bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Key Areas and Early-Warning Points for Ecological Protection and Restoration in the Yellow River Source Area Based on Ecological Security Pattern
Authors: Wang Shiru , Song Qian , Zhao Jianyun , Lu Zhibo , Zhang Haoxiang
Published: August 2023

The Yellow River Source Area is located in the ecological protection and restoration area of the Sanjiangyuan in China, which has been deteriorating as a result of human-caused overgrazing and the grassland destruction caused by plateau rats and rabbits, as well as the influence of other natural factors. The Yellow River Source Area is an important area that implements ecological restoration and protection in the Three Rivers Source Region, where the ecologically vulnerable areas that are of great significance to the implementation of ecological restoration in national land space should be identified and the early warning should be extended. This measure can help us identify potential ecological problems and take timely and targeted protection measures to ensure the health and sustainable development of the ecosystem in the Yellow River Source Area. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the ecological vulnerability of the Yellow River Source Area and the establishment of an early warning mechanism are of vital importance for the protection and restoration of the ecology of the national space in the Yellow River Source Area. Aiming to comprehensively delimit ecological restoration areas in the Yellow River Source Area and provide an early warning, this study applies the MSPA method to identify ecological source areas and uses a patch importance index to identify the importance of ecological source areas, along with extracting potential ecological corridors by using the MCR model, screening important ecological corridors by using the gravity model as a criterion, and simulating land cover changes in 2030 under the limitations of ecological security pattern by using the PLUS model. The results show that: (1) 154 potential ecological corridors were extracted based on the MCR model, with a total length of 7891.90. (2) The total area of the landscape types in the Yellow River Source Area was 12,301 based on MSPA analysis, including the 6899.57 of core area. (3) Based on the PLUS model, the area of farmland and forest in the study area will decrease, while the grassland area will increase. According to the studies, the grassland in the study area expands in a circular pattern towards the surrounding wetland and water area, threatening the ecological sources and corridors. In summary, the study delimits one protection zone in the ecological source land and two core ecological restoration zones and points out the early warning points in the ecological protection space. The delimitation and instruction provide specific spatial guidance for the protection and restoration of ecosystems in order to promote ecological sustainability.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation with the Portico Valve: 2-Year Outcomes of a Multicenter, Real-World Registry
Authors: Didagelos Matthaios , Ninios Vlasis , Kakderis Charalampos , Lakkas Lampros , Kouparanis Antonios , Nikas Dimitrios , Naka Katerina K. , Rammos Aidonis , Zegkos Thomas , Kamperidis Vasileios , Ninios Ilias , Evangelou Sotirios , Tsalikakis Dimitrios G. , Michalis Lampros , Ziakas Antonios
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The self-expanding, resheathable, repositionable transcatheter aortic heart valve Portico is being used successfully for transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedures (TAVI) in patients with severe aortic stenosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes at 2 years after TAVI with the Portico valve. Methods: Multicenter registry of clinical, echocardiographic and survival data from consecutive patients treated with the Portico TAVI system (Abbott, Chicago, IL, USA) in three cath labs in Northern Greece and Epirus during 2017–2020. The primary end point was all-cause mortality at 24 months. Secondary end points included procedural outcomes (efficacy and safety) and echocardiographic measurements. Results: A total of 90 patients (81 ± 6 years, 50% females, mean age 81 ± 6 years) were included in the registry. The indication for implantation was severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis (NYHA III, IV) in eighty-two (91.1%) and degeneration of a prosthetic aortic valve in eight (8.9%) patients. All patients were categorized as high surgical risk (mean Logistic Euroscore 25.9 ± 10, Euroscore II 7.7 ± 4.4 and STS score 10.8 ± 8.9). The procedure was performed transfemorally in all patients, under general anesthesia in 95.6%, under TOE guidance in 21.1%, with native valve predilatation in 46.7%, and the “resheath” option was used in 31.1% of the cases. The implantation was successful in 97.8% and there was a need for a second valve in 2.2% of the cases. Complications included permanent pacemaker implantation (16.7%), access cite complications (15.6%), arrythmias (23.3%), paravalvular leak (moderate 7.8%, severe 1.1%), acute kidney injury (7.8%), no strokes and one death during the procedure. Aortic valve peak velocity, peak and mean pressure gradients, were significantly reduced after the procedure. All-cause mortality at 1, 12 and 24 months was 4.4%, 6.7% and 7.8%, respectively. Conclusions: TAVI with the Portico system comprises an effective and safe solution for the management of severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis in high-risk surgical patients.
Influence of Bearing Wear on the Stability and Modal Characteristics of a Flexible Rotor Supported on Powder-Lubricated Journal Bearings
Authors: Rahmani Faisal , Makki Emad , Giri Jayant
Published: August 2023

This study has investigated the influence of journal bearing wear on the dynamic behaviour of a flexible rotor with a central disc. Rotors supported on journal bearings are susceptible to self-excited whirling, leading to unstable conditions. Prior knowledge of the stability limit speed is important to avoid the excessive vibration of rotating machines. For the study in this paper, journal bearings were lubricated with powder owing to high-temperature applications where conventional oil lubricants would fail to perform. The governing equations for lubrication were derived using a simplified grain theory based on the theory of dense gases. The rotor shaft was discretized considering Timoshenko beam elements. Modal analysis was conducted to obtain the system’s natural frequencies, mode shapes, damping factors, stability limit speed, and unbalance response. This study has also evaluated the influence of wear depth on the dynamic behaviour of the rotor shaft system and found that bearing wear significantly affects the stiffness and damping characteristics of lubricating film. Consequently, free and forced vibration behaviour is also affected. It has been found that increased wear depth improves stability limit speed but has little influence on the unbalance response.
Selective Oxidation of Cyclohexanone to Adipic Acid Using Molecular Oxygen in the Presence of Alkyl Nitrites and Transition Metals as Catalysts
Authors: Lisicki Dawid , Orlińska Beata , Martyniuk Tomasz , Dziuba Krzysztof , Bińczak Jakub
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a not previously reported catalytic system consisting of transition metals Co2+ and Mn2+ and alkyl nitrites R-ONO for the oxidation of cyclohexanone with oxygen to adipic acid. The influence of type and amount of catalyst, temperature, time, and type of raw material on conversion and product composition were determined. In addition, the oxidation of selected cyclic ketones such as cyclopentanone, cyclohexanone, cyclooctanone, cyclododecanone, 2-methylcyclohexanone, 3-methylcyclohexanone, and 4-methylcyclohexanone in acetic acid as solvent was performed. The results showed that R-ONO systems, under established reaction conditions, form NO·radicals, which oxidize to NO2 under a strong oxidization reaction environment. The Co2+/Mn2+/NO2 system was shown to be highly active in the oxidation of cyclic ketones with oxygen.
Toughening of Ni-Mn-Based Polycrystalline Ferromagnetic Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Ma Siyao , Zhang Xuexi , Zheng Guangping , Qian Mingfang , Geng Lin
Published: August 2023

Solid-state refrigeration technology is expected to replace conventional gas compression refrigeration technology because it is environmentally friendly and highly efficient. Among various solid-state magnetocaloric materials, Ni-Mn-based ferromagnetic shape memory alloys (SMAs) have attracted widespread attention due to their multifunctional properties, such as their magnetocaloric effect, elastocaloric effect, barocaloric effect, magnetoresistance, magnetic field-induced strain, etc. Recently, a series of in-depth studies on the thermal effects of Ni-Mn-based magnetic SMAs have been carried out, and numerous research results have been obtained. It has been found that poor toughness and cyclic stability greatly limit the practical application of magnetic SMAs in solid-state refrigeration. In this review, the influences of element doping, microstructure design, and the size effect on the strength and toughness of Ni-Mn-based ferromagnetic SMAs and their underlying mechanisms are systematically summarized. The pros and cons of different methods in enhancing the toughness of Ni-Mn-based SMAs are compared, and the unresolved issues are analyzed. The main research directions of Ni-Mn-based ferromagnetic SMAs are proposed and discussed, which are of scientific and technological significance and could promote the application of Ni-Mn-based ferromagnetic SMAs in various fields.
Experimental Study on the Application of Recycled Concrete Waste Powder in Alkali-Activated Foamed Concrete
Authors: Zhang Dongsheng , Hao Weiwei , Yang Qiuning
Published: August 2023

The alkali-activated cementitious material was prepared by partially replacing slag with recycled concrete powder (RCP). The influence of RCP substitution rates (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% mass fraction) on the performance of alkali-activated slag-RCP-based (AASR) foamed concrete was studied. The fluidity, water absorption, softening coefficient, compressive strength, flexural strength, drying shrinkage, thermal conductivity, and frost resistance of AASR foamed concrete were studied. The results show that the fluidity and softening coefficient of AASR foamed concrete decreases with the increase in RCP content, and the fluidity range is 230–270 mm. Due to the porous structure of the RCP, the water absorption of AASR increases. With the increase in the curing age, the strength of AASR foamed concrete increases. The addition of RCP reduced the mechanical properties of AASR foamed concrete. Compared with the control group, the compressive strength of AASR50 decreased by 66.7% at 28 days, and the flexural strength decreased by 61.5%. However, the 28 d compressive strength of AASR foamed concrete under all RCP replacement rates still meets the standard value (0.6 MPa). The addition of RCP effectively reduces the thermal conductivity of the AASR foamed concrete, and when the RCP content is 50%, the thermal conductivity is lowest, 0.119 W/(m·K); the drying shrinkage of the AASR foamed concrete can be improved by adding RCP, and the drying shrinkage value is lowest when the RCP is 30%, which is 14.7% lower than that of the control group. The frost resistance of AASR foamed concrete decreases with the increase in the RCP content. When the recycled micropowder content is 20–50% and after 25 freeze–thaw cycles, AASR foamed concrete has reached freeze–thaw damage.
Green Synthesis of Pristine and Ag-Doped TiO2 and Investigation of Their Performance as Photoanodes in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Sharif Abdul Mohshen , Ashrafuzzaman Md. , Kalam Abul , Al-Sehemi Abdullah Godran , Yadav Pankaj , Tripathi Brijesh , Dubey Mrigendra , Du Gaohui
Published: August 2023

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have emerged as a potential candidate for third-generation thin film solar energy conversion systems because of their outstanding optoelectronic properties, cost-effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and easy manufacturing process. The electron transport layer is one of the most essential components in DSSCs since it plays a crucial role in the device’s greatest performance. Silver ions as a dopant have drawn attention in DSSC device applications because of their stability under ambient conditions, decreased charge recombination, increased efficient charge transfer, and optical, structural, and electrochemical properties. Because of these concepts, herein, we report the synthesis of pristine TiO2 using a novel green modified solvothermal simplistic method. Additionally, the prepared semiconductor nanomaterials, Ag-doped TiO2 with percentages of 1, 2, 3, and 4%, were used as photoanodes to enhance the device’s performance. The obtained nanomaterials were characterized using XRD, FTIR, FE-SEM, EDS, and UV–vis techniques. The average crystallite size for pristine TiO2 and Ag-doped TiO2 with percentages of 1, 2, 3, and 4% was found to be 13 nm by using the highest intensity peaks in the XRD spectra. The Ag-doped TiO2 nanomaterials exhibited excellent photovoltaic activity as compared to pristine TiO2. The incorporation of Ag could assist in successful charge transport and minimize the charge recombination process. The DSSCs showed a Jsc of 8.336 mA/cm2, a Voc of 698 mV, and an FF of 0.422 with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 2.45% at a Ag concentration of 4% under illumination of 100 mW/cm2 power with N719 dye, indicating an important improvement when compared to 2% Ag-doped (PCE of 0.97%) and pristine TiO2 (PCE of 0.62%).
Bearing Capacity and Deformation of the Tandem Compound Piles Improved Foundation: A Parametric Study
Authors: Guo Youlin , Cai Xiaocong , Gu Meixiang
Published: August 2023

The tandem compound piles are a combination of a granular column in the deep section and a concrete pile in the shallow section. This method effectively utilizes the consolidation and densification effects of the granular column, as well as the cementation strength of the concrete material. The granular column acts as a consolidation path, aiding in the densification of the surrounding soil. On the other hand, the concrete pile prevents the bulging deformation that commonly happens in granular columns during field construction. To study the bearing capacity and deformation of the improved foundation with tandem compound piles, a coupled continuum-discrete numerical model was developed in this study. The accuracy of the model was confirmed by comparing its results with experimental measurements. Additionally, a parametric study was conducted, considering three influential factors: (1) cushion thickness and modulus, (2) length, modulus, diameter, and spacing of the tandem compound pile, and (3) soil modulus. The results indicated that reducing the cushion thickness and increasing the cushion modulus allowed the pile to bear more loads. Moreover, increasing the length and modulus of the deep section of the pile reduced deformation and improved the bearing capacity. The pile modulus, however, had a limited effect on enhancing the bearing capacity. It is important to maintain a critical pile spacing of at least twice the pile diameter. Finally, a high modulus of the underlying stratum led to higher vertical and radial stresses in the pile.
Enhancement of Ar Ion Flux on the Substrate by Heterogeneous Charge Transfer Collision of Ar Atom with He Ion in an Inductively Coupled Ar/He Plasma
Authors: Seong Inho , Kim Sijun , Choi Minsu , Lee Woobeen , Jeong Wonnyoung , Cho Chulhee , You Yebin , Lee Youngseok , Seol Youbin , You Shinjae
Published: August 2023

The understanding of ion dynamics in plasma applications has received significant attention. In this study, we examined these effects between He and Ar species, focusing on the Ar ion flux on the substrate. To control heterogeneous collisions, we varied the He addition rate at fixed chamber pressure and the chamber pressure at fixed Ar/He ratio in an inductively coupled Ar/He plasma source. Throughout the experiments, we maintained an electron density in the bulk plasma and plasma potential as a constant value by adjusting the RF power and applying an additional DC bias to eliminate any disturbances caused by the plasma. Our findings revealed that the addition of He enhances the Ar ion flux, despite a decrease in the Ar ion density at the plasma–sheath boundary due to the presence of He ions. Moreover, we found that this enhancement becomes more prominent with increasing pressure at a fixed He addition rate. These results suggest that the heterogeneous charge transfer collision between Ar atoms and He ions in the sheath region creates additional Ar ions, ultimately leading to an increased Ar ion flux on the substrate. This finding highlights the potential of utilizing heterogeneous charge transfer collisions to enhance ion flux in plasma processing, without the employment of additional equipment.
Determination of Interaction Parameters between Mn and Al and the Influence of Mn on Al2O3 Inclusions Formation in High Mn and Al Content Fe-Mn-Al-O Melts at 1873 K
Authors: Zhang Jie , Luo Xinru , Yan Baijun , Wang Daya , Liu Hongbo
Published: August 2023

For the purpose of determining the interaction parameters between Mn and Al, and the influence of Mn on Al2O3 inclusions formation in the Fe-Mn-Al-O melts with high Mn and Al contents, three groups of Fe-Mn-Al-O melts with the initial Al content of 3, 5, and 7 mass% and different Mn contents were equilibrated with pure solid Al2O3 in an Al2O3 crucible at 1873 K and Ar-H2 atmosphere. Then, the interaction parameters between Mn and Al were deduced using the WIPF (Wagner’s Interaction Parameter Formalism) and the R-K polynomial (Redlich-Kister type polynomial), respectively. From the WIPF, the first- and second-order interaction parameters, eAlMn and rAlMn, were determined to be 0.0292 and −0.00016, respectively. From the R-K polynomial, the binary interaction parameters, ΩMn-Al0 and ΩMn-Al1, were determined to be 73,439 J/mol and −34,919 J/mol, respectively. The applicability of the WIPF to high Mn and Al content Fe-Mn-Al-O melts was investigated by comparing the Al activity calculated by the WIPF and the R-K polynomial using the obtained data. The results showed that WIPF can be used in high Mn and Al content melts in the current concentration range. Further from the iso-activity contours of Al, the activity of Al increases with increasing Al or Mn content. Finally, the thermodynamic calculations show that the addition of Mn decreases the equilibrium O content at the same Al content, making the formation of Al2O3 inclusions easier.
Evolutions of Microstructure and Impact Toughness of Submerged Arc Weld Metal via Introducing Varied Si for Weathering Bridge Steel
Authors: Li Fangmin , Hu Bing , Wang Qiuming , Zhao Liyang , Yi Yuzhu , Li Jinjian , Wang Qingfeng
Published: August 2023

In this paper, the influence of the silicon (Si) content on microstructure and impact property of submerged arc weld metals (WMs) for weathering bridge steel was clarified. Actual submerged arc welding (SAW) was carried out to produce WMs with 0.18 wt.%, 0.36 wt.%, 0.51 wt.%, and 0.60 wt.% of Si. The low temperature impact property of weld metal was detected, and the weld microstructures were characterized by optical microscopy (OM), scanning and transmission electron microscope (SEM and TEM), and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The results indicate that WMs consist of polygon ferrite (PF), acicular ferrite (AF), granular bainitic ferrite (GBF), and martensite/austenite (M/A) constituents in each Si content. With increasing Si, the proportion of PF increased, while AF and GBF coarsened, the area fraction, fM/A, and the mean size, dM/A, of M/A constituents increased, the number of inclusions decreased, but the size increased. Further, the fraction of high-angle grain boundaries (HAGBs) with the misorientation tolerance angles (MTAs) greater than 15° reduced, while the mean equivalent diameter, MEDMTA≥15°, of ferrite grains with HAGBs increased. Accordingly, the impact toughness of WM was degraded from 108.1 J to 39.4 J with the increase in Si. The increase in M/A constituents and inclusions size reduced the critical fracture stress, thereby formation of larger microcracks and cleavage planes occurred. The reduced HAGBs exhibited a low hindering effect on crack propagation, and, consequently, the impact toughness decreased with increasing Si content.
Effect of the Addition of Graphene Flakes on the Physical and Biological Properties of Composite Paints
Authors: Bartczak Natalia , Kowalczyk Jerzy , Tomala Robert , Stefanski Mariusz , Szymański Damian , Ptak Maciej , Stręk Wiesław , Szustakiewicz Konrad , Kurzynowski Tomasz , Szczepański Łukasz , Junka Adam , Gorczyca Damian , Głuchowski Paweł
Published: August 2023

In this study, graphene flakes were obtained using an electrolytic method and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and FTIR spectroscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM). Graphene-based composites with varying concentrations of 0.5%, 1% and 3% by weight were prepared with acrylic paint, enamel and varnish matrices. The mechanical properties were evaluated using micro-hardness testing, while wettability and antimicrobial activity against three pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus 33591, Pseudomonas aeruginosa 15442, Candida albicans 10231) were also examined. The results indicate that the addition of graphene flakes significantly enhances both the mechanical and antimicrobial properties of the coatings.
Cirsiliol and Quercetin Inhibit ATP Synthesis and Decrease the Energy Balance in Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) Strains Isolated from Patients
Authors: Ravera Silvia , Tancreda Gabriele , Vezzulli Luigi , Schito Anna Maria , Panfoli Isabella
Published: August 2023

Polyphenols have attracted attention in the fight against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, as they show antibacterial action. Considering that polyphenols inhibit F1Fo-ATP synthase (ATP synthase) and that bacteria need a constant energy production to maintain their homeostasis, we evaluated the effect of two flavones, cirsiliol (tri-hy-droxy-6,7-dimethoxyflavone) and quercetin (3,3,4,5,7-pentahydroxyflavone), on energy production and intracellular ATP content in a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strain and a methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) strain isolated from patients, comparing the results to those obtained by treating the bacteria with oligomycin, a specific ATP synthase Fo moiety inhibitor. Real-time quantitative ATP synthesis and total ATP content of permeabilized Gram-positive bacteria were assayed by luminometry. The results showed that cirsiliol and quercetin inhibited ATP synthase and decreased the intracellular ATP levels in both strains, although the effect was higher in MRSE. In addition, while cirsiliol and quercetin acted immediately after the treatment, oligomycin inhibited ATP synthesis only after 30 min of incubation, suggesting that the different responses may depend on the different permeability of the bacterial wall to the three molecules. Thus, cirsiliol and quercetin could be considered potential additions to antibiotics due to their ability to target ATP synthase, against which bacteria cannot develop resistance.
The Future of Islamic Liberation Theology
Authors: Rahemtulla Shadaab
Published: August 2023

This Special Issue is devoted to Islamic Liberation Theology (hitherto ILT) [...]
Double-Layer Membranes of Chitosan and Sodium Alginate Added to Natural Olive Leaf Extract for Potential Use in Skin Lesions
Authors: Paulino Larah Gondim Santos , Avila Luisa Bataglin , Moraes Caroline Costa , Khan Mohammad Rizwan , Manoharadas Salim , dos Reis Glaydson Simões , Dotto Guilherme Luiz , da Rosa Gabriela Silveira
Published: August 2023

This study seeks to enhance bilayer membranes using a combination of chitosan and sodium alginate (CS/SA) with phytochemical compounds extracted from olive leaves (CS/SA-OLE), intended for use as a skin dressing. Olive leaf extracts (OLE) were sustainably obtained and showed a phenolic composition of 114.49 mgGAE·g−1 and antioxidant activity of 94.25%. CS/AS and CS/SA-OLE were prepared using the casting method. The results showed that the addition of OLE improved the mechanical and barrier properties of the membranes. The elongation at break increased from 9.99 to 14.68%, and the water transmission rate reduced from 2207.78 to 2094.33 (g·m−2·24 h−1) after the addition of OLE. The FTIR spectra showed functional groups of phenolic compounds, and the thermogravimetric analysis showed that the addition of OLE improved the thermal stability of the membranes. In addition, the CS/SA-OLE membranes showed active potential with inhibition halos (12.19 mm) against the microorganism Escherichia coli. The membranes generated in this research, particularly those with the addition of natural extracts, exhibit significant promise for utilization as wound dressings.
A Zero-Shot Low Light Image Enhancement Method Integrating Gating Mechanism
Authors: Tian Junhao , Zhang Jianwei
Published: August 2023

Photographs taken under harsh ambient lighting can suffer from a number of image quality degradation phenomena due to insufficient exposure. These include reduced brightness, loss of transfer information, noise, and color distortion. In order to solve the above problems, researchers have proposed many deep learning-based methods to improve the illumination of images. However, most existing methods face the problem of difficulty in obtaining paired training data. In this context, a zero-reference image enhancement network for low light conditions is proposed in this paper. First, the improved Encoder-Decoder structure is used to extract image features to generate feature maps and generate the parameter matrix of the enhancement factor from the feature maps. Then, the enhancement curve is constructed using the parameter matrix. The image is iteratively enhanced using the enhancement curve and the enhancement parameters. Second, the unsupervised algorithm needs to design an image non-reference loss function in training. Four non-reference loss functions are introduced to train the parameter estimation network. Experiments on several datasets with only low-light images show that the proposed network has improved performance compared with other methods in NIQE, PIQE, and BRISQUE non-reference evaluation index, and ablation experiments are carried out for key parts, which proves the effectiveness of this method. At the same time, the performance data of the method on PC devices and mobile devices are investigated, and the experimental analysis is given. This proves the feasibility of the method in this paper in practical application.
Lightweight Network DCR-YOLO for Surface Defect Detection on Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Jiang Yuanyuan , Cai Mengnan , Zhang Dong
Published: August 2023

To resolve the problems associated with the small target presented by printed circuit board surface defects and the low detection accuracy of these defects, the printed circuit board surface-defect detection network DCR-YOLO is designed to meet the premise of real-time detection speed and effectively improve the detection accuracy. Firstly, the backbone feature extraction network DCR-backbone, which consists of two CR residual blocks and one common residual block, is used for small-target defect extraction on printed circuit boards. Secondly, the SDDT-FPN feature fusion module is responsible for the fusion of high-level features to low-level features while enhancing feature fusion for the feature fusion layer, where the small-target prediction head YOLO Head-P3 is located, to further enhance the low-level feature representation. The PCR module enhances the feature fusion mechanism between the backbone feature extraction network and the SDDT-FPN feature fusion module at different scales of feature layers. The C5ECA module is responsible for adaptive adjustment of feature weights and adaptive attention to the requirements of small-target defect information, further enhancing the adaptive feature extraction capability of the feature fusion module. Finally, three YOLO-Heads are responsible for predicting small-target defects for different scales. Experiments show that the DCR-YOLO network model detection map reaches 98.58%; the model size is 7.73 MB, which meets the lightweight requirement; and the detection speed reaches 103.15 fps, which meets the application requirements for real-time detection of small-target defects.
The Future of Stress Management: Integration of Smartwatches and HRV Technology
Authors: Jerath Ravinder , Syam Mohammad , Ahmed Shajia
Published: August 2023

In the modern world, stress has become a pervasive concern that affects individuals’ physical and mental well-being. To address this issue, many wearable devices have emerged as potential tools for stress detection and management by measuring heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), and various metrics related to it. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of existing research on HRV tracking and biofeedback using smartwatches pairing with reliable 3rd party mobile apps like Elite HRV, Welltory, and HRV4Training specifically designed for stress detection and management. We apply various algorithms and methodologies employed for HRV analysis and stress detection including time-domain, frequency-domain, and non-linear analysis techniques. Prominent smartwatches, such as Apple Watch, Garmin, Fitbit, Polar, and Samsung Galaxy Watch, are evaluated based on their HRV measurement accuracy, data quality, sensor technology, and integration with stress management features. We describe the efficacy of smartwatches in providing real-time stress feedback, personalized stress management interventions, and promoting overall well-being. To assist researchers, doctors, and developers with using smartwatch technology to address stress and promote holistic well-being, we discuss the data’s advantages and limitations, future developments, and the significance of user-centered design and personalized interventions.
Surface-Electromyography-Based Co-Contraction Index for Monitoring Upper Limb Improvements in Post-Stroke Rehabilitation: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Secondary Analysis
Authors: Bandini Virginia , Carpinella Ilaria , Marzegan Alberto , Jonsdottir Johanna , Frigo Carlo Albino , Avanzino Laura , Pelosin Elisa , Ferrarin Maurizio , Lencioni Tiziana
Published: August 2023

Persons post-stroke experience excessive muscle co-contraction, and consequently the arm functions are compromised during the activities of daily living. Therefore, identifying instrumental outcome measures able to detect the motor strategy adopted after a stroke is a primary clinical goal. Accordingly, this study aims at verifying whether the surface electromyography (sEMG)-based co-contraction index (CCI) could be a new clinically feasible approach for assessing and monitoring patients’ motor performance. Thirty-four persons post-stroke underwent clinical assessment and upper extremity kinematic analysis, including sEMG recordings. The participants were randomized into two treatment groups (robot and usual care groups). Ten healthy subjects provided a normative reference (NR). Frost’s CCI was used to quantify the muscle co-contraction of three different agonist/antagonist muscle pairs during an object-placing task. Persons post-stroke showed excessive muscle co-contraction (mean (95% CI): anterior/posterior deltoid CCI: 0.38 (0.34–0.41) p = 0.03; triceps/biceps CCI: 0.46 (0.41–0.50) p = 0.01) compared to NR (anterior/posterior deltoid CCI: 0.29 (0.21–0.36); triceps/biceps CCI: 0.34 (0.30–0.39)). After robot therapy, persons post-stroke exhibited a greater improvement (i.e., reduced CCI) in proximal motor control (anterior/posterior deltoid change score of CCI: −0.02 (−0.07–0.02) p = 0.05) compared to usual care therapy (0.04 (0.00–0.09)). Finally, the findings of the present study indicate that the sEMG-based CCI could be a valuable tool in clinical practice.
A Survey on Unmanned Underwater Vehicles: Challenges, Enabling Technologies, and Future Research Directions
Authors: Wibisono Arif , Piran Md. Jalil , Song Hyoung-Kyu , Lee Byung Moo
Published: August 2023

Unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) are becoming increasingly important for a variety of applications, including ocean exploration, mine detection, and military surveillance. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the technologies that enable the operation of UUVs. We begin by introducing various types of unmanned vehicles capable of functioning in diverse environments. Subsequently, we delve into the underlying technologies necessary for unmanned vehicles operating in underwater environments. These technologies encompass communication, propulsion, dive systems, control systems, sensing, localization, energy resources, and supply. We also address general technical approaches and research contributions within this domain. Furthermore, we present a comprehensive overview of related work, survey methodologies employed, research inquiries, statistical trends, relevant keywords, and supporting articles that substantiate both broad and specific assertions. Expanding on this, we provide a detailed and coherent explanation of the operational framework of UUVs and their corresponding supporting technologies, with an emphasis on technical descriptions. We then evaluate the existing gaps in the performance of supporting technologies and explore the recent challenges associated with implementing the Thorp model for the distribution of shared resources, specifically in communication and energy domains. We also address the joint design of operations involving unmanned surface vehicles (USVs), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and UUVs, which necessitate collaborative research endeavors to accomplish mission objectives. This analysis highlights the need for future research efforts in these areas. Finally, we outline several critical research questions that warrant exploration in future studies.
RFID Backscatter Based Sport Motion Sensing Using ECOC-Based SVM
Authors: Han Lei , Hua Xia
Published: August 2023

With the advent of the 5G era, radio frequency identification (RFID) has been widely applied in various fields as one of the key technologies for the Internet of Things (IoT) to realize the Internet of Everything (IoE). In recent years, RFID-based motion sensing has emerged as an important research area with great potential for development. In this paper, an RFID backscatter sport motion sensing scheme is proposed, which effectively solves the multi-classification problem by using the received signal strength (RSS) of the backscattered RFID and the error correcting output coding (ECOC)-based support vector machine (SVM). We conduct extensive experiments to validate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, in which the signal intensities of different types of action poses are collected and the SVM is used as the classification algorithm to achieve high classification accuracies.
A Review of High-Power Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers in the 1550 nm Band
Authors: Tang Hui , Yang Changjin , Qin Li , Liang Lei , Lei Yuxin , Jia Peng , Chen Yongyi , Wang Yubing , Song Yue , Qiu Cheng , Zheng Chuantao , Li Xin , Li Dabing , Wang Lijun
Published: August 2023

The 1550 nm band semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) has great potential for applications such as optical communication. Its wide-gain bandwidth is helpful in expanding the bandwidth resources of optical communication, thereby increasing total capacity transmitted over the fiber. Its relatively low cost and ease of integration also make it a high-performance amplifier of choice for LiDAR applications. In recent years, with the rapid development of quantum-well (QW) material systems, SOAs have gradually overcome the shortcomings of polarization sensitivity and high noise. The research on quantum-dot (QD) materials has further improved the noise characteristics and transmission loss of SOAs. The design of special waveguide structures—such as plate-coupled optical waveguide amplifiers and tapered amplifiers—has also increased the saturation output power of SOAs. The maximum gain of the SOA has been reported to be more than 21 dB. The maximum saturation output power has been reported to be more than 34.7 dBm. The maximum 3 dB gain bandwidth has been reported to be more than 120 nm, the lowest noise figure has been reported to be less than 4 dB, and the lowest polarization-dependent gain has been reported to be 0.1 dB. This study focuses on the improvement and enhancement of the main performance parameters of high-power SOAs in the 1550 nm band and introduces the performance parameters, the research progress of high-power SOAs in the 1550 nm band, and the development and application status of SOAs. Finally, the development trends and prospects of high-power SOAs in the 1550 nm band are summarized.
Potentialities of CdZnTe Quasi-Hemispherical Detectors for Hard X-ray Spectroscopy of Kaonic Atoms at the DAΦNE Collider
Authors: Abbene Leonardo , Buttacavoli Antonino , Principato Fabio , Gerardi Gaetano , Bettelli Manuele , Zappettini Andrea , Bazzi Massimiliano , Bragadireanu Mario , Cargnelli Michael , Carminati Marco , Clozza Alberto , Deda Griseld , Del Grande Raffaele , De Paolis Luca , Fabbietti Laura , Fiorini Carlo , Guaraldo Carlo , Iliescu Mihail , Iwasaki Misahiko , Khreptak Aleksander , Manti Simone , Marton Johann , Miliucci Marco , Moskal Pawel , Napolitano Fabrizio , Niedźwiecki Szymon , Ohnishi Hiroaky , Piscicchia Kristian , Sada Yuta , Sgaramella Francesco , Shi Hexi , Silarski Michalł , Sirghi Diana Laura , Sirghi Florin , Skurzok Magdalena , Spallone Antonio , Toho Kairo , Tüchler Marlene , Doce Oton Vazquez , Yoshida Chihiro , Zmeskal Johannes , Scordo Alessandro , Curceanu Catalina
Published: August 2023

Kaonic atom X-ray spectroscopy is a consolidated technique for investigations on the physics of strong kaon–nucleus/nucleon interaction. Several experiments have been conducted regarding the measurement of soft X-ray emission (<20 keV) from light kaonic atoms (hydrogen, deuterium, and helium). Currently, there have been new research activities within the framework of the SIDDHARTA-2 experiment and EXCALIBUR proposal focusing on performing precise and accurate measurements of hard X-rays (>20 keV) from intermediate kaonic atoms (carbon, aluminum, and sulfur). In this context, we investigated cadmium–zinc–telluride (CdZnTe or CZT) detectors, which have recently demonstrated high-resolution capabilities for hard X-ray and gamma-ray detection. A demonstrator prototype based on a new cadmium–zinc–telluride quasi-hemispherical detector and custom digital pulse processing electronics was developed. The detector covered a detection area of 1 cm2 with a single readout channel and interesting room-temperature performance with energy resolution of 4.4% (2.6 keV), 3% (3.7 keV), and 1.4% (9.3 keV) FWHM at 59.5, 122.1, and 662 keV, respectively. The results from X-ray measurements at the DAΦNE collider at the INFN National Laboratories of Frascati (Italy) are also presented with particular attention to the effects and rejection of electromagnetic and hadronic background.
The Poster and the Lure of Imagination / L’ affiche et la séduction del’ imaginaire
Authors:   University of Arts Târgu-Mureș, Theatrical and Multimedia Research Institutte, Vasiniuc Tiberius
Published: August 2023

Our paper aims at a brief survey of the part played by cultural posters within the framework of a wider project dedicated to the art, structure, and function of the theater poster.
Archives et création dans la culture roumaine
Authors:   University of Arts, Târgu-Mureș – Theatrical and Multimedia Research Institute, Vasiniuc Tiberius , Crișan Sorin ,   Library of the Romanian Academy, Cluj-Napoca University of Arts, Târgu-Mureș
Published: August 2023

The relationship between the archives and the literary work represents a theme that is still insufficiently questioned by critical debates and by European literary exegesis (at least, according to what the authors of this study know about it). The essential issue we want to address here is to identify the place that the archive (whether personal or public) occupies in the writer’s life in the landscape of Romanian culture. Also, we wish by this study to highlight the border which separates the personal archives and the fictional archives.
L ’évêque de Transylvanie Ignace Batthyány , le premier éditeur de l ’ œuvre de Saint Gérard de Cenad , découvert dans un manuscrit du XI e siècle. À propos du livre imprimé à Alba Carolina, en 1790
Authors:   The CODEX Centre,  “Babeș-Bolyai” University, Cluj-Napoca, Hendre Biro Doina
Published: August 2023

While evaluating the Transylvanian Bishop Ignác Batthyány’s (1741-1798) life and activity, one can notice that there miss those aspects which would reconstitute his career as a historian, codicologist and textologist and, not least, his quality as a collector of early medieval manuscripts. Romanian historiography does not record his published works, although they appear in Hungarian historiography. Neither are the manuscripts of his books valued, nor the collections of medieval manuscripts, original or copied in large European archives that belonged to him, now preserved in Batthyaneum Library in Alba Iulia. For a well-deserved restitution, I propose an analysis of the methodology of research and interpretation of literary and archival sources, used by the bishop in the drafting and printing the 11th century manuscript containing the works of St. Gerard of Cenad in his own printing press for the first time, in 1790.
L’érudition et le plaisir de la lecture à Arad au début du XIXe siècle
Authors:   County Cultural Centre, Arad, Colta Elena Rodica
Published: August 2023

The interest in secular literature in Arad County manifested itself from the second half of the 18th century, when two booksellers from Budapest began to sell books at local fairs and when two libraries in Arad and Maria Radna were established by the Conventual Franciscans. In addition to the need to buy, own and read various books, at the beginning of the 19th century in the city of Arad appeared – as a late manifestation of the Enlightenment - a desire to produce, with dedication, small-sized books, on leaflets, and to give them to those attending public readings. At the same time, with this need for erudition, the first French and Italian novels, some of them considered licentious - thus satisfying "guilty" pleasures, appeared in the libraries of the nobles. From a time perspective, we are talking about rarities which were, at the moment of their acquisition, an illustration of the phenomenon of the readings of an epoch.
Princeps Editions from the Collections of the Romanian Academy Library – Cluj-Napoca Office. Debut Volumes
Authors:   Library of the Romanian Academy, Cluj-Napoca, Nicoleta Sandor-Botezatu
Published: August 2023

The first editions of books authored by the most valuable writers and important personalities of the Romanian and universal science and culture are included in the category of bibliophile books. The princeps editions incorporate a particular value, both in terms of their bibliophilic aspect as well as for the biography and bibliography of a given author. When it comes to literary history and especially the different types of first edition books, whether it is a true first edition, a believed first, a first thus, a first book club and an advanced reader copy, several features may be identified. The authors are usually more invested and involved in the first printing process because it's the first time their work is born and introduced to the world. Moreover, the volume itself may reveal fundamental details on a literary school, on a literary current or on an entire writing era. Our library holds, according to preliminary research, the debut volumes of C. Conachi, I. Vulcan, V. Cârlova, P. Cerna, C. Pavelescu, G. Topârceanu, Al. Philippide, Camil Petrescu, Z. Stancu. The current article will focus on some of those volumes, such as A Collection of the Poems of Mr. D. Bolintineanu [Colecție din poeziile domnului D. Bolintineanu], Poems [Poesii] (M. Eminescu), Poems [Poesii] (O. Goga), Sentimental Songs for Later [Romanțe pentru mai târziu] (I. Minulescu), Native Lowlands [Șesuri natale], (N. Crainic), Poems of Light [Poemele Luminii] (L. Blaga), Right Words. Verses [Cuvinte potrivite. Stihuri] (T. Arghezi), Dark April [Întunecatul april] (Em. Botta). Considering the value and rarity of first editions, the limited number of collections that have in custody such bibliophilic jewels, the inherent loss of physical integrity that develops with the passing of time, it is, with greater reason, the right moment to respect and to preserve the cultural heritage of future generations.
A Source of Inspiration for the 18th Century Iconography of the Wooden Churches of Maramureș: The Triodion.
Authors:   The National Union Museum, Alba Iulia, Filip Dumitrița Daniela
Published: August 2023

The iconographic program of the wooden churches of Maramureș has a thematic unity although there are many masters who painted the churches throughout the 18th century (and early 19th century). The thematic unity is given by the same sources of inspiration. The following study aims at sheding some light on the influence of the main source of inspiration, the Triodion, on the iconographic program. In my research, I have followed two directions of investigation: the Triodion as a liturgical period of time with a specific theological message (the theology of the Triodion) and the book of Triodion used by the Eastern Church in the aforementiond liturgical time. The printed liturgical book does not only include the hymnography (biblical and theologial themes evoked by the written text), but also the engravings (the illustrations) of the feasts and themes of the Triodion. The masters who painted the wooden churches of Maramureș have transfered both the theology conveyed by the thematic content of the Triodion and the compositional solutions of the engravings into iconography.
The Restoration of a Hunedoara Noble Family’s Library: the Kenderesi from Sălaşu de Sus
Authors:   The Museum of the Dacian and Roman Civilization, Deva, Deju Georgeta
Published: August 2023

The Kenderesi family from Sălaşu de Sus was one of the oldest families of Hunedoara County, with roots in a well-known Romanian family Cânde, from Ţara Haţegului. In 1887, Mihály Kenderesi and his son Ernő, donated their ‘beautiful book collection’ to the Society of History and Archaeology of Hunedoara County. The information appeared in the librarian’s report for 1887 and did not specify the title or number of the books. Thus, a research project began with the aim to identify the books with the notes and signatures of Kenderesi family members, among the documents of the Deva Museum Library. The initial findings were a no. of 21 books, printed in the 16th-19th centuries. After a few years, an archived document on the donation of the books was identified listing 54 positions, representing one periodical and books, some in rare editions. A comparison between the donation list and the inventories of the Deva Museum Library, indicated a no of 15 missing books, whilst the others were identified in The Library. Considering the number of volumes, their age, topic or the notes preserved on the pages of the books, the Kenderesi family donation that entered the collections of the Deva Museum Library in 1887 is significant for the region of Hunedoara and enriches the actual image of the bibliophile heritage.
Les armoiries de la ville de Brașov dans les ouvrages imprimes jusqu'a la premiere moitie du XVIIIe siecle
Authors:   The “George Barițiu” County Library, Brașov, Moașa-Nazare Ruxandra
Published: August 2023

The image of the coat of arms of Brasov in seals, ancient books and architecture was studied in many works, old and new ones. Regarding the shape of this coat of arms on Brasov prints, there were two models, created by Johannes Honterus during the 16th century. These patterns circulated for a long time and they were used constantly, with small changes, by the printers and by the owners of the printing of the town until the 18th century. Our paper researches and analyzes the shape of the coat of arms, on the basis of Brasov prints, from the first images until the first half of the 18th century.