to the transition to sustainable development and a green economy are identified.
Roadside infrastructure unit as an autonomous small-sized smart grid. “Holonic” approach
Authors: Panyukova D , Sladkowski A , Shiryayeva O
Published: November 2020

Along now being constructed Western Europe to Western China (WEWC) Corridor big territories are totally uninhabited. It leads to absents of any central power supply. While transport infrastructure and control on the highways should be provided. The article is devoted to autonomous power grid of such road unit as a transport control post “Rubej”. Firstly, the scientific analysis of renewable energy sources of the republic of Kazakhstan and justification of exact power plants for the post is provided. After that the research is focused on a principle of power grid control. The “Multi-agent system” (MAS) technique was proven to be promising approach to the smart grid’s design. The one of the recently offered MAS techniques is the Holonic architecture. While it was adjusted only for power grids with central grid connection. In the article autonomous smart grid based on Holonic approach is offered and described. The optimization problem for the control of autonomous small-sized smart grid is reckoned. The achieved results can ease the control system’s design and scaling process, as it should be provided even for small-sized grids. In the end financial actuality is proved.
Increasing Ecological Safety of Lead Production
Authors: Tolstova Ju I , Pastukhova L G , Kozyrin K V , Osipov R V
Published: November 2020

Air pollution as a result of lead evaporation from the surface of melts is considered. Conditions for aerosol diffusion by convective and circulation flows are given. The method of analogy between processes of heat and mass transfer was used for the calculation of evaporation. A program set was developed and new data were obtained on the amount of lead transferring into the air from the melts open surfaces and during transportation in ladles with considering of the cooling.
Development of innovative proposals for improving the environmental situation in the Novovoronezh NPP region using the comparative analysis of waste management at Kudankulam NPP in India and Bruce NPP in Canada
Authors: Dobrosotskikh M G , Emelyanov D I , Kuznetsov V R , Rodina E V
Published: November 2020

Paper provides a comparative analysis of three nuclear power plants: Novovoronezh NPP in Russia, Kudankulam NPP in India, and Bruce NPP in Canada. The basic parameters (site plan, biosphere diversity, types and capacity of reactors, amount of electricity generated and its cost) are compared. Types of waste generated at all three nuclear power plants and methods of their treatment are analyzed. Brief overview of some of the security systems used at these power plants is conducted. On the basis of comparative analysis, proposals for improving the environmental situation in the Novovoronezh NPP region (e.g. improvement of the wastes management) are made, with the proposal of nuclear fuel cycle scheme enhancement.
Implementation of Zero Liquid Discharge Systems in Russian Industry
Authors: Aksenov V , Tsarev N , Maksimova E
Published: November 2020

The article focuses on the implementation of zero liquid discharge (ZLD) systems precluding the pollutant release to the environment at metallurgical, machine-building and metalworking enterprises. The need to change over to such systems is due to two main factors: 1. Significant savings in fresh water used in production; 2. A decrease in the number of all kinds of pollutants reaching the environment with various discharges (purified, insufficiently purified and completely untreated). The main feature of ZLD systems at industrial enterprises is the presence of tailing management facilities, e. g. concentrated wastewater treatment facilities; industrial wastewater sludge treatment facilities; non-recyclable oily wastewater and sludge incineration facilities; reclaimed (recycled) industrial wastewater treatment facilities etc. The development stages of ZLD systems in Russia are presented. In 1973, for the first time in the world’s practice, in the Verkh-Isetsky Metallurgical Plant in the city of Sverdlovsk (now Yekaterinburg), the ZLD developed by Prof. V. I. Aksenov and his colleagues was launched and has successfully operated in the cold rolled transformer steel workshop. As an example of wastewater treatment facility as part of a ZLD system, some technical installation solutions are described in order to treat chemically contaminated acid ferrous-containing wastewater generated in pickling carbon steel. The focus is on the feasibility of implementing local ZLD systems instead of central ZLD systems. The advantages of such local systems are: possible regenerating exhausted process solutions at the place of their formation, obtaining demineralized water, the local treatment of chemically polluted wastewater, lower investment and operating costs.
Ordination Architecture Analysis: Calculation of Proportionality of Order Form Elements
Authors: Dolgov A V
Published: November 2020

Architectural ordination is part of the theory of architecture dating back to antiquity but in many ways distorted today. The generalization of approaches to it gives two directions of research, namely, abstract (the search for universal laws of proportionality) and empirically-specific (the analysis of the proportions of an individual object). Adhering to the second approach, the author develops his own version of ordination analysis based on major-minor ratios. The calculations are confirmed by the results of measurements of buildings of different epochs and tested in the design practice presented in the article. Objects created on the basis of the theory of ordination can belong to different styles, but, undoubtedly, harmonize the human condition and the urban environment.
Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) Industrial Wastewater Treatment Systems as Sustainable Development Basic Ecological Components
Authors: Aksenov V , Tsarev N , Nichkova I , Tatyannikova E
Published: November 2020

The problems in processing the acid ferrous-containing rinsing water and spent pickling solutions are considered. The first-ever in metallurgy zero liquid discharge (ZLD) industrial wastewater treatment systems of a transformer cold rolling plant at the Verkh-Isetsky steelworks in Sverdlovsk (now — LLC VIZ Steel is a part of Novolipetsk Steel Group of Companies) is described. The experience of the VIZ Steel, particularly in relation to industrial wastewater treatment and sludge processing, is useful for designing ZLD industrial wastewater treatment systems of metallurgical, machine-building and metalworking enterprises. The recommendations for organizing the ZLD industrial wastewater treatment systems in the pickling plants with the repeated use of the treated rinsing water and processing the spent pickling solutions and the sludges are presented. For practical calculations of clarifiers the empirical formulas are offered. Process flow diagram of acid ferrous-containing rinsing water treatment is suggested. Acid ferrous-containing rinsing water treatment includes the following processes: rinsing water neutralization to pH 9-10,5 by 5 % calcium hydroxide and partial ferrous oxidation by air; addition of anionic flocculant and active gypsum priming to the neutralized rinsing water; settling of rinsing water conditioned by reagents in clarifiers; treatment of clarified water on deep bed sand filters; reclaimed water treatment.
Problems of the implementation of BIM technologies in Russia
Authors: Chesnokova E A , Khokhlova V V , Ponyavina N A , Chesnokov A S
Published: November 2020

This article is devoted to the latest technology of computer-aided design-Building Information Modeling (Building Information Modeling or Building Information Model). It discusses the prerequisites for the emergence of information modeling, describes its advantages and capabilities compared with the traditional two-dimensional design method and are presented in the figures. Currently in Russia there is a problem of introducing BIM. In this paper, we identified the main problem of introducing BIM technologies in Russia, which is associated with a decrease in the productivity of designers when switching to a new design technology, as well as possible solutions to this problem. In addition, the difficulties arising from attempts to move to BIM-technologies are described. The main conclusion is the indisputable advantage of BIM-technologies over 2D design.
BIM within current building facilities and infrastructure
Authors: Nyvlt V
Published: November 2020

One of the main reasons for introducing BIM into existing buildings is cost savings in the construction management and maintenance phase (operating phase). Operational phases have the biggest impact on the total life cycle costs. The introduction of BIM and the creation of a building information model, albeit at a higher price, will be counterbalanced several times by a more efficient way of managing the building during its life cycle, the possibility of creating a healthier indoor environment for building users and better access to necessary information, for example in the case of changes to completed buildings. The BIM model is a digital equivalent of a real construction – real digital twin. It contains geometric data in the form of a 3D model and non-geometry data, including construction management and support documents. The BIM model allows access to building usage information. The information obtained is more accurate. It keeps building element information up to date, enabling more informed decisions. It supports comparison of different solutions and their energy needs. Renovation can be done more efficiently. Construction information is up-to-date, so we can use the time needed to process different solutions instead of finding the necessary information about the construction.
Optimization of constructions with the grids of lenticular pipes
Authors: Marutyan A S , Galdin E V
Published: November 2020

Presented a new technical solution, which is a highly efficient technical and economic indicators and massively used in industrial civil engineering. Development work and optimization design calculations of lattice structures using video surveillance from core pipes. Their new technical solution has been developed, the originality of which is confirmed by patent examination. Worked gussetless node connections of belts and grids with direct connection of core elements to each other without misalignments, as well as constructive eccentricities limited by 0.25 height of belt elements, which allows not to take them into account in the calculations, provides an increase in the degree of unification of the nodes of the upper and lower carrier zones designs. The whole diagram of changes in the design parameters of the lenticular pipes is given during the transformation of their cross sections from vertical to horizontal configurations, including a transition through a circular shape. The prospects of using a new technical solution in light metal structures of buildings and structures are shown. The area of its rational use is outlined, where, using alternative design of known and new solutions, a quantitative assessment of the resources of their carrying capacity is given.
Effect of Limestone Filler Dosage and Granulometry on the 3D printable Mixture Rheology
Authors: Slavcheva G , Artamonova O , Babenko D , Ibryaeva A
Published: November 2020

The article presents the experimental results concerning the influence of the concentration and a particle size distribution of limestone filler on the rheological behaviour of cement pastes as matrixes of 3D printable concrete. The squeezing test is used in this paper as a rheological behaviour identification tool of cement-based materials in order to evaluate the extrudability and buildability. It has been established that introduction of filler as a factor changing the properties of solid phase in the system “cement + water” is an effective method for plasticity regulation and increasing the 3D printable cement-based materials resistance to load during the printing. Structural stability of cement paste can be improved by 2 times by introduction of filler with efficient ranging of a particle size in dosage of 20 – 40 % by weight of cement. Cement paste with limestone filler having a particle size distribution ranging from’ to 75 μm is characterized by the optimal plasticity, structural strength and deformability under the load. Using limestone filler with equal particle size impairs these characteristics of cement paste.
Improving the technology installation of slabs of jointless ossature without girders and joints of KUB system civic buildings
Authors: Fomin N I , Berngardt K V , Vorobiyov A V , Zoteeva E E
Published: November 2020

According to the research results of precast and cast-in-situ civil buildings construction, made in KUB constructive system (cross-functional jointless ossature without girders and joints) in the Middle Urals conditions, the need to develop a technologically advanced method for the installation of the column floor slab, as well as erection device for its implementation is identified. While developing a new design and technological solution, methodological means were used (identifying contradictions, methods of eliminating them) of the theory of solving inventive problems (TRIZ). As a result of inventive activity, a mounting method of the column slab of girderless floor construction in KUB system and a mounting device for its implementation has been proposed.
Deformation of composite plates with a layer of aging materials
Authors: Yakubovskiy Y E , Kolosov V I , Donkova I A
Published: November 2020

The paper presents a calculation of the stress-strain state of composite plates. The mathematical model obtained by the authors earlier has been applied. In contrast to the previous results, the viscous-elastic properties of the material are taken into account in describing the behavior of the intermediate layer. The developed creep kernel of the layer material contains the expression that serves to describe the properties of the aging material. The compliance of the proposed formulas with actual processes has been proved by comparison with experimental data. In the numerical implementation decomposition of the expressions under integral sign into the Maclaurin series has been used. Based on the experimental data, the parameters of creep kernels have been determined. The parameters have been determined by minimizing the calculated data standard deviation from the experimental ones. The algorithm based on the random search method has been implemented. The results of the calculation according to the developed mathematical model have been given. The analysis of time variation in the stress-strain state of the joints between the layers of the composite structure has also been given.
Experimental determination of the minimum allowable thickness of the external decorative layer of the silica-granite block under exposure to a radiant heat from the base of the fire
Authors: Sharhun S V , Mokrousova O A , Koshelev A Y , Ojegov E A , Sirina N F
Published: November 2020

The paper presents the results of the full-scale tests that determine the minimum permissible thickness of the protective outer decorative layer of a silica-granite wall block when exposed to radiant heat flux from a fire source, taking into account the location of the constructed object at the standardized distance between buildings and structures. The article presents an analysis of the fire safety regulatory requirements applicable to the Russian Federation, in terms of the location of buildings and structures of various fire resistance levels in the territories of gardeners’ and allotment non-profit associations or on land plots intended for individual housing construction in urban and rural settlements.
Cement Composition Materials Based on Electrochemically and Electromagnetic-activated Filling Water
Authors: Erofeev V T , Fomichev V T , Emelyanov D V , Matvievskiy A A , Holschemacher K , Boushi M S , Bazeeva E Yu
Published: November 2020

A technology is proposed for producing electrochemically and electromagnetically activated water and, from the standpoint of resource saving, high-quality cement composite materials. The results of the physicochemical analysis and morphology of the sediment of naturally non-mineralized water activated by different regimes are presented. A quantitative and qualitative X-ray phase analysis, as well as the results of the study of the microstructure of cement stone samples based on mixing water activated in different modes, are given. The strength indicators of cement stone, mortar and concrete samples were established, and the results of a study of the water resistance of cement composites made with the use of activated mixing water were presented. It has been established that electrochemical and electromagnetic activation of mixing water contributes to a change in its physicochemical properties, influences the structure-forming factors of the cement stone and contributes to the improvement of the strength and performance indicators of cement composite materials.
Dynamic Correction of the Construction Projects Scheduling Implementation under Stochastic Influences
Authors: Dobrosotskikh M G , Mishchenko V Ya , Mishchenko A V
Published: November 2020

The research results of this paper show that parameters of the catch-up schedule are determined by the dynamics of time-averaged volumes, rates and accelerations of construction jobs only when discrete nature of resources consumed has a weak influence on the rate of project jobs. On the other hand, if the speed of job is determined by the use of nostockable resources, the dynamics of jobs volume demonstrates the weak sensitivity both to the discrete nature of resources and to external stochastic influences. In this, the speed and acceleration of jobs experience jumps at the times of changes in the number of resources used. Thus, a time-averaging operation leads to the loss of information about these features of construction dynamics. In this paper the algorithms for stochastic factors accounting (characterized by different influences on the project implementation) are formulated. Moreover, the algorithm for forming the catch-up jobs schedule is obtained based on the results of monitoring of the jobs pace and averaging only over periods of a constant composition of a number of discrete resources. Furthermore, both empirical methods of separation of stochastic and deterministic impacts on the project implementation, as well as a method based on the qualitative difference in the Fourier spectra of stochastic and deterministic functions, have been developed. The limits of applicability of the empirical and exact methods are analyzed. It is shown that the Fourier analysis of the monitoring results allows to completely recover the deterministic information even against the background of the stochastic signal that coincides with it. It is shown that the proposed algorithm makes the formulation of catch-up jobs scheduling parameters possible, allowing to avoid financial and image losses associated with the untimely end of the project or its main parts.
Fortification of building’s foundations with eco-friendly materials as means to safer and more comfortable urban environment
Authors: Zakrevskaya L V , Lubin P A , Gandelsman I A , Andreeva K A
Published: November 2020

In this paper we tested mechanical aspects of chemical reactions as means to fortification of clay soil. We also tested properties of soil-concrete using waste of dolomite and chrysotile asbestos. The composition and properties of the composites are presented along with the comparison with traditional reinforced cementing materials. Main testing means of properties were method of x-ray phase analysis, electric scanning microscopy, soil strength changes and soil internal friction angle changes.
Study of the Behavior of Cement Composites in the Conditions of Cyclic Exposure Positive and Negative Temperatures
Authors: Erofeeva I V , Afonin V V , Emelyanov D V , Fedortsov V A , Moiseev V V , Podzhivotov N Yu , Zotkina M M
Published: November 2020

The paper presents the results of tests of cement composites under the conditions of cyclic exposure to negative and positive temperatures for 45 days. The stability factor (durability) compares the compositions with various fillers and additives. Resistance (long-term preservation of the structure and properties) of composites was estimated from the change in the relative hardness of the material, characterized by the area of the polygon, obtained as a result of a piecewise linear approximation of the exposure points of the test materials.
Creep mathematical model on the example of early age concrete
Authors: Yakubovskiy Y E , Kolosov V I , Donkova I A , Kruglov S O
Published: November 2020

The objective of the study is development of a creep kernel recording form, which allows obtaining representations for creep curves calculation. Based on the elastic-creeping body theory a possibility of the high-rate creep movement analytical study has been shown. A creep kernel, which contains a formula to describe the aging material properties, has been built. Essential stages of the proposed creep kernel formation have been given. The correspondence of the proposed calculations to real processes has been proved by a comparison with experimental data. In the numerical implementation, decomposition of integration elements into power series has been used. A possibility of calculating functions for a long time interval has been shown. Creep kernel parameters have been determined on the basis of experimental data of early age concrete samples by minimizing the standard deviation of theoretical and empirical values.
The Quality of Heat-Insulating Masonry Mortar with Perlite
Authors: Gerasimova E S , Il’yina A D
Published: November 2020

A quality for any building material including the dry construction mixtures is very important. This is a complex concept that includes a set of properties that determines their suitability for intended use. So the heat-insulating masonry mortar should simultaneously have a low coefficient of thermal conductivity, sufficient strength, sufficient frost resistance, etc. And the material not always possesses the characteristics that the manufacturer claims. In this regard it is of interest to conduct tests of finished products for their compliance both Russian Standard and presented characteristics. This work is devoted to main properties determination of heat-insulating masonry mortar produced by JSC “Quick–mix”.
Nurturing cognitive skills in undergraduates with the help of ontological analysis
Authors: Gushchin A N , Divakova M N
Published: November 2020

The article deals with the didactic problem that arises in the two-stage system of bachelor’s study -master. During the period of study in the master’s program, the bachelor needs to make a qualitative leap in the style of thinking and move from the visual-language thinking of the bachelor to the critical conceptual thinking of the master. Why bachelor needs to acquire cognitive skills as soon as possible. The article substantiates the use of the ontological analysis method as a didactic tool for teaching undergraduates. The effectiveness of ontological analysis as a didactic tool with specific examples is demonstrated.
Assessment of uncertainties and risks related to implementation of infrastructure projects
Authors: Reznikov D O
Published: November 2020

The paper considers principles of assessing uncertainties and risks related to realization of infrastructure projects. The procedure for the examination of the proposed infrastructure project should use the methodological toolkit of risk theory, which was developed to assess safety of complex technical systems. A risk-based approach to the assessment of infrastructure projects involves a scenario assessment of the project, taking into account the influence of potential hazardous natural, technological, economic and socio-political factors that can significantly complicate the project implementation. A set of indexes allowing one to assess and compare different variants of the infrastructure project implementation is presented.
Selection of methods of inspection of building structures to prevent damage
Authors: Mishchenko V Ya , Sergeev Yu D , Sergeeva A Yu , Myasischev V Yu , Myasischev R Yu
Published: November 2020

This article discusses the mechanism studies of the functional provisions of the building construction, and identification of symptoms, in the case of which it’s possible to forecast the appearance of accidents. The main purpose of this work is to find what kind of next examination should be performed otherwise, what sign that affects better than the others on the breakdown of the construction, you need to find to prevent its collapse and have time to take preventive measures to restore. In the work developed methods to determine the correct symptom, affecting more than any other on the disruption of the structure. An algorithm for the control of the system has been determined, Algorithm of monitoring when the life cycle of construction is maximum. It is proved that the issue of monitoring the priority or determination of the sign influencing the building breakdown can be defined by methods of nonlinear programming (parametric optimization). An algorithm which searches the main technical position of construction when the risk of disruption of the structure is minimal is developed.
Analysis of industrial areas of Ekaterinburg
Authors: Alekseeva A V , Pridvizhkin S V , Mazaev G V
Published: November 2020

The article views the relationship between the change in the purpose of the industrial area and the planning structure of the city. Moreover it includes the proposed gradation of enterprises depending on the area of their industrial sites. Also the text point out the uniqueness of the industrial site of PJSC “Uralmashzavod” among other enterprises of the heavy industry of the city of Ekaterinburg.
Some Economical Methods of Assessment of Ecological Products and Service
Authors: Vlasov V B , Mishchenko V Ya , Makeev A I
Published: November 2020

In this work, authors try to lay the methodological foundation of cost assessment of ecological products and service, which were free in Russian Federation. Transferring more and more products and services to market appeal as market objects means more effective and rational using them with different market mechanisms complexes. Current economic practice does not provide effective using of nature recourses such as water for economical subjects, who control it, and for recourse’s consumers. On the basis of research in ten villages of Voronezh region authors reveal some significant reserves in improving effectiveness of the system. The essence of the method is necessity of meticulous research of all characters of resource’s demand and revealing its extreme utility. On the basis of research’s results were revealed that customer always wants to have more qualify product of service and pay higher price of them. In the job you can find specific example of using the method and some practical recommendations of its rational using. Authors suggest and substantiate the necessity of including the characters of ecological and economical effect and damage in the assessment of effectiveness of different vectors of development.
Simulation gas combustion process in modern heat generators of small and medium power
Authors: Valeev M , Dyudina A , Fatikhov A A , Ziganshin M
Published: November 2020

The paper presents the problems of numerical modelling of burners and fireboxes the heat generators. The designs household generators placed directly on the premises, in the last decades, for the goal of commercial appeal, tend become to more and more compact, which leads to a reduction of the firebox to a burn zone’s volume ratio. The numerical study of combustion processes using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was carried out on the Unimat UT-L18 “Bosch” boiler, the gas heating convector “FEG” Beata 2, and the Vitodens 100-W “Viessmann” boiler. Computations were based on a one-stage combustion process of methane, both mixes with air and oxygen. Geometric models of fireboxes were developed by corresponding to their constructive features, the necessary boundary and initial conditions of furnace processes were determined, temperature, aerodynamic and concentration characteristics of gas fuel combustion processes were also presented. The models provided an opportunity for the quantitative analysis of furnace and burner devices of this heat generators degree of perfections. Also, the completeness of the oxidation of combustible components of the fuel-air mixture in fireboxes, differing in the degree close walls to burn zone, was compared. The obtained results allow to perform the improvement of the furnace and burner devices of domestic heat generators for using at design energy-efficient structures of decentralized heat systems, including individual heat supply in the residential and industrial building.
Reducing water pollution risks by wash water from water treatment plants
Authors: Brayalovsky G B , Naschetnikova O B , Migalatiy E V
Published: November 2020

The article analyses chemical methods to treat washwater from rapid filters at surface water treatment plants. The review of existing approaches to the application of rapid filter washwater is carried out. During the research work washwater from rapid filters was chemically treated with coagulant “Bopak-E”, flocculants “Praestol”, and sorbent-coprecipitant reagent “Ecosol-401”. The doses of reagents were selected and the efficiency of water purification from turbidity and chromaticity was shown. The proposed technology of washwater treatment allows to obtain drinking quality water after sedimentation and filtering.
Deceleration of the Cold Flow in the Vortex Tube
Authors: Anoshin N , Khait A , Bianco V , Noskov A , Alekhin V
Published: November 2020

Enhancement of the cold flow deceleration unit is considered in the paper to improve the energetic efficiency of the vortex tube. It was shown that the gradual expansion of the cross-section in the cold flow diffuser is inefficient for reducing the gas flow velocity in presence of its significant rotation. Installation of a blade grid at the entrance to the cold flow diffuser was suggested for interruption of the flow swirling. A notable reduction of the energy losses has been demonstrated improving the efficiency of the vortex tube.
ARGarden: 3D outdoor landscape design using handheld augmented reality with multi-user interaction
Authors: Fadzli F E , Yusof M A Mohd , Ismail A W , Salam M S Hj , Ismail N A
Published: November 2020

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology to display the virtual object by overlaying on the physical marker in the real environment. Nowadays, the handheld device becomes a trend in AR since it has high processing power and compatible with the AR system. However, most of the AR applications did not fully support the interaction from multiple users for the collaborative AR interface. Therefore, this research aim is to develop multi-user interaction for collaborative handheld AR. There are a few phases involved to design and develop the collaborative AR application for the handheld device called ARGarden. All the interaction that has been done for the virtual object transformation such as translation, rotation and scaling can be seen by the other users, and this data is synchronized by using a network protocol. Then, a queue system is implemented for the multi-user interaction to allow the virtual object can only be selected by one user at one time, and the other users must wait for their turn. The significance of this research is all the method that has been implemented for the ARGarden can be applied in different fields such as simulation, modelling, medical and education.
Object selection and scaling using multimodal interaction in mixed reality
Authors: Aladin M Y F , Ismail A W , Ismail N A , Rahim M S M
Published: November 2020

Mixed Reality (MR) is the next evolution of human interacting with the computer as MR has the ability to combine the physical environment and digital environment and making them coexist with each other. Interaction is still a huge research area in Augmented Reality (AR) but very less in MR, this is due to current advanced MR display techniques still not robust and intuitive enough to let the user to naturally interact with 3D content. New techniques on user interaction have been widely studied, the advanced technique in interaction when the system able to invoke more than one input modalities. Multimodal interaction undertakes to deliver intuitive multiple objects manipulation with gestures. This paper discusses the multimodal interaction technique using gesture and speech which the proposed experimental setup to implement multimodal in the MR interface. The real hand gesture is combined with speech inputs in MR to perform spatial object manipulations. The paper explains the implementation stage that involves interaction using gesture and speech inputs to enhance user experience in MR workspace. After acquiring gesture input and speech commands, spatial manipulation for selection and scaling using multimodal interaction has been invoked, and this paper ends with a discussion.
Educational mobile game for learning English words
Authors: Ng B K , Suaib N M , Sihes A J , Ali A , Shah Z A
Published: November 2020

English is a second language in Malaysia and English language skills are vital for Malaysians. Mobile technologies such as mobile phone can be a great tool for educational purposes since it can increase students’ engagement and is a popular tool for interactive digital media. This paper discusses the development of an educational mobile game called EWORD for learning English words, for primary school kids. There were four phases involved; preliminary analysis, game design, game development and game evaluation. In the first phase, the fundamental knowledge of English words and vocabulary, English language learning methods in Malaysia, traditional learning methods, and educational mobile game were studied to acquire adequate information about the requirements for educational mobile game. User Interface (UI), gameplay, and game mechanics were designed in the second phase, while the mobile game prototype was developed in the third phase. In the fourth phase, the evaluation was conducted to evaluate the usability of the educational mobile game prototype. Based on the results, the educational mobile game helps in boosting the learnability of English words among students and is capable to increase student engagement.
Finger-Ray Interaction using Real Hand in Handheld Augmented Reality Interface
Authors: Yusof C S , Halim N A A , Nor’a M N A , Ismail A W
Published: November 2020

Augmented Reality (AR) is the technology that augments the real world by using virtual information of 3D objects overlaid on a view of the real environment. This will create an immersive and intuitive experience. As handheld devices are widely used and now has climb with increasing demand of specifications, its interaction based on touch is a natural and appealing input style for the application of AR. Furthermore, most heuristic studies of interaction in AR usually focus on interactions with AR Target close to the user, generally within arm’s reach. As the user’s move farther away, the effectiveness and usability of the interaction modalities may be different. This study explores handheld AR interaction using real hand gesture at a distance in a room-scale setup. Our aim is to investigate the effectiveness of performing selection while being far away from the 3D object and performing selection task towards object that is being occluded. As object manipulation is one of the key features to explore for mobile handheld AR, we hope our study can give some contribution towards its practical use, especially for real-world assembly structure. Hence, our paper proposes finger ray interaction technique for real hand in handheld AR interface to work for selecting objects at distances ranging from 3 feet to 8 feet and when the object being occluded ranging from 20% to 80% occluded.
MR-Deco: Mixed Reality Application for Interior Planning and Designing
Authors: Fadzli F E , Ismail A W , Talib R , Alias R A , Ashari Z M
Published: November 2020

Over the past few years, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) have become a phenomenon in this new era and nowadays smartphone device can enable these technologies quickly and seamlessly through downloadable applications. Some of them are to benefits community and others just for entertainment purposes such as movies and games. Despite their goal, researchers take the opportunity to use Mixed Reality (MR) technology as it is suitable for real-life usage by users as its low cost and it can replace the conventional way of rearranging the furniture for interior design application. MR also brings design and planning, interior design, and engineering into a digital world where people can operate the prototype without having to physically involve in real life. A user should be able to interact intuitively with the virtual content in real-time. This paper identifies the integration for both AR and VR fusion for the MR environment. It also discusses the suitable user interaction technique can be applied in interior design in the MR environment, called MR-Deco.
Design and development of learning mathematics game for primary school using handheld augmented reality
Authors: Song E , Suaib N M , Sihes A J , Alwee R , Yunos Z Mohd
Published: November 2020

The traditional learning methods have some drawbacks and limitation such as restricted learning space, high cost, and lack of student engagement. In the era of digitalization, traditional education starts to transform into a more dynamic and modern education with the influence of the 21st-century learning method. Moreover, due to the pandemic, schools and universities are moving to digital learning to contain the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). Therefore, the aim of this project is to develop a Mathematics game using handheld Augmented Reality (HAR) for primary school children as an alternative method in learning Mathematics. There are three main phases have been carried out, first is to study the requirements of an educational game. The second phase involves the design and development including the game element, storyline, game characters as well as user interface design. Finally, the third phase is integrating the learning Mathematics game using HAR, followed by evaluation. The evaluation of the learning Mathematics game was carried out for usability and user acceptance. The usability results show that the users are satisfied with the prototype and feedbacks show the game is fun. Overall, this project has successfully produced a learning Mathematics game using HAR for primary school children.
Enhanced Canny edge detection for Covid-19 and pneumonia X-Ray images
Authors: Hwa S K T , Bade A , Hijazi M H Ahmad
Published: November 2020

In image processing, one of the most fundamental technique is edge detection. It is a process to detect edges from images by identifying discontinuities in brightness. In this research, we present an enhanced Canny edge detection technique. This method integrates local morphological contrast enhancement and Canny edge detection. Furthermore, the proposed edge detection technique was also applied for pneumonia and COVID-19 detection in digital x-ray images by utilising convolutional neural networks. Results show that this enhanced Canny edge detection technique is better than the traditional Canny technique. Also, we were able to produce classifiers that can classify edge x-ray images into COVID-19, normal, and pneumonia classes with high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity.
Math teaching aids in shape topics for PT3 students
Authors: Roshidan R E , Ismail N A F , Othman N Z S , Suaib N M
Published: November 2020

Mathematics is a significant pillar in science as mathematics has built technology, machines and digital as progress in this century. Therefore, mathematics is essential to practice since childhood. Although various efforts have been made in updating the teaching methods to students by teachers, students still have difficulty in understanding mathematical concepts, especially in the topic of form. Most students memorize more than they know logic and discoveries in mathematics. Teaching aids are interactive software that can be used simulated. Therefore, the goal of this project is to develop mathematics teaching aids for shape topics for Form Three Assessment (Pentaksiran Tingkatan Tiga - PT3) students. The study involves three main phases which are initial research and data collection, design and implementation and assessment.
ColorCells: a database of expression, classification and functions of lncRNAs in single cells
Authors: Zheng Ling-Ling , Xiong Jing-Hua , Zheng Wu-Jian , Wang Jun-Hao , Huang Zi-Liang , Chen Zhi-Rong , Sun Xin-Yao , Zheng Yi-Min , Zhou Ke-Ren , Li Bin , Liu Shun , Qu Liang-Hu , Yang Jian-Hua
Published: November 2020

Although long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have significant tissue specificity, their expression and variability in single cells remain unclear. Here, we developed ColorCells (http://rna.sysu.edu.cn/colorcells/), a resource for comparative analysis of lncRNAs expression, classification and functions in single-cell RNA-Seq data. ColorCells was applied to 167 913 publicly available scRNA-Seq datasets from six species, and identified a batch of cell-specific lncRNAs. These lncRNAs show surprising levels of expression variability between different cell clusters, and has the comparable cell classification ability as known marker genes. Cell-specific lncRNAs have been identified and further validated by in vitro experiments. We found that lncRNAs are typically co-expressed with the mRNAs in the same cell cluster, which can be used to uncover lncRNAs’ functions. Our study emphasizes the need to uncover lncRNAs in all cell types and shows the power of lncRNAs as novel marker genes at single cell resolution.
Expanding an Economic Evaluation of the Veterans Affairs (VA) Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) Prevention Initiative to Include Prevention of Infections From Other Pathogens
Authors: Nelson Richard E , Goto Michihiko , Samore Matthew H , Jones Makoto , Stevens Vanessa W , Evans Martin E , Schweizer Marin L , Perencevich Eli N , Rubin Michael A
Published: November 2020

Background

In October 2007, Veterans Affairs (VA) launched a nationwide effort to reduce methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) transmission called the National MRSA Prevention Initiative. Although the initiative focused on MRSA, recent evidence suggests that it also led to a significant decrease in hospital-onset (HO) gram-negative rod (GNR) bacteremia, vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE), and Clostridioides difficile infections. The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and the budget impact of the initiative taking into account MRSA, GNR, VRE, and C. difficile infections.

Methods

We developed an economic model using published data on the rate of MRSA hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and HO-GNR bacteremia in the VA from October 2007 to September 2015, estimates of the attributable cost and mortality of these infections, and the costs associated with the intervention obtained through a microcosting approach. We explored several different assumptions for the rate of infections that would have occurred if the initiative had not been implemented. Effectiveness was measured in life-years (LYs) gained.

Results

We found that during fiscal years 2008–2015, the initiative resulted in an estimated 4761–9236 fewer MRSA HAIs, 1447–2159 fewer HO-GNR bacteremia, 3083–3602 fewer C. difficile infections, and 2075–5393 fewer VRE infections. The initiative itself was estimated to cost $561 million over this 8-year period, whereas the cost savings from prevented MRSA HAIs ranged from $165 to $315 million and from prevented HO-GNR bacteremia, CRE and C. difficile infections ranged from $174 to $200 million. The incremental cost-effectiveness of the initiative ranged from $12 146 to $38 673/LY when just including MRSA HAIs and from $1354 to $4369/LY when including the additional pathogens. The overall impact on the VA’s budget ranged from $67 to$195 million.

Conclusions

An MRSA surveillance and prevention strategy in VA may have prevented a substantial number of infections from MRSA and other organisms. The net increase in cost from implementing this strategy was quite small when considering infections from all types of organisms. Including spillover effects of organism-specific prevention efforts onto other organisms can provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the costs and benefits of these interventions.