bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensionally printable hollow silica nanoparticles for subambient passive cooling
Authors: Park Su-Jin , Seo Seok-Beom , Shim Jiyun , Hong Seok Jin , Kang Gumin , Ko Hyungduk , Jeong Sunho , Kim Sun-Kyung
Published: January 2024

Solar reflectance and thermal emissivity are critical benchmarks for evaluating the effectiveness of passive cooling strategies. The integration of three-dimensional (3D) printing techniques with passive cooling materials enables local thermal management of multifaceted objects, offering opportunities for unexplored energy-saving applications. For example, conformal printing of cooling materials can mitigate solar absorption caused by the top metal electrodes in solar cells, thereby improving their efficiency and lifetime. In this study, we report the synthesis of 3D printable hollow silica nanoparticles (HSNPs) designed to induce subambient cooling performance under daylight conditions. HSNPs with diameters of 400–700 nm and silica shell thicknesses of approximately 100 nm were synthesized using an in-situ sol–gel emulsion method. Subsequently, these HSNPs were formulated into printable pastes by carefully selecting the mixture concentration and molecular weight of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). The PVP-linked HSNPs exhibited a solar (0.3–2.5 μm) reflectivity of 0.98 and a thermal (8–13 μm) emissivity of 0.93. In contrast to a single silica nanoparticle (NP), the scattering analysis of a single HSNP revealed a distinctive scattering distribution characterized by amplified backward scattering and suppressed forward scattering. In outdoor daytime experiments, the HSNP-printed sample led to the subambient cooling of a dielectric substrate, surpassing the cooling performance of reference materials such as silica NPs, silver pastes, and commercial white plastics and paints.
Fabrication of 1 × N integrated power splitters with arbitrary power ratio for single and multimode photonics
Authors: Haines Jack , Vitali Valerio , Bottrill Kyle , Naik Pooja Uday , Gandolfi Marco , De Angelis Costantino , Franz Yohann , Lacava Cosimo , Petropoulos Periklis , Guasoni Massimiliano
Published: January 2024

Compact power splitters are essential components in integrated optics. While 1 × 2 power splitters with uniform splitting are widely used, a 1 × N splitter with arbitrary number N of ports and arbitrary splitting ratio is yet to be demonstrated. In this work we address this problem. We fabricate and characterise 1 × N integrated power splitters that provide fully arbitrary splitting ratios. The core of our design is represented by an array of N non-equally spaced waveguides fabricated on a silicon nitride-on-insulator wafer. Any arbitrary 1 × N splitting ratio can be achieved by properly setting the array length and the dimension of the (N–1) nano-gaps between the adjacent waveguides. Most importantly, at variance with state-of-the-art solutions, our devices can be designed for arbitrary splitting of higher-order modes. In this manuscript we provide the first experimental demonstration of 1 × N arbitrary splitting ratio for both the fundamental modes (TE00 and TM00) and the TE01 mode, here up to N = 5 ports. With a footprint of 20 μm2/port, a bandwidth up to 70 nm and an excess losses <0.2 dB, our devices set a new benchmark for optical power splitters in both standard single-mode photonics as well as in the emerging integrated multimode photonics technology, and may therefore boost key photonic applications, from optimal power distribution and equalization up to signal processing operations.
Becoming Child of the Moment through Deleuzian Philosophy and Sufism
Authors: Sariyar Murat
Published: January 2024

My goal here is to make use of Deleuzian philosophy as a springboard for cultivating “being a child of the moment,” which is a phrase stemming from Sufism. Being fully present and aware in each moment is associated with surrendering oneself to the divine will and accepting whatever comes in the present moment without resistance. Unlike approaches that translate Deleuzian insights into theological concepts, the way of proceeding here involves traversing his philosophy, similar to traversing the phantasy in Lacanian psychoanalysis. Consequently, it neither fully adopts nor rejects Deleuzian philosophy but offers a parallax view that aims at deepening one’s connection with transcendence. The underlying premise is that strengthening this connection can be enhanced by engaging with an immanent philosophy that acknowledges non-representable singularities, provided its limitations are clearly delineated to prevent absorption into the depths and intricacies of that philosophy. To this end, the contrasting perspectives of eternity as a realm of potentialities and eternity as a timeless dimension detached from worldly connections are emphasized. During the writing process, the publication of MM Knight’s book “Sufi Deleuze” added a tangible ally and opponent, thereby lending further justification to the article’s title in retrospective. At the end, I will also delve into the relationship between Deleuzian philosophy and Derridean ontology, the realms of mysticism, and the existential aspect of death, and elucidate why Deleuzian philosophy can serve as a pivot for character development.
Interdisciplinary Approach to Overcoming the Persistence of Patriarchal Islamic Interpretations: Gender Equality, the Development of Empathy and Children’s Rights, and Insights from the Reformist Eurasian Scholars of Early Twentieth Century
Authors: Zhussipbek Galym , Tasbolat Assyltay , Nagayeva Zhanar
Published: January 2024

Gender equality and women’s rights are among the most discussed issues in the context of Islam. Any thorough analysis of the persistence of conservative patriarchal religious interpretations in Muslim communities should also consider social factors. The conservative appropriation of Islam is not only the result of theological factors but also a manifestation of a conservative and patriarchal habitus. This article draws attention to the vitality of empathy in establishing universal equal human dignity. It dwells on the idea of the universal innate nature of the child to offer some solutions to overcome the persistence of conservative religious interpretations and develop gender equality in the Muslim context. Also, the reformist views of the Jadids and Alash intellectuals, the Eurasian Muslim reformists of the early twentieth century, are analyzed as authentic historical and conceptual precedents to develop gender-egalitarian Islamic interpretations. Overall, this article establishes a connection between women’s rights in Islam, the universal innate nature of the child (and the universality of children’s right-friendly parenting and education that fosters empathy and critical thinking), and the intellectual legacy of the Jadids and Alash intellectuals, who wanted to transform the conservative and patriarchal habitus through educational reform, literary works, and a rationalistic, thematico-holistic approach to Islam.
Marked Themes in academic writing: a comparative look at the sciences and humanities
Authors: Leong Alvin Ping
Published: January 2024

Differences between science writing and humanities writing often appear as glosses in guidebooks, but empirical studies comparing these two genres of writing are uncommon. This study investigated the use of a highlighting mechanism – the Hallidayan notion of the marked Theme (MT) – to understand how the sciences and humanities foreground contextual information, and what this implies about the nature of writing in these two broad disciplines. The corpus comprised 80 research articles, 40 each from the sciences and humanities. MTs were analyzed for their grammatical forms and functions using the Hallidayan framework. The findings revealed that while both genres of writing had roughly the same proportions of MTs used, they differed in their use of thematized clauses. More non-finite clauses were found in science writing, and more finite clauses in humanities writing. Science writing favored the use of Cause MTs, whereas humanities writing used more Contingency and Angle MTs. These findings suggest that science writing values brevity and authorial presence. Humanities writing, by contrast, prefers a more elaborate writing style, with a focus on establishing the conditions needed for the authors’ interpretations, and integrating the viewpoints from other scholars. Suggestions for further research involving other disciplines and multi-disciplinary fields of study are recommended.
Application of Disease-Specific Knowledge in the Rehabilitation Process – Based on the Effects of Back School Program among Chinese Adults
Authors:   ,   PTE ETK Egészségtudományi Doktori Iskola, Zhe Wang
Published: January 2024

Low back pain (LBP) is a symptom that affects health globally and involves people of all ages. The increased sedentary behavior in modern life has also raised the risk of developing LBP. The Back School program (BSP), an intervention for LBP, has gained recognition for its efficacy in many countries. However, fewer studies have reported on the application of BSP in East Asia. This thesis focuses on applying disease-specific knowledge in the rehabilitation process of LBP. It contains three sections: (1) the cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the simplified Chinese version of the LBP knowledge questionnaire among 428 people; (2) the effects of the BSP on 11 participants’ physical performance, knowledge of LBP, physical activity, and disability of life; (3) looking back at the history over the past 41 years of LBP self-efficacy and investigating future trends and frontiers. This thesis verified the reliability and validity of the simplified Chinese version of the Low Back Pain Knowledge Questionnaire, applied this disease-specific knowledge questionnaire as one of the measurement tools to the BSP, and found the effectiveness and limitations of the Chinese BSP in clinical work. Meanwhile, the research application and development of self-efficacy in LBP were obtained in bibliometric analysis, and the forefront of this field was predicted.
Chronic, Reusable, Multiday Neuropixels Recordings during Free-Moving Operant Behavior
Authors: Song Zhimin , Alpers Abigail , Warner Kasey , Iacobucci Francesca , Hoskins Eric , Disterhoft John F. , Voss Joel L. , Widge Alik S.
Published: January 2024

Electrophysiological recording is a powerful technique to examine neuronal substrates underlying cognition and behavior. Neuropixels probes provide a unique capacity to capture neuronal activity across many brain areas with high spatiotemporal resolution. Neuropixels are also expensive and optimized for acute, head-fixed use, both of which limit the types of behaviors and manipulations that can be studied. Recent advances have addressed the cost issue by showing chronic implant, explant, and reuse of Neuropixels probes, but the methods were not optimized for use in free-moving behavior. There were specific needs for improvement in cabling/connection stability. Here, we extend that work to demonstrate chronic Neuropixels recording, explant, and reuse in a rat model during fully free-moving operant behavior. Similar to prior approaches, we house the probe and headstage within a 3D-printed housing that avoids direct fixation of the probe to the skull, enabling eventual explant. We demonstrate innovations to allow chronic headstage connection with protection against environmental factors and a more stable cabling setup to reduce the tension that can interrupt recording. We demonstrate this approach with rats performing two different behavioral tasks, in each case showing: (1) chronic single- or dual-probe recordings in free-moving rats in operant chambers and (2) reusability of Neuropixels 1.0 probes with continued good single-unit yield after retrieval and reimplant. We thus demonstrate the potential for Neuropixels recordings in a wider range of species and preparations.
Characterisation of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete: Ductility and Service Life
Authors: Lok Guan Jacob Lim , Too Yi Yang , Teh Brice Joo Wei , Kum Yung Juan
Published: January 2024

Plain concrete is a brittle material with low tensile strain and strength capacities. Steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC) has gained prominence as an innovative construction material, offering improved tensile and flexural properties over conventional concrete. Singapore Standards, “SS 674: Fiber concrete- Design of fiber concrete structures” just launched recently to offers a comprehensive structure for enhancing comprehension of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete. This study presents a comprehensive characterization of SFRC, focusing on both its mechanical properties particularly residual strength. Following this, a series of experimental works are conducted to assess the residual tensile strength under flexural loading behavior of SFRC specimens. Examining the tensile strength and residual strength of SFRC to assess its material strength and behaviour after being subjected to a load will help engineers comprehend the material's strengths and weaknesses. At 40 kg/m3 fibers content shows an increase of residual strength with a strain hardening behaviour observed as compared to the 20 kg/m3 and 30 kg/m3 fibers content.  In conclusion, this study offers a holistic characterisation of SFRC, encompassing mechanical properties with higher residual strength. The outcomes provide scientific understanding and practical insights of SFRC for engineers and practitioners seeking to optimise the use of SFRC to enhance structural longevity and reduce maintenance costs.
The Impacts of Quality Management Success Factors on the Quality Performance of Construction Projects in the Lake Chad Basin
Authors: Shehu Suleiman , Rabiu Shehu
Published: January 2024

In the Lake Chad Basin, the drivers of poor-quality performance of construction projects are multi-dimensional, which are compounded with issues related to insecurity and climate change. In the North-Eastern region of Nigeria, an estimated US$ 3.3 Billion was the cost of damages to housing and other public building infrastructures, with an estimated US$ 1.2 Billion needed for reconstruction and repairs to the damaged infrastructures due to activities of various terrorist organizations. Therefore, there is need to deliver projects of high standards as well as to device means to continuously assess their performance throughout the project life-cycle. Hence, this survey examined: the relative impacts of quality management success factors, and determined their effects on the quality performances of construction projects in the region. The study is limited in scope to the Anglophone speaking part of the region. A total of 80 questionnaires were distributed using both a convenience and snowball sampling techniques to the available respondents, ably represented by construction professionals with vast knowledge and years of working experience in the Nigeria’s state of Yobe, being a frontline state in the Lake Chad Basin, and 59 of the questionnaires were successfully retrieved, and analysis was done with the aid of SPSS, a social science analysis software. Findings indicates that, the quality management success factors with the highest relative severity index on the quality performance are: project manager’s previous work experience and supervision skills; project manager’s technical competence and good leadership skills; taking appropriate security measures on project site; project planning, monitoring and evaluation; project team technical capabilities; completeness and consistency of design document; and clear and well detailed contract documents. The quality management success factors will have an overall 59.7% significant cause-effects influence on the quality performances of construction projects in the region. Further findings revealed that, the most significantly impacted quality performance measures, are: minimal or absence of rework; time taking in rectifying defective components and services; satisfaction by end users’, customers and stakeholders; absence of observable defects after project completion; cost of rectifying defective components and services. This study has added to the existing body of knowledge, and has succeeded in bringing to light quality management success factors that are peculiar and applicable to areas devasted with challenges of insecurity and climate change.
Factors Influencing the use of MRT service in Klang Valley, Malaysia
Authors: Hamidun Rizati , Sarani Rohayu , Mhd Yunin Nor Aznirahani , Mohd Zulkiffli Nora Sheda , Roslan Azzuhana , Ho Jen Sim
Published: January 2024

Mass Rapid Transit, also known as MRT, was introduced by the Malaysian government as an alternative transport mode to address issues related to congestion and road traffic crashes as well as improve public transportation connectivity. Alternative transport modes may not be successful in attracting road users to shift their mode from private if the service provided fails to meet the users’ expectations. Therefore, there is a need to investigate the factors that influence the modal shift to MRT, which could potentially increase its ridership and reduce congestion as well as risk on the road. Thus, this study aimed to identify the factors influencing the use of MRT service in Klang Valley. The factors influencing the users’ decision to modal shift from private vehicles to MRT upon completion of the MRT SBK line were measured through a face-to-face questionnaire survey comprising three sections asking for the respondents’ demographic information, their trip profile, and their MRT usage experience. Based on the MRT usage experience, the respondents were given the choice of answers based on the 5-point Likert scale to rate the 19 factor-related statements indicating the factors that encourage the users to use MRT. Using exploratory factor analysis, four dimensions were identified to explain 19 statements: service quality, travel satisfaction, travel value, and connecting facility. Further analysis using the Rasch model was carried out to measure the reliability and validity of the 19 statements indicating the factors influencing the use of MRT based on the 500 respondents received. Analysis of the results indicated that the most influential factors that encourage people to shift their mode of transportation from private to MRT include the convenience of MRT service, cost, and time. Findings of this study support the idea that MRT is a good transport choice with minimal exposure to road crashes. Results from the reliability and validity test also suggested increasing the diversity of respondents since the value of respondents’ separation is only slightly good enough.
Estimating Sediment Yield at Sungai Pusu Watershed using Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) Model
Authors: Abdullah Najihah Hakimah , Saerahany Legori Ibrahim  , Mohd Rosli Nur Aqilah , Handan Rabitah , Mohd Zamri
Published: January 2024

Sediment yield is the net result of soil erosion and sediment deposition processes. In the watershed, sediment yields are dominantly determined by stream flow, drainage area, and channel size. Land-use activity conducted by human is one of the major contributions to the sediment yield in the watershed. The study area covered in this study is the Sungai Pusu which flows through International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).  Significant amount of sediments is deposited in Sungai Pusu due to the improper land clearing activities that are taking place along the river’s main tributaries. As a result, the water quality of Sungai Pusu is rapidly deteriorating. Sediment yield estimation is crucial in order to design suitable measure to rehabilitate the river. The aim of this study is to estimate sediment yield at Sungai Pusu watershed using SWAT model. Remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) were used to evaluate sedimentation over time in the Sungai Pusu watershed. The SWAT model was performed to simulate water balance, stream flow, and sediment yield. The annual sediment yield obtained by the model is 427-ton ha-1 year-1.
Impact of Deep Seawater on the Electrochemical Corrosion Performance of Hypoeutectic, Eutectic and Hypereutectic Al-Si Automotive Alloys
Authors: Khan Akib Abdullah , Hossain Al-Kabir , Kaiser Mohammad Salim
Published: January 2024

Corrosion of aluminum alloys is a significant concern for shipbuilders to ensure the longevity of ocean vessels and equipment. Hence, the study aims to evaluate the corrosion performance of Al-Si as automotive alloys with varying concentrations of Si in deep seawater using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization techniques. The surface condition prior to corrosion, as well as after corrosion, is analyzed using optical and scanning electron microscopy. The entire test is performed at an ambient condition. The results demonstrate that the corrosion resistance improves in alloys with increasing amounts of Si near the eutectic level, after which the corrosion protection deteriorates. Higher Si concentrations show higher values for polarization resistance and open circuit potential. In contrast, corrosion current and corrosion rate values decrease with increasing Si concentration up to eutectic composition. Si assists the formation of SiO2 and MgO films through Mg2Si intermetallics along with the Al2O3 on the surfaces, which aids in corrosion resistance. Optical and scanning electron micrographs reveal the presence of films on the surfaces after corrosion, which exhibit pits and pinholes on the surfaces of the alloys with lower Si concentrations. Hypereutectic alloy is affected by corrosion of its pinhole-like defects. The corresponding EDS analysis also confirms the protective layer of different oxides on the surfaces.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF WAREHOUSE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (WMS) TO IMPROVE WAREHOUSE PERFORMANCE IN BUSINESS TO BUSINESS (B2B)
Authors: Shanmugamani Karishma , Mohamad Fazeeda
Published: January 2024

As one of the key steps in the manufacturing supply chain, warehousing is in the position of controlling inventories. The success of realised goods movements can often be measured by how well warehouse activities are carried out. The goal of this study is to identify the problems with inventory management in warehouses and to install WMS to enhance inventory control in a warehouse setting.  In industries such as manufacturing and other forms of production, efficient warehousing and management of inventory is essential. A systematic evaluation is used throughout the literature to investigate warehouse operational challenges and how they impact performance measures. As clients develop increasingly sophisticated and require precise, safe, and rapid information communication, this study develops and comprehends the usage of technological advances to support the business and incorporate trustworthiness, control, and flexibility into the daily operations of warehouses. The main goal of this study was to enhance the work management system of the organisation. The outcomes from this study offer a few helpful suggestions on applying WMS practises within the organisation.
Advancing balancing machine technology: A cost-effective solution for laboratory and small-medium enterprises
Authors: Hassan Mohd Firdaus , Mohd Sanosi Syazani , Othman Ja'afar , Mohamad Yusoff Mohd Shahrul Azmi
Published: January 2024

Small-medium enterprises (SMEs) that provide maintenance services to power plant companies, notably on rotor components, encounter a significant challenge in balancing. The main concern is the high cost associated with outsourcing balancing services. The absence of portable balancing machines requires transporting components back to the workshop, resulting in substantial downtime lasting weeks before reinstallation. This paper presents a DIY-compatible balancing machine design and its assembly process, which can be applied to various balancing processes. The design primarily emphasizes mechanical aspects, excluding measurement and instrumentation components, which can be obtained or developed based on the user's software proficiency. The actual expenditure for developing this balancing machine is approximately RM11,698.00. In the development process, benchmarking, concept scoring, functionality evaluations, dynamic analysis, and ideation for workable balancing machine concepts were all involved. The modal analysis demonstrates that the first natural frequency at 279.5 Hz (equivalent to 16,770 rpm) is significantly higher than the motor's excitation frequency, which reaches a maximum speed of around 2800 rpm (46.67 Hz). This result indicates that the dynamic behaviour of the balancing machine does not significantly affect the dynamic results of the rotor balancing process.
Effect of Waterjet Cleaning Parameters During Paint Removal Operation on Automotive Steel Components
Authors: Mat Nawi M.N. , Alzaghir A.F. , Husin H. , Gebremariam M.A. , Mohd Azhari M.A
Published: January 2024

The automotive industry is expanding quickly, and each year, many vehicles are produced with beautiful paints. Increases in the number of end-of-life or old vehicles will occur as a result of uncontrolled growth in the number of manufactured vehicles. Recycling car parts is therefore necessary in the automotive industry specially to beautify the appearance of old vehicles with new paint. Waterjet cleaning is one of the most contemporary techniques frequently employed to guarantee uniform paint removal with no secondary pollutions. Study on waterjet cleaning parameters mostly focuses on pressure, traverse rate, and standoff distance. However, there are other new parameters associated with waterjet cleaning process namely number of cleaning passes and overlap rate which shows improvement in paint removal but lack in literature reviews. In the present study, paint is removed using the abrasive waterjet (AWJ) and plain waterjet (PWJ) paint removal techniques from parts made for automobiles in order to examine cleaning characteristics such as effectiveness and surface roughness. The findings indicated that AWJ cleaning process was more effective at cleaning than PWJ, which had a smaller cleaning capacity. However, AWJ cleaning process resulted in a rougher surface due to complete removal of paints as well as erosion of the substrate material. A better control of AWJ cleaning process may result in more efficient of paint removal without damaging the substrate material.
Influence of Clad Layer Thickness of Aluminium Alloy by Friction Surface Cladding Process
Authors: Yusoff N.I. , Sulaiman L.H.
Published: January 2024

Friction Surface Cladding (FSC) is a process that enables the deposition of clad material on a substrate through a hollow rotating tool to create thin clad layers at sufficiently high temperatures. Heat is produced during the cladding process by friction at the tool-clad layer and the substrate. This study focus on the influence of clad layer thickness of aluminium alloy AA2024 at the control process temperature around 300℃ to 350℃. The material used is AA2024-T4 for the clad layer and AA2024-T351 for the substrate.  A thermal model is built using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.0 and Heat Transfer in Solid (ht) with time-dependent study is used to study the heat transformation as well as optimize the rotational speed at different clad layer thicknesses. The major finding in this study indicates that the heat generated is proportional to the clad layer thickness.  The highest heat transformation can be seen at the cladding region between the cladding rod and the substrate and the temperature reaches a maximum of 333.95℃.
Application of Modified Adaptive Bats Sonar Algorithm with Doppler Effect and Levy Flight (MABSA-DELF) to Optimize Mechanical Engineering Problems
Authors: Ab Rahman Nur Naajihah , Mat Yahya Nafrizuan , Amin Mohd Haziq Na'im , Mohamed Azmi Nur Iffah
Published: January 2024

This paper describes the application of the Modified Adaptive Bats Sonar Algorithm with Doppler Effect and Levy Flight (MABSA-DELF) to mechanical engineering design optimization issues. MABSA-DELF is a new algorithm that employs Doppler Effect and Levy Flight theory to improve the position of the transmitted bats’ beam. This project served as a showcase for the superior performance of MABSA-DELF. It was created using the MATLAB software’s computer simulation method. MABSA-DELF demonstrated a superior ability to solve engineering design problems in the fields of business, mechanical/manufacturing engineering, and electrical engineering. MABSA-DELF’s result are compared to those of other established algorithms.
Identification of Transfer Function to Model Brush Temperature of a Small DC Machine at No-Load
Authors: Mat Jahak Muhammad Syawal , Ishak Ismayuzri , Puteh Suhaimi , Sutiman  , Adiyasa I. Wayan
Published: January 2024

Using temperature measurement to provide insight into the health condition of an electrical machine at any operating point could be possible if a baseline temperature of the machine could be modelled in real-time and compared to the actual current temperature. In this study, transfer functions are being identified to be used as a baseline temperature response model for a small DC machine. As a preliminary study, the transfer functions are identified using experimental data of temperature responses at several no-load speed step inputs. The order of transfer function tested was between a range from 0 to 4. The third order transfer function was found to be the best followed by the first order transfer function with a model MSE error of less than 0.41 and 0.65 respectively. The slight variation on the poles of the system indicates that the thermal system of the electrical machine does not obey exactly the LTI hypothesis.
Haptic Feedback Wristband for Tactile Graphics Reader
Authors: Shamsul Bahrin Muhammad Ikmal Hakim , Khairul Anuar Nabilah Atiqah , Md Yusof Hazlina , Sidek Shahrul Na’im , Ghazali Aimi Shazwani , Burihan Siti Suhaila , Abdul Rahman Abdul Ghaffar , Ahmad Salim Muspirah
Published: January 2024

Traditionally, blind and visually impaired (BVI) readers face challenges in interpreting tactile graphics due to the need for specialized skills, training, and often external assistance. Existing audio feedback systems also present limitations, including susceptibility to surrounding noise and imprecise guidance. Therefore, this paper presents the design of an assistive device for tactile graphics reader using a haptic feedback system. This device takes the form of a digital watch with an adjustable strap, ensuring compatibility with various wrist sizes. It incorporates four strategically placed vibrating mini-motor discs that deliver directional signals to the user's hand through precise vibrations, guiding their exploration towards the area of interest on the tactile graphic. Pilot testing involving blindfolded sighted readers was conducted to assess the effectiveness of this haptic feedback wristband. The results of the testing revealed that participants could successfully discern direction cues and distinguish varying levels of vibration intensity. Notably, the success rates exceeded 70% for navigation and 85% for vibration intensity recognition.
A PID-Controlled Approach in the Design of a Physiotherapy Robot for Upper Arm Rehabilitation
Authors: Lau Ngee Bing , Mohd Khairuddin Ismail
Published: January 2024

The main objective to develop controller for the rebab robot, therefore to achieve the main objective, the subsequent objective is to formulate the mathematical modelling of 2 DOF of upper arm, to develop upper arm rebab robot, evaluate the performance of the controller and facilitate the creation of new and more improved devices for physiotherapy robot ; therefore, this research will investigate rehabilitation robots, it have shown a high potential for improving the patient’s mobility, improving their functional movements and assisting in daily activities. However, this technology is still an emerging field and suffers from several challenges like compliance control and dynamic uncertain caused by the human–robot collaboration. The main challenge addressed in this thesis is to develop a controller to the rehab robot and formulate the mathematical modelling of 2 DOF of upper arm. Ensure that the exoskeleton robot provides a suitable compliance control that allows it to cooperate perfectly with humans even if the dynamic model of the exoskeleton robot is uncertain. The PID controller is a widely used control algorithm that aims to regulate a system's output by continuously adjusting its input. In the context of a two-degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) robot arm, the PID controller plays a crucial role in achieving precise and accurate arm movements. The Proportional-Integral-Derivative (PID) controller employs three main components to achieve control: proportional, integral, and derivative terms.
El erotismo como transgresión escritural: una lectura de tres cuentos centroamericanos
Authors: Calderón-Sánchez Estefanía
Published: January 2024

Dentro de la historiografía centroamericana, el erotismo ha sido un tema que, en contraposición con otros como la reinterpretación del discurso histórico, no cuenta con una cantidad considerable de estudios comparativosque permitan comprender su desarrollo y sus diferentes acercamientos. Con este indicio, el artículo, en aras de enriquecer las discusiones académicas, se centra en dicha temática en cuentos centroamericanos escritos por mujeres, aspecto que en las últimas décadas ha venido tomando un lugar trascendental dentro de los estudios literarios. Específicamente, el análisis parte de textos publicados en el presente siglo y que no han sido estudiados a profundidad por la crítica literaria: “La primera vez” (2002) de la costarricense Linda Berrón, “Diosas decadentes” (2001) de la guatemalteca Jessica Masaya Portocarrero y “Bicho raro” (2012) de la nicaragüense María del Carmen Pérez Cuadra.
“Entre Verlaine y el buey de este trapiche”: poesía de Alfredo Sancho
Authors: Fuentes Belgrave Laura
Published: January 2024

La sección de literatura de la edición n.° 33 presenta poesía de la obra muy poco divulgada y estudiada de Alfredo Sancho, poeta y dramaturgo costarricense, quien nació el 16 de abril de 1924 y falleció en México en 1990. Según el académico y poeta Carlos Rafael Duverrán, Sancho perteneció a la primera generación vanguardista, o generación perdida (1917-1927) de la literatura en Costa Rica, país donde fundó el Teatro Universitario (1951), el Experimental de Costa Rica (1953), el Teatro de la Prensa (1956) y el Instituto Nacional de Artes Dramáticas (1961).

Del libro Cantera bruta (1965), antología de poesía de Alfredo Sancho, con ilustraciones y texto en la contraportada del connotado artista Francisco Amighetti, también costarricense, se reproducen los siguientes poemas, cuya luz singularísima poetiza la cotidianidad y “comunica su espíritu, para adherirse a un sistema de expresiones que está más allá de la lingüística”, tal como fue descrita su obra por la escritora Yolanda Oreamuno.
Actividad citotóxica y antiproliferativa de un extracto rico en fucoidan de Lessonia trabeculata sobre células de adenocarcinoma mamario murino 4T1
Authors: Toccas-Salas Mary , Alzamora-Gonzales Libertad , Colona-Vallejos Erasmo , Escobar-Guzmán Enrique , Chávez Jorge A. , Apumayta Eder V.
Published: January 2024

Los tumores neoplásicos se caracterizan por su invasividad y metástasis. Las células neoplásicas tienen heterogeneidad genética, por lo cual pueden desarrollar resistencia a los quimioterápicos. Por esta razón, las plantas continúan siendo una fuente importante de nuevos productos anticancerígenos. Objetivo. Evaluar la actividad citotóxica y antiproliferativa de un extracto rico en fucoidan de Lessonia trabeculata nativa (EFLt) sobre la línea celular de adenocarcinoma mamario murino, triple negativo 4T1. Métodos. La citotoxicidad y la IC50 se determinaron en monocapas de 4T1 empleando el reactivo MTT. Para demostrar la actividad antiproliferativa se aplicaron los métodos de cierre de herida y anticlonogénico utilizando las IC50 del EFLt y Dox (doxorubicina). El cierre de herida fue evaluado mediante barrido de tiempos discretos; el efecto anticlonogénico fue evaluado 7 días postratamiento mediante el conteo de colonias y se determinó la fracción de sobrevivencia. Adicionalmente, se evaluaron la citotoxicidad y actividad antiproliferativa combinando las IC50 de EFLt y Dox. El porcentaje de migración y conteo de colonias se realizó con el programa ImageJ. Resultados. La IC50 del EFLt (950 μg/mL) produjo 56% de citotoxicidad, 80,3% de inhibición de la migración celular, 68% de inhibición en la formación de colonias. La IC50 de Dox fue 0,5 μg/mL. Conclusiones. El EFLt ejerce citotoxicidad dependiente de la concentración y tiene efecto antiproliferativo sobre 4T1. Se requiere continuar los ensayos en modelos de mayor complejidad que permitan esclarecer el potencial antitumoral del EFLt.
Efectividad de la cuarentena durante la primera y segunda ola de COVID-19: un estudio de corte transversal y temporal
Authors: Arroyo-Laguna Juan
Published: January 2024

Introducción. La principal estrategia para enfrentar la pandemia del COVID-19 fue la cuarentena. Cierta literatura admite su utilidad; en cambio otra resalta los perjuicios y riesgos que conlleva la aplicación de esta medida. Objetivo. Utilizando cortes semanales y mensuales de defunciones de la primera y segunda ola del COVID-19, se evaluó la utilidad de la cuarentena en Perú en términos de adherencia y efectividad a nivel provincial. Métodos. Tomando como dependiente el número de casos de fallecidos en cada provincia se estimó el efecto de la movilidad según distintos tipos de lugares y otras covariables sobre la variable de interés. Se utilizó información del Centro Nacional de Epidemiología, Prevención y Control de Enfermedades del Ministerio de Salud (CDC – MINSA); la Plataforma Nacional de Datos Abiertos (PCM – MINSA); la data de la Superintendencia Nacional de Salud (SUSALUD); e información agregada de Google Analytics. Para estimar la efectividad se construyó un modelo de efectos fijos. Resultados. En la estimación mensual, durante la primera y segunda ola de COVID-19, las covariables y la mayoría de las tendencias de la movilidad de las personas resultaron significativas. En la segunda ola la movilidad en parques, supermercados y farmacias perdieron relevancia. En la estimación semanal solo la disponibilidad de oxígeno no fue relevante en la segunda ola; las demás variables independientes sí lo fueron. Conclusiones. La estrategia sanitaria de la cuarentena, tanto en la estimación mensual como en la semanal, no tuvo la efectividad esperada, aunque lograra adherencia en su cumplimiento.
Determinación de transgenicidad y verificación en el etiquetado de alimentos industrializados de maíz en centros de expendio de Lima metropolitana
Authors: Vergaray Germán , Méndez Carmen Rosa , Guevara José María Miguel , Gamboa Roger Aníbal , Béjar Vilma Ruth
Published: January 2024

El consumo de alimentos transgénicos constituye un riesgo potencial para la salud. Sin embargo, en el Perú se carece de información actualizada y confiable sobre la presencia de transgénicos en los alimentos y sobre los datos pertinentes en su etiquetado; de igual manera sobre los alimentos que consumen los animales de abasto, cuyos productos van a ser ingeridos por el humano. Objetivo. Determinar la transgenicidad, mediante la detección del promotor 35S, en productos alimenticios industrializados de maíz para consumo humano y animal, que se comercializan en Lima y verificar sí en el etiquetado se menciona si contiene o no secuencias transgénicas. Métodos. Se analizaron 30 muestras de alimentos para consumo humano y 10 para consumo de animales de abasto; y se revisó el etiquetado. Para la extracción del ADN se utilizó el kit Dneasy Mericon Food, para la detección del P35S el método Real Time-PCR empleando el kit Mericon Screen 35S y para determinar la concentración de copias el kit Mericon Quant Mon 810. Resultados. Se detectó el P35S en el 66,66% de las muestras para consumo humano, y en el 90,00% de las muestras para consumo animal. En el etiquetado del 100% de las muestras para consumo humano y animal no se menciona si contiene o no componentes transgénicos. Conclusiones. La detección de contenido transgénico en la mayoría de los alimentos industrializados de maíz para humanos y animales evidencian la necesidad de su mención en el etiquetado y de la implementación de una política exigente en bioseguridad alimentaria.
Glomeruloesclerosis focal y segmentaria post vacuna COVID-19
Authors: Arellan-Bravo Luis , León-Gonzales Robert , Chávez-Bustamante Sarai G. , Cerrón Ventocilla Katterine Jhanet , Asato-Higa Carmen
Published: January 2024

La vacuna contra el SARS-CoV-2 ha demostrado eficacia comprobada para el control de la enfermedad, sin embargo, aún se encuentra en estudio los efectos adversos no comunes debido a esta terapia, algunos de tipo renal. Se plantea que una respuesta inmunológica no adecuada podría ser la causa de enfermedades glomerulares asociada a la vaEcunación. Se reporta el caso de una paciente de 26 años, sin antecedentes de importancia, recibió la inmunidad por la vacuna de SARS-CoV-2 (Sinopharm), posterior a ello inició con proteinuria en rango nefrótico (proteinuria: 24gr en 24 horas), además tuvo albúmina de 2,36 mg/dL y tuvo prueba COVID-19 negativo. Se le realizó biopsia renal con guía ecográfica, con resultado anatomo-patológico de glomeruloesclerosis focal y segmentaria, variante de punta, observándose 17 glomérulos. La paciente fue hospitalizada y recibió inmunosupresión con pulsos de metilprednisolona, prednisona vía oral (1mg/kg/día), atorvastatina (20mg/día), antiagregación plaquetaria con AAS (100mg/día), omeprazol (20mg/día) y profilaxis con trimetoprima-sulfametoxazol. Dos semanas después, la paciente, tuvo una baja de peso (10 kg) y los edemas disminuyeron notoriamente. Cuatro semanas de iniciar el tratamiento, presentó proteinuria < 500 mg/día, la cual al momento se encuentra en valores normales. Es posible el desarrollo de una glomeruloesclerosis focal y segmentaria de novo, tras la administración de la vacuna contra el SARS-CoV-2, y que respondió al uso de corticoides.
Interferencia generada por la lipemia en la medición de constituyentes bioquímicos
Authors: Saldaña-Orejón Italo Moisés , Donayre Medina Pierina Cecilia , Carrillo Atahualpa Rosa Luz , Magallanes Sebastian Martin Gaspar , Aranda Dextre Carmen Cristina
Published: January 2024

La turbidez por lipemia en las muestras para diagnóstico es una de las principales causas de la aparición de sesgos clínicamente significativos en la medición de magnitudes bioquímicas. Objetivo. Valorar la interferencia por lipemia en la medición de 25 constituyentes bioquímicos en dos analizadores con tecnología de química seca (Vitros 7600®) y química liquida (Atellica® Solution). Métodos. Estudio pre-experimental con pre y posprueba. Se añadieron cantidades crecientes de una emulsión lipídica de nutrición parenteral a siete alícuotas de una mezcla de sueros y se determinó por duplicado la influencia del interferente en 25 constituyentes. Se calculó el porcentaje relativo de desviación de la concentración del constituyente por influencia de la turbidez con respecto a una muestra sin interferente. Se establecieron límites de tolerancia para la interferencia utilizando tres criterios: del distribuidor de reactivos, del error sistemático deseable y del error máximo admisible. Resultados. Los constituyentes que presentaron los mayores sesgos para el analizador de química liquida fueron: fósforo (-84,72%), ALT (+81,25%) y AST (-75,76%), mientras que para la plataforma de química seca los constituyentes: ALT (-79,41%), CK (-28,92%) y lipasa (+24,85%). Se detectó interferencia significativa en diferente número de los constituyentes de acuerdo con el criterio de límite tolerable utilizado. Conclusiones. Los distintos resultados encontrados según la metodología y el analizador utilizado, además de la falta de replicabilidad de los ensayos para la valoración de interferencia por lipemia, origina la necesidad de armonizar los procesos e instaurar límites idénticos de interferencia tolerables entre los laboratorios y proveedores de insumos.
Pancreatoduodenectomía laparoscópica híbrida: resultado en paciente obeso con adenocarcinoma duodenal
Authors: Reaño Gustavo , Carrasco Félix , Revoredo Fernando , Ludeña Wuilber , La Rosa Armando , Guzmán-Calderón Edson
Published: January 2024

La cirugía pancreática mínimamente invasiva sigue ampliando sus indicaciones de manera lenta pero constante. Su aplicación en pacientes obesos y/o con neoplasias periampulares es controversial por la elevada tasa de complicaciones reportada en esta población. Presentamos un paciente de sexo masculino de 62 años, obeso (IMC 35,4 Kg/m2), hipertenso y diabético que desarrolla anemia severa (Hb = 4,9 g/dl) por adenocarcinoma de segunda porción duodenal. El estadiaje por imágenes verifica enfermedad localizada. El paciente fue sometido a pancreatoduodenectomia híbrida (resección laparoscópica/reconstrucción abierta por minilaparotomía). Se describe técnica operatoria y evolución postoperatoria. El paciente cursó sin complicaciones mayores (pancreatitis aguda moderada), el tiempo operatorio fue 540 minutos, el volumen de sangrado 400 ml, requirió la transfusión de 1 unidad de paquete globular y estancia de 8 días. No tuvo intercurrencias durante 90 días después de la cirugía. Se concluye que la pancreatoduodenectomía híbrida es una alternativa factible y segura en pacientes obesos con adenocarcinoma duodenal, ofrece ventajas en la reducción del trauma quirúrgico.
La ocupación del Horizonte Temprano Tardío (400- 200 a.C.) en Huanchaco: vida cotidiana y prácticas ceremoniales
Authors: Prieto Gabriel
Published: January 2024

This paper discusses the domestic and ceremonial occupations during the late Early Horizon in Huanchaco, Moche Valley, North Coast of Peru. A description of the domestic units and their subsistence strategies is presented. The latter includes the exploitation of marine resources, the intense consumption of maize, and the first introduction of camelids in Huanchaco. Ceremonial practices were carried out at the domestic level and in unique buildings shaping “U” shape enclosures, where the dead was also buried. This paper also discusses the emergence of social differentiation among the Huanchaco population during this period and evidence of short, medium, and long-distance trade.
Severity and spectacle in Andean warfare
Authors: Arkush Elizabeth
Published: January 2024

Warfare in the Andes varied greatly in intensity, form and aims. It was also laden with meanings alluded to in iconography, symbolism, and war-related ceremonies. While Andeanists have sometimes proposed that some forms of war were “ritualized” and others “secular,” this dichotomy does not adequately capture the variety of Andean conflict, nor does it correspond well to the comparative ethnographic record. Are there better ways to understand and explain variation in Andean warfare? This paper summarizes the main argument from Arkush (2022b) in a condensed form to address this question.