bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Variasi Arus Listrik pada Pengelasan SMAW Material Stainless Steel 304 dengan Elektroda E308 terhadap Kekuatan Mekanik dan Struktur Mikro
Authors: Laksana Alfian Hudan , Himawan Citrakara U.S.B.K , Basuki Moh. Astono , Prasetya Yanto Budi
Published: December 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh variasi arus las terhadap kuat tarik dan kekerasan las SMAW dengan elektroda E308 pada pelat baja Stainless stell 304. Besar variasi penggunaan arus las adalah 60, 80 dan 100 ampere. Penelitian ini dilakuakn dengan membuat pengujian specimen dengan variasi arus las sebesar 60 ampere, 80 ampere dan 100 ampere yang kemudian dilakukan pengujian tarik dan kekerasan dengan tujuan mengetahui pengaruh yang diakibatkan oleh variasi arus terhadap tegangan tarik, kekuatan dan kekerasan sambungan las. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa semakin tinggi arus pengelasan kekuatan tarik semakin meningkat. Kekuatan tarik terendah pada arus 60 ampere, yaitu dengan nilai rata-rata sebesar 59,58 kg/mm2, sedangkan kekuatan tarik tertinggi pada arus 100 ampere, yaitu dengan nilai rata-rata 63,03 kg/mm2. Pada daerah lasan, nilai kekerasan tertinggi diperoleh pada sampel 60 Ampere, yaitu sebesar 91,83 HRB dan nilai kekerasan terendah pada sampel 100 Ampere, yaitu sebesar 89,23 HRB. Hasil data pengujian kemudian dilakukan uji varian (ANOVA) satu faktor di manaÂ Â  terdapat perbedaan dari variasi arus listrik pengelasan pada proses pengelasan SMAW terhadap nilai kekuatan tarik dan kekerasan sambungan las material stainless steel 304.
A Review of Experimental Approach for Scour Reduction in the Vicinity of Bridge Abutment
Authors: Murtaza Nadir , Khan Zaka Ullah
Published: December 2023

In hydraulic engineering and design of infrastructure, scour, the erosive process that threatens the integrity of bridge abutments, is a crucial problem. This review study seeks to give a thorough examination of scour reduction tactics near bridge abutments, with an emphasis on the precision, efficacy, and novel methodologies used in recent studies. We summarize and critically evaluate the primary approaches and results from research in the scour reduction sector. We examine fundamental scour mechanisms, cutting-edge scour reduction methods, numerical modeling and simulations, and real-world case studies throughout the study. Our study indicates the need for more research to close existing gaps and illustrates the advantages and disadvantages of the present scour mitigation measures. This work aims to combine this multitude of information in order to advise and direct academics, designers, and planners in their efforts to reduce scour-related hazards to bridge abutments, therefore maintaining the durability and resilience of crucial infrastructure. This provides analysis of scour mitigation methods provides insightful tips for boosting the durability and safety of bridge structures across the world.
Precedent-Based Reasoning with Incomplete Cases
Authors: Odekerken Daphne , Bex Floris , Prakken Henry
Published: December 2023

We extend the result model for precedent-based reasoning with incomplete case bases. In contrast to regular case bases, these consist of incomplete cases for which not all dimension values need to be specified, but rather each dimension is assigned a set of possible values. The outcome of cases then applies for each (combination of) the possible dimension values. Building on earlier proposed notions of justification and stability for incomplete focus cases, we introduce the notion of possible justification statuses, which are required to maintain consistency of the incomplete case base. We demonstrate how these theoretic notions can be applied in practice for human-in-the-loop decision support, discuss their computational complexity and provide efficient algorithms.
“Comparative Prints Suite” of the United States House of Representatives: NLP for Tracking Changes in Bills and Laws
Authors: Hershowitz Ari , Mador-Haim Sela
Published: December 2023

We demonstrate the “Comparative Prints Suite”, a browser-based family of tools developed for the United States House of Representatives to track changes in United States federal legislation. The tools use a model grammar to parse amendments to bills, execute those amendments into law, and compare versions of bills. The tools are available at to Members and staff in the U.S. House, the Congressional Research Service of the Library of Congress, and other Congressional entities to support the legislative process.
РОЛЬ КОМУНІКАЦІЙНОЇ КУЛЬТУРИ В УПРАВЛІННІ ПЕРСОНАЛОМ
Authors: Захарчин Галина
Published: December 2023

У статті висвітлено особливості комунікаційної культури та її роль у системі управління персоналом. Наголошено на сучасних факторах, які якісно змінили процеси комунікування в суспільстві в цілому та в організації, зокрема, і стимулювали пошук адекватних механізмів культури взаємодії. Підкреслено точки дотику комунікаційної культури і комунікаційного менеджменту як взаємодоповнювальних категорій. Наголошено на багатоаспектних проявах комунікаційної культури в управління персоналом, зокрема: культурологічному, інформаційному, іміджевого-формувальному, соціальному, технологічному, які підкреслюють її особливість. Наведено авторське визначення комунікаційної культури та охарактеризовано її основні функції. Зазначено, що у концептуальному плані комунікаційна культура тісно пов’язана із соціальною концепцією управління персоналом, яка відображає гуманістичну філософію і ціннісно-орієнтовану кадрову політику організації. Виділено особливості протікання комунікаційних процесів в умовах війни, що окреслили нові завдання стосовно комунікаційної культури.
ПІДГОТОВКА ВЧИТЕЛІВ ПОЧАТКОВИХ КЛАСІВ ДО ЗАСТОСУВАННЯ КОМІКСІВ НА УРОКАХ ЧИТАННЯ ЗАСОБАМИ INSTAGRAM СТОРІНКИ
Authors: Нежива Людмила , Топіха Євгенія
Published: December 2023

У статті йдеться про особливості підготовки вчителів початкових класів до застосування коміксів на уроках літературного читання з метою розвитку читацької компетентності молодших школярів. Обґрунтовується важливість та специфіка розроблення Instagram сторінки «Comics_in_Education». Цільовою аудиторією Instagram сторінки є вчителі, які зацікавлені в удосконаленні професійної компетентності та її предметно-методичної складової, зокрема використанні коміксів у мовно-літературній освіті учнів початкових класів. Сторінка спрямована не лише на україномовну аудиторію, а також і на англомовну. Розкрито її значення для освітнього простору та професійної підготовки вчителів. Це віртуальна платформа не тільки для створення навчального контенту та передачі інформації, а й для невимушеної комунікації педагогічних працівників, обміну думками й передачі досвіду. Авторська сторінка містить дописи та історії, у яких презентовано: специфіку коміксів; типи коміксів; переваги використання коміксів у навчальному процесі початкової школи; дидактичні можливості коміксів; цифрові інструменти для створення якісного освітнього медіапродукту. У статті схарактеризовано: особливості розробки Instagram сторінки «Comics_in_Education»; ефективність вибору платформи, її переваги і недоліки; інформаційне наповнення.
Measurement and control of extensional viscosity in barrier coating dispersions
Authors: LEHTIMÄKI WATTI , SCHRÖDER ANDREAS , KUKKAMO VESA , TOIVAKKA MARTTI
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to understand the effect of various rheological additives on the extensional viscosity of barrier coating dispersions, as well as to understand the role extensional viscosity plays in stabilizing a liquid curtain. The apparent extensional viscosity was measured using two devices that create accelerating flows: a capillary viscometer and an orifice rheometer. Additives tested include several polyvinyl alcohols, a high molecular weight polyethylene oxide, and carboxymethylcellulose. Extensional viscosity plays a significant role in stabilizing a liquid curtain, as it slows down hole expansion and prevents impurities and disturbances from causing holes in the first place. Some of the additives could substantially increase the extensional viscosity of the dispersions without increasing the shear viscosity outside the typical range of processability for a curtain coater. Some of the additives exhibited coil-stretch transition, meaning they start increasing extensional viscosity above a certain extension rate. Polymers with low chain lengths exhibited finite extensibility, which indicates the polymer chain has fully extended and cannot provide further extensional viscosity, even though the extending force is increased. Polymeric additives with stiff or branched chains significantly raised shear viscosity without increasing extensional viscosity. Both methods could reliably measure extensional viscosity in curtain coating barrier dispersions.
Mushroom-Derived Nanoparticles in Drug Delivery Systems – Therapeutic Roles and Biological Functions
Authors: Pandey Niharika , Ahmad Firoz , Singh Kratika , Ahmad Shad , Sharma Dr. Rolee
Published: December 2023

In this era of globalization, there is a need for green synthesis of nanoparticles (NPs), which should lessen the tremendous energy consumption, the utilization of toxic compounds, and time, which can help save the environment from hazardous effects. Green synthesis attempts to utilize products from natural agents like plants and fungi because of their profound availability of bio compounds. The NPs derived from them exhibit anticancer, antibacterial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and immunomodulatory properties because of their unique physical and chemical properties. These extraordinary properties make them promising agents in medicine and agriculture areas. The review has targeted the mush-room-derived NPs and bioactive compounds, including the nutritional content of mushrooms with their multipurpose properties, followed by encapsulation and delivery of the biotherapeutics. These NPs have found significant applications in advancing industrial and biomedical ventures. A complete understanding of the synthesis mechanism will help optimize the synthesis protocols and con-trol the shape and size of NPs.
Workshop Manajemen Pembelajaran Berbasis Digital di SMP Negeri 1 Amfoang Tengah
Authors: Bekuliu Desty A. , Tanaem Yusuf Elpontus , Para Nimrot Doke , Liufeto Martin Ch. , Non Nelci , Kaesmetan Yampi R. , Toleu Delfince , Oekolos Endang , Balan Yafet
Published: December 2023

Tujuan kegiatan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat (PKM) ini memberikan pelatihan dan meningkatkan pemahaman guru tentang manajemen pembelajaran dalam hal ini evaluasi pembelajaran berbasis digital di SMP Negeri 1 Amfoang Tengah. Kegiatan ini dilaksanakan selama 2 hari, dengan melibatkan 3 orang narasumber yang memberikan materi dan pelatihan bagi 14 orang guru. Metode pelaksanaan kegiatan PKM adalah workshop yang dibagi menjadi pemaparan materi dan praktek kerja. Hasil pelaksanaan kegiatan ini menunjukan bahwa guru-guru mendapatkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan dalam melakukan evaluasi pembelajaran berbasis digital pada ujian tengah semester (UTS) dan ujian akhir semester (UAS) dengan menggunakan aplikasi slido. Dengan demikian, guru-guru dapat mengelola pembelajaran dengan memanfaatkan teknologi melalui aplikasi Slido sehingga semakin baik dalam menilai hasil belajar siswa. Sebagai tindak lanjut, kepala sekolah mewajibkan guru-gurunya untuk tidak lagi menggunakan kertas pada saat ujian tetapi menggunakan aplikasi sehingga mempermudah pelaksanaan ujian.
The Effect of The Strength of The Center Muscles on Improving the Level of Technical Performance of Some Stability Movements on the Mat of Floor Movements
Authors: Nassar Ahmad , İssa Alaa , Omar Mohanad , Budaier Awad , Budaier Rasha
Published: December 2023

The purpose of this research was to determine whether some stability exercises performed on the floor exercise mat to increase core strength would improve the technical application level of students. Method: A sample of 39 young male students from a university (age = 22.1±1.2 years, height = 170.3±6.5 cm, weight 65.2±8.7 kg, Body Mass Index = 22.5±2.8) participated in the study. The participants were into the control group (n=19) and experimental group (n=20) completed pre-tests and post-tests. The CS was assessed by the Stability Movement Push-ups, Abdominals, Back, Pull-ups, Headstand. The results of the paired samples t-tests show that the experimental group had a significant improvement in the mean scores for all four movements on the post-test compared to the pre-test. The mean score for the push-ups increased from 4.9±1.2 to 7.5±1.3 (t(14)=-10.78, p<0.001), the mean score for the abdominals and headstand increased from 4.6±1.0 to 7.0±1.2 (t(14)=-10.14, p<0.001), the mean score for the back and handstand increased from 4.8±1.1 to 6.9±1.2 (t(14)=-7.86, p<0.001), and the mean score for the pull-ups increased from 4.7±1.0 to 7.3±1.1 (t(14)=-11.47, p<0.001). Since the p values of the four movements are lower than 0.001, it is seen that there is a statistically significant difference between the scores obtained in the pre-test and the scores obtained in the post-test. According to the results, working out the core muscles may help enhance the technical execution of stability exercises performed on the mat or floor.
IMPLANTAÇÃO DE MANUTENÇÃO PREDITIVA EM UMA MANDRILHADORA CUTMAX 3TT
Authors: TEIXEIRA Luciano de Souza , MARRECA Luis Carlos Pereira , Bovério Maria Aparecida , SILVA Dejaime Pereira da , TEIXEIRA André de Souza
Published: December 2023

A presente pesquisa teve o propósito de implantação de manutenção preditiva na mandriladora modelo Cutmax 3TT, da fabricante Taurus Wotan, pois até o momento só tem sido realizada a manutenção corretiva, na presença de quebra ou falhas, e a preventiva tem como foco evitar o surgimento do problema, antecipando falhas por meio de monitoramento. Diante disso, o objetivo desse estudo foi acompanhar a implementação da manutenção preditiva nesse equipamento, a partir do tema-problema que foi o de saber como pode ser feita essa implementação. A metodologia escolhida foi a revisão bibliográfica, pesquisa documental e um estudo de caso, em que se realizou uma pesquisa aplicada. Os resultados obtidos indicaram falhas que podem interferir nos testes realizados e, por isso, pode-se concluir que a manutenção preditiva é realmente necessária e possível de ser implementada.
MELHORIA NA PRODUTIVIDADE DA FABRICAÇÃO DE CHEVRONS PARA SEPARADORE DE VAPOR: estudo de caso
Authors: BARROS Guilherme Rith Mendes , SATO Kleber Augusto Rama , Bovério Maria Aparecida , VENTURA JÚNIOR Antônio Carlos Muniz
Published: December 2023

Esse artigo apresenta a melhoria na produção de peças estampadas tipos Chevrons (Formato “V”) através da mudança no processo de corte e estampagem. Tal ganho na produção ocorreu através da redução de 5 dos 7 tópicos principais de desperdícios da Produção Enxuta (Lean Manufactoring). Foi estabelecido como tema-problema a questão “o que foi feito para aumentar a produção de peças estampadas tipo Chevrons na indústria X?”. O objetivo principal foi o de estudar, por meio da pesquisa bibliográfica e de um estudo de caso, como era realizado todo o processo produção de Chevrons anteriormente e como foi reduzido o tempo de produção deles na indústria X. O setor pesquisado foi a usinagem/mecânica industrial. Os principais resultados indicam que a indústria pesquisada possuía várias etapas de produção para a fabricação dos Chevrons, após a melhoria dos processos foi reduzido o tempo de fabricação dos Chevrons e consequentemente houve uma melhora em sua qualidade.
ANÁLISE DA CORROSÃO EM AÇO INOX DUPLEX
Authors: Gheno Simoni Maria , GOMES MARCIA APARECIDA
Published: December 2023

A utilização do aço inoxidável dúplex tem-se destacado em relação aos outros tipos de aços inoxidáveis, devido ao seu bom comportamento mecânico e resistência à corrosão. Isso se deve à interessante combinação das excelentes propriedades mecânicas e alta resistência à corrosão. Em contrapartida temos o desenvolvimento tecnológico, cada vez exige demanda maiores por soluções de problemas reais, de forma a desenvolver pesquisas que integrem as necessidades das indústrias ao conhecimento disponível no meio acadêmico. Neste contexto, se torna importante o desenvolvimento de pesquisas em corrosão de materiais, como o aço inox duplex (DSS), que é um material cotado para uso em situações de alto desgaste como em jazidas de petróleo em território nacional, sobretudo as da camada pré-sal no qual o material é submetido a severas condições corrosivas.
PHANTOMDE FLUXO DE BAIXO CUSTO PARA SIMULACÃO DE VASOS SANGUÍNEOS
Authors: Justino Diego , Cordeiro Lima Vanderson , Alvarez Matheus , Geron Luis
Published: December 2023

Este estudo aborda o desenvolvimento de um Phantom de fluxo artesanal em território sul-americano. Sendo Phantom de fluxo um dispositivo usado para simular o comportamento de fluidos em diferentes cenários, como testes de engenharia, pesquisa científica e desenvolvimento de produtos. Estes dispositivos têm um alto valor agregado e inacessíveis para muitos pesquisadores e engenheiros da região sul-americana. O objetivo deste projeto é propor uma solução econômica e viável para a construção de um Phantom de fluxo artesanal. Isso permitiria aos pesquisadores e engenheiros sul-americanos explorarem e desenvolver estudos relacionados à hidrodinâmica, acústica e transferência de calor de maneira mais acessível e independente, para alcançar esse objetivo, foram realizadas pesquisas detalhadas sobre os princípios de funcionamento dos Phantoms de fluxo convencionais e os materiais e componentes necessários para sua construção. Com base nessas informações, foram desenvolvidos protótipos preliminares utilizando tecnologias e materiais de baixo custo. Os resultados preliminares mostraram que é possível construir um Phantom de fluxo artesanal funcional e eficiente. A configuração proposta foi capaz de simular com sucesso os padrões de fluxo de fluidos em diferentes situações de teste, demonstrando seu potencial para aplicações em pesquisa científica e desenvolvimento tecnológico. Este estudo contribui para a democratização do acesso a equipamentos de pesquisa de ponta em território sul-americano. A construção de um Phantom de fluxo artesanal pode incentivar a colaboração científica e tecnológica entre instituições e pesquisadores da região, promovendo avanços nas áreas de engenharia, ciências físicas e ciências da saúde.
Studi penyebab dan penanganan fail detection pada shinkawa vibration sensors unit circulating water pump di PT. X menggunakan metode root cause failure analysis
Authors: Barik Zidny Alfian , Handaja Suka
Published: December 2023

Circulating Water Pump merupakan salah satu equipment penting pada proses operasi di PT X. Oleh karena itu sistem permesinan harus dijaga dan dirawat dengan baik agar selalu dalam kondisi yang prima. Untuk meningkatkan kehandalan, sistem dipasang pendeteksi getaran yang akan membuat sistem menjadi trip untuk menghindari dari kerusakan yang fatal dengan memasang Shinkawa Vibration Sensor yang akan mendeteksi kerusakan bantalan yang dideteksi dengan adanya getaran berlebih. Prinsip kerja dari Shinkawa Vibration Sensor adalah dengan menggunakan Non-Contact Displacement Transducer yaitu dengan mengukur gap antara sensor dan bantalan. Pada artikel ini, sistem pendeteksi getaran mengalami fail detection, sistem trip tetapi semua peralatan dan bantalan dalam kondisi baik. Berdasarkan analisa menggunakan Root Cause Failure Analysis disimpulkan penyebabnya adalah adanya getaran akibat petir. Untuk itu dilakukan penanganan dengan setting ulang agar tidak terulang kembali
 
ABSTRACTThe Circulating Water Pump is one of the important equipment in the operational process at PT X. Therefore, the machinery system must be maintained properly so that it is always in prime condition. To increase reliability, a vibration detector is installed in the system which will trip the system to avoid fatal damage by installing a Shinkawa Vibration Sensor which will detect bearing damage which is detected by excessive vibration. The working principle of the Shinkawa Vibration Sensor is to use a Non-Contact Displacement Transducer, namely by measuring the gap between the sensor and the bearing. In this article, the vibration detection system experienced failed detection, the system tripped but all equipment and bearings were in good condition. Based on analysis using Root Cause Failure Analysis, it was concluded that the cause was vibrations caused by lightning. For this reason, handling is carried out by resetting so that it does not happen again.
Elemental composition of salt and vulnerability assessment of saline groundwater sources selected based on ethnoarchaeological evidence in Romania
Authors: Mihu-Pintilie Alin , Vasilache Viorica , Tencariu Felix-Adrian , Asăndulesei Andrei
Published: December 2023

The study aimed to evaluate the elemental composition of salt extracted from shallow to saline groundwater sources selected based on ethnoarchaeological evidence in the Eastern Carpathians and Sub-Carpathians area of Romania and to assess their specific vulnerability using groundwater pollution potential (DRASTIC and DRASTIC-LU methodology). 198 saline water samples were collected from different site types, including natural saline springs, catchment saline springs, brine wells, salted lakes and ponds, during the period between 2007 and 2019. Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy was employed to characterize the elemental composition of salt after dry-evaporating a predetermined volume of each collected sample. The results indicated that the salt concentration in the brines ranged from 0.1% to 41.3%, with the highest concentration found in wells and natural saline springs. The dominant component was sodium chloride, but several sites had high concentrations of potassium chloride, which is essential for human health. Over 95% of the analyzed samples also contained other minerals like calcium and magnesium, further highlighting the health benefits of these brine sources. However, two sites were slightly contaminated with heavy metals, posing potential health risks if consumed. The DRASTIC index, a standardized system for evaluating groundwater pollution potential, gave scores between 99 and 208, indicating moderate to very high intrinsic pollution potential. Similarly, the DRASTIC-LU index, which takes into account and the land use aspects, showed scores ranging from 114 to 258, suggesting low to very high vulnerability to contamination. These findings provide valuable information on the elemental composition of salt and the vulnerability of these brine sources, which are still used by rural communities for traditional practices like meat and fish preservation, milk curdling, and pickling. The study has important implications for sustainable management from both ethnoarchaeological and economic perspectives.
Science fiction and ELSI: three thoughts
Authors: Greely Henry T.
Published: December 2023

Science fiction can be useful to those who analyze ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI) in genetics and the biosciences more broadly. It can provide examples of possible technological changes, which are occasionally valuable as predictions of the future but more often helpful as indicators of the likely social consequences of such technologies. This “what-if” approach to science fiction can also provide a good pathway to exploring such issues. Science fiction can also allow a more distant, less realistic, and non-culture-specific context for exploring deep questions about humanity, ethics, and other major issues. At the same time, science fiction also has some negative effects on such analysis or its reception as a result of the need for fiction to hold its audience by providing drama through conflict. This necessity for successful fiction often leads to technological or cultural changes being portrayed as catastrophic and dystopian, much more often than beneficial or utopian. This imbalance can predispose public opinion against innovations unfairly, in part by providing “examples” from fiction of similar innovations, leading to bad outcomes. ELSI researchers should keep this fiction-induced bias in mind in their work.
WHO AWaRe classification for antibiotic stewardship: tackling antimicrobial resistance – a descriptive study from an English NHS Foundation Trust prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Abdelsalam Elshenawy Rasha , Umaru Nkiruka , Aslanpour Zoe
Published: December 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a silent and rapidly escalating pandemic, presenting a critical challenge to global health security. During the pandemic, this study was undertaken at a NHS Foundation Trust in the United Kingdom to explore antibiotic prescribing trends for respiratory tract infections (RTIs), including pneumonia, and the COVID-19 pandemic across the years 2019 and 2020. This study, guided by the WHO’s AWaRe classification, sought to understand the impact of the pandemic on antibiotic prescribing and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). The research methodology involved a retrospective review of medical records from adults aged 25 and older admitted with RTIs, including pneumonia, in 2019 and 2020. The application of the AWaRe classification enabled a structured description of antibiotic use. The study evaluated antibiotic use in 640 patients with RTIs. Notably, it observed a slight increase in the use of amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and a substantial rise in azithromycin prescriptions, highlighting shifts in prescribing trends. Despite these changes, some antibiotics displayed steady consumption rates. These findings highlight the importance of understanding antibiotic use patterns during the AMR threat. The increase in the usage of “Watch” category antibiotics during the pandemic emphasises the urgency of robust AMS measures. The research confirms that incorporating the AWaRe classification in prescribing decisions is crucial for patient safety and combating antibiotic misuse. This study provides essential insights into the changing landscape of antibiotic prescribing during a global health crisis, reinforcing the necessity for ongoing AMS vigilance to effectively address AMR challenges.
A systematic review on functional electrical stimulation based rehabilitation systems for upper limb post-stroke recovery
Authors: Khan Muhammad Ahmed , Fares Hoda , Ghayvat Hemant , Brunner Iris Charlotte , Puthusserypady Sadasivan , Razavi Babak , Lansberg Maarten , Poon Ada , Meador Kimford Jay
Published: December 2023

Background

Stroke is one of the most common neurological conditions that often leads to upper limb motor impairments, significantly affecting individuals' quality of life. Rehabilitation strategies are crucial in facilitating post-stroke recovery and improving functional independence. Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) systems have emerged as promising upper limb rehabilitation tools, offering innovative neuromuscular reeducation approaches.

Objective

The main objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive systematic review of the start-of-the-art functional electrical stimulation (FES) systems for upper limb neurorehabilitation in post-stroke therapy. More specifically, this paper aims to review different types of FES systems, their feasibility testing, or randomized control trials (RCT) studies.

Methods

The FES systems classification is based on the involvement of patient feedback within the FES control, which mainly includes “Open-Loop FES Systems” (manually controlled) and “Closed-Loop FES Systems” (brain-computer interface-BCI and electromyography-EMG controlled). Thus, valuable insights are presented into the technological advantages and effectiveness of Manual FES, EEG-FES, and EMG-FES systems.

Results and discussion

The review analyzed 25 studies and found that the use of FES-based rehabilitation systems resulted in favorable outcomes for the stroke recovery of upper limb functional movements, as measured by the FMA (Fugl-Meyer Assessment) (Manually controlled FES: mean difference = 5.6, 95% CI (3.77, 7.5), P < 0.001; BCI-controlled FES: mean difference = 5.37, 95% CI (4.2, 6.6), P < 0.001; EMG-controlled FES: mean difference = 14.14, 95% CI (11.72, 16.6), P < 0.001) and ARAT (Action Research Arm Test) (EMG-controlled FES: mean difference = 11.9, 95% CI (8.8, 14.9), P < 0.001) scores. Furthermore, the shortcomings, clinical considerations, comparison to non-FES systems, design improvements, and possible future implications are also discussed for improving stroke rehabilitation systems and advancing post-stroke recovery. Thus, summarizing the existing literature, this review paper can help researchers identify areas for further investigation. This can lead to formulating research questions and developing new studies aimed at improving FES systems and their outcomes in upper limb rehabilitation.
Herbal formulas for detoxification and dredging collaterals in treating carotid atherosclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Leyi , Huang Xing , Gao Yonghong , Li Xiangyu , Kong Qiao , Chen Ying , Chang Jingling , Zhang Genming , Ma Yan
Published: December 2023

Objective: To systematically evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Chinese medicine detoxification and dredging collaterals in treating carotid atherosclerosis (CAS).

Methods: A systematic and comprehensive search of nine relevant domestic and international databases were conducted from their inception until June 2022. The methodological quality of the included trials was evaluated, and the efficacy and safety were comprehensively analyzed. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria to the randomized controlled trials (RCTs), the research quality evaluation and data extraction were conducted, followed by a meta-analysis of the selected articles. The Cochrane’s Bias risk assessment was utilized to evaluate the quality of the evidence.

Results: Of the 2,660 studies initially retrieved, 14 studies were included, involving a total of 1,518 patients. The results of the meta-analysis indicated that the clinical efficacy of the Detoxification and Collateral Dredging method in the treatment of CAS was superior to that of western medicine treatment alone, and the difference was statistically significant [RR = 1.23, 95% CI (1.13, 1.34)] Furthermore, carotid intima-media thickness [Mean Difference (MD) = −0.10, 95% CI (−0.13, −0.08)] and Crouse plaque score [MD = −0.54, 95% CI (−0.75, −0.32)] were significantly lower in the Detoxification and Collateral Dredging group compared to the pure western medicine treatment group. The difference was statistically significant. In addition, serum total cholesterol [MD = −0.70, 95% CI (−0.85, −0.55)] and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [MD = −0.70, 95% CI (−0.85, −0.55)] were lower in the Detoxification and Collateral Dredging group than in the Western medicine group, with all differences being statistically significant. Serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was higher in the Detoxification and Collateral Dredging group compared to the pure western medicine group, and the difference was statistically significant [MD = 0.17, 95% CI (0.11, 0.23)].

Conclusion: The use of Chinese medicine Detoxification and Collateral Dredging approach in the treatment of CAS may offer benefits in improving carotid atherosclerotic plaque and reducing blood lipid levels, with a safety profile superior to that of western medicine treatment alone.
A novel conceptual model of heart rate autonomic modulation based on a small-world modular structure of the sinoatrial node
Authors: Maltsev Alexander V. , Stern Michael D. , Lakatta Edward G. , Maltsev Victor A.
Published: December 2023

The present view on heartbeat initiation is that a primary pacemaker cell or a group of cells in the sinoatrial node (SAN) center paces the rest of the SAN and the atria. However, recent high-resolution imaging studies show a more complex paradigm of SAN function that emerges from heterogeneous signaling, mimicking brain cytoarchitecture and function. Here, we developed and tested a new conceptual numerical model of SAN organized similarly to brain networks featuring a modular structure with small-world topology. In our model, a lower rate module leads action potential (AP) firing in the basal state and during parasympathetic stimulation, whereas a higher rate module leads during β-adrenergic stimulation. Such a system reproduces the respective shift of the leading pacemaker site observed experimentally and a wide range of rate modulation and robust function while conserving energy. Since experimental studies found functional modules at different scales, from a few cells up to the highest scale of the superior and inferior SAN, the SAN appears to feature hierarchical modularity, i.e., within each module, there is a set of sub-modules, like in the brain, exhibiting greater robustness, adaptivity, and evolvability of network function. In this perspective, our model offers a new mainframe for interpreting new data on heterogeneous signaling in the SAN at different scales, providing new insights into cardiac pacemaker function and SAN-related cardiac arrhythmias in aging and disease.
An improved YOLOv5s model for assessing apple graspability in automated harvesting scene
Authors: Li Huibin , Yang Peng , Liu Huaiyang , Liu Xiang , Qian Jianping , Yu Qiangyi , Geng Changxing , Shi Yun
Published: December 2023

Introduction

With continuously increasing labor costs, an urgent need for automated apple- Qpicking equipment has emerged in the agricultural sector. Prior to apple harvesting, it is imperative that the equipment not only accurately locates the apples, but also discerns the graspability of the fruit. While numerous studies on apple detection have been conducted, the challenges related to determining apple graspability remain unresolved.

Methods

This study introduces a method for detecting multi-occluded apples based on an enhanced YOLOv5s model, with the aim of identifying the type of apple occlusion in complex orchard environments and determining apple graspability. Using bootstrap your own atent(BYOL) and knowledge transfer(KT) strategies, we effectively enhance the classification accuracy for multi-occluded apples while reducing data production costs. A selective kernel (SK) module is also incorporated, enabling the network model to more precisely identify various apple occlusion types. To evaluate the performance of our network model, we define three key metrics: APGA, APTUGA, and APUGA, representing the average detection accuracy for graspable, temporarily ungraspable, and ungraspable apples, respectively.

Results

Experimental results indicate that the improved YOLOv5s model performs exceptionally well, achieving detection accuracies of 94.78%, 93.86%, and 94.98% for APGA, APTUGA, and APUGA, respectively.

Discussion

Compared to current lightweight network models such as YOLOX-s and YOLOv7s, our proposed method demonstrates significant advantages across multiple evaluation metrics. In future research, we intend to integrate fruit posture and occlusion detection to f]urther enhance the visual perception capabilities of apple-picking equipment.
Application and challenges of a metaverse in medicine
Authors: Wang Yingshu , Li Congcong , Qu Lai , Cai Hongfei , Ge Yingying
Published: December 2023

Metaverse has been confirmed as a relatively amorphous concept of innovation, which refers to technological advancement. Metaverse, i.e., a coalition between reality world and virtual world, has created significant significance and convenience in education, communication, economy, etc. The COVID-19 outbreak has stimulated the growth of metaverse applications in medicine. The above-mentioned technology has broad applications while comprising online remote medical treatment, online conferences, medical education, preparation of surgical plans, etc. Moreover, technical, security, and financial challenges should be tackled down by the future widespread use of metaverse. Metaverse is limitlessly promising, and it will exert a certain effect on future scientific and technological advancements in the medical industry. The review article primarily aims to summarize the application of the metaverse in medicine and their challenge in the future of medicine.
Design and Unbiased Control of Nine-Pole Radial Magnetic Bearing
Authors: Noh Myounggyu D. , Jeong Wonjin
Published: December 2023

Typical radial active magnetic bearings are structurally symmetric. For example, an eight-pole bearing uses two opposing pairs to control one axis by winding the pair in series. The magnetic force produced by an active magnetic bearing is quadratically proportional to coil currents and inversely proportional to the square of the gap between the bearing and the journal. Bias linearization is widely used to linearize the relationship of coil currents to the magnetic force. However, the bias currents increase ohmic losses and require a larger than necessary capacity of power amplifiers to supply the sum of bias and control currents. Unbiased control of symmetric bearings has the critical issue of slew-rate limiting. Unbiased control of unsymmetrical bearings can eliminate the need for bias currents while avoiding slew-rate singularity except in extreme cases. Although a generalized inversion of the force–current relationship of unbiased unsymmetrical bearings has been proposed previously, no experimental validation is reported. The main objective of this research is to implement the unbiased control strategy and show that exactly the same linear control strategy for eight-pole symmetric bearings can be applied to nine-pole unsymmetrical bearings on industry-scale compressor test rigs. Two test rigs are built: one with eight-pole symmetric bearings and another with nine-pole unsymmetrical bearings. Linear control algorithms are designed and applied. Both control algorithms are linear and consist of lead filters and notch filters. The test results show that the linear control design used for unsymmetrical bearings can achieve the same level of stability that the symmetric bearings provide, satisfying the sensitivity criterion specified by ISO 14839-3.
Glyphosate-Based Herbicide Formulations and Their Relevant Active Ingredients Affect Soil Springtails Even Five Months after Application
Authors: Altmanninger Anna , Brandmaier Verena , Spangl Bernhard , Gruber Edith , Takács Eszter , Mörtl Mária , Klátyik Szandra , Székács András , Zaller Johann G.
Published: December 2023

Glyphosate is the most widely used active ingredient (AI) in glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) worldwide and is also known to affect a variety of soil organisms. However, we know little about how the effects of glyphosate AIs differ from those of GBHs that also contain so-called inert co-formulants. We conducted a greenhouse experiment using the model cover crop white mustard (Sinapis alba) to investigate the effects of three GBHs (Roundup PowerFlex, Roundup LB Plus, and Touchdown Quattro) and their respective glyphosate AIs (glyphosate potassium, isopropylamine, and diammonium salt) on epedaphic springtails (Sminthurinus niger; Collembola) activity in soils with low (3.0%) or high (4.1%) organic matter content (SOM). Springtail activity was assessed using pitfall traps. Most GBHs and AIs reduced springtail activity compared to mechanical removal of mustard in the short-term and even up to 5 months after application. GBHs and AIs differed considerably in their effects on springtail activity, and effects were modified by SOM content. Our results highlight the need to (i) distinguish between the effects of glyphosate AIs and commercial GBH formulations, (ii) disclose all ingredients of GBHs, as co-formulants also affect non-target organisms, and (iii) include soil properties in ecotoxicological risk assessments for soil organisms to better characterize the situation in the field.
Unraveling the Impact of Cumin-Centric Cropping Sequences on Cumin Yield, Economic Viability, and Dynamics of Soil Enzymatic Activities in Hot Arid Climatic Conditions
Authors: Mehriya Moti Lal , Singh Devendra , Verma Anil Kumar , Geat Neelam , Alataway Abed , Al-Othman Ahmed A. , Dewidar Ahmed Z. , Mattar Mohamed A.
Published: December 2023

A comprehensive study spanning three kharif and rabi seasons (2018–2019, 2020–2021, and 2021–2022) was conducted to investigate the intricate interactions among different cropping sequences and their impacts on cumin yield, financial outcomes, and soil microbial dynamics. The experiment was designed using a randomized block design, comprising eight distinct treatment combinations, each replicated three times. The results revealed compelling insights into the potential of specific cropping sequences to enhance multiple aspects of agricultural sustainability. The results revealed that the highest cumin yield (averaging 592 kg ha−1 over the three years) was achieved when cumin was cultivated subsequent to pearl millet, showcasing significant increases of 14.28% and 23.07% over the cumin–fallow and cumin–cotton cropping systems, respectively. When it came to cumin equivalent yield, the cumin–cotton cropping sequence (985 kg ha−1) emerged as the most favorable, closely followed by cumin–groundnut (968 kg ha−1). Furthermore, analyzing net realizations and benefit–cost ratios demonstrated that the cumin–pearl millet cropping sequence stood out with the maximum values (₹88,235 ha−1 and 2.7, respectively), followed by the cumin–mung bean cropping system (₹84,164 ha−1 and 2.47, respectively). Among the various cropping sequences studied, cumin–mung bean, cumin–cluster bean, cumin–pearl millet and cumin–groundnut were recorded as statistically similar in terms of soil microbial enzymatic activities viz. fluorescein diacetate (FDA), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), dehydrogenase activity (DHA), and microbial biomass carbon and were at par over the cumin–sorghum, cumin–sesame, cumin–cotton and cumin–fallow cropping systems. These findings emphasize the significance of strategic crop sequencing for sustainable agriculture practices that simultaneously optimize productivity and maintain soil health.
Micrometeorological Comparison of Canopy Temperature between Two Wheat Cultivars Grown under Irrigation in a Hot Environment in Sudan
Authors: Mohammed Almutaz Abdelkarim Abdelfattah , Tsubo Mitsuru , Ma Shaoxiu , Kurosaki Yasunori , Ibaraki Yasuomi , Tahir Izzat Sidahmed Ali , Gorafi Yasir Serag Alnor , Idris Amani A. M. , Tsujimoto Hisashi
Published: December 2023

A thorough exploration of the micrometeorological aspects influencing canopy temperature in contrasting wheat cultivars can unveil the specific mechanisms of adaptation to heat stress. However, information on wheat microclimates in hot environments for crop improvement is lacking. Here, we used a micrometeorological method to investigate wheat’s response to high temperatures. Field experiments were conducted in the Gezira Scheme, Sudan, to compare two high-yielding heat-tolerant cultivars, Imam and Bohaine, in terms of canopy temperature depression (CTD), air temperature gradient (ATG), and vapor pressure gradient (VPG) from a 2 m height to canopy level. The maximum air temperature at 2 m during the main growing season was 37 °C. Air temperature at canopy level was mostly lower in the Imam field than in the Bohaine field, and it was positively correlated with and higher than radiometric canopy surface temperature. The maximum CTD during the reproductive stage was 4.7–6.5 °C in the Bohaine field and 5.0–7.2 °C in the Imam field. ATG was also larger in the Imam field, attributed to the greater leaf area of the Imam canopy, as presumed from the NDVI difference between fields. ATG was negatively correlated with VPG in both fields, and the relationship was stronger at lower nighttime wind speeds and weaker at higher daytime wind speeds. These results indicate that the micrometeorological approach can be used to compare cultivars in high-temperature environments.
Tracing the Evolutionary Pathways of Serogroup O78 Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli
Authors: Ha Eun-Jin , Hong Seung-Min , Kim Seung-Ji , Ahn Sun-Min , Kim Ho-Won , Choi Kang-Seuk , Kwon Hyuk-Joon
Published: December 2023

Avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) causes severe economic losses in the poultry industry, and O78 serogroup APEC strains are prevalent in chickens. In this study, we aimed to understand the evolutionary pathways and relationships between O78 APEC and other E. coli strains. To trace these evolutionary pathways, we classified 3101 E. coli strains into 306 subgenotypes according to the numbers and types of single nucleotide polymorphisms (RST0 to RST63-1) relative to the consensus sequence (RST0) of the RNA polymerase beta subunit gene and performed network analysis. The E. coli strains showed four apparently different evolutionary pathways (I-1, I-2, I-3, and II). The thirty-two Korean O78 APEC strains tested in this study were classified into RST4-4 (45.2%), RST3-1 (32.3%), RST21-1 (12.9%), RST4-5 (3.2%), RST5-1 (3.2%), and RST12-6 (3.2%), and all RSTs except RST21-1 (I-2) may have evolved through the same evolutionary pathway (I-1). A comparative genomic study revealed the highest relatedness between O78 strains of the same RST in terms of genome sequence coverage/identity and the spacer sequences of CRISPRs. The early-appearing RST3-1 and RST4-4 prevalence among O78 APEC strains may reflect the early settlement of O78 E. coli in chickens, after which these bacteria accumulated virulence and antibiotic resistance genes to become APEC strains. The zoonotic risk of the conventional O78 APEC strains is low at present, but the appearance of genetically distinct and multiple virulence gene-bearing RST21-1 O78 APEC strains may alert us to a need to evaluate their virulence in chickens as well as their zoonotic risk.
A Deep Learning Review of ResNet Architecture for Lung Disease Identification in CXR Image
Authors: Hasanah Syifa Auliyah , Pravitasari Anindya Apriliyanti , Abdullah Atje Setiawan , Yulita Intan Nurma , Asnawi Mohammad Hamid
Published: December 2023

The lungs are two of the most crucial organs in the human body because they are connected to the respiratory and circulatory systems. Lung cancer, COVID-19, pneumonia, and other severe diseases are just a few of the many threats. The patient is subjected to an X-ray examination to evaluate the health of their lungs. A radiologist must interpret the X-ray results. The rapid advancement of technology today can help people in many different ways. One use of deep learning in the health industry is in the detection of diseases, which can decrease the amount of money, time, and energy needed while increasing effectiveness and efficiency. There are other methods that can be used, but in this research, the convolutional neural network (CNN) method is only used with three architectures, namely ResNet-50, ResNet-101, and ResNet-152, to aid radiologists in identifying lung diseases in patients. The 21,885 images that make up the dataset for this study are split into four groups: COVID-19, pneumonia, lung opacity, and normal. The three algorithms have fairly high evaluation scores per the experiment results. F1 scores of 91%, 93%, and 94% are assigned to the ResNet-50, ResNet-101, and ResNet-152 architectures, respectively. Therefore, it is advised to use the ResNet-152 architecture, which has better performance values than the other two designs in this study, to categorize lung diseases experienced by patients.