bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gait smoothness during high-demand motor walking tasks in older adults with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Poosri Thanpidcha , Boripuntakul Sirinun , Sungkarat Somporn , Kamnardsiri Teerawat , Soontornpun Atiwat , Pinyopornpanish Kanokporn
Published: January 2024

Early signs of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI)-related gait deficits may be detected through the performance of complex walking tasks that require high gait control. Gait smoothness is a robust metric of overall body stability during walking. This study aimed to explore gait smoothness during complex walking tasks in older adults with and without MCI. Participants were 18 older adults with MCI (mean age = 67.89 ± 4.64 years) and 18 cognitively intact controls (mean age = 67.72 ± 4.63 years). Gait assessment was conducted under four complex walking tasks: walking a narrow path, walking around an obstacle, horizontal head turns while walking, and vertical head turns while walking. The index of harmonicity (IH), representing gait smoothness associated with overall body stability, was measured in anteroposterior, mediolateral, and vertical directions. A multivariate analysis was employed to compare the differences in IH between groups for each complex walking task. The MCI group demonstrated a reduction of IH in the mediolateral direction during the horizontal head turns than the control group (MCI group = 0.64 ± 0.16, Control group = 0.74 ± 0.12, p = 0.04). No significant differences between groups were found for the IH in other directions or walking conditions. These preliminary findings indicate that older adults with MCI have a decline in step regularity in the mediolateral direction during walking with horizontal head turns. Assessment of the smoothness of walking during head turns may be a useful approach to identifying subtle gait alterations in older adults with MCI, which may facilitate timely gait intervention.
AMDDLmodel: Android smartphones malware detection using deep learning model
Authors: Aamir Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad Waseem , Nosheen Mariam , Ashraf M. Usman , Shaf Ahmad , Almarhabi Khalid Ali , Alghamdi Ahmed Mohammed , Bahaddad Adel A.
Published: January 2024

Android is the most popular operating system of the latest mobile smart devices. With this operating system, many Android applications have been developed and become an essential part of our daily lives. Unfortunately, different kinds of Android malware have also been generated with these applications’ endless stream and somehow installed during the API calls, permission granted and extra packages installation and badly affected the system security rules to harm the system. Therefore, it is compulsory to detect and classify the android malware to save the user’s privacy to avoid maximum damages. Many research has already been developed on the different techniques related to android malware detection and classification. In this work, we present AMDDLmodel a deep learning technique that consists of a convolutional neural network. This model works based on different parameters, filter sizes, number of epochs, learning rates, and layers to detect and classify the android malware. The Drebin dataset consisting of 215 features was used for this model evaluation. The model shows an accuracy value of 99.92%. The other statistical values are precision, recall, and F1-score. AMDDLmodel introduces innovative deep learning for Android malware detection, enhancing accuracy and practical user security through inventive feature engineering and comprehensive performance evaluation. The AMDDLmodel shows the highest accuracy values as compared to the existing techniques.
The art of valuation: Using visual analysis to price classical paintings by Swedish Masters
Authors: De Ridder Adri , Eriksen Steffen , Scholtens Bert
Published: January 2024

This study seeks to address the difficulty of pricing art and the limitations of conventional valuation models by using visual analysis to determine the price of paintings. We examine a large hand-collected sample of classical paintings by Swedish Masters, categorize them based on various dimensions, and reduce measurement error by visually examining and classifying each painting into a theme. We compare this ‘visual’ approach with the conventional ‘terminological’ approach. We find that the technique, theme, and auction house all have a substantial impact on the price. We argue that a visual inspection should take precedence over analysis based on the artwork’s title. This is because the latter leaves many artworks unclassified and results in a systematic bias. The study demonstrates the importance of using art-informed characteristics to reduce measurement error in pricing paintings.
Modern contraceptive utilization and its associated factors in East Africa: Findings from multi-country demographic and health surveys
Authors: Demeke Henok , Legese Nanati , Nigussie Shambel
Published: January 2024

Background

The use of modern contraceptives has been low in most Sub-Saharan African countries despite high population growth and a sluggish economy. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and determinants of modern contraceptive use among married reproductive-age women in East Africa.

Methods

For this study, the Demographic and health survey (DHS) data from nine countries in East Africa were analyzed, yielding a weighted sample of 32,925 married women. A multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression model was used to identify characteristics associated with the utilization of modern contraceptives at a p-value less than 0.05. For model comparison, we used the Akaike and Bayesian Information Criteria (AIC and BIC). For assessing variation (random effects), we used community-level variance with standard deviation and intra-cluster correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The overall prevalence of modern contraceptive use was 45.68%, 95% CI (45.15, 46.21). Women’s age, maternal education level, husband education level, media exposure, wealth status, occupation, religion, the total number of children ever born, distance to health facilities, history of termination of pregnancy, couple’s desire for children, women’s participation in decision making, living country and place of residence were significantly associated with modern contraceptive use in Eastern Africa.

Conclusions

Conferring to this study, utilization of modern contraceptives is low in East Africa. Interventions to improve the use of modern contraceptives should encompass disseminating awareness through mass media, enrolment of males in family planning, giving maternal education, building health facilities in remote areas, and encouraging family planning programs in rural areas.
Evaluating deep learning-based melanoma classification using immunohistochemistry and routine histology: A three center study
Authors: Wies Christoph , Schneider Lucas , Haggenmüller Sarah , Bucher Tabea-Clara , Hobelsberger Sarah , Heppt Markus V. , Ferrara Gerardo , Krieghoff-Henning Eva I. , Brinker Titus J.
Published: January 2024

Pathologists routinely use immunohistochemical (IHC)-stained tissue slides against MelanA in addition to hematoxylin and eosin (H&E)-stained slides to improve their accuracy in diagnosing melanomas. The use of diagnostic Deep Learning (DL)-based support systems for automated examination of tissue morphology and cellular composition has been well studied in standard H&E-stained tissue slides. In contrast, there are few studies that analyze IHC slides using DL. Therefore, we investigated the separate and joint performance of ResNets trained on MelanA and corresponding H&E-stained slides. The MelanA classifier achieved an area under receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) of 0.82 and 0.74 on out of distribution (OOD)-datasets, similar to the H&E-based benchmark classification of 0.81 and 0.75, respectively. A combined classifier using MelanA and H&E achieved AUROCs of 0.85 and 0.81 on the OOD datasets. DL MelanA-based assistance systems show the same performance as the benchmark H&E classification and may be improved by multi stain classification to assist pathologists in their clinical routine.
Preliminary evidence for the validity of the Brief Post-Secondary Student Stressors Index (Brief-PSSI): A cross-sectional psychometric assessment
Authors: Linden Brooke , Ecclestone Amy
Published: January 2024

The brief version of the Post-Secondary Student Stressors Index (Brief-PSSI) was developed in order to improve the usability of the instrument as a method for evaluating the severity and frequency of stressors faced by post-secondary students. While the original 46-item instrument has been thoroughly psychometrically validated and successfully used among student populations, the length of the instrument limits its utility. Providing a valid, shortened version of the PSSI will enable institutions to include the tool on existing online surveys currently being deployed to surveil the mental health and wellbeing of their students. This study reports preliminary evidence in support of the validity and reliability of the Brief-PSSI using a cross-sectional pilot sample of students attending an Ontario university in 2022. A total of 349 participants (average age 25 (SD = 7.7), range 19–60) completed the first survey, while 149 completed the follow-up survey (average age of 26 (SD = 7.7), range 17–60). Evidence of internal structure, relations to other variables, and of test-retest reliability was assessed according to established index validation guidelines, including the specification of multiple-indicator, multiple-cause models, and Spearman’s rho correlation coefficients. Results provide preliminary support for the validity and reliability of the tool, which demonstrated acceptable goodness-of-fit statistics, statistically significant relationships with like constructs in the hypothesized directions, and good test-retest reliability correlation coefficients. The Brief-PSSI is a useful tool for evaluating the sources of stress among post-secondary students, assessing both the severity of stress experienced and frequency with which each stressor occurred. Future research should explore the practical utility of adding the Brief-PSSI to existing survey assessments as well as pursue the continued collection of validation evidence for the tool among varied student populations.
Sustained Mood Improvement with Laughing Gas Exposure (SMILE): Study protocol for a randomized placebo-controlled pilot trial of nitrous oxide for treatment-resistant depression
Authors: Ladha Karim S. , Lee Jiwon , Mattina Gabriella F. , Pazmino-Canizares Janneth , Wijeysundera Duminda N. , Gholamali Nezhad Fatemeh , Philip Kaylyssa , Tassone Vanessa K. , Adamsahib Fathima , Bhat Venkat ,   on behalf of the SMILE Study Investigators
Published: January 2024

Background

Nitrous oxide has shown potentially as an efficacious intervention for treatment-resistant depression, yet there remains insufficient evidence pertaining to repeated administration of nitrous oxide over time and active placebo-controlled studies with optimal blinding. Thus, we aim to examine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a six-week follow up study examining the effects of a 4 week course of weekly administered nitrous oxide as compared to the active placebo, midazolam.

Methods

In this randomized, active placebo-controlled, pilot trial, 40 participants with treatment-resistant depression will receive either inhaled nitrous oxide (1 hour at 50% concentration) plus intravenous saline (100mL) or inhaled oxygen (1 hour at 50% concentration) plus intravenous midazolam (0.02 mg/kg in 100mL, up to 2mg) once per week, for 4 consecutive weeks. Participants will be followed up for 6 weeks starting from the first treatment visit. Primary feasibility outcomes include recruitment rate, withdrawal rate, adherence, missing data, and adverse events. The primary exploratory clinical outcome is change in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) score at day 42 of the study. Other exploratory clinical outcomes include remission (defined as MADRS score <10), response (defined as ≥ 50% reduction in MADRS score), and adverse side effects.

Discussion

This pilot study will provide valuable information regarding the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of repeated nitrous oxide administration over time for treatment-resistant depression. If feasible, this study will inform the design of a future definitive trial of nitrous oxide as an efficacious and fast-acting treatment for treatment-resistant depression.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04957368. Registered on July 12, 2021.
Digital togetherness of Syrian families in Greece
Authors: Konstantinou Iossif
Published: January 2024

Drawing on the highly mediatized arrival of migrants and refugees at the borders of Greece, this article focuses on digital technologies and smartphone use among Syrian refugees in Athens, Greece, and analyses the way family relations are experienced at a distance. It is based on ethnographic research carried out in the refugee camp of Eleonas, from July 2019 to March 2020, when the first wave of COVID-19 was confirmed in Greece. The main objective of the article is to discuss the way digital technologies help the refugees to redefine relationships among family members and experience a sense of ‘togetherness’ at a distance. In addition, it aims to describe the changes of the familial ties and the practices of an ‘imaginary family’ through smartphones and network platforms. Overcoming uncertainty, fear and ‘information precarity’ caused by the dataveillance and control of al-Assad’s governmental authorities, Syrian refugees find ways to use smartphone as ‘an essential tool’ to facilitate communication among family members and relatives in homeland or in diaspora in Europe, to share experiences, comments and pictures.
Factors influencing journalistic roles during COVID-19 pandemic: A study of African diaspora journalists and their media in the United Kingdom and Germany
Authors: Ogunyemi Olatunji
Published: January 2024

The challenges of covering COVID-19 have been the focus of scholarly attention since the pandemic was announced by the World Health Organization in 2020. However, we have little understanding of how external and internal factors influenced journalistic role conception from the perspectives of African diaspora journalists. Using journalistic role conception and perceived influence frameworks, this study examines whether what African diaspora journalists in the United Kingdom and Germany say about the factors that influenced their journalistic role conception matches with what they actually do through focus group discussions (FGDs) and content analysis of news stories in two media for and by African diasporas between March 2020 and August 2021. The findings show that five external factors (lockdown restrictions, fake news, effects of COVID-19 in the Black communities, economic model and official/non-official sources) and two internal factors (dominant framing of Africa and reorganization) mostly influenced journalistic role conception during the pandemic and that there was evidence to suggest that what they say they experienced (narrated role) matched with what they actually do (practised role).
Shifting Transnational Bonding in Indian Diaspora, Ruben S. Gowricharn (ed.) (2020)
Authors: Avadhani Shobha
Published: January 2024

Review of: Shifting Transnational Bonding in Indian Diaspora, Ruben S. Gowricharn (ed.) (2020)

New York: Routledge, 216 pp.,

ISBN 978-1-13834-684-0, h/bk, GBP 145.00

ISBN 978-1-00305-380-4, e-book, GBP 27.29
La Historia y la construcción del dispositivo disciplinar. Aspectos epistémicos e institucionales de la génesis de la profesionalización del saber histórico en Francia
Authors: Domínguez González David J.
Published: January 2024

La emergencia de la historia como disciplina, como espacio gnoseológico e institucional, es un fenómeno que hunde sus raíces en los cambios acaecidos en las sociedades europeas de los siglos XVIII y XIX. El objetivo del presente artículo consiste en advertir los factores institucionales que han influido en la creación del dispositivo disciplinar del saber histórico en Francia. Para ello es preciso remontarse a las reformas universitarias desarrolladas por la III República, ya que fue ahí cuando se modificaron las condiciones de producción y circulación de los saberes y se instituyó la organización formativa del saber histórico. En las páginas siguientes analizaremos este proceso al detalle. Primero, nos centraremos en la comparación de las facultades napoleónicas y las facultades alemanas. Después, hablaremos de los aspectos impulsados por las reformas universitarias en la formación del saber histórico. Y, por último, concluiremos con una reflexión final sobre la institucionalización inacabada del saber histórico. De manera paralela, y casi como un imperativo, se resaltará el papel que los historiadores metódicos han desempeñado en la génesis de la profesionalización del saber histórico en Francia. Para ello, utilizaremos fuentes documentales de la época (circulares, decretos, actas, discursos, correspondencia) y una bibliografía secundaria de carácter historiográfico.
Ingreso neonatal en alojamiento conjunto: efecto sobre la lactancia materna durante los 6 primeros meses de vida
Authors: Miñones Suarez Lorena , Fernández Morales Mercedes , García Pérez Lorena , Huguet Gorriz Alicia , Fernández Romasanta Agustina , Aldaz Calvo Marta , Ramillete Bandrés Sofía
Published: January 2024

Introducción: Mantener a los recién nacidos hospitalizados en alojamiento conjunto con sus padres durante las 24 horas mejora el vínculo, favorece la aplicación del método canguro y puede contribuir al éxito de la lactancia materna.
Material y métodos: Estudio longitudinal y retrospectivo que incluyó 77 recién nacidos ingresados en nuestra unidad neonatal de diseño compartido durante 2016-2017 (grupo preintervención) y 97 hospitalizados en alojamiento conjunto en habitaciones individuales entre 2019-2021 (grupo postintervención). Se compararon el motivo de ingreso, su duración (horas) y el tipo de alimentación al alta y durante los 6 primeros meses entre ambos grupos.
Resultados: 43 recién nacidos (44 %) ingresaron en alojamiento conjunto entre 2019-2021. El mayor porcentaje de recién nacidos alimentados con lactancia materna exclusiva se registró entre los recién nacidos ingresados en alojamiento conjunto, tanto al alta (40 % vs 23 %; p = 0,06), como a los 6 meses (39 % vs 22 %; p = 0,14), si bien las diferencias no fueron significativas. En el grupo de recién nacidos que ingresaron en alojamiento conjunto por ictericia patológica, en comparación con los ingresados en cuidados intermedios, la tasa de lactancia materna fue superior en todos los periodos analizados y alcanzó la significación estadística a los 6 meses de edad (44 % vs 12 %, p = 0,039).
Conclusiones: El ingreso neonatal en régimen de alojamiento conjunto se relaciona con un aumento en la proporción de recién nacidos alimentados exclusivamente al pecho, tanto al alta como durante los primeros meses de vida.
Medical prospects of cryptosporidiosis in vivo control using biofabricated nanoparticles loaded with Cinnamomum camphora extracts by Ulva fasciata
Authors: Allam Nesreen Allam Tantawy , Hamouda Ragaa Abd El-Fatah , Sedky Doaa , Abdelsalam Mahinour Ezzeldin , El-Gawad Mona Ebrahim Hussien Abd , Hassan Noha Mahmoud Fahmy , Aboelsoued Dina , Elmaaty Amal M. Abou , Ibrahim Muhammad A. , Taie Hanan Anwar Aly , Hakim Ashraf Samir , Desouky Hassan Mohamed , Megeed Kadria Nasr Abdel , Abdel-Hamid Marwa Salah
Published: January 2024

Background and Aim: Global efforts are continuing to develop preparations against cryptosporidiosis. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of biosynthesized Ulva fasciata loading Cinnamomum camphora oil extract on new zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs shorten to ZnNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as alternative treatments for Cryptosporidium parvum experimental infection in rats.

Materials and Methods: Oil extract was characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, loaded by U. fasciata on ionic-based ZnO and NPs, and then characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Biosafety and toxicity were investigated by skin tests. A total of 105 C. parvum oocysts/rat were used (n = 81, 2–3 W, 80–120 g, 9 male rats/group). Oocysts shedding was counted for 21 d. Doses of each preparation in addition to reference drug were administered daily for 7 d, starting on post-infection (PI) day (3). Nitazoxanide (100 mg) was used as the reference drug. After 3 weeks, the rats were sacrificed for postmortem examination and histopathological examination. Two blood samples/rat/group were collected on the 21st day. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid blood samples were also used for analysis of biochemistry, hematology, immunology, micronucleus prevalence, and chromosomal abnormalities.

Results: C. camphora leaves yielded 28.5 ± 0.3 g/kg oil and 20 phycocompounds were identified. Spherical and rod-shaped particles were detected at 10.47–30.98 nm and 18.83–38.39 nm, respectively. ZnNPs showed the earliest anti-cryptosporidiosis effect during 7–17 d PI. Other hematological, biochemical, immunological, histological, and genotoxicity parameters were significantly fruitful; hence, normalized pathological changes induced by infestation were observed in the NPs treatments groups against the infestation-free and Nitazoxanide treated group.

Conclusion: C. camphora, U. fasciata, ZnNPs, and AgNPs have refluxed the pathological effects of infection as well as positively improved host physiological condition by its anticryptosporidial immunostimulant regenerative effects with sufficient ecofriendly properties to be proposed as an alternative to traditional drugs, especially in individuals with medical reactions against chemical commercial drugs.

Keywords: blood biomarkers, Cinnamomum camphora, Cryptosporidium parvum, cytokines, Egypt, genotoxicity, green nanoparticles, rats, Ulva fasciata.
Acute and sub-chronic toxicity studies of the ethanol extract of
Erythrina fusca Lour. fruit via oral administration in mice
Authors: Phuong-Nhung Tran Thi , Quoc Le Pham Tan
Published: January 2024

Erythrina fusca Lour. is a medicinal plant traditionally used in
herbal medicine; however, there are no records of toxicity associated with
the ethanol extract of E. fusca fruit (EtEF). The objective of this study
was to assess the safety of EtEF through toxicity testing. Four groups of
Swiss albino mice were employed, including a control group and three groups
administered EtEF at doses of 1000, 3000, and 5000 mg/kg (single dose) and
100, 300, and 500 mg/kg (administered repeatedly for 90 days). Various
parameters, including body weight, food and water consumption,
hematological and biochemical parameters, relative organ weight, urine
composition, and histopathology, were evaluated. No significant differences
were observed in the tested groups compared to the control group, and there
was no evidence of morphological or histopathological damage in the organs
of mice treated with EtEF. This study affirms the safety of EtEF and
establishes a foundation for further investigations into its utilization in
traditional medicine.
Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of uropathogens in Karachi,
Pakistan
Authors: Fatima Ambreen , Iffat Wajiha , Dawood Kamran , Sarfaraz Sabahat , Hussain Zeb , Siddiqui Hira Zafar , Gajdács Márió
Published: January 2024

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the major healthcare
concerns causing an alarmingly high medical and financial burden in both
developing and developed countries. There is a significant rise in
multidrug-resistant (MDR) uropathogens, both in hospitalized and community
settings, which threatens safe and effective therapy of these infections.
The increased rates of resistance in UTIs requires the continuous
surveillance of uropathogens in the specific area to inform safe and
effective therapy. The present, retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive
study was carried out using samples collected between 01/06/2019 and
31/05/2020 in Karachi, Pakistan, during which, n = 1500 urine samples were
collected. The samples were processed on Cystine Lactose Electrolyte
Deficient (CLED) agar, identification was carried out by using standard
biochemical tests and API 20E/20NE strips. Antimicrobial susceptibility
testing was performed using standard disk diffusion test protocol, as per
Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines. Overall, n =
1189 urine samples (79.27%) showed significant bacterial growth. The median
age of affected patients was 56 years (range: 1-100) with n = 811 females
(68.21%), with patients between 61-80 years (n = 384; 32.29%) as the most
numerous age group. Regarding uropathogen distribution, the overwhelming
majority were Gram-negative bacteria (n = 986; 82.93%), the most common
causative agent being Escherichia coli (n = 648; 54.49%), followed by
Klebsiella spp. (n = 206; 17.33%) and Enterococcus spp. (n = 118; 9.92%).
Resistance rates were highest for the tested fluoroquinolones (>70% for
most species), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, broad-spectrum penicillins,
and cephalosporins, while fosfomycin, carbapenems and colistin largely
retained their efficacy. The mitigation of UTIs and the emergence of
resistance may be impeded by taking appropriate measures for the better
management of patients; these interventions include improvements in the
treatment recommendations, provision of health education, and continuous
antimicrobial surveillance.
EPIC® and High Reliability in Healthcare: An Evidence Based Commentary
Authors: Johnson Ralph J.
Published: January 2024

This evidence-based brief commentary discusses the potential of EPIC ® medicalrecords software to help or hinder in advancing High Reliability in healthcare—namely, the intent to attain repeatable, increasingly high levels of quality and safety over time. Four of EPIC’s key aspects relevant to High Reliability are examined: Standardized (High Quality) Information / Data Collection, Technological Somnambulism, Enhanced Patient Safety, and Reminders / “Hardstops.” A conclusion is drawn that EPIC, if used correctly, has vast potential to advance High Reliability high-quality and safety, specifically in medical treatment and regarding healthcare organization practice in general. However, it has hidden costs that are more than money; if unfettered, those costs can hinder its usefulness and even render it counterproductive. EPIC only works well in terms of Maximum High Reliability in healthcare as long as users and leaders remain mindful, prudent, and balanced in its use.
A Theoretical Approach in the Design of Single Frame 28 V DC and 270 V DC Dual Voltage Generator
Authors: C. Jaishankar , Srinivasan Thilagar Hosimin , J Sreenandan
Published: January 2024

Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) generally operate with a 28 V DC electrical system. However, the demand for electrical power in AFVs has exceeded the capabilities of the existing 28V system. The additional load growth necessitates larger wire sizes, which adds extra weight and cost to the vehicle. Introducing a dual-bus architecture (28 V DC and 270 V DC) can lead to the efficient operation of the electrical system while meeting future demand. This paper presents the design of a Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) Dual Voltage Generator (DVG), which simultaneously outputs two voltages (28 V DC & 270 V DC) from a single frame across a wide operational speed range. The design process includes a detailed description of the individual stages, accompanied by analytical parameters and software-generated results. The modeling and analysis of the generator were carried out using Motorsolve design software. The obtained results are presented and thoroughly discussed in this paper.
Experimental and Computing Methods to Determine the External Surface Temperature of the Small Arms Weapon Systems Barrel
Authors: NOJA Gabriel-Flavius , Marius MĂRMUREANU Ionuţ , Petru ROŞCA , Cristian PREDOI , Constantin PUICĂ Cristinel , Adrian MALCIU
Published: January 2024

The need to determine the small arms weapon system barrel temperature under a variety of conditions makes modelling and simulation a good alternative to the expensive real tests. Therefore, in a unique way, this paper includes three alternatives to assess the external surface temperature in order to better understand the balance between the chosen calculation method accuracy and the computed time. For numerical simulations, the initial conditions were established based on STANREC 4367 thermodynamic interior ballistic model. The heat transfer was solved for One-Dimensional and Two-Dimensional model using the finite difference discretisation method, with code written in Matlab. The Three-Dimensional model was resolved by finite element analysis method in Ansys. The simulations results are validated by means of the results obtained in case of two real firing scenarios. During the field testing, a new detection method based on shockwaves microphones was used in order to exactly establish the moment of each shoot and to precisely observe the temperature evolution on barrel surface.
A Low Noise Variable Gain Amplifier with 97.2 dB Linear Gain Range for CW Radar
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Ravichandran Sujatha
Published: January 2024

This manuscript reports the design of a low noise variable gain amplifier (VGA) having wide dB linear gain characteristics for a continuous wave (CW) radar. A pseudo-exponential gain control function has been adopted in this VGA for the wide dB-linear behavior. Also, a BJT-based gain stage has been proposed to improve the gain dynamic range and low noise performance due to its higher transconductance/gain and lower flicker noise contribution. This proposed 2-gain stage VGA has been implemented in 130 nm SiGe bipolar complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (BiCMOS) technology. This design performance has been benchmarked by post-layout simulation results. It has demonstrated a voltage-controlled gain from -33.6 dB to 74.4 dB (total 108 dB), with a 97.2 dB linear gain range, input referred noise of 2.4 nV /√Hz, and power consumption of 4.25 mW. This VGA has a 3-dB bandwidth of 10 MHz at a maximum gain of 74.4 dB and 251 MHz at a minimum gain of -33.6 dB with a chip layout area of 0.0682 mm2 . Compared to the latest available CMOS/BiCMOS VGAs in the literature, this proposed VGA has the highest gain dynamic range and dB-linear gain range with minimum input referred noise simultaneously across the operation bandwidth.
Hybrid Composites for the Design and Development of Pressure Vessel for Underwater Applications
Authors: A Thirunavukkarasu , K Shanmugasundaram , G Latha
Published: January 2024

The study’s main objective is to design and develop pressure vessels in underwater applications using Hybrid composites-Fibre Metal Laminates (FML) so that the weight will be reduced. The proposed pressure vesselaccommodates electronics in the underwater ambient noise measurement system under an external hydrostatic pressure of 1 MPa (10 bar). The research study aims initially to design and develop a pressure vessel with stainless steel 316 L and subsequently design a pressure vessel with hybrid composites with a combination of composite materials of E-glass and carbon/epoxy materials with a metal alloy stainless steel 316 L. The pressure vessel has been optimised with varying metal and composite percentage combinations. The cylinder’s wall thickness has been pivotal in optimizing pressure vessel design. Classical Laminate Theory (CLT) transforms the FML pressure vessel or cylinder into a rectangular plate. As preliminary measures, FML specimen with a size of 0.45 m square laminate and 0°orientation has been developed with 50 % metal layer and 50 % fibre composites, and corresponding mechanical tests have been carried out as per the standards. The tensile strength of the developed FML is 420 MPa compared to base metal (SS316 L) strength of 556 MPa, and similarly, Flexural and Impact properties have shown a higher level when compared to other types of FMLs.
Analisis Pemanfaatan Media Sosial Instagram sebagai Media Promosi di Perpustakaan Universitas Bangka Belitung Berdasarkan Engagement Rate, Impression dan Reach
Authors: Kusuma Arja , Darma Darma , Sari Suci Rhomana
Published: January 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pemanfaatan media sosial instagram sebagai media promosi di perpustakaan Universitas Bangka Belitung berdasarkan engagement rate, impression dan reach. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif, data yang digunakan adalah data insight dari konten instagram yang dibatasi dari bulan Juli sampai dengan September 2022. Data kemudian dianalisis dengan menggunakan persamaan engagement rate yang dikemukan oleh Mackenzie Taylor dan untuk meginterpretasikan data menggunakan engagement rate value range yang dikemukan oleh Amar. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa kualitas nilai engagement rate media sosial instagram sebagai media promosi berada pada level low engagement rate. Hal tersebut mengindikasikan tingkat keefektifitasan media sosial instagram sebagai media promosi masih rendah. Oleh karena itu, guna meningkatkan keefektifitasnya, dalam memposting konten yang memuat informasi penting seperti informasi tentang pengumuman, informasi tentang cara memanfaatan perpustakaan, informasi tentang jenis layanan di perpustakaan, perlu mempertimbangkan penggunaan tipe postingan reel, sedangkan untuk konten yang memuat informasi tentang dokumentasi kegiatan perpustakaan bisa mempertimbangkan penggunaan tipe postingan carousel, dan untuk konten yang memuat informasi tentang ucapan bisa mempertimbangkan penggunaan tipe postingan single image.
Evaluasi Redesain Ruang Perpustakaan Universitas Bakti Tunas Husada Tasikmalaya Terhadap Minat Kunjung Pemustaka
Authors: Andriyani Yuni , Zaitun Sherin Theresina , Yuliana Anna , Shaleha Resha Resmawati
Published: January 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi redesain perpustakaan terhadap minat kunjung pemustaka di Perpustakaan Universitas Bakti Tunas Husada Tasikmalaya. Peneliti menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif deskriptif dengan pengambilan data dilakukan melalui observasi dan wawancara. Hasil dari penelitian menunjukan bahwa redesain ruang perpustakaan memiliki korelasi terhadap minat kunjung pemustaka. Hal ini didukung oleh 5 dimensi redesain ruang perpustakaan yang dikemukakan oleh Mery Gelliat diantaranya (1) pencahayaan sudah dilengkapi lampu LED sehingga ruangan menjadi terang dan pencarian informasi di dalam perpustakaan menjadi lebih mudah dan menyanangkan, (2) ruang penyimpanan dikelola sedemikian rupa sesuai dengan berbagai fungsinya, (3) penggunaan warna pada ruang perpustakaan sudah dikombinasikan dengan memerhatikan efek psikologis yang membuat pemustaka merasa tenang, nyaman dan menyenangkan, (4) tekstur dan pola seperti furniture yang digunakan di dalam ruang perpustakaan juga sudah di desain dengan memerhatikan kualitas terbaik sehingga selain menambah estetika juga menambah rasa nyaman kepada pemustaka yang melakukan aktivitas di dalam ruangan, serta (5) skala dan keseimbangan di dalam ruang perpustakaan sudah diatur dengan baik sehingga tidak menghambat segala keagiatan pemustaka di dalam perpustakaan. Penelitian ini diharapkan dapat bermanfaat untuk menambah pengetahuan terkait redesain perpustakaan serta dampaknya dalam menarik minat kunjung pemustaka.
Νίκη in 1 Macc 3:19 As an Expression of the Confrontation between Israel’s Faith and Pagan Religiosity
Authors: Nawrot Janusz
Published: January 2024

In the proposed article, the author tries to find the theological meaning of the noun νίκη, ‘victory’, present in the text of 1 Macc 3:19. In the entire book, it appears only in this verse, constituting one of its many interpretation puzzles. The analysis will go through several stages, starting with providing dictionary meanings of the term. A review of other terms used to describe the victories that the book uses will also be helpful in the inquiry. In this context, the question arises about the reason for their replacement in v. 19 by this hapax. On the other hand, a brief analysis of individual verses of the Septuagint containing νίκη will raise the question of whether the author could have been inspired by any of them using the noun in his text. Finally, it will be necessary to analyze selected works of Greek ancient literature, against which the meaning of the studied noun presence in the inspired text will become clearer.
Niepodległość na ambonie. Kazanie księdza Antoniego Stychla na Polskim Sejmie Dzielnicowym w Poznaniu w 1918 roku
Authors: Kalbarczyk Adam
Published: January 2024

W nawiązaniu do przedrozbiorowej tradycji, zgodnie z którą sejmy Rzeczpospolitej rozpoczynały się Mszą świętą w kościele i wygłoszonym tam kazaniem, także Polski Sejm Dzielnicowy w Poznaniu w 1918 roku zainaugurowała Msza święta odprawiona przez prymasa Edmunda Dalbora 3 grudnia w farze poznańskiej i kazanie wygłoszone przez jej proboszcza, ks. Antoniego Stychla, wybitnego kapłana oraz działacza narodowego i społecznego. Tekst kazania, liczący w edycji z 2018 roku dziewięć stron, ma dość czytelną strukturę. Składa się z trzech części. Pierwsza poświęcona jest zasadniczo refleksji na temat przyczyn utraty przez Polskę niepodległości, jak też wyrażeniu radości z nadchodzącego wyzwolenia. Druga partia - najdłuższa - ma z jednej strony unaocznić wszystkim, że Polacy cierpieniem wysłużyli sobie u Boga wskrzeszenie ojczyzny, a z drugiej - pokrzepić Polaków w tej radosnej dziejowej chwili, że dzięki długiemu cierpieniu i wytrwaniu są godni wyzwolenia. Trzecia, ostatnia, część poświęcona jest najpierw dziękczynieniu Bogu za to, że położył kres wielowiekowej niewoli, z którym zostaje powiązane wezwanie do pracy nad sobą i pracy dla wspólnego dobra, ażeby w ten sposób naród zasłużył na trwałość wolności i dar pomyślnego rozwoju ojczyzny. Kazanie kończy modlitwa do Boga i swoista „litania narodu” do najważniejszych polskich świętych, którzy mają wyprosić Polakom potrzebne Boże łaski. Kazanie ks. Stychla wpisuje się w wielką i długą tradycję polskiego kaznodziejstwa patriotycznego. Wzoruje się ono przede wszystkim na najwybitniejszych kazaniach sejmowych wielkich kaznodziejów polskich takich jak Hieronim Powodowski czy Piotr Skarga. Podobnie jak oni ks. Stychel uświadamia delegowanym na Polski Sejm Dzielnicowy, jak wielkie zobowiązanie moralne spoczywa na nich wobec tych, którzy walczyli, cierpieli i oddali życie za wolny i sprawiedliwy kraj. Apeluje do ich sumień i serc, ażeby obradując i podejmując uchwały, kierowali się wyłącznie dobrem ogółu. Do nich i do wszystkich Polaków kaznodzieja zwraca się z wezwaniem do wykorzenienia wad narodowych i formowania cnót, przede wszystkim zaś do niezmarnowania daru powracającej niezawisłości.
L’accoglienza trasforma da forestiero a ospite. Una riflessione alla luce della Terza Lettera di Giovanni
Authors: Podeszwa Paweł
Published: January 2024

Tra gli scritti neotestamentari ci sia una brevissima epistola, secondo la tradizione attribuita all’apostolo Giovanni, che è in gran parte dedicata al tema dell’accoglienza cristiana dei fratelli, anche forestieri, che grazie alla cordiale apertura diventano ospiti. Proprio quest’idea costituisce l’oggetto della presente riflessione. Dopo alcune informazioni sul mittente e sul destinatario della lettera, si analizzano i passaggi che contengono l’elogio dell’ospitalità di Gaio nei confronti dei fratelli (1,5.6.8). Sebbene in prima istanza l’ospitalità auspicata si riferisca ai fratelli cristiani, compresi i forestieri, cioè quelli non conosciuti personalmente da Gaio, che si sono messi a predicare il Vangelo, la lettera postula un atteggiamento identico anche nei confronti di tutti gli stranieri (compresi i non cristiani). Questo ha una importante dimensione missionaria, in quanto permette loro di contemplare il vero volto di Cristo misericordioso, perché attraverso l’ospitalità cristiana possono sperimentare concretamente la bontà di Dio e riconoscere nei discepoli di Gesù i seguaci di Dio stesso, che è Padre di tutti gli uomini.
נֵבֵֶֶל – starotestamentalny instrument muzyczny
Authors: Górska Hanna
Published: January 2024

W tekstach Biblii Hebrajskiej występuje wiele różnego rodzaju instrumentów muzycznych. Jednym z nich jest נֵבֵֶֶל. Obecnie nie posiadamy żadnych znalezisk archeologicznych, które by pozwalały bez cienia wątpliwości dokonać identyfikacji znalezionego instrumentu z נֵבֵֶֶל. Z tego względu teksty biblijne zdają się obecnie jedynym pewnym źródłem informacji na temat tego instrumentu. W badaniach nad nim można jednak bazować również na odkryciach archeologicznych czy tekstach dotyczących greckich nazw, użytych w miejsce נֵבֵֶֶל w Septuagincie. Te źródła jednak nie dają pewności co do tego, że opisują ten sam instrument, o którym mowa jest w Biblii Hebrajskiej. Bazując na jednych i drugich źródłach, staram się zaprezentować, jak mógł wyglądać ,נֵבֵֶֶל z czego był zrobiony oraz kiedy i jak na nim grano.
Chrystus: Droga, Prawda i Życie – centrum duchowości człowieka. Studium analityczne nauczania ks. prof. Marka Pyca
Authors: Wejman Henryk
Published: January 2024

Zasadniczym celem refleksji jest ukazanie koncepcji duchowości człowieka w ujęciu ks. prof. M. Pyca. Bazę źródłową dla tak określonego celu stanowi nauczanie ks. prof. M. Pyca. Cały proces analiz bazy źródłowej objął trzy etapy. Pierwszy dotyczy przybliżenia udzielania się Boga w Chrystusie, które stanowi źródło duchowości człowieka. Uwzględniając samookreślenie się Chrystusa jako Drogi, Prawdy i Życia (por. J 14,6), ten etap refleksji odnosi się do Chrystusa – Drogi – który w akcie wcielenia i odkupienia odsłonił miłość Bożą i zarazem zaprosił go do kroczenia za Nim. Kolejny etap refleksji koncentruje się na odsłonięciu spojrzenia ks. prof. M. Pyca na sposób odpowiedzi człowieka na Boże udzielanie się. Głębię tego sposobu ukazał Chrystus. Określając siebie Prawdą (por. J 14,6), w pełni odsłonił prawdę o bezgranicznej miłości Boga do człowieka i zarazem pokazał mu, jak on ma tę prawdę przeżywać w swojej egzystencji. W Chrystusie Prawdzie człowiek może zrozumieć siebie w swym jestestwie i właściwie ukształtować swoją duchowość. Ostatni etap refleksji skupia się na ukazaniu płaszczyzn realizacji przez człowieka swojej duchowości w Kościele. Gdy człowiek prowadzi życie modlitewne, karmi się Ciałem Chrystusa i okazuje miłosierdzie bliźnim, to jest w stanie doświadczyć pokoju w sercu i doznać pełni życia, które daje Chrystus. Duchowość człowieka jest, według ks. prof. M. Pyca, jego odpowiedzią na samookreślenie się Chrystusa jako Droga, Prawda i Życie. Dlatego samookreślenie się Chrystusa, w nauczaniu ks. prof. M. Pyca, wyraźnie wskazuje na to, iż to On jest przyczyną sprawczą, wzorczą i celową duchowości człowieka.
Obrona godności sumienia w nauczaniu Josefa Ratzingera – Benedykta XVI
Authors: Kluz Marek
Published: January 2024

Ratzinger – Benedykt XVI, poszukując podstaw do nauczania moralnego, koncentrował się na człowieku jako podmiocie moralności. Wyrazem moralnej podmiotowości człowieka jest sumienie. Pełniona przez nie funkcja stawia je na szczycie elementów konstytuujących godność każdej osoby. Sumienie jest warunkiem koniecznym, by człowiek działał właśnie jako człowiek. Stanowi ono prawomocną normę i miarodajną regułę postępowania moralnego. Największym zagrożeniem dla świata jest zjawisko zafałszowania i zaćmienia sumienia. Bez zdrowego sumienia zaburzeniu ulega więź z Bogiem, a także relacja z samym sobą i z ludźmi. Dlatego prawość sumienia powinna być główną troską ludzkości. Papież Benedykt XVI wielokrotnie nawoływał ludzkość do właściwego kształtowania sumienia. Nieocenionym darem dla dojrzałości sumienia jest kierowanie się nauczaniem Kościoła i uczestnictwo w żywej wspólnocie eklezjalnej.
Spatially inhomogeneous inverse Faraday effect provides tunable nonthermal excitation of exchange dominated spin waves
Authors: Krichevsky Denis M. , Ozerov Vladislav A. , Bel’kova Alexandra V. , Sylgacheva Daria A. , Kalish Andrey N. , Evstigneeva Svetlana A. , Pakhomov Alexander S. , Mikhailova Tatiana V. , Lyashko Sergey D. , Kudryashov Alexander L. , Semuk Evgeny Yu. , Chernov Alexander I. , Berzhansky Vladimir N. , Belotelov Vladimir I.
Published: January 2024

We demonstrate optical nonthermal excitation of exchange dominated spin waves of different orders in a magnetophotonic crystal. The magnetophotonic structure consists of a thin magnetic film and a Bragg stack of nonmagnetic layers to provide a proper nonuniform interference pattern of the inverse Faraday effect induced by light in the magnetic layer. We found a phenomenon of the pronounced phase slippage of the inverse Faraday effect distribution when the pump wavelength is within the photonic band gap of the structure. It allows to tune the interference pattern by a slight variation of light wavelength which results in the modification of excitation efficiency of the different order spin waves. The approach can be applied for different magnetic dielectrics expanding their application horizons for spin-wave based devices.
Numerical study of flow and heat transfer in the channel of panel-type radiator with semi-detached inclined trapezoidal wing vortex generators
Authors: Si Wenrong , Fu Chenzhao , Tian Yue , Chen Jie , Yuan Peng , Huang Zexuan , Yang Jian
Published: January 2024

To improve heat dissipation performance of panel-type radiator for transformer, this study investigated the flow and heat transfer characteristics of semi-detached inclined trapezoidal wing vortex generator (SDITW) in a closed channel on the air-side of the radiator. The SDITW was compared with the inclined delta wing (IDW) and inclined trapezoidal wing (ITW) channels. The effects of SDITW relative separation height (e
1/e
2), longitudinal pitch (p
l), blockage ratio (e/(0.5H)), and inclination angle (α) were analyzed. First, compared with the IDW and ITW channels, the SDITW channel generates stable corner vortices and produces weaker transverse vortices and lower flow resistance due to the semi-detached structure of the wing. For Re = 5,125–15,375, the overall heat transfer performance (performance evaluation criteria; PEC) of the SDITW channel increases by 0.5–8.9 and 1.7–4.9% as compared with IDW and ITW channels, respectively. Furthermore, for the same e/(0.5H) and α, both the Nusselt number ratio and friction factor ratio of SDITW channel increase as e
1/e
2 and p
l decrease. For p
l = 70 mm, the SDITW channel exhibits a relatively better overall heat transfer performance. For the same e
1/e
2 and p
l, the PEC of SDITW channel is maximum and the overall heat transfer performance is best when e/(0.5H) = 0.3 at Re = 10,250 and α = 30°–60°.
Stiff, strong, and tear-resistant physical hydrogels with widely tunable toughness by post-treatments
Authors: Zhao Yu , Xia Bing Hu , Wang Lei , Liu Yang , Zu Lei , Lian Hui Qin , Cui Xiu Guo , Wang Hao
Published: January 2024

Synthetic polymeric hydrogel is a potential substitute for soft biological tissues. However, the poor mechanical properties of traditional synthetic hydrogels limit their applications in biological fields. Herein, a series of tough physical hydrogels have been prepared by micellar polymerization, in the existence of sodium bromide (NaBr), using methacrylic acid (MA) and stearyl acrylate (SA) as monomers, cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) as cationic surfactant. The hydrogels exhibit excellent mechanical properties: modulus, toughness, and tearing fracture energy up to 7.8 MPa, 34 MJ m−3, and 16,600 J m−2, respectively. Moreover, it was found that the toughness of the hydrogels can be modulated in a very wide range by different post-treatments, e.g., dried/reswelling, freezing/thawing, or heated treatments. After post-treatments, the elastic physical hydrogels even turn into brittle plastics: modulus and toughness vary by 3 and 4 orders of magnitude, respectively. The mechanism for this wide tunability is attributed to the change of electrostatic attraction, crystallization, and phase separation during post-treatments.