bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Relative Projection Density for Classification of Terrestrial Laser Scanning Data with Unknown Angular Resolution
Authors: Chen Maolin , Zhang Xinyi , Ji Cuicui , Pan Jianping , Mu Fengyun
Published: November 2022

Point cloud classification is a key step for three-dimensional (3D) scene analysis in terrestrial laser scanning but is commonly affected by density variation. Many density-adaptive methods are used to weaken the impact of density variation and angular resolution, which denotes the angle between two horizontally or vertically adjacent laser beams and are commonly used as known parameters in those methods. However, it is difficult to avoid the case of unknown angular resolution, which limits the generality of such methods. Focusing on these problems, we propose a density-adaptive feature extraction method, considering the case when the angular resolution is unknown. Firstly, we present a method for angular resolution estimation called neighborhood analysis of randomly picked points (NARP). In NARP, n points are randomly picked from the original data and the k nearest points of each point are searched to form the neighborhood. The angles between the beams of each picked point and its corresponding neighboring points are used to construct a histogram, and the angular resolution is calculated by finding the adjacent beams of each picked point under this histogram. Then, a grid feature called relative projection density is proposed to weaken the effect of density variation based on the estimated angular resolution. Finally, a 12-dimensional feature vector is constructed by combining relative projection density and other commonly used geometric features, and the semantic label is generated utilizing a Random Forest classifier. Five datasets with a known angular resolution are used to validate the NARP method and an urban scene with a scanning distance of up to 1 km is used to compare the relative projection density with traditional projection density. The results demonstrate that our method achieves an estimation error of less than 0.001° in most cases and is stable with respect to different types of targets and parameter settings. Compared with traditional projection density, the proposed relative projection density can improve the performance of classification, particularly for small-size objects, such as cars, poles, and scanning artifacts.
Analysis of Regional Satellite Clock Bias Characteristics Based on BeiDou System
Authors: Liu Wenxuan , Wang Hu , Ma Hongyang , Cheng Yingyan , Li Pengyuan , Li Bo , Ren Yingying
Published: November 2022

With the continuous development of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), the calculation theory and strategy of the global Satellite Clock Bias (SCB) tends to be mature. However, in some eventualities with restricted conditions, the calculation and application of the global SCB are limited; hence, the application of regional SCB is derived. This paper focuses on the quality of regional SCB products in different regions, calculates three groups of regional SCB products, and analyzes their properties and application effects. We expand the double-differenced assessment method for SCB and extend satellite clock accuracy assessment to regional satellite clock products. Additionally, the Regional Effect Bias (REB) is introduced to analyze the influence of the relative position of satellite geometry on the SCB products due to the regional effects. The conclusions are as follows: (1) In low-latitude regions, SCB products have a high degree of completeness and a large number of satellite observations, which is conducive to expanding the positioning application range of regional SCB; (2) the low-latitude regions SCB will be affected by ionospheric activity, and the accuracy will be slightly lower than that of satellite clocks deviation in mid-latitudes; (3) in this paper, the REB in this area is in the level of 10−7. The experiment displays the result that the values of REB in low-latitude areas are larger, leading to fluctuated Precise Point Position (PPP) results. However, there are fewer stations in the mid-latitude regions, which will also affect the accuracy of PPP; (4) the accuracy of the positioning results of the regional satellite clock deviation in the Chinese region is higher than that of the global clock.
Rethinking Design and Evaluation of 3D Point Cloud Segmentation Models
Authors: Zoumpekas Thanasis , Salamó Maria , Puig Anna
Published: November 2022

Currently, the use of 3D point clouds is rapidly increasing in many engineering fields, such as geoscience and manufacturing. Various studies have developed intelligent segmentation models providing accurate results, while only a few of them provide additional insights into the efficiency and robustness of their proposed models. The process of segmentation in the image domain has been studied to a great extent and the research findings are tremendous. However, the segmentation analysis with point clouds is considered particularly challenging due to their unordered and irregular nature. Additionally, solving downstream tasks with 3D point clouds is computationally inefficient, as point clouds normally consist of thousands or millions of points sparsely distributed in 3D space. Thus, there is a significant need for rigorous evaluation of the design characteristics of segmentation models, to be effective and practical. Consequently, in this paper, an in-depth analysis of five fundamental and representative deep learning models for 3D point cloud segmentation is presented. Specifically, we investigate multiple experimental dimensions, such as accuracy, efficiency, and robustness in part segmentation (ShapeNet) and scene segmentation (S3DIS), to assess the effective utilization of the models. Moreover, we create a correspondence between their design properties and experimental properties. For example, we show that convolution-based models that incorporate adaptive weight or position pooling local aggregation operations achieve superior accuracy and robustness to point-wise MLPs, while the latter ones show higher efficiency in time and memory allocation. Our findings pave the way for an effective 3D point cloud segmentation model selection and enlighten the research on point clouds and deep learning.
Regional Variability in Microphysical Characteristics of Precipitation Features with Lightning across China: Observations from GPM
Authors: Chen Fengjiao , Zeng Mingjian , Yu Lu , Zhuge Xiaoyong , Huang Hao
Published: November 2022

The statistical characteristics of precipitation microphysics in lightning clouds are not yet fully understood, as a result of the limitations of traditional observational methods. Using the latest observations from the dual-frequency radar and microwave imager onboard the Global Precipitation Mission (GPM) and ground-based lightning observations, the precipitation microphysics of precipitation features with and without lightning (LPFs and NLPFs) was investigated across four typical regions of China in summer during the time period of 2014–2021. The statistical results show that the LPFs are characterized by smaller concentration and larger mass-weighted mean diameter (Dm) for rain and ice hydrometeors than those of NLPFs. Below the melting layer, the radar reflectivity (Ze) for both the LPFs and NLPFs generally decreases toward the surface, indicating the evaporation or strong break-up of rain hydrometeors. Above the melting layer, the Ze values mainly increase as the altitudes decrease for both LPFs and NLPFs, indicating the rimming, aggregation, or deposition processes. However, the change in slope is much smaller for the LPFs than for the NLPFs, which suggests a more uniform distribution of large ice hydrometeors at high altitudes, probably as a result of the stronger updrafts within the LPFs. The microphysical structures of the LPFs show great regional differences among the four regions of China, which is characterized by the low concentration of large-sized rain hydrometeors over Northeast China, and a high concentration of small-sized rain hydrometeors near the surface over the Yangtze-Huaihe River basin.
mmSafe: A Voice Security Verification System Based on Millimeter-Wave Radar
Authors: Hao Zhanjun , Peng Jianxiang , Dang Xiaochao , Yan Hao , Wang Ruidong
Published: November 2022

With the increasing popularity of smart devices, users can control their mobile phones, TVs, cars, and smart furniture by using voice assistants, but voice assistants are susceptible to intrusion by outsider speakers or playback attacks. In order to address this security issue, a millimeter-wave radar-based voice security authentication system is proposed in this paper. First, the speaker’s fine-grained vocal cord vibration signal is extracted by eliminating static object clutter and motion effects; second, the weighted Mel Frequency Cepstrum Coefficients (MFCCs) are obtained as biometric features; and finally, text-independent security authentication is performed by the WMHS (Weighted MFCCs and Hog-based SVM) method. This system is highly adaptable and can authenticate designated speakers, resist intrusion by other unspecified speakers as well as playback attacks, and is secure for smart devices. Extensive experiments have verified that the system achieves a 93.4% speaker verification accuracy and a 5.8% miss detection rate for playback attacks.
Evaluating a Hybrid Circuit Topology for Fault-Ride through in DFIG-Based Wind Turbines
Authors: Saeed Sarmad , Asghar Rafiq , Mehmood Faizan , Saleem Haider , Azeem Babar , Ullah Zahid
Published: November 2022

Large-scale wind power integration has raised concerns about the reliability and stability of power systems. The rotor circuit of a doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) is highly vulnerable to unexpected voltage dips, which can cause considerable electromotive force in the circuit. Consequently, the DFIG must fulfil the fault-ride through (FRT) criteria to ensure the system’s performance and contribute to voltage regulation during severe grid outages. This paper provides a hybrid solution for DFIG wind turbines with FRT capabilities, using both a modified switch-type fault current limiter (MSFTCL) and a direct current (DC) chopper. The proposed system has the merit of keeping the rotor current and the DC-link voltage within the permissible limits, enhancing the FRT capability of generators. Moreover, the boundness of supply voltage into its reference value ensures dynamic stability during symmetric and asymmetric grid failures. Further, electromagnetic torque variations are significantly reduced during fault events. Finally, the performance validation of the proposed scheme is performed in a simulation setup, and the results are compared with the existing sliding mode control (SMC) and proportional-integral (PI) controller-based approaches. The comparison results show that a hybrid strategy with advanced controllers provides superior performance for all critical parameters.
A New Approach for Sensitive Characterization of Semiconductor Laser Beams Using Metal-Semiconductor Thermocouples
Authors: Piotrowska Anna Katarzyna , Łaszcz Adam , Zaborowski Michał , Broda Artur , Szmigiel Dariusz
Published: November 2022

This paper presents the results of beam investigations on semiconductor IR lasers using novel detectors based on thermocouples. The work covers the design, the fabrication of detectors, and the experimental validation of their sensitivity to IR radiation. The principle of operation of the manufactured detectors is based on the Seebeck effect (the temperature difference between hot and cold junctions induced voltage appearance). The devices were composed of several thermocouples arranged in a linear array. The nano- and microscale thermocouples (the hot junctions) were fabricated using a typical Si-compatible MEMS process enhanced with focused ion beam (FIB) milling. The performance of the hot junctions was tested, focusing on their sensitivity to IR radiation covering the near-infrared (NIR) radiation (λ = 976 nm). The output voltage was measured as a function of the detector position in the XY plane. The measurement results allowed for reconstructing the Gaussian-like intensity distribution of the incident light beam.
Industrial Anomaly Detection with Skip Autoencoder and Deep Feature Extractor
Authors: Tang Ta-Wei , Hsu Hakiem , Huang Wei-Ren , Li Kuan-Ming
Published: November 2022

Over recent years, with the advances in image recognition technology for deep learning, researchers have devoted continued efforts toward importing anomaly detection technology into the production line of automatic optical detection. Although unsupervised learning helps overcome the high costs associated with labeling, the accuracy of anomaly detection still needs to be improved. Accordingly, this paper proposes a novel deep learning model for anomaly detection to overcome this bottleneck. Leveraging a powerful pre-trained feature extractor and the skip connection, the proposed method achieves better feature extraction and image reconstructing capabilities. Results reveal that the areas under the curve (AUC) for the proposed method are higher than those of previous anomaly detection models for 16 out of 17 categories. This indicates that the proposed method can realize the most appropriate adjustments to the needs of production lines in order to maximize economic benefits.
Changes in Forcecardiography Heartbeat Morphology Induced by Cardio-Respiratory Interactions
Authors: Centracchio Jessica , Esposito Daniele , Gargiulo Gaetano D. , Andreozzi Emilio
Published: November 2022

The cardiac function is influenced by respiration. In particular, various parameters such as cardiac time intervals and the stroke volume are modulated by respiratory activity. It has long been recognized that cardio-respiratory interactions modify the morphology of cardio-mechanical signals, e.g., phonocardiogram, seismocardiogram (SCG), and ballistocardiogram. Forcecardiography (FCG) records the weak forces induced on the chest wall by the mechanical activity of the heart and lungs and relies on specific force sensors that are capable of monitoring respiration, infrasonic cardiac vibrations, and heart sounds, all simultaneously from a single site on the chest. This study addressed the changes in FCG heartbeat morphology caused by respiration. Two respiratory-modulated parameters were considered, namely the left ventricular ejection time (LVET) and a morphological similarity index (MSi) between heartbeats. The time trends of these parameters were extracted from FCG signals and further analyzed to evaluate their consistency within the respiratory cycle in order to assess their relationship with the breathing activity. The respiratory acts were localized in the time trends of the LVET and MSi and compared with a reference respiratory signal by computing the sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV). In addition, the agreement between the inter-breath intervals estimated from the LVET and MSi and those estimated from the reference respiratory signal was assessed via linear regression and Bland–Altman analyses. The results of this study clearly showed a tight relationship between the respiratory activity and the considered respiratory-modulated parameters. Both the LVET and MSi exhibited cyclic time trends that remarkably matched the reference respiratory signal. In addition, they achieved a very high sensitivity and PPV (LVET: 94.7% and 95.7%, respectively; MSi: 99.3% and 95.3%, respectively). The linear regression analysis reported almost unit slopes for both the LVET (R2 = 0.86) and MSi (R2 = 0.97); the Bland–Altman analysis reported a non-significant bias for both the LVET and MSi as well as limits of agreement of ±1.68 s and ±0.771 s, respectively. In summary, the results obtained were substantially in line with previous findings on SCG signals, adding to the evidence that FCG and SCG signals share a similar information content.
The Rules of Attraction: An Empirical Critique of Pseudoscientific Theories about Sex in the Manosphere
Authors: Cannito Maddalena , Ferrero Camoletto Raffaella
Published: November 2022

Academic research is dedicating growing attention to the phenomenon known as the manosphere, where genders and (hetero)sexual relations are explained according to the so-called Red Pill philosophy and LMS theory. In this article, we critically analyze these theories and their pseudoscientific assumptions using a Bourdieusian framework, and we analyze the empirical effects they have in the Incel and Red Pill Italian communities through the example of the “Aranzulla case”. By exploring the “Redpiller” blog and two Incel forums (“Forum of the uglies” and “Forum of the Incel”), we found that, on one hand, the Red Pill and LMS theories are strongly contradictory in themselves because, even if they combine socio-economic and biological theories to explain sexual relations, they assume a fixed vision of gender based on (supposedly) natural inclinations. On the other hand, our results show that these theories promote misogynistic content blaming women for men’s unsatisfaction, but they actually unveil intragender dynamics. Indeed, they produce tensions inside the manosphere, by creating hierarchies of masculinities, and around the possibility of escaping the biological destiny linked to the Incel condition.
Thermal Comfort and Energy Efficiency: Challenges, Barriers, and Step towards Sustainability
Authors: Niza Iasmin Lourenço , Luz Inaiele Mendes da , Bueno Ana Maria , Broday Evandro Eduardo
Published: November 2022

With the increasing number of people living in cities, the demand for energy in office buildings and homes is constantly increasing; thus, smart buildings were created to provide users with better comfort conditions. However, using artificial systems becomes an unsustainable alternative for these environments. This research conducted a literature review of studies published in Scopus and Web of Science between 1970 and 2022 to identify studies that contained strategies to promote thermal comfort and energy efficiency in buildings, as well as the main challenges and barriers to sustainability. A total of 9195 articles related to the topic were identified, and after applying the defined criteria, 105 were included in this review. Three research questions were investigated, and the main findings of this research are: (i) it is more difficult to assess thermal comfort and thermal sensation than energy efficiency; (ii) to promote a thermally comfortable environment, it is necessary to consider numerous aspects to reduce environmental impacts and energy consumption and to increase sustainability; (iii) actual thermal conditions are influenced by factors such as energy levels, climate, setpoint types, building type, size and orientation, and economic factors, among others; (iv) new technologies found in smart buildings showed distinct performances according to the climates of each region, and their evaluations can cover thermal comfort, energy savings, and payback time.
Is It All about a Science-Informed Decision? A Quantitative Approach to Three Dimensions of Justice and Their Relation in the Nuclear Waste Repository Siting Process in Germany
Authors: Schwarz Lucas
Published: November 2022

Nuclear waste management is a contested challenge that lasts for decades. Especially in Germany, the history of the usage of nuclear energy is conflictive and notions of justice are therefore omnipresent in the ongoing site selection process for a nuclear waste repository. Against the background of injustices caused by the deployment of nuclear energy, such as the obligation for current generations to deal with nuclear waste, questions of how to justly deal with nuclear waste and to find a just repository site arise. By conducting a survey among people that participate in the site selection process as well as people living in or representing an area that is still considered suitable, the assessment of different aspects of justice was evaluated. The role of a science-informed site decision without any political bias is considered highly important for a just site selection. Distributional aspects, such as notions of utilitarianism, retribution, or the exemption of environmentally burdened regions are generally not approved but more detailed questions have shown that such notions cannot be dismissed at this early stage of the site selection process. The difference for general agreement can also be observed for intergenerational recognition, as the recognition of future generations is regarded as necessary, but concrete implications (retrievability or enclosure) are assessed ambiguously. Although some factors of justice are assessed more importantly than others, the analysis has shown that the interrelations between the different dimensions of justice are manifold and the argument that one dimension can be substituted for another one is too reductive.
The Impact of Optimism and Internal Locus of Control on Workers’ Well-Being, A Multi-Group Model Analysis before and during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Micheletto Valeria , Zito Margherita , Bustreo Massimo , Gabrielli Giorgio , Circi Riccardo , Russo Vincenzo
Published: November 2022

The COVID-19 crisis led to changes in different areas of workers’ lives, as well as repercussions in stress management, social relationships, and perception of personal and professional growth. Considering this, well-being in the workplace is crucial to carrying out effective activities and performance, and it is also essential to verifying the impact of the pandemic on the current situation of workers’ overall well-being. The study investigates the mediation of Personal Growth (PG) between two personal resources at work, Internal Locus (LOCI) and Optimism (OPT), on the Pemberton Happiness Index (PHI), an important multi-faceted indicator of well-being. This study was conducted on respondents performing professions (n = 666), both before (2019, n = 410) and during the pandemic (2020, n = 256). The relationships were tested simultaneously using a multi-group structural equation model (MPLUS7). The estimated model shows that personal resources at work increase PG (LOCI mostly during the pandemic; OPT mostly before the pandemic); OPT directly increases PHI; PG increases PHI (mostly before the pandemic); and personal resources increase through PG and PHI (LOCI more during the pandemic; OPT more before the pandemic). The study is cross-sectional, as it was not possible to compare the same workers over two years. The research offers ideas for activation of training programs, support and development of individual resources, and personal growth aimed at improving well-being and the work experience for workers.
Revisiting the Solid Flux Theory
Authors: Baiamonte Giorgio , Baiamonte Cristina
Published: November 2022

Several variations of the basic activated sludge process and of the related design procedures for final clarifiers have been developed, which are frequently based on the well-known solid flux theory (SFT). In this paper, by using the Lambert W function and a “virtual” solid flux corresponding to the Vesilind parameters’ ratio, the SFT is reformulated, and dimensionless groups are detected, which highly reduce the number of parameters that are involved in the final clarifiers’ design procedure. The derived dimensionless relationships and the corresponding plots have general validity since they can be applied to all the possible design/verification parameter combinations. Moreover, it is shown that for any input dataset, the suitable domains of the SS concentration and of the solid flux can be simply expressed by the two branches of the Lambert W function. By using data retrieved from the literature, several numerical applications and validations of the dimensionless relationships are performed. Finally, it is shown that by introducing in the SFT a new reduction hydrodynamic factor, ρR, to be applied to the modified return flow formula rather than to the limiting solid flux as in the past, a significant improvement in the comparison between the results by theory and by experiments can be obtained.
A Bootstrap Method for a Multiple-Imputation Variance Estimator in Survey Sampling
Authors: Yu Lili , Zhao Yichuan
Published: November 2022

Rubin’s variance estimator of the multiple imputation estimator for a domain mean is not asymptotically unbiased. Kim et al. derived the closed-form bias for Rubin’s variance estimator. In addition, they proposed an asymptotically unbiased variance estimator for the multiple imputation estimator when the imputed values can be written as a linear function of the observed values. However, this needs the assumption that the covariance of the imputed values in the same imputed dataset is twice that in the different imputed datasets. In this study, we proposed a bootstrap variance estimator that does not need this assumption. Both theoretical argument and simulation studies show that it was unbiased and asymptotically valid. The new method was applied to the Hox pupil popularity data for illustration.
Relationships between Grain Weight and Other Yield Component Traits of Maize Varieties Exposed to Heat-Stress and Combined Heat- and Water-Stress Conditions
Authors: Chukwudi Uchechukwu Paschal , Mavengahama Sydney , Kutu Funso Raphael
Published: November 2022

It is necessary to identify the appropriate traits that influence yield in a given environment as part of a breeding programme. The objective of this study was to identify the morphological traits that contribute to maize grain weight (GWt) under abiotic stress conditions. Three drought-tolerant maize varieties were grown under no-stress (NHWS), heat-stress (HS), and combined heat- and water-stress (CHWS) conditions. Data from 19 morphological traits were analysed. The correlation results revealed that eight traits consistently produced a significant positive relationship with GWt under the three growth conditions. The path coefficient analysis revealed that in the NHWS, HS, and CHWS conditions, five traits consistently had a positive direct effect on the GWt. Given the magnitude of the positive direct effects, increasing dry biomass yield, harvest index, and grain number in the NHWS; grain number, harvest index, and ear width in the HS; and harvest index, days till silk appearance, leaf chlorophyll content, and grain number in the CHWS will increase GWt. Under various abiotic stress conditions, maize phenotypic expression varied. Therefore, the identified traits that contributed positively to GWt under various stress conditions should be considered when developing a maize improvement programme in a stress-prone environment.
Has the Digital Economy Affected the Status of a Country’s Energy Trade Network?
Authors: Yu Ziling , Li Ruoxuan , Ma Lili
Published: November 2022

The current global energy trade network is changing dramatically: the essence of the change is digitalization and renewable energy, and the study of the impact of the digital economy on the changing status of a country’s energy trade network is of great practical significance for each country to ensure energy security. We find that: the digital economy has a direct impact on a country’s climbing position in the fossil energy trade network and the renewable energy trade network. The high technology attributes of the digital economy lead to the rise of energy trading networks in energy-exporting countries by affecting their energy production efficiency and product competitiveness; the high energy-consuming attributes of the digital economy have an indirect effect by affecting the energy demand of energy-importing countries. The digital economy has a positive and increasing marginal nonlinear effect on the change in the status of renewable energy trade networks, and a positive but decreasing marginal nonlinear effect on the climbing status of fossil energy trade networks. This paper confirms the impact of the digital economy on a country’s changing position in the global energy trade network and provides policy insights for each country to ensure energy security.
Alternative Methods for Skin-Sensitization Assessment
Authors: Gądarowska Dominika , Kalka Joanna , Daniel-Wójcik Anna , Mrzyk Inga
Published: November 2022

Skin sensitization is a term used to refer to the regulatory hazard known as allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) in humans or contact hypersensitivity in rodents, an important health endpoint considered in chemical hazard and risk assessments. Information on skin sensitization potential is required in various regulatory frameworks, such as the Directive of the European Parliament and the Council on Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals (REACH). The identification of skin-sensitizing chemicals previously required the use of animal testing, which is now being replaced by alternative methods. Alternative methods in the field of skin sensitization are based on the measurement or prediction of key events (KE), i.e., (i) the molecular triggering event, i.e., the covalent binding of electrophilic substances to nucleophilic centers in skin proteins; (ii) the activation of keratinocytes; (iii) the activation of dendritic cells; (iv) the proliferation of T cells. This review article focuses on the current state of knowledge regarding the methods corresponding to each of the key events in skin sensitization and considers the latest trends in the development and modification of these methods.
Dengue Meteorological Determinants during Epidemic and Non-Epidemic Periods in Taiwan
Authors: You Shu-Han , Chen Szu-Chieh , Huang Yi-Han , Tsai Hsin-Chieh
Published: November 2022

The identification of the key factors influencing dengue occurrence is critical for a successful response to the outbreak. It was interesting to consider possible differences in meteorological factors affecting dengue incidence during epidemic and non-epidemic periods. In this study, the overall correlation between weekly dengue incidence rates and meteorological variables were conducted in southern Taiwan (Tainan and Kaohsiung cities) from 2007 to 2017. The lagged-time Poisson regression analysis based on generalized estimating equation (GEE) was also performed. This study found that the best-fitting Poisson models with the smallest QICu values to characterize the relationships between dengue fever cases and meteorological factors in Tainan (QICu = −8.49 × 10−3) and Kaohsiung (−3116.30) for epidemic periods, respectively. During dengue epidemics, the maximum temperature with 2-month lag (β = 0.8400, p < 0.001) and minimum temperature with 5-month lag (0.3832, p < 0.001). During non-epidemic periods, the minimum temperature with 3-month lag (0.1737, p < 0.001) and mean temperature with 2-month lag (2.6743, p < 0.001) had a positive effect on dengue incidence in Tainan and Kaohsiung, respectively.
QCD Axion Kinetic Misalignment without Prejudice
Authors: Barman Basabendu , Bernal Nicolás , Ramberg Nicklas , Visinelli Luca
Published: November 2022

The axion field, the angular direction of the complex scalar field associated with the spontaneous symmetry breaking of the Peccei–Quinn (PQ) symmetry, could have originated with initial non-zero velocity. The presence of a non-zero angular velocity resulting from additional terms in the potential that explicitly break the PQ symmetry has important phenomenological consequences such as a modification of the axion mass with respect to the conventional PQ framework or an explanation for the observed matter-antimatter asymmetry. We elaborate further on the consequences of the “kinetic misalignment” mechanism, assuming that axions form the entirety of the dark matter abundance. The kinetic misalignment mechanism possesses a weak limit in which the axion field starts to oscillate at the same temperature as in the conventional PQ framework, and a strong limit corresponding to large initial velocities which effectively delay the onset of oscillations. Following a UV-agnostic approach, we show how this scenario impacts the formation of axion miniclusters, and we sketch the details of these substructures along with potential detecting signatures.
SARS-CoV-2 Specific Humoral Immune Responses after BNT162b2 Vaccination in Hospital Healthcare Workers
Authors: Golshani Maryam , Svobodová Ludmila Maffei , Štěpánek Lubomír , Zeman Jan , Nytrová Petra , Posová Helena , Petrásková Petra , Novotná Olga , Nováková Michaela , Černý Viktor , Beneš Jiří , Kolářová Libuše , Vokurka Martin , Hrdý Jiří
Published: November 2022

Background: COVID-19 pandemic has led to a loss of human life in millions and devastating socio-economic consequences worldwide. So far, vaccination is the most effective long-term strategy to control and prevent severe COVID-19 disease. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the humoral immune responses raised against the BNT162b2 vaccine in hospital healthcare workers. Methods: Total number of 173 healthcare workers enrolled in the study. Their blood samples were collected in three different time intervals after the second SARS-CoV-2 vaccination and evaluated by the ELISA method to detect anti-spike protein IgM and IgG antibodies. The baseline characteristics of all participants were collected using questionnaires and were evaluated for finding any significant data. Results: Our results demonstrated that the levels of antibodies were higher in the young group (21–30 years old) and also among male participants. Moreover, the highest levels of antibodies were detected from the group that received the third shot vaccination. Conclusions: Our results indicate that age, gender and third-dose vaccination can affect the levels of humoral immune responses against the BNT162b2 vaccine in healthcare workers.
Immediate Adverse Events Following COVID-19 Vaccination in Australian Pharmacies: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Gallo Alexander T. , Scanlon Lisa , Clifford Jade , Patten-Williams Lawson , Tweedie Lachlan , Li Dani , Salter Sandra M.
Published: November 2022

Background: Four COVID-19 vaccines are approved for use in Australia: Pfizer-BioNTech BNT162b2 (Comirnaty), AstraZeneca ChAdOx1 (Vaxzevria), Moderna mRNA-1273 (Spikevax), and Novavax NVX-CoV2373 (Nuvaxovid). We sought to examine the type and management of immediate adverse events following immunisation (I-AEFI) after COVID-19 vaccination. Methods: Retrospective review of I-AEFI recorded between July 2021 and June 2022 in 314 community pharmacies in Australia. Results: I-AEFI were recorded in 0.05% (n = 526/977,559) of all COVID-19 vaccinations (highest: AstraZeneca (n = 173/161,857; 0.11%); lowest: Pfizer (n = 50/258,606; 0.02%)). The most common reactions were: (1) syncope, after the first dose of AstraZeneca (n = 105/67,907; 0.15%), Moderna (n = 156/108,339; 0.14%), and Pfizer (n = 22/16,287; 0.14%); and (2) Nausea/vomiting after the first dose of Pfizer (n = 9/16,287; 0.06%), Moderna (n = 55/108,339; 0.05%), and AstraZeneca (n = 31/67,907; 0.05%) vaccines. A total of 23 anaphylactic reactions were recorded (n = 23/977,559; 0.002%), and 59 additional I-AEFI were identified using MedDRA® terminology. Pharmacists primarily managed syncope by laying the patient down (n = 227/342; 66.4%); nausea/vomiting was managed primarily by laying the patient down (n = 62/126; 49.2%), giving water (n = 38/126; 30.2%), or monitoring in the pharmacy (n = 29/126; 23.0%); anaphylactic reaction was treated with adrenaline (n = 18/23; 78.3%) and n = 13/23 (56.5%) anaphylactic reactions were treated with the combination of: administered adrenaline, called ambulance, and laid patient down. Conclusion: The most commonly recorded I-AEFI was syncope after COVID-19 vaccination in pharmacy; I-AEFI are similar to those previously reported. Pharmacists identified and managed serious and non-serious I-AEFI appropriately and comprehensively.
A Simple Non-Invasive Score Based on Baseline Parameters Can Predict Outcome in Patients with COVID-19
Authors: Scotto Riccardo , Lanzardo Amedeo , Buonomo Antonio Riccardo , Pinchera Biagio , Cattaneo Letizia , Sardanelli Alessia , Mercinelli Simona , Viceconte Giulio , Perrella Alessandro , Esposito Vincenzo , Codella Alessio Vinicio , Maggi Paolo , Zappulo Emanuela , Villari Riccardo , Foggia Maria , Gentile Ivan ,   Federico II COVID-Team
Published: November 2022

We evaluated the role of CRP and other laboratory parameters in predicting the worsening of clinical conditions during hospitalization, ICU admission, and fatal outcome among patients with COVID-19. Consecutive adult inpatients with SARS-CoV-2 infection and respiratory symptoms treated in three different COVID centres were enrolled, and they were tested for laboratory parameters within 48 h from admission. Three-hundred ninety patients were enrolled. Age, baseline CRP, and LDH were associated with a P/F ratio < 200 during hospitalization. Male gender and CRP > 60 mg/L were shown to be independently associated with ICU admission. Lymphocytes < 1000 cell/μL were associated with the worst P/F ratio. CRP > 60 mg/L predicted exitus. We subsequently devised an 11-points numeric ordinary scoring system based on age, sex, CRP, and LDH at admission (ASCL score). Patients with an ASCL score of 0 or 2 were shown to be protected against a P/F ratio < 200, while patients with an ASCL score of 6 to 8 were shown to be at risk for P/F ratio < 200. Patients with an ASCL score ≥ 7 had a significantly increased probability of death during hospitalization. In conclusion, patients with elevated CRP and LDH and an ASCL score > 6 at admission should be prioritized for careful respiratory function monitoring and early treatment to prevent a progression of the disease.
Assessment of Perceived Health Status and Access to Health Service during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-Sectional Survey in Italy
Authors: Pelullo Concetta Paola , Tortoriello Pamela , Angelillo Silvia , Licata Francesca , Napolitano Francesco , Di Giuseppe Gabriella
Published: November 2022

(1) Background: The aims of this survey were to assess the perceived health status and to evaluate the use of healthcare services during the pandemic period. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted from May to October 2021 in the Campania and Calabria regions, Southern Italy. The sample was selected among 655 subjects attending vaccination or primary care physician clinics. (3) Results: More than half (57.2%) of the respondents were female, the mean age was 49 years (range 19–97), and 61.3% had at least one chronic disease. Among the respondents, 56.3% declared that they had accessed healthcare at least once during the pandemic and, among all respondents who did not access healthcare, 23.2% gave reasons related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The two scores obtained from the Short-Form-12 Health Survey (SF-12), physical health summary (PCS) and mental health summary (MCS), had a means of 48.4 and 45.9, respectively. Among the respondents, 2.3% of respondents considered their health poor, 43.1% good and 6.4% excellent. (4) Conclusions: Our results suggest the need to ensure, in similar health emergency situations, a quick response from the National Health System so that ordinary medical assistance activities can be guaranteed in full safety, avoiding the risk of missed access or lack of assistance.
Qualitative parameter analysis for Botrytis cinerea forecast modelling using IoT sensor networks
Authors: Gajinov Spasenija , Popović Tomo , Drajić Dejan , Gligorić Nenad , Krčo Srdjan
Published: November 2022

This paper provides results of an evaluation of a fungal disease Botrytis cinerea forecast model (Model for Botrytis cinerea appearing) in vineyards for qualitative analysis of parameters which affect the development of the disease by using data from a network of connected sensors (air temperature and relative humidity, rain precipitation, and leaf wetness). The fungal disease model used by agronomists was digitalized and integrated into agroNET, a decision support tool, helping farmers to decide when to apply chemical treatments and which chemicals to use, to ensure the best growing conditions and suppress the growth of Botrytis cinerea. The temperature and humidity contexts are used to detect the risk of the disease occurrence. In this study, the impact of the humidity conditions (relative humidity, rain precipitation, and leaf wetness) is evaluated by assessing how different humidity parameters correlate with the accuracy of the Botrytis cinerea fungi forecast. Each observed parameter has its own threshold that triggers the second step of the disease modelling-risk index based on the temperature. The research showed that for relative humidity, rain precipitation, and leaf wetness measurements, a low-cost relative humidity sensor can detect, on average, 14.61% of cases, a leaf wetness sensor an additional 3.99% of risk cases, and finally, a precipitation sensor can detect an additional 0.59% of risk cases (in observed period the risk was detected in 19.19% (14.61%+3.99%0.59%) of the time), which gives a guide to farmers how to consider cost effective implementation of sensors to achieve good performance. The use of the proposed model reduced the use of pesticides up to 20%.
A Study on IRS-assisted Communications: Problems, Challenges, and Solutions
Authors: Liu Yuyan , Mei Haoran
Published: November 2022

This paper studies the Intelligent reflecting surface (IRS)-based communications, including the fixed and UAV-mounted IRSs. IRSs can be deployed in locations that are difficult to receive or transmit signals due to obstacles or remote areas by passively reflecting the signals received from base stations (BSs). The IRSs can reflect signals in the designed way to enhance the transmitted signal or enable line-of-sight (LOS) communications. They can be fixed on the side of high buildings to reflect signals or mounted on the UAVs to provide temporary wireless communications in the remote areas. This paper conducts an overview on IRS-based communications including the existing problems, challenges, and possible solutions.
Strategi Promosi Dengan Model K-pop Untuk Meningkatkan Penjualan Pada E-commerce Tokopedia
Authors: Prayoga Gilang Aryogy Surya , Febriana Poppy
Published: November 2022

The more advanced the era of technology is also increasingly sophisticated and old habits are abandoned and switch to new habits. One of them is shopping habits, since the introduction of the internet and android, buying and selling activities are easier with the existence of e-commerce. E-commerce is a type of business that allows companies or individuals to buy or sell goods via the internet (online). And one of them is Tokopedia. In recent years, many e-commerce companies often use Korean artists because young people's interest in the influence of Korean culture is very strong. Therefore, researchers want to try to explain why they use brand ambassadors from Korea and how they succeed in carrying out these marketing strategies. This research uses marketing communication theory and marketing mix theory. These theories help researchers to conclude a marketing strategy phenomenon by using Korean artists as brand ambassadors. The method used is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. Researchers approach the data with observation and in-depth interviews to find out a phenomenon of human interest in following a cultural current. data analysis using SOSTAC theory, namely Situation analysis, Objectivities, Strategy, Tactics, Action and Control. The conclusion obtained by the researcher is that the use of e-commerce marketing with Korean artist brand ambassadors can attract consumers, especially young people.
Peran Pengawas Ketenagakerjaan Dinas Tenaga Kerja Provinsi Sumatera Utara dalam Memberikan Perlindungan Hukum atas Kasus Kecelakaan Kerja yang Mengakibatkan Pekerja Meninggal Dunia di PT. Kiat Unggul
Authors: Hutagalung Bangun Nauli , Isnaini Isnaini , Haikal M. Ridha
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this paper is to examine and analyze the legal arrangements, roles, and barriers of the labor inspectorate of North Sumatra Province in dealing with labor issues and legal protection for the social security benefits of employment at PT. Superior Tips. This type of research is normative juridical research which refers to the legal norms contained in the legislation. The approach method in this research is used to analyze the research objectives. 3 of 1951 concerning the Statement of Enforcement of the Labor Inspection Law, Regulation of the Labor Inspector in the Regulation of the Minister for Empowerment of State Apparatus No. 30 of 2020 concerning the Functional Position of the Labor Inspector, and the Regulation of the Labor Inspector in the Regulation of the Minister of Manpower Number 33 of 2016 concerning Procedures for Labor Inspection. The role of the Labor Inspector of North Sumatra Province in providing legal protection for the social security benefits for employees at PT. Superior Tips. Barriers faced by the Labor Inspector of North Sumatra Province in providing legal protection for social security benefits at PT. Superior tips can be reviewed from several aspects, namely: Barriers from aspects of legal substance; Barriers from the institutional aspect; Barriers from the aspect of facilities and infrastructure.
Inovasi Pelayanan Izin Tinggal Orang Asing Melalui Sistem Notifikasi Izin Tinggal Keimigrasian (SITITIK)
Authors: Setiawan Arief , Siregar Nina Siti Salmaniah , Hartono Budi
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyze and describe the innovation of foreign residence permit services carried out and to analyze the factors driving and inhibiting these innovations. The research method used is descriptive qualitative, using interview, observation, and documentation data collection techniques. The analysis uses an interactive model with the process of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results show that SITITIK has met the requirements as a service innovation because it has new values and advantages over the old system; has conformity to old innovations; as new innovations experience complexity; trials have been carried out; and are easily observable. The supporting factor lies incompetent human resources while the inhibiting factor lies in the network and the presence of bugs.