Interpretation Of Traces Research Articles

On the Suitability of Process Mining for Enhancing Transparency of Blockchain Applications

AbstractBlockchain technology is known for its transparency properties due to its publicly available, immutable data. Yet, as data availability does not inherently ensure transparency, further analytical methods may be required for human interpretation of data traces. Process mining has emerged as a popular toolbox for understanding processes and how they are executed in practice. The paper studies process mining as a method to enhance the transparency of blockchain data. To this end, two popular Ethereum applications were analyzed using process mining: the prediction and betting marketplace Augur and the network marketing platform Forsage. Observations from the process-mining analyses are used to discuss if process mining can serve as a method to establish transparency of a blockchain. For both applications, new insights are generated for usage scenarios such as application redesign, security analysis, user behavior analysis, and revealing blind spots in Augur’s and Forsage’s documentation. The paper concludes that there is evidence that process mining can serve as a method to enhance transparency in blockchains at the cost of technical setup and knowledge acquisition.

Effects of 2.5-D ultra-low and ultra-high velocity zones on flip-reverse-stacking (FRS) of the ScS wavefield

SUMMARY Within the last decade, thin ultra-low velocity zone (ULVZ) layering, sitting directly on top of the core–mantle boundary (CMB), has begun to be investigated using the flip-reverse-stack (FRS) method. In this method, pre- and post-cursor arrivals that are symmetrical in time about the ScS arrival, but with opposite polarities, are stacked. This same methodology has also been applied to high velocity layering, with indications that ultra-high velocity zones (UHVZs) may also exist. Thus far, studies using the FRS technique have relied on 1-D synthetic predictions to infer material properties of ULVZs. 1-D ULVZ models predominantly show a SdS precursor that reflects off the top of the ULVZ and an ScscS reverberation within the ULVZ that arrives as a post-cursor. 1-D UHVZ models are more complex and have a different number of arrivals depending on a variety of factors including UHVZ thickness, velocity contrast, and lateral extent. 1-D modelling approaches assume that lower mantle heterogeneity is constant and continuous everywhere across the lower mantle. However, lower mantle features display lateral heterogeneity and are either finite in extent or display local thickness variations. We examine the interaction of the ScS wavefield with ULVZs and UHVZs in 2.5-D geometries of finite extent. We show that multiple additional arrivals exist that are not present in 1-D predictions. In particular, multipath ScS arrivals as well as additional post-cursor arrivals are generated. Subsequent processing by the FRS method generates complicated FRS traces with multiple peaks. Furthermore, post-cursor arrivals can be generated even when the ScS ray path does not directly strike the heterogeneity from above. Analysing these predictions for 2.5-D models using 1-D modelling techniques demonstrates that a cautious approach must be adopted in utilization and interpretation of FRS traces to determine if the ScS wavefield is interacting with a ULVZ or UHVZ through a direct strike on the top of the feature. In particular, traveltime delays or advances of the ScS arrival should be documented and symmetrical opposite polarity arrivals should be demonstrated to exist around ScS. The latter can be quantified by calculation of a time domain multiplication trace. Because multiple post-cursor arrivals are generated by finite length heterogeneities, interpretation should be confined to single layer models rather than to interpret the additional peaks as internal layering. Furthermore, strong trade-offs exist between S-wave velocity perturbation and thickness making estimations of ULVZ or UHVZ elastic parameters highly uncertain. We test our analysis methods using data from an event occurring in the Fiji-Tonga region recorded in North America. The ScS bounce points for this event sample the CMB region to the southeast of Hawaii, in a region where ULVZs have been identified in several recent studies. We see additional evidence for a ULVZ in this region centred at 14°N and 153°W with a lateral scale of at least 250 km × 360 km. Assuming a constant S-wave velocity decrease of −10 or −20 per cent with respect to the PREM model implies a ULVZ thickness of up to 16 or 9 km, respectively.

Solution to a case involving the interpretation of trace degraded DNA mixtures

DNA mixture analysis poses a significant challenge in forensic genetics, particularly when dealing with degraded and trace amount DNA samples. Multi-SNPs (MNPs) are genetic markers similar to microhaplotypes but with smaller molecular sizes (< 75 bp), making them theoretically more suitable for analyzing degraded and trace amount samples. In this case report, we investigated a cold case involving a campstool stored for over a decade, aiming to detect and locate the suspect’s DNA. We employed both conventional capillary electrophoresis-based short tandem repeat (CE-STR) analysis and next-generation sequencing-based multi-SNP (NGS-MNP) analysis. The typing results and deconvolution of the mixed CE-STR profiles were inconclusive regarding the presence of the suspect’s DNA in the mixed samples. However, through NGS-MNP analysis and presence probability calculations, we determined that the suspect’s DNA was present in the samples from Sect. 4−1 with a probability of 1-8.41 × 10− 6 (99.999159%). This evidence contradicted the suspect’s statement and aided in resolving the case. Our findings demonstrate the significant potential of MNP analysis for examining degraded and trace amount DNA mixtures in forensic investigations.

1D-CNN: Classification of normal delivery and cesarean section types using cardiotocography time-series signals

Abstract Cardiotocography (CTG) is considered the gold standard for monitoring fetal heart rate (FHR) during pregnancy and labor to estimate the danger of oxygen deprivation. Visual interpretation of CTG traces is complex and frequently results in high rates of false positives and false negatives, leading to unfavorable and unwanted outcomes such as fetal mortality or needless cesarean surgery. If the data are well-balanced, which is uncommon in medical datasets, machine learning techniques can be helpful in interpretation. This study is designed to determine classification performance under various data balance approaches. We propose a robust methodology for the automated extraction of features that use a deep learning model based on the one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN). We used a public database containing 552 intrapartum CTG recordings. Due to the imbalance in the dataset, the experiments were conducted under a variety of conditions such as (i) an unbalanced dataset, (ii) undersampling, (iii) a weighted binary cross-entropy approach, and (iv) oversampling utilizing the synthetic minority oversampling technique (SMOTE). We found an excellent sensitivity (99.80% for the unbalanced dataset, 96.25% for the weighted binary cross-entropy approach, and 99.81% with SMOTE) except for the under sampling situation, in which the sensitivity was 85.71%. Moreover, the 1D-CNN model incorporating SMOTE yielded promising results in 88% specificity, 93.72% quality index (QI), and 95.10% area under the curve. The model exhibited excellent performance in terms of sensitivity in every scenario except for undersampling. The oversampling of training data with SMOTE yielded a decent level of specificity, demonstrating the model’s strong predictive capacity. In addition, the SMOTE scenario resulted in fewer training epochs, which is another accomplishment.

A template for creating and sharing ground truth data in digital forensics.

Ground truth data (GTD) is used by those in the field of digital forensics (DF) for a variety of purposes including to evaluate the functionality of undocumented, new, or emerging technology and services and the digital traces left behind following their usage. Most accepted and reliable trace interpretations must be derived from an examination of relevant GTD, yet despite the importance of it to the DF community, there is little formal guidance available for supporting those who create it, to do so in a way that ensures any data is of good quality, reliable, and therefore usable. In an attempt to address this issue, this work proposes a minimum standard of documentation that must accompany the production of any GTD, particularly when it is intended for use in the process of discovering new knowledge, proposing original interpretations of a digital trace, or determining the functionality of any technology or service. A template structure is discussed and provided in Appendix S1 which sets out a minimum standard for metadata describing any GTD's production process and content. It is suggested that such an approach can support the maintenance of trust in any GTD and improve the shareability of it.

Interobserver agreement of intrapartum cardiotocography interpretation by midwives using current FIGO and physiology-based guidelines

Objectives To investigate the interobserver agreement among midwives for the interpretation of intrapartum CTG traces, using both the 2015 FIGO guidelines and the physiology-based guidelines. Material and methods Retrospective, single-center, observational study conducted at the Maternity Hospital of the University of Parma, Italy, between November 2022 and July 2023. We selected 100 nonconsecutive intrapartum CTG traces from women undergoing operative delivery (cesarean or instrumental vaginal delivery). Participating midwives received the last 60 min of CTG recording prior to the decision for an operative delivery was made. Five midwives with different professional experience classified the CTG tracing according to the 2015 FIGO guidelines and the physiology-based guidelines at the time of the decision for the operative delivery. Each midwife was categorized as senior or junior if her clinical experience was equal or more or less than 5 years. All participating midwives were blinded to the demographic and clinical variables of each case, as well as to the labor and neonatal outcome. The main outcome of the study was the interobserver agreement among the 5 midwives with either guideline. The secondary outcome was the interobserver agreement based on clinical experience. The agreement between the observers was estimated through the Krippendorff’s alpha statistics. Results The interobserver agreement for the interpretation of intrapartum CTG traces according to the 2015 FIGO guideline was in the upper limit of the “unacceptable” classification, with a Krippendorff’s alpha of 0.632 (95% CI, 0.545–0.723). The interobserver agreement of the physiology-based CTG guideline was classified as “unacceptable” with a Krippendorff’s alpha of 0.359 (95% CI, 0.125–0.582). The interobserver agreement among senior midwives according to the 2015 FIGO guidelines was considered as “tentative acceptable agreement” with a Krippendorff’s alpha of 0.724 (95% CI, 0.636–0.805). Among junior midwives, the interobserver agreement according to the latter guideline was classified as “unacceptable” with a Krippendorff’s alpha of 0.569 (95% CI, 0.359–0.751). Using the physiology-based guideline, the interobserver agreement of the senior midwives – Krippendorff’s alpha 0.493 (95% CI, 0.320–0.623) – and “junior” midwives – Krippendorff’s alpha 0.359 (95% CI, 0.100–0.581) – were considered both “unacceptable”. Conclusions Our study showed that intrapartum CTG interpretation is characterized by an overall unacceptable level of interobserver agreement among midwives, with the 2015 FIGO guidelines showing better agreement compared to physiology-based guidelines. The interpretation of intrapartum CTG by “senior” midwives using the 2015 FIGO guidelines showed the highest, interobserver agreement, indicating a “tentative acceptable agreement”.

BALLISTIC INTERPRETATION OF GUNSHOT TRACKS

This article deals with Ballistic interpretation of gunshot traces by presenting the main theoretical and practical aspects, which are related to forensic ballistics, firearms, traces left by them and some elements of forensic tactics and technique. Keywords: firearms, judicial ballistics, gunshot marks, ballistics expertise.

Experimenting with Levantine Neolithic shell-bead production and use – A low magnification perspective

Shells have been used as beads for ornamentation from early human history to this day. The Neolithic period in the Levant brought about profound changes in human lifeways that influenced the ways people chose, manufactured, and used shell beads. Different traces etched on shell beads may reflect various manufacturing modes and materials and diverse uses and interactions that shell beads had with different materials during use. In order to aid in the interpretation of such traces an experimental scheme was devised and carried out. Various Neolithic-style shell bead types were fabricated, using different techniques and materials; the replicas were strung by different strings, against different backdrop materials and in diverse configurations; and swung on a pendulating machine. Replicated shell beads were examined under low magnification and the traces recognized on them compared to wear traces identified on archaeological Neolithic shell beads from the Southern Levant. The comparison allowed, among other results, to define a specific type of wear associated with stringing and use of particular shell beads common in the Neolithic Levant. This finding will significantly increase our ability to recognize and interpret shell bead use in general, and particularly may be incorporated in a broader understanding of Neolithic dress, society and lifeways.

Manual censoring of impedance tracings by the Wingate consensus reduces the number of impedance episodes, impacting on reflux categorization.

The Lyon consensus classifies the evidence of gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) based on endoscopic features and results of pH/impedance monitoring (pH-MII) including the post-reflux swallow-induced peristaltic wave index (PSPWI) and mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI). The Wingate consensus established criteria to reduce inter-reviewer variability when assessing reflux episodes and PSPWI by impedance. This study aims to assess the influence of the Wingate criteria on the different pH-MII parameters obtained by automated analysis. Thirty consecutive pH-MII off PPI were reviewed according to Wingate criteria. Number of impedance episodes and PSPWI were compared before and after censoring from automatic analysis. Reflux categorization according to Lyon consensus between censored and uncensored data was compared. Pearson correlations between impedance parameters and censored episodes were calculated. Censoring the tracings significantly reduced the number of reflux episodes (66 [42-90.25] vs. 44.5 [21.5-61.5], p = 0.0105). Reasons for censoring were as follows: 1/ anterograde episode: 9.5 [6-13], 2/ impedance drop <50%: 1 [0-3], 3/ duration <4 s: 1 [0-2], 4/ <2 distal channels: 2.5 [1-4], and 5/ artifacts: 2 [1-5]. Censored episodes were in majority non-acid (16.5 [13-26.5] vs. 2 [0-4], p < 0.00001). Censoring altered the categorization of impedance episodes (<40 episodes, 6 vs. 13 for resp. uncensored vs. censored tracings, 40-80 episodes: 13 vs. 13, and >80 episodes: 11 vs. 4, p = 0.0264), but not the symptom index, the symptom association probability, or the categorization according to the Lyon consensus. Nevertheless, individual tracings were affected. The percentage of censored episodes was inversely correlated with the number of acidic impedance episodes (r = -0.62, p = 0.0002). Manual interpretation of impedance tracings based on the Wingate consensus reduces the number of impedance episodes, impacting on reflux categorization. Acidic reflux episodes are less likely to be censored, harboring a potential at improving automatic pH-MII analysis.

Design, implementation and assessment of a novel, introductory curriculum into female, neurological and urodynamic urology: a 7-year experience of urology simulation bootcamp course.

To present the seven-year experience of a multi-component and interactive module on female, neurological and urodynamic urology (FNUU) training at the UK National Urology Simulation Bootcamp Course (USBC) and demonstrate trainee satisfaction and competency progression. During the week-long USBC, a four-hour module on FNUU was designed which consisted of short interactive presentations with an emphasis on practical stations in urodynamics, intravesical botulinum toxin injection, urethral bulking injection, female pelvic examination and, initially, mid-urethral tapes (subsequently replaced with percutaneous sacral nerve evaluation). The trainee's level of knowledge, operative experience and confidence were assessed pre- and post-course. The practical assessment consisted of preparation and intravesical administration of botulinum toxin, female pelvic examination, urodynamic trace interpretation or mid-urethral tape simulation. Trainee feedback was also collected. Two-hundred sixty-one newly appointed urology trainees participated in the USBC during this period. A high level of satisfaction was constantly reported. The highest rated session was urethral bulking with 72% being very satisfied, followed by Botox and urodynamics. The final assessment showed 70% had achieved level 4 competency in cystoscopy and Botox. Qualitative feedback was also obtained. To our knowledge, this is the first module of its kind, and it shows that it is feasible to develop, implement and evaluate an introductory curriculum into FNUU that is reproducible over a 7-year period with very positive feedback.

Registration, morphology and taphonomy of feeding structures produced by Chilean Flamingos (Phoenicopterus chilensis) in a lagoonal/barrier depositional system in southern Brazil

Ichnological studies in modern settings can improve the interpretation of traces produced by ancient organisms and clarify which taphonomic agents operated in their paleoenvironments. This work analyzes examples from feeding structures produced by Chilean Flamingos (Phoenicopterus chilensis) in a lagoon/barrier depositional system in southern Brazil, describing the registration and morphology of feeding structures produced by rotating stamping, while also following taphonomic alterations. Newly registered structures consist of a central mound of piled sediment and a peripheral trench of overlapping footprints. The 52 stamping structures sampled showed a variety of morphologies related to the type of taphonomic agent and to the degree of alteration. Departing from the newly produced structures, the changes recorded are due to factors such as tidal range, current energy, terrain slope, and aeolian activity. The erosion of the structure was minor on the flat terrains and peaked at the stepper surfaces where intermittent streams form. Our observations point to the preservation potential of modern flamingo traces and to its putative importance for paleoecological and paleobehavioral inferences.

Reply By Authors.

Reply By Authors.

Editorial Comment.

No AccessJournal of UrologyPediatric Article22 Feb 2023Editorial CommentThis article comments on the following:Deep Learning of Videourodynamics to Classify Bladder Dysfunction Severity in Patients With Spina Bifida Leslie M. Peard and Cyrus M. Adams Leslie M. PeardLeslie M. Peard Division of Pediatric Urology, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee More articles by this author and Cyrus M. AdamsCyrus M. Adams Division of Pediatric Urology, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003267.01AboutFull TextPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack Citations ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail "Editorial Comment." The Journal of Urology, Publish Ahead of Print, pp. – REFERENCES 1. . Translating pediatric urodynamics from clinic into collaborative research: lessons and recommendations from the UMPIRE study group. J Pediatric Urol.2021; 17(5):716-725. Crossref, Medline, Google Scholar 2. . Interrater reliability in interpretation of neuropathic pediatric urodynamic tracings: an expanded multicenter study. J Urol.2018; 199(5):1337-1343. Link, Google Scholar 3. . Machine learning for urodynamic detection of detrusor overactivity. Urology.2022; 159:247-254. Crossref, Medline, Google Scholar 4. . Deep learning of videourodynamics to classify bladder dysfunction severity in patients with spina bifida. J Urol.2023; 209(5). Google Scholar © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetailsRelated articlesJournal of Urology14 Feb 2023Deep Learning of Videourodynamics to Classify Bladder Dysfunction Severity in Patients With Spina Bifida Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Leslie M. Peard Division of Pediatric Urology, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee More articles by this author Cyrus M. Adams Division of Pediatric Urology, Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, Nashville, Tennessee More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

This Month in Pediatric Urology.

No AccessJournal of UrologyThis Month in Pediatric Urology20 Feb 2023This Month in Pediatric Urology Julian Wan Julian WanJulian Wan More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003374AboutFull TextPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack Citations ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail "This Month in Pediatric Urology." The Journal of Urology, Publish Ahead of Print, pp. – REFERENCES 1. . 10 Amazing example of how deep learning AI is used in practice. Forbes.2018; 20. Accessed February 5, 2023. Google Scholar 2. . Deep learning of videourodynamics to classify bladder dysfunction severity in patients with spina bifida.J Urol.2023; 209(5):000-000. Google Scholar 3. . Interrater reliability in interpretation of neuropathic pediatric urodynamic tracings: an expanded multicenter study. J Urol.2018; 199(5):1337-1343. Link, Google Scholar 4. . Animal Tool Behavior, revised edition. Johns Hopkins University Press; 2011. Crossref, Google Scholar © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Julian Wan More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Clinical Characteristics of Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Children Tested by Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra.

The Xpert MTB/rifampicin Ultra (Xpert Ultra) assay improves the early diagnosis of active tuberculosis (TB) in children. Clinical evaluation is paramount for the interpretation of any positive Xpert Ultra test, especially those with low quantities of DNA. In this study, 391 children with suspected TB who were tested with Xpert Ultra were enrolled. The clinical characteristics and Xpert Ultra results were further analyzed. The sensitivity and specificity of Xpert Ultra were 45.0% (149/331) and 96.7% (58/60), respectively. Children with higher semiquantitative scales of Xpert Ultra showed higher percentages of a positive MTB culture, positive acid-fast bacilli staining, severe type of disease, fever, cough and expectoration, a higher white blood cell count and higher C-reactive protein concentrations (all P < 0.01). Among 44 children with an Xpert Ultra trace result, there were no differences in clinical characteristics between confirmed cases and unconfirmed TB cases. The prevalence of trace is relatively high and can be considered positive in paucibacillary children. Clinical presentations are associated with bacterial load quantified by Xpert Ultra. The interpretation of Xpert Ultra trace results based on clinical information is important for the diagnosis of TB.

Okluzija u dominantnom levom koronarnom sistemu - EKG dilema u radu lekara hitne pomoći

Introduction/Objective Acute chest pain is the main clinical manifestation of acute coronary syndrome. A posterior myocardial infarction (MI) most commonly occurs as a complication or extension of an inferior MI because of the overlapping coronary vascularization. We are presenting a case in which the patient exhibited mild anginal symptoms and an ECG pattern which did not correlate with a devastating infarction. Case report: The Emergency Medical Team (EMT) was dispatched at 5 am to help a 62-year-old patient, who had been woken from his sleep by a feeling of tightness in his chest and weakness in both arms. Upon examination, the patient was hypertensive (160/90 mmHg) and moderately bradycardic (58-62/min), with normal oxygen saturation on room air (SaO2 98%). His prehospital ECG findings were as follows: sinus rhythm, horizontal ST depression in V1-V3 1 to 2mm, ST elevation ≤1mm in lead V6, subtle ST depression in D1 and aVL &lt;1mm, ST elevation in D3 and aVF &lt;1mm. After attaching additional posterior leads, the modified ECG recording showed an ST elevation of 1 to 2 mm in V7-V9. Continuous laboratory monitoring of cardiac enzyme markers showed elevated and increasing values: Troponin T -2377, 3756 ng/l; CK -1572, 1564 U/l. Coronary angiography: The LCA system was dominant. The RCA was nondominant with a 70-80% stenosis, and a complete Occlusion Myocardial Infarction (OMI) distally. Using the most accurate LCxc/RCA occlusion algorithms, the ECG finding suggested an occlusion in the right dominant coronary system, which does not correlate with the coronary angiography report. Conclusion: Excellent knowledge of recording, analysis, and interpretation of ECG tracings, facilitates adequate pre-hospital care and precise planning for further processing of patients with chest pain. It is recommended to record posterior and right unipolar leads in all patients with inferior and suspicion of posterior myocardial infarctions and to include the ST-elevation myocardial infarction equivalent into the STEMI network. Given the physiological differences in left ventricular vascularization and the possible predominance of the left coronary system over the right, future studies must focus on establishing more precise algorithms for assessing RCA/LCx occlusion.

The Value of Concurrent Electrocardiography When Performing an Electroencephalograph.

Introduction. The use of concurrent, single lead electrocardiograph (ECG) recording, when performing a routine electroencephalograph (EEG), has been standard practice for many years. Previous studies have reported on the usefulness of concurrent EEG in assessing syncope and the detection of newly identified cardiac dysrhythmia but have relied on specialist cardiologist interpretation of the ECG trace. This study expands the understanding of concurrent ECG and provides demographic information regarding the incidence, nature of ECG changes and diagnostic utility of ECG interpretation, during routine EEGs, as evaluated by neurologists. Methods. A single center, retrospective study of routine concurrent EEG and ECG recordings was performed. All routine EEGs, performed within a 12 month period were analysed. Demographic data, underlying comorbidities, reasons for referral and ECG changes were assessed. Results. ECG abnormalities were identified in 147 (13.5%) of concurrent ECG/EEG routine recordings. The presence of ECG abnormalities was significantly associated with the reason for referral, namely being assessed for the evaluation of seizure activity and with increasing patient age. Thirty-eight patients (3.5%) had newly identified ECG abnormalities, of which atrial fibrillation (AF) (12 patients) and sinus bradycardia (9 patients) were the most common. Five patients (0.5%) had a change in their management consequent to the identified ECG changes. Conclusions. These findings support the value of neurologists' interpretation and need for ongoing concurrent ECGs, during routine EEG recordings. The study raises concern about the requesting clinician's response to the identification of newly diagnosed cardiac dysrhythmias.

New Data on Bone Processing Methods in the Late Mesolithic of the Russian Federationn Plain (based on materials from the wetland Site Zamostje 2): methodological aspects of experimental traceological analysis

This study is aimed to discover evolution peculiarities of bone processing techniques in the Late Mesolithic period (2nd half of VII mill. BC – beginning of VI mill. BC) based on the wetland multilayer site Zamostje 2, a reference settlement for Eastern Europe. The wellpreserved surface of organic artefacts enables authors to run an experimental traceological analysis with focus on traces of processing and use at various observation levels, which made it possible to reconstruct technical methods, general production features and specific types of work performed with ancient tools. The advantage of this study is that the results of the analysis and theoretical conclusions can be validated and verified using the same site’s materials. As a foundation for the interpretation of traces observed on the surface of bone artefacts and stone tools used in bone processing, the authors used reference traces obtained during specially conducted experiments. In the methodological context, the authors attempted to distinguish diagnostic features at the micro- and macroscopic levels of traces of bone processing in its various states (freshly frozen, freshly boiled, dry) confirmed by the description and visual data. Following the analysis, the authors succeeded in identifying parallels in the archaeological material as well as reconstructing some characteristic types of work and the context of their execution.

Quantitative Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) of Submerged Civil Concrete Structures Using Remotely Operated Robotic Drones

Periodic inspection is of paramount importance to assess structural integrity and safety. Conventional concrete inspection procedures ranging from rebound hammer, to state-of-the-art ground penetrating radar and ultrasonic tomography focus on superstructures. Often, the part of the structure underwater, is subject to significant levels of corrosion. Today, qualitative visual inspection of the submerged surface can be performed by diving teams, wherein internal defects often go undetected. Furthermore, divers are limited to shallow depths and face several risks, especially when visibility is poor and operating in confined spaces. Presently, there are few commercially available quantitative NDT techniques for submerged structures. This paper presents an alternate solution to inspection of submerged concrete structures — using lightweight remotely operated vehicles (ROV) manufactured by Planys Technologies to perform concrete NDT underwater. Rebound hammer and ultrasonic pulse velocity techniques, although elementary, have been redesigned for use on a submersible drone. Several challenges were addressed including long-range communication and data acquisition, marinizing transducers and pulser-receivers, obtaining measurements in water currents and over deformed surfaces. Planys’ ROVs carry payloads including high-definition cameras, lasers, sonar, and underwater positioning systems to improve data-acquisition quality and location tagging of defects. Key results from experimental studies in a laboratory on canonical specimens are presented. Furthermore, the technology has been successfully tested in a port — details of the structure, operational arrangement and sample results from the field trial are also presented. Following calibration procedures, ROV based underwater concrete NDT was used to acquire data from the structure in grids and subsequently, identify zones of potential non-homogeneity. Numerous challenges, including interpretation of the time traces obtained, and correlation of results to structural integrity and to structures above water, are discussed in the paper. This work will be of interest to asset owners in marine, water management and power generation industries.

Extraction of proton trace anomaly energy from near-threshold $$\phi $$ and $$J/\psi $$ photo-productions

The trace anomalous energy contribution to the proton mass is a very important topic in non-perturbative QCD and hadron physics. In experiments, it is under the hot discussions on how to measure the trace anomalous energy.The QCD interpretation of proton trace anomaly is still not clear.To connect the theory with the experiment,we extract the trace anomaly by analyzing the near-threshold photo-production data of $\phi$ and J/$\psi$ vector mesons. Based on the vector-meson-dominance model and QCD Van der Waals representation, we find that the percentage of trace anomaly in the proton mass ranges from $16\%$ to $24\%$, which is of similar order of magnitude as the 23$\%$ given by Lattice QCD. We also provide the approximate magnitudes of the systematic uncertainties of the extracted results from the model assumptions as well as the data fitting procedures. We give relative statistical uncertainties of 17.2$\%$, 17.7$\%$, 3.6$\%$, and 8.2$\%$, total relative systematic uncertainties of 21.4$\%$, 54.2$\%$, 37.2$\%$, and 25.7$\%$, for the analyses of the GlueX, LEPS, CLAS, and SAPHIR data, respectively. We argue that the near-threshold $\Upsilon$ photo-production experiments are more beneficial for the measurement of trace anomaly in proton mass in the future.