Search Results (18,282)

Objective: This study was conducted to address the harsh working environment of agricultural machinery and improve the wear resistance of soil-contacting components such as rotary tiller blades, thereby extending their service life. Method: Plasma-cladding technology was employed to prepare an iron-based wear-resistant coating on the surface of rotary tiller blades. The following parameter combination was optimized using response surface methodology (RSM): a cladding current of 144A, a cladding speed of 23 mm/s, a powder feeding rate of 23 g/min, and a cladding distance of 12 mm. The microstructure morphology, phase composition, microhardness, and wear resistance of the wear-resistant cladding layer were investigated. Results: The results indicate that the interface of the cladding layer is clean and free from significant porosity or defects, exhibiting good metallurgical bonding with the substrate. The primary phases identified in the cladding layer include α-Fe, Cr₇C₃, Cr₂Fe₁₄C, and Cr-Ni-Fe-C solid solutions. The average hardness of the cladding layer is 1171 Hv0.5, approximately 2.9 times that of the substrate. In wet sand–rubber wheel wear tests under identical conditions, the weight loss of the cladding layer is only 1/21 that of 65Mn steel, with minimal wear morphology. Field trials showed that the wear of the cladding layer rotary tiller blade was reduced by 24.5% compared with the unclad blade. The presence of the cladding layer significantly protected the integrity of the cutting edge, ensuring the functionality of the rotary tiller blade in cutting and throwing soil; thus, its original appearance was maintained even after prolonged wear. The findings of this study can provide a valuable reference for the enhancement of wear resistance for other soil-contacting components. Full article

This work focuses on the incorporation of 2D carbon nanomaterials, such as graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs), into polypropylene (PP) via melt mixing. The addition of these 2D carbon nanostructured networks offers a novel approach to enhancing/controlling the water vapor permeable capabilities of PP composite membranes, widely used in industrial applications, such as technical (building roof membranes) or medical (surgical gowns) textiles. The study investigates how the dispersion and concentration of these graphene nanomaterials within the PP matrix influence the microstructure and water vapor permeability (WVP) performance. The WVP measurements were conducted via the “wet” cup method. The presence of either GO, rGO or GNPs in the new polyolefin composite membranes revealed 6- to 7-fold enhanced WVP values compared to pristine PP. This improvement is attributed to the nanoindentations created at the interface of the carbon nanoinclusions with the polymer matrix in the form of nanopores that facilitate water vapor diffusion. In the particular case of GO and rGO, residual oxidative groups might contribute to the WVP as well. This is the first study to compare GO, rGO and even GNP inclusions under identical conditions, providing deeper insights into the mechanisms driving the observed improvements in WVP performance. Full article

Background/Objectives: Developing high-performance artificial intelligence (AI) models for rare diseases is challenging owing to limited data availability. This study aimed to evaluate whether a novel three-class annotation method for preparing training data could enhance AI model performance in detecting osteosarcoma on plain radiographs compared to conventional single-class annotation. Methods: We developed two annotation methods for the same dataset of 468 osteosarcoma X-rays and 378 normal radiographs: a conventional single-class annotation (1C model) and a novel three-class annotation method (3C model) that separately labeled intramedullary, cortical, and extramedullary tumor components. Both models used identical U-Net-based architectures, differing only in their annotation approaches. Performance was evaluated using an independent validation dataset. Results: Although both models achieved high diagnostic accuracy (AUC: 0.99 vs. 0.98), the 3C model demonstrated superior operational characteristics. At a standardized cutoff value of 0.2, the 3C model maintained balanced performance (sensitivity: 93.28%, specificity: 92.21%), whereas the 1C model showed compromised specificity (83.58%) despite high sensitivity (98.88%). Notably, at the 25th percentile threshold, both models showed identical false-negative rates despite significantly different cutoff values (3C: 0.661 vs. 1C: 0.985), indicating the ability of the 3C model to maintain diagnostic accuracy at substantially lower thresholds. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that anatomically informed three-class annotation can enhance AI model performance for rare disease detection without requiring additional training data. The improved stability at lower thresholds suggests that thoughtful annotation strategies can optimize the AI model training, particularly in contexts where training data are limited. Full article

In this paper, we discuss potentials for which we obtain multipolar weighted Hardy-type inequalities for a class of weights that are wide enough. Examples of such potentials are shown. The weighted estimates are more general than those stated in previous papers. To obtain the inequalities, we prove an integral identity by introducing a suitable vector-valued function. Full article

Molecular surveillance of FMD epidemiology is a fundamental tool for advancing our understanding of virus biology, monitoring virus evolution, and guiding vaccine design. The accessibility of genetic data will facilitate a more comprehensive delineation of FMDV phylogeny on a global scale. In this study, we investigated the FMDV strains circulating in Russia during the 2013–2014 period in geographically distant regions utilizing whole genome sequencing followed by maximum-likelihood phylogenetic reconstruction of whole genome and VP1 gene sequences. Phylogenetic analysis showed congruence in the topology of the phylogenetic trees constructed using the complete genome and VP1 gene sequence, clearly demonstrating that the isolates analyzed belong to two distinct genetic lineages: A/SEA97 in the Far East and Iran-05 in the North Caucasus. The A/SEA97 isolates exhibited a close genetic identity to those from China and Mongolia, whereas the Iran-05 isolates demonstrated clusterization with those from Turkey. The vaccine-matching studies with isolates from the Far East and North Caucasus revealed no antigenic homology with A/SEA-97 (r₁ = 0.015–0.29) and A/Iran 05 (r₁ = 0.009–0.17). The close genetic relationship of FMDV in the reported outbreak waves to those from neighboring countries indicates that animal movement could contribute to spillover and virus dispersal. The phylogenetic data reported here provide insight into the molecular epidemiology of FMD in the Eurasia region, elucidating the circulation pattern, molecular evolution, and genetic diversity, which is highly valuable for guiding vaccine designs and improving regional eradication policies. Full article

In its broadest meaning, salutogenesis denotes an orientation toward the origins and assets for positive health, as opposed to the origins and risk factors associated with disease (i.e., pathogenesis). While salutogenesis continues to inspire health promotion, it has been noted that qualitative studies can further its understanding and broaden its use in research, clinical practice, and policies. The present study is based on an analysis of structured and unstructured recorded interviews with six refugee musicians. Applying interpretive phenomenological analysis, we comparatively explored the factors contributing to persistence in music between participants. Five factors were found: (a) long-term participation and identity as musicians; (b) desirable effects of music performance; (c) competence, talent, and social recognition; (d) management of social and cultural differences; and (e) locally organized refugee events. The links between music performance and salutogenesis include the following: (1) the inclusion of salutogenic orientation (in addition to pathogenic orientation) toward health; (2) that music invigorated generalized resistance resources so that its expression was augmented, steady, and enduring; and (3) that a high sense of coherence (SOC) was demonstrated. Future studies are needed to reveal whether other activities can take similar roles in developing SOC, and experimental studies are needed before health policy recommendations regarding activities can be made for people that need improved SOC. Full article

This article explores the ethical dimensions of cosmetic surgery, offering a comparative analysis of perspectives from both the Orthodox and the Catholic moral theologies. Both traditions uphold the sanctity of the human body as a creation of God, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its integrity and dignity. However, their approaches to the ethical implications of cosmetic surgery might reveal distinct theological nuances that reflect their unique doctrinal and cultural contexts. By examining the theological foundations, doctrinal teachings, and contemporary ethical debates within both traditions, this study seeks to illuminate how Orthodox and Catholic ethics address the complexities of bodily modification. The analysis highlights the ways in which each tradition navigates concerns related to vanity, identity, and the pursuit of physical perfection, offering insights into their shared values as well as their distinct perspectives. This interdenominational study aims to contribute to ecumenical and intercultural dialogue, fostering greater understanding and respect between the two original Christian traditions. By engaging with the ethical considerations surrounding cosmetic surgery, this article provides a platform for deeper reflection on the role of the body in Christian spirituality and the ongoing relevance of these issues in a diverse and interconnected world. Full article

The aim of this research is to contribute to the research field of Islamic pedagogies by providing empirical insights on the educational strategies used in two different educational settings: Diyanet mosques and mosque-based knowledge centers in Belgium. Previous research has mainly focused on ‘imported’, ‘cyber’, or ‘intellectual’ imams, but little attention has been paid to newly emerging local authorities which we can describe as ‘native’ imams, vaizes, and ‘preaching teachers’. Both authorities are born and raised in Belgium and tend to develop a contextualized pedagogical model to meet the needs of Muslims. The analysis is based on fieldwork notes, classroom observations, and social media research. The findings demonstrate that, although similar teaching strategies are implemented in both settings, they are performed differently. It also demonstrates that education takes place through two reflective pedagogical methods that we term as pedagogy of Muslim Identity and pedagogy of Commitment. In addition, the findings show clearly how both aspects are guided by notions such as rooting, authenticity, and community building. Full article

Background: Integrating nonlinear behavior into the architecture of artificial neural networks is regarded as essential requirement to constitute their effectual learning capacity for solving complex tasks. This claim seems to be true for moderate-sized networks, i.e., with a lower double-digit number of layers. However, going deeper with neural networks regularly turns into destructive tendencies of gradual performance degeneration during training. To circumvent this degradation problem, the prominent neural architectures Residual Network and Highway Network establish skip connections with additive identity mappings between layers. Methods: In this work, we unify the mechanics of both architectures into Capsule Networks (CapsNet)s by showing their inherent ability to learn skip connections. As a necessary precondition, we introduce the concept of Adaptive Nonlinearity Gates (ANG)s which dynamically steer and limit the usage of nonlinear processing. We propose practical methods for the realization of ANGs including biased batch normalization, the Doubly-Parametric ReLU (D-PReLU) activation function, and Gated Routing (GR) dedicated to extremely deep CapsNets. Results: Our comprehensive empirical study using MNIST substantiates the effectiveness of our developed methods and delivers valuable insights for the training of very deep nets of any kind. The final experiments on Fashion-MNIST and SVHN demonstrate the potential of pure capsule-driven networks with GR. Full article

This study investigates the combustion characteristics and critical thermodynamic conditions for the ignition of TC4 and TC17 alloys under high-speed friction conditions. The results indicate that, under identical rubbing conditions, both the critical pressure and the ignition temperature of the TC17 alloy are higher than those of the TC4 alloy. The critical ignition conditions for both alloys increase with thickness, while they decrease with increasing rotational speed, oxygen concentration, and oxygen pressure. The primary characteristics in the initial stage of friction ignition are abrasive and adhesive wear. As the duration of friction increases, material from the friction surface begins to peel away, creating favorable conditions for ignition. At the moment of ignition, significant peeling occurs, along with visible cracks and molten structures, resulting in the production of a substantial amount of titanium oxide on the friction surface. Based on the ignition theory proposed by Frank-Kamenetskii, the reaction order, adsorption coefficient, pre-exponential factor, and activation energy of the ignition criterion under high-speed friction conditions were determined by fitting and analyzing the experimental results. The ignition temperatures of the TC4 and TC17 alloys at different speeds were predicted with a relative error of less than 2.06%. This demonstrates that the Frank-Kamenetskii model can be utilized to explain the critical ignition conditions of titanium alloys under high-speed rubbing conditions. Full article

In this paper, $\left(p,q\right)$-analogues of the generalized harmonic polynomials and the generalized hyperharmonic polynomials of order $\nu$ are defined. We found new sums of these numbers by using combinatorial operations. We also obtained the generating function and used it to reproduce new equations. The applications of matrices are made in the end. Full article

Under-five child poverty and income inequality are complex socio-economic phenomena that significantly impact the well-being of children worldwide. While there is a growing body of literature addressing child poverty in South Africa, our understanding of settlement discrepancies and factors influencing multidimensional under-five child poverty and income in the country remains limited. This study assesses under-five-specific multidimensional poverty and the determinates of child poverty and inequality in the lowest geographical areas in South Africa. Alkire-Foster’s methodology was applied to construct and estimate the multidimensional poverty index for under-five children across settlement areas. The selected indicators were designed to reflect the unique deprivations and challenges faced by children in this age group. The results showed that there is a significant number of children who are deprived in indicators such as access to ECD (43%), hunger (20%), and education and employment at 69% and 65%, respectively. These are some key variables that require policy interventions to improve the development outcomes of children. The logistic regression results showed that 14 out of the 34 predictors were significant. Inequality was significant and positive at 1%. The findings suggest that more work still needs to be undertaken to improve the living conditions of children, especially in the former homelands, to achieve the goals set in the National Development Plan and Sustainable Development Goals. In the past, non-whites were assigned a homeland according to their ethnicity or a place where national or ethnic identity has formed. Full article

As the Middle East experiences rapid growth due to its oil wealth, there is a pressing need to balance contemporary development with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. This study focuses on Ushaiger Village in Saudi Arabia, an example of traditional Najid architecture that was once abandoned and has now been brought back to life through restoration. This research tracks the restoration steps, looks at how old buildings are being reused today, and assesses the effectiveness of these efforts through a survey of 80 local residents and tourists. The results show significant improvements in preserving the village, with over 100 buildings restored using traditional, environmentally friendly materials like mud and limestone. This restoration has won strong support from the community and has boosted the local economy by increasing tourism and supporting local businesses, aligning well with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. This study illustrates that caring for heritage sites can promote economic and environmental health, providing a model for integrating cultural heritage into national development plans. Ushaiger Village’s story highlights the benefits of thoughtful conservation, showing that it can enhance community life and keep cultural identities alive within the Saudi Vision 2030. Full article

Reputation evaluation systems are vital for online platforms, helping users make informed choices based on the trustworthiness of products, services, or individuals. Ensuring privacy and trust in these systems is critical to allow users to provide feedback without fear of retribution or identity exposure. The ring signature (RS), enabling anonymous group-based signing, has garnered attention for building secure and private reputation systems. However, RS-based systems face significant challenges, including the inability to identify malicious users who repeatedly sign the same message, the lack of mechanisms to reveal identities involved in unlawful activities, and a linear growth in signature size with the number of ring members, which poses storage challenges for certain applications. Addressing these limitations, we propose a compressed revocable one-time ring signature (CRORS) scheme leveraging compressible proofs under the Diffie–Hellman Decision and Discrete Logarithm assumptions in the random oracle model. CRORS ensures anonymity, unforgeability, one-time linkability, non-slanderability, and revocability. The one-time linkability feature prevents double-signing, while revocability enables identity disclosure for regulatory enforcement. Additionally, the signature size is reduced to $\mathcal{O}(logn)$, significantly enhancing storage efficiency. These improvements make CRORS particularly suitable for blockchain-based reputation systems with ever-growing storage demands. Theoretical analysis validates its effectiveness and practicality. Full article

Traditional identity management (IdM) solutions based on centralised protocols, such as Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) and Security Assertion Markup Language (SAML), are where a central authority manages all the processes. This risks a single point of failure and other vulnerabilities. In response, decentralised techniques like blockchain and decentralised identities (DIDs) are being explored. This review paper performs a comparison of popular decentralised identity management (DIM) protocols, such as self-sovereign identity (SSI), against traditional centralised approaches such as LDAP and SAML. These decentralised identity management systems are being developed, keeping users’ identity data as its highest priority. Additionally, this method eliminates the need for a central authority to manage and secure the system. To further explore the potential of decentralised identity management, this study delves into popular blockchain-based decentralised identity management systems such as uPort, Sovrin, EverID, Blockstack, ShoCard, and Hyperledger Indy. We analyse their underlying principles and compare them with the well-established centralised identity management solutions, focusing on key aspects such as scalability, security, and feasibility. However, despite their benefits and several worthy developments in this field, decentralised approaches are still not widely used. Through this study, we investigate both centralised and decentralised methods and review their strengths and weaknesses. By reviewing multiple research papers, this survey aims to provide an understanding and aid in selecting the most suitable identity management system for different use cases. Full article