bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conditional Values in Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Cohen Leon
Published: October 2024

We consider the local value of an operator for a given position or momentum and, more generally on the value of another arbitrary observable. We develop a general approach that is based on breaking up Aψ(x) as Aψ(x)ψ(x)=Aψ(x)ψ(x)R+iAψ(x)ψ(x)I where A is the operator whose local value we seek and ψ(x) is the position wave function. We show that the real part is related to the conditional value for a given position and the imaginary part is related to the standard deviation of the conditional value. We show that the uncertainty of an operator can be expressed in two parts that depend on the real and imaginary parts. In the case of the position representation, the expression for the uncertainty of an operator shows that there are two fundamental contributions, one due to the amplitude of the wave function and the other due to the phase. We obtain the equation of motion for the conditional values, and in particular, we generalize the Ehrenfest theorem by deriving a local version of the theorem. We give a number of examples, including the local value of momentum, kinetic energy, and Hamiltonian. We also discuss other approaches for obtaining a conditional value in quantum mechanics including using quasi-probability distributions and the characteristic function approach, among others.
Predicting Fractional Shrub Cover in Heterogeneous Mediterranean Landscapes Using Machine Learning and Sentinel-2 Imagery
Authors: Cherif El Khalil , Lucas Ricardo , Ait Tchakoucht Taha , Gama Ivo , Ribeiro Inês , Domingos Tiago , Proença Vânia
Published: October 2024

Wildfires pose a growing threat to Mediterranean ecosystems. This study employs advanced classification techniques for shrub fractional cover mapping from satellite imagery in a fire-prone landscape in Quinta da França (QF), Portugal. The study area is characterized by fine-grained heterogeneous land cover and a Mediterranean climate. In this type of landscape, shrub encroachment after land abandonment and wildfires constitutes a threat to ecosystem resilience—in particular, by increasing the susceptibility to more frequent and large fires. High-resolution mapping of shrub cover is, therefore, an important contribution to landscape management for fire prevention. Here, a 20 cm resolution land cover map was used to label 10 m Sentinel-2 pixels according to their shrub cover percentage (three categories: 0%, >0%–50%, and >50%) for training and testing. Three distinct algorithms, namely Support Vector Machine (SVM), Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), and Random Forest (RF), were tested for this purpose. RF excelled, achieving the highest precision (82%–88%), recall (77%–92%), and F1 score (83%–88%) across all categories (test and validation sets) compared to SVM and ANN, demonstrating its superior ability to accurately predict shrub fractional cover. Analysis of confusion matrices revealed RF’s superior ability to accurately predict shrub fractional cover (higher true positives) with fewer misclassifications (lower false positives and false negatives). McNemar’s test indicated statistically significant differences (p value < 0.05) between all models, consolidating RF’s dominance. The development of shrub fractional cover maps and derived map products is anticipated to leverage key information to support landscape management, such as for the assessment of fire hazard and the more effective planning of preventive actions.
Dɛnkyɛm: Identity Development and Negotiation Among 1.5-Generation Ghanaian American Millennials
Authors: Marie Jakia
Published: October 2024

Ghanaian immigrants are largely ignored in U.S.-based scholarship. Within this qualitative study, I explored the experiences of 1.5-generation Ghanaian American millennials with the purpose of understanding how they create, negotiate, and re-create identities. Using a phenomenological approach, I examined the experiences of eight individuals to specifically understand the creation and negotiation of national, ethnic, and racial identities in public and private spaces. I argue that the 1.5-generation is uniquely socially positioned and forced to code-switch and adapt based on age, race, and nationality, all while still learning to adjust to living in the U.S. The findings suggest that many individuals of this generation had unrealistic expectations of what life in the United States was like, which made the initial transition difficult. Participants also discussed a common theme of bullying at school and a distinct difference between their home life and public life. Racialization was the most challenging aspect of life participants faced as it related to their adjustment to mainstream U.S. society and revealed complex layers that are involved in identity development and negotiation. I close with suggestions for future research and implications for practice for scholars, policymakers, and community members.
Clinical and Molecular Findings in Patients with Knobloch Syndrome 1: Case Series Report
Authors: Vasilyeva Tatyana , Kadyshev Vitaly , Khalanskaya Olga , Kuznetsova Svetlana , Ionova Sofya , Marakhonov Andrey , Zinchenko Rena
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Knobloch syndrome 1 (KS) is an autosomal recessive inherited ocular syndrome characterized by a combination of high myopia, vitreoretinal degeneration, and occipital encephalocele. KS is caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in the COL18A1 gene. Diagnosing KS can be challenging due to its clinical heterogeneity and the rarity of the syndrome. Methods: We conducted comprehensive clinical and instrumental ophthalmological examinations, whole-exome sequencing, Sanger sequencing, and segregation analysis to evaluate affected families. Results: Two patients presenting with high myopia, low visual acuity, chorioretinal atrophy, and occipital skin/skull defects were diagnosed with Knobloch syndrome 1 (KS). In Case 1, a 14-year-old boy, the COL18A1 variants identified were c.2673dup and c.3523_3524del in a compound heterozygous state. Case 2 involved a 3-year-old girl, the c.1637_1638dup and c.3523_3524del variants were identified in a compound heterozygous state. In Case 3, a retrospectively observed boy of 3 y.o. with KS, the variants c.929-2A>G and c.3523_3524del were defined earlier. Conclusions: We confirmed KS molecularly in two novel families. Additionally, in Case 3 of a retrospectively analyzed third family and in both novel cases, one of the biallelic causative variants was the same known 2bp deletion in exon 40 of the collagen XVIII gene. Cases 1 and 3 were characterized by connective tissue dysplasia features and a pathognomonic Knobloch triad. No neurological manifestations and no trends in the genotype–phenotype relationship were found. The heterogeneity of phenotype in the case series is likely to be the result of further factors and/or genetic background.
Non-Destructive Methods for Assessing the Condition of Reinforcement Materials in Soil
Authors: Tatta Naoki , Sakai Hideo
Published: October 2024

A reinforced earth wall is a structure in which reinforcement materials are placed in an embankment to build a vertical or nearly vertical wall surface. Such walls have been widely used in roads and in developed land since around 1960. Reinforcement materials have a set service life of 100 years and fall into two types: steel and geosynthetics. To ensure long-term durability, steel reinforcement materials are plated, while geosynthetics are designed with a limit strength designed to resist fracture for 100 years under the conditions of a given load placed on the reinforcement materials. However, owing to the difficulty of assessing the condition of reinforcement materials in soil, this paper proposes solutions based on non-destructive methods. Specifically, it proposes a method of assessing the amount of strain through an embedded optical fiber in the case of geosynthetic reinforcement materials, or magnetic surveying to investigate the degree of corrosion in the case of steel reinforcement materials. This paper demonstrates that it is possible to non-destructively assess the state of either type of reinforcement material.
Editorial Board Members’ Collection Series: Improving Structural Integrity of Metals: From Bulk to Surface
Authors: Borgioli Francesca , Benasciutti Denis , Prisco Umberto , Tański Tomasz
Published: October 2024

Metals and alloys continue to play a crucial role in the design and construction of load-bearing structures and mechanical components [...]
Optimization of Geopolymers for Sustainable Management of Mine Tailings: Impact on Mechanical, Microstructural, and Toxicological Properties
Authors: Palma Gregorio , Bolaños Héctor , Huamani Roberto , Clements Cara , Hedayat Ahmadreza
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the use of geopolymer technology as an alternative for the management of mine tailings, which is a serious environmental problem in mining areas, including the Arequipa region of Peru. In this study, the mixture of stabilized mine tailings with different percentages of binders (i.e., metakaolin and pumice) and their impact on the mechanical, microstructural, and toxicological properties of the synthesized geopolymers were analyzed. The ratios of mine tailings to binder material varied between 100/0 and 0/100. The activation was carried out with an alkaline solution of sodium hydroxide (10 M) and sodium silicate (modulus 2.5). Specimens were fabricated as 50 mm cubes, and the seven mix designs were evaluated in triplicate. The evaluations included compressive strength at 7, 14, 28, and 56 days of curing, chemical analysis by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), microstructural characterization by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM/EDS), thermal behavior by thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis (TGA/DTA) between 40 °C and 1000 °C, and toxicological tests by the Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP, EPA 1311) to determine the efficiency of immobilization of toxic metals. The results demonstrate significant improvements in compressive strength for the F50 specimens compared to A0, with increases of approximately 300%, 270%, and 461% observed at 7, 28, and 56 days of curing, respectively, with microstructural stability with an average pore size of 7.21 μm, and efficiency in the immobilization of heavy metals in geopolymers with 30% or 40% binder (60%–70% mine tailings). The leachate concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Hg were below the established thresholds, indicating that the stabilized mine tailings can be classified as “non-hazardous materials”. Geopolymers with 30% to 50% binder showed strength development with microstructural stability and efficiency in the immobilization of heavy metals, complying with current regulations. Therefore, these geopolymers are suitable for various applications and in different environmental conditions.
Molecular Dynamics Study of Bending Deformation of Mo2Ti2C3 and Ti4C3 (MXenes) Nanoribbons
Authors: Borysiuk Vadym , Lyashenko Iakov A. , Popov Valentin L.
Published: October 2024

We report a computational study of the bending deformation of two-dimensional nanoribbons by classical molecular dynamics methods. Two-dimensional double transition metal carbides, together with monometallic ones, belong to the family of novel nanomaterials, so-called MXenes. Recently, it was reported that within molecular dynamics simulations, Ti4C3 MXene nanoribbons demonstrated higher resistance to bending deformation than thinner Ti2C MXene and other two-dimensional materials, such as graphene and molybdenum disulfide. Here, we apply a similar method to that used in a previous study to investigate the behavior of Mo2Ti2C3 nanoribbon under bending deformation, in comparison to the Ti4C3 sample that has a similar structure. Our calculations show that Mo2Ti2C3 is characterized by higher bending rigidity at DTi2Mo2C3≈92.15 eV than monometallic Ti4C3 nanoribbon at DTi4C3≈72.01 eV, which has a similar thickness. Moreover, approximately the same magnitude of critical central deflection of the nanoribbon before fracture was observed for both Mo2Ti2C3 and Ti4C3 samples, wc≈1.7 nm, while Mo2Ti2C3 MXene is characterized by almost two times higher critical value of related external force.
Defense Molecules of the Invasive Plant Species Ageratum conyzoides
Authors: Kato-Noguchi Hisashi , Kato Midori
Published: October 2024

Ageratum conyzoides L. is native to Tropical America, and it has naturalized in many other tropical, subtropical, and temperate countries in South America, Central and Southern Africa, South and East Asia, Eastern Austria, and Europe. The population of the species has increased dramatically as an invasive alien species, and it causes significant problems in agriculture and natural ecosystems. The life history traits of Ageratum conyzoides, such as its short life cycle, early reproductive maturity, prolific seed production, and high adaptive ability to various environmental conditions, may contribute to its naturalization and increasing population. Possible evidence of the molecules involved in the defense of Ageratum conyzoides against its natural enemies, such as herbivore insects and fungal pathogens, and the allelochemicals involved in its competitive ability against neighboring plant species has been accumulated in the literature. The volatiles, essential oils, extracts, residues, and/or rhizosphere soil of Ageratum conyzoides show insecticidal, fungicidal, nematocidal, and allelopathic activity. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids lycopsamine and echinatine, found in the species, are highly toxic and show insecticidal activity. Benzopyran derivatives precocenes I and II show inhibitory activity against insect juvenile hormone biosynthesis and trichothecene mycotoxin biosynthesis. A mixture of volatiles emitted from Ageratum conyzoides, such as β-caryophyllene, β-bisabolene, and β-farnesene, may work as herbivore-induced plant volatiles, which are involved in the indirect defense function against herbivore insects. Flavonoids, such as nobiletin, eupalestin, 5′-methoxynobiletin, 5,6,7,3′,4′,5′-hexamethoxyflavone, and 5,6,8,3,4′,5′-hexamethoxyflavone, show inhibitory activity against the spore germination of pathogenic fungi. The benzoic acid and cinnamic acid derivatives found in the species, such as protocatechuic acid, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and ferulic acid, may act as allelopathic agents, causing the germination and growth inhibition of competitive plant species. These molecules produced by Ageratum conyzoides may act as defense molecules against its natural enemies and as allelochemicals against neighboring plant species, and they may contribute to the naturalization of the increasing population of Ageratum conyzoides in new habitats as an invasive plant species. This article presents the first review focusing on the defense function and allelopathy of Ageratum conyzoides.
Creation of Metal-Complex-Integrated Tensegrity Triangle DNA Crystals
Authors: Abe Katsuhiko , Eki Haruhiko , Hirose Yuki , Park Soyoung , Chinnathambi Shanmugavel , Namasivayam Ganesh Pandian , Takeda Kazuki , Sugiyama Hiroshi , Endo Masayuki
Published: October 2024

Structural DNA nanotechnology is an emerging field and is expected to be used for various applications in materials science. In this study, we designed a DNA tensegrity triangle to accommodate the bipyridine complexes with metal ions (Ni2+ and Fe2+) at the center of the space within the triangle. A metal–bipyridine-incorporated DNA tensegrity triangle was crystalized, and the presence of metals within it was confirmed through X-ray crystal structure analysis. A signal of the anomalous dispersion effect derived from metal was observed in the center of the DNA triangle.
You Eat with Your Eyes: Framing of Food Choice Options Affects Decision Conflict and Visual Attention in Food Choice Task
Authors: Senftleben Ulrike , Kruse Johanna , Scherbaum Stefan , Korb Franziska M.
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Frequent poor dietary choices can have significant consequences. To understand the underlying decision-making processes, most food choice tasks present a binary choice between a tasty but less healthy option and a healthy but less tasty option. It is assumed that people come to a decision by trading off the respective health and taste values. However, it is unclear whether and to what extent food choice goes beyond this. Methods: We use a novel eye-tracking experiment where we compare a typical food choice task (image condition) with an abstract value-based decision-making task using pre-matched percentages of health and taste (text condition; e.g., 10% healthy and 80% tasty) in 78 participants. Results: We find a higher frequency of unhealthy choices and reduced response times in the image condition compared to the text condition, suggesting more impulsive decision making. The eye-tracking analysis shows that, in the text condition, the item corresponding to the subsequent choice receives more attention than the alternative option, whereas in the image condition this only applies to the healthy item. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that decision-making in typical food choice tasks goes beyond a mere value-based trade-off. These differences could be due to the involvement of different attentional processes in typical food choice tasks or due to the modality of stimulus presentation. These results could help to understand why people prefer tasty but unhealthy food options even when health is important to them.
Sámi Healthcare Staff Experiences of Encounters with Sámi Patients and Their Expectations for Non-Sámi Healthcare Staff
Authors: Mentsen Ness Tove , Mehus Grete
Published: October 2024

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore Sámi healthcare staff experiences in encounters with Sámi patients and their expectations for non-Sámi healthcare staff. Methods: Focus groups and individual interviews with 14 participants were conducted, and the participants’ experiences were subjected to a thematic analysis approach. Results: The findings show that the Sámi healthcare staff expect non-Sámi healthcare staff to enhance their knowledge about Sámi language and culture. The Sámi healthcare staff also expect non-Sámi healthcare staff to gain knowledge of diversities within the Sámi cultures. Additionally, the results show that the participants felt that the encounters were more authentic when the patients had the same background as themselves. Conclusion: These results were also based on the participants’ experience of resistance from non-Sámi healthcare staff, which can be addressed by the non-Sámi healthcare staff and healthcare institutions enhancing their knowledge of Sámi history, culture, and language. This can be conducted by making efforts to meet the participants’ expectations and experiences, enhancing their knowledge of Sámi history, culture, and language, and showing respect to provide culturally safe care. Further, tacit knowledge and what can be seen as “two-eyed seeing”, as demonstrated by the participants, are not necessarily transferable to non-Sámi healthcare staff. Despite this, all healthcare staff, through experience, recognition, and reflections on encounters with Sámi patients and Sámi healthcare staff, can develop awareness in what is addressed as “two-eyed seeing” by the participants in this study.
Acute Onset of Peripheral Facial Nerve Palsy in Children: An Overview
Authors: Fancello Virginia , Ciorba Andrea , Monzani Daniele , Genovese Elisabetta , Bussu Francesco , Palma Silvia
Published: October 2024

Background The facial nerve (FN) plays a pivotal role in human life; apart from its sensory and parasympathetic functions, it innervates the facial muscles, and it is therefore involved in non-verbal communication, allowing us to express emotions and reactions. Especially in the case of childhood onset, FN dysfunction can severely affect the quality of life. Methods The aim of this review is to analyze the most recent literature, focusing on the acute onset of peripheral FN palsy among pediatric patients, discussing the different etiologies, prognoses, and management strategies. A total of 882 papers were initially identified, but only 7 met the selection criteria. Therefore, data on 974 children in total were pooled and analyzed. Results According to the findings of this review, FN palsy is idiopathic in most cases, while an infective etiology was identified as the second most common. The main pathogen agents identified were Borrelia Burgdorferi, especially in endemic areas, and Herpesviridae. Respiratory tract infections and/or ear infections were also described. Head trauma or direct injury of the FN accounted for 2% of all cases. Conclusions The overall FN recovery rate is high, even though the etiology remains unknown for most patients. Therapeutic indications are still lacking, especially in the case of non-recovering FN palsy. In our opinion, large, prospective studies are necessary for improving our knowledge of this disorder and establishing evidence-based approaches.
Radiopharmaceuticals for Pancreatic Cancer: A Review of Current Approaches and Future Directions
Authors: Calistri Sara , Ottaviano Giuseppe , Ubaldini Alberto
Published: October 2024

The poor prognosis of pancreatic cancer requires novel treatment options. This review examines the evolution of radiopharmaceuticals in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Established strategies such as peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) offer targeted and effective treatment, compared to conventional treatments. However, there are currently no radiopharmaceuticals approved for the treatment of pancreatic cancer in Europe, which requires further research and novel approaches. New radiopharmaceuticals including radiolabeled antibodies, peptides, and nanotechnological approaches are promising in addressing the challenges of pancreatic cancer therapy. These new agents may offer more specific targeting and potentially improve efficacy compared to traditional therapies. Further research is needed to optimize efficacy, address limitations, and explore the overall potential of these new strategies in the treatment of this aggressive and harmful pathology.
Fabrication of Polypill Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms Using Fused Deposition Modeling 3D Printing: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yasin Haya , Al-Tabakha Moawia M. A. , Chan Siok Yee
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: The pharmacy profession has undergone significant changes driven by advancements in patient care and healthcare systems. The FDA approval of Spritam® (levetiracetam), the first 3D-printed drug, has sparked increased interest in the use of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing for pharmaceutical applications, particularly in the production of polypills. Methods: This review provides an overview of FDM 3D printing in the development of pharmaceutical dosage forms, focusing on its operation, printing parameters, materials, additives, advantages, and limitations. Key aspects, such as the ability to personalize medication and the challenges associated with the technique, including drug stability at high temperatures, are discussed. Results: Fourteen studies relevant to FDM 3D-printed polypills were analyzed from an initial pool of 60. The increasing number of publications highlights the growing global interest in this technology, with the UK contributing the highest number of studies. Conclusions: FDM 3D printing offers significant potential for personalized medicine by enabling precise control over dosage forms and tailoring treatments to individual patient needs. However, limitations such as high printing temperatures and the lack of standardized GMP guidelines for large-scale production must be addressed to fully realize its potential in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Targeting Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α in Pancreatic Cancer: siRNA Delivery Using Hyaluronic Acid-Displaying Nanoparticles
Authors: Spadea Alice , Tirella Annalisa , Rios de la Rosa Julio Manuel , Lallana Enrique , Mehibel Manal , Telfer Brian , Tirelli Nicola , Lawrence Margaret Jayne , Williams Kaye J. , Stratford Ian J. , Ashford Marianne
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives: Conventional anticancer therapies often lack specificity, targeting both cancerous and normal cells, which reduces efficacy and leads to undesired off-target effects. An additional challenge is the presence of hypoxic regions in tumors, where the Hypoxia Inducible Factor (HIF) transcriptional system drives the expression of pro-survival and drug resistance genes, leading to radio- and chemo-resistance. This study aims to explore the efficacy of targeted nanoparticle (NP)-based small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapies in downregulating these genes to enhance treatment outcomes in pancreatic cancer, a tumor type characterized by high CD44 expression and hypoxia. Methods: We utilized hyaluronic acid (HA)-displaying nanoparticles composed of positively charged chitosan (CS) complexed with siRNA to target and knock down HIF-1α in pancreatic cancer cells. Two NP formulations were prepared using either low molecular weight (LMW) or high molecular weight (HMW) CS. These formulations were evaluated for their internalization by cells and their effectiveness in gene silencing, both in vitro and in vivo. Results: The study found that the molecular weight (MW) of CS influenced the interaction between HA and CD44, as well as the release of siRNA upon internalization. The LMW CS formulation shows faster uptake kinetics, while HMW CS is more effective in gene knockdown across different cell lines in vitro. In vivo, both were able to significantly knockdown HIF-1α and some of its downstream genes. Conclusions: The results suggest that HMW and LMW CS-based NPs exhibit distinct characteristics, showing that both MWs have potential for targeted pancreatic cancer therapy by influencing different aspects of delivery and gene silencing, particularly in the hypoxic tumor microenvironment.
Lipid-Based Formulation of Baricitinib for the Topical Treatment of Psoriasis
Authors: Mohammadi-Meyabadi Roya , Mallandrich Mireia , Beirampour Negar , Garrós Núria , Espinoza Lupe Carolina , Sosa Lilian , Suñer-Carbó Joaquim , Rodríguez-Lagunas María José , Garduño-Ramírez María Luisa , Calpena-Campmany Ana C.
Published: October 2024

Background: Baricitinib, commonly used for autoimmune diseases, is typically administered orally, which can lead to systemic adverse effects. A topical formulation could potentially offer localized therapeutic effects while minimizing these side effects. Objectives: This study focuses on developing a lipid-based topical formulation of baricitinib (BCT-OS) for treating psoriasis. Methods: The optimized formulation was then assessed for physical, chemical, and biopharmaceutical characterization. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory efficacy of the formulation was tested in a model of psoriasis induced by imiquimod in mice, and its tolerance was determined by the evaluation of biomechanical skin properties and an inflammation test model induced by xylol in mice. Results: BCT-OS presented appropriate characteristics for skin administration in terms of pH, rheology, extensibility, and stability. The formulation also demonstrated a notable reduction in skin inflammation in the mouse model, and high tolerability without affecting the skin integrity. Conclusions: BCT-OS shows promise as an alternative treatment for psoriasis, offering localized therapeutic benefits with a potentially improved safety profile compared to systemic administration.
Contesting Power as Political Theology: Traditionalist Islamic Preaching and Post-Secularism in the West
Authors: Belhaj Abdessamad
Published: October 2024

Traditionalist Islamic preaching in the West is not limited to the normative aspects of theology, law, and ethics. In addition, it addresses the most pressing social and political issues that Muslims are currently confronting in the West; it also challenges Western modernity in general and secularism in particular. Two critical sermons of secularism delivered by two of the most well-known traditionalist Muslim preachers in their respective countries—Hamza Yusuf in the USA and Hani Ramadan in Switzerland—are analyzed in this study. First, I shall examine the arguments put up by these preachers against secularism and in support of post-secular society. Next, I will study the rhetorical strategies used in these two sermons. Finally, I will discuss the relevance of these two sermons to the contemporary debates in the West on contesting secularism and multiple secularisms. It is argued here that traditionalist Muslim preachers see secularism as an encroaching power that poses a danger to the figures of authority and norms that control gender, knowledge, and education within Muslim communities and societies.
Multimodal Non-Destructive In Situ Observation of Crystallinity Changes in High-Density Polyethylene Samples with Relation to Optical Parameters during Tensile Deformation
Authors: Felbermayer Karoline , van Frank Sandrine , Heise Bettina , Brandstetter Markus , Rankl Christian , Ladner Harald , Burgholzer Peter
Published: October 2024

Many non-destructive optical testing methods are currently used for material research, providing various information about material parameters. At RECENDT, a multimodal experimental setup has been designed that combines terahertz (THz) spectroscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT), infrared (IR), and Raman spectroscopy with a tensile test stage. This setup aims to gather material information such as crystallinity and optical parameters of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) during a tensile test. The setup compares common IR and Raman spectroscopy and the less common optical methods THz and OCT. Complementarity is achieved through different frequency ranges and measurement approaches, resulting in different measured optical material parameters and depths. During tensile testing, HDPE samples with varying crystallinity were analysed, and the determined optical parameters such as refractive index, birefringence, scattering coefficient of decay, and penetration depth can be correlated with the change in crystallinity. These findings demonstrate that the optical methods and their outcomes can be interconnected. With further optimization of the experimental setup, it would be possible to observe the alignment of fibres in fibre composite panels and the stress distribution of polymers effectively. This opens interesting possibilities for polymer characterization in the future, including quality control during moulding processes and material testing.
Speckle Vibrometry for Contactless Instantaneous Heart Rate and Respiration Rate Monitoring on Mechanically Ventilated Patients
Authors: Que Shuhao , Cramer Iris , Dekker Lukas , Overeem Sebastiaan , Bouwman Arthur , Zinger Svitlana , Stuijk Sander , van Meulen Fokke
Published: October 2024

Objective: Contactless monitoring of instantaneous heart rate and respiration rate has a significant clinical relevance. This work aims to use Speckle Vibrometry (i.e., based on the secondary laser speckle effect) to contactlessly measure these two vital signs in an intensive care unit. Methods: In this work, we propose an algorithm for the estimation of instantaneous heart rate and respiration rate from mechanically ventilated patients. The algorithm uses multiple regions, principal component analysis, and dominant angle analysis. A semi-automated peak detection method is implemented to precisely label the aortic valve opening peak within the cardiac waveform. Results: Compared with electrocardiography, the present work achieves limits of agreement of [−2.19, 1.73] beats per minute of instantaneous heart rate. The measurement spot is on the chest covered with two to three layers of duvet blankets. Compared with the airway flow signal measured by the mechanical ventilator, the present work achieves limits of agreement of [−0.68, 0.46] respirations per minute of instantaneous respiration rate. Conclusions: These results showcased Speckle Vibrometry’s potential in vital sign monitoring in a clinical setting. Significance: This is the first human clinical study for Speckle Vibrometry.
The Development of a Multicommand Tactile Event-Related Potential-Based Brain–Computer Interface Utilizing a Low-Cost Wearable Vibrotactile Stimulator
Authors: Borirakarawin Manorot , Siribunyaphat Nannaphat , Aung Si Thu , Punsawad Yunyong
Published: October 2024

A tactile event-related potential (ERP)-based brain–computer interface (BCI) system is an alternative for enhancing the control and communication abilities of quadriplegic patients with visual or auditory impairments. Hence, in this study, we proposed a tactile stimulus pattern using a vibrotactile stimulator for a multicommand BCI system. Additionally, we observed a tactile ERP response to the target from random vibrotactile stimuli placed in the left and right wrist and elbow positions to create commands. An experiment was conducted to explore the location of the proposed vibrotactile stimulus and to verify the multicommand tactile ERP-based BCI system. Using the proposed features and conventional classification methods, we examined the classification efficiency of the four commands created from the selected EEG channels. The results show that the proposed vibrotactile stimulation with 15 stimulus trials produced a prominent ERP response in the Pz channels. The average classification accuracy ranged from 61.9% to 79.8% over 15 stimulus trials, requiring 36 s per command in offline processing. The P300 response in the parietal area yielded the highest average classification accuracy. The proposed method can guide the development of a brain–computer interface system for physically disabled people with visual or auditory impairments to control assistive and rehabilitative devices.
The Dirac-Dolbeault Operator Approach to the Hodge Conjecture
Authors: Farinelli Simone
Published: October 2024

The Dirac-Dolbeault operator for a compact Kähler manifold is a special case of Dirac operator. The Green function for the Dirac Laplacian over a Riemannian manifold with boundary allows the expression of the values of the sections of the Dirac bundle in terms of the values on the boundary, extending the mean value theorem of harmonic analysis. Utilizing this representation and the Nash–Moser generalized inverse function theorem, we prove the existence of complex submanifolds of a complex projective manifold satisfying globally a certain partial differential equation under a certain injectivity assumption. Thereby, internal symmetries of Dolbeault and rational Hodge cohomologies play a crucial role. Next, we show the existence of complex submanifolds whose fundamental classes span the rational Hodge classes, proving the Hodge conjecture for complex projective manifolds.
Variations in Primary and Secondary Metabolites of Panicum maximum under Diverse Wastewater Pollution Conditions
Authors: Shaghaleh Hiba , AlGarawi Amal Mohamed , Okla Mohammad K. , Sheteiwy Mohamed S. , Elsadek Elsayed Ahmed , Alhaj Hamoud Yousef
Published: October 2024

Panicum maximum is planted extensively in tropical and subtropical areas, due to its high-quality forage and high biomass yield. This study aims to assess the varied metabolic dynamics of P. maximum subject to different pollution-related wastewater levels, thus providing information for sustainable agriculture and soil restoration. We analyzed the primary and secondary metabolites in P. maximum subject to two different types of polluted wastewater (WW), compared to a control group. The alterations observed in the metabolite profiles were affected by several factors, including nutrient imbalances and oxidative stress induced by heavy metal accumulation. Initially, the increased nutrient availability stemming from wastewater treatment promoted plant growth; however, this positive effect was later diminished by the adverse impacts of heavy metals, which generated oxidative stress, resulting in metabolic disturbances and a decrease in the plant biomass. Importantly, the substantial increase in antioxidant enzymes, related to primary (e.g., sugars) and secondary metabolites (e.g., phenolics and flavonoids), underscores plants’ adaptive strategies to cope with stress. The increased biosynthesis of flavonoids and phenolic compounds is a protective mechanism against oxidative stress, which also improves the antimicrobial activity, following the activation of key biosynthetic pathways involved in their synthesis. These complex interactions among diverse metabolites suggest that plants exposed to polluted wastewater use various biochemical strategies to increase both their survival and defenses against pathogens. Collectively, these findings emphasize the significance of understanding how wastewater management practices can affect plant health, metabolic responses, and the broader implications for food safety and ecosystem stability.
A Novel Algal–Algal Microbial Fuel Cell for Enhanced Chemical Oxygen Demand Removal
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Cheng Kai , Mei Hong , Qin Wensheng
Published: October 2024

To enhance the removal of COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) by microalgae, this study constructed a novel microalgae–microalgae microbial fuel cell system (AA-MFC). It investigated the coupling relationship between the COD treatment efficiency at the anode and the production of high-value microalgal products at the cathode, as well as explored the effects of different initial inoculum densities and light–dark cycles. The experiment first measured the operational performance of the newly constructed AA-MFC in open-circuit and closed-circuit modes, demonstrating that this novel AA-MFC could start up rapidly within 32 h and operate stably. The results showed that the AA-MFC enhanced the removal of COD and the growth of microalgae biomass at the anode while maintaining stable power generation. When the initial inoculation density of the anode was 1.2 × 108 cell/cm2 and the light–dark cycle time was 18:6 h, the AA-MFC had the most obvious promoting effect on the COD removal of the anode. Compared with normal culture conditions, the COD removal rate increased by 26.0% to 96.1%. These results indicate that the AA-MFC can not only effectively remove pollutants, but also promote the accumulation of high-value microalgae biomass.
Epidemiological patterns of natural focal diseases of the Voronezh region
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Voronezh State Medical University named after. N. N. Burdenko» of the Russian Federation Ministry of Health, Voronezh, Russia, Mamchik N. P. ,   Federal Budgetary Health Institution «Center of Hygiene and Epidemiology in the Voronezh region», Voronezh, Russia, Yatsenko L. A. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Voronezh State Medical University named after. N. N. Burdenko» of the Russian Federation Ministry of Health, Voronezh, Russia, Gabbasova N. V. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Voronezh State Medical University named after. N. N. Burdenko» of the Russian Federation Ministry of Health, Voronezh, Russia, Mazina O. L. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education «Voronezh State Medical University named after. N. N. Burdenko» of the Russian Federation Ministry of Health, Voronezh, Russia
Published: October 2024

Diseases of animals and humans are widespread and are confined to the habitat of the reservoir. Urbanization has led to the expansion of the range of natural focal diseases with the formation of persistent anthropurgic foci.The purpose of the work was to study the epizootic manifestations of natural focal diseases and analyze the morbidity of the population of the Voronezh region. The research material was based on data from federal statistical observation forms No. 2 for 2012–2022, and the results of epizootological monitoring of the department of natural focal infections and laboratories of the Center for Hygiene and Epidemiology in the Voronezh region. A retrospective epidemiological analysis of the morbidity rate of the population of the Voronezh region was carried out, ranking administrative territories based on the method of standard deviations. The results obtained were processed using Microsoft Excel; the long-term average incidence rate, error of the mean, confidence intervals, and significance level (p) less than 0.05 were calculated. The result of the analysis showed that the long-term average incidence rate of natural focal diseases in the Voronezh region was 9.91 per 100,000 population. In the structure of nosological forms, 85.98 % were tick-borne borreliosis and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. The long-term average incidence rate of Lyme disease is 4.45 per 100,000 population, hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome is 0.87 per 100,000 population. According to the ranking results, the Ramonsky, Ternovsky and Anninsky administrative territories were classified as risk areas for the average long-term incidence of borreliosis, and the Ramonsky, Verkhnekhava and Paninsky administrative territories for hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. The results obtained indicate active natural foci of infections in the Voronezh region.
Occupational pathology service of the Samara Region. Historical outline of development and the present
Authors:   FSBEI HE Samara State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Babanov S. A.
Published: October 2024

The article presents the main stages of the formation and activities of the occupational pathology service of the Samara Region. The representatives of the Samara scientific and pedagogical school of occupational pathologists actively work both in science and in practical healthcare. Thus, honored scientist of the Samara Region, professor A.V. Zhestkov is the head of the Department of General and Clinical Microbiology, Immunology and Allergology, professor S.A. Babanov – of the Department of Occupational Diseases and Clinical Pharmacology named after honored scientist of the Russian Federation professor V.V. Kosarev, professor A.V. Kapishnikov – of the Department of Radiation Diagnostics and Radiotherapy, professor V.I. Kupaev – of the Department of Family Medicine, professor A.S. Shpigel is the professor of the Department of Hospital Therapy with courses in outpatient therapy and transfusiology, professor B.E. Borodulin is the professor of the Department of Phthisiology and Pulmonology, professor I.I. Sirotko is the head of the Department of Organization of Socially Significant and Specialized Medical Care of the Ministry of Health of the Samara Region, professor N.A. Mokina is the chief physician of the SBHI SR Samara Regional Children's Sanatorium "Yunost", PhD Candidate in Medicine D.V. Izmailov is the medical director of the medical company "Medgard".
Azonnali fizetési infrastruktúra kontra fizetési megoldás
Authors: Czímer József , Kiszely Róbert , Biró-Lebovits Máté
Published: October 2024

Az utóbbi években az azonnali fizetés bevezetése lett az egyik uralkodó tendencia a pénzforgalmi szolgáltatások terén. E rendszerek közös tulajdonsága: mindegyik azt az igen nehéz feladatot oldja meg, hogy egy pénzösszeget az egyik bankból a másik bankba átutaljon pár másodperc alatt folyamatosan, a nap 24 órájában. Minden létrehozott rendszer egy bankok közötti, központi infrastruktúrát tartalmaz, amelynek az a feladata, hogy lehetőséget nyújtson a tranzakciók gyors és biztonságos lebonyolítására. Az új rendszerek bevezetése ugyanakkor nem eredményezte azt, hogy azok kiszorítsák a korábbi fizetési megoldásokat. Mi lehet ennek az oka? A rövid válasz erre a kérdésre az, hogy az azonnali fizetési infrastruktúrák a bankokat kötik össze egymással, míg a fizetési megoldások a fizetési tranzakciók két végpontja, a fizető fél és a kedvezményezett között létesítenek kapcsolatot. A cikk ezt a témát járja körül azzal, hogy megvizsgálja, hogyan lehet egy azonnali fizetési központi infrastruktúrából egy komplex fizetési megoldást létrehozni. A cikk szerzői a Capsys Informatikai Kft. munkatársaiként részt vettek a társaság által lebonyolított Kutatási és Fejlesztési (K+F) projektben, amelynek célja ennek a kérdésnek a megválaszolása volt. A szerzők részesei voltak továbbá a Magyar Nemzeti Bank által kezdeményezett „Azonnali fizetés 2.0” projektnek is. Ezt azért hozták létre, hogy a magyar központi azonnali fizetési infrastruktúrát egy nemzeti fizetési megoldássá változtassa az újonnan bevezetett „qvik” brand alatt.
Győrffy Dóra – Benczes István – Rosta Miklós (szerk.) : Közgazdaságtan és gazdaságpolitika. Tanulmányok Csaba László 70. születésnapja alkalmából
Authors: Dunavölgyi Mária
Published: October 2024

Budapest, 2024 Akadémiai Kiadó, 262 p.
TECHNOLOGICAL SUPPORT FOR ONLINE LEARNING OF FUTURE GEOGRAPHY TEACHERS
Authors: Vishnikina L. , Samoilenko V. , Davydenko O.
Published: October 2024

The article determines that in the context of reforming modern geographical education, geography teachers face various challenges and problems related to the complication of access to educational services. It is proved that the use of distance learning, which is regulated by state educational documents, is an important mechanism for ensuring the continuity of the educational process.
The paper notes that digital skills are an essential part of the professional competence of a geography teacher. Based on the analysis of numerous sources of scientific and pedagogical domestic and foreign literature, the author has developed and proposed his own model of components of technological conditions for the implementation of distance learning in geography, aimed at integrating new technologies. The essence of the components of the developed model is defined and substantiated. The learning management systems, video conferencing platforms and collaboration tools that belong to the software of distance learning in geography are characterised. The features of material and technical support and its components are outlined. The structure of the necessary methodological support and the problems of its development are determined. The importance of security and confidentiality as a condition for online learning is highlighted. Attention is paid to technical support and the main directions of its implementation are described. Attention is focused on the need for systematic and comprehensive compliance with certain technological conditions of distance learning, since its technical, methodological and informational components are integral parts of the online learning environment.