External Sources Research Articles

Wireless power supply near-infrared light drug-loaded microneedle system for the treatment of linear skin wounds

The healing of linear skin wounds is a complex biological process, and traditional treatment methods have certain limitations. This study proposes a wireless power supply near-infrared light drug-loaded microneedle system (NIR-LED-NG-R1-MN), which utilizes microneedles (MNs) to achieve targeted delivery of the active component of traditional Chinese medicine, Notoginsenoside R1 (NG-R1), and combines the biological regulatory effect of near-infrared light (NIR) to achieve efficient synergistic treatment for linear skin wounds. Experimental results show that the device can significantly promote the wound closure rate and reduce the levels of inflammatory factors and the risk of scar formation. By comparing the wound repair conditions of different treatment groups, it was found that the group treated with the NIR-LED-NG-R1-MN patch for NG-R1 and NIR synergistic treatment (MN@NG-R1@LED group) showed superior wound repair effects compared to other groups, thus confirming the synergistic therapeutic advantages of NG-R1 and NIR in skin wound healing. In addition, the application of wireless power supply technology used in this system eliminates the dependence on external power sources, enhancing the convenience of treatment. This study clearly demonstrates that the NIR-LED-NG-R1-MN has the potential to become a new clinical method for the treatment of linear skin wound healing.

A composite structure device: vibration control and energy harvesting of tool system in aviation thin-walled parts milling process

Abstract The intense vibration generated by the high-speed milling cutter in the processing process not only seriously affects the surface roughness but also may damage important components of the machine tool, resulting in significant economic losses. Therefore, a composite structure of piezoelectric energy-collector (PEC) and nonlinear energy sink (NES) is innovatively constructed by combining theoretical research and numerical analysis to achieve more efficient vibration suppression and energy recovery in milling. Using the Hamilton principle, the electromechanical model of the composite structure is developed. Then, based on the Galerkin truncation to discretized displacement functions, we solve the amplitude-frequency response of the tool structure by using the harmonic balance method. The validity analysis of the proposed method can be verified by rigorous comparison with the results of the Runge-Kutta method. A novel NES-PEC composite structure presented in this work shows excellent vibration suppression capability in the milling process. More importantly, the structure also enables self-powered sensing of the tool system, significantly reducing dependence on external power sources. This innovative design substantially improves the stability and reliability of milling processes and opens up new ways to optimize the energy efficiency of tool systems. In summary, this paper’s modeling and solving methods, vibration reduction techniques, and energy harvesting strategies have laid a solid foundation for applying a high-speed milling cutter system. More relevant literature on applying vibration suppression and energy harvesting devices in milling must be reviewed. This paper fills in the research gap and provides a valuable reference for future tool systems design and optimization.

Effects of CaO-based expansive agent on carbonation resistance of marine concrete

Marine concrete contains a high volume of supplementary cementitious materials, which benefits low-carbon concrete production. However, they may also increase the risk of cracking and accelerate the carbonation due to the pozzolanic reaction. Theoretically, the CaO-based expansive agent (CEA) can inhibit shrinkage cracks and introduce external calcium sources that aid in the carbonation resistance of concrete. A comprehensive understanding of the impact of CEA on the carbonation resistance of marine concrete is currently scarce.In this study, marine concretes with varying dosages of CEA were exposed to 20% CO2 for 28 days. The carbonation depth, carbonation coefficient, air permeability, pore structure characteristics and CO2 buffer capacity of concrete were investigated. When the CEA dosage was less than 6%, the carbonation resistance and air permeability approached the reference groups in normal-strength concrete (NSC) and high-strength concrete (HSC). However, more than 6% CEA significantly decreased the carbonation resistance of concrete, particularly for HSC. For NSC, there was an excellent correlation between the carbonation coefficient and compressive strength, while for HSC, the carbonation coefficient correlated well with porosity. Also, CO2 buffer capacity was essential to assess the carbonation resistance of marine concrete.

Impact of the type of heat exchanger on the characteristics of low-temperature thermoacoustic heat engines

Thermoacoustic technologies are considered an effective solution for harnessing low-temperature heat, whether from waste or renewable sources. However, in practice, developing and implementing high-performance thermoacoustic systems is a complex challenge. In real waste heat recovery systems, heat exchange between thermoacoustic engines (TAEs) and external heat sources is facilitated by auxiliary systems, such as circulation loops that include recuperative heat exchangers. It is evident that the upper power limit of a TAE is constrained by the thermal performance of its internal heat exchangers. This article investigates the energy transfer processes between the internal recuperative heat exchangers of a TAE and its matrix, and presents a mathematical model describing the interactions between the matrix and the heat exchangers. The model accounts for the effects of temperature inhomogeneities on the surface of the recuperative heat exchangers, which influence the temperature distribution within the TAE matrix. The use of liquid-gas recuperative heat exchangers in TAEs introduces temperature heterogeneity within the components of the thermoacoustic core. This study shows that such temperature variations can reduce the matrix gain factor for additional acoustic energy by a factor of 1.1 to 1.3. Therefore, when designing low-temperature thermoacoustic systems, it is essential to consider the type and characteristics of the heat exchangers used. The analysis indicates that recuperative heat exchangers can reduce the efficiency of thermoacoustic machines, whether they function as engines or refrigerators.

A passive, flexible dual-function sensor for simultaneous pressure and sliding direction detection

Flexible pressure and omnidirectional slide sensors show significant potential in wearable devices and robotics. However, the integration of various sensor types to achieve multi-functionality introduces challenges. Complex structures and processing difficulties limit their miniaturization and flexibility, while dependence on external power sources further constrains their practical use. Here, we report a novel strategy that utilizes a piezoelectric-conductive nanoresistance network with edge electrodes to develop an advanced pressure sensor. This sensor is capable of simultaneously detecting pressure and sliding direction through multiple-channel pulses. We demonstrate its functionality using a polyacrylonitrile/polypyrrole nanofiber membrane (PAN/PPY NFM) configured with either two or three electrodes. By exploiting the signal transmission characteristics of the nanoresistance network, the sensor simultaneously responds to both force and sliding direction through amplitude-frequency analysis of the output signals from multiple channels. Additionally, the sensor operates without an external power supply. This streamlined approach simplifies sensor design and processing, providing a promising solution for advanced touch sensing applications.

The Therapeutic Approach To Complexes Created By The Primary Drive Of Intense Desire (Prospatheia): An Introduction To Neptic Psychology

This paper examines the concept of "prospatheia" and its relationship to the creation and management of psychological complexes, drawing on elements from both Neptic Theology and psychology. Prospatheia, as a powerful longing for connection, is considered a primary drive leading to emotional attachment and contributing to the formation of complexes. In psychology, complexes are interpreted as unconscious patterns that guide behavior, reinforcing dependence on external sources to fulfill fundamental emotional needs. The approach of Neptic Theology proposes a therapeutic process that differs from the psychological acceptance or integration of complexes. Specifically, Neptic Psychology emphasizes the prevention of complex formation from childhood through training the individual to develop a more measured relationship with the material world, avoiding excessive pleasure. In adulthood, Neptic Psychology supports controlling prospatheia through the conscious avoidance of pleasure, which sustains dependence. Thus, the treatment of complexes involves three phases: prevention, pleasure control, and gradual weakening of the complexes. Focusing on the abandonment complex, the paper illustrates how excessive reliance on security can transform into a fear of abandonment, leading to emotional insecurity and alienation from one’s spiritual nature. Neptic Theology advocates for self-control and the avoidance of pleasure that reinforces complexes, thereby fostering an inner balance. This methodology differs from modern psychological methods, as it aims at the weakening rather than the acceptance of complexes, offering a unique framework for understanding the human soul and its relationship to the material world.

Pengaruh Komitmen Afektif terhadap Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) pada Karyawan di Samarinda

Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) is a voluntary behavior that is visible and observable that is based on dominant motives or values and can be based on rewards and punishments that come from external sources. One of the factors that influences Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) is affective commitment. This study aims to examine the Effect of Affective Commitment on Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) on employees in Samarinda. The approach used in this study is a quantitative approach. The data collection technique uses a Likert scale with a questionnaire distributed via Google Form to 100 respondents online. This study uses two scales, namely the Affective Commitment scale and the Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) scale. Data analysis uses simple linear regression using Statistical Product and Service (SPSS) with significance values of .001 (p .005), which indicates a significant influence. The coefficient of determination (R²) of .710 or 71% indicates that affective commitment has an influence on Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCB) on employees in Samarinda.

Images as data – modelling data interactions in social science and humanities research

PurposeThe expanded reuse of images as research data in the social sciences and humanities necessitates the understanding of scholars’ real-life interactions with the type of data. The aim of this study is to analyse activities constituting image data interactions in social science and humanities research and to provide a model describing the data interaction process.Design/methodology/approachThe study is based on interviews with 21 scholars from various academic backgrounds utilising digital and print images collected from external sources as empirical research data. Qualitative content analyses were executed to analyse image data interactions throughout the research process in three task types: contemporary, historical and computational research.FindingsThe findings further develop the task-based information interaction model (Järvelin et al., 2015) originally created to explain the information interaction process. The enhanced model presents five main image data interaction activities: Data gathering, Forming dataset, Working with data, Synthesizing and reporting and Concluding, with various sub-activities. The findings show the variety of image data interactions in different task types.Originality/valueThe developed model contributes to understanding critical points in image data interactions and provides a model for future research analysing research data interactions. The model may also be used, for example, in designing better research services and infrastructures by identifying support needs throughout the research process.

Women’s Leadership in Sustainable Agriculture: Preserving Traditional Knowledge Through Home Gardens in Santa Maria Jacatepec, Oaxaca

Rural communities in Oaxaca face challenges such as food insecurity, economic instability, and the loss of traditional agricultural knowledge. Home gardens, once essential for food production and income generation, have declined due to migration, environmental degradation, and modern agricultural pressures. This study evaluated how community-driven models, supported by crowdfunding, can revitalize home gardens to improve food security, build community resilience, and promote economic empowerment. A mixed-methods approach, including household surveys, interviews, and focus groups, was used to assess the impact of these gardens. The results showed that over 70% of households experienced improved food security and reduced reliance on external food sources. Home garden production also led to a 20% reduction in food expenses, and the sale of surplus crops provided additional income, enhancing household economic stability. Women’s involvement in agricultural decision-making increased, fostering empowerment within both family and community contexts. Traditional practices, such as seed saving and organic pest control, were maintained, contributing to the ecological sustainability of the gardens. Crowdfunding was an effective tool for financing home gardens, boosting community engagement and strengthening social bonds. The findings highlight the potential of integrating traditional knowledge with modern funding strategies to create resilient, sustainable agricultural systems in rural Oaxaca.

Technology Gap Analysis on the BIM-Enabled Design Process of Prefabricated Buildings: An Autoethnographic Study

This research explores the pivotal role of Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology in revolutionizing the design and construction of prefabricated buildings. It highlights the benefits of BIM-enabled design processes, including improved coordination and efficiency, while addressing challenges in integrating BIM with prefabricated elements. The study proposes artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to enhance architectural detailing, optimize workflows, and facilitate human–robot collaboration. Using autoethnographic methods, the research refines BIM-forward design through thematic analysis and technology gap (TG) assessments. It advocates for a comprehensive technology roadmap that emphasizes BIM libraries, external data sources, and the transition to a multi-dimensional BIM environment. This research contributes valuable insights to advance BIM practices in prefabricated building construction and offers a strategic framework to bridge existing TGs, enabling seamless integration of BIM and AI in future practices.

Design, Operation and Simulation of a Passive Osmosis-Integrated Electrolyzer for Seawater Electrolysis

Abstract Utilizing abundant seawater for green hydrogen production through electrolysis is a promising pathway to produce a sustainable energy carrier. However, modern seawater electrolyzers have shown insufficient durability due to electrode corrosion and/or competitive production of chlorinated products that result from the presence of Cl-. In this work, a new cell, driven by osmotic separation, was designed and operated that can passively draw fresh water from seawater into compartments with high acid and/or alkaline concentration for electrolysis, thereby eliminating the need for an external energy source for desalination. The work focuses first on demonstrating the passive transport of water through membranes over a wide range of acid and base concentrations. Then, electrodes are integrated, and the cells are operated under multiple configurations and current densities. It is observed that some co-ion diffusion occurs, which is quantified through pH measurements and quantitative Cl- titration. Water transport and ion crossover experiments are supported by comprehensive continuum-level modeling. Finally, strategies for improving future performance are discussed. The findings in this work, a first step in the development of an osmosis-driven electrolyzer cell (ODEC), showcase the promise of this novel electrolyzer design for future direct seawater electrolysis.

FINANCING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF HR ENGINEERING IN MANUFACTURING ENTERPRISES IN THE CONTEXT OF THE COUNTRY'S DIGITAL ECONOMY FORMATION

The article is devoted to the study of possible prospects for financing the implementation of HR engineering at manufacturing enterprises in the conditions of the formation of a digital economy. In the process of research, the authors considered the possibilities of implementing HR engineering at production enterprises and focused attention on the main directions of implementation. The principles of financing enterprises that implement changes and transform are revealed. Approaches and strategies aimed at optimizing human capital management in the company are proposed. The authors noted the following main tools of HR engineering for the development and improvement of HR processes, which are key to building effective human capital management strategies in the organization and require funding: organizational management structure, strategic maps, creation of a portrait of personnel competencies, modelling of the human resources management process resources, development of a goal tree, increased flexibility of HR management processes, implementation of a balanced system of indicators. The authors' comprehensive analysis of the implementation of digital HR solutions by manufacturing enterprises in previous years made it possible to identify the most important obstacles to the successful implementation and financing of innovations and digital solutions, the main of which are: insufficient financial resources for the implementation of innovative projects; lack of sufficient financial assistance and stimulation from the state; large financial costs associated with changes in the infrastructure and introduction of new technologies; low interest of investors, which may limit access to external sources of financing; some innovations may require a long payback period, which becomes a challenge for companies; high interest rates on loans can make it difficult to finance innovative projects. Considering these financial factors, it is important to develop comprehensive strategies and tools to overcome obstacles and stimulate the innovative and digital development of manufacturing enterprises.

Model-based design of a mechanically intelligent shape-morphing structure

Soft robotics has significant interest within the industrial applications due to its advantages in flexibility and adaptability. Nevertheless, its potential is challenged by low stiffness and limited deformability, particularly in large-scale application scenarios such as underwater and offshore engineering. The integration of smart materials and morphing structures presents a promising avenue for enhancing the capabilities of soft robotic systems, especially in large deformation and variations in stiffness. In this study, we propose a multiple smart materials based mechanically intelligent structure devised through a model-based design framework. Specifically, the intelligent structure incorporates smart hydrogel and shape memory polymer (SMP). Employing the finite element method (FEM), we simulated the complex interactions among smart material to analyze the performance characteristics of the intelligent structure. The results demonstrate that, utilizing smart hydrogel and shape memory polymer (SMP) can effectively attain large deformation and exhibit variable stiffness due to the shape memory effect. Besides, the shape-morphing structures exhibit customized behaviours including bending, curling, and elongation, all while reducing reliance on external power sources. In conclusion, utilizing multiple smart materials within the model-based design framework offers an efficient approach for developing mechanically intelligent structure capable of complex deformations and variable stiffness, thereby providing support for underwater or offshore engineering applications.

Fungal disease incidence and prevalence in Iraq – Preliminary estimates

BackgroundThe surveillance of serious and superficial skin fungal infections in Iraq has not been conducted. Limited information exists on their incidence and prevalence. ObjectivesThis study aimed to analyze, compute and estimate the prevalence and burden of fungal infections, as no previous data is available and no studies has been attempted in Iraq. MethodsIn the present study the data were collected and reviewed from published data on epidemiology of fungal infections nationally, internationally, from unpublished postgraduate master and PhD theses, hospital records and private clinic records. External sources of data from other countries were used for diseases which lacked sufficient local data. ResultsWe estimated 985,628 annual serious infections comprising of 2.26 % of the total population. When including superficial fungal infections group of the skin, this rises to 2,075,113 infections at 4.76 % of the total population. The most common serious and skin infections were recurrent Candida vaginitis, fungal rhinosinusitis and tinea capitis comprising 61.5 %, 21.8 %, and 22.4 % of all infections although the total incidence of superficial fungal infections was also high at 1,071,485. Respiratory fungal disease is also common comprising 14.0 % of infections. We predicted the following annual burden per 100,000; oral candidiasis at 247.9, esophageal candidiasis at 6.04, candidemia at 5.0, Candida peritonitis at 0.75, recurrent Candida vaginitis at 5461, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis at 35, severe asthma with fungal sensitisation at 46, invasive aspergillosis at 7.9, chronic pulmonary aspergillosis at 11.7, chronic fungal rhinosinusitis at 496, mucormycosis at 0.99, fungal keratitis at 14.0, and total dermatophytosis at 1631, the most severe being tinea capitis at 366. Many of these estimates were made with data sourced from other nations, so additional data from Iraq is required to validate or modify these estimates. ConclusionRecurrent Candida vaginitis, fungal rhinosinusitis, and tinea capitis are considered to be the most frequent fungal diseases present in Iraq.

Publishing and using parliamentary Linked Data on the Semantic Web: ParliamentSampo system for Parliament of Finland

This paper presents a new infrastructure and semantic portal called ParliamentSampo for studying parliamentary speeches, culture, language, and activities in Finland. For the first time, the entire time series of some million plenary speeches of the Parliament of Finland (PoF) since 1907 have been converted from text into knowledge graphs and data services in unified formats, including CSV, Parla-CLARIN, ParlaMint, and RDF Linked Open Data (LOD). The speech data have been interlinked with a semi-automatically created ontology and a knowledge graph about the activities of over 2800 Members of Parliament (MP) and other speakers in the plenary sessions of the PoF. The data was enriched by data linking to external data sources and by reasoning into a broader LOD service. Knowledge extraction techniques based on Natural Language Processing (NLP) were used for automatic semantic annotations and topical classification of the speeches. The data and data services have been used in Digital Humanities (DH) research projects and for application development, especially for developing the in-use semantic portal ParliamentSampo. The infrastructure and the portal were published on February 14th 2023 on the Web using the open CC BY 4.0 license, and quickly gathered thousands of users, including citizens, media, politicians, and researchers of politics. ParliamentSampo is a new member in the “Sampo” series of over 20 interlinked LOD services and semantic portals in Finland, based on a national Semantic Web infrastructure. Although the paper uses Finnish parliamentary data as a case study, the approach, methods, and tools presented can be adapted also to other parliamentary datasets in other countries.

Templates-Built Structural Designs for Piezoelectrochemical Pressure Sensors.

Self-powered sensors, capable of detecting static and dynamic pressure without an external power source, are pivotal for advancements in human-computer interaction, health monitoring, and artificial intelligence. Current sensing technologies, however, often fall short of meeting the growing needs for precise and timely pressure monitoring. This article introduces a novel self-powered pressure sensor utilizing electrochemical reactions. The sensor's ion conduction path and internal resistance adjust in response to external stress across a broad range. Its three-dimensional structure, crafted by using a simple template on the electrolyte, enables the efficient and cost-effective detection of various mechanical stimuli. This device not only achieves an optimized power density of approximately 2.34 mW cm-2─surpassing most existing technologies─but also features excellent flexibility, quick response, and recovery times (0.15 and 0.19 s respectively); high durability (2000 cycles); and a broad sensing range (0.23-20 kPa). Moreover, it serves as an ionic touchpad, enhancing data collection and recognition, and integrates seamlessly with a mouthpiece for accurate, real-time monitoring of respiratory activities. This innovative sensor offers minimal cost and simple process requirements while providing multifunctional capabilities for energy harvesting and pressure sensing, marking a significant step forward in the design of next-generation sensors.

Physics-informed neural networks approach for pollutant dispersion flow caused by magnetic dipole

Abstract Research on the liquid flow and distribution of waste discharge concentration over cylindrical surfaces might lead to the growth of efficient waste management and pollution controlling strategies. In view of this, the pollutant concentration and magnetic dipole impact on the liquid flow through the cylinder with a porous medium are explored in the present analysis. Moreover, Fourier’s and Fick’s laws are considered to explore heat transport features. The governing partial differential equations (PDEs) of the present study are converted into non-dimensional ordinary differential equations (ODEs) utilizing similarity variables. Also, the current study proposes a novel implementation of neural networks based on physics knowledge for the liquid flow past a cylinder. The self-updating weights and bias facilitate the network to satisfy the minimization objective function and provide accurate results. Additionally, the solution obtained by Runge Kutta Fehlberg's fourth-fifth order (RKF-45) method is utilized to validate the physics-informed neural network (PINN) results, presenting mean squared errors from 10-9 to 10-11. Furthermore, it is found that the increase in temperature relaxation time parameter decreases the Nusselt number gradually at the rate of 1 to 5%. An upsurge in the values of the pollutant external source parameter and the pollutant external source variation parameter decreases the concentration profile.

Schools and Indoor Air Quality: seasonal variation

Abstract Background Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) in schools is a public health concern, given the vulnerability of children as a demographic group and substantial amount of time that they spend in (highly occupied) classrooms. Conditions specific for school buildings, as well as location and outdoor air quality (OAQ), can adversely affect IAQ and children’s health. The aim of this study was to examine the seasonal variation in IAQ and the influence of OAQ herein in primary schools. Methods Sampling was carried out in summer and winter in 5 schools in central Poland. A culture-dependent method using impactors was applied to examine the total number of bacteria and fungi. Gas chromatography with flame ionization detector (quartz filters for sampling) was applied to determine concentrations of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), crucial for their health impact. Results In poorly ventilated classrooms bacteria levels exceeded that of fungi. Bacterial contamination decreased in efficiently ventilated rooms, and before/after the lessons. In summer fungi concentration in indoor air was higher than in winter and reached the level of fungi outdoors. PAHs concentrations (especially those with 4 and more rings, which are biologically active) and the mutagenicity and carcinogenicity equivalents were elevated in winter and related to changes in concentrations in outdoor air. Conclusions IAQ in schools depends on a season. Occupants in classrooms are the main source of bacteria, but the type and number of microorganisms also depend on ventilation conditions. PAHs characteristic of coal/wood combustion indicates that in the absence of internal emission sources, external sources most likely affect IAQ in schools in winter.

Electrodynamics-based quantum gate optimization with born scattering

In this paper, we propose employing electron scattering to realize unitary quantum gates that are controlled by three qubits. Using Feynman’s rules, we find an expression for the transition amplitude for scattering from an external electromagnetic source. In this context, the scattering amplitude is modeled as a unitary gate whose state can be regulated. The optimal value of the vector potential needed to implement the gate is obtained by minimizing the difference between the designed gate and the target gate, with the total energy consumed as a constraint. The design algorithm is obtained by discretizing the resulting integral equations into vector equations. This design algorithm can be applied in various fields such as quantum computing, communication, and sensing. It offers a promising approach for developing efficient and accurate gates for quantum information processing. Furthermore, this approach can also be extended to design gates for multi-qubit systems, which are essential for large-scale quantum computing. The use of this algorithm can significantly contribute to the development of practical quantum technologies.

High-efficiency quad-band RF energy harvesting system with improved cross-coupled differential-drive rectifier

Abstract RF energy harvesting technology has garnered significant attention from researchers in recent years. This paper presents a high-efficiency quad-band RF energy harvesting (RFEH) system. It introduces an improved cross-coupled differential-drive rectifier designed for ambient wireless powering, capable of harnessing power from four distinct ambient RF sources: FM-100, DTV-600, GSM-1800, and WiFi-2400 frequency bands. The proposed RFEH system demonstrates notable advancements, achieving a high RF to DC conversion efficiency of over 80 % within an input power range of −5 dB m to +13 dB m, with a 5 kΩ resistance load. This power output is deemed sufficient for energizing low-power micro-devices autonomously, without reliance on external power sources. Notably, the DC output voltage of the proposed RFEH system exhibits a high level of stability against variations in input power, a characteristic not adequately addressed in existing systems.