bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Designing of custom barcodes for sequencing on the MGI platform
Authors: Shmitko AO , Bulusheva IA , Vasiliadis YuA , Suchalko ON , Syrko DS , Belova VA , Pavlova AS , Korostin DO
Published: October 2024

The MGI (MGI Tech Co. Ltd., China) next-generation sequencing platform, including the DNBSEQ-G50, -G400, and -T7 sequencers, is being actively adopted in research. Despite its widespread adoption, challenges persist in the form of limitations associated with the manufacturer's provided barcode set for library preparation. These limitations include constraints on the number of samples that can be concurrently sequenced, compatibility issues with barcodes from diverse or incomplete sets, and restrictions on the sample ratio. Purpose: to develop a universal method that allows sequencing of up to 252 samples simultaneously on a single sequencer lane, while eliminating barcode-related limitations. We proposed a “quad method” that provides 4 or 4n+2 equilibration of barcodes. This paper also delves into its comprehensive analysis, verification procedures, seamless integration into the sequencing process and validation of the method on the DNBSEQ G-400 platform. The quad method showed efficiency and reliability, allowing sequencing of up to 252 samples simultaneously without compromising data quality. The proposed method optimizes library preparation and improves the flexibility of sequencing on the MGI platform.
Problems of Sentencing in Pre-Trial Cooperation Agreement in Russia and Kazakhstan
Authors: Stepashin V.M.
Published: October 2024

A.K. Salykova conducted a dissertation research on sentencing under a pre-trial cooperation agreement (cooperation agreement) under the criminal legislation of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Kazakhstan, which he submitted for the degree of Candidate of Legal Sciences (Specialty 12.00.08 - Criminal Law and criminology; penal enforcement law) and successfully defended at a meeting of the dissertation Council D 203.010.01, created on the basis of the Omsk Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation. Results. The dissertation contains a solution to a problem that is important for the development of criminal law science. The design of the dissertation meets the requirements established by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation. The abstract fully corresponds to the dissertation. The work in question is an actual, independent, completed study containing signs of novelty and reliability and meets the requirements of section II of the Regulations on Awarding Academic Degrees. Aliya Kairatovna Salykova deserves to be awarded the required academic degree of Candidate of Legal Sciences in the specialty 12.00.08 - Criminal Law and Criminology; penal enforcement law.
To the Question of the Nature and Structure of an Integrative Understanding of Law
Authors: Yuritsin A.A.
Published: October 2024

The legal sciences are subject to the general laws of changing scientific paradigms, which sets the task for the scientific community of periodic generalization, dialectical denial and classification of accumulated knowledge in order to ensure the continuity of the development of science. At the turn of the epochs, in the period of global transformation of values, the integrative theory is subjected to unreasonable oblivion and criticism. Purpose. The purpose of the study is to identify and attempt to overcome the key problems of the integrative type of understanding of law through the substantiation of its structure and the mechanism of system functioning of the ontological forms of being of law. Methodology. The methodology of the work is based on the principles of post-non-classical scientific rationality, as well as on the methods of synthesis, analogy, logical reasoning, classification, and deduction. Results. In the course of the study, the mechanism of the dialectical relationship of ontological forms of law, their inseparable and continuous determination is substantiated. The main varieties of the integrative type of understanding of law are identified. Criteria for verifying theories for their relevance to integrative theories are proposed.
Overview of Copyright as a Part of Intellectual Property Law in Russia and Abroad
Authors: Dmitrieva E.O.
Published: October 2024

The author examines the intellectual property system and gives general theoretical overview of copyright, its status in the Russian law and from an international perspective. Intellectual property is an important asset for industrial, medical, information and nanotechnology enterprises, and a key (or even major) asset for creative companies such as film studios, art galleries, theaters, and animation studios. If in the first case we refer more to industrial property, the second case touches upon copyright. In order to effectively use, protect and defend such asset as products of creativity, we need to thoroughly understand its mechanisms. Purpose. The purpose of the study is to compile and systematize knowledge in the field of intellectual property law, in particular, concerning the place of copyright in the intellectual property system. The author intends to make an overview on copyright, considering all its aspects: exclusive rights, moral and “other” rights. Methodology. While conducting the present research, the authors used bothgeneral scientific and private law methods, such as: the comparative legal method, the method of interpreting legal norms, the formal legal method, the method of comprehensive analysis of legislation and the method of structural analysis. Results. Based on the results of the study, the author comes to the conclusion that copyright and related rights tend to be an important institution of intellectual property law, along with industrial property law. Comparing the copyright in Russia with similar institutions of foreign countries, the author reveals the tendency of “realification” of intellectual property in Anglo-American law, which is fundamentally opposite to the meaning that the Romano-Germanic legal family endows with this institution. In addition, the author reveals the concept of “other” rights, which exists only in Russia, and eligibility criteria for copyright protection in a comparative legal aspect. Conclusion. The study is of a practical and theoretical nature: the author, on the one hand, provides overview of copyright and related rights in the intellectual property system in Russian and foreign legislation, on the other hand, focuses on examples from legal practice that allows to use the information in practical activities. This study lays the groundwork for a more detailed consideration of “other” rights, in particular, the right to author's reward.
Obtaining Evidence at the Request of the Court and At the Request of the Advocate in Civil Cases
Authors: Merenkov I.V.
Published: October 2024

The procedural legislation provides for certain negative consequences for the persons participating in the case if they violate the rules for the sending and disclosure of evidence. By establishing the burden of proof for the persons participating in the case, the legislator presumes what exactly they know about the available evidence and where this evidence is. But this assumption is only partly true. The legal ignorance of the participant often leads to a misunderstanding of the structure of the legal relationship, and, as a result, the participant does not understand what evidence could be useful and where they can and should be claimed. Of course, in such a situation, it is better for a person to trust a lawyer - a professional. The persons participating in the case can delegate their problems to a professional in two ways: to ask the court for help in obtaining evidence or to entrust the case to a representative (lawyer, advocate). Purpose. Conduct a comparative analysis of the procedures for obtaining evidence at the request of the court and at the request of a lawyer to determine the effectiveness of each and develop proposals for improving these procedures. Methodology. The author uses such methods as: analysis, synthesis, formal-logical, comparative, formal-legal. Results. The article substantiates that the provision of assistance to the parties (at their request) in the collection of evidence should be regarded as a duty, and not as a right of the court. This assistance is provided by the coercive power of the court and is therefore effective. Advocate' requests are less effective, since they are often not fulfilled under various pretexts, and lawyers themselves subsequently have to resort to court assistance to obtain the necessary evidence. This redundant procedural activity can be avoided if advocates are removed from those legislative obstacles, with reference to whichadvocate'requests are currently rejected. Conclusion. It is in the interests of both the persons involved in the case and the court to provide the lawyer with greater powers to demand evidence.
Field Research in the Work of the West Siberian Department of the Russian Geographical Society: on the Example G.E. Katanaev's Official Journeys in 1880-1890s
Authors: Krikh Anna A.
Published: October 2024

The format of the Russian Geographical Society provided for obtaining the necessary primary information in the course of expeditionary work. However, conducting large-scale field expeditions turned out to be an overwhelming task for the regional departments. More economical options for obtaining first-hand information, in the form of sending questionnaires to respondents, did not bring the desired results. In this connection, many employees of the West Siberian Department of the Russian Geographical Society began to combine their official duties with the collection of field materials for scientific research. On the basis of official reports, reports and travel diaries, the article restores the field research methodology of G.E. Katanaev, which was formed under the influence of the general tradition that existed in the Russian Geographical Society, and the circumstances in which its West Siberian department was located. The implementation of scientific research during business trips by members of the West Siberian Department of the Russian Geographical Society, on the one hand, was a vivid characteristic of the crisis in the Society's activities, and on the other hand, contributed to the development of new research approaches and practices.
Cedar Cropping at the Tatars of the Southern-Taiga Zone of the Middle Irtysh Region in the Past and at the Present Time
Authors: Tikhomirova Marina N. , Tikhomirov Konstantin N.
Published: October 2024

The gathering of cones and nuts of the Siberian cedar pine at the Tatars in the northern regions of the Omsk region is characterized on the basis of field ethnographic materials and historical materials. This type of gathering bears the features of intensive gathering cropping since the end in the 20th - beginning of the 21st century. Gathering nuts was one of the sources of income in some settlements of the Tatars in the pre-revolutionary period. Active commercialization of this type of gathering, an increase in the number of cones gatherers, predatory methods of gathering, innovations in this type of activity are currently leading to the disappearance of cedar forests. In the future, this may lead to a reduction in this sector of the economy, the loss of skills and knowledge.
Trans-Ural Forge of Russian Military Personnel at the Turn of Eras: Reflection of a Historian. Book Review: Nikulin D.O. Preparation of Replacements for the Field Forces in the Spare Units of the Omsk Military District in 1914-1917, Monograph, Novosibirsk, Parallel' Publ., 2022, 292 p
Authors: Kozhevin Vladimir L.
Published: October 2024

The monograph under review presents a multifaceted reconstruction of the complex processes of formation, training and transfer of reinforcements for the front in the Omsk military district during the First World War and the 1917 revolution. Undoubtedly, the trans-Ural regions of the country made a significant contribution to the preparation and sending of reinforcements to the west, but so far this process itself has not been subjected to a thorough and systematic study. The monograph by D.O. Nikulin contains an attempt to solve this problem and comprehensively highlight the process of preparing and sending reinforcements for the army in the field. The author of the reviewed study showed a thorough acquaintance with both domestic and foreign historiography of the First World War. True, some of the works that D.O. Nikulin writes about are very distantly related to the specific problem that has become the subject of the researcher's direct study. The modernization approach was chosen as the methodological basis of the monograph. This made it possible to explain many features of the formation, the quality of training and the movement of replacements from Siberia to the front. However, it would be more clear in the course of deployment and presentation of certain plots to highlight the cause-and-effect relationship of modernization processes in the region with the specifics of certain areas of the life of the Omsk Military District, within which the preparation of reinforcements for the front was carried out. The source base of the study by D.O. Nikulin is distinguished by a significant volume and species diversity. The author involved documents of a legislative and office work nature, periodicals and sources of personal origin. The content of the book by D.O. Nikulin testifies to the thoughtful and painstaking work of the historian on an extensive complex of sources characterized by species diversity, as well as the works of his predecessors. As the analysis of the text of the monograph shows, the researcher, thanks to the use of modern scientific approaches and techniques, was able to identify the most significant features and characteristics of personnel training for the army in the Omsk military district during 1914-1917.
“Find Out in an Unspoken Way”. Orenburg Publishing Association “Azamat” under Police Supervision (1913-1917)
Authors: Legkiy Dmitry M. , Ibrayev Yerden Ye. , Tabuldenov Alibek N.
Published: October 2024

The article analyzes the activities of the Orenburg publishing association “Azamat”, created by the Kazakh national intelligentsia headed by A. Baitursynov and M. Dulatov. This partnership implemented the ideas of the Alash movement, which was especially evident during the First World War, on the eve of the February Revolution of 1917 in the Russian Empire. Archival documents from the office of the Orenburg Governor are introduced into scientific circulation, revealing police supervision of A. Baitursynov, M. Dulatov, A. Bukeikhanov and showing how the tsarist administration tried to hinder the activities of the Azamat partnership, the main purpose of which was to finance the “Kazak” (“Kazakh”) newspaper. Separately, the support of a legally operating press organ of wealthy representatives of the Kazakh society is considered, which allowed the editorial leaders to publish a Kazakh-language publication from 1913 until the February Revolution of 1917, which was fully supported by the leaders of Alash.
“The Great Northern Wasteland” (Beidahuang) in 1949-1966: Pages of the Regional and Demographic History of the Chinese Province of Heilongjiang
Authors: Makeeva Svetlana B.
Published: October 2024

The article examines the history of the regional demographic development of the northeastern Chinese province of Heilongjiang, known from the regional archival chronicles as the “Great Northern Wasteland” (Beidahuang). Historical transformation of Heilongjiang Province from 1949 to 1966 demonstrates the experience of socialist industrial construction, accompanied by rapid population growth from 10.119 million to 21.886 million people. Despite the “three years of natural disasters”, the deterioration of Sino-Soviet relations, the Chinese government used the potential of military-agricultural construction, the strengthening of timber complexes, industrial transformations to resettle migrant workers, the military from other provinces and involve them in the development of the “Great Northern Wasteland”. The history of the Beidahuang territory is the history of the development of the northeastern lands, the agricultural and industrial development of Heilongjiang province, the evolution of the adaptation of migrants from other Chinese provinces to the conditions of the Northeast of the PRC.
Venezuelan General Strike of 2002-2003: an Experience of Event Analysis
Authors: Pivovarova Natalia S.
Published: October 2024

Various techniques of event analysis have been developed since the 1960s to address different research problems. The diversity of approaches makes event analysis a versatile tool for efficient use of quantitative data in scientific research. At the same time, the appropriateness of using particular methods of analysis is an issue of concern. In this regard, the article attempts to compare two techniques of event analysis: J. Goldstein scale versus the technique presented by K.P. Borishpolets. These techniques were applied in the analysis of the general strike in Venezuela in December 2002 - February 2003. J. Goldstein scale was adapted for the analysis of internal political conflicts since it is designed to address international cooperation issues. In turn, the event analysis technique presented by K.P. Borishpolets was used unchanged. The used sources included American media accounts: “The New York Times”, “Wall Street Journal”, “Chicago Tribune” and “The Los Angeles Times”. A databank was compiled based on the media reports, followed by data count, analysis of quantitative data and their graphic presentation. The research showed that the involved methods covered different aspects of the conflict between the government and the opposition in Venezuela as based on the same sources. J. Goldstein's methodology provided the insight into the confrontation dynamics, identifying the points of ultimate tension and maximum cooperation. In turn, K.P. Borishpolets' event analysis technique made it possible to consider the conflict in terms of nature of each actor's involvement and to assess the actions taken by them. A conclusion was made, on the basis of the obtained results, on effective use of the complementary methods of event analysis and the expediency of their application in the analysis of internal political conflicts.
State National Policy in the City of Omsk in 2013-2019: Implementation Practice, Problems and Prospects
Authors: Shterger Marina V.
Published: October 2024

The article is devoted to the Omsk experience in the implementation of the state national policy. An analysis of the existing positive practices of interaction between the municipality and national and religious associations was carried out; the existing problems and main directions for optimizing the national policy at the municipal level were identified. The mechanisms for implementing the state national policy are built in accordance with the legislation of Russia, taking into account the specifics and the current state of the ethno-confessional sphere of the city of Omsk. Based on a broad factual material, the author shows the activities of the municipality in the formation of civic identity and the upbringing of the culture of interethnic communication. The article considers the positive experience of the Expert Board for Ethnic and Religion Affairs under the Administration of the city of Omsk. Examples of positive practices implemented by the municipality together with national and religious associations are given. The history of the Peoples' Friendship Public Garden, the creative project “ETNO Territory”, the festival of national cinema “300 years together”, an interconfessional dialogue platform is covered. Measures of support for national associations provided by the authorities, in particular the competition of municipal grants, are analyzed. The study identified a number of problems and made recommendations for solving them. The article uses materials of direct and participant observation. As a result of the study, the author comes to the conclusion that the ways of cooperation between the municipality and the national community in the city of Omsk are built. The implementation of the state national policy should take place with the active participation of representatives of the national community.
Performance evaluation of solar photovoltaic system based on perturb and observe (P&O) maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm
Authors:   School of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam, Malaysia, Abdul Khani Nurfarah Ayuni , Zakaria Muhammad Iqbal , Mat Yusoh Mohd Abdul Talib , Kamarudin Muhammad Nizam , A.A Emhemed Abdul Rahman
Published: October 2024

The Photovoltaic system (PV) is gaining popularity as a future energy source due to its vast, secure, essentially limitless, and widely accessible nature. However, a prevalent challenge in PV systems is the impact of solar cell radiation intensity and temperature on the output power induced in the photovoltaic module. As a result, monitoring the input source's maximum power point becomes essential for maximizing the effectiveness of the renewable energy system. In order to harvest the most power from the photovoltaic system and channel it to the load through a boost converter, which raises the voltage to the necessary level, most Power Point Tracking, or MPPT, is essential. This study uses the Perturb and Observe (P&O) method to track the photovoltaic module's Maximum Power Point (MPP) and maximize the system's overall power production to overcome this obstacle. By varying the array terminal voltage or current, the P&O approach perturbs the system and then compares the PV output power to the preceding perturbation cycle. Therefore, the main goal of this study is to simulate and assess the effectiveness of the P&O MPPT algorithm in MATLAB/Simulink when it comes to maximizing power extraction from a photovoltaic system. The simulation findings show that the suggested P&O approach is a reliable means of tracking MPP from PV panels, even when there are fluctuations in solar irradiation.
Design selection of experimental test rig for static thrust on micro size propeller using Pugh method
Authors:   Mechanical Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Pulau Pinang Branch, Permatang Pauh Campus, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Ismail Noor Iswadi , Amir Muhammad Amirul Hakim , Basri M. Hisyam , Sharudin Hazim , Che Mat Sharzali , Ab Hamid Pahmi Muhammad Arif , Husin Azmi , Othman Rozaini , Kassim Umar
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to propose a simple, straightforward, yet robust test rig design to measure the static thrust magnitude for small propellers. Although there were advanced tools like multi-axis force or torque sensors, sophisticated equipment and complex mechanisms were required to capture the accurate thrust magnitude. Therefore, providing simple and effective test rig design for small-sized propellers is quite challenging. In this work, Pugh matrix analysis was used to evaluate three new designs of Propeller Thrust Measurement Rig (PMTR) and compare the designs against a benchmark model. The evaluation covered important design criteria during test operation, such as measurement accuracy, stability, ease of development, assembly, maintenance, versatility, electronic integration, airflow interference, adaptability for tilt angle studies, and resemblance to multicopter flight conditions. The results reveal that the PMTR-1 design scored the highest in the analysis and emerged as the most suitable candidate among the proposed designs. It showed potential superior performance in stability, ease of development and assembly, versatility, simplicity, airflow management, and adaptability for future studies. PMTR-3 demonstrated some potential but needs more enhancement in electronic integration and structural development. However, PMTR-2 faces significant potential challenges in providing stability, versatility, electronic integration, and adaptability for effective and safe operations.
Selective segmentation of brain abnormalities in colour MRI images using variational model
Authors:   School of Mathematical Sciences, College of Computing, Informatics and Mathematics, Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Badarul Azam Akmal Shafiq , Ibrahim Shafaf , Azman Nor Farihah , Zamalik Sarah Farhana , Zakariah Muhammad Zulkhairi
Published: October 2024

Early detection of brain abnormalities is vital for enhancing patient outcomes and survival rates. However, accurately identifying and segmenting these abnormalities from MRI images remains a persistent challenge. This study assesses the efficacy of the Selective Local Image Fitting (SLIF) model in segmenting brain abnormalities from colour MRI images and compares its performance with converted greyscale counterparts. The rationale behind this comparison stems from standard practice in image segmentation, where colour images are often converted to greyscale before the segmentation task. Converting the image might degrade data by diminishing its dimensions, potentially affecting segmentation computations. This study intends to evaluate the influence of colour information on segmentation accuracy and efficiency by directly assessing the SLIF model on both colour and converted greyscale images. Segmentation accuracy was evaluated using metrics such as the Dice Similarity Coefficient (DSC), Matthews Correlation Coefficient (MCC), and Intersection-over-Union (IoU). Efficiency was determined by measuring the average elapsed processing time. Experimental results demonstrate that colour MRI brain images outperform their converted greyscale counterparts in segmentation accuracy, as colour providing essential supplementary information for precise abnormality delineation. Despite a slight increase in average elapsed processing time for colour images, the enhanced accuracy justifies this trade-off. These findings emphasize the importance of colour MRI in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, especially in detecting brain abnormalities. This study can be extended in future work to evaluate the segmentation accuracy and efficiency of brain abnormalities in 3D colour and greyscale MRI images.
Optimization of methylene blue dye degradation using heterogeneous Fenton-like reaction with Fe3O4 nanoparticles/PVDF macrospheres: A response surface methodology approach
Authors:   EMZI-UiTM Nanoparticles Colloids & Interface Industrial Research Laboratory (NANO-CORE), Chemical Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, 13500 Permatang Pauh, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia., Osman Mohamed Syazwan , Hassan Huzairy , Sam Sung-Ting , Mohd Nazeri Nadzirah Balqis , Abdul Wahab Mohd Syafiq , Alrozi Rasyidah , Rosdi Hafawati , Fitriyanti Maya
Published: October 2024

Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly recognised for their significant impact on the environment and human health. Understanding MPs is crucial to grasp their widespread presence in various environmental areas. The unique properties of MPs, such as their small size, durability, and potential to adsorb and transport environmental pollutants, underscore the necessity of studying their characteristics. This study aims to investigate the physical and chemical characteristics of polypropylene microplastics (PPMPs) and address the dispersion stability issues associated with them. The PPMPs were characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing a surface structure marked by cracks, fractures, and a rough texture. The PPMPs were observed as irregularly shaped, white particles. Their size distribution spans from 14 to 96 µm, with a mean size of 50.00 µm. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of polypropylene functional groups, specifically identifying characteristic peaks at 2952-2846 cm-1 and 1456 -1376 cm-1, indicating C-H stretching and bending vibrations, respectively, with additional peaks suggesting degradation. The effect of different concentrations of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) on PPMPs dispersion indicated that 5% SLS led to superior dispersion of PPMPs, thereby addressing the stability issue. These findings provide comprehensive insights into the physical and chemical attributes of PPMPs and their dispersion stability, offering a foundation for informed environmental assessments and the development of effective mitigation strategies.
Deep Learning-Driven Thermal Imaging Hotspot Detection in Solar Photovoltaic Arrays Using YOLOv10
Authors:   Centre of Electrical Engineering Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA,  Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh, Malaysia, Ab Hamid Mohd Zulhamdy , Daud Kamarulazhar , Che Soh Zainal Hisham , Osman Muhammad Khusairi , Isa Iza Sazanita , Jadin Mohd Shawal
Published: October 2024

The effective management of solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays is vital to maximising energy generation and ensuring long-term performance reliability. The presence of faults, or partial shading, can give rise to hotspots in PV arrays, making their detection critical for timely maintenance and avoiding further impacts on their performance. This paper describes a new approach to the hotspot detection issue in thermal images of solar PV arrays by leveraging deep learning. This study employs the YOLOv10 (You Only Look Once, version 10) model to deliver very high accuracy and speed in identifying and localising hotspots under defined regions of interest (ROIs). The proposed method begins with taking thermal images from multiple solar PV installations while capturing a range of operational conditions and fault types. These images are annotated with hotspot regions to create a robust training dataset. Given YOLO's capability for real-time object detection with high precision and mean average precision (mAP), the YOLOv10 model is then implemented to train on this dataset. Multiple changes were made to the YOLOv10 hyperparameters to optimise them for detecting hotspots in thermal images. The experimental scenario of this paper demonstrates that this approach indeed performs significantly better than standard image processing methods as well as prior deep learning models for detecting both hotspot accuracy as well as speed of processing the images. The YOLOv10 method demonstrated the highest available classification performance with a mAP at intersection over union (IoU) of 0.5 accuracy of 0.91 with inference time suitable for real-time applications. The sample results demonstrated the model's continuous ability to detect hotspots and provide location data under various conditions, such as crossing through different times of day and weather. The results of this study demonstrate that YOLOv10 can be used for improved detection of hotspots in the explicably thermal imagery of solar PV arrays.
Performance of thermoelectric generator system to generate electrical output from a low-grade waste heat temperature under linear and swirling waste heat streams
Authors:   School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Hamdan Muhammad Hadrami , Zamri Nur Faranini , Remeli Muhammad Fairuz , Mohd Hanim Nabilah Huda , Mohd Fatmi Shah Hafizah Jamilah , Wan Mohamed Wan Ahmad Najmi
Published: October 2024

A thermoelectric generator (TEG) module converts heat directly into electrical energy. Waste heat from a process is a viable heat source for TEG modules to support the energy sustainability agenda. A module was designed to recover low-temperature waste heat from a 1 kW fuel cell stack used in a mini hydrogen vehicle. The module was constructed using a single TEG cell that receives heat directly on its surface from the waste heat stream, coupled with a heat pipe connected to a finned heat sink to effectively cool the cold junction of the TEG cell. This research presents a comparison of the module characteristics when it is operated under direct impinging jet flow and swirl flow waste heat streams at 60°C, while the cold junction of the cell is cooled under stationary vehicle conditions (natural convection cooling) and cruising conditions (forced convection cooling) at an air speed of 5 m/s. Results indicate that the swirling effect increases the maximum power point (MPP) by 60%. The introduction of swirl to the heating stream is a viable approach to significantly enhance the recovery of low-grade waste heat using TEG. However, the MPP shows a greater increase of 70 to 80% due to the forced cooling effect, indicating that cold junction cooling has a more significant influence on the MPP compared to the swirl effect.
Structural behaviour of hollow core reinforced concrete (HCRC) short column under static load
Authors:   Civil Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang Kampus Permatang Pauh, 13500, Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang., Abdul Hamid Mohd Samsudin , Nordin Muhammad Aidil
Published: October 2024

The high strength-to-weight and low self-weight ratio of Hollow Core Reinforced Concrete (HCRC) short columns have made them a popular choice for application in construction. Nevertheless, little is known about how HCRC short columns behave when subjected to static loads. This is because HCRC short columns are a relatively recent type of structural member, and there has been little research into how well they behave when subjected to static loads. Given that HCRC short columns are made of composite material, it poses one of the difficulties in understanding their behaviour when subjected to static load. The complex relationship between the steel reinforcement and concrete core potentially affects the column’s ability to support loads and failure more. The purpose of this research is to evaluate their failure mechanisms and assess the structural performance under static load. Finite element models with different configuration are modelled which can simulate the complex behaviour of reinforced concrete structures under static load. This study found that Square Hollow Core (SHC) and Circular Hollow Core (CHC) are known as the most affected columns in terms of displacement compared to Rectangular Hollow Core (RHC). Stress was critically found at the top section of the column and it reduced towards lower section. The finding is able to optimize load-bearing efficiency, reduce material usage, enhance stability, improve resistance, and be proposed as modern structural applications.
Magnetic graphene oxide incorporated with Fe2O3 for the removal of lead (II) ions
Authors:   Chemical Engineering Studies, College of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Mohamad Nor Norhusna , Ali Bashah Nor Alwani , Mohamed Noor Nor  Syazwani , Yaakob Nur Afifah Atikah
Published: October 2024

The objective of this research work is to synthesise graphene oxide (GO) with iron oxide (Fe2O3) nanoparticles as a magnetic adsorbent for lead ion (Pb2+) removal. In this work, the effect of synthesis parameters of GO/Fe2O3 (Fe2O3 loading weight ratio, synthesis time and calcination temperature) and adsorption parameters (initial Pb2+ concentration, adsorption temperature and contact time) on Pb2+ removal were investigated. The adsorption experiment was carried out in a batch system, and the synthesised GO/Fe2O3 adsorbent was characterised using TGA and N2 sorption-desorption analyses. The adsorption characteristics of Pb2+ using GO/Fe2O3 adsorbent were analysed using adsorption isotherms and kinetic study. The optimal synthesis parameters were found to be a 1:0.5 ratio for GO/Fe2O3, a synthesis time of 60 min and a calcination temperature of 400°C, resulting in a Pb2+ removal rate of 96% and adsorption capacity of 49.85 mg Pb2+/g adsorbent. The GO/Fe2O3 adsorbent synthesised at 400°C and a 1:0.5 ratio exhibits a larger surface area and smaller pore diameter, 98.20 m2/g and 15.67 nm, respectively, compared to other samples. Increasing the synthesis temperature decreases the growth and formation of GO/Fe2O3, reducing the surface area. Experimental results revealed that the adsorption of Pb2+ using GO/Fe2O3 adsorbent fitted the pseudo-second-order kinetic and was best described by the Langmuir isotherm with a high correlation coefficient (R2 >0.99).
Insight into the physical and chemical attributes of polypropylene microplastics
Authors:   Chemical Engineering Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Mohd Jackariya Nor Ku Nazatul Husna , Abdul Wahab Nor Aimi , Isa Norain , Othman Norfaezatul Alysa , Zamri Nor Ayuni , Inderan Vicinisvarri
Published: October 2024

Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly recognised for their significant impact on the environment and human health. Understanding MPs is crucial to grasp their widespread presence in various environmental areas. The unique properties of MPs, such as their small size, durability, and potential to adsorb and transport environmental pollutants, underscore the necessity of studying their characteristics. This study aims to investigate the physical and chemical characteristics of polypropylene microplastics (PPMPs) and address the dispersion stability issues associated with them. The PPMPs were characterised using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing a surface structure marked by cracks, fractures, and a rough texture. The PPMPs were observed as irregularly shaped, white particles. Their size distribution spans from 14 to 96 µm, with a mean size of 50.00 µm. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the presence of polypropylene functional groups, specifically identifying characteristic peaks at 2952-2846 cm-1 and 1456 -1376 cm-1, indicating C-H stretching and bending vibrations, respectively, with additional peaks suggesting degradation. The effect of different concentrations of sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) on PPMPs dispersion indicated that 5% SLS led to superior dispersion of PPMPs, thereby addressing the stability issue. These findings provide comprehensive insights into the physical and chemical attributes of PPMPs and their dispersion stability, offering a foundation for informed environmental assessments and the development of effective mitigation strategies.
Predicted kinetic behaviour of the oxidative degradation of organic pollutant using substituted MeCuFeO3 (Me = Ca, Sr, CaSr) perovskite catalysts
Authors:   Chemical Engineering Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Pulau Pinang, Permatang Pauh Campus, 13500 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, Alrozi Rasyidah , Zubir Nor Aida , Abu Bakar Noor Fitrah , Motuzas Julius , Hanif Abu Bakar Noor Hana , Wang David
Published: October 2024

The substitution of different types of A-site metal cations within the perovskite structure leads to a change in the catalytic activity of the resultant catalyst, which subsequently affects the overall kinetic behaviour of the degradation of organic pollutants. Hence, understanding the kinetics behaviour of the substituted perovskite catalysis is crucial for determining the reaction rates of the degradation process. This study investigates the catalytic performance and kinetic analysis of substituted MeCuFeO3 (Me = Ca, Sr, CaSr) perovskite catalysts in the oxidation of organic pollutants, namely acid orange II (AOII) dye. The highest AOII degradation was achieved by CaCuFeO3 (97 %) followed by CaSrCuFeO3 (95 %) and SrCuFeO3 (91 %) within 60 min of reaction in the presence of oxidant (H2O2). Interestingly, the AOII oxidation by CaCuFeO3 followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model while SrCuFeO3 and CaSrCuFeO3 were fitted to the BMG kinetic model. The reaction rate constant of CaCuFeO3 (k = 1.9 × 10−2 L.mg−1.min−1) was higher by a magnitude of two and three than that of CaSrCuFeO3 (k = 9.4 × 10−3 L.mg−1.min−1) and SrCuFeO3 (k = 6.3 × 10−3 L.mg−1.min−1), respectively. These results indicate that the partial substitution of Sr in the A-site of CaCuFeO3 leads to a slight deterioration in the overall catalytic performance of the oxidative degradation of AOII, which contributes to a change in the behaviour of the reaction kinetic models.
Violencia política: aclaraciones conceptuales sobre un fenómeno complejo
Authors: Egido Ana Victoria
Published: October 2024

La violencia política es ejercida contra las mujeres por su condición de género al ocupar la esfera pública y trascender la privada. Es un fenómeno de reciente conceptualización y, si bien ha sido muy estudiado, plantea diversos interrogantes para su investigación empírica. Este artículo tiene como objetivo, a partir de un recorrido teórico, brindar herramientas sobre el término y consideraciones metodológicas para su investigación.
El campo jurídico: teorías y prácticas interpeladas desde una perspectiva de género. Avances de investigación
Authors: González Manuela G. , Galletti H. Gabriela
Published: October 2024

Las prácticas jurídicas integran el proceso de formación profesional y de interpretación de la norma jurídica invisibilizándose su valor en la producción y reproducción del conocimiento. El objetivo fue analizar interdisciplinariamente con perspectiva de género las prácticas y estrategias desplegadas por actores/as jurídicos/as en relación a la enseñanza del derecho y la administración de justicia. Usamos metodología cualitativa articulada con datos cuantitativos mediante la triangulación. Los resultados permiten afirmar que las prácticas al interior del campo jurídico han sufrido transformaciones en los conocimientos como en su aplicación, pero no siempre están enfocados en atender las necesidades de justiciables.
To make a long story short: Andrée Levésque
Authors: Valobra Adriana María
Published: October 2024

The following is the transcription of an interview to the Canadian feminist historian Andrée Lévesque, made by Argentinian historian Adriana Valobra in 2023, at the Archives Passe-Mémoire in Quebec, founded by Levésque in 2010. Descentrada offers a Spanish translation of the text, following the original version in English.
Campagnoli, Mabel Alicia (Comp.) (2023). Destellos de una biopolítica afirmativa: andar y desandar las violencias contemporáneas. Buenos Aires: Biblos, 231 páginas
Authors: Lucero Rodríguez Alaide
Published: October 2024

Reseña sobre el libro Destellos de una biopolítica afirmativa: andar y desandar las violencias contemporáneas, compilado por Mabel Alicia Campagnoli. En este texto se presenta un recorrido de lectura crítica sobre los diferentes capítulos que componen el libro y las reflexiones que me han sucitado. El objetivo ha sido rastrear los hilos principales de la compilación, el marco que les une, así como la singularidad que aportan les diferentes autores.
La llama fría by Gilberto Owen: A forgettable story or a lyrical novel?
Authors: López Soto Luis Alberto
Published: October 2024

"Gilberto Owen (1904-1952) was a Mexican poet, member of the Contemporary generation. Such a generation of writers was characterized by opposing realism and nationalist aesthetics to exercise a type of modern poetry and narrative under the influence of the European avant-gardes. Among those influences is that of the lyrical novel. Based on this, this article analyzes a narrative text by Owen little studied by literary critics: La llama fría (1925), based on the theoretical notions of a lyrical novel coined by Ralph Freedman, Darío Villanueva and Ricardo Gullón. Against the grain of a certain sector of criticism, the purpose of this work is to conceptualize this text as a lyrical and avant-garde novel within the framework of the experimental prose of Gilberto Owen as a representative of the Contemporary generation.Keywords: contemporary; experimental novel; avantgarde; mexican poetry; early 20th century"
Portraits of authors: ekphrasis in the works of Augusto Monterroso
Authors: Van Hecke An
Published: October 2024

"This article examines the references to portraits of authors in four short fragments of Monterroso’s work. In an essay in La vaca, the author refers to a portrait of Tolstoy and in his diary La letra e there are references to portraits of three other authors: Søren Kierkegaard, Hart Crane and, curiously, Monterroso himself. For this analysis on the intermedial relations between literature and art, we rely on the studies of Pimentel (2003), Sager Eidt (2008) and Artigas Albarelli (2013), among others. The aim of this research is to reveal how Monterroso integrates a highly original look at these portraits in his texts. The study of ekphrasis in Monterroso opens up an unknown world and allows us to approach his work from new perspectives, particularly those related to the shifting concept of identity, both of the portrayed authors and of Monterroso himself.Keywords: intermediality; art; literature; identity; caricature"
The comic-serious writing of Augusto Monterroso: Lo demás es silencio
Authors: Munguía Zatarain Martha Elena
Published: October 2024

"This essay starts with the study of previous criticisms to make a new proposal for reading the novel Lo demás es silencio by Augusto Monterroso and this search is oriented towards the reestablishment of its links with the ancient tradition of comic-serious or humorous literature, in particular with Menippean satire. Laughter is the axis around which the poetics of the text is built, but I try to see its main features, parodies, ironies, games, satires in the novelistic whole and always in relation to the problem of the literary genre (the composition of a novel based on multiple genres that it incorporates), the struggle between orality-writing, high culture-popular culture, the deep critical sense that beats and the significance of the reflection on the intellectual and academic exercise that the work elaborates.Keywords: Poetics; laughter; menippea; parodies; genre"
Monterroso and Montesol “on the threshold”: Author figures in La letra e and Los detectives salvajes
Authors: Macedo Rodríguez Ángel Alfonso
Published: October 2024

"This article analyzes the figure of the author in two moments: the first based on the self-representation of the author by Augusto Monterroso in La letra e (fragmentos de un diario) (1987); the second proposes a revision of its fictionalized figure in Roberto Bolaño’s Los detectives salvajes (1998). For the analysis of La letra e, Julio Premat’s concept of self-figuration is relevant; for the chilean writer’s novel, I resort to the concept of fictionalization as an artistic procedure in the context of a poetics in which various discursive and literary genres (diary, autobiography, autofiction) intersect. In accordance with the above, the figure of the author is analyzed twice: in its self-referential forms in La letra e and in its parodic, satirical and homage form in Los detectives salvajes.Keywords: Augusto Monterroso; Roberto Bolaño; Hispanoamerican narrative; diary; fictionalization"
Góngora, baroque machine in the archive of Néstor Perlongher
Authors: Palacios Serrato José de Jesús
Published: October 2024

"In this article I analyze the way in which Néstor Perlongher (1949-1992), an Argentine writer and anthropologist, reads Luis de Góngora. The inquiry uses texts selected from a wide archive that includes, in addition to his published poetry, unpublished texts, interviews, correspondence, academic articles and literary essays. During this article, I argue that Góngora was read by Perlongher with a creative direction, far from philological pretensions, which allowed him to encrypt some concepts within his aesthetic proposal. The conformation of the Neo-Baroque has created a critical vulgate that assumes the confluence of postmodern philosophy, the works of Lezama Lima and Severo Sarduy, and a rereading of the Golden Baroque, however the latter has not been quite observed or is taken for granted without investigating the nooks and the scope of its presence. This article contributes to gauge the role and influence that the reading of a baroque poet of the xvii th century had within a poet linked to a literary movement of the xx th century.Keywords: neo-baroque; poetry; gongorism; neobarroso; aids"