bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Laser Scanning Speed and Fine Shot Peening on Pore Characteristics, Hardness, and Residual Stress of Ti-6Al-4V Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Ratanapongpien Kanawat , Khantachawana Anak , Kondoh Katsuyoshi
Published: February 2024

There is a concern regarding sub-surface pores within laser powder bed fusion of Ti-6Al-4V, which can initiate cracks and reduce mechanical properties, especially after machining for surface finishing. This study investigated the effect of laser scanning speed and fine shot peening on the pore characteristics, hardness, and residual stress of Ti-6Al-4V fabricated by laser powder bed fusion using scanning electron microscopy, X-ray micro-computed tomography, Vickers hardness, and X-ray diffraction. As the laser scanning speed increased, the number of pores and pore size increased, which reduced the hardness of Ti-6Al-4V. Most pores were less than 20 µm in size and randomly distributed. The fine shot peening generated plastic deformation and compressive residual stress on the surface, leading to higher hardness, with similar surface properties at all scanning speeds. The depth of compressive residual stress by fine shot peening varied corresponding to the scanning speeds. Increasing the scanning speed accelerated the rate of conversion between the compressive and tensile residual stresses, and decreased the depth of the maximum hardness by the fine shot peening from initial tensile residual stress within Ti-6Al-4V fabricated by laser powder bed fusion, thus reducing the enhancement achieved by the fine shot peening.
Comprehensive Noise Modeling of Piezoelectric Charge Accelerometer with Signal Conditioning Circuit
Authors: Ali Ghulam , Mohd-Yasin Faisal
Published: February 2024

This paper reports on noise modeling of a piezoelectric charge accelerometer with a signal conditioning circuit. The charge output is converted into voltage and amplified using a JFET operational amplifier that has high input resistance and low noise. The noise sources in the whole system include electrical and mechanical thermal noises of the accelerometer, thermal noises of resistors, and voltage and current noises of the operational amplifier. Noise gain of each source is derived from small signal circuit analysis. It is found that the feedback resistor of the operational amplifier is a major source of noise in low frequencies, whereas electrical thermal noise of the accelerometer dominates the rest of spectrum. This method can be used to pair a highly sensitive sensor with a single JFET operational amplifier instead of a multi-stage signal conditioning circuit.
In Vivo Characterization of Intracortical Probes with Focused Ion Beam-Etched Nanopatterned Topographies
Authors: Duncan Jonathan L. , Wang Jaime J. , Glusauskas Gabriele , Weagraff Gwendolyn R. , Gao Yue , Hoeferlin George F. , Hunter Allen H. , Hess-Dunning Allison , Ereifej Evon S. , Capadona Jeffrey R.
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Intracortical microelectrodes (IMEs) are an important part of interfacing with the central nervous system (CNS) and recording neural signals. However, recording electrodes have shown a characteristic steady decline in recording performance owing to chronic neuroinflammation. The topography of implanted devices has been explored to mimic the nanoscale three-dimensional architecture of the extracellular matrix. Our previous work used histology to study the implant sites of non-recording probes and showed that a nanoscale topography at the probe surface mitigated the neuroinflammatory response compared to probes with smooth surfaces. Here, we hypothesized that the improvement in the neuroinflammatory response for probes with nanoscale surface topography would extend to improved recording performance. (2) Methods: A novel design modification was implemented on planar silicon-based neural probes by etching nanopatterned grooves (with a 500 nm pitch) into the probe shank. To assess the hypothesis, two groups of rats were implanted with either nanopatterned (n = 6) or smooth control (n = 6) probes, and their recording performance was evaluated over 4 weeks. Postmortem gene expression analysis was performed to compare the neuroinflammatory response from the two groups. (3) Results: Nanopatterned probes demonstrated an increased impedance and noise floor compared to controls. However, the recording performances of the nanopatterned and smooth probes were similar, with active electrode yields for control probes and nanopatterned probes being approximately 50% and 45%, respectively, by 4 weeks post-implantation. Gene expression analysis showed one gene, Sirt1, differentially expressed out of 152 in the panel. (4) Conclusions: this study provides a foundation for investigating novel nanoscale topographies on neural probes.
Mask-Moving-Lithography-Based High-Precision Surface Fabrication Method for Microlens Arrays
Authors: Gong Jianwen , Zhou Ji , Liu Junbo , Hu Song , Wang Jian , Sun Haifeng
Published: February 2024

Microlens arrays, as typical micro-optical elements, effectively enhance the integration and performance of optical systems. The surface shape errors and surface roughness of microlens arrays are the main indicators of their optical characteristics and determine their optical performance. In this study, a mask-moving-projection-lithography-based high-precision surface fabrication method for microlens arrays is proposed, which effectively reduces the surface shape errors and surface roughness of microlens arrays. The pre-exposure technology is used to reduce the development threshold of the photoresist, thus eliminating the impact of the exposure threshold on the surface shape of the microlens. After development, the inverted air bath reflux method is used to bring the microlens array surface to a molten state, effectively eliminating surface protrusions. Experimental results show that the microlens arrays fabricated using this method had a root mean square error of less than 2.8%, and their surface roughness could reach the nanometer level, which effectively improves the fabrication precision for microlens arrays.
Crafting a Rigorous, Clinically Relevant Large Animal Model of Chronic Myocardial Ischemia: What Have We Learned in 20 Years?
Authors: Stone Christopher R. , Harris Dwight D. , Broadwin Mark , Kanuparthy Meghamsh , Sabe Sharif A. , Xu Cynthia , Feng Jun , Abid M. Ruhul , Sellke Frank W.
Published: February 2024

The past several decades have borne witness to several breakthroughs and paradigm shifts within the field of cardiovascular medicine, but one component that has remained constant throughout this time is the need for accurate animal models for the refinement and elaboration of the hypotheses and therapies crucial to our capacity to combat human disease. Numerous sophisticated and high-throughput molecular strategies have emerged, including rational drug design and the multi-omics approaches that allow extensive characterization of the host response to disease states and their prospective resolutions, but these technologies all require grounding within a faithful representation of their clinical context. Over this period, our lab has exhaustively tested, progressively refined, and extensively contributed to cardiovascular discovery on the basis of one such faithful representation. It is the purpose of this paper to review our porcine model of chronic myocardial ischemia using ameroid constriction and the subsequent myriad of physiological and molecular–biological insights it has allowed our lab to attain and describe. We hope that, by depicting our methods and the insight they have yielded clearly and completely—drawing for this purpose on comprehensive videographic illustration—other research teams will be empowered to carry our work forward, drawing on our experience to refine their own investigations into the pathogenesis and eradication of cardiovascular disease.
Exploring the Implementation of GaAsBi Alloys as Strain-Reducing Layers in InAs/GaAs Quantum Dots
Authors: Braza Verónica , Fernández Daniel , Ben Teresa , Flores Sara , Bailey Nicholas James , Carr Matthew , Richards Robert , Gonzalez David
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates the effect of GaAsBi strain reduction layers (SRLs) on InAs QDs with different Bi fluxes to achieve nanostructures with improved temperature stability. The SRLs are grown at a lower temperature (370 °C) than the usual capping temperature for InAs QDs (510 °C). The study finds that GaAs capping at low temperatures reduces QD decomposition and leads to larger pyramidal dots but also increases the threading dislocation (TD) density. When adding Bi to the capping layer, a significant reduction in TD density is observed, but unexpected structural changes also occur. Increasing the Bi flux does not increase the Bi content but rather the layer thickness. The maximum Bi content for all layers is 2.4%. A higher Bi flux causes earlier Bi incorporation, along with the formation of an additional InGaAs layer above the GaAsBi layer due to In segregation from QD erosion. Additionally, the implementation of GaAsBi SRLs results in smaller dots due to enhanced QD decomposition, which is contrary to the expected function of an SRL. No droplets were detected on the surface of any sample, but we did observe regions of horizontal nanowires within the epilayers for the Bi-rich samples, indicating nanoparticle formation.
Bacterial Infections: Surveillance, Prevention and Control
Authors: Spagnolo Anna Maria
Published: February 2024

Bacteria play a vital role in maintaining human health, but they may also be responsible for many different serious infections and diseases [...]
Carbapenems as Antidotes for the Management of Acute Valproic Acid Poisoning
Authors: Perković Vukčević Nataša , Mijatović Jovin Vesna , Vuković Ercegović Gordana , Antunović Marko , Kelečević Igor , Živanović Dejan , Vučinić Slavica
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Valproic acid (VPA) is a broad-spectrum drug primarily used in the treatment of epilepsy and bipolar disorder. It is not an uncommon occurrence for VPA to cause intoxication. The established treatment of VPA poisoning includes supportive care, multiple doses of activated charcoal, levocarnitine and hemodialysis/hemoperfusion. There is a clinically significant interaction between carbapenem antibiotics and VPA. By affecting enterohepatic recirculation, carbapenems can increase the overall VPA clearance from the blood of intoxicated patients. It is suggested that carbapenems could successfully be used as antidotes in the treatment of acute VPA poisonings. The aim: To evaluate the effectiveness of carbapenems in the treatment of patients acutely poisoned by VPA. Patients and methods: This retrospective study included patients acutely poisoned by VPA and treated with carbapenems at the Department of Clinical Toxicology at the Military Medicinal Academy in Serbia for a two-year period. Results: After the admission, blood concentrations of VPA kept increasing, reaching their peak at 114–724 mg/L, while the mental state of the patients continued to decline, prompting a decision to introduce carbapenems. After the introduction of carbapenems, the concentrations of the drug dropped by 46–93.59% (average 72%) followed by rapid recovery of consciousness. Ten out of eleven patients had positive outcomes, while one patient died. The most commonly observed complication in our group of patients was bronchopneumonia. Conclusions: The application of carbapenems for the management of acute VPA poisoning might be a useful and effective treatment option.
The Autoxidized Mixture of (-)-Epicatechin Contains Procyanidins and Shows Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Activity in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Osorio-Cruz Yazmin , Olivares-Corichi Ivonne María , Correa-Basurto José , González-Garrido José Arnold , Pereyra-Vergara Fernando , Rivera Gildardo , García-Sánchez José Rubén
Published: February 2024

For this study, procyanidins generated through the autoxidation of (-)-epicatechin (Flavan-3-ol) under mildly acidic conditions (pH = 6.0) were characterized with ultra high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). Two procyanidins (types A and B) and a mix of oligomers were generated through the autoxidation of (-)-epicatechin. The antiproliferative activity of this mixture of procyanidins on MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-436, and MCF-7 breast cancer cells was evaluated. The results indicate that the procyanidin mixture inhibited the proliferation of breast cancer cells, where the activity of the procyanidin mixture was stronger than that of (-)-epicatechin. Moreover, the mechanism underlying the antiproliferative activity of procyanidins was investigated. The resulting data demonstrate that the procyanidins induced apoptotic cell death in a manner selective to cancerous cells. In particular, they caused the activation of intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways in the breast cancer cells. The findings obtained in this study demonstrate that the generation of procyanidins in vitro by the autoxidation of (-)-epicatechin has potential for the development of anti-breast cancer agents.
Foams Set a New Pace for the Release of Diclofenac Sodium
Authors: Falusi Fanni , Berkó Szilvia , Budai-Szűcs Mária , Veréb Zoltán , Kovács Anita
Published: February 2024

Medicated foams have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional carrier systems in pharmaceutical research. Their rapid and convenient application allows for effective treatment of extensive or hirsute areas, as well as sensitive or inflamed skin surfaces. Foams possess excellent spreading capabilities on the skin, ensuring immediate drug absorption without the need for intense rubbing. Our research focuses on the comparison of physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties of three drug delivery systems: foam, the foam bulk liquid, and a conventional hydrogel. During the development of the composition, widely used diclofenac sodium was employed. The safety of the formulae was confirmed through an in vitro cytotoxicity assay. Subsequently, the closed Franz diffusion cell was used to determine drug release and permeation in vitro. Ex vivo Raman spectroscopy was employed to investigate the presence of diclofenac sodium in various skin layers. The obtained results of the foam were compared to the bulk liquid and to a conventional hydrogel. In terms of drug release, the foam showed a rapid release, with 80% of diclofenac released within 30 min. In summary, the investigated foam holds promising potential as an alternative to traditional dermal carrier systems, offering faster drug release and permeation.
Subjunctivity
Authors: Morton Timothy , Balds Treena
Published: February 2024

We explore the value of the subjunctive mood as a template for understanding ethical action and the theological ontology that undergirds it. We do this by examining the use of a strange but very precisely used word in the writing of a theologian and minister and poet, Samuel Taylor Coleridge: "silly." We do so in the name of exploring the value of contingency, accidentality and abjection to a general theory of ecological thought.
Nanoscale Dots, Grids, Ripples, and Hierarchical Structures on PET by UV Laser Processing
Authors: Buchberger Gerda , Kührer Martin , Hesser Günter , Heitz Johannes
Published: February 2024

Nanostructures can be produced on poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) foils by using a krypton fluoride (KrF) excimer laser with a wavelength of 248 nm and a pulse duration of about 20 ns. We show that surface nanoripples, nanodots, nanogrids, and hybrid patterns of ripples with dots or finer ripples on top can be fabricated. The effects of a water layer in front of the PET foil and of cooling during laser processing were investigated. For pattern formation, several irradiation parameters (pulse number, pulse energy, and polarization) were varied systematically. The spatial periods of the ripples were changed by adjusting the angle of incidence of the laser beam. All nanostructures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, and relevant morphological parameters, such as peak-to-peak distances and spatial periods, were assessed. Shapes and heights of some structures were characterized by using focused ion beam cuts to avoid the tip-sample convolution effects typical of atomic force microscopy images. We further demonstrate nanoripple formation on PET foils as thin as 12 µm, 6 µm, and 1.4 µm. The remarkable variety of nanostructures on PET we present here enables customized fabrication for a wide range of applications.
Method of Analyzing Technological Data in Metric Space in the Context of Industry 4.0
Authors: Czerwińska Karolina , Pacana Andrzej
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this article was to develop a method of analyzing the manufacturing process with variables indicating product competitiveness and technological capabilities in metric space as a cognitive source. The presented method will facilitate the identification of key development factors within the manufacturing processes that have the greatest impact on the adaptation of the manufacturing enterprise to Industry 4.0. The presented method of manufacturing process analysis integrates a number of tools (SMART method, brainstorming, BOST analysis, 3 × 3 metrics) that enable the implementation of statistical analysis. The model developed makes it possible to apply known mathematical methods in areas new to them (adaptation in the manufacturing area), which makes it possible to use scientific information in a new way. The versatility of the method allows it to be used in manufacturing companies to identify critical factors in manufacturing processes. A test of the developed method was carried out in one of the foundry enterprises, which allowed us to build a series of importance factors affecting effective production management. The methodology is addressed to the management of manufacturing enterprises as a method to assist in analyzing data and building (on the basis of improved manufacturing processes) a competitive strategy.
Integration of Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Energy System Optimization
Authors: Li Guanglei , Luo Tengqi , Liu Ran , Song Chenchen , Zhao Congyu , Wu Shouyuan , Liu Zhengguang
Published: February 2024

In response to the urgent need to address climate change and reduce carbon emissions, there has been a growing interest in innovative approaches that integrate AI and CDR technology. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current state of research in this field and aims to highlight its potential implications with a clear focus on the integration of AI and CDR. Specifically, this paper outlines four main approaches for integrating AI and CDR: accurate carbon emissions assessment, optimized energy system configuration, real-time monitoring and scheduling of CDR facilities, and mutual benefits with mechanisms. By leveraging AI, researchers can demonstrate the positive impact of AI and CDR integration on the environment, economy, and energy efficiency. This paper also offers insights into future research directions and areas of focus to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and enhance economic viability in the integration of AI and CDR technology. It suggests improving modeling and optimization techniques, enhancing data collection and integration capabilities, enabling robust decision-making and risk assessment, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration for appropriate policy and governance frameworks, and identifying promising opportunities for energy system optimization. Additionally, this paper explores further advancements in this field and discusses how they can pave the way for practical applications of AI and CDR technology in real-world scenarios.
Evolution of Rheological and Microscopic Properties of Asphalt Binders under Fuel Corrosion
Authors: Lv Ming , Li Hongjun , Zhang Shiping , Liu Wenchang , Zhang Hongchao , Lin Hongwei , Sun Mutian
Published: February 2024

Vehicle fuel leaks can adversely affect the performance of asphalt pavements. To study the mechanisms of fuel corrosion damage in asphalt, four asphalt binders were selected in this study, and the evolution of their rheological and microscopic properties was investigated. Fuel corrosion caused continuous mass loss in asphalt binders. Base asphalt lost more than 50% of its mass after 24 h of fuel corrosion, while modified asphalts had better resistance. According to dynamic shear rheometer tests and multiple stress creep recovery tests, modifiers improved the high-temperature rheological properties of these asphalt binders. As the degree of fuel corrosion deepened, the indexes characterizing the high-temperature performance deteriorated. Rubber-modified asphalt showed the best resistance to high-temperature deformation, while the performance of LDPE-modified asphalt was more stable. In contrast, fuel corrosion improved the resistance of asphalt binders to low-temperature cracking to some extent: the creep strength (S) decreased as the creep rate (m) increased, and the resistance of SBS-modified asphalt to low-temperature cracking was optimal, with a 36% decrease in S-value after 24 h of fuel corrosion. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy tests showed that diesel corrosion was a process of this physical dissolution, with no change in the chemical functional groups. Meanwhile, by using fluorescence images and analyzing the four-component test results, we found that fuel corrosion disrupted the stabilized structure formed by the modifiers, and the heavy components in the asphalt binders were converted into light components. This study reveals the evolution of the rheological and microscopic properties of asphalt under fuel corrosion, which can provide a reference for the optimization of fuel corrosion resistance in asphalt pavement.
Effect of Initial Conditions on the Pore Structure and Bimodal Soil–Water Characteristic Curve of Compacted Granite Residual Soil
Authors: Chen Xinran , Ma Minglei , Zhou Shumei , Hu Mingjun , Zhai Kejie , Wei Sen
Published: February 2024

Granite residual soil typically forms complex pore structures and exhibits high water sensitivity due to physical and chemical weathering processes. Changes in initial compaction conditions significantly affect the mechanical and hydraulic properties of in situ granite residual soil subgrades, with these variations fundamentally related to changes in pore structure and soil–water characteristics. This study investigates the pore structure and bimodal soil–water characteristic curve (SWCC) of a compacted granite residual soil through laboratory tests and mercury intrusion porosimetry tests. Nine initial conditions were selected based on potential in situ compaction conditions of subgrades, and their effects on the pore size distribution (PSD) and SWCC were thoroughly analyzed. The results show strong correlations between bimodal pore structure and SWCC. The size and volume of inter-aggregate pores exhibit noticeable changes with initial conditions, affecting SWCC within the low and middle suction range. Conversely, the intra-aggregate pores, which constitute over 60% of the pore structures, remain nearly intact across different initial conditions, resulting in similar SWCCs within the high suction range. As the compaction energy increases, the inter-aggregate pores are compressed and lead to a higher water retention capacity. In addition, as the compaction water content increases, the SWCC becomes less sensitive to compaction energy after the aggregates in the pore structure are fully saturated. Additionally, a three-dimensional bimodal SWCC equation is proposed and validated using test data with an R2 value above 0.98. These findings offer valuable insights for the design and quality control of granite residual soil subgrades.
Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics (SPH) Analysis of Slope Soil–Retaining Wall Interaction and Retaining Wall Motion Response
Authors: Yang Qijin , Tan Qiuting , Ren Yi , Fang Hanzhen , Hu Man , Bao Anhong
Published: February 2024

The occurrence of slope instability disasters seriously endangers the safety of people’s lives and property in China. Therefore, it is essential to study the slope instability process and the interaction between soil and retaining walls. In this paper, the smoothed-particle hydrodynamics (SPH) method, based on the elastoplastic constitutive model of rock and soil, was used to simulate the entire process of slope instability and the interaction between soil and retaining walls. The model, based on the classical elastic–plastic theory, includes linear elastic deformation and plastic deformation following the non-associated flow rule under the Drucker–Prager (DP) yield criterion. By considering the plastic characteristics of geotechnical materials, this method can accurately simulate the slope movement process. The model was established, calculated, and compared with a slope example, thus verifying its feasibility. Furthermore, the motion response of the retaining wall under different conditions was studied, which provides a new numerical simulation platform for the stability checking of the retaining wall and motion analysis after the interaction between the retaining wall and slope soil.
Finite Element Modeling of Crystallization with Temperature Jump to Improve Cryopreservation of Fish Germ Cells
Authors: Matrosov Andrey , Soloviev Arkady , Ponomareva Elena , Meskhi Besarion , Rudoy Dmitry , Olshevskaya Anastasiya , Serebryanaya Irina , Nizhnik Dariya , Pustovalova Olga , Maltseva Tatiana
Published: February 2024

This article is devoted to the further development of a viable technology for low-temperature cryopreservation of reproductive cells of sturgeon fish using acoustic–mechanical fields and intelligent control of the freezing process. Before vitrification begins, the piezoactuator acts on a mixture of cryoprotectant and reproductive cells. This promotes intensive mixing of the cryoprotector and its diffusion through the cell membrane. When vitrification is carried out directly, a phase transition phenomenon is observed, accompanied by crystal formation. This article presents a new mathematical model describing this process as developed by the authors. The corresponding boundary conditions are formulated. Numerical experiments were carried out using the finite element method. It has been established that during vitrification without the use of a cryoprotectant, a sharp temperature jump is observed at the front of the crystalline formation boundary. The use of a cryoprotectant leads to a slowdown in the process of crystal formation, that is, to a weakening of the effect of one of the most important cryoprotective factors. The comparison with full-scale experiments showed qualitative agreement with the experimental results, which indicates the adequacy of the proposed model. The results obtained can be used in the future during the vitrification process and the evaluation of the quality of cryofreezing. The application of a new methodological approach to methods of long-term preservation at low temperatures of the genetic and reproductive material of hydrobionts using acoustic and mechanical effects and an intelligent control module opens up great opportunities for the creation of new cost-effective biotechnologies that make it possible to make the transition to a new type of aquatic farms, increase the stability of aquaculture, in general, to make environmental protection measures to save rare and endangered species more effective.
Comparative Methods for Teaching Contemporary and Ancient Saints
Authors: French Todd E. , Forero Bucheli Mohammed
Published: February 2024

This paper argues that a comparative study of saints is not only a useful classroom tool for historians and religionists, but an exceptionally powerful locus of pedagogical insight and cultural understanding. By reframing contemporary consumptive patterns, media representations, and power discourses as religious vectors of saintliness, the professor has an opportunity to explore and assess cultural values, rituals, beliefs, worldviews, communities, traditions, and meaning making in the contemporary college student’s world. By acknowledging the dangers and possibilities of the category of saint while reframing the ascetical impact on developing subjectivities, we propose six pedagogical examples of how this might best be deployed.
Young People Living with HIV in Zimbabwe Use the Conventional, Religious, and Traditional Health Systems in Parallel: Findings from a Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Wüthrich-Grossenbacher Ursula
Published: February 2024

Epidemiologists and other health practitioners increasingly recognize religion as a social determinant of health. This paper is part of a bigger study that examines how religion and tradition influence the health of young people living with HIV in a highly religious society like Zimbabwe. An analysis of 67 interviews and 10 focus group discussions with a phenomenological approach revealed that religious and traditional beliefs influenced the meaning and perception of HIV and the choice of treatment. Study participants consulted religious, traditional, and conventional health practitioners in parallel. Together the three health systems potentially provide a holistic approach that responds to the social, spiritual, psychological, and physical needs of people living with HIV. However, the findings point to a lack of cooperation between stakeholders of the three health systems that led to conflicting approaches that compromised the physical and mental health of study participants. Thus, the findings endorse the importance of strengthening the efforts of everyone involved in HIV care to reach out to other stakeholders and to negotiate a way of collaboration that mitigates negative consequences of disparities and seeks to endorse what is life affirming and leads towards the end of the AIDS pandemic by 2030.
The Experimentation of the Sacred in al-Ḥakam II’s Maqṣūra: An Architecture Based on Emotions
Authors: Cuenca-Abellán Belén
Published: February 2024

The present work will try to delve into some emotional aspects expressed by the community of believers about a section of the Mosque of Córdoba: the maqsūra of al-Ḥakam II. It is important to observe this maqsūra from the point of view of the emotions that it generates during its use as an active sacred space. The maqṣūra of al-Ḥakam II is a space for communication between the political and religious powers within the religious community who attended the Prayer on Friday (Ṣalat al-Jumu’a). This article reviews and expands some hypotheses raised by Professor Ruiz Souza in 2001, where he pointed out the importance of the point of view of the community of worshippers to understand the main functions of the maqṣūra. The worshippers attended the ceremonial and could observe part of the maqṣūra from the shadows of the naves of the old mosque. What did they perceive from a space that was hidden from their gaze? What was this luminous place where the Prince of Believers was located, trying to make them feel? To answer these questions, new methodologies from the History of Art have been used, combined with Anthropology of Religion, the Archeology of Emotions, Color Symbology, Neuroscience and Psychology.
The Music of the Silent Exodus: Nunchi Bwa-ing and Christian Musicking in a Second-Generation Asian American Church
Authors: Cooke Kathryn Minyoung
Published: February 2024

In 1996, Helen Lee dubbed the departure of second-generation Asian Americans from the non-English-speaking immigrant churches that they were raised in as the “silent exodus”. This nationwide phenomenon was taking place largely because first-generation churches failed to provide the second generation with culturally relevant care that would enrich their ethnic, national, and spiritual identities. Glory, the church of focus in this study, was founded by and is home to many silent exiles. In hopes of being an enriching church for second-generation Asian Americans, pastoral staff and leaders have created spaces within Glory for racial identity and faith to be in conversation with one another. However, in regard to the music of the church, they were stumped on what could be done to make it uniquely and proudly Asian American. This conundrum inspired a key question in this study: What is distinct about the way that Asian Americans worship God through music? This study argues that the worship music at Glory Church is distinctly Asian American not by what is sonically perceived, but rather by what is physically performed and collectively experienced. The Korean-English, or Konglish, term nunchi bwa-ing (눈치 봐-ing) is utilized as a keyword to describes Christian musicking in a multilingual setting and foregrounds the Korean/Asian American worshiping body. This study concludes by looking forward and arguing that Asian Americans ought to amplify their worship music to the larger Contemporary Worship Music scene as it has the potential to be a powerful site of intergenerational healing.
Hidradenitis Suppurativa in Association with Ulcerative Proctitis: Surgical Management in a Refractory Case to Topical and Systemic Treatment
Authors: Stoenică Ioana-Valentina , Dumitrașcu Mihai Cristian , Petca Aida , Petca Răzvan-Cosmin , Șandru Florica
Published: February 2024

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a challenging dermatological condition, can be described as a chronic, painful, follicular, occlusive disease that is characterized by painful nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracts generally located in the intertriginous skin areas. This disorder places a considerable burden on affected individuals and often leads to significant impairment in quality of life for those grappling with its persistent and recurrent nature. We present the case of a 20-year-old male patient known to have ulcerative proctitis and diagnosed with hidradenitis suppurativa in 2020, for which he underwent various topical and systemic treatments, with periods of remission and recurrent flares without managing to obtain complete remission of HS. In our dermatology service, the patient underwent two surgical unroofing procedures combined with punch debridement, with the wounds being allowed to heal by secondary intention. This choice of treatment delivered great results with favorable outcomes, without recurrence of the lesions, proving to be an effective method for managing HS. By presenting this case, we underline the role of surgical procedures in managing HS, and our desire is to emphasize the importance of comprehensive understanding of this enigmatic and complex condition for more effective management strategies in patients with refractory disease.
Clinico-Morphological Features and Immunohistochemical Profile of a Rare Case of Three Synchronous Primary Malignancies in the Female Genital Tract
Authors: Boșoteanu Mădălina , Vodă Raluca Ioana , Balţǎtescu Gabriela Izabela , Aşchie Mariana , Nurla Luana-Andreea , Orǎşanu Cristian Ionuţ
Published: February 2024

(1) Background: Synchronous tumors are defined as tumors that occur at the same time, appearing within 2 months, according to the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results Program, with a frequency of tertiary tumors of 0.5%. The purpose of this presentation is to report a case of three synchronous tumors of the female genital tract, given the fact that it represents a challenge both therapeutically and in demonstrating that the malignant lesions are completely different from each other. (2) Methods: We report the case of a 45 year-old patient diagnosed with three synchronous tumors developed in the genital tract: clear-cell ovarian carcinoma, uterine endometrioid adenocarcinoma, and cervical adenosquamous carcinoma. (3) Results: Total hysterectomy with bilateral anexectomy was performed and accompanied by a biopsy of the greater omentum. The evolution of the patient was favorable during chemotherapy, but she died two weeks after the completion of this treatment, from a cause secondary to the adverse effects determined by it, namely, severe thrombopenia which caused a massive lower digestive hemorrhage. (4) Conclusions: This case demonstrates the maximum importance of the involvement of adjuvant diagnostic techniques, especially when it comes to a diagnostic challenge with direct implications in the subsequent therapy of the patient.
Significant Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum and Extensive Subcutaneous Emphysema in a COVID-19 Patient
Authors: Gaspari Arianna , Carrieri Francesca , Villani Matteo , Bertellini Elisabetta
Published: February 2024

A 64-year-old man, who had no pre-existing health conditions, was admitted to the intensive care unit due to progressive shortness of breath resulting from COVID-19. Initially, the patient responded to non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which improved his breathing function. However, after six days, his respiratory function worsened significantly, requiring invasive ventilation. Out of nowhere, the person experienced spontaneous pneumomediastinum and extensive subcutaneous emphysema. The next day, a spontaneous pneumothorax occurred and was successfully drained later. It became evident that there was extensive subcutaneous emphysema also. The CT scan of the chest confirmed the presence of spontaneous pneumomediastinum, but it did not have any effect on the patient’s hemodynamics. The physicians performed a bronchoscopy and imaging with a contrast medium, which ruled out any lesions to the trachea or esophagus. No other issues related to the problem were identified during the examination. Unfortunately, microscopic bullae of interstitial emphysema, or micro air leaks, are visible when they are an adequate size on computed tomography. Recent literature and studies not available during the case report have shown that if the Macklin effect is detected on the baseline CT scan, it could predict the occurrence of pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum.
Do US Active Mutual Funds Make Good of Their ESG Promises? Evidence from Portfolio Holdings
Authors: Guidolin Massimo , Magnani Monia
Published: February 2024

We investigate the occurrence of greenwashing in the US mutual fund industry. Using panel regression methods, we test whether there exist differences in the portfolio investment behaviors of active equity funds that are self-declared to be driven by ESG motives when compared to all other funds. In particular, we focus on two aspects of funds’ portfolio allocation decisions, i.e., the actual implied average ESG ratings of the stocks a mutual fund invests in and the portfolio share invested in sin stocks. We do not find strong evidence that ESG and non-ESG funds make identical investment choices and hence reject the hypothesis of widespread greenwashing. ESG funds, on average, invest more in companies with higher ESG ratings and avoid sin stocks more than non-ESG funds. Nonetheless, we obtain evidence that some degree of greenwashing may still be occurring. However, over time, the differences between ESG and non-ESG funds in these behaviors seem have declined, suggesting a potential reduction in greenwashing practices.
Cryptocurrency Turmoil: Unraveling the Collapse of a Unified Stablecoin (USTC) through Twitter as a Passive Sensor
Authors: Ferretti Stefano , Furini Marco
Published: February 2024

This study sought to explore whether Twitter, as a passive sensor, could have foreseen the collapse of the Unified Stablecoin (USTC). In May 2022, in just a few days, the cryptocurrency went to near-zero valuation. Analyzing 244,312 tweets from 89,449 distinct accounts between April and June 2022, this study delved into the correlation between personal sentiments in tweets and the USTC market value, revealing a moderate correlation with polarity. While sentiment analysis has often been used to predict market prices, the results suggest the challenge of foreseeing sudden catastrophic events like the USTC collapse solely through sentiment analysis. The analysis uncovered unexpected global interest and noted positive sentiments during the collapse. Additionally, it identified events such as the launch of the new Terra blockchain (referred to as “Terra 2.0”) that triggered positive surges. Leveraging machine learning clustering techniques, this study also identified distinct user behaviors, providing valuable insights into influential figures in the cryptocurrency space. This comprehensive analysis marks an initial step toward understanding sudden and catastrophic phenomena in the cryptocurrency market.
Single Person Identification and Activity Estimation in a Room from Waist-Level Contours Captured by 2D Light Detection and Ranging
Authors: Enoki Mizuki , Watanabe Kai , Noguchi Hiroshi
Published: February 2024

To develop socially assistive robots for monitoring older adults at home, a sensor is required to identify residents and capture activities within the room without violating privacy. We focused on 2D Light Detection and Ranging (2D-LIDAR) capable of robustly measuring human contours in a room. While horizontal 2D contour data can provide human location, identifying humans and activities from these contours is challenging. To address this issue, we developed novel methods using deep learning techniques. This paper proposes methods for person identification and activity estimation in a room using contour point clouds captured by a single 2D-LIDAR at hip height. In this approach, human contours were extracted from 2D-LIDAR data using density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise. Subsequently, the person and activity within a 10-s interval were estimated employing deep learning techniques. Two deep learning models, namely Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and image classification (VGG16), were compared. In the experiment, a total of 120 min of walking data and 100 min of additional activities (door opening, sitting, and standing) were collected from four participants. The LSTM-based and VGG16-based methods achieved accuracies of 65.3% and 89.7%, respectively, for person identification among the four individuals. Furthermore, these methods demonstrated accuracies of 94.2% and 97.9%, respectively, for the estimation of the four activities. Despite the 2D-LIDAR point clouds at hip height containing small features related to gait, the results indicate that the VGG16-based method has the capability to identify individuals and accurately estimate their activities.
From Pixels to Precision: A Survey of Monocular Visual Odometry in Digital Twin Applications
Authors: Neyestani Arman , Picariello Francesco , Ahmed Imran , Daponte Pasquale , De Vito Luca
Published: February 2024

This survey provides a comprehensive overview of traditional techniques and deep learning-based methodologies for monocular visual odometry (VO), with a focus on displacement measurement applications. This paper outlines the fundamental concepts and general procedures for VO implementation, including feature detection, tracking, motion estimation, triangulation, and trajectory estimation. This paper also explores the research challenges inherent in VO implementation, including scale estimation and ground plane considerations. The scientific literature is rife with diverse methodologies aiming to overcome these challenges, particularly focusing on the problem of accurate scale estimation. This issue has been typically addressed through the reliance on knowledge regarding the height of the camera from the ground plane and the evaluation of feature movements on that plane. Alternatively, some approaches have utilized additional tools, such as LiDAR or depth sensors. This survey of approaches concludes with a discussion of future research challenges and opportunities in the field of monocular visual odometry.
Pressure-Driven Piezoelectric Sensors and Energy Harvesting in Biaxially Oriented Polyethylene Terephthalate Film
Authors: Stepancikova Romana , Olejnik Robert , Matyas Jiri , Masar Milan , Hausnerova Berenika , Slobodian Petr
Published: February 2024

This study reports the possibility of using biaxially oriented polyethylene terephthalate (BOPET) plastic packaging to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Electricity is generated due to the piezoelectricity of BOPET. Electricity generation depends on the mechanical deformation of the processing aids (inorganic crystals), which were found and identified by SEM and EDAX analyses as SiO2. BOPET, as an electron source, was assembled and tested as an energy conversion and self-powered mechanical stimuli sensor using potential applications in wearable electronics. When a pressure pulse after pendulum impact with a maximum stress of 926 kPa and an impact velocity of 2.1 m/s was applied, a voltage of 60 V was generated with short-circuit current and charge densities of 15 μAcm−2 and 138 nCm−2, respectively. Due to the orientation and stress-induced crystallization of polymer chains, BOPET films acquire very good mechanical properties, which are not lost during their primary usage as packaging materials and are beneficial for the durability of the sensors. The signals detected using BOPET sensors derived from pendulum impact and sieve analyses were also harvested for up to 80 cycles and up to 40 s with short-circuit voltages of 107 V and 95 V, respectively. In addition to their low price, the advantage of sensors made from BOPET plastic packaging waste lies in their chemical resistance and stability under exposure to oxygen, ultraviolet light, and moisture.
Prediction Technique and Measuring Device for Coupled Disturbance Forces from Large Equipment in the Spacecraft
Authors: Zhou Chengbo , Xu Zhenbang , Xia Mingyi
Published: February 2024

To guarantee the accuracy of sophisticated equipment in spacecraft, it is essential to evaluate the dynamic forces of vibration sources. In contrast to conventional rigid-based measuring approaches, a method for predicting the interference of dynamic forces from large sources on spacecraft considering vibration coupling is proposed. In addition, a flexible-based dynamic force measuring platform capable of withstanding large masses and mounting large-volume vibration sources is designed. After that, the experiments for calibrating the platform and acquiring unknown terms in the derived theoretical models are detailed. The principle prototype is then manufactured for feasibility verification. It is demonstrated that despite the low fundamental frequency of the measuring platform of 242.8 Hz, the measurement error of the flexible measuring platform is less than 8% when the coupling is taken into account, which is 29% lower than that without coupling. Additionally, the prediction error of disturbance forces is within 17%. As a result, the accuracy of the proposed dynamic force measurement and prediction of large vibration sources considering coupling is substantially improved, providing a good reference for aerospace applications.
Acidic Gas Determination Using Indium Tin Oxide-Based Gas Sensors
Authors: Peng Kaiyan , Li Qiang , Ma Mingwei , Li Na , Sheng Haoran , Li Haoyu , Huang Yujie , Yun Feng
Published: February 2024

This work has presented gas sensors based on indium tin oxide (ITO) for the detection of SO2 and NO2. The ITO gas-sensing material was deposited by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering. The properties of gas sensing could be improved by increasing the ratio of SnO2. The response characteristics of the gas sensor for detecting different concentrations of NO2 and SO2 were investigated. In the detection of NO2, the sensitivity was significantly improved by increasing the SnO2 ratio in ITO by 5%, and the response and recovery time were reduced significantly. However, the sensitivity of the sensor decreased with increasing SO2 concentration. From X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis, the gas-sensitive response mechanisms were different in the atmosphere of NO2 and SO2. The NO2 was adsorbed by ITO via physisorption but the SO2 had a chemical reaction with the ITO surface. The gas selectivity, temperature dependence, and environmental humidity of ITO-based gas sensors were systematically analyzed. The high detection sensitivity for acidic gas of the prepared sensor presented great potential for acid rain monitoring.