bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Experimental study of the addition of oil palm mesocarp fiber on the physical and mechanical properties of fiber cement mortar composites
Authors: Bopda Fokam Christian , Toumi Eric , Kenmeugne Bienvenu , Wiryikfu Nfor Clins , Mevaa Lucien 
Published: January 2021

AbstractComposite materials based on natural fibers are increasing in demand in various sectors of industry because of their interesting specific properties. This work is a contribution to the valorization, of plant fibers from agricultural plantations in Cameroon, in fiber cement mortar (FCM). This paper studies the influence of the addition of oil palm mesocarp fiber (OPMF) on the physical (water absorption, density and compactness) and mechanical (compressive strength and flexural strength) properties of cement mortars. The fibers used in this paper are extracted from oil palm mesocarp (palm kernel pulp) by a mechanical and manual process. Cement mortar specimens were then made with different proportions of fibers: 0% (reference mortar), 1%, 2%, 3% and 3.5% fibers. Physical and mechanical tests are then carried out on our specimens. Regardless of the duration of immersion in water, the results show that the water absorption rate increases with a greater amount of fiber in the FCM specimens. On the other hand, an inverse effect is observed on density, which decreases from 2277.5 (samples with 0% fiber) to 942.1 kg/m3 (samples with 3.5% fiber) for apparent density and from 2641.2 to 1945.7 kg/m3 for absolute density. On the mechanical properties, there is a steady decrease in compressive strength from 42.47 (for the reference mortar at 0% fiber) to 31.1 MPa (for the sample at 3.5% fiber). In bending, there is first an increase and then a decrease in strength with the amount of fibers. The maximum flexural strength is obtained for a 2% fiber composition. The FCM has a better strength/density ratio. Finally, the addition of OPMF, in small proportion in the cement mortar, allows a lightening of the structure, but induces a small decrease in mechanical resistance. Our FCM can be used in the manufacture of cinderblocks or as internal wall roughcoating mortar.
Cross-layer unequal error protection using 64-HQAM and RCPT codes for robust image communication
Authors: Mobin Anam , Khan Ekram , Beg Mirza Salim 
Published: January 2021

AbstractIn unequal error protection (UEP) schemes, the bits are protected according to their significance in terms of distortion reduction capability during the reconstruction process. The conventional UEP schemes are primarily designed either using forward error correction at application layer of network architecture, or hierarchical modulation at the physical layer. In this paper, an optimized cross-layer UEP scheme for set partitioning in hierarchical trees coded images is investigated. The proposed scheme uses rate compatible punctured turbo codes at application layer and two-layered 64-hierarchical QAM (64-HQAM) at physical layer. Simulation results show that proposed cross-layer UEP performs slightly better than application layer’s optimized turbo coding for additive white Gaussian noise channel but performs significantly better in flat Rayleigh fading channel, specifically under poor channel conditions. The proposed scheme is highly bandwidth efficient having the robustness performance close to that of the scheme using hierarchical 4-PAM (H 4-PAM). Complexity analysis of the proposed solution has been carried out.
Rapid green synthesis of non-cytotoxic silver nanoparticles using aqueous extracts of 'Golden Delicious' apple pulp and cumin seeds with antibacterial and antioxidant activity
Authors: Jahan Israt , Erci Fatih , Isildak Ibrahim 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
A simple, facile and rapid microwave irradiated system was applied to synthesize silver nanoparticles using 'Golden Delicious' apple pulp (Malus domestica) and cumin (Cuminum cyminum) seed extracts. The phytosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by Ultraviolet–Visible Spectroscopy (UV–vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD) Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Zeta sizer analysis. In the study, the presence of face-centered cubic crystalline structured metallic silver in AgNPs from apple and cumin extracts and the monodisperse nature of AgNPs with the size distribution range of 5.46–20 nm and 1.84–20.57 nm were confirmed, respectively. This study established an efficient green synthesis approach that created so far, the smallest silver nanoparticles by using these two extracts. According to the results obtained, AgNPs synthesized using both extracts were non-toxic against L929 mouse fibroblast cells, while they were effective against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria with a greater effect on S. aureus. Moreover, AgNPs synthesized through cumin extract exhibited a higher ABTS scavenging ability (96.43 ± 0.78% at 160 μg/mL) in comparison to apple pulp extract mediated AgNPs, while both AgNPs showed lower activity for DPPH (27.84 ± 0.56% and 13.12 ± 0.32% from cumin seed and apple pulp extracts, respectively). In summary, our results suggest the green non-cytotoxic AgNPs synthesized in this study could be a promising template for further biological and clinical applications.

Graphical abstract
Mechanochemically synthesized mesoporous alumina: a smart new-generation sorbent for preparation of chromatographic 188W/188Re generator
Authors: Chakravarty Rubel , Bahadur Jitendra , Lohar Sharad , Jadhav Sachin , Sen Debasis , Chakraborty Sudipta 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
In an effort towards affordable availability of chromatographic 188W/188Re generators for widespread clinical use, we report the mechanochemical synthesis of mesoporous alumina as an advanced sorbent material for preparation of the generator. The synthesized material exhibits remarkably high sorption capacity (550 ± 12 mg W/g), which is adequate for preparation of clinical-scale generators using low specific activity (LSA) 188W produced in medium flux research reactors. Sorption of 188W in mesoporous alumina follows Freundlich adsorption isotherm and pseudo second order kinetics, indicating that the process is chemisorption. A clinical-scale (~ 14.0 GBq) 188W/188Re generator was developed and its performance was evaluated over a period of 6 months. Rhenium-188 could be consistently obtained from the generator with high yield (> 80%) and it met all the requirements for clinical use. The present strategy is expected to increase the scope of separation chemistry for availing clinical-grade 188Re for the benefit of millions of cancer patients world over.

Graphic abstract
Long-term monitoring of cropland transformation in Kolkata Metropolitan Area, India using open-source geospatial technologies
Authors: Mazumder Shrabana , Saha Joydeep , Nandi Gouranga , Naskar Mrinmoyee , Gayen Jibananda , Datta Debajit 
Published: January 2021

AbstractUrban and peri-urban agricultural practices are degrading throughout the developing world owing to unprecedented urban sprawling and consequent expansion of built-up areas. This study attempted to assess the changing land use/land cover patterns of Kolkata Metropolitan Area, India from 1990 to 2020 with special emphasis on the transformation trajectories of its urban and peri-urban agriculture as a case study using free and open-source software and multi-temporal geospatial database. It also aimed to project the transformation scenario of croplands in 2030 through application of the artificial neural network algorithm of the freely available Modules for Land Use Change Evaluation plugin. Results revealed a persistent spread of built-up areas by engulfing croplands, wetlands, vegetation and water bodies throughout the assessment period. An overall loss of 181.11 sq. km of croplands between 1990 and 2020 was estimated and found to be more prominent in the northern, eastern, and south-eastern parts of the study area. If the existing socio-economic framework and administrative mechanism would prevail as usual, then the projected land use patterns of 2030 would predict a further decrease of 15.46 sq. km in cropland area thereby culminating to a total 37.39% of it original extent since 1990. A theoretical three-stage model of land use conversion was developed from the empirical results as well as field observations and validated with the findings of the projected scenario. It indicated two primary conversion patterns for the study area, viz. (1) natural area to cropland to fallow land and then to built-up, and (2) natural area to fallow land to built-up. Few necessary management measures were suggested to mitigate this persistent loss of croplands and other natural areas.
Solving time-dependent heat conduction problems using metaheuristic algorithms extended with a novel local search strategy
Authors: Turgut Oguz Emrah 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThis study proposes a novel and dexterous local search scheme for improving the exploitation phase of a generic metaheuristic algorithm. The proposed local search considers a twofold probing mechanism, which takes advantage of a chaotic number generated by the hybrid chaotic map composed of Logistic map and Kent map to move around the so-far-obtained global best solutions to reach feasible candidate solutions. Also, an iterative local search scheme inspired by a variant of the differential evolution algorithm is incorporated into the proposed manipulation scheme to enhance intensification on the promising regions. The proposed scheme is included in the well-reputed metaheuristics of differential evolution, crow search, whale optimization, and sine–cosine algorithms to assess the resulting improvements made on the optimization accuracy. Forty optimization benchmark functions composed of unimodal and multimodal test problems have been solved by the local search improved and basic forms of these optimizers to identify the amelioration in terms of solution accuracy and robustness. Two different real-world constrained optimization problems have been solved by these algorithms to analyze the improvement in solution qualities maintained by the utilization of the proposed local search method. Furthermore, these mentioned optimization algorithms along with their improved forms have been applied to one-dimensional transient heat conduction problems to obtain accurate temperature distribution across the heat transfer medium. Optimization results reveal that utilizing local search enhanced metaheuristic algorithms can be considered a favorable alternative to conventional solution methods for solving transient heat conduction problems.
Norm-based user selection algorithm for single-RF space modulation techniques with geometric mean decomposition based precoding scheme
Authors: Elganimi Taissir Y. , Alfitouri Feras F. 
Published: January 2021

AbstractJoint user selection algorithm and fully digital geometric mean decomposition (GMD)-based precoding scheme is considered in this paper for single radio frequency (RF) space modulation techniques (SMTs), namely, spatial modulation (SM) and space shift keying (SSK) schemes. The objective is to jointly perform the Frobenius norm-based user selection algorithm and design GMD-based precoded SMTs with single-RF chain in order to reduce the cost and the power consumption in multiple input multiple output (MIMO) systems, and to avoid the complicated bit-allocation problem of singular value decomposition (SVD)-based precoding technique. Based on these schemes, the GMD-based precoding transmission carried out in the context of a single-user SMTs can readily be extended to the multi-user (MU) case. Simulation results demonstrate that single-RF SMTs with GMD-based precoding scheme is capable of outperforming SMTs with SVD-based precoding technique. Meanwhile, MU-SMTs with GMD-based precoding scheme provide significant performance gains over the conventional SM- and SSK-MIMO counterparts and single-user SMTs with GMD-based precoding algorithm, which increase the energy efficiency and the reachability using these schemes. Furthermore, better error performance in MU-SMTs with fully digital GMD-based precoding technique is obtained by selecting any number of users. Therefore, MU-SMTs with GMD-based precoding scheme can be effectively used in various 5G wireless networks.
Experimental and finite element analysis of hybrid fiber reinforced concrete two-way slabs at ultimate limit state
Authors: Khan Qaiser uz Zaman , Ali Muhammad , Ahmad Afaq , Raza Ali , Iqbal Muhammad 
Published: January 2021

AbstractConcrete is a brittle material that is weak in tension and is prone to internal microcracking. With the constant demand for improvement in concrete’s durability and mechanical proprieties, the use of fiber reinforcements has shown promising results. The findings of this paper are based on test results on hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (HFRC) samples of simply supported two-way slabs, produced with a selected volumetric proportion of steel fiber (SF) and polypropylene fibers (PPF). A total of twenty-one specimens were fabricated. Concrete slab specimens were tested under flexural loading and their response in terms of strain, deflection, first crack, and ultimate failure loading was determined. The dosage of SF in concrete ranged from 0.7 to 1.0%, whereas 0.1–0.9% PPF was used by volume of concrete. It was found that a combination of 0.9% SF and 0.1% PPF gave favorable results for loading capacity, ductility, and cracks. A Finite Element Analysis (FEA) of the proposed HFRC two-way slabs was also performed via ABAQUS. The outputs from numerical modeling showed a close agreement with the experimental results. Using the selected FEA model, an extensive parametric study was also done to examine the effect of various parameters including longitudinal reinforcement ratio, compressive strength of concrete, and the concrete cover of specimens. The proposed FEA model presented a close agreement with the experimental outcomes.
Methanol addition after glucose depletion improves rPOXA 1B production under the pGap in P. pastoris X33: breaking the habit
Authors: Ardila-Leal Leidy D. , Poutou-Piñales Raul A. , Morales-Álvarez Edwin D. , Rivera-Hoyos Claudia M. , Pedroza-Rodríguez Aura M. , Quevedo-Hidalgo Balkys E. , Pérez-Flórez Alejandro 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to demonstrate that methanol addition after glucose depletion has a positive effect on improving rPOXA 1B production under the control ofpGapinP. pastoris.Four different culture media (A, B, C and D) were used to cultureP. pastorisX33/pGapZαA-LaccPost-Stop(clone 1), containing a previously optimizedPOXA 1Bsynthetic gene coding forP. ostreatuslaccase, which after glucose depletion was supplemented or not with methanol. Enzyme activity in culture media without methanol (A, B, C and D) was influenced by media components, presenting activity of 1254.30 ± 182.44, 1373.70 ± 182.44, 1343.50 ± 40.30 and 8771.61 ± 218.79 U L−1, respectively. In contrast, the same culture media (A, B, C and D) with methanol addition 24 h after glucose depletion attained activity of 4280.43 ± 148.82, 3339.02 ± 64.36, 3569.39 ± 68.38 and 14,868.06 ± 461.58 U L−1at 192 h, respectively, representing an increase of approximately 3.9-, 2.4-, 3.3- and 1.6-fold compared with culture media without methanol. Methanol supplementation had a greater impact on volumetric enzyme activity in comparison with biomass production. We demonstrated what was theoretically and biochemically expected: recombinant protein production underpGapcontrol by methanol supplementation after glucose depletion was successful, as a feasible laboratory production strategy of sequential carbon source addition, breaking the habit of utilizingpGapwith glucose.
Tip relief designed to optimize contact fatigue life of spur gears using adapted PSO and Firefly algorithms
Authors: Guilbault Raynald , Lalonde Sébastien 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThis paper examines the dynamic performances of circular profile modifications designed to optimize the contact fatigue life of spur gears. It combines the PSO and Firefly metaheuristics to a gear dynamic/degradation model. The objectives are to analyse the ability of optimal corrections to reduce dynamic loads and dynamic transmission error (DTE), and to describe the influence of the modification variables. To reduce computation efforts, the study modifies the original metaheuristics. In the proposed adaptation of the Firefly algorithm, the particle movement hinges on the brightest firefly perceived through the light-absorbing medium. This change reduces the number of function evaluations per iteration. The analysis shows that while the correction length is more influential, both modification amount and length alter the gear behavior, whereas the curvature radius influence remains modest. Curved corrections are more effective in ameliorating contact fatigue life, whereas larger curvature radii are better at reducing the DTE. Compared to the original gear set, the PSO and Firefly versions showed that optimized modifications engender substantial enhancements of the fatigue resistance. Moreover, optimal profiles also reduce both DTE and dynamic factors, but the inverse cannot be assumed.
Improving the nonlinear seismic performance of steel moment-resisting frames with minimizing the ductility damage index
Authors: Dadkhah Masoud , Kamgar Reza , Heidarzadeh Heisam 
Published: January 2021

AbstractIn this paper, the parameters optimization of a tuned mass damper (TMD) is presented to enhance the seismic performance of a six-story steel structure based on the ductility damage index. Herein, the six-story frame is modeled nonlinearly in the OpenSees software by a concentrated plasticity model. Finally, the most suitable algorithm is selected among several optimization algorithms based on the convergence rate and the objective function's values. In this process, the water cycle algorithm has shown the best results. Therefore, the optimal parameters of the TMD are calculated by this algorithm in such a way that the ductility damage index is minimized in the six-story structure under earthquake loads. For this purpose, the nonlinear dynamic analysis of the structure is performed under earthquakes loads using the OpenSees software. Also, the optimum parameters of the TMD are computed to minimize the ductility damage index under the earthquake loads by linking the OpenSees and Matlab software. The results show that the optimum parameters of the TMD system obtained by the water cycle algorithm could appropriately decrease the ductility damage index. It can simultaneously increase the structure's seismic performance to reduce the displacement, stories damage, and drift ratio.
Understanding the dynamics emerging from infodemics: a call to action for interdisciplinary research
Authors: Leitner Stephan , Gula Bartosz , Jannach Dietmar , Krieg-Holz Ulrike , Wall Friederike 
Published: January 2021

AbstractResearch on infodemics, i.e., the rapid spread of (mis)information related to a hazardous event, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, requires integrating a multiplicity of scientific disciplines. The dynamics emerging from infodemics have the potential to generate complex behavioral patterns. To react appropriately, it is of ultimate importance for the fields of Business and Economics to understand these dynamics. In the short run, they might lead to an adaptation in household spending or to a shift in buying behavior towards online providers. In the long run, changes in investments, consumer behavior, and markets are to be expected. We argue that the dynamics emerge from complex interactions among multiple factors, such as information and misinformation accessible to individuals and the formation and revision of beliefs. (Mis)information accessible to individuals is, amongst others, affected by algorithms specifically designed to provide personalized information, while automated fact-checking algorithms can help reduce the amount of circulating misinformation. The formation and revision of individual (and probably false) beliefs and individual fact-checking and interpretation of information are heavily affected by linguistic patterns inherent to information during pandemics and infodemics and further factors, such as affect, intuition, and motives. We argue that, to get a deep(er) understanding of the dynamics emerging from infodemics, the fields of Business and Economics should integrate the perspectives of Computer Science and Information Systems, (Computational) Linguistics, and Cognitive Science into the wider context of economic systems (e.g., organizations, markets or industries) and propose a way to do so. As research on infodemics is a strongly interdisciplinary field and the integration of the above-mentioned disciplines is a first step towards a holistic approach, we conclude with a call to action which should encourage researchers to collaborate across scientific disciplines and unfold collective creativity, which will substantially advance research on infodemics.
Inhomogenous risk exposure in dual insurance system: selection effects in Germany’s long-term care plans
Authors: Neusius Thomas 
Published: January 2021

AbstractLong-term care (LTC) gains attention in ageing societies. Making LTC insurance affordable for the wide public is a primary objective of politics and insurance companies alike. Germany’s LTC insurance, introduced 25 years ago, is split in two branches, a private and a public one. The per-capita claims diverge in the two systems. This study is dedicated to explain the difference in average claims seen in the German LTC system. Based on publicly available claims data, we decompose the contributions to the difference in claims and we quantify the advantage gained by the private LTC insurance through selection of low-risk enrollees. Furthermore, the study provides simulation results of the development of the claims’ differences over the next 40 years. In order to level off the claims differences, transfer payments from the private to the public LTC insurance have been suggested as a matter of fair risk sharing. However, it turns out that such a payment scheme does not necessarily work in favor of the public system troughout the next 40 years. Therefore, it seems unlikely that such a financial transfer is able to substantially ease the public LTC insurance’s financial burden.