bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data‐driven robust look‐ahead power dispatch with preidentification of the worst‐case scenario using combined multilayer perceptron
Authors: Li Zhigang , Zhang Zijing , Zheng J. H.
Published: February 2024

To address the uncertainty caused by renewable energy generation, two‐stage robust optimization (RO) has been proposed for intraday look‐ahead power dispatch (LAPD) at multiple time scales. However, the intensive computational burden of solving RO problems limits its online application. To address this issue, we developed a novel data‐driven robust LAPD method that exploits information transfer in the worst‐case scenario (WCS) involving uncertain parameters between the two stages of RO. By employing the multilayer perceptron (MLP), the WCSs of uncertain parameters are tentatively preidentified as preliminary inputs of the column‐and‐constraint generation (C&CG) algorithm to reduce the stress of the WCS search during the subsequent iterative procedure. In addition, a combined multilayer perceptron is proposed to address correlations between uncertain parameters in the WCS. The MLP model is trained in distinct time segments to reduce the model training complexity and improve the precision of WCS preidentification. Case studies with various system scales and rolling window sizes indicate that the proposed method is effective at accelerating the C&CG process.
Artificial Intelligence: A New Frontier in Radiological Imaging
Authors: Anam Hajera , Ambad Ranjit , Singam Amol , Deshkar P.A.
Published: February 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the development of computer systems that perform tasks that traditionally require human intelligence. One of the applications of AI is to help technologists and radiologists select appropriate patient protocols. Using AI methods, the accuracy of radiologists' diagnosis improved significantly by 37%. Currently, research is underway on the use of artificial intelligence in diagnostic medical imaging, which has demonstrated high sensitivity and accuracy in the identification of imaging abnormalities. In addition, artificial intelligence has the potential to improve tissue detection and characterization. Although the terms “artificial intelligence” and “machine learning” are often used interchangeably, it is important to note that machine learning is a specific subset of AI focusing on the use of algorithms to learn from the acquired data, enabling prediction, classification and understanding generation. With machine learning, a formal set of methodologies is based on solid mathematical foundations. The study of inventing and implementing algorithms that can learn from prior experiences is known as machine learning (ML). If you've observed a pattern of behaviour before, you can predict whether or not it'll happen again. That is, no prognosis can be made if no past examples exist. The major benefits of using machine learning in radiology will be the reduction of professional time and the accuracy of diagnostic outcomes. When compared to well-trained and experienced radiologists and technicians, several Al-based image segmentation methods in radiology systems have exhibited equivalent, if not better, performance.
Risk Factors for the Development of Obesity in Children
Authors: Ibatova Shoira Mavlanovna , Ergashev Abdurashid Khursandovich , Mamatkulova Feruza Khamidovna , Rakhmonov Yusuf Abdullayevich , Turaeva N.Y.
Published: February 2024

Obesity is one of the most urgent problems of modern medical science. While 43 million children were overweight and obese in 2010, the disease is now reaching epidemic proportions. The combination of obesity and hyperuricemia is the two main factors in the progression and spread of arterial hypertension in children. Research has been carried out to identify risk factors for the development of obesity in children. 55 patients with arterial hypertension and exogenous constitutional obesity were examined. Patient selection was based on body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference in obese children. Waist-to-hip ratio was an indicator of abdominal obesity. The results of the study showed that both low birth weight and overweight at birth are risk factors for obesity. Heredity is one of the main risk factors for obesity and cardiovascular disease. A relationship has been established between body mass index, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism with previously identified risk factors, as well as an inverse relationship between birth weight and body mass index.
Critical Evaluation of EIA Notification 2020 in India w.r.t Sustainable Development Goals and European Union Best Practices in Climate Change Policy
Authors: Shrivastava Abhinav , Gurpur Shashikala
Published: February 2024

Climate change as a challenge imposes an obligation on nations to indicate that climate change mitigation is at the core of their domestic policymaking. As a responsible stakeholder in climate change mitigation, India responded by announcing constitutional protection for the environment under the constitution. Since then, India has enacted several legislations to protect and conserve the environment. In 1994, the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was one such attempt to forecast and mitigate possible harm to the environment. Recently, the Government of India has amended the EIA process by introducing changes to the law through the EIA Notification 2020. The paper identifies the problems associated with recent changes and produces empirical evidence to substantiate the study. It further attempts to appraise the Sustainable Development Goals and the importance given to environmental impact assessment by international organizations including the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank. The paper further studies several best practices in the European Union and concludes by suggesting law reforms in Indian law.
Designing a Precision Seed Sowing Machine for Enhanced Crop Productivity
Authors: Sudha Paulin M. , Pant Rajesh , Naveena S. Sathiya , Mundher Adnan Myasar , Aggarwal Saurabh , Kandavel R.
Published: February 2024

A seed sowing machine is a valuable agricultural device that facilitates the precise and efficient sowing of seeds in fields. When designing and optimizing such a machine, several crucial factors need consideration including seed size, seed rate, soil type, and field conditions. The primary objective is to achieve uniform seed distribution and optimal seed-to-soil contact, which can be accomplished by incorporating a seed metering mechanism to control the seed rate accurately. Versatility is another important aspect of the machine's design, as it should be able to handle different seed sizes, types, soil conditions, and field variations. To achieve this, utilizing advanced technologies such as sensors, automation, and precision farming techniques can significantly enhance the machine's performance and efficiency while also reducing costs and minimizing environmental impact. The optimization of a seed sowing machine plays a crucial role in ensuring successful crop production. By implementing cutting-edge technologies and precision farming techniques, farmers can increase their yields and decrease the amount of seed and fertilizer needed for a specific area. Ultimately, this leads to improved productivity, increased profitability, and a more sustainable approach to agriculture.
Study of the Process of Calcium Feed Phosphate Fabrication by Thermal Acid Processing of Washed Dried Concentrate
Authors: Kaxarov Erkinjon , Seytnazarova Atanazar , Alimov Umarbek , Kasimov Dilshodjon , Namazov Shafoat
Published: February 2024

The process of acid-thermal treatment of washed dried concentrate in order to obtain feed calcium phosphate was studied. At the first stage, phosphoric acid decomposition of phosphate raw materials with wet process phosphoric acid was carried out at 65ºС for 30 minutes. In this case, the ratio of CaO: P2O5 = 1.67; 1.45; 1.31; 1.18; 1.00 and 0.79. In the second stage, the process of thermal roasting of acid decomposition products was carried out at temperatures of 800-1200ºС. It was shown that with a decrease in the calcium module from 1.67 to 0.79 and an increase in the firing temperature from 800 to 1200ºС, the fluorine content in the thermophosphate samples decreases from 3.09 to 0.23% and from 2.63 to 0.34%, respectively. during thermal treatment 1 and 2 hours.
Environment and Inclusive Growth: Concerns and Solutions
Authors: Deka Dhanjit , Singh Salam Rajesh , Singh Ashutosh , Shrivastava Abhinav , Gorowara Naaz , Varma Raj A.
Published: February 2024

The ecology and all of its components are suffering greatly as a result of the unchecked speed of development. At this rate, environmental degradation will have an impact on humanity and associated fields. In order to prevent the consequences of expansion from pushing the environment into a situation from which it is incapable of recovering, there should be ongoing, earnest efforts made towards sustainable development. The three pillars of ecodevelopment are the environment, humanity, and economy. A stable growth rate is necessary to attain a just balance between these pillars. Since agriculture employs the majority of the population, it also has an impact on the balance of the ecosystem. Because every unplanned step towards progress puts us back in the environmental front, we must thus be mindful of the boundaries of environmental challenges in order to achieve equitable economic growth. The hope for sustainable development lies in decreased deforestation, greater food security, conservative agricultural practices, the use of biopesticides, and prudent use of natural resources. To be effective, environmental policy probably needs to employ a variety of tools, each addressing a distinct aspect of the issue and attempting to minimise redundancies and pointless regulations. Appropriately pricing environmental inputs facilitates sustainable resource provision and use management. Long-term corporate investment in new technology and innovation is encouraged by a consistent and clear environmental policy, which also increases investment certainty. Environmental and economic success are interdependent. Economic activity and advancement depend on the natural environment because it provides the resources needed to produce goods and services and because it processes and absorbs waste and pollution, which are unwanted byproducts. This paper focuses on how environmental assets assist control risks associated with social and economic activities, flood risks, local climate regulation (temperature and air quality), and the availability of clean water and other resources.
ANSYS Simulation for Analyzing Monowheel Frame Performance
Authors: Pathani Ashish , Alzubaidi Laith H. , Rajendran S. , Priya R. Shanmuga , Chandrakala P. , Kumar R. Senthl
Published: February 2024

Automobiles and motorcycles that run on conventional fuels are currently not the greatest for transportation because to the rising awareness of pollution and the energy shortage concerns. There is a demand for a less expensive and more effective mode of transportation because the cost of petroleum goods is soaring right now. Additionally, it is becoming more and more crucial to conserve energy in order to assess the issue of leftover fuel depletion. Even large-scale manufacturing and industrial operations restrict their employees' use of transportation within the premises in order to reduce the risk of air pollution. Research on environmentally friendly transport has increased to fulfil these demands. Technology for electrically powered vehicles is a step in the right direction. One such environmentally friendly vehicle that aids employees in covering large distances inside of their organisations is the monowheel. A monowheel is a single-track, one wheeled vehicle that looks a lot like a unicycle. The rider sits inside the wheel as opposed to being above it like on a unicycle. The wheel is a ring that is often propelled by smaller wheels contacting its inner rim. The smaller wheels are powered by an electric motor and a battery to turn. Changes to the frame's design and the addition of solar panels as a backup power source are proposed. Then, the car can also be powered by solar energy. Software from CATIA and ANSYS, respectively, are used for the design and analysis of the inner and exterior fames.
On the Possibility of Waste-Free Use of Mineral Resources of the Angrensky Brain Coal Deposit
Authors: Bekpulatov Javlon Mustafokulievich , Makhmarezhabov Dilmurod Bakhtiyarovich , Umirzokov Azamat Abdurashidovich
Published: February 2024

The Angren lignite basin is a complex coal-kaolin deposit. Here, in addition to brown coal, there are large reserves of kaolin clays of two types - primary and secondary, occurring respectively in the soil and the roof of the coal strata. Secondary clays, in turn, subdivided into gray and variegated, which during overburden and mining of coal seams in the bulk go to the dump. Gray kaolins currently partially processed at the “Angren Kaolin” LLC factory in order to obtain enriched kaolin used for the production of building ceramics, etc.
Smart Technology for Real-time Evaluation of Stress Levels
Authors: Adepua Sharada , Pravallika Samudralab Keerthana , Kamsani Spandana , Aruvanti Sravanthi
Published: February 2024

Mental health issues can be adverse to an individual, especially for students who are involved in numerous activities on a daily basis. Students today frequently experience stress. 4 in 5 college students report frequent stress, according to the American Institute of Stress. There are several indications of stress, including sweating, headaches, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, reduced immune system, difficulty sleeping, etc. Long-term effects of stress may be chronic. Chronic stress has negative effects on health, including memory loss, hypertension, and it may have negative it's overlooked, cardiovascular disease. If psychological and physical consequences to addiction, that depression, suicide, etc. In order to prevent further effects, it is crucial to identify it early. The proposed system is to design a PCB for the wristband that detects whether the student is experiencing stress or not based on various physiological parameters like heart rate, temperature of the human body, mobility and skin response. Real time data is collected from Electrocardiogram (ECG), Galvanic Skin Response (GSR), Accelerometer sensors etc. An ESP32 microcontroller processes and analyzes the data gathered from various sensors to continuously detect stress.
A study of employees mental health by the motivation in car dealership industry
Authors: K. Kalaivani , Venkatachalam
Published: February 2024

Every organization is designed or build with long-term engagement with customers and Employees. Happy customers and Satisfied Employees are the biggest asset of any organization. Whatever the industry is, a Motivated worker will always make a big difference in achieving the organization goals and his personal goals. Motivation Programs can be done through various levels like rewards, bonus, incentives, etc. But “without Mental Health” Motivating employees becomes a tall mountain to climb.
Addressing Bias in Machine Learning Algorithms: Promoting Fairness and Ethical Design
Authors: Dhabliya Dharmesh , Dari Sukhvinder Singh , Dhablia Anishkumar , Akhila N. , Kachhoria Renu , Khetani Vinit
Published: February 2024

Machine learning algorithms have quickly risen to the top of several fields' decision-making processes in recent years. However, it is simple for these algorithms to confirm already present prejudices in data, leading to biassed and unfair choices. In this work, we examine bias in machine learning in great detail and offer strategies for promoting fair and moral algorithm design. The paper then emphasises the value of fairnessaware machine learning algorithms, which aim to lessen bias by including fairness constraints into the training and evaluation procedures. Reweighting, adversarial training, and resampling are a few strategies that could be used to overcome prejudice. Machine learning systems that better serve society and respect ethical ideals can be developed by promoting justice, transparency, and inclusivity. This paper lays the groundwork for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to forward the cause of ethical and fair machine learning through concerted effort.
Transparency in Algorithmic Decision-making: Interpretable Models for Ethical Accountability
Authors: Raja Kumar Jambi Ratna , Kalnawat Aarti , Pawar Avinash M. , Jadhav Varsha D. , Srilatha P. , Khetani Vinit
Published: February 2024

Concerns regarding their opacity and potential ethical ramifications have been raised by the spread of algorithmic decisionmaking systems across a variety of fields. By promoting the use of interpretable machine learning models, this research addresses the critical requirement for openness and moral responsibility in these systems. Interpretable models provide a transparent and intelligible depiction of how decisions are made, as opposed to complicated black-box algorithms. Users and stakeholders need this openness in order to understand, verify, and hold accountable the decisions made by these algorithms. Furthermore, interpretability promotes fairness in algorithmic results by making it easier to detect and reduce biases. In this article, we give an overview of the difficulties brought on by algorithmic opacity, highlighting how crucial it is to solve these difficulties in a variety of settings, including those involving healthcare, banking, criminal justice, and more. From linear models to rule-based systems to surrogate models, we give a thorough analysis of interpretable machine learning techniques, highlighting their benefits and drawbacks. We suggest that incorporating interpretable models into the design and use of algorithms can result in a more responsible and moral application of AI in society, ultimately benefiting people and communities while lowering the risks connected to opaque decision-making processes.
Machine learning based heart disease prediction system
Authors: Kanimozhi S. , Sivanandan N.
Published: February 2024

Anticipating heart illness has been one of the foremost challenging errands in medication in later a long time. Nowadays approximately one individual passes on from a heart assault each miniature. Information science plays an imperative part in handling expansive sums of information in healthcare. Since the desire of heart disease may be a troublesome errand. It is essential to total the determining prepare to maintain a strategic distance from the chance related with it and to caution patients in development. This venture employments a heart malady database with 303 persistent records and 13 parameters. This article works the hazard of heart assault utilizing distinctive learning calculations such as Calculated Relapse, Irregular Timberland, K Neighbors, and finds he leading calculation from the proper ones and returns the yield in like manner. In this way, this amplify provides a comparison by analyzing the performance of a custom learning machine.
Diagnosis of gastric cancer in role of endoscopic imaging techniques in artificial intelligence and machine learning applications: An overview
Authors: K. Pooja , Kanna R. Kishore
Published: February 2024

Gastric cancer is a serious medical issue because its occurrence and death rates are increasing all over the world. Furthermore, obesity, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and a few dietary defense elements are known cancer-causing agents. In some nations, early detection strategies have been shown to reduce GC-related morbidity and mortality. It offers therapies that are minimally invasive like most effective procedure is endoscopic resection. The most appropriate standard for using a procedure that is typically secure to precisely evaluate the lesions region. It is simple method and it can be expected difficult techniques can be viewed as in early stage of tumour in accurate diagnosis. A few uses of computerized method have arisen in the field of gastric malignant growth. For example, image diagnosis-based prediction conclusion and guess expectation, because of its viable computational power and learning capabilities. As a result, a detailed outline of how artificial intelligence can be used to treat gastric cancer through image-based endoscopic diagnosis and machine learning analysis applications this review, which demonstrates the future developments in this field for the early prediction of gastric cancer, it was also thoroughly discussed the possibility of AI models being over fitted, their accuracy, and their usefulness to clinical research in this field of image processing. In addition, in this review article was been detailed about synopsis of the therapy choices of malignant growth.
Role of Artificial Intelligence in ICSI (Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection) &IUI (Intra-Uterine Insemination)
Authors: Kawale Shubhangi P. , Ambad Ranjit , Jha Rakesh Kumar , Jha Roshan Kumar , Gaikwad Amol
Published: February 2024

In contrast to natural intelligence demonstrated by humans,
AI (Artificial Intelligence) is the ability of a computer to learn and display
intelligence. AI has grown in popularity quickly and gradually, and it is
now a part of our personal and social lives. AI has been used in almost
every field, including IT companies and many other fields that collect data.
AI is also used in a large number of factories. As modern technology
advances, artificial intelligence is being used in the medical field. AI
technology is being used in a variety of laboratories, including IVF labs.
Many treatment techniques, such as ICSI (Intra -Cytoplasm Sperm
Injection) and IUI (Intra – Uterine Insemination), are used in IVF
laboratories. The techniques are used in the creation of ART (Assisted
Reproductive Technology). Because of its high success rate, the ICSI
technique is the most commonly used technique. The review focuses on the
role of artificial technologies in the IVF lab and how they can be more
useful for increasing IVF treatment success rates.The article concludes that
AI can be very useful for IVF laboratories and for ART techniques. The
role of AI in the future of IVF can be useful and helpful in the treatment
increasing rate of IVF (in- vitro fertilization). AI technologies are used in a
variety of methods to select high-quality oocytes and sperm. The article
discusses how AI can be used to predict the future.
Recovery of Spent Methyldiethanolamines and Reduced Environmental Impact
Authors: Turayev T.B. , Igamkulova N.A. , Mengliyev Sh.Sh. , Rakhimov H.N.
Published: February 2024

The main purpose of the study is to study and analyze the causes of degradation of 25-30% solutions of ethanolamines (methyldiethanolamine and methylmethyldiethanolamine) used in natural gas purification. The negative changes in ethanolamines that affect their physicochemical properties, absorption capacity and efficiency of gas cleaning as a result of destruction were studied. It has been established that one of the main factors affecting the working properties of ethanolamines and their regeneration is their saturation with high-temperature-resistant salts, organic acids, bitsins, di-, tri-, tetra-amine compounds. As a result of research and analysis, the possibility of increasing the efficiency of gas cleaning by reducing the volume of ethanolamines purchased from abroad and extending the service life as a result of the reuse of ethanolamines from the above substances in the gas cleaning process was studied. As a result, the negative impact on the environment, flora, soil structure, and ground and surface waters has been reduced by reducing their release into the environment.
How short video marketing influences purchase intention in social commerce: the role of users’ persona perception, shared values, and individual-level factors
Authors: Shen Xiangdong , Wang Junbin
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to expand the stimulus‒organism‒response model to explore the impact of short video users’ persona perception on their purchase intention on short video platforms in the context of Chinese short video marketing. The model is empirically tested using structural equation modeling and survey data collected from 350 short video users. The results show that 10 of the 11 hypotheses in the research model are supported and have reliable prediction accuracy. Short video users’ persona perception of each dimension has a significant positive impact on shared value creation. This study thus constructs mediating and moderating variables by exploring the internal correlation and intermediate mechanism between short video users’ persona perception and purchase intention. First, shared value creation plays a mediating role between persona perception and purchase intention on short video platforms. Second, two individual-level moderating variables play a moderating role between shared value creation and purchase intention across short video platforms: Regulatory focus and social presence. This research therefore provides useful implications and guidance for brands and merchants seeking targeted and efficient precision marketing on short video platforms. It also enriches the theoretical research on consumer behavior on short video platforms.
Single-stringed, no-touch instrument demonstrates physics for students
Authors: Johnson-Groh Mara
Published: February 2024

With readily-available materials, a group has developed an instrument that can be used to illustrate the Lorentz force and spark students’ interest in acoustic physics.
Suspension of a point-mass-loaded filament in non-uniform flows: Passive dynamics of a ballooning spider
Authors: Cho Moonsung , Cruz Bournazou Mariano Nicolas , Park Suhyeon , Neubauer Peter , Rechenberg Ingo
Published: February 2024

Spiders utilize their fine silk fibers for their aerial dispersal, known as ballooning. With this method, spiders can disperse hundreds of kilometers, reaching as high as 4.5 km. However, the passive dynamics of a ballooning model (a highly flexible filament and a spider body at the end of it) are not well understood. Here, we introduce a bead–spring model that takes into account the anisotropic drag of a fiber to investigate the passive dynamics by the various non-uniform flows: (i) a shear flow, (ii) a periodic vortex flow field, and (iii) a homogeneous turbulent flow. For the analysis of the wide range of parameters, we defined a dimensionless parameter, which is called “a ballooning number.” The ballooning number is defined as the ratio of Stokes’ fluid-dynamic force on a fiber by the non-uniform flow field to the gravitational force of a body. Our simulations show that the present model in a homogeneous turbulent flow exhibits the biased characteristic of slow settling with increasing turbulence. Upon investigating this phenomenon for a shear flows, it was found that the drag anisotropy of the filament structure is the main cause of the slow settling. Particularly, the cause of slow settling speed lies not only in the deformed geometrical shape but also in its generation of fluid-dynamic force in a non-uniform flow. Additionally, we found that the ballooning structure could become trapped in a vortex flow. These results help deepen our understanding of the passive dynamics of spiders ballooning in the atmospheric boundary layer.
A miniaturized-slotted planar MIMO antenna with switchable configuration for dual-/triple-band notches
Authors: Vanka Saritha , C Chandrasekhar
Published: February 2024

This paper outlines the design and validation of a four-port compact Multi-Input Multi-Output (MIMO) antenna engineered to provide reconfigurable band notches within the ultra-wideband spectrum. The antenna features a circular monopole engraved with split ring slots along its radiating section, while a U-shaped slot is etched onto the feed line to facilitate band notches at specific frequencies—4.3 GHz (corresponding to INSAT), 6.8 GHz (aligned with Wi-Fi-6E), and 8.3 GHz (pertaining to X-band satellite). To ensure proper isolation, the MIMO elements are arranged orthogonally, and a decoupling periodic structure is strategically interposed between these elements to enhance isolation further. The incorporation of a PIN diode within the U-shaped slot introduces reconfigurability into the band notching mechanism. The MIMO antenna operates in two distinct modes depending upon the state of the PIN diode, either activated (ON) or deactivated (OFF). In the former mode, the antenna offers switchable band notches across three frequencies, while in the latter mode, it offers band notches at two specific frequencies. The validity of the antenna’s performance is validated through real-time fabrication and measurement. Both simulated and measured results exhibit a notable correlation. The antenna stands as an appropriate candidate for future cognitive radio applications.
Effect of methanol and photoinduced surface oxygen vacancies on the charge carrier dynamics in TiO2
Authors: Dincer Orcun , Guner Bugrahan , Dagdeviren Omur E.
Published: February 2024

The migration of holes in metal-oxide semiconductors such as TiO2 plays a vital role in (photo)catalytic applications. The dynamics of charge carriers under operation conditions can be influenced by both methanol addition and photoinduced surface oxygen vacancies (PI-SOVs). Nevertheless, the existing knowledge of the effect of methanol as a function of PI-SOVs solely concentrates on the chemical reduction process. For this reason, the fundamental understanding of the time-dependent charge carrier-vacancy interactions in the presence of methanol is impaired. Here, we conducted time-resolved atomic force microscopy measurements to quantitatively disclose the effect of methanol adsorption on the dynamics of hole migration in TiO2. Our results show that time constants associated with the migration of charge carriers significantly change due to methanol adsorption. Moreover, the energy landscape of the hole migration barrier was dominated and lowered by PI-SOVs. Our findings contribute to the physics of charge carrier dynamics by enabling the engineering of charge carrier-vacancy interactions.
Experimental study on subwavelength focusing optical field detection methods for micro-Fresnel zone plate
Authors: Liu Qiang , Deng Yuanhao , Xu Jing , Wang Junli , Liu Wenshuai , Yao Xiaomin
Published: February 2024

In this paper, the detection methods and detection systems for the subwavelength focusing optical field of the micro-Fresnel zone plate (FZP) are experimentally studied. First, a comparison is made between the micro/nanofabrication methods for micro-FZP, namely, focused ion beam (FIB) and electron beam lithography, and the results show that FIB is better suited for the amplitude-type micro-FZP fabrication. Subsequently, the experimental detection devices based on the wide-field microscopy amplification (WFMA) imaging method (indirect detection method) and scanning near-field optical microscopy (direct detection method) are, respectively, constructed for the detection of the subwavelength focusing optical field of micro-FZP. The experimental results are compared and analyzed with theoretical calculation results, indicating that the WFMA method is more suitable for the detection of micro-FZP subwavelength focusing optical field that is not sensitive to radial components. This study provides an experimental reference for the micro/nanofocusing optical field detection of micro/nano-optical components similar to micro-FZP and promotes the practical application of micro-FZP.
Inequities in PrEP use according to Medicare status in a publicly funded sexual health clinic; a retrospective analysis
Authors: Coleman Aaron , Maslen Ben John , Foster Rosalind
Published: February 2024

New HIV diagnoses continue to disproportionately affect overseas-born men who have sex with men (MSM). A retrospective study of all pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)-eligible MSM attending Sydney Sexual Health Centre for the first time in 2021 analysed self-reported PrEP-use, PrEP prescribed at the initial consult, and PrEP taken during 2021 using binomial logistic regression models. A total of 1367 clients were included in the analysis, 716 (52.4%) were born overseas and 414 (57.8%) were Medicare-ineligible. Medicare-ineligible clients were less likely to be on PrEP at initial visit (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.26–0.77). This study suggests inequities in PrEP access and/or awareness in Medicare-ineligible MSM in Australia.
The sleep–circadian interface: A window into mental disorders
Authors: Meyer Nicholas , Lok Renske , Schmidt Christina , Kyle Simon D. , McClung Colleen A. , Cajochen Christian , Scheer Frank A. J. L. , Jones Matthew W. , Chellappa Sarah L.
Published: February 2024

Sleep, circadian rhythms, and mental health are reciprocally interlinked. Disruption to the quality, continuity, and timing of sleep can precipitate or exacerbate psychiatric symptoms in susceptible individuals, while treatments that target sleep—circadian disturbances can alleviate psychopathology. Conversely, psychiatric symptoms can reciprocally exacerbate poor sleep and disrupt clock-controlled processes. Despite progress in elucidating underlying mechanisms, a cohesive approach that integrates the dynamic interactions between psychiatric disorder with both sleep and circadian processes is lacking. This review synthesizes recent evidence for sleep—circadian dysfunction as a transdiagnostic contributor to a range of psychiatric disorders, with an emphasis on biological mechanisms. We highlight observations from adolescent and young adults, who are at greatest risk of developing mental disorders, and for whom early detection and intervention promise the greatest benefit. In particular, we aim to a) integrate sleep and circadian factors implicated in the pathophysiology and treatment of mood, anxiety, and psychosis spectrum disorders, with a transdiagnostic perspective; b) highlight the need to reframe existing knowledge and adopt an integrated approach which recognizes the interaction between sleep and circadian factors; and c) identify important gaps and opportunities for further research.
Diverse roles of pontine NPS-expressing neurons in sleep regulation
Authors: Xing Lijuan , Zou Xianlin , Yin Chen , Webb John M. , Shi Guangsen , Ptáček Louis J. , Fu Ying-Hui
Published: February 2024

Neuropeptide S (NPS) was postulated to be a wake-promoting neuropeptide with unknown mechanism, and a mutation in its receptor (NPSR1) causes the short sleep duration trait in humans. We investigated the role of different NPS
+
nuclei in sleep/wake regulation. Loss-of-function and chemogenetic studies revealed that NPS
+
neurons in the parabrachial nucleus (PB) are wake-promoting, whereas peri-locus coeruleus (peri-LC) NPS
+
neurons are not important for sleep/wake modulation. Further, we found that a NPS
+
nucleus in the central gray of the pons (CGPn) strongly promotes sleep. Fiber photometry recordings showed that NPS
+
neurons are wake-active in the CGPn and wake/REM-sleep active in the PB and peri-LC. Blocking NPS–NPSR1 signaling or knockdown of
Nps
supported the function of the NPS–NPSR1 pathway in sleep/wake regulation. Together, these results reveal that NPS and NPS
+
neurons play dichotomous roles in sleep/wake regulation at both the molecular and circuit levels.
Decellularized tissue exhibits large differences of extracellular matrix properties dependent on decellularization method: novel insights from a standardized characterization on skeletal muscle
Authors: Terrie Lisanne , Philips Charlot , Muylle Ewout , Weisrock Antoine , Lecomte-Grosbras Pauline , Thorrez Lieven
Published: February 2024

Decellularized matrices are an attractive choice of scaffold in regenerative medicine as they can provide the necessary extracellular matrix (ECM) components, signals and mechanical properties. Various detergent-based protocols have already been proposed for decellularization of skeletal muscle tissue. However, a proper comparison is difficult due to differences in species, muscle origin and sample sizes. Moreover, a thorough evaluation of the remaining acellular matrix is often lacking. We compared an in-house developed decellularization protocol to four previously published methods in a standardized manner. Porcine skeletal muscle samples with uniform thickness were subjected to in-depth histological, ultrastructural, biochemical and biomechanical analysis. In addition, 2D and three-dimensional cytocompatibility experiments were performed. We found that the decellularization methods had a differential effect on the properties of the resulting acellular matrices. Sodium deoxycholate combined with deoxyribonuclease I was not an effective method for decellularizing thick skeletal muscle tissue. Triton X-100 in combination with trypsin, on the other hand, removed nuclear material but not cytoplasmic proteins at low concentrations. Moreover, it led to significant alterations in the biomechanical properties. Finally, sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) seemed most promising, resulting in a drastic decrease in DNA content without major effects on the ECM composition and biomechanical properties. Moreover, cell attachment and metabolic activity were also found to be the highest on samples decellularized with SDS. Through a newly proposed standardized analysis, we provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of different decellularizing agents on the structure and composition of skeletal muscle. Evaluation of nuclear content as well as ECM composition, biomechanical properties and cell growth are important parameters to assess. SDS comes forward as a detergent with the best balance between all measured parameters and holds the most promise for decellularization of skeletal muscle tissue.
Turbulent/non-turbulent interface of the turbulent boundary-layer over a spanwise-heterogeneous converging/diverging riblets rough wall
Authors: Huang Jianda , Bai Honglei
Published: February 2024

Turbulent boundary layer (TBL) flows over various spanwise-heterogeneous rough walls exhibit spanwise variations in turbulence statistics, implying modifications of the turbulent/non-turbulent interface (T/NTI). In this work, based on the datasets of TBL flows over a spanwise-alternating converging/diverging riblets wall, we investigate behavior of T/NTI, properties of ‘bubble’ and ‘drop’ that are associated with T/NTI, as well as connections between T/NTI and large-scale structures within the boundary layer. The flow datasets were obtained through stereoscopic particle image velocimetry measurements on the cross-stream plane of the TBL flow at a Reynolds number

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e
θ

= 1.3 × 104. The T/NTI and associated ‘bubble’ and ‘drop’ are identified using a kinetic energy criterion, while the large-scale structures by a streak detection algorithm. It is observed that the T/NTI height and the occurrence of ‘bubble’ and ‘drop’ display a spanwise-heterogeneous feature, with lower T/NTI height and higher occurrence probability of ‘bubble’ over the diverging section of riblets than over the converging section of riblets. Results of conditional average show that the ‘bubble’ is associated with positive streamwise fluctuations, common-down flow and a pair of counter-rotating streamwise vortices, while the ‘drop’ with negative streamwise fluctuation, common-up flow and a pair of counter-rotating streamwise vortices. Probability density functions of the ‘bubble’ size and fractal dimensions of the T/NTI are found similar for both the riblets and smooth wall flows. Furthermore, it is observed that the large-scale low-speed structures occurring preferentially over the converging section of riblets play a role in elevating T/NTI while the large-scale high-speed ones over the diverging section of riblets lowering down T/NTI.
Bayesian analysis of uncertainties in circle, straight-line and ellipse fitting considering a-priori knowledge − comparative analysis with total-least-squares approaches
Authors: Keksel A , Eli B , Eifler M , Seewig J
Published: February 2024

Fitting standard geometric elements into measurement data using Least-Squares techniques is a common task in signal processing across various technical applications. However, the application of these well-established but purely data-based methods does not consider potentially available prior knowledge about the measurand of interest or the measuring device. Thus, up to this day, additional information is usually left unused beyond a few academic applications. By applying a Bayesian approach, this prior knowledge can be incorporated into the fitting task, potentially leading to a reduction in overall uncertainty and fragility of the evaluation result. In this study, Bayesian models are proposed for incorporating prior knowledge into circular, linear, and ellipse fitting tasks. The general approaches as well as specific results are compared to the established Total-Least-Squares method within the example of the application of the F-operator in surface texture measurement illustrating the practical benefits of the approach.
Effect of pore structure on the impact toughness of copper-infiltrated sintered steel
Authors: Lin Pengcheng , Wang Linshan , Liang Xuebing , Hu Qiang , Wang Limin , Qu Xuanhui
Published: February 2024

Copper-infiltrated sintered steel is a prominent area of research in powder metallurgy, with a particular focus on enhancing impact toughness. In this study, sintered steels with varying pore structures were prepared using iron powders and infiltrated with copper to investigate their impact toughness. The results indicate a significant improvement in the impact toughness of the sintered steels with concentrated iron particle sizes. The density of the samples increased from 6.85 g cm−3 to 7.55 g cm−3 through copper infiltration. The large copper-phase sample with the particle size of 150 μm exhibits an impact toughness as high as 41.09 J cm−2, and its fracture morphology mainly shows transgranular fractures of large iron particles. It is 1.5 times that of the sample made from commercial iron powders which measured 27.46 J cm−2. This enhancement is primarily attributed to the precipitation of γ-Fe within the large copper phase, thereby enhancing the copper phase and transferring the load into large iron particles. A brief mechanism of γ-Fe precipitation in the large copper-phase has been provided.
Parametric optimization corrosion erosive wear and XPS response of FeCrCoAlTiB and FeCrCoNiSiB coatings on Q235 steel substrate by HVOF spraying using taguchi method
Authors: Kumar Arun , Patnaik Amar , Dangayach Govind Sharan
Published: February 2024

In the study high-velocity oxy-fuel thermal spraying to create Fe32Cr21Co21Al16Ti5B5 and Fe43Cr16Co12Al14Ti5B10, Fe32Cr21Co21Ni16Si5B5 and Fe43Cr16Co12Ni14Si5B10 coatings on Q235 steel substrates. Jet-type testing is used to examine the coatings’ resistance to slurry wear. Researchers examined the surface to learn more about the erosion process. Taguchi analysis and a wear model confirm the significance of the selected important factors. The wear model’s proposed mechanism shows remarkable agreement with the data. Coating loss may be attributed to several causes, including mixed ploughing, and cutting, platelet development, abrasion grooves, and cracking. The outcomes showed that the effect speed was the main contributing variable, the contribution ratio reached 65% to 70%, for the impact velocity of coating no 1 to 4. In contrast, it is recognized that impact velocity > impingement angle > erodent feed rate > erodent size is the most important sequence. Micro-cutting, mixed cutting, and ploughing were the essential disintegration systems for all coatings at low impingement points. In contrast, platelets were detected under normal impingement angles, as confirmed by SEM analysis. Both coatings seem to form passivation films, as shown by their greater Ecorr values relative to the substrate. Fe, Co, Cr, Al, and O all show up as peaks in XPS analyses.
Shakespearian Entanglements
Authors: Sheen Erica
Published: February 2024

This chapter discusses Albert Einstein’s invocation of Shakespeare in a speech on behalf of German refugees in London’s Royal Albert Hall in October 1933, and its subsequent quotation by American physicist Karl Darrow in his review of a published collection of Einstein’s essays in 1950. Einstein’s speech, and the career that took him from German exile to American citizen over the intervening years, introduces the concepts of geopolitics and entanglement as they emerge from the intersection of European theoretical physics, two centuries of American isolationism, and the implementation of the Marshall Plan in 1948. The chapter describes the book’s overall structure and approach and introduces the chapters that follow.
The Mystery in the Soul of State
Authors: Sheen Erica
Published: February 2024

This chapter presents a new account of the Cambridge Marlowe Society’s participation in the Elizabethan Festival in Berlin in 1948, in particular the participation within it of military intelligence officer and Cambridge academic Noel Annan and Education Adviser Robert Birley. Planned before the Airlift to instil confidence in British political and cultural leadership, the Festival, including George Rylands’s production of Measure for Measure, became a celebration of German resistance to the Russian blockade and an anticipation of West Germany’s future role in Europe. The chapter evaluates competing readings of the political and cultural agencies involved in the organization of the Festival, questions the alleged participation of the British Council, suggests the possible involvement of the Cultural Relations Department (CRD) and links this to the perceived importance of the Marlowe Society’s ‘Western’ freedom from political alignment.
Equality of Sacrifice
Authors: Sheen Erica
Published: February 2024

In early 1948, Graham Greene, V. S. Pritchett, and Elizabeth Bowen worked together on a three-way ‘conversation’ about the social value of the writer—Why Do I Write? Their discussion took its cue from a British economic crisis triggered by the expense of supporting the British occupation of Germany and Austria, informed by the socialist government’s adoption of a policy of ‘equality of sacrifice’. As Greene and Pritchett argue from contrasting positions of financial advantage and disadvantage, a polemical stance on the relative merits of literature and film opens, via a provocative argument about political disloyalty, into Greene’s concurrent work on the treatment for The Third Man. The chapter close-reads the mesh of Shakespearian reference, notably Macbeth and King Lear, that sustains this argument in both texts, revealing Greene’s position—against Pritchett—as a defence of film and a claim of community with the defeated population of Vienna.