Composite Technique Research Articles

СУЧАСНІ АРХІТЕКТУРНО-ПЛАНУВАЛЬНІ ПРИЙОМИ ПРОЄКТУВАННЯ БІЗНЕС-ЦЕНТРІВ В УМОВАХ ВЕЛИКОГО МІСТА

The article provides materials for the analysis of the development of business centers as a specific class of buildings in a modern big city. Examples of eternal and global experience in designing and building business centers of various functional purposes are given. Various trends and directions in the process of design and construction of business center buildings in Ukraine and foreign countries were studied. Тhe interrelationship of the quality of spatial planning and visual solutions of these objects with the demand for them on the market and their further development prospects is considered. . Considered various options for the formation of business center buildings in the existing urban planning conditions of settlements. The main architectural and planning schemes and compositional techniques in the design of such buildings are defined. As a practical experience, the project proposal of a business center building in the central part of the Sumy city was considered, and its functional and planning structure was analyzed. The scientific novelty and practical significance of this work lies in the fact that the main trends of the architectural and planning organization of modern business centers, as centers of business and economic activity in a large city, are determined, and the priority directions for the formation of the functional structure of such objects are outlined both in modern realities and for the future

An EPR study of the marbles from quarries of the Denizli region (Turkey): A contribution to the provenance assessment of materials with close relationships

The analytical and spectroscopic discrimination of marbles coming from quarries used in historical times is a task object of a wide interest in archaeometric investigations. This task is even more difficult, when the goal of the provenance assessment is focused on marbles coming from historical quarries located in a close geographic area. In this paper, we present the results of a systematic Electron Paramagnetic Resonance spectroscopy study aimed at assessing the discrimination criteria among 5 quarries located in the Denizli region (Anatolia, Turkey) that were benefited in Hellenistic and Roman period to provide materials for the buildings in the nearby city of Hierapolis of Phrygia (Turkey). The resulting EPR characterisation is used, in combination with the results of isotope geochemistry and petrological observation, to define criteria able to discriminate the provenance of marble samples from the considered quarries. The criteria arose from the analysis operated through robust compositional statistical techniques over the results of the experimental investigation. In this approach, the internal structure of the multimethodic dataset was unravelled. The results here presented provide evidence of a good discriminating ability of the proposed approach.

Transferosome- A Noval Drug Delivery System

The skin's barrier function typically places restrictions on the transdermal administration of medications. One of the most contentious techniques for transdermal distribution of active ingredients is vesicular systems. After elastic vesicles such as transferosomes, ethosomes, cubosomes, phytosomes, etc. were discovered, there was a renewed interest in developing transdermal delivery systems. In order to provide active compounds transdermally, this paper describes the composition, penetration mechanisms, production processes, and characterization techniques of transferosomes. A medication must cross one or more biological membranes or barriers at different sites in order to be absorbed, distributed into organs and tissues, and removed from the body. Substance transport refers to the passage of a substance through a membrane in this manner. The medications must get through the membranous barrier in order to be absorbed by the body. In an effort to reduce the amount of medicine in the remaining tissues and concentrate the drug in the targeted tissues, several delivery systems were devised. As a result, the medication has no effect on the tissues nearby. Furthermore, medication loss does not occur. Furthermore, the localization of the drug prevents drug loss, resulting in the medication's optimum efficacy. As such, there is a lot of interest in phospholipid-based carrier systems nowadays.

Statistical Modeling of Right-Censored Spatial Data Using Gaussian Random Fields

Consider a fixed number of clustered areas identified by their geographical coordinates that are monitored for the occurrences of an event such as a pandemic, epidemic, or migration. Data collected on units at all areas include covariates and environmental factors. We apply a probit transformation to the time to event and embed an isotropic spatial correlation function into our models for better modeling as compared to existing methodologies that use frailty or copula. Composite likelihood technique is employed for the construction of a multivariate Gaussian random field that preserves the spatial correlation function. The data are analyzed using counting process and geostatistical formulation that led to a class of weighted pairwise semiparametric estimating functions. The estimators of model parameters are shown to be consistent and asymptotically normally distributed under infill-type asymptotic spatial statistics. Detailed small sample numerical studies that are in agreement with theoretical results are provided. The foregoing procedures are applied to the leukemia survival data in Northeast England. A comparison to existing methodologies provides improvement.

Nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dot as electron acceptor anchored on graphitic carbon nitride nanosheet for improving rhodamine B degradation

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) hold significant promise for wastewater treatment because of their remarkable attributes, including robust stability, outstanding biocompatibility, minimal toxicity, superior water dispersibility, cost-effective production, and exceptional photo-stability.In this study, CQDs were synthesized using microplasma and tested for the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) (5 mg/L) under different conditions, with a Solar simulator and UVA illumination. Specifically, graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets (NCN) in conjugation with carbon quantum dots (NCN@CQD) were prepared with different amounts of CQD. The synthesized CQD, NCN, and NCN@CQD underwent characterization using various compositional and structural analytical techniques. The results show that nitrogen species were effectively incorporated into the CQDs framework and CQDs are anchored on NCN forming NCN@CQD successfully. Subsequently, all samples were then investigated in degrading Rhodamin B, RhB, to assess the photocatalytic activity. The results reveal that the presence of CQDs substantially improved the photocatalytic efficiency of NCN. Specifically, the CQDs anchored on NCN exhibited a substantial enhancement in the photoactivity for RhB decomposition under a solar light simulator, surpassing that of pure NCN. The amount of CQD in the NCN@CQD sample exerted a strong influence on the photocatalytic activity. All NCN@CQD samples exhibited remarkable enhancements in both adsorption and photocatalytic performance compared to pure CQD and NCN samples. In an optimization study, a best NCN@CQ photocatalyst was identified, showing a 40 % enhancement of photocatalytic efficiency compared to the use of NCN alone. A visible light photocatalytic activity of 91 % can be attained within 150 min, exhibiting a reaction rate constant of 0.0135 min−1 toward RhB decomposition, which was double as for the individual NCN (0.0067 min−1). The boosted photocatalytic activity resulting from the synergistic effect between NCNs and CQDs can be attributed to the efficient function of CQD as an electron acceptor. The proposed mechanism of photocatalytic degradation of RhB is illustrated in detail.

Implementation and experience of using methods for analyzing the isotopic composition of Sm and Nd, Rb and Sr in rock samples at the Geoanalitik Center for Collective Use

Research subject. AGV-2 and BHVO-2 geochemical reference materials for studying the Sm, Nd and Rb, Sr isotope systems along with various rocks and mineral samples. Materials and Methods. An analysis of the isotopic composition of Sm, Nd and Rb, Sr was carried out using Neptune Plus and Triton Plus mass spectrometers. Aim. To implement analytical techniques for the isotopic composition of Sm and Nd, Rb, and Sr in various rock and mineral samples using two types of multicollector mass spectrometers – inductively coupled plasma NeptunePlus and thermal ionization TritonPlus (Thermo-Fisher), as well as a description of the procedure of processing experimental data and the experience in using techniques at the “Geoanalitik” shared research facilities of the IGG UB RAS for the period 2015-2023. Results. The analytical techniques implemented included (1) column chromatography using various ion-exchange resins, optimised for the ratio of labour costs/quality of analytical results; (2) the measurement of isotope ratios using two types of mass spectrometers; (3) the correction of mass bias of isotope ratios and the determination of Sm and Nd, Rb, and Sr concentrations by the isotope dilution method using 149Sm+150Nd and 85Rb+84Sr spikes. Testing of the techniques was carried out using the AGV-2 and BHVO-2 geochemical reference materials; their metrological characteristics were presented. When using TritonPlus, the reproducibility (BHVO-2, n=60) of measurements of 143Nd/144Nd, 147Sm/144Nd isotope ratios and Sm and Nd concentrations are ±0.000020, ±0.0004, ±1.3 and ±0.4, respectively; indicators of correctness of determining the ratios 143Nd/144Nd and 147Sm/144Nd – 0.001 and 0.25% and concentrations of Sm and Nd – 2%; the reproducibility (BHVO-2, n=63) of measurements of 87Sr/86Sr, 87Rb/86Sr isotope ratios and concentrations (Rb and Sr) are ±0.0025%, ±1.5%, ±2%, respectively. The uncertainty of a single measurement of the 143Nd/144Nd and 87Sr/86Sr isotope ratio, represented by the standard error of the average single measurement in the sample, does not exceed 0.0025%. Conclusions: the results obtained for the geochemical reference materials are in satisfactory agreement with those provided in the GeoReM database, as well as with the certified values provided by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The described analytical techniques are used at the “Geoanalitik” shared research facilities of the IGG UB RAS to analyse various rock and mineral samples. The work presents a number of experimental results obtained, which are subsequently used in geochronological applications.

Analysis of the artistic characteristics and singing of the aria “Ritorna Vincitor”

Verdi’s four-act opera “Aida” has achieved great success since its premiere in Cairo on December 24, 1871 and it remains a staple in major opera houses worldwide. The work poses significant demands on dramatic sopranos, specifically with its wide vocal range and intense dramatic conflicts. Analyzing its artistic characteristics and singing techniques helps vocal performers continuously improve their singing level and ability to portray characters, providing valuable references for vocal students. This paper uses “Ritorna vincitor” as an example, employing literature research, music analysis, and stage practice to introduce Verdi’s compositional techniques and style, and to study the piece from multiple angles such as form, harmony, mode, rhythm, melody, language, and stage performance, finally combining research with stage practice.

Analysis of the Compositional Techniques and Musical Style of “Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso”

In 1863, The violin and orchestra piece “Introduction and Rondo Capricioso” was created by French Romantic composer: Charles·Camille·Saint-Saëns. It is a violin and orchestra piece written for Spanish violin master Pablo·de·Sarasate, who first appeared as Saint-Saëns. The piece was first performed by Sarasate under the direct command of Saint-Saëns in 1865 and is the most popular of his small musical works. It was later adapted by George Bizarre as a violin and piano accompaniment. The version played and the double piano version adapted by Debussy were played the most frequently. This article mainly analyzes the style characteristics and composition techniques of the piece, in order to achieve a point to surface approach, while summarizing, absorbing, borrowing, and innovating, and further deepening the understanding of the work and elevating one’s own creative skills.

Fused filament fabrication using stainless steel 316L‐polymer blend: Analysis and optimization for green density and surface roughness

AbstractThis study is centered on the analysis of composite component additive manufacturing, via fused filament fabrication (FFF), comprising of 316L stainless steel particles in a polymer matrix. It examines the impact of several process factors of FFF, including extrusion speed, layer height, and extrusion temperature, on the density and surface roughness with the goal to minimize porosity. The independent and interaction impacts of these parameters were investigated using a central composite design technique. The technique of analysis of variance was utilized to determine the influence of relevant factors. Regression analysis was used to establish statistical models linking the parameters to green density and surface roughness. The green density was enhanced by reducing the layer height from 0.2 to 0.1 μm and decreasing the nozzle speed from 100 to 20 mm min−1. The surface roughness was improved by using a slow printing speed and minimum layer height. The ideal temperature range for producing favorable results in terms of green density and surface roughness during extrusion was found to be between 235 and 240°C. Significant correlations were found between the parameters and the green density and surface roughness. A genetic algorithm was used as an optimisation tool to determine the thresholds that would provide the highest green density and the lowest surface roughness values. The porosity of the samples generated with the optimized settings was evaluated using microtomography scans. The methodology presented here can be applied to composite and standard polymeric filament printing to determine optimal printing parameters.Highlights Blend of stainless steel 316L and polymer was used for fused filament fabrication. Printing speed and layer height were the dominating for density and roughness. Height 0.2 mm, speed 20 mm s−1, and temperature 239°C resulted 4.73 g cm−3 density and 21.09 μm roughness Microtomography revealed porosity of 1.7% in the optimized sample.

Efficient screening of pharmacological broad-spectrum anti-cancer peptides utilizing advanced bidirectional Encoder representation from Transformers strategy

In the vanguard of oncological advancement, this investigation delineates the integration of deep learning paradigms to refine the screening process for Anticancer Peptides (ACPs), epitomizing a new frontier in broad-spectrum oncolytic therapeutics renowned for their targeted antitumor efficacy and specificity. Conventional methodologies for ACP identification are marred by prohibitive time and financial exigencies, representing a formidable impediment to the evolution of precision oncology. In response, our research heralds the development of a groundbreaking screening apparatus that marries Natural Language Processing (NLP) with the Pseudo Amino Acid Composition (PseAAC) technique, thereby inaugurating a comprehensive ACP compendium for the extraction of quintessential primary and secondary structural attributes. This innovative methodological approach is augmented by an optimized BERT model, meticulously calibrated for ACP detection, which conspicuously surpasses existing BERT variants and traditional machine learning algorithms in both accuracy and selectivity. Subjected to rigorous validation via five-fold cross-validation and external assessment, our model exhibited exemplary performance, boasting an average Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.9726 and an F1 score of 0.9385, with external validation further affirming its prowess (AUC of 0.9848 and F1 of 0.9371). These findings vividly underscore the method's unparalleled efficacy and prospective utility in the precise identification and prognostication of ACPs, significantly ameliorating the financial and temporal burdens traditionally associated with ACP research and development. Ergo, this pioneering screening paradigm promises to catalyze the discovery and clinical application of ACPs, constituting a seminal stride towards the realization of more efficacious and economically viable precision oncology interventions.

Gold Nanorod-Loaded Nano-Contrast Agent with Composite Shell-Core Structure for Ultrasonic/Photothermal Imaging-Guided Therapy in Ischemic Muscle Disorders.

This study aims to broaden the application of nano-contrast agents (NCAs) within the realm of the musculoskeletal system. It aims to introduce novel methods, strategies, and insights for the clinical management of ischemic muscle disorders, encompassing diagnosis, monitoring, evaluation, and therapeutic intervention. We developed a composite encapsulation technique employing O-carboxymethyl chitosan (OCMC) and liposome to encapsulate NCA-containing gold nanorods (GNRs) and perfluoropentane (PFP). This nanoscale contrast agent was thoroughly characterized for its basic physicochemical properties and performance. Its capabilities for in vivo and in vitro ultrasound imaging and photothermal imaging were authenticated, alongside a comprehensive biocompatibility assessment to ascertain its effects on microcirculatory perfusion in skeletal muscle using a murine model of hindlimb ischemia, and its potential to augment blood flow and facilitate recovery. The engineered GNR@OCMC-liposome/PFP nanostructure exhibited an average size of 203.18±1.49 nm, characterized by size uniformity, regular morphology, and a good biocompatibility profile. In vitro assessments revealed NCA's potent photothermal response and its transformation into microbubbles (MBs) under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, thereby enhancing ultrasonographic visibility. Animal studies demonstrated the nanostructure's efficacy in photothermal imaging at ischemic loci in mouse hindlimbs, where NIR irradiation induced rapid temperature increases and significantly increased blood circulation. The dual-modal ultrasound/photothermal NCA, encapsulating GNR and PFP within a composite shell-core architecture, was synthesized successfully. It demonstrated exceptional stability, biocompatibility, and phase transition efficiency. Importantly, it facilitates the encapsulation of PFP, enabling both enhanced ultrasound imaging and photothermal imaging following NIR light exposure. This advancement provides a critical step towards the integrated diagnosis and treatment of ischemic muscle diseases, signifying a pivotal development in nanomedicine for musculoskeletal therapeutics.

Measurement of effective thermal conductivity of composite powders of 2D materials and metals for additive manufacturing

Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), a promising additive manufacturing technique for composites of 2D materials and metals, requires knowledge of thermophysical properties, such as the thermal conductivity of powder, for process optimization. In this study, we measured the effective thermal conductivity of the most representative Cu-graphene composite powder in the field of heat transfer applications. To measure thermal conductivity, we propose a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) method to measure the thermal resistances of a powder bed under steady-state heat flow conditions. We observe that the thermal conductivity of a composite powder is 1,000 times lower than that of the bulk metal without 2D material addition; e.g., exhibiting ~ 0.30 W/mK in Cu-1wt.% graphene powder. Furthermore, we discuss powder size and morphology impact on thermal conductivity influencing the number of contact points and thermal contact resistance. Our findings contribute to understanding the thermal conductivity of composite powders in a powder bed and aid in optimizing LPBF processes.

Study on the Role of Physical Fields in TMAS to Modulate Synaptic Plasticity in Mice.

Transcranial magneto-acoustic stimulation (TMAS) is a composite technique combining static magnetic and coupled electric fields with transcranial ultrasound stimulation (TUS) and has shown advantages in neuromodulation. However, the role of these physical fields in neuromodulation is unclear. Synaptic plasticity is the cellular basis for learning and memory. In this paper, we varied the intensity of static magnetic, electric and ultrasonic fields respectively to investigate the modulation of synaptic plasticity by these physical fields. There are control, static magnetic field (0.1 T/0.2 T), TUS (0.15/0.3 MPa), and TMAS (0.15 MPa + 0.2 V/m, 0.3 MPa + 0.2 V/m, 0.3 MPa + 0.4 V/m) groups. Hippocampal areas were stimulated at 5 min daily for 7 days and in vivo electrophysiological experiments were performed. TMAS induced greater LTP, LTD, and paired-pulse ratio (PPR) than TUS, reflecting that TMAS has a more significant modulation in both long- and short- term synaptic plasticity. In TMAS, a doubling of the electric field amplitude increases LTP, LTD and PPR to a greater extent than a doubling of the acoustic pressure. Increasing the static magnetic field intensity has no significant effect on the modulation of synaptic plasticity. This paper argues that electric fields should be the main reason for the difference in modulation between TMAS and TUS and that changing the amplitude of the electric field affected the modulation of TMAS more than changing the acoustic pressure. This study elucidates the roles of the physical fields in TMAS and provides a parameterisation way to guide TMAS applications based on the dominant roles of the physical fields.

Integration of Ethnic Music in Contemporary Choral Works: A Study of Chinese Musician Liu Xiaogeng

This study uses the "Analysis-Synthesis Method" to analyse Liu Xiaogeng's integration of ethnic music elements of Yi and Dai culture into contemporary choral works. The two selected choral works were analysed using a case analysis method to reveal the ingenious integration of traditional Yi and Dai musical elements and modern composition techniques. Through in-depth interviews, we deepened music experts’ evaluation of Liu Xiaogeng’s works. This study highlights Liu Xiaogeng's unique artistic language and the impact of his works on national choral music. Through this exploration, the research highlights the significance of reinterpreting national music within choral genres, promoting cultural preservation and cross-cultural understanding through creative expression. These discoveries celebrate a rich cultural heritage while enriching the global landscape of choral music, inspiring further appreciation and exploration of diverse musical traditions within the choral genre.

The latest trends in the cimbalom repertoire of the 21st century

Statement of the problem. Today, cimbalom art is experiencing a new stage of development, the prominent features of which are the use of composition techniques of the 20th century, as well as the development of an arsenal of extended cimbalom playing techniques. Compared to other folk instruments, this stage of enrichment of the cimbalom repertoire begins later and falls mainly on the 21st century, when a number of innovative works appear, both for cimbalom solo and in combination with other instruments. However, at present, this layer of the cimbalom repertoire remains almost unexplored. Objectives, methods, and novelty of the research. The purpose of the study is to identify the principles of implementing the latest trends in the development of the cimbalom repertoire in the work of composers of the 21st century. For the first time, the concept of extended performance techniques and their differentiation is introduced into the scientific circulation of cimbalom studies, and the works by P. Machajdík, J. Huffman, J. Seo, F. van Wijck, D. Lazariev, which were not previously considered by musicologists, are highlighted from this viewpoint. Historical approach, comparative, performance, structural and functional types of analysis allowed tracing the main trends in the development of the latest solo and ensemble cimbalom repertoire. Research results and conclusion. After analyzing a number of musical studies and scores of modern composers, the typical features of the latest samples of the cimbalom repertoire was found. The typical its features are a significant variety of composition techniques, among which we find aleatorics (J. Seo, J. Pereira), microchromatics (J. Seo), sonorics (F. Van Wijck, J. Pereira), dodecaphony (J. Pereira, D. Lazariev). In modern works both, the traditional techniques of playing, which were successful in cimbalom performance even before that (flageolets, playing with a normal beat, pizzicato, glissando), and the various advanced techniques are used. Among the latter are: – non-traditional types of glissando using a finger stick (D. Lazarіev), nails (J. Seo), marimba sticks (J. Pereira); – percussion finger technique (J. Pereira); – imitation of clusters – hitting the strings with the palms of the hands (F. Van Wijck); – playing with non-traditional objects, such as glasses (P. Machajdik); – preparation of the cimbalom (J. Huffman, D. Lazariev). A common feature of modern cimbalom compositions is an active change of different types of sticks during one piece, sometimes in the middle of a part, as well as their alternation with sticks from other instruments (marimba, bells, xylophone), which can be considered as part of an arsenal of extended performance techniques. For example, in the works of J. Seo, J. Pereira and D. Lazariev, playing with marimba sticks and playing with plastic sticks from orchestral bells is assumed. Preparation of the instrument is less often used (J. Huffman used a metal needle for this purpose, and D. Lazariev – two chains and foil). It was concluded that extended performance techniques are at the stage of development and study by musicologists, but despite all the difficulties, the knowledge on them is gradually being introduced into scientific circulation. It should also be emphasized that modern composers show interest in the developing of advanced performance techniques, which certainly inspires hope for writing of new works for cimbalom and its research.

Evaluating the effect of paper waste lignin in hot mix asphalt

Asphalt is a viscoelastic material which performs to resist rutting, fatigue cracking, and moisture susceptibility under different loading and temperature conditions. The use of innovative and renewable pavement construction materials is inevitable due to high axle loads, rapidly increasing traffic volumes, and varying climatic conditions. This study aims to assess the effect as well as the optimum dosage of paper waste lignin for use in hot mix asphalt (HMA). Lignin from the paper industry with dosage ratios of 5, 10, 15, and 20%, was utilized to study the effect of the addition of lignin to the asphalt binder. Virgin and lignin-modified binder samples, before and after the aging process, were subjected to physical testing through penetration, softening point, ductility, viscosity and specific gravity and rheological characteristics through dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), bending beam rheometer (BBR), and rational viscometer (RV). The fractional composition was assessed through saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltenes (SARA) fractional composition technique. Statistical analysis was also performed to find correlation of different physical and rheological parameters. Furthermore, based on optimum dosage, the performance of asphalt mixtures was studied against rutting, fatigue cracking, and moisture susceptibility. The results indicated that the addition of lignin has improved the physical properties significantly. The amount of asphaltene decreased and aromatics increased in SARA fractional analysis. Moreover, the Colloidal Instability Index (CII) has also indicated a stable structure of the binder. The rheological characteristics are improved after modification. The asphalt mixture tests revealed that addition of lignin with optimum dosage (10%) has improved the performance against rutting, fatigue cracking and moisture susceptibility. Statistical analysis indicated good co-relation among different physical and rheological parameters. This study concludes that 10% dosage is the optimum dosage that can successfully replace the virgin asphalt binder for performance of hot mix asphalt.

ANALYSIS OF WASTEWATER QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE EFFECTIVENESS OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT ON VANAME SHRIMP (Litopenaeus vannamei) CULTURE IN BPIU2K KARANGASEM

Vaname shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) culture in BPIU2K Karangasem will produce waste from metabolism and leftover feed that contains organic material. This waste will cause environmental problems if not properly processed. This study aims to determine the quality of wastewater and the effectiveness of WWTP performance so that it can be used to generate policy recommendations for improvements in wastewater management. Water samples are taken in the morning using composite technique at five points in the IPAB inlet and outlet, each consisting of 1 liter with three repetitions.The results showed water quality of WWTP outlet from first week to third week have reached quality standard for physical parameters such as TSS and turbidity, and chemical parameters such as BOD and nitrate. However, did not reach quality standard for chemical parameters such as phosphate, H2S, nitrite, and ammonia. Removal efficiency in processing units can be used to determine the effectiveness of WWTP and will be effective if efficiency value is in the range of 60% < x = 80%. First week, WWTP in BPIU2K Karangasem showed its effectiveness on several parameters such as BOD and nitrate. Second week, the effectiveness was shown for BOD, phosphate, nitrate and ammonia. Third week, the effectiveness was shown for TSS, BOD, phosphate and H2S. The effectiveness of WWTP for each parameter differs every week due to the cultivation waste water coming from various activity units and the IPAB is still effective in treating wastewater because the five tested parameters still meet the quality standard.

Literacy through Composition Techniques in the Chinese Yan Huang Style of Composer Bao Yuankai

Music composition, particularly within the Chinese Yan Huang style, holds significance for its artistic merit and potential to enhance literacy development and foster cultural appreciation. This study delves into the literacy composition techniques employed by composer Bao Yuankai within the Chinese Yan Huang style, focusing on the piece “Going to Jiangzhou.” The primary objective is to analyze the literacy composition techniques in the Chinese Yan Huang style of composer Bao Yuankai. Through a multidimensional approach integrating insights from music education, cultural studies, and literacy development, the study examines instrumentation, melody, harmony, and cultural symbolism in Yuankai’s compositions. Three key informants, including music scholars, professional musicians, and music educators, provide diverse perspectives on Yuankai’s works. Qualitative data analysis methods are employed to analyze insights gathered from interviews and observations. Findings reveal Yuankai’s adept use of traditional Chinese elements alongside modern composition techniques, resulting in compositions that resonate with audiences worldwide. Suggestions include incorporating culturally relevant content into music education curricula to enhance student’s literacy skills and cultural awareness.

Dual-scale numerical analysis of delamination in composite materials with varied fiber orientations at the interface

What is the relationship between the fiber orientation at delamination interface and the interlaminar fracture toughness of the composite? The answer is inconclusive based on experimental results. The conflicting observations stem from inconsistencies and inaccuracies in characterization techniques. As an alternative approach to circumvent the experimental challenges, the present study proposes a numerical dual-scale model for delamination, incorporating both micro- and meso-scale features. The model investigates two different fiber orientations at the mid-thickness interface: 0°/0° and 90°/90°. Comparative analyses demonstrate the importance of including a refined region with micromechanics to accurately predict the crack path during delamination. The results exhibit agreement with the literature models and enable estimation of early-initiation fracture toughness, considering delamination interacting with the microstructure while simulating a double cantilever beam specimen with reduced width. The approach provides a deeper understanding of delamination behavior and fracture toughness estimation, contributing to improving composite characterization techniques and design strategies.

A comparison of robotic enhanced-view totally extraperitoneal approach versus trans-abdominal retro-muscular approach for midline ventral hernias.

The evolution of midline ventral hernia repair has progressed from the open Rives-Stoppa technique to minimally invasive robotic approaches, notably the trans-abdominal retromuscular (TARM) and enhanced-view Totally Extraperitoneal (eTEP) methods. This study compares these two robotic techniques in repairing medium-sized midline ventral hernias. A retrospective comparative study of electronic medical records from 2015 to 2021 was conducted on patients undergoing robotic TARM or eTEP at NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island. Data on demographics, comorbid conditions, surgical history, intraoperative details, hernia characteristics, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Both eTEP and TARM groups exhibited comparable outcomes regarding operative duration, hernia defect size, and overall complications. However, notable differences were observed in patients' BMI, implanted mesh area, mesh composition, and fixation techniques across the groups. The TARM group required a longer hospital stay (median: 1day) in contrast to the eTEP group (median: 0days). Additionally, eTEP patients indicated reduced postoperative pain scores (median: 2) compared to TARM (median: 3), with both differences being statistically significant (p < 0.001). The robotic eTEP approach is associated with lower post-operative pain scores, decreased hospital length of stay, and larger areas of mesh implantation as compared to the TARM approach. Other variables are largely comparable between the two techniques. Level III.