bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel clamping modulation for three‐phase buck‐boost ac choppers
Authors: Menzi David , Yang Aobo , Chhawchharia Saransh , Kolar Johann. W.
Published: July 2024

Three‐phase ac choppers feature output voltage amplitude controllability and enable more compact system realizations compared to autotransformers. For the practical realization advantageously standard power transistor with unipolar voltage blocking capability such as MOSFETs can be employed as a naturally resulting offset voltage between the grid and the input‐stage starpoint ensures purely positive power transistor voltages. This offset voltage is, however, not strictly defined and may drift to higher voltage values, resulting in high power transistor voltage stresses and finally a potential overvoltage breakdown. Traditionally, the offset voltage drift is prevented by introducing discharge resistors across the input‐stage capacitors which, however, results in substantial ohmic losses. This paper analyzes the offset voltage formation in ac choppers and proposes a novel clamping modulation scheme which ensures a strictly defined and minimum time‐varying offset voltage without need for discharge resistors. Theoretical analyses and circuit simulations are finally experimentally verified with a 400 V (rms, line‐to‐line) 50 Hz grid connected three‐phase buck‐boost ac chopper with 3 kW rated power.
Ge‐based graphene FET for low‐temperature electronics
Authors: Wang Chen , Hong Weida , Zhang Miao , Jiang Haitao
Published: July 2024

A graphene field‐effect transistor (GFET) based on chemical vapour deposited (CVD) Ge‐based graphene was reported and the low‐temperature electrical characteristics primarily investigated. The self‐alignment technique was used to fabricate a GFET to reduce parasitic effects and improve transconductance and cut‐off frequency. To further explore the electrical properties, the direct current and radio frequency characteristics of the GFET were studied over a temperature range from 4.2 to 300 K, considering the temperature‐dependent resistivity of intrinsic Ge. The direct current characteristic of the GFET for 110‐nm gate length, particularly the transconductance performance, exhibits a tiny variation of only 5% across this temperature range. However, the cut‐off frequency experiences a considerable increase, improving several tens of times when the temperature decreases to 4.2 K, with a maximum value of 3.49 GHz. This work illustrates a meaningful advancement in applying GFETs in the low‐temperature, high‐frequency domain.
L’ADN ancien parle de plus en plus
Authors: Jordan Bertrand
Published: July 2024

Many human DNA sequences have been obtained from ancient remains dating back from several millennia. However, these have low coverage and may contain many errors; this has limited their usefulness for many analyses, in particular the search for Identical By Descent (IBD) segments that is very powerful for detection of kinship. A new method, using imputation from database data and sophisticated statistical analysis, proves able to detect IBD segments (and thus parenthood) in low-quality DNA sequences from individuals linked only by sixth degree parenthood, opening a whole new field of investigation using ancient DNA.
Les phosphodiestérases des nucléotides cycliques
Authors: Barthou Aurélien , Kamel Rima , Leroy Jérôme , Vandecasteele Grégoire , Fischmeister Rodolphe
Published: July 2024

Les phosphodiestérases des nucléotides cycliques (PDE) modulent la régulation neuro-hormonale de la fonction cardiaque en dégradant l’AMPc et le GMPc. Dans les cardiomyocytes, de multiples isoformes de PDE, aux propriétés enzymatiques et aux localisations subcellulaires différentes, régulent localement les niveaux de nucléotides cycliques et les fonctions cellulaires associées. Cette organisation est fortement perturbée au cours de l’hypertrophie et de l’insuffisance cardiaque à fraction d’éjection réduite (IC), ce qui peut contribuer à la progression de la maladie. Sur le plan clinique, l’inhibition des PDE a été considérée comme une approche prometteuse pour compenser la désensibilisation aux catécholamines qui accompagne l’IC. Bien que des inhibiteurs de la PDE3, tels que la milrinone ou l’énoximone, puissent être utilisés cliniquement pour améliorer la fonction systolique et soulager les symptômes de l’IC aiguë, leur utilisation chronique s’est avérée préjudiciable. D’autres PDE, telles que les PDE1, PDE2, PDE4, PDE5, PDE9 et PDE10, sont apparues comme de nouvelles cibles potentielles pour le traitement de l’IC, chacune ayant un rôle unique dans les voies de signalisation locales des nucléotides cycliques. Dans cette revue, nous décrivons la signalisation de l’AMPc et du GMPc dans les cardiomyocytes et présentons les différentes familles de PDE exprimées dans le cœur ainsi que leurs modifications dans l’hypertrophie cardiaque pathologique et dans l’IC. Nous évaluons également les résultats issus de modèles précliniques ainsi que les données cliniques indiquant l’utilisation d’inhibiteurs ou d’activateurs de PDE spécifiques qui pourraient avoir un potentiel thérapeutique dans l’IC.
The Application of a Surgery Supporting Computer System Does Not Seem to Influence the Surgeons’ Radiation Exposure: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Baumann Isabell , Boehringer Alexander , Cintean Raffael , Gebhard Florian , Richter Peter H , Schütze Konrad , Eickhoff Alexander Maximilian
Published: July 2024

Since 2019, a surgery supporting system (SPM, surgical process manager; Johnson & Johnson, New Brunswick, New Jersey, Vereinigte Staaten) has been used in a Level I trauma center for common trauma surgery procedures (distal radius fractures, proximal femur fractures, ankle fractures, proximal humerus fractures, and spine fractures). The hypothesis of this study was that implementing standardized procedures (by using SPM) may reduce radiation exposure, especially for unexperienced surgeons.

Workflows were developed for different surgical procedures (distal radius fractures, proximal femur fractures, ankle fractures, proximal humerus fractures, and spine fractures) and added into the SPM. Between October 2019 and June 2022, 90 surgeries using the SPM were included in the study. A control group was included with 107 surgeries using the same surgical technique. The values measured were the radiation exposure during the surgical procedure, the experience of the head surgeon, and whether or not the SPM was used. A statistical analysis was performed by using the chi square and Fischer exact tests, with significance set at a p value < 0.05.

SPM was applicated in 51 cases for the distal radius (control group 54 patients), 20 cases for distal fibula fractures (control group 21 patients), 9 cases for the proximal femur (control group 19 patients), 5 cases for vertebral fractures (control group 7 patients), and 5 cases for the proximal humerus (control group 6 patients). No difference concerning the median radiation exposure was observed by plating distal radius fractures with 5.7 Gy/cm² in the SPM group and a median radiation exposure of 6.4 Gy/cm² in the control group (p = 0.96). The distal fibula fractures showed no significant difference in the intraoperative radiation (17.4 Gy/cm² vs. 6.4 Gy/cm², p value 0.53). Radiation exposure was lower when a consultant performed surgery without showing any significance, independent if SPM was used or not.

In this study, no significant difference in the intraoperative radiation dose was observed when using a surgery supporting computer system. The experience of the surgeon showed no influence as well, regardless if SPM was used or not. Additional data should be collected questioning these findings.
Investigation of the relationship between thrombophilic disorders and brain white matter lesions in migraine with aura
Authors: Yılmaz Can Fatma
Published: July 2024

Background Migraine is associated with several genetic or acquired comorbidities. Studies conducted in recent years emphasize that the frequency of thrombophilia is high in migraine, especially migraine with aura (MA). Similarly, the presence of white matter lesions (WMLs) on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans has been associated with migraine for many years.

Objective Based on the knowledge that both WMLs and thrombophilia variants are frequently observed in MA, we aimed to investigate whether there is a relationship between genetic thrombophilia and the presence of WMLs in these patients.

Methods The levels of proteins S and C, antithrombin III activities, activated protein C (APC) resistance, antiphospholipid immunoglobulin G/immunoglobulin M (IgG/IgM) and anticardiolipin IgG/IgM antibodies were investigated in 66 MA patients between the ages of 18 and 49 years who presented no cardiovascular risk factors. The presence of WMLs and the Fazekas grade was determined from the brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans' T2-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) sequence taken from the patients. The rates of WMLs were compared in patients with and without thrombophilia.

Results Thrombophilia was detected in 34.8% of the patients, and 27.3% were determined to have WMLs in brain MRI scans. The WMLs were detected in 23.3% of the patients without thrombophilia, in 34.8% of those with thrombophilia, and in 50% of the subjects with multiple thrombophilia disorders. Among the thrombophilia disorders, only APC resistance was significantly more common in patients with WMLs.

Conclusion The results of the present study showed that thrombophilia may be a mechanism that should be investigated in the etiology of increased WMLs in MA.
Atherogenic Effect of Homocysteine, a Biomarker of Inflammation and Its Treatment
Authors: Prasad Kailash
Published: July 2024

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis. Ischemic stroke and heart disease, coronary heart disease, and cardiovascular disease are events resulting from long-lasting and silent atherosclerosis. This paper deals with the synthesis of homocysteine (Hcy), causes of HHcy, mechanism of HHcy-induced atherosclerosis, and treatment of HHcy. Synthesis and metabolism of Hcy involves demethylation, transmethylation, and transsulfuration, and these processes require vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 folic acid (vitamin B9). Causes of HHcy include deficiency of vitamins B6, B9, and B12, genetic defects, use of smokeless tobacco, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, low thyroid hormone, consumption of caffeine, folic acid antagonist, cholesterol-lowering drugs (niacin), folic acid antagonist (phenytoin), prolonged use of proton pump inhibitors, metformin, and hypertension. HHcy-induced atherosclerosis may be mediated through oxidative stress, decreased availability of nitric oxide (NO), increased expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, smooth muscle cell proliferation, increased thrombogenicity, and induction of arterial connective tissue. HHcy increases the generation of atherogenic biomolecules such as nuclear factor-kappa B, proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8), cell adhesion molecules (intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, and E-selection), growth factors (IGF-1 and TGF-β), and monocyte colony-stimulating factor which lead to the development of atherosclerosis. NO which is protective against the development of atherosclerosis is reduced by HHcy. Therapy with folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 lowers the levels of Hcy, with folic acid being the most effective. Dietary sources of folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, omega-3 fatty acid, and green coffee extract reduce Hcy. Abstaining from drinking coffee and alcohol, and smoking also reduces blood levels of Hcy. In conclusion, HHcy induces atherosclerosis by generating atherogenic biomolecules, and treatment of atherosclerosis-induced diseases may be by reducing the levels of Hcy.
IPR forum on Chih-yu Shih’s intervention on the relational turn in IR
Authors: Bilgin Pinar
Published: July 2024

I read Shih’s intervention as an invitation to pay attention to relationality in not only ontological but also epistemological terms. I begin by observing that even those bodies of scholarship that focus on relationality are not always aware of our connectedness in terms of the production of ideas and knowledge about how the world works. It is essential, I argue, that studying the ways in which we are connected does not remain focused purely on material usurpation (historical materialism) or self-other relations (feminism, post-structuralism) but also encompasses the production of ideas and knowledge. Brought into an IR discussion, this is about the production of our ideas and knowledge about how the world works, which is best captured by Edward Said’ distinction between ‘origin’ versus ‘beginning’ of ideas. Whereas looking for the ‘origin’ of ideas assumes a singular source, an exploration of ‘beginnings’ takes as its starting point the eventuality that there exist multiple sources across time and space, and focuses on the study of relations of give-and-take and learning between world’s peoples.
Microwave-induced ultrasound imaging offers high-resolution, real-time tissue monitoring
Authors: Thompson Avery
Published: July 2024

Noninvasive, dynamic imaging could make its way into clinical practices for disease diagnosis and treatment.
Denoising x-ray images using neural networks
Authors: Lange Katherine De
Published: July 2024

Neural networks can be trained to remove noise affecting the measurement of quantitative properties in high-energy-density x-ray images
Determining carrier frequency for implantable human body communication based on transmission efficiency–electromagnetic interference trade-off
Authors: Kodama Miyu , Muramatsu Dairoku
Published: July 2024

This study proposes a novel methodology for determining the optimal carrier frequency for implantable human body communication (HBC) by focusing on the trade-off between transmission efficiency and electromagnetic interference (EMI) robustness. Traditional radio communication technologies use high-frequency bands, which pose some challenges, such as increased power consumption, EMI with other devices, and security risks. Implantable HBC is a promising alternative, wherein the human body is used as a transmission medium. Through phantom experiments simulating the human abdomen, we assess the transmission characteristics of implantable HBC between an abdominal neurostimulator and an external controller across a frequency range of 1–100 MHz. Results revealed that maximum transmission gain was achieved at 37.2 MHz. Moreover, rapid signal attenuation occurred beyond a minimal distance from the skin, indicating enhanced communication efficiency, reduced EMI, and enhanced information security. An evaluation index (EI) was also proposed to quantitatively assess the balance between transmission efficiency and EMI and determine an appropriate carrier frequency for specific implantable HBC applications. This study advances the field of implantable medical devices by optimizing communication performance while addressing key challenges in EMI and security.
Pollination by multiple species of nectar foraging Hymenoptera in Prasophyllum innubum, a critically endangered orchid of the Australian Alps
Authors: Hayashi Tobias , Ayre Bronwyn M. , Bohman Björn , Brown Graham R. , Reiter Noushka , Phillips Ryan D.
Published: July 2024

Context Australia has numerous threatened species of terrestrial orchid, with a particularly high incidence of rarity in the genus Prasophyllum R.Br. Although there has been research on mycorrhizal associations and propagation, little is known about the reproductive ecology of threatened Prasophyllum. Understanding which animals are responsible for pollination and the impact of herbivores on reproduction may inform conservation actions. Aims For the nationally Critically Endangered Prasophyllum innubum, we aimed to determine the pollinator species, test for self-pollination, quantify levels of reproductive success and herbivory, and identify herbivores. Methods Pollinator observations were undertaken at wild populations of P. innubum, whereas an experiment testing for self-pollination was undertaken in shadehouse conditions. We quantified reproductive success and herbivory at two populations and attempted to identify herbivores using game cameras. Key results Pollination occurred via three species of bee and a sphecid wasp, all of which attempted feeding on floral nectar. Fruit set averaged 72–84% at wild sites, whereas only 6% of flowers set fruit via self-pollination when insects were excluded. Just 4% of inflorescences were completely consumed by herbivores, and no herbivory was captured on camera. Conclusions P. innubum has a generalist rewarding pollination system that confers high levels of reproductive success, with herbivory having little impact on reproduction. Implications Pollinator availability is unlikely to restrict conservation translocation site selection of P. innubum because of a generalist pollination system. If herbivores are a threat for this species, it is likely to be through alteration of habitat rather than direct grazing.
Movement patterns of Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii) and golden perch (Macquaria ambigua) in a northern Murray–Darling Basin dryland river
Authors: Harding D. J. , Burke C. L. , Carpenter-Bundhoo L. , Fawcett J. H. , Sternberg D. , Kennard M. J. , Kerr J. L. , Mullins T. M. , Prior A. E.
Published: July 2024

Context Dryland rivers are unique ecosystems, where drought and flood play an important role in shaping the ecosystem. River regulation has altered the natural flow regime in many of these systems, affecting migration cues and connectivity for many species. Aims To quantify the discharge-related movements of Murray cod and golden perch within the Condamine–Balonne River subject to differing levels of river regulation. Methods We quantified flow regime variability, river regulation and fish movement to develop generalised additive mixed models to predict movement probability for Murray cod and golden perch. Results Both species showed strong positive relationships between discharge and movement. Murray cod did not show any association with river regulation; however, medium-sized individuals were significantly more likely to move than were smaller or larger fish. Golden perch movements varied among levels of regulation, were more likely to move as body weight increased and showed seasonality of movement, moving less during winter. Conclusions This study presents the largely unobserved movement behaviours of fish across a gradient of river regulation and environmental conditions in the northern Murray–Darling Basin. Implications This information is valuable for informing policy and management decisions that may affect species’ life-history requirements in analogous river systems.
Evolving Arctic maritime hazards: Declining sea ice and rising waves in the Northwest Passage
Authors: Henke Martin T. , Miesse Tyler , de Souza de Lima Andre , Ferreira Celso , Ravens Thomas , Pundt Ralph
Published: July 2024

The ongoing and projected retreat of Arctic sea ice has garnered international interest toward the utilization of Arctic maritime corridors for shipping, tourism, and development. Yet, with potential for increasing traffic in Arctic regions, it’s important to consider additional environmental variables affected by climate change which may threaten maritime operations. Here, we use four climate model projections to produce ocean wave simulations and investigate the future magnitude and seasonality of sea ice risk coupled with wave hazards. Analyzing the potential 5 mo shipping season spanning July to November along the Northwest Passage maritime route between 2020 and 2070, our results show a substantial decline in sea ice risk over the analysis time period, resulting in near open-water conditions along the route for a 5 mo period by 2070. However, as seasonal ice coverage retreats, there is a significant upward trend in wave heights along the route during July and November, with the timing of the greatest wave height shifting away from September toward later in the season. This result is pertinent as the possibility of seasonally unprecedented extreme waves coupled with subfreezing late fall temperatures makes for an especially hazardous environment, thus emphasizing the importance of considering the interaction between evolving sea ice and interdependent hazards when predicting the risks and challenges faced by Arctic maritime operations.
Inorganic charge transport layer for efficient Pb-free KSnI3 based perovskite solar cells: a theoretical study
Authors: Monga Kamil , Singh Vasundhara , Chaudhary Shilpi
Published: July 2024

The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of lead (Pb)-based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is remarkably high; however, the toxicity of Pb poses a significant barrier to their commercial viability. In the current study, the effect of different charge transport layer (CTL) materials on the performance of the Pb free Sn-based (KSnI3) PSCs has been studied by using SCAPS simulations. Tin oxide (SnO2), zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide as electron transport materials, whereas spiro-OMeTAD, copper oxide (Cu2O), and nickel oxide as hole transport layer materials were iterated to achieve the optimum photovoltaic parameters. The photovoltaic parameters were optimized in terms of the active layer and CTL thicknesses, as well as the doping concentration, defect density, and interfacial defect density. Moreover, the impact of series and shunt resistance on the performance of PSCs is also investigated. The most efficient PSC with PCE of 21.75% was achieved with the device structure of FTO/SnO2/KSnI3/Cu2O. This efficiency is higher than previously reported KSnI3 based-PSCs. The SnO2 (ETL) and Cu2O were proven to be most efficient choices for the CTL materials. It was also observed that the carbon, nickel, and selenium can be a cost-effective alternative to gold for the rear contact. This study showcases how KSnI3 with inorganic charge transport layers stands as a prospective stable PSC with the potential to deliver clean, and green renewable energy solutions.
Concerto of movement: how expertise shapes the synergistic control of upper limb muscles in complex motor tasks with varying tempo and dynamics
Authors: Huang Subing , Xie Jodie J , Lau Kelvin Y S , Liu Richard , Mak Arthur Dun-Ping , Cheung Vincent C K , Chan Rosa H M
Published: July 2024

Objective. This research aims to reveal how the synergistic control of upper limb muscles adapts to varying requirements in complex motor tasks and how expertise shapes the motor modules. Approach. We study the muscle synergies of a complex, highly skilled and flexible task—piano playing—and characterize expertise-related muscle-synergy control that permits the experts to effortlessly execute the same task at different tempo and force levels. Surface EMGs (28 muscles) were recorded from adult novice (N = 10) and expert (N = 10) pianists as they played scales and arpeggios at different tempo-force combinations. Muscle synergies were factorized from EMGs. Main results. We found that experts were able to cover both tempo and dynamic ranges using similar synergy selections and achieved better performance, while novices altered synergy selections more to adapt to the changing tempi and keystroke intensities compared with experts. Both groups relied on fine-tuning the muscle weights within specific synergies to accomplish the different task styles, while the experts could tune the muscles in a greater number of synergies, especially when changing the tempo, and switch tempo over a wider range. Significance. Our study sheds light on the control mechanism underpinning expertise-related motor flexibility in highly skilled motor tasks that require decade-long training. Our results have implications on musical and sports training, as well as motor prosthetic design.
Soil application of high-lignin fermentation byproduct to increase the sustainability of liquid biofuel production from crop residues
Authors: Lynd Lee , Kemanian Armen R , Smith Jo , Richard Tom L , Arifi Anela , Bozzetto Stefano , Fabbri Claudio , Field John , Pries Caitlin Hicks , Kubis Matt , Smith Pete , Wang Michelle , Hoey Madeline
Published: July 2024

When digestates from anaerobic digestion of crop residues are added to soil, a considerable body of information indicates that soil organic carbon (SOC) levels are comparable to those when crop residues are left in the field. This occurs although the amount of digestate added to soil is diminished by digestion and implies that digestion increases the proportion of carbon inputs stabilized as SOC. Here we examine the likelihood and implications of these features being manifested for soil application of high lignin-fermentation byproduct (HLFB) from liquid biofuel production. We show that steady-state SOC levels are much less sensitive to crop residue removal with HLFB return than without it, and provide an example supporting the feasibility of foregoing process energy and coproduct revenue when HLFB is returned to the soil. Informed by this review and analysis, we expect with moderate confidence that long-term SOC levels for soils amended with HLFB from some liquid cellulosic biofuel processes will not be substantially lower than those occurring when crop residues are left in the field. We have high confidence that the economically optimum rate of fertilizer nitrogen (N) application and N2O emissions will be lower at most sites for HLFB return to the soil than if crop residues were left in the field. We estimate that the per hectare N demand for processing crop residues to liquid biofuels is about a third of the per hectare demand for crop production, giving rise to an opportunity to use N twice and thereby realize cost savings and environmental benefits. These observations support but do not prove the hypothesis that a ‘win-win’ is possible wherein large amounts of liquid biofuel feedstock can be obtained from crop residues while improving the economics and sustainability of food and feed production. A research agenda aimed at exploring and testing this hypothesis is offered.
The quality and flavour effects of robusta coffee cultivated at various altitudes in Aceh Tengah District - Gayo Highlands were investigated
Authors: Sulaiman I , Hasni D , Husaini I , Octaviana Maliza Noer
Published: July 2024

Gayo Highland (GH) is known for its arabica GH also planted robusta in lower altitude areas, but its quality is rarely reported. In Indonesia, robusta is mostly planted in Lampung and Java and thus is well-examined and reported. This study explores the quality of the Gayo-robusta-picked coffee cherries and its green bean and the effect of post-harvest practices farmers apply towards the quality of Gayo robusta. This research used RBF Design with two factors and four repetitions. Factor A is altitude levels, which are 600-800 m.a.s.l, 801-1.000 m.a.s.l and 1.001-1.200 m.a.s.l. Factor B is post-harvest practices, which have two levels with and without post-harvest practices. The result shows that 800-1.000 m.a.s.l altitude showed better quality of red cherries (75.25% ± 3.30) as the black and green cherries percentages are lower than other levels. As the altitude increases, green beans tend to have higher moisture, defect value, and bigger size. The average moisture of the green bean was 12.44%, the defect value was 12.51%, and the green bean size that passed the 6.5 mm sieve was 86.84%. For the cupping test, the average score was 67.33. The best treatment was robusta was planted on 600-800 m.a.s.l and, with post-harvest practices, had a cup test value of 80.25 and was considered a quality of fine Robusta.
Evaluation of the invitro antidiabetic and anti-cholesterols activity of selected plant extract
Authors: Agustini S , Asmaliyah  , Hadi EEW , Imanullah A
Published: July 2024

Diabetic and hypercholesterolemia are the most common metabolic disorders in the world. The purpose of the study was to assess the anti-diabetic and anti-cholesterol effect of water leaf extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa, Cinnamomum parthenoxylon, and Oroxylum indicum in vitro. Those three plants are often used by the local community to treat diabetes and hypercholesterol. The water extract’s active ingredients are steroids and flavonoids. The flavonoid content was reported to be 51.89, 110.92, and 63.41 mg QE/g respectively. In vitro studies on hemoglobin glycosylation, showed that 30 ppm aqueous leaf extract of L. speciosa, C. parthenoxylon, and O. indicum showed considerable inhibition of hemoglobin glycosylation by 12.06 %, 33.25%, and 73.96%, compared to a positive control (metformin) was 30.6 %. The in vitro anti-cholesterol properties of O. indicum and C. parthenoxylon could lower cholesterol by 33% compared to simvastatin by 33.104%. According to the study’s findings, the water leaf extracts of O. indicum and C. parthenoxylon have excellent pharmaceutical potential and might be used as herbal remedy to manage diabetes and cholesterol. To verify this work, more in vitro and in vivo research is required.
Study of physical parameters on Sargassum liquid fertilizer production and its nutrient contents
Authors: Nurhayati  , Bhernama B G , Kurniawan H , Bellia S , Abad F , Asmara A P
Published: July 2024

Sargassum can be used as an alternative material for liquid organic fertilizer production. Liquid organic fertilizer is more environmental-friendly than the synthetic one. In the previous research, we have reported that Sargassum from Lange Beach (Aceh Besar, Aceh, Indonesia) was potential as a source of nutrients for plants. This current work aims to evaluate the levels of plants growth hormones including auxin, cytokinin, and gibberellin. Furthermore, we also evaluated the levels of macronutrients of the Sargassum liquid fertilizer (SLF) obtained from a twenty-five-day fermentation compared with the Indonesian Agricultural Ministry Regulation of Permentan no. 70/SR./140/10/2011. Using a high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, we reported that the levels of auxin, cytokinin, and gibberellin were 2.546 ± 0.399 ppm; 130.093 ± 0.378 ppm; and 13.456 ± 0.783 ppm, respectively. In addition, the contents of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) as macronutrients were 1.79 ± 0.25 %; 0.025 ± 0.005 %; and 0.15 ± 0 %, respectively. Our study also measured the physical parameters of the reactor, such as temperature and humidity, when the production was taking place. Reactor temperature during the production process was in between 31 and 32°C. Meanwhile, the humidity was in between 87 and 89%. In conclusion, this work demonstrated that SLF produced from Lange’s Sargassum had sufficient nutrients needed by plants according to the national regulation.
Effect of variety and farm altitude on chemical content of Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica) grown in Gayo Highland, Indonesia
Authors: Abubakar Y , Alya M R , Karim A , Fazlina Y D
Published: July 2024

Arabica coffee grown in the Gayo Highlands, Aceh, by small holder farmers has been well known for its excellent quality and distinctive taste. Its physical and organoleptic qualities have been included in several reports. However, the literature on its chemical content, such as chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and antioxidant activity is very limited. The aims of this research are to investigate the effect of difference varieties and farm altitudes on the coffee chemical content, especially chlorogenic acid, caffeine, and antioxidant activity. This research used a factorial randomized block design with two factors, namely variety (V) and farm altitude (T). Coffee Varieties (V) consist of three most widely planted varieties in the Highlands, namely, Timtim (V1), Borbor (V2), and Ateng Super (V3). Farm altitude (T) consists of three levels, namely farm altitude between 1000-1200 m above sea level (asl), represented by Celala (T1), farm altitude between 1201-1400 m asl, represented by Pegasing (T2) and farm altitude between 1401-1600 m asl, which is represented by Permata (T3). The analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that coffee varieties, farm altitudes and the interaction between the two factors had no significant effect on the parameters observed. However, the data show a tendency that caffeine content and antioxidant activity in ground coffee tends to increase as farm altitude increase, while the chlorogenic acid content tends to decrease. Overall, the chlorogenic acid content in ground coffee ranged between 3.36% - 7.82%, with an average of 5.78% ± 1.52%, caffeine content ranged between 1.35% - 1.82% with an average of 1.61% ± 0.24%, and antioxidant activity ranged between 62.55% - 79.32% inhibition, with an average of 69.23% ± 4.42%.
The effect of islamic ornament as secondary skin on daylight quality
Authors: Abrar M I , Munir A , Safwan
Published: July 2024

Islamic ornaments are used extensively in different types of buildings, serving both aesthetic and functional purposes. They are used in mosques, offices and other buildings, serving as both interior and exterior elements. One application is their use as secondary skins to cover window openings. This research investigates the effect of Islamic ornaments as secondary skins on interior lighting. The main question addressed is how Islamic ornaments affect the quality of natural lighting. Using computer simulations, scenarios with clear glass and varying ornament distance from the window were assessed under clear sky conditions at different times of the day. The results show that the presence of Islamic ornaments significantly reduces the average daylighting level on interior surfaces compared to scenarios without ornaments. Visual representations using ray diagrams and computer-generated images illustrate the effects of varying ornamental conditions. This research highlights the potential of Islamic ornaments to improve the quality of daylighting in architecture. The findings emphasise their role in optimising daylight indoors, and encourage careful consideration of the impact of spacing on window openings. In particular, the distribution of daylight varies between rooms orientated to the north and west.
Synthesis and physicochemical characterization of sago starch-porang glucomannan hydrogels crosslinked fumaric acid as a new material for drug delivery system
Authors: Salman  , Wahyuni F S , Suardi M , Djamaan A
Published: July 2024

Sago starch and porang glucomannan are natural polymers commonly used as pharmaceutical excipients. The nature of starch, which is easily damaged and has low stability, is an obstacle to its use as a drug-delivery polymer. Chemical modification with crosslinked fumaric acid produces hydrogels with controlled hydrophilicity. This research aimed to synthesize and evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of hydrogels from sago starch-porang glucomannan crosslinked with fumaric acid. Starch synthesis was carried out using the phase inversion method. Tests on the hydrogels formed from sago starch-porang glucomannan included solubility tests, swelling tests, FT-IR, SEM, and XRD analyses used to explore the hydrogels. The results of the swelling tests at 22 and 60 show an increase in the amount of water the hydrogels can absorb. Crosslinked through the development of esters is revealed by the ATR-FTIR spectrum in the fingerprint region. The results of the SEM test of hydrogels, sago starch, and porang glucomannan show a spherical to polyhedral shape with varying powder sizes. XRD analysis shows that the hydrogels from sago starch-porang glucomannan crosslinked with fumaric acid are semi-crystalline, and some formulas are amorphous. In conclusion, the synthesis of hydrogels from sago starch-porang glucomannan crosslinked with fumaric acid has characteristics that can be developed as a new material for drug delivery systems.
Some results from a transversely excited atmospheric carbon dioxide-laser induced breakdown spectroscopy investigation of tsunami deposit cored from Aceh Besar coastal region
Authors: Ramli M , Mitaphonna R , Kurihara K , Lahna K , Idris N
Published: July 2024

We undertook an extensive analysis to examine the geochemical imprints encapsulated within the samples of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami deposits procured from the Seungko Mulat coastal region, nestled in the western section of Aceh Besar Regency, Aceh Province, Indonesia. In order to induce the formation of micro-plasma, a Transversely Excited Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide-Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (TEA CO2-LIBS) has been employed as the excitation source. Our investigation unveils distinct spectral signatures within every layer of the stratified tsunami deposit. We observed the unmistakable presence of salt elements (Ca, K, Mg, Na, Al), transition metals, heavy metals (Si, Fe, Ti, Ba, Sr, Cu, Cr, Pb, Mn, Ni, V), and also organic constituents (C, H, O, and N). The emission intensities of these elements exhibited a significant increase within the layers of the tsunami deposit, unequivocally setting them apart from their non-tsunami equivalents. In addition, we performed a vertical analysis of LIBS elemental emission intensity ratios, unveiling unique values for the Ca/Ti, and Si/Ti, ratios, which significantly distinguish them from all other ratios scrutinized in this exhaustive investigation. This research serves to highlight the effectiveness of TEA-LIBS as a promising and efficient optical technique for discerning the chemical profile associated with the renowned 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami deposits from Seungko Mulat Village in Aceh Province.
Patchouli essential oil: Unlocking antimicrobial potential for dandruff control
Authors: Muhammad S , Isnaini N , Indra I , Prajaputra V , Sufriadi E , Ernawati E
Published: July 2024

Dandruff causes the scalp to peel and results in itching, which is caused by one of the fungi, Malassezia globosa. Several studies have revealed that the compounds in essential oils can act as antimicrobials. To broaden insights regarding the potential compounds in essential oils, this research focuses on the potential of patchouli essential oil in inhibiting the growth of dandruff-causing microbes. One of the compounds with antimicrobial potential in patchouli oil is patchouli alcohol. The steam distillation method was used for extraction oil from dried patchouli stems and leaves to produce three different types of oil samples: crude patchouli oil, heavy fraction patchouli oil, and light fraction patchouli oil. Subsequently, the GC-MS analysis was conducted to compare the compound contents in samples. Our results indicate that the three patchouli oil samples have varying patchouli alcohol contents. Crude patchouli oil contains 31.2% patchouli alcohol; heavy fraction patchouli oil contains 61.82% patchouli alcohol, while light fraction patchouli oil contains 23.99% patchouli alcohol. This study demonstrates that heavy fraction patchouli oil has a greater potential as an antimicrobial compared to crude patchouli oil and light fraction patchouli oil.
Seismic vulnerability distribution of the earthquake prone area in Central Aceh
Authors: Syifa S R , Muksin U
Published: July 2024

Central Aceh is known as an earthquake-prone area due to the presence of the Sumatra Fault and secondary fault crossing the area resulting the M 6.1 earthquake in 2013. The objective of the research is to investigate seismic vulnerability of Central Aceh. Microtremor observations were conducted at 25 locations in Central Aceh analysed using the Horizontal to Vertical Spectral Ratio (HVSR). Seismic amplification is represented by the maximum values of H/V. The dominant frequency f0 representing the sediment thickness was obtained when the H/V curve is maximum. The frequency values ranged from 14.9 to 25.9 Hz, and the seismic vulnerability values varied from 0.02 to 3.1. The top soil consists of thin layers of sedimentary material dominated by tertiary rocks. The rocks are classified as Type IV and Class I based on the dominant frequency values. This result is consistent with the geology, consisting of sedimentary and volcanic rocks. Areas with a seismic vulnerability value > 1.0 is considered to have a high risk of earthquake damage because they are likely to experience earthquake amplification. Areas with seismic vulnerability value > 1.0 are found in West Aceh and the Geureudong volcano area.
Application of the structural equation modeling-partial least square method to analyze factors affecting the quality of life of hypertension patients
Authors: Sofyan H , Inayati R , Harva F , Afriyan I , Yolanda Y
Published: July 2024

Hypertension is a serious health issue in Pidie Regency, Indonesia. This research utilizes Structural Equation Modeling - Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) method to analyze the factors contributing to hypertension in Pidie Regency. Primary data were was gathered via surveys and discussions held with inhabitants from the area. One of the multivariate statistical methods that can be used to explain these complex relationships is SEM-PLS. The direct effects of SEM-PLS analysis indicate the hidden demographic factors notably diminish the concealed variable of quality of life. The concealed indicators of medication adherence showcase a positive impact but lack statistical significance on the hidden variable of quality of life. Additionally, the latent activity variable has a positive and significant effect on quality of life. The research findings revealed an R2 value of 0.234, signifying that 23.4% of the variance in the latent quality of life variable can be explained by latent demographic, medication adherence, and activity variables.
Analysis of gravity anomaly data for identification of mineral distribution prospects in the Kuta Cot Glie area, Aceh Besar
Authors: Hasanah M , Syamsuddin F , Safitri R , Fadhli Z , Karmel M E R , Syukri M
Published: July 2024

Gravity anomaly data was analyzed using the gravity method to obtain variations in gravity values and to identify mineral distribution prospects in the Kuta Cot Glie area, Aceh Besar. The Scintrex CG-5 gravimeter instrument was used to measure gravity data. After being corrected and receiving complete Bouguer anomaly values, the variation in gravity values from the research location was shown to be in the range 75-126 mGal. There are two anomalies within gravity values that are higher and lower than the surroundings. The first one is the distribution of serpentine minerals (2.4 – 3.10 g/cm 3) with variations of 108-126 mGal. This serpentine mineral is located at the center of the research location with a total area of ± 67,500 m 2. The second anomaly is limonite mineral deposits (1.55-1.7 g/cm3) with variations in gravity values of 75-87 mGal. The limonite were found on the East and West sides of the location, with a distribution area of ±71,250 m 2. The mineral deposit of limonite is a result of weathering from serpentinite rocks, therefore, the location of limonite mineral deposits is lower than the location of serpentinite. These results are aligned with the geological conditions which is dominated by serpentinite ultramafic metamorphic rocks.
Accurately deciphering spatial domains for spatially resolved transcriptomics with stCluster
Authors: Wang Tao , Shu Han , Hu Jialu , Wang Yongtian , Chen Jing , Peng Jiajie , Shang Xuequn
Published: July 2024

Spatial transcriptomics provides valuable insights into gene expression within the native tissue context, effectively merging molecular data with spatial information to uncover intricate cellular relationships and tissue organizations. In this context, deciphering cellular spatial domains becomes essential for revealing complex cellular dynamics and tissue structures. However, current methods encounter challenges in seamlessly integrating gene expression data with spatial information, resulting in less informative representations of spots and suboptimal accuracy in spatial domain identification. We introduce stCluster, a novel method that integrates graph contrastive learning with multi-task learning to refine informative representations for spatial transcriptomic data, consequently improving spatial domain identification. stCluster first leverages graph contrastive learning technology to obtain discriminative representations capable of recognizing spatially coherent patterns. Through jointly optimizing multiple tasks, stCluster further fine-tunes the representations to be able to capture complex relationships between gene expression and spatial organization. Benchmarked against six state-of-the-art methods, the experimental results reveal its proficiency in accurately identifying complex spatial domains across various datasets and platforms, spanning tissue, organ, and embryo levels. Moreover, stCluster can effectively denoise the spatial gene expression patterns and enhance the spatial trajectory inference. The source code of stCluster is freely available at https://github.com/hannshu/stCluster.
High-throughput method for screening pendimethalin-degrading bacteria from one microbial bank
Authors: Peng Ya-Peng , Ma Liang , Huang Ying , Mo Ming-He , Liu Jian-Jin , Liu Tong
Published: July 2024

The extensive use of chemical pesticides, such as herbicides, has resulted in significant environmental pollution. Microbial degradation represents a crucial approach for managing this pesticide-associated pollution, with enrichment culturing serving as a method for isolating pesticide-degrading microorganisms. However, the efficiency of this strategy is limited, often yielding only a few isolated strains. In this study, a new mineral salt medium (MSM) was developed, and a high-throughput method was used for screening pendimethalin-degrading bacteria by measuring the bacterial growth in the MSM. The utilization of this method resulted in the isolation of 56 pendimethalin-degrading bacteria from approximately 2000 bacterial strains, including 37 Bacillus spp., 10 Alcaligenes spp., 5 Pseudomonas spp., and other 4 strains identified for the first time as pendimethalin-degrading strains. This method may hold promise not only for isolating bacterial strains capable of degrading other pesticides but also for facilitating the utilization of the substantial bacterial strains stored in bacterial banks.
Escherichia coli DNA replication: the old model organism still holds many surprises
Authors: Łazowski Krystian , Woodgate Roger , Fijalkowska Iwona J
Published: July 2024

Research on Escherichia coli DNA replication paved the groundwork for many breakthrough discoveries with important implications for our understanding of human molecular biology, due to the high level of conservation of key molecular processes involved. To this day, it attracts a lot of attention, partially by virtue of being an important model organism, but also because the understanding of factors influencing replication fidelity might be important for studies on the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Importantly, the wide access to high-resolution single-molecule and live-cell imaging, whole genome sequencing, and cryo-electron microscopy techniques, which were greatly popularized in the last decade, allows us to revisit certain assumptions about the replisomes and offers very detailed insight into how they work. For many parts of the replisome, step-by-step mechanisms have been reconstituted, and some new players identified. This review summarizes the latest developments in the area, focusing on (a) the structure of the replisome and mechanisms of action of its components, (b) organization of replisome transactions and repair, (c) replisome dynamics, and (d) factors influencing the base and sugar fidelity of DNA synthesis.