bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Models to estimate biological variation components and interpretation of serial results: strengths and limitations
Authors: Díaz-Garzón Marco Jorge , Fernández-Calle Pilar , Ricós Carmen
Published: August 2020

Biological variation (BV) has multiple applications in a variety of fields of clinical laboratory. The use of BV in statistical modeling is twofold. On the one hand, some models are used for the generation of BV estimates (within- and between-subject variability). Other models are built based on BV in combination with other factors to establish ranges of normality that will help the clinician interpret serial results for the same subject. There are two types of statistical models for the calculation of BV estimates: A. Direct methods, prospective studies designed to calculate BV estimates; i. Classic model: developed by Harris and Fraser, revised by the Working Group on Biological Variation of the European Federation of Laboratory Medicine. ii. Mixed-effect models. iii. Bayesian model. B. Indirect methods, retrospective studies to derive BV estimates from large databases of results. Big data. Understanding the characteristics of these models is crucial as they determine their applicability in different settings and populations. Models for defining ranges that help in the interpretation of individual serial results include: A. Reference change value and B. Bayesian data network. In summary, this review provides an overview of the models used to define BV components and others for the follow-up of patients. These models should be exploited in the future to personalize and improve the information provided by the clinical laboratory and get the best of the resources available.
Artikelbearbeitungsgebühren im Spiegel von Forschung und Praxis
Authors: Wohlgemuth Michael
Published: August 2020

Das Spannungsfeld aus Wollen (Abschluss von Transformationsverträgen mit großen Verlagsgruppen, um eine schnelle OA-Transformation in der Breite zu erreichen) und Können (begrenzte Budgets der wissenschaftlichen Bibliotheken) erfordert belastbare Prognosen zur Entwicklung des Publikationsoutputs und der Höhe der Artikelbearbeitungsgebühren. Der Beitrag stellt verschiedene Preissetzungsstrategien von Verlagen vor und diskutiert die Implikationen für statistische Analysen. Abgerundet wird der Beitrag durch den Appell des Autors, die Erwartungen der Bibliotheken an die OA-Transformation neu zu denken, um eine nachhaltige Finanzierung des Open-Access-Publizierens sicherstellen zu können.
Profinite rigidity for twisted Alexander polynomials
Authors: Ueki Jun
Published: August 2020

We formulate and prove a profinite rigidity theorem for the twisted Alexander polynomials up to several types of finite ambiguity. We also establish torsion growth formulas of the twisted homology groups in aℤ{{\mathbb{Z}}}-cover of a 3-manifold with use of Mahler measures. We examine several examples associated to Riley’s parabolic representations of two-bridge knot groups and give a remark on hyperbolic volumes.
On the set of divisors with zero geometric defect
Authors: Huynh Dinh Tuan , Vu Duc-Viet
Published: August 2020

Let

f
:

ℂ
→
X

{f:\mathbb{C}\to X}

be a transcendental holomorphic curve into a complex projective manifold X. Let L be a very ample line bundle on

X
.

{X.}

Let s be a very generic holomorphic section of L and D the zero divisor given by

s
.

{s.}

We prove that the geometric defect of D (defect of truncation 1) with respect to f is zero. We also prove that f almost misses general enough analytic subsets on X of codimension 2.
Smooth rational affine varieties with infinitely many real forms
Authors: Dubouloz Adrien , Freudenburg Gene , Moser-Jauslin Lucy
Published: August 2020

We construct smooth rational real algebraic varieties of every dimension

≥
4

{\geq 4}

which admit infinitely many pairwise non-isomorphic real
forms.
Expertise and Uncertainty Processing with Nonlinear Scaling and Fuzzy Systems for Automation
Authors: Juuso Esko K.
Published: August 2020

Integration of domain expertise and uncertainty processing is increasingly important in automation solutions which rely on data analytics and artificial intelligence. We need a level to assess what is approximately correct. Uncertainties of the inputs are taken into account by using fuzzy numbers as the inputs of different fuzzy and parametric systems. Nonlinear scaling functions (NSFs) integrate these solutions and make them easier to tune. Fuzzy rule-based systems are represented with scaled fuzzy inputs. Membership functions (MFs) can be developed fromNSFsand existingMFscan be used in developingNSFs. Fuzzy set systems and linguistic equation (LE) systems become consistent within the limits of detail. In recursive analysis, both meanings and interactions on all levels can be tuned together with genetic algorithms. In applications, the modular overall system consists of similar subsystems, which are normally used, with extensions to fuzzy. The compact fuzzy modules can be developed for specific tasks which are combined within Cyber Physical Systems (CPS). Uncertainty processing is embedded in the recursive analysis. The fuzzy extensions provide a feasible way for the sensitivity analysis of the solution.
Simulation for Design and Material Selection of a Deep Placement Fertilizer Applicator for Soybean Cultivation
Authors: Patuk Iaroslav , Hasegawa Hideo , Borodin Igor , Whitaker Andrew C. , Borowski Piotr F.
Published: August 2020

The optimal design of a subsoiler implement is a complex work that includes optimal design, material properties, structural reliability, random variables, soil properties, soil tillage equipment, and optimum safety measures. The main objectives of this study were to design and simulate the deep placement fertilizer applicator (DPFA) by using the finite element method (FEM). FEM simulation software was used to select the optimum material properties and improve the safety factor by considering a range of loads on DPFA. Three applied forces in a static simulation (4500, 5000 and 6000 N) were considered as were three application depths of fertilizers (0.15, 0.20, and 0.25 m), to improve the safety measures of the design. The simulation results showed that the best material property for DPFA is the AISI 4135 QT carbon steel materials. This yields a high strength of 780MPa and an ultimate tensile strength of 950 MPa (Young’s Modulus of 207 GPa and with Poisson’s Ratio of 0.33). The static simulation for 6000 N shows that the DPFA model had a maximum stress and strain of 379.9 MPa and 25.6×10−4 mm/mm respectively, with a contact pressure of 207 MPa, and a maximum displacement of 3.1 mm. The study results can provide theoretical and technical support for the development of agricultural tools, especially for DPFA in selecting optimum material properties and improving safety factors.
The effect of nozzle hole diameter of 3D printing on porosity and tensile strength parts using polylactic acid material
Authors: Triyono Joko , Sukanto Heru , Saputra Rizki Mica , Smaradhana Dharu Feby
Published: August 2020

Nozzle hole diameter of 3D printer (3DP) can be varied to obtain required product quality as well as to reduce manufacturing times. The use of larger diameter may accelerate manufacturing times of products, yet the product quality, including the mechanical properties, still needs to be investigated profoundly. The purpose of this work is to investigate experimentally the effect of nozzle hole diameter of 3DP to the surface quality, accuracy, and the strength of the product. The specimens were manufactured by fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D printing using polylactic acid (PLA) as the filaments.Bed temperature, extruder temperature and printing speed were set to be 60∘C, 200∘C and 80 mm/s respectively. The thickness of each layer was set at the ratio of 20% to the nozzle hole diameter. Infill pattern was determined by using line type of 100%. Nozzle hole diameter of 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6mmwas compared in thiswork. The results show that bigger nozzle hole diameter enhanced the density and tensile strength of the products thought it was not linearly correlation.
Vibration-based damage identification for ship sandwich plate using finite element method
Authors: Ismail Abdi , Zubaydi Achmad , Piscesa Bambang , Ariesta Rizky Chandra , Tuswan
Published: August 2020

The sandwich plate can be used to replace the conventional steel stiffened plates on the ship’s hull structure. By using the sandwich plate, not only the stiffness of the plate can be increased but also the overall ship weight can be reduced, as well as the ship payload can be increased. The sandwich plate should be accompanied by the damage identification system to prevent ship structural failure. In this paper, the global damage identification method, which is based on the vibration analysis, is investigated. For that purpose, the vibration-based damage identification using the Finite Element Method (FEM) is explored. The variables being investigated are the damage sizes, damage locations, and the boundary conditions which affect the natural frequencies of the structures. The sandwich plate considered in this study consisted of steel faceplates with the polyurethane elastomer core, which has been checked to meet Lloyd’s register, an international maritime standard. From the analysis, it is found that the fully clamped boundary conditions accompanied by high vibration modes are more sensitive to the presence of artificial damage. The changes in the natural frequencies can be used as a reference to identify the size and location of damage in the sandwich plate.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystems, New Business Formation, and Scale-up Activity: Evidence from 286 Chinese Cities
Authors: Zhang Yi , Roelfsema Hein
Published: August 2020

This paper examines the effects of the quality of entrepreneurial ecosystems on new business formation and scale-up activity in China at the city-industry level. Accounting for only large and fast-growing firms, we focus on productive entrepreneurship which creates economic wealth. Based on a newly constructed panel dataset for 29 manufacturing industries and 286 prefecture-level cities of China during the period 1998–2009, we find that entrepreneurial ecosystem components, including access to finance, knowledge, marketization, local market demand, and entrepreneurial culture, are important determinants in explaining the differences in entrepreneurial activity across city-industry clusters and over time. Analysing a dynamic period in China’s industrialization with large regional variation in economic development, we show that the relative importance of the ecosystem components in shaping entrepreneurial activity changes over time when regions develop. In addition, we show that interaction between the ecosystem components – indicating system strength – has additional power in explaining new business formation and scale-up activity.
Seismicity, focal mechanism, and stress tensor analysis of the Simav region, western Turkey
Authors: Mutlu Ahu Kömeç
Published: August 2020

This study focuses on the seismicity and stress inversion analysis of the Simav region in western Turkey. The latest moderate-size earthquake was recorded on May 19, 2011 (Mw5.9), with a dense aftershock sequence of more than 5,000 earthquakes in 6 months. Between 2004 and 2018, data from earthquake events with magnitudes greater than 0.7 were compiled from 86 seismic stations. The source mechanism of 54 earthquakes with moment magnitudes greater than 3.5 was derived by using a moment tensor inversion. Normal faults with oblique-slip motions are dominant being compatible with the NE-SW extension direction of western Turkey. The regional stress field is assessed from focal mechanisms. Vertically oriented maximum compressional stress (σ1) is consistent with the extensional regime in the region. Theσ1 andσ3 stress axes suggest the WNW-ESE compression and the NNE-SSW dilatation. The principal stress orientations support the movement direction of the NE-SW extension consistent with the mainly observed normal faulting motions.
Assessment of surface parameters of VDW foundation piles using geodetic measurement techniques
Authors: Muszyński Zbigniew , Wyjadłowski Marek
Published: August 2020

This article presents in situ research on the side surface of Vor der Wand (VDW) foundation piles using 3D laser scanning and close-range photogrammetry to assess the morphology of pile concrete surface. Contemporary analytical methods for estimation of the bearing capacity of the foundation pile surface require determination of the parameters of the concrete roughness and the model of the surface being formed, which corresponds to the pile technology used. Acquiring these data is difficult due to the formation of piles in the ground and their subsequent work as a structure buried in the ground. The VDW pile technology is one of the widespread technologies of foundation pile used in practice. These piles exhibit a specific configuration of the lateral surface, which is related to the simultaneous use of auger drilling and casing that rotates in opposite directions. Two geodetic techniques most often used to measure the geometry of buildings are terrestrial laser scanning and close-range photogrammetry. To empirically verify the suitability of these two techniques for describing the VDW pile surface parameters, a two-stage field study was performed. In the first stage, the measurements of concrete test surfaces were conducted. This surface was formed in a smooth formwork and its roughness parameters (in accordance with ISO 25178-2: 2012) were calculated and compared with the reference surface. In the second stage, measurements of the secant VDW sheet pile wall protecting the deep excavation were carried out. The roughness parameters of the pile surface were calculated for the selected areas in diverse geotechnical conditions. The original procedure for processing data (obtained using the above techniques) for assessment of roughness parameters of unique concrete surfaces was presented. The conducted research demonstrates that a pulse scanner has very limited usefulness for determination of roughness parameters for very smooth concrete surface; however, the photogrammetry techniques give acceptable results. In regard to the VDW pile surface, the results obtained from both measurement techniques give satisfactory consistency of the roughness parameters. The relative errors of calculated roughness parameters do not exceed 29% (average 12%). The proposed procedure may improve the accuracy of the assumed friction factor between pile surface and soil for assessment of the pile shaft bearing capacity for various pile technologies and soil conditions.
Spatial distribution and risk assessment of toxic metals in agricultural soils from endemic nasopharyngeal carcinoma region in South China
Authors: Mo Liping , Zhou Yongzhang , Gopalakrishnana Gnanachandrasamy , Li Xingyuan
Published: August 2020

Sihui city (South China) is much affected by nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). To investigate the relationships between the toxic metals in soil and NPC incidence in Sihui, 119 surface soil samples were collected from agricultural fields and analyzed. The soil As–Cr contents in Longjiang (high-incidence area) are significantly lower than those in Weizheng and Jianglin (low-incidence areas), whereas the soil Pb content in Longjiang is significantly higher than that in Weizheng. The Nemerow pollution indices (PIN) of soils decrease in the order of Jianglin > Weizheng > Longjiang. The enrichment factor (EF) of Cd indicates that the Cd enrichment is contributed by human activities. Potential toxic metal-related ecological risk values decrease in the order of Jianglin > Weizheng > Longjiang. The mean hazard index (HI) value of Longjiang was lower than those of Weizheng and Jianglin. There are no adverse noncarcinogenic health effects of soil toxic metals to adults in the study areas. Carcinogenic risks of As and Cr via ingestion and dermal contact and total carcinogenic risk are within the warning range, from 10−6 to 10−4. Hence, we suggest that toxic metals in the soil may not be major geochemical carcinogenic factors of high NPC incidence in Sihui.
Landscape pattern and economic factors’ effect on prediction accuracy of cellular automata-Markov chain model on county scale
Authors: Song Wang , Yunlin Zhao , Zhenggang Xu , Guiyan Yang , Tian Huang , Nan Ma
Published: August 2020

Understanding and modeling of land use change is of great significance to environmental protection and land use planning. The cellular automata-Markov chain (CA-Markov) model is a powerful tool to predict the change of land use, and the prediction accuracy is limited by many factors. To explore the impact of land use and socio-economic factors on the prediction of CA-Markov model on county scale, this paper uses the CA-Markov model to simulate the land use of Anren County in 2016, based on the land use of 1996 and 2006. Then, the correlation between the land use, socio-economic data and the prediction accuracy was analyzed. The results show that Shannon’s evenness index and population density having an important impact on the accuracy of model predictions, negatively correlate with kappa coefficient. The research not only provides a reference for correct use of the model but also helps us to understand the driving mechanism of landscape changes.
In vitro biological activity of Hydroclathrus clathratus and its use as an extracellular bioreductant for silver nanoparticle formation
Authors: Alzahrani Raghad R. , Alkhulaifi Manal M. , Al-Enazi Nouf M.
Published: August 2020

The adaptive nature of algae results in producing unique chemical components that are gaining attention due to their efficiency in many fields and abundance. In this study, we screened the phytochemicals from the brown algaHydroclathrus clathratusand tested its ability to produce silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) extracellularly for the first time. Lastly, we investigated its biological activity against a variety of bacteria. The biosynthesized nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy. The biological efficacy of AgNPs was tested against eighteen different bacteria, including seven multidrug-resistant bacteria. Phytochemical screening of the alga revealed the presence of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, sugars, carboxylic acid derivatives, triterpenoids, steroids, and other components. Formed AgNPs were stable and ranged in size between 7 and 83 nm and presented a variety of shapes.Acinetobacter baumannii,Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-resistantS. aureus(MRSA), and MDRA. baumanniiwere the most affected among the bacteria. The biofilm formation and development assay presented a noteworthy activity against MRSA, with an inhibition percentage of 99%. Acknowledging the future of nano-antibiotics encourages scientists to explore and enhance their potency, notably if they were obtained using green, rapid, and efficient methods.
Model-based random forests for ordinal regression
Authors: Buri Muriel , Hothorn Torsten
Published: August 2020

We study and compare several variants of random forests tailored to prognostic models for ordinal outcomes. Models of the conditional odds function are employed to understand the various random forest flavours. Existing random forest variants for ordinal outcomes, such as Ordinal Forests and Conditional Inference Forests, are evaluated in the presence of a non-proportional odds impact of prognostic variables. We propose two novel random forest variants in the model-based transformation forest family, only one of which explicitly assumes proportional odds. These two novel transformation forests differ in the specification of the split procedures for the underlying ordinal trees. One of these split criteria is able to detect changes in non-proportional odds situations and the other one focuses on finding proportional-odds signals. We empirically evaluate the performance of the existing and proposed methods using a simulation study and illustrate the practical aspects of the procedures by a re-analysis of the respiratory sub-item in functional rating scales of patients suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
Application of response surface methodology for optimization of electrochemical process in metronidazole (MNZ) removal from aqueous solutions using stainless steel 316 (SS316) and lead (Pb) anodes
Authors: Moteshaker Parisa Mahmoudpoor , Rokni Seyed Ehsan , Farnoodian Narges , Mohassel Akhlaghi Nasrin , Saadi Sommayeh , Ahmadidoust Ghobad , Yousefi Arman
Published: August 2020

Pharmaceutical compounds in drinking water sources, in addition to threatening environmental health, increase bacterial resistance in aquatic environments. The purpose of this study was to investigate the application of response surface methodology for the optimization of the electrochemical process in the removal of metronidazole (MNZ) aqueous solutions using stainless steel 316 (SS316) and Lead (Pb) anodes. In this experimental study, the effect of different parameters including pH (4–10), electrolysis time (40–120 min), MNZ antibiotic concentration (30–150 mg/L), and current density (2–10 mA/cm2) on Antibiotic removal efficiency was evaluated by a central composite design method using Design-Expert software. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and p-Value tests. Hence, central composite design (CCD) established a reduced quadratic polynomial model with P-value < 0.0001 and R2 = 0.98. The optimal values for the solution pH initial, electrolysis time, current density, and MNZ antibiotic concentration were 5.5, 100.0 min, 8.0 mA/cm2, and 50 mg/L, respectively. By employing the optimum conditions obtained, the maximum experimental removal efficiencies by SS316 and Pb anodes were 67.85 and 78.66%, respectively. The Chemical Oxygen Demand/total organic carbon (COD/TOC) ratio was decreased from 1.67 at the inlet to 1.53 at the outlet for SS316 and from 1.7 to 1.42 for Pb. Moreover, average oxidation state (AOS) was increased from 1.45 to 1.7 for SS316 and from 1.45 to 1.86 for Pb, which indicates the biodegradability of MNZ antibiotics by the electrochemical process. The electrochemical degradation process was identified as an effective method for the removal of MNZ from aquatic solutions, and it has an outstanding potential in removing other refractory pollutants from the environment.
A new principle of UHVDC line pilot protection based on trigger angle control characteristics
Authors: Wang Lu , Li Zhenxing , Hong Tan , Weng Hanli , Li Zhenhua
Published: August 2020

A new principle of UHVDC Line pilot protection based on internal parameters of the trigger angle of converter is proposed, in order to improve the ability of the protection to withstand transition resistance. Through the analysis of UHVDC control system, it is found that, due to the regulation of control system, in terms of trigger delay angle of rectifier side and trigger leading angle of inverter side, the change tendency in internal fault and external fault is different. Thus, the protection criterion is constructed. Compared with the traditional protection principle using voltage and current to establish protection criteria, this principle uses internal parameters as protection quantity. The simulation based on PSCAD/EMTDC verifies the effectiveness of the protection principle.
A simplified method for fault detection and identification of mismatch modules and strings in a grid-tied solar photovoltaic system
Authors: Rakesh Namani , Banerjee Sanchari , Subramaniam Senthilkumar , Babu Natarajan
Published: August 2020

The foremost problem facing by the photovoltaic (PV) system is to identify the faults and partial shade conditions. Further, the power loss can be avoided by knowing the number of faulty modules and strings. Hence, to attend these problems, a new method is proposed to differentiate the faults and partially shaded conditions along with the number of mismatch modules and strings for a dynamic change in irradiation. The proposed method has developed in two main steps based on a simple observation from the Current versus Voltage (I-V) characteristic curve of PV array at Line-Line (LL) fault. First, the type of fault is detected using defined variables, which are continuously updated from PV array voltage, current, and irradiation. Second, it gives the number of mismatch modules (or short-circuited bypass diodes) and mismatch strings (or open-circuited blocking diodes) by comparing with the theoretical predictions from the I-V characteristic curve of PV array. The proposed algorithm has been validated both on experimentation using small scale grid-connected PV array developed in the laboratory as well as MATLAB/Simulink simulations. Further, the comparative assessment with existing methods is presented with various performance indices to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Optimal total harmonic distortion minimization in multilevel inverter using improved whale optimization algorithm
Authors: Reddy Aala Kalananda Vamsi Krishna , Narayana Komanapalli Venkata Lakshmi
Published: August 2020

This paper presents the solution to mitigate the total harmonic distortion (THD) in multilevel inverters (MLIs) using novel improved whale optimization algorithm (IWOA). The IWOA falls under the category of swarm-based nature inspired optimization algorithms. It uses a novel diffusion process using a random walk technique and utilizes an additional ranking system to estimate the optimum solution to minimize THD. Moreover, THD minimization is further accomplished through nine various meta-heuristic algorithms for investigation and comparative analysis. The selected algorithms along with the proposed IWOA are rigorously tested on single phase 5 and 7 level cascaded H-Bridge MLIs for various performance parameters such as consistency, computational efficiency and speed of convergence. It is found that the proposed algorithm outperforms the nine algorithms and is efficient for THD minimization for modulation index (MI) in the range of 0–1. The results are analyzed and reported after thorough verification using MATLAB simulation.
A phasor-distance based faulty phase detection and fault classification technique for parallel transmission lines
Authors: Kothari Nishant , Bhalja Bhavesh R. , Pandya Vivek , Tripathi Pushkar , Jena Soumitri
Published: August 2020

This paper presents a phasor-distance based faulty phase detection and fault classification technique for parallel transmission lines. Detection and classification of faulty phase(s) have been carried out by deriving indices from the change in phasor values of current with a distance of one cycle. The derived indices have zero values during normal operating conditions whereas the index corresponding to the faulty phase exceeds the pre-defined threshold in case of occurrence of a fault. A separate ground detection algorithm has been utilized for the identification of involvement of ground in a faulty situation. The performance of the proposed technique has been evaluated for intra-circuit, inter-circuit and simultaneous faults with wide variations in system and fault conditions. The suggested technique has been evaluated for over 23,000 diversified simulated fault cases as well as 14 recorded real fault events. The performance of the proposed technique remains consistent under Current Transformer (CT) saturation as well as different amount and direction of power flow. Moreover, suitability to different power system network has also been studied. Also, faults having fault current less than pre-fault conditions have been detected accurately. The results obtained suggest that it is able to detect faulty phases as well as classify faults within quarter-cycle from the inception of fault with impeccable accuracy. Besides, as modern digital relays have been already equipped with phasor computation facility, phasor-based technique can be easily incorporated with relative ease. At last, a comparative evaluation suggests its superiority in terms of fault classification accuracy, fault detection time, diversify fault scenarios and computational requirement among other existing techniques.
Comparative study on dry sliding wear behavior of mono (Al2219/B4C) and hybrid (Al2219/B4C/Gr) metal matrix composites using statistical technique
Authors: Suresh R.
Published: August 2020

In the present study, aluminium metal matrix composites (AMMC’s) reinforced with boron carbide (B4C) and graphite (Gr) particles were prepared by stir casting method. Dry sliding wear behavior of developed composites was conducted on pin on disc apparatus with variation in sliding distance, applied load and sliding speed. Taguchi method was employed to optimize the data in a controlled way. Analysis of variance was employed to examine the wear behavior of base alloy (Al2219), mono (Al/B4C) and hybrid (Al/B4C/Gr) metal matrix composites. The correlations were established by linear regression models and validated using confirmation tests. The obtained results indicated that B4C content, sliding distance is highly affected by the dry sliding wear followed by sliding speed and applied load. The incorporation of B4C and Gr particles in aluminium improves the tribological characteristics. The SEM images of mono composite shows the deep grooves on worn surface. It demonstrates the signs of abrasive wear of mono composite. The hybrid composite exhibits excellent wear resistance when compared to mono composite and base alloy. The main reason of that is the Gr particles act as a solid lubricating material in the hybrid composite (Al/B4C/Gr).
CHIMERA: Combining Ring-LWE-based Fully Homomorphic Encryption Schemes
Authors: Boura Christina , Gama Nicolas , Georgieva Mariya , Jetchev Dimitar
Published: August 2020

This paper proposes a practical hybrid solution for combining and switching between three popular Ring-LWE-based FHE schemes: TFHE, B/FV and HEAAN. This is achieved by first mapping the different plaintext spaces to a common algebraic structure and then by applying efficient switching algorithms. This approach has many practical applications. First and foremost, it becomes an integral tool for the recent standardization initiatives of homomorphic schemes and common APIs. Then, it can be used in many real-life scenarios where operations of different nature and not achievable within a single FHE scheme have to be performed and where it is important to efficiently switch from one scheme to another. Finally, as a byproduct of our analysis we introduce the notion of a FHE module structure, that generalizes the notion of the external product, but can certainly be of independent interest in future research in FHE.
Protecting ECC Against Fault Attacks: The Ring Extension Method Revisited
Authors: Joye Marc
Published: August 2020

Due to its shorter key size, elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) is gaining more and more popularity. However, if not properly implemented, the resulting cryptosystems may be susceptible to fault attacks. Over the past few years, several techniques for secure implementations have been published. This paper revisits the ring extension method and its adaptation to the elliptic curve setting.
New Zémor-Tillich Type Hash Functions Over GL2 (𝔽pn)
Authors: Tomkins Hayley , Nevins Monica , Salmasian Hadi
Published: August 2020

We present a large class of new Zémor-Tillich type hash functions whose target space is the finite group GL2(𝔽pn) for any prime p and power n. To do so, we use a novel group-theoretic approach that uses Tits’ “Ping-Pong Lemma” to outline conditions under which a set of matrices in PGL2(𝔽p((x))) generates a free group. The hash functions we form are secure against known attacks, and simultaneously preserve many of the desired features of the Zémor-Tillich hash function. In particular, our hash functions retain the mall modifications property.
The first-trimester serum decorin levels as a potential predictor of preeclampsia
Authors: Adanaş Aydın Gültekin , Ayvacı Habibe , Özgen Gülten
Published: August 2020

Background

Preeclampsia (PE) is a multisystem disease and is still among the leading causes of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Inadequate trophoblast invasion plays a key role in the PE pathogenesis. The proliferation, migration, and invasion of extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) is primarily controlled by the decidua-derived transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and decorin. In this study, we aimed to investigate the clinical utility of serum decorin levels measured in the 11th to 14th gestational weeks to predict preeclampsia during the following weeks of gestation.

Materials and Methods

A total of 600 pregnant women, whose age and gestational age ranged from 18 to 40 years and 11 to 14 weeks, were included. Venous blood samples were obtained and stored at −80 °C. Subsequently, the patients who developed preeclampsia and healthy controls with a similar body mass index were identified and their first-trimester blood samples were analyzed for serum decorin levels.

Results

The mean serum decorin level was 8.76 ± 6.88 ng/mL for the PE group while 9.75 ± 9.82 ng/mL for the control group. No statistically significant difference was found between the two groups (p=0.838).

Conclusion

We observed that the serum decorin levels during the 11th to 14th weeks of gestation showed no predictive value for preeclampsia in pregnant women. However, more accurate conclusions about the clinical utility of decorin as a biomarker of preeclampsia would require further studies with larger samples including more patients with EOS-PE.
On Credentials
Authors: Smith Barry , Loddo Olimpia Giuliana , Lorini Giuseppe
Published: August 2020

Credentials play an important role in all modern societies, but the analysis of their nature and function has thus far been neglected by social philosophers. We present a view according to which the defining function of credentials is to certify the identity and the institutional status (including certain rights) of individuals. More importantly, credentials enable rights-holders to exercise their rights, so that for a particular right to be exercisable the right-holder should possess, carry and sometimes show to an authority a document of a specific kind. Driving licenses, identity cards, passports, boarding passes, library passes, credit cards, ATM cards, health insurance cards are all examples of credentials in this sense. Credentials have in every case a bearer, and the bearer should be able to carry them easily on his or her person. Credentials should also be inspectable – not least because credentials can be forged. The authors analyze several historical and contemporary examples of credentials, focusing on the credentials carried by the pilgrims of the Way of Saint James.
Organodiphosphines in PtP2X2 (X = As, Ge or Te) derivatives – Structural aspects
Authors: Melník Milan , Mikuš Peter
Published: August 2020

Structural data of cis-Pt(η2-P2L)(XL)2 (X = Ge or Te), cis-Pt(η2-P2L)(η2-X2L) (X = As, Ge or Te) and trans-Pt(η2-P,TeL)2 were classified and analyzed. The chelating ligands create varieties of metallocyclic rings, which open in the sequence: 83.1° (GeGeGe) < 83.8° (AsC2As) < 86.2° (PC2P) < 88.5° (PC2Te) < 89.7° (PC3P) ~ 89.7° (GeGe2Ge). The structural data are compared and discussed with the complexes of an inner coordination spheres Pt(η2-P2L)(XL)2 (X = O, N, CN, B, Cl, S, Se, Si, Br or I), Pt(η2-P2L)(η2- X2L) (X = O, N, S, Se or Si), and Pt(η2-P,SiL)2.
Equality, Self-Government, and Disenfranchising Kids: A Reply to Yaffe
Authors: Cholbi Michael
Published: August 2020

Gideon Yaffe has recently argued that children should be subject to lower standards of criminal liability because, unlike adults, they ought to be disenfranchised. Because of their disenfranchisement, they lack the legal reasons enfranchised adults have to comply with the law. I critically consider Yaffe’s argument for such disenfranchisement, which holds that disenfranchisement balances children’s interest in self-government with adults’ interest in having an equal say over lawmaking. I argue that Yaffe does not succeed in showing that these two values need to be balanced, nor that disenfranchising children is a justifiable method of achieving this balance. In my conclusion, I sketch an alternative contractualist approach to disenfranchising children that, like Yaffe’s, appeals to the implications that enfranchisement has for political relations among citizens, but, unlike Yaffe’s, rests on empirical claims about the influence of parents on children’s voting patterns rather than on a priori claims regarding who has a rightful say over lawmaking.
Should Children Have a Veto over Parental Decisions to Relocate?
Authors: de Vries Bouke
Published: August 2020

Many people move house at some point during their childhood and not rarely more than once. While relocations are not always harmful for under-aged children, they can, and frequently do, cause great disruption to their lives by severing their social ties as well as any attachments that they might have to their neighbourhood, town, or wider geographical region, with long-lasting psychological effects in some cases. Since it is increasingly recognised within normative philosophy as well as within Western societies that older minors should have the final say over certain issues that significantly affect their lives (think, for instance, of custody disputes, decisions about whether to get specific vaccinations or use contraceptives), this raises the question: Can it be morally incumbent upon parents to give their minor children a veto over family relocation? This article argues that the answer is affirmative. Specifically, it suggests that such duties exist if and only if (i) parents are not morally required to either relocate their families or stay put, (ii) the stakes of the decision about a family relocation are fairly low, and (iii) the children have the competence to make these decisions, as many older minors do.
Some relative normality properties in locales
Authors: Dube Themba , Estaji Ali Akbar , Sarpoushi Maryam Robat
Published: August 2020

We study relative normality properties in locales. We identify localic maps that preserve and ones that reflect various relative normality properties.
Varieties of ∗-regular rings
Authors: Herrmann Christian
Published: August 2020

Given a subdirectly irreducible ∗-regular ring R, we show that R is a homomorphic image of a regular ∗-subring of an ultraproduct of the (simple) eRe, e in the minimal ideal of R; moreover, R (with unit) is directly finite if all eRe are unit-regular. For any subdirect product of artinian ∗-regular rings we construct a unit-regular and ∗-clean extension within its variety.
Uniqueness problem of meromorphic mappings of a complete Kähler manifold into a projective space
Authors: Giang Ha Huong
Published: August 2020

In this article, we prove a new generalization of uniqueness theorems for meromorphic mappings of a complete Kähler manifold M into ℙ
n
(ℂ) sharing hyperplanes in general position with a general condition on the intersections of the inverse images of these hyperplanes.
An alternative distribution to Lindley and Power Lindley distributions with characterizations, different estimation methods and data applications
Authors: Korkmaz Mustafa Ç. , Hamedani G. G.
Published: August 2020

This paper proposes a new extended Lindley distribution, which has a more flexible density and hazard rate shapes than the Lindley and Power Lindley distributions, based on the mixture distribution structure in order to model with new distribution characteristics real data phenomena. Its some distributional properties such as the shapes, moments, quantile function, Bonferonni and Lorenz curves, mean deviations and order statistics have been obtained. Characterizations based on two truncated moments, conditional expectation as well as in terms of the hazard function are presented. Different estimation procedures have been employed to estimate the unknown parameters and their performances are compared via Monte Carlo simulations. The flexibility and importance of the proposed model are illustrated by two real data sets.
Identity gaps and negotiations among layers of young farmers: Case study in Indonesia
Authors: Widiyanti Emi , Karsidi Ravik , Wijaya Mahendra , Utari Prahastiwi
Published: August 2020

One of the fundamental problems at the source of youthful reluctance to join the agricultural sector is the issue of identity. Unrealistic and negative views toward agriculture, increasing levels of education, and the existence stimulating opportunities in non-agricultural sectors have resulted in a situation that makes youths question previous assumptions about succession farming. This article discusses the identity gaps experienced by six young Indonesian farmers in developing and maintaining coherent identities within the framework of the communication theory of identity. This theoretical framework is used to explore the identity gaps among the identity layers of these young farmers in the situations they face and to understand the way they seek validation for their identity through self-verification. With the explanation approach, this article focuses on a discussion of how young farmers overcome the tensions they experience arising out of conflicts between expectations and reality. These conflicts show that there are identity gaps that must be negotiated by the youths while building their self-identity as farmers.
Genetically modified crops in India: Experiments with Bt Cotton to explore the road ahead
Authors: Kaur Amanpreet
Published: August 2020

The success of genetically modified crops (GMCs), claimed to hold solution to impending environmental problems, depends on land holdings, agroclimatic and geoclimatic conditions, food preferences and sociocultural factors. The direct and indirect impacts of these crops on human health, ecology and environment have not been evaluated on long-term basis. In India, with rich background of farming, GMCs remain a minor change. Introduction of first GMC, Bt Cotton (BC), showed varied response throughout the country. New GMCs like Bt Brinjal and GM Mustard approved for open-field trials in the country were marred under contentious debate and were never approved for commercial cultivation. The current research article aims to study the ecological implications of only GMC available for experimentation in India, BC. A three-phase study carried out as field survey, glass dome experiments and open-field trials compared the BC and conventional cotton (CC) plants with extensive experimentation of ecological parameters including vegetation diversity, insect diversity, plant morphology and infestation intensity. Results highlighted the better morphological characteristics of BC over CC, while infestation studies showed 40% survival rate of insect pest on BC for which it is genetically modified. High electrical conductivity and low organic matter content in the BC soil samples as compared to CC soil samples were indicative of impact of Bt toxins in soil but need further in-depth soil studies to reach scientifically valid results. The current research article substantiates the environmental concerns raised against GMCs especially BC in the country. Its objective is to trigger more research in this direction, so that the technology of GMCs is utilized for the benefit of humankind.
Irony and Sarcasm in Ethical Perspective
Authors: Airaksinen Timo
Published: August 2020

Irony and sarcasm are two quite different, sometimes morally dubious, linguistic tropes. We can draw a distinction between them if we identify irony as a speech act that calls what is bad good and, correspondingly, sarcasm calls good bad. This allows us to ask, which one is morally worse. My argument is based on the idea that the speaker can legitimately bypass what is good and call it bad, which is to say that she may literally mean what she says. This is not true of the opposite case: one cannot bypass what is bad and, therefore, she paradoxically does not mean what she says. In other words, irony is a morally less guilty trope. What is bad has its faults and thus it can be ironized; what is good is without blemish and thus it is difficult to know how it could be called bad. Also, irony can be freely intended, or verbal, or it can be situational in social context. I also discuss dramatic irony in Classical context. Sarcasm does not allow such complexity. Instead, we speak of cynicism and even nihilism as moral attitudes that accompany sarcasm and give it its typical force; or sarcasm may lead to cynicism and nihilism, that is, to the denial of values. Irony does not entail any corresponding attitudes or moral positions. This paper is a philosophical contribution to the ethics of communication and language.
Moving Bodies as Moving Targets: A Feminist Perspective on Sexual Violence in Transit
Authors: Pedersen Louise
Published: August 2020

Acts of sexual violence in transit environments are everyday occurrences for women across the globe, and the fear of being on the receiving end of sexual violence severely impacts women’s mobility patterns. Gill Valentine, in her examination of women’s fear of male violence and women’s perception and use of public space, has argued that the impact on women’s mobility amounts to a spatial expression of patriarchy. The aim of this paper is to expand upon Valentine’s notion of “the spatial expression of patriarchy” by engaging feminist philosophy within the context of sexual violence against women on public transportation. More specifically, I will argue for two particular interpretations of the spatial expression of patriarchy, one structural and one relational. It follows from my view that solutions to overcoming and ending sexual violence against women on public transportation hinge on both a structural and a relational understanding of the spatial expression of patriarchy.
The measure of irregularities of nanosheets
Authors: Iqbal Zahid , Ishaq Muhammad , Aslam Adnan , Aamir Muhammad , Gao Wei
Published: August 2020

Nanosheets are two-dimensional polymeric materials, which are among the most active areas of investigation of chemistry and physics. Many diverse physicochemical properties of compounds are closely related to their underlying molecular topological descriptors. Thus, topological indices are fascinating beginning points to any statistical approach for attaining quantitative structure–activity (QSAR) and quantitative structure–property (QSPR) relationship studies. Irregularity measures are generally used for quantitative characterization of the topological structure of non-regular graphs. In various applications and problems in material engineering and chemistry, it is valuable to be well-informed of the irregularity of a molecular structure. Furthermore, the estimation of the irregularity of graphs is helpful for not only QSAR/QSPR studies but also different physical and chemical properties, including boiling and melting points, enthalpy of vaporization, entropy, toxicity, and resistance. In this article, we compute the irregularity measures of graphene nanosheet, H-naphtalenic nanosheet, {\text{SiO}}_{2} nanosheet, and the nanosheet covered by {C}_{3} and {C}_{6}.
Uncertainty quantification in the design of wireless power transfer systems
Authors: Pei Yao , Pichon Lionel , Bensetti Mohamed , Le-Bihan Yann
Published: August 2020

The paper addresses the uncertainty quantification of physical and geometrical material parameters in the design of wireless power transfer systems. For 3D complex systems, a standard Monte Carlo cannot be directly used to extract statistical quantities. So, surrogate models based on Kriging or polynomial chaos expansions are built to study the impact of variable parameters on the radiated magnetic field and efficiency. Such fast prediction of uncertainties in the parameters of the system can improve the design of inductive power transfer systems taking into account human exposure recommendations and variability of the parameters.