bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interferometric polarization compensation based on one single polarization-maintaining fiber
Authors: Qian Yibin , Li Jiakun , Jia Peizhi , Feng Qibo , Zhao Jing
Published: February 2024

In an interferometry system based on one single polarization-maintaining fiber (PMF), defects like the laser's ellipticity, the alignment error between the PMF and the laser source, and the PMF's internal stress will cause the emitted light from the PMF to be incompletely linearly polarized, resulting in nonlinear errors that cannot be ignored. This paper proposes a novel method that can realize polarization compensation for heterodyne interferometry, reduce the ellipticity of the emitted light, and thereby reduce the nonlinear error of the system. When using a PMF with an Extinction Ratio (ER) of 22 dB, the experimental results show that this method can reduce the polarization and increase the ER to 33.95 dB. After polarization compensation, the nonlinear error is reduced from 7.22 nm to 2.02 nm. The proportion of the nonlinear error reduction reaches to 71.99%, which greatly improves the accuracy of the system.
Optimizing freeform lenses for extended sources with algorithmic differentiable ray tracing and truncated hierarchical B-splines
Authors: Heemels Alexander , de Koning Bart , Möller Matthias , Adam Aurèle
Published: February 2024

We propose a method for optimizing the geometry of a freeform lens to redirect the light emitted from an extended source into a desired irradiance distribution. We utilize a gradient-based optimization approach with MITSUBA 3, an algorithmic differentiable non-sequential ray tracer that allows us to obtain the gradients of the freeform surface parameters with respect to the produced irradiance distribution. To prevent the optimizer from getting trapped in local minima, we gradually increase the number of degrees of freedom of the surface by using Truncated Hierarchical B-splines (THB-splines) during optimization. The refinement locations are determined by analyzing the gradients of the surface vertices. We first design a freeform using a collimated beam (zero-etendue source) for a complex target distribution to demonstrate the method’s effectiveness. Then, we demonstrate the ability of this approach to create a freeform that can project the light of an extended Lambertian source into a prescribed target distribution.
Framework for optimizing AR waveguide in-coupler architectures
Authors: Goodsell Jeremy , Nikolov Daniel K. , Nick Vamivakas A. , Rolland Jannick P.
Published: February 2024

Waveguide displays have been shown to exhibit multiple interactions of light at the in-coupler diffractive surface, leading to light loss. Any losses at the in-coupler set a fundamental upper limit on the full-system efficiency. Furthermore, these losses vary spatially across the beam for each field, significantly decreasing the displayed image quality. We present a framework for alleviating the losses based on irradiance, efficiency, and MTF maps. We then derive and quantify the innate tradeoff between the in-coupling efficiency and the achievable modulation transfer function (MTF) characterizing image quality. Applying the framework, we show a new in-coupler architecture that mitigates the efficiency vs image quality tradeoff. In the example architecture, we demonstrate a computation speed that is 2,000 times faster than that of a commercial non-sequential ray tracer, enabling faster optimization and more thorough exploration of the parameter space. Results show that with this architecture, the in-coupling efficiency still meets the fundamental limit, while the MTF achieves the diffraction limit up to and including 30 cycles/deg, equivalent to 20/20 vision.
Tunable optical spatial differential operation via photonic spin Hall effect in a Weyl semimetal
Authors: Wen Zhaoxin , Xu Wenhao , Zhang Yong , Jiang Ting , Luo Zhaoming
Published: February 2024

Optical differential operation is the basic principle of optical image edge detection, which has the advantages of high efficiency, simple structure and markerless compared with the traditional digital image processing methods. In this paper, we propose an optical differential operation with high contrast based on the photonic spin Hall effect in a Weyl semimetal, which enables to switch between one- and two-dimensional edge detection. Due to the unique optical and electrical properties of the Weyl semimetal, a transport model for the differential operation is established, which is closely related to the beam shifts. By tuning the incidence conditions, we effectively manipulate the in-plane and transverse shifts to switch differential operations between one and two dimensions. The contrast of the differential operation is further regulated by changing the physical parameters of the Weyl semimetal, and can be improved by two orders of magnitude compared to the conventional differentiator. This study provides new possibilities in edge detection and image processing owing to the advantages of switchable dimension and high contrast.
Particle nature of the photonic spin Hall effect
Authors: Xie Linguo , Zhu Junfan , Ren Gan , Yang Fubin , Xu Luopeng , Dan Youquan , Zhang Zhiyou
Published: February 2024

It is widely recognized that light exhibits a wave-particle duality. However, the explanation for the photonic spin Hall effect (PSHE) primarily relies on the wave nature of light as dictated by Maxwell’s Equations. There is a lack of exploration into the particle nature of light in this regard. In this context, we offer a fresh interpretation of the PSHE from the perspective of particle nature of light. For the out-of-plane PSHE, the spin shifts result from the macroscopic manifestation of the conservation of spin-orbital angular momentum of one photon. For the in-plane PSHE, the spin shifts arise from the spread of in-plane wavevector. Based on the wave nature of light, we also obtain the same spin shifts, confirming the consistency of the wave-particle duality of light. Furthermore, we find that the spin shifts of the PSHE are not the overall displacement of photons with the same handedness, but the outcome of coherent superposition among photons of the same handedness. These discoveries further enhance our comprehension of the fundamental nature of the PSHE.
Theoretical derivation and application of empirical Harvey scatter model
Authors: Ma Zhanpeng , Wang Hu , Chen Qinfang , Xue Yaoke , Yan Haoyu , Liu Jiawen
Published: February 2024

Starting from the Rayleigh-Rice perturbation theory, this paper derives the empirical Harvey scatter model and ABg scatter model applied extensively in optical analysis software packages and verifies the shift-invariant behavior of the scattered radiance in direction cosine space. Using data obtained from multi-wavelength laser scatterometer on carbon nanotube black coating and pineblack coating, we establish the polynomial model based on the sine of the scattering angle plus the sine of the specular reflection angle, i.e., sin θ
s
+sin θ0 and the dual-Harvey model based on sin θ
s
-sin θ0 , respectively. The models are in good accordance with the experimental data and further extend the valid range of empirical models.
Adaptive layer-based computer-generated holograms
Authors: Yao Yongwei , Zhang Yaping , Fu Qingyang , Duan Jilu , Zhang Bing , Cao Liangcai , Poon Ting-chung
Published: February 2024

We propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, and fast adaptive layer-based (ALB) method for generating a computer-generated hologram (CGH) with accurate depth information. A complex three-dimensional (3D) object is adaptively divided into layers along the depth direction according to its own non-uniformly distributed depth coordinates, which reduces the depth error caused by the conventional layer-based method. Each adaptive layer generates a single-layer hologram using the angular spectrum method for diffraction, and the final hologram of a complex three-dimensional object is obtained by superimposing all the adaptive layer holograms. A hologram derived with the proposed method is referred to as an adaptive layer-based hologram (ALBH). Our demonstration shows that the desired reconstruction can be achieved with 52 adaptive layers in 8.7 s, whereas the conventional method requires 397 layers in 74.9 s.
Hyperspectral digital holography realized by using an electro-optical frequency comb via injection locking
Authors: Long Ziwen , Yuan ZhengChao , Fan Xinyu , He Zuyuan
Published: February 2024

Hyperspectral digital holography (HSDH) is a versatile holographic imaging technique that offers large unambiguous depth range and spectroscopic information. In this Letter, we propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, HSDH system that is realized by using an electro-optical frequency comb (EOFC) via injection locking. In comparison with conventional dual-comb HSDH, the proposed system only requires one EOFC and few other devices, which not only simplifies the system structure and reduces the cost but also improves the imaging speed. We validated the system using an EOFC with 20 optical frequencies spaced at 18 GHz intervals. In a total measurement time of 0.5 s, we successfully captured images of two targets that were 0.74 mm apart without phase ambiguity and obtained the transmission spectrum of an absorbing gas simultaneously. This work provides valuable insights for HSDH systems relying on an optical frequency comb.
Robust self-injection locking to a non-confocal monolithic Fabry–Perot cavity
Authors: Savchenkov Anatoliy , Zhang Wei , Iltchenko Vladimir , Matsko Andrey
Published: February 2024

We demonstrate an efficient simultaneous self-injection locking of two
semiconductor lasers to high-order modes of a standalone monolithic
non-confocal Fabry–Perot cavity. The lasers are used to generate a
low-noise microwave signal on a fast photodiode. The overall
improvement of the laser spectral purity exceeds 80 dB. The observed
single-sideband phase noise of X- to W-band signals is at the −110
dBc/Hz level and is limited by the fundamental thermorefractive noise
of the cavity. The demonstrated cavity–laser configuration can be
tightly packaged and is promising for the generation of high-frequency
RF signals as well as for referencing optical frequency combs.
Robust and consistent measures of pattern separation based on information theory and demonstrated in the dentate gyrus
Authors: Bird Alexander D. , Cuntz Hermann , Jedlicka Peter
Published: February 2024

Pattern separation is a valuable computational function performed by neuronal circuits, such as the dentate gyrus, where dissimilarity between inputs is increased, reducing noise and increasing the storage capacity of downstream networks. Pattern separation is studied from both in vivo experimental and computational perspectives and, a number of different measures (such as orthogonalisation, decorrelation, or spike train distance) have been applied to quantify the process of pattern separation. However, these are known to give conclusions that can differ qualitatively depending on the choice of measure and the parameters used to calculate it. We here demonstrate that arbitrarily increasing sparsity, a noticeable feature of dentate granule cell firing and one that is believed to be key to pattern separation, typically leads to improved classical measures for pattern separation even, inappropriately, up to the point where almost all information about the inputs is lost. Standard measures therefore both cannot differentiate between pattern separation and pattern destruction, and give results that may depend on arbitrary parameter choices. We propose that techniques from information theory, in particular mutual information, transfer entropy, and redundancy, should be applied to penalise the potential for lost information (often due to increased sparsity) that is neglected by existing measures. We compare five commonly-used measures of pattern separation with three novel techniques based on information theory, showing that the latter can be applied in a principled way and provide a robust and reliable measure for comparing the pattern separation performance of different neurons and networks. We demonstrate our new measures on detailed compartmental models of individual dentate granule cells and a dentate microcircuit, and show how structural changes associated with epilepsy affect pattern separation performance. We also demonstrate how our measures of pattern separation can predict pattern completion accuracy. Overall, our measures solve a widely acknowledged problem in assessing the pattern separation of neural circuits such as the dentate gyrus, as well as the cerebellum and mushroom body. Finally we provide a publicly available toolbox allowing for easy analysis of pattern separation in spike train ensembles.
Fast adaptation to rule switching using neuronal surprise
Authors: Barry Martin L. L. R. , Gerstner Wulfram
Published: February 2024

In humans and animals, surprise is a physiological reaction to an unexpected event, but how surprise can be linked to plausible models of neuronal activity is an open problem. We propose a self-supervised spiking neural network model where a surprise signal is extracted from an increase in neural activity after an imbalance of excitation and inhibition. The surprise signal modulates synaptic plasticity via a three-factor learning rule which increases plasticity at moments of surprise. The surprise signal remains small when transitions between sensory events follow a previously learned rule but increases immediately after rule switching. In a spiking network with several modules, previously learned rules are protected against overwriting, as long as the number of modules is larger than the total number of rules—making a step towards solving the stability-plasticity dilemma in neuroscience. Our model relates the subjective notion of surprise to specific predictions on the circuit level.
Conducting active screening for human African trypanosomiasis with rapid diagnostic tests: The Guinean experience (2016–2021)
Authors: Camara Oumou , Kaboré Justin Windingoudi , Soumah Aïssata , Leno Mamadou , Bangoura Mohamed Sam , N’Diaye Dominique , Belem Adrien Marie Gaston , Biéler Sylvain , Camara Mamadou , Bart Jean-Mathieu , Rotureau Brice , Bucheton Bruno
Published: February 2024

Strategies to detect Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) cases rely on serological screening of populations exposed to trypanosomes. In Guinea, mass medical screening surveys performed with the Card Agglutination Test for Trypanosomiasis have been progressively replaced by door-to-door approaches using Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) since 2016. However, RDTs availability represents a major concern and medical teams must often adapt, even in the absence of prior RDT performance evaluation. For the last 5 years, the Guinean HAT National Control Program had to combine three different RDTs according to their availability and price: the SD Bioline HAT (not available anymore), the HAT Sero-K-SeT (most expensive), and recently the Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 (limited field evaluation). Here, we assess the performance of these RDTs, alone or in different combinations, through the analysis of both prospective and retrospective data. A parallel assessment showed a higher positivity rate of Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 (6.0%, n = 2,250) as compared to HAT Sero-K-SeT (1.9%), with a combined positive predictive value (PPV) of 20.0%. However, an evaluation of Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 alone revealed a low PPV of 3.9% (n = 6,930) which was surpassed when using Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 in first line and HAT Sero-K-SeT as a secondary test before confirmation, with a combined PPV reaching 44.4%. A retrospective evaluation of all 3 RDTs was then conducted on 189 plasma samples from the HAT-NCP biobank, confirming the higher sensitivity (94.0% [85.6–97.7%]) and lower specificity (83.6% [76.0–89.1%]) of Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 as compared to SD Bioline HAT (Se 64.2% [52.2–74.6%]—Sp 98.4% [94.2–99.5%]) and HAT Sero-K-SeT (Se 88.1% [78.2–93.8%]—Sp 98.4% [94.2–99.5%]). A comparison of Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 and malaria-RDT positivity rates on 479 subjects living in HAT-free malaria-endemic areas further revealed that a significantly higher proportion of subjects positive in Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 were also positive in malaria-RDT, suggesting a possible cross-reaction of Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 with malaria-related biological factors in about 10% of malaria cases. This would explain, at least in part, the limited specificity of Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0. Overall, Abbott Bioline HAT 2.0 seems suitable as first line RDT in combination with a second HAT RDT to prevent confirmatory lab overload and loss of suspects during referral for confirmation. A state-of-the-art prospective comparative study is further required for comparing all current and future HAT RDTs to propose an optimal combination of RDTs for door-to-door active screening.
Assessment of functional diversities in patients with Asthma, COPD, Asthma-COPD overlap, and Cystic Fibrosis (CF)
Authors: Kraemer Richard , Baty Florent , Smith Hans-Jürgen , Minder Stefan , Gallati Sabina , Brutsche Martin H. , Matthys Heinrich
Published: February 2024

The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the discriminating power of spirometric and plethysmographic lung function parameters to differenciate the diagnosis of asthma, ACO, COPD, and to define functional characteristics for more precise classification of obstructive lung diseases. From the databases of 4 centers, a total of 756 lung function tests (194 healthy subjects, 175 with asthma, 71 with ACO, 78 with COPD and 238 with CF) were collected, and gradients among combinations of target parameters from spirometry (forced expiratory volume one second: FEV1; FEV1/forced vital capacity: FEV1/FVC; forced expiratory flow between 25–75% FVC: FEF25-75), and plethysmography (effective, resistive airway resistance: sReff; aerodynamic work of breathing at rest: sWOB), separately for in- and expiration (sReffIN, sReffEX, sWOBin, sWOBex) as well as static lung volumes (total lung capacity: TLC; functional residual capacity: FRCpleth; residual volume: RV), the control of breathing (mouth occlusion pressure: P0.1; mean inspiratory flow: VT/TI; the inspiratory to total time ratio: TI/Ttot) and the inspiratory impedance (Zinpleth= P0.1/VT/TI) were explored. Linear discriminant analyses (LDA) were applied to identify discriminant functions and classification rules using recursive partitioning decision trees. LDA showed a high classification accuracy (sensitivity and specificity > 90%) for healthy subjects, COPD and CF. The accuracy dropped for asthma (~70%) and even more for ACO (~60%). The decision tree revealed that P0.1, sRtot, and VT/TIdifferentiate most between healthy and asthma (68.9%), COPD (82.1%), and CF (60.6%). Moreover, using sWOBexand ZinplethACO can be discriminated from asthma and COPD (60%). Thus, the functional complexity of obstructive lung diseases can be understood, if specific spirometric and plethysmographic parameters are used. Moreover, the newly described parameters of airway dynamics and the central control of breathing including Zinplethmay well serve as promising functional marker in the field of precision medicine.
Mission impossible accomplished? A European cross-national comparative study on the integration of the harm-benefit analysis into law and policy documents
Authors: Hajosi Dominik , Grimm Herwig
Published: February 2024

The harm-benefit analysis (HBA) is a cornerstone of the European Directive 2010/63/EU (the Directive). The Directive regulates the care and handling of animals used for scientific purposes in the European Union (EU). Since its implementation, there has been ongoing debate around the practical applicability of the HBA for research project review processes. The objectives of this study are to analyze the operationalization of HBA in EU member states and investigate the consistency of HBA’s implementation in terms of national legislation and available policy documents. To meet these objectives, we evaluated the transposition of the HBA requirement into national legislation. We also conducted a comprehensive comparative cross-national analysis of all guidance documents pertinent to HBA. The results of our study show that there are (1) deficits in the transposition of the HBA requirement into national laws, (2) significant discrepancies in available policy documents relating to HBA, and (3) insufficiently consistent implementations of HBA in European countries.
Income disparities in COVID-19 vaccine and booster uptake in the United States: An analysis of cross-sectional data from the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey
Authors: Ben-Umeh Kenechukwu C. , Kim Jaewhan
Published: February 2024

COVID-19 vaccination has significantly decreased morbidity, hospitalizations, and death during the pandemic. However, disparities in vaccination uptake threatens to stymie the progress made in safeguarding the health of Americans. Using a nationally representative adult (≥18 years old) sample from the 2021 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS), we aimed to explore disparities in COVID-19 vaccine and booster uptake by income levels. To reflect the nature of the survey, a weighted logistic regression analysis was used to explore factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine and booster uptake. A total of 241,645,704 (unweighted n = 21,554) adults were included in the analysis. Average (SD) age of the population was 49 (18) years old, and 51% were female. There were disparities in COVID-19 vaccine and booster uptake by income groups. All other income groups were less likely to receive COVID-19 vaccines and booster shot than those in the high-income group. Those in the poor income group had 55% lower odds of being vaccinated for COVID-19 (aOR = 0.45, p<0.01). Considering the female population only, women with lower incomes may have greater disparities in access to COVID-19 vaccines than do males with lower incomes. Disparities in COVID-19 vaccination by income may have even greater implications as the updated vaccines are rolled out in the US without the government covering the cost as before.
Propensão à inovação em empresas de confecção têxtil da cidade de Gaspar/SC,
capital nacional da moda infantil
Authors: Hora Givaldo Bezerra da , Mondini Vanessa Edy Dagnoni , Tenfen Glaucia Marian , Barros Taylane Souza
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: analisar a propensão à inovação das empresas de confecção têxtil do município de Gaspar/SC. Metodologia: caracterizada como descritiva, a pesquisa utiliza a abordagem quantitativa. Foi aplicado um questionário eletrônico, respondido por 35 empresas têxteis baseadas num Arranjo Produtivo Local (APL). Resultados: os resultados evidenciam que, entre as tipologias de inovação implementadas, há um domínio da inovação de processo. Dentre os principais fatores que motivam a inovação está a adoção de métodos de produção mais eficientes. Os problemas/desafios predominantes são a falta de mão de obra qualificada e os elevados custos da inovação. Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas: oferecer uma visão sistemática sobre o tema de inovação aplicado a um arranjo produtivo de destaque nacional. Relevância/originalidade: o levantamento dos dados e a discussão sobre a inovação em empresas de confecção têxtil de vestuário infantil de um arranjo produtivo específico brasileiro não haviam sido feitos anteriormente. Contribuições sociais/gerenciais: o estudo fornece aos gerentes de empresas de confecção têxtil a informação de que seus esforços no processo de inovação vêm gerando apenas inovações incrementais, provenientes de conhecimento externo provido pelos fornecedores, o que gera uma dependência para inovar.
Trayectorias educativas de mujeres latinoamericanas residentes en España: Una perspectiva interseccional y biográfica
Authors: Rodrigues Maria dos Remédios , González-Monteagudo José
Published: February 2024

La educación de las mujeres migrantes constituye una temática poco investigada en el contexto español. El artículo ofrece una contribución en este ámbito, mediante el análisis de las trayectorias y experiencias educativas de mujeres migrantes latinoamericanas en España, centrándose en la educación formal y no formal, desde la perspectiva interseccional y biográfica. El estudio es de enfoque cualitativo, basado en 12 entrevistas biográfico-narrativas con mujeres migrantes latinoamericanas. La intersección entre los ejes de desigualdad, género y migración condiciona y configura las trayectorias educativas de estas mujeres, que sufren situaciones de desigualdad y vulnerabilidad que dificultan, en algunos casos, el desarrollo de actividades educativas (formales y no formales sea en escuelas y universidades o en instituciones del tercer sector). Se observa que la participación y culminación de procesos educativos contribuye a la cohesión social en el país de acogida en interés de la equidad.
Alteraciones volumétricas del sistema nervioso central asociadas a esquizofrenia
Authors: Villalba Miralles José Bruno
Published: February 2024

La esquizofrenia es un trastorno heterogéneo. La literatura que la estudia anatómicamente ofrece resultados dispares. Presentamos una revisión sistemática centrada en las últimas dos décadas según directrices PRISMA. Se realizaron búsquedas en las bases de datos Pubmed, Scoop, Web of Science y Scielo. Se seleccionaron 32 metaanálisis y 10 ensayos clínicos. La esquizofrenia se desvela como una entidad múltiple y biológicamente difícil de explicar. Muchas investigaciones coinciden en la presencia de pérdida de materia gris, materia blanca, incremento del tamaño de los ventrículos y alteraciones funcionales del hipocampo. El estudio de alteraciones en otras estructuras cerebrales es objeto de fuertes controversias. Se precisa ampliar conocimiento e incorporar la perspectiva de redes cerebrales para clarificar si se trata de una única entidad con diversos subtipos o un conglomerado de alteraciones distintas
A generalization of Hardy’s inequality to infinite tensors
Authors: Saheli Morteza , Foroutannia Davoud , Yusefian Sara
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we extend Hardy’s inequality to infinite tensors. To do so, we introduce Cesàro tensors

ℭ

{\mathfrak{C}}

, and
consider them as tensor maps from sequence spaces into tensor spaces. In fact, we prove inequalities of the form

∥

ℭ
⁢

x
k

∥

t
,
1

≤

U
⁢

∥
x
∥

l
p

k

\|\mathfrak{C}x^{k}\|_{t,1}\leq U\|x\|_{l_{p}}^{k}

(

k
=

1
,
2

k=1,2

),
where x is a sequence,

ℭ
⁢

x
k

{\mathfrak{C}x^{k}}

is a tensor, and

∥
⋅

∥

t
,
1

{\|\cdot\|_{t,1}}

,

∥
⋅

∥

l
p

{\|\cdot\|_{l_{p}}}

are the tensor and sequence norms, respectively. The constant U is independent of x, and we seek the smallest possible value of U.
The crystal structure of bis(1,4,7,10,13-pentaoxacyclopentadecane)-potassium(I) dichloridocopper(I), C20H40Cl2CuKO10
Authors: Qi Ji , Bai En-Ying , Zhang Chun-Ting
Published: February 2024

C20H40Cl2CuKO10, triclinic,

P

1
‾

$P\overline{1}$

(no. 2), a = 9.0148(5) Å, b = 9.3066(5) Å, c = 17.7296(10) Å, α = 

78.383

(
2
)

°

$78.383(2){}^{\circ}$

, β = 

88.488

(
2
)

°

$88.488(2){}^{\circ}$

, γ = 

72.982

(
2
)

°

$72.982(2){}^{\circ}$

, V = 1392.35(13) Å3, Z = 2, R

gt
(F) = 0.0781, wR

ref
(F
2) = 0.2089, T = 170(2) K.
Rekonstrukcija putničke luke i uređenje obale Riva u Rijeci od 1945. do 1960. godine
Authors: Butković Mićin Lidija
Published: February 2024

U Drugom svjetskom ratu riječko-sušačka luka doživjela je devastirajuća razaranja koja su velikim materijalnim  ulaganjima postupno sanirana do sredine 60-ih godina 20. stoljeća. Rekonstrukcija putničke luke i obale Riva (tadašnja Obala jugoslavenske mornarice) predstavljala je iznimku jer se nije težilo vratiti predratno stanje, već iskoristiti jedinstvenu priliku da se provedu prostorne korekcije u cilju uspješnijeg suživota grada i luke. Zalaganjem niza stručnjaka koji su u različitim fazama bili uključeni u projekt (ing. Yvonne Clerici, ing. Zdenko Kolacio, ing. Zdenko Sila, ing. Dragutin Adam i drugi), do 1960. godine putnička luka je povećana izvedbom novog Gata 29. novembar (danas Gat Karoline Riječke), obalni pojas od Žabice do Rive Boduli proširen je radi prostornog razgraničenja različitih vrsta prometa, dobio je suvremenu infrastrukturu i javnu rasvjetu, oplemenjen je drvoredima i novim gradskim parkom. Izrađeni su i planovi za neostvarene investicije, poput parobrodarske putničke stanice i reprezentativnog gradskog hotela koji je smjerao transformirati maritimnu fasadu Rijeke. U članku je prezentirana kronologija projekta, procesi odlučivanja i rezultati urbanističko-arhitektonskih zahvata.
Assessing Transverse Fibre properties: Fibre Compression and Artiﬁcial Horniﬁcation by Periodic Compression
Authors:   OFFIS – Institute for Information Technology, Division Health, Group Automated Nanohandling, Escherweg 2, D- 26121 Oldenburg, Germany, Mikczinsk Manuel , Nguyen Ha Xuan ,   University of Oldenburg, Division Microrobotics and Control Engineering, D- 26111 Oldenburg, Germany, Fatikow Sergej ,   OFFIS – Institute for Information Technology, Division Health, Group Automated Nanohandling, Escherweg 2, D- 26121 Oldenburg, Germany; University of Oldenburg, Division Microrobotics and Control Engineering, D- 26111 Oldenburg, Germany
Published: February 2024

Assessing material properties on the micro and nanoscale requires appropriate tools and measurement systems. Micro- and nanorobotic systems allow for such investigations. This contribution represents a case study in this respect. A setup capable of compressing single fibres with force feedback under scanning electron microscopy observation is presented and used. Variations in the compression force during testing of single fibres are reported and analysed. It is shown that significant alterations of the fibre wall mechanical properties are already introduced during testing one fibre several times in the transverse direction. Although hornification is generally used in the context of changes on the fibre wall due to drying and rewetting cycles of fibres or paper, it is suggested to expand the term also on changes induced by mechanical treatment, as the outcome could be similar. Furthermore, a microrobotic method and a system are proposed which will allow simulating the mechanical hornification and which are based on a force generating apparatus.
Improvement of Paper Strength by Increasing the Xylan Content
Authors:   Christian Doppler Laboratory for Surface Chemical and Physical Fundamentals of Paper Strength, Graz, Austria, Miletzky Albrecht ,   Institute for Paper- , Pulp- and Fibre Technology,   Institute for Solid State Physics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria, Punz Manuel ,   Lenzing AG, Lenzing, Austria, Weber Hansjörg ,   Institute for Organic Chemistry, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria, Wollboldt Petra ,   Kompetenzzentrum Holz GmbH, Linz, Austria, Krasser Regina ,   Kompetenzzentrum Holz GmbH, St. Veit an der Glan, Austria, Bauer Wolfgang ,   Christian Doppler Laboratory for Surface Chemical and Physical Fundamentals of Paper Strength, Graz, Austria; Institute for Paper- , Pulp- and Fibre Technology, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria, Schennach Robert ,   Christian Doppler Laboratory for Surface Chemical and Physical Fundamentals of Paper Strength, Graz, Austria; Institute for Solid State Physics, Graz University of Technology, Graz, Austria
Published: February 2024

Extracted xylan from beech dissolving pulp and eucalyptus kraft pulp was precipitated on unrefined, bleached, once-dried softwood kraft pulp and sulfite pulp. The temperature, pH, ionic strength, xylan concentration, pulp consistency, and the dwell time were analyzed regarding their influence on the adsorption of xylan. Furthermore, handsheets were made to investigate the impact of xylan on the tensile strength and the tearing resistance of the paper. The swelling behavior of the fibers was of interest as well as the determination of the total and surface charge of the pulp. The xylan content of the fibers could be significantly increased. The temperature, xylan concentration and ionic strength showed a large influence on precipitation. No significant change in the attachment of xylan between neutral and low alkaline level of the pH could be noticed. A higher pulp consistency, including a sufficient mixing during adsorption, is favorable. Xylan shows a large impact on the tensile strength of the softwood handsheets. The tensile index of the handsheets made of the softwood pulp and refined at 3.000 revolutions with a PFI mill could be increased by up to 38% compared to the reference sample. The xylan-modified samples also showed by trend a higher stretch at break of about 0.5%. This could be the result of a higher surface area and total charge of the fibers. Thus, enhanced swelling is caused leading to softer and more flexible fibers. These effects provoke a larger area in molecular contact. On the other hand, the trend of the tear index of the softwood handsheets with an increased amount of xylan declines stronger after a longer time period of refining.
Overview of Practical and Theoretical Aspects of Mineral Oil Contaminants in Mill Process and Paperboards
Authors:   Cascades Canada ULC., Montreal, QC, Canada, Gaudreault R. , Brochu C. ,   Cascades R&D Centre, Kingsey Falls, QC, Canada, Sandrock R. ,   Reno de Medici, Arnsberg, Germany, Deglmann P. ,   BASF-SE, GKP/M, Carl- Bosch- Str. 38, 67056 Ludwigshafen, Germany, Seyffer H. ,   BASF-SE, GKP/M, Carl- Bosch- Str. 38, 67056 Ludwigshafen, Germany, Tétreault A. ,   Cascades R&D Centre, Kingsey Falls, QC, Canada
Published: February 2024

The paperboard industry is committed to consumer protection in food packaging and has assigned top priority to the issue of mineral oil hydrocarbons (MOH) as early as spring 2010. In this work, we have developed practical methods, using gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID) laboratory equipment, to characterize the level of mineral oil saturated hydrocarbons (MOSH) and aromatic hydrocarbons (MOAH) in European and North American newspapers, paperboards, and inks. As part of our validation protocol, several samples were analyzed by an external laboratory (ISEGA, Aschaffenburg, Germany) using Biedermann’s protocol and an average deviation of 6% for the MOSH and 17% for the MOAH was observed between ISEGA and our method. Using the reference Tenax migration method (EN, 14338), the hexane or heptane vapour transmission rate (HVTR) method was developed to measure the barrier efficiency within one day, showing a very good correlation; R2 = 0.80 to 0.92. Much higher MOH concentrations in newspaper printed areas infer that printing inks constituents are the most likely source of MOSH/MOAH in recycled paperboard. When processing such raw material, the drying section is one of the paperboard making process steps that significantly reduces the MOSH and MOAH level. Although low or free mineral oil printing inks would be preferable, the use of functional barriers can significantly reduce the migration of MOSH/MOAH, whenever necessary. Mineral oil migration barrier efficiencies of about 90% were obtained using polymeric functional barriers applied at the mill with conventional coating equipment. Finally, a first attempt was made to theoretically model the migration of mineral oil through model polyacrylate functional barriers. The correlation between calculated (theoretical) and experimental hexane permeabilities seems reasonable and a predictive discrimination between good and bad barrier polymers appears possible for acrylate copolymers (R2=0.72) within foreseeable limitations with respect to chemical composition.
Paper Substrate for Printed Functionality
Authors:   Laboratory of Paper Coating and Converting, Centre for Functional Materials Åbo Akademi University, Bollström Roger , Toivakka Martti ,   Laboratory of Paper Coating and Converting, Centre for Functional Materials Åbo Akademi University
Published: February 2024

Requirements for paper to be used as substrate for printed functionality were investigated. A recyclable, multilayer-coated paper substrate that combines adequate barrier and printability properties for printed electronics and sensor applications was developed. In this multilayer structure, a thin top-coating consisting of mineral pigments is coated on top of a dispersion-coated barrier layer. The top-coating provides well-controlled sorption properties through controlled thickness and porosity, thus enabling optimizing the printability of functional materials. The optimum barrier layer structure was investigated by studying the influence of latex type and amount in blends with different size and shape factor kaolin pigments. Highly aligned high shape factor kaolin improved barrier properties in general, but was found especially useful against organic solvents, which may degrade the latex. Dimensional stability and its influence on substrate surface properties as well as on functionality of conductive tracks were studied by exposure to high/low humidity cycles. The barrier layer of the multilayer coated paper reduced the dimensional changes and surface roughness increase caused by humidity and helped maintain the conductivity of printed tracks. As proof of concept functional devices, hygroscopic insulator field effect transistors were printed on the multi- layer curtain coated paper using a custom-built roll-to-roll hybrid printer.
Flow and Heat Transfer Performance of Liquid Metal in Mini-Channel and Verification of Geometric Parameter Optimization
Authors: Xiang Liujin , Yang Shuo , Wang Qi , Wu Jian
Published: February 2024

With the rapid development of the electronics industry, the power of devices continues to rise, and seeking more efficient cooling technologies has become a key challenge in various applied scenarios. This study contributes to a novel and efficient heat dissipation method for chips employing liquid metal as a coolant. In this paper, the flow and heat transfer performance of a novel liquid metal (Ga61In25Sn13Zn1) in a mini-channel heat sink is conducted. Using pressure difference, pump power, and total thermal resistance as object parameters, a comprehensive optimization about Hp (channel height), Wc (channel width), Ww (wall thickness), and tb (base thickness) is presented. The optimized parameter combination is Hp = 7 mm, Wc = 0.6 mm, Ww = 0.4 mm, and tb = 0.2 mm. Furthermore, all of the optimization parameters are verified through the design method of orthogonal experiments.
Behavioral Insights for Better Public Communication in Health Crisis
Authors: Villarraga-Orjuela Alexander , Hasselbrinck Macias Paul Joseph , Rodríguez Sandra , Cuenca-Coral María Esperanza , Schmutzler-de Uribe Jana , De Castro-Correa Alberto Mario , Madariaga-Orozco Camilo Alberto , Ferro-Casas Juan Pablo , Zapata Luis , Vecchio-Camargo Carolina Mercedes
Published: February 2024

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, effective public communication became of utmost importance. This is especially true for the time after the easing of lockdowns, which meant an increased emphasis on personal responsibility and adoption of self-care measures. We conducted an experiment that tested three behavioral tools for communication —framing, population targeting, and social norms— to assess behavioral biases that pose a barrier to effective communication efforts and provide useful information for governments to use in crisis situations. In order to measure the effectiveness of the various communication features, we relied on an Attitudes Scale developed and tested for this purpose.
¿Qué impulsa la adopción de CBDC o bitcoin? Evidencia derivada de la experiencia del Caribe, Centroamérica y Sudamérica
Authors: Náñez Alonso Sergio Luis , Echarte Fernández Miguel Ángel , Kolegowicz Konrad , Sanz-Bas David , Jorge-Vázquez Javier
Published: February 2024

Los países de la región del Caribe, Centroamérica y Sudamérica han irrumpido con fuerza e indiscutible liderazgo en la adopción del dinero digital, ya sea apostando por las monedas digitales emitidas y respaldadas por un banco central (CBDC) o por las monedas virtuales descentralizadas (DEFI), lideradas por Bitcoin y Ether. El objetivo del artículo es identificar las razones que llevan a un país o zona monetaria a decantarse por alguno de estos sistemas. Una vez estudiadas las ventajas y desventajas del uso de las divisas virtuales centraremos el análisis en doce variables sobre el uso de dinero móvil extraídas del GFI (Global Findex Indicator) de los años 2011, 2014, 2017 y 2021 de todos estos países. El presente artículo demuestra, entre otras cuestiones, que la apuesta por un dinero digital basado en CBDC o DEFI depende más de la elección política de los dirigentes del país en cuestión que de criterios socioeconómicos.
Enhancing pier local scour prediction in the presence of floating debris
Authors: Al-Jubouri Muhanad , Ray Richard P.
Published: February 2024

Local scour poses a grave threat to bridge foundations, potentially causing catastrophic collapses. This study uses FLOW-3D with the Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes model to analyze pier scour and dune formation under bridges. It focuses on submerged debris shapes near the water's surface. Results closely match experiments when specific conditions are met. The study introduces an innovative approach to debris impact assessment. Instead of traditional methods, it proposes a novel equation accounting for debris's effective area and elevation. This enhances reliability by over 20%, improving scour depth assessment in debris-laden scenarios. This advances the understanding of debris's role in local scour, benefiting bridge design and management practices.
Synthesis and characterization of aluminum-doped graphitic carbon
Authors: Gordon Isabelle P. , Suenram Grace , McGlamery Devin , Stadie Nicholas P.
Published: February 2024

Heteroatom doping of graphitic carbon is of high interest for tuning its physicochemical properties. Aluminum is commonly reported as a high-interest dopant, but few synthetic strategies have been reported owing to the low equilibrium solubility of Al within graphite. Herein we report several strategies to achieve metastable aluminum-substituted turbostratic graphitic carbon materials with aluminum contents up to ~ 0.5 at%, via co-pyrolysis of two molecular precursors between 800 and 1100°C. The resulting materials exhibit turbostratic graphitic structure and a previously unreported aluminum environment detectable by X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), a likely signature of trigonal planar or puckered AlC3-type sites.

Graphical abstract
MXenes vs MBenes: Demystifying the materials of tomorrow’s carbon capture revolution
Authors: Ozkan Mihrimah
Published: February 2024

Two emerging materials, MXenes and MBenes, have garnered significant attention as promising candidates for CCS applications. Both materials possess unique properties that make them well-suited for CO2 adsorption, such as high surface area, porosity, and tunable chemical functionality. This perspective article presents a comparative evaluation of MXenes and MBenes for CO2 capture, leveraging advanced computational simulations and experimental data to elucidate their respective adsorption capacities, kinetic performance, and stability. The simulations reveal that both materials exhibit superior CO2 adsorption performance compared to conventional CCS materials, with MXenes demonstrating a slight edge in adsorption capacity and selectivity. Furthermore, the potential of MXenes and MBenes for CCS applications is discussed, including their layer thickness, selective affinity to CO2, advantages over conventional sorbents, regeneration, stability, and durability. The findings provide valuable insights into the structure–property relationships of MXenes and MBenes in the context of CO2 capture and shed light on the technology readiness of these materials for specific CCS applications. Finally, this perspective article aims to advance the fundamental understanding of these novel 2D materials for CCS, paving the way for future developments in sustainable CO2 capture technologies.

Graphical abstract

Highlights

MXenes and MBenes are two-dimensional layered materials with the potential to revolutionize carbon capture and storage (CCS). MXenes have several advantages over other CCS materials, such as greater porosity, higher CO2 adsorption capacity, and easier and less expensive production. MBenes are more stable in humid environments and have higher oxidation resistance and thermal conductivity than MXenes, making them a better choice for CCS applications where the CO2 stream is humid, hot, and/or corrosive. MXenes and MBenes have the potential to make CCS more efficient, cost-effective, and versatile.

Discussion

Why are MXenes and MBenes ideal for carbon capture applications?

In terms of carbon capture efficiency, how do MXenes and MBenes stack up against other materials such as MOFs, zeolites, and activated carbons?

Which are better, MXenes or MBenes, for carbon capture?

Why do MXenes and MBenes have a selective affinity to CO2 compared to other gases such as N2 and O2?

What is the optimal number of layers for MXenes/MBenes for carbon capture, and does interlayer spacing affect performance?

What is the best surface termination for CO2 capture?

What happens to the CO2 after it is absorbed onto MXene and MBene surfaces, and how can one remove CO2 that has been adsorbed?

What are the major challenges, besides scalability, that need to be overcome for these materials to be practical?

How durable and stable are MXenes and MBenes?
Determining the Toxicity of Thyme Essential Oils against Sitophilus granarius L. and Sitophilus oryzae L. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) Adults
Authors: YİĞİT BAŞ Şeyma , AŞKIN Ali Kaan , SARUHAN İslam , AKÇA İzzet , KÜÇÜKTOPÇU Yeter , BAYHAN Erol , BAYHAN Selime , TEKİN Fethullah
Published: February 2024

The present study aimed to determine the effects of three different doses of three thyme essential oils on Sitophilus oryzae (L.) and Sitophilus granarius  (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). The present study was conducted under controlled laboratory conditions (25°C temperature and 65% relative humidity) in 2020. Various thyme varieties (Origanum majorona (L.), Origanum saccatum P.H. Davis, Thymbra spicata var spicata L. ( Lamiaceae)), cultivated in Diyarbakır province ecological conditions were employed in the study. After the 4th day of the experiment, the highest mortality rates (100%) were observed with the highest doses of T. spicata var spicata and O.  majarona on S. granarius adults, while the mortality rate was 73.75% with O. saccatum. The LC90 values for T. spicata var. spicata, O. majarona, and O. saccatum were 0.9, 0.1, and 1.3 µl/ml respectively. After the 4th day, 100% S. oryzae adult mortality was observed with higher doses of O. majarona (0.5%; 1% v/v), while 1% (v/v) T. spicata var spicata  dose led to a 72.50%, and 1% (v/v) O. saccatum oil dose led to 46.25% mortality.
Vicia faba - Past, Present and Future Breeding Perspectives in Romania
Authors: BARCANU Elena , AGAPIE Ovidia , GHERASE Ion , TĂNASE Bianca , DOBRE Georgiana
Published: February 2024

Vicia faba is one of the oldest vegetables in the world, recognized as a valuable protein-rich food and with high adaptability to grow in all climatic conditions, but despite this, in Romania is an underutilized crop, with few studies conducted so far.  This study aims to explore past, present and future breeding perspectives on faba bean. In this study, ten accessions of Vicia faba were grown in the Research Field of Vegetable Research Development Station (VRDS) Buzau, Romania. Ten synthetic varieties have been studied to determine the amount of realized heterosis expressed in higher yield and yield stability. In terms of seed size, seven accessions belong to V. faba var. major, while the others fit to the minor group. The plant growth habit was semi-determinate for six accessions, while four had determinate habit. In terms of yield component, the accessions A1 and A7 had the highest yield. The assessments concluded to a great variability between studied accessions and the results might be useful in the future breeding programs.