bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Automatic segmentation of radiographic images in industrial applications
Authors: Baniukiewicz Piotr 
Published: September 2011

Automatic segmentation of radiographic images in industrial applications
A technology that utilizes penetrating rays is one of the oldest nondestructive testing methods. Nowadays, the process of radiogram analysis is performed by qualified human operators and automatic systems are still under development. In this work we present advanced algorithms for automatic segmentation of radiographic images of welded joints. The goal of segmentation of a radiogram is to change and simplify representation of the image into a form that is more meaningful and easier to analyse automatically. The radiogram is divided into parts containing the weld line, image quality indicators, lead characters, and possible defects. Then, each part is analysed separately by specialized algorithms within the framework of the Intelligent System for Radiogram Analysis.
Influence of work environment on thermal state of electric mine motors
Authors: Krok Roman 
Published: September 2011

Influence of work environment on thermal state of electric mine motors
The paper presents a model for calculations of the temperature field in electric mine motors with a water cooled frame. That model was worked out with use of modified and improved thermal networks developed by the author for determining the temperature distributions in different types of ac machines. Thermal calculations for a selected type of 400 kW mining motor were performed with use of an original computer program. Their results were compared with those obtained from measurements. On the basis of the verified simulation results there was determined the influence of value changes of parameters characterising the work environment condition (ambient temperature, inlet temperature and cooling water discharge, degree of covering the casing with coal dust) on the mining motor thermal state.
Development and characterization of 10 microsatellite loci in Paeonia lactiflora (Paeoniaceae)
Authors: Sun Jing , Yuan Junxia , Wang Baosheng , Pan Jin , Zhang Daming 
Published: September 2011

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite primers were developed in Paeonia lactiflora for further population genetic studies.• Methods and Results: Ten dinucleotide microsatellite markers were developed using an enriched genomic library. They were identified in 58 individuals, and nine markers were also amplified in its cultivars. The number of alleles per locus ranged from three to 11, with a mean of six. The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.1662 to 0.9140 and from 0.0841 to 0.8157, respectively.• Conclusions: These microsatellite markers will facilitate further studies on population genetics variation and genetic structure of P. lactiflora.
Recherche d'informations auprès d'autrui et en dehors d'internet chez les cyberétudiants : rôle du soutien social perçu
Authors: Vayre Émilie , Dupuy Raymond , Croity-Belz Sandrine 
Published: September 2011

Notre étude vise à décrire et expliquer la diversité des démarches de sollicitation d’autrui développées par les étudiants en fonction de dispositifs de formation différenciés par leur degré d’intégration des TIC (face-à-face vs e-learning). Toutefois, nous postulons que cette relation n’est pas linéaire mais modulée par le soutien social perçu par les étudiants. Les résultats de notre enquête menée par questionnaire auprès de 195 étudiants vont dans le sens de notre hypothèse. Ils soulignent notamment que, chez les cyberétudiants, le soutien social provenant des pairs revêt une importance particulière dans la mise en œuvre de comportements relationnels de recherche d’informations en face-à-face et par téléphone auprès des enseignants de la formation.
Evidence-Based Practice for Staff Nurses
Authors: Grant Marcia , Hanson Jo , Johnson Shirley , Idell Cynthia , Rutledge Dana N. 
Published: September 2011

Background:
Barriers to the involvement of staff nurses in evidence-based practice include time commitments, staffing challenges, and limited experience in identifying evidence.

Methods:
A 1-day, hands-on course focused on small, achievable, evidence-based practice projects; follow-up after the course by a project director; and commitment to implementation of participants’ projects by management. Faculty included a librarian who helped with computer searches and a quality assurance representative to facilitate availability of institutional data for project evaluation.

Results:
Nine courses held over a 3-year period involved 79 home institution nurses and 76 community nurses. Course evaluations were overwhelmingly positive. Completed projects were displayed on participants’ units and circulated throughout the institution. The courses are continuing as part of the regular annual nursing education calendar.

Conclusion:
Streamlined approaches to teaching evidence-based practice can be used to involve staff nurses and raise awareness of evidence-based practice across nursing. Key positive findings include achievable projects, provisions for follow-up, and management support.
Comparison of Non-Contact Methods for the Measurement of Central Corneal Thickness
Authors: Gorgun Ebru , Yenerel Nursal Melda , Dinc Umut Asli , Oncel Banu , Kucumen Raciha Beril , Oral Deniz , Ciftci Ferda 
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:
This study examined the repeatability of and agreements between central corneal thickness measurements obtained by four different non-contact pachymetry devices.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:
Seventy-eight eyes of 39 subjects were included. Central corneal thickness of each eye was measured by Visante optical coherence tomography (OCT) (Carl Zeiss Meditec Inc., Dublin, CA), Pentacam (Oculus Optikgeräte GmbH, Wetzlar, Germany), Orbscan IIz topography (Bausch & Lomb Surgical Inc., San Dimas, CA), and slit-lamp OCT (SL-OCT) (Heidelberg Engineering GmbH, Heidelberg, Germany). Inter-device agreements and correlations and repeatability of each device were examined.

RESULTS:

All measurement methods correlated well with each other with a correlation coefficient greater than 0.90 and
P
value of less than .001 for all comparisons. However, Pentacam overestimated central corneal thickness: 546.7 ± 38.2, 535.5 ± 42.7, 531.7 ± 37.6, and 531.2 ± 36.0 μm for Pentacam, Orbscan IIz, Visante OCT, and SL-OCT, respectively (
P
< .001 for all comparisons versus Pentacam). Despite good correlation, magnitude of differences was high and this bias was proportional (ie, not constant across a range of corneal thickness values) for the following pairs: Orbscan versus Visante OCT, Orbscan versus SL-OCT, and Orbscan versus Pentacam (
P
< .001 for all comparisons).

CONCLUSION:
Although measurements obtained by various non-contact methods correlate well, numerical agreement of the results may not be sufficient for their interchangeable use in clinical practice.
Comparison of Complication Rates of Porous Anophthalmic Orbital Implants
Authors: Ramey Nicholas , Gupta Divakar , Price Kristina , Husain Amina , Richard Michael , Woodward Julie 
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:
Porous anophthalmic orbital implants are used widely. This study evaluates risk factors for porous anophthalmic orbital implant complications and compares complication rates of hydroxyapatite, porous polyethylene, and polyglactin mesh-wrapped aluminum oxide implants.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:
The records of 105 patients (110 eyes) who received porous anophthalmic orbital implants for any indication were reviewed retrospectively. Complications were recorded and correlated with potential risk factors, including implant material. All patient records were de-identified to protect privacy.

RESULTS:

Porous polyethylene and aluminum oxide implants were associated with higher exposure rates (porous polyethylene: odds ratio 6.1 [1.29, 29.1]; aluminum oxide: odds ratio 6.0 [1.58, 23.1];
P
= .004) and higher overall complication rates compared to hydroxyapatite implants.

CONCLUSION:
Implant material may be a risk factor for several anophthalmic clinical outcomes.
Adaptive Finite Element Modeling Techniques for the Poisson-Boltzmann Equation
Authors: Holst M. , McCammon J.A. , Yu Z. , Zhou Y.C. , Zhu Y. 
Published: September 2011

AbstractWe consider the design of an effective and reliable adaptive finite element method (AFEM) for the nonlinear Poisson-Boltzmann equation (PBE). We first examine the two-term regularization technique for the continuous problem recently proposed by Chen, Holst and Xu based on the removal of the singular electrostatic potential inside biomolecules; this technique made possible the development of the first complete solution and approximation theory for the Poisson-Boltzmann equation, the first provably convergent discretization and also allowed for the development of a provably convergent AFEM. However, in practical implementation, this two-term regularization exhibits numerical instability. Therefore, we examine a variation of this regularization technique which can be shown to be less susceptible to such instability. We establisha prioriestimates and other basic results for the continuous regularized problem, as well as for Galerkin finite element approximations. We show that the new approach produces regularized continuous and discrete problems with the same mathematical advantages of the original regularization. We then design an AFEM scheme for the new regularized problem and show that the resulting AFEM scheme is accurate and reliable, by proving a contraction result for the error. This result, which is one of the first results of this type for nonlinear elliptic problems, is based on using continuous and discretea prioriL∞estimates. To provide a high-quality geometric model as input to the AFEM algorithm, we also describe a class of feature-preserving adaptive mesh generation algorithms designed specifically for constructing meshes of biomolecular structures, based on the intrinsic local structure tensor of the molecular surface. All of the algorithms described in the article are implemented in the Finite Element Toolkit (FETK), developed and maintained at UCSD. The stability advantages of the new regularization scheme are demonstrated with FETK through comparisons with the original regularization approach for a model problem. The convergence and accuracy of the overall AFEMalgorithmis also illustrated by numerical approximation of electrostatic solvation energy for an insulin protein.
Modeling Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites with Space-Time Adaptive Multimeshhp-FEM
Authors: Pugal David , Solin Pavel , Kim Kwang J. , Aabloo Alvo 
Published: September 2011

AbstractWe are concerned with a model of ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) materials that consists of a coupled system of the Poisson and Nernst-Planck equations, discretized by means of the finite element method (FEM). We show that due to the transient character of the problem it is efficient to use adaptive algorithms that are capable of changing the mesh dynamically in time. We also show that due to large qualitative and quantitative differences between the two solution components, it is efficient to approximate them on different meshes using a novel adaptive multimeshhp-FEM. The study is accompanied with numerous computations and comparisons of the adaptive multimeshhp-FEM with several other adaptive FEM algorithms.
A Preconditioned Implicit Free-Surface Capture Scheme for Large Density Ratio on Tetrahedral Grids
Authors: Lv Xin , Zou Qingping , Reeve D.E. , Zhao Yong 
Published: September 2011

AbstractWe present a three dimensional preconditioned implicit free-surface capture scheme on tetrahedral grids. The current scheme improves our recently reported method [10] in several aspects. Specifically, we modified the original eigensystem by applying a preconditioning matrix so that the new eigensystem is virtually independent of density ratio, which is typically large for practical two-phase problems. Further, we replaced the explicit multi-stage Runge-Kutta method by a fully implicit Euler integration scheme for the Navier-Stokes (NS) solver and the Volume of Fluids (VOF) equation is now solved with a second order Crank-Nicolson implicit scheme to reduce the numerical diffusion effect. The preconditioned restarted Generalized Minimal RESidual method (GMRES) is then employed to solve the resulting linear system. The validation studies show that with these modifications, the method has improved stability and accuracy when dealing with large density ratio two-phase problems.
Mixed Multiscale Finite Volume Methods for Elliptic Problems in Two-Phase Flow Simulations
Authors: Jiang Lijian , Mishev Ilya D. 
Published: September 2011

AbstractWe develop a framework for constructing mixed multiscale finite volume methods for elliptic equations with multiple scales arising from flows in porous media. Some of the methods developed using the framework are already known [20]; others are new. New insight is gained for the known methods and extra flexibility is provided by the new methods. We give as an example a mixed MsFV on uniform mesh in 2-D. This method uses novel multiscale velocity basis functions that are suited for using global information, which is often needed to improve the accuracy of the multiscale simulations in the case of continuum scales with strong non-local features. The method efficiently captures the small effects on a coarse grid. We analyze the new mixed MsFV and apply it to solve two-phase flow equations in heterogeneous porous media. Numerical examples demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method for modeling the flows in porous media with non-separable and separable scales.
A Bistable Field Model of Cancer Dynamics
Authors: Cherubini C. , Gizzi A. , Bertolaso M. , Tambone V. , Filippi S. 
Published: September 2011

AbstractCancer spread is a dynamical process occurring not only in time but also in space which, for solid tumors at least, can be modeled quantitatively by reaction and diffusion equations with a bistable behavior: tumor cell colonization happens in a portion of tissue and propagates, but in some cases the process is stopped. Such a cancer proliferation/extintion dynamics is obtained in many mathematical models as a limit of complicated interacting biological fields. In this article we present a very basic model of cancer proliferation adopting thebistableequation for a single tumor cell dynamics. The reaction-diffusion theory is numerically and analytically studied and then extended in order to take into account dispersal effects in cancer progression in analogy with ecological models based on the porous medium equation. Possible implications of this approach for explanation and prediction of tumor development on the lines of existing studies on brain cancer progression are discussed. The potential role of continuum models in connecting the two predominant interpretative theories about cancer, once formalized in appropriate mathematical terms, is discussed.
Violence, Oppression, and Double Standards in Three Colombian Films
Authors: Meade Melissa R. 
Published: September 2011

This article compares three Colombian films that tell distinct stories of violence, personal and political oppression, and double standards. The films Confesión a Laura (Confessing to Laura, Jaime Osorio, 1991), La Primera Noche (The First Night, Luis Alberto Restrepo, 2003) and El Rey (The King, José Antonio Dorado, 2004) each highlight the characters’ struggles in the Colombian socio-political landscape. Each film’s content and themes do not merely offer representations of national culture, but also provide a way in which to discuss the political and social struggles of Colombia. The directors explore these stories of violence and socio-political struggle through the use of mis-en-scène, cinematography, sound, and editing.
Business Excellence in Kazakh Higher Education Institutions
Authors: Camgoz Akdag Hatice 
Published: September 2011

The aim of this paper is to deepen and to encourage further research for sustaining quality improvement in Kazakh Higher Education Institutions. This paper is explaining the Kazakh education system and is also trying to figure out whether if it fits to the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) excellence model. The paper is based on literature concerning the Kazakh Higher Education system. The pros and cons are also mentioned in the paper. In accordance to this it is easier to find the strengths and weaknesses of the system and finally a list of factors are given in order to be a guide of excellence for the Kazakh Higher Education Institutes.
Output Enhancement of a 3D‐Printed Triboelectric Nanogenerator Using Laser Surface 3D Patterning
Authors: Wajahat Muhammad , Kouzani Abbas Z. , Khoo Sui Yang , Mahmud M. A. Parvez 
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the performance of contact separation and sliding modes of triboelectric Nanogenerators (TENGs) using COMSOL Multiphysics simulation environment. The output performance of a plain surface TENG is compared with square, rectangular, and pyramid‐patterned TENGs. The pyramid pattern emerges as the most efficient geometry, demonstrating a solid output of 95.8 V (Voc) and 0.99 μA (Isc). Advanced 3D printing techniques (3DP) including powder‐based multijet fusion and resin‐based polyjet fusion are utilized to print polyamide 12 (PA12) and VeroClear, respectively. The laser surface patterning technique is used to make precise micropatterns on the surfaces of the VeroClear and PA12 layers, resulting in a consistent and effective surface morphology that enhances the surface area of triboelectric layers, and outperforms traditional approaches of patterning in consistency and efficacy. The validation of simulation results is made where the pyramid pattern is emerged as the most efficient geometry experimentally. Performance is maintained with minimal degradation after 102 cycles, and a 22 μF–63 V capacitor is successfully used to store the generated charge. This study not only sets the path for pre‐experimental analysis using simulation environment but also provides a clear demonstration of advanced manufacturing techniques for printing and patterning 3D‐printed triboelectric materials.
Sputtering Deposited and Energy Band Matched ZnSnN2 Buffer Layers for Highly Efficient Cd‐Free Cu2ZnSnS4 Solar Cells
Authors: Ye Fan , He Cangshuang , Wu Tong , Chen Shuo , Su Zhenghua , Zhang Xianghua , Cai Xingmin , Liang Guangxing 
Published: June 2024

AbstractKesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) solar cells with CdS buffer layers have the problem of toxicity and cliff‐like energy band diagram disfavoring higher photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE (%)). The preparation method for ZnSnO buffer layers which enable Cd‐free CZTS solar cells to reach the certified PCE (%) of 11.4 is limited to atomic layer deposition and sputtering deposition severely reduces PCE (%). Here, it is showed that sputtering deposited ZnSnN2 is an efficient buffer layer for Cd‐free CZTS solar cell, and without antireflection coating or additional passivation layers its champion PCE (%) has reached 10.00 which is comparable to the certified value. No buried junction and current blocking behavior are observed in the CZTS\ZnSnN2 junctions. Elemental inter‐diffusion is observed at the interface between CZTS and ZnSnN2. Most importantly, the energy band of ZnSnN2 is well‐matched with that of CZTS. The former straddles the latter. The conduction band offset is spike‐like with the conduction band of ZnSnN2 higher than that of CZTS, which effectively suppresses interface recombination and results in PCE (%) comparable to the certified value.
Active Fabrics With Controllable Stiffness for Robotic Assistive Interfaces
Authors: Yang Xudong , Chen Yu , Chen Tianyu , Li Junwei , Wang Yifan 
Published: June 2024

AbstractAssistive interfaces enable collaborative interactions between humans and robots. In contrast to traditional rigid devices, conformable fabrics with tunable mechanical properties have emerged as compelling alternatives. However, existing assistive fabrics actuated by fluidic or thermal stimuli struggle to adapt to complex body contours and are hindered by challenges such as large volumes after actuation and slow response rates. To overcome these limitations, inspiration is drawn from biological protective organisms combining hard and soft phases, and active assistive fabrics consisting of architectured rigid tiles interconnected with flexible actuated fibers are proposed. Through programmable tessellation of target body shapes into architectured tiles and controlling their interactions by the actuated fibers, the active fabrics can rapidly transition between soft compliant configurations and rigid states conformable to the body (>350 times stiffness change) while minimizing the device volume after actuation. The versatility of these active fabrics is demonstrated as exosuits for tremor suppression and lifting assistance, as body armors for impact mitigation, and integration with electrothermal actuators for smart actuation with convenient folding capabilities. This work offers a practical framework for designing customizable active fabrics with shape adaptivity and controllable stiffness, suitable for applications in wearable exosuits, haptic devices, and medical rehabilitation systems.
Fractional Mathematical Model for Exploring the Influence of Infectious Diseases on Population with Chronic Conditions
Authors: Basti Bilal , Chennaf Bouchra , Boubekeur Maroua Amel , Bounouiga Souad 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis paper presents an in‐depth analysis of a hybrid mathematical model, the fractional SECIR model, designed to explore the impact of infectious diseases, with particular emphasis on their effect on individuals with chronic conditions. The study delves into the existence and uniqueness of solutions for the proposed model, yielding several stability results based on parameters that adhere to specific conditions to mitigate pandemic occurrences. The model parameters are estimated using data reported by the Algerian health authorities in recent years, facilitating the application of the model to the Algerian context. The findings derived from the application of this mathematical compartmental model indicate that the basic reproduction number for certain infectious diseases in Algeria (Tuberculosis and COVID‐19) is less than one. This observation suggests the potential for disease eradication or effective management through a combination of targeted interventions including vaccination, high‐quality treatment, and precise isolation measures.
Computational Insights Into Betanin for Dsscs: Unraveling Deprotonation Variations and Identifying Optimal Anchoring Sites on TiO2
Authors: Lopera Adriana , Restrepo Julián , Vélez Ederley 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBetanin (Bn), a natural dye in the Betalains family, predominantly takes on a cationic form known as Bn+. However, it exists in a neutral state as Bn_C2, Bn_C15, and Bn_C17 by losing an H+ from one of its carboxylic acids. Density functional theory (DFT) and Time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) studies evaluate the efficiency of each betanin form and pinpoint the most probable anchoring point to TiO2. The Bn_C17 variant stands out as a highly promising candidate for DSSC cells, demonstrating a distinctive combination of electron injection efficiency, electrochemical performance, hole transport capabilities, and photovoltaic behavior. Considering factors like adsorption energy, binding mode, structural compatibility, electronic properties, and absorption characteristics, Bn_C17@TiO2 emerges as the most favorable dye@TiO2 complex among the studied betanin forms for DSSC applications. Contrastingly, the C2‐COOH anchoring point presents challenges with monodentate binding, a different orientation, and potential load distribution issues. This behavior, resembling that of a p‐type dye, differs from the n‐type behavior exhibited by the C15‐COOH and C17‐COOH forms, making the latter two more suitable as sensitizers. Consequently, C2‐COOH may not be the optimal anchoring point for TiO2 in the investigated betanin forms, especially when compared to the more favorable C17‐COOH anchoring point.